MoneyMaker Aug/Sept 2013

ISSUE SEVEN | AUG/SEPT 2013

www.moneymakermagazine.co.uk

PLUS Empowering your employees The Power of Charisma The MoneyMaker Travel Awards 2013 MAKE IT • SPEND IT • LIVE IT

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O R E H R E P U S E H T S R U E N E R ENTREP

industry k oo b ic m o c the Stan Lee on how ollar phenomenon d became a billion

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UPFRONT 8

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News In Brief

MAke it 10

Stan Lee

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Comic Books

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Eddie Hearn

28 Holvi 32

Maria Kempinska

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StartUp Britain

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Rockstar Youth

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How To - Empower Employees

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Tomorrow’s Talent

50 Charisma 52

How To - Recruiting

54 Dreamchaser 58 Investment 60

The Pitch

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RS Financials

INvest IT 68 Taxidermy 72 Toys 76 Insurance 80

Wine Investment

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Classic Cars

88 Property

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Be Better 90 Fitness

Spend It 94

Travel Awards

116 Drive, Sail, Fly 120 Create your own Supercar 122 Yachts 124 Private Jets 128 Airline Review 130 Travel - Portugal 134 Hotels 136 Food 138 Cocktails 140 Gastrofiles 142 Fashion 144 Ian Poulter 148 Property 162 How I Spend It

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I WEAR THE TROUSERS DO YOU?

IJP DESIGN www.ijpdesign.com

The Poulter Stride. #WeartheTrousers

editor’s letter DEAR Reader, I hope you are all well and soaking up some of the superb weather this summer has delivered for us. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed the past two months putting this issue together with the sun beating through the office window, now hopefully you will find time on a quiet beach somewhere exotic to enjoy reading it as well.

As you might be able to tell from the cover there’s something of a theme running through this issue, and that’s because earlier this month we had the pleasure to sit down and talk business with legendary comic book pioneer Stan Lee. Personally, it’s always an honour to spend time with an entrepreneur and visionary in any field, but being fortunate enough to gain some insight into the mind of the man who created Spiderman, Iron Man and The Fantastic Four was something even more special.

Stan’s energy and magnetism are captivating, and he certainly hasn’t lost any passion for the medium that has brought joy to so many, and financial success to Marvel, over the years. Stan’s a superhero to a lot of people (if you’ll excuse the extremely weak pun), myself included, so we are thrilled that he’s on the cover of this month’s MoneyMaker.

But it’s not all caped crusaders and masked villains plotting to take over the world in this issue. As the employment market is saturated at this time of year with new school and university leavers, we also take a closer look at how to get the most from your workforce. From getting the hiring process right, to motivating and empowering your staff, it is critical to any business to get 100% from the people you are trusting to drive your company forward, often an issue that start-ups struggle to overcome. Hopefully our experts can help you mobilise and succeed with your new employees.

And that’s not all, because after months of research and tallying votes we are thrilled to announce the results of MoneyMaker’s first annual travel awards. With the help of our readers we’ve scoured the globe and found the ultimate in luxury travel destinations, transport and agents.

We need to say a huge thank you to everybody who nominated across the award categories and who voted for those nominations in droves, without your input we simply wouldn’t have been able to compile such a comprehensive and satisfying list of winners.

MoneyMaker will be announcing new and innovative awards in the coming months, and we hope you join us in rewarding more of the UK’s best companies in the future.

That’s it from me for this month. I hope you enjoy the rest of the summer, and this issue.

Best wishes Alex Hammond Editor in Chief, MoneyMaker Magazine

Editor in Chief Alex Hammond Managing Editor Mark Southern Associate Editor Lisa Curtiss Features Writers Phil Green Natasha Heard Alessio Rastani Eve Hartridge Lucy Bartholomew Contributors Paul Deeming Emma Jones Dr Steve Kempster Adrian Kinnersley Perry Anderson Judy Nancy Belle-Dales George Johnson Jayne Jackson Art Director IF Design & Art Direction Videography Adrian Butterworth Photography Simon Jessop Sales sales@moneymakermagazine.co.uk Marketing & PR Polygon PR CELEBRITY LIAISON Simon Wiltshire

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Send in your stories: Got a story MoneyMaker should be reporting on?

Contact us at www.moneymaker magazine.co.uk

News in Brief what we’re talking about right now

Hasselblad Launches Lunar Programme Iconic camera maker Hasselblad, whose legendary 500EL was used by Neil Armstrong to capture the first images on the moon’s surface, has just launched a Lunar programme of its own.

For over half a century Hasselblad has been making cameras for the world’s top professional photographers.

Now the company has spread its wings and launched the Lunar - a state-of-the-art, Italian-designed, ultimate luxury consumer camera.

Under the guidance of New Business Development Director Luca Alessandrini, engineers and designers at the company’s design centre near Venice were briefed to develop

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a camera that would combine cutting edge technology with a unique custom finish. Taking their inspiration from the world’s sexiest supercars, its most luxurious watches and F1 technology, the team created the Lunar, a breathtaking hybrid of Italian design and Swedish pedigree.

With its evocative retro look, the Hasselblad Lunar revives the timeless charm of the 500C through its famous chromeplated frame, made smooth and supple by the total absence of edges.

The Lunar launches with five different grip styles, all handcrafted from the most luxurious and sensual elements. Lovers of the sexy,

minimalist look can opt for the light and resistant carbon fibre design. Those who seek something totally unique may prefer natural Italian wood olive or mahogany - undyed and with a waxless matt finish.

Also available are two leather options, using the quality found in the most exclusive car interiors, in brown or black.

Metal finishes are titanium, apart from the mahogany wood model.

The camera, naturally, is packed with the superior specifications expected from an industry leader. Heralding Hasselblad’s entry into the mirrorless interchangeable lens market, the Lunar incorporates an engine from a Sony camera,

the current leader in the category. It also has a huge selection of functions, aimed at both the quality of the picture and the entertainment of the user.

The camera is the brainchild of Hasselblad Chairman and CEO Dr Larry Hansen, a passionate photographer who claims no camera maker in the world has ever made a top quality model that is easily portable, takes incredible pictures and is, at the same time, stunningly beautiful.

Priced at £4,400 (ex VAT) for the standard models, the Lunar is on sale now at select retail outlets and luxury boutiques across the globe. www.hasselblad-lunar.com

FERRARI ANNOUNCES NEW INITIATIVE: LESS MAIL AND MORE DIALOGUE BETWEEN COWORKERS In an initiative that may end up becoming a template for a whole host of companies moving forward, Ferrari has announced that its employees will be talking to their colleagues in the future.

The change of thinking has been publicised to incentivise more efficient and direct communication within the company, and to drastically reduce the volume of written conversations that have drastically overtaken verbal communication as the primary method of dialogue between colleagues. In practice this means much stricter limits being placed on the number of emails being sent in total and, more specifically, each Ferrari employee will only be able to send the same email to three people in-house.

The injudicious sending of emails

with dozens of recipients often on subjects with no relevance to most of the latter is one of the main causes of time wastage and inefficiency in the average working day in business.

Ferrari has therefore decided to nip the problem in the bud by issuing a very clear and simple instruction to its employees: talk to each other more and write less.

Whether Ferrari employees take to the scheme is yet to be seen, but we certainly wouldn’t be surprised to see similar initiatives spring up across the world of business in the near future. After all, communication is the cornerstone of effective business, and any new thinking should be given a chance to succeed. We’ll be watching closely.

Global Party 2013 is Another Outstanding Success for Lord Fink This summer saw the recurrence of perhaps the world’s most ambitious charitable project as The Global Party, chaired by Lord Stanley Fink, returned with a bang for the first time since 2011.

360,000+ of the world’s elite VIPs were invited to attend The Global Party, in order to help raise awareness and money for the chosen official local children charities as

well as The Global Charity Trust.

The Global Party 2013 consisted of a not-for-profit global gathering, inspired by 360°, which hosted events on Wednesday 26th, Thursday 27th, Friday 28th and Saturday 29th of June 2013 across the world.

Every corner of the globe was represented at the event which aimed to surpass its own high standards for participation and charitable

donations set in 2011.

The Worldwide Launch Dinner for The Global Party was held on Wednesday 26th June, and was hosted by the General Manager of The Savoy, The Patrons and Trustees of The Global Charity Trust and The Mayor’s Fund for London. The launch dinner alone raised over £200,000 on the evening for the Global Trust.

The black tie launch event commenced with a red carpet entrance along the entire stunning and famous driveway, included a champagne reception held in the Savoy Courtyard, where a ribbon was cut to symbolise the Official Worldwide Launch of The Global Party 2013.

And with The Global Party 2014 already having been announced earlier this month, there’s no need to lament if you missed this year’s extravaganza. We’ll see you at the world’s biggest party next year.

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STAN LEE

T R A E H T C I M O C F O G N I M I T Some people in life follow, some people in life lead. Very few transcend an industry and attain legendary status, but that’s what Stan Lee, the master comic book story teller, has done. Mark Southern met up the Marvellous man responsible for Spiderman, X-Men, Iron Man, The Fantastic Four, and many more, to find out the secret of making it big in the comic book industry

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STAN LEE

What is the source of your creativity?

Probably the fact that I read so many books when I was young. I fell in love with the stories and the art of storytelling, and that inspired my creative mind. To this day I still love stories in whatever form they may be, and think that the best way to inspire and educate is to share a message in story form. Creativity is about letting your imagination do that hard work, so if you’re used to doing that from a young age then it’s easier to let your mind run free in your working life.

At what point did you realise that comic books could be a viable career for you?

When I started out the industry wasn’t the billion dollar scene it is today, and times were tough at the start. But we worked hard, and we had good ideas, and when The Fantastic Four became successful, it was a real seminal moment for us. Once we had this confidence, we felt able to push the boundaries of where comic books could go, and the rest of the titles simply followed. When I talk to young comic book artists and story tellers now I urge them never to give up, as it is possible to achieve your dream, as long as you stay true to yourself.

How did you first get into the comic book industry?

I applied to work at a publishing company, which published all sorts of magazines focusing on a variety of subject matter, from movies to sport, but that also had a small comic book line. I already had a love of the genre, and found out the comic book department needed an assistant, so that’s where I focused my application. Luckily they gave me a break, and I was able to learn about the industry that shaped my life in the best possible way - by doing it day in day out.

Are you surprised that comic book culture has become so mainstream?

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Not at all. You see, the comic book industry has always prided itself on dealing with issues. We care about society and the stuff that goes on for all of us, from inequality through to doing the right thing, and because of this comic books will always have a place in the fans’ hearts. It’s something the fans grow up with, and this personal connection with comics means it transcends time and space. Then when you think about how since Hollywood realised the potential the fans have an opportunity to experience comic book culture in new forms, and the massive success of these movies get it across the world.

What is your proudest achievement?

Being able to answer these questions, and just the fact that people are interested in my story! That’s a little tongue-in-cheek, but in truth I still feel that I’m just a humble storyteller at heart, and it’s unbelievably gratifying to have created characters that seem to become more popular each year as new fans discover their stories. If you’d have told me all those years ago that billions of people would have read and watched my characters I wouldn’t have believed you, but it’s wonderful that this is the case, and I’m really appreciative of the fans’ enduring loyalty.

You seem to understand people and causes exceptionally well. Does this (super)ability give you insight into what people want?

You see, you say that, and it’s not the first time I’ve heard it, but in truth the only person I really understand is myself. I just write to please myself, and I’m my own biggest critic, so I give myself a harder time than anyone else would. I guess that I figure I’m not that different from most other people, so if I like something then I’m confident that a lot of other people will like it to, and will be able to relate to it in the right way. I think that all popular culture should

be like this, with artists being true to themselves, and then, if it’s right, the fan base will follow.

What is the future of comic book culture?

We’ve had some astonishing success in the last few years, but in my opinion the future is even brighter.

We’ve got more and more top writers and artists entering the field, and more and more decision makers from movies and television now interested in comic books, and translating them to the screen. I predict that the comic books we see over the next few years are going to become even better written than before, more exciting, and more popular than ever before. We are always gathering new fans as kids and young adults discover the joys of reading, and the unique storytelling medium comics represent, and we lose fans who fall out of love with the genre at a much lower rate, and if that continues our fan base will only continue to grow.

Do mass cultural events like Comic-Con help to make your own comic book creativity stronger?

Well they certainly help to encourage me and all the people in the field to work harder than ever before in order to please the fans. Every year it amazes me that more and more fans turn up and support our industry, and events like Comic-Con give everything from big franchises to small indies the chance to shine. We’re an industry that enjoys interacting and feeding off our fans, which is why we come back to these events over and over again.

How much of your personality and outlook on life is reflected in your work?

I guess a lot of it is reflected in my work, but I’m not unique in that. I think all writers across almost every genre of artistic creativity have their own personality and his or her own outlook on life, and it’s natural that this somehow permeates the things they write.

I’ve always stayed true to myself and the values I hold, and I think this is the secret of success.

Stan Lee is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of POW! Entertainment. See more at www. powentertainment.com

“We’ve had some astonishing success in recent years, but in my opinion the future is even brighter” MONEYMAKER MAGAZINE

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Gill Champion

H G I H G N I FLY C I M O C E IN TH Y R T S U D N BOOK I The world of comic books has evolved to become an industry worth billions, developing into one of the top five most lucrative entertainment industries in the world today. However, despite the access to self-publishing, it can be difficult for new entrepreneurs to get a foothold, whilst industry behemoths Marvel and DC sit on multi-billion dollar franchises. We caught up with Gill Champion of POW! Entertainment to find out how to become a superhero moneymaker of comic books

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“The comic book industry is going through a revolution today. Courses are now being taught on how to write and draw for a whole new generation of fans” Is there a modern cultural industry that can compare with the amazing success of the comic book industry?

Yes, the modern movie business. Just look at how many of the recent top-grossing movies were based on comic books. Movies based on Stan’s characters have grossed over 11 billion USD in box offices alone. Then, of course, there’s the video game industry, which also bases much of its output on both comic books and Stan’s characters, and it’s phenomenal how it’s grown into the multi-billion dollar industry of today. If you look at all three industries, comic books, movies and video games, they all have loyal fan bases, they all are based on creative storytelling, and they all inspire passionate consumption.

How will technology affect the future of the comic book industry?

Years ago, you had to carry a comic book to read it, and roll it up, or put it in a briefcase. Now with a phone, or other tablets, you can just put it in your pocket and never lose it. During the height of publishing, if comic books sold 50,000 units, it was considered a huge success. Now with new technology it’s accessible to millions of people all over the world and, far from damaging the industry, it’s opened the genre up to a new wave of fans.

Is there a gap in the market for talented and driven individuals to succeed in the industry by selfpublishing?

Nowadays, anyone who can write or draw a comic book has the ability to self-publish. What a wonderful tool this new technology is, and many aspiring comic book entrepreneurs have done just this - in fact, the next Stan is probably out there now creating his or her first self-published comic book as we speak. However,

the challenge is how to drive eye balls to view your self-published comic, and it’s this marketing power that restricts many otherwise talented people’s success.

Will the comic book industry continue to expand and become ever more successful?

The comic book industry is going through a revolution today. Whereas in the past you would have to catch a lucky break to get into the industry, courses are now being taught in college and online on how to write and draw comics for a whole new generation of fans, and it’s created a whole new educational industry in itself. Therefore, the industry is ever evolving, and its passionate fan base will ensure that this development never ends.

What is it about comic books and superheroes in particular that seems to create such a loyal following?

Comic books allow people to use their imagination, probably more so than any other medium. Don’t forget that many fans have had relationships with their favourite comic books since they were very young, and superheroes are truly fairy tales for grown ups. It’s good to be passionate about the stuff you love, and comic fans are the best in the world.

What advice would you give a young entrepreneur who wanted to start their own comic book series?

The advice I would give to any young entrepreneur, comic book or otherwise, is just go and do it. Not tomorrow, today. Entrepreneurs who want to start their own comic books should sit down at their computer right now, and just write or draw. It’s a unique opportunity for somebody to start their own business with very little cash investment, and with talent and lots of hard work, there is a huge opportunity to become successful.

What are the biggest lessons you have learned from succeeding in the comic book industry?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned regarding comics is that I should have convinced my mother not to throw out my comic book collection, or I might have retired already!

Seriously though, it’s like any industry in that your business is only as good as the team around you, and I personally love the challenge of continually searching to find the very best new writers and artists. They are the life blood of our business, and we couldn’t do it without them.

www.p

Gill Champion is President and CEO of POW! Entertainment.

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Comic Books

A Time for Heroes A history of the Comic Book Industry

A picture can say a thousand words, and don’t some people know it.

For decades those in the know have been making huge profits from the comic book industry, and with movie blockbuster after blockbuster on the horizon it’s surely only a matter of time before the UK produces its own multimillion dollar graphic artist.

But the idea of using pictures to tell tales isn’t a new one. From pictures as diverse as cave paintings and Roman propaganda carvings, as distant in time as ancient hieroglyphs, or as iconic as the Bayeux tapestry, human history is littered with something that connects the entire span of civilisation more closely than perhaps anything else created by man: the use of imagery to impart knowledge, understanding and legends.

Telling stories through pictures or drawings is one of the oldest communication mechanisms in the world, and has always been one of the most widely used.

And now in the 21st century this phenomenon isn’t slowing down.

Comic books and the graphic novel have imparted some of the most universally recognisable characters and symbols upon cultures all over the world. After all, who doesn’t recognise Superman’s red ‘S’ logo that’s emblazoned on his chest, acting as a badge of authority? Or the black

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and yellow symbol that’s shot over the sky any time Gotham City needs its resident caped crusader to save the day? Over the past 80 years heroes and villains have emerged from the minds of the some of the 20th century’s most creative storytellers and, through the medium of comics, have embedded themselves in popular culture across the globe.

The Rise of The Super Powers

The concept of storytelling through images may be as old as time, but it wasn’t until the last century that what we would recognise today as a ‘comic book’ was a commercial product available to the masses, and, although popularity of the genre increased steadily from the turn of the century, it wasn’t until the 1930s and 40s that the industry we recognise today began its rise to prominence. In a time of social upheaval, two companies that would eventually become behemoths of the industry made their first tentative footsteps towards changing popular culture forever.

First to launch in 1934 was National Allied Publications, under the guidance of entrepreneur Malcolm WheelerNicholson. A first title, New Fun: The Big Comic Magazine #1, was published in February 1935, with a second series, New Comic #1, later renamed Adventure Comics, being printed from

December in the same year.

Both were a success, but it was to be Wheeler-Nicholson’s third publication, named Detective Comics, that catapulted the company to the forefront of the industry. Released in 1937, the series was incredibly popular, and together with Action Comics, the subsequent title released by National Allied Publications, introduced the world to some of the most endearing superheroes, a number of which remain with us today.

Despite being forced out of DC Comics, Wheeler-Nicholson is still recognised as one of the pioneers of the comic book industry, and was rewarded with induction to the Will Eisner Comic Book Hall of Fame in 2008 for his vision and services to DC in its formative years.

The second half of the 20th century saw a now established brand that had come together under the title DC Comics thrive. Iconic characters including Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and Lex Luthor sprang from the pens of the DC Comics writing team, cementing the company’s legacy in mainstream culture as well as the world of the graphic novel.

And with such a super cast of comic book characters, you could be forgiven for thinking that DC would rule the roost at the top of the comic empire without any major competitors.

Owning over 80% of the current day

comic book market share suggests that would be true, but that wouldn’t account for one man working at rival publishing house Marvel, Stan Lee. Lee and the team at Marvel refused to cave in to the juggernaut that was DC, and instead forged an empire of their own, armed with unique creations such as The Amazing Spiderman, The Fantastic Four and X-Men. The war to publish the biggest and best comics raged back and forth for decades, but despite DC Comics’ overwhelming market share Marvel refused to lie down, and now sits side by side with DC as the co-creators of the multi-billion dollar industry the world of the superhero has become today.

From Print to the Silver Screen

But after such a distinguished and prosperous run at the top of the

publishing tree, surely time is winding down on the popularity of the comic book? Not a chance.

Far from fading from the limelight as so many other former favourites have, comic books have survived the digital age, and the industry is healthier than ever. And whilst publishing figures continue to boom, it’s in Hollywood where the comic book creators are now cashing in the seriously large cheques.

Superhero films and television shows have been popular since the birth of the modern day comic, with Superman and Batman both making their screen debut in the 1940s. DC Comics’ two most successful exports have made scores of appearances in the movies since, dominating the 1980s and 1990s superhero film scene with consistently high box office returns.

However, any success achieved

before the turn of the century pales when compared to recent years.

The popularity of the superhero movie has risen exponentially over the past decade, with Marvel now leading the way in drawing in new fans to the genre. The X-Men, Spiderman and Iron Man movie series are now recognised as some of the most successful motion picture brands of all time, with big screen adaptations of The Fantastic Four, Watchmen and The Incredible Hulk also scoring high with film fans across the world.

Revamped 21st century additions to the Batman and Superman movie series have also proved a hit with action movie lovers, and with a host of characters, stories, and storytellers still to be unveiled on the biggest stage the comic book industry looks well placed to continue growing from strength to strength for the foreseeable future.

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COMIC ENTREPRENEURS

SUPER RICH LIST The colourful history of comic book lore is not only full of tales of heroism and villainy, but of individuals succeeding in moneymaking ventures. We took a look at the best moneymakers from the pens of Marvel and DC.

Tony Stark

Alter Ego: Iron Man reneur, Engineer, Occupation: Entrep World Saver : $7.8 billion Estimated Net Worth How He Made It: r Edward Stark took ove Boy genius Anthony ch and ear res y itar mil a Stark Enterprises, , at just sixteen, and development facility g ’s passion for creatin continued his father ore an bef n, ctio tru des s weapons of mas the saw him captured in unfortunate incident re whe , ed und wo ly tal desert and near-mor t a of a metal suit, tha he thought up the ide tice jus se pen both dis would allow him to increase his firm’s to invading aliens and ted 1500%. ima est an by stock value : What We Can Learn

on this list, Stark Unlike many entries m his dual identity, but fro y awa shy doesn’t . He ly on his iron sleeve rather wears it firm erstands und and , nd bra his essentially is himself and his the value of putting the public eye. in daredevil persona can personify their who eur ren An entrep h greater chance of company stands a muc positive brand value and ar delivering a cle s. and their consumer system to the media earch res ent rec of re No doubt Tony is awa consumers respond that identified 82% of to a brand if it is linked more favourably to .

CEO ic mat ris a charming and cha Lessons to Avoid: lth is their biggest An entrepreneur’s hea elessness in getting asset, and Tony’s car near-fatally injured not only captured, but months away from his meant at least three ple. desk. So, be safe, peo nt: Richard Branson Real Life Equivale man ntthe master brand fro

bruce wayne

Alter Ego: Batman Occupation: Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Crime Fighter Estimated Net Worth: $9 billion How He Made It: Born into money, Wayne is the son of a wealthy and socially awa re businessman, Thomas, who created and built Wayne Enterprises. After witness ing his parents gunned down at the age of just eight years old, Bruce went into hiding and learned how to influence people through psychological conditioning , alongside some useful ninja skills.

Aged 25, Wayne re-emerged in Gotham City, and took up the CEO reins of the family business, near doubling the profits within just five years. Oh, and he locked up plenty of bad guys in the evenings too.

What We Can Learn: Wayne the entrepreneur and Batman the crime fighter both use the same understanding of human thin king patterns

and media awareness whe n making billions and saving the day.

In this day and age, an entr epreneur must be able to get into the mindset of their audience, and Batm an’s use of sophisticated NLP techniqu es, coupled with some good old fash ioned emotional messaging, has both the press and criminal fraternity in thra ll to him.

Meanwhile, in his day job, Wayne’s commitment to research and development leads him to ensure that his company remains at the cutting edg e of technology, and gives his business the competitive edge he needs.

Lessons to Avoid: Psychological scarring of his early trauma has taken up roots in Wayne’s mind, and much of what he does is driven by feelings of vengeance.

A good entrepreneur will take wha tever driving forces they can, but sho uld avoid revenge being a stimulating factor, or they will find their own judgment is com promised.

Real Life Equivalent: Ste ve Jobs understood the importan ce of psychology and R&D

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COMIC ENTREPRENEURS

Montgomery Burns

Man Alter Ego: Fruitbat r Energy Advocate, lea Nuc : ion pat cu Oc Industrialist : $3.1 billion (down Estimated Net Worth n) lio from a high of $11 tril How He Made It: modest wealth, Born into relatively ive years under mat for his nt Burns spe a cold and of ce the fostered guidan rialist, leading ust ind re nai heartless billio cold and heartless Burns to become a list. Who said homebillionaire industria rk? wo n’t schooling did his country during ved ser nty Mo ng You ch he was entrusted whi er World War II, aft r t ever trillion dolla with the world’s firs e hav n tha her rat , ed bill, which he pocket Truman. The injection returned to President d investment, allied of dubiously receive cation, gave Burns edu to his moneymaking k to Springfield, bac ve mo to the platform s nt, and spend his day open his nuclear pla opulent his m fro ff sta y monitoring the laz casionally releasing mansion. Oh, and oc ff need a little more the hounds, if his sta der. har rk incentive to wo ns tried his hand Bur rs, yea er lat In his g the moniker of ptin at superheroism, ado Fruitbat Man.

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: What We Can Learn e entrepreneurial edg his t kep ns Young Bur ure sec to nce cha the s sharp, and didn’t mis e in his career, investment at a key tim trillion from the US albeit via stealing $1 President. er don’t condone Whilst we at MoneyMak e would have tim the the theft of what at ire global ent the of been around 32% repreneur ent an ire adm do wealth, we ortunity, opp an of who makes the most status for re nai lio bil t uen and his subseq sive in res imp ades is more than seven dec anyone’s book. can secure high level If an entrepreneur ds the vision and investment, it just nee lowing success fol the e the drive to mak happen.

Lessons to Avoid: knows their finances A good entrepreneur . ts them at all costs tec inside out, and pro his e aged to los However, Burns man er to Fidel Castro, aft l bil r lla do n lio tril Cuban the g win sho of e making the mistak e et. So, er, don’t los leader his prized ass don’t ely init def and es, sight of your financ to llar bills. Not even give away trillion do s. revolutionary figure e nt: Some people hav Real Life Equivale Mr to chs gar oli the of likened one or two to do ite pol too far re M. Burns, but we’ such a thing...

Prof. Charles Xavier

Alter Ego: Professor X Occupation: Education, Hum anitarianism, Planet Protector Estimated Net Worth: $6.2 billion, but with access to $71.8 trillion How He Made It: Like many on this list, Xavi er was born into wealth, and went on to gro w his inheritance to many times its original value. A mixed childhood saw him both orp haned and graduated from Harvard by the age of 16, before a nasty incident at work (repelling an alien invasion hell-ben t on global destruction) rendered him confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life.

A so-called ‘mutant’, who se own DNA has been mutated to provide him with genius level intellect and remark able telepathic powers, Xavier returned to his sprawling family estate in the New Yor k countryside, where he created and stil l runs the Xavier Institute for Higher Learning , helping other mutants to use their superp owers for the good of mankind.

What We Can Learn: Xavier’s social conscience has driven him

onwards, and he has rarely compromised his strict belief code that an entrepreneur should always aim to do the right thing for society, as well as for their own bank balance, as evidenced by the fact he could access the entire world’s wealth if he wished, but chooses not to.

This moral compass has give n the telepathic professor opp ortunities that would not have presented themselves if he had been less sociall y aware, including close access to international governments and aid age ncies. As such, his primary objective is easier to achieve, due to the personal relation ships he has built.

Socially aware entreprene urs usually find that any good cause work they do early on is rewarded man y times over later in their careers.

Lessons to Avoid: Xavier was a prodigious tale nt from birth, but was embarrassed by his extreme intellect and athletic abil ity, and would often play down his own strengths, losing momentum and opportunit y at a young age.

Entrepreneurs that keep putt ing off to tomorrow what they could do today rarely succeed, and look back with regrets.

Real Life Equivalent: Bill Gates - made his money and then devoted his life to the pursuit of humanitarian cau ses

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COMIC ENTREPRENEURS

Wilson Fisk

Alter Ego: Kingpin n, Occupation: Entrepreneur, Media Baro Megalomaniac Estimated Net Worth: $11.1 billion How He Made It: list, Fisk The least well-known name on the ing start , way every in man made selfa is h to life with nothing, and growing his wealt urs prene entre st riche the gst become amon be the in the world. He also turned out to ry, biggest crime-lord in comic book histo . being time the for that e ignor but let’s Fisk was bullied heavily as a child, and ate responded by learning how to domin this people with his bulky size. He used -base new-found respect to amass a staff ed spann that e empir an built and of minions, ica to everything from media in North Amer spices in the Far East. the Fisk’s commitment to make money all take time is second only to his plans to es over the world and destroy superhero the across the DC universe, making him r most formidable entrepreneur supe . there villain out What We Can Learn: of Fisk grew his business via a series

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his targeted acquisitions, which grew me business exponentially, until it beca e empir his of ds stran new so big that gravitated towards his moneymaking potential. The picky amongst you might ler say that a mafioso “acquiring” smal organised crime gangs into his own through campaigns of violence and list, extortion precludes Fisk from this but nobody’s perfect. way Fisk also deserves credit for the sity. he routinely battles back from adver all g losin to es, bulli From the childhood in tch scra from ing start and une his fort each the Far East spice industry, Fisk took . blow on the chin, and fought back Lessons to Avoid: e Where to start? Firstly, when you’r inspiring your team to “take over the world”, make sure they know this if isn’t a literal translation. Likewise, l your brand develops an adversaria this competitor, the best way to deal with ess busin y cann and PR t smar ugh thro is ing out thinking, and definitely not by send your ate elimin to men hit d super-powere nemesis.

Real Life Equivalent: Al Capone ambition started small, but hard work and e empir created a criminal

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eddie hearn

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MoneyMaker sits down with Matchroom Sports Director Eddie Hearn to talk sports promotion, the art of making a good deal, and just what it’s like keeping business in the family

Man of the Matchroom

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eddie hearn

Was it always the plan to join the family business at Matchroom? Did did you have ambitions to do something different growing up?

Growing up I really didn’t know for sure that I would be part of the family business. I was a decent sportsman so always had dreams to pursue some sort of career down that avenue, but as you get older you start to realise how important the business is and what sacrifices have been made in the past. When I left college I went to work for a sports sponsorship consultancy in the West End, and after two years there moved to an athlete representation and event management company. Altogether I had about five years of valuable experience in the sector.

To be honest though, with the mindset I have now, regardless what industry Matchroom operated in, it’s where I would be.

What does being a director of a sports promotion company like Matchroom entail?

Matchroom work across many sports and my involvement over the years has been across golf, darts, snooker, online gaming and now my focus is boxing.

Over the last two years we have become the premier boxing promoters in the country, and right now I’m driven to cement that position at the top of the industry, and invigorate the sport by bringing fans the best fights British boxing has to offer.

What’s next on the bill for Matchroom? Are there other sports you’re looking to explore?

We are always asked by fans to move into new sports.

Right now my Twitter feed is full of rugby league fans asking us to make a move in the game. It’s not always that simple, I’ve always worked on the basis of ‘no passion no point’ and my old man and I have to be a believer in what we’re doing to become involved - I think that’s a key to my success in boxing, I think it’s the greatest sport of all.

What are the positives and negatives of being in business with your family?

I think the negatives are that it’s more difficult to get the respect for what you are personally doing, but as you get older you worry less about getting respect. Who knows if I would have been as successful without the family business. I’ve certainly been lucky and I’m blessed with a golden start but in life you can only play the hand you are dealt. From a positive point of view, there can be nothing better than working together as a family. We love what we do and it’s a huge part of our lives.

Under the guidance of Hearn Super Middleweight Carl Froch has risen though the ranks to become one of the top boxers in the world

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What attributes do you think are essential for a good businessman?

I honestly believe that being in the right place at the right time is key. You’ve got to have luck, you’ve got to be sharp, you’ve got to be dynamic, and you’ve got to always be looking outside the box if you want to make any sort of impression on an industry. Mentally you have to be balanced, and always be able to think on

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your feet. I really don’t think being a great businessman is learnt in education. For sure it builds an intellectual foundation, and knowledge is always powerful, but you have to have something in you that can’t be taught.

When I’m recruiting I rarely focus on education history, I’m looking for that little sparkle that you can only see meeting someone face to face.

What’s the proudest moment of your professional career?

There have been a few on various levels. I once signed a golfer from a small developmental tour called John

“ T h e p e r s o n I l o o k u p t o th e m o st is m y dad . H e r e a l l y is a g e n i u s a n d his p assi o n is i n c r e di b l e ” E Morgan. The big management companies didn’t even look at him, but within six months he secured his European and PGA Tour cards. The time spent travelling across America with him trying to get that card were special days.

We also revolutionised the world of televised poker through creating multi-million dollar prize pool tournaments and cash games featuring the very best players from across the globe, and have taken the sport of darts to a whole new level.

For me personally though my proudest moments have come in boxing. Carl Froch defeating Lucian Bute for the IBF world title in 2012 was an incredible night, and the revenge victory over Mikkel Kessler in front of 19,000 people at the O2 is also right up there and one of my fondest memories.

Do you have any inspirations or people you look up to in business?

The person I look up to most in business, and in life, is my dad. He really is a genius and his passion and

enthusiasm for business and life really is incredible.

I’m also fascinated by the growth of businesses, and in that respect Steve Jobs and Bill Gates are role models and inspirations for the way they built their respective companies.

It was Hearn and his team at Matchroom who put together this year’s super fight between Carl Froch and Mikkel Kessler

What’s next for you? Are there any businesses or industries you would like to get involved in?

Who knows what the future holds, in life and in business. We are always expanding, and always innovating the way we do business, but things change and ideas and opportunities arise overnight. I feel I have a great understanding of what people want from live events, and I think in terms of value for money for punters, Matchroom are second to none, which will continue to be the driving force behind the direction we will take the company moving forward. I think the eventual expansion will see us diversify outside of sport, but for now we will continue with our philosophy of working harder than ever, and keep entertaining sports fans all over the world.

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Finance

“Holvi is a combination of services that provide the most advanced online banking experience in the world”

A Venture To Take To The Bank It’s extremely rare to stumble across entrepreneurs with the foresight, expertise and daring to launch a start-up aimed at challenging a market as established at the banking system. One such start up is Holvi, a company determined to shake up the traditional world of personal finance, and to offer customers a completely revolutionary banking tool to make their lives easier, and more financially content. We spoke to Holvi founder Kristoffer Lawson to find out what it takes to have the confidence to take on the world’s biggest financial institutions.

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How did you arrive at the concept for Holvi?

It was really a combination of various things, but most of all it came from a strong desire to solve our own problems when running various projects and businesses. The services for banking and managing money that existed were woefully inadequate or horrible to use, and we came upon an important realisation: that banking and money management, or bookkeeping, were two things that had been separated at birth. Believe me, I hate any form of manual bookkeeping or tools that make me do more work rather than less. It was very clear something had to be done about it.

Money has real meaning. It sits at the centre of almost

everything. It’s not just bookkeeping, but the contexts, the people around us, the customer orders, the images, the locations. Yet banks are services we aim to avoid at all costs. That’s crazy. For the role they play in our lives banks should be more engaging than Facebook.

What are the main difference between Holvi and traditional banking? And what are the benefits of these differences?

Holvi is a combination of services that provide the most advanced online banking experience anywhere in the world; an account that you can, if you want, share with multiple people or a team; and integrated bookkeeping with merchant features - i.e. real money management.

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Finance

“Confidence is what differentiates an entrepreneur from a grumbler. we cannot stand by and watch something that is inefficient and attacking problems in the wrong way” Does the idea have any competitors?

The approach we have taken is very unique, but there are of course many others in banking and money management methods and tools on the market.

Traditional banks, online accounting tools, spreadsheets - the manual and more difficult ways to do things. There are also a few new services out there that are really aiming to rethink the experience of banking. These companies are our contemporaries in that all work towards a common goal: to improve people’s lives and enable them to do great things through their finance.

Is the Holvi system designed to aid individuals or businesses?

Ultimately we think this difference is artificial.

Everyone’s life is full of a continuity of projects, activities and contexts. Whether you are building a house, running an agency or creating an art project, Holvi can be at the centre of everything you do. We look at people’s lives in a very different way from traditional banks, which only do a rough split between business and individual banking - and is actually the source of a lot of misery.

Have you had any financial backing? Are there huge financial costs to setting up an institution that rivals banking?

The costs are not as huge as you might imagine, due to the innovative approaches we have taken, but something like this does require significant investment to really get off the ground.

Where have you found the confidence to take on an institution as vast as the banking system?

I think confidence is what differentiates an entrepreneur from a grumbler: we cannot stand by and watch something that is inefficient and attacking problems the wrong way. A lot of people vent their frustrations by complaining to friends or on internet forums. We decided to do something about it. Obviously the fact that we can make a huge impact in people’s lives, and the world, drives us onwards.

Is brand recognition important for you? Does trust play a role in attracting customers to Holvi similar to traditional banking?

It is something that will be increasingly important for us, especially for the reason you mention: trust. Many start-ups will not have to face that issue in quite the same way as us, which means that for what we are doing there is no silver bullet. We have to work, one step at a time, to create that recognition and the trust. Having said that, a lot of trust in traditional banks has been eroded over the past few years, while our customers truly love what we are doing and what we stand for.

How far away are you from expanding Holvi overseas?

The only thing I can say is that we are working night and day towards that. We would rather it be sooner than later, but it depends on several factors.

Do you think it is realistic for Holvi to expand into a global banking alternative?

Yes. Is this your first entrepreneurial project?

We ran a consultancy company from the late 90s into the 2000s, dealing in internet and mobile technology, along with a number of side projects. We were also the team behind Scred.com - a service for managing shared

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expenses amongst friends. Holvi actually was born as a natural result of the things we had previously been building, but taking it to a whole new level.

Where do you expect Holvi to be in twelve months’ time?

We hope it will be something that a lot of people will be using and loving.

And what about ten years?

We really see Holvi as the spark that will inevitably lead to very new types of financial services. Some that will work with us, and some that might not. Services that are inter-connected, that allow the consumer to pick and choose what they utilise and how they interact with the tools available based on the activities they are involved with, and thus break the lock-in that banks have today.

We want Holvi to be a part of everyone’s life.

Have you ever had doubts that the business will succeed?

Interestingly, not really. It is only a matter of time before something like this starts to gobble up the market: once you make that mental leap and truly see what we are building, it is actually a very natural progression for banking. It is taking banking to a whole new level, but it could have happened ten years ago if the will had been there. The market has become so stagnant that what we

are doing is at least five years ahead of what traditional banks have now. Our only doubts are related to whether we will have enough resources to make it happen within the timeline we want. Even in our darkest moments, in the early days, we never had any thoughts about not doing this — we knew we would figure out a way, even if it would be a tough journey to make.

I think that’s one of the strongest signs you can have as a start-up that what you are doing is truly worth doing. If it is self-evident to you that it must be done, one way or another. You have no choice but to do it. It’s a calling.

The team at Holvi has solved the issue that many businesses suffer; how to merge banking and accounts

What advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs looking to take on a venture the size of yours?

I actually think many start-ups are not thinking big enough. It always surprises me. A start-up is one of the riskiest things you can do, so why would you not aim for something ridiculously big? The odds of succeeding with something smaller are probably the same either way. I have a feeling many start-up founders are looking for quick wins, which then generally do not materialise, and they give up. If you do, however, see a massive opportunity, and you have some idea how to tackle it, do so methodically and do not get discouraged if some do not immediately understand the breadth of what you are aiming for: they will later.

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Maria Kempinska

Seeing the Funny Side of Business Since founding comedy club juggernaut Jongleurs thirty years ago Maria Kempinska has overseen a complete overhaul in the industry, as the UK has fallen in love with the art of the stand-up comic.

A visionary and pioneer, Maria has cemented her reputation as one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the live entertainment industry.

We sit down with the queen of comedy to find out just what it takes to stay on top in such a competitive, and fast-moving, industry.

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Maria Kempinska

What were you doing before you started Jongleurs?

I trained as a teacher of English and Drama at college but I didn’t like the idea of being a part of the teaching system, so decided not to follow that career path.

Instead I spent some time finding my way by doing lots of temporary jobs. These included everything from working in a factory making zips, selling shirts from office to office, and doing administration for an advertising company. It was after this period that I decided to venture into business for myself.

How did you go about setting the club up after you had the initial idea?

The whole process took about three months to set up, including auditions, creating the table plan in the space we had available, making a stage and designing the backdrop. There was very little money for advertising and marketing so I put up posters myself and gave out flyers. Finding the name was an interesting decision as a lot of people criticised me for it, but I decided to stay with it regardless.

Why did you decide to enter into the comedy/ entertainment industry?

I loved theatre and I had organised shows at school for charity. I also trained as singer, dancer and actor, so felt very comfortable around the stage, and had some experience as an Assistant Stage Manager in a theatre, so I had some knowledge of live entertainment as an industry.

Although I had a number of different jobs, across a number of sectors and in extremely different settings, I knew that entertainment was the only profession I would have enough enthusiasm in to sustain the long hours and hard work needed to be truly successful.

It was this realisation that was the driver pushing me forward into searching for an entry into the industry.

Do you think it would be as easy to get into the comedy industry today as it was in the 80s?

It is much easier these days. The template has been drawn up by the industry pioneers over the past thirty years, and roles are now far more clearly defined. The market is also much stronger, as everyone knows there is a comedy industry.

The result of this is that there are comedians galore, agents, bookers, venues, and TV production companies all looking for a piece of the action. In the 80s it was far more chaotic, everything was more defined in traditional sectors: theatre, music, film and light entertainment, so it was difficult to envisage where comedy’s place was. Television was not so interested.

Although executives knew something vital and new was happening, lumbering companies like the BBC inevitably take decades to address a new movement.

How has comedy changed since you first got into the industry?

Back then there were no set standards in terms of types

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of humour. This changed when innovators developed individual styles which became the bedrock of the top comedians, including Paul Merton, Stephen Fry, Harry Hill, Ben Elton, Jo Brand, Bill Bailey and many more.

Humour was also more political and provocative, in part because of the times, but also because it was so different from other entertainment and the voices and opinions people were used to listening to.

When you opened your first club, did you ever imagine the business would be as big as it is today?

I think any entrepreneur who doesn’t dream big must lose out on motivation. I wanted to create a brand name that was recognisable and unique that would be memorable. Technology, particularly the internet, which couldn’t have been envisaged when we launched, has enabled the brand to become well known, and having the Jongleurs TV shows helped the name become even bigger. So although we didn’t always know how we were going to get here, our goal has always been to grow Jongleurs into the UK’s premier live comedy brand.

In your opinion, what are the secrets to running a successful business?

It’s a bit of a cliché, but you can never beat hard work!

Self-belief is also important, never believe that failure is an inevitability. Adaptability and a willingness to alter your work habits are also key to longevity, keep changing the way you work, change your business model to fit the developing climate, and learn from other industries.

You also need to know the ins and outs of every aspect of your business, be aware of your finances at all

Maria’s outstanding business acumen has seen her stand atop the live comedy industry for decades

“I think any entrepreneur that doesn’t dream big must lose out on motivation. I wanted Jongleurs to be an instantly recognisable brand, and we’ve achieved that”

work and others wouldn’t. I analyse my failures and success and this helps to eliminate doubt because you can better understand why some things happen; where things went wrong I would move on, and where it was successful I would improve or adapt the less successful areas.

What’s the proudest moment of your career?

We’ve reached so many goals we set out to achieve with Jongleurs, but I think the proudest moment of my professional career personally was when I sold my interest in the nightclub management side of the business to Regent Inns in 2000. I’m also incredibly proud for having been awarded an MBE. Are you the sort of entrepreneur who celebrates their success?

I love success and celebrations, I am the type who has a bottle of champagne for every small success, but it’s that love of that success that keeps driving me forward so that I can keep celebrating.

Do you see yourself as a role model to up and coming entrepreneurs?

I have mentored a number of young entrepreneurs and love talking to anyone in business, regardless of their age or the size of their company. It is important for entrepreneurs to feed ideas off each other, and I very much enjoy assisting in that process with people who are developing their businesses or ideas. I have a wealth of experience too and enthusiasm rubs off well on new entrepreneurs, and teaching comes very naturally for me. times, and in particular do not trust anyone else with your money. My overall business motto is that you don’t ever have to follow someone else’s rules, unless it’s the VAT man of course!

Did you ever have doubts Jongleurs would be the successful brand it is? How did you cope with these?

I’ve never doubted how big Jongleurs could be, my only doubts were whether I could fulfil the expectations of my investors, and whether they would continue to trust my instinct. I learnt to make a lot of things happen at the same time, in the knowledge that some would

Have you got any more entrepreneurial plans up your sleeve for the future?

I am always thinking about new business ventures and looking at different industries to step into. One of the more exciting projects that I am currently developing is the Dingwalls live music brand, which we are confident will emulate the success of Jongleurs.

If you could give one piece of advice to the entrepreneurs of tomorrow what would it be?

Hold true to your vision, control your company, and above all trust your instinct.

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StartUp Britain

Super britannia MoneyMaker meets Emma Jones, co-founder of national enterprise campaign StartUp Britain and founder of online business network Enterprise Nation, to hear how new British business is growing faster than ever before What is StartUp Britain, and how was it conceived?

StartUp Britain was set up in March 2011 by eight entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference. Their mission was simple – to celebrate, accelerate and inspire enterprise in the UK. By taking the start-up message to a wider audience, the campaign hopes to encourage more people to consider entrepreneurship as a career path. The campaign is funded by the private sector, big brands like PayPal, Intuit and BT Business, but has the support and the ear of central government. It uses this support to represent the needs start-ups require to get started and grow.

Since the campaign began, the UK has seen record start-up rates. According to our StartUp Britain tracker last year more than 484,000 businesses started up. This year we want to see 500,000 businesses getting under way. With start-up rates high, the campaign now plans to focus on how it can encourage big businesses to start to do business with small businesses in order for them to grow to the next level.

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StartUp Britain

What practical support do you provide to entrepreneurs?

We don’t hold people’s hands. We don’t operate a giant start-up call centre telling people what to do! We are a campaign, so we raise awareness about the support that’s out there from other organisations and the government for new businesses, as well as putting on free events.

Every year we run a Finance Week which includes a series of panel discussions, talks and workshops with the kind of high profile guests that you’d often have to pay a fortune to see. We also run Marketing 4 StartUp Britain Week with the Marketing Agencies Association (MAA) in the summer, Tech Week in the Autumn, plus some really popular one-day events including StartUp Food and StartUp Fashion. We’re also planning a StartUp Creative event in September that is set to be held in Manchester.

The other thing we do is our annual bus tour. This year we covered the length and breadth of the country encouraging people to get busy and start-up. We collect local entrepreneurs and business advisers as we go. The atmosphere is always amazing and we generally have queues of people keen to discuss their idea and collect more information about how they are going to start-up.

Is now a good time to launch a start-up in the UK? I’m biased of course, but I would say definitely yes. Starting a business has never been so achievable. With easy access to low-cost technology, there is no longer a need for an office and a filing cabinet. A laptop, a mobile phone and access to broadband are usually all you need – that and some good advice.

There are also some new initiatives and government support to look out for - StartUp Loans are already available to 18-30 year olds. The government also plans to open this up to people of all ages who want to be their own boss.

The great thing about the loan is that it comes with a mentor to make sure you get the best possible start. Growth Vouchers and different initiatives to help businesses to get to the next level have also been announced. And great things are happening. Tech City in Shoreditch was designated ‘a world-leading technology city to rival Silicon Valley’,

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and this is only one example of how entrepreneurship is expanding quickly.

Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme SEIS, introduced in April 2012, offers tax relief of up to 50% for investment in start-up companies as well as tax exemption on any capital gains. That’s a really good incentive for people to get involved.

What trends are you seeing in start-ups?

What we are seeing are more and more people who are starting real businesses.

Today 70% of all new businesses are started at home. Start-up and micro businesses account for 95% of all British businesses, provide employment for 7.8 million people and contribute 20% of private sector turnover.

They are mums who are holding down a day job, putting the kids to bed and then starting work on their business.

They are people who are working hard, and creating their own value from home by doing something they love.

We run PitchUp events with big firms in a bid to get them to get engaged with the increasing number of start-ups.

We’re in the process of running one, our third with leading high street retailer John Lewis. So far two start-ups have been stocked on their shelves in this way.

We’re also about to do our first pitching day with Sainsbury’s in September. This is for foodie start-ups – people who are already manufacturing their own ice cream, Indian ready meals, or selling their collections online.

There are also increasing numbers of people running retail start-ups online.

We set up our retail arm PopUp Britain in response to this. We now open up empty shops and introduce groups of retail start-ups to co-work and co-fund the space. We’re about to open our eighth - this time in Piccadilly. Since we started out from an empty estate agent’s shop in Richmond twelve months ago, we’ve helped more than 250 start-ups get onto the high street.

What advice would you have for aspiring entrepreneurs thinking of launching their first start-up?

Start small. Hang on to the day job and give it a go in a small way. It’s a great way to test out your ideas with a safety net in place. It’s hard work of course, but

K C

S “with easy access to low-cost technology, starting a business has never been so achievable”

KEEP CALM AND

START UP

the rewards are there to be had. You’ll soon work out what works and what doesn’t. Starting and growing a business at home is the most popular way to do it.

Keeping the overheads low is incredibly important.

What advice would you give entrepreneurs who are struggling with finding financing for their start-up?

Access to finance has been identified as one of the biggest single barriers to growth, with only a quarter of UK startups considering themselves strong at accessing even basic external finance, and four out of five financial decision makers have no formal training in financial matters.

When starting out most businesses only need small amounts of capital, and crowd funding sites are playing an increasingly influential role in this. Other alternatives include angel investment, venture capital, SEIS backers and StartUp Loans for 18-30 year olds.

Start-ups should look out for incubators and accelerators who can offer advice and high-speed growth expertise.

A report by small business accounting software firm Intuit called the Three Year Glitch suggests the earlier businesses take up good financial habits, the more likely they are to survive the crucial first three years. A poll of 500 business founders and owners revealed 40% had experienced cash flow problems, 31% said they had found problems getting paid and 23% said they had experienced difficulty managing finances at some point.

Do you think that investors should be more accessible with their time to start-ups?

It makes sense for people who are investing to offer their advice as well as their money. Having this kind of input can make all the difference for someone who has a great idea – but doesn’t know how to put it into action. Having to report back often offers motivation to succeed and impress – as well as a chance to learn and gather detailed advice.

Entrepreneurs love to get to grips with new projects and often can’t resist getting involved. I’d have thought there might be more of an issue asking them to be less involved! n www.startupbritain.co.uk

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StartUp Britain

Recent Success Stories From StartUp Britain We asked Emma to tell us about some of the recently launched companies that have benefited from StartUp Britain’s expertise FORMER CITY GILT TRADER TURNS OILY RAGS INTO RICHES A former City gilt trader, who gave up her high-flying job to concentrate on being a mum, has launched her own range of outdoor cushions in John Lewis.

Julia Hunter, who once headed up a team of ten men as a gilt trader at the London International Financial Futures Exchange (LIFFE), signed the deal after pitching her home-based start-up to buyers as part of national enterprise campaign StartUp Britain’s PitchUp initiative.

Earlier this year Julia, from Eye in Suffolk, saw her spring/summer range of unique waterproof cushions, made by her own company Oily Rag, launched in the high street giant’s flagship Oxford Street store.

The launch coincides with the latest round of the campaign’s PitchUp competition, which will see another 12 British start-ups pitching their products to John Lewis buyers.

Julia said: “I never thought when I gave up my job to be a mum that running a successful business would be possible so quickly. I would never have got this far if it had not been for entering the StartUp Britain competition. I’ve now got my products stocked ready for the spring/summer market and I’m also working on an exclusive collection for John Lewis for 2014. It’s a really exciting time for my company.” n www.oilyragfabric.com

StartUp Britain keeps a counter of the number of new businesses launched in the UK this year. This figure is already over 300,000

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BLACKPOOL-BASED CHILDREN’S SHOE FIRM HAS DESIGNS ON MARKET A Blackpool shoe company is one of five new British businesses who took part in StartUp Britain’s recent initiative Confessions of a StartUp. Jennifer Duthie, 27, a former investment banker set up her innovative new children’s shoe company, Skribbies, a unique shoe brand that allows children to decorate and then crucially, wipe clean their shoes.

Jennifer, a former investment banker with Lehman Brothers, said: “It was one of those nostalgic moments when I came up with the idea. I remember so fondly fabric paints and the buzz I got out of creating my own T-shirts – and this is an extension of that idea. Once I had the idea, I did some research and realised there was

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nothing out there like it. Skribbies was developed from there.”

Since starting out earlier this year Jennifer has launched her product, received her first consignment, looked into second round funding, been on BBC Breakfast and spent two weeks in a PopUp Britain shop – PopUp King’s Road. n www.skribbies.com BRIGHTON MUM PEDDLES INTO DEAL WITH JOHN LEWIS Jo Hockley, founder of Toddlebike, a unique pre-balance bike for toddlers, is another of the latest success stories to be announced as a result of PitchUp with John Lewis.

Brighton-based Jo gave up work to look after her three children, but identified a gap in the British market while visiting family in Belgium.

She was bowled over by an ingenious Germandesigned product, popular with parents across Europe, which allows active toddlers aged 1-3 years old to develop cycling skills both indoors and outside.

Entrepreneurial mum Jo thought the product not only ideal for her own children, but believed it could have much wider appeal in the UK market. She decided to set up a business and began collecting the appropriate licenses and rights for exclusive UK sale and import.

Jo said: “Winning a place at PitchUp was fantastic and I was delighted that the buyers, like myself, saw just how innovative Toddlebike is. The bike sits in between a baby ride-on and a balance or peddle bike and importantly teaches children the skills needed to make the progression to this next stage.” n www.toddlebike.co.uk LIVERPOOL LAW GRADUATE TAKES ON THE LANDLORDS In September 2010, Mitchell Platt moved into a student house in Kensington, Liverpool. On the third morning he woke up covered, head to toe, in bed bug bites.

After investigating, he discovered previous complaints had been made – but he had been allowed to move in regardless.

After embarking on a legal battle, Mitchell, 23, decided to set up a website to protect other students from having

the same miserable experience.

Resident Review goes live soon. He intends it to be a platform where students can compare and rate renting experiences in the city as well as share their experiences with landlords and agents.

Mitchell said: “According to Liverpool Student Homes, in October 2012 there were 1500 student beds unoccupied. Subsequently, I am confident that there is enough good student accommodation in Liverpool for everyone and the ‘bad guys’ can be avoided if the correct information is available.”

Mitchell plans to repeat his success in other student towns and cities once he has tested his blueprint in Liverpool. n www.residentreview.co.uk INDUSTRIAL WASTE SALVAGED TO MAKE DESIGNER BAGS Young industrial product designer Mat Dusting salvages old lorry curtains and turns them into beautiful and durable designer bags.

With a passion for winter sports, over the years Mat found many of his bags broke because he overfilled them or loaded them with sharp-edged objects, like skis or snowboards.

Even whilst at university, he found many bags broke

because they were knocked or caught on sharp corners.

Frustrated with having to buy a new bag every year, Mat decided to design his own.

Mat said: “After experimenting with a few different materials including old sandbags, scrap polythene and tarpaulin, I made a few crude prototypes and recognised that canvas was the right material for the job. I also love the fact that it’s recycling something that would otherwise head straight to landfill.”

He quickly moved into salvaging old lorry curtains from around the South West where he lives and set up M-24. All his products are made in the UK. Mat recently spent two weeks in PopUp King’s Road.

His unusual one-off products sold out. n www.m-24.co.uk

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Rockstar Youth

Making Noise with Rockstar Youth The future of young entrepreneurship with JB Gill

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Rockstar Youth

“ I ha v e b e e n s e l f - e m p l o y e d a l l m y l if e , s o I k n o w what y o u n g e n t r e p r e n e u r s a r e g o i n g th r o u g h ”

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ince invading homes across Britain in 2008 through the medium of the X Factor, JB Gill has maintained a profile as one of the most recognisable people in Britain. As one quarter of pop super group JLS JB has climbed to the top of the music industry, sculpting a product and brand as recognisable as it is successful in the process.

The JLS chapter of his life is now drawing to a close, and with it JB is moving on to pastures new. He still plans to be involved in other music projects, but is also using the valuable lessons he learned whilst developing the JLS brand to explore the world of business. He has recently bought a farm which he is growing with a number of revenue streams and has become an ambassador for Rockstar Youth, a young entrepreneur mentoring and investment scheme helping fledging businesses get off the ground.

We sit down with JB to talk music, business, his plans for the future, and just why he’s putting his weight behind an enterprise incubation programme.

How did your collaboration with Rockstar Youth come about?

I found out about Rockstar Youth through a friend who told me about the initiative and the inspiration it seeks to give to the youth of our country. As soon as I was aware of the project and how it assisted young entrepreneurs get their business ideas off the ground I knew that Rockstar Youth was something I would be extremely keen to get involved in if given the opportunity.

What message are you trying to get across to young entrepreneurs through Rockstar Youth?

I think it’s important for young people to understand, quite simply, that they can achieve things in this world, especially when they apply and dedicate themselves towards attaining a particular goal. I think

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the best way to lead is by example and that is why I’d like to be involved with the projects that Rockstar Youth is encouraging and representing.

Are there any restrictions as to who can apply to the Rockstar Youth scheme?

Currently applicants must be 18-30 and have an existing new business or a business idea. The wonderful thing about the Startup Loans scheme is that the restrictions are limited which means employed or not, graduate or not, it’s open to most young people in Britain. All of the info and criteria is available at www.rockstaryouth.co.uk Are you a naturally entrepreneurial person?

Have you started your own businesses?

I have been self employed all of my working life, so I know what young entrepreneurs are going through and how hard it can be when you’re starting out if you don’t have much support. As members of JLS we were extremely entrepreneurial from the very beginning. We got ourselves into unsigned act competitions, developed our sound and searched for opportunities where it appeared as though none were present. We had even set up and began selling our own branded merchandise before we went on the X Factor in 2008. That merchandise is now instantly recognisable within pop music. I love business and believe that ownership is a key component in any individual.

And are there any other areas of business that you would like to get involved in in the future?

I am currently in the process of setting up my own farm, which has a wealth of future business possibilities that I’m looking to expand and develop in the coming years. And I’ve always understood that it is important to make sound investments as well as good business decisions, so as well as starting business ventures I’m also looking into a variety of areas to invest in that I have knowledge of, which include property and music.

can’t be underestimated. Know where you want to go, plan how you’re going to get there, and be meticulous in getting things right from the start.

Can your experiences from the music industry be transferred to your other projects?

Absolutely, all business is essentially the same.

Although the end products can differ greatly, the process is essentially identical. We spent a lot of time developing the JLS brand, and the lessons I learned from that are now greatly helping with other business ventures I am going to be involved in moving forward.

Do you have plans to return to the music industry in the future? Or are you keen to focus on a new career?

I’m still involved in music. I always will be, and my musical exploits will always be part of music history.

I thank God for the success that we have had already with JLS, but it’s always good to keep reinventing the wheel, so my next musical exploit will no doubt be very different to what I’ve done in the past.

Did you have a business mentor that helped you launch your business ventures?

No unfortunately not, when we launched our JLS brand we only had ourselves to rely on. However, I do fully understand the value of mentors and support the move to encourage more start-ups to look for established businesspeople from whom to learn and take on board knowledge. Individuals who can draw on their own mistakes and help you avoid the same pitfalls are beyond valuable in almost every area of life, and business is certainly no exception.

As an ambassador for Rockstar Youth, JB is keen to emphasise the importance of mentoring and support for young people, particularly in business

What did the music industry teach you about business?

You have to start small and take your time if you want to eventually be successful. Building a business or brand has to be done from a solid foundation, otherwise it will crumble quickly when times aren’t so strong. The importance of patience and vision

If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring entrepreneurs what would it be?

Always re-evaluate yourself, what your strengths are, and what you can do better. Then act on the areas in which you need to improve.

Also, be a sponge i.e. try to learn as much as you can from other people you trust, especially people who have gone before you in the same industry, and in the process you’ll hopefully take a lot of the uncertainty away from what you’re trying to achieve.

Finally, micro-manage. Granted, no one person can do everything, but if as the entrepreneur you lose sight of how your business is being run or leave it totally to someone else then you’re heading for trouble.

To attend the Rockstar Youth business incubator with JB, or to sign up for a Startup loan of up to £10k and free mentoring, visit www.rockstaryouth.co.uk Follow Rockstar Youth on Twitter: @Rockstaryouth1

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management

Effectively Empowering Your Employees Chief Financial Officer of the Hakkasan Restaurant Network and a founder of Ignite Group, Paul Deeming tells us his secrets for building and retaining a better, and more contented workforce

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“understanding your staff and their needs, skills and concerns is the first step to improving the quality of your workforce”

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Paul Deeming is currently Chief Financial Officer of the Hakkasan Restaurant Network, and serial restaurant entrepreneur. He was one of the two founders of Ignite Group.

ike financial capital, human capital is a business resource which, if not treated with care, can be lost. A key cornerstone of my leadership style has been to nurture, empower and effectively retain good staff, as they are what will drive your business forward over time.

Understanding your staff and their needs, skills and concerns is the first step to improving the quality of your employees and their work habits. At Ignite, the group that launched Boujis, Eclipse and Wyld in the W hotel, we had a policy that all Head Office staff, including myself, took shifts on the restaurant floor. Yes, I’m proud to say I can wield a plate and polish a glass, although not quite as well as many of my staff.

The initiative began as an educational experience for management, one which guarded against ego inflation by constantly reminding us of the daily difficulties faced on the floor. It also had an unexpected sideeffect. Our heightened presence made us more real and approachable to our employees. It allowed them to see us away from the perceived ivory tower of Head Office, and encouraged communication between staff on all levels. It’s well documented that communication is key in motivating and inspiring staff but this initiative really impressed upon me the effects on a business of increased staff interaction. We began to develop just the kind of staff any business needs; a staff that will drive the brand forward and act as its ambassadors.

Employees invariably want to learn about the business they are in. Some aspects may only affect them indirectly, but comprehensive business knowledge will always add to their experience. I have taught a number of finance classes for non-finance people, including those at senior levels. The purpose of these classes is not to lecture employees as their boss, but to teach them as an experienced colleague. It’s a highly inclusive class, where I encourage staff to understand the repercussions on profit margin behind their daily decisions within their roles in any area of the business. Allowing employees an insight to parts of the business they don’t usually have access to gives them a sense of inclusion.

It effectively illustrates how each individual is partially accountable for the business’s success and suggests the opportunities for promotion that come with taking on greater responsibility.

Building a relationship with your staff is important, but it’s also vital to think about and set the tone for how staff interact with one another. There is a unique challenge of staff management in the hospitality industry – namely, the relationship between Head Office

staff and site staff. At Head Office, you may have a small, very tightly-knit group of people, often with business, finance, legal, HR, and marketing backgrounds. On site, you have the team that is the face of the brand; the team which excels in producing the product and delivering the customer service that makes successful leisure brands sing. There is scope for these two disparate groups of people to feel distant; but aligning them and integrating them is key. I ensure that Head Office staff are fully aware that their direct clients are the restaurants and the staff at each site; they need to be receiving exemplary service from the central team.

The greatest challenge in motivating staff is being able to continue to empower employees when the business isn’t doing well. I’ve had the good fortune in my two most recent companies to be leading successful, growing businesses and brands, but several years ago I was a director at a smaller, struggling business. When there’s no opportunity for promotion or individual growth, how do you motivate someone? I learned quickly that there are soft touches for motivation; benefits beyond direct salary compensation can go a long way. A sense of communal ‘let’s make this happen’ can also encourage staff; including them in team building exercises and making them feel involved, and part of the team solving the growth problems.

Empowering members of an organisation through team building is an excellent motivational tool; staff can feel they are contributing, through their own initiative, to improving performance and achieving better results.

In many situations where teamwork is necessary, employees are given the opportunity to voice their ideas and opinions. A regular team meeting or an occasional get together outside the normal office environment encourages people, and often makes them feel more at ease, to develop ideas that can improve processes within the business.

Empowering employees in these ways also encourages loyalty. The modern view is that a two-year stint in a company is average and acceptable, especially among younger staff who feel any longer can be looked at negatively by future employers. In my business, loyalty is something to be highly valued. It can take longer than two years to build both a globally renowned brand and business; so remembering to reward loyalty and those staff who stay with you contributing to the creation and build story, is essential. There are still gems of employees who dedicate years or decades of their life to one company (yes, there can also be ‘old school’ employees resistant to change) but be sure to acknowledge and award those who perform well and continue to do so year after year.

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One to Watch

Butler Serves Video to the Nation When Marcus Butler first started loading music videos into YouTube little did he realise the entrepreneurial path he was about to venture down.

How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a video maker?

Did you always think of it as an entrepreneurial pursuit?

I started showing interest in video making from a young age, when I was around thirteen or fourteen. I used to compile different sports compilation and music videos and then upload them onto my YouTube channel in hope that they would receive some recognition and views.

However, I didn’t realise at that time that you could make any money from video viewers online.

How did you go about developing a passion for video making into a business?

To be honest, I was awed by the fact that I could transition from doing something I loved for so long simply as a hobby, to being able to start earning money from it. There aren’t many professions you start doing purely because you love it and end up being able to do it as your day to day job.

My biggest hurdle was deciding when to stop my full time ‘normal’ job and focus on YouTube full time. Everyone who I was looking for advice from thought it was a bad idea, because they couldn’t believe it was a ‘proper’ financial venture.

What’s the best thing about being in business for yourself?

The best thing about this business is meeting so many people that share the same passion as you. YouTube used to be a very strange media platform to be into and to watch. So out of my group of friends I was the only who watched Youtube consistently and was inspired by its possibilities and others who had made a success of it, my peers didn’t

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really understand it. So it’s nice to have met and made friends with some amazing people who have shared the same experiences as me.

What is your proudest achievement so far?

My proudest achievement in my entrepreneurial career so far is reaching 1 million subscribers to my YouTube channel. When I stop, think and realise that a million people have actively decided to subscribe and start following my channel it is mind-blowing, and almost impossible to comprehend. When I think about speaking to a million people and picture them standing in front of me the thought is even more overawing. I think I’d want to run a mile.

Are you the sort of entrepreneur who is happy to sit back and celebrate your success or are you constantly looking to move forward to the next project?

I’m constantly looking for new opportunities.

To be successful in the long term I think it’s important that you’re always looking for new ways to innovate and explore. YouTube as an industry is great in this regard because it’s still young enough for everyone to still be on a learning curve.

How do you see the future of your industry?

The pace at which the online market is moving is insane. To think I’m already getting more views a month than some of the big terrestrial television shows just shows how active the online world is. The internet is global, television has never and will never be able to match that, so it only makes sense that the internet will become

more mainstream than traditional media and television. I’m not saying we’ll ever stop watching television, but I do think it’s inevitable that the internet and YouTube will be a bigger part of people’s life on an increasingly everyday basis.

Are there any other entrepreneurs in the same industry that you have looked up to when building your brand?

I love seeing other young people with a drive to succeed and who have made a success of themselves due to their hard work. Someone who has been an inspiration to me over the last few years is Jamal Edwards, the founder of SBTV. He has blazed a trail for young online entrepreneurs and a lot of people in the industry look up to him.

What does the future hold for you?

Are you looking at exploring new business avenues?

The future is a very exciting thought for me.

I’d love to continue doing what I do, but maybe bring in a higher production value to the product. I’m currently working on a clothing line, my own app and dabbling into the music scene as well, as I’m obsessed with it and would love to be part of the industry.

What piece of advice would you give to young entrepreneurs looking to emulate your success?

My advice would be to not let anyone hold you back. If you have your eyes set on something and you are dedicated enough then no one can stop you. Learn from your mistakes and always respect others, and you’ll go a long way.

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charisma

Magnetic Personalities The benefits, and pitfalls, of charisma - By Dr Steve Kempster, Professorial Director of Leadership Development, Lancaster University Management School

W In the corporate, and often cold world of business, being able to engage on a personal level can prove to be a huge advantage in brokering deals

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hen I was working at Stirling University Conference Centre we were due to be visited by the Prime Minister of the time, John Major. We expected the Spitting Image character, small and grey, pushing peas around his plate.

The day came and rooms were cleared, schedules all changed, the red carpet was rolled out and bands of armed security guards sealed off the area. In this atmosphere, John Major’s presence was electric. He seemed taller than anyone, shaking hands and making everyone in the room feel involved with his smiles and warmth. He had an aura and energy that was utterly charismatic.

And that’s the key point when it comes to charisma – it’s not so much about what qualities you have, but about what other people think you have. There’s no doubt John Major has plenty of personal qualities, confidence and experience – but it was his position as a world leader, the fuss and the ceremony of the occasion, that meant we saw him in an entirely different way.

Charisma, then, usually goes along with leaders, not necessarily just CEOs, but any of those people who are in some way in a position of power, a position of leadership. The power, both in the position they hold and their personal qualities, fuse into a presence that encourages feelings of confidence, security and the motivation in others to want to be connected with them. Because we want to have some of that power rub off onto us – we find ourselves – even in just a moment of time – captured by this power. With the Prime Minister I caught myself excited and even trying to give of my best – not that I was noticed, I just felt like I was.

More particularly, charismatic people are seen to be different from the norm, and might be slightly unconventional in some way. They can be intellectually

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stronger and sharper, able to grasp and make sense of what looks like a confusing situation quickly, along with the ability to communicate their summary: to take what looks like a confusing mess and provide a convincing and attractive explanation. Charismatic people appear to have a very high level of social awareness. They can both read a room and work it. They can sense individual moods and changes in moods, so in an event of 100 plus people, make it feel as if they are only talking to you; they’ll be able to move around a room making everyone feel they’ve had particular attention.

That’s the ideal in any case. In reality we’re not always perfect, we’ll have good and bad days, and might sometimes rely more on our title and reputation and leave the full charm offensive for another time. There are workshops available that will teach you how be more charismatic, sometimes involving wearing a new hat, some odd socks, anything that makes you seem unconventional. But these are best avoided. Instead, in practical terms, developing charisma comes down to some basic qualities that can be worked on to some degree: self-confidence, being clear and confident about your identity, and the ability to talk and listen to people in an engaging way.

More important can be your reputation. It’s the stories that are told about you as a leader or entrepreneur, as a battle-hardened achiever, that make the most difference. People might not even like you very much.

All that pressure and constant demands might make you infuriating. But stories about what you’ve achieved, how you won orders against the odds, how you survived through the downturn etc, create a semi-heroic role and build a charismatic aura and identity.

Charisma matters to business leaders because it sets a climate of confidence, a sense of purpose – where employees can create for themselves a sense of understanding their role and contribution. Most simply, it makes people feel more positive. Charismatic leaders

make people believe they can achieve greater things, and give them the motivation to want to achieve more.

That clarity of vision and ability to make the future look engaging and attractive is all-important in improving performance and steering organisations through periods of change or budget cuts. Research has shown that there is a clear correlation between perceived leader integrity, good leader-follower relationship and enhanced performance.

However there is an interesting line not to step over.

Charisma isn’t all good. There is a darker side to the idea of power and persuasion, the ability to draw people into

following a particular vision. Where does charisma end and hubris and even psychopathic behaviour begin?

Charisma, grandiose ideas, over belief in one’s judgment and huge self-confidence are all accepted characteristics of hubris. No matter how successful and charismatic someone considers themselves to be – and to be clear long-standing political leaders become vulnerable to hubris – a strong sense of an ethical compass, an empathetic understanding of social responsibility and a large dose of humility will always enhance what they have to offer. l www.lums.lancs.ac.uk

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Investment

Securing the Superstars of Tomorrow How can you get the best from the recruitment process? By Adrian Kinnersley, Managing Director of Twenty Recruitment

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ow you attract, train and retain your talent is critical to the future success of your company. In a difficult market in particular, the only way to compete is by having the right team in place working in the right way. As such, it really is worth taking the time to get your hiring process right, because it’ll be cost effective in the long term.

So how can you get the best out of your recruitment process and identify future star performers who will also work well with the rest of your team?

Think about your values At Twenty, we strongly believe that in order to hire – and keep – the top talent for your organisation, it’s important to embed a real sense of culture and values.

And it’s not just us saying it.

London Business School confirmed our beliefs by conducting a case study for us on this topic. A business should have clear values in place from the start, and leaders should recognise how these relate to employees.

If a culture isn’t shaped early on, it can lead to ingrained behaviours that you don’t want in your company, so it’s important to familiarise yourself with the culture and values before recruiting. After all, you might not even realise quite what you were looking for until you do

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that – and it will help you to manage your new recruit’s expectations.

Consider the future of your business Whilst it’s important that new employees can fit in with your culture, you shouldn’t only hire individuals who are the same as you. One of our values at Twenty, for instance, is ‘be eclectic’. This has formed an important part of our hiring strategy because it means that we celebrate diversity in our style of operating and in our team. Instead of only recruiting a specific type of person, we understand that, as we work in different market segments, we need different personality types.

In order to avoid ‘group think’ and reduce the risk of losing competitive advantage, it’s fundamental that you don’t just hire the obvious people but think outside the box. It’s about finding a balance between people who will get on well in your team and who will bring in fresh ideas to create a dynamic working unit. You need to have a long term approach to future proof your business and ensure that you have the best talent in place to adapt.

Ask the right questions Everyone has their own prejudices, but you can help to get around them in recruitment by carrying out competency based questions. Interviews should be designed to test the various approaches people might

take to your values, for instance, as well as digging deeper into a candidate’s experiences that would be beneficial in this role. However, for interviews to be successful, it’s important that you know what you’re looking for from the start so that you can prepare the right questions. For example, are you looking to hire based on experience or are you wanting to train individuals to match your way of doing things? At Twenty, for instance, we have chosen to focus on hiring experienced recruiters who have knowledge of both a specific industry sector and a vertical market within that sector.

Have a structured process Of course it’s important to take the time to get the recruitment process right, and preparing the right questions is a key part of this. However, it’s also imperative that this is carried out as quickly as possible.

If your hiring process is too lengthy, there’s a danger of presenting your company as slow and disorganised.

On the other hand, if you make decisions quickly, you’ll have more chance of securing talent against the competition. On top of this, a fast hiring process makes candidates feel wanted, and they are more likely to have a positive feeling about joining your team.

Have an onboarding process in place When you’ve recruited the perfect hire, it’s important to

recognise that the process doesn’t end there. In order to embed them into the organisation, you need to have a thorough onboarding strategy in place. No matter how much experience an individual may have had in the past, things will of course be different in your organisation, and there should be training in place to help them to adapt to and fit in with the organisation.

Not only this, but there needs to be the opportunity for new hires to express things that could be adjusted based on previous companies that they’ve worked in so that improvements can be made.

When we take on a new hire at Twenty, for example, we have an offsite day where our recent recruits go through our values and tell us what they mean to them, and how they think they can be measured. Then, if on one of those offsite days they can come up with another valid way of measuring one of the values, that goes into the appraisal and everyone sets their bar against it.

When it comes to identifying potential future star performers, it’s important to think outside the box to ensure that an individual will be right for your team in both the short and long term. However, perhaps the most important part of the process is to recognise that it doesn’t end after an individual’s first day. In order to be good hires, all employees need to be developed over time in order to keep them productive. The hiring process is only the beginning.

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DREAMCHASER

INSPIRATIONAL FEATS When unspeakable tragedy struck brothers Rob and Paul Forkan in the devastating 2004 tsunami, they could have wilted under the enormity of their grief. Instead, they chose a life of entrepreneurial endeavour, fuelled by a desire to ensure that orphans around the world had the same life chances they did. Eve Hartridge met the entrepreneurs and discovered their story.

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Rob and Paul have travelled around the world, spreading the Gandys brand and their unique philosophy as they’ve gone

they could do all of this, the answer was looking them in the face - the humble flip-flop. Almost everyone in the world owns a pair of flip-flops in some form or another, and they are arguably the most practical, simple and comfortable footwear on the planet. Their footwear brand, Gandys was born.

Since then, Gandys has become a travel and beach style essential, loved by celebrities, and endorsed by the likes of Sir Richard Branson, who is often seen proudly sporting his pair of ‘Necker Island Red’ Gandys.

We caught up with the inspirational entrepreneurs to find out their story.

What are Gandys flip-flops and what inspired you to set up the brand?

Rob: “Gandys flip-flops is a new footwear brand with a unique ethos, created by my brother Paul and I. When we were 13 and 11 our parents pulled us out of school to travel the world as a family and do voluntary work abroad. We were in Sri Lanka when the 2004 tsunami struck, and sadly we lost both of our parents.

“My brother and I were determined to turn our experience into a force for good, so we founded Gandys flip-flops. We donate 10% of profits to projects abroad with underprivileged children, and our goal is to open our first children’s home by the end of next year.”

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n the Western world, we’re all familiar with the phrase ‘what doesn’t break you, makes you stronger’. However, thankfully very few of us are tested to the limit to put this into demonstrable practice.

The same cannot be said for brothers Rob and Paul Forkan, though, who turned a genuinely worst case scenario into something positive, and a force for good, when, aged just 11 and 13 at the time, they were orphaned in Sri Lanka by the 2004 tsunami, during a family holiday.

Such tragedy would destroy most people, but Rob and Paul were determined to live full and happy lives, to make their parents proud, and keep their memory alive.

They also wanted to create a practical way to help other orphans around the globe, with a long term plan to build homes for orphaned children.

As the brothers studied the floor and pondered how

What were you doing previously?

Paul: “I was actually out in Australia working as a business development manager in a company that imported furniture. Rob flew out to surprise me on my 21st birthday, told me about his idea and I flew straight back over to get started!”

Rob: “I used to work for a marketing company - a bit different from the fashion world, but it was a start-up, so I learned some really valuable lessons there about business.”

How did you make the switch to become an entrepreneur?

Rob: “We both have always wanted to set up our own businesses at some point so I think it came quite naturally for both of us when we decided that we were going to run with the idea of Gandys!”

Paul: “I think it runs in our family - our mum and dad set up their own social enterprise, so they were definitely an inspiration for both of us to follow in their footsteps.”

What were the first challenges you had to overcome?

Paul: “The main thing is definitely other people not believing in your idea. We had a lot of friends and

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“The main message of our story is that for anyone who has suffered a tragedy, you can turn a negative into a positive if you have determination and focus�

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DREAMCHASER

family telling us that we were crazy to start a flip-flop company in the UK, so it’s really important to stick to your beliefs and keep going. I was lucky I had Rob to carry me through when I came up against a barrier, and I did the same with him. I would definitely recommend having a business partner.”

Rob: “When we first started we were in our flat in Brixton, with one of us on the sofa. We didn’t have much money, so we did our first product shots on our iPhones with the bath as a backdrop! It was tough with just two of us trying to do everything, as essentially you’re competing against big brands with loads of staff and resources.”

At what point did you realise that you had made the right decision?

Rob: “It’s hard to say because we’ve always come from the perspective that the idea was going to work eventually, and that we weren’t going to give up until our dream became a reality. In terms of really realising what we are achieving though, I would say our trip to India in December was a key moment for us. We got to see the work happening on the ground because of Gandys - we’ve provided nutritional goods and educational supplies for over 100 children and a teacher for a community.”

Paul: “I think the moment that we started to realise that we were really beginning to make progress with the business was when we signed up House of Fraser. It was really amazing when we first launched into all the stores - walking into stores that we shop in ourselves and seeing our product there was an incredible feeling.

In general I know it was the right decision because every day I wake up happy about going into work. I’ve worked the last two months without a day off because I love what I do so much!”

What advice would you have for others looking to emulate your success?

Rob: “Work hard; and be determined! I personally think that a good work ethic is the most important thing - if you work hard, you will see the results eventually. We have put in a lot of very long hours and we always think there is loads more to do.”

Paul: “Don’t take no for an answer and always look for original ways to overcome any barriers you encounter.

We’ve done lots of crazy things to get where we are including knocking at Sir Philip Green’s door in our flip-flops which helped get us into Topman!”

What can other entrepreneurs who suffer overwhelming hardship learn from your experiences?

Paul: “I think the main message to anyone who has suffered a tragedy is that you can turn a negative into a positive if you have the determination and focus.”

What impact upon your life has setting up Gandys had?

Rob: “The impact has been absolutely massive; our lives

have changed completely. It’s great working towards something that we’re really passionate about. Every week there’s a new challenge or project and we love the variety at Gandys!”

Paul: “We’re also lucky enough to get invited to events that we never dreamed of attending. Recently we went to the DNA Summit and met CEOs of companies that we really admire. It’s such an honour to be in the same room as these people.”

How important is the charity element of your business?

Paul: “It’s absolutely fundamental to Gandys. Everything we do is because we want to make a difference in the lives of children around the world. When we returned to England after the tsunami we were very lucky to receive a lot of help from friends and family; but we know that for a lot of children in developing countries this is not the case.”

Rob: “As we grow, we want to be known as the brand that gives back. We think that every business should do their bit to improve the world.”

What is your next milestone/objective?

Rob: “In November we launch into Nordstrom in America, so that’s pretty big! We’re looking into expanding into a lot more other countries too.”

Paul: “Then obviously the biggest milestone in the near future will be the opening of our children’s home next year to mark the 10th year anniversary of the tsunami.”

What does the future hold for Gandys?

Paul: “We want to become a household name across the world and open children’s homes on every continent. I can’t wait for in ten years’ time to have a few children’s homes around the world, and to be recognised as the best flip-flops in every country.”

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Investment

Finding YouR Investment Angel Perry Anderson gives his advice to entrepreneurs looking for first time investment n By Perry Anderson

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n today’s entrepreneurial world, more and more people are looking to go into business for themselves, and consequently are looking for investment partners to help grow their companies from start-ups to established industry leaders. But many simply do not know where to start looking to source that all important injection of capital needed to take their business on its next step to success. This is

a situation than can be easily rectified.

The first point for start-ups or businesses looking for investment to remember is that the market is currently very positive for British business. With interest rates so low, and with overseas investors being attracted to the UK primarily due to the weak value of the pound, there is capital waiting to be deployed into businesses that can prove sufficient returns are realistic for investors.

To assume that there is a lack of capital available

currently due to the state of the economy is a mistake.

The media has contributed to a situation where there is a perceived lack of capital funds waiting to be deployed, and that businesses are in effect wasting their time pursuing avenues of investment, when in reality this is simply not the case. There is trillion dollars of capital currently waiting to be utilised globally, and a large number of investors both based in the UK and overseas who are actively looking for investment opportunities in British business. But just what is the optimum way to secure investors?

Obviously there are venture capital groups and private angel investor communities that businesses looking to generate funds through selling equity should acquaint themselves with, but when seeking investment on any level sourcing from your own network is always the best place to start.

Put your address book to work for you – once you have decided exactly what it is that you’re looking for from an investor and what it is you’re prepared to give away, tell as many people as possible about it.

The people within your own network might not be suitable for your business, or might not be looking to invest at that particular time, but at the very least your network can extend your equity offer to their own

contacts. Securing meetings with potentially suitable investors through your existing network can reap huge rewards, in all likelihood four out of every five potential investment opportunities you come across are going to arise from either pre-existing business relationships or introductions from contacts. Not appreciating the value of your business network is often one of the biggest mistakes that start-ups looking to raise capital make, under-utilising your personal contact resources is going to slow down the securing of your investment, or even give you fewer options in terms of investors, which in turn could negatively impact the equity share you’ll be giving away to secure funds.

Of course, even if you are properly exploring all avenues at your disposal to put you in front of the right investors, if your pitch isn’t strong enough or lacks consistency or coherency then any potential investor is going to red flag your proposal.

The key is to structure your proposal correctly to avoid raising concerns early in negotiations, and from the outset what is most important is to structure a deal that is appropriate and mutually beneficial to both you and the investor.

This obviously starts with the valuation of the company, and how much equity you are prepared to give away to secure the investment. Investors are naturally motivated by a primary goal of receiving substantial returns on their investment, and so if the money doesn’t make sense your proposal is going to fall down straight away. You have to be comfortable with what you are giving away for the value of the investment, and the investor has to be happy that the equity offered will offer big enough returns to justify deploying the capital. There are other important factors to consider, including the voting rights for investors in relation to their equity holdings, and any agreement on debt being raised through equity, but to give yourself the best chance of securing investment you really have to value your company correctly in order to capture the attention of the investor.

However, for those companies and entrepreneurs who are realistic about offering investors good opportunities to amass equity then a proposal that offers strong benefits to both sides will be far more appealing.

Finally, it is important to remember that sourcing investment takes time, and perseverance. Even with an excellent proposal and a strong network of investors in your address book raising capital always takes longer than you think. Meetings, proposals and due diligence all take time, so if you’re looking to source investment within the next six months then you should think about getting started straight away. Most aspects of business take longer than planned, and in a down market you may have to put in a lot of work to garner the interest of investors. However, don’t give up. The more effort you put in during the first steps of a new venture, the bigger the rewards will be in the long term. If you trust your business idea then it’s imperative you keep faith that your perfect investor is only just around the next corner.

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THE PITCH

Shakespeare's Sound Wireless Theatre Ltd is bringing the audio plays of yesterday to a modern, digital audience

l The Brand Wireless Theatre Ltd has years of experience in creating immersive, exciting and professional audio plays for their growing fan base, which includes the BBC. The brand is well established in the marketplace, with a loyal subscriber base growing at a rate of 800 new customers per month. A strong number of high-profile names in the world of theatre are also associated with the company, including Brian Blessed, Stephen Fry, and Nicholas Parsons.

The team is now launching a platform to commercialise its impressive stock of over 120 plays, and in the process become the premier source of audio plays for theatre productions.

The current website (wirelesstheatre.co.uk) sees 15,000 unique visitors a month and already turns 7% into subscribers. l The Team Mariele Runacre Temple - Managing and Artistic Director Mariele trained as an actress in London and formed The Wireless Theatre Company in 2010, having produced over 150 radio dramas. In 2009 Mariele won Best Radio Producer at The Fringe Report Awards and in 2011 was placed on the top 200 Sound Women List (inspirational women working in audio).

Roy Rodford - Commercial Director Roy headed Media Platform Services in BT Global Services for five years, and has a wealth of experience in the internet media distribution industry, including the successful build and sale of his own internet media business. Roy is also a director of Gainsborough Pictures, Tricerion and Digital Trading Ltd (Ireland).

Jack Bowman - Director and Producer Jack is also an award-winning producer and director, and oversees the development of audio productions for Wireless Theatre, from new writing and acting talent to conducting and approving casting and commissioning.

l Funding Requirements The company is looking for £150,000. With funding in place, the team will complete and launch their all-new subscription platform, accelerate play production, invest in marketing of all the revenue-generating services, and develop an app for the subscription platform. l Projections WTL already receives income from its non-play services, which is forecast at £70,000 for the first year, and is expected to rise during years two and three to £130,000 and £260,000 respectively.

The company is launching an annual subscription for access to its 127 play database, and will charge £25.00 per year for unlimited usage.

Turnover projections are £288,000 in year one, £871,000 in year two and £1,800,000 in year three, running at roughly 44% margin over three years, delivering around 5.6 x return on the investment.

If you are interested in discussing the investment more, email us at invest@moneymakermagazine.co.uk, and we’ll share your details with the brand.

“We aim to fill a void in the market, as there is no netflix or lovefilm equivalent in the audioplay world”

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A Greener Fabric for the Future Fibre manufacturer DGrade is revolutionising the way companies approach recycling and corporate social responsibility

l The Brand DGrade is a brand based company providing only the highest quality, eco-friendly products available. We design, develop and produce unique clothing collections for brands and businesses exclusively using fabrics made from recycled post-consumer plastic bottles.

The Polymer in PET is the same as that in Polyester, and through a special process we recycle this material into Polyester Fibre, then yarn, to make fabrics. The process itself is more environmentally friendly than conventional Polyester production, it uses 20% less water, 50% less energy and produces 55% fewer carbon emissions, and does not use a finite resource, oil. l The Team Kris Barber – Founder DGrade Kris has worked in the clothing industry for over 20 years and has been responsible for developing brands and product lines for some of the best known clothing companies in the world of fashion and sportswear.

James Dyer – Business Development Manager UK James Dyer is a highly skilled Business Development and Events Manager with eight years of cross industry experience.

After graduating James spent two years helping to develop and improve kerbside recycling schemes at Worcestershire County Council. This knowledge of waste and recycling transferred well into the Sports & Events industry and led to five years of

managing high profile events such as Wimbledon, The Open Championship and the Leeds Festival.

Ali Sharif – Digital Marketing Manager Ali is an accomplished PR Professional who has worked across a wide range of industries, developing and executing all aspects of public outreach and social media campaigns to increase exposure and support strategic marketing initiatives. l The Market The core business is providing a manufacturing service to corporate business and events companies who have a Corporate Social Responsibility to source sustainable, environmentally friendly products.

DGrade supply brands and businesses from all over the world, and are not aware of another company that offers this service as an alternative to the supply of conventional fabrics.

DGrade have a varied and diverse customer base, the volume business is driven by contract manufacturing and stock sales.

Currently the market demand for recycled fabrics is growing at an exponential rate. l Investment requirement DGrade are raising funds in return for 10% of the company.

Funding of $200,000 is sought to employ key staff, open a Middle East office and fund the business through an already proven marketing and sales strategy.

If key milestones are met the business will be profitable after three years, with dividends payable after four years. A trade sell after seven years is the most likely exit route for investors.

According to Deloitte, the average valuation multiple for clothing businesses in 2009 was 12.1 times EBITDA. Without including any dividends investors may be paid or benefits from the company’s other activities, an investment could yield over seven times the investment in seven years on EBITDA. If you are interested in discussing the investment more, email us at invest@moneymakermagazine.co.uk, and we’ll share your details with the brand.

“currently the market demand for recycled fabrics is growing at an exponential rate”

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THE PITCH

PlayFairies: An Investor’sDream A magical world of adventure and interaction for the App market is a ticket to a wonderland for venture capitalists

l The Brand From a BAFTA winning team of TV and video game producers comes a unique and amazingly magical new digital fairy collection for girls aged four to eight.

Available on iOS and Android, PlayFairies uses augmented reality to allow kids to catch “real” fairies flying around the room.

The child can catch as many fairies as she likes and then visit the fairy world of the Wonder Tree, here she can see where her fairies live, play and have parties. She can dress them up, brush their hair, decorate fairy bedrooms and much more. l The Team: The team behind PlayFairies is passionate about quality children’s brands, between us we have been producing kids’ TV and digital content for companies such as Nickelodeon and Disney for nearly 20 years.

The team is led by Dominic Buttimore, CEO and Exec Producer at th1ng Corp animation studios in London, where the production is based. l The Market: Fairies and princesses licensed merchandising consistently performs well in the marketplace, and was worth over $10 billion USD in 2012. The concept of fairies is timeless, universal and something that captures the imagination like little else, but amazingly there isn’t a product on the market that delivers a unique personal and magical experience like this.

With the digital toy space still in development and the App stores awash with badly executed fairy themed products, we are fantastically placed to launch a top quality, stand out fairy brand that delivers this unique experience into the market.

The App industry has seen some extremely high valuations and we are in a great position to follow the success of companies such as Supercell Limited (Clash of Clans and Hay Day) which is achieving over $180m of revenue per annum and is currently valued at $800m (valuation of 4.4 times revenue), and Rovio

(Angry birds) with an EBITDA of $99.5m and a valuation of $8.8bn - a multiple of 88 times EBITDA. l Investment requirement: We are looking for £150,000 of investment through SEIS and are offering a 20% stake in the company. We have fully developed a test app for proof of concept and will use the funds to develop and produce the full app for launch on iOS and Android platforms; we will also use the funds to execute an effective marketing campaign. l Projections: By introducing new fairies and play sets our app is designed to expand in size over the course of four years, and we will be expanding the revenue opportunities by up to 16 times across this period. These calculations project a turnover of £2.1m in year two (PBT £1.2m), £5.2m in year three (£3.2m) and £9.2m (£5.9m) in year four.

If you are interested in discussing the investment more, email us at invest@moneymakermagazine.co.uk, and we’ll share your details with the brand.

“the concept of fairytales is timeless, but amazingly there isn’t a product that creates a magical experience like this”

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THE PITCH

Keeping Your Future In- house

Excited by the prospect of a booming housing market, but don’t know how to make property investments work for you and your money?

l The Brand Platinum Portfolio Builder is a unique business opportunity.

It enables you to invest in a property portfolio that will not only secure equity for you, but also generate an income while your capital grows.

We work with business owners, directors, school teachers, accountants and many more. Our clients include anyone who wants to take advantage of the significant opportunities to invest into UK property but who doesn’t have the time, skill or inclination to do it for themselves.

Our team sources, refurbishes, lets and manages buy to let portfolios on your behalf with all the properties being bought at a significant discount. During 2012 an average discount of 28% was achieved for the benefit of clients – all discounts are verified by an independent RICS surveyor.

The business has grown significantly since 2009, being recognised as “Most Innovative UK Property Investment Company” by ComparetheFinancialMarkets.com. l The Team I often say that if you chopped me in half you’d find the word ‘PROPERTY’ running through me like a stick of Blackpool rock.

Why? Simply because I believe property is the best investment people can make. It’s tangible and unlike shares, which can be wiped out overnight, property always retains some intrinsic value.

Having built a multi-million pound property portfolio in the UK, I wanted to establish a business that would enable others to do the same. Today, as founder of the business, I lead the Platinum Portfolio Builder team which identifies below-marketvalue property deals to produce cash-flow in the short term and solid investments in the medium to long term. l The Market After years of negativity and pessimism in the property sector, it appears as though the green shoots of recovery may finally be making an appearance. There is a buzz in the press about a growing confidence in the market and there are a number of encouraging signs which indicate that the economy may be on

an upturn.

Platinum Portfolio Builder believes that the next three to five years present a great opportunity to benefit from the current market conditions, and build a profitable portfolio that will deliver great returns for years to come. l Investment Requirement You can start a portfolio with anything from £75k upwards, and in doing so you are investing in your financial future. We then purchase properties for your portfolio at a significant discount of between 25 and 40%. This can be done through individual properties or accelerated much more quickly though lucrative bulk deals. We take care of the refurbishment of your properties, ensuring each property is completed to a high standard on time and on budget. We look after everything including the rental and ongoing management of your properties. So there is absolutely nothing for you to do apart from benefit from the financial returns.

If you are interested in discussing the investment more, email us at invest@moneymakermagazine.co.uk, and we’ll share your

“I often say that if you chopped me in half you’d find the word ‘property’ through me like a stick of blackpool rock”

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RS FINANCIAL SERVICES AG S W I T Z E R L A N D

K N OW YO U R F U N D S I N S A F E H A N D S

details with the brand.

FIND MORE TIME FOR LIVING

RS Financial Services AG Switzerland Judy Nancy Belle-Dales Weberstrasse 21 / 8036 Z端rich / Telephon 0041 44 241 08 20 / Fax 0041 44 241 18 86 Chamerstrasse 172 / 6300 Zug / Telephon 0041 41 711 68 79 judy.nancy@rsfsag.ch / www.rsfsag.ch

make it

Financial Services

COVERED CALL Option Writing Strategies

by RS Financial Services AG

F

or the last 22 years RS Financial Services AG has been conducting a small-scale yet refined boutique wealth management business. It is based in Zurich, Switzerland - an excellent location for international clientele.

The tradition of Private Banking in Switzerland dates back centuries.

Running against the tide of the general trend in today’s highly complex financial industry, RS Financial Services AG plies its classic banking trade according to tried and tested principles.

Reducing investment risks and enhancing portfolio performance is not necessarily a contradiction

There are no crystal balls that you can look to that will bring reliable information regarding your future personal life, or regarding future developments of equity prices. But there are systemic characteristics of the financial markets offering sustainable earning opportunities. And there are instruments to profit from these opportunities. What we are talking about are well-balanced option writing strategies.

Would you like to double your assets within seven years?

An increase of 100% in value of a portfolio within seven years means an average yearly performance of slightly over 10% per annum. Assuming a reasonable and conservative risk profile, one would consider such a performance estimation as unrealistic. Do we need to take the risks of high yield junk bonds, hedge

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funds or venture capital investments in order to achieve this performance target?

Most investors are willing and capable to carry the risk of holding a portfolio of high quality blue chip equities. There is more to these long term investments than sitting and waiting for increasing prices.

Option writing on shares of mid-size and large companies

Option-strategies are seen as a part of today’s modern financial industry, and therefore are important to understand as source of unforeseeable risks.

However options have existed even longer than modern currency – centuries ago traders secured doubtful delivery over long distances of silk from China, as well as options on curry-spices from India.

At RS Financial Services AG options are used to generate additional earnings on equity portfolios in order to reduce investment risks and to increase the performance of the portfolios. We spend our time actively applying options strategies on equity positions.

Writing (selling) options or buying options – what makes more sense?

If you agree that options are similar to insurance policies, whereby the buyer pays the premium and the seller covers the defined risk of a future price change of the underlying share, then you’ll appreciate the fact that there are a lot of insurance companies earning huge profits and a significant number of unhappy insurance buyers complaining because of the premiums they have to pay. With this in mind, when looking to increase your wealth through options you would normally prefer to be the successful insurance

“Options have be around even longer than modern currency - from the silk road in china to options on spices in transportation in india”

company than the person paying the premiums. This is exactly the position RS Financial Services AG takes. We sell options and we earn premiums.

What determines the price levels of options?

The technical term is volatility. This describes the level of uncertainty in the market regarding the future pricechanges of shares.

If the market assumes the likelihood of a price change within one month to be +/- 2% of a share costing USD 100 today, the option-premiums may be slightly above 2 USD, for each of the call option and the put option sold.

Volatility does not qualify an upwards price trend as positive and a decrease in price as negative. The higher the volatility figures are, the more premium will be paid on options sold. The additional earnings generated through option writing will increase and stabilise your performance and help to reduce your investment risks.

Go for it!

If you hold a diversified international portfolio of large cap equities, or if you plan to invest in the world’s leading companies you should consider adding option writing strategies to your portfolio. Call us today for information on these exciting markets. n www.rsfsag.ch n For more information on RS Financial Services, or their personal banking products, email Judy Nancy BelleDales, Managing Partner of RS Financial Services AG at judy.nancy@rsfsag.ch or phone 0041 44 241 08 20 n Weberstrasse 21, CH-8036 Zürich, Switzerland

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taxidermy

Animal

Magic

MoneyMaker caught up with London taxidermy expert Alexis Turner to find out more about one of the fastest growing collectible markets in the UK Why do people collect taxidermy?

I think certainly part of the draw is owning something very unique and different, a true piece of art that sometimes also comes with a story to tell. When done to a high standard taxidermy can be very decorative and sits well with other areas of collecting such as Primitive Art (my new book ‘TAXIDERMY’ explores this concept as well as other areas).

Those who collect often have an interest in the natural world and enjoy wildlife, something that may have been initiated in childhood. Taxidermy also conjures up a sense of history and nostalgia for the Victorian era, an age of discovery, when collecting was far more prevalent, and that connection may be what drives people to embrace it in their homes or private collections. I also think that no matter how old you are, there is also still a sense of excitement and wonder at being able to observe natural curiosities at close quarters.

Do antique taxidermy pieces increase in value over time?

They do, but it depends on the piece. There is a lot of inferior taxidermy, either in quality or condition, that is not worth much now and will not gain in

value over time. But good quality pieces by big name taxidermists from the Victorian/Edwardian era (Rowland Ward and Peter Spicer in particular) have increased in value significantly over the last 20 years.

And like all art, prices also relate to changing taste and fashion. For example a very good quality antique elephant foot stool is worth no more than it was 10 or 15 years ago because of lack of demand.

The other major factor affecting price is if there is a change in legislation (export restrictions etc) which make particular pieces more or less difficult to acquire or sell. This obviously alters the demand and supply rates. As with all areas of collecting, buying the best quality and in the best condition is crucial. Rarity, provenance and a big name maker also help.

Are there many taxidermy dealers in the UK? There are many antiques dealers who will buy taxidermy to sell along with their other stock, but you can count the established specialist dealers on one hand.

What factors affect a piece of taxidermy’s value?

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taxidermy

As mentioned, the quality of taxidermy, condition, rarity, provenance are all factors. Pieces that carry the original taxidermist’s trade label have added value (particularly if that taxidermist is one of the bigger names amongst the Victorian practitioners).

But size in itself does not relate to value. Indeed sometimes it can adversely affect the value of a piece.

After all, how many people can accommodate a whole elephant in their house, even if they wanted one?

Do you have a favourite piece?

My favourite piece at the moment is a giant Pangolin, dating from around 1900. But I also love my

Siamese Lamb with a cyclops eye and my miniature Greyhound.

Are there any legal issues surrounding what can or can’t be collected? Is there a taxidermy black market?

There are very strict legal restrictions pertaining to the sale or purchase of taxidermy. It is wise to seek guidance from DEFRA or a specialist in the field before making purchases. Many items require proof of age or a licence to trade. It is a minefield, so beware, and laws are liable to change quickly and without notice.

And if there is a black market I don’t wish to know about it.

What is the most expensive piece of taxidermy you are aware of?

Rhino heads dating from before 1947 and therefore legal to trade (but only with specific permission from DEFRA) have been some of the most expensive items in recent years, changing hands for up to £150,000 each. But a recent export ban on these from the UK has diminished prices, although a good example will still fetch a reasonable sum (if full provenance can be supplied). Good tiger skin rugs with full mount heads are also expensive, but again they must date from before the legal cut off point of 1947, and come with proof of this. In the case of tiger artefacts condition is vital, with fading, missing claws, tears etc quickly reducing value. The firm of Van Ingen & Van Ingen of Mysore were the market leaders, and examples bearing their stamp fetch the bigger prices.

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Buying at auctions can be dangerous if you haven’t viewed the lots in person. Although auction houses will provide condition reports, most do not know enough about taxidermy to give an accurate assessment. They are also often unaware of the legal requirements.

Again, if buying at auction it is best to go to the ones that hold specialist sales. Tennant’s of Leyburn has an in-house specialist, Adam Schoon, who regularly sources interesting items from all over the UK and Europe for their quarterly sales. Bonhams also holds an annual Gentleman’s Library Sale that has a good selection of carefully vetted Natural History items.

Of course extinct species can be amongst the most expensive to purchase, such as the Huia bird, but finding one is incredibly difficult. However, there are some extinct species like the Passenger Pigeon, that were ‘stuffed’ in such large numbers prior to extinction that they turn up with some frequency. Their value has remained fairly static at around £2,000 - £5,000 depending on condition.

What is the market like at the moment? Are prices tending to go up or down?

The market has exploded in the last five years, with prices in some specific items or markets increasing by as much as tenfold.

In general terms prices are growing steadily upwards, with auction prices reaching new highs year on year as good pieces become increasingly difficult to find.

Where should you purchase taxidermy from to get the best pieces at the best price? Are there taxidermy specific auctions?

For collectors, especially those starting out, it is probably advisable to deal with a specialist. Although prices might be a bit higher you will know that the objects will have been vetted for quality and condition, and will also have relevant legal paperwork.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to start collecting taxidermy?

It is very obvious advice, but always buy pieces that you like and have a good feeling about.

As mentioned, quality of manufacture and condition are key as are legal requirements (avoid anything to do with elephant ivory or rhino horn). Look out for the big name labels (Rowland Ward, Peter Spicer etc, there are others so do some research into these). Then understand that it is extremely important to look after your collection well, so guard against intruders such as moths and sunlight.

It is best to do a lot of looking before making your first purchase. Talk to a specialist, ask for their advice on what might be a good investment.

Also, rather than investing heavily in one large piece, it is probably a good idea to build a cabinet of curiosities with a broad representation of interesting items. I have built such collections in the past for clients and their value has increased significantly. It requires a bigger budget to do now than it did ten years ago, but if you were prepared to invest a sum in the range of £50,000 wisely now then your investment could easily be worth twice that in ten years. l Alexis Turner’s latest book TAXIDERMY, published

by Thames & Hudson (price is £19.95), is available now. For more information visit www.londontaxidermy.com

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antique toys

Playing With The Antique Toy Markets MoneyMaker’s collectibles expert George Johnston lifts the lid on the investment craze that brings the kids out in all of us

Why do people collect toys? Why are they so valuable?

Toy collecting is a nostalgia based area of collecting, it seems that many people have an affinity with the toys of their youth. Could it be about recapturing those childhood moments or even owning those items that you might have put on your Christmas list but never received? These are both valid reasons as why people collect toys, but I suppose the real answer really is that there isn’t one definitive motive as every collector is different and has their own causes.

The reason that toys can be so valuable is because they are all made to be played with, and the majority end up having a very hard life. So although often many are made, very few are kept in good condition over time.

Is age the primary driver in determining a toy’s value?

Age plays an important role in the collectable toy market, and personally I swear by the thirty year rule; when a toy is released it is embedded into the memories of that generation, and when you fast forward thirty years those children are now in their late 30s and early 40s with a disposable income to

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buy back those early memories. It is often this period when a toy holds its highest value.

How old does a toy have to be to start increasing in value? E.g. are there toys from the 90s that are now increasing in worth?

This all depends on the toy, and often it is hard to predict how the market for newer toys will develop.

Some toys from the 90s can be really valuable, but with toys this recent the price usually only soars if the collectible contains a unique manufacturing mistake or is a rare oddity like the GI Joe Manimals range from 1994.

Hasbro’s GI Joe military action range figures had faced a sharp decline during the previous few years, so it was decided to bring out a new range called ‘Manimals’. These toys were being aimed at the transformers craze at the time and the figures could transform into other things, but before these figures could be widely released the range was pulled.

However a small number of these toys did make it into the hands of the general public. These figures are hugely collectable and one figure recently sold for over £10,000. Caution should be used though when searching for one as the mould was recently re-used

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antique toys

in the 2000s, and these modern versions are worth very little.

Are there any reputable names toy collectors should be looking for?

I think the names of reputable toy companies is on the tip of most people’s tongues; Corgi, Hornby, Mattel, Britains. The names of these companies are endless, and I would recommend anyone thinking of getting into this market to specialise in one area as this would be the easiest way to build some knowledge that you could use to help secure a good return.

How does the toy market compare to other antiques markets? Is it more or less volatile?

Is value increasing at a faster or slower rate?

The collectible toy sector is quite strong and has performed well over the last decade, but like any area

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of antiques and collectibles it is always good to do your research and buy the best that you can afford.

I recently heard of a gentleman who found a closed up toy shop, he paid a few hundred pounds for the contents which hadn’t been touched since the late 1980s. It had hundreds of Swoppets (plastic figures of soldiers and cowboys etc) cap guns and other toys, these were all put into an auction in the Midlands at the beginning of the year and made a very healthy return for the vendor, but finds like this are getting rarer as time goes on.

What is the state of the toy market currently?

Is it buoyant or are prices falling?

Similar to the whole economy right now, the collectible toy market has been hit hard by the downturn in business, but the top end of the market seems to be bucking the trend somewhat. Saying that, it is currently a buyer’s market so now would be

“ I sw e a r b y th e thi r ty y e a r r u l e . W h e n a t o y is r e l e as e d it is e m b e dd e d i n th e m e m o r i e s o f that g e n e r ati o n , wh o ha v e th e dis p o sa b l e i n c o m e t o r e l i v e th o s e m e m o r i e s thi r ty y e a r s l at e r ”

up and down the country. These places are a great way to start as you will find sellers who are full of information and most are eager to share their knowledge with a pair of inquisitive ears.

a good time to invest as prices will start increasing again in the future. It is always best to buy items in their original packaging; you can even buy special plastic containers to keep these in that protect the packaging from any further harm or wear. Try your hardest to resist removing the toys and playing with them, if this is going to be hard buy in twos, with one to keep and one to touch.

Where is the best place to start looking if you want to get into toy investment?

If you want to start collecting there are a few ways you could start; many auction rooms around the country hold specialist toy sales where you can view and bid on thousands of different toys in one room. One of my personal favourites is Aston’s, who are located in Dudley. Their toy sales are amazing spectacles, with cabinets full to bursting with childhood toys.

Another great way to buy is at the many toy fairs

What are the most expensive toys around?

What’s the highest value one has ever gone for?

The most expensive toy ever sold in Great Britain is a rare steam powered battleship sold by Special Auctions Services in Newbury on the 20th April 2012.

This boat was part of the McCrindell collection; he was one of the great pioneer UK toy collectors who died in August 2011, aged 91. His collection was one of the finest in the land, so it will come as no surprise that the items were highly fought over, but the star of the show was the Märklin battleship HMS Terrible which realised an auction result of £76,000, a British auction record.

Are there plenty of toy experts in the UK? Where can you find them?

There are many toy collectors out there and many have their own clubs which can all be found online, but as I said earlier on, in my opinion one of the best places to seek advice and to improve your knowledge is at one of the many toy fairs.

Are there any toys that have come out recently that are expected to increase in value quickly?

There is no firm answer to this question, but in my opinion toys associated with Hollywood movies normally have a shorter shelf life before retailers move on to the next craze, so a lot of the time these can increase in value.

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Insurance

Protecting The ‘Passion’ Investments It is readily recognised that the most exciting financial investments made, are the ones that deliver a personal, passionate and emotional involvement. To help you understand how to best protect the assets you are the most passionate for, Lisa Curtiss caught up with Andrew Boldt, Managing Director of specialist brokers Insurance Tailors, for tips for providing the best possible protection for your luxury investments.

What’s the best way to insure an art collection?

With an individual specialist policy or with a standard home contents insurance?

We would usually advise investors to insure their antiques, art, collections and jewellery as part of their home insurance policy, as this is typically the most cost efficient way to cover them. Separate policies for one-off items are often more expensive as the risk is higher to the insurer, however if it is placed onto a larger household insurance policy then the insurer can essentially spread, or hedge, the risk and therefore premiums are frequently more competitive. That said there are occasions when an item is so unusual, or of such high value that you would require a specialist underwriter, potentially within Lloyds of London.

Always check your current home policy carefully, prior to purchasing a high value item, and use a broker to ensure that you have the right cover in place. Brokers can often access specialist insurers that consumers are unable to approach directly. If you are not already on a high net worth home insurance product then change up to one as they are more suited to providing protection for this kind of asset, and will often include an automatic allowance to cover the value of new purchases for a period of time after the purchase without the need to inform the insurer.

Many standard policies require items to be specified on the policy if they are worth more than a defined amount, and on generic home policies this amount can be as little as £1,000. Specialist high value policies only tend to need

items to be specified if they are worth more than £5,000, £15,000 or even £25,000 individually, saving time, effort and potentially valuation fees.

If the artist of one of my works dies suddenly and the value of my collection rockets, will I still be insured?

With the death of an artist, it is common for the market value of their work to increase quite dramatically, this can be by as much as 100%, taking an item from £1million to £2million overnight. A standard home policy might not protect you against this but there are some insurers that will automatically increase the value of pieces by that artist for a period after the death as long as you notify them within twelve months. Without this facility the onus would be on the owner to know that the artist had died and increase the sum insured appropriately, or risk being underinsured.

What happens if my item turns out to be stolen?

Fakes and forgeries are unfortunately fairly commonplace within the art world, and finding out you have purchased a defective title can be devastating. However if it is proved that a piece of fine art that you bought was not in fact rightfully yours (perhaps stolen generations earlier) then some insurers will refund the amount paid for the art, subject to some sensible due diligence around the purchase. Again it’s important to check your policy to see if ‘defective title’ cover is included.

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Insurance

How common is theft? What security precautions should I take to best protect my investment?

Art theft will always make headlines, but actually it’s much more likely that your fine art investment is at risk of accidental damage than theft. To help mitigate against the risk of art theft, the Art Loss Register (www.artloss. com) was set up to make it harder to sell on stolen pieces.

Owners can register a lost or stolen piece artwork and also search prior to making a purchase, to find out if an item is listed. This has had a positive influence in helping to reduce theft with the intention of selling the work on, but unfortunately cannot prevent the practice of ‘stealing to order’ or for a ‘finder’s fee’.

Accidental damage is of great concern for the individual collector, and the risk of damage by a third party is especially high during transit. Paintings may be inappropriately packaged, stored in unsuitably damp or humid conditions or worse dropped! Prior to transporting works in the UK or overseas, double check with your insurer and the transporter’s insurers, that the item is fully covered for all risks worldwide during that period. It’s equally important to check who will cover what, in the event of an accident.

Unfortunately with any damage, accidental or not, the cost of restoration and possibility of a subsequent loss in residual value to the works means you should place a strong emphasis on ensuring that your artworks are exposed to as little risk as possible. Always have artwork professionally hung and framed to mitigate the risk of it falling off the wall, and ensure that domestic help are not cleaning it with potentially ruinous materials.

worth. Strong financial rigour should be applied, exactly as you would to a more standard financial investment, to ensure that you have at all times a current and true idea of the value. It is not nearly adequate enough to only know how much you have paid for it.

Discuss at length with your broker the price to be insured. Will it be an agreed pre-set value or the current market value at the time of loss? Professional valuations are key to discovering the current value and some insurers will insist on an up-to-date valuation being submitted before they will consider putting the item on risk.

This doesn’t just apply to fine art, high end jewellery is particularly at risk of a fluctuating value. An up-to-date valuation, from an accredited valuation specialist, is especially important for jewellery you have had for some time or just inherited.

The price of gold, silver and platinum has risen dramatically in recent years, much faster than RPI, and there is a risk of being severely underinsured if your valuation is not up to date. The individual insurer will prescribe how often a valuation is required, however every two to three years is fairly normal. Bear in mind that some valuers’ fees will be based on a percentage of the jewellery value, typically 1-3%, so it’s worth looking for one that offers the service for a fixed fee. The valuer will ordinarily photograph the item, but you should always take your own photographs and keep your receipts and other relevant records in a secure place. In addition to the value, it is entirely normal for an insurer to request that the clasps and settings of valuable jewellery be regularly checked by an expert, and action taken if work is needed to strengthen them to reduce the risk of a lost stone.

How much should something be insured for?

Underinsurance can be a big problem. It’s quite easy and surprisingly quick to accrue a large collection, and whilst many collectors know how many items they have, they often are unaware of just what those collections are

When insuring luxury jewellery what should I look out for?

Owners of incredibly high value items seem to fall into two schools of thinking; those who want to enjoy the items and wear them on a regular basis, and those who want to own and protect the assets for reasons of a personal or sentimental nature, or for the potential investment value. Whilst both are perfectly reasonable views, from an insurance perspective the approach to insuring the assets will be entirely different for each owner.

If we take as a starting point that an item is ‘safest’, when kept permanently in a bank vault or similar, next safest in an appropriate safe in a well secured house, and most vulnerable when kept in a drawer or worn permanently it will come as no surprise that the premium to protect such items is partly driven by this level of security.

As such we would recommend that a valuable item that is being held for investment or other long-term purpose might be kept in the highest security solution available, and cover can be arranged on an ad hoc basis if the item is to be taken out or worn. This will be the most cost effective solution, although some can find the administration of this process a little wearying. If a time limit for use has been agreed with the insurer then you must stay within that period or you risk invalidating the

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“underinsurance is a problem. it’s easy to accrue a large collection, and whilst many collectors know how many items they have, they often lose touch with its worth” policy; some insurers will allow the period of use to be extended but will charge a fee per day for this.

At the other end of the spectrum we regularly encourage people to keep as many of their valuables in a safe if possible, and to think about the maximum amount of their valuables that they may want to have out of the safe at any one time. This is known in the trade as a ‘floating limit’ which can be considerably cheaper than insuring all of your valuables out of the safe.

What happens if I incur damage to an antique that is part of a set?

Many collectors get tripped up on this point. Be wary of non-specialist home insurance policies if the antiques, artwork or investment you have bought are part of a set or a pair. Cover can be restricted to replacement of just the single item that has been lost or damaged. With a specialist provider however, the insurers will take into account the loss in value of the set as a whole, which more accurately reflects the reduction in value of the investment. For example, a very knowledgeable loss adjuster that we work with recently told me of some beautiful 16th century dining chairs that had been badly damaged by smoke in a house fire. The chairs were insured by a non-specialist insurer and as such, in order to repair them, they arranged for the chairs to be sanded down to bare wood, removing centuries of history in moments. As you can imagine the owners were

devastated, such restoration should only be successfully carried out by incredibly skilled craftsmen.

What do I need to know about insurance before purchasing a classic or prestige car?

Over the last few years, there has been a huge growth in the popularity of classic cars as an investment, driven by the fantastic returns.

Probably the most important aspect of insuring a classic car is to insure it for an Agreed Value up-front, avoiding any disputes over the market value if the painful moment of a total loss should happen; this normally involves providing photographic evidence of the condition of the car and sometimes a valuation report from a specialist.

Although some such cars are seen as too valuable to be taken on the open road, many are still used on a regular basis. Before you even consider taking your car on a rally – even if it is nothing more than an organised meander through the Tuscan hills – be sure to inform the insurers and check that they will cover this. If not, you will need to put in place specific cover for the rally. Mileage is the other important aspect, from an insurance point of view you need to make sure that you keep to the annual mileage limit you have stated, and from an investment view I would suggest taking advice as to how to manage the mileage to maintain or increase the car’s value.

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WINE

LondonBased Wine Brokerage Reveal a new way to Assess the Market APM Wine Investment hopes to transform the investment process with an algorithm

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S

o, you’ve decided that fine wine should play a part in your investment portfolio.

And why wouldn’t you? The stellar performance of the asset class over the last decade (a tidy 189% according to benchmark index the Liv-ex 100), coupled with relatively low volatility compared to other alternatives, makes for a compelling case in favour of inclusion in any balanced portfolio. For most UK based investors it’s Capital Gains Tax exempt into the bargain.

And so you do your homework; you digest the astonishing figures about the burgeoning penchant for life’s little luxuries in the behemoth economies of China and India, and elsewhere across South East Asia and the prospering world. You contemplate the iron laws of economics which oblige prices of this rarefied luxury product − produced in incredibly small quantities then helplessly exposed to the international scramble for all things opulent – to go in one direction only.

So, what next − how do you actually start building your wine portfolio? Who’s going to give you the best advice; squeeze the greatest profits? At this point, the potential wine investor tends to do one of two things: knock on the door of a traditional wine merchant, or contact one of the plethora of wine brokers that have sprung up in recent years in the wake of the market’s storming advance.

One firm – APM Wine Investment – believes there is a smarter way to invest; one which explicitly looks at the inefficiencies in the marketplace and turns them to its advantage, thus enabling the ambitions of the individual investor to be central to − rather than clash with − the ambitions of the broker. There is no good reason this private client stockbrokerage approach should not work in the fine wine market. David Jackson, a Director of APM Wine Investment, explains “we have been listening carefully to what our clients have been telling us. One recently recalled that having accumulated what he thought was a sufficiently large portfolio, his brokers still kept coming on with great offers, and didn’t understand when he explained that he didn’t want to increase the size of his portfolio because, against the overall size of his net worth, his exposure to the wine market had become too high, on a risk-adjusted basis.

The problem was that the brokers had no understanding of this concept – all they ‘knew’ was that the market was going higher. Why would anyone not want more?

In addition, the salespeople simply didn’t understand the question, when asked by the client what he should sell to make room for subsequent investment: ‘Why would you want to sell anything?’ The idea of switching out of something which might have run its course, into something which might have further upside, was anathema to them.”

In response, the approach at APM was to devise a client offering that does not penalise on entry or exit, coupled with a coherent research product highlighting what has been happening in the marketplace, and informing on forecast movements. This enables their clients to engage with their portfolios in a responsible

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manner, thereby engineering superior returns.

Perhaps more importantly, APM is removing emotion from the process. What the wine tastes like and how it is likely to improve is only one of a number of factors that needs to be taken into account when making the important decision of which wines to add to an investment portfolio. The directors of APM have created various financial models to bring some of the rigour more usually associated with regular fund management, into the wine investment industry. Jackson continues “the traditional powerhouse merchants have unrivalled access to producers and distributors, and expertise when it comes to selling wine for consumption. However, it is not in their interest to limit the variety of wines that they sell, or to take a view on these wines as possible investments. It just isn’t part of their traditional business model. Here at APM we have found that there is a real demand for more analytical advice from those of us who have studied the wines in detail; their price movements, production levels, consumption levels and availability, brand strength, relative value to peers etc.

The models and tools we have developed are a great help in achieving greater accuracy as to those wines we recommend for our clients’ portfolios.”

The specifics of the proprietary algorithm used by APM are a closely guarded secret, but the rationale behind the model is perfectly straightforward: There are a limited number of fine wines in the world. The majority are French, with Bordeaux providing the lion’s share, followed by Burgundy, Champagne and the Rhone valley. Recently a select few Italian and Spanish wines have entered the frame, and there are examples of very rare Californian and Australian wines also providing some evidence of decent returns.

The question that the APM algorithm attempts to answer, is how to compare the potential return of one wine (say a Chateau Latour 2003, a Bordeaux produced Premier Cru) with another (for example a Rousseau Chambertin 2005, a Burgundy Grand Cru), and yet another (Penfold’s Grange 2008, a Southern Australian wine of global fame)?

The answer lies in comparing the wines, using consistent, mathematically quantifiable factors. Some are statistics – current case price, 3 year price movement,

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production amounts for example – which are objective.

Other quantifiable factors – critics’ scores, brand strength etc. – are more subjective but can also be pinned down on scales and therefore contrasted. What APM has done is to create statistical tools which give a weighting to all the relevant factors, to assist in the decision-making process.

The wine trade is, by its very nature, slow to mature.

There are many from the hidebound fraternity who will seek to convince you that such tools are academic; that there is no substitute for good old fashioned expertise.

APM certainly doesn’t dismiss the need for qualitative balance to the algorithm’s purely quantitative outputs – even the back office team are WSET qualified – but the results speak for themselves: by retrospectively applying the algorithmic model to the wines that constitute the Liv-ex 100 Index for the prior five years, and selecting only those which hit the algorithm’s target score, an outperformance in excess of 60% against the index was registered at the market’s peak.

Of course an investor might choose to go back in time, and consider approaching a merchant; a natural choice, you may think, as the key players – often household names – dominate the wine market. But in fact this domination operates in opposition to the investor’s interests. By definition, the merchant

“ T h e r e a r e m a n y f r o m th e hid e b o u n d f r at e r n ity wh o wi l l s e e k t o c o n v i n c e y o u that m a r k e t t o o l s a r e acad e m ic a n d that th e r e is n o s u b stit u t e f o r e x p e r tis e ”

sources as cheaply as possible and sells as expensively as possible, in order to maximise profit. He doesn’t care a jot about the price of a wine after he has sold it. Why should he? He has made his return. Yet this very return is crippling to an investor’s performance, with often as much as a 30% difference between ‘bid’ and ‘offer’ prices, and the wider a merchant’s spread, the harder it is for an investor to make a return.

So what about the other wine brokerages? Whilst, in theory at least, the advice should be more balanced, the trouble is that many of these businesses are in their infancy with little or no market penetration for economic stock buying. They are therefore slaves to the merchant’s bid/offer spread themselves. In other words, you tend to get no better a price from a business purporting to look after your investment interests, than you would at a merchant.

Most brokerages have attempted to get round this problem by proposing that wine investment should only be seen as a long term process. However, this only serves to deflect accountability. If you have bought something that hasn’t yet met expectations, don’t worry, it will go up over the long term, and remember, “We always told you it was a long term investment”. Ignore anyone who tells you that if it all goes wrong at least you

can drink it. You can’t. Your wine investment portfolio is NOT your drinking cellar. The two are often confused, yet Jackson is at pains to stress that one is for drinking, the other for making you money. They are not the same.

The tendency for these businesses to be very sales orientated, with brokers on commission for squeezing as much out of the client as possible, has a nasty habit of acting as an obstacle to re-sale. Broking terms often comprise a commission on entry, but nothing on exit.

The absence of a further commission at exit means there is no incentive to encourage the investor to sell, and even customers who make the independent decision to exit are often considered an inconvenience. Many would-be profit takers find that ‘administrative’ or ‘market condition’ reasons often preclude ease of sale.

This can frustrate investors and, crucially, deprives the secondary market of liquidity.

APM has an answer to that problem too, and, yes, it is also an adaptation from the world of stockbroking and investment banking. So go ahead then into the fascinating world of wine investment, but do yourself a favour and get as many of the odds stacked on your side as possible. You may well end up being able to drink TO your capital gains, as opposed, of course, to actually drinking them.

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classic cars

CARS THAT MAKE HISTORY With more and more people looking at alternative investment opportunities, leading specialist in fine historic cars Adrian Hamilton talks about why competition cars remain popular, and why their investment potential continues to rise

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“ th r o u g h o u t ti m e th e r e ha v e b e e n ic o n ic , hist o r y m a k i n g m achi n e s that stic k i n th e m i n d e v e n t o day ”

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A

drian Hamilton took the reins of his business following his infamous father, Duncan Hamilton’s retirement in 1975.

Adrian was no stranger to racing, and took up the hobby of competing in touring cars such as the iconic GT40.

His passion for cars and determination to make people’s dreams come true has steered the company to purchase and sell some of the world’s finest classic road and competition cars.

Over the years Adrian has been responsible for the sale of some spectacular cars: nine Ferrari 250 GTOs, 20 Ford GT40s, seven Porsche 917s, numerous Jaguar C and D Types, and many more.

Adrian comments “Throughout time there have been iconic, history-making machines, ranging from aeroplanes to automobiles. These technological advancements live on in our minds even today.

Competition cars fall into the category of historical, iconic machines, and they have helped to mould motor sports as we know it today. The attraction and popularity of these cars comes merely from them being more interesting than your average classic car. Competition cars are evocative and many of the people that invest in competition cars do so because it brings back memories of racing and cars from a different era.

“My father was a professional and successful racing car driver back in the 1950s, and after nine attempts he won the Le Mans 24 hours race in a Jaguar C-type. This was the first time that Le Mans had been won in an average speed of more than 100mph in the Jaguar C-Type, and it was the first car to ever win the race wearing disc brakes. The car that my father raced in is iconic for many reasons, and

About Duncan Hamilton & Co Limited A love and passion for the finest classic motor cars led Duncan Hamilton to establish his own company in 1948.

From 1947-1957 Duncan was one of Britain’s celebrated racing drivers. He drove Formula One and Two Grand Prix cars from Lago-Talbot, Maserati, HWM and Gordini, plus works team sports cars for both Jaguar and Ferrari. He won two legendary endurance races – the 1953 Le Mans 24 Hours and the 1954 Reims 12 Hours.

More than 60 years on, Duncan Hamilton & Co is internationally recognised for being one of the most respected and well-connected specialists in historic cars.

Its achievements stem from an intimate involvement with the high performance motor racing scene. Duncan Hamilton & Co has placed more than 60 historic Formula One Grand Prix cars and some of the most significant ‘works of art’ ever sold.

For information about Duncan Hamilton & Co visit www.duncanhamilton.com

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it formed a part of history that cannot now be recreated.

For this reason the value of the car immediately rises and the satisfaction one gets from owning a piece of history is immeasurable.

“One of the key attractions of classic and competition cars lies with the customer feeling like they are investing in something tangible, something they can admire and take to shows throughout the world for others to admire. For many the investment potential of classic and competition cars is not the most important factor when they are looking to buy; the car, its history and previous owners are at the forefront of the buyers mind, as well as being part of the club. Part of the excitement of classic and competition cars comes from the way in which cars appear and disappear from the market very quickly.

There is an element of secrecy in the vintage car world, relationships are important and often a sale will be the result of many months of research and communication with both the seller and the buyer.

“Particularly iconic competition cars around the world include the Ferrari 250 GTO, and these cars are bought and sold for hundreds of thousands, if not millions of pounds. The ROFGO collection is a great example of exciting competition cars that have been brought together because of the vision and passion of one collector. The collection ranges in age from 1967 to 2010, and includes some of the world’s most historically significant racing cars ever produced. All were sponsored by Gulf Oil, one of motor racing’s longest-standing and loyal supporters.

This assortment of cars is the equivalent to a collector compiling a collection of modern art, haute couture gowns, or fine vintage wines.

“As with anything, when it comes to investing one must be careful when making decisions. My advice for those considering investing in a competition car would

be to go through a reputable competition car dealer, and that if you buy the best you can with the budget you have, you will never go wrong. There are also financial benefits to consider when investing in competition cars, for example in the UK you do not have to pay capital gains tax on classic and competition cars. This is a huge positive for the sector given that some reports show classic and competition car appreciation can be as much as 300% in three years.

“As long as the interest rates remain as low as they are then the historic cars market will continue to thrive.

This is a demand driven market and at present business is faring well. I think the car market will continue to prosper with more people wanting to invest. Many others are investing in wine and art; however the wine market for example can be quite fickle. At one point huge investments were being made into Chinese wine and then the market very quickly reduced.

“In terms of what returns people can expect from the market, the more you invest the more you can expect to gain as a return. As an example, a Ferrari 250 short wheel base which was bought for £2.5m four or five years ago was recently sold for what we are led to believe was approaching £10m – an increase of over 180%.

“All in all, competition cars are infectious and there are many people who grew up watching drivers like Mike Hawthorne and Jacky Ickx that are sometimes lucky enough to buy a piece of their youth, to own a piece of history and revel in the excitement of owning their very own iconic competition motor car. People should feel encouraged to invest in classic cars; however I would advise people to invest in markets that they have an interest in, as well as a passion and respect for the industry.” l www.duncanhamilton.com

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Property

Taking your Investment to the Beach Katerina Katopis, Director of Dolphin Capital Investments, gives us an insight into the coastal property market Can you talk us through your background?

I was always interested in travel, hotels, real estate and investments. Fascinated by Japan, I lived and worked there for a few years of my life, travelled extensively throughout Asia and was privileged to be involved in several dealings between Japan and Greece. Upon return, I was involved in bilateral Greek – Japanese relations with an investment angle, and served as an advisor to the Hellenic Centre for Investment.

At the same time throughout my career, I was often a contributor to several lifestyle publications and media, always reporting on luxury travel and real estate. When the opportunity arose to work with Dolphin Capital Investors and to be part of the team that create high end leisure integrated resorts with a real estate component, and well-known brands of an international calibre, it was a dream come true. I feel honoured and lucky to be able to have a job which doubles as my passion.

What is your take on the current overseas property investment situation?

Demand worldwide for prime luxurious properties (residential in particular) are on the rise, both as an investment opportunity and as a lifestyle choice. A generation of new wealth and HNWIs in Asia, India, Latin America and a handful of emerging countries, has created an increasing appetite for investment in real estate offerings and prime global offerings. And

although traditional safe havens such as London and New York are experiencing increasing demand and record high prices, savvy new investors are looking for new ideas and very often associate their acquisitions with the so-called “investment immigration”.

Moreover we are seeing a rise in branded residential projects recently, which offer luxury along with the prestige associated with a brand or an architect or designer, which is ideal for a niche clientele who prefer to adopt a lifestyle choice through their property purchases.

We, as a company, have a diversified portfolio ranging from the southeast Mediterranean to Panama and the Dominican Republic. We are firm believers of the

“ w e a r e s e e i n g a r is e i n b r a n d e d r e sid e n tia l p r o j e cts , f e at u r i n g a n a r chit e ct o r d e si g n e r ”

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Demand for prime luxurious properties is on the rise, both as an investment opportunity and a lifestyle choice

added value a brand can bring to a destination; hence we have chosen to collaborate with Aman resorts in order to offer a limited number of premium branded Aman Villas which are situated around Amanzoe resort (www.amanzoe.com) in Greece, which constitutes the most upmarket real estate product not only in Greece but the region. We aim to achieve the same impact with the Aman Villas as we did with Playa Grande Club & Reserve in the Dominican Republic (www.playagrande.com).

What advice would you give budding investors?

We are very fond of partnering with other trustworthy investors in order to progress our developments or maximise the returns in our projects, by seeding new capital. Our rationale is to share the same vision and we would similarly advise potential budding investors, aside from having the financial credentials

to partner, to also have the same line of approach.

Where do you see the current growth opportunities for investors?

Although we are focused on developing our existing portfolio, we are also keen in pursuing new investment opportunities. At the moment Latin America presents attractively priced or even distressed prospects that are worth exploring. At the same time, thanks to the recent turmoil in the eurozone, new destinations have emerged which may have not attracted a great deal of international interest in previous years e.g. Ireland (Dublin), Portugal and Greece. In addition, falling prices in Spain and Italy have sparked a new wave of wealthy international investors looking for opportunities there. Dubai and its recovering market now also seem to be on an upturn, attracting wealth and investment interest from India, Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

What industry would you most like to invest in, that you don’t currently?

Our expertise is investing in real estate; acquiring large coastal land sites of striking natural beauty with residential development potential, and transforming those into high-end resorts with residential and leisure components. The only variation would be not in terms of industry per se but in our investment approach, namely moving from only investing in large coastal sites to also acquiring distressed assets such as hotels in premium locations.

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Health & Fitness

Discovering the Nu You With the holiday boot camp now a regular fixture in the mind of the British public as more and more celebrities mix summer breaks with health kicks, MoneyMaker was keen to find out just what goes on behind the doors of the UK’s best well-being getaways. Lucy Bartholomew went to investigate.

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Health & Fitness

T

o many, the prospect of a week away brings with it thoughts of a holiday filled with over-indulgence, with the most strenuous activity imaginable being walking to the bar and back, a drink in each hand to ensure an even work out.

A few days on the piste or scuba diving in the Seychelles rank considerably higher in the calorie burning stakes, but once the après-ski fun kicks in or, after copious cold beers have been consumed post dive, there is often still a degree of excess baggage to carry home.

But evidentially there are more and more people who are taking fitness on their holidays a step further. Health junkies and wannabe health junkies are spending more of their time off focusing on their physical and psychological well-being, using fitness holidays and specialised wellness retreats as a place to re-group, get energised and feel inspired. Popularity is at an all time high, with UK bookings reported to be up a staggering 300% on recent years. But just what is this new health craze taking us by storm?

Research has shown that it’s a mixture of reasons that’s pulling new customers through the doors, split into two main categories: those who do not wish to undo all of the hard work that goes into leading a healthy lifestyle at home, and those who are looking for somewhere they can go to focus, get motivated and come home with a fresh approach on how to live their lives.

But just what does a fitness holiday entail? How can one invigorate their life back in the real world?

And is it worth it? I visited Nu Beginnings, one of the UK’s leading luxury residential boot camp experiences, located in Ilfracombe, Devon, to find out.

Westwell Hall, a beautiful mansion house

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on Devon’s scenic north coast is home to Nu Beginnings’ weight loss retreat. Instantly welcoming, the house has kept its traditional style but is complemented with modern furnishings.

The lounge, equipped with comfy corner sofa and endless supply of herbal teas, makes an ideal hub to mix and mingle with other guests as well as enjoying the Sunday papers after an invigorating hike. But sitting on the sofa is not the reason we’re here, so I press on looking for more heart rate increasing pursuits.

The house has its own gym which is compact but well equipped, a fitness studio which overlooks the garden, a sauna, holistic treatment rooms, a formal dining room with grand banquet table and of course a number of guest rooms which are spread over the first and second floors.

My sea-view corner room was spacious, with windows on both sides offering welcoming views of early sunrises and beautiful star-filled skies at night. With a generous sized en-suite bathroom stocked with Elemis toiletries, and an inviting king sized bed, Nu Beginnings immediately felt like a home away from home.

Guests visit the retreat for a number of different reasons; detox, time out, or as a kick-start, with the majority there to lose weight. One, two, three and four week programmes are offered, the essence of all of which are commitment and hard work. There are no miracles, but all the tools are in place to give excellent results if you stick to the plan and give it your all.

A maximum of eight guests per week are booked into Westwell to ensure the consistently excellent personal service and level of care is met. A strict timetable is in place to ensure that all of the activities run like clockwork, and these activities are interjected with regular food breaks.

“ th e e x e r cis e is h e a v y a n d i n t e n s e , b u t th e v a r i e ty wi l l k e e p y o u i n t e r e st e d ”

Wake up calls are made between 7:30 and 8:00, and consist of a gentle tap on the door, no saucepan banging or irritating alarm clocks here.

There are no TVs or radios at Nu Beginnings.

There is WiFi but due to its rural location, the signal is patchy. Use of mobiles is discouraged in the public areas, helping guests to unwind and really concentrate on their well-being. For those who are used to living life in a high-pressured environment, the quiet time can be great for reflection and stimulating creative juices, ready for your return to the city.

The exercise programme is heavy and intense

as it’s there to maximise weight loss results. The variety will keep you interested, and see you take part in a gym workouts, classes including Pilates and Boxercise, three full scenic hikes, plus an intensive workout on the sand dunes at Woolacombe. Time is also spent relaxing the body and mind with meditation and Qi Gong classes.

Food is a key element of the programme and crucial for weight loss. With no faddy shakes or soups, you will be introduced to the low GL eating plan with all your meals prepared by an in-house Executive Chef, you’re sure to be left inspired by his creativity and passion. All of the food is organic and locally sourced where possible, including produce from Nu Beginnings’ own garden. A top level nutritionist is on hand to answer diet related questions and help put a long-term weight loss plan in place, so you can continue towards your goals once home.

Each team member goes through a rigorous recruitment process, with only the best invited to join the elite team, and it really shows. They each have the amazing knack of being able to push and encourage, yet at the same time demonstrate unending patience, positivity and enthusiasm.

I was left at the end of each day feeling empowered, confident and utterly shattered, in a good way.

I was delighted with the results at the end of my week. I lost 10lbs in just 6 days and returned home feeling enthused and motivated. It is very clear to see why this is such a huge hit with celebrities, and if you’re in need of some time to yourself, a good dose of fresh, sea air and perhaps a little motivation in the exercise and healthy eating departments, then Nu Beginnings needs to be the choice for your next ‘all inclusive holiday’.

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LUXURY TRAVEL AWARDS 2013

The wait is finally over. For the past three months MoneyMaker has been tirelessly compiling your votes in perhaps the most comprehensive study of the luxury travel market in 2013. After hundreds of nominations from across the globe MoneyMaker readers have whittled the list down to just 39 of the ultimate in luxury travel destinations and service providers in the world. It’s a stunning collection of the most desirable experiences the planet has to offer, and one that we are proud to put our name to. Each one of these award winners couldn’t receive a higher level of endorsement from us at MoneyMaker, and our readers.

So after months of research and thousands of votes, let’s not sustain the suspense any longer. Without further ado, let us present to you the MoneyMaker Travel Awards winners for 2013.

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International Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Beach Resort

The Setai, Miami l Blending Asian traditions and charm with the chicness of Miami Beach, The Setai offers a relaxing haven of tranquillity amidst a backdrop of fun and frivolity. Three fully serviced pools offer daybeds, towels, water and magazines, and a few steps beyond the front gates will see you sinking your toes into the golden sands of the beach. The spa offers rest and realignment through a programme of treatments and facilities, with a couple’s treatment room ideal for honeymooners or those on a romantic break. The Bar & Courtyard offers deep seats and creative cocktails, with chill-out music providing the best end-of-day soundtrack.

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International Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best City Break

Berlin l Just a short flight from the UK, Berlin, with its impressive history and vibrant nightlife, makes for a great destination for a cultural weekend break. By day, visit the remains of the Berlin Wall, the Brandenburg Gate and the Checkpoint Charlie museum.

Explore the city by foot and extensive public transport network or for the more adventurous, by Segway. By night, watch the city come alive with the plethora of restaurants, clubs and bars. From local watering holes to high end cocktail bars, there is something to suit all tastes. Chic boutiques make Berlin a shopper’s haven with plenty of continental cafes dotted in-between, ideal for post party recovery.

Best Cruise

Crystal Cruises l Offering all-inclusive luxury cruises, Crystal offer one of the finest luxury travel experiences available and undoubtedly offer the best cruise.

With itineraries offering guests holidays all over the world, with a mix of onboard entertainment and excursions on-shore, these cruises give people the opportunity to discover some of the world’s hidden gems from the comfort of their ship and cabin. Offering the best spa at sea, the onboard Crystal spa offers ocean views whilst the more athletic can enjoy spin classes, pilates, yoga and the facilities of the fitness suite, which is highly recommended if you plan on enjoying the food!

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International Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Ski Resort

Klosters l Well known as the Royal’s favourite ski spot, Klosters is synonymous with being the best. Offering slopes for all levels of expertise, plus a good number of free trails, the cable car from the railway station in Platz takes you to the heart of the action. Luxury chalets and lodges are the accommodation of choice offering flexibility in terms of spaces to relax and self-cater. Klosters offers a host of restaurants and bars, including the Michelinstarred Walserhof which offers outstanding cuisine. To take a break from the skiing, Klosters is also popular for tobogganing and ice-skating. Train trips can also be taken from nearby Davos.

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International Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Casino Hotel

The Wynn, Las Vegas l Located at the top end of the strip, within easy walking distance of all the action, the Wynn is the sophisticated choice in the city of sin. Luxury and attention to detail are in abundance from the moment you check in and you can be assured that your every whim can be catered for by the warm and hospitable staff. The panoramic corner suites offer unrivaled views of the 24 hour party unfolding below, whilst touch screen curtains can guarantee undisturbed rest when you’re ready to hit the sack. With a staggering number of restaurants and bars, and the infamous casino, you’ll struggle to find a reason to leave.

Best Safari Destination

Ulusaba Safari l When it comes to luxury safari, one name stands out above the rest, Ulusaba. Privately owned by Sir Richard Branson, and set on the border of the Kruger National Park, guests have the opportunity to get out and explore game drives with some of the most experienced guides and rangers in the reserve. Luxury lodges offer a perfect retreat after a day on safari, with top class amenities and facilities there to make your stay enjoyable and memorable. Between game viewing, enjoy a massage on the decking with stunning views over the reserve.

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International Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Island Destination

Bermuda l Famed for its pink sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters, Bermuda oozes charm and sophistication. Having become a favourite weekend spot with busy New Yorkers, the island has managed to maintain its Caribbean charm which only adds to its appeal. Hamilton offers a number of restaurants and shops, and it’s easy to get around via taxi, boat shuttles or mopeds. Golfers will be in paradise at the Port Royal course, which plays host to the PGA Grand Slam and offers exquisite views out to sea. Those seeking relaxation will find a host of top spa facilities where they can enjoy treatment in-between sunbathing on the beautiful beaches.

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International Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Learning Holiday

Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado l Set in historic Colorado, Dunton Hot Springs is a romantic location which emphasises exclusivity in the San Juan Mountains. Gentle horses will aid your transition into a fully fledged cowboy, with horseback rides into the Rockies.

After a tiring day out on the ranch, soak in the hot springs and admire the star filled sky. The saloon is the heart and soul of the resort, leaving you guaranteed to feel like you have stepped into a Western movie. Enjoy the delicious fare and play a game of pool before retreating to your luxury lodge accommodations.

Best Luxury Train

The Eastern and Oriental Express l The most exotic train journey in the world, The Eastern and Orient Express shows no sign of slowing down its perennial appeal.

The famous style and splendour is still there, but the adventure through the heart of Asia makes for a truly unique travel experience, both reassuringly familiar and thrillingly different.

The success of the brand has shown that for many people train travel has a special romance, tinged with nostalgia for a bygone age.

The Eastern & Oriental Express celebrates 20 years in 2013 and continues to charm passengers with the romance of the region with journeys through Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia.

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LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Most Indulgent Holiday Destination

Seychelles l Blessed with a pleasant climate year round, the Seychelles are made up of over a hundred islands dotted around the main island of Mahe. International guests fly into Victoria before making their way to one of the outstanding surrounding resort islands. Whilst the thought of the Seychelles may conjure up images of relaxing in hammocks, it is in fact a hotspot for watersports lovers too. Diving, snorkelling, surfing and windsurfing are all easily accessible activities whilst those who prefer to stay on dry land can enjoy hiking and trail walking. Private boat charters are a unique way to explore, ensuring you get to do the things that only you want to.

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International Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best International Luxury Hotel

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers l Whether visiting for business or leisure, the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers does not disappoint. 382 wellappointed rooms make up the hotel, with 199 luxury serviced apartments available for longer stays. A variety of world class restaurants and bars offer guests a choice in dining options, much needed after a hard day relaxing by the pool. The hotel also has a private beach, a gym and a spa. For those who are in Abu Dhabi for work, you’ll find a fully equipped business centre and meeting facilities. With views over the Corniche and worldclass service, the staff at the Etihad Towers will ensure you want to keep coming back.

Most Extravagant City Destination

Abu Dhabi l The second largest of the Emirates, Abu Dhabi has plenty to offer tourists, and all under an enjoyable year-round warm climate. Hotels are dripping in opulence and extravagance, with gold and marble visible at every turn. Boat trips, wake-boarding and jet-skiing are a great way to cool off in the summer months whilst sand-boarding in the desert, off road driving and bike rentals along the Corniche will quench the thirst of those looking for things to do on dry land. F1 fans will marvel at the behind the scenes look at the Yas Marina Circuit and Ferrari World won’t fail to impress at the first Ferrari themed theme park in the world.

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International Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Good Cause Travel Experience

G Adventures - Explore Cambodia and Laos l G Adventures offer a number of deserving volunteering holidays, great for giving back and feeling like you’re doing some good whilst on your time off.

This itinerary will see you get involved with the local community with building and education initiatives. Dig deep with the people of South East Asia through this fourteen night trip which includes accommodation, breakfasts, transfers, guides and entrance to local temples and UNESCO sites. G Adventures will also help set up your work placement, making the experience as stress free as possible so that you can focus on the rewards.

Best Family Destination

Orlando l Popular with kids of all ages, including the big kids amongst us, Orlando never fails to disappoint when it comes to the fun factor. Thrill seekers should head to Universal Orlando for its white knuckle rides, whilst Walt Disney World offers slightly less big thrills, but more of an all-encompassing magical experience. Away from the theme parks, the attractions of International Drive will keep the family amused or an hour’s drive will see you at Cape Canaveral, the home of NASA, and the warm sands of Cocoa Beach.

Foodies will be spoilt for choice, with an infinite number of accommodating restaurants to suit all palates and, of course, service with a smile.

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International Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Ultra High Net Worth Destination

The Maldives l As soon as the plane touches down in Male, in The Maldives, you know you have arrived somewhere special. First glimpses of the turquoise waters as you board your seaplane or speedboat transfer will have you reaching for your camera and the novelty will not wear off. It’s likely that even the most stressed out business professional will relax almost as soon as their toes touch the sand, and the notoriously excellent Maldivian hospitality will ensure you stay feeling that way until you arrive back in Blighty. With warm temperatures, picture postcard beaches, superb service and exclusive resorts, the Maldives ticks all the boxes when it comes to holidays for Ultra HNWs.

Best Private Island

Necker Island l Set in the US Virgin Islands, Necker Island is an 80 minute flight from Caribbean island Antigua. Part of the Virgin Limited Collection, and frequented by Sir Richard Branson, this island paradise is a favourite among celebrities and Ultra HNW individuals who can rent the island as an exclusive holiday destination. For those who like spending their down time reading a book on a hammock or enjoying spa treatments, you are looking at the perfect getaway. For the more active guests, a range of watersports, boat trips and dry-land sports are available.

Best Adventure Holiday

Fighter Jet Flights Adventure Temples l Don the aviators and change your name to Maverick, as you experience the incredible g-force of a real-life fighter jet. The ultimate adventure for any thrill seeker or adrenaline junkie, you will take to the skies in a MIG whilst on holiday in St Petersburg. Adventure Temples will work with you to create a fun filled itinerary which will culminate in this stomach turning flight, a must for fans of flying.

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International Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Hotel Chain for Business

Jumeirah l Regarded as some of the most luxurious and innovative hotels and with properties around the globe, Jumeirah has honed its business product to a tee. Wishing to ensure their business guests are well looked after in a stress free environment, its ‘business first’ package is offered at a selection of their hotels. The service, which can be booked directly through Jumeirah, includes benefits such as complimentary breakfast, priority upgrades, complimentary WiFi, food and beverage offerings, valet suit/shirt pressing and late check outs.

Best International Boutique Hotel

Charming House, Venice l This contemporary design hotel is situated in the sestiere of Dorsoduro in the heart of Venice and right next to the Peggy Guggenheim collection.

Designed by architect Mauro Mazzolini, the warm and elegant interiors help to make guests feel immediately at home. Beautiful earthy tones and handcrafted Italian furniture add to the feeling of opulence. The building dates back pre 19th century and the hotel has been open since 2003. Breakfast can be enjoyed in the dining room or in your room, a wonderful selection of fresh baked breads and pastries with hot tea or coffee make the right start to the day.

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International Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Undiscovered International Gem

Wedgewood Hotel, Vancouver l Easily one of Vancouver’s best luxury downtown hotels, set amongst the gardens and waterfalls of Robson Square, the Wedgewood Hotel is a family-run boutique hotel providing a home away from home for business travellers and holiday-makers alike.

Attention to detail and decorative touches help this hotel to stand out from the rest, and owner-operator Eleni is always striving to be one step ahead of the crowd. The Bacchus restaurant and lounge is luxurious and offers sumptuous food and an outstanding wine list.

Best Luxury Ski Chalet

Les Trois Ours, Meribel l Located in Les Albertans, a small hamlet between Lake Montriond and the Ardent lift, this luxurious chalet is perfectly located for the slopes.

The basement is an ideal store for equipment, whilst the modern and well-appointed kitchen on the first floor enables you the freedom to self-cater. The L shaped lounge features a wood burner and comfy furniture and the beautiful ensuite bedrooms are welcomed after a hard day on the slopes.

Best Int. Spa Hotel

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, Malaysia l This intimate resort has just 25 luxury villas, ensuring a quiet retreat for rest and rejuvenation.

A two hour drive from Kuala Lumpar will see you transported to a setting of lush tropical jungle and the sanctuary known as Banjaran Hotsprings. The spa is the heart and soul of the resort, and the Asian philosophy of wellness is reflected through the traditional range of treatments on offer.

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UK Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best UK Luxury Hotel

Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons l When Raymond Blanc opened Le Manoir with his wife back in 1977, it became an instant success. Combining luxury accommodation with exquisite gastronomy, the two Michelin starred property (which they have held for an astonishing 29 years) hosts regular events and cookery classes, all set against the backdrop of the impressive gardens. Rooms offer comfort and luxury in either a contemporary or traditional style with the stunning Blanc de Blanc room offering a haven of tranquillity in its myriad shades of white. Spa treatments and a variety of outdoor pursuits are available to book to compliment a memorable weekend away.

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Best UK Boutique Hotel

The Arch Hotel, London l This contemporary, boutique hotel, located in the heart of London, just a stone’s throw from Marble Arch, offers an intimate atmosphere with all the luxury of a top hotel. Sky HD TV, a library of films and a DVD player, complimentary soft drinks and 24 hour room service without the usual ‘tray charge’ are just a few of the touches that sets The Arch apart from the rest.

Best Undiscovered UK Gem

UK Travel Destinations

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best UK Spa Hotel

Stoke Park l Just 35 minutes from London, Stoke Park signifies quintessential England. This 5-star hotel is set in 14 acres of gardens boasting a 27-hole championship golf course and has 49 beautifully appointed rooms. The Stoke Park Spa is serene and tranquil with an indoor heated pool, a deep relaxation room and Italian marble steam rooms.

Treatments are plentiful with a range specially formulated for men.

Best Golf Hotel

Enchanted Manor, Isle of Wight

Celtic Manor, Wales

l The uniqueness of the Enchanted Manor is what keeps guests coming back and is just the place to head to for a romantic break away.

Inspired by world famous artist Josephine Wall, who’s art is found all over the Manor, from the moment you arrive, you are transported to a world of fantasy fairytale. Set in magical woodlands, with views of the breathtaking coastline, the house offers 5 star accommodation with beautifully elegant suites.

l Each room at Celtic Manor reflects the distinctive style of this world-class golf resort.

Luxury suites offer a spacious bedroom with separate lounge and all the mod-cons that you would expect. There are three championship courses on site, a floodlit two-tiered driving range and a golf academy as well as two luxurious clubhouses. First timers and seasoned pros will all feel at home at Celtic Manor, with tuition available for all level of players.

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International Transport

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Airline for Business Class

Emirates l Start your journey with the complimentary chauffeur service, and arrive at your destination relaxed and refreshed. Post flat-bed snooze, use your generous seating space to catch up on business, aided by extra-large tables and in-seat power-supplies. Each seat has a personal built-in mini bar, although the excellent service that Emirates have become famous for will ensure you never go dry. If you wish to stretch your legs, the onboard lounge offers a space to socialise whilst enjoying fine delicacies from some of the world’s leading chefs.

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International Transport

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Airline for First Class

British Airways l With just 14 seats and a sleek interior design, BA’s First Class is synonymous with the Best of British. With its exclusive check in area and luxurious Concorde lounge at T5, you will be treated as a VIP from start to finish.

Enjoy a pre-flight meal, relax with a glass of champagne in one of the hotel style cabanas or treat yourself to a complimentary spa treatment.

Onboard, enjoy the views through the electronically controlled blinds, catch up on work using their new natural lighting technology or choose from over 100 movies on your 15” personal screen.

Best Airline

Singapore Airlines l We are continually impressed by consistently high standards of both product and service, which is why we weren’t surprised in the slightest to see Singapore Airlines voted the number one choice of commercial airline by the readers of MoneyMaker Magazine.

The contemporary colour scheme of the Singapore Airlines cabins create a calm environment in which to work or relax, and LCD TVs with USB connectivity keep the airline at the forefront of onboard technology, whilst tasty meals are presented with style.

The first airline to introduce the A380, Singapore Airlines continue to grow and their extensive route network ensures coverage to the world’s business capitals.

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International Transport

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Airport Limousine Service

Tristar Cars l Servicing the luxury limousine services for both Virgin Atlantic and Emirates, Tristar have become synonymous with excellent service and reliability. Smart, courteous drivers meet you at your home or chosen pick up location, to drive you to your destination. Newspapers, bottled water and the occasional packet of boiled sweets are all nice touches to help you feel at ease. An ever-changing fleet of updated vehicles including Volvo’s and Mercedes’ ensure a smooth journey with as much or as little chat as you wish. Sit back and relax, catch up on some emails or perhaps use the time to grab forty winks.

Best Private Jet Company

Net Jets l If you’re in need of a private jet to take you from A to B, NetJets are our reader’s choice of carrier. Avoid the hassle of the airport with the queues and crowds and let NetJets take care of your journey from beginning to end. With a route network of over 5,000 destinations, including private islands and remote mountain villages, you should always be able to get to where you need to be, and in true style. Chauffeured to the airport on the day of departure by a pre-arranged car, you will be through security and onboard in under 10 minutes, bringing the original glamour of flying back to day-to-day business.

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International Transport

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Airport Lounge

Virgin Atlantic Heathrow Clubhouse l Whether you’re in need of a haircut or massage, need to check in with the office, or just simply want a bite to eat, the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at Heathrow’s Terminal 3 has it all. Oozing chic sophistication with its luxe style and rich design, you can take a seat at the cocktail bar and enjoy a martini whilst checking your emails, or have a haircut in the complimentary salon. For those who just want to chill out before travelling, you will find The Den and the Alpine inspired ‘Lodge’ which has comfortable day beds, perfect for a pre-flight nap.

Best Airport

Beijing Airport l The second busiest airport in the world, and busiest airport in Asia, continues to impress with its turnover in numbers and all-round efficiency.

Staggering passenger numbers pass through this gateway to China, with an average 80 million people passing through each year. With this number in mind, it is impressive that the airport team keep coming up trumps on baggage delivery figures. Terminal 3 was opened for the 2008 Olympics and has a red roof, a symbol of good luck in Chinese. The terminal has become well known for its ‘Global Kitchen’ a food outlet with 72 different stalls, at prices you’d find downtown.

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Travel Service Providers

LUXURYTRAVEL AWARDS 2013

Best Travel Marketing Firm

PRCo l A strong category of nominees in this category saw an incredible number of votes across the board, but it was PRCo coming out tops. Specialising in luxury travel, the company represent worldwide brands such as the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, LUX* Resorts, Sofitel Luxury Hotels and Taj Hotels as well as a large number of smaller brands which are fast becoming well established thanks to the efforts of PRCo. With a strong, creative team of dynamic Account Executives and Managers who are always looking to go the extra mile, it is easy to see why they have been propelled to the top of our list.

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Best Tourist Board

Best Tour Operator

Visit California

Nomadic Thoughts

l Anyone who has visited California will likely have paid a visit to the Visit California website.

Compelling in design, with a clear wealth of information, it has proved to be an excellent resource to the MoneyMaker team. Evoking an enviable way of life, beautiful images and well written, detailed copy, Visit California would make even the biggest cynic think about taking a trip to America’s West Coast. The interactive map is a really useful travel planning tool, designed to help you with every aspect of your upcoming trip.

l This multi-award winning personalised travel service now has another accolade to add to its shelves. With an impressive collective knowledge of the travel industry and destinations, the experienced team at Nomadic Thoughts pride themselves on an individual tailor made service.

No matter what the theme of the trip, Nomadic Thoughts will ensure a well thought out, organised and memorable time.

Best Travel Website

Best Smartphone Travel App

Virtuoso

JetSetter

l Standing out from the usual run-of-the-mill travel websites, Virtuoso encapsulates our reader’s desires through its interesting yet fairly minimal site, with a network of the world’s finest travel agencies who are on hand to offer advice, suggestions and of course book your next holiday using their network. The website makes it easy to connect with a sales advisor through one of their 330 invited agencies. 84 of their agents appeared in Travel & Leisure magazine’s 2012 list of Top Travel Agents.

l This fast growing, invite only community of travel experts now has an Apple app which follows the same contemporary design as their website, and gives subscribers access to information, reviews and exclusive deals, all whilst on the move.

If you need a last minute hotel you can easily find the perfect place for your needs, book it through the app and receive the confirmation straight away, making it a swift and convenient service, a must for any business traveller.

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spe n d i t

CAR NEWS

Drive Time MoneyMaker hits the road again to bring you this month’s hottest machines on four wheels

Jaguar XF Sportbrake Jaguar’s estate version of the successful XF saloon, launched just a few months ago at the Geneva show, introduces a new level of versatility, whilst retaining the characteristic styling and dynamic performance that is at the heart of the brand.

The XF Sportbrake is Ideal for those desiring a car with both presence and performance, but who enjoy an active lifestyle and need a generous helping of space to enable them to carry anything from bulky sports and work equipment to half a Waitrose-worth of shopping.

Its sporty silhouette ensures kerb appeal without compromising on functionality. The

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rear seats with handy integral ski hatch split 60:40 to create up to 1675 litres of load-space, and there is also a new rear air suspension which allows for self-levelling, designed for ferrying heavy loads without impacting on the car’s dynamics. In fact, this new model matches the XF saloon for both aerodynamics, torsional stiffness and dynamic handling ability.

Out on the road, this is a hugely refined and agile car, despite its length and weight, offering plenty of useable power, driver engagement and grip. Perfect for long journeys, it effortlessly absorbs bumps, is quiet, and is incredibly comfortable. A premium, stylish and solid workhorse.

€3 MILLION ONE-OFF SUPERCAR, THE ICONA VULCANO, TO MAKE UK DEBUT AT SALON PRIVÉ 2013 The stunning Icona Vulcano will make its UK debut this September at Salon Privé.

This uber-glamorous twoseater V12 Hybrid, ultra high performance supercar boasts a top speed of 217 mph, and a blistering sub 9 seconds 0-120 mph sprint. The Vulcano was engineered by world famous former Scuderia Ferrari technical director Claudio Lombardi.

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VŪHL 05 SUPERCAR LAUNCHED Newly entering the superperformance sub 4 second 0-62mph class next year will be the striking VŪHL 05. Weighing in at just 78kgs, this 285bhp twoseater sports car boasts a hefty 420Nm of torque, top speed of 152mph, and promises to be a thrilling drive.

Orders are being taken now for a delivery period beginning in the spring of 2014. Pricing will start from c.£55,000 (plus tax and shipping) but there are also a wide range of performance options available that allow the 05 to be upgraded to suit your personal taste.

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Maserati GranCabrio Sport Summer driving doesn’t get much sexier than this, as the new convertible offering from Maserati would tempt you to take it for a topless spin whatever the weather. The Italians know how to create serious car eye candy and motors that offer genuine driver engagement, as this model is no exception. Its 4.7-litre V8 produces a delicious growl as well as 433bhp and 362lb-ft of torque, sprinting to 62mph in just over 5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 177mph.

Slip inside and you’ll find the cabin to be not only excellently appointed, but surprisingly spacious. All bar the boot that is, but that can be said of most cabrios.

Maserati offers a comprehensive personalisation programme enabling you to choose just about any interior and exterior colour combinations you could wish for, plus a host of wheel, seat and other mods to suit your particular taste.

Out on the road, this drop top drives as good as it looks. There’s ample thrust, feel and driver reward when pushed hard, but this car is also an impressive cruiser. All in all it’s a super classy car, and a great drive.

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Create your own Supercar If your garage is already graced by Ferraris, Bentleys or Lamborghinis, why not consider something a little different, and create your own perfect car?

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“ T h e l u x u r y w o r l d t o day is a l l a b o u t p e r s o n a l isati o n .

P e o p l e wa n t t o e x p r e ss th e m s e l v e s i n th e i r o w n way , a n d i n th e i r o w n sty l e . ”

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f your garage is already graced by Ferraris, Bentleys or Lamborghinis, why not consider something a little different?

What if we told you it was possible to have a totally unique, bespoke supercar created to your exact specifications?

Wouldn’t that be tempting? In fact, it is perfectly feasible for you to take this a step further and even have your very own marque of unique models – if you’ve the funds to spare.

We caught up with Mark Abel and Geoff Cousins of Clark Abel, a UK based luxury bespoke design company with an impressive pedigree and A-list clientele, to find out more.

The Service “The luxury world today is all about personalisation. People want to express themselves in their own way, and with their own style. Clark Abel specialises in personalisation in exterior and interior design from minimal cosmetic work to a full scale redesign. We offer a service where a customer can come to our studios, sit with a designer and sketch out their own model, and then actually follow the process through with us each step of the way, to seeing the car they’ve designed built into a fully road or track-worthy car.

The client can be as involved as they wish from design to production, with the reassurance that they are briefing and working with designers who have gained years of experience with major global premium car brands such as McLaren, Bentley and Jaguar. Actually, we follow the same design process as these companies – but fully personalised for individuals, rather than to meet the general anticipated desires and expectations of the car buying masses.

Unique amongst our competitors, we have a full design process that utilises CAD/CAM software to provide initial design themes that are then completed as a clay model to ensure

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the styling in “real life”. There is then a reiterative process until the customer is completely happy with their car.”

A service like this must cost a reasonable amount?

Like everything in business, the cost depends on the scale, scope and complexity of a programme.

Some clients come to us with substantial six figure budgets, others considerably smaller.

Being luxury designers, we can’t claim to be cheap, but do believe we offer good value, and enable our car loving clients to fulfil what’s often a lifelong dream.

In terms of timescales, what would you be looking at from initial discussions to production?

Again, it depends on the job, but our aim is to give a great customer experience which includes being mindful of timescales. It is critical that things are done in a quality, luxury way - we never compromise quality for cost or timing.

For many of your clients the whole journey is important, not just the finished result – how involved can they be?

We actually want our customers to be hands on, and encourage them to be an integral part of the process. As part of this we offer to capture the whole process on film, and in writing, so at the end of the project we can present them with a luxury brochure of their car from brief to finished creation.

“ T h e c l i e n t ca n b e as i n v o l v e d as th e y wish f r o m d e si g n t o p r o d u cti o n , with th e r e ass u r a n c e that th e y a r e b r i e fi n g a n d w o r k i n g with th e b e st d e si g n e r s ” What about the handling and performance side of things?

We can also upgrade the engine and driving dynamics to change the driving characteristics of a vehicle - again with no limits.

What if any of our readers wanted to go one step further and create their own line of cars, or even their own car company. How could you help then?

We can certainly help customers design their own car or range of cars following the process outlined above – it’s just down to their available budget at the end of the day – and their imagination! With our years of expertise in the industry, we are also more than happy to offer advice. Our knowledge is current as we continue to work with some of the biggest and most prestigious car brands in the world, and understand the challenges, and potential, the industry presents.

You offer a bespoke design service for private jets and luxury yachts too don’t you?

Clark Abel is a luxury design company with a broad portfolio, so we can work on any type of product really, but the core of our business is automotive with work also on private jets and

luxury yachts. We’ve recently outfitted Ron Dennis’ jet and have also completed exciting projects for a major yacht company.

What advice would you give for any reader who would love to create their own car brand to sell commercially?

It’s a competitive market. There are a lot of companies operating in this space, particularly around supercars targeted at potentially lucrative markets such as the Middle East, or in developing electric/hybrid eco cars. The fundamentals are the same though for starting any small luxury company - find a niche, produce something unique, enticing, and of excellent quality, and there must be a good business case with a comprehensive product and customer market plan.

Where can any readers see some of your work?

We will be at the exclusive Salon Privé event, Syon House, September 4-6th, with two stunning cars making their worldwide debut.

Acclaimed artist Paul Karslake will also be with us at our stand. l www.clarkabel.com

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Ocean bliss sails onto the market Legendary superyacht that holds secrets of the rich and famous goes up for sale

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hristina O, the iconic super yacht where John F Kennedy first met Winston Churchill, has been put up for sale for €25million via Edmiston, one of the leading specialists in the yacht sector.

Christina O has been privy to many a secret conversation onboard since it was bought by businessman Aristotle Onassis in 1954 for just $34,000. Originally built in 1943, he had the yacht gutted and converted into one of the most luxurious private yachts of its time, spending the equivalent of $45million installing some of the most opulent fittings available.

During the late 1950’s, Christina O became associated with the most lavish parties ever held on water.

Celebrities who stayed on the yacht included Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, John Wayne, Eva Peron, John Paul Getty, the Aga Khan and John F Kennedy who first met the former British Prime Minister onboard.

In 1956, Christina O played host to the wedding reception of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier of Monaco.

One of the most passionate and ill-fated romances played out on board, that of Aristotle Onassis to opera diva Maria Callas. They cruised to exotic locations around Europe in the presence of Greta Garbo, Bette

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Christina O’s Onboard Features Include: The Onassis Suite – spacious and magnificently decorated, with its original fireplace, a Renoir and the original Baccarat crystal light fittings.

The Atrium – complete with original onyx pillars, bronze handrails and floor mosaic.

Ari’s Bar – the famous stools are still there, as are the bar handles made of whale fang and engraved with scenes from The Odyssey.

Lapis Lounge – featuring a fireplace trimmed in lapis lazuli stone.

Dining Room – the art deco ceiling remains intact. Guests used to listen to Frank Sinatra and Maria Callas playing at the piano. Still remaining in the dining room are Maria Callas’ only gold record, the authentic Steinway piano, the original Baccarat crystal wall lights and a gallery of photos depicting life onboard during the Onassis years.

Swimming Pool – the pool raises up to become a dance floor. Onassis also used the pool to store live lobsters for his guests to eat at dinner. The bronzebordered pool has its original Minoan mosaic floor, painstakingly restored to its original glamour.

Davis and Margot Fonteyn among many others.

In 1968, the Maria Callas era abruptly ended when Onassis courted the former First Lady, Jackie Kennedy. The two married onboard Christina O near Aristotle’s private island of Scorpios.

In 1975, Aristotle Onassis died and the yacht was gifted to his daughter in his will. Christina in turn bestowed it to the Greek government as a Presidential yacht.

More than 20 years later, Christina O was finally restored to its former glory in 2001.

Nicholas Edmiston, the Chairman of Edmiston, commented: “Aristotle Onassis saw Christina O as a powerful symbol of his growing business empire. It really was the last word in opulence and many personalities were attracted by its ability to offer them some privacy, not just by its magnificence.”

Christina O is 325 feet long, has a range of 2,700 nautical miles with a maximum speed of 19 knots. It has 35 international crew.

She can accommodate 36 guests in 18 staterooms and the Onassis Suite. Onboard facilities include a library, sports lounge, children’s playroom, fitness centre, beauty salon and massage room and jacuzzi. Two x12 passenger mahogany tenders, a ski boat, jetskis and windsurf equipment accompany Christina O. l www.edmiston.com

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Time to Join the Jet Set What you need to know before dipping your toe into the private jet market, by Jayne Jackson, Lifestyle Editor of BizJetAdvisor China

Interior Aircraft Images – Courtesy of Andrew Winch Design Gulfstream G650 image – Courtesy of Gulfstream

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o you’ve decided to join the ranks of Jay Z (Bombardier Challenger 850), Oprah Winfrey (Bombardier Global Express XRS), Jackie Chan (Embraer Legacy 650), Lord Alan Sugar (Embraer Legacy 650) and a host of CEOs and HNWIs, by purchasing your own private jet.

And why wouldn’t you? The benefits of jet ownership are numerous – privacy, comfort, security, prestige and safety - yes corporate jets are the safest way to fly – as well as the huge advantage for CEOs in terms of time saved by being able to fly non-stop, avoid commercial airline delays, check in queues, and the ability to hold meetings and conduct business privately and securely while in the air.

Lord Sugar, who also has his own pilot’s licence, said recently that he prefers flying privately because he hates the stress of modern travel. “It is my little luxury. Standing around at airports, checking in and all that stuff, gets on my nerves,” he said in an interview earlier this year.

Assuming you have done the maths and your company or personal account can afford to purchase a jet then the process is relatively straightforward, but you will need professional help, and patience.

What’s Your Mission Profile?

The most important thing you can do when considering buying a jet is to find a great aircraft broker. Your broker will work with you to develop your mission profile – that is – where you want to fly, who you want to travel with, how often, whether you need to travel non-stop, and if you want to be able to stand up or sleep in the cabin?

Aviation experts suggest that 350 to 400 hours of flight time per year usually justifies full ownership of a jet for a company’s top executives.

If you think you will be flying less than this, you

should consider fractional ownership, a jet card or occasional ad-hoc charter.

Depending on the size desired, consideration needs to be given as to how you will use the internal spec of your jet. Will you be allocating space internally for seats, or additional rooms for business or leisure e.g. boardrooms, cinemas, dining rooms, bedrooms or bathroom suites which are all terrific but will mean less room for passenger seating and luggage?

It is great to dream and look at how the world’s top entrepreneurs have kitted out conventional passenger jets with the latest tech, and luxury finishes. Billionaire Donald Trump bought Microsoft’s Boeing 757 in 2011 for $100 million and then spent a small fortune refitting it with everything from guest suites and an entertainment centre to gold plated seat belts and taps. Russian billionaire and owner of Chelsea football club Roman Abramovich owns a Boeing 767-33A/ ER, which is said to feature a dining facility for thirty people and an anti-missile system to provide additional security.

New or Pre-Owned?

Most experts in the business would agree that it is currently a buyer’s market for pre-owned jets, and there has never been a better time to grab yourself a bargain, even with jets under five years of age. This is largely due to a slowdown in the US pre-owned market over the last few years, although business is definitely starting to pick up again now. A used jet for sale will cost anything from US$1.5 million up to about US$45 million.

Pre-owned purchase can be a lengthy process due to the many legal, engineering and safety checks required, and longer if you want the whole aircraft refurbished, with costs running from about US$750,000 to $2 million.

A brand new mid-size jet such as the stylish Citation X 2013, one of the fastest civilian airplanes

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in the world will cost upwards of US$22 million. The waiting lists for some, particularly the longer range aircraft, are also growing as most buyers in markets like China, Brazil and the Middle East are buying brand new jets, and they want them quickly.

The purchase of a new jet can take years, depending on the manufacturer and order book lengths, and even longer if you want a complete design service from one of the world’s top designers like Andrew Winch or Philippe Starck.

Get the Right Advice

One brokerage firm I speak with regularly is Jet Brokers Europe. Brendan Lodge Business Development Director, offers this advice to someone new to aircraft purchase: “Choosing a good aircraft broker is just like choosing a good lawyer or accountant. Choose an organisation that has the best skills, knowledge, experience and track record. Make sure that there is no conflict of interest which can often be the case when pilots or operators are chosen to perform the role of the broker, and seek references.

“And be prepared to pay for good advice.

That way your broker will seek out all the options available and ensure you buy the best one.

Finally, be very wary of non-mandated brokers representing aircraft in the market. Such brokers will normally not be prepared to release serial numbers or tail numbers until a Letter of Intent is signed. If their photos have “Blocked out” tail numbers then they almost certainly do not have a mandate from the seller. Finding out that the aircraft you have purchased is not the right one for your mission profile requirements is a very expensive mistake to make and rectify.”

Finance – To Buy or To Lease?

How you are going to finance this investment, which will probably be the most expensive item you or your company ever purchases, is crucial.

You will need to factor in insurance, fuel, catering, pilots, crew and aircraft management fees. And just like a car, your jet will depreciate at a rate of approximately 5% every year.

You can buy an aircraft outright, charter or opt for fractional ownership or a jet card. With fractional ownership, you can purchase a share in a jet aircraft from a management company, and then pay a monthly fee and hourly operations costs.

A good broker will outline the key financial gains

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for each method; the tax implications, the legal implications and how to maintain the value of your asset – with regular maintenance, overhauls, correct hangerage, and security etc. The broker can also advise of the opportunities to offset those costs such as lending your jet to a charter company when you are not using it. A typical jet charter will cost £1,000 an hour for a small jet like a Cessna Citation Mustang to £6,000 for a Gulfstream 550 with some of that fee returning to the owner.

Your Aircraft Acquisition Plan should cover a period of at least five years, or as long as you expect to operate that model.

Management

Ideally you will want an FBO (Fixed Base Operation) close to your home or business HQ, where your jet will be kept in a hangar and your aircraft will be managed. There are two management options available; an in-house flight department with your own Chief Pilot, or an aviation management company like TAG or GAMA aviation.

Aircraft management companies’ services include flight planning, legal and aviator compliance across borders, visas, safety, crew, catering, refuelling and maintenance. The cost for management varies between £75,000 and £150,000 per year, depending on the size and usage of the jet.

The Company Perk?

“The aircraft perk tends to be the most valued of any provided to senior executives,” says David Wise, senior principal at Hay Group, a consulting

firm. In 2011, the Hay Group reported that 68% of executives of large companies had personal use of a private aircraft - making it the most popular perk.

However, access privileges to the private jets should be used wisely. When he left his post at the top of Citigroup, former CEO Sanford Weill, a man with a net worth of several hundred million dollars, negotiated access to the company’s jets for personal use. It was later reported that he took a jet to a Mexican resort just after Citigroup had taken a large federal bailout. The New York Post headline read: “Pigs Fly: Citi Jets Ex-C.E.O. to Cabo.” Weill hastily issued a press release promising to never use the Citi jet again.

According to a report by Equilar, a research company, the median value of aircraft perks rose to $110,204 in 2011 - a 19.2% increase from $92,421 in 2010. USA Today reported that Wynn Resorts CEO Steve Wynn, who was paid $13 million, received perks valued at more than $1.5 million, among them, $942,631 for personal use of the company jet in 2012.

As a result of this and other cases, shareholders are increasingly scrutinising accounts for legitimate business use. But it’s not all bad news. The CEO of Coca Cola, for example, spent US$122,917 on company jet use last year, according to Equilar, which doesn’t seem excessive when you consider what US$10,000 a month would buy in terms of business class travel.

Jets of the future

If you are worried about your carbon footprint, a new jet will be your best chance of offsetting some of that guilt. Every manufacturer is looking at fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

In another advance, one small aircraft start-up hopes to sell the world’s fastest business plane, one styled after a military fighter jet. Saker Aircraft is pitching its two-seat S-1 as the only airplane able to fly just under the speed of sound. The plane will have a maximum speed of Mach 0.99 but will cruise at 0.95, or about 720 miles per hour, a good deal faster than most commercial flights.

What’s Hot Right Now? According to AMSTAT, the top five makes and models of private jets in Europe are: Model Category Passengers Range Speed(ktas) (nautical

miles) Cessna Citation XLS MediumJets 8 1858 441 Cessna Citation Mustang Entry Level 5 1150 340 Dassault Falcon 7X Long Range 14 5,950 499 Citation CJ3 Light Jet 6 1,875 417 Gulfstream G550 Long Range 12-18 6,750 507

Cost New (US $)

12,300,000 3,085,000 52,300,000 7,895,000 58,500,000

To find jets for sale and UK brokers visit www.Avbuyer.com

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Turkish Airlines Specialising in travel to some of the most enchanting and spectacular corners of the globe, Turkish Airlines is a real travel delight 130

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At the Airport Save time at the airport by using the dedicated Business Class check in desk before taking the Fast Track line through security and immigration. On their return to London, passengers can make use of the airline’s VIP Lounge at Istanbul Airport, where you can use the business facilities or take some time to relax with a pre-flight drink.

In the Cabin Effortlessly cool and contemporary in the airline’s signature colours of blue and red, seats are laid out in a 2-2-2 configuration and the generous centre consoles between seats help create more feeling of space giving passengers ample space to work, dine and rest. Each seat is equipped with the Planet Digital system and individual touch screen TVs.

In the Seat The adjacent ottoman enables each Business Class seat to be fully reclined into a 188cm long sleeping space, perfect for those looking to rest before a heavy work schedule at their destination. The armrest and centre console neatly acts as a privacy screen with nice touches such as a massage button and reading light helping to make the flight as comfortable and pleasant as possible.

In-flight Service Offering a restaurant style service, in both quality and service, the crew offer a real taste of Turkish hospitality, where authentic dishes offer an exciting alternative to the usual airline fare. Welcome drinks and hors d’oeuvres engage the palate and you are invited to round off your meal with Turkish coffee and Turkish delight.

Luggage and Refresher Packs Basic amenity kits with socks, eyeshades and hand cream are offered on all transoceanic flights. 30kg of checked baggage and 2 pieces of hand luggage are permitted.

Overall Rating Awarded Europe’s Best Airline at the 2013 Skytrax Passenger Choice Awards and endorsed by American sports star Kobe Bryant, it is easy to see why the airline has earned such accolades. From excellent service, to comfortable seats and attention to detail with adjustable tables and in-seat massagers, the process and product is smooth, easy and enjoyable.

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Land of the Explorers We make the idyllic journey from Estoril to The Algarve

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ith world class Michelin Star restaurants, 5* award-winning luxurious resorts and villas, championship golf courses, a vibrant art scene and stunning scenery and beaches, it’s little wonder these two particular regions of Portugal are attracting more and more discerning travellers – particularly during spring and autumn, when free from the main tourist hoards.

With the sophisticated metropolis of Lisbon now just two and a half hours away from the Algarve, many needing be in the city for business decide to stay on and spend a few days on the Estoril coast before driving down to the Algarve to enjoy the golf, surfing, and top class resorts there.

Estoril and its swankier neighbours of Cascais and Sintra are within surprisingly easy reach of Lisbon airport. Take a scenic drive along the coast road through herb-scented wild natural parks to the famous Roca Cape, and you’ll find yourself at the most western point of Europe, marked with a

lighthouse and affording lovely views out across the ocean. This is a great place to watch the sun set, as it blazes a glittering sea trail to the horizon of burnished gold. Here it’s easy to visualise the country’s first New World explorers, setting off with great ambition but little certainty of a safe return.

The people of Estoril, and of course Lisbon, retain their love of the sea, and numerous top class yacht and powerboat races take place here each year, drawing in sophisticated sailing crowds. Lacking a cruiser of your own, definitely take a RIB from Cascais to Lisbon, for a thrilling high octane ride down the coast, where you’ll race by the foot of the city’s famous and imposing Cristo Rei, located at the mouth of the Tagus river, a smaller replica of the Statue of Christ the Redeemer at Corcovado in Rio.

From Water to the Greens

Estoril has a number of highly regarded golf courses, including Oitavos Dunas, situated next to a stunning beach and the new-ish 5*luxe Oitavos hotel.

A masterpiece of steel and glass, it’s supermodern, minimalist, filled with unique artwork, and provides its guests with fantastic views from pretty much every room of the uber-stylish pool areas, golf course, beach and Atlantic Ocean beyond.

The Arthur Hills designed golf course was voted 68th best in the world by a leading golf magazine, and if you like your golf mixed with some serious R&R, the hotel has an excellent spa.

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the new 5* luxe Pousada de Cascais, set within the walls of Cascais’ 16th century citadel, and a lesson in the tasteful adaptation of old building into something again super-modern yet classic.

Rooms are either facing a lovely courtyard or out to sea, and the hotel is complete with its own cellar space used by some of its wealthy guests to host amazing private parties.

Opposite the hotel is the Taberna Praca restaurant which again is stylish and offers artfully presented dishes, and a stone’s throw away is the simply excellent ‘Hemingway’ - dining here is a must on any stay. The owner and wonderful host is a genius at matching food and drink, creating combinations you’d never think of, but taste divine.

High Rolling Nightlife

From dining here, you could take a short taxi ride to Estoril’s famous casino which offers something of an assault to the senses if you prefer your décor to be muted and tasteful, not that the many high rollers there seemed to notice or mind. If you’re keen to embrace the full Bond experience, stay or enjoy a drink at the Palácio Hotel, where scenes from On Her Majesty’s Secret Service were filmed.

Decades on the hotel’s characterful doorman, who appeared in the film, and still holds his post today, will greet you with great cheer, and even better stories from his touch of fame in those glory days.

A Touch of History

If you love a good view, artisan shops and bistros, with a sprinkling of historic might, treachery and tragedy, drive out to the world famous Sintra.

Climbing through pretty woodland, past gated multi-million pound villas, you’ll pass through Sintra village, with its attractive pastel coloured houses, art galleries, bakeries serving the traditional extremely Moorish Portuguese sweet cheese tartlets, wine shops and, bizarrely a yoga loving local in a loin cloth assuming a lotus pose on a bed of a B&Q’s worth of nails.

Continue the steep drive up to the top of the hill to the Palácio Nacional de Sintra, which even if scores of rooms with fusty smelling ancient furniture and art doesn’t inspire you, is well worth the hike due to its incredible architecture. It is eclectic and attractive, and has wonderful views out across forest clad hills, to an ancient fort and the sea beyond. On a windy day, (they have plenty of these there), watch out for the death-defying walk high up on the turrets. It literally feels like the gales howling round this precariously perched Palace will rip you off the foot-wide path, down what has to be a thousand feet drop below.

Algarve

Leaving Estoril behind, the only option for the budding explorer is to head down to the Algarve.

If you just want to head to the ‘Golden Triangle’ of unadulterated golf heaven then you won’t be disappointed by the quality of the courses available

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“ f r o m b e ach e s t o golf courses, your p assi o n wi l l b e m o r e tha n satisfi e d h e r e , what e v e r it m ay b e ”

here, or alternatively head to the historic fort town of Sagres, the most south westerly point in Portugal. Here you’ll find a coastal nature reserve and the 5* luxe Martinhal resort, winner of Europe’s Leading Luxury Resort, which offers a mixture of luxury designer villas and a hotel with stunning views over a broad golden sand beach that’s a favourite of surfers. With a variety of restaurants and numerous swimming pools, a beach and a tennis club, Martinhal is perfect for couples with small children, or family groups. The resort also rents out a few large super-luxe villas perched right on the headland, with enviable vistas out to sea.

From Sagres and Martinhal, head towards Faro, past the tourist favourites of Albufeira and Lagos, dropping down to Porches, famous for its pottery, to what those in the know regard as the very best place to stay in the Algarve, the 5* luxe Vila Vita Parc, with its gorgeously lush grounds, private beach and 2 Michelin star ‘Ocean’ restaurant.

Travelling as much as we do, expectations become really high, and this is one place that exceeded these by some way. From the friendliness of the staff, to the quality of the spacious rooms, lovely position nestling in tropical flower-filled grounds where you can sit high up above the beach and look out across the ocean, and cocktail in hand, it’s an oasis of luxurious calm. It’s little wonder many guests we met come every year.

Vila Vita also has its own luxury yacht which can be hired out for couples or groups, where you can cruise to tiny coves, dine in style and sip champagne watching the sun set. And, for those who enjoy wine, Vila Vita own their own vineyards and winery Herdade dos Grous set deep in the countryside, offering cellar tours, wine tasting, horse riding and also accommodation. Many of their wines are award winners.

Leaving Vila Vita and heading to Faro airport, it’s worth taking a final boat trip through the stunning Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. Head to Faro’s marina, and there you can book your two hour cruise with Formosamar, an ecotourism company operating in the Algarve that organises activities and tours in the Ria Formosa Natural Park and on the coast of the Algarve. After, lunch at Restaurant Faro & Benfica, is just a short walk away.

l British Airways fly to Geneva from multiple UK locations. www.ba.com

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Room With a View #1:

Royal Livingstone Hotel The first of our new series finding the luxury locations with the world’s greatest vistas takes us to the outskirts of the welcoming Zambian town of Livingstone, where giraffes and monkeys amble past, and the world’s most stunning waterfall thunders on the horizon

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frica mainly deserves its reputation for friendly welcomes, but Zambia provides those who make the effort to travel there with the kind of genuine and special hospitality you will rarely find elsewhere in the world, let alone the continent. Boasting vast, sprawling national parks and some truly wonderful hotels, the country is well stocked for visiting high net worths, but it’s the Royal Livingstone Hotel, in the town of Livingstone, that is the jewel in the nation’s crown.

Situated on the green and pleasant banks of the relentlessly rolling Zambezi river, the hotel occupies a sensational spot for the luxury traveller. Built and styled in a blend of Victorian splendour and local flavour, the hotel sits in the middle of a spacious walled complex, where giraffes, zebra and monkeys drift and scurry around the grounds.

The true glory of the hotel’s location is only hinted at on arrival, though, as guests make their way down the river on a water taxi, dodging in and out of the hippos, before witnessing the rising steam of what is one of the biggest and most powerful waterfalls, Victoria Falls, just a short distance from the hotel’s front lawns.

It’s not until a very short trip to the other side of the Falls that their real majesty is revealed, where the imposing wonder stretches over a mile wide,

and crashes water down over 100 metres and cloaking the entire area in a glorious wet mist.

Microlight flights are available over the Falls, and are highly recommended.

Food at the hotel is exceptional, with menus an eclectic mix of Zambian, French and Italian fare, and the ambience is first class luxe.

The town and hotel are named after the Scottish explorer, David Livingstone, whose African fortunes were the stuff of legend to Victorian Britain, and the Royal Livingstone should be on the to-do list of every luxury traveller seeking their own eyeopening adventure. n www.suninternational.com

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Get There: Fly British Airways from Heathrow to Livingstone, via Johannesburg. Don’t forget to upgrade to BA’s award-winning First Class for the perfect way to arrive in style. www.ba.com

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The Heart of The Ocean Austrian-born Hans Neuner hails from a family of chefs, and unsparingly started working in a professional kitchen from a very early age. He rapidly rose through the ranks, learning from culinary giants such as Karlheinz Hauser. From Berlin’s acclaimed ‘Adlon’, to the 2 Michelin starred ‘Tristan Restaurant’ in Mallorca, and now head chef at the 2 Michelin Star ‘Ocean’ in Vila Vita Hans has travelled the globe in search of culinary perfection

Can you start by telling us a little about your time at Vila Vita?

In 2007 I was invited to head up the kitchen of the Ocean restaurant at Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa, in the Algarve. Since then, my dream was to win a Michelin star, using my own methods and techniques and recruiting and leading my own team. Winning the first in 2009 was amazing.

(In November 2011 Michelin awards him the second star. A surprise, but only for those who do not follow the persistence and determination of Hans and his team’s work: the second and youngest chef to bear the two stars of “Red Guide” in Portugal.)

This second Michelin star - which literally means “excellent table, worth a detour” - is recognition of the hard work and consistency of the staff at the Ocean. It is recognition, too, of the quality and maturity of the haute cuisine that is practiced today in Portugal: the recognition of the quality of domestic products, flavours and the growing influence of the Portuguese cuisine in the world.

Hans, you’ve certainly kept company with some of the most driven, talented and perfection demanding chefs around, how do you cope with the pressure of working in such environments?

I have always tried to learn the most I could, and this of course comes with pressure. Pressure was and is a part of my profession. However this is not relevant if you have the opportunity to learn from the best.

What was the toughest, most challenging time in your professional career?

It was in 2006, when I arrived here in Portugal and began building up the “The Ocean Restaurant” which is now VILA VITA Parc’s fine dining signature restaurant situated in the Residence. I was named Portugal’s Chef of the Year 2009 & 2012 – and my team were awarded Two Michelin Stars in 2011.

Who would you say your main mentors have been, and what do you feel you’ve learnt from them?

Karl-Heinz Hauser was probable the most important mentor for me. I worked at the restaurant of the Adlon Hotel in Berlin.

What would you say are your key culinary influences now?

That’s clear; I only work with the freshest products. That’s the most important thing for me.

Furthermore we obtain many products from the local environment and we guarantee the highest degree of freshness. If all these factors are given, we give our best to combine and create different tastes and flavours in order to give our guests an unforgettable a unique food experience.

Tell us about your signature dishes and signature style

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My style or credo is “Keep it simple”. The simplest dishes can be newly discovered depending, of course, on the given products, creativity and the courage to test something new. In regards to my “Signature Dishes”, I don’t have a special one. I constantly change our menu and with it also the signature dishes. My utmost concern is to create new dishes with the fresh products of that time of year.

What factors do you attribute your success to?

A lot of credit must go to my mentors who over the years have contributed a lot towards my learning and development. Secondly I always extend a lot of thanks to my Ocean team that we have built up over the years that I have been in Portugal. They do an excellent job each and every day and deserve to share in the restaurant’s success.

Any trends you foresee?

An increased uptake in our philosophy of “freshness of products”. It’s a very logical progression for modern fine dining, but we’re already very much ahead of the curve in that regard.

How do you balance the creative and business sides of what you do?

Keeping a balance is important. I like to escape the corporate kitchen on occasions, and sometimes take an extended break from work in order to not think about it. Take your time if it is necessary to keep your passion and creativity, as that is what will keep your business growing in the right direction.

What are your plans for the next twelve months?

We are still working on our improvements for the restaurant, so that we are able to achieve our goals in a faster way. We will continue with this and hopefully the restaurant will be even better this time next year.

What are your long term aims?

To keep working, to keep improving, to keep learning, and importantly to keep on dreaming.

Nobody can dream for you!

What are currently your favourite places to dine?

And which dishes do you love the most?

It is a difficult question, which would not be fair for me to answer. Depending on my time and mood there are a lot of places where I love to dine with many dishes that I keep as my favourite ones.

Finally, top chefs are often describe as being slaves to perfection, but it’s impossible to be bang on all the time. Any funny culinary incidents you can divulge?

Luckily, nothing like that has happen to me yet!

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The Cocktail Laboratory Proving cocktails are still very much ‘in’, Liquid Chefs are the masters at creating mind boggling concoctions for A-list parties, from Cannes to Hollywood, that are attended by the likes of Rihanna, Branson and Mark Zuckerberg. We caught up with the company’s founder Adam Soloman to discover how it started, and some recipes we could use to impress.

How did you come up with the concept for Liquid Chefs?

Four of my school friends got together in 2003 and did a wedding in South Africa in return for business cards, and since then the company has gone from strength to strength. We launched into the UK in 2008. Liquid Chefs (www.liquidchefs.co.uk), has now become the hottest premium mobile bar service, that has kick-started a liquid revolution.

We provide tailor made solutions to any kind of party or entertainment and the team has gone on to serve more than one million cocktails, at over 5,000 events in locations all over the globe, including London, Cape Town, Amsterdam and even Antarctica.

What’s completely different about us is that

we take a totally unique view to this industry. My business partner Deon Linde is a molecular scientist by background, and we came together to combine our practical knowledge of the bar industry and chemical background.

When we are booked by clients, as a ‘Liquid Lab’ we work together to develop truly unique, mad drinks ideas for our clients. We also host gettogethers, to try out our creations before events, for all the high flyers at World Economic Forum in Davos, private events for huge corporations such as Google and Deutsche Bank and after-parties in Cannes as well as private events in people’s homes, weddings, barmitzvah’s etc.

Have you started a trend?

We started actually from the style of our offer – we wanted the company to be vibrant and funky, that takes the concept of the portable cocktail bar and bar services and turned it on its head – we literally shook the whole scene up. Our barmen are put through their paces during an intensive training course at the company’s Liquid Lab, where the emphasis is as much on learning how it is to mix molecular creations and jaw stopping cocktails as it is to learn how to interact with guests, which have included world leaders, with Mark Zuckerberg and Richard Branson to name a few.

Because we are working with extremely demanding customers, we have developed ground breaking molecular cocktail ideas that no one has seen before. Here are some examples: l Cocktail Caviar - which has been used as garnishes in drinks (this is coloured bubbles of fruit purée which are made using a pipette to drop into a solution, which turns them into a ‘ball’ that is dropped into cocktails before bursting in the mouth)

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l Cocktail Sushi ­Vanilla vodka infused rice served with a Chambord jelly sliced thinly l Smoked whiskey - we utilise a smoking gun (same type of tool that is used to smoke salmon) combined with a herbal tea which is smoked to infuse the flavour of the whiskey l Cocktail Spaghetti - we use a gelling agent and mix it with either a cocktail or mocktail to create an alcoholic beverage that will set hard. We then use a syringe to pour the liquid into a thin rubber pipe that we then let set for ten minutes. This creates the effect of long thin spaghetti like piece of alcohol jelly l Woodland Tincture ­- our mixologists have created a woodland infusion which we atomise on top of a martini to create a spectacular effect, which we display at special events l Vacuum infusion - we suck all the air out of a cucumber using a vacuum, and then introduce a martini straight after the vacuum. All the open pockets within the cucumber fill up with gin creating a translucent piece of cucumber that tastes like a martini.

We can provide the right service for any event a client requires. From London to Antarctica, from an intimate wedding to a conference for 10,000 people, we have the skills and experience to deliver the ultimate cocktail service.

With such an impressive client list, Liquid Chefs can truly call themselves cocktail makers to the stars

Finally which special events have you recently served these legendary drinks at?

We’ve been at a number of great parties recently, and will be appearing at even more across the summer and leading up to the Christmas season.

Some of the parties we’ve been at include the Mckinsey NightCap Cocktail Party In Davos Switzerland for the World Economic Forum, the Sean Parker Party in Davos Switzerland for the World Economic Forum and the Google Zeitgeist Conference.

We were also present at the River Island Clothing Launch alongside Rihanna, the 1600 guest Adobe Summit Party with Jessie J, the Skyfall Premier in Zurich and the Cannes Lions Festival with YouTube. l www.liquidchefs.co.uk

What service do you offer your clients?

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The Gastro-files Our resident food connoisseur Eve Hartridge’s guide to the top bars and restaurants we’ve visited this month The Grill on the Market Opposite London’s iconic Smithfield Market is the fantastic Grill on the Market. With the appeal of an American steakhouse – think dark wood, exposed brick and leather booths – and the historic location, the menu is unsurprisingly meat heavy, but there is also a wide selection of fish to choose from.

There is a mix of a business lunch or the brisk trade in award winning burgers. After work, the mood changes with the cocktail bar being a place to grab a drink before turning into a haven for carnivores later.

The flagship item is the wagyu fillet – their self-styled ‘Daddy of all steaks’. From the wagyu breed, the meat is claimed to be the tastiest in the world by being reared on a beer diet and massaged from birth.

Plenty of starter options are available to choose from - the delightful crispy calamari was beautifully presented. After the wagyu fillet, the warm chocolate fudge cake was a self-indulgent end to a sumptuous meal. n www.blackhouse.uk.com/restaurant/london-smithfield

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JW Steakhouse Set amidst the grandeur of the Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane, the JW Steakhouse is a buzzing hotspot attracting hotel guests and diners from the surrounding areas alike.

The large, open plan dining room oozes a feeling of a New York loft meets high-end bourbon bar.

Friendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through the American themed menu, with tempting dish after tempting dish

on offer. Choices are plentiful and portions generous with a good selection available for non meateaters. For the carnivores there is an excellent selection of steaks, cooked to perfection and served with a number of tasty sides. The porterhouse for two is highly recommended, juicy and packed with flavour, and is delicious with the roasted bulb of garlic.

For dessert there is really only one choice, as the steakhouse is famous for its truly authentic cheesecake,

made with ingredients that are specially flown in from the USA. If you still have space, finish the meal with one of their signature Kentucky Coffees, but only if you don’t have to drive, as they offer quite a kick.

The private dining room, which is completely self-contained, offers a large dining table and comfortable chairs and offers itself as a different venue to host your next business meeting or special occasion lunch. n www.jwsteakhouse.co.uk

Trinity A neighbourhood restaurant in the heart of Clapham Old Town, Trinity was created seven years ago by chef Adam Byatt to deliver great food and great service.

A relaxing ambience greets you upon arrival, the skills of friendly and knowledgeable staff balanced with attentive, yet discreet service, is evident all around. On a warm evening you can enjoy a gentle breeze from the open windows as you enjoy a glass of champagne while you peruse the menu.

A seasonal menu based on the best ingredients available, there is always something new to try. The five course tasting menu – available with matching wines – takes you on a culinary journey. The summer season menu is beautifully crafted with chilled soup, two fish courses, a main of lamb, finishing with the quintessentially English Strawberries and Cream.

The highlight is found in the details, the scallop filled courgette flower served with the stone bass was divine.

Presentation scores highly too, this truly is a meal for all your senses. There

are a la carte and set menus to choose from, and the cherry soufflé dessert came highly recommended.

Trinity prides itself on its extensive wine cellar that now extends to 350 bins, including the Chef’s Cellar of 20 top-end wines. For something different – even as a gift, book a master class for a Monday evening to enhance your wine knowledge, you will not be disappointed. n www.trinityrestaurant.co.uk

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travel Fashion

Tailor of the Tape #1:

Cad And The Dandy In the first of our new series of suit reviews, we tried out the royally-appointed and celebrity-friendly tailor, Cad and the Dandy’s bespoke offering.

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Location: Premises across London, in Savile Row, The City and Canary Wharf, each with its own unique charm. Far more spacious, contemporary and opulent than your standard Row tailor, with floor to ceiling windows creating stunning natural lighting, amidst the minimalist but working decor, with large leather sofas nestling amongst rails of samples and a small handful of neat tailoring collector’s items.

Ambience: Relaxed, jovial and informed - choosing and fitting bespoke suits should be fun, after-all, and, whilst many tailors forget this vital component, Cad and the Dandy never make such a mistake, and the atmosphere is smart and enjoyable.

Service: Simply outstanding. Personal, without ever being intrusive, and knowledgeable, without ever being too pushy.

Suits on offer: The tailor offers three types of bespoke suit, machine stitched, half hand stitched and fully hand stitched. All are created from a hand designed pattern.

Signature style: Modern British, with just a little flair. Sharp lines, clean looks, and exceptional finishing are the tailor’s calling card.

Likely to be seen on: Celebrity fans and royal customers. David Walliams is said to favour the tailor, and Mike Tindall and his wedding party were believed to have been dressed in Cad and the Dandy for his marriage to Zara Phillips. Meanwhile A-list rockstars and actors have all been seen wearing the distinctive style.

Overall: Many tailors on the Row and further afield are too focused on looking to the yesterday, and pay little heed to the tomorrow. Cad and the Dandy’s playful and stylish looks have become an essential addition to the London suit-maker elite, and it’s growing international reputation is richly deserved.

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Playing the Game in Style MoneyMaker sits down with British super star Ian Poulter to talk golf, his prospects for 2013, and launching the fastest growing fashion label in the game How would you assess your season so far? It goes without saying that the primary goal of the season is to capture a major, but how will you look back at 2013 if you don’t manage to achieve that?

The season got off to a good start at the beginning of the year, but has been slightly disappointing, for the standards I set for myself, in the middle. That being said I’m still positive about my prospects for the rest of 2013, I’m really looking forward to having a good summer and a really strong back end of the year. Ryder Cup points for Gleneagles 2014 can start being accumulated from September onwards, so I’m really keen to kick start from the French open and continue moving forward.

Does the British Open hold special significance for you over the other majors? Do you revel in home crowd support or do you prefer to play overseas where you might be under the radar a bit more?

Yes, of course, it’s the home major. I absolutely love it. I don’t shy away from home support or feel an added sense of pressure, it always gives you a lift to know that the crowd is behind you and wanting you to do well. I’ve always received a great reception from British golf fans and hopefully it will be the same for the rest of my career.

How important is the world ranking system to you?

It’s everything. Just like any other sport or profession, you want to be acknowledged as the best you can be and, if you have the confidence and self-belief, the best in the world. The world ranking system is the method by which the best players in the world are identified, and as such it is something I want to be as high up in as possible.

We’ve had a good period in British golf in the last few years with Luke Donald, Lee Westwood and of course Rory McIlroy all reaching world number one, and I’d love to add my name to that list at some point in the near future.

Do you do any training/coaching to improve your management of the mental side of the game? Do you think that this is a big part of being successful?

No, I don’t but if you think you need it then of course it’s a big part of the game. Sport at the highest level is in part mental and well as physical, and there are plenty of examples in other sports where working with a sports psychologist or someone similar has dramatically improved their career. That being said, it’s not something I’ve thought too much about.

How do you go about managing your schedule with so many tournaments available to play?

Is that a decision you take advise from people

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around you and what are the critical factors in making those decisions?

It’s all down to me. I choose where I want to play and when I want to play. There are key tournaments across the year that I would never want to miss, and then others which act as good preparation for major competitions. It’s all about balancing your schedule properly, and I am the best person to know where and when I should be playing to achieve the best results I can.

What’s your favourite course you’ve played?

Are there courses that host the majors that suite your game more than others?

I really love Augusta, in part because we get to play it every year. The aura of The Masters is spine-tingling, the place contains so much golfing history, the course is always pristine, and the scorecard is packed with iconic holes, so it’s always a privilege and a joy when you get to play there each year.

How important are commercial agreements in golf? Is there competition between pros to get the best sponsorships/deals?

There’s no competition between pros for deals.

Commercial agreements are different for every player. You try and align yourself with the right brand, and look for one that you feel is the right fit for yourself.

IJP Design are setting the bar at new heights when it comes to looking good on the golf course

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You have your own golf clothing line, IJP Design, how did that come about?

I have always been interested in fashion, from a very young age. My Mum worked in the fashion industry, and one of my first jobs was as a merchandiser at a market! So I think you definitely

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need to have an interest in what you wear and what looks good. My philosophy has always been ‘Look Good, Play Great’ - this may not be as important to others but it works for me!

Where does inspiration come from for the range?

I draw inspiration in a variety of ways both on and off the course, but current trends in the game particularly appeal and influence me.

There is extensive research involved with the design process to make sure we’re creating lines that are on trend and versatile.

How much influence do you have in the designs/fabrics for the collections?

I have a great team of designers that put together the collections and colours. I regularly give feedback on performance, comfort and look and they do a great job of incorporating all my thoughts and ideas into the finished product. I am extremely proud of the product we are putting out into the market.

How do you feel the IJP Design collection has grown since the first range was launched?

The collection has come so far – we’ve grown quickly and really listened to what golfers want from what they wear. Our junior range launched last year and is doing brilliantly. There’s been a huge demand for a ladies range which we’re launching later this year, and we’re currently expanding our market to focus on Korea and the USA. The focus now is on the technical fabrics and designs as well as the style of the pieces to make sure we’re offering the best products on the market. I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved so far.

“ I ha v e a g r e at t e a m o f d e si g n e r s that p u t p u t t o g e th e r th e c o l l e cti o n s and colours, and that I ca n g i v e f e e d b ac k t o . W e are very proud o f what w e a r e p u tti n g o n th e market�

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property

Maitraya – Albany, Western Australia Maitraya is a private retreat like no other and is one of Australia’s most coveted coastal properties. It is located near Nanarup Beach, a 20 minute drive from Albany on Western Australia’s south coast.

A luxury homestead set on over 222 hectares of breathtaking Western Australian coastline, it offers nature, adventure and freedom in one unforgettable package.

As well as being a unique home, the property is also run as a successful venue for weddings, functions and retreats, offering four levels of accommodation including the main Maitraya homestead, Fisherman’s Lodge, Aviator’s Cottage, and Maitraya’s Country Chalets, in total sleeping up to 60 guests.

Perched on a cliff top, the beautifully appointed, eight bedroom, sandstone homestead enjoys 270 degree views over the ocean, mountains and a nature reserve.

Its 6,000 square metres of living space comfortably accommodates up to 16 guests.

Two fully equipped kitchens, a pool, spa, light-filled garden atrium and secure children’s play area are among the indoor offerings. A retractable star-gazing ceiling adds charm to the master bedroom.

Outdoors, the grounds offer multiple delights. There are kayaks at the lake-side gazebo, a tennis court, cricket pitch, putting greens, bird hides, a chicken coop and walking trails scattered with wildflowers and artworks.

Whales, dolphins and kangaroos can be spotted from the homestead’s vast windows.

Private tracks lead to a perfect swimming beach, and the external areas of the property include sculptures and works of art by wellknown international artists. A 500 acre pristine bushland area is a wildflower paradise in spring, hosting multiple varieties of flora and fauna.

Remote, relaxed, and completely private,

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the retreat has security controlled entry and a picturesque sealed driveway. A sealed airstrip and a helicopter pad make the property easily accessible by air.

Maitraya is a truly unique home with secure income streams to support the property, from ongoing retreat and event bookings to the livestock business, and the potential to develop both. This property offers remarkable future prospects for its next owner.

To arrange your inspection, please call Nicolette van Wijngaarden at Unique Estates Australia.

At The Maitraya Property: l Indoor pool, spa & sauna l Theatre room with Foxtel & seating for 20 l Large children’s play area l Gymnasium, tennis court & football oval l Formal lounge & 12 seater dining room l 2 informal lounge rooms including Foxtel l Informal dining / family area l Well-equipped kitchen, cool room & gourmet BBQ l Library, large office & boardroom seating 14 l 11 bathrooms in main residence (7 bedroom bathrooms, 2 powder rooms & 2 pool bathrooms) l 6 open fireplaces l 3.3 m wide hallway l Glass conservatory, landscaped indoor garden & water feature l Central heating / air conditioned l Solar power & equipment rooms l Abundant bird & wildlife l Fruit orchards & chickens l Lake, dams & water features stocked with marron, rainbow trout & black bream – a fisherman’s paradise l Aquaculture potential l Beef cattle operation running some 100 breeders

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Six Bedroom Villa For Sale – Palm Jumeirah, Dubai To live on the Palm Jumeirah is a dream for every resident and tourist who comes to Dubai and see this wonderful island. For one, being situated in land reclaimed from the ocean to create an island is in itself being part of the history of Dubai real estate. With the shape of a palm tree, it also becomes the most unique and ambitious real estate project ever developed in the whole world to date. These factors alone make Palm Jumeirah, Dubai the top choice of investors, whether nationals of the United Arab Emirates or from overseas. Launched in 2001, Palm Jumeirah has also become the number one preference of home buyers looking for a VIP lifestyle in the Middle East.

Palm Jumeirah has always been very popular with home buyers, due to its location and access to shops, schools, restaurants and the beach. Who wouldn’t want all of that on their doorstep?”

Price available upon request

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For sale - Mougins - Ref. MG4871

Jerusalem Penthouse Jerusalem, Israel

Price: $16,000,000 USD

Price / Sq. Ft.: $3,556

Israel

Global Presence • Bedrooms: 4 • Full Baths: 4 • Partial Baths: 1 • Interior: 4,499 Sq Ft. • Property Type: Condominium • Web Id: 4000032744

- Local Expertise

Elisha 2 Penthouse is a unique, luxury residence in the heart of Jerusalem, completed in 2008. The Elisha House is comprised of two separate www.azur-sir.com buildings with 20 units, joined by a lobby which has a 24-hour doorman. Building highlights include a large indoor swimming pool, a gym, sauna and changing rooms as well as three levels of underground parking. Many components are unique; the builder skilfully implemented the on-site quarried Jerusalem limestone as the building’s cladding as well as the polished tiles for the common areas. This exceptional penthouse showcases 08.07.2013 16:11:01 unmatched views of Jerusalem from the comfort of this luxurious living space.

For sale - Mougins - Ref. MG4871

Mediterranean Villa Caesarea, Israel

Price: $8,500,000 USD

Price / Sq. Ft.: $1,104

Israel

Global Presence • Bedrooms: 8 • Full Baths: 6 • Partial Baths: 1 • Interior: 7,696 Sq Ft. • Property Type: Single Family Home • Web Id: 4000036723

- Local Expertise

www.azur-sir.com A beautiful villa, built in a distinct Moroccan style, very detailed and carefully crafted. The house is built from natural local stone combining an old world elegance and a new age feel. Breath-taking features of tile detailing, dramatic vaulted ceilings, custom cabinets, artisan qualities that need to be seen to be truly appreciated.

A spacious estate of 1,249 square meters, the house 715 square meters, three stories, 8 bedrooms, a very large master retreat, 3 balconies, a large pool and beautiful landscaped gardens. Two porches built out of bamboo and glass overlook the lush grounds which offer exquisite sea views.

08.07.2013 16:11:01 For more information about this beautiful estate please contact Shelly.Shmelzer@Sothebysrealty.com

Lygon Place, Belgravia, SW1

A substantial house in a secure new development in Belgravia.

Lygon Place, Belgravia, SW1

Five principle bedroom suites • Three reception rooms • Kitchen / breakfast room A substantial in a secure in Belgravia.

Media room • Twohouse staff bedrooms • Lift • new Securedevelopment underground parking for up to three cars 24 hour security • Concierge • Approximately 7,600 sq ft / 706 sq m Energy Rating: C Five principle bedroom suites • Three reception rooms • Kitchen / breakfast room Media room • Two staff bedrooms • Lift • Secure underground parking for up to three cars 24 houron security • Concierge • Approximately 7,600 sq ft / 706 sq m Energy Rating: C Price Application

020 7293 0874

peter.bevan@sothebysrealty.co.uk

020 7293 0874

peter.bevan@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Freehold

Over Offices Price on650 Application Freehold

in 47 Countries

sothebysrealty.co.uk

Over 650 Offices in 47 Countries

sothebysrealty.co.uk

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Hans Road, Knightsbridge, SW3

A rare opportunity to purchase this mixed use building in a prime Central london location.

Hans Road, Knightsbridge, SW3

Six bedrooms • Opposite Harrods • Six floors • Un-modernised 020 7293 0879 A opportunity to purchase this mixed use building in a prime Central london location.

Partrare commerical, part residential • Terraced • Blank canvas • Garden sophie.panizzo@sothebysrealty.co.uk Approximately 6,153 sq ft • Energy Rating: C Six bedrooms • Opposite Harrods • Six floors • Un-modernised 020 7293 0879 Part commerical, part residential • Terraced • Blank canvas • Garden sophie.panizzo@sothebysrealty.co.uk Approximately 6,153 sq ft • Energy Rating: C Guide Price: £12,500,000

Freehold

Over 650 Offices in 47 Guide Price: £12,500,000 Freehold

Countries

sothebysrealty.co.uk

Over 650 Offices in 47 Countries

sothebysrealty.co.uk

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OUTSTANDING FULLY DETACHED VILLA Madliena, Sliema Valletta Surroundings SWQ1110 Malta Price Upon Request Being sold fully and very tastefully furnished including painting and antiques.

For further information, kindly direct your request to info@maltasothebysrealty.com or contact +356 2010 8070 or +356 9910 8070 and we will get back to you within 24 hours. maltasothebysrealty.com

For sale - Mougins - Ref. MG4871

Malta SYLT: the most scenic island of Germany. In an area of outstanding natural beauty on Sylt´s east coast, this spectacular villa is located within an exceptional area of Global Presence Local Expertise exquisite private residences. Arranged over 3 levels, this imposing villa of 466 sqm with style and charm joins traditional and modern living close- to the sea.

Each room is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered: two of four bedrooms feature ensuite bathrooms, the spacious living room and the study offer antique fireplaces. In addition the “bespoke kitchen” and the tailor-made interiors show the attention to detail. The villa is fully equipped with high-tech amenities andwww.azur-sir.com also offers a luxury spa area with pool, jacuzzi, sauna and entertainment which leaves nothing to be desired. This unique residence is surrounded by a beautiful well-kept garden with extensive plantings, terraces, boardwalks, a pavilion and a stunning sea view.

08.07.2013 16:11:01

Luxury Property Sales, Rentals and Management Luxury Property Sales, Rentals and Management Cannes - Mougins - St Tropez - St Jean Cap Ferrat - Beaulieu - South of France Cannes - Mougins - St Tropez - St Jean Cap Ferrat - Beaulieu - South of France +33 (0)4 93 38 50 33 info@azur-sir.com +33 (0)4 93 38 50 33 info@azur-sir.com 130704-CASIR-Money_Maker_ad_spread.indd 2-3 130704-CASIR-Money_Maker_ad_spread.indd 2-3

For sale - Mougins - Ref. MG4871 For sale - Mougins - Ref. MG4871

Global Presence - Local Expertise Global Presence - Local Expertise www.azur-sir.com www.azur-sir.com 08.07.2013 16:11:01 08.07.2013 16:11:01

For sale - La Roquette sur Siagne - Ref. AP4889 For sale - La Roquette sur Siagne - Ref. AP4889

Luxury Property Sales, Rentals and Management Luxury Property Sales, Rentals and Management

Cannes - Mougins - St Tropez - St Jean Cap Ferrat - Beaulieu - South of France

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spe n d i t

How I Spend It

Mr Hudson

Each month a celebrity gives us an insight as to how they would spend an imaginary fortune. This month is the turn of music maestro Mr Hudson Perfect Holiday?

It would have to be Hawaii. I’ve had the good fortune to work there several times, but never had the chance to explore all the islands. I’ve always thought it was paradise every time I visited, so would love to have some quality relaxing time there.

Dream Car? A Jaguar XK120, in black with white-wall tyres. I’d probably upgrade and individualise it even further by getting it pimped out with modern engineering and an iPod dock to keep the music coming! That would definitely be a lifestyle dream of mine.

Private Jet or Super Yacht?

That’s a tough one. I can’t swim, which limits the fun you can have on a yacht, so I think it would have to be a jet. I’d want to be able to fly it though, which will mean a decent amount of instruction before I get in it.

Favourite Luxury Accessory/purchase?

Suits, watches, shoes, anything that’s luxury fashion or accessories. What else does a man really need?

I’m very happy with my new Hardy Amies three piece suit that I’m wearing in the music video for my new single Fred Astaire.

As one of the coolest men in music, Mr Hudson is unsurprisingly lavish when it comes to high end fashion

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Favourite piece of technology?

I could happily live without a phone, but I couldn’t live without my laptop. It’s my studio and office rolled into one so it really is an essential.

MONEYMAKER MAGAZINE

Do you have a spending weakness?

I live quite frugally to be honest, but expensive restaurants and long haul flight upgrades are hard to resist.

What extravagant purchase would you love to have?

One day I would like to own an incredible grand piano, perhaps one that comes with a remarkable story attached. I already have a 1940s upright Steinway at home, old pianos have so much character.

If you were to put your money into a new business venture what would it be?

Brewing beer looks fun and low risk. It’s a crowded market but that wouldn’t discourage me. If anyone reading this wants to help then let me know.

If money were no object, how would your life change?

Apart from the obvious house on the hill (with a studio at the bottom of the garden) I would focus more time and energy in promoting amazing musicians with no regard for commercial gain.

“Suits, watches, shoes, in fact anything that’s high end fashion excites me. what else does a man need?”

A M E R I C A N FO O T B A L L .

E N G L I S H H O S P I TA L I T Y .

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

SAN FRANCISCO 49ers

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M I N N E S O TA V I K I N G S

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

Wembley Stadium, London Sunday 29 September 2013

Wembley Stadium, London Sunday 27 October 2013

This year’s two NFL International Series games promise to be spectacular. Guarantee your seat for the game(s) by purchasing one of our unique hospitality packages.* And for the ultimate luxury experience, we also have Private Boxes (subject to availability).

To book your place, call Ian Sargeant on 020 8795 9524 or email Ian.Sargeant@wembleystadium.com

Sapphire Hospitality Package

Diamond Hospitality Package

£329 inc. VAT

£439 inc. VAT

Bundle for both games £599

Bundle for both games £799

• Three hour pre-game buffet in one of Club Wembley’s private dining facilities – private tables guaranteed for parties of eight or more

• Champagne reception on arrival

• Complimentary bar including wine, beer and soft drinks for three hours before the game, between the second and third Quarters (half-time period) and one hour after the game

• Superb three course pre-match dining experience in the Bobby Moore Room – private tables guaranteed for parties of four or more • Cash bar available during the game

• Premium ticket on the Club Wembley tier with access to all concourse facilities

• Complimentary bar including wine, beer and soft drinks for three hours before the game, between the second and third Quarters (half-time period) and one hour after the game

• Souvenir programme and commemorative VIP pass for each guest

• Premium ticket in the Bobby Moore seating blocks on the halfway line on Level One, either side of the players’ tunnel • Souvenir programme, gift and commemorative VIP pass for each guest

*Hospitality packages are sold on a first come first served basis and are subject to availability.

Superyacht berths from 30m to 150m MEDITERRANEAN | CARIBBEAN | MIDDLE EAST | ASIA

Superyacht berths from 30m to 150m ToMEDITERRANEAN discuss any aspect of super| CARIBBEAN yacht berthing, | MIDDLE EAST | ASIA including berth ownership, please contact: To discuss any aspect of superyacht berthing, including berth ownership, please contact:

Kurt Fraser | +44 (0)20 3405 3219 | kurt.fraser@cnmarinas.com | www.cnmarinas.com

Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi

Kurt Fraser | +44 (0)20 3405 3219 | kurt . fraser@cnmarinas.com | www.cnmarinas.com

Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi

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