Contact magazine - August-September 2015

Celebrating 200 years of North East business

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2015

necc.co.uk - necontact.co.uk

I, SPY

Behind the scenes in the world of counter espionage

Cleaning up The company boss who’s not afraid to wield a mop and bucket

ACCESS ALL AREAS We take a tour of the Lit & Phil

PROFILE

MISTER PRESIDENT

Mike Matthews: The passion that drives NECC’s new president SPECIAL FOCUS PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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Be part of North East history CELEBRATING 200 YEARS OF NORTH EAST BUSINESS To round off the 200th anniversary programme NECC is producing an official book to commemorate and celebrate 200 years of North East business and we want you to be part of it.

The book, which will be published at the end of the year, will be a fantastic memento of 2015. It will also celebrate the future of North East business; profiling industry sectors that are key to the region’s success in the years ahead and a look-back at our great businesses and what we have achieved together over the past 200 years.

The book will be displayed in many of our members’ business receptions around the North East, providing bite size chunks of information, facts and commentary to ensure local, regional, national and international visitors better understand the story and the strengths of our great businesses and our great region.

BE PART OF THE STORY It is important that you, our members, are part of this story.

We would like to receive up to 6 of the oldest photographs you have of your premises; inside and out, your products, brands and people. If you have a similar image of your premises now that we can put alongside these, that may also be used.

▴ Ringtons original delivery van in the early 1900’s

HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR IMAGES All pictures need to be high resolution, print quality images (ideally +300 dpi - dots per inch). Please send any pictures to Charlie.nettle@necc.co.uk including the title of the image and the approximate year in the filename of each image. Please confirm in your email that you are able to give NECC permission to use the images (ie. you own the copyright). We are looking to receive all pictures by 31 Oct 2015.

▴ Newcastle International Airport 1935

▴ Barbour’s first factory in South Shields 1957

If you would like to be a part of North East history and sponsor this exclusive commemorative publication, contact Sandy Gamlin on 01661 844115 or email sandy@offstonepublishing.co.uk

PROUD TO BE SUPPORTED BY OUR ANNIVERSARY PATRONS:

Welcome...

As the new president of the North East Chamber of Commerce, it gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the latest edition of Contact magazine.

What an incredible honour it is to have been appointed president of this wonderful organisation during a milestone year - its 200th anniversary.

Throughout its long history, NECC has positioned itself at the forefront of North East industry, working hand in hand with our businesses to champion their achievements, and - perhaps more importantly - to make sure that the region gets the best deal possible.

For me, being part of NECC is hugely important.

It is NECC’s unfaltering commitment to grow the region’s economy that really resonates with me.

Our assets are continually developing, with great ports and airports bringing with them international connections, opening a world of opportunities to businesses in our region. We have a great deal

NECC’s new president Mike Matthews on NECC playing its part to unite North East business

to shout about, and you only need to look at the North East’s trade performance to see we are an innovative region making our own way in the world.

We need to build on these foundations to elevate the region further, and to do that we need a driving force. I believe this comes from NECC. Though we have a great deal to be proud of, there remain substantial challenges. Austerity remains, skill shortages present a real threat, and as the closest region to Scotland we are the most exposed to the downsides that come with the greater freedom that part of the land has secured.

But we can come through it. And to do that, we need to look inwardly.

The North East can only succeed if it is united, if it works together - LEP with LEP, authority with authority, business with business - standing as one.

The North East LEP footprint and the Tees Valley are distinct areas, and both are vital in supporting the economic growth of the whole region. But they must collaborate. The gap between the North and South of this region must be bridged to take control of our destiny. We have the chance to blaze a trail. The Northern Powerhouse is taking shape and we can be at the heart of it. We must bring the strengths of the south and north of the region together and compete with other UK regions.

NECC has a pivotal role to play in ensuring that the region’s name rings out through the corridors of power as the region to watch. I very much look forward to adding my voice to theirs.

Mike Matthews, NECC president

EDITOR Jane Pikett jane@offstonepublishing.co.uk EDITORIAL TEAM Dean Bailey Charlotte Forrester Liz Hands Jessica Laing Owen McAteer Paul Robertson Contact is the magazine for NECC members. News and press releases should be sent to submissions@necc.co.uk ADVERTISING Contact our commercial team 01661 844 115 sales@offstonepublishing.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson www.kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson www.nrphotography.co.uk Peter Skelton www.photo-psp.co.uk

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When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

Caroline Livesley

Mike Matthews

Jo Cameron

“In a world of technology, our hope is to co-exist comfortably. We believe that libraries filled with dusty books and history still have a place.”

“The desire to improve was instilled from a young age. I grew up with very little and as a teenager I realised I was going to have to work hard.”

“In the North East, there are 102,785 sole traders - 74.8% of businesses. They work on their own and can benefit from structured co-working days.”

Lit & Phil - p34

Nifco - p36

Colleagues on Tap - p32

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Contents

To keep up to date with all the latest NECC and member news download the NECC app by searching for NECC in the Apple app store and on Google Play

Plus 08 INBOX News and views from the world of business

10 FLYING HIGH

Newcastle International Airport marks its 80th birthday

15 FITTING TRIBUTE New memorial to the North East’s fallen ‘Commercials’

17 CHEERS!

Lanchester Wines makes it into the Real Business Hot 100

18 TOP OF THE CLASS Gateshead College celebrates its outstanding status

Features 06 DRIVING SEAT

We drive the new Infiniti Q70

09 IN MY VIEW Skills campaigner NECC’s new president Mike Matthews

NECC’s James Ramsbotham’s message for business

36

20 BUILDING PROFIT

Esh Group celebrates strong end of year results

22 SOUND AS A POUND NECC’s birthday world record 56 FAB FIVE The joy of Twitter

28 SUCCESS STORY

Behind the scenes at counter espionage firm Verrimus

30 CLEANING UP

Cleaning boss Grahame Chapman focuses on a bright future

32 THE OFFICE

Talking to the dog? Try Colleagues on Tap for more intelligent answers

34 WELL READ

Behind the scenes at the Literary & Philosophical Society

45 PROFESSIONAL FOCUS Our thriving professional sector under the microscope

66 LAST WORD Making social media work for you

30

32

Clockwise from above: Grahame Chapman, Colleagues on Tap, Lit & Phil

34

PROUD TO BE SUPPORTED BY OUR ANNIVERSARY PATRONS:

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 5

DRIVING DRIVINGSEAT SEAT

The drive quality is immediately impressive, easy to handle and responsive 6 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT / AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

Top gear

The Infiniti Q70. Main picture, left, the Q30

James Ramsbotham drives Nissan’s new Infiniti Q70 as the manufacture of its sibling, the Q30, heads to Washington

I

have driven a variety of vehicles in my life, from mopeds to main battle tanks, but my usual day-to-day experience is at the more modest end of the family car range. Hence, I was intrigued to be asked to test drive the luxury Infiniti Q70.

Infiniti is the luxury arm of Nissan, though it has been largely unknown in the UK to date and I’m probably not alone in having not heard of Infiniti until it was announced that the Nissan plant in Washington had been awarded the role of manufacturing the Q30 model.

It will be the biggest new model launch in the UK in more than 20 years and more than 300 new jobs are heading to the North East as Nissan UK gears up to start production on the Q30 - the firm’s first entry into the premium compact sector - later this year.

Nissan, which employs more than 6,000 people in Sunderland and supports thousands more through its supply chain, has also made a £250m investment in the UK facility, including plant extensions totalling more than 269,000sqft, in what Colin Lawther, senior vice president for manufacturing, purchasing and supply chain management in Europe, recently called a “new era” for Nissan in the UK. Production of the Infiniti Q30 will be closely followed by a second Infiniti model, the QX30, a new premium compact crossover, and both models will boost the Infiniti brand, which had a recordbreaking 2014 with global sales of more than 186,200 vehicles, up 13.5% from the previous year.

So, this is a major coup for Nissan Washington, and if you drive a Nissan Qashqai or Juke made in Washington you’ll be well aware that these are excellent vehicles, and the Infiniti is markedly better again. It’s not surprising, therefore, that the

North East Nissan team has upskilled its people further and added many new elements into the manufacturing process to accommodate the Infiniti brand. And while this may be a challenge, it’s a great accolade that such a technically advanced car is entrusted to the Washington plant.

I had heard so much about the Infiniti brand that I really did want to understand it properly by driving one of the models. Having experienced the Q70, I can now appreciate what has appealed to drivers in the US for many years but is only now being fully enjoyed in the UK and across Europe.

The Infiniti logo is a clever take on the mathematical symbol for infinity with a road vanishing into a distant horizon. If you’ve not noticed it before, the next time you watch a Formula One race you will notice it as sponsor of the Red Bull team, which is why the F1 driver Sebastian Vettel has been so closely associated with the brand.

Beauty is always in the eye of the beholder, but this car looks good to me, and during my week with the Q70 I was conscious of admiring glances.

The drive quality is immediately impressive, easy to handle and responsive, and this is a solidly built car with instantly available power. I particularly liked the intelligent cruise control, which makes congested motorway driving so much more relaxing and is a useful gadget here in the region as we at NECC continue to campaign for more dual carriageway across the North East.

Internally, you’re enveloped in a feeling of comfort and technical wizardry. The controls are simple to use and add to the feeling of luxury.

Infiniti prides itself in the quality of every element, so the leather has been through the most careful processes since it was parted from its beef, the veneer beautifully crafted since being parted from its leaves; plastic imitations are not part of the Infiniti DNA. I’m excited at the prospect of these quality cars being made in the North East and in years to come we will become much more accustomed to seeing this brand around the region.

Thank you to NECC member Infiniti Newcastle for opening my eyes and raising my awareness about this step-change in North East motoring.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 7

INBOX

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY

The Technical Academy, part of East Durham College, turned five earlier this summer.

The state-of-the-art education facility in Peterlee has trained the next generation of engineers, manufacturers and construction trade workers since 2010 and has created ties with firms across the region including Baxi, CTD Tiles, Esh, Eagle Welding, Grundfos, Megger, Miller, Terraclean and Wates.

FLYING HIGH

Well done to Elringklinger (GB), which has raised more than £1,000 for Great North Air Ambulance (GNAA).

Sean McCready, a trainee metrology technician at the firm, cycled 40 miles in the Hamsterley Beast Bike Ride with his brother to raise £550, which was matched

by ElringKlinger (GB), raising £1,100 for the GNAA.

NORTHWARD BOUND TINY TESTERS

Children from Stamfordham School, Northumberland put new family facilities at nearby Matfen Hall to the test.

Owners Sir Hugh and Lady Blackett’s artist daughter Amelia has created three colourful hand-drawn characters - Fergus the Frog, Connie the Cow, and Dotty the Duck - to illustrate everything from children’s menus to family hours in the hotel’s indoor pool.

The children made their own sandwiches, tried giant outdoor games and left with a family pack which is available for all young guests.

Newcastle-based holiday letting agency Cottages in Northumberland has reported a rise in the number of bookings it has taken from southern families.

The agency rents out 140 holiday properties in Northumberland and Tyneside.

Director of operations Angela Mazingham says: “Historically, families from the south would head to Devon and Cornwall for a beach break. However, demand has been such that key beach and harbour resorts in both those counties have become increasingly crowded and expensive, so holidaymakers are looking for an alternative.”

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STAR ATTRACTION

Stars gathered in London recently to re-launch the historic Regent Street cinema and watch a film created by a North East company.

Newcastle-based The Roundhouse created a short film about the cinema, along with designing branding and creating a new website with integrated ticket buying system.

The guests included comedian Sandi Toksvig (pictured).

BISCUIT BOOST

Staff and volunteers working on Northumberland Wildlife Trust’s new Heritage Lottery Fund centre are being fuelled by supplies of free biscuits from supporter Nestlé UK. Until the end of the build project next summer, there will be a regular delivery of chocolate goodies to the Wildlife Discovery Centre from Nestle, which is based in Fawdon, Newcastle.

Alex Lister, Northumberland Wildlife Trust dynamic Druridge Reserves manager, says: “After a hard morning working in the rain, you wouldn’t believe how a chocolate biscuit can boost the morale of our volunteers.”

UK in Singapore @UKinSingapore: Britain is open for business. @Number10gov PM David Cameron w/ #NorthernPowerHouse delegates #BusinessIsGREAT Seven Stories @7Stories: @NECCJames with @7Stories CEO @KateEdwards7S on behalf of Gillian Dickinson Trust who generously donated to refurb Nadine Hudspeth @NadineHudspeth: Stunning painting to mark #NECC200 Thx @NECCTwiTer @Judith_ Doyle9 @gatesheadcoll #bepartofit N.E. Art Collective @NorthEastArtCol: We love Newcastle! @welovencl @TyneTeesWear @NEChamber @EldonGarden #art #local #gifts Get Into Newcastle @NewcastleNE1: Kids young and old loved meeting Mario before our WreckIt Ralph film at #NE1MonunentMovies Dabbawal @Dabbawal: Great to have the guys from @appetitemaguk on the veranda today. Mansingh is cooking up a storm! #bbq

IN MY VIEW

@NECCJames

In my view

NECC chief executive James Ramsbotham calls on the new Government to deliver for the region

S

ince the last edition of Contact, there has been an emergency budget, we have been part of an official Guinness World Record, and apparently I carry more influence than Ant and Dec - on Twitter, that is.

Looking back, it was widely expected that the general election would bring uncertainty for UK business, so we were pleased there was a decisive victory.

Devolution to the North East remains a significant issue. The summer budget saw other parts of the country move ahead of the North East in securing a devolution settlement. It is of the utmost importance that the region makes significant progress in this area as soon as possible to avoid being left behind.

We are keen to explore all options that would enable a meaningful deal to be secured, including the possibility of an elected mayor. This deal must equip the North East with the necessary tools and responsibilities to shape its own economic future.

As I write, I am in South East Asia on a Northern Powerhouse Trade Mission with prime minister David Cameron and 62 northern businesses. The business community is united in its desire to see the North East prosper. We are the pace-setters in the country when it comes to exports and our region has a strong reputation for exporting globally.

We have an immense opportunity here and we want to see the best possible opportunities for British business.

We have a great story to tell about what our region can offer to South East Asia.

The Northern Powerhouse will be a critical part of the UK’s economy and it is of the utmost importance that the North East is part of that.

The last year has brought many changes and as we thanked Newcastle International Airport’s chief executive David Laws for his dedication as NECC president over the last two years, we welcomed Mike Matthews, MD of Nifco UK, to the role.

Mike is a passionate advocate for the North East and its business community, and is a vocal supporter of apprenticeships, working tirelessly to create links between the worlds of business and education.

NECC export adviser Joy Sullivan, who has served the region’s businesses for more than 40 years, has also been awarded the British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Joy is recognised for her services to international trade and for playing an

important part in the North East’s proud export history. She helps hundreds of our members to expand their markets each year and we are delighted that her efforts have been recognised.

The debate around a possible third runway at Heathrow rages on and I agree with the Davies Report’s support of our national hub. While we want as many direct flights in and out of North East airports as possible, an expanded national hub is essential. The onus is now on our politicians to make a decision and implement this without delay.

As we continue to champion the needs of our members on key political debates I feel incredibly proud of our region and its people. I recently attended the unveiling of a plaque and commemorative bench in France to remember ‘The Commercials’, formerly known as the 16th Battalion, the Northumberland Fusiliers.

It was a poignant experience, and really brought home to me the importance of our 200th year celebrations and remembering the people, past and present, who have been part of our long history.

Of course, we still have lots to look forward to, notwithstanding our Gala Dinner at Durham Cathedral in September.

This prestigious event will combine a programme of world firsts, including the largest reception ever to be held in the cloisters of Durham Cathedral, engaging speakers and a locally focused menu. It will be a perfect way to round off a year of celebrations and I look forward to seeing you there.

James Ramsbotham, prime minister David Cameron and the delegation from the four-day trade mission to south-east Asia AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 9

NEWS

NEWS MILITARY MATTERS

James Ramsbotham; Lucy Winskill OBE, pro vice chancellor, Northumbria University and chair of NECC; and General Sir Nicholas Carter

NECC recently welcomed the head of the British Army to the region.

General Sir Nicholas Carter attended NECC’s Partners & Corporate Lunch at Northumbria University to share his experience of leadership and change.

“In many ways, what I do with the British Army and the Army Reserves is similar to what’s going on in offices all over the country,” he said. “Every day we must take stock of our challenges, develop a strategy and manage the talent of our workforce.”

NEWS EMPLOYMENT FALLS Latest figures show employment in the region standing at 68.7%, a fall of 14,000 over the quarter and 4,000 over the year.

Unemployment stood at 7.8%, a fall of 2,000 over the quarter, compared to a national rate of 5.6%.

Jonathan Walker, head of policy and campaigns at NECC, says: “These figures reflect the challenge the North East faces in ensuring the private sector is able to compensate for the significant number of people leaving the public sector.”

Airport’s an octogenarian The North East’s largest airport has celebrated its 80th anniversary.

Newcastle International Airport has been serving the region since July 26 1935 and last year welcomed 4.6m passengers through its doors.

The airport began its anniversary celebrations earlier this year with Newcastle International: Your Airport In Motion - a time-lapse film produced by photographer and filmmaker Jack Fisher which captures a day in the life of the airport.

Staff have also undertaken charity challenges, including a cycle ride to raise more than £10,000 for the Newcastle United Foundation and Sunderland AFC’s Foundation of Light.

The year has also been marked by the new United Airlines direct service to New York. CEO David Laws (pictured) says: “2015 has proved to be a massive year for us. We are now flying to more than 80 destinations worldwide and we play a significant role in the region’s economy.

“Work continues to make the airport bigger and better.

Our £14m development of the terminal building is set for completion in September and we plan to involve as many people in our celebrations as possible for the rest of the year.”

AIS SCORES GLOBAL FIRST AIS Training, North Tyneside, has become the first in the world to offer a revised fireproofing qualification approved by the oil and gas industry.

The three-day OPITO fireproofing course trains workers in applying passive fire protection (PFP) to offshore structures. AIS is the first training provider in the world to offer the course and is already experiencing high

10 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT / AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

demand. Global paints and coatings company AkzoNobel, which manufactures the industry-specified PFP product Chartek, has welcomed the news.

Brent Tyson, AkzoNobel’s fire protection sales manager for Northern Europe, says: “Offshore fireproofing is a specialised safety-critical skill.

This OPITO standard will boost competency levels across the oil and gas industry.” in association with

NEWS CAN YOU BE TEES VALLEY’S BEST?

Terry and Amanda Goldspink of Evolution Forwarding receive the Best New Business Award Tees Valley

Entries are being invited for the Best New Business Awards Tees Valley.

Freight forwarding specialist Evolution Forwarding gained new business on the back of winning the awards two years ago. Previous winners include teaching programme Sound Training and games development company Double Eleven, Guardian Marine Testing, Cornerstone Business Solutions and Paragon Rapid Technologies. Firms funded since June 30, 2012 are eligible to enter at www.bestnewbusiness awards.com

EASY DOES IT

NEWS COME DINE WITH US

Lingfield Point

Internet company Easy Web has moved its Darlington HQ to Beehive at Lingfield Point. Easy Web has taken 2,500sqft of space at the award-winning business park and the firm, which also has offices in Newcastle, is looking at further expansion plans in Leeds and

Manchester in the next six months.

Tim Moor, general manager for Easy Web, says: “Lingfield Point’s ethos of customer focus matches our own and it is within road and rail links so we’re within easy reach of our other locations across the UK.”

in association with

Tickets are on sale for NECC’s 200th anniversary Gala Dinner which will include the largestever drinks and canapé reception within the cloisters of Durham Cathedral, performances from the cathedral’s choristers, engaging speakers and some special surprises. The event will be the largest-ever business dinner in the region’s history with 800 key business people in attendance.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 11

NEWS

NEWS GROWING SOLUTION

The Solutions Recruitment team

Solutions Recruitment Teesside has quadrupled its team as it celebrates growth alongside its first anniversary.

After launching the business in 2014, the firm has achieved a turnover in excess of £1m. The Teesside business forms part of the wider Solutions Recruitment Group based in Newcastle, providing recruitment in the temporary, contract, permanent, professional and executive markets.

NEWS RAIL ACADEMY AWARDS

Students at the North East’s first specialist Rail Academy have been honoured for their hard work and commitment at its inaugural awards ceremony.

Some of the country’s leading rail industry businesses attended the awards, which celebrated the achievements of students at the Rail Academy in Gateshead, which is run by Newcastle College.

Elliott Johnson, 17, was named Student of the Year.

He said: “I have always loved engineering, so when I heard about the Rail Academy I thought it sounded perfect for me. It’s been challenging, but I have loved every minute of my training so far.”

Voyage of discovery

Photos from Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums

P

re-Raphaelite masterpieces, historic photos, even glass eyes are among the museum treasures in a new online discovery engine developed

by Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums in partnership with Microsoft Research and Newcastle University.

The new system allows users to explore more than 32,000 artworks, objects and photographs. John Coburn, digital programmes manager at Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums, says: “We’ve created a new responsive system which presents people with intriguing images from our

collections based on the users’ individual interests. So you could find yourself looking at a 19th Century PreRaphaelite painting from the Laing Art Gallery, or being stared at by a glass eye from Discovery Museum’s collection.”

Thousands of images of artworks and objects from museums and galleries including the Great North Museum: Hancock, Arbeia Roman Fort, and Stephenson Railway Museum are included in the system developed with Microsoft Research, Newcastle University’s Open Lab and Collections Trust. www.collectionsdivetwmuseums.org.uk

WRITTEN BY A STAR A talented writer has been recognised with a new award.

Durham-based CS Mee won the Clare Swift Short Story Award at the Northern Writers Awards at Northumbria University.

The prize, sponsored by NECC, is the result of a collaboration between Northumbria University and NECC and was founded in memory of Clare Swift, a

12 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT / AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

member of a reading group in Whitley Bay who died aged 47.

Charlie Nettle, NECC head of marketing, says: “As part of our 200th anniversary celebrations we were keen to work with our region’s universities to develop and showcase North East talent. A reading group in Whitley Bay wanted to create an award in a member’s memory. We helped turn their vision into reality.” in association with

Promote your business throughout the region as easy as...

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Celebrating 200 years of North

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2015

REACH OUT TO POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER

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I, SPY

Behind the scenes in the world of counter espionage

ACCESS ALL AREAS

Cleaning up

We take a tour of the Lit & Phil

The company boss who’s not afraid to wield a mop and bucket

Generate new business enquiries with NECC Contact magazine

East business

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MISTER PRESIDENT Mike Matthews: The passion

that drives NECC’s new

SPECIAL FOCUS PROFESSION

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NEWS

PARTNERS UPDATE With Jo Fryett, head of NECC Partners I’ve certainly been kept on my toes for the last couple of months, as NECC Partners have been extremely busy with various working groups, our innovation launch and talking about all things devolution.

At the most recent Partners event before a small summer break in the programme, we welcomed Tom Smyth, deputy area director for North East Business Innovation and Skills, to share his thoughts on devolution, the post-general election budget and what these issues and more mean for the North East.

Thank you to Bond Dickinson, which hosted the most recent Partners Lunch and ensured we had all enjoyed a fantastic reception.

NECC Partners have a genuine interest in developing the North East policy agenda, and I am sure that the ongoing debate surrounding the

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in association with

Northern Powerhouse will continue for some time to come.

Understanding the implications of what a joint transport strategy will mean to investment, skills and infrastructure here in the North East is fundamental to the continuous development, growth and success of the North East economy.

And while we’re talking about the North East, have you seen the wonderful new NECC 200th anniversary painting (page 20)? Launched at NECC’s Regional AGM in June, it’s a great way to see our region’s iconic landmarks in one place and it truly depicts what a fantastic region the North East is to live, visit, work and play.

If you’ve not seen it, have a look at www.necc. co.uk/200painting and test your North East knowledge.

Jo Fryett, tel 07867 541 467 joanne.fryett@necc.co.uk Twitter @NECCJo

NECC chief executive James Ramsbotham at the Authuille memorial I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H

With Eamonn Leavey Head of NECC President’s Club

FITTING TRIBUTE

T

housands of Tyneside soldiers in a World War I battalion formed by the forerunner of NECC have been remembered with a permanent memorial in France.

The Newcastle Commercials battalion, also known as The Quaysiders, was made up of shopkeepers and city clerks, many of whom died on the Somme battlefields.

A plaque and commemorative bench has now been unveiled in Authuille, the village in the Somme which was home to the Battalion prior to the battle.

NECC chief executive James Ramsbotham, Honorary Colonel for D (Rifles) Company of the 5th Battalion, Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, today’s descendant of the Northumberland Fusiliers, attended the memorial to the

soldiers who were originally brought together by Newcastle & Gateshead Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber of Commerce also raised, equipped, paid for and established a Widows and Orphans Fund for three Battalions of Northumberland Fusiliers which eventually cost the Chamber £50,000 the equivalent of £2,153,000 today.

The dedication in France was organised by Ian Johnson, who has documented the history of the battalion, which included Newcastle Utd players, in his book Newcastle Battalion of World War One. Proceeds from book sales and charitable donations enabled him to buy the plaque, have a bench made, and commission six further benches to be installed along the banks of the Tyne.

??GAME ON A fledgling software company which specialises in retro games is set for its first major release thanks to backing from the Finance for Business North East Angel Fund and advice from law firm Ward Hadaway.

Middlesbrough-based Robo Pixel Games specialises in retro-style pixel art games and graphics, emulating the games produced by developers such as Nintendo and Sega in the 1990s.

The company is set to launch its first stand-alone game, Gunnihilation - a 2D retro platform and shooter game - on major PC gaming platforms in the first quarter of 2016.

The Robo Pixel Games line-up (front) Tom Didymus, James Batten, (back) Jonathan Clarke, Andrew Burnet and Elliott Oldham

in association with

New NECC president Mike Matthews welcomed more than 175 business leaders to his first President’s Club lunch at Redworth Hall last month.

We were pleased to have Nick Hughes, sales director at Hitachi Rail Europe as our keynote speaker and he offered an overview of the scale of the new Newton Aycliffe manufacturing plant that is now well on the way to completion.

Thanks also to Judith Doyle and Gateshead College for sponsoring the lunch and to Cummins Engines in Darlington for hosting a behindthe-scenes visit.

It was also great to meet Abigail Pogson, new MD of Sage Gateshead, and we wish her well in her new role.

We are delighted that President’s Club sponsor Brewin Dolphin is offering members a free, noobligation financial planning review.

Contact john.duns@brewin.co.uk or visit www.brewin.co.uk/newcastle

PRESIDENT’S CLUB PRESENTS...

NECC President’s Club, in association with Brewin Dolphin, has announced a Future President’s Club event for October in Newcastle.

Future President’s Club is the brainchild of Tom Daniels, an investment manager at wealth management firm Brewin Dolphin, and aims to bring together rising stars from a variety of sectors to discuss issues affecting business.

The event on October 22 will include early evening networking at Brewin Dolphin, with speakers from a variety of businesses.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 15

NEWS

NEWS GREEN SCENE

Family-run manufacturing and engineering company The Bignall Group has installed one of the country’s largest solar photo-voltaic energy systems as part of a progressive investment project at its plant.

The system comprises a 150 kilowatt photo-voltaic array made up of more than 620 solar modules and covers 12,000sqft of roof space at the group’s Shildon, Co Durham, factory.

One of only a few of its size in the country, the installation is already proving successful in both green energy production and cost saving.

NEWS CLEANING UP ON THE MONEY Paul Laidler, Chris Raby and Paul Bowers of HCS Drain Services

THCS Drain Services, a division of The Owen Pugh Group, has appointed Paul Laidler as operations manager and Paul Bowers as planning manager, taking the number of employees within the business to 45.

The business has also invested £70k in traffic management software.

Banking, Innovation and the Northern Powerhouse - a special NECC 200th anniversary lecture by JayneAnne Gadhia, CEO of Virgin Money (pictured) - takes place at Northumbria University in September.

Jayne-Anne will speak about opportunities to bring a fresh and distinct approach to UK banking, based on a ‘virtuous circle’ of support through which businesses, customers and communities help one another flourish. She

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will talk about the importance of continuing to break down competitive barriers in banking, and how this could unleash the potential for innovation to benefit consumers throughout the UK. She will also touch on the Northern Powerhouse, and the opportunities it presents for the finance sector, for in association with

business, and the North East as a whole.

The anniversary lecture is on September 29 and places can be booked via nu.events@northumbria.ac.uk

NEWS CHARITY OF THE YEAR

Cheers!

Wine bottler Lanchester Group, based at Annfield Plain, Co Durham, has scored a remarkable double.

Two of the group’s companies have made it into the Real Business Hot 100 list a compilation of the UK’s “most impressive” private companies.

The ranking measures companies by a range of factors including turnover and profit, with Lanchester Wines coming in at number 59 and sister company Greencroft Bottling at number 93.

The Hot 100 notes

Lanchester Wines’ three-year compound growth of more than 37% and turnover of £28.9m.

On Greencroft Bottling, the list points out turnover of £32m, along with compound growth of just over 30%.

Greencroft operates bottling lines six days a week and can fill more than 72,000 bottles per hour. MD Tony Cleary (pictured) says: “These rankings are a great endorsement of our core philosophy at Lanchester, focusing on investment and meeting customer needs.”

The Newcastle office of business advisory firm Deloitte has chosen St Oswald’s Hospice as its charity of the year 2015/16.

Six staff members will take part in the Great North Run in September for St Oswald’s and will be offering pro bono support to the hospice’s finance team.

NEWS APPLIANCE OF SCIENCE

WACKY RACES

A civil engineer from Durham is set to embark on a European adventure to raise money for a children’s hospital.

Joe Brain, who works for construction specialist Owen Pugh, is taking on the Monte Carlo Or Bust Banger Rally Adventure from London to Monte Carlo with three friends in a £300 Skoda Octavia.

The four-day journey will take in London, Saint-Quentin, Dijon, and Turin before ending in Monte Carlo. Joe and his team bought the Skoda, formerly part of Owen Pugh’s car fleet, for a cut-price £300 and his employer is supporting the initiative by donating cash to the cause -The Great North Children’s Hospital in Newcastle to support children with arthritis.

in association with

Swedish life sciences company Clinical Laserthermia Systems (CLS), which carries out pioneering cancer treatment work, has appointed Ward Hadaway as its UK legal adviser.

Melanie Yeomans (pictured), corporate partner at Ward Hadaway, says: “The company is involved in ground-breaking work in a vital part of the life sciences sector and its technology has the potential to tackle a wide range of cancers.”

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NEWS

NEWS CLEAN SWEEP

Pupils at Washington school St Robert of Newminster have won an award for an innovative in-car vacuum cleaner design.

More than 1,000 young people from across Sunderland took part in Work Discovery Week, five days of activities bringing together students from 21 schools and scores of businesses from across the region.

The event culminated in a Dragons’ Den-style challenge. Pupils at St Robert of Newminster’s STEM Club impressed judges with their plan for an in-car vacuum cleaner fitted in the glove box to work via the air conditioning system.

NEWS VIDEO VOCATION Sunderland College is launching a new NextGen Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games, Animation and VFX Skills comparable to three A Levels.

From creating visual effects for the latest TV or movie blockbuster to developing the next video game sensation, students will be given all the tools they need to become the next generation of makers.

Mike Jaques, curriculum leader for visual arts at the college, says: “This new course is designed to ensure young people are industry-ready.”

Top of the class

G

ateshead College has won ‘outstanding’ status in its latest Ofsted inspection, which praises the college’s national performance.

The report praised college principal and CEO Judith Doyle (with students, above), the college’s partnerships with major employers including logistics giant Vantec, Nissan UK, and the NHS, and the development of outstanding employability skills among learners.

The college is exceeding national targets for its performance, with a success rate cited as ‘exceptionally high for all learners’ at 8.2% above the national average.

Learners, who are exceeding national achievement targets, enter careers with

prestigious employers, says the report, which also praises the college for the high proportion of its learners achieving places at Russell Group universities.

Principal and chief executive Judith Doyle says: “Our outstanding results have been made possible because we have shaped the curriculum to meet the needs of the local market.

“Businesses have told us they want a strong mix of soft skills along with industry-relevant qualifications. Employers have provided great work experience opportunities for our learners.”

The Ofsted announcement came as the Skills Funding Agency named Gateshead College as the top-performing college in the North East and third best in the country out of 218 institutions.

RETAIL THERAPY Sunderland has been selected for the UK’s Healthy High Streets programme which aims to increase footfall by 10%, reduce vacant properties by 20%, and stimulate the creation of new jobs over three years.

The programme is backed by leading high street brands including Boots, the Co-operative Group, Marks & Spencer and Greggs the baker.

Sunderland is one of 34 new high streets selected for the programme.

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in association with

Sunderland BID chief exec Ken Dunbar (pictured) says: “This is fantastic news for Sunderland and will bring more partners closer to the planning and co-ordination of projects to revitalise the city centre.”

NEWS REACH FOR THE STARS

Staff gather at the Portobello Trade Park launch

TRADE PARK MUSHROOMS Ravensworth Property Development’s £7m Portobello Trade Park, the speculative industrial development adjacent to the A1(M) in Gateshead, is now complete.

The development, which sits on a 6.5 acre site north of Washington services at Birtley, comprises 15 light industrial units in sizes ranging from 195sqm (2,100sqft) to 2,137sqm (23,000sqft). A third of the

scheme is now under offer and once fully occupied the park is expected to support more than 200 jobs.

The development has been partially funded by the North East LEP, which provided a £982,000 loan from the Growing Places North East Investment Fund. The scheme has also received £2.75m from the European Regional Development Fund.

Durham University astronomers have found evidence for a large population of hidden supermassive black holes in the universe.

Using NASA’s Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) satellite observatory, the scientists detected high-energy x-rays from five supermassive black holes previously clouded from direct view by dust and gas.

Promoting great businesses in the North East

Recognition PR offers a wide range of PR and digital marketing services to privatelyowned businesses in the North East. Our three months fixed price package costs £1,500 and is an ideal way for your business to see how our service can work for you.

in association with

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NEWS

NEWS GROWING DEMAND

Recruitment specialist Sellick Partnership has moved to new premises in the centre of Newcastle to meet growing demand.

MD Jo Sellick says: “Confidence has returned to the jobs market over the past 18 months, with a wealth of opportunities arising in the commercial and public sectors for finance, procurement and project management professionals. Since the start of 2015 we have seen a 35% rise in permanent roles across the region.”

Moving from the Quayside, the team is now based in the Collingwood Buildings in the city centre.

NEWS THE FULL PACKAGE

Rosewood Packaging is continuing to grow, having recently acquired Scott Packaging’s Wolverhampton business for an undisclosed sum.

The family-owned manufacturer of timber and corrugated packaging established in 1953 has developed into an awardwinning designer and manufacturer of packaging solutions for industrial applications.

This is its fifth manufacturing facility to complement four production sites across Tyneside, taking employee numbers up to 140.

THE ART OF NORTH EAST BUSINESS NECC has commissioned a painting to mark its 200th anniversary.

2015 is a landmark year for NECC and as part of its 200th anniversary celebrations the Chamber has commissioned an oil painting to promote

the region. The painting includes 37 North East landmarks and was produced

by North East artist, Jacqueline Larsen, Ravensart, a graduate of Sunderland University. Prints of the anniversary painting are available to buy online.

??ESH BUILDS ON RESULTS Esh Group has announced strong endof-year results, with turnover up 43% and pre-tax profits up by £6.3m in the year to December 2014.

Turnover was £277m and the company reported an improved profit before tax of £9.5m against £3.2m in 2013. The balance sheet stood at £37m with a strong cash position at year-end of £32m.

The results are the culmination of a big year for Esh Group, which employs more than 1,200 people across its operations.

The acquisition of Border Construction, now rebranded Esh Border Construction, which gives Esh Group access to markets in both Cumbria and Scotland, contributed £20m of the increase in turnover.

Investment in the Yorkshire and Humberside market continued with further office space taken by Esh Construction at

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Thorpe Park and the North East remains a strong market for Esh Group’s construction activities.

Group chief executive Brian Manning (pictured) says: “These results show a strong, secure and well-diversified business which is fair to shareholders and contributes to local economies.

While development has been limited during the last five years, favourable conditions are returning and Esh Group is prepared to give the green-light to schemes in a controlled manner using our strong cash position to leverage funding.”

in association with

News and views from NECC account managers

Joanne Stonebanks from AIS Technical receiving Overall Exporter of the Year from Mark Emmerson, HSBC

Top traders

N

orth Shieldsbased AIS Technical, which manufactures a range of lifesaving fire protection jackets for safety-critical pipework, took the SME Exporter Award before going to be named Overall Exporter of the Year at the North East Exporters’ Awards 2015.

Staged by NECC, in association with The Journal and The Gazette, the awards celebrate businesses that have helped boost the local and UK economy over the past 12 months through their commitment to overseas trade.

AIS, which caters for the oil, gas and petrochemical industries was recognised for the resources it had invested into its export markets. As much of 70% of the firm’s products, around 50,000 units,

are exported to more than 20 countries worldwide.

Washington-based Oil Consultants won the Medium & Large Exporter of the Year Award, as Blue Kangaroo Design collected the New Exporter Award.

Middlesbrough-based Ecco Finishing Supplies Ltd was named Export Team of the Year, and the Supporting Export Award went to Camair Freight Solutions.

This year’s awards also included a Special Recognition Award, which went to the Swan family from Thomas Swan & Co, of Consett, Co Durham.

Reporting a turnover of £25m and employing 150 people, the company exports to more than 80 countries and has sites in the UK, China and the US. Full results at www.northeast exportersawards.co.uk

IT’S GOOD TO TALK Companies at three business centres in South Tyneside are now better connected thanks to South Tyneside Council.

The Quadrus Centre in Boldon, South Shields Business Works, and Jarrow Business Centre have all benefited from a telephone system upgrade which increases connectivity 10-fold. The work was carried out by Aspire Technology.

Aspire’s Justin Godfrey with Gren Irving, business, employment & skills manager South Tyneside Council

in association with

Teesside It’s been a busy time with a networking event at BMW Cooper Stockton, the Teesside Business Show and the Tees Valley Business Summit. Welcome to new members Carter Content, Tees Business Magazine, Andrews Sykes Ltd, Trade Interchange, Arena Group, Completely Corporate and Ithica Films. Tom Warnock tel 07714 845 617 tom.warnock@necc.co.uk Twitter @NECCTom Newcastle/ Gateshead I look forward to meeting you at the new NECC Local Team Valley Monthly event, the first Wednesday of every month , open to members and nonmembers. Lynsey Fairless tel 07834 444 627 lynsey.fairless@necc.co.uk Twitter @NECCLynsey

Medium Business A great event at Cummins Darlington celebrated 50 years production, including a factory tour. Welcome to new members Hewitts Solicitors, Invicta Public Affairs and Northumbrian Roads.

Ann Boyd tel 07739 162 408 ann.boyd@necc.co.uk Andrew Heavisides, tel 07912 478 961, andrew. heavisides@necc.co.uk Twitter @NECCAndrewh Northumberland An excellent first six months and we’ve welcomed some exciting companies.

Your support is appreciated.

Les Dixon tel 07850 740 645 les.dixon@necc.co.uk Twitter @NECCLes

NECC Global We continue to see NECC Global membership go from strength to strength, now with over 180 members, now including Tekmar, Green Tyre and Trident Manor.

Matthew Ord tel 07717 300 351 matthew.ord@necc.co.uk Twitter @NECCMatthew Essentials portfolio manager I have enjoyed meeting, supporting and connecting lots more members. If you know anyone one that could benefit tell them to get in touch. Julie Digman, tel 07912 478 964 julie.digman@necc.co.uk Twitter @NECCjuliedig Darlington and West Durham A warm welcome to two new members, LJ Retail Group Ltd T/A Fancy Dress Party and Cleveland Systems Engineering. I look forward to working with you to get the most from your membership.

Susan Anderson tel 07736 799 727 susan.anderson@necc.co.uk Sunderland/ South Tyneside/ Durham Firstly, a warm welcome to our newest members Redu Group and Ultimate Finance Group. It’s encouraging to see the BIC expanding into Washington by opening The Hub. Finally, this quarter in our Area Meeting, we were updated about the regeneration of Sunderland by Siglion and Sunderland City Council.

Arthur Hodgson tel 07980 259 991 arthur.hodgson@necc.co.uk Twitter @NECCArthur

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MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

NEWS 20 YEARS OF NEWCASTLE TO AMSTERDAM FERRY ROUTE

Award-winning ferry operator DFDS Seaways and Port of Tyne have celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry route.

Since the service began in 1995, the route has carried an estimated 10m passengers.

DFDS passenger director Max Foster says: “We are proud of the ferry service between Newcastle and Amsterdam.

We have seen its popularity increase dramatically and last year we hosted around 570,000 passengers.

“We have a great working relationship with the Port of Tyne which enables us to offer a smooth and easy transition through the port to our ships.”

Andrew Moffat, Port of Tyne chief executive officer, says: “The Newcastle to Amsterdam route is an important gateway and a significant driver for the region’s tourist economy.

“We are proud to have a long-term relationship with DFDS. While there have been passenger routes for almost 100 years, Port of Tyne developed the International Passenger Terminal in the 1990s and has continued to invest in it and passenger services. As a result, around £55m per year is added to the regional economy supporting many jobs in the tourism sector.”

On the production line

A

new exhibition marking 30 years of the Sunderland Nissan plant is now on show in Durham.

The show is a collaboration between NECC 200 Anniversary Club member, writer and creative entrepreneur Rachel Cochrane and North East photographer James Sebright. Over six months they charted life at the Sunderland plant, filming and writing

a creative narrative. They also recorded people in the wider community, including Irene Wilkinson, who taught English to the children of Japanese workers (above with Rachel Cochrane), and Ged Parker, who was part of the negotiating team which attracted Nissan to Washington.

The four-month exhibition at the Oriental Museum in Durham is funded by the museum and Arts Council England and is supported by NECC.

??CLEANING UP NECC volunteers have been doing their bit for the community as part of the organisation’s 200th anniversary celebrations.

So far this year, NECC colleagues have taken their trowels in a search for priceless artefacts through Altogether Archaeology, a project set up

by North Pennine Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), used their talents to renovate a scout hut on the North Yorkshire Moors near Stokesley, and to clean up 20 bags of rubbish from Seaham beach.

James Ramsbotham, chief executive of NECC, says: “This is a year of celebration for NECC and

22 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT / AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

in association with

our members. We hope our colleague volunteering days will become part of a longer term community programme and a sustainable legacy.”

Expertise at your side

NECC200 BUSINESS WEEK

N

ECC invited the region’s business people to a week of events celebrating the organisation’s 200th anniversary.

Kicking off a week of enterprise, NECC held a Global Lunch sponsored by Emirates at Durham ICG. Laurie Berryman, Emirates vice president UK, told the gathering: “I urge businesses to support their regional airports to keep valuable routes in the North East. Don’t be frightened of exporting. Meet new contacts in their countries and learn their traditions.”

At NECC’s AGM at Ramside Hall, Nifco MD Mike Matthews MBE took over as NECC president from Newcastle International Airport chief executive David

Laws. The launch of NECC’s Little Book of 200 Business Tips, sponsored by Activ Home Technology and Microsoft, was also welcomed by business leaders.

At NECC’s Member Showcase supported by Northumbria University, Tyne & Wear Metro, and Rivers Capital, 327 delegates gained a Guinness World Record for the largest human currency sign (pictured), while members of NECC Member Anniversary Club (inset above) also gathered.

The Inspiring Females Conference ended the week with speakers including Beth Farhat, regional secretary for the Northern TUC, and the Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Awards were launched.

BAZAAR STRENGTHENS TEAM

The Bazaar Group senior management team

Cramlington-based soft furnishings specialist The Bazaar Group has appointed three new senior managers as part of an ambitious five-year growth plan.

Celebrating 10 years in business, The Bazaar Group has made fundamental changes in restructuring the roles of its senior management team, as well as investing in association with

in additional skills by employing new senior staff.

A new position of head of human resources has been created alongside the new roles of head of buying and sourcing, head of design and development, head of operations and a new position of head of sales and marketing.

MD Mark Dolder says: “Combining our tight-knit company culture with a strategic development plan will help to position us as an employer of choice across the UK.”

THROUGHOUT THE NORTH EAST Hexham, Ponteland, Sunderland, Yarm, Crook, Portobello www.rowlands accountants.co.uk

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 23

ADVERTISEMENT

Academy Helps To Fill Skills Gap It was high fives all round as The Technical Academy, training the region’s next generation of engineers, manufacturers and construction trade workers, celebrated five years in business in June.

Since its opening The Technical Academy, part of East Durham College, based in Peterlee has benefited from continued investment and offers training, primarily for 16 to 18 year-olds, in a number of areas including welding, plumbing, engineering, manufacturing, automotive maintenance, gas and heating, electrical installation.

Developed to specifically

meet the needs of local employers, the academy gives young people the hands-on experience needed and the classroom learning to get them to the level required to fully qualify.

An important part of the academy’s success has been the excellent links and partnerships it’s created with industry, including Baxi, CTD Tiles, Esh, Eagle Welding, Grundfos, Megger, Miller, Terraclean and Wates.

Technical Academy centre manager Rob Hutchinson said: “The past five years have been fantastic. We’ve recently redeveloped the building to improve the facilities on offer

and we’ve also expanded the curriculum.”

“There’s a real commitment to attract high-calibre students, young people who want to learn and push themselves so at the end of their time with us they are ready to work in industry, contributing from day one.”

Speaking at the relaunch last December, Geoff Ford, chairman of South Tyneside manufacturing company Ford Aerospace, said: “It’s vital that

we invest in young people now to help address the skills gap which is evident across the North East.

“There are a number of challenges we must overcome if we’re to firmly establish our region as a global leader; and ensuring we have talented people coming through to replace experience is certainly one of them. I congratulate The Technical Academy for recognising and helping in this challenge.”

East Durham Colleges Technical Academy 5th birthday celebration Centre Manager Rob Hutchinson with engineering and welding student Scott Gowens

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01/07/2015 10:30

NECC POLICY

What about the powerhouse?

NECC head of policy and campaigns Jonathan Walker assesses the budget

I

t might seem like some time ago now, but both the political and business communities are still digesting the impact of George Osborne’s recent Budget.

Budget day is always a busy one for the Policy team at NECC. Prior to the budget, we wrote to the Chancellor setting out a number of changes we wanted to see to improve the business environment in the region and on the day itself the team analysed the speech and associated announcements to see how successful our campaigning work had been.

The day is also filled with media activity. All the major broadcasters and newspapers in the region (and a few beyond it) want to hear our assessment of the Budget and what it means for North East businesses.

On the face of it, there were a couple of positive announcements made on July 8. A cut in corporation tax sends out the right message to investors looking to set up in the UK, while the extension of the Annual Investment Allowance gives a boost to companies looking to invest for the future. This was also a key ask in our letter to the Chancellor.

A commitment to boost the number of apprenticeships is also welcome, but we will wait to see how the proposed levy will work in practice.

The living wage announcement understandably grabbed headlines in the national press, and this is a difficult issue to grapple with.

We would always encourage our members to fairly reward their staff when they are able to do so. However, any changes to minimum wage levels should be set according to changes in the economy, such as inflation, rather than according to political whims.

Despite these significant policy changes, most questions we faced on Budget day related to something that wasn’t mentioned in the speech, namely the North East.

Businesses are rightly concerned that the North East may be overlooked as the Chancellor’s ‘Northern Powerhouse’ concept moves forward.

These fears were only exacerbated when he reeled off a list of northern cityregions that had moved forward with devolution settlements - a list that didn’t include the North East.

More recently, we’ve seen some positive news on this front, with leaders in the

North East engaged in discussions with Government aimed at securing more powers for the region. We have also seen more open acceptance of the possibility of elected mayors in the region.

It is vital that we make progress on devolution settlements. A lengthy discussion about governance arrangements may only serve

to distract us from uniting behind a common vision for the region. Having said this, we must be prepared to consider the conditions that will make a deal possible.

The North East business community is united in its desire to see the region prosper. All options must be on the table to make a meaningful deal a reality.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 25

NECC POLICY

Innovate to accumulate

Ross Smith, NECC director of policy, puts the case for innovation in the North East

I

nnovation has been at the heart of the North East economy for centuries, with Swan’s light bulb, Walker’s friction match and Stephenson’s Rocket born in the region.

Looking through NECC’s 200-year history, some amazing pioneers have been among our membership down the years, including early railway investors Edward and Joseph Pease, eminent investor William Armstrong, and steel industry magnate Henry Bolckow.

Now, many current NECC members are following in the footsteps of their predecessors. As our region establishes

itself as a centre of innovation, we have four Catapult centres here, a wellregarded strategy developed by the North East LEP and led by its new innovation director Hans Moller, while a recent report by the Enterprise Research Centre named the Tees Valley as the best performing area in the north.

The challenge is to make the most of this by ensuring North East businesses are engaged in innovation and benefiting from these assets.

Working with five NECC Partner members headed by Teesside University, NECC has published a major report, Connecting for Innovation.

26 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT / AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

It identifies four challenges to be overcome if the North East is to achieve its potential as an innovation hub.

They are: • Developing more effective networks, so businesses can innovate together, work with their supply chains and access support from universities and colleges • Re-shaping support structures to better suit business needs and make it easier for firms to identify who to work with • Improving access to finance by streamlining public schemes and giving companies better access to

Bran Sands, Northumbrian Water

Professor Cliff Hardcastle, deputy vice-chancellor (research & business engagement), Teesside University: “The North East is forging the way, but where competition is global, we must not become complacent. Teesside University is playing its own part in backing innovation in the region through its provision of research and innovation services to hundreds of companies.”

Nigel Williams, partner, Bond Dickinson: “With process industries representing one of the most successful clusters in the North East economy, this is clearly an area with great opportunities for the region. Businesses that are successfully renewing their processes challenge managers to continually come up with fresh ideas. Innovation should be a concern for all businesses.”

Judith Doyle, chief executive, Gateshead College: “It was important for Gateshead College to support this research, recognising the key role we play working alongside employers to ensure the skills to implement innovation are in place at the right time. The businesses we have worked with as part of this project give us great confidence that our region will meet that challenge.”

different sources of private finance demographics, and large firms like Considering definitions of innovation Northumbrian Water’s anaerobic more carefully to avoid putting digestion plants. businesses off or a We have also compiled mismatch of policy sources of support for Alongside our report, innovation across sectors BUSINESSES we have published a and NECC will be supporting CAN INNOVATE the Venturefest North East series of case studies to TOGETHER showcase innovation among conference in October to members. They range from pursue these issues further. the cutting-edge science of a The NECC partners which sleep mask developed by worked with us were Teesside Polyphotonix, to the unique service University, Bond Dickinson, Gateshead approach of Utilitywise’s Energy Alliance.

College, Virgin Money, and BT. They cover start-ups such as Age For more information go to www.

Inclusive’s approach to workplace necc.co.uk/connectingforinnovation •

Brian Giles, head of communications, Virgin Money: “Even the smallest steps taken to improve a service can represent ‘innovation’. The definition used in the North East LEP innovation strategy is “matching what’s needed with what’s possible to create economic value, or social good, or both”. Thinking in these terms can extend understanding of what is truly innovative.”

Simon Roberson, regional partnership director, BT: “Innovation is about both developing new technology, and also applying it in new ways. We hope this report inspires firms to really push their boundaries.”

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 27

SUCCESS

I, spy It works with Government and the world’s richest companies, and trains elite forces.

Bryn Littleton ventures behind the scenes at counter espionage operation Verrimus

F

rom the outside, Verrimus matches a stereotype you might find in the pages of a Wilbur Smith novel.

It employs ex forces personnel. Its operatives are skilled in locating and preventing corporate espionage. It occupies plush offices in a beautiful historic building. And its HQ is stocked with futuristic equipment.

But once inside its Newcastle Quayside HQ, Verrimus MD Sarah Hopkins is clear that the facts of technical surveillance are far removed from the fiction.

“The idea of a listening device secreted under the boardroom table by a super spy is all very James Bond, but in reality that’s not how it happens,” she says.

“Stealing a company’s information can be achieved in many ways, but rarely is it like the movies, which is a shame because it would make detection a whole lot easier.

“Our teams operate a multi-layered approach to locate and eliminate corporate espionage. And we carry out only defensive work; never offensive operations.”

The nature of this work is complex and for the most part secret, and Verrimus operatives work across many areas, including Government, law enforcement,

the military and commercial sectors.

Using cutting-edge technology, the firm’s teams detect, locate and prevent the theft of critical information. All of them ex armed forces and former police officers, they carry out “bug sweeping” (technical surveillance counter measures) mainly for large corporate clients.

They also provide information security and privacy protection services, with an emphasis on prevention as well as cure.

There are, says Hopkins, practical reasons for employing former soldiers and police. “We work long hours in many locations across the world for a range of clients,” she says. “Our guys carry hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of kit which may contain information that is worth fortunes to our clients. It can’t be left sitting around unattended in hotel rooms.

“We are international experts in our field and have invested a huge amount of money in equipment and in recruiting and training our operatives. We’ve used non-forces personnel in the past and it hasn’t worked out; the fact is they haven’t understood the work or the ethics involved.”

One of the driving forces behind the business is former British Army battlefield

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medic Gavin Saul. A veteran of campaigns across the world, he left the army after 14 years only to be confronted with a labour market not quite ready to utilise his unique skills set.

“I began doing some work around corporate espionage, working with companies that had problems with information, asset or data theft and helping them locate the source of their problem and ultimately eliminate it,” he says. “This developed into a business.”

Verrimus operatives have worked in every continent bar Australia over the past four years, most recently returning from South Korea.

Holding up a small, inconspicuouslooking black plastic box, Saul says: “This is a passive network tap; one of things we’re looking for. This device can capture

Sarah Hopkins

devices. There have been cases of families every bit of data that flows through a being threatened. It’s all relatively simple.” cable. It’s a relatively simple bit of kit and Saul and his team also train clients, is easy to install, but it can be incredibly forces personnel and police forces in difficult to locate. counter-espionage and detection at “Corporate espionage can be the Verrimus training centre. carried out in many ways, but “We have rooms rigged by far the most common and “IT’S RARELY LIKE with devices; we teach simple is by people. We THE MOVIES, WHICH people not only about the have worked in businesses IS A SHAME BECAUSE equipment and how to use where they have retina and IT WOULD MAKE it, but how to work fingerprint scanners, coded DETECTION A WHOLE covertly,” he says. entry systems, the best LOT EASIER“ Newcastle College, the security money can buy, but first in the UK to be awarded when we ask them if they’ve funds to support the vetted their cleaning firm, the guy Government’s National Cyber Security who comes in to tend the hired plants, Strategy, also now works with Verrimus to or the window cleaners the answer boost cyber-security skills and help has been no. future-proof the UK IT sector.

“Criminals will bribe, threaten or Saul oversaw counter-espionage blackmail employees into installing

measures throughout the construction of the Olympic Stadium in London and during the games themselves. “We did the Olympics for years and with relentless train journeys to London, carrying out survey after survey, sweep after sweep, turning up at different times of the day, it was huge undertaking.

“We conducted various planning and security sweeps for two years leading up to the games to ensure that security plans couldn’t get into the wrong hands through any kind of technical surveillance prior to the games.

“We regularly swept the secure planning areas, royal family areas and the whole of the VIP areas.”

So the obvious question is, did they find anything? “I can’t possibly tell you that,” he smiles - the soul of discretion.

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PROFILE

Cleaning up Owen McAteer meets the cleaning industry boss who isn’t too shy to wield his own mop and bucket

H

aving accidentally joined the world of commercial cleaning, Grahame Chapman literally had to roll up his sleeves and get on with it.

When his then facilities management firm was asked to clean an airline’s Heathrow Airport offices 18 years ago, he had no cleaners on the payroll, so he did the job himself.

Since that day, he’s built Cleaning and Support Services Ltd (CASS), which began in his garage, into a £1m-turnover business based near Middlesbrough, employing 100 staff from five offices across England.

The firm’s contracts include commercial office cleaning for clients including major supermarkets, shopping centres and car dealerships to cleaning the windows at County Hall in London.

He learned some valuable lessons from that early job at Heathrow Airport, not least because he had no experience of the cleaning industry and had never intended to enter it.

A chartered surveyor, he had offered the services of his facilities management firm to a London BMW dealership chain.

“The manager said what they actually needed was cleaners. I said that as part of the facilities management we would find a company to do it,” he says, “but he said he’d like us to do it. I had never done cleaning in my life but I came up with a price and he said yes.”

Chapman had recently left

his role as the director of Being away from his estates at the University of three children in the Hertfordshire to set up the North East, however, sent business and was recruiting Chapman north, and CASS staff to clean the dealership opened its first North East when a call came from British office in Stockton in 2008.

Midland Airways.

It’s now headquartered “They’d heard from the in a picturesque former dealership that we were good schoolhouse in the village of and asked for a quote. We Stainton, near Middlesbrough, started the next week. I had no close to Chapman’s home cleaners to do it, so that left in Yarm. me, with my master’s degree “Through the recession in construction management we grew by concentrating on and economics, cleaning that bread and butter work,” he office in the evenings. says. “All the lessons we learnt “It stood me in good stead cleaning high quality areas like for the future. I know how to Heathrow stood us in good clean an office and do stead for the work we do now.” it properly.”

A contract with the online By 2000, the company was retailer Ocado prompted the second-largest supplier of the opening of offices in VIP lounge management and Manchester and Leeds, cleaning services at Heathrow, and there are also offices in but by 2007 the security London and Watford. arrangements at airports had The business is now become so onerous that completely selfthe company decided sufficient with no “WE HAVE A to move away from loans to service.

GREAT TEAM that side of the “We could never BUT IF I HAVE business, although have predicted its relationship our growth, TO CLEAN A with other clients which was major TOILET, I WILL” continues to and taught us this day, as does some lessons for Chapman’s willingness the future,” to get stuck in. says Chapman.

The former apprentice on “The cleaning industry is a Stockton building site says: a low-margin business, so “We have a great team, so if a you fight for every penny and place needs cleaning it makes have to be efficient. Being a no difference which of us is chartered surveyor, I have tried there doing it. If I have to clean to bring the professional side a toilet, I will. of what I do into the cleaning “We still have that first business. My mum used to contract as a customer today. clean Middlesbrough Fire It’s now the UK’s largest Station and I know people Mazda dealership.” tend to look down on cleaners,

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❝ We are a family

business and have tried to keep the family aspect for the people who work for us

yet without them some companies, like food service business, can’t do what they do.

“We paid people 20 days holiday and eight bank holidays way back before you had to. When we first started there was no minimum wage, but we always tried to pay people above the going rate.

Wherever we can, we pay over and above the minimum wage, plus company sick pay.

“We are a family business and have tried to keep the family aspect for the people who work for us.”

All staff are interviewed, referenced and where appropriate DBS checked and the company has developed internal training systems to ensure staff meet the required standards. In an industry where there is normally a high churn of staff, CASS staff turnover is less than 30% and it employs 100 staff nationally.

An investment in IT now allows CASS to work remotely, reduce its overhead costs and pass them on to its customers.

“All our guys have iPads to keep in contact with their contracts, all of the information they need is through IT,” he says.

Chapman has a five-yearplan which will see staff numbers rise to 250-300.

“We are in a position where we have grown around our five bases across the country and have the ability to expand because of the infrastructure we have built.

“We are looking at companies with a national presence which we can service across England as well as looking at Wales and Scotland.

We have the ability to expand because of the infrastructure we have built,” he says with a smile. The future, it seems, looks bright.

❝

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FEATURE

The office

With record numbers of people working from home, a community of ‘instant colleagues’ for home-based businesses across the North East is thriving.

Lindsay Parker tries out Colleagues on Tap

“

Has anyone been to see Wicked at Sunderland Empire yet?”

The question breaks through the quiet tapping of the keyboards and several colleagues look up and start chatting animatedly about the West End show’s North East run. We’re at Derwentside Business Centre in Consett, Co Durham, and our ‘coworkers’ are here for the day as part of the Colleagues on Tap community.

“I can’t wait to see it,” says Jo Cameron, the new owner of Colleagues on Tap - a network which helps home-based

businesses come together on a regular basis in an office environment for the day.

Cameron, from Sacriston, Co Durham, joined the network after feeling daunted by the prospect of running her business from home alone.

“I couldn’t bear the thought of going from a busy office environment to working alone at home from the dining room table,” she recalls. “I’m a people person and I needed that physical connection with others.”

Colleagues on Tap was founded by Jayne Graham in the North East in 2010.

Since then it has grown from

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there are 102,785 sole traders a single venue monthly meet- that equates to 74.8% of up to a community of 300+ businesses in the region,” businesses coming together she says. at nine venues across Co “These people work on their Durham, Northumberland, own and can benefit from the Teesside, and Tyne and Wear. community that is built Jo Cameron bought by structured cothe business from working days.”

Graham in March “I AM A PEOPLE I didn’t realise this year, having PERSON AND until I joined seen at close I NEEDED Colleagues quarters the THAT PHYSICAL on Tap how positive impact CONNECTION WITH powerful that it had on her OTHERS“ community own company, can be in Remote HR developing business Solutions. She now opportunities, providing has plans to grow the brand peer support, and combating across the world. the isolation of working on “In the North East alone,

“I signed up the day I found myself talking to the dog more than usual” your own. I signed up the day I found myself talking to the dog more than usual. Like many who run their own businesses, I love the flexibility it offers, the low overheads and the variation. But it’s the office banter you miss. Someone to ask random questions.”

Questions today have included, “do you know how to take me off admin on Facebook?” and “has anyone else used Xerox for their accounts?” These are things you can’t ask the dog, and which you take for granted when you’re in an office.

Every time colleagues meet they have a Spot Chat after

lunch. It’s a different subject every time - from marketing to motivation tips. Today, its about finance and accounts.

Fran Williams runs Prospective Consett, an online marketing company, and has two colleagues in her office. They all attend coworking days.

“I like the companionship and the chance to have a laugh,” she says. “The unexpected thing I’ve gained from it has been business friends, suppliers and also clients.”

Being time-pressed, the beauty of co-working days, for me, lies in being able to do

just that - work. I meet with clients, work from their offices sometimes, and chat with suppliers, but it’s not the same as bantering with colleagues.

As Cameron says, you make friends, pass on referrals, have a laugh. It’s the chat around the water cooler without the office politics; a non-pressured way to network.

Increasing numbers of people are opting to work from home. According to the Office for National Statistics, numbers last year accounted for almost 14% of the UK’s workforce - the highest levels since records began in 1998.

Cameron, who has lived and worked in Australia, now plans to increase membership in the North East before rolling out Colleagues on Tap nationally.

The business already has an established Associates scheme, of which she was one prior to buying the company.

Entrepreneurs with Associate status can set up and host coworking days in their area.

“Colleagues on Tap has a proven growth model, similar to franchising,” says Cameron.

“When you look at the fact that there are almost 4m sole traders operating nationally you get an idea of the potential of this business. Once you look abroad it becomes a mind-blowing opportunity.

“There’s a huge community of self-employed people, just like us, across the world who would get so much from joining the Colleagues on Tap community.”

Like us, they are probably keen for some office banter. It might stop them conversing with the dog and they may even have seen Wicked. *Lindsay Parker is a freelance PR consultant and the owner of Stride PR in Durham

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PROFILE

Access all areas

Jessica Laing visits The Literary & Philosophical Society, Newcastle, for a look behind the scenes at one of the country’s largest independent libraries and a historic gem

IMAGE CREDIT: © Sally Ann Norman

I

’ll admit, it’s probably been about 13 years my early school days since I set foot in a library. And no, my university’s library doesn’t count. I’m talking about the real kind; the kind filled with shelves upon shelves of dusty books, where people converse in hushed whispers and climb ladders to fetch their most-loved novels.

Not big open-plan rooms inhabited by rowdy students on laptops.

Like any other twentysomething living in today’s digital age, I’d say 97% of my reading is done online - whether peering over a keyboard or scrolling on my iPhone.

So why am I here at one of the North East’s largest and most esteemed libraries, you ask? I am on a quest to discover what makes this place so special, and how, as a business, it continues to survive and flourish in a world of apps and Kindles. I’ll also be asking its experts the question many people - especially today’s younger generation - may be asking themselves:

how relevant are libraries today anyway?

After making my way into the library - known to most as the Lit & Phil - and stopping to marvel at its glass ceiling which today drenches the library floor with soft sunlight, I meet with marketing manager, Caroline Lievesley, and librarian, Kay Easson, to learn more about the history behind the literary landmark.

I learn that in the beginning, the emphasis was not on books. Established in 1825 by Unitarian minister William Turner and a group of associates, the Lit & Phil actually began life as a meeting place for discussion and debate about science and new technology, particularly regarding coal, lead and mining.

“The society had been meeting since 1793 at various locations in Newcastle spacious rooms in which they were free to discuss a range of cultural topics and keep a bookshelf,” explains Caroline Livesley. “They decided to have the Lit & Phil built to allow them enough space to congregate and, as the years

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went by, accumulate more books. It was then that the library was born.”

Today, the Lit & Phil - the UK’s largest independent library outside London - is home to more than 160,000 books ranging from classic novels and children’s fiction to foreign literature, historical collections and more - walls upon walls, steeped in history, for all to see.

“There might be an impression out there that we only buy ancient academic books, but we’re broader than people think,” insists Kay Easson. “It’s not a static collection - we add more than 1,000 books a year, including crime fiction and novels for young adults - so it’s growing all the time.”

The Lit & Phil is very well connected, supported by businesses including Brewin Dolphin, which is backing its ongoing appeal, and NECC, which staged an important exhibition here recently to mark its 200th anniversary.

The Northumberland-born comedian and actor Alexander Armstrong is its high-profile president.

Alexander Armstrong

Caroline Lievesley

As I explore the main floor I come across the children’s section. Created in 1914, this charming little nook houses books for all ages, including educational aids such as encyclopedias, books about countries and maps, and classic fiction like The Railway Children, and Peter and Wendy.

“It’s a small but perfectly formed collection,” Kay Easson enthuses. “Some of the children’s books you’ll find on the shelves have been here since 1914. We still buy for children, too, and try to host as many child-friendly events to encourage more of them to visit the library with their families, or on school visits.

We think it’s important that they see places like this.”

I don’t see any children in the library today, but looking down from the gallery, I do spy a surprising number of young people - students, I assume - among the silver-haired regulars, either with their noses in books or wandering around the huge music section, known to members as the Gramophone Library.

“You’d be surprised at how many people - young and old - visit the library solely for music,” explains Caroline Livesley. “Created in 1913, our music library is one of the largest in the North East and houses an extensive range of classical, jazz and folk music.

Members can find everything here, from audio books and CDs, to sheet music, scores and DVDs.” And yet, the ambiance remains peaceful and unstirred, despite the fact there is a group of people surrounding and inspecting one of the library’s most prized artefacts - a light belonging to Joseph Swan.

“Our lecture room was the first public room to be lit by electric light,” Caroline tells me. “Joseph Swan was one of many vice presidents and

presidents here and during one of his lectures he blew out all the gas lamps and lit up the room with this electric light.

It’s a great piece to have on display as it always creates conversation.”

As my tour continues, I’m given a sneak peek into the library’s book store (essentially a big - and supposedly haunted - storage unit) where, down in the depths, lay a further 40,000-50,000 books.

When the Lit & Phil says it doesn’t throw anything out, I can assure you, they mean it.

“The books you’ll find here are the ones that are usually too old, or too precious, to be on the shelves,” says Kay Easson. “It’s cold and eerie, but it’s a bookworm’s paradise.”

I come across some of the most exquisite books - most of which are incredibly rare from a first edition of Beatrix Potter’s Benjamin Bunny, to books smaller than my palm, written in Latin, Greek and Hebrew. The covers of these books are faded, the pages are crinkled, and they are irreplaceable treasures.

Passing the library’s two underground lecture rooms, which can hold up to 700 people, conversation soon turns to the Lit & Phil’s colourful calendar of events which the library’s staff and board of trustees hope will bring more people through its doors.

There are open days, lectures on literature, history, philosophy and more, even ghost hunts. “I think it’s important for us to remember that, while we are a charity, we still have to do all that we can not only to survive, but grow,” says Kay Easson. “In a world of technology, our hope is to co-exist comfortably. We believe that libraries filled with dusty books and history still have a place in today’s society - but especially the Lit & Phil.

Why? Because we are so much more than that.”

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PROFILE

Mind the gap New NECC president Mike Matthews talks continuous improvement and gap analysis with Dean Bailey

T

he role of NECC president is a big commitment.

Speeches don’t write themselves, there are numerous of awards ceremonies and dinners to attend, and your opinions on everything from the region’s infrastructure to the performance of the Prime Minister are recorded over the two years of your tenure.

Which begs the question why would you do it?.

“Public speaking is one of my biggest weaknesses and this will give me plenty of opportunities to get the hang of it,” says Mike Matthews, MD of Nifco UK, newly installed NECC president, and a man with seemingly endless enthusiasm.

For someone who describes public speaking as a weakness, the man leaning back in his chair, arms folded, is a relaxed interviewee. “Doing this, speaking off the cuff, is easy,” he explains. “Put a script in my hand and it’s a totally different story.”

Growing up on a council

estate in Darlington and says. “I understand how all leaving school at 16 to the parts of the business take up an apprenticeship are connected.” His career as a toolmaker may progression has been rooted not necessarily prepare in his work ethic and hunger someone to lead a major for self-improvement, he says. manufacturing business “The desire to improve was or a leading business instilled from a young age. I membership organisation, but grew up with very little and Matthews learned early on as a teenager I realised I was that progression could be his going to have to work hard to reward for good gap planning, achieve everything I wanted goal setting and hard work. to. I never saw education Taking on the role of as my path; I saw NECC president is working hard as “THE DESIRE the latest example my route.”

TO IMPROVE WAS of his hunger His family for personal tree is filled with INSTILLED FROM development. hard-working A YOUNG AGE” He’s been pitmen and with Nifco all his shipbuilders, but adult life, completing it is his mother who his apprenticeship before is credited with instilling switching to a sales role in his that all-important drive. “My mid-20s and climbing through father always held down the sales side of the business two jobs so I spent most of before becoming MD in 2008. my time with my mother.

His 28 years here have given She preached hard work,” him a deep understanding of he says. Matthews’ younger the business. brother retired at 45 having “The biggest advantage run his own online insurance my career progression business. His younger sister gives me is the ability to is settled in Brisbane with engage with everybody,” he her oncologist husband. His

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Nifco is aiming for £100m sales by 2018 mother trained as a chartered accountant in her 50s, then went on to retrain as a dog trainer.

“She’s only 5ft 1½ins tall, my mum, but she’s got a lot of energy,” he says. “I’ve got a lot to thank her for. She’s one of those quietly proud parents, but we all know she is happy for all of us.”

Matthews’ career started early, possibly a little too early.

“From the age of 12 I had a paper round. For 10 months my boss chased me for proof of age because you weren’t supposed to have a job until you were 13 and I’d told him I was old enough.

“I’d been repairing bikes too, and that soon moved on to cars,” he says, adding that his car history includes Minis, Ford Cortinas, “and all those £500 cars which get a 17-year-old on the road.

I stepped up in 1983 when I bought a 1.6ltr Sport Ford Escort - a yellow one with a black vinyl roof. That really was the business.”

Although an apprenticeship was always his chosen route, he almost lost his place with South West Durham Training early on. “About three or four weeks into it, the manager took me into his office and asked me the question I’ll never forget. ‘Do you think you’ve chosen the right career, Michael?’ he said. I thought, ‘bloody hell, I’d better dig in here’. I did just that, and at the end of the year I won

an award for being the most improved apprentice there.”

He then made what he describes as one of the best decisions of his career at the age of 24. “I didn’t ever expect to move ‘upstairs’,” he says, “but I decided I wanted to be sales manager by the age of 30 and sales director by the age of 40.

“I then went on to set myself targets based on my goals. When I joined the business in 1988 sales were at £300,000. Within six months in sales we were up to £600,000.

In two years we were up to £3m. Then the company was acquired by Nifco. I realised that overseas parents generally didn’t have local operations headed by local people. I knew that I needed to kick on and get noticed.”

He did just that, and outperformed his own target by becoming MD at 38. “We’re now aiming for £100m sales by 2018,” he says of the growth of the company which has come as others have fallen by the wayside.

“We’ve seen a lot of others go out of business. Just 15 years ago there were 4,000 companies doing what we do; now there are only about 700.

In the North East, we are in the top 100 largest businesses and we are also one of the fastest-growing, with growth estimated between 12%-15% in 2015, 18% in 2016 and 22% in 2017.”

The growth estimates are

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 37

PROFILE “a million miles away” from projections when Matthews took the MD’s post in 2008, seven months before the credit crunch hit. “The company had experienced terrible downturn in 2003-5 and I played a major role as deputy MD in turning that around. That served as a grand dress rehearsal for the credit crunch,” he says.

The recession hit Nifco hard - 75% of its order schedules disappeared overnight in week 40 of 2008.

“It was painful; but we sailed out of the credit crunch straight into growth and that hasn’t stopped to this day,” he says. “We invested heavily in sales and marketing in 2008 and that put us in a strong position when most companies were battening down the hatches.

“Our business shrank by more than 60% and we had to reduce in size to match the new sales dimensions.

However, we also had to be able to grow the dimensions of the business again and we couldn’t do that without winning business. That turned out to be a remarkable strategy for us.”

With excellent growth predictions and an order book stretching well into the coming months, the future looks bright, but Matthews says there are challenges, particularly in skills.

“I want to push the skills agenda to the forefront.

Skills success leads to sales success. We offer three or four apprenticeships every year and every year we get 300-400 applications.

“Businesses must support apprenticeships. We have 4,000 businesses in the mechanical and engineering sector in the North East, but only 15% of those companies are taking on apprentices.

That’s very short-sighted.”

The key to skills success

Mike Matthews of the telly at the end of the is collaboration, he says. “We day, but I’m not like that. The need the whole of the North things outside my day job East business community have allowed me to grow to work together. We’ve got as a person; my knowledge, 12 borough councils, two networks and confidence LEPs, several membership have all grown, too.” organisations, and we are So what now? “I’m still a relatively small 51 and I need to region with a little “THE ONLY learn to spend over 2m people.

WAY WE WILL BE more time with The only way HEARD IS IF WE my wife and we’ll be heard is if daughters. we speak with SPEAK WITH The extra one voice.”

ONE VOICE” commitments are The North East forcing me to be more Business Executive of disciplined with my time the Year in 2013, Matthews and commit time to things was awarded the MBE for outside work. services to business in “One of my great passions 2014. “I think both of those is cycling and it’s fantastic awards recognise hard work, to get out of the day job and leadership and a willingness have time to think about to go outside the day job. It things in a constructive way. would be so easy to go home “It’s not about the time and put my feet up in front

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at the office, or time working outside the office, it’s about what you achieve in a day.”

With a passion for gap analysis, what comes next in his career is simple. “I actually want a much bigger job than I’ve got today. I’ve got a genuine interest in business across all sectors and I really enjoy the business mentoring programme I’m part of. I work with embryonic companies and would like to continue to see fantastic results at the early stages. One of the companies is now making an extra £150,000 from just a few hours of my time and a little bit of analysis of their working practices and accounts.

“If I can keep achieving and improving in everything I do, here at Nifco and with NECC, that will keep me satisfied.”

Championing the region since 1815

Explore business opportunities in South Africa Linking North East areas of Excellence with Opportunities in South Africa Including: Renewables, Education & Skills, Oil & Gas, Ports & Marine Economy Thursday, October 1, 2015, Full Day Conference, Newcastle Civic Centre To book online or for more information, get in touch: 0300 303 6322

necc.co.uk

@NEChamber

SKILLS

WORLD-CLASS WELDER

Reece Taylor

Good luck to Reece Taylor, 22, who will compete to be named the best young welder in the world at the world’s largest skills competition, WorldSkills, in São Paulo this summer.

Reece, from Consett, Co Durham, was selected to represent Team UK in welding after excelling in Squad UK and the WorldSkills UK National Skills competitions.

He says: “The support and training from staff at Derwentside College and my employer, Dyer Engineering, has helped me to this final stage of the competition.

Without their encouragement throughout my apprenticeship, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Engineering lecturer Steve Chambers says: “From day one we saw Reece had a natural ability. He watched, he questioned and he excelled. We are extremely proud of how far he’s come.”

WorldSkills is the largest international skills competition in the world.

Held every two years, the competition sees around 1,000 people aged 18-25 compete for medals in more than 45 skills including electrical installation, welding, web design, cooking and bricklaying.

NECC president Mike Matthews with pupils of Middlesbrough’s Unity City Academy

Pupils celebrate apprentice greats

N

moving between school and college, and ew NECC president Mike the Apprentice Greats book will be used by Matthews MBE met students the careers team in Unity City Academy, as of Unity City Academy, well as other secondary schools across Middlesbrough to celebrate the region.

NECC’s Apprentice Greats - a Principal Neil Powell says: “It’s book profiling 200 leaders, including important our pupils know the himself, who began their careers opportunities out there and from Year 7 as apprentices. we invite employers to speak at The book, sponsored by Middlesbrough assemblies, linking the world of work College and Gateshead College, was to education. produced to mark NECC’s 200th “We aim to ensure our students anniversary and aims to show the can plan their part in region’s future workforce the the development and benefits of apprenticeships.

WORK HARD of “The book is proof that if AND STRIVE TO regeneration Middlesbrough as leaders of you work hard and strive to REACH YOUR their generation, people of reach your potential, you can POTENTIAL integrity, commitment have a successful career,” and compassion.” says Matthews. “We need to Middlesbrough College recently make sure young people and their opened a £20m STEM (Science, parents are aware of all the options Technology, Engineering & Maths) Centre available to them. of Excellence. Principal and chief executive “NECC is one of the largest independent Zoe Lewis, says: “Apprenticeships are a training providers in the North East and we great way for young people to become believe apprenticeships are a vital way of work-ready through on the job training.” introducing young people to business.”

An online version of the Apprenticeship Middlesbrough College and Unity City Greats book is at www.necc.co.uk/ Academy work closely to ensure a necc-200/apprentice-greats seamless transition for young people

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PORT SEEKS NEW RECRUITS

Sage UK trebles trainee numbers

N

ECC patron Sage is trebling its annual apprenticeship scheme in the North East and Manchester, taking on 60 new recruits.

Working in partnership with NECC, Sage is looking for apprentices to join the business in September across its services, finance, sales, customer services, administration, learning and development, engineering, HR

commercial and marketing teams. It is working with local businesses including NECC, Baltic Training and Gateshead College to facilitate its recruitment drive in the North East.

Lee Perkins, EVP and MD of Sage UK, says: “Sage’s number one priority is to energise the success of businesses and the communities that they serve. Our apprenticeship programme is a vital part of that vision.”

Port of Tyne is looking for 11 new apprentices in Human Resources, Marketing, Legal Administration, Port Operations, Security, Surveying, Warehousing and Distribution.

The UK’s Port of the Year is offering the chance to work towards vocational qualifications which are a stepping-stone to gaining professional qualifications, and to gain work experience in one of the North East’s leading businesses.

Opportunities available at the Port of Tyne offer the potential to enter a professional discipline in Engineering, Legal Services or Marketing – working alongside professionals providing the chance to carve out an exciting career.

IT ALL ADDS UP

SMILES ALL ROUND Regional dental group N&N Dental is taking advantage of free training to upskill its staff via NECC. Jeff Brown, who works at the N&N practice in North Shields, completed a decontamination course with NECC, receiving a Level 3 City and Guilds qualification.

NECC head of training operations Andrew Robson says: “We’re working with organisations to help reduce training and recruitment costs, increase productivity and developing a skilled, motivated and qualified workforce.” NECC and its partners encourage businesses across the region to take advantage of the training and courses available to a wide range of businesses.

Holly McCardle Accounts Assistant & Daud Mohammed

Apprentice Holly McCardle is celebrating after completing her stage two AAT accounting qualification. Joining Newcastle-based Ariston accountants in 2012 as a business administration apprentice, Holly has excelled in her job. NECC’s AAT programme combined with her day job helped Holly to complete her level 2 with top marks.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 41

EXPORT

UKTI NEWS SAVE THE DATE ExploreExport returns on Monday November 9 as part of Export Week.

The event at Hilton NewcastleGateshead begins a week of export activities which will see 155 UKTI commercial officers and British Chamber of Commerce representatives from 78 countries on hand to offer advice and support.

The event will offer the chance to attend one-toone meetings with market specialists, participate in seminars and engage with exhibitors that specialise in offering support to SMEs. For more information visit www.exploreexport.ukti.gov.uk UKTI works with North East businesses of all sizes, providing advice, expertise and support on international markets. Contact the UKTI team on 0345 136 0169 to find out more.

NEWS PD EXPANDS PD Ports has completed the acquisition of Groveport, a privately owned inland port complex on the River Trent, which handles a mix of bulk cargoes through its 190 acre freehold site.

CEO David Robinson says: “This business has a long-established market position in key sectors. It also has a proven track record as an innovative and customer-focused ports business. We look forward to developing a stronger and progressive operating platform, developing new business opportunities.”

Law firm Ward Hadaway and KPMG acted for PD Ports, with finance for the acquisition provided

by HSBC.

150 not out

The newly expanded Evolution LLP team

Evolution LLP joins NECC Global supporting the region’s exporters

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ECC Global has signed up its 150th member to the service which supports North East business trading overseas.

Business accountancy firm Evolution LLP was impressed by NECC’s commitment to overseas trade support.

Managing partner Martin Barber says: “We’re thrilled to be the 150th International Member of NECC. “We have global connectivity via our membership of HLB International, a worldwide network of independent accounting firms and business advisers

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through which we can provide our clients with the necessary information needed to develop their business strategies for overseas markets.

“Close working partnerships with NECC and UKTI enables us to provide a seamless approach to tailoring our client’s trade plans.”

Evolution’s international practitioners guide businesses through business and tax issues overseas.

The Tees Valley business recently moved into new offices in Wynyard Park House after growing by 35% in its first four years of operation.

IN A JAM

ECCO-ING SUCCESS Keith Miller, MD of Ecco Finishing Supplies

Just after winning its second North East Export Team of the Year award, Ecco Finishing Supplies is celebrating another overseas success.

The Middlesbrough-based fire protection and safety specialist, which is celebrating regaining the title first awarded in 2013, has secured new business in Russia, the Phillipines, Abu Dhabi and most recently Canada, followed by enquiries from China, Kazakhstan, Nigeria and the US. This lifts the company beyond a record £5m turnover, with overseas trade now accounting for almost 50% of sales,

representing a five-fold increase in just four years.

Ecco is a global supplier of surface preparation and surface finishing products, exporting its own range across the world.

MD Keith Miller says: “For many years we dabbled with exports, but it’s really taken off since I decided it was our best way to avoid a downturn during the financial challenges of five or six years ago.”

Meanwhile, Ecco continues to supply customers closer to home including Teesside-based Wilton Group, Hertel, Cape and Tees Valley Coatings.

HONOUR FOR EXPORT EXPERT

James Ramsbotham and Joy Sullivan outside NECC headquarters in Aykley Heads, Durham

A North East Chamber of Commerce employee who has served the region’s businesses for more than 40 years was awarded the British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Export adviser Joy Sullivan, 57, was recognised for her services to International

Trade and for playing an important part in the North East’s export history.

She joined the region’s largest business membership association in 1974 and has worked with thousands of companies on over 500,000 export shipments to every country in the world.

A UKTI ExportJam event at Newcastle-based Sage UK has been hailed a huge success after attracting hundreds of visitors.

The event, one of nine simultaneous ExportJams across the country, saw professional facilitators work with delegates to generate, develop and test new ideas.

NECC international trade director Julie Underwood says: “This was an exciting opportunity for businesses to share their challenges and experiences, as well as collaborate to create prototypes of the products and services they need from us in the future.

“The ideas and prototypes fed directly into the work UKTI is doing to transform export support for British business.”

ROOM TO GROW Redcar-based Sealpump Engineering has taken on extra office and workshop space as it heads for £1.5m turnover in the next year.

Sealpump was the first tenant to move into UK Steel Enterprise’s Innovation Centre on the Kirkleatham Business Park at Redcar in 2000 and it is now occupying four times its original space having taken over a Birmingham-based company, developed an innovative new spraying system for the food industry, and established a global network of distributors.

Sealpump Engineering’s spraying systems are used by industries from steel, mining, chemicals and electronics to pharmaceuticals, automotive and paper.

It also supplies systems that control dust, odour and humidity.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 43

On Thursday 24th September 2015, HR Showcase are proudly presenting...

“The Usual Suspects” This seminar will focus on steps businesses can take to get the best out of their staff and will then show, by way of role play, how to deal with unexpected issues that can arise in a performance management hearing.

Key learning points: How to develop employees’ potential How to tackle underperforming employees How to avoid costly employment claims, lost management time and ‘sleepless nights’ Guidance on HR policies and performance management procedures

Venue: Centre for Life, Newcastle Date: Thursday 24th September 2015 Time: 8:30am - 10:45am

To reserve your free place at this seminar contact Helen Ward Call: 0191 232 8345 Email: helen.ward@hay-kilner.co.uk Visit: www.hay-kilner.co.uk to book a place online

Feedback from the previous seminar: “Other seminars are just so boring in comparison to Hay & Kilner’s.”

“Great content and delivery. As ever, the method of delivery far exceeds anything else in the market.”

“Great seminar, thank you! Thoroughly enjoyed it.”

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Special focus The Professionals Services for business

45,200

3,693m

8%

people working in professional services

Gross value added

percentage of regional gross value added *Statistic from TheCityUK, 2013

WATERSTONS TAKES ON #THEGREATQUEST Business and technology consultancy Waterstons is asking organisations to consider the benefits of technology in a new marketing campaign.

The Great Quest aims to tackle one of the biggest challenges for organisations: raising quality while reducing costs.

Waterstons chief executive officer, Susan Bell, said: “With The Great Quest we want to explore the opportunities businesses have to raise quality and reduce costs through the use of technology.

“We think solving that question is one of the greatest quests in business.”

The Great Quest campaign

is the first in a series of campaigns aiming to highlight ways to improve performance.

The campaign will also include a series of inspiring articles, white papers and seminars.

For more information on #TheGreatQuest go to Waterstons’ website: waterstons.com/thegreatquest

JUNE - JULY 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 45

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Graduate talent boost

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s we near the end of summer, the jobs market is again seeing an influx of graduates from universities across the region and further afield.

Recruitment specialist GEM Partnership is working with businesses across the region to identify and appoint graduates in roles across business sectors.

Luke Ryan, recruitment consultant at GEM Partnership, says: “Due to graduates having little or no industry experience in their field of choice, our brief has been simple – identify bright, personable,

mouldable individuals with the right attitude.”

As part of this programme, GEM has partnered with Washington-based SmithersOasis UK Ltd, an international manufacturer and developer of specialist floristry products, to support the recruitment process. Luke Ryan adds: “Given personality is the key attribute, we designed a suite of group assessment activities to observe how candidates interact and react to different situations and scenarios.

“Assessment days are key as they showcase a candidate’s communication skills, teamwork, leadership and ability under pressure,

46 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT / AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

Luke Ryan, GEM Partnership

rather than just work history, which is likely to be limited.

“Smithers-Oasis’ management played a key role in the observations, however GEM consultants led the event. This model is flexible to the unique demands

of organisations requiring different personality traits.”

For more information on GEM’s graduate recruitment service, contact Luke Ryan at GEM Professional Services on luke.ryan@gempartnership. com or tel 0191 244 6444.

RAISING QUALITY AND LOWERING COSTS

Raising quality and lowering costs

Acquiring and retaining customers

Providing timely and accurate information

waterstons.com/thegreatquest

Improving teamwork and communication

@waterstonsltd | #TheGreatQuest

Reducing risk and increasing security

0845 094 094 5

ADVERTISING FEATURE

North East developer completes first site

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orth East housing developer Bradley Homes Ltd has set its sights on more residential sites in the region following the completion of its first new-build residential project.

The firm has completed the six-property Benton Farm Mews project in Benton, North Tyneside, comprising five houses and an apartment, which is now on the market. Tony Douglass,

Adam Lee, Pod; Emma Gilboy, Sintons; John Fish, Brims; Alan Harkness, Sintons; Tony Douglass, Bradley Homes

of Bradley Homes, says: “There is a resurgence in the housebuilding sector in the North East, and while there are a few dominant players in the industry, we believe we are well placed to gain a foothold in smaller bespoke

48 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT / AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

developments. Benton Farm Mews is our first newbuild development and the emphasis is on quality and bespoke design.”

Legal work on the project was handled by Newcastle law firm Sintons, with

residential property specialist Alan Harkness leading on the transaction.

Brims Construction was appointed for construction and architects Pod, based at the Toffee Factory, designed the development.

ADVERTISEMENT

GETTING TO THE CORE OF LEGAL ISSUES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

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From Left to Right: Joy Heron, Gwen Jones and Paul Crawley

NORTH East law firm has launched a new business division dedicated to providing the region’s SMEs with affordable, no-nonsense legal advice.

Devised by Gordon Brown Law Firm, which has offices in Newcastle and Chester Le Street, ‘Core’ will offer a real approach to legal services for any small business – from start-ups to the longer established enterprises – minus the hefty costs and ‘legal speak’.

Core marks Gordon Brown Law Firm’s on-going expansion into the region’s small business arena, having launched sister company and human resources consultancy Hadrian HR in 2013, which provides a bespoke and costeffective 24/7 service for SMEs. The firm’s newest venture is headed up by commercial property solicitor Gwen Jones, alongside fellow solicitor Paul Crawley and paralegal Joy Heron, bringing over 10 years of experience in assisting small businesses with their legal needs.

Gwen said: “At Gordon Brown Law Firm a significant proportion of our clients are small and growing businesses, so we understand the pressures and issues which they face. We want to ensure that they can continue with the day to day running of their operations without having to worry about legal matters, unknown legal costs or intimidating situations and it is on this ethos that Core has been built.”

An initial free, 30 minute consultation will be offered to all small business operators requiring the services provided by the team at Core.

From a small business outgrowing its premises to taking on new employees or concerns over safeguarding assets, the team at Core will be able to assist. Upon appointment, flexible payment options of up to four instalments can also be offered to clients of Core.

One of the first businesses to appoint Core’s services is Washington-based retail business ‘The Green’ for whom Core assisted on negotiations with the council to secure a licence to occupy and to carry out sympathetic works to transform the iconic and previously derelict ‘Green Library’ three months ahead of sale. The business is now fully operational with a burgeoning customer base.

Kelly Kennedy, co-owner of The Green, said: “We decided to use Gordon Brown Law Firm based on its reputation as experts in the area of small business. I can’t thank them enough for their consistent support and friendly manner throughout. We are really grateful to Gwen for her expert and honest advice which enabled us to understand how to get the very best out of the property.”

Kathryn Taylor, managing partner at Gordon Brown Law Firm, said: “Gordon Brown prides itself on being a supportive and nurturing business – not just with our people but also our clients and we aim to reflect this approach through Core.

“By helping SMEs with their legal issues we are aiming to support them to fulfil their business potential, after all they are the lifeblood of the North East economy and a key driver in continued regional economic growth.”

For further information visit www.core.gblf. co.uk

For all enquiries please contact Gwen Jones Tel: 0191 389 5105 Email: core@gblf.co.uk

JUNE - JULY 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 49

Ahead of the game.

Our corporate team can help give your business a competitive edge.

Our leading corporate team have expertise in all areas of corporate law, including sales and acquisitions, corporate finance and company reorganisations and restructuring.

To find out more, visit: www.mincoffs.co.uk T: 0191 281 6151 E: info@mincoffs.co.uk

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ABOVE AND BEYOND.

For legal advice you can depend on, we go the extra mile.

E

stablished in 1948, Mincoffs Solicitors is one of the North East’s oldest commercial law firms. Our long-standing reputation for offering high quality, no nonsense legal advice has led to our recognition as a leading practice. Today we are backed by a dedicated team of professionals who are both passionate about their business and the people they represent to ensure that we continue to provide a proactive approach, both now and into the future.

Corporate Led by Partner, Paul Hughes, our Corporate team of solicitors is one of the most knowledgeable in the North East with expertise in all areas of corporate law including: company sales and acquisitions, corporate finance and funding, otations and share options, private equity investment, complex turnarounds, reorganisations and restructures, mergers, management buy-outs and buy-ins as well as corporate rescues of distressed business.

Commercial Our pro-active commercial team led by Partner Antony Hall, has an enviable reputation for clientcentred, pragmatic advice. We can advise on the latest legal developments in the technology sector from providing legal support on large IT procurement projects right though to software licensing, protecting and getting the most out of your intellectual property, data protection and freedom of information.

Commercial Property We provide expert advice across the full spectrum of commercial property law with particular expertise in the funding, acquisition, management and disposal of large property portfolios.

Licensing and Gaming We specialise in all alcohol, entertainment and gambling related matters. With a national reputation spanning over 50 years and with a top tier ranking in The Legal 500.

Wills, Probate and Trusts We have the specialist knowledge and experience to provide you with well-rounded advice on the range of options to protect you, your family and your assets during your lifetime and beyond Family We provide a sympathetic approach to the sensitive and often painful issues surrounding family and matrimonial law, especially in cases where children are involved.

Residential Conveyancing We are proud to have an extremely knowledgeable Residential Conveyancing Team with extensive experience in all aspects of home buying and selling process.

Dispute Resolution We pride ourselves in offering clients clear, practical, concise advice that suits your individual circumstances, whether you have a commercial, property or private dispute..

Employment We advise clients on all kinds of employment related claims as well as provide a comprehensive employment legal support service to clients.

To find out more, contact Mincoffs Solicitors on 0191 281 6151 or email info@mincoffs.co.uk

JUNE - JULY 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 51

ADVERTISEMENT

ARISTON GOES FOR GROWTH Office move signals expansion for family run-business

A

Daud Mohammed, Practice Manager

riston, a Chartered accountancy firm in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne have expanded their business thanks to rapid growth in the sector over the last few years.

Established for over 25 years, this family run business has been building up a strong portfolio of clients and is now ready to take another step in its expansion. The firm’s move into new premises that offer over 4000 sq. ft. of space means it is well on its way to establishing additional footholds in the already growing accounting and finance sector.

Moving to Albany Road, situated between the iconic Sage building and the world famous Tyne Bridge, Ariston accountants offer an excellent service and access for clients and businesses, both local and national.

Ariston was established in 1990 by Practice Director Mehmood Mohammed, and with his vision Ariston has been able to offer a comprehensive range of accountancy, audit, taxation and business support services.

Over the years it has consistently evolved providing great customer service and client care.

Mr Mohammed said ”recent austerity measures and cutbacks in public sector spending have not deterred small and medium sized businesses, with trading up and continued commitment to their goals, SME’s have really been trading strongly throughout. Ariston has been there to support businesses from all parts of the market and sectors, acting on behalf of national chains through to smaller local concerns. Their success has only been a positive

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for Ariston accountants as they are able to share in their vision as it is able to offer a wide variety of services to cater for their client’s diverse needs”.

Ariston accountant’s ever expanding team has enabled them to make a significant investment in its infrastructure and facilities.

The firm has a dedicated start-up and small business team that offers business advice and start-up guidance covering a broad range of issues and offers advice tailored to the individual.

As chartered certified accountants Ariston provides the full range of accounting services such as the following:• • • • • • • • • • •

Management and annual accounts VAT and Book keeping services Payroll Audit Tax compliance Tax investigation LLP Secretarial services Training and development Status disputes Health and safety Employment Law

If you would like more information or would like to talk to one of the professionals please contact us info@ariston-accountants.co.uk or call 0191 4770117

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Agricultural expert joins Rowlands team

Awards success for Square One

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owlands, the North East’s largest firm of independent accountants, has appointed agriculture specialist Christopher Hewitt as it continues to improve its service to farming and rural clients across the region.

A lawyer who recently retired after 28 years with Ward Hadaway, Hewitt has joined Rowlands as a consultant to expand the advisory services the practice

offers. He will be working with clients on a range of issues including land tenure and business partnerships.

He says: “Rowlands has always had a large number of agricultural clients in the practice and it’s the gap between the advice the lawyer,

the accountant and the land agent is able to give that I’m aiming to fill.

“This new role allows me to take a multi-disciplinary approach in order to provide a comprehensive service and tailored consultancy to our agricultural clients.”

Commercial law firm Square One Law picked up two awards at the first Northern Law Awards at the Biscuit Factory in Newcastle.

The firm, which was set up four years ago, was named Law Firm of the Year and Corporate/Commercial Team of the Year and was the only firm in the region to be shortlisted for four awards, which celebrate legal talent and success in the region.

Our team really get your business...

We don’t just offer legal services, we offer real, honest business advice to help small companies take the next step with confidence.

www.core.gblf.co.uk core@gblf.co.uk - 0191 389 5105

JUNE - JULY 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 53

Join us for three flagship NECC200 lunches, celebrating what’s best about business across our region – Durham & Wearside, Tees Valley and Tyne & Northumberland. An excellent opportunity to network with other businesses in your area, enjoy a regionally focused speaker and look forward to the next 200 years.

Member price: £37.50 plus VAT per ticket.

(Including networking reception and two-course lunch)

NECC200 DURHAM & WEARSIDE ANNIVERSARY LUNCH Thursday 12 November 2015 Sunderland Marriott Hotel Sponsored by NECC200 TEES VALLEY ANNIVERSARY LUNCH Thursday 19 November 2015 Rockliffe Hall Sponsored by NECC200 TYNE & NORTHUMBERLAND ANNIVERSARY LUNCH Tuesday 24 November 2015 Newcastle Racecourse Sponsored by

PROUD TO BE SUPPORTED BY OUR ANNIVERSARY PATRONS:

APPOINTMENTS

NEW ENGAGEMENTS

East Durham College has appointed Emma Norbury as business development adviser (employer engagement).

Emma will be working with a range of employers to build relationships and promote the college’s work in staff training and apprenticeships.

l-r Phil Steadman, Dean Clark and Simon Taylor

NAYLORS TEAM

Independent property consultancy Naylors has made a new senior appointment. The Newcastle-based chartered surveyor has appointed Phil Steadman to lead its valuation and lease advisory department and promoted Simon Taylor to director and Dean Clark to associate director.

GENTOO’S NEW GENIE

Gentoo Genie home purchase plan has employed a development director to lead the sourcing of sites for the innovative home purchase plan in London and the South East.

Penny Halliday has more than 13 years experience in site acquisition and delivering new build development programmes and has worked with a number of strategic partners, major house builders and private developers to devise and implement delivery and funding mechanisms for a range of residential, care, commercial and regeneration projects in London. She joins Genie from Sanctuary Group.

l-r Daniel Salkeld, Robert Eaton John Carr and Simon Baker

GRAND DESIGNS

l-r Mark Dobson and Chris Cheeseman

CHEMICAL REACTION

Wallsend-based chemical giant Chemson is poised for growth with four new UK appointments.

Mark Dobson joins as sales director for the UK and Scandinavia, Chris Cheeseman has been appointed technical service manager and Carl Atkinson and Glenn Roach join the engineering team to improve manufacturing processes.

Architecture firm Gradon has invested in new staff and made promotions. The Ryton, Gateshead-based firm has appointed four new employees, growing its numbers to 21.

Architect John Carr, 34, brings nine years’ industry experience to the firm. Robert Eaton, 23, and Simon Baker, 24, join as architectural assistants, and Daniel Salkeld, 20, joins the firm as an assistant architectural technologist.

Tanja Smith, who heads the firm’s Mongolia office, has been promoted to technical director and Chris Allan moves up to the role of architectural director.

GOING FOR GROWTH

Nolan Gray has joined Port of Tyne as business development director.

A chartered management accountant with 18 years corporate experience, most recently he was FD at DeepOcean UK, where he managed the finance and supply chain interests of the business in both the UK and global markets.

FULL CIRCLE

Muckle LLP has appointed a new partner for its real estate dispute resolution team.

Charlotte McMurchie started her career with Muckle as a trainee and is now back with the firm as a partner.

She has 20 years experience advising a range of social housing providers, including Isos Housing, The Bernicia Group, Places for People Group, Four Housing, Dickinson Dees and Thirteen Housing.

DRIVE FOR SUCCCESS

Jennings Kia, part of the Jennings Motor Group, has recruited a new apprentice at its dealership in Stockton.

Olivia Jeal, 19, from Middlesbrough has been taken on as apprentice sales administrator.

Olivia is learning all aspects of the job, including taxing new and used vehicles, checking vehicle stock, invoicing and filing.

MOVING UP

Co Durham lawyer Latimer Hinks has awarded three of its graduates trainee solicitor positions.

Abigail Noone, Toni-Ann Galvin and Nikita Noel started their careers as post-graduate secretaries with Latimer Hinks after securing law degrees and professional qualifications at Northumbria University.

NEW VICECHANCELLOR FOR SUNDERLAND

The University of Sunderland has appointed Shirley Atkinson as its new vice-chancellor and chief executive.

Atkinson has been with the university since 2008 having previously held a number of strategic leadership roles in public and private sector organisations.

EIGHT NEW ASSOCIATES

Eight lawyers have been promoted to the position of associate at law firm Ward Hadaway - Lucy Cleghorn, Richard Greensit, Victoria Lowrie, Rachael McCartney, Steven Roper, Gemma Wood, Koby Gyasi and Laura Potts.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 55

FAB 5

Fab 5 Tweet tweet

Love it or #loathe-it, you ignore Twitter at your peril. Here are our five fab tweeters’ top accounts to follow

2 James Ramsbotham

@NECCJames, Chief executive, NECC

Sharon Appleby

1

@gentoogroup Head of marketing Gentoo Group @lollydaskal This leadership specialist offers excellent quotes and articles about what makes a great leader. The account deals with culture, behaviour and how to get through them all. It’s very inspiring. @richardbranson Richard Branson’s Twitter account offers fabulous insights into many areas of his business and his life. It covers a broad range of topics - all from a different perspective.

@Sunderlandvibe Very informative about what’s going on in and around Sunderland, @Sunderlandvibe showcases the new and exciting developments taking place in the city and complements the Vibe magazine perfectly. @TEDTalks @TADTalks tweets about its magazine and events, both of which provide information for multichannel retailers. It also tweets and retweets a lot of good information about digital elements, too. @Pudding_Parlour After a long day, or a very long week, the photos of the cakes from the Pudding Parlour in Hexham and Morpeth make me feel so much better. And I happen to know that they do taste as good as they look!

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Mike Matthews @matthewsmike1 Our new NECC President and managing director of Nifco UK, Mike is passionate about making our region the best it can be and works tirelessly on improving skills and raising awareness of the benefits of apprenticships. A former apprentice himself, he is a perfect role model for young people in the North East.

James Wharton MP @jameswhartonUK The North East has a great deal to gain from devolution. As the man who has been tasked with responsibility for the Northern Powerhouse, I follow Mr Wharton closely. The North East is known for its strengths and we must build upon these assets so that our voice is heard in Government.

Professor Roy Sandbach @profRoys There’s not a lot Roy doesn’t know about innovation. Chair of the Innovation Board for the North East LEP, he developed the region’s innovation strategy as part of the Strategic Economic

Plan. NECC supports innovation and helps businesses maximise networking and innovation potential and Roy always offers valuable advice and insight.

Stephen Kelly @skellyceo Stephen offers exceptional leadership skills, combined with a passion for customers and a reputation of driving growth. He shares my view that SMEs are vital to economic growth, and ensures young people are given opportunities through Sage’s apprenticeship schemes something we’re working closely with them on as part of their latest recruitment drive.

Videre Global @videreglobal I had the opportunity to see the work Videre does on a recent trip to South Africa.

Through the donation of a solar street light, Videre has used technology to change the lives of those living in the community. It has put an end to the local residents’ fear of walking outside at night as the light covers an area almost half the size of a football pitch using LEDs, reducing street light electricity consumption by 70%.

3

4

5

Claire Fenwick

David Dunn

Antony Michaelides

@dynamonortheast Mincoffs is very proud to be members of Dynamo, defining and growing the North East IT Economy through innovation and collaboration. The recent Dynamo conference was really inspiring with @stephbreakfast as chair.

@guardian Specifically the Guardian tech team as it creates and shares an eclectic mix of content, insight and opinion from around the world.

@NE1BID The Twitter account for the Newcastle Business Improvement District company keeps me up to date with key business activity, including free events, in the city centre.

@mincoffs Marketing and business development manager Mincoffs Solicitors

@converge_NE James Tennant has set up Converge to give businesses a new way to promote themselves in print, in person and online, with a unique business development platform. @thisischrisjo Chris Owens, in my opinion the best photographer around!

Head over to his profile and check him out! @SunderlandAFC I’m a massive Sunderland fan and season ticket holder so follow the lads on Twitter! I am also sadly obsessed with @bornifabio29 and wish he would come back to Sunderland! We can always dream... @SolanosNCL Newcastle’s newest restaurant and lovely clients of Mincoffs bringing a taste of Peruvian Cuisine to the city. It’s always nice to see fab food when you’re dining at your desk!

@SunSoftCity Chief executive officer Sunderland Software City

@TechPartnership Tech Partnership aims to bring together industry, education and Government to address the digital skills agenda in the UK, and share insights into white papers, consultations and opinion pieces on subjects including shortages, curriculum changes and getting more women into the tech industry. @ClaireBrai Claire Braithwaite is the new head of TechNorth, the initiative tasked with accelerating the development of the North’s digital economy. Her Twitter feed is a celebration of the vibrancy and versatility of the North’s tech businesses. @TechDiaryNE Tech Diary is an invaluable resource listing meet-ups, user groups, events and conferences serving the tech sector. @SaleCycle Sale Cyle‘s #LoveWhatYouDo campaign encapsulates the best bits and benefits of working in the tech industry. A must follow for anyone looking at a career in the sector.

@Assembly_Rooms @BonbarNewcastle Managing director The Assembly Rooms and Bonbar

@MeetOnTyne The NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau promotes the North East as a great place to do business which is relevant given The Assembly Rooms is a conference and banqueting venue in the haert of the city centre. @bbcnewcastle The BBC Newcastle team is an must-follow on Twitter for up-to-date news on everything from politics to local sport from the city and across the region. @whatsonne Keeping up with what’s on in the city is a big part of what we do and the Chronicle’s What’s On knows what’s happening first. @barmagazine An essential account to follow in our business, updates, news and retweets from Bar Magazine help me to be in the know of all of the current news and trends from the industry.

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 57

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE: LUNCH NO.19 AT CLOSE HOUSE

STRAUSS SUITE AT THE COUNTY HOTEL

DABBAWAL

HOTEL DU VIN

At the luxurious No.19 clubhouse, fantastic food is served in a contemporary environment with fabulous views over the countryside.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite after a round of golf or enjoying dinner or a light lunch on the terrace, you can relax in stunning surroundings in the heart of the countryside while tasting the best of Northumbrian produce. No.19 also has a function room able to cater for parties up to 140.

The Strauss Suite at The County Hotel boasts large picture windows overlooking the city centre. Its magnificent marble fireplace and comfortable Chesterfield sofas make it a favourite for board meetings, smaller events, private dinners or for a reception room to the connected Mozart Suite.

Private lunch in the Strauss or Opera Suite is £17.50pp inc VAT including hire of the room, a two course meal and tea/coffee.

Dabbawal, street food pioneer of the North East, brings the amazing tastes of the street to its two restaurants in Newcastle, featuring unique tapasstyle plates for sharing and classic dishes with a twist. A popular spot for business lunches, client lunches and dinners, Dabbawal’s excellent £15 Chef Express business lunch is perfect for a working lunch of classic dishes and a number of new, exciting plates you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

Bistro du Vin is at the heart of Hotel du Vin in Newcastle’s vibrant Ouseburn district and offers an elegant and informal setting for lunch and dinner.

The dishes on the seasonal menu rely heavily on fresh, seasonal, locally sourced and, wherever possible, organic produce. It’s about enjoying moderately priced à la carte dining in a down-to-earth, warm and relaxing setting.

LOCATION: Close House, Heddon on the Wall, Newcastle, NE15 0HT Tel: 01661 852 255 www.closehouse.com

LOCATION: The County Hotel, Neville Street, Newcastle NE1 5DF Tel: 0191 232 2471 www.thistle.com/newcastle

LOCATION: 69-75 High Bridge Newcastle, NE1 6BX, tel 0191 232 5133. Brentwood Mews, Jesmond NE2 3DG, tel 0191 281 3434 www.dabbawal.com

LOCATION: Hotel du Vin City Road, Newcastle, NE1 2BE Tel: 0191 229 2200 www.hotelduvin.com

MARCO PIERRE WHITE STEAKHOUSE BAR & GRILL

NATIONAL GLASS CENTRE BRASSERIE

PEACE & LOAF

SACHINS

The Steakhouse Bar and Grill Express lunch is £18 and includes two courses and a glass of wine (quote NECC).

If you haven’t got much time out of the office try the Marco in Minutes express lunch two courses and a glass of wine and you should be back at your desk within the hour.

If a leisurely lunch is more your thing, that’s always available, too.

Eating at the Brasserie is as much about the atmosphere and stunning surroundings as it is about the food. Having undergone a stylish transformation, from the décor down to the tableware, the Brasserie stands out as one of the most attractive restaurants in the North East. Echoing the philosophy of National Glass Centre, the menu showcases heritage and innovation, delivered with creativity and passion. Open daily: 10am–5pm

Peace & Loaf boasts a chic and stylish venue alongside an entirely original and unique dining experience created by the innovative chef Dave Coulson. Indulge in the meticulously crafted three course business lunch for just £19.95, showcasing the skills of the dedicated team and highlighting fresh, locally sourced produce. The menu is inspired by traditional British cuisine and will excite even the most discerning of palates.

A Newcastle institution celebrating 30 years in the city, award-winning Sachins on Forth Banks has been delighting diners with its meticulously crafted menu since opening its doors.

Using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, chef and proprietor Bob Arora offers the discerning diner a unique opportunity to sample the very finest Punjabi food in a fresh and exciting environment.

LOCATION: Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill, 2-8 Fenkle Street, Newcastle NE1 5XN Tel: 0191 300 9222 www.mpwsteakhousenewcastle.co.uk

LOCATION: National Glass Centre Brasserie, Liberty Way, Sunderland, SR6 0GL Tel: 0191 515 5555 www.nationalglasscentre.com

LOCATION: Peace & Loaf 217 Jesmond Road, Jesmond NE2 1LA Tel: 0191 281 5222 www.peaceandloaf.co.uk

LOCATION: Sachins, Forth Banks, Newcastle, NE1 3SG Tel: 0191 261 9035 www.sachins.co.uk

58 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT /AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

HI! TECH

Apple Car?

The signs that Apple is exploring a move into the automotive sector continue to come thick and fast. The world’s most valuable company has poached a Chrysler senior vice president, a number of engineers from electric car-maker Tesla, and a self-driving car researcher from Switzerland. Watch this space.

The contactless world Dean Bailey explores Apple Pay I’ve long been a fan of the self-service checkout. They’re faster – as long as there’s not someone in front of you who appears to be working their way through the launch sequence for a nuclear missile – and it means I no longer need to contemplate a topic of conversation to strike up with the checkout assistant to avoid them silently judging me for the amount of cakes, biscuits and other treats in the weekly shop.

So, it was with much delight I found the latest in Apple’s continuous app rollout, Apple Pay, which allows iPhone 6, 6 Plus and Apple Watch owners to pay for items with a value of up to £20 by just touching their tech to a payment terminal, much like contactless bank and credit cards do. This means there’s one less thing to fumble around for in my pocket, and it reduces the amount of time I have to not send a text message or receive a phone call or risk the wrath

of a checkout assistant. However, it does mean I miss out on those odd moments where a chat with the checkout assistant brightens your day.

Much like sitting in the Twittersphere or texting rather than calling someone – there are times when tech is replacing human contact too much. I don’t like to admit often – as Hi! Tech columnist – but there are times when we have to get out of the tech world and back into the real world.

As Apple does, it’s made Apple Pay super easy to set up. However, its rollout has been relatively slow in the US so I wouldn’t expect to see it outside your local Apple Store for a little while.

Although it may not change the world overnight, I have Apple Pay, and I will use it when I can, but I will still have a topic of conversation ready should I get stuck at the tills or find a particularly chatty checkout assistant.

Orange Bus world first

Newcastle-headquartered Orange Bus produced the world’s first racing app for Apple’s iWatch on behalf of Aston Martin Racing. The app builds on the firm’s work with Aston Martin which includes a mobile app offering minute-by-minute updates on car speed, gearing, RPM, track position, class ranking, throttle, brake pressure and laps times.

Pay day

Online payments system PayPal has been floated on the stock market, with the firm being valued at $50bn – more than former parent eBay. PayPal, which has 169m users and processed 4bn payments in 2014, saw its shares open at $41.63 as eBay’s value reduced to roughly $34bn following the spinoff.

CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 59

EVENTS NECC Exchange with Cumbria Chamber of Commerce

NECC200 Business Week June 8-12

August 26, Slaley Hall, Hexham, 10.30am-1.30pm, FREE NECC’s flagship networking event, held in partnership with the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce each summer, encourages an exchange of experiences, ideas and offers between members as well as opportunities to network from the west to the east coast.

This is a round-table networking event with three table changes. At the first table - Sharing a Success delegates are encouraged to share a recent business success. At the second table - Discussing a Challenge - delegates are encouraged to discuss current or recent challenges, how you may have overcome this challenge or if someone is facing a current challenge, those around the table are encouraged to offer advice and guidance. The third table is a 60-second pitch about your business. The event host will take you through the event with NECC staff and Partners leading each table to ensure you feel relaxed and guided through the experience. This event includes a free networking lunch.

A limited number of exhibition stands are available at £50+VAT, email events@necc. co.uk This event is sponsored by:

 AGM - James Ramsbotham

 AGM - Mike Matthews, Dave Laws

 Global Lunch - Julie Underwood, NECC; Brian Dakers, NECC; Laurie Berryman, Emirates; James Ramsbotham, NECC; Tracy Chandler, Emirates

 IF Conference - Anne Cuthbertson, Sharon Langridge

 Global Lunch - Laurie Berryman, Emirates

North East Exporters’ Awards June 25, Ramside Hall Hotel

Utilitywise is one of the UK’s leading business and energy water consultancies.

Using unique technology and expertise, we create and deliver Utility Management Plans which help more than 23,000 businesses get the most value from their energy and water contracts, reduce their energy and water consumption and lower their carbon footprint.

 Ian Smith, Blue Kangaroo Design; Diane Irving, Camair Freight Solutions; Keith Miller, Ecco Finishing Supplies; Jason Knights, Blue Kangaroo Design; Joanne Stonebanks, AIS Technical

60 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT / AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

NECC Golf Day

NECC200 Anniversary Lecture September 29, Northumbria University, 6-9pm, FREE

July 15, Matfen Hall

An evening lecture with Jayne-Anne Gadhia CBE, CEO Virgin Money Jayne-Anne will outline the opportunity to bring a fresh and distinct approach to UK banking based on a virtuous circle of support through which businesses, customers and communities help one another to flourish.

She will outline how Virgin Money is bringing this approach to life in the North East and further afield. She will discuss the importance of breaking down competitive barriers in banking, and how this can unleash the potential for innovation to benefit consumers throughout the UK. She will also talk about the Northern Powerhouse, and the opportunities it presents for the finance sector and the North East.

To book go to www.northumbria.ac.uk/ about-us/news-events

 Winners - Durham Tees Valley Airport

 UKTI Team

This event is sponsored by:

 Veterans at Ease Team

Presidents Club Lunch June 30, Redworth Hall

This event is part of:

 Eamonn Leavey, NECC; Mike Matthews, Nifco; Nick Hughes, Hitachi Rail Europe; Judith Doyle, Gateshead College; James Ramsbotham, NECC

PROUD TO BE SUPPORTED BY OUR ANNIVERSARY PATRONS:

 Nick Hughes, Hitachi Rail Mike Matthews, Nifco James Ramsbotham, NECC

 Tina Lowes, Tyne Metropolitan College

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 61

FLAGSHIP

EVENTS

NETWORKING AUG

Stand Up and Be Counted

AUG

NECC Exchange with Cumbria Chamber of Commerce

12 The NECC networking events programme prompts members to engage and share ideas and experiences. With events throughout the region, the programme ranges from largescale round table networking to smaller presentation‑focused events and localised informal networking

26 SEPT

02 SEPT

10:30-12:00, Acklam Green Centre, Middlesbrough

10:30-13:30, Slaley Hall, Northumberland

NECC Local (Team Valley Monthly)

08:30-10:30, Area North The Lounge Coffee Shop, Team Valley

24

Coffee & Connections

SEPT

30

NECC Local (Tees Valley)

OCT

NECC Local (Team Valley Monthly)

07

10:30-12:30, Oldfields, Durham

10:00-12:00, Labman Automotive

08:30-10:30, Area North The Lounge Coffee Shop, Team Valley

OCT

22

Durham Oktoberfest

NOV

NECC Local (Team Valley Monthly)

04

09:00-16:00, Xcel Centre, Newton Aycliffe

08:30-10:30, Area North The Lounge Coffee Shop, Team Valley

SEPT

FREE FREE

13 SEPT

17 OCT

FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE FREE

01 NOV

12 NOV

13 NOV

19 NOV

24

For more information contact Ashley Carney, events executive, email ashley.carney@necc. co.uk Remember to use #NECC200 when tweeting about events and tag @NEChamber so that the NECC Twitter account can retweet! www.necc.co.uk/events

SEPT

08 SEPT

09 SEPT

10 SEPT

14

Middlesbrough Area Meeting 08:15-10:00 NECC, Middlesbrough

FREE

Darlington Area Meeting

08:15-10:00, Teesside University, Darlington Campus

NewcastleGateshead Area Meeting 16:00-18:00,TBC

FREE FREE FREE

SEPT

Stockton Area Meeting

FREE

SEPT

Hartlepool Area Meeting

FREE

SEPT

Northumberland Area Meeting

FREE

Durham Area Meeting

FREE

15 16 23 SEPT

25

SEPT

29

Tees Valley Committee 16:00-18:00 NECC, Middlesbrough

16:00-18:00, TBC, Stockton 16:00-18:00, TBC, Hartlepool

16:00-18:00, TBC

08:30-10:00, TBC

OCT

10 OCT

NECC 200th Anniversary Gala Dinner

18:00-midnight Durham World Heritage Site

FREE £200*

North East Welcomes the Rugby World Cup; Celebration Dinner

£60*

NECC200 Durham & Wearside Anniversary Lunch

£37.50*

17:30-21:30 Newcastle Civic Centre

11:30-14:00, Sunderland Marriott, Seaburn

The North East Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 18:30-01:00, TBC

NECC200 Tees Valley Anniversary Lunch 11:30-14:00, Rockliffe Hall, Tees Valley

NECC200 Tyne & Northumberland Anniversary Lunch 11:30-14:00, Newcastle Racecourse

To book 0300 303 6322 events@necc.co.uk www.necc.co.uk/events *NECC Member Price. (+VAT) **Exhibitor packages £150, email events@necc.co.uk

Lecture Evening with Jayne-Anne Ghadia, CEO Virgin Money 18:00-21:00 Northumbria University

Linking Business with Education

08:00-12:00, Hartlepool Sixth Form College

Legislation Update

14

09:30-11:30, Durham County Cricket Club

NOV

Discipline & Investigations

25

£80* £37.50* £37.50*

09:30-11.30, Durham County Cricket Club

FREE FREE FREE FREE

INTERNATIONAL SEPT

03 SEPT

17 SEPT

62 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT / AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

All day Newcastle to South Shields

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND INFORMATION NETWORK

AREA MEETINGS / COMMITTEES NECC has various opportunities for event sponsorship in 2015

Great North Run NECC200 Member Race

29 OCT

01 OCT

01 OCT

02

Letters of Credit and Methods of Payment

09:15-15:30, Durham County Cricket Club

Export Processes, Compliance and Documents,

09:15-15:30, Durham County Cricket Club

Import Processes, Compliance & Documents 09:15-15:30, Durham County Cricket Club

Explore Business Opportunities in South Africa

Full Day, Civic Centre, Newcastle

£300* £300* £300*

FREE

Welcome to the World Celebration Dinner

TBC

Africa/Europe Trade & Investment Debate

FREE

Civic Centre, Newcastle

Newcastle

Foundation Award in International Trade NECC member price £800* (Global member £640+VAT) contact NECC for information.

ADVERTISEMENT

ARE YOU READY TO ‘GIVE IT A GO’ WITH THE GO SMARTER CHALLENGE?

A

Be part of the Go Smarter Challenge this autumn

little bit of competition is always healthy, which is why Go Smarter is launching a brand new commuter challenge this autumn for businesses and employees in Tyne and Wear and Northumberland.

Staff are being asked to leave the car at home and walk, cycle, run, car share or use public transport to and from work as part of ‘Give it a Go’ – a new sustainable transport challenge that will no doubt spark some competition amongst Tyne and Wear and Northumberland’s business community. If you took part in last year’s ‘Go the Extra Mile’ competition, the concept is very much the same. Individuals and/or teams will battle it out to see who can log the most trips travelling to and from work using sustainable transport - be that running, walking, car sharing with a friend or using public transport. The winner will be the team or individual that logs the largest number of sustainable commutable trips. There are also some fantastic prizes to be won.

‘Give it a Go’ is only open to businesses that currently work with Go Smarter but there is still time to take part and sign up to Tyne and Wear and Northumberland’s sustainable transport programmes.

Funded by Department for Transport, Go Smarter works with hundreds of businesses and employees across Tyne and Wear and Northumberland to promote and encourage sustainable travel. North Tyneside General Hospital, Newcastle University and Nissan are just some of companies that have benefited from working with Go Smarter to transform how employees travel to work.

From Nordic walking and bicycle loan schemes to sustainable travel roadshows, Go Smarter is a fully funded service that provides

eligible businesses with all the help and information they need to ensure employees enjoy the healthiest, most economical and environmentally friendly journey to work.

Peter Henson, one of Go Smarter’s Delivery Team Project Managers said: “Working with Go Smarter provides lots of benefits, not just for employees but for employers too.

“One of the first things we do when we start working with a new company is conduct a travel survey. We use this information to provide staff with personalised travel plans showing them how to travel to work in the most sustainable way possible.

“Research has shown that people who have an active commute to work, like walking, cycling or even using public transport, have fewer sick days and are more productive.

Embracing sustainable travel has economical benefits as well as the obvious health advantages. It also helps the economy too by reducing congestion on our roads.”

For more information about how Go Smarter can help your business and to take part in the ‘Give it a Go’ autumn commuter challenge, visit gosmarter.co.uk/challenge or email challenge@gosmarter.co.uk.

If you think Go Smarter could help your business, contact us via our website at www.gosmarter.co.uk

AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 63

MEMBER 2 MEMBER

Member2Member

Make more of your NECC membership with these great member offers and many more on the NECC website

www.necc.co.uk/member2member PAT TESTING – UP TO 300 ITEMS FOR £1

DRA SOLUTIONS LTD T/A DRA PAT TESTING Offer Code: NECC member We will inspect and test up to 300 items for £1 per item after a £25 initial fee. Offer available August 2015.

FREE TRAINING & SUPPORT TO OFFER WORK EXPERIENCE OR EMPLOYMENT TO PEOPLE WITH DOWN’S SYNDROME

DOWN’S SYNDROME ASSOCIATION Offer Code: WorkFit How would you like to give someone a life-changing opportunity, free of charge and fully supported? You also get the added benefits of engaging your existing workforce in this initiative, freeing up some of your highly trained staff who are bogged down in less productive tasks, enhancing your corporate image as an inclusive employer and supporting your local community.

FREE BUSINESS HEALTH CHECK

DAVID GRAY SOLICITORS Offer Code: NECC1 We can help you make sure your business is in shape and spot any problems before they arise with advice from our specialists.

Come into one of our offices for a free half hour health check for your business with solicitors.

COMPLIMENTARY BUSINESS REVIEW

KYCLO Offer Code: DiscReviewKyclo We address your current business model, brand, products/services, infrastructure and sustainability.

We discuss your success to date and the challenges faced.

We determine the next steps for growing your business locally and/or internationally.

GET EXPORTING 20% DISCOUNT ON COMMERCIAL CCTV SYSTEMS

ZOOM CCTV (NORTH EAST) Offer Code: neccdisc 20% off any new generation megapixel CCTV system.

ASSEMBLY ROOMS EXCLUSIVE DAY DELEGATE RATE FOR NECC MEMBERS

THE ASSEMBLY ROOMS Offer Code: NECCDDR Exclusively for NECC members.

With a reputation as a premier hospitality venue, The Assembly Rooms offers that something extra to make your event successful and memorable. We are able to accommodate up to 600 people across six suites.

DISCOUNTED PERMANENT RECRUITMENT

LF RECRUITMENT (NE) LTD T/A DRIVER HIRE DARLINGTON To celebrate the opening of our new permanent recruitment division, dh Recruitment, we are offering a substantially discounted introductory fee of 10% of first years annual salary. This represents a 50% discount to the standard terms of business, and extremely good value for money.

WORLD OPTIONS LTD Offer Code: NECC world options Get an extra 20% off for imports and exports until Dec 31, 2015.

No minimum or maximum amounts, with the knowledge you are getting the best price and service from World Options and our shipping partners.

SUMMER SAVERS

THISTLE NEWCASTLE THE COUNTY Offer Code: Summersaver Newcastle is now firmly established as one of Britain’s favourite cultural, shopping and short break destinations.

And as one of the few hotels in Newcastle directly opposite the main train and Metro stations, this Victorian hotel is the perfect base to explore. Rooms from just £59 B&B inc vat.

£450 VOUCHER: SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING, BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE, REPUTATION MANAGEMENT

ONPREMISE Offer Code: www.onpremise feedback.com/offer-200 To celebrate 200 years of NECC, we’re giving a 200 local companies free setup, worth £450.

LEADERSHIP COACHING – FREE SESSION

MORRISON & MANN Time to shift your thinking.

This is a great opportunity to see how leadership coaching could enhance motivation and performance.

NCS - MANAGED PRINT BUNDLE

NCS LTD Offer Code: NCSBUNDLE1 Let NCS optimise and manage your print environment - we’ll take care of everything from supplying toner, servicing of equipment, submitting meter readings and even replacing equipment when necessary.

Managed Print bundles start at less than £40+VAT per month.

LOOKING FOR BUSINESS FINANCE? LOOK NO FURTHER...

WHAT PARTNERSHIP With access to 96 different providers we can look at the full range of business finance from unsecured loans and property development, to asset and vehicle solutions. We can often find a lender for you when your bank hasn’t been able to assist.

Our services are fee free.

15% OFF STATIC AMERICAN CAR HIRE

EVENT 167 Offer Code: NECC-15-e167 Are you hosting a promotional event and looking to draw the crowds in? Why not have an eye-catching vehicle parked in front of your venue?

With our head-turning 1969 Plymouth Fury V8 American police car you can be assured that your footfall is likely to increase. Event 167 is offering all NECC members 15% discount for this service.

Entry into the Member2Member section is not an endorsement by NECC 64 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT / AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

THANK YOU

New members

For your recent membership renewals. Particular thanks to members supporting NECC for over 15 years 40-99 YEARS Francis Brown Ltd North British Tapes LH Quarry Plant Ltd LFF Glamal Limited

65 65 43 42

30-39 YEARS Consteel Technical Services Ltd Corrpro Companies Europe Limited Analox Sensor Technology AG Lathe Castlegate Shopping Centre LLP Roman Limited

36 35 34 30 30

25-29 YEARS ITEC North East Ltd Sarabec Ltd AECOM Limited Berger Closures Charter Self Drive Ltd D B Thompson & Co Norton Cleaning Services NOV Mission Products UK Ltd Teesside Fluid Systems (Swagelok) UK Steel Enterprise Ltd Mayflower Glass Limited Pattinson Scientific Services Ltd Tharsus Vision Ltd

28 28 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 25 25 25

20-24 YEARS Fraser Hydraulic Power Plc 24 Howarth Litchfield Partnership 24 RIBA Enterprises Limited 24 C M R (UK) Limited 23 D P C Screeding Ltd 23 Vishay Ltd 23 FPE Ltd 22 International Plastic Systems (IPS flow Systems) 22 Orchard Information Systems Ltd 22 Springs Roofing Ltd 22 Tait Walker LLP 22 TAP Ltd 22 Armah Switchgear Ltd 21 Contract Flooring Services (North East) Ltd 21 Falck Safety Services 21 Fidgeon Ltd 21 J B Colman & Co 21 Leica Biosystems Newcastle Ltd 21 M M Contracts Limited 21 Polar (NE) Ltd 21 Robson Walker (Northern) Ltd 21 Technology Services Group Limited (TSG) 21 Alston Murphy Associates 20

Cleveland Biotech Ltd t/a cbio First Choice Recruitment Jacksons Law Firm Metro Radio Arena Middlesbrough College Peterson Engineering (Cleveland) Ltd Reece Group Limited Ronco Engineering Ltd Sabre Rail Services Ltd Victor Products Ltd

20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

15-19 YEARS Discount Communications Limited 19 JBH Design & Exhibition 19 Kevin Doonan Architect 19 Knight Frank 19 Lane Plastics Ltd 19 MZ Factoring Limited 19 Nippon Express (UK) Ltd 19 Suzuki Techno Europe Ltd 19 Wainstones Hotel 19 Zoom CCTV (North East) Ltd 19 Gateshead Council 18 Manpower (North East) 18 Simon Bailes Ltd 18 Svitzer Marine Ltd 18 Workwise Personnel Ltd 18 B & W Lifting 17 Fluid Automation Limited 17 Redworth Hall Hotel 17 UHY Torgersens Ltd 17 Upex Group 17 Denholm Wilhelmsen Limited 16 Desco Ltd 16 Hutchinson Environmental Solutions 16 Iain Nicholson & Co 16 Oberlin Filter Limited 16 PPG Industries (UK) Ltd 16 Research Independent Financial Services Ltd 16 SaBRE 16 Screentech (NE) Ltd 16 Seaton Burn College 16 SPX Bolting Systems 16 The Little Haven 16 Tyneside Standards Ltd 16 Vinovium Associates Ltd 16 Bluefin Insurance Services Limited 15 D K Jones Ltd 15 Newcastle College 15 Northern Freight Services 15 PLG Glass 15 Quantum Corporate Finance Limited 15 Sembcorp Utilities (UK) Limited 15

The above businesses have been members for 15 years or more and renewed their membership in June and July 2015

Visit our website for information about the companies which have recently joined NECC - the region’s largest business membership organisation.

Along with contact details, there are opportunities for announcements from new members keen to publicise their products, services and activities to other NECC members. While listings are free to all new members, editorial announcements are part of a broader package designed to promote a new member’s business to reach the readership of Contact magazine.

For further details contact the Contact advertising team, tel 01661 844 115, email sales@offstonepublishing.co.uk

The contact details of all the companies which joined NECC recently are now available at www.necontact.co.uk under the ‘New Members’ link

DEC 2014 - JAN 2015 / CONTACT / www.necontact.co.uk / 65

GUEST COLUMNIST

Social media – a force for good or bad? The Chartered Institute of Marketing in the North East captured the views of some of the region’s marketing and communications experts, as Louise Robinson, owner of Creo Communications, reports

S

eldom do business round-table events become discussions of morality, but The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) North East’s latest event in Newcastle became just that.

Marketing and communications professionals met at The Biscuit Factory art gallery to debate how social media has redefined the role of marketers.

We are at the centre of a communications revolution and social media is at the heart of a democratisation process in which the ordinary person has a much more powerful voice, where consumer is king and can reign supreme through platforms like Twitter and Facebook. The question is, how can a business defend itself?

Is it any surprise that some in the debate either approach social media with caution or will not engage with it at all? So, how do businesses begin to contend in this brave new digital world? “Meet fire with fire,” was the view of a younger member of the panel. “If a consumer posts a video, post a retort. Speak to people in the language that they speak to you in.”

Bodyform’s witty video response to a tongue-in-cheek Facebook post from the ‘mis-sold’ boyfriend of a hormonal

Twin Design / Shutterstock.com

Last Word

sanitary towel user (if you haven’t seen it, go to Bodyform’s YouTube channel for 1.44 mins of social media gold) was one of the examples cited of brands successfully meeting the challenge.

One member of the panel has had conversations with regional media editors to discuss the way in which online discussions make their way into the newspaper, often adding fuel to some of the most ferocious social fires.

“When social media users embark on damaging campaigns against corporations, making claims that are at best unproven and at worst slanderous, editors can give their cause credibility by reporting on it. This coverage can expose greater audiences to malicious campaigns,” said one member.

Social media is not a one-to-one means of communication. If we compare it to anything, it is a megaphone with the power to be heard around the globe. So will there ever be an accepted etiquette?

“People post things they would not say out loud and leave a web shadow which remains forever,” said one delegate. “This being the case, are we overthinking the whole thing? Does social media actually influence people’s decisions?”

In the opinion of one essential service provider, “no, absolutely not. We have seen no change in the number of customers we have, despite a rather sinister campaign that was waged against our business on social media.”

And how do we measure social media?

“Surely the real measure of success is in understanding the level of influence it actually has. If it is not actually affecting

66 / www.necontact.co.uk / CONTACT / AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

buying decisions, should we really care?” was one of the questions posed.

“The companies that are best at this seem to be young businesses that are fearless and marketing savvy. The key thing is that companies have a strong sense of self and use social media to create a persona through the style of posts and the type of language they use,” said a senior agency representative.

“We have our front-of-house team doing our tweeting,” said one in-house marketeer. “They sign off with their initial, so it is clear that it is a person at the other end. It is about reminding people that they are contacting another person, not a faceless machine.

“For us, getting involved in social media was about engaging with our audience. It is no different to a customer coming in to see us.”

Unless marketing has a strong voice in business, companies will continue to fail when it comes to social media, the group agreed. And in an age in which people live their lives through these platforms it is perhaps more essential than ever that marketing finds its way into the upper echelons of business.

“Social media has so much power for good - to connect people, bring them together, to allow the once voiceless man to seize power,” said one delegate.

“It’s amazing how something that has the propensity to be so unifying and a force for good can also be so divisive.

Ultimately, behind any social media post by an individual or a company is a person, and that’s what we have to remember.”

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Dates Fridays - 4 & 11 December Saturdays - 12 & 19 December

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Car of the Year 2015

Best coupé

Newcastle Audi Scotswood Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 7LA 0191 226 1144 www.newcastle.audi.co.uk Teesside Audi Brooklime Avenue, Preston Farm, Stockton on Tees TS18 3UR 01642 603 444 www.teesside.audi.co.uk Tyneside Audi Silverlink Park, Wallsend, Newcastle upon Tyne NE28 9NT 0191 289 6200 www.tyneside.audi.co.uk Wearside Audi Stadium Way (Opposite Stadium of Light), Sunderland SR5 1AT 0191 564 5600 www.wearside.audi.co.uk Official fuel consumption figures for the Audi TT Coupé Sport 2.0 TDI ultra 184PS manual in mpg (l/100km): Urban 54.3 (5.2), Extra Urban 70.6 (4.0), Combined 62.8 (4.5). CO2 emissions: 116g/km. Standard EU Test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results.

At the end of the agreement the vehicle and ownership rights will stay with Audi Finance.

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*Plus VAT and initial rental. Business users only. Offer available for orders by 30 September 2015 from participating Centres. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Further charges may apply when vehicle is returned, subject to the contract fair wear and tear guidelines and mileage. VAT payable at the prevailing rate.

Finance subject to status. Available to 18s and over. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Freepost Audi Finance.