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SURREY EDITION . ISSUE 15 . 2015
HOTEL REVIEW RICHMOND HILL HOTEL WE PROFILE
SANDOWN MERCEDES-BENZ
MEET THE NEW
LORD-LIEUTENANT OF SURREY THE BIG STORY
ANGELA MERKEL
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WELCOME
ISSUE 15. 2015
THE LORD-LIEUTENANT OF SURREY
The summer vacation is now just a memory and we look forward to a prosperous fourth quarter and, as always, you can reply on Platinum to bring you all the news, views and opinion.
12
Surrey has a brand new Lord-Lieutenant in Michael MoreMolyneux of the Loseley Park Estate, and he took the time to chat with Ian about his vision for the future and his pride at Her Majesties appointment. We constantly ask our readers if the publication is missing anything and one of the responses recently was more news about the often confusing world of corporate telecoms, so we went out and signed up the best in the business, Teliqo, and Ian sat down with CEO Simon Hochhauser to find out more about the company and the sector. Peter Quilter from NatWest talks about fraud and how to protect your company from becoming a victim, Skerritt Wealth Management asked if there is really a crisis in the Chinese market and we delve
Interview with Michael More-Molyneux, Surrey’s first new LordLieutenant in 18 years.
CHINA CRISIS? Does China really matter that much to our economy? ask Skerritts’ Head of Investments Andy Merricks.
32
into the remarkable Tech City in Croydon. Maarten got hold of a 155mph super hot hatch and went off to stay at the glorious Richmond Hill Hotel and visit the Kingston Food and Drink Festival. Its a tough life but as he
SANDOWN STORIES
will tell you, it’s all work, work, work! He also started writing the profile of Angela Merkel and ended up lost in admiration
The history of Sandown, the Mercedes-Benz dealership that covers much of the South East.
for the most powerful woman on earth. Being quite a fan of Mercedes-Benz, he also profiles Sandown Mercedes to look at their march of dominance across Surrey and Hampshire. The Leatherhead Business Awards are revving up and entries are pouring in. Don’t miss your opportunity to enter this prestigious event and we take a look at the Kingston and Croydon Excellence in Business Awards and we are proud to announce our exclusive sponsorship, for the second year running, of the 2016 Gatwick Diamond Business Awards. The categories are announced along with the sponsors and Jeremy Taylor explains how to enter. As usual, Surrey Chamber CEO Louise Punter shares the Chambers news and views and we sponsor the Woking
68 CROYDON TECH CITY Jonny Rose explains
Means Business Exhibition.
how Croydon has
So as you can see, whilst you have all been sunning
become London’s
yourselves on the beach, we have been hard at it to bring you
fastest-growing tech
another bumper edition of the region’s favourite business publication.
70
cluster.
THE SERIAL DISRUPTOR
Maarten & Ian
Teliqo’s Simon
Platinum Business Magazine, Surrey
4
42
Hochhauser is revolutionising how business telecoms systems are supplied.
THE TEAM
AT A GLANCE
6 Local News 10 Jo Rogers - Marketing 11 Institute of Directors 12 Natwest: Avoiding fraud 14 Interview: Michael MoreMolyneux
18 Kingston Awards 19 Acer competition 20 National News 24 The Big Story: Angela Merkel 32 Skerritts - Investments 34 Kreston Reeves - Accounts 37 Big Beach - Marketing 38 Gatwick Diamond Awards 42 Interview - Simon Hochhauser 46 DNH Stallard & Brighton i360 48 Bennett Griffin - Legal
Maarten Hoffmann – Director maarten@platinumbusinessmagazine.com 07966 244046
50 Style 52 Anger Management 55 Hastings Direct 56 Nova Direct & Sussex Wildlife
Ian Trevett – Director ian@platinumbusinessmagazine.com 07989 970804
Trust
59 Young Startup Talent 60 Richmond Hill Hotel 63 School Open Days 65 Motoring 68 Sandown - Mercedes-Benz 70 Croydon Tech City 72 Leatherhead Awards 74 Woking Means Business 75 Events Diary 76 Surrey Chambers of Commerce 79 Croydon Means Business 80 Denbies Wine Estate 82 Wise Words - Ryan Heal
Lynne Edwards - Commercial Property lynne@portfoliopublications.co.uk Tel: 07931 537588
Amanda Spicer - Senior Designer
Julia Trevett – Accounts Manager All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit. Platinum Business Magazine is published and owned by Platinum Business Publications Limited. Directors: Maarten Hoffmann and Ian Trevett
THE BIG STORY ANGELA MERKEL One of the most influential women the world has ever seen?
24
5
{ NEWS }
LOCAL NEWS £350,000 BOOST £350,000 will hopefully kick-start prosperity for Caterham. The funding from Tandridge District Council is being earmarked for a series of initiatives designed to regenerate the town. Caterham has seen a boom in housing in the last decade and was becoming a dormitory town where people commute out in droves to work elsewhere. JVM development consultants said the council could ‘lever social and economic benefits for the town’ by promoting sites for employment through investment, planning policies and working with other landowners including church groups and community trusts. The funding, recommended by the council’s Caterham town centre working group, would go towards preparing a master plan for the town, including a £35,000 loan as a Launchpad for traders to promote the area and spending on the compilation of a local land ownership database. Outlining the overall £352,500 boost, the council’s chief planner Piers Mason said: “The expectation would be that this sum will be offset many times by the achieved economic regeneration of the area.” Caterham district councillor Beverley Connolly said, “Only last year Church Walk shopping centre was given a £230,000 revamp. It’s an exciting time to be a councillor in Caterham. Things are starting to happen”.
SUNDAY FUNDAY Businesses
and
community
leaders have been reacting to the prospect of Sunday trading hours being extended, which came as part of Chancellor George
Osborne’s
announced Boazman
recently
Budget. from
Lucy
Camberley’s
Business Improvement District, Collectively
Camberley,
said
the proposals could be good for the town. “With the increasing presence of online retail, shopping habits have changed dramatically over the last few years. Consumers want to shop at times that are convenient to them and extending Sunday trading hours is a great way to reflect this. It’s a really important opportunity for businesses and one I hope they are able to take advantage of.” Sabine Lohmann, chairman of Spelthorne Business Forum, said it was a “great idea” to bring the decision making to a local level. “It means we can support the individual and give some responsibility back to shop owners. The more they do to make customers lives easier and convenient, the more successful the shops are.”
CHOO CHOOSE GREEN Southern railway has been highly commended at the Rail Industry Innovation awards for making the company more environmentally friendly. Station Travel Plans, a project to encourage promoting walking and cycling to stations; the installation of 50 electric vehicle charging points; waste management; and work on biodiversity all contributed to the award. Southern aims to send zero waste to landfill, a target recently achieved at East Croydon station. Currently Southern recycles 85% of its waste. Southern’s head of environment Sandra Norval said: “We are delighted we have been recognised for our work to make our company more sustainable. Over the past 10 years we’ve invested heavily in making our trains and stations more energy efficient. Sustainability at Southern is more than just improving energy efficiency though. Over the past six years our sustainability work has looked across our passengers door-to-door journeys and looked at our role in the communities and environments around us”.
“Sales are contingent upon the attitude of the salesman not the attitude of the prospect.” 6
{ NEWS }
“The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader is a servant.”
SOUTH EAST FRAUD SOARS KPMG’s Fraud Barometer, which measures fraud cases with losses of £100,000 or more reaching the UK courts, has found that the national value of fraud rose by 22% in the first half of this year to £385m (£317m in the same period last year). With 160 cases, fraud volume remained virtually identical to the first half of 2014, but the average value of fraud rose from £2m to £2.4m. Financial institutions are the biggest victims of fraud across London and the South East, with the value of their combined losses up by 1285% compared with the same period last year. This is compared to an average of 503% nationally and is by far the greatest increase across the UK. Given that the total number of cases against financial institutions in the region has only risen by 11 to 66, this means the region follows the nation-wide pattern of the value of individual cases increasing. Chris Wheeler, Director, KPMG Forensic in London and the South East, said: “Over half of the fraud cases reaching courts in London and the South East were committed by employees or management, proving that businesses need to be vigilant even with staff in leadership roles and positions of responsibility.” “Perpetrators were most likely to fall within 46-55 age bracket, which could mean that fraudsters’ daring increases with age and experience, and there were nearly three times as many male perpetrators as female.” “With the region experiencing an increase in total losses of £5,241,500 due to fraud, these figures should serve as a warning and prompt organisations to put robust fraud prevention systems in place if they haven’t already.”
MERSTHAM MILLIONS
LORD-LIEUTENANT FOR SURREY The Queen has been pleased to appoint Mr Michael MoreMolyneux DL as Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for the county of Surrey to succeed Dame Sarah Goad DCVO when she retires on 23 August 2015.
Work on the Merstham regeneration project is on schedule, according to council bosses. Reigate and Banstead Borough Council has responded after a resident became concerned the Triangle construction site had apparently gone quiet. Senior asset manager Coralie
Of Mr More-Molyneux’s appointment, the outgoing LordLieutenant Dame Sarah said: “I am delighted, as I believe the people of Surrey will be, that Michael More-Molyneux has been appointed by The Queen to succeed me as Lord-Lieutenant. It is a position which I have found to be both an honour and a delight; and I have no doubt at all that Michael too will find it so and will serve Her Majesty and the county faithfully, loyally and with distinction.” Following the No 10 announcement Mr More-Molyneux said: “I am greatly honoured that Her Majesty The Queen has appointed me to succeed Dame Sarah as Lord- Lieutenant. I look forward to carrying on the work and commitment of Dame Sarah over the past 18 years.
on both the Iron Horse and Triangle sites is
SURREY TOURISM PLEDGE
progressing to schedule. The contractors are
The Government has announced plans to boost tourism in Surrey.
currently at the ground works stage, such as
The pledge follows news that the number of people visiting the county went up 7% last year compared with 2013’s figures.
Holman said: “We’re pleased that the work
preparing the foundations for the build. It will be another few weeks before residents start to see the facilities taking shape.” The £13.3 million revamp of the Portland Drive area is a joint project between Surrey County Council, Reigate and Banstead Borough Council and Raven Housing Trust and is to include shops, flats and a community hub.
A group, made up of ministers, has been formed to make sure the UK has the right infrastructure to support any further increases in visitor numbers. Tourism Minister Tracey Crouch said: “Surrey offers a great and varied mix of sights and experiences. It’s fantastic that so many tourists visited the county in 2014. “I look forward to working closely with the tourism sector to champion the best of Britain as part of our long-term economic plan and see places like Surrey continue to enjoy a growing tourism industry.”
7
{ NEWS }
LOCAL NEWS SURREY BAKES TO SUCCESS Stu Henshaw, 35, a father of two from Guildford, was all geared up for his entry into the baking hall of fame, joining 11 other contestants hoping to win the title. Growing up he used to watch his parents cook in their restaurant and became fascinated by the science of cooking. He recently started a blog entitled ‘The Alternative Kitchen’ which he will have plenty of time to work on as he was thrown out of the competition in week two and will now return to Guildford to watch it on the TV. A little longer than 15 minutes of fame but fleeting nevertheless.
EPSOM JOINS THE BRITISH LIBRARY The British Library has become one of the youngest buildings to be given Grade I listed status for “outstanding architectural and historic interest”. It is the largest public building built in the UK in the 20th Century and was designed by architect Sir Colin St John Wilson and his partner MJ Long. The library is home to documents including Magna Carta manuscripts and handwritten Beatles lyrics. It has been described as “one of England’s finest modern public buildings” by heritage body Historic England. The design includes five public floors with 11 reading rooms surrounding the centrepiece of the King’s Library tower, which contains George III’s library. Seven other 20th Century libraries in England have been listed at Grade II including Bourne Hall Library in Epsom. This remarkable modern building with unique architectural interest has been open since 1970.
OH COME ALL YE FAITHFUL
Faith groups provided almost 500 projects benefiting more than 65,000 people in Reigate and Banstead last year. The statistics have come from the first borough-wide audit of its kind, conducted by Redhill church leader Alisdair Semple. It is the most detailed analysis yet of the services faith groups provide in our community, from mother and toddler groups to food banks, and is part of national initiative Cinnamon Faith Action Audit, organised by faith charity Cinnamon Network. Mr Semple, an elder at Christ Church in London Road, Redhill, calculated that such projects had a value of £5.3 million. A range of schemes were provided thanks to 2,992 volunteers and 348 paid staff. A total of 62 groups completed the questionnaire, most of them churches offering a community service or project. “My reason for doing it is I think churches and the faith sector generally have got a responsibility for the issues we face at the moment; they have got a part to play,” said Mr Semple. Chairman of trustees at Reigate & Banstead Voluntary Service Gill Williamson said: “We had no idea so much was being done, we now hope to extend this sort of survey to the rest of the voluntary sector.”
“There isn’t one thing the government does that anybody in Big Business would emulate, at least not in the profit sector.” 8
{ NEWS}
“If one does not know to which port one is sailing, no wind is favourable.”
RIGHT HANDED GM president Dan Ammann has confirmed that its luxury brand Cadillac will offer a full model range for Europe, including ‘diesel and right-hand drive’. Its current presence in the UK is a single Surrey-based outlet selling the ATS, CTS, SRX and Escalade models. None are converted from left-hand drive, and there are no diesels – a vital omission in the European market. Adding that Cadillac is considering a new Euro approach that would try to major on the proposition of offering ‘exceptional service’, Ammann also confirmed that the rumoured new flagship Cadillac is on its way. This new larger saloon will be positioned above the recently revealed CT6, the high-tech competitor for the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Cadillac is trying to regenerate home-market interest in its slow-selling range and to establish itself as a separate business from the rest of General Motors.
GUILDFORD MUSEUM UNDER REVIEW
STATELY RESTORATION
A council working group has been set up to look at the future of a museum where visitor numbers have declined. A full review of Guildford Museum will consider expanding its scope to include art, themed displays, virtual displays and a visitor centre. The main site of the museum forms the gatehouse and annex of Guildford Castle into which the museum was moved in 1898. The building was enlarged in 1911, when an extension was built in the Castle Arch gardens to house the Gertrude Jekyll Old Surrey Life collection of artefacts which helped to inspire her lifetime collaborator architect Edwin Lutyens The museum’s permanent collection currently includes thousands of exhibits dating from prehistoric times. In 1990, a portion of the 6,705 coins from the Reigate Hoard was found in the museum which at the time was the largest post 1351 medieval coin hoard in history. Councillor Geoff Davis, of Guildford Borough Council, said the museum cost about £385,000 a year to run. “Visitor numbers have unfortunately declined, so it is important to review these services and explore reducing the financial impact for local residents,” he said. The council said the group would also review the use of the museum buildings, “which have increased significantly in value in current times”. Opportunities at other council-owned properties and including potential partners would also be explored. After the review is complete, the public will be asked for their views about the possible options for the future.
Scaffolding will go up next month at an 18th Century stately home in Surrey that was reduced to a shell by fire. Cranes moved on to the Clandon Park estate in June, when the National Trust announced the mansion would be rebuilt "in some shape or form". It has taken several weeks to remove loose debris such as wires and masonry from the building, the trust said. General manager Alex Bush said ground level teams were still waiting to go into the building. She said large numbers of timber beams and metal struts had to be removed because of the total collapse of the roof and most of the floors in the building. Where possible all event bookings were relocated but it will be some time before the building is back into full use.
9
GLOBALISATION AND THE SME By Joanne Rogers, Managing Director, Prowse & Co. www.prowse.co.uk
W
hilst ‘Great Britain’ is currently riding a strong wave of inward investment from foreign businesses and investors,
Public Relations Marketing Events Research Economic Development
www.prowse.co.uk
enabled us to bring fresh thinking and to access
out detailed information in order to make the
best-practice knowledge for our clients’ benefit.
right decisions. Research shows that there is little correlation between the types of barriers
I wonder if British companies are doing enough
a potential exporter faces and the size of a
to anticipate and respond to new commercial
company. Rather, it has more to do with the export
opportunities worldwide?
Why do so few
companies trade overseas? In these days of ‘born global’, even start-up companies are able to trade internationally, aided by low-cost airline travel and broadband technology. In my view, there is really no better time to have an international perspective. However, whilst it is easier than ever before to trade overseas, I would question whether many SMEs have the desire or confidence to do so. Do they want to take the risks which come with international trade or is it simply easier to focus on domestic markets?
Many companies find
themselves trading overseas quite by chance rather than through any clear plan, even though evidence suggests that businesses that research and plan their activities generally achieve greater success.
“Perhaps one way to encourage more business owners to act globally is to raise awareness of export opportunities in easier markets with fewer language, cultural and travel barriers.”
experience of the business and the attitudes of its management team. Key reasons local companies hold back from trading with overseas clients are culture, ambition and lack of knowledge. Having worked with people from different countries, I have been struck by how confident they are about working across time zones in multi-disciplinary teams, thinking nothing of relocating with their families overseas if that is what it takes. I rarely see this confidence, attitude, or can-do approach in the British working culture. Perhaps one way in which to encourage more business owners to think and act globally is to raise awareness of export opportunities in ‘easier’ first markets, where there are fewer language, cultural and travel barriers. I also believe there is a need for business organisations to bring
As the owner of a small company which, at one
together those of us who have experience of
time, had more than 50% of its turnover from overseas clients, I know from experience that
Whilst technical barriers to overseas trade are
trading overseas with those who are considering
the benefits of international trade transcend
critical, it is important for companies to adopt
it for the first time. There is much to be gained
increased turnover. During the global economic
positive attitudes towards exporting and to seek
from shared experiences…
crisis, we were able to spread risk in our business by working across sectors and geographical markets globally.
A ‘godsend’ whilst the UK
recession was at its worst! We’ve also found that being a consultancy with an international outlook has enhanced our reputation. Having a global perspective has
10
Prowse & Co. combines strategic counsel with practical support to help you effectively communicate with your target audiences. We’ll work with you to understand your business and deliver results-driven PR and marketing strategies that use the right channels to reach your audiences. From one-off projects, campaigns and public consultations to a full, outsourced service - discover how we can help at www.prowse.co.uk
{ INSTITUTE OF DIRECTORS }
SOUTHERN POWERHOUSE By Dean Orgill Chairman of Mayo Wynne Baxter www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk • www.iod.com
W
hether under the name of Localism or Devolution to the regions we have been hearing and reading quite a lot of late about central government passing a greater degree of economic (and possibly political?) autonomy to the regions of England. This may, or may not, come with attached strings such as an elected local Mayor. But whether we embrace it or not this does seem to be the current direction of political travel. Businesses therefore need to prepare for it, both individually and collectively. Business in the South East could potentially find itself at a disadvantage as the regional agenda at the moment appears to be dominated by references to the Northern Powerhouse. As an initiative, the idea of promotion of greater economic growth in the North would be hard to criticise. I am sure we would all be happy to see the great cities of the North making an even stronger contribution to UK plc. The Government has of course made an open commitment to push the initiative by appointing a Minister for the Northern Powerhouse – James Wharton MP – and speaks openly, and often, about improving the infrastructure in the northern region. Whilst there are some
comments from the North-east that “The North” for these purposes seems to be too Manchestercentric, the thrust is nevertheless evident that our region is not automatically going to be looked to first when Government is looking to spend on capital projects, or long-term skills investment. It is therefore going to be necessary for us to make very strong economic cases when bidding for any funding of Government origin. This means demonstrating that money being spent will produce a clear economic benefit – largely looked at in terms of additional jobs created. The impact of that will, ultimately benefit the economy of the country since I believe that we remain net “exporters” from business rates. The recent successes of attracting funding from bids assisted by the Coast to Capital LEP do show, however, that we can still win funding if the proposals are well thought through, clearly demonstrate a net economic benefit and are ready to start if they receive the green light. Timescales for bidding are often quite short, and it is very hard to work up proposals from scratch when the announcement of the rounds is made. But if schemes are ready to be submitted once the call is made then chances of success
can still be good. We have an excellent LEP in Coast to Capital, local councils whose economic teams are wellversed in the system and keen to assist, strong local business partnerships and organisations and some great businesses in the area. The organisations can get behind developments proposals, and businesses could also help by assisting in the bids for infrastructure funds. Our voices will be much more likely to be heard if we speak collectively. Whilst our growth figures have been good, that does not mean that we cannot still keep improving. Success can indeed breed success and we must not let the northern pointing spotlight put us into the shade.
JUST A THOUGHT Is your business managed, or led?
11
{ FINANCE }
FIGHTING FRAUD
– the golden rules to protect yourself Peter Quilter ACIB MCIBS Chartered Banker Director, Corporate and Commercial Banking 2nd Floor G3, 2 Cathedral Hill, Guildford GU1 3ZR. E-mail: peter.quilter@natwest.com
F
raud today is sophisticated, organised and lucrative. With every sector of the economy facing this threat, businesses
should recognise that there are important steps
massive industry in itself – the cost of fraud to the economy last year was an astonishing £52 billion.
COMMON FRAUDS Here are some of the most common frauds seen today:
Whilst banks are of course targets for
• Telephone (vishing): Fraudsters trick you
fraud, today businesses are firmly in the firing
into divulging security credentials over the
line, with virtually all sectors of the economy
telephone. This includes telephone calls
under threat from fraudsters. Apart from the
pretending to be from the fraud department
constantly changing. Previously it would take
financial loss, fraud can cause difficulties for
of your bank or even the police. They
the form of petty scams. Nowadays, fraudsters
organisations trying to manage cash-flow, lead
manipulate you into providing security
are much more likely to target an organisation
to reputational damage and even see a business
credentials or transferring funds to accounts
via a telephone or a computer. Fraud is a
cease to exist.
set up by fraudsters with the belief that this
they can take to protect themselves.
TODAY’S FRAUD The nature of fraud against businesses is
12
{ FINANCE }
“Whilst banks are of course targets for fraud, today businesses are firmly in the firing line, with virtually all sectors of the economy under threat from fraudsters” will keep your money safe. • E-mail (phishing): you are encouraged to click on a link or document within an email that downloads malicious software onto your computer or directs you to a fraudulent website that looks identical to the official site. This allows a fraudster to gain access to your security credentials or card information. • Malicious software (malware/trojan): your computer may be infected with malware by responding to a phishing e-mail, visiting insecure web sites or using an insecure internet browser. This also allows the fraudster to capture your security credentials or bank card details.
BE AWARE It’s not all doom and gloom. There are some simple but effective steps – the ‘golden rules’ – which any business can take to protect itself from fraud. It is important to remember: • Banks will Never ask for your full PIN and password online; only 3 random digits from each are needed to log-in; • Banks will Never ask you for your PIN and password or any smartcard codes over the telephone: beware of imposters; • Banks will Never ask for smartcard codes to log-in; these codes are used to authorise payments;
CHEQUE FRAUD Although much of today’s fraud takes place online, fraudsters continue to carry out cheque fraud against businesses, knowing that large amounts of money are often involved in cheque transactions. There are simple steps that companies can take to protect themselves from cheque fraud: • Store cheque books securely, ideally under lock and key at all times when not being used; • Reconciliation: reconcile cheques used against your statements, perhaps utilising dual review; • Preparation: when writing or printing onto
an individual cheque, avoid any gaps that could be exploited by a fraudster (e.g. to prevent them from changing the payee’s name on the cheque); • Follow-up: stop missing or lost cheques;
INVOICE FRAUD Finally, there are some frauds that are carried out against businesses alone. Invoice fraud is an example of this; a request is received by an organisation purporting to be from an existing supplier or creditor. The fraudster advises that the bank details for the settlement of future invoices should be changed, meaning that your next payment will be paid into their account. The fraud is usually discovered when the supplier that sent the genuine invoice chases for nonpayment, by which time the recovery of any funds is highly unlikely. These approaches can be made via telephone, letter, fax or email. The request is not necessarily accompanied by any specific
payment instruction but, if acted upon, the next legitimate payment will be made directly to the fraudster’s account. There are simple steps that all businesses can and should take to protect themselves from invoice fraud: • Always contact the supplier or creditor to validate requests for payment or to amend bank details. • Closely scrutinise all requests for payment. Check the email address or fax number they are sent against your company records. • It is recommended that payments should have a minimum of two approvers. This offers an extra layer of security as all payments would need to be approved by at least two people. • Consider sending confirmation of payments to the supplier or creditor to ensure that your funds have been received by them. You can obtain more fraud and security advice from your bank so visit their website and speak with your Relationship Manager.
13
{ INTERVIEW }
A
fter a lifetime managing the sprawling Loseley Park and stately Loseley House, Michael More-Molyneux could quite
easily justify a quiet retirement in sunny climes. Instead he is about to take on, on a voluntary basis, one of the biggest challenges of his life as he steps in to the uniform of the Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, a role that demands far more than attending glitzy events. “The thought of going into retirement and going to hit white balls around a golf course fills me with horror,” declares Michael, I do feel that I am very fortunate that while I’m stepping back from the business and letting my son Alexander take on the management, I have this challenging new role.” It is not an entirely new experience as Mr More-Molyneux has had a taste of county duties during his time as High Sheriff. “I was High Sheriff in 2001 that was a very great privilege, and you learnt so much about your own county. You visited organisations and places that you never would normally go to. These included sitting in court with the resident judge at Guildford Crown Court, visiting police headquarters , the Samaritans and many other charities as well as supporting all the Mayors during their year of office.
THE LORD-LIEUTENANT OF LOSELEY
“If you ask any High Sheriff what the highest point of the year was, it would be meeting all the volunteers in the county who really make a difference as well make the county tick. There are so many people that carry out these tasks because they feel its important, not to get their names on the front of the local paper.
They
don’t want any fuss. It is very inspiring.” So, presumably, the step up to Lord-Lieutenant should be straightforward? “It’s a bit more involved with Lord-Lieutenant, as High Sheriff you are in the post for a year; I have been petitioned for 12 years. You also have more of an involvement in, for instance, the
For the first time in 18 years, Surrey welcomes a new Lord-Lieutenant as Michael More-Molyneux succeeds Dame Sarah Goad. Ian Trevett visited the family estate at Loseley Park to meet the Queen’s new representative in the county. 14
Magistracy and the courts, the two cathedrals, Guildford and Southwark and the Armed Services in the county. “Dame Sarah was patron or president of over 50 charities and organisations, and she was always actively involved. “I’m not a JP, unlike Dame Sarah and Sir
{ INTERVIEW }
“Loseley has to make a profit to survive. A lot of people think because you live in a big house you’ve got so much money coming out of every pore.”
Richard Thornton, so I spent yesterday at the
always London 40 minutes away and Gatwick
next year he takes over as MD and I become
Magistrates Court in Guildford, today I’m at the
and Heathrow just down the road. We really are
Chairman, so he worries about all the day to day
Crown Court in Guildford and tomorrow I’m in
blessed.”
management”
The Lord-Lieutenant works closely with
Because no-one wants to be the one in history
business, and his family has some pedigree
who let it go?
Redhill Magistrates Courts. “The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is a prestigious award which is presented to charities and organisations who rely on voluntary service. Recent recipients include,
in the business: his father won the Queen’s Award for exports.
“Exactly. Not on their watch. We’ve been here for 500 years. We’ve got four generations living
“My father started a pre fabricated housing
on-site at the moment, and so it’s very exciting
business in the late 50s which were sold all
that Alexander and his wife Sophia are coming in
over Europe and beyond. When the earthquake
to take over. They have twin boys and a daughter
in Abadan, Iran hit, they produced specially
and one hopes that one of those three will take
designed houses to send out. They sent over
it on, because it is a commitment. You don’t go
1000 purpose made houses. At one point the
home on Friday night and forget about work. It’s
factory was producing a house an hour.”
like living over a very busy shop, but it’s a lovely
of these coming forward. On occasions they are
Michael is a successful businessman in
shop, and we are fortunate and blessed to be
presented by a member of the Royal Family. The
his own right, ensuring the family estate
living and working here.”
presentation of the British Empire Medal and
is maintained and preserved for future
different personal awards also come within my
generations. Like most people who inherit
Living in a spectacular house can also come at
remit.
historic houses, he recognises his good fortune
The Watts Gallery, Shootingstar Chase and the Surrey County Agricultural Society. The Queens Award for Industry is another important award which helps bring to the attention of the county and community the efforts that a company has made towards industry. I hope that in the coming years we will see an increased number
“Dame Sarah leaves a large legacy behind
but also his responsibility as a custodian.
from her commitment over 18 years to the
“Loseley has to make a profit to survive. A lot
county to all the organisations, charities and the
of people think because you live in a big house
many thousands of people she has supported.
you’ve got money coming out of every pore.
I see that job is to carry on and build on that legacy as well as develop into other areas.
“We have just put a new roof on the house. It only took six years to build the house, but it
the price of privacy? “The house was opened by my father in 1951, and it was one of the first houses to open. I’m an only child and I’ve always grown up with it. But I think our four children did find it quite difficult. One would be playing on the piano and we’d say, “That’s lovely but we’ve got a wedding coming in in 10 minutes.” So there’s this invisible barrier
“We’re so rich as a county, although we do at
took eight months to put a new roof on with
the same time have three of the poorest wards
90,000 tiles. We had to finance this expense
in the country. We have got beautiful countryside,
with no grants. You never know with a house
we’ve got every sort of cultural pursuit, music,
over 400 years old what may go wrong and
With this commitment to successfully pass on
art, theatre, and we’ve got every sporting facility
what isn’t actually budgeted for.
the baton, I ask how the business aspect works
and probably one of the best sports parks in the
am the MD, my son is a Partner as well as my
country. If you can’t find what you want, there’s
wife and daughter in law and at the beginning of
At present I
between the commercial and the fact that it’s a home. And it’s a very difficult balance to tread.”
commercially. “We have two sides to the business,” explains
15
{ INTERVIEW } business. We have 1500 acres of land which we rent out. We have one tenant who combines about 700 acres of crops. Jody Schechter has 250 buffalo grazing. We used to farm one of the largest and oldest Jerseys herds in the country, established by my Grandfather in 1916, sadly, four years ago, due to EC regulations, the herd was dispersed. “We also have 25 small businesses who’ve got either offices, stores or workshops. It’s an ideal location because you’re out of the town. Not everybody wants to shop in a high street in their lunch hour.” The Loseley name is also well known for the ice cream brand created by Michael’s father in 1968, although this has since been sold on. “Dad founded the business on quality and service, and a policy of no artificial colourings or flavourings. He was very much into organic agriculture. He was 30 years ahead of his time. And when he created the Market Garden, which was organic, no-one knew what it was, let alone how to spell it. It was only when we got to a field scale that we decided to go in a different direction. At this time people were getting interested in gardening and we didn’t have a formal garden, so we decided to build one. “We’ve got a really excellent Head Gardener, Burney, who has been with us for 20 years. Whether you know the Latin name or whether you don’t know the difference between a daffodil and a buttercup, people can come and just enjoy the peace and the colour and the solitude, which is what they do do.” So the key is diversification? “Yes - and the right staff. We employ about 25 people all in all. My father involved the staff in the business back in 1948. He said, ‘I’d like to have regular sit-down meetings with you, and if we have a really good year I’ll share 10% of the profits with you.’ They went for it very enthusiastically and we still share 9% of the profits annually with all full-time work staff. It’s interesting; a couple of years back, I wasn’t sure Michael. “We have the trading side, which is Loseley Park with all the visitors to the house and the garden, the wedding business, the corporate events, the family celebrations and the large shows. “We always look forward to our own Garden Show in the spring, which we organise ourselves, and that marks the start of the season. We have the Surrey County Agricultural Show, and you can have anywhere between 10,000 and 12,000 in the day, depending on the weather. It’s a lovely event because it’s a country show, but people living in the town come and get interested and enthused.
16
“Then we have filming as well. We’ve had Midsomer Murders twice and that gets shown in something like 250 different countries worldwide, also Foyles War, Emma, Marple and many more. “We had a garden show a couple of weeks ago and a Teddy Bears Picnic last weekend for Shooting Star CHASE. Then we’ve got the Richmond Dog Show, where we have about 9,000 dogs in a weekend. We had Dog Fest a few months ago with Chris Evans and Noel Fitzpatrick, and we had 10,000 people and their dogs in a day. “The Estate side is the renting and letting
if it was still working. So I said, ‘Why don’t we pay you a little bit more on a weekly basis and do away with it?’ I was thrilled with the response; I had absolute anarchy! ‘No, we really do enjoy this because if we’ve done well then we can go out and we can have an extra special Christmas. “Aside from the profit share, I think a family business is closer than many corporate situations, and if a job needs doing, there’s no demarcation area. If the loos need cleaning, then it doesn’t matter, you get on and do it. When we do our annual reviews we ask what is the best thing about working at Loseley? And the answer is the variety.”
{ INTERVIEW } What are the plans for the next five years at Loseley Park? “You’d better interview my son! I think that there will be certain changes. He’ll bring his own style and his own ideas, and that’s how it should be. My father was very patient with me, and a few times when he didn’t agree. But we got on incredibly well because it’s not an easy relationship, a father a son, a family in a business, very often the hard decision is not necessarily the one that the other half agrees with. “I was very lucky with my late father as we got on very well, and likewise, with my son Alexander.” One of Michael’s many activities has been marathon running. Presumably the new role will make this difficult? “I haven’t run a marathon for several years. I did 15, together with my wife Sarah,11 Londons and 3 New Yorks and 1 Nottingham. I think the last London one was about six years ago and it took me a month to recover from it! “It was a great event to be involved with when we lost our son, Christopher, who died in an accident on the farm when he was aged just 12. My wife Sarah had just become involved with Shooting Star CHASE as a founder patron and that was something that was really positive at a very difficult time. Neither of us were runners and we were offered a couple of places and I’d always wanted to do it, so we did. “There is now the children’s hospice on the estate, Christopher’s. CHASE and Shooting Star joined forces a couple of years ago. “We have just had a lovely concert there with some of the children. They have professional musicians who play in orchestras, working with them for two or three days. All these children are in wheelchairs and are life-limited. The big thing is that you can see that the music is really having an effect on these children, and it’s really moving. There wasn’t a dry eye in the place, it was just wonderful. I think the parents were as excited as the children.” It is clear that Michael’s Lieutenancy will be used to good effect, but I ask as a final question: Is there a regret that you have to organise a militia as part of your role? “Unfortunately, that is no longer required. When I was High Sheriff it was a bit upsetting because in previous years I would have raised taxes, raised a militia and been responsible for the judges; it would have been a pretty good power base!”
www.surreylieutenancy.org www.loseleypark.co.uk 17
{KINGSTON BUSINESS AWARDS }
THE SHORTLIST
Businesses across Kingston are popping open the champagne after making the shortlist for the Kingston Business Excellence Awards in association with NatWest. All are in contention to win a top award at the glitziest event in the borough’s business calendar, a gala dinner and awards ceremony hosted by celebrity broadcaster and columnist Julia Hartley-Brewer, which takes place at Holiday Inn Kingston South on October 15th. Independent adjudicator Ross Sturley, who has more than 20 years’ experience in a whole range of industries and is the principal of Chart Lane, drew up the shortlist for the awards, which are being led by the borough’s three leading business support organisations - Kingston Chamber of Commerce, Kingstonfirst and the Royal Borough of Kingston. Among those to make the list is Metropolis Hairdressing, which was crowned overall Business of the Year last year. All of the shortlisted businesses now go forward to a Judging Day on September 15 and get the opportunity to make their case to an independent panel of judges.
THE FULL SHORTLIST IS: Commitment to the Community
Best Business for Leisure and
(sponsored by Veolia):
Entertainment:
Cornucopia Events, Genuine
Cornucopia Events, Glenmore
Solutions, Glenmore House,
House, Rose Theatre Kingston,
Kingston Pound Community
Sun Hotel Ltd
Association, New England Seafood, The Good Life Surbiton
Best SME Business (sponsored by Cattaneo Commercial Ltd):
Best Business for Customer
Duel Services, Fallows & Company,
Service (sponsored by John
GSUK, MeetingPoint Global Ltd,
Lewis):
Metropolis Hairdressing, Speclean,
Duel Services, Fallows & Company,
Style Bureau, The London
Genuine Solutions, Headquarters
Prosthetic Centre
Hair Salon, Horrocks and Boyd, Househandlers, MeetingPoint Global Ltd, Metropolis
Best Business for Training, Development and Apprenticeships
Hairdressing
(sponsored by Kingston College):
Best Start-Up Business
John Lewis, MeetingPoint Global
(sponsored by TWM Solicitors
Ltd, Metropolis Hairdressing,
LLP):
Speclean
Fortunella Limited, New Devi Tandoori, Prestige Business
Duel Services, Genuine Solutions,
Best Charity and Social
Solutions, The Wych Elm Kingston
Enterprise:
Ltd, Young Lilies
Balance, Born Too Soon, Creative
Best Young Entrepreneur (sponsored by New Devi
Youth, From the Ground Up, Learn English at Home, Love Kingston
Tandoori):
Best Creative and Media Sector
Fiona Quinn - From the Ground Up,
Business (sponsored by
Luke Whitelock - IQ in IT, Giampiero
Kingston University):
Tickets are already selling fast for the gala dinner and awards
Leonardi - Your Art to Canvas
Cornucopia Events, Fabryan
ceremony at the Holiday Inn South.
Best Business for Food and Hospitality (sponsored by Direct
London, Figment Agency, JPY Ltd, The Good Life Surbiton
Colour Ltd):
Best Technology Company:
Comptoir Libanais, Glenmore
Benn Tech, IQ in IT, John Rose Eye
House, New Devi Tandoori, Ravens
Care, JPY Ltd, Open Energy Market
Ait, Sun Hotel Ltd, Warren House
Best Business for Marketing and
Independent Retailer of the Year
Social Media:
(sponsored by Kingstonfirst):
Cornucopia Events, Figment
Banquet Records, Ex Cellar,
Agency, Kingston Pound
Horrocks and Boyd, The Repair
Community Association, Ravens
Station, Your Art to Canvas
Ait, Rose Theatre Kingston
18
As well as a glittering evening celebrating the best business achievements in the borough the event, the event, now in its third year, has also proved to be a great networking opportunity. Individual tickets are on sale for £85 plus VAT. A standard table of ten is £795 plus VAT, while a premier table with a prime position plus two bottles of champagne is £995 plus VAT. You can follow the awards via Twitter @kingstonawards or via the website www.kingstonawards.co.uk
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19
{ NEWS }
NATIONAL NEWS IN A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN Southampton Football Club has been shortlisted among 18 award categories for the UKTI Growth Business of the Year. During the 2015 Lloyds Bank National Business Awards Southampton Football Club will compete against other finalists, with the winner being revealed at the Lloyds Bank National Business Awards gala dinner, held on 10th November at Park Lane’s Grosvenor House Hotel in London. Gareth Rogers, Chief Executive Officer of the club said: “We have made some bold decisions but these have been based on our values and our on going aim to create a sustainable business model. As a football club we do not operate in the same way many businesses do; fundamentally profit isn’t the marker of our success. We measure our growth on the pitch, in our values, in the perception of the club amongst our supporters and in our commercial streams. As a result, we’re delighted that Southampton Football Club stands alongside some prestigious and powerful companies for the UKTI Growth Business of the Year.” The club has been nominated following substantial evidence of growth across its business, including in its finances, innovation, customer service, staff engagement, leadership and ethics. An all encompassing range of industries are represented in the shortlists for this year’s awards, with companies from recruitment and children’s clothing, to pet food and online marketing being selected for the chance to win a coveted Lloyds Bank National Business Award. The scale of the finalists is just as varied, with companies turning over less than a million pounds to over £25 million, employing 20 people or over 70,000 people. They will now prepare for live presentations to expert judges who will decide the overall winners that will be revealed at the awards ceremony.
GOOD IKEA
NO EXCUSES
Swedish f i r m Ikea will become the first national retailer in the UK to pay staff above the government’s new National Living Wage from next year. Ikea, known for its flat-pack, selfassembly items, said it would pay all its 9,000 UK workers at least £7.85 an hour from April 2016. The rate for employees in London will be £9.15 an hour. Chancellor George Osborne announced a new compulsory living wage of £7.20 an hour in the Budget earlier this month. He said that employers must pay at least that much to workers aged 25 and over from April, with the rate rising to more than £9 an hour by 2020. The existing minimum wage for those over 21 is £6.50 an hour. Ikea said it would instead pay all its UK workers - including those under 25 - the rate set annually by the Living Wage Foundation, making it the first national retailer to do so. Rhys Moore, director of the Living Wage Foundation, said: “This is a huge step for the British retail sector and we hope that many other businesses will follow the leadership IKEA is showing on the issue of basic pay.” Ikea is the UK’s biggest furniture retailer with 18 stores and plans to open more in Sheffield, Reading, Exeter and Greenwich in southeast London.
The government has announced the role of a Small Business Commissioner, tasked to deal with late payments for SMEs. This person will address the key issues facing small businesses; the unfair power balance from which big firms benefit and the lack of advice that small businesses have access to. Many businesses have suffered from the strains that come with late payment, and with nearly half of small businesses owners nervous about borrowing; this continues to be an issue. David Vine, MD of ‘Concur’ says: “A crackdown on late payments is most definitely overdue. This is a battle many small businesses have had to fight on their own for too long. Cash flow can make or break a business, particularly in those crucial early days of growth – so without timely receipt of payment, they’re simply unable to plan, invest and develop. SMEs are the backbone of the UK economy so it is only right that the issue is addressed.” Now the first few steps have been taken, and once the small business commissioner is appointed, it will then be about building on that momentum to show SMEs they have a government that will truly support them. Giving small businesses greater confidence and a stronger voice to demand prompt payment will see more SMEs surviving tough times and encourage growth.
“The ones who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones that do.” 20
{ NEWS }
“It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation”
EARTH 2.WOAH! Nasa’s science chief John Grunsfeld called the new world, Kelper452b, the “closest so far” to Earth. It is around 1,400 light years away from Earth and orbits at a very similar distance from its star, though its radius is 60% larger. The new world joins other exoplanets such as Kepler-186f that are similar in many ways to Earth. Kepler-186f, announced in 2014, is smaller than the new planet, but orbits a red dwarf star that is significantly cooler than our own. Kepler-452b, however, orbits a parent star, which belongs to the same class as the Sun: it is 4% bigger and 10% brighter and takes 385 days to complete a full circuit of this star, so its orbital period is 5% longer than Earth’s. The mass of Kepler-452b cannot be measured yet, so astronomers have to rely on models to estimate a range of possible masses, with the most likely being five times that of Earth. If it is rocky, the world would likely still have active volcanism and its gravity would be roughly twice that on our own planet. The new world is included in a haul of 500 new possible planets sighted by the Kepler space telescope around distant stars. “If Kepler-452b is indeed a rocky planet, its location vis-a-vis its star could mean that it is just entering a runaway greenhouse phase of its climate history,” explained Dr Doug Caldwell, a Seti Institute scientist working on the Kepler mission. “The increasing energy from its ageing sun might be heating the surface and evaporating any oceans. The water vapour would be lost from the planet forever. Kepler-452b could be experiencing now what the Earth will undergo more than a billion years from now, as the Sun ages and grows brighter.” Platinum Business Magazine has started distribution.
AVOFF Avon’s performance has been deteriorating over the past few years. The company was last seen as profitable in 2011. In 2014, sales declined by 11% to $8.9 billion. This was due to a grim economic environment, especially in the Latin American region (which accounts for over 50% of Avon’s revenues) and North America (which accounts for more than 10% of its revenues). The company underwent major management restructuring and experienced a significant attrition of its representative base. Further, in Spring 2015, Avon’s sales declined by 18% to $1.8 billion. Avon’s return to its shareholders in 2014 was -44% and was -27% up until June of this year. Avon’s persistent poor performance and eroding representative base has made it necessary for the company to take drastic initiatives. In some attempt to rectify the significant loss Avon Products announced the divestiture of its UK-based standalone skincare brand, Liz Earle. Avon acquired Liz Earle in March 2010 and managed it as a standalone business. Liz Earle contributed 1% to the company’s consolidated revenues and adjusted operating profit in 2014. Liz Earle was acquired for £140 million, cash, by Walgreens health and wellness enterprise. Avon will use the proceeds from the transaction for the redemption of its $250 million worth 2.375% notes that are due in March 2016.
WHAT DO EU THINK OBAMA? Obama has said that the UK’s EU membership “gives us much greater confidence about the strength of the transatlantic union, the EU made the world safer and more prosperous”. He also admitted that the failure to pass ‘common sense gun safety laws’ in the US was his biggest frustration. Mr Obama said the UK was America’s ‘best partner’ because of its willingness to project power beyond its “immediate self-interests to make this a more orderly, safer world”. He said British Prime Minister David Cameron had been an outstanding partner and congratulated his government for meeting the Nato target of spending 2% of GDP on defence. With just 18 months left in power, he said the area he has been ‘most frustrated and most stymied’ in was gun control ‘even in the face of repeated mass killings’. “If you look at the number of Americans killed since 9/11 by terrorism, it’s less than 100. If you look at the number that have been killed by gun violence, it’s in the tens of thousands,” Mr Obama said. “For us not to be able to resolve that issue has been something that is distressing,” he added.
21
{ NEWS }
NATIONAL NEWS UPS AND DOWNS The average advertised salary drops to £33,696 in June, which is down 0.9% from £34,002 in May, reaching an 11-month low. The number of advertised vacancies hits post-recession high at 1,092,030 in June, up 3.2% from May, but this growth is driven by an increase in lower-paid positions. The five most difficult places to get a job in the UK at the moment are in the North East of England, and it appears a fault line is opening in competition for jobs between the North and the South. Thankfully the National Living Wage (NLW) is set to impact one in 10 new workers across the UK, these workers being everyday heroes such as 15,000 new Healthcare & Nursing employees and 9,800 new Education professionals, both will see job roles advertised with a higher salary.
LOSING OUT
The recent EHRC survey of 3,200 women stated that one in nine mothers have suffered acts of pregnancy or maternity related discrimination in the workplace. In light of the survey, it suggests that as many as 54,000 new mothers risk losing their jobs each year. Leading expert and founder of Parental Choice Sarah-Jane Butler comments, “Despite all the huge strides that women have made since Emily Pankhurst, thousands of women each year still face discrimination in the workplace due to being pregnant or being a mother. The harassment, unfair treatment and negative attitudes that new mothers face is not only damaging to them but also immensely short sighted of the companies they work for. The loss of talent and experience only costs companies more in the long run and throws our so-called progressive society backwards. It is no wonder that fathers aren’t taking up shared parental leave when they see their partners suffering so badly at their hands of their employers.”
WHAT A RIP OFF Businesses are being rolled over and locked into energy contracts without their permission. Ivan McKeever, CEO of Sw i t c h M y B u s i n e s s . com, which carried out the study says “Smaller to mediumsized businesses are in a uniquely challenging position: the business energy market lacks the transparency that consumers now have and smaller businesses do not have the resources to liaise with lots of suppliers and negotiate a good deal.” 18.4% of businesses have been automatically rolled over onto a new contract without their permission and a further 16% of SMEs don’t know whether they have been a victim of auto-renewal. The study comes in the wake of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) report, which found that UK SMEs are unnecessarily losing £500 million a year on energy. While some energy suppliers have made steps towards making the business energy market fairer, the practice of ‘auto-renewal’ – where businesses are ‘locked in’ to another fixed-term contract without their express permission – continues.
“The difference between who you are and who you want to be is what you do.” 22
{ NEWS }
“If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.”
THE UK’S PASSIONPRENEURS!
ATTRACTIVE BRITAIN The UK welcomed record numbers of tourists in 2014, with 34.4 million people visiting our shores, spending a record £21.8 billion in destinations across the country. The Prime Minister recently announced the Government’s new 5 point plan to boost tourism in every region of the UK spreading the benefits of one of our fastest growing sectors beyond the capital. A new interministerial group will be formed to co-ordinate and align action across Government to ensure that we have the right infrastructure in place to make it easy for visitors to discover the best of what this country has to offer. The group, headed by the Culture Secretary John Whittingdale, and including ministers from across government, including the Department for Communities and Local Government, BIS, DEFRA, Home Office, and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, will focus on five key areas: A better co-ordinated sector: they want to see local attractions and tourism organisations collaborating to grow the sector for everyone not competing. Skills and jobs: Driving and retaining talent in the sector to encourage growth. Common sense regulation: Reforming regulation sensibly to drive competition and improve the tourism offer for visitors. Transport: Forging innovative links between the transport and tourism sectors to help visitors travel outside of the capital. Finally, An improved welcome: Delivering a world class welcome at the Border. The Prime Minister David Cameron said: “Millions of overseas tourists visit the UK every year and most take in the sights of London. But Britain has so much more to offer, from the Cornish Riviera to the Scottish Highlands and everything in between.”
A new survey has revealed that 80% of British workers would give up their day job to start a new business linked to a hobby or a passion of theirs if money was no object. Nearly half (49%) have little to no interest in their current career. The survey revealed that the age of 45 is the age 56% of us lose the love of our jobs. A new hobby inspires a fifth of us to become entrepreneurs with our passions in mind. For women, running a business linked to a passion for food and drink (26%) is the most common dream whereas for men, it’s their passion for outdoors activity and sport (30%). The research shows that aspiring ‘Passionprenuers’ are most likely to be between the ages of 1824 years (60%). In fact, 31% within this age group are 5-9’ers – people creating a new business idea outside of working hours. Geographically, London is the top city for aspiring passionpreneurs. 47% of residents are making money from a hobby already, are setting up a business idea or attending an evening course linked to their hobby, with the long-term view of setting up a business.
CROWDFUNDING PROFIT
No business that has raised money via a UK based equity crowd-funding platform has yet been able to offer its investors a profitable exit. Until now that is. E-Car Club has just won the race to do exactly that. The business, which hires out electric cars on a pay-as-you-go basis, raised £100,000 for investors on the Crowdcube platform in 2013. And now it’s been bought by Europcar, the car hire company that operates throughout Europe and beyond. E-Car Club and Europcar aren’t saying exactly what the deal is worth but they describe the exit terms offered to the 63 investors who put up that £100,000 two years ago as representing a ‘multiple return’. Most of those investors will not have expected to be able to walk away from their investment with a profit so quickly, but the emergence of a suitor in the form of Europcar has accelerated the exit process dramatically. E-Car Club’s sale therefore represents a breakthrough moment. Until now, British equity crowd-funding platforms have had to talk purely theoretically about the potential for investors to make money. Now they have a real-life case study to tell the world about.
23
SUPERWOMAN
By Maarten Hoffmann
“In Angela Merkel, the world has just witnessed the unmistakable return of Germany as the dominant power of Europe� 24
A
ngela Merkel is one of the few people to have migrated to East Germany from West Germany – a path rarely trodden in the rush of humanity trying to go the
{THE BIG STORY } of the vote and formed a second grand coalition with the SPD after the FDP lost all of its representation in the Bundestag.
other way. This move was prompted by her
In
2007,
Merkel
father’s religion: born Catholic, he converted
was President of the European
to Lutheranism and received a pastorate at
Council and chaired the G8, the
a church in Quitzow, which was then in East
second woman (after Margaret
Germany.
Thatcher) to do so. She played
Thus began the rise of a lady who is generally
a central role in the negotiation
recognised as the most powerful woman in the
of the Treaty of Lisbon and
world and the de facto leader of Europe. Merkel
the Berlin Declaration. One
is a riddle wrapped in a conundrum, having been
of her priorities was also
brought up in the East and formerly a member of
to
the Free German Youth (FDJ), a youth movement
economic
that was sponsored by the ruling Socialist Unity
signing
Party. Later, at the Academy of Sciences, she
the Transatlantic
became a member of the FDJ district board and
Council on 30 April, 2007.
Secretary for ‘Agitprop’, dealing with Agitation
Merkel is seen as playing
and Propaganda. Merkel claimed she was
a crucial role in managing
Secretary for Culture, and when Merkel’s ex-
the financial crisis at the
boss in the department contradicted her, she
European
insisted that “according to my memory, l was
levels, and has been referred to
Secretary for Culture. But what do l know? I
as “the decider.”
strengthen the
transatlantic
relations
by
agreement
for
and
Economic
international
believe l won’t know anything when l am 80.”
Merkel advocated a strong
The trouble was, she was not 80, and one might
transatlantic partnership and
therefore reasonably expect her to recall her
German-American friendship.
title. This is the woman who went on to rule over
In the spring of 2003, defying strong public
the largest exercise is democracy in a lifetime –
opposition, Merkel came out in favour of
the European Union. Hence the riddle.
the U.S. invasion of Iraq, describing it as
Merkel’s rise was predicted at a very young
“unavoidable” and accusing Chancellor Gerhard
age. At school, she learned to speak Russian
Schröder of anti-Americanism. She criticised
fluently and was awarded prizes for her
the government’s support for the accession of
proficiency in Russian and mathematics. At the University of Leipzig she studied physics from 1973 to 1978, earning a doctorate as a physical chemist for her thesis on quantum chemistry, after which she worked as a researcher and published several papers. Merkel entered politics in the wake of the Revolutions of 1989, briefly serving as the Deputy Spokesperson for the first democratically
Turkey to the European Union and favoured a “privileged partnership” instead. In doing so, she reflected public opinion that grew more hostile toward Turkish membership of the European Union. Full Turkish membership would place the entire union in the hands of a country with 74 million Muslims, who would carry an enormous voting bloc, and this has long been deemed unacceptable.
In October 2010, Merkel told a meeting of younger members of her CDU party at Potsdam that attempts to build a multicultural society in Germany had “utterly failed”, stating: “The concept that we are now living side by side and are happy about it does not work and we feel attached to the Christian concept of mankind; that is what defines us. Anyone who doesn’t accept that is in the wrong place here.” She continued to say that immigrants should integrate and adopt Germany’s culture and values. This has added to a growing debate within Germany on the levels of immigration, its effect on Germany and the degree to which Muslim
immigrants
have
integrated
into
German society.
elected East German Government in 1990.
The current appalling debacle we see on the
Following the German reunification of that year,
streets of Calais, protested over by utterly inept
she was elected to the Bundestag for StralsundNordvorpommern-Rügen, a seat she has held ever since. Following the 2005 federal election, she was appointed Germany’s first female Chancellor at the head of a grand coalition consisting of her own CDU party, its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), and the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD). In the 2009 federal election, the CDU obtained the largest share of the vote, and Merkel was able to form a coalition government with the support of the CSU and the Free Democratic Party (FDP). At the 2013 federal election, Merkel led the CDU/CSU to a landslide victory with 41.5%
“During the long night of negotiations over Greece on July 12-13, something fundamental to the European Union cracked”
British and French Governments, hinges on the refusal of Britain to take any more immigrants, ignoring the fact that Germany has taken in over 400,000 since 2012. Over the same period, the UK has taken in only 103,000. On 25 September, 2007, Merkel met the 14th Dalai Lama for private and informal talks in the Chancellery in Berlin amid protests from China. China afterwards cancelled separate talks with German officials, including talks with Justice Minister Brigitte Zypries. Unlike many world leaders, she did not buckle and stuck to her guns. One of Merkel’s priorities was strengthening transatlantic economic relations: she signed
25
accusation: “This is like the Stasi.” And she
the agreement for the Transatlantic Economic Council on 30 April, 2007 at the White House. The Council, co-chaired by an EU and a US official, aims at removing barriers to trade in a further integrated transatlantic free-trade area. This project has been described as ultra-liberal by the French left-wing politician Jean-Luc Mélenchon, who fears a transfer of sovereignty from citizens to multinationals and an alignment of the European Union on American foreign policy and institutions. Der Spiegel reported that tensions between Chancellor Merkel and US President Barack Obama eased during a meeting between the two leaders in June 2009. Commenting on a
“I understand why Putin has to do this — to prove he’s a man. He’s afraid of his own weakness. Russia has nothing, no successful politics or economy. All they have is this.”
would know! The newspaper also reported that Merkel was particularly angry because, based on the disclosures, “the NSA clearly couldn’t be trusted with private information, because they let Snowden clean them out.” Rather
than
resorting
to
a
European
response, Merkel pursued a bilateral pact with the Americans aimed at curbing NSA activities and insisting on a “no-spying pact” between allies. Obama refused but agreed to desist from monitoring Merkel personally. It is alleged that she went into secret meetings with selected heads of European countries to devise technology that would defend against
White House press conference held after the
US snooping aggression. This is phenomenally
meeting, Der Spiegel stated, “Of course the
difficult as the US is the leading player in the
rather more reserved Chancellor couldn’t really keep up with the Obama charm offensive, but to reciprocate for Obama’s ‘good natured’ diplomacy, she gave it a go by mentioning the
for decades. In an angry exchange with Barack Obama, Angela Merkel compared the snooping practices of the US with those of the Stasi, the
sector and it marks the first time that Germany recognised US aggression since 1944. Russia’s stance has always comprised a mixture of fascination and trepidation for Merkel.
experiences of Obama’s sister in Heidelberg,
ubiquitous and all-powerful secret police of the
making it clear that she had read his
Communist dictatorship in East Germany, where
Soviet history in an attempt to understand what
autobiography.”
she grew up. The German Chancellor also told
makes them tick. After all, if Europe is to stand
soured
the US President that the NSA cannot be trusted
up in its own right on the international stage and
dramatically when the leaks from whistle-
because of the volume of material it had allowed
rebuff America’s crass attempts to spy-then-
blower
that
to leak. Livid after learning that the Americans
placate, Russia would be the obvious partner.
America’s National Security Agency had been
were listening in on her personal mobile phone,
Alas, this plan was doomed after the Ukraine
spying on Germany, and on Merkel personally,
Merkel furiously confronted Obama with the
invasion and Putin’s ostracisation from Planet
Relations
26
between
Edward
the
Snowdon
two
revealed
Not only fluent in Russian, she has studied
Proof that Merkel speaks fluent English
Earth. Nevertheless, Merkel is very good at the long game and is now seen as the go-between for isolated Russia and the West. Meeting Putin for talks at the Kremlin, she stressed the importance of finding a diplomatic solution. “It’s necessary for us to work, to cooperate, including over complicated situations - the way the situation is now - and try to find diplomatic solutions,” she said at the start of the talks. Political analyst Lilia Shevtsova said the meeting between the two leaders was highly symbolic. “They are hardly happy to see each other,” the prominent pro-Western analyst wrote on Facebook. “He is trying to retain his seat at the table by turning to the shadows of the past and other people’s glory. But she has not accepted his rules of the game.” He has shrugged off Merkel’s gesture and instead played up ties with Asia, Latin America
and the dog is a famous one. It was 2007 and
“Angela Merkel compared the snooping practices of the US with those of the Stasi, the ubiquitous and allpowerful secret police of the communist dictatorship in East Germany, where she grew up.”
Merkel was visiting Putin at his presidential residence in Sochi to discuss energy trade. Putin, surely aware of Merkel’s well-known fear of dogs, waited until the press gathered in the room, then called for his black Labrador to be sent in. The Russian president watched in unconcealed glee as the dog sniffed at Merkel, who sat frozen in fear. Later, in discussing the incident with a group of reporters, Merkel attempted an explanation of Putin’s behaviour. Her quote, reported in George Packer’s December 2014 profile of Merkel in the New Yorker, is one of the most pithily succinct insights into Putin and the psychology of his 14year reign that I have read: “I understand why he has to do this — to prove he’s a man,” Merkel said. “He’s afraid of his own weakness. Russia has nothing, no successful politics or economy. All they have is this.”
and Africa. “Everyone we wanted to see was
Merkel is not the first person to suggest
here,” he said in televised remarks. He then
that Putin’s machismo — everything from his
immediately hosted 91-year-old Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, who praised him for standing up to Washington and noted that their two countries had been slapped with sanctions. “That is the reason why we should remain together,” Mugabe said. When the Zimbabwean Butcher is the only person who will talk to you,
you know there is a problem. Putin is rumoured to be a raging misogynist, and having to deal with Merkel must rankle. This was demonstrated for the entire world to see in 2007. The incident of Vladimir Putin, Angela Merkel
harassment of fellow heads of state to his shirtless photos and his invasion of Ukraine are shows of strength meant to mask feelings of weakness. But she has put her finger on this phenomenon with remarkable bluntness. Her female instincts kick in and are right on the money.
27
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{ THE BIG STORY } feminists. And although her gender undoubtedly affected her career, Merkel very rarely talks about it. Her party has by far the smallest percentage of female members of parliament, even if their leadership and cabinet appear otherwise; she has always worked in maledominated environments. Her path to power has been more a marathon than a sprint, and one during which her ability was frequently doubted.
“Yet all this closeness has apparently made her respect Putin less, not more.”
Her political record on women’s issues is lacking, and many feel she has done too little to promote gender equality. Unresolved issues include equal pay, women’s career prospects and women on boards. Particularly troubling is that Germany has one of the highest gender pay gaps in Europe. This failure was recently criticised by the Social Democrats (SPD). Unlike Merkel, they call for the implementation of a minimum wage as a step towards correcting gender pay inequality. They also support women in higher positions by backing a 40% quota for She has an especially close relationship with Putin (this incident notwithstanding) and unusual insight into how Putin’s Russia works. Among Western leaders, her relationship with Putin is almost certainly the closest and most important. Yet all this closeness has apparently made her respect Putin less, not more. It is also dangerous, tempting the nuclear-armed and legitimately formidable Russian military into
the women’s vote for her party, compared to 39% of German men. This goes against global trends, where women have begun to lean more towards the left of the political spectrum. But despite her success in the election, only 28% are happy with Merkel’s ‘Frauenpolitik’ and more than half of German women believe that a lot more needs to be done before gender equality is achieved.
women on boards, which Merkel delayed until
Dealing with prejudice throughout her career,
2020. But their criticisms were blunted by
Merkel has been reluctant to emphasise her
questions about the number of women in the
femininity. Years ago, as leader of the opposition
SPD leadership, which does not showcase the
during Gerhardt Schroeder’s chancellorship,
same gender diversity as the top ranks of the
‘Die Merkel’ made a conscious effort to run a
CDU.
gender-neutral campaign and would not have
This brings us to the deeper problem: issues
dared to tackle women’s issues for fear of
of gender remain largely unrecognised and
being labelled and restricted to those issues
unaddressed in German political discourse.
– a common fear among female politicians.
Neither party was willing to address issues
But unlike male leaders in the past, she has
a war in Europe. But at least Merkel, who is in
in gendered terms in their recent national
accidentally been bestowed with the ‘burden of
many ways the pivot point between Russia and
campaigns. The failure of German politics to
representation’, which makes her failure to act
the West, understands what she is up against.
address women’s issues is further highlighted
on behalf of women more visible.
And here is a point that cannot go
by the worrying fact that 46% of women don’t
Her dress style makes a firm statement that
unrecognised. Love her or hate her, Margaret
look to the government for help on women’s
she will not be judged by her gender. A vast
Thatcher was a force to be reckoned with
issues. Merkel managed to secure 44% of
array of trouser suits ensures that little
and stood up to hectoring bullies and maledominated military aggression. If Merkel is to be the confidante of both Obama and Putin, there is an obvious gender connection here. Do women make better politicians than men? Both ladies were female scientists who became the first women to lead a maledominated Conservative Party, and the first women to lead their countries. But their leadership styles could not be more different. Where Thatcher ruled with an iron fist, Merkel prefers discussion, deliberation and consensus. Her nickname, ‘Mutti’ (‘mummy’), is a far cry from the ‘Iron Lady’. Her leadership style – prudent, democratic, and modest – has proven to be hugely successful. She exemplifies a different type of leadership, one that many other women, regardless of political affiliation, can relate to. A survey in August 2013 showed that a third of German women now consider her a role model. Yet there is a significant similarity: neither Thatcher nor Merkel consider themselves
29
{ THE BIG STORY } her banks to open, to stay in the Eurozone.
comment, whether bitchy or complimentary, can be levied. Needless to say, the perennial
It was an exercise in power politics. Greece
“Germany remains under a shared roof, but it is a German roof that extends over Europe, not the other way around.”
Queen of the May, Karl Lagerfeld, couldn’t help himself when he whined: “Bad proportions, too long pants, too tight jackets. She has scarcely any time to come to Paris, and when she is in Paris to visit President Holland she is very busy.” Not going to Paris to shop is his benchmark for judging women, which about says it all! But with fashion not coming to her as naturally as economics, Merkel has got her formula and she’s sticking with it. Her signature
was the immediate object of the exercise, but Angela Merkel was giving a lesson in fiscal discipline to all the other debtor nations of Europe – including France. Germany’s first postwar Chancellor, Konrad Adenauer, famously declared: “German problems can only be solved under a European roof.” This was the concept guiding the creation of the European Union – Germany took the initiative to extend the roof to pool its power with that of
look comprises three-button blazers, often
its neighbours in a revolutionary experiment in
from German designer Bettina Schoenbach, in
surrendering sovereignty. But Europe’s debt
a huge range of colours. Dutch graphic designer
crisis has revealed a change. Germany remains
Noortje van Eekelen even created a personal Pantone chart that runs to an impressive 90 shades. That’s one for every situation Europe’s most powerful woman might find herself in. In Angela Merkel, the world has just witnessed the unmistakable return of Germany as the dominant power of Europe. After decades of deliberately constraining its power, Germany has snapped its restraints. Instead of aligning itself to the collective interest of a unified Europe, Germany has asserted its own interests. At the extreme, there have been hysterical comparisons with Germany’s Nazi
past. But even moderate and responsible Germans have marked this episode as a turning point in the history of their country: “During the long night of negotiations over Greece on July 12-13, something fundamental to
the
European
Union
cracked,”
wrote
Germany’s former Foreign Affairs Minister, Joschka Fischer. What changed, he said, was “the Germany that Europeans have known since the end of World War Two”. The German Chancellor put Germany’s demands ahead of those of its European partners.
She
extends over Europe, not the other way around. This newfound German assertiveness has been called the “return of the German problem” and “the return of the ugly German”. Most dramatically, German newspaper Süddeutsche carried a piece about Merkel, under the headline: “Europe’s new enemy”. There has been talk of a “fourth Reich” or fourth empire. As Heather Conley of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies puts it, the crisis over Greece is answering the post-World War Two question: “Will Europe develop in France’s image, financially underwritten by the
overruled her core
Germans? Or will Europe follow German rules,
partner,
in
financed and policed by Germany?” The answer
co-management
now emerging is: “Europe will be shaped by
the of
France,
Europe
the
majority
EU
and of
Germany (with occasional French intervention).” Where’s Great Britain in all this?
governments.
Amid the anger and the angst over Greece
Formally, Greece has
and the European “periphery”, three central
been negotiating its
developments have been largely overlooked.
national
solvency
One is that Germany showed considerable
with
so-called
patience with Greece and Europe’s other debtor
“troika” of institutions
states. This is not the first time Germany has
– the EU, the European
rescued Greece from its own fecklessness.
the
Central Bank and the
As one commentator summarised it in
IMF. But, in reality, the
fewer than 140 characters: “Five years, four
nub of the negotiation
governments, three bail-outs ... and no basic
came
reforms on Greece’s part.”
down
to
Greece pleading with
A German leader today is a democrat, not
Germany, the weakest
a Nazi dictator, and has to operate within
debtor pleading with
democratic constraints. The German public
the strongest creditor.
had reached its limit. The final German offer
And
to Greece had the support of 57 per cent of
Merkel
submitting. laid
down
tough demands for
30
under a shared roof, but it is a German roof that
Germans – another 22 per cent wanted Berlin to go harder still.
Greece’s government
Second is that the Eurozone, and the EU
to raise her taxes,
itself, would have splintered years ago if not
cut her spending and
for Merkel’s determination and Germany’s
repay her debts. If she
strength. Remember all the headlines and
agreed,
would
confident prognostications that the EU couldn’t
receive enough new
stand, that it must shatter under the force of the
loans to allow her to
crisis? This was the orthodoxy. There was no
stay solvent, to keep
inevitability that the EU would endure.
she
Merkel’s Germany has held it together. Third is that there is a world beyond Europe. And it’s not all benign. Vladimir Putin’s angry Russian bear is real, and it’s increasingly aggressive. Who will stand up to it? Among the major European powers, it has so far been Merkel’s Germany that has shown the
dominated the planet of 2.3 billion people. They easily conquered every country in Europe, with one hand tied behind their back, and went on to take over the world. Only the horrific Russian winter and America finally waking up stalled their progress. This was a remarkable feat of efficiency.
firmest resolve to resist Russia. While the US under Obama dithers over what she is prepared to defend and what she will resist, Merkel’s Germany has been putting the spine into Europe. Economically
and
strategically,
German
power is revealing itself to be the solid core of the Western world. And that’s not all bad news. If we can forgive the barbaric transgressions of their forefathers, Germany could and should be our closest ally. That so-called ‘special relationship’ we have with America is so much tosh and nonsense. It’s all one-way, and to be frank, they couldn’t give a hoot for our thoughts.
“If we can forgive the barbaric transgressions of their forefathers, Germany could and should be our closest ally.”
I have a vague, passing interest in cars and therein lies an excellent example. Germanbuilt automobiles stand absolutely head and shoulders above the motoring crowd and have done for the past 30 years. They do not produce the finest machinery the world has ever seen with slave labour or smoke and mirrors. They work bloody hard, have the finest technical expertise, derived from an exceptional education and iron discipline, and earn a damn good crust from it. If you can suspend your bemusement at the following example, l think it might emphasise the point. In 1939, this small country comprised 67 million citizens. They followed a deranged maniac, admittedly, but in their devotion and discipline they took to conflict and totally
The difference here is about 70 years and a woman. Mrs Merkel is unlikely to go to war or invade Poland, no matter what Basil Fawlty thinks. Here might be the opportunity for the UK to partner with a country to which we have been inextricably bound throughout history, devoid of aggression and masters of their universe. Angela Merkel leads a people of determination and hard graft, and as we adopted our own royal family from their fair shores, perhaps we should be realising that allowing Germany to partner with the economic minnow that is France is lunacy. They will only ever be a subservient infant, and perhaps we should step forth and occupy our rightful place
by their side. But perhaps this is only possible once we have another female leader in Britain. We are likely to be pipped to the post by the Americans yet again if Hilary Clinton achieves her dreams and occupies the White House. It is, perhaps, a measure of just how powerful she has become that Angela Merkel now appears to be influencing youth slang. The compilers of Germany’s most popular dictionary say that the verb “merkeln” is on track to become the most popular “youth word” of the year. Media strategists surrounding the Chancellor who may have fleetingly thought they could seize on the opportunity to encourage more young people to support the German Chancellor will, however, have been quickly disappointed. The word is none-too flattering, meaning being indecisive, or failing to have an opinion on something – behaviour that Germans often attribute to Merkel. And this is an issue that dogs most highly competent world leaders. The more they play on the international stage, the more support they lose at home. She has had tough decisions to make and they will never please everyone, but there is one inescapable truth: Frau Angela Dorothea Merkel has taken Germany from a country that was ashamed of its past, content to live in the shadows of the world stage to being one of the biggest players on the planet, the leading state in Europe, one of the wealthiest and most productive countries around and the psychological counsellor of Messrs. Putin and Obama. It might take a while, but Merkel will one day be recognised as one of the most influential women the world has ever seen.
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{ INVESTMENTS }
CHINA CRISIS? WHAT CRISIS?
By Andy Merricks Head of Investments of Skerritts Wealth Management www.skerritts.co.uk
CHINESE WHISPERS (LOUD ONES) It’s fascinating in the investment world how quickly we move on from one major worry to the next. It seems a short time ago that Greece was on everyone’s mind, yet now that an agreement has been reached (however temporary – we will return to this) this has been put to the back of the collective mind and been replaced by China. The most common question we get at present is “but what about China?” The recent Chinese stock market crash (correction, pull back, call it what you will) has been well publicised over here, appearing as a feature on numerous news reports. It reminds me of my late Dad, who always used to phone when news headlines shouted about Billions Being Wiped Off Stocks. “You never call me about the Billions Being Wiped ON Stocks headlines, do you, Dad?” I grumbled. “I don’t know what you’re talking about son,” he’d say. “I’ve never seen those headlines.”
32
“Exactly, Dad. Exactly.” In a similar way, most people in the UK are unaware that the Chinese “A” Share market rose by over 100% before it gave back its 30% in the “crash”. As usual, most private investors waited too long before joining the party as the market was rising and suffered burnt fingers as the bubble burst, but it has raised awareness about China and its effect on the global economy. So how worried should we be by a Chinese slow down? Possibly, not as much as we fear. JUST IMAGINE THAT CHINA DOES NOT EXIST Hear us out on this one! We’re going to lean heavily upon a research note published by BCA Research for the following comments, but it makes for an interesting perspective. The perception we have in the West is that China is now a global powerhouse and is somehow ever more central to the global economic wherewithal than is perhaps
comfortable. Its influence is undeniable, and one would be a fool to argue otherwise, but is it as influential as we think? Comparing the Greek stock market and the Chinese stock market is like comparing Manchester United to Accrington Stanley in terms of size. China has a market cap of some $5.9 trillion, whereas the Greek stock market is smaller in terms of value than Expedia.com. Yet the influences of each may be misinterpreted. There is an argument that says that the Greek crisis is less about Greece itself and more about the wider entity that is the European Union and the single currency. What happens with Greece could be the canary in the coalmine when and if other peripheral European states enter a similar crisis. On a global scale, what happens in Europe is potentially far more damaging than a Chinese slowdown. So this is where we ask you to suspend real life for a while. Imagine that China did not exist.
{ INVESTMENTS }
“China has a market cap of some $5.9 trillion, whereas the Greek stock market is smaller in terms of value than Expedia.com. Yet the influences of each may be misinterpreted”
As BCA state, “One’s first reaction may be to say that growth would collapse as exports to China evaporate. But that is looking at only one half of the equation. If China disappeared, everything that China now exports would have to be produced elsewhere. Since China exports more than it imports, over the long haul, that could mean more employment in the rest of the world.” Much depends upon whether your country is a consumer or a supplier. The popular view is that China is the seat of global manufacturing and that it has been quite clever in lending the US the money (by buying Treasuries – the US equivalent of gilts - and thus the vehicles by which governments borrow money) to buy Chinese goods, thus boosting the Chinese economy. However, there is also the perception that China has been hoovering up the world’s commodities in order to urbanise its population and is thus the world’s major importer as well. How often do we hear of companies hoping to open the door to sell to China? In reality, Chinese “true” exports are not as great as we may think. A large share of Chinese imports is only intermediary as they go towards making something that is exported again. For example, China only adds about 4% value to an iPhone, even though there is a Made in China sticker on the back. Who would a slowing Chinese economy affect most? Not the USA, whose exports to China only account for 0.7% of their GDP. Britain, France, Italy and Spain would be similarly only slightly hit as we all sit around the 1% of GDP figure. Germany would
hurt more, with a 2.6% figure, but it is the rest of Asia and the commodity-producing countries such as South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, Brazil, Australia and Chile that would bear the brunt of a Chinese deceleration. This is why we maintain our negative stance on Emerging Markets. So, when we’re asked about China, our reply is along the lines of yes, it is a concern, but there are perhaps other things we should worry about more in the short term. INTEREST RATES ON THE RISE? Notwithstanding our comments above on China and its importance in the global economy, we appear to be a lone voice when it comes to interest rate expectations in the US. Everyone now seems to be fairly confident that rates are going to go up (not a lot, as Paul Daniels would say) in September, but we’re not so sure. Certainly, if they did, it wouldn’t be a great surprise to see them come down again fairly quickly, reflecting that the initial rise has been a mistake. Why would you raise rates when you have a potential threat to global growth, such as a Chinese deceleration, and with inflation still hiding, effectively, from view? The US economy is not exactly steaming ahead, and oil and commodity prices remain depressed. We get the sense that interest rates may go up, simply because, well, it’s about time they did. And that would be a dangerous mistake. The same goes for this country. There appears to be absolutely
no reason for a rise, yet one of the MPC actually voted for one at the last meeting. Bizarre. Interest rates staying on hold for longer could see a market rally take place, even though it should perhaps worry more about the reasons behind rates staying where they are, which would, by and large, be negative. No one ever claimed investors’ logic was easy to understand. THEY THINK IT’S ALL OVER… It’s not yet. Anyone who thinks that the Greek crisis is over should have a long sit down. Our view is that the conditions Greece accepted (beyond grudgingly) in July are clearly unsustainable and will be challenged within months. Quite what happens next we don’t know, but life in Greece took a turn for the worse a few weeks ago and history shows us that the people don’t stay quiet for long in such circumstances. Another chapter to the Greek Tragedy is just a few pages away, we fear. These are our views and are for professional use only.
The information contained within this feature is for guidance only and is not a recommendation of any investment or a financial promotion.
Skerritt Consultants, Skerritt House, 23 Coleridge Street, Hove, BN3 5AB. Tel: 01273 204 999.
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CHANGES TO TAX RELIEF ON LET PROPERTY by Martin Neve, Partner at Kreston Reeves www.krestonreeves.com
I
n the Summer Budget 2015 George Osborne announced two major changes to the tax relief available to landlords of residential property. The unexpected restriction of tax relief for mortgage interest was sufficiently tough to see a drop in the share price of some home builders and banks specialising in buy-to-let mortgages. The changes in tax relief available to landlords, which will be introduced from April 2016, are examined here.
34
Reform of tax relief on expenditure on residential let property The first intended reform relates to the tax relief available to landlords of residential property for their expenditure on furniture and furnishings. Landlords have historically been able to claim the “renewals basis” for the replacement of furniture and furnishing, or the “wear and tear allowance,” if the property is let fully furnished.
However, from 6 April, 2013 the renewals basis was withdrawn, which left landlords of unfurnished or partly furnished property unable to claim any tax relief for the replacement of items such as suites, beds, carpets, curtains, linen, crockery or white goods such as cookers, washing machines and dishwashers, and so on. Until the Summer Budget, landlords of furnished property had a distinct advantage in that they could claim the wear and tear
{ TAX}
The new system will not affect tax relief for expenditure on routine repairs to a property, including furniture and furnishings and fittings in it, which will continue, as now, to be taxdeductible in full. Landlords of furnished holiday lettings can continue to claim capital allowances for furniture, furnishings and fittings used in the property. Our advice to landlords of unfurnished or partly furnished property is to delay, where possible, any major expenditure on replacement furniture and furnishings such as white goods, carpets or curtains and so on until the results of the technical consultation are known later this year. It should be borne in mind that any expenditure on replacements between now and 5 April, 2016 will attract no tax relief, whereas such expenditure incurred after 6 April, 2016 could potentially, under the new rules, attract 100% tax relief. Also consider making repairs to furniture or furnishings in need of replacing prior to 5 April, 2016, as repair costs will continue to attract 100% relief.
“The owners of unfurnished and partly furnished properties should benefit from the new system.” allowance, amounting to 10% of rents, even if they did not actually incur any costs in replacing furniture or furnishings. This relief was seen as over-generous by the government and will be abolished from 6 April, 2016. It applies to companies as well as individual landlords. In its place will be a new system that enables landlords of residential property to claim tax relief on costs they actually incur. The government has published a technical consultation which proposes that the new relief mirrors the old “renewals relief,” giving landlords tax relief on the replacement costs of furniture and furnishings from 6 April, 2016. While the new system could result in higher tax bills for landlords of furnished property, the owners of unfurnished and partly furnished properties should benefit from the new system.
Restriction of tax relief on finance costs The second reform relates to finance costs, such as mortgage interest and fees incurred when taking out or repaying mortgages or loans. The reform will limit the tax relief landlords can gain from the interest payments on their buy-to-let mortgages. Currently, landlords can offset the interest costs against their entire income tax bill and receive relief at 20%, 40% and 45%, but from 6 April, 2017 tax relief will gradually be restricted to the basic rate of income tax only. This restriction will apply to individuals (including individual members of partnerships and LLPs) only. The reform will not affect companies, but the position of trusts is not yet clear. The owners of furnished holiday lettings will be unaffected by this change.
To give landlords time to adjust, the measure will be phased in over four years as follows: • In 2017/18 the deduction from rental income will be restricted to 75% of finance costs, with the remaining 25% being available as a 20% basic rate tax reduction; • In 2018/19, 50% of finance costs as a deduction from rents and 50% given as a basic rate tax reduction; • In 2019/20, 25% of finance costs as a deduction from rents and 75% given as a basic rate tax reduction; • From 2020/21, all financing costs incurred by a landlord will be given as a basic rate tax reduction. It will be possible to carry forward any unrelieved interest to future years where the tax reduction has been limited to 20% of the profits of the rental business. Potentially, the restriction of finance costs could significantly reduce the post-tax income a landlord can make from their letting business. Since the change does not affect how companies claim tax relief, one response may be to consider adopting a limited company structure. While the rates of corporation tax are due to fall to 18% by 2020, there are many other factors to take into account before deciding to incorporate a property letting business.
Just a thought... The Rent A Room rules were also changed by the Summer Budget. The annual exemption was increased from £4,250 to £7,500. This is basically an allowance that can be set against the rent received with the balance taxed at the taxpayers marginal rates of tax. No other expenses can be claimed against the rental income, but if Rent A Room applies to you, or could now apply to you in view of the increased exemption, it is clearly worth looking at how these interest relief changes affect you. For further advice on maximising all available reliefs, minimising your tax exposure and on the possibility of incorporating your business, contact Martin Neve at Kreston Reeves for professional advice specific to your own circumstances.
35
Sussex-based Skerritts have won the industry-recognised Citywire New Model Adviser award for the South East for the 5th successive year. The awards were presented by comedian and TV presenter Clive Anderson.
{ MARKETING }
BIG BEACH GOES BACK TO SCHOOL… By Louise Walden Director of Big Beach Marketing
S
o a few weeks ago, just before the school holidays, I found myself back at school. Not the infant or primary kind with very small chairs and cute kids. But the other kind; big building, large library and teenagers… 15 year-olds actually. Scary? I was disconcerted for two reasons; I hadn’t been to a secondary school since I left my own back in 1989, bringing back some (mainly) unwanted memories as I walked through the corridors. Also, young teenagers – why would they want to listen to me? I must seem ancient to them… I was at Worthing High School as part of an initiative about professional writers. Their English teacher had brought together a small group of people who used their writing talents to create a career. She wanted to inspire them and show that if you had a skill for writing, there was a multitude of things you could do. In addition to myself there was a journalist, a blogger and a crime writer, and we had 10 minutes with several groups of 3 or 4 talented young writers. I must admit that I felt both honoured and nervous to be asked, especially as marketing is such a broad subject, and perhaps not as ‘exciting’ as, say, being an author. But I like a
challenge, and I went prepared with a few slides, examples of brochures I’d written, websites where I’d delivered the copy and a cereal box. The kids were great, asked lots of interesting questions and had a good grasp of marketing - which got me thinking. We are constantly surrounded by marketing messages: bus stop posters, intelligent banners, email, direct mail through your door, radio adverts, Facebook adverts, LinkedIn posts… How does a business differentiate itself, not just from the competition, but from the other ‘noise’? You’re not just competing with others in your market for the consumer spend – but for the other ways that consumers (or businesses) could spend their money. And, of course, the answer is not straightforward. Successful marketing puts you in the right place at the right time, that is, at a business event, or with a personal letter or 1st page on Google. But you need more to make that sale…you need the sales team. It seems obvious, but maybe you should check just how co-ordinated your sales activity is with any marketing that you do. You need the perfect ‘pincer’ movement of Sales and Marketing understanding each other, providing support with insight and information, planning
Big Beach Marketing Tel: 01273 434552 Web: www.bigbeach.co.uk together and reviewing the results to improve performance. As part of our role as virtual marketing directors, we try, where possible, to work closely with the sales teams in our client organisations. To seek feedback on the campaigns and copy we provide, but also to gain insight into what gets potential customers interested and sitting forward on their seats when sales people are talking on a day-to-day basis. It’s all well and good being able to write, but being able to write the right thing, for the right audience, is what will hopefully have potential customers reading your emails, your website, your stand graphics and so on. We don’t profess to be Don Draper in Mad Men; advertising is a skill of its own, but we do try to capture what is unique about your business and successfully deliver those benefits to your desired audience. Hopefully, the children took away something positive from the experience I shared, and who knows, perhaps one or two will go on to a career in marketing. For more information on how we write for clients, call us on 01273 434552, or visit www. bigbeach.co.uk.
37
{ INTERVIEW }
TAYLOR MADE AWARDS It’s almost time for nominations to open for the 8th Gatwick Diamond Business Awards. The awards have become the highlight of the business calendar, thanks to the hard work of Jeremy Taylor and his team. Ian Trevett caught up with Jeremy to talk awards and business in the Gatwick Diamond, which straddles Sussex and Surrey (and even a part of Kent).
I
f you have ever attended an event hosted by Jeremy Taylor, Chief Executive of Gatwick Diamond Business, you will most likely have
you give people permission to enjoy being
The 2015 awards were sold well in advance
there, because we’ve all been to far too many
and the attendance of just over 600 was only
dry business events. It creates a relaxed
limited by the space of the venue.
heard his most-used phrase: ‘Maximum glory,
atmosphere, which makes it comfortable for
“The region could probably do with more
minimum work!’ A great sound-byte, but the
people to talk to each other. I was talking to
conference and meeting space to help grow.
success of the awards is most certainly a result
one of last year’s sponsors, who said that our
Effingham Park do a fantastic job for us and the
of maximum, rather than minimum, work.
awards was probably the best event she went
room always looks really, really good.
“We aim to give people glory and do the hard
to last year. What’s great is, in the months
“We’ve obviously got to make sure there’s
work for them”, Jeremy clarifies, although I’m
afterwards, people come up and say, ‘I really
enough space for all the finalists to be there,
sure that wasn’t what he said last time I heard
enjoyed your Business Awards.’
because we want our winners and finalists to be
him on stage.
“We’re in our eighth year of the Gatwick
in the room. It’s about celebrating all of them,
The fact is that when he hosts awards or
Diamond Business Awards and we’re about to
so we keep a proportion of the tickets back for
networking events, you sense there is a bit of
give away our 100th award, so you could say
those who are finalists, but it can be a bit tight
mischief going on, and the tongue is firmly in
this is already our Centenary Year!
on whether we’d get everyone in. But we did.”
cheek. And then there’s his choice of presenters:
“Each year the event gets bigger and bigger
a who’s-who of British comedy. Since Sir Trevor
and the range of businesses is vast. We do
Gather 600 people together, add dinner and
McDonald’s smooth professional stint as host,
know that the awards mean a lot to businesses;
free-flowing wine, it could be a recipe for
the front men have been Tim Vine, Hugh Dennis,
the winners are delighted and the runners-up
chaos and a loss of attention after the first few
Alexander Armstrong and Rory Bremner. This
sometimes find it difficult. But there’s a lot to
awards. However, the awards haven’t suffered
year it is Sanjeev Bhaskar.
learn from taking part as we have a thorough
from the distracting hum of background noise.
feedback process.”
Is it a challenge to keep the crowd onside
“If you put humour into a business situation,
38
{ INTERVIEW }
“I’m working on a way that maybe we can work with schools and join in a school work experience programme. ” throughout the awards?
the people, will you make the party?’ That
“It is a challenge, but one of the best ways
model has carried on for coming up on 25 years
you can do it is a combination of technology and
now. The way we try to represent the business
personality. So you make sure you’ve got the
community, the fact that we have a strong voice
right person at the front of the room who knows
and a strong opinion on many subjects – we got
how to control the room, and then also our AV
that from Brian.”
Partner, Avensys, have invested heavily in their
Jeremy Taylor worked for Cadia in the 1990s
systems to make sure that the sound engages
and returned in 2004. His arrival coincided with
the whole room. Having a round room helps
the launch of the Gatwick Diamond Initiative
because there’s always a good line of sight for
and the establishment of that identity for the
pretty much everyone in the room. There are no
economic area surrounding the Airport. There
pillars, there are no obstacles, everyone feels
are many who claim responsibility for founding
very much a part of it, and then just the way we
the Gatwick Diamond, but Jeremy isn’t one of
structure the evening makes sure that everyone
them. He did decide, however, to adopt it.
is engaged as best we can.
“When I became Chief Executive in 2004, it
“The awards are a major part of our business,
was a part-time job and I had a budget for a
it’s been fantastically useful. The important thing
part-time assistant. We’re now up to four full-
to stress is it’s not just a membership function;
time staff and I’d like to get a fifth person in.
it is for any business within the region. We want
“I’m working on a way that maybe we can
to celebrate the totality of the Gatwick Diamond
work with schools and join in a school work
economy, so we’re not at all parochial about it.
experience programme.
There is no influence given over whether people are members or not.”
“The first thing we wanted to do was add colour, add a sense of humour, add some vibrancy, helped by all the Chairmen across the
The awards are just one aspect of the Gatwick
years. Every two years I get a new Chair to work
Diamond Business organisation, which
with and there have been some really, really
has been a regular fixture in the area for
good people.
generations.
“David Montgomery is the Chair until June
“We’ve been going for over 60 years. We
2016. I have an Executive Board, Directors, and
started when Manor Royal, Crawley and Gatwick
we are blessed with a very good Treasurer.
Airport were built, as the representative voice
We’re a relatively low-turnover business, but
for the manufacturers on Manor Royal, originally
we’ve got an enormously high profile, and, as
as Crawley and District Industries Association
it’s the members’ money, I’m very aware of what
(Cadia).
we’re spending.”
“The first full-time Chief Executive was in 1991/92, a very bullish chap, a really nice guy,
So where exactly does the Gatwick Diamond
Brian Stow. Brian had a unique style, which was
cover?
something of a cross between Brian Clough and
“The Gatwick Diamond is deliberately fuzzy
Mike Baldwin. He knew a lot of people and had a
in its boundaries to confuse the politicians”,
very high profile within the business community,
chuckles Jeremy. “It’s centred on Gatwick,
and I have copied a lot of what he stood for. Our
obviously, but it goes down to the coast, it goes
programme of free member events started
up to the capital and it’s for businesses who are
under Brian, as he said to venues, ‘If we bring
doing business in the Diamond, and that’s why
we’ve had winners from Chichester, Brighton, London, Kent and Surrey, because, if they’re doing business in this region, they’re benefitting the region. “We’re a membership organisation, our Articles of Association are all about what we do to represent members and bring benefits. In fact, we’re just launching an online forum that any business can look at, but if you’re a member, you get access to the good stuff. There’s exclusive material and exclusive offers for members given by members. “A lot of people talk about the fact that in business you have to do selling. But actually, people are buying as well, and we neglect the buyers. We’ve created an exclusive area of the website forum called ‘I need a...’, and it is purely for people to put on the products and services that they are going to spend money on. “We also aim to open it up to tendering opportunities, so we’ll keep an eye on the big companies, and if they’re putting tenders out and they’re in the public domain, we aim to post those. The ambition is that if people are members, they’ll have first go at finding that information. “Alongside the networking events, we deliver learning workshops and seminars and the content will be available exclusively for the members. They can see the presentation, engage with the presenter or the trainer, ask the questions and get the questions answered as well. So it’s a big advisory service for the membership.”
39
{ INTERVIEW } has been upgraded). The North– South rail network is improving and in fact the Chancellor has signed off a study into Brighton Main Line 2, which is worth looking at. It is to the East, so it curves round Gatwick, to East Grinstead, Lewes, Uckfield, and it will connect Brighton into London with a second line. It makes a lot of sense because the line is pretty much there, it just needs a bit of connecting. “There is a manufacturing heartland
here,
professional
there
are
services
in
Haywards Heath, East Grinstead has a good mix of manufacturing and
professional
while
Horsham
businesses, and
Reigate
are homes to substantial head offices. And then you look at the strip going up into Redhill, which could be developed.
If
we get a second runway I can see that becoming a logistics heartland for the businesses who are relocated to the North of the Diamond, while there will be a new logistics centre at the edge of Burgess Hill on the M23. So it’s a really good, healthy, vibrant, diverse economy, because an airport brings economic diversity. And in closing, what are the issues you are working on at the moment? “The main part of our lobbying is still on the second runway
The gdb Team at the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards 2015
at Gatwick, but we are firm advocates for road and rail
Businesses in the Gatwick Diamond are spread out over a big region, so have you become the social side of the business region? “I think so. Doing business in the Diamond is different to a city, as there isn’t really an afterhours business culture here. It’s disparate, and also, a lot of people who run the businesses don’t live in the area. There’s a lot of in-commuting and there’s a lot of out-commuting as well. “Many of the business leaders don’t live in the region or in the town, but you still get that vibrancy. You’ve got a major international airport, fantastic transport links with the developing M23 and the M25, as well as the A27 (once it
40
developments, the provision of
“Alongside the networking events, we deliver learning workshops and seminars and the content will be available exclusively for the members.”
the right skills for our employers, affordable and aspirational housing and, in light of the issues with Permitted Development Rights, the challenges facing our supply of employment land. “And we also want any business in the region to grow! Join us or enter the Awards … and you might get that glory!” Nominations for the GDB Awards open 7th October. www.gatwickdiamondbusiness.com www.gatwickdiamondbusinessawards.com
2015
South EaSt
BuSinESS Show www.b2bsoutheast.com
wledge o n k s i n u e b s e r s o f e r t s n a e t h v o e s network, make new contacts and nal a professio
Visit the regions premier FREE business event Copthorne Hotel, Effingham, Gatwick Friday 25th September 2015 10.00am - 3.00pm
FREE Visitor Entry On The Day b2bsoutheast.com This is a unique event as it unites all sectors of business and is the only marketing medium that brings the buyer, seller and products together at the same time and in the same place.
{ INTERVIEW }
THE SERIAL DISRUPTER
Dr Simon Hochhauser, chairman of Teliqo, is on a mission to revolutionise the telecoms industry following a career as a disrupter, which began long before the term even existed. He fought for video-on-demand when people could only source movies from their local video shops, and is now looking to reinvent the way classical music is accessed. As Ian Trevett discovers, he is not a man afraid of change... ou don’t have to have a PhD in Mathematics and Physics to start a telecoms company, but presumably,
Y
Holography - there’s a very 1980s concept.
quiet; as a means of storage of information it’s
Red Dwarf and all that. Whatever happened to
quite interesting. It’s a very efficient means
holography?
of storing information or recreating optical
it does help. “I’m a Physicist by training, an
“It’s a great storage mechanism,” says
academic originally, specialising in the 1980s
Simon. “Holography is built into a lot of other
in the business applications of optical fibre, and
technologies. But holography per se has gone
I stand corrected. I met with Dr Hochhauser
also holography.”
very, very quiet. As a photographic method it’s
at the Pall Mall headquarters of the Institute of
42
elements. That was the research I did, much of it with optical fibre.”
{ INTERVIEW }
“I soon realised that qualifications meant nothing unless you could apply it and use your skills to solve problems.” Directors, which is appropriate, as he accurately
“In those days you had to build everything. I
with a view to always delivering something that
describes himself as a serial entrepreneur,
became an entrepreneur, so I moved to the other
people have demonstrated they want; it’s not
and we talked about the future of technology,
side of the fence. The thing I love is innovation
just innovation for innovation’s sake. People
classical music, the Cold War and why Hull is
and change, I really love it, challenging the
want to see movies and television when it’s
different from the rest of the UK.
traditional way. Television was the only way of
convenient to them. We got stymied, however,
But first, some background to Simon’s
watching movies in your house, or you could
because BT was quite slow in those days in
fascinating career. After immersing himself in
rent tapes from the video store. So video on
rolling out broadband.
academia, he made the leap into a high-paced
demand was a very, very novel concept in 1993.
“We needed to be national. Even though BT
life on Wall Street at the late Lehman Brothers
“Video shops were a pain. You had to go down,
had been privatised in the 80s, they still had
in New York. “They were a very active firm,
you had to find it, not know whether it was in or
the culture of a nationalised company, of the
and very innovative. They shouldn’t have failed
it was out and you could only rent it for a set
civil service, and it was very difficult to get that
and probably wouldn’t have done so if the
period. We saw the technologies were already
entrepreneurial spirit. They were reluctant
circumstances had been different. But it was a
available. Broadband was already available,
to invest in broadband and ADSL, which we
very, very high-pressured firm, like they all are,
ADSL had been developed from the late 80s
needed. Because they were so slow, we couldn’t
and we were a group of mathematicians and
and we set up a trial operation of full video-on-
sustain a rapid growth, so we sold the business
physicists working on new products in the early
demand in Hull.
to what has ultimately become TalkTalk TV. I
80s for the firm. “I soon realised that qualifications meant nothing unless you could apply them and use your skills to solve problems. I always tell young people when they’re starting their careers, it’s about having an analytical approach to solving problems. Anything can be solved and it’s all a matter of how you go about it; you break it down. When I joined Lehman Brothers, I knew nothing about business or anything. Somebody walked up to me and he said, “Okay, Hochhauser, we want you to work out the basis point difference
moved on to establish other businesses using
“Holography there’s a very 1980s concept. Red Dwarf, and all that. Whatever happened to holography?.”
broadband. I was a pioneer in broadband in the UK in ADSL. I was what would now be called a ‘disrupter’. “Not all disruption is good, not all innovation is good, but there are times when people get very, very conditioned by the way they’ve always done things.” On the face of it, the telecoms is a crowded place, and full of companies that innovate, so Simon’s move into the business connectivity sector with Teliqo seems quite surprising.
attributable to the tax treatment of deep
“It’s that same concept of looking at an
discount bonds.” I looked at him blankly - I had
industry and asking if is there something
no idea what the hell this guy was talking about.
“Hull has a separate telephone network from
about the new inter-connective world which
The analytical approach is to take that sentence,
the rest of the UK, it never was part of BT and
challenges the way things have traditionally
break it into its constituent parts: what is a bond,
it always had its own telephone system. Hull
been done. And there is, and that’s really the
what is a deep discount bond, why would the tax
is a very interesting city. In the 20th century it
basis of Teliqo.
treatment of those bonds be different from any
was the only city to remain out of the GPO and,
“In the industry, it’s all about hosted telephony
other bond. Once you do that, the answer can be
later, BT. It owned its own municipal telephone
where you would install the equipment and the
found.
system. It looked and felt like BT, they had
PBX (Private Branch Exchange) boxes which did
“The main integration of my business and
cream telephone boxes instead of red telephone
what they said on the package and everybody
technological experience came in 1983 when
boxes – interconnected with BT, but it was run
bought essentially the same system.
I set up a technology venture capital fund, one
by Kingston Communications, and originally by
American companies like Avaya, Mitel, Cisco
of the earliest in the UK, for Jacob Rothschild in
Hull City Council.
would develop big systems and then they would
London. The idea was to become a very active fund, starting up businesses, working with entrepreneurs to help them build a business rather than simply investing money. We did this for a number of businesses, both here and in the US, and built quite a nice team for that. Then I had the idea in the early 90s of videoon-demand, the idea that you could watch any movie, any time, and control your movie viewing - what we now call streaming.
“We built a company up to about 650 people, with offices in Los Angeles to negotiate rights. Everything was new – the law was new, the idea of video-on-demand contracts with studios was new, technology was new, from the server right the way through to set-top boxes. It was challenging everything, and that’s what I love. I just love the idea of being able to deliver something based on innovation; innovation
Large
have resellers, smaller companies in different territories, including the UK. “They would install, maintain, provide calls (as they became deregulated), and lines. But essentially they were all doing the same thing, through reselling, which is very good for that market. Then along came the internet and suddenly all this functionality moved into the internet itself. There was no need to have these discreet boxes in the building. The early days of
43
{ INTERVIEW }
Smartphone, integrated with apps that appear on the Smartphone. All of that we’re doing now, today, and we’re integrating it, we’re taking it on. But we’re also not charging them for the costs of doing so. A reseller, typically, has to pay a licence fee to their supplier. For example, in this country, there is a very good product called Horizon, offered by a large network and services company called Gamma, which is based on technology developed by Broadsoft in the United States, and is then sold on, via resellers, to end users. At each stage there’s a margin.” Simon has an eye on disrupting another Rudolf Nureyev with Simon and his parents, Victor and Lillian Hochhauser in 1978 VoIP were a bit rough, as any technologies are,
CRM system, you’d pay for that. I decided that
but nowadays the quality is, I would say, much
we could do it because we controlled it all, we
better quality than we get on the traditional ISDN
could do it all for a single price, which would
or copper wire. But the traditional method of
undercut the competition, because we have no
reselling somebody else’s technology remained
middleman margin.
because that’s the way the industry is set up.
“It’s like the way Microsoft now distribute
“What this means is the power of internet-
Word and Excel, with a yearly license. It is
driven telephony hasn’t been fully exploited.
‘software as a service’, or SaAS. It’s a generic
We built our own core technology, like I did with
concept, selling software. And everything we do
video-on-demand in the 90s, utilising Open
is software these days; even a telephone call is
Source software, but we build all the customer
software.
functionality and technology innovation around
“So we charge monthly, even for the hardware
that ourselves. And that means that when
you need. But increasingly that will move away
customers want something done, we can do so
from the hardware as it becomes app-driven,
quickly and effectively.
using Smartphones, which you have anyway
market - the way that classical music is delivered. “There are a lot of music streaming services, but the consumer of classical music looks for music in a different way. They don’t just want a track; they look for a total symphony. They want to compare different works performed by different artists, or concertos. “Every group of customers has a way of consuming products. The mass market is the youth market – which is very much rock, pop, constantly changing, constantly dominated by the latest trend, and technology follows. If you’re looking at something which doesn’t change by fashion, which requires a quality of sound, not just on your iPhone, but also on your Hi-Fi equipment, you have to start with the
“The devil is in the detail. Business is all
in offices. All of these things are subscription
about personalisation these days; it’s about
services. I think subscription is really the
moulding, tailor-making – not just in telephony;
name for both consumer as well as business
way back to the technology delivery; suddenly,
you see it increasingly in biotechnology. It’s
services. It’s a set cost; you know where you
you find you’re in a very different world from the
about moulding a solution to the requirements
are in business, you know what your costs are
normal music streaming service. I think jazz will
of a specific customer. So, whereas we’ll all talk
so you don’t worry. Even call charges have
be the same.
about general functionality like integration with
now disappeared. We’ve pretty much fixed all
“For this reason, classical music is a poorly
Customer Relationship Management (‘CRM’)
national and mobile calls in the UK to a simple
served market. Yes, there’s a lot of classical
systems or teleconference rooms, as we aren’t
price. Gradually, that will be with international
music when you look for it on these big services,
resellers, we can respond quickly to bespoke
as well, so the whole world is becoming a
an enormous amount. But you have to look for
requests.
subscription service.
it, you have to find it and probably most people
customer in the armchair. What is it they are looking for? How do they look for it? Work your
“One of our customers needed to integrate
“The next generation, which is app-driven,
have given up by the time they have taken their
our phone service with quite a specialised CRM
won’t require much in the way of a sales force.
CD out of its traditional plastic box and stuck
and a project management software. We did that
So much of what we sell today will be free so
that on. It’s early days. A group of us is working
in the space of a week.
the next generation is totally disruptive; it’s
on that project, which will be announced at
“Another innovation is one price per user per
neither resellers nor anything else. There
some stage. So it’s all about looking at different
month. Up to now you would pay your monthly
will be quickly-developed apps, and they are
ways of innovating.”
charges, your call charges, your installation
worldwide, they are global.
If anyone understands the world of classical
charges, you pay a maintenance charge and
“We are planning for complete co-operation
music, it is Simon. An accomplished violinist and
if you want a conference room, you pay for
with Smartphones. That’s the device for the
chorister, he also happens to be the son of Victor
that. If you wanted an integration with your
future of all businesses. The engine will be the
and Lillian Hochhauser, who for 60 years have
44
{ INTERVIEW }
“My father had brought the Kirov Ballet here in 1961 and Nureyev jumped the barrier as they were coming over from France.” been the foremost independent impresarios of
it’s economic for South Korea, you tell me why
classical music and ballet in Britain. When the
it’s not economic and not possible in the United
Cold War dominated international relations,
Kingdom. Of course, now we laugh, but you’re
somehow they managed to bring some of the
chipping away at people’s preconceived ideas.
most illustrious musical artists from the Soviet
“BT was a very powerful company, and
Union to perform in the West. They brought to
then they gradually became more and more
London some of greatest musical virtuosi of
entrepreneurial. Now, of course, what are they
the 20th century: David Oistrakh, Sviatoslav Richter, Mstislav Rostropovich, the Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Bolshoi and Mariinsky (formerly Kirov) ballets. Presenting such spectacles was not without risk. “My father had brought the Kirov Ballet here in 1961 and Nureyev jumped the barrier as they were coming over from France.” Understandably, the KGB and the British spooks closely
monitored
the
couple’s
activities.
Simon’s father must have been some diplomat to survive such attention. “Single-minded, let’s put it that way. He does what he wants,” says Simon. “To deal with the Russians is generally difficult, even nowadays. They’re going back
shouldn’t matter what a person’s gender or
doing? Video-on-demand, sports, everything.
background is. I’m passionate about that. And
BT is a very large tanker, and a tanker doesn’t
you’re very much fighting a battle against much more traditional types of views. It’s not easy, but you get there, you always get there. “You have got to bring people with you. There are two approaches: there is the evolutionary approach,
and
there’s
the
revolutionary
approach, and actually, both are important. They feed off each other. There are some who want instant results, there are some who are willing to wait 10 years for a relatively small result, and you need the pressure of each one on the other to actually get things done. That’s what I found, anyway.
turn easily. I became president of a very large communal organisation that was 250 years old to innovate. It’s very much like BT in the sense that it’s been around for a long time, it’s got its way of doing things. And even when you have a very senior position and you want to change things, it’s very difficult to fight; you’re swimming through treacle to change attitudes. In any large organisation you have very reactionary attitudes. “BT allowed Sky to steal a march on them. We were pressing them to do all this sort of stuff in the late 90s, early 2000s, 15 years ago. Sky has become the dominant force. But there’s one rule
to form under Putin. But basically it’s about
in business, and I say this about Google, I say
dealing with another culture. If you come from
this about Apple: The large companies will not
another country and you come to this country, you’re used to integrating different cultures. You want to do well, as a lot of people like him did during that period in business and in the arts and academia and the professions. It is also something that is picked up by the next generation. I have a brother who’s a professor of oncology. He’s not gone the entrepreneurial route, but he’s done very well in his field. My sister is a very accomplished musicologist and pianist. I have another brother who went to live in Israel. He became a senior diplomat and
“One of the things I always encourage our sales force to do is: ‘Don’t sell a phone system’. Listen to what the customer does.”
ultimately the ambassador to India.
be there forever; they will be replaced. Microsoft had a big wobble, but is now finding its way again. IBM: people used to say you don’t get fired using IBM. And if you’d said IBM will be challenged one day, they would have laughed at you. “Microsoft saved Apple. Apple was going bust and Jobs had left and they saved it. They actually took a stake in it, and now Apple is the largest business in the world. But it has to innovate all the time to keep alive.” Constant innovation does have its limits, though. It only matters if the customers want and understand the innovations.
Simon also possesses impressive diplomatic
“One of the things I always encourage our
skills, as shown during his six-year stint as
sales force to do is: ‘Don’t sell a phone system’.
President of of the influential United Synagogue, which has over 40,000 members. During his tenure, he campaigned for equality of opportunity for women. “In Orthodox Judaism, like many other religions, you have the traditional view of a woman’s role… I think it’s more cultural, actually. There are constraints within religion, but to a degree one can bring in modern values, like the equality of opportunity, freedom of speech. Equality of opportunity is essential; it
“It’s like technology, we wanted to bring broadband technology into the UK in the 90s and BT were telling us there was no way - and I’m talking at a senior level, the Chief Executive, the Chairman level. They were not going to invest in broadband, which is remarkable now, but to me this was laughable, even then. They said it was just not cost-effective. We pointed to South Korea in the late 90s, which already then had 3 million connected customers. I said, if
Listen to what the customer does. Listen to the way the customer operates, find out about their business and then adapt what it is you’re selling to the way they operate. Don’t change them, work the way they do it. They will change over time, given the power of these technologies, but as of today this is what they do, this is how they do it; don’t go in with big boots and start selling a phone system. It’s about an approach that recognises the new world and recognises the needs of a customer.”
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{ PROJECT PARTNERSHIP }
SUPPORTING YET ANOTHER BRIGHTON LANDMARK DMH Stallard has offices across Surrey, Sussex and London, and its Brighton roots date back to the 1970s. Since then the firm has played a pivotal role in some of the most inspiring projects the City has seen. Now DMH Stallard has partnered with Spofforths Chartered Accountants to support the next high-profile Brighton development, the Brighton i360, in a partnership that promises much for the wider regional community. DMH Stallard’s Managing Partner, Richard Pollins, tells Ian Trevett why Brighton is such an important part of the firm’s heritage, as well as a key element of its plans for the future. “We are really excited to be working in
City of Brighton and its people.
partnership with Brighton i360 and Spofforths. These high-profile development projects don’t come along too often, but when they do we seem to have all the right ingredients to be able to support them. “The combination of an outstanding team of lawyers and planners, our commercial approach, and the strength of our relationships with so many influential stakeholders in Brighton and beyond is unrivalled. I guess that’s why our track record is so impressive when it comes to working with great businesses to deliver such ambitious projects. I
“During the 1970s we were already making
“We have agreed a long-term contract to support i360 across a wide range of business and legal services”
waves – quite literally. Our former Chairman, Derek Sparrow, was one of the founders and architects of the first Brighton Festival. He often recalls the story about attempting to dye the sea red to launch the Festival - only for all the colour to be washed down the coast to Littlehampton. Apparently, the story made headline news as local residents pondered the mystery of why the sea had turned into something out of a scene from a horror movie! “More recently, the projects and developments
am very proud of our firm’s achievements given
have continued to roll in. It was great to see
our work has really had a positive impact on the
in the news last month that Saltdean Lido,
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{ PROJECT PARTNERSHIP }
“These high-profile development projects don’t come along too often, but when they do we seem to have all the right ingredients to be able to support them” is really innovative, exciting and positive. “DMH Stallard’s involvement goes back to April 2014, when we worked with Coast to Capital LEP on the financing of the project, and, most recently, we announced our formal commercial partnership to directly support Brighton i360. “We have agreed a long-term contract to support i360 across a wide range of business and legal services, including employment, commercial contracts and property law. We also plan to launch an exciting new networking event at the i360 aimed at business leaders from the Gatwick Diamond and London, launching in 2016. “Brighton i360 is the project of the moment, but we don’t take anything for granted. We have clear plans to ensure the firm remains central to Brighton by supporting businesses of all types across the City and throughout Sussex, Surrey and London. It’s not just about high-profile projects, but also about helping business to grow and helping the people who run them and work for them. We recognise the one of the City’s most iconic buildings, was
City is truly a great success story.”
named as one of the most important seaside
So what of the new Brighton i360?
buildings in the country in a list compiled by
“Now that people are seeing it come to life, I
historian Allan Brodie that ‘sums up the best
think the City is embracing it as something that
of the English seaside’. Once again, we are
importance of providing services in a friendly and approachable way, and that approach has served us very well over the years.”
www.dmhstallard.com
working in partnership with the Community Interest Company (CIC) responsible for its redevelopment, and we are helping it realise the ambition of re-opening the Lido to the public in June 2016. As a Saltdean resident myself, this project is close to my heart, and indeed my home. “Our long-term involvement with Brighton and Hove Albion FC has been well documented. We have guided the Club through four planning applications, two public inquiries (the latter having been quashed in 2006 following a High Court challenge), and a re-determination before the Secretary of State granted planning permission in 2007. The stadium finally opened in the summer of 2011, and that really was a proud moment for us. It’s been great to continue to support them as they continue to develop firstclass facilities, both at the stadium and at their training ground. The determination of everyone involved to deliver something so positive for the
Richard Pollins (DMH Stallard), Eleanor Harris (Brighton i360) and Alex Spofforth (Spofforths)
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{ COMMERCIAL PROPERTY }
PAINLESS RELOCATION Jeremy Wootton, Bennett Griffin LLP Tel: 01903 706986 Fax: 01903 229162 www.bennett-griffin.co.uk
F
or any business, moving location is a disruption and distraction from its normal commercial activities. Spending time talking to your lawyer and surveyor at an early stage in the negotiations can help smooth the way to a less stressful and expensive move. This may seem an odd claim, however this article will help explain how this can be money wisely spent rather than wasted. More often than not, ‘property’ is not a core activity for most businesses, it’s an overhead and item that really only makes its presence felt in the accounts and on the bottom line. This isn’t a claim that business owners are ignorant of the options and possibilities in relation to property issues, however, for landlords or propertyinvestors and developers, property is their core business. An added factor to take into account is that property owning landlords and developers looking to sell or lease their business space will market their property from a perspective that is in their best interest, effectively tilting the negotiations in their favour from the outset.
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Normally the landlord or developer will have been in contact with their lawyer and surveyor in the run up to marketing the property, discussing not only value in terms of rent or price but also specific legal terms for the sale or letting of the property. Given this background it makes sense to balance the parties positions by taking professional advice at the outset as this can save time and money later on. Indeed the all too common criticism of tenants and buyers lawyers is that they regularly seek to renegotiate the terms once the Head of Terms are issued. Generally, this is because some of the commercial terms within the Heads of Terms are onerous and once fully understood the prospective tenant or buyer will want to see a more balanced deal agreed. Quite often this initial renegotiation is nothing more than time consuming, but it can have an impact on the parties relationship and the collaborative goodwill of the landlord/developer may be eroded by this process. With all of this in mind it is obvious that
talking to a qualified surveyor can help with advice, especially in terms of value. Their expertise and experience will provide guidance on what is and what is not a good deal in terms of not only the property in question but also the market conditions at the time of the negotiations. A surveyors advice will go beyond value and importantly look at the condition of the building in question. So why also talk to a lawyer? If the property is to be rented, there’s a whole host of issues arising on the technical terms of a FRI lease. Firstly, what does ‘FRI’ actually mean? Having an obligation as a tenant to keep a building in good repair and condition goes beyond looking after the paintwork, ‘full repairing and insuring’ means exactly that and unless the property is already in good and substantial repair and condition a new tenant can find themselves taking on a responsibility for putting the building into good repair and condition. Whilst this aspect is an area a surveyor will be advising on, the lawyer can make sure that any limitations which are agreed in respect of a tenants repairing
{ COMMERCIAL PROPERTY }
“If the property is to be rented, there’s a whole host of issues arising on the technical terms of a FRI lease. ”
obligation are properly incorporated in the legal documentation so that these terms endure for the whole of the lease term as well as making sure any liability for dilapidations upon vacating the building are similarly qualified. Break clauses are often an area of contention when it comes to legal drafting. Landlords will want to make break clauses conditional upon not only the payment of rent up to the date the lease is broken but also the tenant performing all of their obligations. On the face of it, this seems fair, however, there has been plenty of litigation with landlords arguing that items of disrepair to a building mean that a tenant has not fulfilled all of its obligations and break notice is not effective. Getting agreement on the technical terms of a break provision at the outset will save time later as well as the possibility of a deal falling apart if a compromise cannot be agreed when the lawyers are negotiating the detail of the lease terms. Another area of concern is how you as tenant can either move on and assign the lease or sublet either the whole of the building or sometimes, depending on the configuration of the property part of it. Understandably a landlord will want
to have control over this aspect, the question is how much control is right and tenants can find themselves with a lack of options if these terms are not fully explored and negotiated at the outset. Whilst all of the above makes sense in terms of leasing a property, a lawyer can also help with negotiating the terms to buy a building. If a property is located within an industrial estate or business park, even though it is being brought freehold, there may be a technical legal structure in place to deal with the service roads and common parts. In the same way that a leasehold structure will have a service charge a similar arrangement can exist with freeholds and getting a clear understanding at the negotiating stage will save time and money at later date. Sometimes the seller of a building will want to retain a right to participate in any subsequent increase in value of a building at a later date. An example of this would be an increase attributable to say a planning consent obtained at a later date. This often called an ‘overage’ or ‘clawback’ and one or two lines within the Heads of Terms on this subject can frequently
result in a disproportionate number of pages of legal drafting. Finding out mid-way through a transaction that the seller and buyer have both got a very different interpretation of what is intended can result in a lengthy additional negotiation, sometimes with the parties going their separate ways and the deal falling through. Perhaps the most obvious and often least explored area is making sure all of the professional teams are fully appraised of any timetable that has been agreed in the negotiations. Whether it is a speedy or delayed transaction timetable, making sure everyone is geared to up to work to the same schedule makes common sense. Finally, given that dealing with buying and selling or renting property will be your lawyers day to day business, their experience gained from repeatedly dealing with property transactions will add value to negotiating the Heads of Terms.
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BEAT THE HEAT A
s I write this, the weather is decidedly, well, undecided. A not quite hot enough mix of cloudy and bursts of sunshine. I’m hoping by the time you actually read this, we are in the midst of one of our infrequent heatwaves. It doesn’t happen often, but it certainly has an impact when it does – particularly in terms of dressing for work and surviving a sweltering commute. So, what’s the best way to remain looking polished and professional, while keeping your cool?
Summer afternoon, summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language. – Henry James
IT’S TIME TO LIGHTEN UP, GENTLEMEN The shirt should be your starting point. I’m hoping you packed away your heavy winter suits, jackets and trousers weeks ago, but it’s surprising how many men wear the same shirts all year round. Branch out a bit. First, consider the fabric - opt for natural fibres such as cotton, linen or a blend of both. Or even seersucker. More commonly worn across the
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Atlantic, it can look very smart – think Gregory Peck in To Kill a Mockingbird. Although linen is wonderfully light and breathable, it does crease like mad, and a blend keeps those creases at bay. Lighten your colours too – and think beyond white. I freely admit to secretly admiring Michael Portillo in his ice-cream coloured shirt and jacket combinations. His choices of pale yellow, mint green, pink and
sky blue exude summer and have a certain Continental je ne sais quoi. If pastel or bright colours aren’t your thing, the same summery effect can be achieved with a gingham check. Gingham looks crisp and is much more interesting than the usual stripe; you’ll find it adds a bit of personality to your look without sacrificing formality. Turning to jackets, cotton, linen (or best yet, a
{ PLATINUM STYLE }
blend) should be chosen in favour of hot, stuffy wool. Choose neutral shades (navy or beige for example) that will go with a number of your shirts, to give you maximum wearability. Mr. Portillo wears his rainbow assortment of shirts with navy, red and even yellow blazers – but I don’t expect you to go crazy… For more informal office days, pair your shirt with chinos and a lightweight blazer and you’re ready to go. Keep short sleeved shirts for casual or smart-casual occasions – they can be a bit too informal for daily business attire. If you’d like to forego a tie, you can button your shirt fully (very modern) or leave the top button undone (depending on the cut of the shirt). You could also opt for a cotton pique polo shirt – just make sure you choose a tailored version with no logos. White, navy and other neutrals are your go-to colours here. A crisp white polo can look really smart under a lightweight suit – try it. I’m a huge fan of the suede loafer worn without socks. There’s nothing quite like it for evoking a bit of ‘summer on the Riviera’ attitude. And please – always wear closed toe shoes in hot weather (think suede brogues or chukka boots as alternative options). SOME FINAL TIPS: 1. I’ve said it before. These four items do not belong in a professional environment: flip flops, shorts, sandals and sports trainers 2. Think light colours and lighter weights for suits and jackets – pale grey check and stone are good options for summer 3. Colour and texture can also be added through details such as patterned pocket squares, ties or socks.
IT’S EASIER FOR WOMEN Arguably, it is much easier for women to dress professionally in the heat, as we have many more outfit options. Some of the same rules apply as for men – lighter weight, natural fabrics are your best bet, particularly cotton, silk or a linen blend. For more formal days at work, choose sharp separates. Shirts (with or without sleeves) or good quality white t-shirts look great paired with plain or print slim cut trousers. Add a lightweight jacket or a sleeveless longline ‘blazer’ – a creative way to add a tailored touch without bulk. A good quality white t-shirt can also look really sharp and chic worn with a jacket and a silk scarf. This season, wide leg, fluid trousers abound, in solid colours, prints or stripes. The striped versions are another great way to add some tailoring while staying comfortable. Choose office-appropriate neutrals as the dominant colour such as navy, black or even khaki. If you’re petite like me, keep loose tops tucked in to streamline your silhouette. With print trousers, choose a plain top and, of course, add heels for height. Stripes also work their magic by elongating your legs. If you prefer dresses, choose a simple shift with a contrasting lightweight cardigan (don’t wear a jacket – the frump factor is in danger of creeping in here). Add colour with a contrasting slim belt and structured bag. If you want to be a bit more fashion-forward, and your office culture allows it, culottes are a fantastic hot weather option. Choose a neutral colour (again, black, white, navy or khaki) and wear them with a crisp shirt or a striped breton. These look great worn with block heels, mules or flat sliders. Hot weather calls for open toe shoes, but that doesn’t mean they have to be sloppy, or flat for that matter. The new block heel and mule shapes are a great way to achieve both height and comfort. SOME FINAL TOP TIPS: 1. Keep it minimal. Don’t over-accessorise in hot weather – you don’t want extra jewellery jangling and creating fuss 2. If you’re going bare-legged, exfoliate and lotion regularly – your legs will thank you for it. If you do choose tights, invest in the best ultra-sheers: Wolford Naked 8’s 3. Finally, always wear nude underwear under white clothing as it becomes invisible…
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{ ANGER MANAGEMENT }
ANGER MANAGEMENT Utterly failed by Maarten Hoffmann
LEADERS URGENTLY SOUGHT I
remember the day when our political class led the country rather than the other way round. The very definition of the word ‘leader’ is to
• Why did it take the Guardian to reveal that
real interest in what benefits society, what is in
Jonathan Aiken was bent and taking Saudi
the public interest or in digging out stories of
bribes?
cheating, perversion or wrongdoing.
lead. To lead the country on the path as laid out
• Why did it take the Daily Mirror to reveal that
in their manifesto, to do right by the country
Jeremy Thorpe played away with rent boys?
teeth to get elected. One gets the feeling that
and to seek out those who are doing wrong and
• Why did it take the Telegraph to reveal that
they would sell their granny, part exchange their
correct injustices before such actions harm
MPs were disgracefully lining their own
society.
pockets in the expenses scandal?
But no, it seems l am being naive. These days we have a government that is reactive as opposed to proactive. They always seem to be behind the game, reacting to events rather than leading them. If it were not for the press, we would not find out about 90% of the awful events that occur almost on a weekly basis and the government’s answer? Control the press. Not fix the problem, but shoot the messenger. Governments want to control the press to avoid being embarrassed by the stories they dig up. Stories that should have been unearthed by the government and dealt with. But no, the UK, and most of Europe, are saddled with, in the
• Why did it take the Mail to reveal the airport
They also have a habit of lying though their
kids or shoot the dog to get into power. Take the most recent Conservative lie: when the Tories were chasing our votes, they knew
VAT rip off?
exactly which button to press. “We will cap the
As soon as these stories hit the headlines,
amount you can be charged for residential care,
our ‘leaders’ jump into action, denounce the
so that you can have the dignity and security you
offenders and grandly claim that they will do
deserve in your old age,” said the Conservative
something about it. Too bloody late. If it were
manifesto.
not for the press we would not have found out
Notice the emotive words - security, dignity,
about 90% of these scandals as, firstly, the
what we deserve. That solemn promise was
government would never have found out about
made on April 15th, 2015. On July 17th, 2015, it
them, and to be frank, they don’t really care, and
was broken and kicked into the very long grass
secondly, if they had learned of them they would
until at least 2020 (that is, “We wont be in power
have buried the evidence and hushed the whole
then and it will be someone else’s problem”).
thing up.
We are all going to get old and there is genuine
Are we to believe that ministers had no idea
public concern over stories of folk having to
that MP’s were cheating on their expenses?
sell their homes to get care, thus ending what
Of course they did, but there was no benefit to
helped make this country great, inheritance,
them in revealing it. And that’s the key here - of
thus ripping homes and families apart and
no benefit to them. To hell with the public, our
depriving heirs of a decent financial start in life.
• Why does it take the Sun to reveal that the
self-serving political elite only care about events
Care fees and inheritance tax have, in one fell
man in charge of standards in the Lords
that matter to them, damage their standing or
swoop, done away with this generation helping
snorts cocaine from hookers’ chests?
their chances of getting elected. They have no
the next.
main, incompetent, self-serving, ass-covering nincompoops. • Why does it take the press to reveal the horrors of Saville and Janner?
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{ ANGER MANAGEMENT }
“This is not the fault of the press. This is the fault of lily-livered, incompetent, self-serving politicians who couldn’t run a corner shop, let alone a country.”
The way we treat our older generation is an
Italian islands over three months ago not give
and allow them to get away with lining their own
absolute disgrace and politicians know that,
them a slight hint that this was going to become
pockets at the expense of the British people.
but, rather than trying to do something about
a problem? Now they react with shock and awe
This is why the first act of any dictator is to close
it, they cynically use it as a ploy to get elected.
as thousands of them have turned Calais into a
down the free press, quick-smart.
The Conservatives lied through their teeth to
third-world war zone and announce they will
Then they have the temerity to look shocked
get elected. Within three months of getting
send a fence and some dogs. You could say that
and hurt when they start to realise what little
their feet under the power table, they dumped
Blair’s bombing of their homelands started this
respect the people have for MPs and the
the pledge with smarmy words: “A time of
whole thing, but l digress.
political class. But as long as we keep falling for
consolidation is not the right moment to to be
The first political reaction was to blame the
their lies, we will always get the government we
implementing expensive new commitments
press for inciting the problem. No, no, no. This is
deserve. And this isn’t a Tory problem, as they
such as this,” drooled the Care Minister, Alistair
not the fault of the press. This is the fault of lily-
are all as bad as each other.
Burt. Obviously, this is not something we could
livered, incompetent, self-serving politicians
Time after time it is the press who dig out the
who couldn’t run a corner shop, let alone a
stories, who get to the bottom of the scams, who
country.
find out how much politicians are taking us for.
have expected them to have worked out before the election! For the above read: “The aftermath of an election victory, with the opposition in chaos, is the right moment to betray old people who have served their purpose by voting for us and dump a policy we hadn’t costed and had no
Gagging the press has been so earnestly
How about banning the Government and
attempted to simply enable governments to bury
putting the newspaper editors in charge of the
their dirty little secrets, hide their incompetence
country? They could hardly do a worse job.
intention of implementing. But thanks for the votes, suckers!” This issue does not hit ministers, of course, as the majority of them are millionaires, have gold-plated pensions, several homes, unlimited expenses and free health care. I’m alright, Jack, and the rest of us plebs can sod off. What about the shock of the immigrant crisis that they are now running around like headless chickens to find a solution for? Did the landing of up to 1000 migrants a day onto the Greek and
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Do you want to be part of a winning team?
Hastings Direct is an agile and fast moving insurance company which continues to challenge industry convention and remains one of the fastest growing insurance providers in the UK, with over 1.7 million customers. As an ambitious, industry innovator, we are seeking talented individuals to join our multi-award winning team at our head office based in Bexhill-on-Sea. In a culture which recognises achievement and actively promotes career progression, we can offer you the tools to excel and continue to grow with us in the future. We have a variety of exciting opportunities across an array of business functions including: Senior finance business partner
Acting as an integral link between the finance department and the wider business, this role is responsible for planning, analysing and reporting on the financial and operational aspects of the company.
Insurance claims
Looking to progress your career within motor claims? Look no further! We are seeking third party property damage agents, personal injury MOJ negotiators, technical claims personal injury negotiators and senior large and complex loss handlers.
Risk Executive
Identifying potential business risks and proving departments with advice and guidance on identifying, assessing and managing risk. Previous experience in a risk related role is essential
Supplier relationships manager
Managing 3rd party supplier relationships and working closely with the head of supplier relations to engage and ensure delivery of services & products.
Commercial Manager
Maintaining and developing relationships with our panel of ancillary partners, in order to maximise our commercial opportunities and remain an industry innovator
Commercial Executive
We are looking for someone with a panache for data and proven experience of interpreting and reporting on analytical trends
Customer representatives for sales, new business and claims
Starting salary of £15,500 with exciting and achievable career development and the opportunity to earn up to £18,500 as you progress.
Claims team leader – full time or part time
To supervise an allocated claims unit and to assist claims management in ensuring the smooth running of the claims department. We’re on the lookout for great people, so experience is not required as we will invest lots of time up front in our fantastic training environment. All we need from you is the flexibility to work when our customers need us and to enjoy working as part of a team. If that sounds like you and you have basic computer and communication skills, as well as the drive to really go places, we want to hear from you.
Mon-Fri 8am to 9pm. Sat 9am to 5:30pm and Sun 10am to 5pm.
Part time opportunities are also available working evenings and weekends
If you would like to know more about us or any of the above vacancies please visit our careers site at:
www.hastings-careers.com or send us an email to: recruitmentteam@hastingsdirect.com
{ SECTION TEXT HERE }
LEADERSHIP IN ACTION PROGRAMME By Amanda Menahem, HR Director www.hastingsdirect.com
L
ong-time readers of this magazine may recall the round table event hosted by the magazine last August with the aim of exploring how we start to bridge the gap between education and employment. Platinum invited heads of the local universities, educational NGOs and leading directors to a fascinating debate. Since then, I have been delighted by how Brighton Business School have embraced our vision at Hastings Direct, and from the start seemed to share our goals in wanting to help create leaders of the future to benefit local talent and keep skills within the region. What started as a bit of a moan around the table (albeit a passionate one) quickly became an idea that led to a real solution to a genuine challenge. On 23rd September 21 Brighton Business School undergraduates will commence our inaugural ‘Leadership in Action’ programme. This has been designed in partnership with the school and awards 20 academic credits towards achievement of their business degrees. The programme centres around three key elements: • Facilitated modules & master classes taught by a mix of Brighton Business School academics and Hastings Direct leaders • A genuine Hastings Direct business challenge for the students to work on throughout the programme
• Work placement in our Hastings Direct offices The programme aims to teach the undergraduates about key theories of leadership and impart the skills required for effective leadership in practice. It explores the development of personal leadership competence and its impact on delivering tangible results when faced with specific business challenges. The modules are as follows: • The organisation and its environment: Internal vs external environment and how we encourage and harness innovation • Leadership theories: such as leading through change and the leader’s role in creating and sustaining a positive culture • Leading people: Motivation, culture, creating high-performing teams, recruiting and managing talent, working in teams • Performance management: The role of leaders in creating high performance • Business skills for leaders: managing self, presentation skills, time management, communication and self reflection for continuous learning. For each module the morning will be spent learning about the theoretical underpinnings of each topic, drawing upon academic study and research. The afternoon will then be led by a Hastings Direct leader who will build upon the
morning’s content by helping students to apply the theory in practice and learn how leadership is brought to life in a real business. There will also be real life case studies and a constant application to the business challenges they’ll be working on. This is simply great for our business. Our leaders are so excited about getting involved. Not only for their own development but also as an opportunity for them to give something back, to mentor and help others to grow. And, of course, all the best leaders find that incredibly rewarding. We get to play a part in the development of our future talent. We get to engage with and identify high potential undergraduates for the future and create a pipeline into our business. Boiling it down – we hope to fill our vacancies! I will be very much personally involved and following the progress of the participants. Im very proud that Hastings Direct with Brighton University are leading the way in providing engaging and real experiences for students that break the barriers between academia and industry.
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{ BUSINESS AND CHARITY }
WILD ABOUT CHRISTMAS
Christmas is a crucial time for charities and Sussex Wildlife Trust is no exception - but how can a charity maximise the potential sales of merchandise and gift donations at this vital time? The charity decided to commission CharityLine, part of the Nova Direct group, to help with this year’s campaign. Ian Trevett asked CharityLine’s Hayley Bradbury and Stuart Sutherland how the relationship with the charity developed. “Last September the Sussex Wildlife Trust (SWT) joined the Institute of Fundraising, where we host training and seminars,” explains Stuart. “They took part in one of our courses on the importance of maintaining a clean database and understanding the demographic profile of who their supporters are. “We give charities access to free training and we cover key topics such as: Why would you maintain your data? What’s in it for you to clean this stuff up? What do your supporters look like? How are you attracting these people? “Since the course, we have been working with SWT on projects around their magazines, subscription mailers, and a couple of other bits and pieces.” Sussex Wildlife Trust focuses on protecting the wonderfully rich natural life that is found across the county’s towns, countryside and coast, to ensure that future generations living in Sussex will be able to enjoy the sense of wonder and well-being that nature offers. It manages over 30 nature reserves and has over 30,000 members, of which over 4,800 are children. The charity raised a very impressive £3,236,180 in 2013/14 for their conservation work, a 6% increase on the previous year, but they are always open to new ideas and strategies. “SWT is a great charity to work with, as they are very open-minded”, says Stuart. “They use us as a sounding board: “We’re thinking of doing this, what do you think? How could it work? What’s the logistics of it? What are the challenges or the stresses of going through this?”
Photo Credit: David Plummer
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{ BUSINESS AND CHARITY }
“Many charities go through the same process and the same challenges every single day and without someone like us they would sit there and try in isolation to find a solution to the same common issue. We can help prevent wasting that time, energy and resource and stop them going down blind alleys or we can just give them a solution. We basically just share knowledge and experience with them where we can. “From there, our relationship has grown and we are working with them on designing their Christmas catalogue, which will go out with their membership magazine. We’re designing the reply form and offering various options such as sending it out with a covering letter, including it in the magazine or using an A5 leaflet with a reply envelope - and for each we can cost it and advise of the benefits and drawbacks. “The ideal is to try combine the items into a single document. You have to make it as easy for the subscriber as possible. There are many ways you can do this. The key is to ensure a potential customer won’t be asking where I’m supposed to send the reply form to or ask where is the reply envelope. SWT want to encourage people to go online so we promote this on the marketing material, but it is important to not throw up barriers so people can order through whatever method they’re most comfortable with. “We also advise on postage costs as we easily work out the cheapest method. We can look at the stock as say, “That product can go out in an
Mark Greco Mugs
envelope, so you’re not paying parcel rates”, or “That product can go in a jiffy bag rather than needing to go in a box. These items need to go in a box”. As well as their expertise on marketing, CharityLine can organise the collection of money and fufilment of orders. “Direct Debit is by far the best way of maintaining any kind of membership organisation”, says Stuart. “It removes the annual renewal, it removes any kind of expiry, it leaves it in your control as the charity to initiate the collection of the payment. You know where every pound comes from, whereas with lots of other methods you can have anonymous donations or standing orders without the details of the payee.” “We have several clients that use the warehouse facility”, adds Hayley. “The capacity is approximately 30,000 square foot. They all get a dedicated account manager, and the IT team manage the data that comes in in order to produce the necessary pick & packs and the labels. We fulfil the order and make sure that it goes out the quickest way possible, in the shortest time frame, on time and on budget. So it becomes a pretty slick operation, so when you take a charity like Sussex Wildlife Trust they can use our experience and knowledge and flexibility.” While it is clear that CharityLine has the resources and expertise, there is another attribute which is equally important - an
Photo Credit: Derek Middleton understanding the ethos and ethics of the charity, as Hayley explains: “One key issue for SWT is the environmental impact, and fortunately this has always been a subject we take very seriously. For instance, we re-use the boxes that deliver our supplies to send out orders. We’ll modify them in whatever way we need to in order to accommodate the product that’s going out. So we suggested to SWT that they might want to put a note on the website to say, ‘So far we have saved X number of boxes from landfill.’ Basically every order they ever put through, they can create this statistic. “Our culture is that we don’t generate waste. We’ll say to a client, “Do you know what? Actually, if you tweak the size of that piece slightly you’ll fit another three onto a sheet of paper so there won’t be a waste.” “We have a policy of using recycled products; the cardboard is all recycled, the paper is FSC and we use biodegradable poly bags. All that is quite poignant for them and therefore we make a conscious effort at our end to say to them that we take seriously the environmental accreditations and always look to reduce our carbon footprint.” If you would like to talk to CharityLine, then call 0800 368 9701. sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk www.charityline.org.uk
57
Stag House, Upper Bedford Street, Brighton BN2 1GW
{ YOUNG START-UP TALENT }
X E S SUS
SHINING DIAMONDS G atwick Diamond’s business community came together at the Checkatrade Stadium in Crawley to celebrate and mark the launch of the entrepreneurial initiative’s sixth year of running in the Diamond. Patron, longstanding supporter of the initiative and MP for Crawley, Henry Smith, kicked off the proceedings, saying, “This an initiative that has really gone from strength to strength. I am very enthusiastic and excited to see what new ideas come forward over the coming year.” The event heard from long-term sponsors Rebecca Gattinesi of Basepoint Business Centre and Matthew Tyson of Richard Place Dobson accountants, who commented, “This is all about encouraging young people and bringing out the talent. Many youngsters have used this as a stepping stone to greater things. Several people have gone on to take their businesses forward despite not having won. We always promote the belief in youth”. Another, Mark Bennett of Bennett Christmas Insurance, added further, “We have been a sponsor for a couple of years now. And it’s great, we get a lot out of helping some extremely entrepreneurial youngsters”. New to sponsoring the initiative for 2015 is Nicky Salazar of PSD Ice, who added, “Today’s been very relaxed and enjoyable. I’ve heard some very inspirational stories from some outstanding young people. We are very proud to be a sponsor.” Some of the Gatwick Diamond YST finalists from earlier in the year came to the launch to share their experience of the initiative and the
success they’ve seen since. We caught up with Will Bower, who entered the initiative with his business Royal Three (royaltythree.co.uk), a youth digital marketing agency for brands looking to generate content ideas and help them deliver their messages to a youth demographic. The young entrepreneur commented that his experience with YST helped him to “focus on developing a business plan and has provided opportunities to network.” Will has also recently launched an online platform - Crawley TV, which aims to “provide the people of Crawley with funny, interesting and enjoyable video content on a bi-weekly basis.” This year’s Gatwick Diamond YST winner, Imrich Berta, a former student of Central Sussex College, who won the prize fund with his sushi delivery business – Happy Go Sushi, back in March - also spoke at the event. Imrich has
been using the many connections via YST to grow his business and expressed his appreciation for “the continuous support from the YST team and sponsors of the initiative in helping him to develop and grow the business.” Imrich’s future plans are “to include setting up a catering van so that more people can experience the satisfaction of well-prepared Japanese cuisine.” The team and sponsors are set to mentor and work alongside a wealth of new young entrepreneurs aged 16-25 in the Gatwick Diamond area. The aim is to help aspiring young talent to start their own businesses not only by being involved with the finalists but by engaging with schools and colleges in workshops across the Gatwick Diamond area to spread the word and encourage a ‘can-do’ attitude to business. This year’s Gatwick Diamond judges will be Lorraine Nugent, Media Word Waves, Daryl Gaylor of NatWest Group, Matthew Tyson, Richard Place Dobson and Gary Shipton, West Sussex County Times Group, Peter Hitchcock, Thales, and Rebecca Glazebrook of PDT Solicitors. Ben Towers, multi-award-winning young entrepreneur, also attended the event and added, “What I really enjoy is helping and seeing other people my age succeed. It’s very rewarding.” The team are proud to announce that the sixth showcase event will be at Lingfield Park Marriott Hotel in March 2016, with the final being filmed at the offices of Thales in Manor Royal. To find out more, visit www. youngstartuptalent.co.uk
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RICHMOND HILL HOTEL By Maarten Hoffmann
A
s an ex-Richmond and Twickenham boy, l always look forward to returning to this idyllic part of London, often forgetting how beautiful it is with the proximity to Richmond Park, the river and central London. It really is quite unique. I was sad to see the beautiful Star and Garter building at the top of the hill and right next to the park gate, like so many other landmarks, being ripped apart and turned into hugely expensive apartments, but was delighted, on the other hand, to see the beautiful Georgian building that comprises the Richmond Hill Hotel retaining its glory as a wonderful hotel, and having not been there for many years, l thought it was time to pay a visit, having heard that millions had been spent on a refurbishment. Previously two Georgian houses, it is now combined into one, with the oldest portion dating back to 1726, it is superbly located with 2,500 acres of Richmond Park next door, home to large herds of Fallow and Red Deer and views across
60
Petersham Meadow to the winding River Thames and further outstanding views. The money has been very well spent. The 142 rooms are fabulously appointed, and my room had an ingenious bathroom arrangement whereby the entire wall that separates the bedroom from the loo slides into position to enclose the bathroom area if you are a little shy. The shower cubicle has twin shower heads that pound you with just the right pressure, and soft and fluffy towels await your exit. The goose down duvets entice you to
remain in bed longer than you probably should, and there are beautiful suites available with full wet rooms. Air conditioning, huge flat screen television, fridge, wi-fi and highly efficient room service ensure that guests want for nothing. Whilst being shown around by the charming Director of Sales, Gill Bonham, l was surprised to learn that the hotel boasts 15 conference rooms that will accommodate from 5 to 250 delegates. The flexible sizes and shapes of the meetings rooms ensure that any group, for any purpose, can be hosted, and most have brand-new sliding AV screens, magic whiteboards and break-out areas. Just to add some charm to any event, the hotel can arrange for all the delegates to enjoy a picnic lunch on the Terrace overlooking the river, or actually in Richmond Park itself. Now there’s a USP you don’t encounter every day. The largest room is the Ballroom, which is extremely well appointed and will take 200 for dinner or 180 theatre style. I was particularly
{ HOTEL REVIEW}
taken by the Cambrian Room, designed as a board room and enjoying a magnificent bay window and a stylish solid oak board table for up to 14 guests. As far as conference space goes, this hotel really does have it all. Their Pembrokes Restaurant just had to be sampled, and dinner comprised a pea and mint soup that was absolutely splendid, followed by a chicken curry with fluffy jasmine rice that was full of flavour. Head Waiter Thomas was a happy soul who seemed to be in ten different places at once whilst always making one feel like the only guest in the dining room. My wife enjoyed seared black bream with fennel puree and sautéed samphire, with which she was absolutely delighted, and the only slight comment here would be the poor children’s menu that comprised burger, pasta, fish fingers and baked beans. With our efforts to feed our children correctly, l am not sure that this was the healthiest kids’ menu that could have been devised, but my daughters ordered
the Pembroke burger with triple cooked chips and tomato, basil and mozzarella salad from the main menu and there was nothing at all left on the plate, which is always a good sign. I thought the costs very reasonable, too, with £20.95 for two courses and £24.95 for three. Then the perennial problem after an early dinner - what to do with the kids so that we can grab some rare and highly treasured peace and quiet. One mention of the Cedar Health and Leisure Club, with a full gym, treatment rooms and pool and we were alone within seconds as they left skid marks across the dining room floor in their haste. The pool is set in a Scandinavianstyle building to the rear of the hotel and has a great pool, jacuzzi area, sauna and steam rooms, full gym overlooking the pool and a small cafe. Children are not allowed in the pool after 5.30pm so that adults might enjoy it in peace and l must admit, as there was nobody else in the pool at the time, l broke the rules so that l could get a smidgeon of that peace. I love this hotel and will certainly return, and the staff really could not do more to assist guests in having an enjoyable and relaxing time. And consider - the Richmond Hill Hotel is only seven miles from central London, seven miles from Heathrow, three miles from Twickenham stadium, four miles from Kew Botanical Gardens and the Chelsea and Hampton Court flower shows, and a short drive from Wembley stadium and the famous grass courts of Wimbledon. The refurbishment has been a triumph, and it is rewarding to see a famous landmark hotel remain a famous landmark hotel - and then some. Why would you stay anywhere else?
Richmond Hill Hotel 144-150 Richmond Hill Richmond-upon-Thames Surrey, TW10 6RW T: 0208 940 2247 E: info.richmond@kewgreen.co.uk W: www.richmondhill-hotel.co.uk
Open Morning Saturday 26th September To find out more or to book a place, please contact Admissions 01273 836936 or West by email registrar hppc.co.uk Hurstpierpoint College on Hurstpierpoint Sussex BN6@9JS Admissions 01273 836936
www.hppc.co.uk
{ EDUCATION }
OPEN YOUR EYES AT OPEN DAYS Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. Open Days can help, if you know what to look for...
T
he holidays are over and it is back to school for a new year, and time to think about education choices for next
• Read the noticeboards. Is there plenty going
• Remember the purpose of your visit is to get
September. The schools know that decisions
on? Most importantly, try to get a feel for
a feel for the school. If you like what you see,
will be made over the next few months, so they
what goes on in the school when it isn’t an
then do more research. Ask if you can come
are keen to show themselves off in the very
Open Day.
in when it is a normal school day. No-one
best light. In other words, it is the season of the school Open Day. Open Days are a wonderful opportunity to explore potential schools and meet the headmaster, teachers and pupils. But how accurate a picture can you get from an organised tour? Inevitably, the event will be set up to make each school look as attractive as possible, but you can still get a good feel for a school.
So, how can you make the most of an Open Day? Here are our tips: • Always remember that the school is set up to sell a vision to potential parents. So, how
shapes the school. His /her job is to motivate
ranging and inclusive? If cost is an issue, are
and inspire. Did you feel inspired?
they expensive?
should refuse this request.
• Talk to teachers. Do they seem enthusiastic about the school? Do you think they can develop and nurture your child’s curiosity and eagerness to learn? In other words,
•
Ask questions. If there is anything you want to know, this is your opportunity. Dianne Allison, Head of Admissions, Hurst
would you like them to teach your child?
College, says, “There is no substitute for
• Look around the classrooms. Are they
attending an Open Day when you can meet
stimulating environments? Do you think your
the Head, the teachers and the pupils, as well
child would thrive here?
as view the facilities. You then begin to get a
• Look at the pupils’ work on display. Don’t
feel for the ethos, ambience and spirit of the
just concentrate on the quality, look at how
school. However, it is vital that you follow this
many pupils have work shown. Are they
up with a personal tour, which can be tailored
just showcasing the work of a few talented
to your requirements, allow for a more detailed
pupils?
discussion with the Head, enable you to see the
• Listen to the headteacher. If they give a
school on a normal working day and, above all,
you? After all, if they can’t organise a
welcoming speech, do they have a vision and
to make a more informed decision on whether
successful Open Day, do you
passion? This is the person who leads and
the school might be the right fit for your child.”
well have they done? Have they impressed
want them to organise your child’s education? • Take your child(ren) with you. Don’t forget it is they who will be going to the school every day. Ask their opinion. Has the school inspired them? They will pick up on things you may not notice. • Speak to the pupils. How do they feel about the school? Are they happy? Do they look confident and assured? Are they behaving impeccably? Are they good role models for your child? • Ask
about
clubs
and
Pupils at Hurstpierpoint College celebrating A Level Success
activities. Are they wide-
The next Open Morning at Hurstpierpoint College takes place on Saturday, 26th September. Please contact the Admissions Department on 01273 836936 to book your places. 63
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{MOTORING }
ON THE HORIZON With the automotive industry in extremely rude health, lets have a look at a few interesting new models we can expect in the coming year. MERCEDES-BENZ GLE
AUDI R8
BENTLEY BENTAYGA
On sale in September, the GLE was formally known as the M-Class and will go head to head with the top SUV’s such as the Porsche Cayenne, Range Rover Sport and BMW X5 and is likely to be a corker. From around £50,000.
Available by the end of the year, this is designed to be a 911 killer and the R8 V10 is the fastest production Audi yet. Like me, you might be trying to spot the difference between this and the current model! Prices start at £119,500
The firms first foray into the 4x4 market and named after a mountain range in the Canary Islands. Expect a starting price around £130,000 to take on the top level Range Rovers. Launches in 2016.
BMW 7 SERIES
TOYOTA MIRAI
TESLA MODEL 3
The sixth generation of this model will take the fight to the class leader, the Mercedes S-Class, and is packed with so much advanced technology that it might well drive itself. Available in October starting at £64,480.
Running on Hydrogen will not detract from the fact that this is one of the ugliest cars l have ever had the displeasure of looking at. Priced at around £60,000, l would advise that an offer of £10 would be £9 too much.
Following on from the success of the S Model, the 3 will share the all electric motor that in Ludicrous Mode will see off the BMW M3. Available in 2016 at around £30,000.
JAGUAR XF This is the big brother of the new XE and with 75% of its structure made of aluminium, the stats are likely to be very good. It will compete with the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class and the Audi A6. On sale in the Autumn from £32,300.
FERRARI 488 GTB The GTB is back and is it only me or are all new Ferrari’s starting to look the same? The 488 is designed to replace the 458 Italia range and is most likely sold out before its even launched in 2016. Expect a price tag of around £180,000.
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{ MOTORING REVIEW }
Motoring Editor: Maarten Hoffmann
AUDI RS3
SPLIT PERSONALITY
TECHNICAL STUFF: Engine: 2.5 litre petrol 362 BHP Performance: 0-62 4.3 seconds Top Speed: 155mph Economy: 34.9mpg Price from: ÂŁ39,995
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N
ot so much a split personality as Jekyll and Hyde. Audi have long been known for their slightly deranged RS models that seem to get slightly more deranged as the years go by. Try the RS6 Avant for example. A full family estate car that just happens to go from 0-60 in 4.3 seconds and proceeds in anger to 155mph, or 174mph if it were de-restricted. And this with the family and all the luggage on board. Now they have done it again with the release of the all-new RS3, the compact model, but one that nevertheless is as mental as the rest of them. I felt a tad daft driving what is essentially a boy racer, and as there seems to be no way to turn the noise off, it barks and growls at every slight dab of the pedal, and sunglasses and head in hands was the order of the day. But secretly, l really enjoyed it, as once you give it its head, you need to hang on for dear life. This is a very fast car, and the fastest hatch in the country. The hot hatch market is highly contested, with the Mercedes A45 AMG, BMW M135i, Focus RS and the highly anticipated, new VW Golf R400 due next year. The reason they have become so popular is that they are everyday drivers, with a hatchback and plenty of space. It just so happens they have dropped in a bonkers power plant that is usually mated with a super car. Plant your right foot on the throttle, and, thanks to the quattro fourwheel drive system, the RS3 flies up the road with ferocious speed. For even more stomach-turning acceleration, and to hit 62mph in the announced 4.3 seconds, you just need to use the launch control system.
{ MOTORING REVIEW} Turn off the ESC, select ‘Dynamic’ mode in the standard Audi Drive Select, put the S-tronic gearbox into ‘Sport’, hold the brake pedal and floor the throttle. The engine will then be held at 4,000rpm; let go of the brake and the RS3 will launch forwards with just a small chirp of wheel spin from the tyres and, usually, a look of sheer terror on the face of the driver. In my case a maniacal grin so wide it started to hurt my jaw. Audi has tweaked the seven-speed S-tronic gearbox to give faster shift times, and, while it’s difficult to notice the cogs changing more quickly, there’s no doubt it fires through the gears slickly. And with the Dynamic mode selected, the flaps in the exhaust are opened so every change up is accompanied by a loud bang, while on overrun or dropping a gear is met with a ‘crackle’ and a ‘pop’. The exhaust is a perfect match for the charismatic five-cylinder engine. At low revs there’s a distinctive five-pot warble that transforms into a howl near the top end of the rev range. Die-hard RS fans will also be delighted to hear the RS3 looks like the best RS models, too, with a subtle body kit, trademark honeycomb
grille and lightly flared arches. It can be made to look more aggressive, however, with a choice of colours for the bodywork and wheels and an aluminium-look exterior pack that emphasises the RS3’s square-jawed style. But if you are over 25, don’t! It would be like landing Heidi Klum and suggesting she have plastic surgery. As the RS3 is based on the more sedate A3 Sportback, it’s also a practical hatchback. Boot space is 280 litres with the rear seats up, and once they’re folded, there’s 1,120 litres on offer. The Mercedes A45 AMG has another 61 and 37 litres respectively, but the boot is a good shape and there’s plenty of space for rear seat passengers. With its charismatic engine, prodigious straight-line pace and a comfortable, practical cabin, the RS3 makes a compelling case. While the near-£40,000 sticker price is steep, and the A45 AMG is cheaper by £1,760, it’s tough to obtain super car performance in such a practical, easy-to-live-with package, although it would be a tough call choosing which one to buy. There’s a sense of understatement to the RS3’s interior that seems odd at first, but it
begins to make sense when you consider the car not so much as the maddest, wildest, hottest of hot hatchbacks on the block but rather as a feeder car for the rest of Audi’s RS performance range. This is an Audi, after all, and the garish extravagance of volume brands can be woeful. But l found the RS3’s interior a bit soulless and slightly disappointing. However, this cabin is as immaculately finished as it is pleasingly practical and there really aren’t many other charges you could level at it. The instruments look pretty stock, until you investigate them closely enough to see the boost gauge inset into the rev counter (handy for timing your launch control starts) and find the lap timer incorporated into the drive computer. Buy it and you’ll have a highly competent car with five doors, decent cabin space and a goodsized boot – one that, judged against its closest rivals, provides the same distinguishing high quality and sure footed performance that AUDI have traded on for decades. Just don’t rev it when you collect the kids from school - it can be quite embarrassing.
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SANDOWN MERCEDES-BENZ S
andown Motors began its march to dominance across Surrey and Hampshire in 1982 in South Africa, when they were awarded their very first Mercedes-Benz franchise. The company was founded by Roy McAllister, and his son Gavin is the Managing Gavin McAllister
68
Director of the UK operation, and, after more than 30 years with the brand, he has certainly not let the grass grow under his feet, with Sandown dealerships now in Guildford, Hindhead, Poole, Salisbury, Dorchester and Basingstoke. Mercedes-Benz is one of the most prestigious and cost-effective fleet vehicles utilised by companies across the South East, and Sandown have played a large part in making firms understand the benefits of owing one of Germany’s finest. Stuart Head is the Head of Fleet and is highly experienced, with over 16 years in the industry before joining Sandown in 2013. The specialised Fleet team, based in Guildford, have created a top-professional department with the aim of offering customers an entirely tailored service that combines the benefits and power of a large motor retail group with meticulous attention to detail and traditional values. As Stuart explained, his five-strong team complement these benefits with a bespoke,
personal approach to their clients’ individual requirements. “We strive to deliver an unrivalled service that provides a made-to-measure total business solution to the needs of our customers and which is befitting of the industry-leading products we have to offer. In our quest to create the perfect service, we have considered everything about how we conduct business and how it can be enhanced to optimise the customer experience, spanning the prompt response to enquiries through to the efficient maintenance of a customer’s car long after they have taken delivery.” Stuart continued: “Our cars and the resources of Sandown Mercedes-Benz are second-tonone, but we understand that constant, efficient communication is incredibly important for corporate clients. To this end, customers can expect to always be able to speak to one of our team, have any emails answered within an hour, a demonstration request arranged within four hours and quotes provided promptly. Ultimately,
{ MOTORING } Stuart Head
we want to give our customers something that is refreshingly different from the norm, exceeds their expectations and therefore provides the basis for a long-lasting relationship.” Stuart’s efforts have obviously paid off as the Sandown fleet department is doing tremendous business, demonstrating how easy it is for companies to run a prestigious Mercedes-Benz fleet for little more than a bunch of humdrum Fords. And the effect of staff arriving to a client meeting in a premium brand vehicle can never be underestimated. The Fleet Department has a customer charter that guarantees consistently high levels of service. It is strictly adhered to and assessed regularly to ensure its effectiveness. It is designed specifically to put the customer at the heart of Sandown’s business. The company also offer smart sales, approved used cars, service, parts and some incredible finance deals. One of their latest offers is the excellent E-Class Estate E220 SE for only £250 per month*, which is remarkable value. The size of the Sandown Mercedes-Benz group is a major
plus for fleet customers, ensuring excellent availability and a variety of demonstrator models together with a high level of stock vehicles and low lead times. And it just gets better when we look forward to the new models on the horizon: The M-Class replacement, the GLE, is getting rave reviews; the all new C-Class coupé will be here soon and is already predicted to outsell the competition; the GLC SUV is turning heads, and, of course, the stunning new S-Class Coupe is already here, and if you haven’t seen it yet, get down to Sandown and take a look - it is an absolute stunner. Sandown are demonstrating that there is a new way of doing things and offering a fleet programme that is irresistible for those companies that desire style, elegance and value for money. Stuart Head, Group Head of Fleet Sales Sandown Group Mercedes-Benz Tel: 01483 654541 Mail: stuart.head@sandown-mercedes.co.uk www.sandown-group.co.uk
Fleet Manufacturer of the Year 2015.
Mercedes-Benz Fleet Range.
Mercedes-Benz of Poole
Mercedes-Benz of Guildford
Mercedes-Benz of Salisbury
Mercedes-Benz of Hindhead
Mercedes-Benz Fleet Range.
Mercedes-Benz of Basingstoke
Mercedes-Benz of Dorchester
*Ts & Cs apply
69
{ TECHNOLOGY HUB }
CTC team Nigel Dias Jonny Rose Sarah Luxford
WELCOME TO CROYDON TECH CITY London’s fastest-growing tech cluster by Jonny Rose, Founder of Croydon Tech City
T
his time last year, stats were released by the Office for National Statistics that declared Croydon to be London’s ‘fastest-
growing technology cluster’. The ONS findings
new media propositions (The Croydon Citizen),
events, community building and influencing
and FinTech firms such as QuidCycle (described
local government policy, property development
by The Financial Times as “the antidote to
and infrastructure changes.
Wonga”).
Beyond our own efforts to make Croydon an
revealed that Croydon’s tech start-up cluster
Overhanging these young startups are more
accommodating home to early-stage tech start-
achieved 38% growth between 2011 and 2013,
established enterprise tech companies that
ups, there are lots of other factors that make it
higher than East London (17.1%) and UK (11.3%)
have been in the borough for over a decade.
an attractive place to start up.
averages as a whole over this period.
These include enterprise tech companies such
Croydon is home to a robust community of
Whilst this may have come as a surprise to
as DotMailer – which IPO’d on the London Stock
software developers, tech founders and venture
those in government and the UK tech industry
Exchange in 2011 and currently has a market
capitalists. There are tech events every week of
who only have eyes for Silicon Roundabout
cap of £100m – and Intuitive.
the year in Croydon, ranging from tech surgeries,
in East London or Brighton on the coast, the
Croydon Tech City even has its own dedicated
where you can meet with experts to help with
announcement came as no shock to those of
software testing laboratory in the shape of
your problem, to drinks socials to network the
us in South London who have witnessed a quiet
MagenTys!
night away. All of this provides a warm social
tech revolution in Croydon over the past few years.
Home to over a thousand digital, creative and tech start-ups
scene that is inclusive and welcoming.
Why are start-ups moving to Croydon? The growth in tech companies either moving to or starting up in Croydon hasn’t happened
Croydon Council is very supportive of technology companies and is doing everything possible to provide the right infrastructure and environs to make start-ups thrive.
Croydon Tech City is now home to just over
completely organically. Rather, it has been the
Transport links from East and West Croydon
a thousand digital, creative and technical start-
result of careful and concerted effort on the part
to London terminals are – as many commuters
ups. Software companies in Croydon range
of the Croydon Tech City management team -
will attest – often faster than travelling across
from up-and-comers, such as social networks
myself, Nigel Dias and Sarah Luxford - to raise
London within Zone 1, with journey times from
(Famberry), mobile dining apps (FeastExpress),
the profile of Croydon since 2011 through social
as little as 14 minutes. East Croydon is also
70
{ TECHNOLOGY HUB }
“Croydon Tech City is now home to just over a thousand digital, creative and technical start-ups. ” impeccably placed for developers who want
to exhibitions by Banksy
to escape the city for Brighton, Gatwick or the
and Damien Hirst. Over
greener, more affluent areas of Surrey.
the coming year, Croydon Tech City is collaborating
The Croydon workspace boom
with various arts and
Croydon has some of the most competitive
culture bodies to make
office rents in London – something that has
sure Croydon has an arts
been further galvanized by the council’s current
and business scene that
‘Rate Free For A Year’ campaign, which places
it can be proud of.
incoming tech start-ups in Grade-A office space with business rates waived for a year.
Hopefully,
when
looking at it altogether,
Croydon also has a growing selection of cool
Croydon Tech City seems like the complete
workspace hubs, including the epicentre of the
package for any young tech company looking
Croydon Tech City movement, Matthews Yard.
for a place to set out their stall.
Trampery. A new Innovation Centre incubator is launching in September opposite East Croydon St in conjunction with the University of Sussex.
Future Tech City: creating a talent pipeline for Croydon’s future Recently, we launched Future Tech City, which is our scheme to encourage the take-up of computer programming and coding by as many
Let’s not forget about culture When creating a Tech City, people shouldn’t just think about cheap office space and excellent
young people as possible in Croydon to prepare them for the tech economy of the future and for their personal development.
broadband infrastructure. At the end of the day,
Future Tech City has four main streams of
when the developers have finished coding, when
activity, all of it delivered by Croydon Tech City
venture capitalists have completed another
and our army of incredible volunteers.
successful investment and when founders
Firstly, we work with Code Club, aiming to
have closed another deal, they all need places
get into every primary school in the borough to
outside of the office to play, to relax and to be
teach young children basic programming skills
entertained.
and support teachers to deliver an increasingly
Fortunately, Croydon is undergoing a seismic cultural, retail and arts revolution.
complicated technology curriculum. Secondly,
we
support
Apps
over the heads of many – including those who’ve had several decades in a particular career – the need to learn new skills and keep up with the
Owned by software entrepreneur Saif Bonar, it is very similar to East London’s TechHub or The
agenda. As the spectre of redundancy looms
for
Good
latest technology is imperative to staying ahead in the jobs market. As a result, Croydon Tech City is also working to educate and upskill the borough’s adult population. Opportunities include free web development courses, agile methodology workshops and the Croydon Tech City MBA, which teaches our community how to run a startup. We don’t just want to create a community that is inwardlooking and self-serving; we also want to make sure this is something the whole of Croydon can be a part of, and these classes - run by Croydoners for Croydoners - are a great way to upskill the entire town.
What’s next for Croydon Tech City? Croydon Tech City is leading the charge on the promotion of the borough as a place to live, work
By the end of the year there will have been
in their efforts to get into the borough’s
14 festivals; BoxPark is moving from Shoreditch
secondary schools, delivering both tech and
and do business. Almost weekly, Croydon Tech
to Croydon next summer and Westfield Croydon
entrepreneurial skills.
City is in national papers, radio and TV, being
will open in 2019. In the past year alone, Croydon
Third is ‘Young Croydon Tech City,’ which helps
profiled as a rapidly rising tech hub – something
has gone from nought to three art galleries: a
young people understand how to have successful
which brings talent and businesses to the area
Banksy exhibition has just opened in Croydon
careers in technology. Local secondary schools
and has wider benefits for education, property,
and will run throughout the summer.
are invited to nominate interested students,
infrastructure,
employment
and
branding.
There has been a groundswell of community-
who meet successful local men and women
The movement is changing perceptions of the
driven activity that has led to a DIY-attitude
of different backgrounds, talking about how
borough for the better.
to arts and culture in the borough. One great
they built their careers. The students are fully
example of this is Turf Projects, a self-described
supported by CTC and business mentors.
The role and remit of the Croydon Tech City team is now set to expand: it will mean
“nomadic, artist-run project co-directed by a
The fourth stream centres around work
collaborating with private partners, central
group of artists, filmmakers and architects“
experience and apprenticeship opportunities
government and public sector representatives
that creates free high-quality exhibitions and
as we explore connecting our brilliant tech
who wish to support our agenda to bring top
events for Croydon. These events include
business community with our school community.
companies and talent to the area.
Community classes by the community for the community
validating Croydon as a tech city. Now that we
The past three years have been all about
mini-golf courses by East Croydon Station and archaeological digs. More recently, RISE Gallery opened up in St George’s Walk, where owner and art dealer
It’s not just the young who benefit from
Kevin Morrison has now made Croydon home
Croydon Tech City’s borough-wide education
are globally recognised as such, we want to make Croydon Britain’s best tech city.
croydontechcity.com
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{ AWARDS }
2015
The search is on …
L
eatherhead is the location of choice for many successful companies. With excellent transport links and commercial premises, the area is home to world-class corporates, leading retailers and innovative small businesses. The Leatherhead & District Business Awards – now in their 5th year - put the spotlight on the achievements of companies and business leaders and celebrate their success. Organised as a key strand of the Leatherhead & District Chamber of Commerce initiatives, the Awards scheme, run by Prowse & Co gives recognition to Leatherhead’s diverse business community and demonstrates the contribution it makes to the local economy. This year, there are ten categories, open to any individual or organisation located in Leatherhead, Ashtead, Bookham, Mickleham or Fetcham. The awards are supported by a range of high profile organisations located in the business district including ExxonMobil, headline sponsor. We are seeking entrepreneurial stars and corporate leaders – people and companies who go the extra mile to achieve extraordinary success or inspire others to achieve their potential.
Award Categories Best Business Contribution to the Community Award sponsored by ExxonMobil This award recognises businesses that can demonstrate responsible business practices and a commitment to the local Mole Valley community in areas such as support for the environment, local supply chains, people or charitable projects.
Business of the Year 2015 sponsored by the Leatherhead & District Chamber of Commerce This award is for a local company that excels in all aspects of running a successful business and has shown high levels of commitment to its employees, customers and product / service.
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{ AWARDS } International Business of the Year sponsored by The Gatwick Diamond Initiative This Award will go to an organisation that demonstrates an international growth strategy that has achieved sales, profit and market share improvement. The judges will be looking for effective export programmes or international business development activities.
Sustainable Organisation of the Year sponsored by Unilever UK This award is for a company or public sector organisation with innovative and effective methods of reducing its environmental impact and a strong commitment to improving its sustainability credentials. Judges will be looking for examples of sustainability projects and commitments undertaken by the organisation plus evidence of their success.
Professional Services Firm of the Year sponsored by Prowse & Co Ltd This award is for a professional services firm (Law, Accountancy, Finance, Bank, Pensions etc) that excels in all aspects of running a successful partnership. The winning business will offer a high quality of service, professional expertise and a clear commitment to its employees and customers.
Business Person of the Year sponsored by Platinum Business Magazine This award celebrates an individual who is likely to have demonstrated high levels of commitment, initiative and dedication in key aspects of business performance, helping a company or the local business community achieve success and/or inspiring others to achieve their full potential. The judges are looking for a business person (in any position within a large or small company or self-employed consultant or freelance) who has shown outstanding achievement, dedication and enthusiasm in his/her role.
Employer of the Year sponsored by Mole Valley District Council This award recognises businesses or organisations that best demonstrate their commitment to investing in people. The judges will be looking for employee strategies that attract, retain and develop talent and how this contributes to sustainable growth.
Leisure and Tourism Award sponsored by Surrey County Council This category is open to any organisation involved in the delivery of leisure, tourism, visitor attractions or hospitality. The judges are looking for an organisation that demonstrates strong performance in a number of aspects relating to its operations, including evidence of growth, investment and improvements, whilst creating employment opportunities and customer satisfaction.
Women in Business Award sponsored by Mundays LLP This award celebrates successful women who have excelled in their specific business, profession, organisation or line of work. The judges are looking for women at any stage of their careers, who have clearly made a difference over the past 12 months through leadership, entrepreneurialism, mentoring skills, and/or their ideas.
Retailer of the Year sponsored by Leatherhead Advertiser This award sets out to recognise and acknowledge the contribution that retailers make in growing and sustaining the local economy and in setting the standard for customer service excellence. The judges are looking for a retailer that demonstrates ‘first class’ customer service, strong business performance, innovation and the ability to adapt and change.
How to Enter
reception@prowse.co.uk NO LATER THAN 11 SEPTEMBER 2015
Entering the Awards is completely FREE.
Step 2: Shortlisted Entries
Step 1: Entering
may contact or visit the shortlisted companies in October.
Judges will shortlist a selection of entries in each category and
You may enter or nominate in as many award categories as you wish. This can be done by downloading the entry form from www.leatherheadawards.com. Please return the completed entry form plus any accompanying literature to the awards office at ‘Leatherhead Business Awards’, c/o Prowse & Company, Guildford Road, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 7AH; or via email to:
Follow us @leatherheadbiz #LeatherheadAwards
Step 3: Awards Ceremony The awards ceremony will be held at St John’s School, Leatherhead on 30 November 2015 where the winners will be presented with a trophy and certificate in front of 80 guests.
FIND OUT MORE ONLINE AT www.leatherheadawards.com
The Leatherhead & District Business Awards are organised by Prowse & Co in conjunction with the Leatherhead & District Chamber of Commerce and ExxonMobil. For further information, please call 01372 363386.
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Exhibition Wednesday 7th October 9.30am – 4.30pm
SPONSORED BY:
HG Wells Conference & Events Centre, Woking
l Pre-show breakfast l 75 Exhibitors l Seminar Programme l 1-2-1 Clinics for Start-Ups l Drinks Reception
www.wokingmeansbusiness.com
{ CHAMBER EVENTS }
DATES FOR THE DIARY For further information go to www.surrey-chambers.co.uk
Thursday, 3rd September Finance Workshop - Writing good Business Plans to support Raising Finance The County Club, Guildford Members: £22 + VAT - Non Members: £35 + VAT Tailor your business plan to ensure you receive the right level of support from potential financiers. Thursday, 10th September Protecting your business Charles Russell Speechlys LLP, One London Square, Guildford, GU1 1 UN The need to protect your business from departing employees is more important than ever, and in this session we will take you through the employment relationship, providing guidance on what action you can take to protect your business. Free - Contact events@crslaw.com Friday, 11th September Badminton Networking Event Lightwater Leisure Centre Back by popular demand, we are pleased to run a fun Business Networking Event hosted by Surrey Chambers and projectfive. Members: £10 + VAT - Non Members: £15 + VAT Thursday, 17th September Access to Business Funding Surrey Business School, University of Surrey This event will provide practical information for SMEs, including an overview of alternative finance, a panel discussion by companies funded through alternative finance and access to a range of finance providers. Members: £15 + VAT - Non Members: £25 + VAT Thursday, 17th September Open 18-Hole Golf Competition at New Zealand Golf Club New Zealand Golf Club, Woodham Open 18-Hole Stableford competition open to all business people. Join us as a team of 3 or 4 players and entertain your own clients or as a solo player and we will place you in a team. 18-hole Stableford competition followed by lunch and prize giving. Members: £107 + VAT - Non Members: £135 + VAT
Wednesday, 23rd September Polish up your sales and negotiation skills Guildford College Evening Briefings designed to update your business skills in critical areas such as sales & negotiation, effective digital marketing and an introduction to IP and the power of your brand. Members: £12 + VAT - Non Members: £20 + VAT Tuesday, 29th September Helping Local Communities – Finance Seminar for Entrepreneurs SAB Miller PLC, Woking Learn more about basic business accounting and finance and how to produce key financial information that will help to deliver value to your business. Free Wednesday, 30th September Members Networking Evening Wotton House, Dorking Members: Free - Non Members: £30 + VAT CHAMBER CONNECTIONS - BREAKFAST NETWORKING Tuesday, 8th September - Epsom Downs Racecourse Wednesday, 16th September - The Refectory, Guildford Friday, 18th September - Double Trees by Hilton, Woking, Thursday, 24th September - Waverley Abbey House, Farnham Members: £12 + VAT - Non Members: £20 + VAT BUSINESS ADVICE CLINICS Running a business can be challenging and you may feel that you are suffering from a particular issue or challenge. Who do you turn to? What advice do you listen to? Our Business advice clinics are specifically designed to give you the opportunity for you to discuss what help and advice you need with your business. Free events. Tuesday, 8th September - Basepoint, Camberley Thursday, 10th September - Basepoint, Camberley (start-ups) Wednesday, 16th September - Surrey Chambers Offices, Woking Thursday, 24th September - Reigate & Banstead Council Offices
Golf in Surrey - North Downs Golf club “North Downs, Woldingham’s historic golf club and only 10 minutes from the M25. Great venue for corporate golf days, client meetings or entertaining, and off-site seminars. Flexible corporate and personal memberships available. Check out the website www.northdownsgolfclub.co.uk or call 01883 652057 for more details. Quote ‘Platinum’ for the best terms available.
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{ SURREY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE }
Surrey Chambers of Commerce is a relatively small organisation, employing 11 full-time staff and turning over less than £500000. However, because we are involved with so many other businesses, through their membership of the Chamber we act as a catalyst to many exciting projects and partnerships. When our members are successful, we celebrate, when our members need help, we are there to support them. Whether they are looking for their first apprentice, access to funding, the chance to meet specific contacts or help to embark on a journey towards exporting we are there to guide them. We often take great pleasure in partnerships which come out of a meeting we have facilitated; we even introduced Chamber member, Robert May of ramsac, a Godalming based IT Company to his wife! We love to show off on behalf of our members and so have collected here the latest good news stories.
SURREY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE www.surrey-chambers.co.uk SEATS FOR SOLDIERS – ALDERSHOT TOWN FC Aldershot has been home to the British Army for the past 160 years and they are very proud of their connection to the local garrison and other services personnel in the Hampshire and Surrey area. Seats for Soldiers is very popular with the troops and has helped bring the local civilian and military populations closer together through a shared enjoyment of football. The club has received important national and regional awards for its community efforts. They are inviting companies in Surrey to participate in this season’s Seats for Soldiers project. The tickets are available for purchase at a discounted price of £10 +VAT and they make them available in blocks of 20 or more. The seats are then used by the local soldiers so that they can attend certain matches. If you would like to participate in Seats for Soldiers this season please contact Richard Graham on 07879 448954 or Richard.graham@theshots.co.uk
FISHING FOR A GOOD CAUSE Members of Frimley Pit Fisheries definitely caught the sun as well as the fish, when owners Lorraine and Mark Fisher held a fundraising event to raise money for Surrey Chambers members, Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care. Thirty members of the Fisheries camped at the site for two nights, fishing for common and mirror carp in the day and socialising in the evenings. Andre Wintersgill, a Michelin-star chef and friend of Lorraine and Mark, paid for and provided a feast for the campers, cooking up a beef casserole in red wine sauce on the Friday evening, before laying on a sumptuous barbecue on the Saturday. 2,000 raffle tickets were sold that evening, with over 70 prizes on offer, including a holiday in France! Although they have supported Phyllis Tuckwell for many years, this was the first time that the couple had held an event of this scale. And thanks to their hard work and dedication, and to the generosity of those who attended, the event raised an amazing £8,630! These funds are vital to the Hospice Care charity, which provides supportive and end of life care to over 250 patients and relatives every day, who are affected by a serious progressive illness. As the NHS/Government only covers 20% of their costs, the charity has to raise over £15,000 a day to be able to offer all of its services, free of charge, to its patients and families, and relies heavily on the support and generosity of the local community to do this. If you would like to organise an event to help Phyllis Tuckwell care for those facing cancer or another serious progressive illness, please call the Fundraising team on 01252 729446 or email fundraising@pth.org.uk
ROFFE SWAYNE, LOCAL FIRM SHORTLISTED FOR “BEST EMPLOYER” AT BRITISH ACCOUNTANCY AWARDS Roffe Swayne, one of Surrey’s largest independent chartered accountants is a top 10 finalist in the 2015 British Accountancy Awards within the Best Employer category. The firm joins a variety of other regional and national firms as a finalist for the Best Employer Award. The judging, run by Best Companies Group, involved employer and employee surveys, looking at the working environment, assessment of the training provision and looking at remuneration and employee benefits packages. We wish them luck with the final results, which will be announced on the 24th November.
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{ SURREY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE }
“Whether they are looking for their first apprentice, access to funding, the chance to meet specific contacts or help to embark on a journey towards exporting we are there to guide them. “ YOUNG ENTERPRISE LAUNCH PAD ENTERPRISE DAY-300 STUDENTS AT COLLINGWOOD COLLEGE CAMBERLEY LEARN EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS Collingwood College Camberley, together with Chris Burchill manager of Young Enterprise North Surrey alongside a number of businesses recently initiated 300 Collingwood College students aged 13 to 14, in the brand new Young Enterprise Launch Pad programme. Launch Pad is the exciting interactive enterprise education programme, challenging students to simulate the start up of a new company with a mission to design, market and sell a new footwear product; all in one day! The Collingwood College students worked under very tight time pressure in competitive groups of six, to create a company name, product, logo and strapline, promotional materials and a 3 minute dragons den style pitch. They engaged in business games and team tasks designed to help them discover their individual abilities Business Volunteers Still Smiling at the End of the Day! and group strengths. This is Young Enterprise’s core approach of ‘Learning By Doing’. Feedback from the day was excellent; “I acquired valuable learning and thoroughly enjoyed the tasks. It gave me a real insight into how businesses work and what they expect from employees.” Sally J. – Year 9 student Collingwood College “I learned some decent and applicable skills for the workplace” Josh G. – Year 9 student Collingwood College Chamber members who took part were also motivated by the day; “The enthusiasm and innovation of the students was fantastic and I think I came away with as much as they did. It was a brilliant introduction to business and I hope the students will now have the confidence to be able to apply their new skills to their education and future careers.” Holly Chantler – Senior Associate Solicitor, Morrison’s Solicitors “I have very much enjoyed the day. I was energized by the creativity and the energy that the students presented. It is my feeling that enterprise education extremely important to get students interested in business.” John Hubbell – CEO, Hubbell Associates FORMER POLICE OFFICERS TEACH YOUNG PEOPLE PERSONAL SAFETY SKILLS Surrey Chambers’ members, the Guildford based charity halow Project and Shield Associates recently met at a Surrey Chambers networking event and have since collaborated on a project together allowing a group of young people with a learning disability to successfully complete a personal safety skills course. Shield Associates delivers a range of consultancy services, comprehensive and detailed risk assessment, bespoke training development and effective protection services to ensure the safety and security of individuals, and company employees. Most of the trainers are former senior Metropolitan police officers and Special Forces personnel. The two sessions Shield ran for halow covered a range of topics, tips and techniques including what individuals should do in a confrontational situation – how to try and avoid it and how to remove yourself from it if it should happen. It also covered security in and around the house which was of particular interest to the young people. www.halowproject.org.uk / www.shieldassociates.co.uk SURREY SMALL BUSINESS CHAMPION PART OF NATIONAL SUPPORT NETWORK Surrey Chambers would like to say congratulations to Emma Selby, who has been named as the region’s first small business champion by fast-growth network, Enterprise Nation Emma Selby, founder of The Farnham Hub is one of an initial cohort of 12 key regional champions to be announced in a bid to extend important early-stage support to the growing number of new firms in Surrey. Emma said: “At the Farnham Hub we have been delivering popular, innovative skills training to SME’s for over two years. We are delighted to partner with Enterprise Nation at this point to deliver a nationally-integrated programme of support to entrepreneurs across Surrey as they build their businesses.”
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MEETINGS ON THE HILL AN IDYLLIC SETTING IN WHICH TO INSPIRE PRODUCTIVE OFF SITE WORKING, JUST 7 MILES FROM CENTRAL LONDON • 15 flexible meeting spaces all with natural daylight • Conference and event space for 2 to 250 delegates • Catering for residential conferences, day meetings, gala dinners and corporate events. • 142 bedrooms and suites – many recently refurbished offering unique comfort and style • State of the art technology • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout • Extensive car parking on-site
020 8940 2247 | www.richmondhill-hotel.co.uk @rhillhotel Richmond Hill Hotel 144-150 Richmond Hill, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW10 6RW
{ BUSINESS EXHIBITION }
EXPO CROYDON A
round 100 businesses from across the region will be exhibiting at the We Mean Business Expo 2015 being held at Fairfield Halls in Croydon on October 14, while there will be the opportunity to get free business advice or take part in the hugely popular speed networking sessions. All visitors who book a free place online for South London’s number-one business expo will be entered into a draw to win an iPad Mini. The exhibitors will cover a whole range of business sectors ranging from tech companies to multi-nationals such as HSBC, and this year’s event promises to be the biggest and best yet. The Business Navigator Growth Hub, in association with Prevista and Coast2Capital, will be hosting a series of free Business Advice Clinics. To book a place email Viv Newbould at vnewbould@wlcreative.org. uk The day-long event will also feature the ever popular IKEA Business Speed Networking sessions, a bit like speed dating for companies, in which visitors can make a host of new contacts in quickfire four-minute meetings with people spanning a range of different sectors and industries. The forecourt of Fairfield Halls will be transformed into the showroom for Eco Drive 2015, a motor show designed to showcase the many fuel efficient and environmentally friendly modes of transport – from cycles to some of the most advanced cars on the market. You can also get your day off to a great start by attending a VIP breakfast hosted by the Federation of Small Businesses. The event costs just £20, including VAT; details of speakers will be announced shortly.
NEED HELP WITH GROWING YOUR BUSINESS? Take advantage of Business Navigator Growth Hub’s free Business Advice Clinic, in association with Prevista and Coast to Capital, at the We Mean Business Expo 2015. Half-hour slots with expert business support navigators offering free one-to-one advice and support can be booked on a first-come, first-served basis. There are three categories to choose from: • Business Growth: If you are ready to grow and develop your business and looking to access funding; • Business Support Navigator: A free service helping businesses that want support to help them grow and develop, covering all areas from finance and grants to one-to-one advice; • International Trade Clinic: Answering all export-related questions in conjunction with UK Trade and Investment. Business support navigators cover the Coast to Capital region, which extends from Croydon to Brighton, and can offer one-to-one practical and bespoke guidance, refer you to local and national schemes supporting business growth, act as your direct point of contact and connect you with appropriate business-to-business support groups and organisations. Business Navigator Project Manager Neil Seccombe said: “We are delighted to be offering these free clinics at We Mean Business Expo 2015 and would encourage businesses to book a free half-hour session. “You may be surprised at some of the help which is out there to help businesses of all shapes and sizes to fulfill their potential, and you can look forward to taking part in what promises to be a great event.” To book your place on one of the sessions call Viv Newbould on 020 8726 7968 or email vnewbould@wlcreative.org.uk To find out more about the service, go to www.c2cbusiness.org.uk
Katharine Glass, Director of expo organisers White Label Creative, said: “Last year’s We Mean Business Expo was the biggest and best to date, and we received wonderful feedback from visitors and exhibitors alike. “Not only is it a great opportunity to make new business contacts and get top-quality business advice, there is so much going on that it is also a huge amount of fun.” Can your business afford not to be there? For more details, or to book your place today, visit www.wemeanbusinessexpo.co.uk
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{ SECRET SURREY}
SECRET SURREY Denbies Wine Estate
Chris White
D
enbies Wine Estate, England’s largest vineyard, is situated on the outskirts of Dorking in the heart of the Surrey Hills. The vineyard was planted in 1986, with 265 acres of vines, and commands an impressive location overlooking Box Hill, the pinnacle of the 2012 Olympic Cycling Road Race. Approaching the expansive Denbies Estate, for a moment, one could really be anywhere in the world, acres and acres of vineyard rolling into the distant hills, a captivating sight – in the middle of Surrey. Denbies Visitor Centre is open daily
to the public and the chateau style winery hosts two restaurants, wine and gift shop, art gallery, exhibition, conference and banqueting rooms. Denbies runs indoor classic wine tasting tours and outdoor vineyard tours daily. There is also a charming Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast with seven en-suite bedrooms adjacent to the winery. Surrey Hills micro-brewery is located inside the winery building with The Village Greens Farm Shop adjacent to the main entrance. The main building is also home to the Surrey Performing Arts Library. The Estate is family owned and run by the White family. Christopher White, Denbies General Manager, has been running the estate for over 15 years and his family have lived on the Denbies Estate since 1984. Christopher graduated from Bournemouth University with BSc. (Hon). His background has given him a solid understanding of viticulture and also a vast range of hospitality experience. Chris has led the development of the vineyard and visitor centre with the diversification of the estate being its strength. The business has grown substantially over the past 10 years, now employing over 150 staff. The Estate was originally a pig and cattle farm. When the White family took over the estate in 1984, it was suggested by a family friend, Richard Selley, Emeritus Professor of Geology and a Senior Research Fellow at Imperial College, London that the geology of Denbies Estate was perfect for planting a vineyard. The
vineyard was planted in 1986, and since then Denbies has grown to become one of the largest vineyards in the UK. The site was selected predominantly for the geology and soil type, as it is very similar to that found in the Champagne region. Over the years however, the character of the site has grown into something unique. There are pockets of different microclimates and soil types within the vineyard, and this is evident in the wines.
“Its chalk soils, warm and dry climate enables Denbies to produce a range of wines of exceptional quality and style.” Denbies is a very good example of a vineyard with its very own terroir. Its chalk soils, warm and dry climate enables Denbies to produce a range of wines of exceptional quality and style. Denbies produces award winning excellent cool climate sparkling wines using the traditional grape varieties, grown on chalky soil,
Callisto Associates www.callistoassociates.com
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{ SECRET SURREY}
Photo: Helen Dixon it also has an excellent reputation for producing award winning premium still wines. In 2011 Denbies was awarded an IWC Gold ‘Best Rose in the world’ for its Chalk Ridge Rose 2010. In 2013 Denbies achieved a first multiple gold award for its Noble Harvest Dessert wine 2011, an unprecedented achievement for an English dessert wine. The winery also produces first class still wines from the noble varieties, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and now Sauvignon Blanc. This is a combination of warmer growing seasons producing riper fruit, and a great deal of expertise in the winemaking process. The 2014 Pinot Gris is currently showing some wonderfully complex flavours, as is the Sauvignon Blanc and the Bacchus. Of particular note, 2014 was a great vintage for sparkling wines. Denbies follow the complete process of sparkling wine from grape to disgorging and distribution. Producing sparkling wine is challenging and fun. It is the wine style with the most potential for
interventions possible for altering the wine style during its production. The 2014 harvest was recorded as the vintage of the decade, both in quality and quantity. Denbies Winemakers are confident that the 2014 vintage will produce some exceptional wines in years to come. New for 2014 is the Cubitt Blanc de Blanc (100% Chardonnay) and the Whitedowns White and Rose (new for 2014). These are wines with a style that would not be replicated elsewhere in the world, and this uniqueness is something that Denbies celebrates. Since its first vintage in 1993, Denbies wines have won a wide range of national and international awards and trophies, including the prestigious International Wine Challenge, International Wine and Spirit competition and Decanter. The Estate offers a wide range of specialist events, including the highlight of the year, Denbies Vine and Dine Grape picking experience which takes place during the October harvest
and includes first-hand experience in the workings of the vineyard and winery. Running and wine? Now in its 5th year, the Surrey Bacchus Half Marathon based at Denbies was once again awarded a podium spot in the Runner’s World ‘The UK’s 50 Best Races’ 2014 as voted for by Runner’s World readers. The Surrey Bacchus is based on the Marathon du Medoc and attracts participants from all over the world, features wine tasting and fancy dress as part of the fun. The event passes through Denbies, Dorking, Ranmore Common and the North Downs Way and is a beautiful route. The Estate is one of the major visitor attractions in Surrey attracting over 350,000 visitor’s per year and one of the largest vineyard’s in northern Europe. Denbies Wine Estate currently has a range of 14 wines and produces over 450,000 bottles of wine per annum. Full details www.denbies.co.uk
DENBIES WINE ESTATE London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA T: 01306 876 616 F: 01306 888 930
www.denbies.co.uk 81
{ WISE WORDS }
Words
Issue 15 Wise
By Ryan Heal, CEO of Rockinghorse Children’s Charity www.rockinghorse.org.uk
“IF YOU ALWAYS DO WHAT YOU ALWAYS DID,
repeating it to them on a daily basis! In life, as in
off the past can cause complacency to set in and
YOU’LL ALWAYS GET WHAT YOU ALWAYS GOT!”
business, you can’t change the past. That one piece
your eye can easily be taken off the ball. Some of
I first started using this mantra when advising
of business that was lost yesterday, forget it, it’s all
the most successful sports teams of all time enjoy
businesses to perhaps re-consider their £30,000
about the next deal and don’t waste valuable time
and celebrate their victories heavily, but quickly, and
annual spend in directories such as Yellow Pages
then they move on to the next challenge and don’t
after stating their reason for doing so as….”Well,
dwell on the past. In business terms, you’re only as
that’s just what we’ve always done for the past 20 years!” Just because your business has always adopted a certain approach, especially a marketing strategy, it is no reason at all to continue with the same approach year after year. This quote taught me to constantly change, review, tweak and question your business strategy and never be afraid to challenge it and change it. It will keep your business fresh, innovative and always looking forward. “CONTROL THE CONTROLLABLE” Too often, too many people believe they have every answer to every question all of the time. As we are well aware, this is just not the day-to-day reality of everyday life, and it’s unlikely that I’m going to find the cure for Ebola and wipe out ISIS by Easter! I think it’s very important that, both in our professional and personal worlds, we control what is controllable and not look to take on too many battles over which we
good as your last month; never think, “we’ve cracked
“Just because your business has always adopted a certain approach, especially a marketing strategy, it is no reason at all to continue with the same approach year after year”
have zero control. It helps focus the mind on what is
it.” That’s when complacency can sink in and the market tends to bite you back. “TIME YOU ENJOYED WASTING WAS NOT WASTED.” JOHN LENNON My previous quotes have been very businesscentric; this one from the great John Lennon reminds us that relaxing, unwinding and enjoying ourselves is allowed and provides a welcome break from the commercial world. Yes, of course, the timing of your downtime is crucial, and you’re never going to miss critical dates within your professional responsibilities. BUT, when you’re off on holiday or out for the day, you should be genuinely off! I never would class myself as a workaholic; I don’t think that’s particularly healthy, but I would say that I work very, very hard to enable myself to have a
achievable and not what is impossible.
proper break when it comes around so that I’m not
“TODAY IS THE FIRST DAY OF THE REST OF
reflecting on any misfortune of the past. Everyday
checking work emails when on holiday with my
YOUR LIFE”
sets new challenges and offers new opportunities.
family. Especially with young children, that time is so
This is a daily mantra that works for me! I’m sure
It’s not solely about reflecting on bad news either;
special. I didn’t want to say, “work hard, play hard”
it annoys some of our staff when I’m constantly
reflecting on past glories for too long and living
but I guess I am!
82
Why choose Sandown Mercedes-Benz? Welcome to Sandown Mercedes-Benz Fleet…
Our award-winning vehicles combine impressive styling with outstanding cost-efficiency. With a dedicated customer care team, our fleet solutions can be tailored to meet the exact needs of your business.
Mercedes-Benz A Class A180 CDI Manual
£279.00
A Mercedes-Benz is no ordinary car, †so when purchasing one for your business, you should expect extraordinary +VAT service, which means wePer can month deliver on the things that matter at a price that’s right for your business.
Payment Profile Annual Mileage Deposit In addition to being a team of local professionals dedicated to the needs of our fleet customers, we’re also 6+35 10,000 £1,674.00 +VAT experts when it comes to Mercedes-Benz, which means we can deliver on the things that matter.
Mercedes-Benz C Class Saloon C220d Sport Auto
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon
£296.48 +VAT Per month
†
£309 +VAT Per month
†
Payment Profile Annual Mileage Deposit Payment Profile Annual Mileage Initial rental 9+23 10,000 £2668.32 +VAT 6+35
10,000
£1854 +VAT
Mercedes-Benz E Class Estate E220 SE Mercedes-Benz E-Class
£249.95 Per month month £359 +VAT Per+VAT †
†
Payment Profile Annual Annual MileageInitial Deposit Payment Profile Mileage rental 9+23 10,000 +VAT 6+35 10,000 £359£2249.55 +VAT
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For further information about every aspect of corporate motoring including the very latest business offers, visit our new fleet website: www.sandownlease.co.uk Sandown Mercedes-Benz Fleet Sales
Sandown Mercedes-Benz Fleet Sales Mercedes-Benz of Basingstoke Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-BenzofofBasingstoke Dorchester Mercedes-Benz of Poole Mercedes-Benz of Guildford
Mercedes-Benz of Hindhead Mercedes-Benz of Guildford
Mercedes-Benz of Hindhead Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Poole of Dorchester Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Salisburyof Salisbury
0330 159 2090 0843 9026522
† Business Users only. Contract hire agreement. Advance payment applies. All payments subject to VAT at 20%: Finance based on a Contract Hire agreement, 10,000 miles per annum. † Business Users only. Contract hire agreement. Advance payment applies. † All payments subject to VAT at 20%: Finance based on a Contract Hire agreement, Contract duration: 6 months + 35 months for A-Class model shown, (C-Class Saloon and E-Class Estate 9 months + 23 months). E-Class model pictured is an AMG Night Edition model at 10,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charges may apply. Rental includes Road Fund Licence for the contract duration. Guarantees and indemnities may be £39,355. Excess mileage charges may apply. Rental includes Road Fund Licence for the contract duration. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Orders/credit approvals on selected required. Orders/credit approvals on selected models between 1 April and 30 June 2015, registered by 30 September 2015. Subject to availability, offers cannot be models between 1 July and 30 September 2015, registered by 30 September 2015. Subject to availability, offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial features/options may not be available. Credit provided to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. Prices correct at the time of going to press 7/15. Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. Prices correct at time of going to press 4/15.
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