The widest-read business publication in the South East
SURREY EDITION . ISSUE 25 . 2016
SADIQ KHAN
PLATINUM
Can he unite London?
AVOIDING TRIBUNAL TRIP-UPS Rawlison Butler
JAGUAR XF
Designed for the Business Market?
PLATINUM GATWICK CELEBRATES 80 YEARS
POWERING UP YOUR DATABASE Nova Direct
TOKYO A Michelin Star City
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WELCOME
24
THE BIG STORY SADIQ KHAN Can he unite London?
14
SURREY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE How to engage Generation Z
This is strange old time. I sit here writing this with three days to go before the EU referendum, knowing this will be out after the result and yet l must ignore it. I do hope we all did the right thing! Oh well, the world will still revolve, we will still awake in the morning and put our pants on one leg at a time, the kids will still be arguing over not being able to be glued to their phones 24 hours a day and the dog will have peed in the kitchen - so perhaps not quite as seismic as we thought. In this issue we bring you the usual fantastic array of stories from across the region as we close in on yet another momentous decision: Gatwick or Heathrow. I was with Jeremy Taylor from Gatwick Diamond Business recently at the Rockinghorse Mid-Summer Ball and he was girding his loins to attend Downing Street on June 20th, along with 35 businesses from the Diamond, to present a petition demanding it be Gatwick, to aid the long-term health and wealth of our region. Fingers crossed. And just to keep that ball rolling, we celebrate Gatwick’s 80th birthday with a look back at the airport over the years with an array of archive photographs of the rich and famous. Rose was sent off to the Land of the Rising Sun to report on Tokyo as a destination for corporate and incentive travel and Amanda has been busy again stuffing her face at fab restaurants across the region, with a major report on the Brighton and Hove Food Festival, which is now the largest of its kind in the UK.
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MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS
32
EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS
We have some rather exciting news about the expansion of this publication that l cannot share with you at the moment but next month, stand by.
Rawlison Butler on how to avoid tribunal trip-ups
In the meantime, whatever the result of the referendum, lets just get on with it and get back to business. In or out, we are still one of the finest nations on earth and still the fifth largest economy on the planet - be proud.
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DMH Stallard explains why they are so confident in the M&A market
THE LAND OF THE RISING SUN Rose goes on a cultural frenzy
I could not resist a blast in the all-new Jaguar XF-S, possibly a new class leader, and performed a slightly more sedate family test of the Vauxhall Zafira whilst in Anger Management, we mourn the cultural death of Cuba.
Maarten
Platinum Business Magazine July 2016 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
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or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher.
Gatwick is 80 and looking good
these materials whilst in transit.
No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of Platinum Business Magazine is published and owned by Platinum Business Publications Limited.
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Issue 25 - 2016
The Team
AT A GLANCE 6
Local News
10
NatWest Tracker
44 Travel - Tokyo
14
Surrey Chambers of
50 Gatwick’s 80th Birthday
Commerce
16 Maarten Hoffmann – Director maarten@platinumbusinessmagazine.com 07966 244046
Woking Chamber
17 Croydon Chamber 18
Cranleigh Chamber
20 National News 22 Mergers & Acquisitions 24 Sadiq Khan Ian Trevett – Director ian@platinumbusinessmagazine.com 07989 970804
30 The Living Wage 32 Tribunal Trip-ups 34 Gatwick Forum
Amanda Menahem Food & Drink Editor
Julia Trevett Accounts Manager
Rose Dykins Travel Editor
Lauren Psyk Event Photographer
52 Anger Management 54 Motoring - Jaguar 56 Motoring - Vauxhall 58 Motoring - Jeep 60 Motoring
- Sandown
62 Young Start-up Talent 63 Table Talk 66 Review - Mango Tree 68 Wine Masterclass
35 Metall Forum
69 The Best Curries
36 Powering your
70 IT News
database
72 Croydon Awards
39 Business Travel
73 Guildford Means
41
Business
Travel Tips
42 Global Travel
Amanda Spicer Senior Designer
Management
74
Institute of Directors
Doing business without advertising is like winking at a girl in the dark. You know what you are doing but nobody else does. 5
NEWS
LOCAL NEWS
Compiled by Ian Trevett
LEARN GOLF AND NETWORK The Surrey Chambers Business Women in Surrey group are organising a light hearted introduction to golf hosted by Karl Morgan PGA, Head Professional at Cranleigh Golf & Country Club. Throughout the session guests will learn how to swing a golf club, hit some balls on the driving range, hole some putts and even hit some sand shots! After the Golf session there will be a chance to relax and network over a tea or coffee. The Surrey Chambers Business Women in Surrey community is a local network of like-minded business people - male and female - sharing ideas, knowledge and skills via workshops, mentoring programmes and seminars. The event takes place on Wednesday 13th July from 3pm www.businesswomeninsurrey.co.uk
EASIER PAYMENTS ON THE CARDS Worldpay, the UK’s leading payments processor, has partnered with Guildford-based Unique Secure to develop a new, flexible all-in-one tablet and till-based payment system for small business owners. The new product, called My Business Hub, makes taking and reconciling payments simpler and less time-consuming than current solutions for small business owners. It sits at the heart of Worldpay’s strategy to provide small business owners with access to the tools and support they need to grow. The product is being marketed to Worldpay’s customer base of over 300,000 small businesses and independent retailers across the UK. Unique Secure, based at Surrey Research Park, has designed and manufactured the hardware for My Business Hub, with Worldpay developing the software. David Rimer, CEO, Unique Secure said, “Winning a long-term contract from Worldpay has been a significant boost to our business. Worldpay was impressed with our design-led innovation and our focus on revolutionising the global Point of Sale space. We have worked closely in partnership with them over the last 12 months to bring a dynamic product to market. “Unique Secure has invested heavily in our Point of Sale technology so that we can give more flexibility and functionality to retailers of all sizes, ensuring they can transact with their customers in whichever way best suits their needs – mobile, traditional or kiosk.” Shaun Puckrin, UK Chief Product Officer of Worldpay said: “By partnering with Unique Secure we have delivered a solution designed specifically to meet the needs of SMEs, opening up great technology to enable them to run their businesses more efficiently and offer the type of customer experience that has previously been the preserve of larger retailers.” www.unique-secure.com
“Get your facts first, then you can distort them as you please.” 6
NEWS
“We are all here on earth to help others; what on earth the others are here for I don’t know.”
MUMS BY ROYAL APPOINTMENT
NATWEST EXPORT PLEDGE
NatWest has announced plans to help at least 15,000 UK businesses export their goods or enter overseas markets by 2020. To support businesses on this next stage of their journey, working with UK Export Finance (UKEF) the bank will provide export finance to help companies secure £2.5bn of overseas contracts within the next four years. Alison Rose, CEO of Commercial and Private Banking at NatWest, said: “When companies are ready, doing business After their hugely successful Bus Tour, which visited Guildford and Kingston,
overseas can have huge benefits. Businesses only trading in
the founders of the Mumpreneurs Networking Club, Sara Guiel and Nicky
Britain limit their revenue potential to the UK, but each new
Chisholm were invited to attend The Start Up Britain launch at Buckingham Palace in the presence of His Royal Highness, The Duke of York. Sara and Nicky joined 40 other attendees to hear The Duke of York talk about
overseas market represents a new possible source of income. Amongst other benefits, it also allows companies to spread risk across different business environments.” Lord Price, Minister of State for Trade and Investment,
the support for his ‘Pitch top Palace’ initiative for budding entrepreneurs. The
welcomed the news, saying: “This impressive pledge by
invitation reflects the growing importance of mumpreneurs, and supporting
NatWest will take us one step closer to our ambitious target
women who build and run businesses alongside raising a family.
of getting 100,000 more UK companies exporting by 2020.
The Mumpreneurs Networking clubs Bus tour was the culmination of months
“The government and the banking sector share a joint aim
of work to take on the road a one stop business solution shop for the U.K’s
- to help budding exporters realise their dreams of building
Mumpreneurs. The spring tour was sponsored by .uk and was the first time that NatWest had ever loaned their bus to third party. The bus tour drew big crowds of start-ups and SMEs all looking for advice and support from the experts and advisors on the bus.
a global business. By teaming up in this way, I hope we can inspire more British companies to take advantage of the world of opportunity out there and to make the most of the worldwide demand for their products, skills and expertise.”
NEW PARTNER IN GUILDFORD Charles Russell Speechlys has appointed Shona Alexander as Partner, further bolstering the expertise of its successful Family practice. She will be based at the firm’s Guildford office, located at One London Square. Shona moves from Forsters, in Mayfair, where she was Head of Department specialising in prenuptial agreements and wealth preservation, complex high net worth financial cases and child matters often with an international element. For over 15 years Shona has been involved with Resolution, the primary family law organisation, and has been an elected member of the National Committee and chaired the Training Group. In 2015 she was recognised in Spear’s index of the Top 50 Family Lawyers. She is also highly rated in Legal 500 and Chambers. Sarah Higgins, Head of Family Group at Charles Russell Speechlys, said: “We are delighted to welcome Shona. She is one of the top family lawyers in the country and brings a wealth of experience to our Family practice and our clients.
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NEWS
LOCAL NEWS TOPPING OUT BRINGS OUT CROYDON’S BUSINESSES A topping out ceremony has been held to celebrate a key stage in the construction of the landmark Morello housing development at East Croydon. The luxury scheme, which will transform the Addiscombe side of the town’s main transport hub into a vibrant, sustainable community, has been rapidly taking
(Photo by Matt Clayton)
shape in recent months. Key dignitaries at the event included Keith Parrett, chief executive of Redrow Homes South East, who was joined by Craig Marks, chief executive of Menta, Councillor Toni Letts from Croydon Council and Develop Croydon vice chair Katharine Glass who all gave speeches to recognise the highest point in the concrete frame of the Rainier building, at 20 floors the tallest phase in the first phase landmark collection. Mr Marks said: “Menta has been at the forefront of forming a vision for the regenerated Croydon since our formation in 1990 and this a landmark moment not just for Morello but for bringing our vision which forms a key part of the East Croydon Masterplan to fruition. The development forms part of a wider £3billion regeneration scheme to revitalise the London Borough of Croydon, with Menta Redrow anticipating delivering over 800 new homes in total by 2020.
SERVING UP INVESTMENT Oxshott resident (and rather famous tennis player) Andy Murray has made three further investments in British start-ups on the UK’s most active equity crowdfunding platform, Seedrs. Murray identified the three very different businesses he wanted to back, investing undisclosed amounts into each. This follows the multiple investments Andy made in earlier in the year on Seedrs. He plans to continue backing British startups as part of his strategic relationship with Seedrs. Hi latest investments include: Beeline - A smart navigation device and mobile app for bicycles, allowing cyclists to navigate by informing them of the direction and distance to their destination. Beeline successfully raised over £500,000 in under a week from over 350 investors on Seedrs, quickly exceeding its fundraising target of £400,000. Dog Tracker Nano - a live tracking device with geofencing and alerts to keep dogs safe with inbuilt tech to monitor activity, fitness and location. Dog Tracker Nano has returned to Seedrs for their second round of funding and are currently over 115% of their funding target with investment from 110 investors. blow LTD - London’s leading ‘beauty on demand’ service, delivering expert blow dries, makeup and nails to the customer’s door. Blow LTD has raised over £1.1 million with over 210 investors Andy Murray said, “Giving recognition and support to British entrepreneurs is really important to me, especially those who are the driving force behind growth-focused businesses. Every one of these entrepreneurs is passionate and dedicated to succeeding and I’m excited to have invested in their future growth.” Jeff Lynn, CEO and co-founder of Seedrs, said, “Andy is a great example of an investor who understands early stage investment and the importance of building a diverse investment portfolio aligned with a wider investment strategy.”
“As l stood in the park l wondered why the frisby was getting bigger and bigger ….. and then it hit me” 8
NEWS
“Everyone is a genius at least once a year. The real geniuses have their bright ideas closer together.”
LIFESTYLE GROUP JOINS HENDY GROUP Surrey-based Lifestyle Dealer Group, which operates car dealerships throughout the southeast has been bought by the Hendy Group. The Lifestyle Dealer Group has Ford, Mazda and Kia dealerships along with outlets for Renault, Dacia, SEAT, Isuzu, Subaru and Suzuki. The new company will have 12 motor franchises at 25 locations in Surrey, Sussex, Kent, Hampshire,and Devon. Marc Matthew, Lifestyle chairman said, “We have built up a strong, profitable and successful business in Kent, Sussex and Surrey and believe this growth will continue with Hendy Group.”
STUDENT SERVICES
SURREY SUPER GROWTH Leading regional law firm, asb law LLP has teamed up with Lloyds Bank and accountancy firm, RSM to create Surrey Super Growth – a definitive listing of the county’s best performing companies. With rigorous criteria for companies with more than a £2 million turnover, and achieving sustained growth over the past 3 years, Surrey Super Growth is all about celebrating wealth-creating,
Royal Holloway University of London at Egham has students who are looking to gain valuable experience in all sectors, with a focus on law, actuaries, human rights, criminal law, business and commercial PR and marketing, media and publishing, music. Their award winning Royal Holloway University Placement Team sources 2 x 4 week placements over the summer. All students have been through a competitive selection process including various workshops and panel interview. They can also contribute towards funding a limited number of one-month work placements and three-month internships for SMEs only. A placement student/intern could:
job-generating success. The Surrey Super Growth team is busy analysing financial information filed at Companies House and creating an index of the 60 fastest growing businesses across the region. The Surrey region is a significant and growing contributor to the national economy with sector strengths in manufacturing, advanced engineering,
• Release the potential of your task force – staff are not held back with less significant tasks.
digital technologies, professional services and
• Provide cover during busy times, staff holidays and maternity.
contribute to a regional economy worth over £30
• Give you the chance to train mid-level managers with supervisory roles.
billion, employing more than half a million people.
• Create a positive relationship with a respected education provider.
The winners will be announced at a special awards
If you are interested or wish to discuss how the students can be of benefit to you this summer, contact lisa.zampetti@rhul.ac.uk to find out more.
breakfast taking place at Mercedes-Benz World in
pharmaceuticals. Over 60,000 active businesses
Weybridge on Friday 1st July 2016. Find out more at asb-law.com
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ECONOMIC TRACKER
Regional Economic Tracker
THE SOUTH EAST IS A HOT-SPOT FOR HIGH SKILLED JOBS
The NatWest Regional Economic Tracker monitors employment levels in 12 regions across the UK showing where the fastest job growth has occurred on a quarterly basis. Yorkshire & the Humber takes top spot
by Sebastian Burnside, Senior Economist, NatWest NORTH WEST
SCOTLAND
2.7%
1.1%
Top 3 3 directors. TheTop importance of technology, Yorkshire the Humber has leapt NORTH&WEST SCOTLAND 3.2% 0.7% Ribble Valley Clackmannanshire 21% 8% to the top of the NatWest Regional innovation and enterprise can be seen in South High skilled 1.7% Pendle Dumfries & Galloway 18% 6% High skilled 5.6% Economic Tracker, seeing a higher East’s major W university cities, with Oxford5% Medium 1.7% Allerdale Dunbartonshire 13% skilled Medium skilled 1.4% rate of job growth than any other Low skilled -2.0% (63.7%), Brighton (58.6%) and Reading (54.8%) Low skilled 3.4% WEST MIDLANDS 1.6% NORTH EAST 2.2% UK region over the last year. in the top five of UK cities with the highest Top 3 Top 3 WEST MIDLANDS NORTH EAST 1.0% 2.1% Employment rose by 3.8% in the 12 proportion ofShigh skilled workers. N Warwickshire Tyneside 13% 8% High skilled 3.1% months to September 2015, High skilled 1.6% twice Regional Lichfield Gateshead 12% 5% In addition to these, the strong local Medium skilled 0.2% theMedium already strong UK rate skilled 0.7%of 1.9%. Regional Rugby Middlesbrough 11% 5% Economic Low skilled 3.5% economies and well educated workforces found Low skilled 1.3% Top local areas within the region Economic WALES 1.4% Basingstoke have them in3.8% the top were Scarborough, Hambleton & HUMBER Tracker in Woking andYORKS WALES 1.5% Top 3 YORKS & HUMBER 3.7% Tracker and Leeds, all seeing growth of 15 where more Topthan 3 50% of their jobs are high Anglesey 8% High skilled 19% over 10%. This excellent1.5% recent High skilled 6.2% skilled ones. Scarborough Wrexham 6% Medium skilled 1.6% Hambleton 16% Medium skilled 5.6% performance helps Yorkshire & Pembrokeshire 6% The increase in high skilled jobs has helped Leeds Low skilled 1.3% 10% Low skilled -1.6% the Humber make up some of the offset the significant reduction in the amount SOUTH WEST 3.0% EAST MIDLANDS 1.2% ground lostWEST in the early2.3% stages SOUTH EAST MIDLANDS 0.9% of low skilledTop workers during this period. The Top 3 3 of the recovery and means that High skilled 2.2% W Somerset 29% number of people in low skilled jobs – which High skilled 4.5% Ashfield 19% employment is now 4.4% higher Medium skilled 4.8% N Devon 23% NW Leicestershire Medium skilled -1.3% 12% includes sales & retail assistants, cleaners, than was in 2008, a result Lowitskilled 0.1% that is Mendip 14% Hinckley & Bosworth Low skilled -1.9% 10% lorry drivers, restaurant staff , taxi drivers and only bettered by three other regions. EAST OF ENGLAND SOUTH EAST LONDON EAST OF ENGLAND 1.7% SOUTH 2.5% EAST 1.2% LONDON 2.5% 2.2% 1.3% call centre workers – has dropped 6.7% in the
Q3 2015
Q4 2015
1.0% 0.1% 4.2%
High skilled Medium skilled Low skilled
Top 3 High skilled 1.3% Spelthorne3.8% Medium skilled Low skilledTandridge 5.7%
Top 3 High skilled 1.7% 14% skilled Newham 2.6% Medium Greenwich 3.9% 13% Low skilled
11%
Rushmoor
Ealing
Top the 3 start of the recession. South East since Braintree 12% 15% So what are the sort of jobs that are being Colchester 11% 14% Waveneyis changing the way we 10% Technology 13% created? work. From online shopping to automated tills
T
its influence on sectors like retail are clear to The northern regions might have seen strong Employment 2008Q32015 see. For occupations that are classed as low job creation in the last 12 months, but that skill this technological influence often means hasn’t been the case all the way through this
but even. The regions of the UK have performed
recovery. Comparing the number of people
less labour. Retail cashiers and check-out
very differently from each other and the type
in employment today with its previous peak
operators have seen some of the biggest falls
of work we do is changing. The good news is
in 2008 shows us that the South East has
in jobs numbers over recent years. Today there
managed a very creditable 4.5% rise. But
are fewer people employed in low skill jobs
London steals the show with a staggering East
than there were eight years ago.
2015 saw the economic recovery broaden out London
Yorks & Humber work. No other region comes close.
more people needed to analyse and take decisions
West Midlands West both managed to generate employment
the greatest concentrationWest of high skilled jobs – Midlands
involved in making the changes. That’s why IT
which include accountants, doctors and nurses, North West
specialists and project managers have seen such
Eastmanagers Midlands lawyers, engineers, teachers, and
tremendous demand for their services.
here are 1.6 million more people in work
Employment Y2Q3were in 2008, but that today than there rise in employment has been anything
that&the South Yorks Humber
East, and in particular Brighton,
London
comes well on both counts. Southout West North West
14.5% increase in the number of people South West in
Let’s start with the raw numbers of jobs. North East
South East
across the EastUK so that Yorkshire and the North
Along with London, the South East is home to Wales
growthWales of over 3%, well above the 2% average East Midlands across the UK. South East
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on the evidence. It also means lots of jobs for those
North East
Scotland 0.0%
Better technology often means more data and
0.5%
1.0%
1.5%
2.0%
2.5%
3.0%
3.5%
4.0%
Scotland 0%
3%
6%
9%
12%
15%
ECONOMIC TRACKER
“Technology is changing the way we work. From online shopping to automated tills, its influence on sectors like retail are clear to see.�
Annual employment growth, year to Q4 2015
Employment growth, 2008 to Q4 2015
Source: Office for National Statistics
Source: Office for National Statistics
Yorks & Humber
London
NorthWest
East of England
London
Yorks & Humber
East of England
SouthWest
SouthWest
South East
North East
NorthWest Wales
Wales South East
West Midlands
West Midlands
East Midlands North East
East Midlands
Scotland
Scotland 0.0%
0.5%
1.0%
1.5%
2.0%
2.5%
3.0%
3.5%
0%
4.0%
3%
6%
9%
12%
15%
High skilled employment in major towns and cities, by region Source: Office for National Statistics 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10%
East
South East
South West
West Midlands
North West
Wales
Yorks & Humber
East Midlands
Gateshead
Stockton-on-Tees
Darlington
Northampton
Derby
Nottingham
Huddersfield
Sheffield
York
Swansea
Newport
Cardiff
Warrington
Manchester
Chester
London
Shrewsbury
Worcester
Solihull
Bristol
Cheltenham
Bath
Reading
Brighton and Hove
Oxford
Southend-on-Sea
Chelmsford
Cambridge
0%
North East
Employment Growth by Skill Level Source: Office for National Statistics
High skill
Last 12 months
Medium skill
Since 2008 Low skill
-2%
0%
2%
4%
6%
8%
10% 12% 14%
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Strength in depth Kreston Reeves has merged with Spofforths to create a firm offering a broader and deeper range of services to meet the needs of personal and business clients across Sussex, London and Kent. To find out more about the full range of accountancy, business advisory and financial services that help our clients achieve their personal goals, please contact: Shirley Smith, Partner, Gatwick office T: +44 (0)1293 776 152 E: shirley.smith@krestonreeves.com Bryan Elkins, Partner, Horsham office T: +44 (0)1403 253 282 E: bryan.elkins@krestonreeves.com
www.krestonreeves.com
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SURREY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE www.surrey-chambers.co.uk
CHAMBERS OPINION
by Louise Punter, CEO Surrey Chambers of Commerce
A
few weeks ago, the Queens Speech was being billed as a major re-launch for the government, setting its focus and tone for the months ahead. Yet what emerged was decidedly, a low-key affair. The twenty-odd bills announced by the Prime Minister felt more like a holding line than a full programme for government, particularly as many of the issues that businesses care most about don’t depend on new legislation – but on some tough decisions and strong execution by ministers. Louise Punter Accordingly, our reaction to the speech was measured. There were some potentially good elements, notably around increased digital connectivity and the simplification of some planning processes. There were also some areas where questions remain, such as the Local Growth Bill allowing local authorities to retain 100% of the business rates they collect. Our overall feeling, however, is that the big decisions that businesses care about are still to come, but not till after the EU referendum. We’re still waiting for clarity on aviation capacity, the apprenticeship levy, the future of business rates and more – to say nothing of measures to help address business skills gaps and secure the future of foundation industries in a slowing economy. We have more to do to combat the rising tide of up-front costs firms are being saddled with. We need to get Britain back to business – with ministers focusing on the fundamentals. If they can deliver an environment which is a good place to do business we can then help that business to be done!
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CHAMBER NEWS
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he luxurious BSpa at Brooklands Hotel has invested in a state of the art outdoor hot tub on the balcony. The new hot tub can seat up to 12 people and will provide incredible hydrotherapy and relaxation with venturi jets for deep tissue massage as well as a dedicated air circuit for soft tissue massage. A dry seating area has been incorporated into the design along with LED lighting accents. Guests will be able to relax in complete tranquillity whilst overlooking the mesmerising Mercedes Benz World track. As well as the new outdoor hot tub, BSpa has added an exclusive Caudalie treatment to its menu; the Wine Makers Massage. This 50 minute sculpting massage treatment recreates the ritualistic steps of the wine-making process on the body. Techniques are alternated using bare hands and pressure on the energy paths. No area of the skin is overlooked; the entire body is stimulated, from the tips of your fingers to the soles of your feet. This sculpting massage activates blood circulation and muscle tone. Guests will leave bursting with energy! BSpa has also expanded its selection of treatment rooms to nine which now include three double treatment rooms. In addition, BSpa has added more manicure stations. BSpa features a diverse range of treatments from Caudalie as well as Jane Scrivner and O.P.I. GelColor manicure & pedicures. There many extra facilities to enjoy before or after treatments in addition to the new outdoor hot tub. There are ‘his and hers’ sauna and steam rooms, a meditation room with gentle warming waterbeds that restore and relax the body to a resting temperature in a quiet, cocooning environment, a relaxation room, a pedicure room boasting pedi-spa chairs with adjustable footrests to fit individual guest needs overlooking the thrilling, neighbouring Mercedes Benz World track as well as a spa cafe area serving light meals, drinks and delectable afternoon teas. Located in the heart of Surrey, BSpa and Brooklands Hotel are the ideal destination for a restoring spa escape, with a range of individual treatments, day spa package and spa breaks available.
See more on the news pages at www.surrey-chambers.co.uk Don’t miss the full review of the hotel in next months Platinum Magazine.
SURREY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE www.surrey-chambers.co.uk
HOW TO ENGAGE GENERATION Z
B
y 2020, Generation Z will account for 40% of consumers. In fact, they’re already influencing more than US $600 billion (around £416 billion) of family spending – so it’s pretty important that marketers take them seriously.
leisure activity for this generation. For example, the US recently reported a drop in young people learning to drive, with theories suggesting that there’s no need to drive to see their friends in real life when they can chat 24/7 through social platforms.
Businesses of all types will need to understand how this upcoming generation of consumers will communicate, engage with brands, and – more crucially – make purchasing decisions.
When it comes to which social platforms to use, their attitudes are similar to a fashion statement – and their choices are as fickle as their choice of sweatshirt brand. A quarter of 13-17 year olds have already left Facebook this year, flocking instead to newer platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat.
Here’s our lowdown on the consumers of our future…
Who are Generation Z? Those born between 1995 and 2012 all belong to Generation Z, so they’re currently aged between about 4 and 21.
Resourceful and independent
Each generation is hugely influenced by what happens in the world around them as they grow up. This includes key political events like the election of the first black president of the US, or the economic environment, as well as other factors like attitudes towards sustainability, technological advances, and social behaviour.
There’s more to this generation than meets the eye. Growing up through a recession, and possibly seeing parents struggle to make ends meet, has had a profound impact on them. They are highly entrepreneurial, with 72% wanting to run their own businesses. They’re also highly resourceful: 33% watch lessons online, and growing up with a virtual library has enabled them to feed their hungry minds at the click of a mouse. Perhaps Advertising Age summed them up with this great quote: “Millennials expect success, Generation Z-ers make their own”.
Digital natives
Rebels with a cause
Generation Z was the first generation to be born into a truly digital world. They’re the mobile-first generation, often labelled as ‘digital natives’. Whatever we call them though, the reality is they are so used to using technology throughout their daily lives that their natural behaviour is quite different from previous generations. 79% of Generation Z-ers feel genuine emotional distress when separated from their personal devices and their average attention span is just 8 seconds, as they often multi-task between up to six devices.
Beyond being independent and driven to create their own success, the lovely twist to this generation is their authenticity. Not looking for perfection, as brands like Coca-Cola and Abercrombie & Fitch have found out, this is a generation seeking real experiences and authentic marketing. 60% of Generation Z-ers say they want jobs that impact the world, 26% of 16-19 year olds already volunteer, and a whopping 76% are concerned about the impact of humanity on our planet.
Why are they different from any other under 21-yearold?
Social media has become a way to socialise, as opposed to a
If you need help engaging with Generation Z call us on 01483 746650 or email us at hello@somethingbig.co.uk.
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WOKING
AN EXCITING TIME FOR WOKING
by Dave Peet, President, Woking Chamber of Commerce.
I
consider myself very fortunate and privileged to be President of Woking Chamber of Commerce at such an exciting, and indeed, inspiring time for Woking in general and for the business community in particular. There is so much happening in the borough at the moment, new developments completed and others underway, new businesses coming into town and a great selection of new restaurants opening up.
Las Igunas
This is of course is good for business and good for the Chamber of Commerce. We are fortunate to be based in such an ideal location with our railway station offering a regular service to Waterloo in 24 minutes and only a few minutes from the M25 with its connections to the other main motorways and to Heathrow and Gatwick. We are also very fortunate to have a very progressive Borough Council that is driving the redevelopment of the town forward and doing what it can to help bring business into the town. The Chamber is very well supported by Woking Borough Council with Council executives and Councillors regularly attending our meetings and being available with help and advice.
CHAMBER NEWS
Peacocks
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This of course makes our work that much easier as the Chamber is seen as the ideal vehicle to help local companies network with each other and enable them to have quick communication with the Council, the local papers and other key players in the town. Our membership covers a wide range of businesses from banks, accountants and solicitors to hotels, the theatre, the football club and a host of small and medium sized businesses. Some of the major corporate companies in Woking don’t seem to see the need to become members. Whilst I appreciate that they are quite able to look after themselves, the idea of belonging to and supporting the local business community would seem to me to be a natural and certainly should be a part of their Corporate Social Responsibility Programmes.
For more information about Woking Chamber of Commerce, our upcoming events and how to join, please go to www.wokingchamber.org.uk
Membership of Woking Chamber of Commerce starts, for smaller companies, from as little as £10 + VAT per month and can be paid by direct debit at just £10 + VAT per month. Full details are available on the Chamber website www.wokingchamber.org.uk
CROYDON
THE APPRENTICE Croydon Chamber of Commerce member, Andre Thomas, Director of Thomas Telman Consulting, shares his expertise on Apprenticeships £1.5 billion fund available - only 2/10 know about it SMEs - wake up and smell the coffee before you miss the boat. The current government has pledged that they want to see three million apprenticeship starts by 2020. They have committed £1.5 billion for training apprentices aged between 16 – 60. We are seeing an increasing number of school leavers with A Levels opting for the apprenticeship route, because it’s a credible viable alternative pathway into work. Furthermore, even your current employees can be skilled up via an apprenticeship.
How Apprentices Can Help your Business An SME can employ an Apprentice who will perform their day-today duties (30-40 hour week), and study towards a nationally recognised qualification, such as BTEC Level 2 in Business Administration, which is free of charge for 16 - 18 year olds. On top of this you will receive £1,500 into your bank account after 13 weeks if your apprentice is aged 16 - 23. Apprenticeships in the UK went up by 60,000 between 2014 and 2015. Professional apprenticeships for sectors such as legal administration have seen a rise of 13%. Despite the increases you may still be reluctant because you have to spend time on training an Apprentice. Apprentices learn through a range of methods including observation and independent research. They are supported through one to one tutoring to develop industry specific and transferable skills. Similarly, apprenticeships can be used to develop the skills of existing, experienced staff too.
Hiring An Apprentice: What You Need To Know
The Croydon Chamber of Commerce supports its members with a range of services and business tools to help them grow. Our events offer members many enjoyable and effective ways to meet and develop relationships with other businesses, both formally and informally.
COME AND FIND OUT FOR YOURSELF Get to know us: our Grapevine Network event takes place regularly and we offer non-members the opportunity to try us out. Please get in touch with us to arrange your guest place.
Upcoming Networking Events: • Summer BBQ: Thursday 14 July, 6.00pm – 8.30pm: Farleigh Golf Club, Old Farleigh Road, Farleigh: CCCI Members £25.00, Nonmembers £49.00 • The Grapevine Network: Thursday 25 August, 12.00pm – 2.00pm: Holiday Inn Express - Croydon
If you would like to learn more about how Croydon Chamber of Commerce can help your business, please do contact us: T: +44 (0)20 7556 2390 E: info@croydonchamber.org.uk • W: croydonchamber.org.uk
CHAMBER NEWS
So what do you need to do? Apprentices go through the same employment process of any other employee. They receive an employment contract and their employment is subject to a probationary period. It is recommended that an Apprentice has two hours per week for independent study. If you choose to recruit an Apprentice, it is advisable to have a two-staged interview process, which might include a written test and an in-tray exercise. A work trial is also a good idea to gain a deeper insight into the character of the apprentice. At Thomas Telman, our tests include a telephone and mock interview, assessment and analysis of core competencies in communication, team play, problem solving, leadership, creativity and motivation. By April 2017 all Apprentices will be assessed via standards set by industry professionals known as Trailblazers. This means that employers form part of the assessment process to ensure that the
qualification element of the apprenticeship is fit for purpose. This is the time to think about your recruitment strategy for 2016/2017, to consider the talent of school and college leavers. They have the soft skills and motivation to perform well and add value to your business. With readily available funds waiting to be spent, it makes commercial sense to explore this avenue. Thomas Telman helps law firms and barrister chambers recruit talented Apprentices. andre@thomastelman.com www.thomastelman.com
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CRANLEIGH
TWO WHEELS BETTER! Tom Hough of Maison du Velo
the future. The main presentation came from Tom Hough, co-owner of bike shop (and cafe) Maison du Velo in Cranleigh High Street. Tom described his entrepreneurial journey and why cycling has become so popular in the UK recently. He explained that cycling is good for business, with employees much fitter and less likely to take time off work due to illness. Tom told us that Cranleigh is the centre for cycling in the South East of England, having become a real thoroughfare for road cyclists with access to the surrounding Surrey Hills. It also appeals to mountain bikers, with some of the best mountain biking areas in the region, and the Downs Link offers excellent cycling for families.
CHAMBER NEWS
Our next event is a summer BBQ at The Richard Onslow during the evening of 20th July. This is an opportunity for current and prospective members of Cranleigh Chamber of Commerce to socialise and relax with a glass of Pimms. Every attendee will receive a free goody bag and have the opportunity to take part in a raffle to win a series of fantastic prizes donated by local businesses, with funds raised going towards the Cranleigh Christmas Lights. Tickets are ÂŁ20 each or ÂŁ35 when purchased as a pair, available online at www.cranleighbiz.co.uk/ events.
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C
ranleigh Chamber of Commerce members enjoyed breakfast at The Stables Restaurant in May, with informative talks about cycling and helping the local community. At the sold out breakfast meeting, business people packed the restaurant to enjoy a morning of networking, delicious pastries and bacon rolls, and thought provoking presentations. Andrew Kolmar of Rotary Club of Cranleigh described the work done internationally and locally by the Rotary, encouraging Chamber of Commerce members to volunteer at specific events in
NEWS
NATIONAL NEWS RUBBING THEIR NOSES SWEETHEART TAX DEAL IN IT Philip Green would seem to be under the cosh over his handling of the BHS debacle having flogged the chain off to some waster for a quid. The MPs gave him a grilling but to be fair, they didn’t stand a chance against this pugilistic market trader who ran them around for a few hours and then took off back to his billionaire bolthole in Monaco. The man has no shame. Having recently taken delivery of his mega yacht, Lionheart, for which he forked out £100m, he has now received his new jet, the holy grail of private jets, the Gulstream GR50ER at a cost of £46m. His wife Tina, defacto owner of all his cash, then spent a further £300,000 in fitting out the interior. Balls of steel and not a shred of shame in his corpulent frame.
Microsoft has reportedly avoided up to £100m a year in UK corporation tax by routing its sales through Ireland. The corporation has sent more than £8bn of revenues from computers and software bought by British customers to Ireland since 2011, as part of a deal with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), the Sunday Times reports. The arrangements, known as advance pricing agreements, agree on the allocation of profit between various countries. HMRC approved Microsoft’s offshore structure in 2012, in a deal which runs from 2011 to 2017. Corporation tax in Ireland currently stands at 12.5%, while the UK has a corporation tax rate of 20%. More than 140 tax deals have been arranged between HMRC and some of the world’s biggest companies. Advance pricing agreements are now being investigated across Europe by the European Commission, which wants to ensure they do not breach rules on state aid. There is a legal obligation to pay tax but more importantly, if a global business that relies on consumer spending, they had better realise that there is also a moral obligation to pay the right amount of tax. Its time consumer began a boycott of these greedy giants. Could someone please tell HMRC please. And am l the only one who thinks this could be solved by the UK government reducing corporation tax to 12.5%. It has often been proven that lower tax rates bring in more then they sacrifice.
FACTORY SHOP PLOTS SALE The owner of one of Britain’s biggest discount retailers is drawing up plans for a sale nearly a decade after taking control of the chain. The Original Factory Shop (TOFS), which trades from more than 200 stores across the country, is preparing for a change of ownership. Duke Street Capital, the private equity firm which bought TOFS in 2007, has appointed Rothschild, the investment bank, to conduct a strategic review of the retailer. Sources said that was likely to lead to an auction within a matter of months, with TOFS continuing to expand even as many retailers face a brutal trading environment. TOFS, which sells brands like Reebok, Vax and Tefal at discounted prices, was established in 1969, and now employs 2800 people. It last changed hands in 2007, when Duke Street bought the company for £68.5m from the private equity arm of Barclays. The company is now run by Tony Page, a former Asda executive, who has overcome a string of supply chain problems to preside over strong recent profit growth. Analysts suggested it was now likely to be worth more than £150m, although Duke Street and TOFS declined to comment on the valuation or on Rothschild’s appointment.
“It is said that a woman’s mind is cleaner than a man’s because she changes it more often.” 19
NEWS
NATIONAL NEWS DRIVERLESS ROLLS Rolls-Royce has unveiled its first driverless vehicle, a concept car that promises to help its owner announce their importance to the world. The Vision Next 100 is an autonomous vehicle aimed at “the most discerning and powerful patrons in the world”. It has no steering wheel and a silk “throne” from which its occupants can watch the world go by. Rolls-Royce said the zero-emission model, codenamed 103EX, showed the company “rejects the notion of anonymous, utilitarian and bland future modes of mobility”. In a statement that was short on technical specifications but packed with florid description, Rolls-Royce promised an interior made only of “the most precious and contemporary elegance”. The owner will be “encircled by the most modern handcrafted fine-line Macassar wood panelling” as they gaze at a “generous” high-definition television screen. Rolls-Royce, owned by BMW, said the car proved that “certain truths are constant over time”, such as the notion that “the powerful have always understood the symbols through which they express their standing”. Pass the sick bag.
FED UP? Changes to junior doctors contracts, increasing animosity about Britain’s place in the EU, Jeremy Corbyn, house prices, and even the delayed arrival of summer weather are enough to make anyone want to throw in the Union Flag-decorated towel. While most Britons would prefer to stay in the UK for their next job, according to the jobs website Indeed, “this situation may not last forever”. Almost one in 10 UK jobseekers searching on Indeed are looking for a job outside the country – more than those from the US, China or France. So where are they looking? Here’s the top ten countries we want to run away to: 1. US – 36.5% 2. France – 11.2% 3. UAE – 9.4% 4. Canada – 8.5% 5. Ireland – 7.5% 6. Australia – 6.5% 7. Germany – 6% 8. South Africa – 5.9% 9. Italy – 4.4% 10. Netherlands – 4%
“Wine is constant proof that God loves us and likes to see us happy.” 20
NEWS
“If you want to test your memory, try to recall what you were worrying about one year ago today.”
REVLON BUYS ARDEN The cosmetics and beauty firm Revlon has confirmed a $419m (£300m) deal to buy rival Elizabeth Arden. New York-based Revlon - best known for its make-up and hair colour products - said it was buying the loss-making company to broaden its world presence and expand into skin care and perfume ranges. It expected cost savings of $140m over three to five years once the all-cash deal is completed - adding it was worth $870m when debt was included. Elizabeth Arden’s shares jumped 50% in after-hours trading when news of the tie-up broke. It recently posted a loss of $28.4m for the first three months of the year. Elizabeth Arden opened her first Red Door salon on New York’s Fifth Avenue in 1910. The company now sells skin-care and fragrance products in 120 countries but has struggled to win favour for its celebrity-endorsed scents. Revlon has secured financing for the purchase which will also chip away at its own debt pile. New chief executive Fabian Garcia will run the expanded business following the deal, which is expected to complete later this year. Scott Beattie, Elizabeth Arden’s chairman, will remain but in an advisory role.
LACK OF UNDERSTANDING Industry 4.0 is a term first coined in Germany to refer to the digitisation of manufacturing, allowing German manufacturing to build on its competitive edge. It is often referred to as the fourth industrial revolution. Only 8% of UK manufacturers have a significant understanding of Industry 4.0 processes despite 59% recognising that the fourth industrial revolution will have a big impact on the sector, according to a new report published today by accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP in association with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). As the increasing use of automation, data exchange, technology and wider supply chain communications driven by Industry 4.0 provides both huge opportunities and threats to UK manufacturing, there remains a ‘gaping hole’ in the education and understanding of Industry 4.0. According to the BDO/IMechE report, increased productivity, better data analysis, increased competitiveness and lower manufacturing costs are the top ways in which Industry 4.0 will affect UK manufacturing. However, a third of manufacturers are at risk of falling behind global competition having not invested in Industry 4.0 related technology or processes in the last two years. Worryingly, a quarter say they have no plans to invest in this area in the next two years and 44% of those not investing said this was due to a lack of understanding. Of those that are increasing investment levels: • • • • • • •
16% of companies expected to spend over £500,000 before 2018 7% plan to invest more than £5m 64% of those surveyed said that production would be a key area when investing in automation systems and Industry 4.0 related technology 45% respectively saying research and development and logistics were key areas of focus 5% said poor investment levels were due to the lack of external finance or grants 73% of those surveyed said Industry 4.0 will increase the risk of cyber security breaches in their business 48% of these felt they had an adequate IT infrastructure which could prevent breaches.
Kevin Cook, Partner at BDO LLP, said: “It is surprising to see such low awareness of Industry 4.0 amongst UK manufacturers and clearly more needs to be done to educate, support and assist the sector as we make strides into what is likely to become the fourth industrial revolution. UK manufacturers need to push ahead or they will be left behind, especially when it is evident other countries are already moving ahead of the game with education and investment programmes being much more clearly supported by government than in the UK. “The lack of a clear strategy on what could be the most important development in manufacturing for some years is of huge concern. We would like to see the Government doing more to match manufacturers’ long-term outlook by developing a 15-20 years industrial policy that avoids the disruptions of the political cycle.”
21
MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS
The DMH Stallard team collected two prestigious awards at the Insider Dealmakers Awards
A CONFIDENT M&A MARKET M&A Continues to Grow Regionally for DMH Stallard Q & A - JONATHAN GRANT, PARTNER
Brighton based businesses leading the way - the
LLP and Spofforths
MBO of Brighton’s artisan coffee chain Small
LLP. They are two great
Batch Coffee Company, and Capita’s acquisition
local businesses in the
How are you feeling about the market
of e-learning business Brightwave.
accountancy, corporate finance
generally?
What have you learned from these deals?
Confidence and growth across the South East
Plan well ahead to get the best return, and
and tax advisory fields, both of whom we have worked with on deals.
Jonathan Grant
region is increasing our regional M&A business;
(of course) to work with the right advisers!
if anything the frustration is that we have not
Some acquirers will pay great multiples for
Do you win deals on the market or from
had as much time as we would have liked to be
quality businesses because organic growth is
existing clients?
out in the market. Growth in the firm overall
hard to achieve. The trick is to execute quickly
mirrors this with turnover up to £26 million and
without conceding on value - whether buying
reservoir of clients. We currently have the
profits are growing at 10% per annum.
or selling.
deepest pipeline of regional clients looking at
How has the market changed over the last six
Any deals which particularly pleased you in
deals than we have had for years - looking at
months?
2016?
It continues to gain strength and value. We had a very busy close to 2015, with some quality
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I was very pleased to be asked to help complete the merger of Kreston Reeves
Both are important but the firm has a great
growth, acquisition and sale. Cophall Parking Gatwick Ltd is a good example of an existing client deal. Heidi
MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS Copeland, who leads our planning practice, had worked for that family owned business for years, helping them to build a top quality Gatwick parking business. They achieved a great deal with market consolidator Group First - another one completed in a tight timeframe. Firefly, who operate from a base in Lewes, manufacturing hybrid solar generators for sale around the world. We have helped Firefly to raise funds as they have grown, and sale of their Hire business to Hewden allows them to focus on their profitable core businesses as they continue that growth path.
Brightwave Sale of Brighton e-learning company to Capita PLC
Q & A - ABIGAIL OWEN, PARTNER Have you seen any difference in how deals are being funded? We continue to see deals funded by companies with cash reserves and resources and by the backing of high-net worth individuals. We have noticed an increase in the use of funding from banks, who are trying to come back in the market and by invoice discount providers. This has been notable from an increase in the number of transactions where we have acted for Leumi ABL Ltd whose
DMH Stallard’s Regional Deal Round-Up June 2016
Abigail Owen
facilities have enabled exits and management buy-outs. How are you seeing buyers approach transactions? We have seen that businesses want to continue to grow and carry on business. The recession days of people sitting on their hands and not wanting to do anything with their business are long passed. There is still a level of caution by buyers looking at businesses
Merger of Kreston Reeves LLP and Spofforths LLP Cophall Parking Gatwick Sale of family owned airport parking business to Group First Limited
Takbro Group Sale of Takbro group to Newbury Investments
which means that due diligence is a key element to any transaction. Buyer’s are going into a transaction with their eyes wide open and want to know precisely what it is that they are buying. As a seller, due diligence can be very disruptive and distracting, right at the point when a seller needs to focus on the business and the numbers. You can never underestimate the value of getting your company in good order prior to commencing any transaction, and we have seen this with the transactions over the last six months. The owners/directors who invested time in preparing themselves for a transaction were rewarded with the deal proceeding more smoothly, timely and cost effectively with the least price chipping! Are you seeing deals being structured in any particular way? Over the last six months, we have seen transactions structured in a multitude of ways. We are finding that parties are being flexible, looking at the end result and how to get there in a way that works for all, where able. We have seen deals structured in the ‘standard’ share
E-zec acquisition from NSL Ltd Acquisition through business and asset deal to expand E-zec’s transportation business for the NHS
Multi-office Veterinary practice Sale of SE veterinary practice to a fast growing consolidator
sale manner, as well as the purchase of certain business & assets commonly where it is only part of a business that is being sold. We are also seeing an increasing number of buy-back of
Leumi ABL Limited
shares, as a means of enabling certain business owners to capitalise on their hard work and
Funding of the management buy-out of a cleaning and facilities company, which was carved-out from a global business
exit from the business, whilst the other owners stay with the business. Coupled with this is the increased availability of bank and institutional funding. All of this makes for an active market. What advice have you got for people looking to sell their business over the next 12 months Most importantly it is never too early to start planning, particularly as regards the advisers you are going to use. This doesn’t just cover legal, but also tax, accounting and corporate finance advice. You should not be rushed into any transaction and so the earlier you get your house in order, the more smoothly it will run and the better you will be prepared. Transactions tend to be of two types, either instigated by the owner who wants to exit or by a third party who makes the owners an offer they cannot refuse! There is an old saying, that having your business fit for sale makes either of these straight-forward, whichever stimulates a transaction. We understand that values have been increasing in the market place. What are you seeing at DMH Stallard? Prices have certainly increased over the last 24 months and the market is generally very firm. What we are seeing is that initial higher prices being offered and accepted are now under pressure during the due diligence period and if anything values have softened slightly
Finishing Touches (Semi Permanent Make Up) Ltd Acquisition of shares
Heatherdale Healthcare Ltd Sale of shares for nursing & care home in Kent
Leumi ABL Limited Funding of the share acquisition of RDS Group
in the last three to six months. Your advisers should be helping manage not only value expectations but also attempted price reductions. Again, by keeping control of the process and understanding your options, you will be able to maximise value.
23
SADIQ
KHAN As the first Muslim leader of a Western capital, the world is watching how the London Mayor will fare. Profile by Ian Trevett
“Already he has been accused of imposing Sharia Law - and being a Zionist! ”
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THE BIG STORY
T
he blood on the walls of the Pulse nightclub in Orlando hadn’t had a chance to dry before Donald Trump made his pronouncement on who was to blame. After 49 club-goers were slain in a cold-hearted frenzy of hate, he declared: “The bottom line is that the only reason the killer was in America in the first place was because we allowed his family to come here… We are importing radical Islamic terrorism into the West through a failed immigration system.” Aside from Native Americans, everyone in the US is either an immigrant or descended from immigrants, but Donald Trump wants to prevent a very particular group of migrants Muslims. In one fell swoop, Trump demonised approximately 22% of the entire population of earth. ”The ban will be lifted when we as a nation are in a position to properly and perfectly screen those people coming into our country,” said Trump. Just over a month earlier, London elected its first-ever Muslim mayor - the first Muslim leader of a major Western capital. Unsurprisingly, Sadiq Khan and Donald Trump don’t exactly enjoy a mutually loving relationship. Sadiq challenged Trump with a question: “Are you inadvertently making our countries less safe by giving the impression there is a clash of civilisations? Are you doing the job of Daesh and the extremists for them by saying the West hates Islam? I am the West!” Khan warned that the billionaire’s “ignorant”
view of Islam could make both Britain and the US less safe. “Donald Trump and those around him think that Western liberal values are incompatible with mainstream Islam - London has proved him wrong.
“By the end of the campaign, journalists groaned at the mention of his bus-driver father: a sure sign of success.” “There are literally hundreds of thousands of Londoners who are Muslim and Western. Meet my family, meet me, meet my friends, meet other Londoners, and hopefully that will reassure you that it’s possible.” It would be easy to dismiss Donald Trump’s headline-grabbing speeches as the outpourings of a fame-hungry lunatic, albeit one who may soon be the leader of the free world. But Trump just voices the fears of many who worry about the threat of extreme Islam and the creep of Islamification across the West. Is the election of
Khan a sign that the indigenous population of the UK is being stealthily swept aside? The Conservatives certainly believed that people felt this way, and their mayoral campaign concentrated on questioning Khan’s perceived connections to extremists. Zac Goldsmith, an intelligent, articulate candidate best known for his passionate green credentials, fought a campaign that was so negative that his closest friends seemed to be genuinely shocked. David Cameron joined the attack. “I am concerned about Labour’s candidate as Mayor of London, who has appeared on a platform with Suliman Gani nine times. This man supports Islamic State… Anyone can make a mistake about who they appear on a platform with. But if you do it time after time, it is right to question your judgement.” Gani, an Imam in Khan’s Tooting constituency angrily rejected such claims, and is, in fact, a Conservative supporter. Cameron apologised, and during the Remain campaign (during which he shared a stage with Sadiq Kahn), he was asked by The Times’ Jenni Russell if he now thinks it’s a good thing that a major Western city has a Muslim mayor? “Yes, yes I do. We’ve got to win the argument that this fight we’re engaged in isn’t between Christianity and Islam, but within Islam, against a small minority … and if someone like Sadiq can demonstrate that Muslims, Christians and Jews can work together, that’s a very good thing.”
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Call Worthing: 01903 234094 Call Gatwick: 01293 227670 Email: info@carpenterbox.com
XERO AWARD WINNER 2016
THE BIG STORY
“His politics are closer to the moderate wing of the Labour Party and he is an admirer of both Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.” Sometimes a politician cannot just represent his or her own philosophies; by a quirk of history, they are destined to carry the weight of representing their race, gender or religion. Barack Obama was never going to be judged as the 44th President of the United States. In a nation which is only one generation away from racial segregation, he knows he will be judged on his legacy of how he helped advance the cause of black Americans. Mrs Thatcher seemed less concerned about her responsibility to her gender. In all her time as Prime Minister, Baroness Young, a close friend of the Prime Minister, was the only female promoted to the cabinet. No wonder Spitting Image caricatured her as being the most masculine politician of her generation, famously showing her standing at a urinal. Khan knows the eyes of the world will be upon him, a man of Islam in a world that teeters on the edge of being ripped apart by mistrust and hostility between faiths. Already
he has been accused of imposing Sharia Law and being a Zionist! As London Mayor, one of Sadiq Khan’s first moves was to ban all adverts which portray “an unhealthy body image” from appearing on London’s transport network. An example cited was an advert showing a skinny bikini model, with the question: “Are you beach body ready?” Khan said, “Nobody should feel pressurised while they travel on the Tube or bus into unrealistic expectations surrounding their bodies, and I want to send a clear message to the advertising industry about this.” A blow for women’s rights, but one woman’s feminism is another man’s misogyny. Brighton’s Green MP, Caroline Lucas, campaigned to ban The Sun’s Page 3 girls for the way it objectifies women. Displaying female flesh in public view also offends the Taliban, for an entirely different reason. Twitter soon came alive with comments questioning Khan’s motives:
“This Mayor is pushing his conservative Muslim views. All the while stroking the egos of the feminist.” ”As per Sharia Law, Muslim mayor of London will ban ads that show beautiful female bodies.” “He is using feminist talking points to enact Sharia policy.” Brendan O’Neill commented in The Spectator: “Sadiq’s ban sets a mad precedent. He says he wants to squash ads which give people ‘unrealistic expectations surrounding their bodies’. But advertising is all about unrealistic expectations. Ads are packed with stupidly handsome blokes and gorgeous women all having a mighty fine time as they book that holiday some of us can’t afford or down those beers the rest of us would also be downing if only we weren’t on our way to the bloody office. That’s what ads do: they say, ‘Hey. Don’t you wish you were doing this? And looked like this? And owned this?’ “… Now that Sadiq has set himself up as slayer of evil words and pictures to protect Londoners from feeling bad, there’s no telling what he’ll crush next.” So is Khan easing in Sharia Law by stealth? Not according to Hafsa Kara-Mustapha from middleeasteye.net. On his first day in office, he attended the UK’s Holocaust Memorial Ceremony standing
27
THE BIG STORY potential,” he told Alistair Campbell in GQ. “My parents were immigrants. My dad passed away in 2003, he had been a bus driver for 25 years, my mum sewed clothes, raised eight children, but we had security of housing, it was affordable, they could put money aside to get our own home; we went to good local schools and our parents said, ‘Listen to the teachers.’ They pushed us All of us who wanted to go to university did. I came home after law school, slept in the same top bunk, saving for a deposit, then my wife and I got a property in our mid-twenties. I was a lawyer, ran a business, MP, then sat at the Cabinet table... that is the London story. Too many people miss out on those chances now.” Khan and his siblings grew up in a three-bedroom council flat on the Henry Prince Estate in Earlsfield. He attended Fircroft Primary School and then Ernest Bevin School (now Ernest Bevin College), a local comprehensive. Khan studied science and
“I’m determined to be the most pro-business Mayor of London yet.”
alongside Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, the very same Rabbi who had accused Labour of having a ‘severe’ problem with anti-Semitism. Clever PR from Khan? Not according to KaraMustapha, who accuses Sadiq of having form on the IsraelPalestine issue. She wrote: “When the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) invited Khan to an event commemorating the Nakba, or catastrophe, marking the expulsion and ethnic cleansing in 1948 of Palestinians, Khan ignored it.Time and again Khan has openly sided with Israel to the detriment of the Palestinians, of whose cause Londoners have been increasingly supportive. “As the anti-Semitism/anti-Zionism row continues to rock the Labour Party, one thing at least has emerged since May’s election: you do not have to be Jewish to be Zionist, in fact, you can be a Muslim too. Mayor Khan is the proof of this.” Zionist? Islamist? Socilaist? Entrepreneur? Who is the real Sadiq Khan? Khan was born at St George’s Hospital in Tooting, South London, the fifth of eight children in a working class Sunni Muslim family of Pakistani immigrants. His grandparents migrated from India to Pakistan following the partition of India in 1947, and his parents migrated to England from Pakistan shortly before Khan was born. His late father, Amanullah Khan, worked as a bus driver for over 25 years; his mother, Sehrun, was a seamstress. Khan is clearly proud of both his working class roots and the work ethic which is installed in the psyche of the immigrant. “London gave me all my chances to fulfil my
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mathematics at A-level in the hope of eventually qualifying as a dentist. A teacher recommended that he read law, as he had an argumentative personality. He entered the University of North London (now London Metropolitan University) to study law. According to his Wikipedia biography, he and his family often encountered racism, which led to him and his brothers taking up boxing at the Earlsfield Amateur Boxing Club. While studying for his degree, from the age of 18 to 21, he worked on Saturdays at the Peter Jones department store in Sloane Square. He completed the Law Society finals at the College of Law in Guildford. From 1994 to 1997, he was employed as a trainee solicitor and assistant solicitor and from 1997 to 2005, was a partner in the firm ‘Christian Khan’ with Louise Christian. During his legal career he represented actions against the police, employment and discrimination law. By taking on controversial cases against the police and establishment, he earned a reputation as a radical and as being politically motivated - a perception pounced on by certain newspapers during the mayoral campaign. Added to his nomination of Jeremy Corbyn, he was labelled as a left winger who could not be trusted in office. In fact, his politics are closer to the moderate wing of
THE BIG STORY
the Labour Party and he is an admirer of both Tony Blair and Gordon Brown. George Eaton wrote in The New Statesman: “His election leaflets rooted his policies in his personal story, ‘the bus driver’s son who’ll make commuting more affordable, the council estate boy who’ll fix the Tory housing crisis and the British Muslim who’ll take on the extremists.’ By the end of the campaign, journalists groaned at the mention of his busdriver father: a sure sign of success.
“London gave me all my chances to fulfil my potential” “Khan spoke of how ‘too many British Muslims grow up without really knowing anyone from a different background,’ warning that the political establishment had for too long ‘tolerated segregation’ at the expense of ‘creating a common life.’” Unlike the Corbynistas, Khan has an authentic appreciation of entrepreneurship and those who exhibit business acumen. It is estimated that a fifth of London’s Pakistanis are self-employed, and he has experienced the highs and lows of being in business. In his manifesto he pledged: “I’m determined to be the most pro-business Mayor of London yet. I’ll make engagement with industry – from small independents and start-ups to global corporations – a key part of decision-making at City Hall. When it comes to planning London’s future economic development, infrastructure, skills and housing will be my foremost priorities. And I’ll build stronger partnerships between the private sector, public and voluntary agencies to work strategically across London – making sure that the good work that is done across the city on skills and economic development is properly joined up.” He is passionate about putting Londoners first when it comes to housing. “You have to intervene in the market,” he told Alistair Campbell. “The market isn’t working. I want half to be genuinely affordable. No more selling off first to Asia and the Middle East.
For six months they go first to Londoners. One of the top five estate agents advertised 700 properties to overseas buyers before marketing them in London. Another one had 50 cocktail parties in Singapore and Malaysia for properties not yet built. So there are going to be conditions for development: first, try to sell here, and they have to be affordable.” He supports new aviation capacity for London and backs a second runway at Gatwick. He promises to champion London industry at home and abroad, making the case for inward investment in the City, and working to attract ever more global business. In talking about innovation and housing, Khan is doing exactly what he should be doing - planning his policies for London. At the end of his stint as London Mayor, in an ideal world he should be judged on what he has done for Londoners and the City’s economy. However, his religion and background will always be at the forefront, because he is, whether he likes it or not, a flag bearer for Muslim moderation. If we are to live together in peace, we need Muslim role models who will provide an alternative path to those who preach hate and division. Khan says, “We all have multiple identities. I am a dad, a husband, Londoner, Asian, British, Muslim. I never run away from my faith, but I don’t proselytise.” He certainly never runs away, and there is no doubting his bravery. Whatever he does, there will be haters and he must be aware of the risks he takes. Jo Cox, the MP who was murdered outside her constituency office in June, paid the ultimate price for her compassionate, inclusive politics. She was well aware of the dangers of race-hate crimes. She was planning to address parliament to introduce a report she had been working on with the Islamophobia watchdog Tell Mama (Measuring Anti-Muslim Attacks). The study is expected to conclude that there were about 80% more attacks on Muslims in Britain in 2015 than the year before. Her killer shouted, “Britain First!” It may or may not have been a reference to the race-hate political group of the same name - but Khan is
firmly on their radar. The group’s leader, Paul Golding, issued a direct threat to Khan: “Britain First specialises in militant, direct action and has tracked down and confronted numerous hate preachers and terrorists. “Britain First now considers all Muslim elected officials as ‘occupiers’ and will start to oppose their strategy of entryism and takeover of our political system.” He went on to declare his groups would “focus on all aspects of their day-to-day lives and official functions, including where they live, work, pray and so on.” Khan is just as much at risk from Jihadists who despise his moderation and Western ideals. Sadiq Khan shows no fear and declares: “Extremism is a cancer eating at the heart of our society, all the time. And if we’re honest, not enough has been done to root it out. That makes me angry. Angry because for too long we [British Muslims] have buried our heads in the sand.” “I believe that British Muslims have a special role to play in tackling extremism. A special role, not because we are more responsible than others, as some have wrongly claimed, but because we can be more effective at tackling extremism than anyone else. Our role must be to challenge extremist views wherever we encounter them. To challenge this perverse ideology, and to insist that British values and Muslim values are one and the same.” Whatever you may think of Khan’s party politics (or his stance on Europe), surely no-one can disagree with this, and we must sincerely hope that he succeeds in helping to build bridges between faiths. George Eaton sums it up well: “Beyond London, as the first Muslim mayor of a major western city, Khan will be a figure of global significance. His election is a rebuke to extremists of all stripes, from Donald Trump to Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi (leader of ISIS), who assert that religions cannot peacefully co-exist.”
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LIVING WAGE
NATIONAL LIVING WAGE
Is it good news for employees, but bad news for local business? asks Maxine Reid, Restructuring Partner at Kreston Reeves
Many service workers will see significant pay increases
A
s many will be aware, from April 2016 the National Living Wage (NLW) was increased bringing into effect a £7.20
per hour (£9.15 per hour in London) minimum wage for employees aged over 25 which is expected to increase over the coming years exceeding £9 per hour by April 2020. These rises are expected to directly affect many employees in the region and could benefit other employees that are having their pay differentials reviewed. Many might think that the 80p per hour rise appears small. However, in statistical
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terms the rise not only represents a nominal
“In the restaurant sector, absorption through increased menu prices may prove more difficult.”
increase of 7.5% (the largest since 2004) it also denotes the largest rise since 2001 (10.8%) on an annualised basis. The rises are therefore significant, especially in a zero inflation context.
Will the living wage herald a loss for local business? For many the answer is ‘no’. Sectors such as financial services and construction are likely to be largely unaffected as the majority of workers are highly skilled and can, therefore,
LIVING WAGE
“Staff levels and store numbers are expected to fall nationwide as marginal stores become unprofitable and surplus to requirements.”
command higher wages. In fact, the Office for Budget Responsibility estimates that the NLW will only have a 0.1% effect on the total national employee compensation figure. However, in certain sectors important to the region – namely retail and hospitality -
If you are concerned about the implications of the National Living
absorbing the NLW will be much more difficult to bear, especially for those already suffering
Wage for your business, we can
from other economic pressures, such as the impact of the pension auto-enrolment legislation.
provide the following advice to help
Hospitality and leisure
you respond to these changes:
The hospitality and leisure sector performed well in 2015 due to an increase in consumer confidence and an improving marketplace. The NLW, however, is expected to significantly affect sector growth, especially for those within hotels and food services, where over 40% of staff are expected to receive pay rises as a result of the new legislation. The industry is highly competitive and local positioning is likely to dictate the impact of the rises: in the restaurant sector absorption through increased menu prices may prove more difficult and businesses in this position risk being squeezed out: they may need to focus on operational efficiencies to bear the rising cost base. Amongst hotels, the initial reaction may be to limit employee benefits, or even make redundancies and business owners will need to have in mind the impact that this could have on staff morale and whether this could affect the standards of their customer service.
Retail The retail sector, historically, has benefited from employing workers at a lower rate of pay, although the market has reportedly shown some signs of recovery in recent months, it remains extremely competitive with high street retailers battling the rise of online operators and only recently we have seen BHS and Austin Reed both being added to the list of household names calling in the Administrators. The impact of the NLW is likely to have a significant impact on the high street, with the Centre for Retail Research estimating a cost of £1.08 billion to the sector in 2016 alone.
So what will the impact be? Initially, the NLW is likely to hit consumer pockets with price rises to goods and delivery
• Advising on business pressures and suggesting solutions; • Looking at performance benchmarking and ways to improve your profitability; • Identifying and implementing performance efficiency improvements; • Assisting with the disposal of marginal or unprofitable assets or units; • Contingency planning in the event of business critical events not coming to fruition; • Ensuring that you maximise tax reliefs available to your business; and, • Outsourcing of your payroll or
charge rises. This could push more consumers to online traders and exacerbate the
accounting function to save time
competitive tension on the high street for market share.
and money.
Staff levels and store numbers are expected to fall nationwide as marginal stores become unprofitable and surplus to requirements. In addition, exiting from these stores, often on long leasehold contracts, may lead to a further influx of Voluntary Arrangements or other
www.krestonreeves.com
insolvency procedures which could have a detrimental affect on landlords. Suppliers may also feel the pressure from retailers continuing to squeeze margins in an attempt to save costs, consequently presenting difficulties to their suppliers. For those juggling work and family commitments, many may also find the cost of nursery and pre-school care rising as a consequence. So while the introduction of a National Living Wage offers benefits for the lower paid in the economy, businesses will now each need to assess the extent to which they absorb or pass on the additional costs involved.
31
EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS
TRIBUNAL TRIP-UPS
Top 10 mistakes employers make in the Employment Tribunal by Tony Hyams-Parish, Partner and Head of Employment at Rawlison Butler.
M
istakes made during a Tribunal hearing can result in an employer losing a case and having to make large payments in compensation. Here we look at a number of common mistakes made by employers, all of which can increase the risk of losing an otherwise winnable case.
MISTAKE 1: Turning up without having read relevant documents Witnesses who turn up at a Tribunal hearing to give evidence having not recently read their witness statement and not being familiar with all of the documents they refer to in their
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statement are more likely to perform badly in cross examination and won’t make a good impression with the Judge. They will lack credibility which means that in the event of a dispute in the evidence, the Judge may decide to prefer the evidence of the Claimant.
produce relevant documents at the hearing in circumstances where they were available, and ought to have been disclosed much earlier in the process, a Judge may draw appropriate inferences from such non-disclosure against the employer when reaching a decision.
MISTAKE 2: Not disclosing all the evidence
MISTAKE 3: Realising minutes of meetings aren’t quite right
Producing documents late, or worse still, during the Tribunal hearing, should always be avoided where possible as it can appear as though there has been an attempt to hide or conceal evidence. If you have to
Minutes of meetings are commonly the subject of much scrutiny and cross examination during Tribunal hearings, particularly minutes of investigations, disciplinary and appeal hearings. It is too late at the hearing for you to
EMPLOYMENT TRIBUNALS
“Continually saying ‘I don’t remember’… can damage credibility and leave a Judge thinking that the witness is unreliable and unbelievable.” events where you would expect some memory of them – can damage credibility and leave a Judge thinking that the witness is unreliable and unbelievable. Witnesses should familiarise themselves with the documents beforehand to remind themselves of events from months (or years) earlier.
MISTAKE 5: Not having paid enough attention to important letters like the invitation to disciplinary or the dismissal letter The dismissal letter is important - it provides the best evidence of the reason for dismissal that was in the mind of the employer at the time of the dismissal. Witnesses can expect to be cross examined in some detail about the content of the letter if there is a challenge to the real reason for dismissal. Equally the invitation to the disciplinary is likely to be the subject of scrutiny, particularly if it is alleged that it does not comply with the ACAS Code. Failure to prepare properly may lead to answers during questioning which only serve to weaken a defence.
MISTAKE 6: Arguing with the Claimant’s representative
deny that the minutes are accurate or to start amending them. For this reason you need to take care to look through the minutes very carefully at the time they are prepared and, importantly, before they are disclosed. You should also attempt to agree minutes with the employee in order to avoid a situation where the employee denies the accuracy of the minutes at the hearing.
MISTAKE 4: Not answering the question being asked Everyone accepts that nerves can affect witnesses at the Tribunal, particularly those giving evidence for the first time, but continually not listening to, and not answering, the question being asked can begin to look like a witness is trying to hide something. Equally, while memories do fade with time, continually saying ‘I don’t remember’ – even to
It is the job of a representative to ask questions and the job of a witness to answer them. It is not the job of a witness to ask the representative questions, something which can quickly descend into what may sound like arguing with the representative. During cross examination a witness can expect to be faced with difficult questions; some questions witnesses may not like, may not want to answer and may even be aimed at provoking a witness. When answering questions it is important to remain calm and continue to answer questions honestly and fully.
MISTAKE 7: Not answering questions well
to answering the question being asked. Witnesses who feel the need to fill a silence are at risk of saying too much and damaging (or contradicting) the evidence they have already given. Faced with a silence, witnesses should simply wait for the next question.
MISTAKE 9: Not being familiar with the ACAS Code of Practice on Discipline and Grievance Managers who are unfamiliar with the ACAS Code of Practice can quickly lack credibility and appear as though they really don’t know what they are doing. Even if a manager was unfamiliar with the ACAS Code at the point of dismissal, they should familiarise themselves with it prior to the hearing and understand its relevance and importance, as they may be questioned about it.
MISTAKE 10: Not being understood by the Employment judge Witnesses often forget that it is the Tribunal or Employment Judge that needs to hear what witnesses are saying. When asked a question, witnesses should therefore turn and address their answers to the Judge. It is also important to bear in mind that notes are being taken of the evidence by the Judge and therefore witnesses should pause until they see the Judge’s pen stop, before continuing their answer. RB’s Employment Team has a huge amount of experience helping clients present their cases at the Tribunal. This starts with preparing a good claim or defence and continues right up to working with clients to ensure that they perform well at the Tribunal and have the best possible chance of winning!
If you would like to know more, call Tony Hyams-Parish on 01293 558544 or email him at ahyamsparish@rawlisonbutler.com
Witnesses who do not answer questions well have often not understood the question. Witnesses should avoid answering questions they do not understand but instead should say they do not understand and ask for clarification.
MISTAKE 8: Saying too much! The key to giving good evidence is to stick
33
BUSINESS FORUM
GROWING GATWICK A
t the recent Gatwick Diamond Economic Growth Forum, delegates discussed how we can make our region more attractive to investors, and therefore create new, high-quality, well-paid jobs.
Emma Goodford of Knight Frank led off by introducing The War for
Talent – underlining that, in order to be attractive places for businesses to locate, our towns and cities will need to be great places to live, work and play, and to travel around. Employers need to be able to win the talent war against their competitors, by attracting the best people. The Forum had a particular focus on the digital sector. Sam Garrity of Rocketmill discussed the talent war, saying he was about to move his 40-employee business to Brighton because he couldn’t attract and retain the right staff from his current base in Crawley. “The people I’m recruiting want to change the world, so they need to be able to rub shoulders with other like-minded souls, and work with universities who are trying to deliver for digital businesses,” he said.
Surinder Arora, Arora Group
Simon Pringle of Red River Software, based in Horsham, said he was trying to help a hub of digital expertise emerge in Horsham by changing his recruitment policies. “My current tech superstars have not necessarily been to university. I’m working with colleges, and on a digital apprenticeship with the University of Chichester, to produce a talent pipeline.” Prof Diane Mynors, from the University of Sussex, described their Creative Technology group, which met with approval from the audience. “It’s where Tech meets a human interface, and where the skills
Surinder also said, in a message directed at the Government: “We need a decision about runway capacity, one way or the other, to give us some investment certainty.” Stewart Wingate, CEO of Gatwick Airport, would like that decision to go his way, of course, but continues to invest in the existing airport, and to create opportunity for the surrounding economy. “Since I last addressed this Forum, we have added many new
developed are much more oriented to people – such as collaboration, or
destinations, including New York and Los Angeles,” he said. This
group working – than they are to technology.”
increase, driven by low-cost carriers like Norwegian, provides significant
Changing the stereotype of techies not being able to be creative, and creative people not doing tech, is one of the key challenges, and one where business and education must work together. Surinder Arora, founder and chairman of Arora Group, a key investor
opportunities for employment growth in the Gatwick Diamond. Andy Rumfitt, of AECOM, had kicked the day off by describing the opportunities for growth that spring from being the centre of one of the South East’s key transport corridors –London to Brighton. He showed
in the region, that, as well as working on our talent pool, argued that we
what might come from a more strategic and coherent approach to
need to make sure our infrastructure keeps pace with our economy.
managing the corridor’s connections.
There has been investment in both physical infrastructure – road and
The Gatwick Diamond Economic Growth Forum will reconvene in 2017
rail – but more is needed, which is also the case in digital infrastructure,
on June 8, and also on Oct 28, 2016, for the first in a series of town-
where a faster 4G roll out is key, according to Abhi Chacko, Head of IT at
focussed debates, this one being Crawley. See www.gdegf.com
Gatwick Airport.
for details.
Stewart Wingate, CEO, Gatwick Airport, in conversation with event Chair, Daryl Gayler of RBS
Andy Rumfitt of AECOM Photography by Stephen Johnson Photography
34
MANUFACTURING
METALL GURU! Chris Coopey, ex-engineer and Partner at Sussex-based chartered accountants, Carpenter Box, announces the launch of a new business forum on 12th July.
T
he Manufacturing Engineering and Technology Alliance (METALL) is a new regional forum aimed at bringing
together businesses in three complimentary sectors to promote good practice, share experience and provide problem solving opportunities between peers. Based around a proven format where each meeting will hear from experts and specialists on a particular subject, followed by a roundtable opportunity to discuss wider issues, METALL is the successor to the Sussex Manufacturing Forum, widening the scope of membership to the engineering and technology communities, as well as geographically. Why do we need METALL? Well, pretty much everything we see, touch and use has been designed, engineered and manufactured. Our world, good and bad, reflects our ability as a species to innovate. The industrial revolution saw the pace of change and the development of technology-based manufacturing accelerate and of course the United Kingdom led the charge and carved out an empire in the process. Fast forward to now and some would say
that in the UK we are living in a post industrial
our Local Enterprise Partnership estimated
age. While the service sector does generate more wealth than the manufacturing sector, this doesn’t tell the whole story. Everywhere we look we see the result of industrial design and mass production. From the ubiquitous iPhone (designed by London-born Sir Jonathan Ive) not a minute of anyone’s day can be lived without constant interaction with the manufactured and engineered world.
in 2014 that there were over 3,400 Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering businesses in our region employing over 33,000 people.
The UK is still the 11th largest manufacturing nation in the world coincidentally contributing something like 11% Gross Value Added to the economy and employing around 2.6 million people. Despite problems in certain areas such as oil, gas and steel production, the UK sector has ambitions to do much more. The automotive industry in the UK for instance, exported over 1.2 million cars last year - the highest ever total. In and around the Gatwick Diamond, we have some of the world’s premium manufacturing, engineering and technology brands operating on our doorstep. From Rolls-Royce Motor Cars at Goodwood to Elekta Oncology in Crawley, from Ricardo in Shoreham to Bowers & Wilkins in Worthing, and from Varian Medical Systems in Crawley to Sony in Horsham - the list is impressive. In number terms, Coast to Capital
The METALL remit will primarily be about helping the sector to improve and grow, coalescing opinion around such things as skills and apprentice training, funding, transport infrastructure, localisation of supply chains and by discussing subjects such as the next industrial revolution (Industry 4.0). The launch event is centred around ‘Innovation’ with Dr Robert Pearson, (Cobham Antenna Systems) and Dr Zoë Webster (Innovate UK). We’ll be looking at what innovation means together with some route maps on how to achieve and fund it. Robert Pearson has been involved in the field of military communications, satellite technology and antenna systems for over 30 years. He has also been closely involved in civil aerospace, having recently led the Cobham team’s contribution to a highly innovative collaborative research programme into next generation civil aircraft communications technologies. Prior to becoming Head of High Value Manufacturing at Innovate UK, Zoë led the Technology Team at the Technology Strategy Board. Previously Zoë worked in the defence industry for seven years (QinetiQ and SEA) as a researcher specialising in artificial intelligence, developing new algorithms and prototypes for a range of civil and defence applications. The first METALL breakfast meeting is set for Tuesday 12th July at Roffey Park near Horsham – further details and sign up can be found on the METALL website at www.metall.org.uk METALL is sponsored by Carpenter Box, asb law and CBSbutler
35
DIRECT MARKETING
POWERING UP YOUR DATABASE
Stuart Sutherland from Direct Marketing specialists Nova Direct, explains how they build their mail and email databases and how they avoid irresponsible mailing Data Management “Our sophisticated marketing lists and data management systems ensure you only mail the correct individual by their title. This comes about by Nova Direct cleaning, sorting and refreshing customer databases, and then adding new prospect data with the same criteria. Through this energising process Nova Direct makes your promotions a more effective marketing tool. “All systems are managed by our knowledgeable, skilled staff, whose experience in interpreting the results can make an inspired difference.”
DATA PROFILING “Profiling your data is the first step in strategic marketing. It is important, as it identifies the characteristics of your actual customers, highlighting when and where to look to win new business. Understanding the market demographic will help in designing your marketing communications. “Using your cleansed database, Nova take a snapshot of your typical customers and identify
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the key demographics.”
“We are obliged to ensure that our customers are aware that in certain circumstances their databases are screened against the Mailing Preference Service register to ensure no law is broken relating to unsolicited direct mail.”
DATA CAPTURE “We capture data from forms, questionnaires or coupons to add into a database ready for processing or return to the customer. This data can also be used to identify prospective clients and improve engagement with your existing customers, personalising messages and communications using the medium that is most appealing to your your individual clients.”
DIRECT MARKETING LISTS “Nova Direct can generate and supply approved direct marketing data lists and mailing lists. We obtain fresh, quality, tailormade direct marketing mailing lists to ensure high response rates. “Lists can include numerous data fields, including Name, Business Title, Company Name, Address, Fax Number, Telephone Number and so on, plus industry, turnover, number of employees, postcode area, (Business Data) or income, hobbies and interests, household type, family demographics and postcode area and more (Consumer Data).”
DIRECT MARKETING
“Profiling your data is the first step in strategic marketing.”
DATA WAREHOUSING “We store and maintain customer databases within a secure on-site environment. “Nova Direct is registered under the Data Protection Act 1998. As part of this act we are obliged to ensure that our customers are aware that in certain circumstances their databases are screened against the Mailing Preference Service (MPS) register to ensure no law is broken relating to unsolicited direct mail. All members of staff have undertaken to abide by the rules of the act and maintain confidentiality at all times.”
SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT “Writing and developing of bespoke programmes to enable us to create an interface with any CRM system allows us to provide bespoke printing solutions such as financial statements, daily fulfilment and other essential communications. We have IT solutions which can be set up to distribute products as part of a special, one-time project or as part of an ongoing service through mechanisms of your own e-commerce platforms or widely used front end services such as Amazon and Ebay. We can also provide you with a customised eStore or web portal to simplify the order-fulfilment process.”
DATA PROCESSING “Our systems and data technicians continuously monitor, refresh and update data. This enables us to deal with all aspects of data processing: • Merge, purge and de-duplication • Mailing Preference Service (MPS):This is a list of families who would prefer not to receive unsolicited direct mail.
• National Change of Address (NCOA): This
• The Deceased Register (TDR): This file
file contains approx 9.5 million records of
is collected in collaboration with local
new and old addresses. It is compiled by the
registrars throughout the UK at the time a
Royal Mail using re-direction requests from householders. It can be used as a Gone-Away File or to track and trace. • Postal Address File (PAF): A file that
death is registered. • The Bereavement Register (TBR): This file is collected in collaboration with local
contains every address in the UK and can be
government registrars, law firms, hospitals
used to cross-reference data. Compiled by
and funeral directors throughout the UK
the Royal Mail.
within 7 days of a death.”
• Telephone Preference Service (TPS): This is a list of telephone numbers who would prefer not to receive unsolicited sales and marketing telephone calls. • Fax Preference Service (FPS) : This is a list of fax numbers who would prefer not to receive unsolicited faxes.
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SPONSORSHIP
ACUMEN BUSINESS CONVENTION 2016
Let’s hear it for the Sponsors! Each year the Convention is a huge success and could not happen without the support of these fantastic companies.
Basepoint Centres Ltd www.basepoint.co.uk
Frost Group www.frostgroup.co.uk
Red Flag Recruitment www.redflagrecruitment.com
Face Media Group www.facemediagroup.co.uk
Handelsbanken www.handelsbanken.co.uk
Sussex Chamber of Commerce www.sussexchamberof commerce.co.uk
“With so many business leaders all in one place, sponsoring the ACUMEN BUSINESS CONVENTION was an easy decision. We enjoyed plenty of interest and excitement demoing future business opportunities like VR (virtual reality), to discussing how to create productive internal business technology infrastructure to drive efficiency, scalability, and growth. A big thank you to Acumen and all the attendees. We look forward to working with you!”
Ragnar Barnsby, Founder and Director, Fitsystems
Fastlet www.fastlet.com
Platinum Business Magazine www.platinumbusinessmagazine.com
Watson Associates www.watsons.co.uk
“Being a sponsor of the ACUMEN BUSINESS CONVENTION
always gives us real value – not only is it fantastic to be associated with Acumen and the other well-respected companies that sponsor the event, but the exposure before, during & after the event is superb and Acumen always make sure that as sponsors, we are very well looked after. The event itself is fun, innovative, inspirational and excellent for networking as it attracts decision makers from a wide variety of businesses, with the set-up of the day allowing for plenty of opportunities to make new connections. We’re looking forward to being involved with the ACUMEN BUSINESS CONVENTION again in the years to come.”
Stephanie George, Centre Manager, Basepoint Centres Ltd
Fitsystems www.fitsystems.co.uk
PSD Ice Art www.psdiceart.co.uk
Young Start-up Talent www.youngstartup talent.co.uk
“We find the ACUMEN BUSINESS CONVENTION to be a fantastic day overall and proud to sponsor this year. We found the workshops of interest and engaging with inspiring speakers and a good mix of businesses in the room to network with throughout the day.” Lorraine Nugent, Director, Young Start-up Talent
www.acumenbusinesslaw.co.uk/conventions 38
TRAVEL SUPPLEMENT
PLATINUM
This month we are off to the land of the rising sun‌. Japan. Rose has been busy looking into the conference and exhibition opportunities in Tokyo along with a look at the cultural differences that require attention if you are to do business there. It is a City of surprises and delights and a destination that everyone should travel to at least once in a lifetime. Scott Pawley of Global Travel Management discusses the options for Finance Directors when it comes to corporate travel and the tremendous benefits of working with a travel management company such as GTM, and Alyssa Bantle, from Crown World Mobility, offers tips on avoiding cultural faux pas when working abroad.
PLATINUM
sponsored by
THIS MONTH:
TOKYO
DELIVER BALANCED GROWTH FOR BRITAIN A second runway at Gatwick will give airports across the UK greater opportunity to grow, which means more competition and balanced growth for the whole country. Let’s make it happen so all of Britain can get the benefits.
gatwickobviously.com @LGWobviously
Travel CULTURAL DIFFERENCES IN BUSINESS Tips for avoiding faux pas when working abroad by Alyssa Bantle, Global Curriculum Manager, Intercultural & Language Training, Crown World Mobility
Y
ou’ve just started a new job abroad but how do you communicate? Should you be direct with the Germans but not with the Japanese? Should you avoid first names in Poland but use them in Australia?
Tip 2: Business meetings are often scheduled about two weeks in advance. Also, make sure you reconfirm the meeting with a call or email a day or two before it is scheduled to take place.
PANAMA: Tip 1: Panamanians do business with people, not companies. So a focus on building a network and maintaining relationships is key. This means finding ways to spending quality time with people and not just
If an Indonesian asks about your weight are they being friendly or rude?
jumping to the task.
GERMANY:
different than in the UK, so be very conservative in estimating how long it
Tip 2: In Panama the sense of time, urgency and deadlines can be very
Tip 1: When giving feedback, be as direct as you can. Concentrate on what needs to be changed or improved and point that out. Instead of ‘Perhaps you could consider...’ use something more direct such as ‘Some of this is not right, please change xyz.’ As rude as that might
will take and how much it will cost to complete a project. This applies to large scale projects as well as a tasks you outsource or delegate.
INDONESIA:
sound for a Brit it isn’t for a German. Still not convinced? Keep in mind
Tip 1: You will almost certainly be offered snacks or tea at business
that feedback which seems polite to a Brit might be both confusing and
meetings. It is good practice to wait for the host to drink (or eat) first or
even seem dishonest to a German who values direct communication.
to specifically ask you to eat - before starting to drink.
Tip 2: Be careful with using British humour. Germans use humour
Tip 2: Indonesians may not hold back on some topics not often
much more sparingly in professional situations. Also, British irony is
discussed or considered rude in the UK. These could include your
often lost on Germans - and many other cultures for that matter! British
weight, marital status, age and religion. Plan an answer you are
people joke as a way to get someone on their side but sometimes they
comfortable with ahead of time on these topics.
achieve the opposite when doing this abroad!
Tip 3:
Don’t be surprised if after your presentation the German
HONG KONG:
audience applaud by knocking on the table repeatedly using their
Tip 1: Most communication, even if the person is in the cubicle or
knuckles.
office next to you, will be done through a computer screen on an instant messages programme. Do not take it personally if people prefer
POLAND:
an instant message or text to a phone call or face-to-face conversation.
Tip 1: Brits tend to aim on using first names too fast (or immediately)
Tip 2: Taking clients out for lunch is really important – a lot of
when speaking in Polish. Poles tend to be more formal and would like
locals are taking out clients to celebrate ‘Christmas, New Year and
to be called Pan or Pani for quite some time. When speaking English,
Chinese New Year’ in one meal. Going out for an informal drink
first names usage is more common but just remember to be a bit more
after work as you would in the UK does not work well in Hong
formal initially than you would in the UK.
Kong. This would be seen as an official work event no matter how
Tip 2: A big challenge is operating around the business calendar, which
informal you want to make it.
is somewhat shorter than that of the UK. Bank Holidays can often be on a
AUSTRALIA:
Wednesday or Thursday and it is common for people to take a day or two before the holiday or even the whole week
Tip 1: There’s a more social approach to business in Australia. After
off. Always check for business holidays
meetings at the office, it can continue socially at restaurants or pubs.
before planning a trip and then check
Sometimes there may be even be personal invites to people’s houses
with who you want to meet to make
for BBQ’s. This is just as important as the main meeting to build that
sure they will be at work.
relationship and get to know the client better.
BRAZIL:
suits. More conservative businesses will certainly still dress more
Tip 1: Brazilians tend to
formally but in many cases being ‘overdressed’ will not be seen as a sign
associate English speaking people with the US, and might be a little confused when faced with a slightly different accent and sense of humour than they are expecting from an American.
Tip 2: Dress style is largely smart causal rather than full business of respect as it might be in the UK. Alyssa Bantle is an expert in cross cultural training, a professional business coach and Global Curriculum Manager for Crown World Mobility, a worldwide company that helps corporations manage global talent and helps talented individuals perform on the world stage. She is based in Miami. www.crownworldmobility.com
41
Travel IN FOR THE LONG HAUL
Global Travel Management Managing Director Scott Pawley gives the inside perspective on business travel in the face of increased globalisation
I
t may be stating the obvious but as an island nation we cannot rely on domestic growth alone, which is why businesses continue to
to destinations that demand long haul flights.
company employee to achieve this, whether
To many financial directors the answer to
it’s the person who’s doing the travelling or
balancing a budget in the face of increased
an overstretched office coordinator, they will
look to emerging markets around the globe as
long haul is simply to downgrade the travel
never be able to compete with the rate that a
intrinsic to their development.
and accommodation comfort afforded to their
travel management company can get.
Of course I’m writing this ahead of the
employees. However, this usually results in
I know that due to my work as Chair of
outcome of the EU referendum but whichever
poorer performance in meetings and pitches that
the technology panel for Focus Partnership,
way the vote falls, the UK will seek to ensure
in the long run means the company loses out.
a consortium of almost 70 TMCs across the
its economic sustainability within a global
It therefore follows that the answer is
UK, and because I created and developed
economy which will involve increased business
simply to source the best value on cost. In
FareFinder. It’s a programme that was awarded
travel and, significantly, will require travelling
almost every case when it’s down to a lone
Amadeus Business Innovation 2015 and in the
42
Travel Global Travel Management Kingsway House, 123-125 Goldsworth Road, Woking, Surrey GU21 6LR T: 01483 747321 M: sayhello@gtm.uk.com W: www.gtm.uk.com
That might involve a meeting and stopover
interests of protecting the small to medium sized TMC industry, I’ve shared with my peers.
in Hong Kong, an event in Tokyo followed by
FareFinder came out of the work that we
meetings in Singapore and Bangkok. At that
have always been obliged to do when searching
point many business travellers find their
for best rate travel and involves remembering
itineraries too complicated to cope with on self-
a vast number of codes to include. At one time
booking tools.
it might have taken an agent over 30 minutes
Even with all the tools there to activate
to go through all the data to find the right
the required bookings on a bespoke website,
match. It wasn’t a sustainable situation in a
people find their most economical option, with
competitive business. It’s a system that has achieved savings
regard to time and money, is to contact an Some companies have asked us to help them
opportunities totalling £2,363,537.72 over
set up bespoke travel websites as part of that
eight months within the Focus membership. It
policy and certainly that can help to coordinate
also has the added advantage of automatically
travel, and often the simplest systems are the
inputting all the required data in about 15
easiest to ensure 100% buy-in by all personnel.
seconds. Not surprisingly FareFinder is
We’ve found that self-booking tools are well
keenly sought by non-member TMCs as well.
used by companies who have simple travel
In addition, I have formed a partnership with
needs, for example they may have employees
TMCs around the world to give us access to
who only need to fly twice a month from
lower rates that might be quoted to agents
Heathrow to Manchester or make a one-off trip
abroad.
for an event in Tokyo.
So yes, that makes it difficult for a layman
It has to be said that cities such as Tokyo
to compete. However, even if a company isn’t
are more frequently on the agenda, popular
committing to long haul travel it is wise to
as a conference or event destination, however,
develop a travel and entertainment policy.
it’s not unusual for a business traveller to add
Not least this will help an accounts team with
additional stops on to his Tokyo trip – as a cost-
billing and expenses receipts.
saving measure.
experienced TMC with contacts and knowledge in all the relevant destinations. The future does include long haul business travel so take a tip from someone who knows, invest in experience to keep your business ahead of the game with teams that are at their best no matter what corner of the globe you send them to.
43
Travel Shake hands in...
TOKYO
The 2020 Olympics’ host city is full of fascinating culture and meeting venues with mesmerising views. Rose Dykins reports.
W
hen you think of Tokyo, what images come to mind? Extreme freneticism, neon signs stacked on top of each
metro network, and a solid language barrier.
Or, maybe you think of the 2020 Olympics
How about the fact that Tokyo came out
– which if the rumours are true, will involve
on top of the Economist’s Safe Index 2015 –
man-made meteor showers at the opening
other like Jenga pieces, crowded streets,
which ranked 50 cities based on factors such
ceremony, and robot judges that will measure
steaming bowls of ramen noodles, geishas? Or
as digital security, infrastructure quality and
the precision of gymnasts’ rotations to the nth
perhaps scenes from Lost In Translation – Bill
personal safety? Or the fact that Tokyo is home
degree?
Murray and Scarlett Johansson negotiating
to more Michelin-starred restaurants than
their way through karaoke bars, a sprawling
anywhere else in the world (226 to be precise)
Oiran Dochu Geisha Parade
44
“With the Olympics coming up, Japan presents a big business opportunity, and the
Travel desire to deal with the outside world is strengthening,” says Chiara Terzuolo, Tokyo resident and market manager for an online travel company. “They are adding hotels at a rather extraordinary rate here, and renovating the train systems in preparation to deal with having four times the usual number of people coming and going through them – Japan prepares!” Being the largest city in the world, with more than 98,000 hotel rooms to offer already, Tokyo is better placed to cope with an Olympic-sized crowd than most destinations.
Chidorigafuchi Cherry Blossoms
The buzz surrounding the Japanese capital right now is attracting the attention of investors and meetings organisers alike. “Japan is fast becoming one of the most popular meetings and events destinations in Asia, with the prospect of the 2020 Summer Olympics expected to bring spectacular opportunities,” says Scott Pawley, General Manager of Global Travel Management (GTM). “Tokyo is an amazing, beautiful city with stunning views. You have places such as the Asakusa
Meiji Jingu
District, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Jingu Shrine representing Tokyo’s 400year history, as well as state-of-the-art skyscrapers and cutting-edge design. It’s also an economic powerhouse, and is home to the headquarters of many major corporations.” For conferences, the Tokyo International Forum is the one. The city’s largest venue’s soaring atriums and immaculate theatres are world-class, with 34 meeting spaces to choose from, and a 5,000 sqm exhibition hall. For sparkling city views, Roppongi Hills Club on the 51st floor of Roppongi Hills Mori Tower is a refined setting for a drinks
Roppongi Hills PHOTO CREDITS: Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau
45
Travel reception for up to 300 guests. And on the fifth and sixth levels of Tokyo Skytree – the highest freestanding broadcasting building in the world – you’ll find the Sumida Aquarium, which can be hired exclusively for a networking event for 300 people. The 50-metre long “Jellyfish Kaleidoscope tunnel” adorned with neon artwork and tanks filled with glowing jellyfish would certainly be a talking point. The ideal time to visit Tokyo is in Spring. From March to May, temperatures tend to top off at 20ºC, and the city’s cherry blossom season provides a magnificent backdrop for outdoor events. September to November is also a great time to visit, when the cooler temperatures return after extremely humid summer months, and the maple trees’ leaves turn a fiery orange hue. When planning travel to the Japanese capital, be sure to choose the arrival airport carefully, if you have the option. “Narita is the big international airport, and it’s extremely disappointing,” says Terzuolo. “It doesn’t have the amenities you would expect from a major airport, such as 24-hour food – dinner is over by 8pm, so if you have a latenight flight, good luck to you.
Skytree
“Haneda is really the best airport – it’s much closer in, and they put a lot of money in to making it quite beautiful and interesting. It has great food and lots to took at, and is only a 40-minute train ride into the city rather than two hours – definitely fly into there if you can.” BA flies into both airports from London Heathrow, codesharing with Japan Airlines (JAL) on its Narita flights. We all have our preconceptions of Japan, which create a definite sense of anticipation essential for boosting attendance to any corporate event or conference. A sensory feast, full of intrigue and quirkiness, Tokyo certainly won’t disappoint. “For me, it’s the hospitality and attention to detail,” says Pawley. “You just fall in love with the place.”
Maple Trees
46
Haneda Airport
Travel BEST TOKYO DISTRICTS FOR BARS Looking to impress a new client, or explore Tokyo’s nightlife with your colleagues? Consider which of these areas of the city might be best…
Ginza
– a good area to take potential clients that you’re looking to impress. It’s fairly quiet, with high-end, established options.
Nihonbashi
– close to Tokyo Station, there’s great choice here from reasonably-priced places to extremely expensive ones.
Shinjuku - Robot Restaurant
Roppongi
– often quoted as the best place to go for nightlife, though quite seedy in places (the “hostess bars” might be less popular with certain members of your group)
Shinjuku
– as above, though, if you’re after something outrageous, Robot Restaurant (shinjuku-robot.com), where bikini-clad dancers share the stage with robots, is definitely different.
Ebisu
– cheap, cheerful and local, with plenty of izakayas (Japanese gastropubs) and street hawkers selling yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). Ebisu food
IDEAL ITINERARY Scott Pawley recalls an unforgettable Tokyo trip GTM arranged for a corporate group: “We recently booked an event with a stay at the Mandarin Oriental, which is truly stunning, with views of Mount Fuji and state-of- the-art conference facilities. “The group took the chance to see the city and shop. They dined in unique restaurants and took a boat ride in Tokyo Bay - the colours and the atmosphere of the busy streets did not disappoint. We also arranged for the group to take the bullet train out to Mishima Skywalk, which, at 400 metres long, is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan. It is the newest location for a brilliant view of Mount Fuji, the highest peak in Japan, and also Suruga Bay, its deepest bay. The bridge shakes a bit, which made it a little more fun. We then took one of the piratestyle ships on Lake Ashi, which gave the group some fantastic photo opportunities.” Mount Fuji
47
Travel DOING BUSINESS IN TOKYO THE LOWDOWN Originally from the US, Chiara Terzuolo, has lived and worked in Tokyo for five years. Here are her tips for those doing business in the Japanese capital. • For business people coming here and dealing with Japanese companies, one thing they’ll immediately see, is that the amount of bureaucracy is much greater than elsewhere. Everything needs to be approved, and you usually have to ask three or four managers for things that don’t normally need asking. This is something that typically frustrates foreign business visitors. • You need lots of patience, and to be prepared to follow up. Getting a response is very complicated, you need to understand that even if people say “yes, let’s go forward with this,” there’s still the chance it will take six months to get there – even if it would normally take a month elsewhere. • Being overly pushy is definitely a no-no. In Japan, it’s all about the harmony of the group. That’s slowly dissipating, as start-ups are gradually taking over, which is great, so people who are very driven can do well. But being very blunt is not good either. Couch your words carefully: “That idea sucks” should be replaced with “I see what you mean, but…” • Be careful with business cards – you don’t stuff them in your back pocket, that’s near your butt, don’t do that! Put them in a case or your front pocket. Don’t bend them or rip them and take them with both hands. It’s basically seen as an extension of that person, it’s their calling card. Take it, take a look at it, and thank them for it. • Wear a suit. Japan is still a relatively conservative country. If you’re a music producer, you can get away with leather trousers, but otherwise it’s not going to fly. However, summer here is really hot and muggy, and so from June until September, polo shirts are ok – no ties or jackets needed. • There’s a good chance that nobody will speak English very well, with the exception of the elite companies, or it will be very basic. However, people might understand more than they speak – most can understand a degree of English, so no badmouthing people on the metro! • Going out drinking with potential business partners is very useful at times. You’re out of the office, in an informal situation, and it’s a very good opportunity to drag bits of information out of your counterparts. Do they actually think it’s a good idea? Will they go ahead with it? Is there anything they’re worried about? These are the kinds of things you can find out in this situation. • Most Japanese businesspeople are aware that their norms are not the same as other countries – unless you’re dealing with super traditional small places. • General practice is to be polite and respectful. 48
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London | Gatwick | Guildford | Brighton | www.dmhstallard.com
GATWICK ANNIVERSARY
GATWICK IS 80 2.
1.
T
his summer marks the 80th anniversary of the very first flight from Gatwick Airport, to Paris. Since then Gatwick has grown to become the World’s most efficient single-runway airport, with a flight taking off or landing nearly every minute. Gatwick’s first flight was to Paris with the single fare costing 4 pounds 5 shillings (the equivalent today is approximately £160), including the first class train fare from London Victoria. Paris was one of just five scheduled routes served from the airport in its first year of operation, the others being Malmö, Amsterdam, Hamburg and Copenhagen. The number of routes at Gatwick has grown considerably since then with the airport flying to more than 200 destinations in 90 countries today. Over the course of the last 80 years, Gatwick has played host to many prominent figures including Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana and John F Kennedy plus key aviation milestones including the first ever Virgin Atlantic flight taking off from the airport on 22 June 1984.
50
3.
4.
GATWICK ANNIIVERSARY
5.
6.
7. 9.
8. PHOTO CAPTIONS: 1.
10.
6th June 1936: Crowds gather at Gatwick Airport after it was opened by the Air Minister Lord Swinton. 2. 9th June 1958: Queen Elizabeth II shakes hands with Captain Spencer on her arrival to open the new Gatwick Airport. 3. 29th June 1963: Mr John F. Kennedy, President of the United States, with Mr Harold Macmillan after the President’s arrival at Gatwick Airport. 4. 28th July 1967: Bob Monkhouse joins ‘The Beat Girls’ at Gatwick Airport. 5. 28th May 1982: Pope John Paul II kisses the ground as he arrives at Gatwick Airport for the first papal visit to the UK. 6. 14th April 1985: Wham! singer George Michael at Gatwick Airport after flying back from a two week tour of China. 7. 9th March 1988: Midge Ure, of Ultravox, spraying a message on a water tanker at Gatwick Airport. 8. 18 March 1988: The North Terminal being opened by Queen Elizabeth II 9. 22nd September 1988: Diana, Princess of Wales listens to pilots as they come into land at Gatwick Airport during her visit to the Control Tower. 10. 1st June 2010: Lily Cole launches Gatwick Runway Models, a modelling competition organised by Gatwick Airport and Storm Model Management.
51
ANGER MANAGEMENT
ANGER MANAGEMENT by Maarten Hoffmann
THE BIG LAND GRAB C
uba. A beautiful island in a shining sea inhabited by intelligent, honest and downright good folk. Suffered they have
could drive, not crawl, to your job at the tobacco
Child Catcher that is Karl Lagerfeld wafted into
factory. Imagine if the first things you actually
town with trollies full of dollies for a fashion
got after the recent resurrection of said
show, along with 400 fashion editors who
after years of posturing revolutionary figures
economic ties was not the shiny new roads and
spent their time complaining of the awful hotel
who, with the aid of the Soviet Union, held the
21st century technology but Donkey Bum, the
rooms, ghastly food and lack of decent Wi-Fi.
country in their icy grip and sentenced the
Child Catcher and the man who got Tango’d!
population to a life of poverty and communist propaganda.
The talentless vanity project that is Kim Kardashian and her philosopher-lite, and
Imagine that you have begged, through
barking mad, accessory, Kanye West, breezed
rum-tinged tears and cigar smoke, for trade
into Havana within six days and demonstrated
ties with America to be reinstated so that you
to the Cubans what they had been missing. The
The original orange Tango man, hotel billionaire Sol Kerzner, will no doubt buy up the finest beaches and construct horrific themed Atlantis Hotels, complete with authentic Cuban nights so that guests don’t have to venture outside its walls and deal with the undeveloped horror of the real world. And not to worry, even if you go off piste and book your own journey, as McDonalds have 43 sites leveraged and KFC, Taco Bell and Chucky Cheese are not far behind. Within a decade, the US will consume Cuba, following the blueprint of what they did to Hawaii. Economically invade, wipe out their culture, replace it with their own, reinvent theirs into entertainment, and proceed. Trouble is that American culture, an oxymoron if ever l heard one, is totally vacuous. Or at least, that bit that will invade Cuba. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, JFK Centre for the Performing Arts or the Boston Symphony Orchestra will be conspicuous by their absence, and Cuba’s entire heritage will be fully appropriated and turned into tacky merchandise as hundreds of enormous, heavily basted, pink-pant-suited Floridians arrive and it becomes a vacation park before anyone has blinked. Most distressing of all was the arrival of the first cruise ship with 700 obese
52
ANGER MANAGEMENT
“And not to worry even if you go off piste and book your own journey, as McDonalds have 43 sites leveraged and KFC, Taco Bell and Chucky Cheese are not far behind. Within a decade, the US will consume Cuba following the blueprint of what they did to Hawaii.”
passengers waddling down the gang planks, loudly requesting directions to the nearest Ben & Jerrys and Starbucks. Cuba is a time warp, the likes of which might only ever be found again when North Korea falls. Due to the blockade by the US
hotel lawns and golf courses watered. It’s nothing but cheap labour for the continuation of conspicuous consumption. The British did it in India and now the Yanks are at it. I have seen it first-hand, having lived in a couple of so-called ‘third world countries’ close
after the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, the isolated island is a time capsule and could have been a stupendous human experiment in the reversal of our culture vandalism - and it’s not just the US, as we’re all at it. They have just perfected the art of totally talentless, vacuous celebrity and a culture centered on copious amounts of food, guns, sport and conspicuous consumption. Today’s self-absorbed stars will never grasp the severe problems that dog the country, the poverty, crumbling buildings, human rights abuses and, with the exception of their health system, failed public services. They will lead a tribe of ignorant, self-absorbed tourists, who will pay top dollar so that giant corporations
“The talentless vanity project that is Kim Kardashian and her philosopher lite, and barking mad, accessory Kayne West breezed into Havana within six days and demonstrated to the Cubans what they had been missing..”
missed opportunity. If only the West could give them trade, technology and financial support for the regeneration of services, Cuba would surprise the world. When Columbus arrived in 1492, there had already been a civilisation in place since the 3rd century A.D. Only when La Pinta, La Niña and the Santa Maria landed
Western Hemisphere, and this, over all else, is
manning the vast kitchens pristine
they are on a hiding to nothing, but what a
of the lowest internet penetration rates in the
proud Cuban’s into wage slavery, washing hotel and keeping the
superb climate and land as cheap as chips,
did the trouble start. Even now Cuba has one
can pay bottom dollar and imprison the once sheets,
Of course, Cuba needs trade to develop and prosper, and with beautiful sandy beaches, a
what has kept the culture, heritage and their to US borders. They can’t help it, but it’s like a Tsunami of bad taste coupled to their urgent need to populate the entire area with their own food outlets and hotel chains. Look at Hawaii. Look at Cabo san Lucas in Mexico. Look at the Bahamas.
passion alive. We should foster it and not eradicate it with bubble-gum bullshit that will be gone faster than it took to create. La Cuba es muerta. ¡Viva la Cuba!
53
MOTORING
JAGUAR XF By Motoring Editor, Maarten Hoffmann
T
he XF was the first effort by the then new owners of Jaguar, Tata, who purchased the company from Ford when they didn’t have a clue what to do with it. That might go down in the annals of history as the most fortuitous purchase in history, as look
what Tata have done with this famous and much-loved, iconic British brand. They rebuilt it
“It is a very good all-rounder and only back-to-back comparisons will tell if we have a new class leader.”
into a Stuttgart-threatening monster. The effect of the original XF was pretty seismic as it was well built and drove beautifully. For me, a tad of an old man’s car, but that has been erased by the rapidly changing range of cars Jaguar now offer. The new XF is predominantly aluminium and therefore lighter, yet bigger inside. The new Ingenium engine appears in this model for the first time and the difference is obvious. It drives beautifully, is stable and sure-footed, smooth and agile and looks gorgeous. I really like the seating position. Not quite sure what it is about it, but there is the feeling of lying down and calmly pointing it where you want it to go and eating up the miles. Inside, the roofline and wheelbase have been fiddled with, therefore conveying a sense of space. With 24mm more for the passengers’ knees and 15mm for their shoulders, it now has the rear space that it should always have had, and that sense of space has been realised. The seats are supportive and move wherever you want them, and the 10-inch InControl touch screen offers everything needed, including touch screen navigation, which, l really feel, is the way to go. All this is backed up by a quad-core processor that likely has more computing power than the one used to send Neil Armstrong to the moon. Outside, the overriding rule is that it should be instantly recognisable as a Jag. Tick. And this is the first Ian Cullum-designed Jag to replace a Callum-designed Jag, after his F-Type replaced the XK -a sad sad loss and a great gain. The body is very slippery in a drive for
54
MOTORING TECHNICAL STUFF Model tested: XF 3.0 V6 S Engine: 2995cc Power: 271 bhp Performance: 0-62 - 5.1 seconds Top Speed: 155 mph Economy: 34.0 mpg combined Base price: £32,300.00 As tested: £59,780.00
efficiency; order it in the right colour, with the
arrange the XF, Audi A6, BMW 5 Series and
right wheels (and the big engine), and this is a
E-Class Merc together. On paper it has a lead
very handsome car.
as it is cheaper to insure, predicts a higher
The 296bhp engine is a world-class drive, and all six-cylinder XFs get configurable dynamics, which quickens shift times on the eight-speed auto and remaps the throttle response and steering. Sure, it has borrowed some stuff from the XE parts bin, but only the good stuff, it would appear. It is a very good all-rounder and only backto-back comparisons will tell if we have a new class leader. What a perfect excuse for me to
“The effect of the original XF was pretty seismic as it was well built and drove beautifully.”
residual value and offers two five-year service plans - a 50,000 miler costing £525 and a 75,000 miler for £750. That, if nothing else, shows that this car is aimed squarely at the business sector; add in around 50mpg in normal driving and you can see that Jaguar might have a case for the title. Throw in the optional four-wheel drive and, finally, Germany has a contender. A little corker.
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MOTORING
VAUXHALL ZAFIRA TOURER
By Motoring Editor, Maarten Hoffmann
86.9 mpg. For those that don’t do much mileage, the 1.4-litre is worth a look but with 7 up, it might struggle. On the road it is supple and competent with a good driving position, great allround vision and pretty good suspension that soaks up all but the largest bumps. My only gripe would be the funky A pillar that affords you an extra triangle of glass and a sweeping windscreen but effectively leaves you with 2 A pillars and restricted vision which, oddly, is exactly what it is designed not to do. It does have some interesting gizmos. The
T
he original Zafira was the first compact seven-seater on our streets and now, with the launch of the Tourer, it is even
Vauxhall OnStar system although with the use of acres of plastic, it does
alerts the emergency services if you have a
all look a tad drab but everything is solidly
crash, offers a Wi-Fi hotspot, stolen vehicle
bolted down and based on the tiny hands
assistance and engine diagnostics.
more practical. The seating arrangement
that will be pulling, twisting and yanking at
has been much copied since its launch and is
everything in sight, it’s just as well. There are
probably the ultimate way to get 7 people into
well and has enough grunt to get you up the
enough cubby holes and storage areas to keep
a car.
road but this car is not about power and speed.
anyone happy.
The average buyer has a horde of kids, does
It must of taken an age for the OCD Vauxhall designers to come up with it. It has three individual seats in the second row and two in the back row. The SE and Elite spec cars have a seat in the centre of the middle row that folds into an armrest and the two remaining seats can be moved inwards and back, affording the occupants extra leg and shoulder room. Full loaded there is not much room left for luggage but with only 5 on-board, there is ample space on the flat floor. The dash is well laid out
TECHNICAL STUFF Model tested: 2.0 SE CDTi 170ps Engine: 1956cc Power: 170 bhp Performance: 0-60mph: 9.1 seconds Top Speed: 129 mph Economy: 57.7 mpg combined Base price: £25,450.00 As tested: £26,800.00
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The engine line-up is impressive, or
For a tall car, it corners and handles pretty
endless school runs and numerous tours
confusing, whichever way you want to look at it
around the Asda car park therefore versatility,
but whilst the 1.6-litre diesel used to be a noisy
space and the ease of driving are the really
old lump, it is now vastly improved and as quiet
important things.
as anything else in this sector and manages
And in this regard, it hits the spot.
LET MINI DRIVE YOUR BUSINESS. If you run a business, MINI has a range to suit your needs. With compelling monthly rentals, unrivalled design and first-class performance, it’s time to find out which MINI works for you. To find out more please contact our Local Business Development Manager, Dean Eaton, on 0800 915 47500 or visit www.vinesofgatwickbmw.co.uk/business
MINI Business Partnership Official Fuel Economy Figures for the MINI Range: Urban 27.2-72.4 mpg (10.4-3.9 l/100km). Extra Urban 47.9-91.1 mpg (5.9-3.1 l/100km). Combined 37.7-83.1 mpg (7.5-3.4 l/100km). CO2 Emissions 175-89 g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.
MOTORING
JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE By Motoring Editor, Maarten Hoffmann
I
have fond memories of the early Jeep Wrangler when it first came to the UK, must be over 30 years ago now, and l was
turning out Dodge Chargers, Ford Mustangs
stick in a couple of fold flat seats but they are
and 8-litre Cadillacs as long as the Titanic,
not to be found.
that the country’s most famous marque would
given one for a few days by Levi Strauss as it
be owned by a small Italian manufacturer
came with denim covered seats. In those dark
better known for the Fiat 500. A car that would
days of crap British Leyland cars and French
of fitted into the boot of most Yank mobiles
rubbish that broke down every five minutes
and certainly the Jeep could of driven over it
and bounced around on suspension so soft
without even noticing.
that a nodding dog was not required in the
To be frank, the Americans never could build
It drives pretty well with a slick eight-speed transmission that keeps the diesel engine revs in the strong mid-range band and it cruises the motorway with ease, but the noise does let it down a tad. By now you will know my hatred of all diesel engines as the spawn of the devil and now, dare l say it, l have been proven right.
back window, it was a revelation. Sitting high,
cars. Ok, they turned out a few classics but
They are proven to pollute far more than petrol
with no roof or doors, a great auto box and the
said classics represent less than 5% of their
and the government is about to slap a tariff
wind in my once flowing locks. Flitting around
production. The remaining 95% were rubbish
on all of you that didn’t listen to me and went
London from club to club (Samantha’s and then
and that is why they had virtually no export
and purchased a diesel car. You cannot say
onto the Valbonne, in case you are interested)
market as none of us wanted to buy them.
you weren’t warned and l shall bathe is self-
on a warm summers night with the Bee Gee’s, Barry White and Minnie Riperton screaming out of the 8-track stereo. Good days. But much has happened to the company
So what on earth to make of a Jeep built by the Italians? Well, it certainly has presence and is big
satisfied smugness. Alas, not so smug, as you are killing my children with your silly cars. But l digress. Diesel engines, and this one
and spacious, well-equipped and can handle
is no exception, are noisy and rattle like an
since then, not least of which is that it is now
the mud plugging if you take it off road but for
old Transit van or London cab. The premium
owned by Fiat. Can you imagine the glory days
such a large car to come with only 5 seats is
German marques have almost cracked it but all
of US car manufacturing, when they were
an error. There is plenty of room in the boot to
others are just plain horrible to listen to.
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“To be frank, the Americans never could build cars.”
MOTORING TECHNICAL STUFF Model tested: Grand Cherokee 3.0 CRD V6 Summit Engine: 2987cc Power: 247 bhp Performance: 0-63mph - 8.2 seconds Top Speed: 136 mph Economy: 37.7 mpg combined Base price: £51,995.00 As tested: £52,715.00
“You cannot say you weren’t warned and l shall bathe in self-satisfied smugness. Alas, not so smug, as you are killing my children with your silly cars.”
My answer to this is to order the 6.4-litre SRT8 HEMI petrol version that will get you to 60mph in less than 5 seconds, but obviously that is not an economically wise choice as you will rarely hit 15mpg. The 3.0-litre V6 diesel will give you 247bhp and has ample pulling power and gets up the road at quite a lick. The interior is quite nice and well laid out with a 8.4in screen, climate control, auto wipers, USB, Bluetooth and electric seats. I had the Summit version that also gives you a fabulous 19-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo and if could have found a Barry White tape, we would of been off and running back to the 70’s but alas, Radio 4 cannot quite offer the beats of yesteryear. The one thing l could never live with is the gear lever. When sliding it into forward or reverse, it is just not intuitive and it is so easy to select the wrong gear. We all change gear on an auto box without even thinking or looking but with this, l had to think, look down and consider if l had got it right and it annoyed me endlessly. The trim is OK but a little cheap in places and the shiny metal in the cabin is actually shiny silver plastic. That said, the 782-litre boot is big enough for most and with the back seats folded flat it is cavernous. The Summit and Overland versions use the Quadra-Lift sport air suspension and performance brakes and this certainly makes the ride and handling impressive although still a bit of pitching and rolling through the corners. The biggest hurdle the Cherokee faces is the sector competition. The BMW X5, Audi Q7, VW Touareg and Lexus RX are tough customers to beat and at a base price of £48,000, it has a battle on its hand. But if you want to be different and stand out from the crowd, this is not a bad shout.
59
MOTORING
PROFESSIONAL DRIVER PROGRAMME I
t will not have escaped most peoples notice that the majority of chauffeur driven cars on our roads are Mercedes-Benz and, in the main, the superb S-Class. Its not difficult to see why as it has been
provide you with access to official Mercedes-Benz photography for your
the class leader for years, and indeed, is in a class of its own. When it
from a range of vehicle images, including the new E-Class, S-Class and
comes to spoiling your clientele, the luxurious S-Class goes the extra
V-Class, and are free to use each as often as you need to.
mile. Passengers will appreciate the supreme comfort of every journey, while the standard air suspension and the optional Magic Body Control system ensure this is one of the most engaging executive limousines on the market. The extensive range of vehicles, including the innovative new E-Class and the advanced V-Class, offer chauffeur companies a line-up of vehicles that is unrivalled. The after sales service is also second to none, including: Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance: Fast and effective assistance at the roadside should your vehicle fail to start or no longer be able to continue its journey. If your vehicle cannot be repaired at the roadside,
Image Service: As a part of the Chauffeur Programme, they can website, brochures and other promotional material. You can choose
Professional Insurance: Chauffeur Insurance arranged by MercedesBenz is designed for professional drivers. You can enjoy worry-free driving, knowing that you are covered. If your vehicle is disabled following an accident for example, they will pay to have it recovered to the nearest approved repairer, as well as the reasonable cost of delivering it back to you. As a case in point, we spoke to Ashley James, the CEO of Britannia Chauffeurs who happens to operate all three model highlighted here and he commented: “I have been a customer of Mercedes for the last 7 years and drive my
Mercedes-Benz will recover you to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Retailer
own S350 L BlueTec. The reason I chose to purchase a Mercedes Benz is
and provide a like-for-like replacement Chauffeur-licensed vehicle.
reliability, style and the luxury element which match my brand and clientele
Also, as an added benefit when you take out a service and maintenance
at Britannia Chauffeurs based in Southampton. I decided to purchase
plan, they offer an additional tailored assistance package for you free of
through Sandown Mercedes Salisbury, as I had been recommended through
charge.
friends who also purchased their vehicle at this dealership. Since then I
Tracker Plus: When you purchase one of the Mercedes-Benz service
have built up a good and long lasting relationship with Toby Parker and
and maintenance plans, they will provide you with a ‘Tracker Plus unit
his team for the current vehicles I have in my fleet. Toby and his team
for free. You will have the peace of mind that if your car is stolen the
have given me excellent customer service and after care throughout
TRACKER command centre will immediately notify the Police who are
my journey and l would not hesitate to recommend them to potential
enabled to directly link in to your vehicle with VHF technology.
customers”
MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS A perfect blend of luxurious materials with elegant design, the new E-Class cabin provides a bigger, even more comfortable, relaxed and sophisticated driving environment. Acknowledgements to the flagship S-Class Saloon include the distinctive wraparound dashboard, while standard features range from rich leather upholstery to ambient lighting with 64 different settings. It is truly designed with you and your passengers’ enjoyment and comfort in mind. Plus its impressive efficiency figures and safety systems ensure you enjoy a smooth ride whatever the day throws at you. This is their best E-Class ever.
E 220 d AMG Line 9G Auto / Metallic Paint Contract Length: 36 months Annual Mileage: 20,000 mpa Payment Profile: 6 + 35 Advance Rental: £2903.81 Monthly Rental: £515.66
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MOTORING MERCEDES-BENZ V-CLASS With up to 8 seats, the V-Class makes business travel luxurious and carefree. To make journeys as relaxing and effortless as possible, electric sliding doors are fitted on both sides, while the EASY-PACK automatic powered tailgate has a split feature for easy access in tight spaces. Just another example of the intelligent design that makes the V-Class so versatile. The V-Class also comes with PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist, which not only identifies suitable parking spaces but actually steers the vehicle automatically into them. There’s a reversing camera too, which gives you visibility and guidance where you need it most.
V 220 d SE 7G Auto / Metallic Paint Contract Length: 36 months Annual Mileage: 20,000 mpa Payment Profile: 6 + 35 Advance Rental: £3,944.29 Monthly Rental: £708.19
MERCEDES-BENZ S-CLASS Groundbreaking innovation and dynamic performance are just a few hallmarks of the S-Class. The S-Class PlugIn Hybrid allows us to add extra fuel efficiency to that list. With innovative systems that ingeniously increase fuel efficiency and a complete suite of the most advanced safety and driver assistance technologies on the planet, this luxury plug-in saloon is a dynamic addition to their S-Class range.
S 350 d SE L Saloon 9G Auto / Metallic Paint Contract Length: 36 months Annual Mileage: 20,000 mpa Payment Profile: 6 + 35 Advance Rental: £3699.95 Monthly Rental:£659.00
Stuart Head, Group Head of Fleet Sales, Sandown Group Mercedes-Benz Tel: 01483 367555 Mail: stuart.head@sandown-mercedes.co.uk www.sandown-group.co.uk TERMS & CONDITIONS E 220 d AMG Line ¹Business users only. Contract Hire agreement. Advance payment applies. Payments subject to VAT at 20%. Finance example based on a Mercedes-Benz E 220 d AMG Line with optional metallic paint on a 36 month Contract Hire agreement with an advance payment of £2,865.78 and a £38.03 Chauffeur Service Care payment payable in month 1 followed by 35 monthly payments of £477.63 finance rental and a £38.03 Chauffeur Service Care payment. Separate direct debits will be polled for the finance rental and Service Care Payment. The 36 month Chauffeur Service Care plan includes a maximum of 4 scheduled Mercedes-Benz services and MOT test fees and is available on new Chauffeur PCO registered vehicles only. 20,000 miles per annum. Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may apply. Rental includes Road Fund Licence for the contract duration. Guarantees may be required. Orders/credit approvals on E-Class Saloon models only, between 1 April and 30 June 2016, registered by 30 September 2016. Subject to availability, offers cannot be 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 Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. Prices correct as of 04/16 V 220 SE ¹Business users only. Contract Hire agreement. Advance payment applies. Payments subject to VAT at 20%. Finance based on a V 220 d SE with automatic transmission on a 36 month Contract Hire agreement with an advance payment of £3,883.32 and a £60.97 Chauffeur Service Care payment payable in month 1 followed by 35 monthly payments of a £647.22 finance rental and a £60.97 Chauffeur Service Care payment. The 36 month Chauffeur Service Care plan includes a maximum of 4 scheduled Mercedes-Benz services and MOT test fees and is available on new Chauffeur PCO registered vehicles only. 20,000 miles per annum. Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may apply. Rental includes Road Fund Licence for the contract duration. Guarantees may be required. Orders/credit approvals between 1 April and 30 June 2016, registered by 30 September 2016. Subject to availability, offers cannot be 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 Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. Prices correct as of 04/16 S 350 d SE L Saloon ¹Business users only. Contract Hire agreement. Advance payment applies. Payments subject to VAT at 20%. Finance example based on a Mercedes-Benz S 350 d SE Line L on a 36 month Contract Hire agreement with an advance payment of £3,649.14 and a £50.81 Chauffeur Service Care payment payable in month 1 followed by 35 monthly payments of a £608.19 finance rental and a £50.81 Chauffeur Service Care payment. Separate direct debits will be polled for the finance rental and Service Care Payment. The 36 month Chauffeur Service Care plan includes a maximum of 4 scheduled Mercedes-Benz services and MOT test fees and is available on new Chauffeur PCO registered vehicles only. 20,000 miles per annum. Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may apply. Rental includes Road Fund Licence for the contract duration. Guarantees may be required. Orders/credit approvals between 1 April and 30 June 2016, registered by 30 September 2016. Subject to availability, offers cannot be 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 Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. Prices correct as of 04/16
61
YOUNG START-UP TALENT
CROYDON ARTIST TAKES A KARDASHIAN TWIST U
p-and-coming Croydon Artist, Stephanie Kane, is soaring in popularity with her latest S-KK series that has recently
evolved from the 23-year-old’s collection. The S-KK series was created around reality television star Kim Kardashian and was produced using an iPad and Adobe Sketch. Feeling frustrated with how the public idolise celebrities that don’t do much to create a positive change, Stephanie endeavoured to warp the images of celebrities that are instantly recognised, such as ‘Kim crying’. As a comment on the reality star’s warped sense of reality, ‘Krying Kim’ was re-worked and hand-finished to feature black tears made with diamond dust, which was later dubbed ‘RIP Diamond Earring’ in reference to the infamous moment Kim lost her diamond earring in the sea. The artist’s most popular piece ‘Wake up Mrs. West’, named after the song ‘Wake up Mr. West’ from Kayne West’s album ‘Late Registration’, has now sold out after high demand. Stephanie intended for the piece to be used as a direct comment on how our society worships someone that has triggered multiple generations to feel the need to contour
62
and drastically enhance their features. The emerging artist’s typical style involves taking the traditional use of oil paints and layering with crayons for a fast mark-making effect. Stephanie, who is CEO of rising art gallery Studio14, has been selling her work internationally over the past year and seen her portraits take off in popularity. When the creative director from GQ commissioned Stephanie for two further pieces, he told the artist, ‘I’m not laughing at your work, I’m just laughing because it’s so ballsy.’ To keep up with Stephanie’s latest work you
can catch her artwork on display in Boxpark, Shoreditch with UTTERcouture or see two of her original works displayed in WeWork, Spitalfields for the next three months, where they are available to buy. To find out more visit:
www.stephaniekkane.com www.uttercouture.com www.wework.com/locations/london/ spitalfields www.youngstartuptalent.co.uk
Sussex & The World Weekend THREE HUGE DAYS OF LOCAL & INTERNATIONAL FOOD & DRINK SATURDAY 27 - BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 29 AUGUST 2016 HOVE LAWNS, BRIGHTON FREE ENTRY
MEDIA PARTNER
PHOTO JULIA CLAXTON
www.brightonfoodfestival.com
brightonfoodfestival
brightonfood
brightonfoodfestival
Table Talk
A Month of Food By Amanda Menahem
The Food Lab team
W
ell… I thought last month had been
sausages. These turned out to be the best
premises and seem to have a cult following. I am
full-on food wise, but oh no. In May
item – more like pork kofte than a sausage.
assuming they were having a duff night. Cough.
there was the Brighton Festival and
I gobbled these appreciatively as the rest of
the fantastic Brighton and Hove Food Festival,
the food was frankly rather dire. The pork was
providing a dizzying array of innovative dining
extremely gristly to the point that it was almost
experiences. And of course there’s the free
inedible. The salad that accompanied the
Hove Lawns event (my excuse to gorge on
kebab and feta was comprised of flavourless
pulled pork), curated and organised by a
tomatoes, diced white onion (who puts raw
local team of passionate food fanatics, led by
white onion in a salad ffs?) that I had to pick
officially appointed ‘outstanding Brightonian’ Nick Mosely. More about all that later. First up, my inaugural experience of the bohemian Spiegeltent. Residing in Steine
out. The potato was greasy and not crisp.
Further afield I enjoyed a fantastic lunch at Le Magazin in Lewes. What a little gem this is. Good quality well executed Mediterranean style dishes that you really want to eat. I enjoyed a sharing plate of charcuterie, a mozzarella, avocado and tomato salad with excellent homemade pesto followed by a beautifully cooked slow roast pork belly. The fat had
If you’re going to do street food you have to
been rendered away (as it should be) leaving
do it well. Papa Pitta are looking for permanent
just meltingly soft meat and crispy crackling.
Gardens, what a magical place this turns into at this time of year. I can’t believe it’s taken me so long to discover this wondrous pop-up mini hippy festival. Me being me, I was more excited about trying out the street food than any of the shows on offer, in particular the pop-up Cypriot café Papa Pitta. I’d read a local food blogger wax lyrical about it. I do crave a bit of street food and the odd dirty burger here and there, and as I was with my skinflint ex-boyfriend, I knew the price point would please him immensely. It did. We ordered the pork souvlaki for which they are well known, a feta salad, and fried potatoes. We were given some complimentary Cypriot
64
Bollywood fun at the Curry Leaf Cafe charity banquet
Table Talk The wine is great value and the outside seating great for people watching especially given its location on the main drag. Highly recommended. Other highlights included a decent Thai dinner at Mango Tree, (full review to follow) just a stones throw from Victoria station, (except for the appallingly made gin and tonic at their bar – don’t go there, head to the bar at the nearby Goring Hotel instead) and locally in Brighton at
chefs at work at the Food lab
Chef Simon Mackenzie at the Taste of Guernsey lunch
Semolina. Here I discovered excellent cooking, a great wine list and an unfortunate location (just off the London road area), but don’t let this put you off. I will review this place more fully in the coming months. Then came the food festival – the highlight of my gastronomic year. I have to carefully choose which events I attend as I could easily book myself in for lunches, dinners, cocktail and wine events all day every day. As much fun as
Hove lawns
me at the Taste of Guernsey Lunch at the Market restaurant
that would be, I wouldn’t survive it. My absolute favourite of them all is Food Lab at 64 degrees. This is an ingenious event where top local chefs pair up with local food producers to create a six-course tasting menu. I go every year and it always turns into a wonderful boozy party. This year Matt Gillan’s beef with horseradish ice-cream (provided by Boho Gelato) was
me at the Food lab
the star of the show. A flavour and texture sensation. It was also good to see up and coming Tom Griffiths of Flank making his first appearance. His food is sublime. Look out for him in a future chef profile. I also attended the Curry Leaf Café charity banquet which was brilliant Bollywood fun, and the Taste of Guernsey lunch with the excellent Simon McKenzie at the Market restaurant. Great venue, great cooking. Do look out for similar events later in the year. Finally I spent much of the bank holiday weekend helping out at the Hove Lawns event.
Hove lawns
I was kept in Ridgeview and gin. It was such a hardship. So hard in fact that I had to book a spa break to Portugal the very next week.
Below - left to right: Matt Gillan’s beef with horseradish ice cream at Food Lab; dessert at Taste of Guernsey lunch; fish course at the Curry Leaf Cafe Charity Banquet, the tomato starter by Terre a Terre at the Food lab.
PHOTOS: Julia Claxton
65
Table Talk REVIEW
Mango Tree By Amanda Menahem
R
egular readers know of my love of
few years and it’s consistently good. Now
attentive and eager to please, and everything
London and in particular the restaurant
when I say good I mean enjoyable, tasty, good
was prompt without feeling rushed.
scene. I religiously follow all the new
quality, a nice environment and pretty good
This restaurant is a slick operation, and has
openings, accolades, bloggers and reviews and
service. I don’t necessarily mean bang-on
have a never-ending list of targets to visit. The
authentic like you’d get in Thailand itself. I do
highly acclaimed Ledbury (always featured in
get fed up with those people who have been
the world’s best 50) is coming up in July and
to Thailand and drone on about how you can
I’m particularly looking forward to that – review
never get authentic Thai food anywhere outside
to follow.
that it serves genuine Thai dishes from each of
Thailand. Well I have also been to Thailand and
the four main culinary regions: rich and mild
I disagree. And anyway the regional food is so
dishes from the north, spicy food from the east,
experiences, however, there’s a fair smattering
diverse I don’t know how anyone can proclaim
mild dishes influenced by the Chinese cooking
of early casual dinners with London friends.
such expertise. If any of you are that person, go
style from the central region, and hot and spicy
These mean I need to get the Victoria –Brighton
to Som Saa in Shoreditch – widely acclaimed as
food from the south.
train home. So, like the recently reviewed
the most ‘authentic’ Thai restaurant in London.
In amongst my high-end culinary
Iberica restaurant (see back issue of Platinum on-line or find it on peopleplacesfood.co.uk),
Back to the Mango Tree. It’s a smart
a number of other outposts, the original being in Bangkok and others in Harrods and various other spots across London. You can imagine the standards, therefore. The restaurant proclaims
We started in the bar area. This was the only low point. The bar feels like a bit of a
restaurant, as you’d expect in Belgravia. And
waiting room – not a nice environment to have
it’s huge, so don’t go there if you’re looking for
a drink in. The bar staff are not up to scratch.
cosy intimacy. Despite its size, the acoustics
My gin and tonic came in a short glass with a
This time it was the Mango Tree, a well
are good. Conversation was easy and they have
measly two half melted ice cubes and the tonic
known Thai restaurant in Belgravia. I’ve been
created a good ambience. The waiting staff are
completely poured in. It’s never good when you
there a couple of times before over the last
superb - this is what I remember the most. Very
have to explain to a barman how to make a
last week I chose a venue just a stones throw from the station.
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Table Talk
❝
For mains, a red curry was more refined than you would probably find elsewhere, with a richly flavoured and smooth sauce, but not hot enough for me
❞
Next time I come (and I will) I will have either the Baked Black Cod Served in a Rich Red Choo Chee Sauce with Sweet Basil and Pea Aubergines, or the Roasted Corn-Fed Poussin, Marinated in Coconut Milk, Lemongrass, Galangal, Turmeric and Lime Leaves, served with Papaya Salad and Mango Tree Signature Spicy Sour Sauce. The wine list is very good. A great range and helpfully divided into styles. We chose a Muscadet at £23.50. The best thing was the price. They regularly do 50% off deals through Open Table, which was what we did on this evening. I think our bill for drinks, wine and two courses came to about £30 per head. In Belgravia! This is smart cooking in a swanky environment with great service. Its location is gin and tonic. This is basic stuff and was made
powder and the tamarind sauce was spicy and
perfect for anyone dining in London who lives
worse for the fact that I had just come from
refreshing.
in Sussex or Surrey and needs to get the train
the bar at The Goring where they really know what they’re doing. The Goring is an excellent place to hold business meetings, have predinner drinks and to dine. It has a lovely lounge
For mains, a red curry was more refined than you would probably find elsewhere, with a richly flavoured and smooth sauce, but not hot enough for me (oh I know you’re meant to ask
(old school London hotel charm) and outside
for these things ‘how the Thai’s have it’ but this
terrace. Highly recommended.
is not one of those places). A deep-fried sea
But back to the Mango Tree again! The
bass with sweet, sour and spicy sauce dressing
nuts served with the drinks were very high
topped with mixed peppers, sweet basil and
quality, salted and roasted. This is not to be
pineapple was a good piece of fish with crisp
underestimated - there are nuts and there are nuts. As we were shown to our table we were immediately brought prawn crackers. They were good. The menu is comprehensive and enticing with all the bases covered and some interesting sounding dishes. We chose mixed starters to share. Vegetable spring rolls were crisp and light and nice enough. Chicken Satay was a little dry but the satay sauce was dangerously addictive. I think I might have been spooning it out of the pot by the end (I do that with peanut butter too – it’s a problem). Crab fish cakes were
back. Recommended.
batter, but it was smothered in an over-sweet sauce. My friend loved it so it was probably just me. My Pad Ka Pow, a stir-fried minced chicken dish with fresh chilli, garlic, snake beans and holy basil leaves, had good sharp and sour flavour and was quite similar to Laab, one of my favourite Thai dishes but interestingly not similar to an authentic Pad Ka Pow. As I said, don’t come here if you’re one of those people.
Mango Tree 46 Grosvenor Place, London SW1X 7EQ info@mangotree.org.uk
spongy and crabby and a bit too sweet for my
0207 823 1888
taste. Barbecued pork was sticky and rich –
020 7838 9275
beautiful. A green papaya salad with cherry tomatoes, snake beans, peanuts, dried shrimp
www.mangotree.org.uk
67
Table Talk
Wine Masterclass
THREE CHEERS FOR MACON by Jonny Gibson Pinot Noir red and rosé. A list of approved village names can be suffixed if you want more provenance – eg. Mâcon-Lugny, Mâcon-Fuissé, Mâcon-La Roche Vineuse. There is also the white only Mâcon-Villages AOC, a tighter area of vineyards spread over the region, although somewhat confusingly these wines are often not as good quality as some of the suffixed wines mentioned above. The five communes with the highest reputations have their own appellations – Pouilly-Fuissé AOC and nearby Pouilly-Vinzelles AOC and Pouilly-Loché AOC and also Viré-Clessé AOC and Saint-Véran AOC. In the hands of a good producer like Les
M
Héritiers du Comte Lafon, Bret Brothers,
aybe it’s the fish stall at the Friday
hits the spot
Domaine Gilles Morat, Gerald Talmard and
market in Lewes or the publicity about
with white
Christophe Cordier you can really taste
healthy omega 3 fats but either way
meats, white
the differences between each village and
I’m eating a lot more fish these days. When it
fish dishes
appellation.
comes to meat it’s increasingly a case of eat
and semi
less but go for better quality. There’s a fantastic
soft cheeses.
farm shop five minutes up the road with top
There is
quality free range pork and beef from rare
enough acidity too for them to work as an
breeds amongst many other good things.
aperitif.
The question is which wines to pair with
The Mâcon wine region is a patchwork of
I have been particularly enjoying Christophe Cordier’s wines recently. He describes himself as a “haute couture negociant” buying in top quality grapes from excellent plots and making wine in a meticulous fashion in his modern, gravity fed winery. Wines are vinified by
all this lovely pork loin, free range chicken,
villages, sedimentary soils and terroirs with
terroir, only natural yeasts are used for extra
sea bass, monkfish and scallops? I’ve come
the best villages huddled together in the hilly
complexity and the wines spend time on their
to the conclusion that the answer is the ripe,
limestone amphitheatre around Fuissé to
gross lees before being matured in barrel.
sunshine whites from the Mâconnais region
the south just above Beaujolais. There is the
Check out my list below left for other Macon
of southern Burgundy. There is a suppleness
regional appellation Mâcon AOC for mostly
wines to try this summer
and complexity about these wines that just
Chardonnay whites and a little Gamay and
Some suggested Macon wines for summer dishes: • Mâcon-Villages 2014, Domaine Mallory et Benjamin Talmard – The Wine Society £8.95 • Mâcon “Aux Bois d’Allier”2014, Domaine Cordier – The Wine Society £10.95 • Mâcon-Villages 2014, DomaineFichet – Quaff Wines £12.99 • Mâcon-Milly – Lamartine 2015, Domaine Chene – South Downs Cellars £13.95 • Viré-Clessé Vieilles Vignes 2014, Christophe Cordier – Majestic £13.49 • Pouilly-Fuissé “En Carementran”2013, Bret Brothers - BBR £15.75 • Mâcon-Milly-Lamartine 2012, Les Héritiers du Comte Lafon – Domaine Direct, Tanners, BBR £18-£19
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Jonny Gibson is the head tutor and owner of Sussex Wine School, an independent company that runs regular tastings and courses including WSET Levels 1-3 in Brighton, Lewes and Tunbridge Wells. www.sussexwineschool.com
Table Talk
Best Places for........ THE BEST CURRY by Amanda Menahem
M
y favourite in Brighton is the Curry Leaf Cafe and you can read the full review in issue 22 of Platinum magazine on-line or at
PeoplePlacesFood.co.uk. The best of the rest are below:
SUSSEX Raipur at Pevensey Bay. Bangladeshi Chef Sarwar Chowdhury has an impressive CV and brings excellent modern and traditional Indian cuisine to the local residents of Pevensey near Eastbourne. This is a real hidden gem. When I worked in the corporate world we would often bring VIP guests from the city and they were always impressed.
SURREY
BRIGHTON Chilli Pickle – multi award winning and still one of the
Kayal, branches in Leamington Spa and West Byfleet.
best. Great ambience – a buzzy atmosphere and fresh,
Kayal is a bit of an institution, having provided authentic
highly flavoured cuisine.
South Indian Keralan cuisine for years. Their original Leicester branch was made famous my he Hairy bikers but don’t let that put you off. The food and service is
Indian Summer. This modern Indian restaurant has stood the test of time, their Deliveroo menu is delicious
excellent. The menu is a comprehensive bible to Keralan
Azaro, Hove – The best onion Bhaji in Brighton (huge,
cuisine, which tends to be lighter with an emphasis on
crisp and non-greasy) and their tandoori platter is
seafood. This no frills establishment focuses on quality.
excellent quality, each type of meat carefully matched
Highly recommended.
with a different marinade.
Deea, Kingston-upon Thames. A highly recommended
The Eastern Eye – London road. Despite being a bit out of
Bangladeshi restaurant with familiar and unusual dishes
the way and housed in a somewhat grotty looking venue,
on the menu. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh
there is some great authentic regional Indian cuisine here
produce and taking great care to create distinct flavours.
with amazing flavours. I recall black pepper king prawns
LalAkash, New Malden An authentic Bengali restaurant priding itself on high quality ‘royal flavours from the culinary kitchens of the Nawabs and Mughals’ with a good on-line take away service.
as a particular highlight. Great value too. Have you been? What do you think? Get in touch at Amanda@platinumbusinessmagazine.com
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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
CLOUD TALK
T
he world of Information Technology has changed dramatically in the 33 years I have been working within the sector. In this time I have worked in IT Support and Development, as an IT Consultant, Systems Planning Engineer, Business Propositions Manager and IT Director, working for businesses that include The London Stock Exchange, Canon Europe, Victoriareal (now Endemol) and Telefonica. I also set up and ran Geeks-on-Wheels from 2003 - 2011. If you run a business, which is not technology based, generally the last thing you have is the time, inclination or knowledge to deal with IT and keep abreast of what’s new and where to go. The acronyms and terminology alone are enough to confuse anyone. An example I recently came across was a software tool called Cucumber. I looked it up online and discovered it’s written in a language called Gherkin designed to be non-technical and readable… I jest you not. Whenever I meet a client I nearly always learn something new, have to put my mind into gear and think outside of the box to determine whether moving to a Cloud based IT infrastructure is viable, and cost effective. Will it improve users workday experience, add value to the business, be regulatory compliant and will lost data be retrievable et al? So where am I going with this Platinum Magazine section? As of now I will be writing short, hopefully interesting, easy to read IT snippets to help you run your business more effectively.
RUNNING WINDOWS ON YOUR APPLE Many businesses use Apple computers but have to run accounts packages, or bespoke/custom applications that only run on Windows. Well rather than purchasing a Windows PC take a look at Boot Camp. It’s included with all versions Apple OS X Leopard and later operating systems (look in the Utilities Folder) and allows you to boot your Apple into either OS X or Windows. All you’ll need to purchase is a copy of Windows. If you want to run OS X and Windows side-by-side take look at Parallels (www.parallels.com).
MICROSOFT OFFER FREE OFFICE 365 MIGRATION If you employ more than 50 employees and are looking at migrating your business to Office 365 then Microsoft Fast Track is for you. To find out more check out https://fasttrack.microsoft.com/office.
HAVE YOU BEEN PWNED? Yes the spelling is correct and the name is said to be a play on the word ‘Owned’. Millions of email addresses have been leaked, stolen and sold in a spate of large business security breaches including Adobe, Sony and Vtech to name a few. If you want to find out if your personal information may have been compromised put your email address into the https://haveibeenpwned.com website. The site is legitimate and putting your email address in will let you know if/when the information was leaked. If your details were leaked, and you have not changed your password since the leak date, change your password(s).
The Cloud Consultancy Europe are authorised Office 365 resellers
If you would like help and advice with your IT infrastructure call me. t: 00 (44) 1342 716873 e: jamie.shaw@thecloudconsultancy.eu w: www.thecloudconsultancy.eu 70
uk.linkedin.com/in/shawjamie
PLATINUM MAGAZINE Are you a local business looking to gain new clients or maybe a start-up in need of some real business advice? Whatever the reason, the Target Business Expo and gdb Speakers Conference should be the most important date in your diary. This business to business exhibition is a unique event bringing together organisations from a range of sectors from Insurance to HR to Design and Vehicle leasing.
Over 140 exhibitors will be available to discuss their products and services directly with you. Purchase a ticket for the gdb Speakers Conference, hear from three outstanding speakers and have the opportunity to meet and discuss your business issues over lunch.
DAILY EVENTS NETWORKING BREAKFAST (Tickets available from gdb in advance)
08.15 NETWORKING BREAKFAST | Hosted by Gatwick Diamond Business
FREE SEMINARS 11.00 The March of Technology Seminar | By John Berry of TimelessTime 13.00 Speaking in Public Seminar | By Ges Ray
gdb SPEAKERS CONFERENCE
(For the full conference timetable, please see the event website. Tickets purchased in advance through gdb)
11.30 Lara Morgan
12.15 Geoff Meade
13.45 Rt Hon Lord Andrew Adonis
Target Business Expo is free to attend to all visitors and offers a wealth of information and advice, products and services to all businesses large and small. Please book your stand early to avoid disappointment.
THE TARGET BUSINESS EXPO
Tickets for the Networking Breakfast and gdb Speakers Conference must be purchased through gdb in advance.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL TARGET IN 1
Gatwick Diamond Business | 01293 440088
AND gdb SPEAKERS CONFERENCE. K2, PEASE POTTAGE HILL, CRAWLEY RH11 9BQ
20TH OCTOBER 2016
01293773021 targetbusinessexpo.co.uk
www.gatwickdiamondbusiness.com
Charity supported by Target in 1 Limited.
BUSINESS AWARDS
THE CROYDON SHORTLIST Following the success of last year’s inaugural event – where more than 300 people attended a glamorous gala dinner and charity ball – the 2016 ceremony, taking place on October 6th, promises to be one of the parties of the year. This year’s theme – Reach New Heights – seeks to inspire Croydon firms to aim high and shout about their success at one the town’s premier business showcase. Katharine Glass, managing director of award organisers White Label Creative, said: “Once again we have been incredibly impressed by the calibre of businesses who have entered this year’s awards. “It just shows the number of high quality businesses in Croydon is increasing at a remarkable rate. Congratulations to all the finalists and we look forward to seeing you at the awards ceremony in October.” This year’s event will also be raising funds for the Mayor of Croydon’s chosen charities - The Stanley People’s Initiative, Croydon Commitment, Last year’s Business of the Year winner Kevin Zuchowski-Morrison of the Rise Gallery in Croydon with LBC Deputy Mayor Cllr Toni Letts at this year’s launch.
M
ore than 60 of Croydon’s best companies are reaching new heights having made the shortlist for the 2016 Croydon Business Excellence Awards, held in association with Gatwick Airport.
and The British Home. As well as Gatwick Airport, the awards partners for 2016 are Allianz Global Assistance, Croydon Advertiser, Croydon Council, Wing Yip, Croydon Business Venture, Sussex Innovation Centre, Croydon Partnership, Platinum Business Magazine and Croydon Chamber of Commerce.
www.croydonawards.co.uk
CROYDON BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS FINALISTS 2016 BEST BUSINESS FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE
BEST BUSINESS FOR STAFF TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT
Baker Wanless Limited; Blackfords LLP; Cleankill Environmental Services; Coversure Insurance Services Croydon; G2G Limited; Gold Office Solutions Ltd; JAM Hair Sanderstead Ltd; Minuteman Press Croydon; Skipton Building Society; Top Move Estate Agents
Blackfords LLP; Bluebird Care Croydon; Chequers Contract Services Ltd; Cleankill Environmental Services; Click Entertainment Ltd; Fennies Day Nurseries and Pre Schools; Hewitts Of Croydon; Language Tuition Plus
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR Arnold & Baldwin Chartered; Click Entertainment Limited; JAM Hair Sanderstead Ltd; Nikasu Foods (UK) Ltd; Nudge Factory Ltd; Silverleaf Group & The Croydon Creative; Students Achieve Ltd, Uniqodo Limited
BEST BUSINESS FOR FOOD AND HOSPITALITY Brasserie Vacherin; Brgr&Beer; Karnavar Restaurant; Project B; Yumn Brasserie; Zabardast
APPRENTICE EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR Chequers Contract Services Ltd; Coversure Insurance Services Croydon; Croydon College; Fennies Day Nurseries and Pre Schools
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Shaking Hands Students Achieve Ltd; The Croydon Creative Ltd; Uniqodo Limited
BEST GREEN BUSINESS Cleankill Environmental Services; Govia Thameslink Railway; Mandatum ink
INDEPENDENT RETAILER OF THE YEAR BEST CREATIVE AND MEDIA SECTOR BUSINESS Buttercup Bus VW Campers; Creative X Ltd; Hawk Wargames ; Jérrard Wayne Creatives
G2G Limited; Gold Office Solutions Ltd; Hewitts of Croydon; JAM Hair Sanderstead Ltd; Purnell Jewellery
BEST SME BUSINESS BEST BUSINESS FOR MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA Clear Ads Ltd, Coversure Insurance Services Croydon; Fennies Day Nurseries Ltd; G2G Limited; Gut Health Empire; Hawk Wargames; JAM Hair Sanderstead Ltd
Arnold & Baldwin Chartered; Bluebird Care Croydon; Chequers Contract Services Ltd; Cleankill Environmental Services; Diamond Distribution Ltd; Fennies Day Nurseries Ltd; Martek; Nikasu Foods (UK) Ltd; Silverleaf Group; WPA Education Welfare Services
COMMITMENT TO THE COMMUNITY
BEST CHARITY OR SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
Caridon; Cleankill Environmental Services; Govia Thameslink Railway; Owadally and King; RISEgallery
Croydon Commitment; Nightwatch; The Garwood Foundation; Phase 1 Enterprise Training CIC T/A My OutSpace Business Centre
BEST NEW BUSINESS
TECH INNOVATION OF THE YEAR
Climate Integrated Solutions Ltd; Hectik Hair; Pearson Hunter; Playground Cocktail Bar;
Artificial Minds; ICUK Computing Services Ltd; QuidCycle; Uniqodo Limited
BUSINESS EXPO
GUILDFORD MEANT BUSINESS Review of the county’s big recent business exhibition
G
uildford Means Business 2016 was another big success. Held for the first time at Surrey Sports Park, Guildford, the organisers took full advantage of the additional space available to them. With 130 exhibitors on display this was by far the largest show in the nine year history of the event and it included thirty stands in the new Meet the Surrey Venues area. The show kicked off with a pre show Breakfast Forum sponsored by Guildford Borough Council with a full seminar programme following. The Speed Networking with Connect Surrey's Super Sally proved particularly popular, whilst exhibitors reported a steady stream of visitors throughout out the day. The drinks reception at the end of the day, sponsored by Majestic Wines, brought everyone together for a well received end of show celebration. Comments from exhibitors and visitors alike were very positive. Vines BMW wrote to say 'Congratulations - best show to date' and this sentiment was repeated in the many emails received. Organisers Paul Bridgland, Sally Castro Gouveia of ConnectSurrey and Paul Webster we're delighted with the response and announced that next year' s show will take place again at Surrey Sports Park - on 14th June, but will be renamed Surrey Means Business to reflect the growing appeal of the show across the county
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INSTITUTE OF DIRECTORS
BUSINESS AWARDS – Why Bother?
DAVID SEALL CEng FRAeS MiMMM MIoD David is the Regional Chairman of IoD South. He is a former Chair of IoD Surrey and is an experienced Non-Executive Director. He is retained by DMH Stallard LLP as their Strategic Adviser Manufacturing www.davidseall.co.uk ∕ www.dmhstallard.com
A
ttending a recent IoD “8.59” breakfast meeting the subject of discussion was “what makes a award winning
submission.” Those who’ve attended these sessions will know that as well catching up with colleagues and meeting new people there’s some serious thinking to do at such an early hour. Having judged many different awards over the years it was interesting to listen to the comments on my table and those in the room about awards, discussing topics such as “ why bother” , “ what are the benefits” and “ how do you win?”
The effect that being shortlisted or winning
and is there a face to face or telephone
and I don’t mean just celebrating at the awards
interaction with the judges?
dinner! The fact that everyone’s efforts have
business is shortlisted or manages to win then the opportunities to maximise this for marketing purposes are substantial. Additionally the PR exposure which is, of course, free marketing, is a massive multiplier both in conventional and social media. Quite often winning a regional award will then entail the business being shortlisted for a national
My personal view is that I prefer submissions to be written by the contestants themselves. I
been praised by judges not connected to the
think it’s an opportunity to show the passion in
business in any way and that it’s seen to be
the business but also reflect the humility of the
perhaps better than the competition, certainly
leadership. Perhaps “professionally” written
boosts the confidence within the business. It
submissions can look too shiny but as I say, it’s
also can underwrite the strategic direction the
a personal view. However it’s always sensible
business is taking and show the team that the
to have a another person read it over and be
leadership is perhaps doing the right thing.
a “critical friend”. It goes without saying that it’s a prerequisite to have told the truth and be
Of course the obvious reason for entering is to raise the profile of the business. If the
taking the winners on to a national competition
has on team morale cannot be over estimated
prepared to answer some tough questions in
“The effect that being shortlisted or winning has on team morale cannot be over estimated and I don’t mean just celebrating at the awards dinner!”
the judging process. Above all most judges will be looking to see drive and passion within a business, a well motivated team committed to working together to achieve a strategic goal and of course a relevance for the category of award. If that’s your business why don’t you have a try? In other news in IoD in Surrey you may
award which again considerably raises the
have noticed some big changes in the way
profile. Having the awards logo on the website
the branch is run and the roles of committee
and on business cards is also a benefit.
members. Events are now being administered
But what other reasons are there? Perhaps
How to be shortlisted or win is the
across the IoD South region. You will now
it’s my engineering brain coming into play but
other part of the conundrum. First up of
see the best events from each branch
I’ve always treated entering awards akin to
course is selecting the right competition. It
being replicated across the region. This
having a free business audit. Where else can
sounds obvious but some businesses enter
has freed up committee members to take
you get experts in their field to run their finger
competitions that aren’t the best ones for them.
on “Ambassadorial” roles where they can
over your business for nothing, comment on
It’s also checking out the motives of the awards
now head up on policy areas or professional
what you are doing well and point out areas you
organisers and also what will they be doing to
development topics. More details can be found
need to improve? All for free.
promote those that are competing, for example
on the branch website.
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BMW Business Partnership
A FLEET OF BENEFITS. AWARD-WINNING, SIMPLE FLEET MANAGEMENT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES. If you manage a fleet of fewer than 50 company cars, the award-winning BMW Business Partnership has been designed specifically for you. The full range of BMW models are available to order, along with compelling contract hire rates and comprehensive service and maintenance packages. For more information, contact Dean Eaton, Local Business Development Manager, on 0800 915 4700. Vines of Gatwick, Stephenson Way, Three Bridges, Crawley RH10 1TN 0800 915 4700 www.vinesofgatwickbmw.co.uk/business
AWARD WINNING. • The BMW Business Partnership Programme voted ‘Best SME Company Car Programme’ at Business Car Manager Awards 2015
PROGRAMME BENEFITS. • Compelling contract hire rates • Your own dedicated Local Business Manager • Comprehensive service & maintenance packages available
Official fuel economy figures for the BMW range: Urban 13.8-72.4mpg (20.5-3.9l/100km). Extra Urban 30.4-91.3mpg (9.3-3.1l/100km). Combined 21.1-470.8mpg (13.4-0.06l/100km). CO2 Emissions 325-0g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.
Opening a world of business opportunities With over 40 airlines and more than 200 destinations, London Gatwick is better connected
To find out more, visit gatwickairport.com