Chamberlink - October 2013 by Plymouth Chamber of Commerce and Industry

In This Monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Issue:

Celebrate:

Ocean City Festival celebrates success Page 7

Spotlight on:

Meet Charlotte Williams from Pluss Page 22

Building Blocks:

Big Plans for the City. Read all about the redevelopments planned for Plymouth Page 6

October 2013

Pounds for Plymouth How Plymouth plans to support local businesses to grow the economy. Page 16-17

Plymouthbus

Mobile

Year One

plymouthbus.co.uk/app PLYMOUTH

Plymouth Chamber Of Commerce

Contents: Getting IT Together A new initiative to improve digital inclusion in Plymouth. Page 9 Focus on Plymouth John Longworth, Director General of British Chambers of Commerce recognises Plymouth’s successes. Page 11 Celebrating good times Thanks to all who celebrated our 200th Anniversary with us at our Chamber Ball. Page 12 1000 Club success Meet Rosie who is now in permanent employment thanks to the 1000 Club initiative. Page 12 Waste not want not National Marine Aquarium and Langage Farm lead the way in an innovative recycling partnership. Pages 18-19

Plymouth Chamber Of Commerce & Industry Registered Office: 22 Lockyer Street, Plymouth PL1 2QW. Tel 01752 220471 Fax 01752 600333 chamber@plymouth-chamber.co.uk. www.plymouth-chamber.co.uk Published by Plymouth Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Editorial copy can be submitted directly to editorial@plymouth-chamber.co.uk Editorial policy: We publish members’ editorial according to merit and available space, regardless of whether contributors advertise or not. See www.plymouthchamberlink.co.uk Advertising: Please contact Amanda Bishop on 01752 273884.

Top Tips for marketing your business In a competitive market it’s vital to know what media works for your business. Page 21 Covering all the bases Dominic Tucker from Howard & Over gives us an insight into Employment law. Page 21 Plymouth Chamber of Commerce Rebuilding the City: Local historian Chris Robinson sheds light on the destruction and rebuilding of Plymouth during the 40s and 50s. Pages 26-27 Events diary Your at a glance guide to Chamber events and training for the next month or so. Page 30

This publication © Plymouth Chamber Of Commerce 2013. All rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. We reserve the right to accept, reject, alter or edit any material submitted. Every effort is made to ensure that information in this publication is correct; however, Plymouth Chamber Of Commerce & Industry and/or the editor cannot be held responsible for any errors, omissions or actions taken in reliance on it, and any opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views or policies of the Chamber, the publishers, or the editor.

When printed, Chamberlink is on recycled paper made from 80% de-inked post-consumer waste and 20% mill broke, meeting the requirements set by Government bodies for recycled content papers. Designed by Real Fusion | www.realfusion.co.uk

Who’s reading Chamberlink this month? Truly committed to Chamber news! Plymouth photographer Tony Cobley sent us this picture of him reading Chamberlink from his hospital bed in Cardiff before an operation on his spine. Get well soon Tony! Want to see you or your business here next issue? Tweet your ‘I’m reading Chamberlink’ picture @ChamberPlymouth along with your name and location. Or email your picture to us at communications@plymouthchamber.co.uk. Our favourites will be available on the Plymouth Chamber app, with one lucky image chosen to feature in the next issue.

DAVID PARLBY’S VIEW

Waves of change for Plymouth This month has seen many exciting developments for Plymouth, with the agreement of a number of large redevelopment projects, the announcement of a scheme to procure free WiFi for the City Centre and the first International Trade Club event. It’s clear to see that Plymouth businesses are pushing ahead to develop the City. You can read more about the planned redevelopments on p.6. The success of Digital Plymouth’s lobbying for free WiFi for Plymouth City Centre and waterfront areas is one that I am personally very pleased with. The benefits of the work that Plymouth Chamber, Plymouth City Council and BT have been doing together are starting to come through and I’m pleased at the progress we’re making in improving digital connectivity for the city. I recently attended a meeting held by British Chamber of Commerce, bringing together Chief Execs of Chambers from across the UK. Development and growth is high on the agenda not only for Plymouth, but across the nation. Whilst there I presented the Plymouth Chamber app, as an example of how Plymouth Chamber is harnessing technology to better connect with local businesses. A great deal of interest was expressed in our app by my colleagues and it seems that in this field we are one of the leading Chambers in the country.

If you haven’t already, I urge you to download the app from the appstore today to keep up to date with all Plymouth Chamber news, events and activities. With the many large developments announced for the city, the issue of local procurement and spending locally is key to improving Plymouth’s economy. In this edition we’ve had a look at how the Plymouth Procurement Forum is working to improve local procurement in a bid to make it easier for local businesses to benefit from opportunities, both large and small, in the city. Take a look at p.16 for more information. It’s not only business developments that have been happening since our last edition. We’ve also seen a number of major events take place, including the British Fireworks Championships, which officially launched Plymouth’s Investment Guide, the Ocean City Festival and our very first event for the Plymouth International Trade Club. Last, but certainly not least, September also saw our 200th Anniversary Ball at China Fleet Country Club. I’d like to thank all who attended to celebrate our anniversary with us, on what was a truly momentous occasion.

DAVID PARLBY CEO, Plymouth Chamber

Search for Plymouth Chamber in the App store and download the Plymouth Chamber App

CHAMBERLINK IS Sponsored by

News

MEMBERS’ News In brief

Bright future for Royal William Yard Plymouth based Bright Solicitors have been instructed by Ocean Studios to advise on all legal elements of their £4.1m redevelopment of the historic Cooperage factory in Royal William Yard. The redevelopment will see the provision of 1,960 sq.metres of affordable artist’s studios and workshops and is scheduled for completion in early 2015. New City Attraction will make history Plans have been unveiled by Plymouth City Council to invest in an exciting historical and cultural centre to breathe life into Plymouth’s most influential historic figures such as Scott, Darwin and Drake. The ambitious plans will transform the existing Museum on North Hill into a cutting edge interactive centre three times its existing size. Plymouth Business Show winner Congratulations to Nicola Marshall of Plym Reflexology who won Karris Ltd’s prize draw at the Plymouth Business Show, winning an Orangebox DO chair worth £475. Respect Festival returns Plymouth Respect Festival will this year be hosted by Plymouth University on 12th and 13th October and organised by Plymouth and Devon Racial Equality Council. The new collaboration is hoped to open up a range of innovative developments to breathe new life into the festival. More details are available on the Plymouth Respect Festival website. 30th celebrations for Plymouth’s largest independent hotel The New Continental Hotel is gearing up for a year of celebration in 2014 as it marks 30 years in business. The hotel has been in the Hajiyianni family since 1984, undergoing a £3 million refurbishment in 2008. Today the hotel has over 60 staff and a total of 99 rooms including conference facilities. Wild Futures shortlisted for Third Sector Excellence Award Wild Futures, the primate welfare charity based in Looe, Cornwall, has been shortlisted for a Third Sector Excellence award in the category; use of Digital Media. Wild Futures have been shortlisted for their campaign film, Joey’s Story by Stephen Fry, the 3 minute film focusses on the story of Joey a capped capuchin monkey. The film generated over 4,000 views within 24 hours of its launch in 2012.

Crunchy Breakfast

Amanda Lumley, Chief Executive of Destination Plymouth unveils plans for promoting Britain’s Ocean city. Promoting Plymouth as a visitor destination is a hotly debated topic amongst Chamber members. Destination Plymouth is the organisation responsible for creating Plymouth’s visitor marketing and events activity, promoting Plymouth as Britain’s Ocean City to improve visitor numbers and increase visitor spend. At August’s Crunchy Breakfast we heard from Amanda Lumley, Chief Executive of Destination Plymouth who explained the plans for promoting Plymouth as Britain’s Ocean City. With widespread experience in visitor marketing, Amanda joined Destination Plymouth in 2012. Having previously worked with Visit Kent, Visit Essex, Kent Castle and Tour de France Amanda explained that she isn’t scared of a challenge and is keen to put Plymouth on the map. Amanda explained: ‘Destination Plymouth is a private/public sector partnership with the strategic aim to deliver the Visitor Plan for Plymouth. Our key aim is to grow visitor numbers and increase economic benefit for businesses.” The Visitor Plan was launched in 2011, outlining a key approach to projects and marketing for the city. Destination Plymouth’s plan is to focus initially on the commuter region to build interest and then expand

outwards during future years, building up to national and international visitors as the accommodation offer for the city improves. She continued: “Visitor numbers and visitor spend for the city are steadily increasing, and have been trending slightly above target for the past couple of years. Our key objectives for Destination Plymouth are to grow visitor numbers and visitor spend in the run up to 2020. We want to make Plymouth a ‘must see, must do’ destination for those visiting the South West.” Explaining how Destination Plymouth plans to do this Amanda said: “We have a number of star projects highlighted in the Visitor Plan, including the development of major and signature events, focussing on some key development sites including Royal William Yard and Commercial Wharf and a project called ‘Telling Stories’ aimed at providing better signposting to different locations across the City and telling Plymouth’s history.”

Amanda also discussed the Britain’s Ocean City branding, the new brand for Plymouth and how it can be used by businesses to promote Plymouth as a visitor destination. The brand itself generated a debate amongst present businesses, however Amanda argued: “The Britain’s Ocean City branding is designed to be a tool which is used by Destination Plymouth and other local businesses to promote Plymouth as a destination. The brand utilises imagery and narrative to promote all that’s great about Plymouth, positioning the city as a key destination.” Amanda recognised that Destination Plymouth has a lot of work to do to achieve its goals and in developing research and working with businesses. Amanda finished by inviting Chamber members to attend the Tourism Conference on September 12th held as part of the Ocean City Festival to find out more about how businesses can engage with the Britain’s Ocean City brand and work closer with Destination Plymouth to improve Plymouth’s visitor offer.

Big Plans for the City In the past month there have been a number of large announcements for Plymouth, from the developments at Higher Home Park, to the progress on Millbay’s regeneration and the news of 2 new hotels for the City, Plymouth is fast becoming a hotbed for new and exciting development projects. Earlier this year Millbay was named among the top 50 regeneration projects in the UK. Being developed by English Cities Fund (ECf) - a joint venture between Muse Developments, Legal and General Property and the Homes and Communities Agency - the development is creating a vibrant residential and cultural quarter in the once busy former docks. Nearing completion on the second phase of development – Cargo 2 – and on the new King Point Marina, work has also recently started on the next major regeneration phase – 102 Homes on East Quay, which is due for completion in late 2014. This will also see work begin to lay out and open the first section of a planned new boulevard to link Plymouth City Centre with the waterfront. Alongside the exciting waterfront developments work is expected to start later this year on the £50 million regeneration of Higher Home Park after Plymouth City Council’s planners gave approval for the scheme which will create hundreds of new jobs and pump millions of pounds into the local economy - both during

construction, and when the new facilities begin operation. The exciting project by Akkeron Group will include a new grandstand for Plymouth Argyle, a 10-screen Odeon cinema, competition standard ice rink, new hotel and retail opportunities and will complement the nearby Life Centre in creating a sporting and leisure centre of excellence without equal in the region. The grandstand and ice facility are scheduled to be open by the end of 2014, with the rest of the development being completed in 2015, which will then pave the way for Akkeron Group’s regeneration of the Plymouth Pavilions to get under way. And last, but certainly not least Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet approved the bid by Resurgam (West End) Ltd to develop the iconic Civic Centre building into a four star hotel, with commanding views of the city and its stunning waterfront, again creating hundreds of jobs. The tired council offices will be turned into a prestige hotel which will form the anchor development in a project that will seal the West End of Plymouth’s role as a cultural quarter of the city. The unveiled plans will see office space turned into a 160 bedroom hotel, with a roof-top restaurant, gymnasium, new restaurants along Royal Parade and overlooking the newlycreated square at the rear of the building, a new arts centre. The development will also offer luxury residential apartments and various food and beverage offerings.

NEWS

Ocean City Festival celebrates success OVERVIEW: This year’s Ocean City Festival has been hailed a success, having attracted thousands of residents, visitors, businesses and scientists. The 13 day festival included a range of events and activities including conferences, chef demonstrations, live music, entertainment and cultural events taking place in a variety of venues across the city. Key events of the Ocean City Festival centred on the 4 pillars; culture, science, business and education with a full programme of events to suit all business sectors and visitors. The festival kicked off on the 9th September with the Mount Batten Meander, a guided walk with Nigel Overton, the City’s Maritime and Local Heritage Curator. Large events followed including the Ecover Blue Mile Challenge, a 1-mile timed open water swim which took place in the waters of Plymouth Sound. The challenge saw hundreds of swimmers take to the water, with large crowds cheering them on from the Hoe and Barbican waterfront areas. A major focus of this year’s festival included STEMFest. Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) was at the heart of the vision for Plymouth as an internationally renowned Ocean City and STEMFest was an event co-ordinated by

a collaboration of educators, employers, researchers and STEM ambassadors to provide a motivating showcase of marine science and technology that is shaping the way we relate to our oceans. Based at the National Marine Aquarium this year’s event featured high profile speakers, engaging presentations and opportunities for visitors to meet inspiring STEM role models. Plymouth Seafood Festival also returned from the 20th – 22nd September. The three day celebration of food highlighted the city’s enduring relationship with the sea and our traditional fishing industry. Showcasing the fantastic quality of seafood available in Plymouth, the event featured a variety of local and celebrity chefs demonstrating a range of mouth-watering dishes. Focussing on the cultural offer of the city Destination Plymouth hosted a Tourism Conference during the festival, held in the Plymouth University Graduation Marquees on Plymouth Hoe.

The conference was popular amongst the tourism and leisure businesses with key note speakers including Simon Caulder, Senior Travel Editor of The Independent and James Bereford, Chief Executive of Visit England. Plymouth Chamber of Commerce included the Plymouth International Trade Club event hosted by Tamar Science Park to appeal to local businesses as part of the festival. New events for this year’s festival included The Royal Navy Freedom of the City Parade, the launch of the River Tamar Project, a major cultural event exploring the future potential of this significant wayerway in the South West and Resurgam, an interactive gaming experience featuring a supernatural action-adventure movie with players at the heart of the story. For more information on upcoming events visit www.visitplymouth.co.uk

FR E NT E E RY!

St Mellion Business Show 2013 Wednesday 16th October 9.30am—3.00pm Be part of this year’s show! Register online. #StMelBizShow www.stmellionbusinessshow.co.uk 01579 352035

Making Business a Pleasure

Leading business expo with Live Twitter Lounge, ‘Ask the Experts’ panel, seminars and speakers, and over 50 exhibition stands showcasing the best of business in the South West!

Exhibition stands from only £200! St Mellion International Resort, St Mellion, Cornwall PL12 6SD

Sponsored by Plymouth Business Network

01579 351351 www.st-mellion.co.uk

Free WiFi on the cards for Plymouth City Centre Visitors, businesses and residents will be able to get online with ease while on the move via their mobile phones, tablets and iPads as part of Plymouth’s wider strategy to get the city better connected through high speed broadband roll-out and digital inclusion. Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet gave the go-ahead to a concession contract in a cabinet meeting on 3rd September which will open the doors to free WiFi as early as Spring 2014. The move will enable thousands more people to tap into the wealth of information available on the web to help them shop, get around and eat and drink in the city. Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “We’re very excited about this idea as it will be a great communication tool for everyone. It has enormous potential to give people instant access to the information they want – whether they are a visitor or a local.” Details of how, where and for how long people will be able to use the

WiFi network will be finalised in the coming months, but it is expected that the network will be available to anyone following a simple one-off log in. Once logged on people will be taken automatically to a landing page which will provide search facilities and links to key useful sites for visitors, citizens and businesses. David Parlby, Chief Executive of Plymouth Chamber of Commerce said: “This development shows that we are modern and forward-looking – sending out all the right messages for potential investors as well as visitors. It will encourage people to become more familiar with digital technology which, in turn is good for ICT skills.” Mobile access to the internet, particularly through tablets and smart phones has grown massively in recent years. The project will make it easier for the Council to communicate directly with residents. As the network grows, so does the potential for council services to use the network more. The project will be cost neutral and will not cost the Council-tax payer anything.

City Centre and Waterfront areas could have free WiFi access by Spring 2014.

NEWS

Come and Get IT Together! A development of the Digital Plymouth programme, chaired by Chamber Chief Exec David Parlby, the Get IT Together Project, the biggest UK digital inclusion project of its kind, has officially kicked off in Plymouth. The project aims to get more people online and using IT. Work clubs, children centres, social clubs, community groups, schools, sports associations, businesses and members of the public are being asked to get involved in the Get IT Together project to get thousands more Plymouth people online and open to new opportunities. The £330,000 project is led by the Council and has been funded by city partners including BT, Plymouth Community Homes, the Plymouth Health Community and Jobcentre Plus, all being delivered through the specialist digital inclusion charity, Citizen Online. Around 38,000 city homes are not connected to the internet and as time goes on, people are getting left behind in terms of opportunities for education, work, access to council and health services as well as the welfare benefits system. The project now

wants to hear from people from all walks of life about what direction they would like the project to take ahead of its official launch. The project coordinator, Lena Santoro said: “There’s an enormous amount of good work going on – such as Plymouth SeniorNet – which helps older people, but we are conscious that there are huge swathes of people that never go anywhere near a computer. We are looking at where the gaps are and want to hear from organisations that can help us bridge those gaps.” The project aims to provide a holistic service to help people with the digital journey and to help people obtain cheap or free IT equipment where they can. To do this the Get IT Together project team is working with Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment companies Absolute Recycling, Recycling Plymouth and Surplus WEEE. These companies are all very keen to work with the project and the

community in promoting the use of IT and the internet. Councillor Tudor Evans said: “This is an extremely important project for Plymouth. The Government is wielding a big stick to get people online – we are trying to temper this with a carrot. We want to tap into organisations which have the trust of their members, who will be able to inspire them to learn the basics, so that they can go online and start reaping the rewards this brings, whether this is through welfare benefits, job opportunities or saving money.” The Digital Plymouth project is a partnership between Plymouth Chamber of Commerce, Plymouth City Council, BT and other local organisations to improve the digital connectivity for the City. To date through the work of Digital Plymouth superfast broadband has been rolled out across the city, with 93% of city premises now covered by superfast broadband.

Una Group secures multimillion pound funding deal for future growth Plymouth Chamber Member, Una Group Ltd has secured a multi-million pound re-finance facility with Barclays to support its on-going growth aspirations. The organisation, set up in 2004 by David Young, is based at the Airport Business centre in Estover. Over the last 9 years the business has grown and diversified into a range of entrepreneurial businesses, including the multi-award winning Burts Potato Chips and the waste-to-energy company Carbonarius. The Group is made up of three core areas; commercial property, business support services and environmental activities. David Young, Managing Director of The Una Group said: “Access to funding remains the number one challenge to most businesses today. Banking as a sector has also been through some challenging times in recent years. However Barclays have clearly demonstrated a desire to do business with us over an extended period of time. They are now fully on board to support the exciting growth that we are experiencing and I’m very

MEMBERS’ News In brief

New workshop for Plymouth businesses Plymouth City Council are planning to host a series of short workshops aimed at engaging with emerging and existing businesses across Plymouth. The event will include elevator sessions from partners, speed networking and presentations from teams supporting or serving commerce. For more information visit: www.plymouth.gov.uk College shortlisted for Recycling Award City College Plymouth has been shortlisted for a DS Smith Recycling Re:Think Award for ‘Continuous Excellence’ for its sustainability policy and waste management strategy. The award offers recognition to organisations that have achieved and excelled in recycling and or wider sustainability targets for a number of years.

Local Law firms join forces Local Law firm Sitters & Co have joined Wolferstans Solicitors. From 1 October 2013 the amalgamation will see staff from Sitters move with the Firm’s principal solicitor and sole director John Parish, to Wolferstans on North Hill to cover wills, trusts and probate, conveyancing and family work. Developer selects Plymouth for new commercial enterprise New Chamber member, regional commercial developer London and Devonshire Trust is submitting outlining planning permission for its new 22 acre business park at the prime industrial location of Ernesettle in Plymouth, near the Tamar Bridge.

grateful to their team for the energy and enthusiasm shown in achieving this success. I’m passionate about local procurement, so I was delighted that Barclays were supported by the Plymouth Bond Dickinson team in the transaction and we were supported by our long term partners in the Ashfords team.” The Group’s activities and investments span 10 different businesses, employing a total of 125 people. Steve Hocking, Relationship Director for Barclays added: “The Una Group is an impressive dynamic business with a strong management team. Our relationship approach meant we worked closely with David and his team to understand the business and its ambitions, to deliver a tailored solution that will evolve with the company.” The funding will primarily support the expansion of the Una Group’s commercial property division which at present comprises of office and industrial space at four sites across Plymouth.

Lesley achieves Chartered status Plymouth Chamber’s very own Lesley Allinson has achieved Chartered status for the Chartered Management Institute. Achieving this level of membership recognises Lesley’s skills and experience as a manager and leader for the Chamber. PAC Food cooks up ‘PAC’KED LUNCHES Plymouth Arts Centre Food has won a tender to provide school meals for children at a new school in Plymouth, inspired by Jamie Oliver. From the start of term, children at the new Plymouth School of Creative Arts, based in Millbay, will be eating homemade food cooked in the kitchen at the Arts Centre.

FEATURES

“The Beyond Capitalism? lectures provide thought leadership on developing more socially responsible business models – a critical element in delivering business success in the future.”

Dr Hilary Duckett, Director, Plymouth Business School

‘Beyond Capitalism?’ Plymouth University looks ahead with new lecture series The promotion of discussion, debate, and the application of critical thinking to the key societal challenges and issues of the day are important roles that universities play.

The classic archetype of the ‘ivory tower’, divorced from the community in which it sits, is being replaced by the university that is engaged with its stakeholders, embedded within its surroundings and committed to outreach and knowledge transfer says Hilary Duckett of Plymouth University. Nowhere is this better demonstrated than at Plymouth University, which has long sought to use its expertise, its research and its people to transformational effect in the city and the region. With a mission to be The Enterprise University, Plymouth has worked consistently to bring groups and individuals together, whether student talent and employers, innovators and investors, or researchers and commercialisation specialists, and act as a catalyst for change. With its lecture series entitled Beyond Capitalism? the University has been inviting thought-leaders and visionary business minds to come to the city and offer their assessment of where the country is headed. Launched 12 months ago with an inaugural speech from renowned environmentalist and sustainability expert Tony Juniper, the series has since welcomed Mark Serwotka, General Secretary of the Britain’s largest civil service union, the Public & Commercial Services

Union; and Sir Mark Moody-Stuart, Chairman of Hermes Equity Ownership Services. Dr Hilary Duckett, Director of the Plymouth Business School, has been orchestrating the series. She said: “The recent international financial crisis and the continuing sovereign debt crisis coupled with austerity measures in Europe have made many question the traditional neo-classical view of western capitalism. Many companies are already thinking to the future and considering what needs to change to create a more beneficial and responsible system and the Beyond Capitalism? series is exploring these ideas. “The Beyond Capitalism? lectures provide thought leadership on developing more socially responsible business models – a critical element in delivering business success in the future.” Next up is political economist, author and commentator Will Hutton, who’ll be sharing some of his views on the role of government in the economy, fairness in society and organisation and management principles. In a first for the series, Will’s lecture will be held in Westminster and live-streamed to the University’s Roland Levinsky Building. That in itself builds upon the theme of using technology to enable engagement, which has seen some of the previous lectures live-streamed to the University-run Innovation Centres in Cornwall.

Dr Duckett said: “It’s absolutely vital that universities and their business schools provide an open forum for debate and discussion, and so we’ve been delighted to bring to the South West some influential and innovative voices in the business field. “And it’s been fascinating to hear the views of people such as Tony and Sir Mark, who have offered personal insight into the state of the economy through the lens of issues such as the environment, sustainability and regulation. And we’re expecting two full houses for Will.” With Dame Pauline Green, the first woman President of the International Co-operative Alliance, to follow in January, and several more next year, Beyond Capitalism? is looking to build to a crescendo this time next year. “Whether it’s attracting events such as the Americas’ Cup or British Art Show 7, royalty for building openings, or investment into our SMEs in Devon, the University is always striving to showcase the city and region to the world,” Hilary said. “And in November, we are officially launching our new Futures Entrepreneurship Centre, which will provide a focal point for students to connect with businesses and the wider community. These are exciting times for the Business School.”

NEWS

Director General of British Chambers’ of Commerce visits Plymouth John Longworth, Director General of British Chambers of Commerce, visited Plymouth in July to meet with local businesses and Chamber members and discuss the future plans of BCC. John joined a range of business representatives for a working lunch at ‘Back to Business’ where he introduced himself, covering his background from scientist to Executive Main Board Director of Asda Group Ltd before reaching his current position. A discussion followed, where John updated those present on the future plans of BCC, which include a focus on exporting.

The day culminated in a tour of the Energy from Waste plant, highlighting the innovative practices being used by businesses in the South West. Following his visit John Longworth, Director General of the BCC said: “I was delighted to visit Plymouth Chamber, following their recent membership of the British Chambers of Commerce. The area has a number of fantastic high-tech businesses and key exporters, and I look forward to seeing the region continue to innovate and thrive.” Plymouth Chamber’s membership to BCC gives members a national voice in key business issues. This visit marked the beginning of Plymouth’s relationship with BCC, which is set to grow over the coming years.

New look for Commercial Property Consultants Stratton Creber has rebranded, marking the most dramatic change in its visual identity since 1997. The new branding has been designed to better reflect the company today as it provides a comprehensive range of commercial property services to a growing number of clients within the business sector. Managing Director Chris Ryland said: “Most importantly, the rebranding is a reflection of our progressive outlook. The commercial property sector is experiencing a resurgence in the South West and we are excited to be at the forefront of promoting and enabling business opportunity in Devon and Cornwall. We may have a new look, but our principal aim remains the same – to provide practical and innovative solutions with a view to maximising the value of our clients’ property assets.” Based in Plymouth, Truro and Exeter, Stratton Creber Commercial provides specialist commercial property advice throughout the South West. Evolving in its current format from a management buyout in 1997, Stratton Creber Commercial has grown from modest beginnings to become one of the largest providers of commercial property services in the region.

Image courtesy of the Plymouth Herald

MEMBERS’ News In brief

SME’s set to profit from new ‘Intensive Growth’ programme A new 2 day business development programme is being launched in the South West to support strategic growth of small to medium sized enterprises through mentoring, workshops and peer to peer collaboration. Developed by business consultancy Versio the programme is designed to encourage businesses to see their high growth potential. Details of the programme can be found at: www.versio.com Plymouth Investment Guide launched with a bang The new Plymouth Investment Guide for Plymouth was launched at the British Firework Championships this year. The guide is a snapshot of why businesses should look at Plymouth and highlights recent and future developments in the city. View the brochure online at: www.plymouth.gov.uk/invest Sign up to be a Social Enterprise pioneer at City College City College Plymouth has announced that it has been chosen to join the FE Pioneers programme to support institutions to find and nurture budding student social entrepreneurs. As well as networking opportunities, sharing best practice and support from Un Ltd the College has been awarded £15,000 to help students looking to develop business ideas with a positive social impact. Enterprise Coaching from Working Links 340 budding entrepreneurs have so far engaged with Working Links Enterprise Coaching since its re-launch in April. The Enterprise Coaching Engagement Team have been making themselves visible within community, spreading the message about the free and intensive support available.

BatterbeeThompson announced winner of NatWest Venus Award for Small Business Congratulations to Jacqui Batterbee, Director of BatterbeeThompson accountants for winning a NatWest Venus Award for the Devon Small Business Category. Batterbee Thompson was also shortlisted for Employer of the Year. We’d like to congratulate Jacqui and her team for this fantastic award.

FEATURES

MEMBERS’ News In brief

200th celebration a success

We’d like to thank all who joined us to celebrate our Chamber 200th Anniversary at our Ball on Friday 20th September.

JD’s Grill record breaking burger To celebrate their First Anniversary JD’s Grill set themselves the challenge of creating Britain’s Biggest Burger. Taking more than 2 hours to cook and 2 people to lift the colossal burger onto the scales the record breaking whopper weighed in at 25lbs! Fairness Commission listens to views Plymouth Fairness Commission will be listening to communities across the city about the inequalities they face via a number of surveys, satellite meetings and select committee hearings. Nine meetings will be held throughout September and October.

The event, held at China Fleet Country club and sponsored by Plymouth CityCoach was a huge success with over 140 guests from the local business community joining us in celebration. The evening included a champagne reception, unicycle fire jugglers and stilt walkers and a delicious three course meal before our charity auction to raise funds for our six selected Chamber200 Charities. We’d like to say thank you to the

following people and businesses for their support: • David Fitzgerald of BBC Radio Devon – our fantastic compere for the evening • Our venue China Fleet Country Club • Our sponsors Plymouth CityCoach, without whom our event wouldn’t have been possible • Local historian Chris Robinson for his interesting and insightful pre- dinner speech The following businesses for their donations of prizes for the auction:

1000 Club shows results

Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace Plymouth Community Healthcare have teamed up with Engage Workplace to hold a ‘Health and Wellbeing in the workplace’ seminar at Tamar Science Park on 29th October. The seminar will include talks from Dr Craig Knight, a Chartered occupational psychologist and Steve Scott, Chair of MIND South West. The free seminar will highlight ways to improve the working environment. Chamber Member survey Plymouth Chamber of Commerce is requesting feedback from all members as part of the annual membership survey. Take part before 4th October to be entered into a prize draw for 4 tickets to the Chamber Christmas Ball, being held at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel on Thursday12th December. Complete the survey online here:

Cornwall College Business becomes approved CIPS centre Cornwall College Business has recently become an approved study centre for the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS). CIPS is a globally recognised industry qualification on procurement and supply management issues. Find out more about the CIPS course at www.ccb.training.co.uk

Plymouth Citycoach, Blades, Bovey Castle, National Marine Aquarium, Drakes Fine Jewellers, Roger Young, Ocean BMW, Princess Yachts, the Serge Betsen Academy, River Cottage Canteen, Brian Pollard, Exeter Race Course, Brittany Ferries, Plymouth Albion and Envy Hair salon. Guests enjoyed music by local band DeciBelle, before dancing away to a DJ and enjoying some spectacular anniversary Fireworks at the end of the evening.

The 1000 club, originally set up to give young people a taste of work, has reached a milestone. Over 1,093 young people, like Rosie have now had the chance to work. Having studied for a degree in music Rosie Hunter found herself unemployed and claiming Jobseekers Allowance. Having previously worked in the hospitality

sector Rosie was keen to work in an office environment and through conversations with her Jobcentre Plus (JCP) advisor they agreed that Voluntary Work Experience would be a good way of gaining valuable experience and an employer reference in this field. Gary West, an Employment Advisor at Devonport JCP contacted Michelle Cole, Community Engagement Manager at Mi-Space and explained Rosie’s circumstances. Having previously worked successfully with Jobcentre Plus Michelle was more than happy to help out. An interview was arranged for Rosie to meet Michelle and following this Rosie was offered a voluntary office work experience placement. Rosie enjoyed the variety of work, training and the working environment, giving positive feedback to her advisor. Michelle and other staff in the local Mi-space office were very impressed with Rosie’s ability, enthusiasm and keenness to learn during her four week placement. As a result of her positive attitude and commitment during her placement, Rosie was offered a permanent position with the company as a Site Administrator. Rosie said: “When I started my placement I never really expected it to result in a full time position, but I really enjoyed working with the team at Mi-Space and I didn’t hesitate in accepting their offer. At one point during my placement I had to commute from Tiverton to Plymouth via train on a daily basis, but now I have a full time position in Plymouth I have been able to rent my own place here. I’d like to thank Mi-Space and everyone in the team for making me feel so welcome and hopefully now I can repay their faith in me.”

NEWS

Get ahead in your career with Coaching A new initiative has been launched by Plymouth Chamber of Commerce, introducing coaching surgeries run by members. The coaches involved are all highly experienced coaching practitioners who will be available for sessions with members. What is Coaching? Coaching partners clients and coaches in a thought provoking and creative process, aimed to inspire clients to maximise their personal and professional potential. Coaches are trained to listen, observe and customize their approach to individual client needs, and their job is to provide support to enhance the skills, resources and creativity that the client already has. The Chamber coaching sessions will help you as a business person ask the right questions, to lead to the right answers for you, helping you develop in your personal and professional life. The Chamber coaching surgery currently involves 4 experienced coaches, each with a different approach and skill set designed to suit a range of needs.

Coaches involved include: Steve Scott, an experienced personal and management coach, trainer and Master NLP Practitioner with 39 years background in senior management and coaching. Liza Booth, an experienced, inspirational and motivational coach and mentor who is passionate about using coaching as a tool to unlock and empower great performance in individuals and teams. Chris Reedthomas, a coach with more than 30 years’ experience in helping people to develop their skills and be more effective in the workplace. And Chris Menlove-Platt, a coach and trainer who enjoys using Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) with 25 years’ experience in leadership positions and a range of other development tools Chris is a Master NLP Practitioner, NLP Coach Practitioner and NLP Trainer. For more information about the coaching sessions available and to read more about the coaches involved in the surgery sessions visit www.plymouth-chamber.co.uk and click on Training.

Want your business on the fast track? Superb opportunities for innovative businesses and start-ups at Tamar Science Park in Plymouth.

•

"Easy In/ Easy Out" with one month's notice

•

Superfast broadband

With services ranging from £100 pcm, there has never been a better opportunity to get your business moving.

•

Conference Centre for 100 delegates

•

Free parking

For further details or a no obligation viewing please contact Chris Houlden Telephone 01752 764436 or email choulden@tamarsciencepark.com

www.tamarsciencepark.com

engage workplace Engage Workplace are committed to bringing new and innovative products to the South West, that improve the health & wellbeing of people in the workplace. Contour Rollermouse® is a unique alternative to the traditional mouse and is proven to alleviate the symptoms of RSI and Upper Limb Disorders

We deliver measurable improvements by identifying, agreeing and implementing workplace adjustments that positively impact business results. From individual ergonomic and DSE assessments to full refurbishment of the working environment, Engage Workplace provides a total solution.

w w w . e n g a g e p d . c o m

*subject to availability. T&C’s apply.

Successful applicants announced for first Social Enterprise Grants National Awarding Organisation apt awards, based in Plymouth, has announced the successful applicants for its first Social Enterprise Grants. The grants form part of apt awards’ commitment to the reinvestment of profits to achieve their social enterprise objectives. These objectives include; widening participation, improving the quality and flexibility of education provision and improving access to learning opportunities. The successful bidders include Cornish social enterprise Nature Workshops, Gloucestershire Christian-based youth service The Door Youth Project, and Gloucestershire youth information and support service InfoBuzz. Nature Workshops will use the grant to support its work with vulnerable adults, delivering quality accredited training to improve well-being and life chances for learners, using the natural world as the classroom. The Door Youth Project will use the grant to employ a team of qualified and experienced teachers and youth workers, responsible for

delivering all of their training programmes, and specifically the tutors that deliver their retail and woodwork programmes. The Project will especially target those that are 18+ and at a risk of a life of long-term unemployment. InfoBuzz plan to use their grant to deliver single credit Level 1 unites to the most disadvantaged young people, tackling issues relevant to their lives. Christine Bullock, Chief Executive of apt awards said: “Operating as a social enterprise means that social, educational and environmental purposes are at the heart of what we do, and we are delighted to support the social enterprise activities of our approved centres. I only wish we had sufficient funds to help all who applied, it was a very difficult decision as every project was so worthwhile.” The grants are part of apt awards’ commitment to operating as a Social Enterprise and are a component of its recognition by the Social Enterprise Mark, the only UK body to independently prove an organisation puts at least 50% of its profits towards social or environmental good.

NEWS

Skills Group Pioneers App for Apprentices Plymouth based Skills Group is launching its own apprenticeship app, enabling potential apprentices to receive and register for the latest job vacancies directly on their smart phone. Skills Group is one of the largest independent providers of apprenticeship programmes in the country and is continuously expanding its programmes for both employers and 16-18 year old apprentices. Aiming to be at the forefront of helping young people decide on the right way forward for their future career, Skills Group is breaking new ground and has launched their app ‘Apprenticeships4me’ for smart phones, which will make it even easier for potential apprentices to have the very latest information on programmes and job opportunities at their fingertips. The app has been developed specifically for Skills Group and is designed to ensure that young people looking for apprenticeships in the South West can easily find the latest apprenticeship vacancies and are able to register their interest for any vacancy immediately. The app will allow constant updating and will also feature competitions, the latest ‘How to’

videos and up to date information from Skills Group on the training and related matters. Mark Boulting, Managing Director of Skills Group commented: “We are very keen to break new ground in the training industry and reach out in every way we can to young people so that they can be well informed about the huge number of apprentice opportunities open to them. This new app will make it really easy for all the latest information to be at young people’s fingertips at a very important time in their lives.” The app was commissioned after marketing consultants for Skills Group, Sigma Marketing & Advertising Ltd highlighted research which showed that 75% of young people have smart phones and are increasingly using them on the go for all aspects of their lives. The app was designed and developed by Sadie Oliver of Plymouth-based SO Inspired (UK) Ltd, an online media company.

MEMBERS’ News In brief

ABC Café reopens with ‘real food’ ethos On 21st August the ABC Café, located at Plymouth Airport Business Park has re-launched with the assistance of Outset Finance, an organisation that helps business starters in Plymouth to access funding. ABC’s menu is almost entirely made on the premises and freshly prepared to order by the owner, trained chef Kamil Bielinski. New Director for Drakes Jewellers Local jewellery group, Drakes Jewellers have appointed a new Director, Jennifer Manning. The company’s first Director outside of the family, Jennifer will be working alongside the existing Directors John & Eva and their children Andrew & Monique. Having been with the company for 10 years Jennifer is delighted with her promotion and is looking forward to driving the company further forward. Monty Halls opens new Dive Museum in Plymouth Yacht Haven Quay’s Dry Stack marina in Plymouth is now home to a Dive Museum, which house a Davy Jones’ locker packed full of amazing artefacts and curios which have been recovered from the sea by former Royal Marine and Commercial diver Ray Ives. Monty Halls officially opened ‘Ray’s place’ on Thursday 22nd August.

MORE THAN JUST ACCOUNTANTS FIND OUT MORE BY CONTACTING US : TELEPHONE: 0845 004 0400

EMAIL: info@parkhurst-hill.co.uk

www.parkhurst-hill.co.uk

FEATURES

Boosting the lo How local procurement practices are working to improve Plymouthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business environment

ocal economy: Buying locally is a key element to improving our local economy, in this feature we lift the lid on the ongoing work that has been taking place to improve local procurement within Plymouth and the South West. The Plymouth Procurement Forum was set up in 2009 to encourage collaboration between Plymouth’s public and private sectors, creating the right environment for both sectors to collaborate. Alongside the creation of the Forum, Sell2Plymouth, a web based portal for procurement, was created by Plymouth University and made available with the purpose of advising businesses of tender opportunities with key public sector organisations in the city. Steve Scott, Chairman of Plymouth Procurement Forum and Chamber Director explains: “The key message about local procurement is that money spent with local businesses stays in the local economy, creating positive benefits for jobs’ growth and prosperity. The difficult economic conditions that we’re experiencing means that buyers of products and services are increasingly aware of what they spend, how they spend it and the potential impact this has on the local and wider community.” Figures from the Plymouth Procurement Forum show that local authorities have taken the lead in stimulating growth in the economy by encouraging a greater proportion of local businesses in their economic development strategy, buying more goods and services locally and working with prime contractors to encourage greater supplier diversity and best practice for areas of importance to smaller local businesses, for example ensuring the flow down of prompt payment terms. Steve continued: “The Plymouth Procurement

Forum recognises that the tendering process can be daunting, time consuming and provides no guarantee of success, however the Forum is working hard to continue to provide tender training programmes to help those new to tendering, or who want to be more successful.” “Regular ‘Meet the Buyer’ events are organised by the Devon and Cornwall Procurement Partnership organisations where businesses are able to meet local authority and other public sector procurement teams to establish relationships and better understand the buyers’ requirements.” A recently published report by Plymouth City Council shows that Plymouth Procurement Forum has spent an extra £53m in the last year buying goods and services from local suppliers. Plymouth City Council and Plymouth Community Homes spent over £65m with local businesses in 2012/13 compared to £12.3m the previous year. To date nearly 6,000 businesses have registered on the Sell2Plymouth procurement portal, so that they are able to receive tender alerts for relevant opportunities. Steve also went on to explain: “The Plymouth Procurement Forum has been encouraging other local authority and government departments to use Sell2Plymouth in order to alert suppliers of tender opportunities. The hope is that once this is happening, the net effect will be to increase the potential business available, so if businesses aren’t already registered they may be missing out on opportunities.” Plymouth Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Small Businesses, key members of the Plymouth Procurement Forum are keen to encourage local authorities to improve their procurement process further by identifying trends and communicating the practices that would make the tendering process easier for small businesses.

Speaking of the benefits of local procurement for small businesses Lesley Shorrocks, Chair of the Plymouth Federation of Small Businesses said: “I am looking forward to hearing more about the specific details of the extra £53 million local business which has been generated, as I am sure both the buyers and sellers involved will want to encourage further good practice by sharing their advice.”

“After a great deal of hard work by the Chamber and the FSB in recent years on this issue, it’s gratifying to see that key local organisations are getting to grips with supporting expert local companies by buying local, rather than just assume that the ‘big boys’ are the only ones who can deliver the right goods and services at the right price.” Steve said: “It’s hoped that the lessons learned thus far can be replicated by local business buyers adopting a local procurement strategy to drive the local economy further and create more jobs. The onus is on all businesses, not just local authorities, to adopt a ‘think local’ approach.”

What you need to know about Sell2Plymouth: What is it? Sell2Plymouth is a partnership between Plymouth’s public sector buyers and local support agencies including Plymouth Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Small Businesses. The purpose of the site is to promote business relationships between micro and small businesses and the public sector. The public sector partners using the site have committed to provide businesses with opportunities to tender for contracts for good and services in one place, using a standard set of procedures. How does it work for businesses? Registration on the Sell2Plymouth site is free for all businesses Following registration your business details and answers to the Business Registration Questionnaire will be available to the involved public sector bodies: Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust, Plymouth University and University of St Mark and St John.

All public sector bodies will be able to access your details whenever they have a requirement for the goods/services which you have expressed an interest in without the need for you to resubmit any details. Public sector bodies will also be able to search the database for suppliers and you may then be invited to tender or quote for work.

Scan the QR code to register your business on Sell2Plymouth now

18 THE GREEN COLUMN

FEATURES

A Little of What You Fancy by Jackie Young

National Marine Aquarium and Langage Farm join forces with closed loop recycling

I always enjoy Plymouth’s ‘Flavour Fest’ and the showcase it provides for local producers and suppliers. The event clearly celebrates everything good about Plymouth’s emerging role as a food hub with a lucrative future and high profile interest in our hospitality trade. For many Chamber members, this will have real meaning as, from production and supply through to catering and disposal, food is clearly an everyday necessity and something we have grown used to. The environmental impact of food is equally dynamic and can also be the subject of ongoing challenges we often overlook. Much of this dynamism is based on individual tastes. If, for example, you favour organic produce, it is worrying that an increasing number of organic farmers are abandoning this option. If choices such as organic, Fairtrade and local are to be economically viable the growers and suppliers will need our continuing support as customers. Food ‘waste’ adds another completely different dimension to the industry but, again, is something we don’t really think about. The UK disposes of £16 million tonnes of food waste a year at a cost of £22 billion but, amazingly, one third of that food never sees a supermarket shelf. We all end up paying for this as landfilling is expensive and it adds to local greenhouse gas footprints. Alternatives, such as Zero to Landfill or the use of food waste to create energy are therefore always welcomed. Food poverty is also on the rise. The recent recession has created an unprecedented demand for help with food supplies and local food banks have never been busier. Any effort to redistribute unused but in date food should therefore be supported and the work of the Devon & Cornwall Food Association and other food charities should be celebrated. So, from the simplest projects to the more complex implications for procurement and supply, the future of food, its quality and its sustainability are constant reminders that, along with energy, we cannot take resources for granted. Choose wisely and enjoy!

The National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth is working in partnership with nearby Langage Farm in a unique environmental initiative that has seen the Aquarium become the first leisure attraction in the UK to use a closed loop recycling system for all food waste.

Visitors to the Aquarium have been able to sample ice-cream and frozen yogurt at the on-site Langage Farm Moo Bar since April 2012, but the partnership also extends to the use of the state of the art anaerobic digestion facility which is owned and operated by the farm. In an initiative that was launched last summer, all food waste generated by visitors and staff at the Aquarium – both from the Moo Bar and the Aquarium’s other catering facilities - are collected by local waste management firm Alpha Logic and sent direct to the Langage Farm digestor. Here, waste is broken down by natural bacteria, producing both a natural gas, used to power the farm’s generators, and an organic fertiliser which is then used to enrich the soil on the farm. This in turn produces lush grazing for

A very well deserved retirement! After 47 years of loyal service, Keith Butcher has retired from Drakes Jewellers, Plymouth. Keith joined Drakes, the family led jewellery business in 1966 as a young sales assistant. Keith went on to become a N.A.G qualified valuer for Drakes, bringing together his knowledge and experience to become an expert within the field. His wealth of knowledge and customer care didn’t go unnoticed as he went on to become Store Manager at Plymouth Silversmiths. Most recently, Keith took on the role of Development Manager for Drakes, a role perfectly suited to Keith’s extensive knowledge. In his words, “If I could have one wish, it would be to return to 1966 and do it all again.”

Keith not only enjoyed learning and developing his skills within the business but equally thrived on interaction with his customers. Andrew Hirshman (Drakes Director) comments, “Keith had a great rapport both with his customers and the Drakes team alike. He is a great character, a legend in fact”. Monique Hirshman (Drakes Director) comments, “It has been a pleasure working with Keith over the years and his dedication to the job is second to none. Everyone has learnt so much from him and he will always be a friend of Drakes and our family.”

RECIPE COLUMN

Langage’s herd of over 250 Jersey and Guernsey cows, allowing them to continue to supply the Aquarium and other outlets with a range of cream, ice cream and yogurt. The Aquarium was the first leisure attraction in the UK to operate a closed loop system of this kind to deal with its food and organic waste. Dr David Gibson, Managing Director of the National Marine Aquarium, said: “We are very proud to be part of such an exciting initiative, and one which is making our business here much more sustainable in line with one of our major aims – the understanding and management of human impact on the environment, whether that is out at sea or closer to home.

“Partnering with Langage Farm means that none of our food waste is sent to landfill, whilst at the same time as ensuring that our visitors have access to the best ice creams and frozen yogurt at the Moo Bar. Sharing the use of the digestor facilities really benefits both businesses” Paul Winterton, General Manager at Langage Farm, added: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the National Marine Aquarium. We have been using our closed loop system ourselves for some time, so are well aware of the benefits it can bring. It was great to welcome another local business to use the system, especially a high profile leisure attraction – it just goes to show that all businesses can be made more sustainable in how they manage their waste.”

Marrow & Ginger Chutney @ Bistro One Gardening has been the staple of many a family for generations, my father has been at it since just after the war! I recently looked after a Broad Bean plant for a friend on holiday and harvested plenty for Bistro One. This set me to thinking about the vegetables we cook at Bistro One. Most of our stuff comes from the excellent Tamar View Fruiters in Saltash who provide Lemons, Oranges, Limes, Avocados etc that cannot be produced in the UK. The rest of their repertoire is mainly sourced in the Westcountry, keeping their Carbon footprint low and their spend local! My other supplier is the fabulous Diggin It, a charity working with people who need a hand on the way up, situated near to Stoke Damerel School in Stoke. It’s an inspirational place and every time I go to pick up fruit and veg I want to stay! Tomatoes, Courgettes, Pumpkins and Marrows are coming into season, enabling us to create Mediterranean influenced dishes, Chutneys and Relishes well into the Autumn. Ingredients (To make about 6lb or 2.4Kg) 1.5Kg Marrow 50g Salt 350g Muscovado Sugar 450g peeled and chopped Bramley Apple 250g chopped onion 50 g chopped or grated ginger root – more if you like it hot! 225g best dried fruit 1 teaspoon mixed spice 570ml cider or wine vinegar

• • • • • • • • •

Method Peel the marrow and remove seeds. Cut into medium sized chunks Layer chopped marrow and salt alternatively in bowl for 24 hours in fridge Drain, rinse dry with kitchen paper In a large non-reactive pan place all the ingredients except the marrow and the sugar Cover with the cider vinegar and bring to the boil, continue to cook for 30mins on low heat Add marrow and sugar; continue cooking for about one hour on low heat, stirring occasionally until it reduces to a lightish sticky consistency Decant into sterilized jars and seal, leave for around one month in a cool place Once opened consume within one month.

• • • • • •

No w

• •

This recipe is excellent with cheese or cold cuts of meat, or as present for your friends or family. Label and personalise for a thoughtful gift – we will…! Bistro One is doing its best to reduce its Carbon Footprint by purchasing local produce, and helping a local charity fulfil its aims. Stephen Barrett is a Wine and Food Writer and Restaurateur based at his restaurant Bistro One in Plymouth’s Ebrington Street, for reservations and menus go to www.bistro-one.co.uk

In honour of Keith’s service to Drakes, a celebratory meal was held for him at Chloe’s restaurant in Plymouth on Friday 2nd August, with all of the Drakes team in attendance. Everyone enjoyed an evening full of heartfelt speeches, reminiscing and laughter. Keith was presented with gifts as a thank you for all that he has done for the business.

John Hirshman (Drakes Managing Director) comments, “Keith’s incredible knowledge and fantastic customer service has made him an asset to our business and we will all miss him. I would like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to Keith; two little words with a long meaning behind them!”

FEATURES

Growing Social Enterprise Sector a mark of confidence in Plymouth Plymouth’s annual Social Enterprise City Festival will take place from 18-24 November, cementing the city’s reputation as a global leader in social enterprise. Now in its third year, the festival was further developed in 2012, following a debate hosted by the Plymouth Social Enterprise Network (PSEN), Real Ideas Organisation (RIO) and the Royal Society for Arts, bringing together city leaders and entrepreneurs to discuss “Social Enterprise City – how, what and why?”

At the time hosts of the debate perhaps felt it would just be an interesting evening out. However, within a context where the PSEN now has over 100 members, employing around 7,000 people in the city with a combined turnover in excess of half a billion pounds, Plymouth University now the national leading centre for social enterprise, flagship projects such Devonport Guildhall and the Venture business support programme, Plymouth’s status as a hot bed of social enterprise is without question. Gareth Hart, Chair of Plymouth Social Enterprise Network said “Plymouth is a globally leading social enterprise city. The University is the world’s first officially certified ‘social enterprise’ university and our network is one of the most active in the UK. The Social Enterprise City Festival is a fantastic showcase and is unique in the country.”

Tim Culverhouse, Partner at Francis Clark LLP said: “The social enterprise sector is continuing to see fantastic signs of growth both in existing businesses and start ups in what is a recovering economy. “The collaboration between policymakers divesting of local delivery of public services, entrepreneurial individuals with great ideas and ambitions, and consumer desires for optimum spending on products and services which have social or environmental impact, are all creating a rapidly developing sector. “The festival is a great way to learn more and get involved with social enterprise and I would urge people to come along to find out more.” Ed Whitelaw, Lead Developer for RIO – a leading social enterprise based at Devonport Guildhall – said: “The growth of social enterprise business and the Social Enterprise City Festival in Plymouth provides an example where the relationship between confidence and growth are shown so explicitly:

confident people spend, confident businesses invest and create jobs, and confident investors put their money where their mouth is. “RIO is delighted to support the Social Enterprise City Festival, which will be bigger and better than ever before, and will put Plymouth firmly on the map as a global leader in the field.” Building on this confidence and success, Plymouth is now expecting to be officially recognised by Social Enterprise UK as a national ‘social enterprise city’the first of its kind in the country. For more information on Plymouth’s Social Enterprise City Festival, 18-24 November 2013, and its bid to be nationally recognised by Social Enterprise UK please visit www.Plymsocent.org.uk

SMALL BUSINESS

Covering All the Bases (in Employment Law)

Dominic Tucker from Howard & Over LLP explains how small businesses can benefit by understanding and implementing employment law best practise in the workplace.

won a case claiming he was unfairly dismissed as a “whistleblower”. • A teacher in Blackpool won his case and was awarded £63,000 for unfair dismissal after imposing discipline on a disruptive pupil. The disciplined pupil claimed that she was treated unfairly, which cost the science teacher his position. • A worker in a wheelchair who was nicknamed “Ironside” after the disabled 1970s TV detective won a £6,000 payout for his “violated dignity”. The claimant took the company to a tribunal after finding out about his nickname. The Employment Tribunal accepted 186,300 claims for the year 2011-2012. The average award for unfair dismissal was £9133. Disability discrimination provided an average award of £22,183. Race Discrimination equated to an average sum of £102,259! “One size fits” all does not apply to employment relationships as different employees are in different trades and professions with exposure for your business in terms of liability for employee negligence, damage to your business’s reputation (especially via social media) or loss of customer lists/trade secrets. What happens when procedures are not followed? • The Royal Cornwall hospital had to pay out £1.2 million to its former chief executive after he

The most common reasons for unfavourable tribunal rulings against employers are: • Failure to have in place adequate policies and procedures; • Failure to follow the procedures they have in place; • Failure to carry out full and thorough investigation; • Failure to allow representation, give proper notice; & • Disproportionate sanction. The parameters of the employment relationship change with developments in the law. For example,

in recent case law an employer was unable to recover a payment in lieu of notice when he became aware of negligence on the part of the employee as there was no clawback provision in the contract of employment. Social Media policy is an up and coming area. Can you deal with cyber-slacking, i.e. employees using company computers to access social media sites in working time? Do you have a clear policy? Carefully drafted documentation can protect a business. A recent case involving no other than Apple involved an employee who was dismissed for posting derogatory comments on Facebook. The employee’s induction training was comprehensive. It included training on the social media policy which stated that employees should not display commentary about the company’s policies or services on personal websites. The policy was clear that any violation could result in disciplinary action. The tribunal found in Apple’s favour as it was entitled to protect its commercial reputation. A contract cannot cover every situation. An employer will not always come up with the correct solution. However, there is a neat solution known as a settlement agreement. A settlement agreement is a legally binding document signed off by the employer and employee to provide for a financial settlement in return for the employee being barred from bringing employment claims against the employer. In any event, effective contractual drafting can prevent problems arising in the first place.

Lesley Shorrocks, MD of Sigma Marketing & Advertising Ltd

01752 551 888

www.taxassist.co.uk/plymouth

1 – Keep reviewing your marketplace, plans and activities – just because you had a plan when you started your business, it doesn’t mean it’s the same now. 2 – Set marketing budgets against your objectives and know what your total spend is. 3 – Ensure you and your staff know exactly who your customers are, where they are coming from and how their needs are changing. 4 – Be aware of news and current affairs and what your industry competitors are up to. 5 – Buy in marketing, design or advertising expertise – you are unlikely to be an expert in everything. 6 – There’s still a reason to understand the concept of ‘the marketing mix’ - you need to consider the suitability of all promotional channels. 7 – Cheap advertising deals invariably come at a high price in the long run, so don’t be seduced by a good sales person. WHAT ABOUT YOUR OWN TIPS? If you’d like to share your advice here email chamberlink@plymouth-chamber.co.uk

PERSONALITIES

Spotlight on: Charlotte Williams SPOTLIGHT ON: Charlotte Williams; Employer Engagement Specialist for Pluss. Tell us a bit about yourself and your background? I’m Charlotte Williams; I’m the Employer Engagement Specialist for Pluss covering Devon. Prior to this I worked for Pluss as an Employment Consultant for six years. My background is in nursing and I am a qualified Nurse. Pluss is a large social enterprise that specialises in supporting people with disabilities and other disadvantages into work across the South West. In the last year we’ve helped over 5,000 people into and towards work. We currently work with over 1,600 employers of all sizes. As a social enterprise Pluss is always seeking to create social value, rather than dividends, so all our profits are reinvested into providing specialist services to help those that need support in finding work. What does your role at Pluss cover? My role involves meeting employers to explain the free support we offer and build good working partnerships. It’s really important that we understand the needs of businesses so that we can find the perfect people for their vacancies, who are all pre-screened. We can offer free trials for up to 3 weeks so candidates can demonstrate

their skills and employers can see if they are right for the business. We offer extensive in-work support, as well as many other services for both businesses and job seekers. Tell us what you enjoy most about your role and working with Pluss? I really enjoy meeting new people and learning about their businesses. It is rewarding to see people excel at work and have satisfied employers. I have witnessed so many times how work can change people’s lives for the better; job seekers have said that it gives them confidence and a better quality of life. People with disabilities (approximately 1 in 5 people in the UK) tend to have better attendance and health safety records. They are also more likely to stay with an employer for longer, saving time and money on recruitment and training. People with disabilities understand the needs of your disabled customers, who have an estimated spending power of £80 billion a year. I can help employers to increase the diversity of their workforce and with Corporate Social Responsibility aims.

What plans have you got coming up for Pluss that we should know about? I want to attend as many events as possible to promote the work we do and learn more about local businesses and the economy. Pluss will continue to deliver the specialist employment programme Work Choice on behalf of the DWP, supported by the European Social Fund, and develop innovative methods of support. What’s your favourite thing about living and working in Plymouth? Plymouth is such a great city, with a diverse population and beautiful surroundings. I enjoy a stroll around the Barbican, lunch in one of the many excellent restaurants and a swim in the outdoor lido! Businesses in Plymouth are friendly and try and help by offering work experience opportunities and letting me know when they have a vacancy. If you are interested in finding out more about Pluss, or just generally about good practice in diverse employment please give me a call on 07770937549 or email charlotte.williams@pluss.org.uk. I look forward to meeting more of you at the Chamber events!

PERSONALITIES

20 Years of Making a Splash HOW I GOT STARTED: Dean Bennett, MD of China Fleet Country Club, started out on a month’s work experience placement in 1995.

When I first started I was working at China Fleet after college for £45 a week. I’d always been interested in fitness and really enjoyed my time there (as well as the extra beer money!). Following my placement I gained my National Pool Lifeguard qualification and got a job there as a casual lifeguard. Over time I became a full-time lifeguard and started to gain more and more fitness qualifications. After a few years at China Fleet I decided to explore pastures new and left to work for a large fitness chain as a fitness instructor and personal trainer. Several years later I wanted to progress into management and knew there were some great opportunities at China Fleet so applied for a job as Duty Leisure Manager and got it. Day-to-day I was managing the fitness suite and, as you’d expect in those days, there was a lot of aerobics classes and neon Lycra. Looking back I find it amazing how much our fitness offer has grown over the years – now we have over 40 different exercise classes from Zumba to Body Combat and our gym equipment is the most technologically advanced in the UK. Not bad for a gym in Saltash! Soon after becoming Duty Leisure Manager I gained my NEBOSH Health and Safety qualification and took over the responsibility for Health and Safety at the club. This is something that every organisation wants to get right and I made sure each and every staff member was fully trained and up-to-date. After a couple of years as Deputy Leisure Manager I was promoted to Support Manager and soon after I was asked to become Hotel & Facilities Director. This meant, in addition to managing the fitness suite, I played an integral role in developing our hotel, golf, and conference offering. It was a lot more responsibility but the whole team had a real vision for the future of China Fleet and how we could create an even better experience for our members. Whilst in this position I saw our leisure club membership increase, our golf course become one of the most respected courses in the area and we have played host to a wide range of local businesses big and small in our excellent conferencing facilities. My next step up the ladder was as Deputy General Manager and then several months later I was given the role of Managing Director, which I have been doing for more than a year. Throughout my years at China Fleet I’ve seen the club go from strength to strength. By continually investing in staff and facilities we’ve achieved significant growth year on year. I am fortunate to have a great team of just under 200 staff to help me achieve the high standards I set and provide our visitors, guests and members with a great experience. Who’d have thought this lifeguard would have made such a splash!

NEWS

Transformation for iconic city building Plumer House, the former Land Registry office in Crownhill, will soon be transformed. Owners Plymouth Community Homes (PCH), the city’s largest social housing provider, plan to re-clad the entire building and create a new help centre for its tenants and leaseholders.

This £1.8 million construction project, which began during the summer, is due to be completed by next March. The exciting scheme will deliver a multi-purpose building for customers, staff and the wider community. In July, PCH won planning consent for the refurbishment from Plymouth City Council. Here’s what customers and residents can look forward to once work is finished: • A new customer-focused reception area with five meeting rooms, an internet zone with five computers, a waiting space for visitors and a space for children to play • An impressive new contact centre housing customer service staff • A meeting room for community groups • A brighter white and grey cladded exterior which appears similar to natural slate replacing the drab brown cladding • Coloured vinyl fitting with the PCH brand placed over certain windows • A large new galvanised steel canopy entrance with prominent signage welcoming visitors. The signs are to be made at the PCH manufacturing store in Prince Rock • A new landscaped open space with seating sprucing up the entrance across from Farm Foods • A new gym with exercise bikes, treadmills and weights Clive Turner, PCH Chief Executive, said: “It’s exciting to see the building work commence. “We are focusing our money on ensuring a highquality space for our customers to come and visit.

Proposed elevations for the Plumer House development

“This also brings together many of our staff under one roof so we expect benefits for communications and dealing with customer queries. “The purchase and refurbishment makes good economic sense, saving the cost of renting office space in the city centre and Derriford. “This is a great investment which provides great value for money for PCH and enables us to build on our success over the last four years. “The external appearance will also improve dramatically with new cladding and landscaping. “I hope the new offices help sustain local shops in Crownhill.” In February 2012, PCH purchased the site for £2.85 million from the Land Registry. Around eight months later, staff began transferring to Plumer House. By the time construction is completed, more than 500 PCH staff members are due to be based there. Plumer House is not currently open to the public, but it will be when the work is finished. The five-storey 80,000 sq ft building is one of the largest workplaces in Plymouth. The site has been used for a church, a magistrates’ court and a training camp for US soldiers during the Second World War. After a tender process last summer, architects Lacey Hickie and Caley (LHC), which employs more than 50 staff across studios in Royal William Yard, Exeter and Southampton, was appointed the project designer. Founded in 1992, the company has designed a wide range of buildings in the city including the National Marine Aquarium and the refurbishment of Plymouth College of Art and Design.

Nigel Blackman, Plymouth-based director of LHC, said: “Plumer House is one of Plymouth’s largest buildings. Our scheme will transform its appearance making it one of the most striking offices in the city. “The outcome will be a revitalised and refreshed building that provides a customer- focused service reception for PCH’s tenants and business partners. “By retaining or repairing the major elements of Plumer House that still have a viable lifespan, replacing those that are life expired and upgrading the building’s exterior, a highly-sustainable refurbishment has been developed. “Throughout the project, we have enjoyed working with both staff and the project steering group. It has been an interesting journey but as we start on site, PCH’s vision and resolve to create quality facilities for customers and staff is as strong as the day we started.” Interserve Construction Ltd, also based in Royal William Yard, will work on the refurbishment and the Bailey Partnership, of the Millfields, will oversee the move programme of staff.

Clive Turner, PCH chief executive

Meet Nora Senior, President of British Chambers of Commerce Tell us a bit about yourself: In addition to my role with the BCC, I’m the Executive Chair of global public relations firm, Weber Shandwick, with responsibility for overseeing our operations in the UK Regions, Ireland and the Nordics. I personally manage day-to-day coordination of a number of international accounts, building brands and market share via UK, North America, and EMEA and have worked with major brands such as Coca Cola; Microsoft; RBS; Glenmorangie and Shell. Previously I founded my own startup PR company and was also Managing Director of Saatchi & Saatchi (North). I am a member of the Regional Advisory Group to the London Stock Exchange and a former Scottish Businesswoman of the Year. How do you feel your background will benefit BCC and its members? My career in PR has brought me into contact with a wide range of sectors – from technology, healthcare, finance, construction and infrastructure, to food and drink – so I think that I have a fairly comprehensive overview of most sectors and the issues they face. Working with BCC and local Chambers I think that I am well placed to understand and represent the views of a wide range of the business community. My experience starting up a business and then merging it into a larger organisation has also given me a good insight into the challenges and issues young enterprises face. And my understanding of and connection with media – I was given the terrific accolade of First Woman of UK Media in June this year – so hopefully I can bring some of that experience to the table to positively promote the important role that accredited Chambers play in business growth and in local communities What are your plans for BCC? Working with a global company that has over 130 offices worldwide, I see the huge opportunities that are presented by international trade development, so getting more companies into exports is one of the key areas that I want to focus on. Chambers of Commerce are the largest private sector providers of international trade support, and we will continue to raise the profile of this core service that Chambers provide. Skills and young people are equally important areas that I wish to focus on. Businesses often tell me that they struggle with finding young people who are workplace-ready.

We will continue to lobby government to not lose sight of the soft skills that all employees need when setting the education curriculum. What current issues and challenges do you feel are having the most impact on UK businesses and how do BCC plan to address them? There is still not enough support for businesses looking to export, or for those companies who export already but who are looking to break into new markets. Chambers of Commerce across the UK stand ready to help provide export advice and seminars to businesses looking to take their goods and services overseas. At a national level, the British Chambers of Commerce will continue to put pressure on the government to provide more on the ground support for UK exporters. Bank lending continues to be a challenge and we will be lobbying both the Government and the banks to encourage them to support growing business. The lack of superfast broadband in all areas of the country is also a challenge that needs to be addressed to ensure the UK is able to take full advantage of the new digital economy. Plenty to keep us busy as we strive every day to represent the views of business!

Did you know? The British Chambers of Commerce and the accredited Chamber Network run Britain’s most influential private business survey – the BCC Quarterly Economic Survey. • The QES is Britain’s biggest, and longest-running, private business survey. • It’s provided consistent data since 1989, and regularly receives more than 7,000 business responses. Compare that to the average business survey, which garners a few hundred responses. • It’s a leading indicator – often picking up big changes in the economy long before other surveys or official statistics. • The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee uses the QES as one of its key benchmarks when setting interest rates. • HM Treasury and the Independent Office for Budget Responsibility use the QES to put together their forecasts for the UK’s economic performance. • The European Commission uses the QES to assess the health of the UK economy when it makes policy recommendations for both Westminster and Brussels. • The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) use the QES when comparing the UK to competitors worldwide. The QES is a clear example of how being part of a local Chamber of Commerce means you’re part of something bigger. Together, we are the economy. Your participation in this survey is important. Please contribute to the QES for Q4 2013. To complete the survey online visit: www.britishchambers.org.uk/410/qes-survey.html

SPECIAL FEATURE

Plymouth Chamber

Rebuilding the

200 YEARS IN BUSINESS: The history of Plymouth Chamber is put under the spotlight again in a fifth instal War has long been a major economic driver in the history of the Three Towns – well before the construction of the Dockyard and even the Royal Citadel, war, or the prospect of it, had brought a great deal of work – and a vast number of servicemen - to the area. By the time Neville Chamberlain announced, on 3 September 1939, that we were once again at war, few Plymothians were surprised. Although Ramsay Macdonald, had announced big cuts in the naval

There had been aerial raids on the east of England in the Great War, and with advances in aviation more were to be expected, but here in the sleepy Southwest we were thought to be safe. Children were evacuated from the Home Counties to Plymouth, and the far South West, in their thousands – until, that was, the fall of France afforded the Luftwaffe easy aerial access across all parts of the English Channel. The first raid on Plymouth came at the beginning of July 1940, just weeks after the French capitulation

‘Undoubtedly,’ he added, ‘the Chamber was more fully occupied during the emergency than at any other time in its history, and the many services which it rendered to members were a further indication of the value of such an organization.’ That meeting was held in Goodbody’s Café in Bedford Street, in the town centre – a building, indeed a street, that two months later was reduced to rubble. It Came To Our Door was the apt title adopted by Pat Twyford, the

in 1914, a move prompted by the First World War, the Second World War ripped its heart right out. The local authority could perhaps have done more to save it, but ten years of post-war prevarication by the Admiralty – about how much land were they going to requisition – meant that it was impossible to properly plan anything for the area. As grand new shops took shape around the bold new axis of Royal Parade and Armada Way, so the commercial core of Devonport was left to wither. Very few Devonport

Few fully appreciated to what extent the Southwest would come under fire. programme ten years earlier, the situation, by 1930, was such that the Government was forced to reconsider its decision. Before long, activity in Devonport Dockyard, which had slowed significantly throughout the 1920s, had reached new heights, as one by one, newly built cruisers, destroyers, patrol sloops, minesweepers, and the like slipped into the Hamoaze as Devonport did its bit in helping the Country keep up with the arms race initiated by Germany. Employment opportunities popped up everywhere, not just in the yard and in the services, but in countless satellite businesses. However, few fully appreciated to what extent the Southwest would come under fire.

and the following January, after the eighth raid that month, the chairman of the Incorporated Port of Plymouth Chamber of Commerce, Stanley Gould, spoke of the ‘unprecedented difficulties for trade and commerce.’ Gould was addressing the 128th AGM of the Chamber and his overview referred to how ‘the fall of France and the occupation of the Atlantic sea board from Norway to Spain by the enemy had almost completely severed our trade with the European Continent. The movements of population and the necessary limitation of Supplies Orders had made serious inroads in our home trade, already curtailed in the changeover from peace to war.

Western Morning News and Evening Herald’s war correspondent, for his graphic account of Plymouth’s war years. Altogether the total number of housing casualties in this city alone was over 72,000 – more houses than there were in the city in total, but that’s because many were hit two or three times: of that number over 3,750 were so badly damaged that what was left standing, if anything, was beyond repair. Plymouth suffered its worst raids in March 1941: Devonport, the following month. For the latter the Blitz was truly the final nail in the coffin of this once proud town. Denied its own identity by the Amalgamation of the Three Towns

businesses were rebuilt, as Tozer’s led the exodus into Plymouth’s new City Centre. Meanwhile, whereas there had been around 100 pubs within the confines of ‘old’ Devonport, before the Great War, within 20 years of the end of the Second World War that number had dropped to just 21. Overall however Plymouth prospered. John Beckford, General Manager of Spooners, then one of the city’s leading stores, led the move to have Plymouth’s ravaged commercial heart rebuilt on roughly the same footprint – there had been an early Council notion to relocate to Milehouse. At a business luncheon in March 1942, Beckford, as Chairman of

r of Commerce:

e City

1: Goodbody’s Café, Bedford Street where the Chamber held their AGM in January 1941. 2: March 1941 looking across the bombed out Guildhall and Municipal Buildings where the Chamber had their offices. 3: Rising from the ashes - Royal Parade and Spooner’s new department store.

llment from local historian Chris Robinson. the Mercantile Association said: ‘We are all of us determined that out of its suffering and loss at the present time, there shall arise a more glorious Plymouth of the future. I think all of us are determined that in the rebuilding there shall be no more slums. ‘The claims of Plymouth, too, should be considered as an airport of the future. At the moment the industrial concerns in the city are very small, due to the process of centralisaton which has taken place during the last century, but the claims of Plymouth as an industrial centre should be urged in proper quarters. We should take in the needs of the future and plans should be made so that the city’s population can be increased over a period of years to half a million.’ Beckford was mindful too that ‘communications with Cornwall should certainly be improved, either by a bridge or a tunnel.’ ‘We are,’ he said, ‘presented with a glorious opportunity, let us not throw it away.’ The quest for replacement housing preceded the need for a substitute shopping centre and as new estates sprang up in Ernesettle, Efford and Leigham so Government-backed schemes to attract new factories brought big employers like Tecalemit, Berketex, Rank Bush Murphy and Clarks to the area, employing many thousands in the process. However the bid to rid the city of slums saw rather too many of Plymouth’s historic houses being pulled down and in 1957 the Chamber backed the infant Barbican Trust in its successful but belated campaign to save the Barbican.

All in all though, after the pain of the aerial assault of the early 1940s the ‘you’ve-never-had-it-so-good’ 1950s cast a warm glow over the city – a city that by the end of that decade was boasting one of the most modern shopping centres in the country.

NEW MEMBERS OF PLYMOUTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Document Management or Records management? It’s not difficult to be overwhelmed by the commonest commodity in an office – paper – and what you should do with it. There is often confusion between Document Management and Records Management, as although they do overlap, they are two totally different things. Nicholas Wood from Quickstore gives us some advice and clarification on the two systems. All organisations have a Records Management system, if only by default, whereas Document Management systems are a matter of choice. Most Records Management systems are hard copy and simple but there are instances where they are extremely detailed and require sophisticated management and control if only for compliance issues. What is Document Management? Document Management is the use of computer systems to store, distribute and keep track of both

electronic documents and images of existing paper documents. Since it can – and in most cases needs to – integrate with other applications in an organisation’s activities it can be highly complex. It’s not something to be entered into lightly as it demands total understanding of an organisation’s processes and great discipline both in its implementation and subsequent management, it can also demand significant investment and change management skills. There are plenty of benefits to be made for businesses: • Cost savings on physical storage, filing and retrieval time • Faster access for multiple users of the same document • Wider data access • Security and access control on documents

Suzanne Sparrow 35th Anniversary A celebration was held on Friday 9th August for the 35th Anniversary of the Suzanne Sparrow Language School. Students from all over the world joined the party along with The Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Oliver Colville MP, Councillor Jonathon Drean and representatives from Plymouth University and a variety of Plymouth based companies. Music was provided by RedLine a Breton Band who composed and performed their own songs in English who travelled over from Brest, sponsored by Brest Twinning Association, to play at venues arranged by the Suzanne Sparrow School during the week.

• Faster disaster recovery • It’s Green – less paper and can enable more home working to save commuting costs What is Records Management? Records Management concerns the maintenance of an organisation’s records from creation until disposal. Records have to be kept for businesses as a legal or regulatory requirement, which can mean anything from a few years to 50 in some legal matters. Where the records may have to be consulted from time to time a system for speedy recovery is essential. Paper records consume space, which in an office can be expensive. If you’d like to discuss a proper cost effective solution to any of these issues you can contact Nicholas Wood at Quickstore on 01752 293781 or email Nicholas.wood@quickstore.co.uk

NEW MEMBERS OF PLYMOUTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Look who’s joined! NEW MEMBERS: We’d like to welcome the following businesses who have recently joined Plymouth Chamber of Commerce:

Clean Force 07540 476060 www.cleanforceplymouth.co.uk Plymouth Argyle Football Club 01752 562561 www.pafc.co.uk

British Beds Worldwide 01822 853636 www.britishbedsworldwide.com Whitecross First Aid 07712 816390 www.whitecrossfirstaid.com

David McLean Hypnotherapy 07812 048587 www.davidmcleanhypnotherapy.co.uk Cyan Stationers 01752 724022 www.cyanstationers.co.uk

Jobcentre Plus 01752 618237 Hooemade Cards 01752 480412 www.hooemadecards.com

If you’d like to find out more about how your membership can work harder for you, or want to find out more about the variety of member benefits available to you please contact Rachel or Morven in the Membership Team on 01752 220471.

University of St Mark & St John renew patronage University of St Mark & St John have renewed their patronage with Plymouth Chamber. Celebrating 175 years in education this year the local University has marked their continuing support of Plymouth Chamber and the on-going work that it does in improving the local business environment.

Conference packages from just £29.95 Per delegate*

• Room hire all day • Free on-site parking • Tea, coffee and biscuits • Buffet lunch • Free Wi-Fi • Flip chart, projector & screen • Large screen TV for presentations • Paper, pencils and water

ONLY 6 MILES FROM CITY CENTRE QUIET TRANQUIL ENVIRONMENT 24 HOUR DELEGATE RATE £159 INC VAT BUSINESS ROOM RATE FROM £89.00 PPPN COMFORTABLE BRASSERIE & BAR * Price exclusive of VAT

CONFERENCE . EXHIBITIONS . MEALS . ROOMS . CORPORATE HOSPITALITY

ADAMS LANE . DOWN THOMAS . SOUTH HAMS . DEVON . PL9 0DY

Telephone: 01752 862 358 Email: enquiries@langdoncourt.com WWW.LANGDONCOURT.COM

f t /langdoncourt

EVENTS

WHAT’S ON: Your guide to forth-coming Chamber events. Find out more at www.plymouth-chamber.co.uk NETWORKING Crunchy Breakfast Add some Crunch to your day with the popular Crunchy Breakfast. Sponsored by Lloyds TSB Commercial, the event features interesting presenters who tackle topical city issues. This month delegates will hear from Sarah Edwards from Churchill Global Consultants. Wednesday 02/10/2013 7.30am – 9.00am, National Marine Aquarium TRAINING Getting to grips with Twitter This workshop is aimed at those who keep meaning to get around to investigating Twitter or who may have set up accounts but rarely use them because they don’t want to spend hours tweeting. Wednesday 02/10/2013 9am – 12.30pm, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce TRAINING Getting to grips with Facebook and Linkedin Facebook is the premier global social network, getting your business message out on these networks could be very valuable. This is a practical workshop aimed at helping you focus on your most important customers, what you want to say to them and which network might be best for your business. Wednesday 02/10/2013 1pm – 4.30pm, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce

TRAINING Mastering Social Media Social media is free – but do you know how to use it effectively? This workshop is aimed at those who have already used Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn but want some ideas to improve the results they are getting. Monday 07/10/2013 9.30am – 4.30pm, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce TRAINING NEW: Lobbying This half day course considers the theory and practice of lobbying and public affairs. It will be beneficial to organisations which would like to exert influence over policy makers generally or anyone with an interest in the organisation. Tuesday 08/10/2013 9.30am – 12.30pm, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce NETWORKING Meet the Chamber Plymouth Chamber’s free Bi-Monthly networking event that is designed to welcome new members, update current members and explore the benefits of Chamber membership with non-members. Thursday 10/10/2013 5.30pm – 7pm, Grosvenor Casino TRAINING NEW: Coaching Surgery Our new coaching surgery has been set up to support you and your business to develop with confidence. Spend time with one of our 4 experienced coaches to make positive changes to your personal and professional life. Friday 11/10/2013 8.30am – 1.15pm, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce TRAINING

TRAINING NEW: Active Listening A practical workshop for understanding Active listening. Delegates will learn that this is a communication technique that requires the listener to feedback what they hear to the speaker, by way of re-stating or paraphrasing what they have heard in their own words. Friday 04/10/2013 9.30am – 12.30pm, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce TRAINING NEW: Body Language This half day course aims to assist managers and employees understand that body language is an important part of communication, which can constitute 50% or more of what we are communicating. If you wish to communicate well, then it makes sense to understand how you can (and cannot) use your body language to say what you mean. Friday 04/10/2013 1pm – 4pm, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce

NEW: How to do more with less – make your marketing effort go further This workshop will give you the opportunity to focus on what marketing methods are the most cost effective specifically for your business. Wednesday 16/10/2013 9.30am – 1pm, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce NETWORKING Plymouth PA Network This will be an intense and ‘keep you on your toes’ development seminar - we are stepping these development seminars up a gear, so come and enjoy this opportunity to develop and network. Tuesday 22/10/2013 5.30pm – 8pm, Peninsula Medical School, Tamar Science Park, Plymouth. TRAINING Preparing your voice to be a successful marketing tool Do you want people to hang on your every word when you speak? Do you want people to appreciate you and understand you better? If you answered yes,

this workshop could be the answer. This course offers an introduction to help you use your voice better in any business situation. Wednesday 23/10/2013 9.30am – 12.30pm, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce MEMBER CLINIC FREE: Social Media Find out how you can make social media work for your business with specific tips and techniques on increasing your social media presence, engaging with the online community and integrating social media presence, engaging with the online community and integrating social media with other communications. Amanda Bishop from Plymouth Chamber of Commerce and Industry will be leading the clinic to provide advice and guidance. Thursday 24/10/2013 10am – 11.30am, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce NETWORKING Small Business Network This relaxed and friendly breakfast forum is designed to meet the specific needs of small businesses with no more than 25 employees. This month delegates will hear from Lisa Thomas of Neville and Co. Friday 25/10/2013 7.30am – 9.45am, Holiday Inn

TRAINING NEW: Creating Quality Meetings This course discusses the reason we have meetings and why they sometimes go wrong. Participants will come away with a feast of ideas that will put significance and efficiency back into any group communication. Wednesday 30/10/2013 9.30am – 12.30pm, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce TRAINING One-Day Coaching course A practical one day workshop for undertaking and learning coaching skills that can be used in your personal and professional life. Monday 04/10/2013 9.30am – 4.30pm, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce NETWORKING Crunchy Breakfast Add some Crunch to your day with the popular Crunchy Breakfast. Sponsored by Lloyds TSB Commercial, the event features interesting presenters who tackle topical city issues. This month delegates will hear from Adrian Vinken who will be discussing the plans for Mayflower 2020. Wednesday 06/11/2013 7.30am – 9am, River Cottage Canteen and Deli

ONE MORE THING

What Makes Local, Local? ONE MORE THING: Karen McKenzie-Smith, Commercial Director for Global Radio across Plymouth, Torbay and the South Hams argues that the term “local” isn’t always what it seems.

I now work for a national company that used to be a local company. I do the same job, work with the same products in the same area with the same clientele but I hear time after time, “you are not local” and it got me thinking, what makes local, local? Is a “local” business one that is locally owned with locally-sourced produce or based in your area? What if it’s owned by a business based in London but sells products made in Plymouth? If a business is a key local employer, employing a large amount of local people all spending their wages in the local area, does this make them any less local than a

business that has local employees but ship in their product from another country? The more you think about it the more complex and murky it becomes. If you think about a Devonshire cream tea, is it really a Devonshire cream tea if the scones are from Bath and the cream from Cornwall, but it is made in Devon? In summary, I think if the bulk of local people participate in a product or service and it has an impact on the local area and it enhances our choices and life style, then why is it so important? Businesses being criticised for “not being local” despite contributing to the local economy and

employing local people are being unfairly dismissed by many businesses. If a nationally-run business is employing locally, working with local clients and spending money with other local businesses, why aren’t they considered to be an important local contributor? With the emphasis on local growing it’s important that we define how we judge businesses and the way that they support our economy, both locally and nationally. I think it’s time we saw local, not by the location, but by the contribution businesses make to the local economy.

NOT A MEMBER YET? Then you’re missing out! Find out why at www.plymouth-chamber.co.uk or call us on 01752 220471