Government Business 20.1 by PSI Media

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

HEALTH & SAFETY

FRANCHISING

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | VOLUME 20.1

Business Information for Local and Central Government RECRUITMENT

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN 2013 Making sure your department has the skills to pay the bills HR & FINANCE

FLEXIBLE W ORKING Helping to foster the modern workplace

PROCUREMENT

MAKING WAVES

Government Procurement Service on the right track

ENVIRONMENTAL BUILDING

ECOBUILD

Sustainable construction under the spotlight at ExCeL

FLOODING | TRANSPORT | URBAN REGENERATION | EVENT PREVIEWS | PLUS MORE

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www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | VOLUME 20.1

Business Information for Local and Central Government RECRUITMENT

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN 2013 Making sure your department has the skills to pay the bills HR & FINANCE

FLEXIBLE WORKING Helping to foster the modern workplace

Comment

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

PICKLES TURNS SOUR (AGAIN) More than 30 Conservative council leaders have written a private letter to David Cameron warning that local support for his efforts to win re-election will be withdrawn unless ‘ministers’ stop their attacks on local government, according to the Telegraph. Who on earth could they be referring to? Well, a typically strongly worded article by a certain Mr Pickles described some councils as “cheating their taxpayers” and “treating residents with contempt”.

PROCUREMENT

MAKING WAVES

Government Procurement Service on the right track

ENVIRONMENTAL BUILDING

ECOBUILD

Sustainable construction under the spotlight at ExCeL

FLOODING | TRANSPORT | URBAN REGENERATION | EVENT PREVIEWS | PLUS MORE

Plans are afoot to make any local authority wishing to increase its levy by more than two per cent hold a referendum. Some councils aim to get round this by exploiting a loophole which allows them to increase waste and transport costs by more than the cap. It is believed that others are suspected of planning a cheeky 1.99 per cent rise. But DCLG has warned: Anybody using loopholes will lose out next year. At the time of going to press, 115 councils out of 351 have confirmed that they will freeze council tax in April. This compares with 99 per cent of councils in 2011 and 85 per cent last year. Pickles also had strong words for the BBC regarding its perceived negative coverage of the austerity programme, complaining that the broadcaster should put its own financial affairs in order before criticising others. “It’s high time the BBC curbed some of her wasteful ways and became more transparent with our cash,” he said. He believes the BBC should publish all expenditure over £500 to allow greater public scrutiny of its affairs, but the Beeb has refused to disclose how much it pays its presenters and other stars. From a neutral perspective, Pickles has a point. According to the National Audit Office, Government initiatives to reduce spending on ICT are starting to work. In 2011-12, government spent an estimated £316 million less than it would otherwise have done. However, it is only the cost savings which have been measured. The wider impacts of its initiatives are yet to be revealed. In-depth coverage features in our sister publication Government Technology – see governmenttechnology.co.uk for details. Danny Wright

P ONLINE P IN PRINT P MOBILE P FACE TO FACE If you would like to receive 6 issues of Government Business magazine for £120 a year, please contact Public Sector Information, 226 High Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055, Fax: 020 8532 0066, or visit the Government Business website at:

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226 High Rd, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055 Fax: 020 8532 0066 Web: www.psi-media.co.uk EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Danny Wright ACTING EDITOR Angela Pisanu EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Lisa Harris DESIGNER Richard Gooding PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Jacqueline Lawford WEB PRODUCTION Reiss Malone ADVERTISEMENT SALES Deborah Rae, Julie Holbrook, Bernie Miller, Steve Day, Michael Kennedy, David Morgan PUBLISHER Kelly Scott GROUP PUBLISHER Barry Doyle ADMINISTRATION Victoria Leftwich, Lucy Carter, Charlotte Casey REPRODUCTION & PRINT Argent Media

© 2012 Public Sector Information Limited. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any other means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the editorial content the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. ISSN 1362 - 2541

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Current UK building regs allow air-leakage of 10m3/m2. To achieve Code levels 4, 5 and 6, and ‘Passive House’ standards, which allow for air-leakage of a maximum 0.6 m3/m2 at 50pa over or under pressure, air-tightness needs to improve dramatically. The industry has external envelope products that meet or exceed these requirements, but the challenge is to have a robust installation detail. The higher Code ratings can only be achieved if proper design solutions and installation are adopted. The industry standard is to buy window and door products from a manufacturer and employ an external subcontractor to install them, making it difficult to control the quality of the installation. As a complete package provider, Janex is one of the few window companies to take a different approach. Our ‘hot box’ testing has shown how the inclusion of a third air-tight internal seal is necessary to reach Passive House air-tightness requirements, and our unique service package means we take full responsibility for installation standards as well as for the design and manufacture of our windows and doors.

Case study Bath university HemPod Bath University chose Janex windows and doors for its HemPod experimental building. In air-tightness tests carried out by Building Analysis and Testing Ltd, they contributed to an air-tightness that comfortably met Passive House standards. Air change was measured at 0.55 m3/ hr.m3 Building Volume, compared with the Passive House requirement of less than 0.6 m3/hr.m3.

Dr Mike Lawrence of the BRE Centre for Innovative Construction Materials at the University of Bath’s Department of Architecture & Civil Engineering said: “We managed to achieve exceptional air-tightness in the HemPod quite easily by careful installation of the door and windows, and found no evidence of air-leakage between the glazing and the timber in the units.” For more on the research visit www.janex.co.uk/news/headline-news/hemp-pod-info.aspx

Case study Hanham Hall Janex were chosen by London-based HTA Architects and Barratt Developments for the U.K.’s first large-scale residential development built to Code 6 - the highest standards set by the Code for Sustainable Homes.

Janex installed high performance timber windows and balcony doors, as well as composite entrance doors, with wholeproduct U-values ranging from 1.4 W/m²K to 0.84 W/m²K. The products comply with Lifetime Homes and Secured by Design and form part of an air-tight construction. Hanham Hall’s mandate to meet Level 6 code is the product of an initiative called the Carbon Challenge, a programme launched by the Homes and Communities Agency to test the ability of big residential projects to measure up to Level 6 standards.

Janex was founded in 1992 as a supplier partnership to bring high quality Scandinavian windows and doors to the UK construction market in large volumes. R&D is a continuous process in all factories, with products manufactured to the very highest standards to meet or exceed testing requirements in Norway and Sweden. The sales, installation and after sales teams work throughout the UK to support clients and to advise on the specification of the right products for any project. Janex has an extensive track record, working with construction companies, developers and local authorities nationwide.

www.janex.co.uk Sales (England) 01403 212530 Sales (Scotland) 01324 673250 sales@janex.co.uk

Contents

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

CONTENTS 07

07 NEWS

59 ECOBUILD 2013

11 HR & FINANCE

79 CONFEX

Planning measures to turn offices to homes; Living Wage campaign launched; £46m for local energy projects The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals’ Diana Bruce explains how employers can embrace flexible working practices

15 FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

45 59

International Confex has teamed up with sister show Live Experience (formerly known as International Outdoor Event Expo) to cover every aspect of the events industry

FM consultant Mike Packhamm explains the variety of different skillsets facilities managers will likely need in the future

85 BUSINESS TRAVEL SHOW

21 HEALTH & SAFETY

91 PUBLISHING & MEDIA

29 PROCUREMENT SERVICES

95 CONFERENCES & EVENTS

This years’ IOSH exhibition and conference theme is Fit for the Future – how the profession must adapt and evolve

A look at how the Government Procurement Service has transformed the way the government buys

The Business Travel Show is Europe’s main event for business travel managers Publishing & Media Expo will provide visitors with thought leadership on the future of this fast-paced industry When the meeting is over, London offers business visitors a wealth of downtime activities

99 RECRUITMENT

39 TRANSPORT

In the current climate, the skills that employers need to look for in an employee have somewhat evolved, writes Gill Kelly, Director, CIPFA Recruitment Services

45 FLOODING

103 URBAN REGENERATION

Could usage-based insurance (UBI) become the future of transport insurance?

Ecobuild 2013, on 5-7 March 2013 at ExCeL London, connects public sector buyers with the latest green design and build solutions

With flood warnings a regular occurrence, local authorities need to make sure their response is prompt and efficient

51 FRANCHISING

The BFA’s Paul Stafford looks at the increasing popularity of franchising. Plus a preview of the National Franchise Exhibition on 22-23 February

How can local authorities turn around the fortunes of their town centres? Susan Williams, Director Of Vision On, investigates

107 CUSTOMER SERVICES How can public sector organisations improve their customer experience?

Government Business

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

ENERGY

Local authority projects get cash boost for energy projects Over 130 local authority and third sector energy projects in England have been awarded a share of £46m in government funding. Under three separate competitions, the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has provided £31m to schemes tackling fuel poverty, £10m to projects promoting the Green Deal, and £5m to those supporting collective switching co-operatives. Awarded the largest sum, a regional application led by the Greater London Authority on behalf of 18 boroughs has been provided with £5.6m. An application led by Hinkley and Bosworth BC and comprising of seven partner authorities was given £3m in funding, while a bid by Birmingham City Council has received £2.2m. Funds provided to combat fuel poverty are to be spent on the installation of efficient central heating systems and home insulation for the vulnerable. Projects awarded with energy efficiency funding are able to spend the cash on Green Deal household energy efficiency assessments, whole house retrofits and local events to raise awareness of the Green Deal.

News

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF Search for the ‘best councils to do business with’ Ministers have launched a competition to identify which councils support small local businesses when procuring services. Authorities bidding to become ‘the best councils to do business with’ must detail how they give commercial opportunities to small and medium enterprises. A panel of business groups will select the winners and entry forms, available from www. gov.uk, must be in by 22 February.

Edward Davey

Money earmarked for collective switching will be used to launch schemes helping residents to unite and bid for cheaper tariffs. Energy secretary Edward Davey (above) said: “We need to find new ways to help people with their energy bills, working with communities and councils across the country. “The projects we are funding will help people save energy and save money: helping the most vulnerable to heat their homes, getting the Green Deal market up and running and encouraging people to switch energy suppliers to get their bills down.”

GMB Living Wage campaign Trade union GMB has launched a campaign calling for all council workers to be paid the Living Wage – £7.45 per hour and £8.55 in London. The campaign aims to get the 280,000 low‑paid council workers the Living Wage. Council pay rates start at £6.30 per hour, 11p above the national minimum wage. GMB’s Brian Strutton said: “After years of pay freezes local government is now the lowest paid of any major sector of the economy and for 280,000 front line public servants to be paid less than a living wage is a disgrace.”

FINANCE

Southwark Council saves £500,000 by exposing fraud students Southwark Council has recouped an astonishing £500,000 following a review of council tax discounts and exemptions awarded to people who are no longer students across the borough. The borough has a significant student population with approximately 2,400 properties occupied by students who do not pay any Council Tax. As a bona fide full-time college or university student, individuals can expect full exemption from paying Council Tax. The £500,000 worth of savings were made following a data matching sharing investigation, which compared information and details about students’ records, courses and learning establishments, commenced last year in partnership with the National Fraud Authority as part of a pilot initiative and its chosen partner Fujitsu. The exercise identified 750 possible high risk matches where the status quo of individual claimants was unclear. Follow-up work resulted in council tax discount awards being removed in 423 cases, equivalent to 56.4 per cent.

Cllr Richard Livingstone, cabinet member for community safety, finance and resources, said the savings represented significant additional income for the Council. “Former students who fail to notify Southwark Council that they are no longer students and therefore, no longer eligible for the council tax student discount are committing fraud. Not only is this illegal and unacceptable, but as part of our anti-fraud campaign we have escalated our efforts in tackling fraudsters and recovering monies. Genuine students have nothing to worry about. This work complements our review on single person discounts. Committing fraud against the Council is stealing from your friends, family and the community.” Stephen Harrison, chief executive officer, National Fraud Authority, said: “Our research indicates that student council tax is one of the main areas where councils are exposed to fraud. As part of the development of our local government strategy ‘Fighting Fraud Locally’ we have worked closely with Councils, including Southwark, to pilot a scheme to root out council tax evaders. “Fraud is not a victimless crime and as a result of this pilot Southwark Council have identified additional income. Other councils could learn a lot from this pilot.”

Council car parking profits rise by 15 per cent Councils in England made over £411 million in parking charges last year (2011/12) – an increase of 14.9 per cent – according to research by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM). In 2010/11 Councils made £358 million from parking charges, while in 2009/10 councils made £322 million. At the same time the amount spent by councils on road safety, education and safe routes to schools, decreased by 18 per cent, from £127.5 million to £105 million.

Speed limit guidance for councils launched New guidance has been published to help local councils set more appropriate speed limits on local roads. The updated guidance will help local councils implement more consistent speed limits on local roads and incorporates recent changes that create more flexibility for authorities to implement 20mph limits and zones. Road Safety Minister Stephen Hammond said: “It is vital that councils have clear and consistent guidance to help them set appropriate speed limits.”

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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SHARED SERVICES

BUILDING

Online map shows how councils have saved through shared services

Planning measures will allow councils to turn offices into homes

A new shared services map, launched by the Local Government Association (LGA), shows that councils have made £263 million of efficiency savings, by teaming up to deliver frontline services. The map shows that at least 337 councils across the country are involved in 281 shared service arrangements. At the end of last year, the Department for Communities and Local Government called for councils to share services to save money. The shared services map shows that at least 95 per cent of local authorities are already working with other councils to make savings. Councillor Peter Fleming, Chairman of the LGA’s Improvement and Innovation Board, said: “The new map really helps to illustrate the huge scale and range of shared services across local government.

Office space will now be able to be converted into homes without the need for planning permission, ministers have revealed. Under the new rules, a range of buildings – including shops, financial and professional services, restaurants and offices – will be able to convert to other uses for up to two years. Councils would be able to seek exemptions on ‘justified economic grounds’, but the secretary of state would only grant them in exceptional circumstances. Further reforms have also been granted to allow agricultural buildings to be converted for other business uses without the need for planning permission. Buildings no longer suitable or needed for agricultural use could be transferred into new growth‑boosting ventures that benefit rural areas, such as shops, restaurants, small hotels and leisure facilities and offices, under new permitted development

“We hope that the shared service map can help provide some inspiration for other areas of the public sector as they look to follow the lead of councils and save millions from the public purse.”

News

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

rights. Town centre buildings will also be able to easily convert to help new shops, business start-ups and community projects keen to set up in high streets. Planning Minister Nick Boles said: “These new changes ensure the very best use is made of our existing buildings to provide new homes and makes sure we get the most use we can out of our previously developed land. These changes are an important step in improving the planning system and making sure it is in the best possible shape to swiftly adapt to changes.”

For more information on the Cleaning Show visit www.cleaningshow.co.uk

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Payroll Alliance

Payroll Alliance RTI Toolkit Your helping hand with Real Time Information

Do you need help with the daunting task of aligning your organization with HMRC’s Real Time Information requirements? Our new RTI Toolkit is there to guide you through the new way of reporting PAYE information to HMRC. What is included in the RTI Toolkit? • Full project plan to help you recruit your project board and team, work out the timeline for undertaking the project and schedule the necessary activities in the most efficient way possible, whilst minimising your risks • PowerPoint presentations which you can use or adapt as necessary to undertake internal briefings • Key Series publication covering the technical specifics of Real Time Information which includes the latest information on data items to be included for RTI from April 2013 The RTI Toolkit will enable staff with little or no experience of project management to undertake this most daunting of tasks.

For more information visit www.tolley.co.uk/rtitoolkit Sign up to our free monthly RTI newsletter www.tolley.co.uk/rti View a free 25 minute RTI Newscast www.payrollalliance.com Attend one of our RTI & Auto Enrolment for HR or Real Time Information (full day) courses. For more information, contact us on: payroll.alliance@lexisnexis.co.uk | 020 8401 1828/9 | www.payrollalliance.com

A division of Reed Elsevier (UK) Ltd. Registered office 1-3 Strand London WC2N 5JR Registered in England number 2746621 VAT Registered No. GB 730 8595 20. LexisNexis and the Knowledge Burst logo are trademarks of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc. © LexisNexis October 2012 1012-065.

FLEXIBLE WORKING

Diana Bruce, senior policy liaison officer for the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals explains how employers can help foster the modern workplace, in particular, flexible working and flexible parental leave As the title suggests, this article is all about the requirement for employers to be flexible in the workplace. No, the government are not introducing mandatory yoga classes, although this could be a good source of stress relief at work but that would be a whole separate area of discussion. You may recall an article we published in the summer of 2011 all about a ‘modern workplaces’ consultation which focused on creating a society where work and family complement one another. It detailed proposals in four areas, two of which the government published a response to at the end of 2012. They are: a right for all employees to request flexible working; and the introduction of a system of flexible parental leave. FLEXIBLE WORKING The right to request flexible working was first introduced in 2003 for employed parents of children under 5 (or under 18 if the child is disabled). The right was extended to carers of some adults in 2007 and then again in 2009 for parents of children under 17. Current legislation provides eligible employees with the right to request a change in their contractual working pattern from their employer and places a statutory duty on the employer to seriously consider it and only reject it where there is a clear business reason. To qualify individuals must be employed with the same employer for more than 26 weeks before a request can be made; have or expect to have caring responsibilities for a qualifying child or adult; and can only make one request in any 12 month period. The current statutory process will be replaced with a duty on employers to consider requests in a reasonable manner. To make the process easier for employers, they will be

given guidance on ‘reasonable’ in a statutory code of practice which is being prepared by Acas and is due to be published for consultation early in 2013. Depending on which department looks after flexible working requests within a company, the change to it being a right for all will certainly be an additional administrative process for employers. FLEXIBLE PARENTAL LEAVE The majority of proposals in the Modern Workplaces document surrounded the issue of flexible parental leave, with the government announcing that they wanted to introduce a system of genuine flexibility, giving parents more choice and facilitating truly shared parenting. They believe that the current statutory system, acts as a barrier to parents’ ability to share leave in the first year of their child’s life. The proposals aim to assist businesses during this time, allowing them to manage their staff in a more flexible way and to help retain qualified and talented employees. The new system will build on the current maternity, paternity and parental leave arrangements. Parents will be able to discuss with their employers the patterns of leave that would best suit them, and come to a mutual agreement that works for both parties. The government do appreciate that fully shared childcare from day one will not be achieved as cultural attitudes do not change overnight, but they do believe that this new system has the capacity to bring about transformative change for parents and businesses, and is a major stepping stone towards achieving smart economics in the UK. CURRENT ENTITLEMENTS With the current system employed mothers are entitled to 52 weeks of statutory maternity leave, 39 weeks of this may be paid and 13 weeks are unpaid. Employed fathers who qualify are entitled to up to 2 weeks statutory paternity leave and also, subject to qualifying criteria, additional paternity leave (APL), which was introduced in 2011. Once the baby is 20 weeks old, and

PROPOSALS There have been a few significant changes from the original proposals; however we will just focus on the new proposals rather than comparing the two and adding confusion to an already complex administrative process. The 52 weeks of maternity leave will remain in place as the default position for all employed women. Women who are currently eligible to receive statutory maternity pay (SMP) or maternity allowance will continue to be able to do so for 39 weeks, as they do currently. Women with partners where they both meet the qualifying conditions for the flexible parental system will be able to end the mother’s maternity leave and pay, or commit to ending it at a future date, and share the untaken balance of maternity leave and pay as flexible parental leave and pay. The length of flexible parental leave will not exceed the balance of untaken maternity leave, and the amount of statutory flexible parental pay will not exceed the balance of untaken statutory maternity pay or maternity allowance available at the point at which the woman returned or commits to return to work. Parents will need to meet certain earnings or length of service qualifying criteria to use the new flexible parental system and each parent will need to meet the qualifying criteria in their own right. Where possible, the criteria will mirror the criteria for existing entitlements such as maternity pay and allowance and paternity pay and leave. The government envisage that the criteria will be as follows: 26 weeks of continuous service with the same employer by the 15th week before the expected week of child birth; and/ or to have worked for 26 out of the 66 weeks prior to the expected week of child birth, and to have earned a minimum average specified amount for 13 out of those 66 weeks. Flexible parental leave must be taken in a minimum of one-week blocks. The amount available to each parent will firstly be agreed by the parents, and each will subsequently need to agree their individual pattern of leave with their employer. In the event that the pattern cannot be agreed, the leave defaults to a single block to commence on a date E

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Written by Diana Bruce, Senior Policy Liaison Officer, Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals

EMPLOYERS: BECOMING A FLEXIBLE FRIEND

providing the mother has returned to work, fathers may take up to 26 weeks of APL. This adds up to a total parental leave of 54 weeks (52 for the mother and 2 for the father), 41 of which are paid (39 weeks for the mother, two for the father). Similar provisions also apply to adopters and same-sex couples. In addition, in the first year of a child’s life, parents who have been with their employer for at least a year are entitled to a further 13 weeks of unpaid parental leave per parent per child. This can be taken from the time the child is born up until the child’s 5th birthday. In the case of a child with a disability, the period of leave is 18 weeks per parent and can be taken up until the child’s 18th birthday.

HR & Finance

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

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FLEXIBLE WORKING  specified by the employee. This is of real importance to employers as potentially covering adhoc weeks here and there could be extremely challenging. The government propose to introduce flexible parental leave and statutory flexible parental pay in 2015. They will also consider making arrangements for working parents who do not meet the qualifying requirements to receive statutory payments, however such a provision will not be introduced before 2018 to allow time for development and to ensure it interacts appropriately with the new Universal Credit system. Paternity Leave: The aforementioned additional paternity leave (APL) is to be abolished, however working families will be given maximum flexibility in choosing how to divide leave and pay between them so in practice, parents could choose for fathers to be the primary carer of the child if that suited their particular circumstances. The paternity leave and pay at the current level of 2 weeks will be maintained and there are plans to extend this in the future and make it more flexible, however in the current climate it is not an affordable option for both government and business. Adoption leave and pay: Changes are also going to be made to the leave and pay available to adoptive parents to bring it more closely into line with the leave and pay rights available to birth parents. Statutory adoption leave will become a ‘day one’ right with no qualifying conditions for eligible adopters who are matched with a child for adoption. Statutory adoption pay will be enhanced to 90 per cent of the primary adopter’s salary for the first six weeks, which mirrors the arrangement for statutory maternity pay. Working couples who adopt will also be able to opt in to the flexible parental system if they meet the qualifying conditions in the same way as birth parents. Surrogacy: The subject of surrogacy hit the headlines again when the Modern Workplaces consultation was first and there was a call for mothers of children born through surrogacy to be given the same maternity rights as other mothers. The proposals do indeed include equal arrangements for intended parents of a child born through surrogacy who meet the criteria to apply for a Parental Order. They will be eligible for statutory adoption leave and pay and for flexible parental leave and pay if they meet the qualifying criteria. Both intended parents will also be entitled to time off to attend two antenatal appointments with the surrogate mother carrying their child. Unpaid parental leave: From March 2013, unpaid parental leave will be increased from 13 to 18 weeks in order to comply with the revised EU Parental Leave Directive. In 2015, the age limit on parental leave will also be increased, from the current 5 years to 18 years, providing each parent the right to up to 18 week’s unpaid parental leave for each child under 18. There are no plans to make any changes to the current arrangements regarding notification and time limits on taking unpaid parental leave. NEXT STEPS From 2015 the government will implement the proposals for flexible parental leave, statutory flexible parental pay, time off for fathers to attend 2 antenatal appointments and increasing the age limit for unpaid parental leave. The legislation will provide the architecture for the flexible parental leave system and the government will launch a consultation early in 2013 to consider further the detail of how the new system will work. Regulations to increase the number of weeks of unpaid parental leave will also be introduced in 2013. The intention is to make it as simple to use as possible, building on the existing framework without creating unnecessary burdens and complexity for business. L ABOUT THE AUTHOR The CIPP is the Chartered Institute for payroll and pensions professionals in the UK and has in excess of 5,000 individuals enjoying membership benefits. For further information visit www.cipp.org.uk

HR & Finance

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Flexible Parental Leave: scenario example So how might the flexible parental leave and pay actually work in practice? The mother works in a school and the father works in the hospitality industry, so it would suit them to mix periods of work with periods of leave. Given the nature of their work, this pattern also works well for their employers. • The mother stops work 11 weeks before her baby’s due date. She is on maternity leave for 20 weeks and returns to work at week 21 for 12 weeks. • The father has 2 weeks paternity leave and pay at the time of the birth. He then returns to work for 9 weeks, then takes flexible parental leave for 12 weeks. • Both parents have 18 weeks of unpaid parental leave to use before their child’s 18th birthday. Note that compulsory maternity leave is still 2 weeks for a mother after birth (or 4 weeks if they are a factory worker) so flexible parental leave can begin at any point after that period and up to 50 weeks (48 weeks if they are a factory worker). Remember that if a family is not eligible for flexible parental leave or chooses not to use it, then the Current Entitlements listed earlier apply (apart from APL which will no longer exist).

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true evidence of a quality performance. ServiceScan is born from understanding the needs of the FM client and designed to meet the rigors of both public and private sectors. Bar code scanning technology means that staff can scan ‘work done’ instantly upon completion. It records location, work completed, staff serviced and more. Its great with multi-site management, and contracts with varied specification or high frequency of works. As the FM manager you get peace of mind because Reflekt helps you keep a firm grip on work taking place by providing proof of delivery and producing detailed post clean or interval reports. This improves customer satisfaction. Its transparent approach with clear identification of time on task and performance to KPIs improves staff accountability. Reflekts’ proven track record of delivering high quality window cleaning services with these additional benefits has been well received by corporate FM companies and public and private sectors. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0800 9775460

FM METHODOLOGY

TOTAL FM – BUT NOT AS WE’VE KNOWN IT

Facilities Management

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Back in the ‘80s/’90s, Total Facilities Management was seen as being the ‘magic bullet’ that was going to cure all of FMs ills. However, due to too many organisations rushing in, it was soon seen as a dirty word. With the emphasis remaining on cost reduction rather than value for money, it is likely that a facilities manager will need to call on a variety of different skillsets. FM consultancy partner Mike Packhamm explains where the future of FM lies As an FM consultant I am fortunate in that I get to visit a lot of different organisations representing a variety of sectors and all coming at facilities management (FM) from slightly different perspectives. It certainly helps to keep things interesting, but I have noticed an increasingly common theme that invariably comes up at some stage during the discussions and which goes something along the lines of ‘so Mike where do you think the future of FM lies?’ Being a true consultant I normally try to avoid providing direct answers to such questions; this on the grounds that I might be incriminating myself and, more seriously, in recognition of the fact that different organisations will be at different stages of FM maturity so that what is the right ‘future’ for one might be completely unsuitable for another. Having said this, over the past year or so I have become more and more convinced that the answer to the question is – yes you guessed it – the title of this article, i.e. ‘It’s total FM but not as we’ve known it’. THINKING BACK By way of explanation as to what I mean by this, it is perhaps appropriate to first think back a few years to the start of the outsourcing ‘phenomenon’. This was probably sometime around the late 80s/early 90s but I am prepared to be corrected on this. At that time total facilities management (TFM) was seen as being the ‘magic bullet’ that was going to cure all of FM’s ills. Unfortunately too many organisations rushed into things and it was not very long before TFM became something of a ‘dirty word’. From some perspectives much of the criticism levelled at it was unfair and resulted from organisations seeking to outsource without fully thinking through the implications – i.e.: the ‘baby and bathwater’ syndrome. However, there is no doubt that some of these early TFM contracts suffered E

e “...SomFM early T uffered e cts s contra ow respons e c l i from sgaps in serv ion t , times ion, duplica t provis anagemen of m ort...” eff

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LGM – for quality flooring and interiors LGM Limited has over 60 years’ experience in the supply and installation of all types of floor coverings, soft furnishings & upholstery to a nationwide client base including education, healthcare, prisons, hospitality and retail. Its sister company, LGM Interiors, offers redecoration, partitioning and commercial refurbishments. Its comprehensive range of products enables the company to offer a one-stop shop for buyers. LGM is built upon core values of investing in people and offering exceptional service to its customers. The company works nationwide and has the capability to deliver projects ranging from reactive repairs to large refurbishments upto £0.25m. Its staff are CRB checked and experienced in working in schools, hospitals and care homes. Public sector customers also include HM Prisons, the Crown Prosecution

Service and the Skills Funding Agency. LGM is CHAS and Safe Contractor registered and ISO9001 accredited. LGM has a proven track record fulfilling a wide range of clients briefs. It is experienced in working in live environments, to tight deadlines, whilst delivering high quality installations adhering to clients specifications. Commitment to its customers, flexibility in approach and the positive difference the company makes for its clients are the keys to LGM’s success. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01562 823700 sales@lgm-ltd.co.uk www.lgm-ltd.co.uk

Banner Records Management Most organisations spend a large amount of time, money and space managing their records, documents and files. Reduce your costs and concentrate on your core activities with Banner’s range of record management solutions. Banner provides a range of off-site and on-site services providing reliable and effective storage and archiving. We can manage your records throughout their entire life cycle, from creation to storage and secure shredding and recycling. Whether you’re just looking to maximise storage space within your workplace or require a managed off-site storage and retrieval or electronic conversion service, we can tailor our services to meet your specific needs. Need a file in a hurry? We can scan it over to you within minutes!

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FM METHODOLOGY  from slow response times, gaps in service provision, duplication of management effort, etc. Obviously the market has matured greatly during the interim and many of these early issues have now been ‘solved’, but let me be clear, when I refer to TFM I am not advocating a return to the ‘bad old days’. Instead what I am advocating is what I envisage as being an intellectual collaborative between all parties i.e.: end users/occupiers, service providers and consultants. THE CRITERIA To expand further on my theme we need to next think about the criteria necessary for efficient and effective FM to take place. Within my own organisation we tend to refer to these as being the three facets of: sponsorship, intelligence and service management. Sponsorship in this context is all about the ownership of responsibility for the provision of facilities, i.e. the stewardship of an organisation’s facilities policy for the provision, maintenance and allocation of the facilities resources required to support corporate objectives. The facilities policy is therefore effectively the service level agreement between the FM regime and its parent organisation; it requires constant monitoring, directing and changing to ensure that it is always supportive of organisational objectives (as set out in the corporate business plan). The Intelligence facet has two aspects; the first of these is inward-looking and revolves around understanding what the internal

The FM Skillset which is most appropriate to any particular organisation is something of an art in itself. THE REALITY So much for the theory, let us turn our attention now to some of the realities of the situation in which FM finds itself. Here we firstly need to be mindful of the effects of the recession and the associated Public Spending Review. The implications of both are only just starting to work their way through the system and it seems certain therefore that (rightly or wrongly) the emphasis is going to remain of ‘cost reduction’ rather than ‘value for money’ for the foreseeable future (until at least 2017/18 if I remember the Chancellor’s Autumn statement correctly). Conversely, there are a number of issues that have the potential to push the cost balance in the wrong direction for organisations that are seeking to reduce expenditure. Here we need to be aware of the effect of several things: The ever-increasing legislative/regulatory framework within which FM (of necessity and quite correctly!) operates. Starting with the Corporate Manslaughter Act of 2007 this is an area of ever-increasing complexity; The rapid change that is taking place in terms of information and communications technologies. Technological advances mean that the use of hand-held devices such as palm-tops is becoming the norm rather than the exception that it was just a short time ago. Equally remote monitoring through the use of RFID (radio frequency identification) devices is now a reality

In seeking to reconcile opposing market-led influences, deal with a new series of challenges, and derive a cost-effective solution, it is likely that a facilities manager will need to call on a variety of different skillsets customer’s objectives are and how these translate into FM needs (rather than wants). Equally, Intelligence needs to look outward to what the external marketplace is doing in terms of understanding its capabilities and the implications of service delivery changes, technology improvements and the like. Both the internal and external marketplaces are subject to constant change and the Intelligence facet is concerned with making sure that one is always in tune with the other. Service Management is probably the easiest of the three facets to explain – essentially it does what it says on the tin. Thus Service Management is concerned with the tactical, day-to-day operational management and delivery of FM services. Of course in real life it is often not as simple as it sounds. As we all know there is a multitude of different ways in which services can be packaged and deciding

and the use of BIM (building information modelling) is starting to gain traction; The sustainability agenda, which has immense implications for FM particularly when we think in terms of whole-life (I am convinced that as facilities managers we should be thinking about the environmental impact of buildings over their life rather than simply in terms of the resources used to create them in the first place). New methods of working which, with their focus on the more intensive use of space, present a whole new series of challenges – and have knock-on effects in terms of all of the above, i.e. legislation, technology and sustainability. REQUIRED SKILLSETS In seeking to reconcile these opposing market led influences and derive a cost-effective

• Human Resources • Real Estate • Space Planning • Information Technology • Finance • Health & Safety • Engineering design • Procurement • Legal • Asset Management • Sustainability • Construction technology • Insurance • Budgeting/Estimating

Facilities Management

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solution it is likely that a facilities manager will need to call on a variety of different skillsets (see ‘The FM Skillset’ panel). I have listed some of these below – apologies in advance to any that I have forgotten; this list is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be fully inclusive. I could go on, but hopefully I have made my point which is essentially that FM is a complex ‘beast’ that operates in an ever‑changing environment. Given this, I believe that it is impractical to expect that any one organisation can ever deliver all of its FM needs from its own internal resources. Instead what we should be aiming for is an intelligent co-operative or intellectual collaborative involving the whole of the FM supply chain. In achieving this service providers will need to be ‘less backward about coming forward’ – less colloquially, they need to contribute positively to the overall FM value proposition of the organisations that they are working for. Similarly, end-users/occupiers need to encourage service providers in this respect by being more open to ‘risk and reward’ type arrangements. Lastly the consultants need to fill the gaps and in so doing provide the gel that pulls the whole ‘piece’ together. In other words the future of FM is ‘Total FM – but not as we’ve known it’. L ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mike Packhamm is a member of the British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM) Expert Interest Panel which supports the on-going development of the BIFM knowledge provision for members. BIFM has a number of special interest groups which would be of interest to those involved in the Government public sector including healthcare, building services, health & safety, procurement, sustainability, risk & business continuity management and workplace.

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BIFM AWARDS

FM EXCELLENCE, INNOVATION AND INSPIRATION SOUGHT

Facilities Management

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Now in their 11th year the BIFM Awards will once again showcase exceptional facilities management individuals, teams and projects; recognising all they bring to the profession on an internationally‑respected platform BIFM Chair Ismena Clout at the 2013 Awards

FM The BI have s Award oubtedly nd now u e the ‘gold becomard’ for an stand jective ob of the t n e m assess st in FM be

As the standard setter for other awards programmes, the BIFM Awards are proud to announce a new category for 2013. Individuals, projects or organisations who have made a ‘Profound Impact on the Industry Over the Last Five Years’ will be recognised in this year’s honours. The category’s judges are open to entries where a sustained and profound impact has been created, delivered and evolved for the benefit of the FM industry. This is expected to be a hotly-contested category – which is testament to the advances made in the FM profession over recent years. The ‘Learning and Career Development’ category returns for a second year following the high calibre entries in 2012, demonstrating the continuing importance placed upon professional development within the FM sector.

THE GOLD STANDARD Speaking on the launch of the 2013 Awards Oliver Jones, chairman of the Judges, said “After an extraordinary number of entries in 2012, the BIFM Awards have unquestionably now become the ‘gold standard’ for an objective assessment of the best in FM. The rigour of our expert judges has been the key to this development

and we are very proud that the BIFM Awards are a reference point for other awards programmes. I would urge all FM business and team leaders to be bold enough to enter the BIFM Awards and test themselves against the best of the rest, helping the Awards, and the recognition of the value of FM, go from strength to strength”. BIFM Award entrants will also have the opportunity to be selected to represent the UK in the ‘Global FM Awards for Excellence in FM’. BIFM Awards entrants have excelled in these Awards since their inception in 2010, setting the standard for FM worldwide. In 2010 BIFM Award winners placed Silver and Platinum, in 2011 BIFM Award winners took Platinum and Gold honours, and in 2012 BIFM Award entries took joint Platinum Awards. These wins demonstrate the calibre of entrants the BIFM Awards attract. ABOUT BIFM The British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM) is the ‘natural home’ of facilities management in the UK. Founded in 1993, the Institute provides information, education, training and networking services for nearly 13,000 members – both individual professionals

and organisations. The Institute is inclusive, working across related disciplines and forming alliances with like-minded professional bodies. BIFM’s members are responsible for many of the services that support business and other organisations, including business continuity, health & safety, space planning, energy management, maintenance and catering. ENTRY You do not need to be a BIFM member to enter – the Awards are open to all. To understand more about the criteria for each category and for full details on how to submit your entry / entries, refer to www.bifm.org.uk/ awards2013. Entries close on 26 April 2013, excluding the iconic ‘Facilities Manager of the Year’ category which closes 28 June. Finalists will be announced in August 2013, with the winners revealed at the BIFM Awards ceremony on Monday 14 October 2013 at The Grosvenor House Hotel in London. Over 1,300 FM professionals are expected to attend this key event in the FM calendar. Previous years have been a sell-out, and in 2012 further tickets had to be secured to meet demand. L FURTHER INFORMATION Tickets and tables are already available for the evening at www.bifm.org.uk/awards2013

2013 categories Excellence in Customer Service Excellence in Product Development FM Excellence in a Major Project FM Service Provider of the Year Impact on Organisation and Workplace In-House Team of the Year Innovation in the Use of Technology and Systems Learning and Career Development Profound Impact on the Industry Over the Last Five Years Sustainability and Environmental Impact

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IOSH 2013

HEALTH & SAFETY: FIT FOR THE FUTURE? The UK is still facing cuts and the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) is standing fast against the Government’s continuing deregulatory agenda on health and safety regulation. To make sure workers aren’t put at unnecessary risk in these austere times, health and safety professionals will need to communicate the benefits of good health and safety to their businesses. In short, they need to be ‘Fit for the Future’ – the theme of IOSH 2013 conference and exhibition – in order to influence organisations’ strategies and drive up good practice, reducing incidents of occupational injury and ill-health. Held at London’s ExCel, on 26-27 February, the event will look at how professionals can ready themselves for what is on the horizon and make an impact as the world changes. They will need to strike a balance between promoting well-being in the workplace and safe work practices, as health becomes more

of a focus and a better picture of the true cost of work-related illnesses is slowly revealed.

took on a health and safety role without proper education to develop their knowledge and skills, and adopted a very rules-driven approach. The new generation of practitioners are more management focused and add value to organisations and understand the need to keep up-to-date with latest standards to make sure they are ready for the challenges the future holds.” This year’s conference is about preparing health and safety professionals for the future, providing them with the tools they need to help embed health and safety in to their organisations. It has been shaped by the industry, with input from a working party and a survey of over 3,000 IOSH members. Across two days, four tracks running concurrently will focus on occupational health and enhancing well-being, influencing and implementing legislation, strengthening health and safety culture and ‘the practitioner of the future’. And on the programme is a broad range of topics and high-level speakers, designed to tackle issues and challenges faced by those working in the health and safety.

tion Innovaquality y is a ke ed if a d nee d safety an health titioner is prac et the to me for fresh ds deman lutions so

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE As a profession, health and safety is rising to the challenges that change presents – politically, economically, technologically, culturally and as knowledge and awareness increases. Innovation is a key quality needed if a health and safety practitioner is to meet the demands for fresh solutions that organisations need. But the role of a practitioner also needs to evolve and 2013 presents an ideal platform from which to achieve better. In discussing how the new breed of professionals can and are tackling some of the misconceptions and preparing themselves for the future, IOSH executive director of membership Hazel Harvey said: “The ‘bad’ health and safety reputation is based on the actions of many who

Written by Gerard Hans, President, IOSH

While the New Year hasn’t brought big change in economic outlook, in 2013, the health and safety profession must adapt and evolve for the future, writes IOSH president Gerard Hand, which ties in with this years’ IOSH exhibition and conference theme – Fit for the Future – which takes place on 26-27 February and London’s ExCeL

Health & Safety

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THE ROLE OF HEALTH The ‘health’ in health and safety continues to grow in significance – and rightly so. Once upon a time, practitioners were safety officers, then they became safety and health officers, with additions such as ‘environment’ and ‘risk’ added into the mix. The fact that health has been thrown into the spotlight for the profession is vital. Increasingly, practitioners are realising this and altering their strategies accordingly, but this awareness needs to reach our businesses and Government. Figures on work-related ill-health E

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HAAGEN BullsEye™ laser driven extinguisher provides safe and effective fire training with none of the mess The BullsEye system represents the latest advancement in fire training technology. BullsEye senses where the user aims and sweeps the laser training extinguisher and automatically varies the LED-driven digital flames in response. Trainees learn how to effectively use a fire extinguisher without the cost and clean-up associated with using dry-chemical or CO2 extinguishers. BullsEye’s electronic control system responds to the trainees’ actions, putting the fire out only when the extinguisher is used correctly. BullsEye utilises digital flames to simulate class A, B and C fires at four difficulty levels and has the capability of grading trainees on their performance. The integrated conical laser replicates the extinguisher discharge of a dry-chemical or CO2 extinguisher. Because only laser light is emitted from the training extinguisher, extinguisher training can be conducted in any environment or setting. The laser-driven system is completely safe and appropriate for trainees of all ages while still providing a dynamic and realistic training simulation. Life-saving fire extinguisher training can be provided to hundreds of participants in a single day. The BullsEye is developed, manufactured and delivered by HAAGEN Ltd. HAAGEN is a leading manufacturer of fire and safety training tools used worldwide. Better tools

mean better training. HAAGEN products employ smart technology to give trainees realistic and cost-effective hands-on training. HAAGEN offers a complete line of fire and safety training products that allow professional instructors to conduct realistic and effective hands-on training exercises. Major product categories include fire extinguisher training, haz-mat training, rescue manikins, and live fire demonstration systems. HAAGEN shares its customers’ passion for the critical roles they play in keeping citizens, workers and firefighters safe through good training. Thousands of organisations and millions of individuals around the world have trained with HAAGEN systems. Its advanced and

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The BullsEye™ digital fire extinguisher training system allows you to provide training when and where it is convenient, with varying difficulty levels and class of fire selections. Featuring interactive laser training extinguishers, there is no need for time consuming clean-up or the expense of recharging powder or CO2 extinguishers. Visit www.haagen.co.uk and see why thousands of organisations around the world are using HAAGEN training tools.

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IOSH 2013

With the UK economy haemorrhaging billions in lost output, national healthcare and state benefits every year due to failures in occupational health and safety, it’s vital that steps are taken to realise the importance of getting it right in workplaces across the country  show that the number of people killed by work-related illness dwarves the number fatally injured in accidents at work. When asked about the increasing part health is playing in the profession, IOSH senior policy and technical adviser Phil Bates said: “Health is now an integral part of the role of an occupational health and safety practitioner. ADJUSTING THE WAY WE DO THINGS “As we design safety features and systems more into our work and equipment, they are becoming more controlled. It’s because of this, in part, that we’re seeing what impact our work has on our health in the long term, and adjusting the way we do things accordingly. “The challenge ahead is to address health issues in our workplaces further, to prevent individual suffering and the huge costs this presents to our businesses and the wider UK economy. Not only do we need to get better at preventing work-related illness, we need to help those who are ill to recover quickly and return to work, in order to aid their recovery.” A recently published study estimated the current burden of cancer in Britain in the workplace, with the aim of identifying important carcinogens, occupations and industry sectors. The results show that around 8,000 cancer deaths in Britain and nearly 13,600 newly occurring cancers each year are linked to cancer-causing substances in the workplace. But the results from this study show the need for change and will enable the development of practical measures to reduce these risks. IOSH’s Occupational Health Toolkit, research, guides and training aims to provide practitioners with resources and workers with the knowledge of how to take responsibility for their own health. But more needs to be done in this vital area.

It’s a factor that IOSH is facing head-on and when discussed with the Institution’s executive director of Commercial Caroline Holden, added: “We, in health and safety, have a challenge to win hearts and minds with the principle that it makes good business sense. It shouldn’t be an option whether you include safety in your costings – it should be part of the fabric of how you work. “Health and safety is about getting everyone, regardless of their position, to take care of themselves, their colleagues and others. And in a sense, investment in health and safety is better than an insurance policy – it avoids costs incurred in the first place.” Back in 2011, IOSH commissioned a poll asking business leaders what areas they believed they should invest in to improve prospects. Health and safety came second to last, above staff incentives and behind training, sales, marketing and processes/ operations. When those same employers were asked what they thought were their most important challenges, they saw effective planning and budget control as the most vital area. Less than half – 40 per cent – named health and safety in their top three. This issue chimes with the need for health and safety to be influencing organisational strategies, with practitioners equipping themselves to show the huge amounts of money good health and safety can actually save, by reducing lost-time and improving efficiency and productivity. According to the Health and Safety Executive, workplace accident and ill-health cost the British economy £22 billion a year. Only seven per cent of businesses surveyed estimated this correctly, with most estimating the total at just £220 million. With the UK economy haemorrhaging billions in lost output, national healthcare and state benefits every year due to failures in occupational health and safety, it’s vital that steps are taken to realise the importance of getting it right in workplaces across the country. In the global context of tight financial conditions, these results show that bosses are ‘missing a trick’. If a healthy and safe

If thy a heal fe and sa sits at rce workfo eart of a the h plan, the ss busine s businesses t benefi eap are r ld manifo

THE ROLE OF BUSINESS Good health and safety makes good business sense – it’s a fallacy that it stunts growth with unnecessary bureaucracy. In fact, it has an important role to play in clawing back costs in times of economic challenge.

Health & Safety

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Factors influencing the need to be ‘Fit for the Future’ There are a number of factors contributing to the need for practitioners to evolve their roles, if they are to really get the message through to their organisations’ leaders that health and safety is a cornerstone of thriving business. Some of the main ones are: • The impact of government budget cuts to the Health and Safety Executive, the UK’s health and safety enforcer • The deregulatory agenda in the UK • Low standards of health and safety at work in many countries globally • Growth in emerging communications technologies • Global economic and financial uncertainties and volatility For a number of years, the profession has taken a lot of flack, with accusations that it prevents growth. We used to concentrate our efforts on tackling myths, which really didn’t work for changing people’s perceptions, nor attacking the root causes of the bad decisions that resulted in negative stories in the press. We are now much more forward thinking, with a new, proactive approach that focuses on education and awareness.

workforce sits at the heart of a business plan, the benefits businesses reap are manifold – this is the central message of IOSH’s Li£e Savings campaign. And the profession needs to hit this message home. THE ROLE OF EDUCATION If focusing on health and getting the message of good business sense are crucial to practitioners’ getting fit for the future, then being up-to-date in the very latest knowledge and practice must also have a big part to play. The world is constantly changing and so are our workplaces. They are becoming more technological, more challenging, more budget-savvy and more focused on reputation. Good practice in health and safety is constantly evolving to fit the climate we live in, so practitioners need to be refreshing their knowledge to make sure they have the right advice on sensible risk management within their own organisations. 

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If you need advice or training on health and safety within the construction industry, that is efficient and effective, you do not need to look further than:

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IOSH 2013  The profession has expanded from being solely about safety, to encompassing health, and in some cases includes environment, facilities, quality, security, asset protection and risk. These are big responsibilities on shoulders, so professional development has never been more important. Poor education and standards are one of the root causes of the negative perceptions of health and safety as clipboard-bothering, bureaucratic and worse, unnecessary. In talking about how the demand for knowledge is causing a shift change in the profession, IOSH executive director of membership Hazel Harvey summed up the importance of consistently striving towards higher standards. She said: “The biggest change our profession has been facing in recent years and will continue to face in the future, is the move towards higher professional standards of practice, based on sound ethical considerations. There is considerably more higher level education available both in the UK and internationally and this has laid the foundations for the more professional approach that’s now taken.” IOSH seeks to guarantee high levels of technical competence and professional competence from its members, in a bid to uphold and enhance the good standing of the health and safety profession. And members can ensure they are prepared for challenges ahead by carrying out Initial Professional Development (IPD) and Continuing Professional Development (CPD). These are completed before and after they achieve chartered status – the stamp that they meet the highest standards and keeping on top of the demands of the job throughout their careers. A good education and maintained development shows employers, colleagues and clients that skills and experience are fresh and fit-for-purpose, and meet the needs for the business in the future.

Health & Safety

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

IOSH to seeks igh h ensure mpetence s, of co levels its memberod from old the go to uph ding of the stan and safety health fession pro

HOW IOSH 2013 FITS INTO THE PICTURE More than 60 expert speakers will participate in the conference, under the theme ‘Fit for the Future’, offering some exciting prospects for professional development. Rt Hon Stephen Timms MP, Shadow

Gerard Hans, President of IOSH: ‘A good education and maintained development shows employers, colleagues and clients that skills and experience are fresh and fit‑for‑purpose, and meet the needs for the business in the future.’

Minister for Employment, provides the keynote speech, while head of health and safety for the Olympic Delivery Authority Lawrence Waterman, Health and Safety Executive director of field operations David Ashton and BP vice-president health and chief medical officer Dr Richard J L Heron are also among the speakers. Track A – ‘Occupational health and enhancing well-being’ – will give an expert view into preventing work‑related cancers, overcoming stress in the workplace and prioritising mental wellbeing, among others. Meanwhile, on the second track, B, delegates will have a chance to look at ‘Influencing and implementing legislation’. Subjects covered include the Löfstedt review, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) cost recovery scheme, how to shape health and safety

The challenge will be for practitioners to take these messages on and imprint them upon their own organisations, to make healthier, safer workforces of the future that not only understand, but live good health and safety

legislation, plus a look at corporate manslaughter and asbestos regulations. ‘Strengthening health and safety culture’ in track C will discuss how to make a strong safety imprint in middle management, increasing the profile of health in an organisation from the top down and embedding safety culture into contractor management. And lastly, track D, ‘The practitioner of the future’ takes a look at risk-led, evidence-driven safety, the changing landscape of environmental law and sustainability and the future for risk and safety management systems and new technology. Chiming under the central theme of being ready for the changing world, key health and safety leaders, alongside senior directors from global organisations, will discuss what actions is needed over the coming 12 months to make health and safety a bigger priority across all industries. The challenge will be for practitioners to take these messages on and imprint them upon their own organisations, to make healthier, safer workforces of the future that not only understand, but live good health and safety. FURTHER INFORMATION www.iosh.co.uk

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk Praxis42 Online Health andAND Safety copy H-R.pdf 1 04/01/2013 10:22

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Climate Change Challenge at the NEC on April 17 Since the 1992 UN Earth Summit in Rio, the EU has taken the lead in implementing the Kyoto Protocol, with an imperative for the low carbon, clean energy & technology transition. It includes leader summits and the recent EU China Mayor’s Forum. There is a growing partnership developing at all levels to accelerate awareness and actions for mutual benefit. China is emerging as the world’s major economy and GHG polluter with devastating climate change consequences, at home and internationally. This is compelling a paradigm shift for investment in resource efficiency, smart low carbon cities and communities, together with renewable energy technologies. A major China-Europe 2020 Climate Change Challenge Conference 17th April 2013, NEC Birmingham, co-located with Sustainabilitylive! tradeshow will highlight a range of opportunities featuring energy,

technology, water management and energy from waste; providing a complementary visitor experience attracting delegation from both China and Europe. This will include pre-booked B2B meetings, planned trade and cultural visits featuring knowledge, technology, innovation and investment through co-operation, trade and partnerships for our low carbon sustainable future. For more information, please see the website below for the presentations at the launch on 19th November 2012. FURTHER INFORMATION www.climate-changesolutions.co.uk

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 20.1

Swallow Evacuation & Mobility Products Ltd SwallowEMP Ltd is a company dedicated to supplying accessibility and evacuation products. We offer a range of products powered and non-powered offering the best choices and solutions. People don’t have to transfer from their wheelchairs or be left in refuge areas. Powered products can also be used in the event of lift breakdowns or while lifts are repaired. All have inbuilt safety features and one-person operation. We are also UK distributor for a goods Stairclimber range up to 600kg. We have the correct product for the person – it’s available!

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Simplify health & safety compliance with Praxis42 As a leading provider of health, safety and environment consultancy and eLearning, Praxis42 simply make compliance easy. The company’s in house practitioners and support teams provide pragmatic, cost effective solutions, whatever the size of organisation. Praxis42 harnesses technology with its depth of experience, to deliver a variety of services, to thousands of organisations, enabling them to easily meet their health, safety and environmental corporate responsibility obligations. Its RoSPA approved health, safety and environmental eLearning is a simple way to provide affordable and easily accessible training resources.

The online training solution has the added benefit of a compliance record keeping and report management system available whenever and wherever you need it. The company’s comprehensive list of eLearning courses can also be delivered as SCORM objects into existing Learning Management Systems. Its team of experienced health and safety consultants can assist to develop and monitor your health and safety management system whatever the size and sector of your business. FURTHER INFORMATION 0870 446 4201 training@praxis42.com www.praxis42.com

SwallowEMP: dedicated to supplying disability and evacuation products SwallowEMP is a company dedicated to supplying disability and evacuation products. It offers a range of products to give its clients a choice so they can offer the best solutions for less mobile people, who can’t manage stairs. All too often people aren’t aware that there are alternatives to downward only chairs where people have to transfer from their wheelchairs or be left in refuge areas. SwallowEMP works with other design and manufacturing companies to provide the best solution as customer satisfaction is paramount. The advantage of its powered products is that they can also be used in the event of lift breakdowns, reducing delays for less mobile people waiting for lifts to be repaired, giving movement up and down stairs. SwallowEMP offers one downward manual chair which

is in a brake position until operated and the remainder of its range is powered, giving upward and downward travel and substantially reducing manual handling issues. All have inbuilt safety features and one-person operation. SwallowEMP is also UK distributer for a goods Stairclimber range up to 600kg. Have the correct product for the person – it is available. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0121 366 9275 Tel: 0121 444 3690 www.swallowemp.com info@swallowemp.com

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Covering the Black Country and wider West Midlands, Business Skills provides training for local businesses, working with over 1,000 local employers in the region including Carillion, Westfield, Debenhams, Rymans, Fitness First and Worcester, Bosch Group. The company offers a wide range of training courses and advice for people who are keen to improve their career prospects, build on their professional development, find an apprentice or apprenticeship or get back into work through training. As well as being a market leader in training for health & safety, including IOSH and NEBOSH, Business Skills offers a range of apprenticeships, bespoke training programmes as well as gas, electrical and plumbing courses.

Become a member of the British Safety Council (BSC) and get the help and support needed to raise health, safety and environmental standards and comply with the latest legislation. The benefits of membership include exclusive member discounts, information and advice and 100 free places to an ‘Introduction to Workplace Health and Safety’ e-learning course worth over £1,000. Visit the website (details below) for more information on the full package of benefits. The BSC is a global health, safety and environmental charity with the vision that no-one should be killed, injured or made ill by their work activities. To achieve this the BSC works with individuals and organisations

Business Skills is a member of the National Federation of Small Businesses and Hereford & Worcester Chamber of Commerce, a Black Country Chamber of Commerce Patron and part of the National Skills Academies for Retail, Environmental Technologies and Construction. Business Skills employs 50 people based in Kidderminster. The training centre offers modern, well equipped training and conference rooms that are also available for hire. FURTHER INFORMATION 0800 073 0282 www.bskills.org enquirires@bskills.org

to improve standards through training, auditing, awards, events and membership support. 7,000 members in over 50 countries enjoy the benefits that BSC membership brings. Call to find out how the BSC can help with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively control the risk of workplace injury, ill health and environmental harm. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 8741 1231 customer.service@britsafe.org www.britsafe.org

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Shaping the Future A leader in environmental and infrastructure services

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PROCUREMENT SERVICES

Procurement

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

GPS SUCCESS SHEDS LIGHT AT THE END OF THE PROCUREMENT TUNNEL

In 2011/12, the largest buying organisation in the UK managed public procurement spend totalling £8.4bn, and by the end of 2012/13, the Government Procurement Service will aim to have increased this to more than £11bn. A mid year performance review published in late November shows how the transformation plan is forging ahead, and how GPS is helping local and central government plus the wider public sector generate savings through smarter procurement techniques In November, the GPS published its mid-year performance review for 2012/13, which reported improved savings, improved spend and market analysis, supplier performance management and a robust commercial approach. As a result of the progress made by GPS in the last three years, savings targets have been increased from £860m to £1.1bn. During the period, GPS has introduced a slew of practices to increase efficiency. It delivered its first forward eAuction for a group of local authorities to drive the best price for old newspapers and magazines to be recycled for use as newsprint. This generated £1.8m revenue, improving the pre-auction value by 17 per cent. This innovative approach, says GPS, will provide a valuable boost to local authority budgets. So far, £18.4m savings have been delivered through reverse eAuctions in various categories including Print Management, Vehicle Purchase, Mobile Voice & Data Services and IT Hardware on a pre‑auction value of £257.7m. HISTORY Previously known as Buying Solutions, the organisation was renamed Government Procurement Service (GPS) following a Strategic Review commissioned by Francis Maude, Minister for the Cabinet Office, in July 2011, to reflect its new role at the heart of government procurement. At the launch event Maude said: “It is bonkers for different parts of government to be paying vastly different prices for exactly the same goods. We are putting a stop to this madness which has been presided over for too long. Until recently, there wasn’t even any proper central data on procurement spending. So, as Sir Philip Green found, major efficiencies are to be found in government buying. The establishment of Government Procurement Service means that E

PROCUREMENT SERVICES

The products and services available through GPS are delivered by more than 2,000 suppliers – more than 50 per cent are SMEs. GPS managed over £8.4bn of customer spend through its procurement arrangements in 2011-2012  the days when there was no strategy and no coherence to the way the government bought goods and services are well and truly at an end.” The products and services available through the GPS are delivered by more than 2,000 suppliers, of whom more than 50 per cent are SMEs. Working with over 14,500 organisations in central government, health, local government, devolved administrations, education and the not‑for-profit sector, GPS managed over £8.4bn of customer spend through its procurement arrangements and services in the 2011-12 financial year. MAJOR CHANGE In 2011-12, GPS began implementation of a major change programme to transform performance in order to support the delivery of centralised procurement. Fundamental changes were made to clearly focus the organisation on customer service, savings delivery and eEnablement.

A new “Agile Route to Market” has been developed to enable access to sub-OJEU (below £100k) spend on communications, including marketing and public relations services, which will allow a supply base of over 300 (mainly SMEs) to provide competitive pricing for the public sector’s smaller requirements. Changes to Print Services have been implemented for the wider public sector which provide access to eCommunication options, as well as a new pricing options, including open book and gainshare models for use where appropriate. A new Medical Locums framework is due to be launched in February which will expand on the services available and provide flexibility at a local level regarding service delivery models and pricing. Benefits of the new framework will include choice of service delivery models: neutral vendor, master vendor and fixed term direct employment to cover known long term absence. Perhaps most significantly, Public Service Network (PSN) framework agreements have been established for telephony and related communication services. Two national further competitions for aggregated mobile and connectivity services have been managed for some 45 customers, supplementing over 130 competitions run by customers themselves. The GPS is currently running a National Further Competition under the PSN Connectivity framework, which it is looking to award in mid-May 2013. PSN Connectivity is a framework agreement consisting of a single lot for procurement of Wide-Area (WAN) connectivity services, including access and core networks and Local Area (LAN) connectivity services.

lly, Interna inues nt GPS co velop to de niques’. ch ‘lean teerformance p Visual agement is man to track used ress prog

E-AUCTIONS: LOWERING COSTS The IT hardware & solutions framework, developed in partnership with Pro5, a consortia of local government buying organisations (CBC, ESPO, NEPO and YPO), used eAuctions to reduce starting costs on a standardised range of desktops, laptops, tablets and printers by over 20 per cent. The Government’s cloud procurement gateway, CloudStore, achieved its highest monthly sales figures in December since opening for business in April 2012. Nearly £6 million in IT services has been sold through the scheme since launch, with December contributing £1.2 million to this total. The Cabinet Office is currently in the process of rolling out the third iteration of the G-Cloud. The invitation to tender was released to potential providers on 15 January, which was also the beginning of the clarification period and when the e-Sourcing Portal opened. A new Central Government travel contract is on track to save £5m annually, and plans to generate additional savings through travellers booking online to benefit from lower transaction fees.

CHARGING LESS COMMISSION The GPS is funded from a commission charged to suppliers, which averaged 0.38 per cent in the first half of the year. Supplier commission has been actively reduced by unwinding complex historical arrangements and moving to a simpler, standardised commission structure of no more than 0.5 per cent. LEAD TIMES Procurement lead time continues to fall, E

Procurement

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Pro5 deal helps LAs meet personalisation agenda requirements The UK government has challenged councils to provide 70 per cent of their social care service users with personal budgets by April 2013, with the vision of enabling individuals to take control of their care and support. Pro5’s four year framework for the provision of Social Care eMarketplaces supports local authorities in implementing this personalisation target by offering a route to establish online environments, where service users can confidently purchase the goods and services relevant to their social care needs. With an estimated value of up to £6m over four years, the framework aims to meet the needs of commissioners, providers and service users by delivering several benefits. eMarketplaces provide local authorities with a way of consolidating information on the goods and services available for purchase in one place. They facilitate sharing of content across local authorities and with other agencies for the benefit of end users, and allow a broader range of providers, such as the third sector and local suppliers, to sell to individuals. Opportunities to generate revenue through advertising mean that eMarketplaces offer local authorities a potentially cost-neutral solution. A wide range of goods and services, relating to both Adult and Children’s social care, will be provided through eMarketplaces (such as home care, holistic therapeutic days out, residential home places and assistive equipment) enabling older and disabled adults, young people in care, and their carers to make informed choices regarding individual support packages. Ian Taylor, Director of NEPO and the Pro5 Group, says “A huge amount of effort has gone into making this framework the best solution for local authorities to deliver online support for personal budget holders and their carers. We know that suppliers, especially charities and social enterprises, will welcome the opportunities that the systems on the framework will provide to market their services to this growing market.”

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Print Services In-house, high quality, high response ■■ Diversity of technology/ product ■■ Global print production ■■ Low volume bespoke ■■ High volume commodity ■■ Specialist logistics ■■

Event Build and Fit-out Bespoke/custom Large/small ■■ Modular ■■ Interiors ■■ Wayfinding and signage ■■ Lightboxes/outdoor advertising ■■ Hoardings/spectaculars

Creative Support Artwork Generation – new and adaptive ■■ Digital Asset Management ■■ Quality and Colour Management ■■ Brand Guardianship ■■

Installation Site surveys Timing plans/schedules ■■ Health & safety (RAMS) ■■ Database management ■■ Specialist ■■ Planning consents and access ■■ Multi-site launches ■■ Global geographical spread ■■ Plant

Project Management Highly consultative Employ market specialists ■■ Full scoping/planning/site surveys ■■ Reporting – progress/ change/budget ■■ Proactive trouble-shooting ■■ ■■

Sustainability London 2012 Product range/ production process ■■ Disposal ■■ Re-use ■■ ISO 14001 ■■ REACH directive ■■ Sedex registered ■■ Sedex registered supply chain

■■

PROCUREMENT SERVICES David Shields, GPS managing director

GPS and ESPO sign new collaborative procurement deal

Successful delivery against our plans for the first half of this year has enabled us to increase our forecast savings from £860m to a new forecast of £1.1bn. Set against a full year delivery of £358m in 2010/11 this is one measure of the significant progress, we have made.” David Shields, managing director, Government Procurement Service  currently tracking below 100 days, although this is expected to rise when the impact of a number of larger more complex procurements are included later in the year. The improvement programme has allowed GPS to increase the number of procurements whilst delivering them swiftly. The standardisation of pre and post OJEU processes, including improved market engagement, plus the adoption of lean principles and investment in e-enabled systems has helped to deliver this.

Purchasing and Supply, GPS has provided three day face to face Lean sourcing training to 288 procurement professionals, as well as one day training for 123 people and an eLearning module to 382 people, with positive feedback and evidence of improvements in speed and quality of procurements starting to emerge. A GPS Learning Hub has been developed and launched internally as a means to access the suite of procurement related eLearning modules and to record and collate results.

INTERNAL SAVINGS In 2012 GPS successfully adopted a Lean approach to business planning with monthly reporting of performance metrics and quarterly full day business plan reviews. The focus on performance management has been strengthened with additional resource dedicated to ensuring the provision of timely, accurate management information. Internally, GPS continued to develop these ‘Lean techniques’ to improve effectiveness. Visual performance management is used across the organisation to track progress and make key metrics visible to all. 67 GPS staff have been trained in Lean tools and techniques as well as senior management Lean leadership training.

STRATEGIC PROCUREMENT SERVICE A team was created in September 2012 as a fully flexible resourcing model within GPS to support the delivery of high value, complex and strategic procurement and sourcing projects in Central Government. Key outcomes for the team include delivery of savings, spend under management and the execution of Lean procurement and sourcing across Government. The team is progressing well, currently supporting nine ‘live’ projects, with a further seven in the initiation stage. Spend influenced to date is in excess of £900m, with a number of successes, including the DECC Green Deal for SME brokerage services, Cabinet Office Electoral Registration Transformation Programme and DfT Shared Services competitive dialogue. E

GPS LEARNING HUB In partnership with the Chartered Institute of

Procurement

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

GPS and ESPO (Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation) have announced the signing of a joint collaborative agreement that will deliver better value and improve procurement efficiency across the public sector. Through this Memorandum of Understanding, the two organisations will work together, pooling resources and management information, to deliver better value and improve efficiency. According to GPS managing director David Shields: “This partnership with ESPO demonstrates our commitment to working together, combining purchasing volumes where possible to deliver cost savings that will benefit the whole of the public sector.” The agreement will result in national solutions that can be readily accessed by all local authorities, schools, colleges and single service authorities including Police, Fire and Ambulance services, as well as Central Government Departments and other wider public sector bodies. John Doherty, ESPO’s newly appointed director, added: “ESPO and GPS share a common goal to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness and deliver real ‘cashable savings’ to Local Authorities and the wider public sector. These savings will help kick-start the general economy and protect the delivery of front line services.” “This opportunity will enable ESPO to bring further commercial opportunities to the East Midlands region. It’s exciting opportunity to participate in national and local government contracts” concluded Doherty. ESPO was established in 1981 to provide a procurement service to the County Councils of Leicestershire and Lincolnshire. Cambridgeshire County Council joined the consortium later in the same year followed by Norfolk County Council in 1985 and Warwickshire County Council in 1991. The consortium expanded further in 1987 with the addition of Leicester City Council followed by Peterborough City Council in the following year.

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PROCUREMENT SERVICES  MICROSOFT DEAL FOR SCHOOLS Under a new three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which started on 1st January, all schools in the UK will be able to take advantage of improved discounts and better licensing terms across a wide range of Microsoft’s academic software. Under the new agreement, schools will be able to use more of their budgets on frontline teaching rather than back office administration, with estimated total savings of around £10 million. Following extensive negotiations with Microsoft, led by Government Procurement Service (GPS) with the Department for Education, the new agreement builds on an existing arrangement that has operated with Microsoft since 2004. It secures improved benefits based on the entire UK schools’ software spend with Microsoft, but involves no financial or contractual commitment for schools or the Department for Education. As well as offering better value for money for both new and existing users, schools will now have more flexibility in the way they license Microsoft software. They will also be able to make more costeffective choices for using alternative and free to use software. This reflects the Government’s policy to give schools greater autonomy and control over how they spend their money and use resources. HELPING THE NHS The GPS has a number of frameworks designed specifically with health customers in mind. These include staff – including agency nurses, medical locums, and non‑medical/clinical staff – building and maintenance, vehicle conversions, modular buildings, laundry & linen services, and telecare. To get the best results for the health sector, the GPS focuses on working closely with Quality, Innovation Productivity and Prevention (QIPP) to ensure all health customers know how the GPS can help drive down costs. It works closely with NHS Supply Chain and NHS Business Services Authority to explore how it can work together to the benefit of the NHS. The GPS aims to help the NHS to identify savings opportunities and transition spend. It also provides data management to improve visibility to help control spend and monitor compliance. It also delivers savings through arrangements which focus on aggregation of volumes, standardisation of specifications, rationalisation of core product lists and demand management. Healthcare purchasers will benefit from dedicated relationship managers provided by the Department of Health and the NHS with a single point of contact. An

NHS Customer Board meets regularly to help ensure engagement at all levels across the NHS. The GPS also provides progress reports on spend, savings, supplier performance and customer satisfaction. NHS TASKFORCE TRAINING Understanding the complex role of procurement within healthcare, the GPS has created a training programme specifically for procurement staff in supplies, pharmacy and estates across the NHS. Delivered by its specially trained network of NHS supplies managers, Basic Operational Purchasing Training includes the CIPS level 2 qualification, which covers basic purchasing and supply issues, fundamental principles and processes, as well as five additional modules covering further topics in operational purchasing. LOOKING FORWARD The second half of the year will see GPS deliver new procurements including electricity, payment cards, property and insurance services. Resourcing frameworks for Central Government, NHS and Wider Public Sector are also planned, and the GPS will formally extend arrangements with RCUK (Shared Service Centre Ltd) to enable further coverage of new spend categories such as scientific and market research. INVESTING IN TECHNOLOGY The GPS looks to continue investing in internal IT infrastructure, and the development of new data warehouse for internal reporting and tailored management information for customers. Planned for launch in January is EduBuy, a procurement initiative between the Department for Education, GPS, Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation (ESPO) and YPO. It will be a free online search service offering education establishments a single information point to find products and services needed to run an education establishment, allowing users to view an extensive range of legally compliant contracts, frameworks and thousands of products and services available to the sector. The GPS continues to invest in a range of systems to provide more timely, accurate use of data for its customers. Tools for spend analysis pull in detailed accounts payable figures from across Government Departments, analysing and enriching spend and supplier data. The GPS has continued to enhance its eSourcing suite, including eAuctions, supplier and contract management tools. The Government eMarketplace hosts centralised catalogues and runs sub £100k E

or Tools f alysis an spend accounts pull in figures from ts, le payab departmen across lysing and ana g spend in enrich ata d

Procurement

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

GPS plans to replace Travel Framework The Government Procurement Service is planning to replace its current travel management frameworks - which include meeting and conferences – with one contract valued at up to £800m. The Wider Public Sector Travel Management Services framework will be open for use by all organisations in local authorities and the wider public sector, and an official procurement process is expected to begin in February. Valued at between £300m and £800m, the framework will be split into three lots: an online rail and hotel bookings tool; online and offline rail, hotel and air bookings; and a ‘one stop shop’ travel booking service. The ‘one stop shop’ lot also includes meetings and events booking for external venues. The framework is expected to run for four years and will replace two existing travel management contracts. The current Travel Management Services framework runs until 1 March 2013 and includes Capita Business travel, Hogg Robinson (Travel), NYS Corporate and Redfern Travel as suppliers providing a ‘one stop shop’ service. Meanwhile, a separate Travel Management Service Providers framework runs until 31 August 2014, and covers six lots including business travel, accommodation, conferences and meetings. Suppliers across the lots include Capita Business Travel, Carlson Wagonlit, Expotel, FCM Travel Solutions, NYS Corporate, Portman Travel and Redfern Travel.

Link 51 signs four year framework deal Link 51, manufacturer of pallet racking systems, has been awarded a four-year framework agreement for the supply of shelving and high density storage by the GPS. The firm, which is a trading name of Whittan Industrial, is now approved to supply its shelving and storage design services to public sector institutions including local government, health, education, emergency services, defence and not for profit organisations. Link 51 will be offer its manufacturing and design services to these institutions at preferential rates negotiated through Government Procurement Service’s framework.

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PROCUREMENT SERVICES “2012/13 is proving to be another exciting and challenging year. Our transformation programme continues as we strive to deliver even better commercial outcomes for our customers across Central Government and the Wider Public Sector. Our key priority is to save money and improve service delivery for our customers, expanding the breadth of our service offering to provide an end- to-end procurement service. Successful delivery against our plans for the first half of this year has enabled us to increase our forecast savings from £860m to a new forecast of £1.1bn. Set against a full year delivery of £358m in 2010/11 this is one measure of the significant progress, we have made.”

Rob Wilmot

ROB WILMOT JOINS BOARD As a non-executive director, GPS has appointed Rob Wilmot, a founding member of the internet service provider Freeserve. Wilmot was co-director of Freeserve back in 1998, the Internet Service Provider backed by the Dixon Stores Group. After floating on the London Stock Exchange, Rob became one of the youngest directors of a FTSE 100 company at

Rob Wilmot brings his experience from the internet, telecommunications and eCommerce industries which complements the expertise of the other NEDs on our board  sourcing events. 340 catalogues have been loaded and over 1200 suppliers registered. AT THE HELM David Shields has been steering the ship at GPS since June 2011, when he was appointed managing director. He joined Government Procurement Service in December 2010, and has previously worked within the Government’s Centralised Category Procurement workstream in the Efficiency and Reform Group (ERG). As a procurement and supply chain professional, David has years of experience in the private sector where he worked in senior roles for global insurance providers, such as AXA plc and CGU, now known as Aviva. David has also worked within other areas of the public sector including HM Customs and Excise and is an active fellow of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply. Shields and his senior team expect procurers to take an entrepreneurial approach to procurement. Each category team – and the 100range of categories is wide, including office solutions, print and print management, ICT 95 commodities, professional services, property and facilities management, energy, travel and fleet – has spend and savings objectives. They are given 75 more freedom to deal directly with suppliers, visit their premises, use e-auctions, spot buy as well as the more traditional approach of letting contracts and framework agreements. 25 In the report’s foreword, David Shields says:

the age of 29. Rob exited Freeserve after the completion of a £1.6 billion sale to Wanadoo in 2001. Since then, he has invested in a range of tech and media companies and is on a number of company boards as well as being the Chair of Governors for Doncaster College. “Wilmot brings his experience from the internet, telecommunications and eCommerce industries which complements the expertise of the other NEDs on our Board,” says Shields. RELATIONSHIPS According to Peter Smith of spendmatters. co.uk, relationships with the Pro5 collaborative purchasing organisations are developing well. Smith wrote: “There’s much less mutual suspicion than we saw a few years ago. And it sounds like the spend analysis programme, powered by BravoSolution technology, is beginning to pay off in terms of helping GPS understand spend then develop specific plans to work with individual departments. However, the report still doesn’t tell us what sort of ‘compliance’ GPS is getting from each Department on the major spend categories.” The Government Procurement Service appears to be shedding light at the end of the procurement tunnel. L FURTHER INFORMATION gps.cabinetoffice.gov.uk www.pro5.org www.ypo.co.uk www.espo.org

Procurement

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Forzani appointed procurement director at DWP Andrew Forzani, previously head of procurement and commissioning at Surrey County Council, has been appointed as procurement director at the DWP, where he will start in March. In the role, where he will report directly to commercial director David Smith, Forzani will play a central part in helping the department meet its ambitious reform agenda, including universal credit, the work programme and a range of commercial goals. Speaking to Supply Management, he explained the department’s high profile and large spend attracted him to the role: “Its size and scale is really attractive and the complexity in terms of what DWP has to deliver with regard to government reform agenda. A lot of that will be delivered through the commercial agenda and a network of contractors, that will be really challenging and complex.” As with the Work Programme, many of the projects that DWP will be rolling out will involve a large amount of contractors, putting the procurement team at the core of its work. For Forzani, this gave the role extra appeal. “There’s a really strong sense that under David’s leadership, [David Smith, DWP commercial director] this is a procurement team that’s very well listened to and has real influence over this huge department,” he said. Past Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply president Smith added the DWP had received more than 140 applications for the role from a high calibre of procurement professionals. He told Supply Management that they got the right man: “We’ve been lucky enough to secure the best applicant and we’re really pleased. Andrew is from an area of local government that has shown huge commercial improvement. Surrey County Council has won three CIPS Supply Management awards over the past two years and that’s what we’re buying here.” DWP’s Sustainable Procurement Strategy ensures that sustainable goods and services are specified wherever possible, and encourages best sustainable practice throughout its supply chains. It is actively encouraging suppliers and providers to help it achieve its sustainability targets.

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Groeneveld’s automatic greasing systems eliminate the need for extra greasing between major services Groeneveld is the leading manufacturer offering a range of automatic greasing systems which eliminate the need for extra greasing between major services, saving your business time and money, hence enabling your fleet to remain in optimum condition for longer. The choice of system depends on fleet requirements. Singleline is an automatic single-line greasing system for trucks and trailers which lubricates all greasing points simultaneously, at the right moment and with the correct amount of grease. CompAlube is a compact greasing system designed for low-maintenance trucks and trailers which have less lubricating points. With CompAlube, automatic greasing remains cost-effective. The benefits of the Groeneveld greasing system include easy installation, reduced downtime, improved maintenance and repair costs, resulting in higher residual value of fleets. The system also reduces wear and increases reliability. Each lubricating point is automatically lubricated while vehicle is in operation, delivering the optimum level of greasing compared to when the vehicle is stationary, eliminating manual greasing and therefore improving safety. As well as offering automated greasing systems Groeneveld also provide engine oil

management systems that can automatically top up the engine oil without the use of manual intervention therefore improving potential health and safety issues and guaranteeing that the engine oil level is maintained at its optimum level in all conditions. Groeneveld specialise in a recognised active safety system, which is modular in design and improves safety particularly in the use of refuse vehicles. This can be added to and can include up to a four camera systems displayed on a split screen inside the cab as well as obstacles detection for front, side and rear zones. All Groeneveld systems can be adapted to suit your company’s vehicles application. Its range covers the demands of all sizes of fleet, helping to optimise the efficiency

and safety for trucks, trailers, LCVs, refuse vehicles, mobile cranes, hook lifts and skips, tippers and emergency vehicles. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01509 600033 www.groeneveld-group.com

The DRIVING FORCE for efficiency In these competitive times, it is vital to keep maintenance to a minimum. We offer automatic greasing solutions that: Reduce downtime, maintentance and repair costs Generate higher residual value Reduce wear and increase reliability. Contact us to find out how our solutions can keep your fleet working more effectively. YOUR EFFICIENCY IS OUR CHALLENGE 01509 600033 info-uk@groeneveld-group.com www.groeneveld-group.com

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 20.1

TELEMATICS

Transport

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UBI: ONE WAY TO INFLUENCE DRIVER BEHAVIOUR

John Canali, an analyst with Strategy Analytics, notes that a key disconnect persists around UBI. “Insurers, OEMs, and wireless carriers are not aligned,” he says. But waiting until all the kinks have been smoothed out may mean missing opportunities. So, when developing UBI business plans, balance urgency with strategy. Gathering and managing the data that make UBI possible is also what makes it so costly, particularly at the start. Whether created and managed in-house or via a partner, the invehicle devices UBI requires are expensive, and it may be a while before increased demand drives down component prices. A second cost consideration is how to analyse incoming data. Although analysis is already part of an insurance company’s protocol, UBI may generate data at an unprecedented level. Translating all that data into usable information will take added effort. However, the biggest benefit a UBI program offers insurance carriers is the “opportunity to create a customer experience with auto insurance,” says Inquimboy. Right now, auto insurance is merely transactional. NOBODY WANTS INSURANCE “Insurance is basically a product nobody really wants,” adds Canali. “You’re paying for a product you don’t use, or you’ve been in an accident and are unhappy about that.” However, UBI opens the channels for feedback and gives carriers an opportunity to interact more frequently with customers as well as perhaps to improve their driving behaviours. The other big benefit is more effective pricing. UBI gives drivers more control over their premiums and allows the insurer to create more pricing segmentation and better accuracy, by using the customer’s actual driving behaviour as the basis for rates rather than proxies like driving record and number of tickets and accidents. Canali points out, though, that “the insurance industry has been profitable because pricing is adjusted to the driver,” and the information companies are currently able to gather is working pretty well. UBI could also benefit mobile phone carriers interested in expanding into machine‑to‑machine (M2M) communications, notes Canali. He anticipates that consumer data plans will eventually be shared across devices, perhaps including cars, where UBI apps could

Written by Jessica Royer Ocken and Susan Kuchinskas

Although usage-based insurance (UBI) is not yet widely available – or even widely known – it is currently being widely researched and tested by insurance carriers. UBI comes with real costs, and the technology and business models are still developing, so early adopters need to focus their investments

The advantages of UBI for consumers and insurers are clear: more accurate ratings of risk factors will lead to lower claims and lower premiums for safe drivers

feed information back to the insurer. Despite these benefits, UBI is not a sure‑fire win, nor is it likely a good fit for all auto insurers. “There are definitely some risks,” says Inquimboy. Insurance carriers looking to write policies for ‘preferred business’ may find UBI a compelling model, as it can help with customer retention. However, if a company is focused on the ‘high turnover’ part of the market, UBI is “not the wisest initiative because it’s a capital-intensive program,” he says. With those points in mind, Inquimboy reasons that companies interested in UBI shouldn’t wait too long to get a program started. Otherwise, they may experience “adverse selection” and be left mostly with customers who don’t suit their pricing model. Canali adds that once a company has decided to venture into UBI, it needs to research carefully and be sure it chooses the right partners to help deliver and enable the service. “I don’t believe many insurers understand enough about automotive” to manage UBI data effectively on their own, he says. WORKING TOGETHER The best way to enhance the future of UBI is for OEMs, wireless carriers, and insurers to work together, suggests Canali. But with differing agendas and concerns among these businesses, this is could be easier said than done. He cites Verizon’s recent acquisition of Hughes Telematics

as something to watch as a gauge of the industry’s comfort with such combinations. “OEMs and carriers need to sort out their relationships before they aggressively court insurers,” he says. But once they do, they could be well positioned to offer their own insurance. In addition, as OEMs and insurers begin to collaborate on UBI, Canali wonders whether OEMs risk alienating consumers by working with specific insurance companies. Despite the challenges, Esurance’s Inquimboy believes UBI has the potential to become an industry standard and a “permanent fixture as an option” among insurance models. Esurance is currently running a UBI pilot program in Arizona. “So far it presents a very compelling case,” he reports. “If we decide to move forward, we can roll it out very aggressively.” SPECIFIC BUSINESS MODELS According to Towers Watson research, insurers representing 60 per cent of the personal auto insurance market have implemented a version of a UBI program in at least one state. Many more are running or preparing to run internal UBI pilots. And Ptolemus Group forecasts more than 100 million vehicles will be insured with telematics globally by 2020, generating premiums of approximately $60 billion. The advantages for consumers and insurers are clear: more accurate ratings of risk factors will lead to lower claims and lower premiums for safe drivers. Technical barriers to these offerings are minimal, but the industry will E

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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TELEMATICS

ens UBI op els for ann the ch ack and feedb carriers gives rtunity to o an oppract more inte tly with n frequetomers cus

 need to appease consumers and regulators. Many US insurers offer pay-as-you-drive (PAYD), also called usage‑based insurance (UBI). This option is available in the majority of states. These plans use a plug-in device to measure actual miles driven: the less you drive, the less you pay for insurance. Progressive’s PAYD program, SnapShot, provides a free device that drivers plug into their cars for six months; after that, they send it back and the rate based on miles driven is finalized. State Farm’s Drive Safe & Save program uses OnStar to validate mileage, and it just inked a similar deal to let consumers transmit mileage info via Ford Sync. Because insurance rates have long used driver-reported mileage as one rating factor for evaluating risk and setting rates, PAYD is a relatively easy product to get approved by state regulators. Each state in the US regulates auto insurance independently. It also makes sense to consumers, because they’re used to this metric. And it doesn’t raise privacy concerns. Things get more interesting, and potentially more lucrative, when insurers use additional ratings factors that allow them to better calculate an individual driver’s risk. Telematics devices incorporating accelerometers and other sensors can provide accurate information about driving style that could impact a consumer’s risk profile. So-called pay‑how-you‑drive (PHYD) schemes use a variety of factors, including speed, time of day, braking, acceleration and cornering, to paint a more accurate picture. State Farm’s PHYD plan is called In-Drive, and it uses a device created by Hughes Telematics. In-Drive has rolled out in Illinois and Utah, with more states in the offing. “Obviously, mileage is a good predictor,” says Dick Luedke, spokesman for State Farm. “The more miles you drive, the more likely it is you’re going to file a claim.” State Farm did quite a bit of testing to find what other factors would be most useful for rating an individual’s risk by installing the devices in the cars of associates across the nation. The secret sauce, of course, is the algorithm each insurer uses to weigh all these factors. Each firm guards them as trade secrets. Luedke says drily, “I doubt we’d be too specific.”

Transport

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They can log in to see the report, watch video of incidents, and get tips for safer driving that they can share with the kid. Tim Moroney, insurance regulatory attorney with the law firm of Barger & Wolen LLP, thinks these services can help insurers get off the rate-cutting treadmill. “Personalised automotive insurance is very competitive,” Moroney says. “While cheaper premiums are usually the biggest hook, by coupling services with telematics you can offer more things. Insurers are now offering concierge benefits. They can do all things automotive and be very creative.” Insurers could take it even further by offering classes, content, applications and third-party offers. The strategy could be similar to that used by health maintenance organisations that provide weight-loss and smoking cessation classes to members. Says Frederic Bruneteau, managing director of Ptolemus Consulting Group, “Thanks to insurance telematics, the insurer can become an insurance service provider. Today, the notion of insurance is, ‘They take your money and then you hear from them if you have a problem.’ With telematics, they have a real‑time relationship with any policy holder.” L

About Telematics Update Telematics Update offers incisive news and analysis for the automotive telematics space, including Insurance Telematics, Safety, Infotainment, In‑Car Content, Navigation, LBS, Fleet Management and Telematics for EVs. Visit www.telematicsupdate.com for more information

DATA GATHERING Simply gathering data from telematics devices is not that difficult. Doug VanDagens, director, Connected Services Solutions at Ford Motor Company, says that, while the agreement with State Farm calls for only transmitting mileage information, Ford already can technically accommodate transmission of any metric needed for PHYD. In fact, Ford’s Crew Chief product for fleets, powered by Telogis, provides information on braking, acceleration, maintenance warnings and more. “Anything happening in the vehicle, we can communicate outside of it,” VanDagens says. It’s easier and cheaper to do so via Sync, he points out, because Sync uses the driver’s cell phone for connectivity. “We can provide all of that relatively easily, as soon as insurance companies want to set up the programs.” Insurance companies want to take the lead in marketing and managing UBI services. It makes sense since they already have familiar brands as well as the customer base. Most important, they are the ones with relationships with state regulators, keeping track of the myriad regulations and requirements of individual states. As consumers get more comfortable with these products, they may shrug off the Big Brother warnings and embrace the manage‑how‑you‑drive (MHYD) model. With MHYD, drivers get feedback that helps them improve and potentially lower their rates. REDUCING RISKY BEHAVIOUR American Family Insurance says its Teen Safe Driver Program has helped teens reduce risky driving behaviours by 70 per cent. The program includes a free in-car device attached to the review mirror. When incidents like extreme – as well as actual crashes – take place, it saves eight seconds of footage prior to the mishap and the four seconds after it. The information is transmitted wirelessly to American Family’s data center for review by driver coaches. Parents get a weekly driver report card that measures the teen’s performance against safe driving objectives and peer averages

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Drive your business forward Drive is our total fleet management solution bought to you in partnership with Masternaut and Balfour Beatty Fleet Services, the market leaders in Telematics and Fleet Management Services. Blending key services together into the Drive portfolio we enable greener, safer, more cost effective and productive fleet operations.

Martyn Wallace, Business Development Manager says... As we enter 2013 and the cusp of 4G coming to all mobile operators in the UK, I can’t help but feel a little frustrated that most people - and indeed clients I speak to - have been caught up in the speed debate, rather than looking at the customers needs and the services they would like to deliver.

2) Consumer devices/media platforms: TV/PCs or tablets/ games consoles/ entertainment centres/music players/ cameras all for media downloads/ uploads

A few mistakenly believe that they need 4G to deploy M2M - or Machine to Machine technology as it is otherwise known - which is simply not true. The concept has been around for over 10 years and still works effectively on GPRS data technology as data packets are so small.

4) Street furniture: lighting/traffic lights/ motorway signs/ parking meters/toll technology/digital signs

In a white paper written by Dr Mike Short looking at ‘What isn’t connected these days’, he quotes statistics that some people predicted that there were five billion Internet capable devices globally in 2010, which will rise to over 20 billion Internet capable devices by 2020. Not all of these are ‘connected’ full-time today, but maybe they should! These include: 1) Automotive assets: leading to ‘Internet on wheels’ and a wide range of connected services

3) Industrial: lifts/industrial machines/air conditioning/ fuel pumps

5) Environmental systems: water sprinkler/ weather station/pollution monitors/ pollen gauges 6) Building and security systems: industrial meters/ building sensors/security alarms/ security cameras or connected CCTV 7) Home/energy management: smart metering and smart grid/fall alarms/ lighting controls/ home sensors/ water meter 8) Healthcare and wellness: weighing scales/sports watches and belts/ home alarms/blood pressure monitor/ glucometer/cardiac monitor 9) Domestic equipment: boilers/cookers/ fridges/lawnmowers

10) Miscellaneous: anti-theft devices/ security/pet trackers With tighter public sector budgets and a focus on being more productive and of course greener, I have seen quite a bit more interest in the M2M area from Local Authorities across the UK with some dabbling in the idea of how they could integrate some of these solutions into a Smart ecosystem or indeed Smart City approach. A solution from the above that I’ve currently been working with a Local Authority on is a live trial we did for them with our O2 Drive “Telematics” solution. This measured utilisation, dynamic routing, driver behaviour and CO2 emissions for their vehicle fleet. From the analysis we did across their fleet in the September trial, we noticed: • 2,270 hours spent within the working day were stationary • Through vehicle management they could achieve 20% reduction in excess time at locations, which could potentially save £648,000.00 per annum

DRIVE BENEFITS • Save money and increase proﬁts • Improve customer service • Plan routes and drivers effectively

• There was over 3,679 hours of idling • Using the solution we could provide 30% reduction in idling, which would equate to saving £363,240 and an emissions saving of 729,924.51kg CO2e (729.925 Tons) per annum • From the Driver behaviour statistics they were able to identify areas of improvement including acceleration and braking which in turn could help reduce the amount of fuel used, wear and tear and, perhaps more critically, vehicle incidents Of course with all the behavioural data collected it also makes sense to make an impact with it, hence O2 has carefully selected a strategic partnership with Balfour Beatty Fleet Services as part of the O2 Drive Solution to help train and ‘coach’ the client’s drivers on how to drive safely and more efficiently which of course helps with their Corporate Responsibility and Health & Safety Policies as well as saving fuel. Balfour Beatty Fleet Services has a proven track record of reducing client’s vehicle

• Help corporate social responsibility programme

• Improve training and employee care programmes

• Reduce carbon footprint and lower emissions

• Meet compliance and legal requirements

incident rates by up to 41%, and incorporating vehicle telematics will only serve to help improve and sustain these excellent results. The “art of the possible” for machine-tomachine technology is already here as it can utilise multiple connectivity options such as mobile cellular access at even the basic level, WiFi, short range radio and other forms of broadband connectivity. As Dr Mike Short said “the question is now no longer ‘how to connect’ but ‘what to connect’ with the Internet? And then what services could be offered?” My question to you is; “Have you started looking at the possibilities around this area and what is your strategy?” Please feel free to contact me to start the debate and I wish you a connected 2013. Martyn Wallace Business Development Manager Telefónica O2 UK Limited Mob +44 7912 971789 Twitter @MW_O2UK

Challenge us to save you money. Get in touch at m2menquiries@o2.com

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Caro Flood Protection Barriers Never has flooding been in the news as much as it is now and never have the Caro WaterWall and WaterDoor Flood Barriers been as popular as they are now! UK’s leading Flood Defence manufacturer is your solution to flooding. Offering affordable, easy to install barrier systems for: • Residential Properties • Industrial Sites • Commercial Sites With many years manufacturing experience, the Caro Group can offer bespoke solutions for almost any scenario, be it for a Listed Building, an angled barrier on a slope or powder coating to a colour of your choice. A proven and successful system! A full brochure and very informative video can be found on the Caro Flood Defence Systems, website at www.carofds.co.uk. To discuss any requirements you may have, please call 01763 244446 or email info@caro.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 20.1

FeatureManagement Flood Heading

FLOOD LEGISLATION

HEED THE WATER WARNING

With flood warnings being issued on what seems a daily basis, local authorities need to make sure their response is prompt and efficient. The Flood and Water Management Act 2010 lays out the roles and responsibilities of local authorities when managing and responding to local flooding Flooding costs the UK billions of pounds. The summer 2007 floods alone cost the economy £3.2bn, according to an Environment Agency report. Around 48,000 homes were affected, each costing between £20,000 and £30,000 to repair. The cost for flooded businesses averaged between £75,000 and £112,000. Farmers lost an average of £1,150 per hectare of land flooded, while the cost of damage to infrastructure such as roads, water supplies and power networks was put at £660m. The report also factors in damage to communications, transport and roads of around £230m, with costs to local councils of £140m, while agriculture suffered losses of £50m. What’s more, the agency reports that 400,000 pupil days at schools were lost because of the floods.

Water Management Act 2010.

Sir Michael Pitt’s review stated The that: “The role of local Flood r authorities should be e t enhanced so that they a W and ct take on responsibility A t n e m e g a for leading the n d a a M des le to co‑ordination of flood i v o r p 2010 ith powers risk management w s s in their areas.” The e e r i u d t c o b Act does this by te stru designa t affect creating lead local tha flood authorities (LLFAs), g which are either the floodin

NEW ROLES FOR LOCAL AUTHORITIES It was the 2007 floods that lead to Sir Michael Pitt’s review into flooding, which influenced the current flooding legislation, the Flood and

county or unitary authority, who have responsibilities for managing local flood risk. Their responsibilities include preparing and maintaining a strategy for local flood risk management, co-ordinating views and activity with other local bodies and communities through public consultation and scrutiny, and delivery planning. The LLFA also maintains a register of assets, (physical features that have a significant effect on flooding in their area), and will investigate and publish the results of significant local flooding incidents. The LLFA will establish SuDS approval bodies (SABs) that will be responsible for

the approval of design, build and adoption of sustainable urban drainage systems, as well as issue consents for altering, removing or replacing certain structures or features on ordinary watercourses. It wil also play a lead role in emergency planning and recovery after a flood event. LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS Sir Michael Pitt’s Review recommended that the lead local flood authority should bring together all relevant bodies to help manage local flood risk. The important roles played by district councils, internal drainage boards, highways authorities and water companies are also recognised in the Act and these bodies, together with the Environment Agency, are identified as risk management authorities. The Act enables effective partnerships to be formed between the lead local flood authority and the other relevant authorities who retain their existing powers. It requires the relevant authorities to co-operate with each other in exercising functions under the Act and they can delegate to each other. It also empowers a lead local flood authority or the Environment Agency to require information from others needed for their flood and coastal erosion risk management functions. 

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Sandbags For Emergency Flood Defence ● We have full artic loads of sandbags always in stock. 24hrs delivery subject to availability of vehicles. ● Uv resistant, black polypropylene. Filled with approx. 20kg of washed sand—dimensions 50 x 30 x 10cm. ● Each pallet of 60 sandbags is protected with full length weather hoods & then pallet wrapped. ● We also deliver smaller quantities on pallet couriers— available in pallets of 50’s, 25’s & 10’s. ● Also available—Dual action grit salt—A combination of salt & micro grit. The salt lowers the freezing point, the grit provides mechanical action in breaking frozen surfaces.

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FLOOD LEGISLATION  FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES The Environment Agency has developed and published a national strategy for the management of coastal erosion and all sources of flood risk for England. The Act requires a lead local flood authority to develop, maintain, apply and monitor a strategy for local flood risk management in its area. The lead local flood authority will be responsible for ensuring the strategy is put in place but the local partners can agree how to develop it in the way that suits them best. The Act sets out the minimum that a local strategy must contain, and the lead local flood authority is required to consult on the

strategy with risk management authorities and the public. The Local Government Group (LGG) in associtation with local authority representatives, the Environment Agency and Defra have published a Preliminary Framework for local strategies to help local authorites develop their local flood risk management strategy. Local flood risk includes surface runoff, groundwater, and ordinary watercourses (including lakes and ponds). Guidance may, amongst other things, set out in more detail how the national strategy and local strategies should interact and how local strategies will need to take account

Mary Dhonau, Chair of the Flood Protection Association: My experience of flooding Having suffered first hand from the effects of being flooded, I know only too well what an appalling experience it is. Becoming a victim of filthy floodwater ravaging through your home, has far reaching and long term consequences for everyone concerned. Flooding is not just when the media and the minister come to visit. People are often quoted in the media as ‘hoping to be back home within a few weeks’, sadly, that is not the case. The average person is out of their home for about nine months and following the floods in 2007, many people in Hull were still living in alternative accommodation- many in caravans, up to two years later. Having watched, helplessly, as everything we had worked so hard for was being thrown into a skip was hard enough, but to lose precious sentimental items – such as children’s first drawings and photos of relatives who are no longer with us – was completely devastating. It is those intangible consequences of being flooded that are often overlooked. It just doesn’t occur to most people to think about protecting their homes from being flooded again in the future. Many people think it will never happen again but sadly, it often does. In this country many believe that government ought to protect us. The sad truth is that with so many of us at risk of being flooded, there just isn’t the money to go around to protect every one. The recent floods in Morpeth hit many residents hard – for a second time

in only a few years but reports have come out of residents saved from being flooded, having invested in property level flood protection. Being flooded is a costly and emotional experience so planning ahead pays dividends. Planning ahead breaks down into four sections: 1) Find out if you are at risk of being flooded by visiting the Environment Agencies website www.environment-agency.gov.uk. Click on ‘flood’ and this will take you to an interactive map and will give you the level of risk your home faces from being flooded. You can also buy a flood report (such as a Landmark Home Check) for around £20 which will cover all the different types of flooding and will give you the information you need before you buy. 2) If you are at risk of being flooded then it is essential that you sign up for a free Environment Agency Flood Warning by registering with their website. 3) Prepare a ‘Flood Plan’, especially for your family. Planning where your children or elderly relatives will go, where you’ll move your treasured possessions, pets and car to before a flood really does make a difference. 4) Think about how you can cut down on any damage by buying flood protection products in advance. Most people don’t know that there is lots that can be done that don’t cost a lot of money to stop the floodwater getting in. The Flood Protection Association’s website can help you find the most appropriate products: www.thefpa.org.uk

of plans to manage other sources of risk. The local strategies will build on information such as national risk assessments and will use consistent risk based approaches across different local authority areas and catchments. The local strategy will not be secondary to the national strategy; rather it will have distinct objectives to manage local flood risks important to local communities.

Flood Management

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DUTY TO INVESTIGATE To ensure greater co-ordination of information and avoid situations where bodies do not accept responsibility, the lead local flood authority will investigate flooding incidents in its area to identify which authorities have relevant flood risk management functions and what they have done or intend to do. The lead local flood authority will then be required to publish the results of any investigation, and notify any relevant authorities. The LLFA will also maintain a register of structures or features which they consider have a significant effect on flood risk in their area. The register must be available for inspection and the Secretary of State will be able to make regulations about the content of the register and records. ENSURING PROGRESS To avoid administrative burdens, the Act does not require routine reporting on performance, but allows information to be requested where necessary. Local authorities can bring matters to the government’s attention and if a risk management authority fails to exercise a flood risk management function, the Secretary of State can direct another authority to carry out that function. In addition, the Act will enable overview and scrutiny committees in lead local flood authorities to hold all the risk management authorities to account. In this way, the public can be actively involved in ensuring authorities perform. WORKS POWERS The Act provides the lead local flood authority with powers to do works to manage flood risk from surface runoff and groundwater. Powers to do works on ordinary watercourses remain with either district or unitary authorities, or internal drainage boards. All works must be consistent with the local flood risk management strategy for the area. The Act provides lead local flood authorities, district councils, internal drainage boards and the Environment Agency with powers to designate structures and features that affect flooding or coastal erosion. The powers are intended to overcome the risk of a person damaging or removing a structure or feature that is on private land and which is relied on for flood or coastal erosion risk management. Once a feature is designated, the owner must seek consent from the authority to alter, remove, or replace it. If someone does make a change to a designated feature, then the authority may E

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Floodwall is a UK patented flood protection system for residential and commercial premises. The installation of the Floodwall system could significantly reduce both the annual cost of your home and business premises insurance, and the excess. For those properties that are unable to secure insurance against flooding, we are confident that a Floodwall system fitted by our trained technicians will overcome this. In addition, our product comes with a 10–year guarantee of its reliability and performance. The Floodwall system comprises of 2 main products to be installed in every property. There are additional products which may also be required, tailored to each residential or commercial premises. Our experts will determine precisely what is needed to make your property secure from flood risk and ensure that you understand what is needed and why. On completion of your Floodwall installation, it will receive a 10–year guarantee. The Floodwall Door is a slimline powder coated aluminium frame permanently bonded to the building, and a removable, lightweight aluminium flood door that takes just seconds to deploy. Floodwall requires no tools or complicated procedures; it just clips up to either side of the frame to produce a watertight seal. Simple but highly effective. The second part to the Floodwall system is the instillation of our Airbrick. Using the same ‘two‑part’ principle and process as the Floodwall, the Airbrick is a discrete cover which is permanently installed to seal your property’s airbricks. Airflow and water are not restricted until you clip the seal plate into place, which merely takes seconds and is 100% watertight. If you are interested in our products then appointments can be arranged to visit our Flood Demonstration Centre to review our products.

Email: enquiries@floodwallsystems.co.uk

FLOOD LEGISLATION E issue an “enforcement notice” which will set out any steps that must be taken to restore a feature. An individual may appeal against a designation notice, refusal of consent, conditions placed on a consent or an enforcement notice. SUSTAINABLE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS The Act establishes a SuDS Approving Body (SAB) at county or unitary local authority levels. The SAB would have responsibility for the approval of proposed drainage systems in new developments and redevelopments, subject to exemptions and thresholds. Approval must be given before the developer can commence construction. In order to be approved, the proposed drainage system would have to meet new national standards for sustainable drainage. Where planning permission is required applications for drainage approval and planning permission can be lodged jointly with the planning authority but the Approving Body will determine the drainage application. Regulations will set a timeframe for the decision so as not to hold up the planning process. The SAB would also be responsible for adopting and maintaining SuDS which serve more than one property, where they have been approved. Highways authorities will be responsible for maintain SuDS in public roads, to National Standards.

The SAB must arrange for SuDS on private property, whether they are adopted or not, to be designated under Schedule 1 to the Act as features that affect flood risk. The SAB will also be required to arrange for all approved SuDS to be included on the register of structures and features (as a separate category). The National Standards will set out the criteria by which the form of drainage appropriate to any particular site or development can be determined, as well as requirements for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of SuDS. Local authorities are represented on the Project Advisory Board for the development of these National Standards. The Act also makes the right to connect surface water drainage from new development to the public sewerage system conditional on the surface water drainage system being approved by the Approving Body. Local authorities will be able to use all their normal powers (in planning, regeneration, local investment, highways and to provide information and guidance) to support their new roles under the Act. They will take over the Environment Agency’s role in deciding whether to allow works by third parties that may affect water flows to take place. L

The bles Act ena ive effect ps to shi partnerd between e be formd local flood the lea ority and auth elevant other r rities autho

FURTHER INFORMATION www.defra.gov.uk www.environment-agency.gov.uk

Considering flood protection? For many years now, home and business owners have been concerned by the rising cost of obtaining flood insurance cover at an affordable level with minimal excesses. If an insurance policy has an excess of more than £2,100 most mortgage companies will not recognise this and most business owners will be in breach of their covenants. A lot of new passive and automatic flood protection products are coming to the market as well as a range of flood resilient products that make it quicker and cheaper to repair a property once the flood waters have been in. More innovation is required to address the many complexities of property level flood protection but equally the insurance industry has to start to recognise resilient repairs so that if a property floods again then the damage, cost and emotional strain are reduced significantly. Aquobex Flood Management Solutions believes these will come to fruition later this year, but they need a market in which to flourish. Home and property owners need to know there are ways to protect themselves and the insurance industry needs to recognise these efforts

based on sound flood prevention solutions. Maybe this is the conversation the Association of British Insurers and Government needs to be having rather than finding pots of money to repair houses after the event. After all, prevention is far better than cure. FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01923 518582 enquiries@aquobex.com www.aquobex.com

Dragon’s Den-style award funds flood defence innovation

Flood Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

A flood brick that could replace sandbags to defend homes and infrastructure from flooding is one of three winners sharing £200,000 Defra funding to develop technology to tackle climate change and flooding, Environment Minister Lord de Mauley has announced. The successful businesses beat hopefuls looking to address flooding and the effects of climate change in local communities through developing innovative technology. Congratulating the winners, Environment Minister Lord de Mauley said: “These businesses have created exciting ways to combat climate change and the effects of flooding in our communities. The competition has encouraged people to think about tackling the problems the environment throws at us.” The entrepreneurs competed in a Dragon’s Den style competition. The funding will help bring two products and a concept into production but it has also encouraged people to think about tackling climate change and flooding and brought the ideas to the attention of the private sector. The competition winners were: Flood Brick from Fluvial Innovations – Awarded £44,280 plus the cost of kitemarking the product. The project creates a low cost, stackable flood barrier intended to replace the use of sandbags. The Flood Brick can be easily stored, deployed by one person and is re-usable. Units can be self-filling, using the weight of rising floodwater to hold back flood flow. Papa Rainwater Harvesting System from Papa Ltd – Awarded £88,000. A zero energy rainwater harvester uses flowing water from roofs to activate a patented valve to pump rainwater into storage for re-use in local domestic and industrial buildings. It plans to make rainwater harvesting cost-effective and used on a wider scale. Catchment Scale approach from AECOM – Awarded £54,630. AECOM will work with Severn Trent Water to look at the challenges of drainage during heavy rainfall in urban parts of the West Midlands. It will develop a model that can be used by water companies across the UK.

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Is a franchise the right opportunity for you?

A unique opportunity and no selling! ACT Clean is now offering a unique and exciting business format franchise for just four prospective management franchise owners in the London area. As a franchise owner you will have the opportunity to share and celebrate the ACT Clean success, with an earning of a six-figure sum by year three. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, this can be earned without any selling, as ACT Clean franchise owners do not have the responsibility of seeking new business. They ensure the success of the franchise by providing a strong, developed customer base and the franchise ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s priority can be the smooth running and delivery of exceptional service to its customers. For years ACT Clean has been trusted to deliver the exceptional cleaning standards - and customer service - demanded daily by top restaurateurs such as Gordon Ramsay. The consistent delivery of this level of service has seen the company grow into the leading specialist contract cleaning company in the hospitality sector, with 82% year-on-year growth for the last six years. No experience of cleaning or business ownership is required as all training will be provided by ACT Clean. Franchises will only be awarded to those who share ACT Clean's values, drive and passion to provide the very best service and grow their own successful business based on trust and partnership. ACT Clean's turnover guarantee delivers your customers for you, from day one, so there's no need for the franchise owner to find their own clients. Russell Stinson, co-founder and Managing Director of ACT Clean explains: "Starting a business can be a daunting experience, as we know from having done it ourselves. We've already made all the mistakes for you, learnt the lessons the hard way and ended up building an incredibly successful business - so now we can teach you everything you need to know to do it yourself."

Is franchising a good path to take after redundancy? Amidst all the turbulence in the economy over recent years, is it possible that redundancy doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to mean the end of life as we know it? In fact, now might be the ideal time to re-evaluate your life and career and look at alternative ways of working that you might not have previously considered. As a more secure, proven investment, franchising may soon start to be seen as a viable option for many newly unemployed individuals who are looking to start up their own business.

What do they offer? Managed sales Ready client-base Full turnkey business Fully developed systems

Comprehensive training Vast experience Established brand Centralised invoicing Support network

Franchises awarded not sold ACT Clean was created by four ambitious entrepreneurs who had the vision to revolutionise standards in an industry that had always done things the same way and was only ever producing a mediocre experience for its customers and employees. It was their intention to set the bar higher by investing in, and developing, their people and by being innovative in their systems and approach. It is these innovative systems and the approach from the founders that has allowed ACT Clean to be able to offer its fully systemised business to the right franchise owners, ready to be replicated.

What they are looking for? Individuals that are: Hard working Passionate Motivated Personable

Says Russell: "Everyone at ACT Clean understands and lives the company's values - we support each other, we care about what we do, we're honest and respectful, we communicate. More than this our customers see us as an essential part of their team we seek to put ourselves in our clients shoes and understand their needs." For further information: 020 7793 3475 | Andrew.Lawson@act-clean.com

FRANCHISING

Franchising

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

DOING THE BUSINESS

The increasing popularity of franchising saw the industry increase its economic contribution to the UK by £1bn to £13.4bn in 2011, representing eight per cent annual growth during a year in which UK GDP increased by only 0.8 per cent. Paul Stafford of the British Franchise Association elaborates Lifestyle: you need to be happy with the commitments needed for your new business in making it a success. Franchising enables you to develop your existing skill set, or become your own boss doing something you are passionate about with full support and training, so think about what you are good at and can take on whole-heartedly. You also need to consider the support and understanding of those around you, friends and family, which some franchisors like to gauge as part of their recruitment process. Research: your research into a brand and its people is absolutely crucial to finding the right franchise for you, and avoiding the wrong one. Be thorough, and include the following: Speak to existing franchisees: you want an extensive list to choose from, not just a few that the franchisor provides you information for. Speak to both successful and any less successful franchisees to give you a rounded view. If you can, go and visit them at their place of work. In some networks you will be encouraged to spend the day with franchisees as part of the recruitment process.

Some 1,000 brands use the franchising model in the UK – there really is something to suit everyone and every budget invest and how much you are prepared to borrow – and remember to consider working capital requirements while your business is establishing itself and may not be turning a profit. There are three major banking groups that the BFA recognise as specialists in franchising: HSBC, Lloyds and RBS/NatWest; make sure that you ask for their franchise departments from the outset.

Understand the business: make sure you understand all the business operations and what is involved on a daily basis. Training: be sure that the training provided, both initially to get you up and running and on an ongoing basis to help your business grow, is sufficient for you to be able to gain the skills required to operate the business successfully. Ongoing fees: ethical franchisors charge an ongoing management service fee (MSF), which will usually be collected either as a percentage of turnover, or through the supply of the raw materials that you need to operate. Make sure you understand the structure and level of fees, and what you get in return; these fees fund the ongoing support that you receive and the future development of the business. Although in some cases MSF could be a set amount per month, there is sometimes a clear advantage to fees based on a percentage of turnover; the franchisor is encouraged

About the BFA The British Franchise Association (BFA) is self-regulatory body for the UK franchise industry, with a standards based approach to membership. Its aim is to promote ethical franchising practice in the UK and help the industry develop credibility, influence and favourable circumstance for growth. Visit the BFA’s website at www.thebfa.org for objective advice and access to numerous educational and advisory resources, as well as a list of all accredited member franchisors and professional advisers.

Written by Paul Stafford, British Franchise Association

Nowadays, franchising presents a variety of possibilities across an eclectic mix of industries, with some 1,000 brands using the model in the UK, so there really is something for everyone and every budget. If you are thinking about buying a franchise, you should make yourself aware of exactly what is involved and how to identify those businesses which best suit your needs. Here are some of the key areas to consider and questions to ask yourself: Membership of the British Franchise Association (BFA): the BFA accredits franchisors using a stringent set of criteria based on operational procedures, franchisor/franchisee practices and the European Code of Ethics for Franchising. All members are listed on the BFA’s website to allow potential franchisees to determine which ethical franchisors have passed these checks – not all do. Financial commitment: levels of investment range greatly from smaller amounts, that you may already have available, to larger amounts that you may need a bank loan for. Assess and understand, from the beginning of your process, what you can afford to

to help you succeed – as your success will mean their success. The people: don’t underestimate the importance of meeting the people involved at head office, finding out who you would be in contact with and what their experience is. Success rates: ask for success rates of other franchisees. There may be failures, but the important aspect is to understand why. Recruitment: if the franchisor doesn’t appear selective about who they recruit, walk away. You want to see that they are stringent in their process, not just letting anyone and everyone join the network whose brand you will be trading under. Investing in a franchise should be a two-way recruitment process. Professional advice: there are a host of professional advisers accredited by the BFA that specialise in franchising who can be invaluable in making sure that you’re taking the right steps – for example, when it comes to reviewing the franchise agreement, make sure you go to a specialist franchise solicitor – it can save you a lot of money in the long run. Finally, take your time. Make sure you assess and re-assess everything as part of your research before you fall in love with a concept and a dream – you’re parting with your hard‑earned money and making a commitment for several years (usually five at a time), so it’s essential to be certain rather than making an expensive mistake. A good franchisor won’t pressure you into a decision, they understand the level of undertaking required and want serious people to join their network. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.thebfa.org

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Ableworld Franchise Opportunity

Ableworld, one of the UK’s leading mobility retailers, is looking to recruit a limited number of franchisees to join its franchise network in the growing mobility sector. According to government statistics, in 10 years’ time over 25% of people will be over 65 and the figures for those over 80 and 90 are even more striking. Ableworld’s products and services are designed to capitalise on this growing market and you can capitalise, too, as an Ableworld franchise. FRANCHISEES WILL GET: FRANCHISEES WILL NEED: ● Two integrated businesses for one price ● Drive, energy and enthusiasm ● The opportunity of earning up to £95,000pa by Year 3 ● Customer service mentality ● Use of the AbleworldTM brand in an exclusive terrority ● A passion for helping people ● A first class training and support programme ● The desire to want to run their own business in a growing market. ● And much more...

For more information, call 01270 627185 or visit www.ableworldfranchise.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 20.1

Franchising

Aspiring franchisees will find plenty to interest them at The National Franchise Exhibition, which returns to the NEC, Birmingham on 22-23 February

THE FUNDAMENTALS OF FRANCHISING

A visit to the renowned exhibition is a useful introduction to the world of franchising as Andy Moore from Sheffield who works in the media and visited the event last year discovered: “I thought the event was great and the seminars were really helpful. I attended the exhibition to gather information as I am new to the franchising industry, and am considering becoming a franchisee.” Representatives from franchise businesses across diverse sectors such as property, finance, retail, technology, leisure and home care, will all be on hand to discuss career opportunities with visitors. Visitors can have full confidence in the franchise opportunities available as The National Franchise Exhibition is the only franchise exhibition in Birmingham supported by the British Franchise Association (BFA), meaning only franchise companies that have met the BFA’s code of ethics can exhibit. As well as the wide range of exhibitors to meet, there are a variety of free features providing further insight and expert guidance for visitors interested in the many opportunities afforded by franchising. A key feature is the comprehensive conference offering a fundamental grounding on key topics such as Hands-on franchising, High-level investment franchising, Executives in franchising, plus a series of BFA franchising panel seminars with expert consultants, solicitors, bankers and franchisors offering valuable advice. The conference also has seminars on the topic of Growing Your Own Business with an exciting range of inspiring entrepreneurs passing on their business know‑how. CEO of Payasugym.com, Jamie Ward, will explain the story behind the creation of the

company and its aim to help more people get fit and stay healthy by creating a simple, flexible and affordable service. Pay-as-you-go gym is the UK’s largest network of gyms, whereby gym-goers load cash onto an online account to access a choice of over 800 gyms. Jamie launched the company in February 2010 with his two friends Neil Harmsworth and Mike Blake. They came up with the idea when travelling back from a meeting and discussing how difficult it was finding a gym to visit on a casual basis. Fiona Wood, founder of Naturally Cool Kids, will deliver her seminar ‘Starting your own business – your rules, your way’. The mother of two founded Naturally Cool Kids in July 2010 after years of being frustrated by the lack of affordable, natural skincare for kids. As a qualified reflexologist and beautician, Fiona used her experience to create a healthier children’s skincare range, and has won awards such as the Mumpreneur Business of the Year at the Startups Awards. Alongside the conference is a range of exciting free features providing insightful and valuable information and advice. These include the Finance Clinic where experts provide guidance on financing a franchise and writing a business plan, and the Careers Clinic where you can get expert advice and discuss options to generate a realistic career plan. Real Franchise Stories is a popular session in the conference where visitors can learn from existing franchisees who will share their experiences and top tips on how to build a successful career as a franchisee. At the High Investment VIP Lounge, potential franchisees with a greater amount of capital to invest can meet with relevant franchise

The ational on N 3 1 0 2 iti e Exhib s i h c n a Fr nly is the o vent in ee franchisingham Birm ed by support FA the B

The National Franchise Exhibition To register for The National Franchise Exhibition, call +44 (0)844 257 8668 or visit www.franchiseinfo.co.uk. Admission on the door is £15, however visitors can gain free admission by using the promotional code GBUSNFE when pre-registering at www. franchiseinfo.co.uk. The National Franchise Exhibition is open from 10am each day, closing at 5pm on Friday 22 February and 4pm on Saturday 23 February 2013. For the latest news and updates about The National Franchise Exhibition, follow the exhibition on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ ukfranchising, join The Franchise Exhibitions Group on LinkedIn or become a fan of the FranchiseInfo group on Facebook. businesses to network and explore interesting opportunities. New to the VIP area this year is the addition of the High Investment Panel Sessions, featuring a number of high investment franchises such as Platinum Property Partners, Sign-a-rama and Papa John’s, offering their advice and discussing all aspects of high-level investment franchising. McDonald’s is holding franchisee recruitment Open Sessions exclusively on-site at the exhibition. Visitors can meet with McDonald’s staff to gain a unique insight into being part of one of the world’s biggest brands. New to the event this year is an appointment system where visitors can pre-book appointments with their chosen exhibitors through www.franchiseinfo.co.uk. This allows visitors to make the most of their experience. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.franchiseinfo.co.uk E Turn the page for case study stories

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Franchise opportunities… Tailored to suit your pocket

You want to be your own boss – whether you’re ‘the suit’ or ‘on the tools’. You’ve got £20k + to invest*. You also want the training, equipment and support of a well known, trusted brand. This is where Rainbow International are made to measure. Using our existing national contracts, we’ll set you up with a franchise package in the growing area of Disaster Recovery and Specialist Cleaning Services. It will be tailored to fit the amount you can invest, as well as how and where you want to work. Current Rainbow franchisees have successfully joined us from a broad range of backgrounds and professions. Just think – in three to six months you could be running your own growing business. Call us on 01623 675185 to find out how you can join the team with awardwinning franchise experience. With Rainbow International you’ll benefit from: • Specialist market growth opportunities • Option to work from home in the early stages • Option to purchase additional equipment and marketing • Sales and external marketing with optional monthly charges • Opportunity to grow and buy other area based on performance and area penetration • Leasing packages available for equipment (subject to status) • Sales and marketing, financial, technical, training, administration and IT support. * Investment from £20k upwards with bank matched funding (subject to status).

Call 01623 675185 or visit: www.rainbow-int.co.uk/businessopportunities to find out more. Rainbow International, Spectrum House, Lower Oakham Way, Oakham Business Park, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG18 5BY. Tel: 01623 675185 email: businessopportunities@rainbow-int.co.uk

FRANCHISING Martyn Feint, Chemex Martyn was a police officer for two decades and when the opportunity of early retirement came he was determined to do something different. He was keen to run his own business but recognised that a franchise offered the security of a proven system as well as a fast track to starting up. Martyn, from Worthing, attended The National Franchise Exhibition in Birmingham to browse the stands, source advice and find a few opportunities that he could explore further. Having spent the day at the event he felt confident that he had received a good overview of what was available and followed up by contacting those that appealed to him, including Chemex. The next stage was to attend a Chemex open day and spend time with network members, after which Martyn was awarded the Hastings franchise. This venture has proved successful and quickly progressed. He has since acquired a second territory as well as the franchise rights for the Brighton area, which he is set to launch very soon.

Rebecca and Simon Waterfield, Platinum Property Partners

Franchising

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Laura Mills, Mail Boxes Etc

Primary school teacher Rebecca and her husband Simon, a chef, always had a keen interest in property and enjoyed redeveloping their home. Despite both having demanding jobs, with Rebecca teaching full time as well as providing special needs training to other teachers, and Simon working long shifts as a head chef in a nearby luxury hotel, their shared passion for DIY meant that they had previous experience of buying homes that needed redevelopment. Deciding that they wanted to change direction and set up their own business to achieve a better work/life balance, they spent much time researching all the options available. Having seen an advert for Platinum Property Partners (PPP) and researched the company further, Simon attended a Discovery Day to find out more. Rebecca explains: “We looked at various franchise options in all sectors, not just property, but we kept coming back to the exceptional returns that PPP enables its Franchise Partners to achieve.” The couple spoke with other Franchise Partners to understand what was achievable, and also continued to investigate alternative opportunities. However, all their research continued to point towards Platinum Property Partners. In July 2010, Rebecca and Simon joined the franchise and structured a ‘five year plan’ for their new business, with the aim of building a family business that they could eventually pass on to their children. Guided by the PPP team the couple set to work on researching the local area to make their first purchase. By the end of 2010, they had already bought and fully let a six bedroom property and were planning the next additions to their portfolio. In the next year, another three properties successfully followed Rebecca sums up: “We are on track in terms of where we had planned to be at this stage. Our income levels are where we anticipated they would be, and we will soon be considering our next purchases.”

Laura had many years’ experience of dealing with people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life when she decided to realise a long-held ambition to be her own boss and chose retail‑based Mail Boxes Etc to start a new career as a franchisee. Laura was a Superintendent Registrar, having worked her way to the top with a series of promotions. In fact, she was the youngest woman Superintendent Registrar in the country when she was appointed to the most senior post aged just 31. She then joined the police where she worked for almost 20 years as a Woman Police Officer, latterly as a prosecuting sergeant, before choosing early retirement in 2009. “I felt it was time for a change and I was ready to move on and try something else,” she explained. Laura had been very sceptical about franchising until she and her husband made friends with a couple of Mail Boxes Etc franchisees and she decided it was worth considering seriously. “I explored franchising thoroughly, but in the end I felt that Mail Boxes Etc. appealed the most. “Alongside franchisee friends, I also spoke to others in the network, who were all very friendly and open and also unanimous in their praise for the franchisor’s support and help.” Laura has been a franchisee for around a year now and thoroughly enjoys being her own boss, secure in the knowledge that she has support from her franchisor. “I am refining my new skills and receiving tremendous support from head office and other franchisees, who are only too willing to help me,” Laura explains.

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

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High quality car care franchise opportunities

OSCAR: leading the way for pet food home delivery

Autoglym products are to be found in all areas of automotive activity and are as equally suited to the professional user, the concours competition enthusiast and the family car owner. Heritage - the company was founded in 1965 by a UK Motor Trade entrepreneur who developed a unique system for renovating used car paintwork. Today the name is synonymous with high quality car care and vehicle valeting products around the world. Autoglym is based in Letchworth, UK and employs over 130 personnel with product distribution to over forty countries. Endorsed by Leading Motor Manufacturers - more than twenty motor manufacturers use Autoglym products in manufacturing or presentation processes. The company currently holds international approvals from over forty car marques with many leading car manufacturers and importers choosing Autoglym

Oscar builds its reputation on the strength of being the UK’s leading pet food home delivery franchise business. The facts provided by the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association confirm that pet food in the UK is currently a £2.7 billion growth industry, proving that there has generally been a change in attitude towards pet care, although some pet owners are still buying pet food with little knowledge of a balanced diet. Oscar qualified Nutritional Advisors are trained to deliver confidence in their product while helping to solve problems, thus providing solid grounds on which to build customer loyalty and a sound business. The OSCAR complete pet care service business opportunity recognises the importance of making career-changing decisions. The brand has been manufacturing its own range of pet food for over eighteen years – under the guidance of expert nutritionists. Exclusive territory, no middleman, treats, health care and pet accessories are backed up by nutritional,

products for on-line production work, main-dealer use and motorshow preparation. Opportunities – we currently have available a limited number of opportunities to acquire existing Autoglym franchises, with proven and significant income streams. Our franchisees have the exclusive right to sell our market leading valeting products to a wide variety of motoring related retailers and trade customers. Comprehensive training, and full on-going business and marketing support are provided. FURTHER INFORMATION Contact: Sheila George Tel: 01462 687 483 sgeo@autoglym.co.uk

behavioural and veterinary consultants where experience and support is second to none. Anyone can apply – from bank mangers, accountants, teachers and manual workers, to farmers wishing to diversify. Retired HM forces, police, IT workers, veterinary nurses, carers, and youngsters wishing to run their own business from the start – many have become Oscar franchisees. OSCAR is a full member of the British Franchise Association, Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association and holder of the Investors in People award. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0800 068 1106 www.oscars.co.uk discover@oscars.co.uk

Work and family – the balance can be done

Debutots – an amazing business opportunity

A New Year and a new start. Are you looking for the ideal job – to combine work, family life and be your own boss? A Jo Jingles franchise could be what you are looking for. Launched as a national franchise in 1995 the company now has a network of over 90 franchisees throughout the UK, Ireland and Australia, providing more than 25,000 babies and children aged from three months to five years with a fun introduction to the wonders of music, singing and movement. Franchise areas are now available from £5,500 to £9,000 plus VAT, depending on the size of territory. This award winning franchise offers an exciting opportunity to run your own business, offering music and singing classes for children aged three months-five years in your local area. It offers flexible working hours to fit around your own family life, and low start-up costs, good return on investment and a comprehensive start-up package with on‑going

Debutots is the UK’s premier drama-in‑education company for the early years (6 months-7 years). Combining story, drama and play, Debutots promotes skilful communication, develops cognitive skills and grows a child’s positive sense of themselves and others. The original Debutots stories, interactive storytelling and carefully crafted drama techniques, empower young children with creativity, confidence and a love of language. Debutots has been expertly created to support National Curricula and is hugely successful with educational settings, local authorities and in local venues with parents and their little ones. The Debutots franchise opportunity is fully accredited by the BFA and franchisees

training. What’s more, Jo Jingles provides advertising and promotional support, equipment and professional class programmes, as well as on-going support with an established, recognised and expanding business. Jo Jingles is credited with full membership of the British and Irish Franchise Associations. While you don’t need to be a trained musical performer to be a Jo Jingles franchisee you do need to be able to hold a tune. Previous business experience an advantage. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01494 778989 headoffice@jojingles.co.uk www.jojingles.com

continue to renew their franchise agreements. This demonstrates that, for the right candidates, this opportunity is not only ethical and worthwhile but is something with which to build a successful and fulfilling future career. “My job is such fun and I can be flexible and work around my family commitments. Thank you Charlotte and Karen for an amazing business opportunity! Here’s to many more years in business together,” says Sharon Redden, franchisee for North Down, Ards and East Belfast. Could Debutots be your amazing business opportunity? Contact Charlotte to request a prospectus. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 5194941 www.debutots.co.uk franchise@debutots.co.uk

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Real commitment deserves real recognition Get the most from your commitment to ISO 27001 Does your information security management system follow the internationally recognized standard for information security, ISO 27001? Why not prove just how effective it is? Take it further with BSI Demonstrate that you comply with ISO 27001 by choosing an independent assessment from BSI. You’ll show internal and external audiences that you are continually working to reach a higher level of maturity across your information security management system.

Global research confirms that 85% of clients who chose BSI to assess their information security systems have noticed improved stakeholder confidence in their security systems – and 67% reported an increase in revenue through new and retained business.*

This means you can reassure stakeholders and reap even further rewards:

With BSI you’ll be choosing a long-standing and globally recognized certification body that helps you improve results for your business and build customer confidence.

• Win more business by gaining a competitive edge • Keep customers loyal and secure their trust • Give tenders more weight by meeting pre-qualification requirements • Protect your brand and enhance your reputation. *International BSI Excellerator research 2011

Prove how good your information security management system is by working with BSI, even if you don’t already follow ISO 27001.

Find out more. bsigroup.co.uk/isoiec27001 T +44 845 080 9000

EVENT PREVIEW

CONSTRUCTION FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Ecobuild 2013

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As demand increases across government for better understanding of sustainable construction, Ecobuild 2013 connects public sector buyers with the latest green design and build solutions

Following the government’s autumn statement outlining a much welcomed £5 billion switch from current to capital spending across the public sector, government decision-makers should attend Ecobuild – the world’s largest event for sustainable design, construction and the built environment, taking place on 5-7 March 2013, at ExCeL London. As demand increases across the public sector for better understanding of sustainable construction practices, Ecobuild 2013 connects public sector organisations seeking to procure innovative and sustainable solutions for their latest design and construction projects. THE ENVIRONMENT With the public sector responsible for 40 per cent of EU construction activity and buildings responsible for 36 per cent of EU CO2 emissions, public sector construction needs to be sustainable and innovative (source: DEFRA web site). Ecobuild should be a date in the diary for every decision-maker in and working for local and central government, offering more than 1,500 exhibitors and 1100 expert speakers, plus dozens of interactive and educational attractions. The three-day event is the perfect opportunity for visitors to rub shoulders with academics, other government representatives and a whole range of industry experts, to discuss the latest developments in the world of sustainable building. EXPERT EDUCATION Set to be an exciting year, 2013 will see a wealth of new content showcased at E

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EVENT PREVIEW  Ecobuild. Back by popular demand, The Ecobuild Arena returns to the show floor with a cutting-edge programme of high level discussion, debate, new thinking and challenging ideas. The crème de la crème of Ecobuild’s prestigious conference programme will come together in the Ecobuild Arena on the show floor to cover topical issues such as ‘The Green Deal and ECO – is it delivering?’, ‘Making our cities better’, ‘Green for growth – reality check’ and ‘Beating the

Other hot topics will look at whether the UK has any hope of achieving its 2050 carbon reduction target, whether ‘fracking’ is the future, and climate change. In the ‘Design Architecture & Sustainability’ stream, RIBA president Angela Brady will investigate how sustainable design should be irresistible design. Other topics in this stream include reinventing the high street, designing sustainable communities, and water-sensitive urban design, headed up by Aecom’s sustainability director.

The public sector is responsible for 40 per cent of EU construction activity, and buildings are responsible for 36 per cent of EU CO2 emissions. Therefore public sector construction needs to be sustainable and innovative performance gap – regulate or educate?’ Ministers and government officials will be joined by experts from leading organisations such as the RIBA, the UKGBC, Environment Agency, Arup and the Construction Industry Council, as well as academics from the leading UK universities driving the climate change debate from the US and beyond. Ecobuild also has commitment from The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) to provide ministerial speakers to be announced soon. Tom Broughton, brand director for Ecobuild said: “The launch of the Ecobuild conference programme is always an exciting announcement for the sustainability community and the wider construction industry and this year will not disappoint. With nearly 70 percent of visitors quoting events as the key way they stay up-to-date with the latest information and changes to the sustainability agenda, Ecobuild’s conference programme will once again bring together over 1100 industry experts, ministers and VIPs from across the sustainable built environment to inform, educate and inspire.”

SUSTAINABILITY OVERSEAS Ecobuild will also bring together a wealth of top sustainability experts to debate and share their unique perspectives on the global sustainability agenda with the launch of its Sustainability Overseas conference programme. Forming part of Ecobuild 2013’s wider conference programme in association with UKGBC, the one-day conference stream will take place on Wednesday 6 March 2013 covering the challenges and opportunities of sustainability around the world with experts from UK Green Building Council, RICS, AECOM, International Sustainability Alliance, BRE, Premier Inn and many more. For the full programme line-up and speaker information, please visit the website. Industry experts will discuss hot topics such as the sustainability drivers in overseas markets, the sustainability strategies needed for different climatic zones, and successfully delivering sustainable buildings in emerging markets.

THE GREEN DEBATE Visitors to the ‘Making Sustainable Construction Happen’ sessions can join an expert panel to debate and discuss what and where we should invest in the construction industry to get the maximum benefit. This exciting stream will also look at the issues of an integrated infrastructure approach, whether the NPPF is delivering on its promise of sustainable development and the future for microgeneration. ‘Beyond Construction: Achieving a Sustainable Future’ will kick off with The ‘Biophilic City’ headed up by Professor Tim Beatley from the University of Virginia, discussing the importance of bringing nature into the urban city environment and fostering deeper connections with the natural world.

THE EDUCATIONAL ASPECT Ecobuild will also offer a fully CPD accredited educational programme which will include a 12-stream, three‑day seminar programme featuring an additional 700 speakers. With a focus on practical case study learning, technical detail, policy guidance updates from key associations and the latest academic thinking, the broad‑ranging programme covers a range of subjects, including brand new for 2013: Water, Waste and Recycling, Refurbishing Britain and Property. The perennial favourites will also return including Self Build and Renovation, Designing and building with Passivhaus principles, Better Through BIM and Standards, Guides and Regulations.

Ecobuild 2013

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

THE GREEN DEAL As 14 million homes are set to benefit from the Green Deal by 2020 and DECC outlines the role of local authorities and other local partners as key in ensuring effective and intensive delivery of this important initiative, the Green Deal Terrace at Ecobuild is a must-see for government decision-makers. A programme of seminars and a comprehensive advice clinic will help you understand the ramifications from the government’s showcase policy and how you can benefit. Visitors should also check out the local authority and social housing pods to hear real-life on the ground experience of public/ private partnerships from many leading public sector organisations and their plans for successful delivery of the Green Deal. ENERGY EFFICIENCY As energy costs continue to rise and impact the public sector, the pressure is on to provide sustainable and efficient energy solutions. There has never been such an important time get up to speed on the latest legislation, training and technologies surrounding renewable energy and microgeneration. Ecobuild 2013 will feature leading companies showcasing the latest innovations in solar (commercial and domestic), bioenergy, combined heat & power (CHP), building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), heat pumps and small scale wind technology. Catering for both the commercial and domestic solar markets, Ecobuild represents a vast range of innovative solar solutions from on-roof, to semiintegrated to fully roof-integrated products, and feature the latest technologies from leading modules manufacturers. At Ecobuild 2013, visitors can learn about the future of energy at Ecobuild’s reinvented Solar Hub. Sponsored by Rexel, this exciting feature will provide a series of free-to-attend talks and presentations, plus one-to-one advice from a range of top industry experts. The Solar Hub will provide visitors with the latest thinking, practical guidance and advice from leading industry experts, as well as numerous case study presentations including public buildings and commercial properties. Visitors will find themselves armed with the skills to specify the most appropriate system for the best results, maximise the return on investment, reduce carbon emissions and mitigate rising energy costs. THE LIGHT BOX As a major consumer of electricity in public sector buildings, lighting should also be a top energy saving priority. New for 2013, The Light Box will take visitors on a journey from day to night; showcasing the latest sustainable lighting technologies as they walk through this inspirational feature. From daylighting design and energy efficient LEDs, light bulbs and Compact Fluorescent 

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EVENT PREVIEW

Ecobuild 2013 will also offer a fully CPD-accredited educational programme which will include a 12‑stream, three‑day seminar programme featuring an additional 700 speakers  Lights (CFL), to emerging technologies such as sunlight transportation, visitors will learn how to implement sustainable lighting solutions that dramatically reduce energy consumption and address the latest environmental regulations. FUTURE MATERIALS For architects tasked with design and specification of public sector buildings, the new Future Materials Gallery is a must‑see. Think scientists in lab coats and beakers bubbling away, the new Future Materials Gallery will bring the world’s latest building technologies together in a futuristic showcase to educate and inspire the next generation of architects at Ecobuild 2013. Mind-blowing innovations will be on display, from self-healing concrete and use of ‘biomimicry’ – stone, cement and wood substitutes, to heat responsive ‘thermobimetals’ – metals that act like

human skin, and the pioneering application of ‘blue smoke’ – the world’s lightest solid, to create see-through doors, windows and structures without fear of heat loss. WATER, WASTE AND MATERIALS Following extensive industry feedback, Ecobuild 2013 will introduce a brand new ‘Water, Waste and Materials’ stream as part of its highly anticipated 2013 seminar programme. Chief industry leaders from WRAP, Arup, British Land, Drivers Jonas Deloitte, Quintain Estates & Development, Construction Products Association (CPA), Landscape Institute and University of Sheffield will join forces to create a lively programme as part of Ecobuild 2013’s fully CPD accredited 12 stream, three day seminar programme featuring 700 speakers. Sponsored by Altro, ‘Water, Waste and Materials’ will explore a range of approaches relating to resource stewardship in terms of water, waste and materials cycles.

Ecobuild 2013

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

The programme will look at how these cycles can contribute to achieving this goal as many of these are in the hands of built environment professionals and investors in both the private and public sector. Tony Yates from SLR Consulting Experts will look at how to reduce, handle and reuse operational waste. Meanwhile Dr Bill Addis from Buro Happold will address the issue of getting the sustainability brief right for responsible resource use and management. Designing for resource efficiency will be covered by WRAP’s head of construction & refurbishment, Richard Buckingham, and Celeste Morgan, sustainability director at AECOM NW will look at zero water developments. WORKING WITH NATURE According to DEFRA, £458.9 million of UK public sector funding was spent on UK biodiversity during 2010/11. In support of this work, the ever popular Biodiversity Pavilion returns to Ecobuild as part of a new Working with Nature zone. Helping to embed consideration of biodiversity into decision‑making across the public sector, a raft of experts will be sharing practical advice on how to create a rich biodiverse environment even in the grittiest urban environment. 

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Ecobuild 2013

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NAPIT to offer green deals and MCS membership at Ecobuild 2013 The National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers (NAPIT) will be exhibiting at Ecobuild 2013. As a certification body for tradespeople across the UK, NAPIT provide a range of membership schemes to help aspiring renewables and energy efficiency professionals make the most of the budding green economy. NAPIT membership can unlock a wealth of fiscal opportunities, granting access to a range Government backed financial incentives to help you attract new customers, including; FIT’s payments, the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), and the Green Deal financial framework. This year, NAPIT will be providing expert advice on the latest developments in this ever expanding sector and offering Ecobuild visitors exclusive on-the-day offers on membership under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) and the Green Deal Certification Scheme (for both Installers and Advice Organisations). These NAPIT schemes are approved by UKAS, and becoming a member will demonstrate the skills and expertise of industry installers’ as well as their compliance with Government endorsed standards. NAPIT also offer quality training and support to help fledgling businesses on the road to becoming renewable technology and energy efficiency professionals. From solar PV and biomass training to dedicated Green Deal Advisor courses, NAPIT offer the complete solution to get ahead in the green sector. Visit stand N2125 for more information.  Industry leaders such as CIRIA, RESET Developments, Livingroofs.org, British Beekeeper’s Association, Trees for Cities, Bat Conservation Trust, Wildflower Turf Ltd and Habitat Aid, will cover hot topics such as biodiverse habitats in commercial buildings, and supporting biodiversity through green infrastructure. There will also be case studies from the housing sector on ways communities are working with nature to improve local green space. Reinforcing the importance of the natural environment in sustainable design and construction, this area will also bring together the latest product and service innovations from the green infrastructure industry. Championing the need for fundamental changes in the way we live, work and interact with the environment, the new Working with Nature zone will also bring together the Green Infrastructure Pavilion in association with DEFRA which will sit right at the heart of the exhibition, next to the Ecobuild Arena where ministers from DEFRA, DECC and BIS and high-level industry speakers will take to the stage for big debates, policy announcements and future thinking. Delivered in association with Schumacher College, RESET Development, the Brighton Permaculture Trust, the Low Carbon Trust, the Low Impact Living Initiative and the Centre for Alternative Technology, Natural, Sustainable will focus on practical, sustainable solutions to design, specification and development, working with natural sustainable materials. Check out hands-on demonstrations of construction with straw bale, rammed earth and chalk, timber, clay, lime and

cob and talk to suppliers and training organisations supporting this emerging area of the low carbon construction industry. GLOBAL CLIENTS Bringing you the latest insights from clients driving the sustainability agenda, Global Clients is a major new initiative facilitated by Building magazine set to provide a forum for the most pioneering multinationals to share and build on best‑practice sustainability expertise and market knowledge. Ecobuild 2013 will feature round tables, debates, networking and profiles of major global projects and innovations. Join private healthcare and insurance provider Bupa, industrial and distribution building developer Prologis and accountancy and management consultancies Deloitte and PwC as they unite and showcase common challenges and opportunities. They will be joined by warehouse developer Glazely, investment management firm Legal & General, developers Hammerson and Grosvenor, IT giant IBM and retailer Marks & Spencer. PRACTICAL INSTALLER Plumb Center returns with its hugely popular Practical Installer showcase, which demonstrates the installation and operation of working renewable and energy-efficient products in a retro-fit environment – complete with typical Green Deal energy saving and funding calculations. For the first time, you will see real life ‘before and after’ scenarios highlighting the impact on a property’s energy efficiency – and the economic benefits – resulting from the 

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EVENT PREVIEW  installation of specific products. The industry’s leading manufacturers will come together once again to give physical demonstrations and installation advice of solar thermal and heat pumps and combine them with key aspects of a Green Deal assessment and the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). Simon Allan, Plumb Center’s Renewables Director said: “We’ve listened to feedback from installers, and the 2013 Practical Installer will be packed with practical installation demonstrations of technologies from the industry’s leading brands. Most importantly, these demonstrations will show the energy savings and Green Deal calculations for each technology fitted.” VIP HOSTED BUYERS CLUB Ecobuild has also launced a VIP Hosted Buyers Club, connecting senior-level UK and international buyers from across the sustainable built environment with industry leading suppliers. Top architects, developers, clients and CEO/MDs tasked with purchasing products and solutions for significant UK and international projects over the next 12 months are amongst those being targeted for this prestigious scheme. Enabling buyers to take complete control of the companies and decision-makers they meet at the event, the Ecobuild team will help

arrange pre-scheduled meetings with top suppliers based upon the buyers’ individual needs and interests. Each hosted buyer will have the opportunity to meet with three to five suppliers, attend the conference and be part of an exclusive VIP Hosted Buyer event to be held on the Tuesday evening (5 March 2013).Further rewards include travel, accommodation, access to lounge/concierge services, reserved seats for key content sessions, networking drinks and dinner. Tom Broughton, brand director for Ecobuild said: “Listening to our stakeholders ahead of Ecobuild 2013, the message we received was loud and clear – as an event organiser we must facilitate new ways to ensure visitors achieve maximum return on their time and exhibitors get maximum return for presence at the event. As the current economic climate puts buyers under increased pressure to make maximise their budgets, the Ecobuild VIP Hosted Buyers Club represents a highly efficient way to procure solutions from the industry’s top providers.” The Ecobuild VIP Hosted Buyer programme enables buyers involved in or planning projects to discuss products and systems on both a technical and strategic level with top Ecobuild exhibitors. Broughton continues: “We are keen to support our buyers in making informed procurement decisions and believe that this new

Ecobuild 2013

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

initiative will help them achieve this more effectively through the specification and quote stages of their projects.” GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR VISIT Ecobuild 2013 registration is free and easy to do online, just visit www.ecobuild.co.uk/ register and fill out the form. Once you’re signed up it’s a good idea to plan your day. With so much on offer in such a large arena, it’s easy to get distracted. Thankfully there’s a huge list on the Ecobuild website telling you exactly where all the exhibitors are located. The times and dates of every conference and seminar session are also online so, with some clever planning, you’ll get to squeeze in everything you want to see – but make sure you arrive early because the seminars run on a first come, first served basis. Ecobuild 2012 brought together over 57,000 of the design and construction industry’s most influential professionals including the largest gathering of architects in the UK. To register for your free ticket, please visit the web site www.ecobuild.co.uk/ register. You can also follow us on Twitter (@ Ecobuild_now) or join our Linkedin (ecobuild) group and Facebook page (ecobuildnow) for the latest show news and updates. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.ecobuild.co.uk

Investing in solar power can help protect businesses from soaring fuel prices, says Solen Energy UK UK businesses could see their fuel bills increase rapidly per year unless they invest in low carbon alternatives. This warning comes out following a recent report released by the government’s official advisers on climate change. Debbie Webb, sales & marketing manager of Solen Energy UK said: “This latest report emphasises just how important investing in renewable energy is. “The countries reliance on fossil fuels has been further demonstrated by the announcement to restart ‘fracking’ which is the potentially hazardous process of extracting gas from shale. “UK businesses are now seriously considering investing now in renewable sources of energy such as solar power to protect themselves from fuel prices that look set to spiral out of control.” The Committee on Climate Change chairman Lord Deben (former Government Energy Secretary John Gummer) said: “A strategy which invests in low-carbon technologies provides of portfolio of energy sources as insurance against the risk of high gas prices. “It lessens the impact of household bills in the long term and enhances the competitiveness of UK industry.”

“All businesses and community groups that take action now and invest in renewable sources of energy are protecting themselves against the volatility of the global energy market.” Added Debbie. “Investing in renewable energy is not only about saving the planet, it’s also about protecting yourself financially for the future.” With its German heritage and expertise in Solar PV, the company is currently a

preferred supplier to Landmarc services and has the experience in installing large scale systems targeted to the Commercial and government sector. With its premises strategically-placed in the north and south, Solen Energy can cover all locations nationally. FURTHER INFORMATION Southern branch: 01726 862470 Northern branch: 0151 448 9662 www.solenenergyuk.co.uk

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Your Experts for Smart and Efficient Solar Solutions

Bedrock Tiles

Suppliers of Commercial and Sustainable, Floor and Wall Tiles We specialise in sustainable floor and wall tiles and offer a consultative approach by discussing each project on an individual basis to ensure we offer the right performance for the best price. Our clients are architects, designers, construction companies, surveyors and developers. We are privileged to have supplied sustainable and innovative floor and wall tiles across all sectors from education, public, commercial, transport and more. Some our key clients include Vodafone, Rosebery Medical Centre, Best Western, National football museum and more. We are ready to help you find the tiles you need. If you want to visit our website at www.bedrock-tiles.com or see us on YouTube you will find more in-depth information.

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In the world that we live today there is ever‑increasing pressure on us all to take care of our environment and balance this against the financial constraints we all work under. Here at Wight Rainwater Solutions we can assist you in meeting both the environmental and financial targets set to us all. We can offer you a total solution to reducing water bills and playing your part in ensuring that our water sources are sustainable. We can review your current water usage, see how Rainwater Harvesting can reduce your water bill, supply, install and maintain a state of the art Rainwater Harvesting system that is compliant. If you are interested in saving money, as well has helping our environment then Wight Rainwater Solutions is the company to use. We offer the complete package from supply to install and an ongoing maintenance. We specialise in rainwater harvesting and along with our partners ECO island and Gloucester Composites,we are leading the Isle of Wight to a sustainable future for its water supplies.

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Tel: +44(0)114 282 3474

www.wightrain.co.uk Mobile: 07803070582

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CSUN – experts in smart Soft Stone from Bedrock and efficient solar solutions Tiles suits Roseberry Centre CSUN is a specialised global manufacturer of solar cell and module products with production sites in China and Turkey, focusing on high quality products at attractive price levels. The company has been listed on the NASDAQ since May 2007 and is headquartered for Europe, Middle East and Africa in Frankfurt, Germany. Further sales offices are located in the UK, France and Italy. CSUN is one of the leading solar companies globally and sets new standards for the efficient conversion of sunlight into electrical energy. The company is known for its balanced product philosophy based on long term experience, quality and innovation. It has recently launched its QSAR modules with 19 per cent cell efficiency. Currently CSUN is expanding its project business and strengthening its activities

in financing and realising photovoltaic systems, competitive under grid parity conditions. Late in 2012, CSUN realised its first two solar park projects with 5MW each in the UK region of Cornwall. Take advantage of CSUN’s expertise to power your community with clean renewable solar energy. For a direct personal discussion visit Ecobuild Stand no.S 2930, where the CSUN team is looking forward to meeting you and providing all the information you need. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel.: 020 7718 0235 europe@chinasunergy.com www.csun-solar.com

The Rosebery Medical Centre has been carefully designed by BRP Architects based in Market Harborough to serve the patients of the new medical centre to the highest standards. One of the great areas of the project is the external wall tiles, engraved by using engraving machines; the result is that they have been transformed into a really prominent feature wall. The sustainable tiles specified, are accredited with Ecolabel, a European Environmental rating that is awarded for products, which achieve high levels of innovation and recycling within the manufacturing of tiles. The tiles from Bedrock’s Soft Stone Collection which were in a larger format of 600x300mm, and in addition to the engraving; they were also water jet cut into a custom

random sized pattern effect. The WCs incorporate a design representing a contemporary and relaxing modern feel, with an organic palate tone, helping to give patients a nice environment. William Davis Construction and Telling Finishes were the site teams and conducted an excellent finish; the medical centre owners are extremely pleased with the end result. Call us now at Bedrock Tiles: FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01604 715321 office@bedrock-tiles.com www.bedrock-tiles.com

Ecobuild gets ready to showcase Timberplay

Reduce your water bills with rainwater harvesting

Timberplay is delighted to once again be attending Ecobuild. Buoyed by the success of last year’s exhibition, Timberplay will be introducing delegates not only to their highly regarded and environmentally designled play areas with equipment from Richter Spielgerate, but to the new partner brands they have formed strong bonds with. These include sustainable lighting and eco street furniture from Santa & Cole, bespoke Wheeled Sports Park elements and holistic design from Concrete plus robinia Multi-use Games Areas from TransAlp. Timberplay were invited to participate on the design of the

In the world that we live today there is ever increasing pressure on us all to take care of our environment and balance this against the financial constraints we all work under. Wight Rainwater Solutions can assist you in meeting both the environmental and financial targets set to us all. The company can offer you a total solution to reducing water bills and playing your part in ensuring that our water sources are sustainable. It can review your current water usage, see how rainwater harvesting can reduce your water bill, supply, install and maintain a state‑of‑the‑art rainwater harvesting system that is compliant. If you are interested in

Ecobuild Arena, contributing a range of products, specifically selected by the architect. Included will be cradle to cradle aluminium benches from Santa & Cole, giant organically shaped Seating Stones from Concrete and the elegant specialty granite Tuning Stone from Richter’s sensory play range. Come along to stand S1651 to view Timberplay’s products, pick up a brochure and meet the team. FURTHER INFORMATION 0114 282 3474 www.timberplay.com info@timberplay.com

saving money, as well has helping our environment then Wight Rainwater Solutions is the company to use. It offers the complete package from supply to install and an ongoing maintenance. It specialises in rainwater harvesting and along with its partners ECO island and Gloucester Composites, it is leading the Isle of Wight to a sustainable future for its water supplies. FURTHER INFORMATION www.wightrain.co.uk Mob: 07803070582

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Visit the experts in insulation at EcoBuild

Smart to show sustainable systems at Ecobuild

Marmox Specialist Building Products will be exhibiting on stand N1210 at this year’s EcoBuild in London’s Excel centre between the 5-7 March. Well known as experts in insulation – waterproofing, sound minimising, thermal insulation and fireproofing – Marmox will show a wide and diverse array of products including several recent additions to its range. Especially featured will be the lightweight Multiboard range that is equally suited to wetroom applications and for sound insulation elsewhere in the home. Multiboards are EPS coated on both sides with close-woven fibreglass finished in a cement polymer mortar that is completely impervious to water penetration. They are easily installed, very light yet strong enough to hold tiles up to 62kg/sq.m., twice the loadbearing of plasterboard. Additionally specialised insulation products will be demonstrated such as Showerlay

Commercial systems specialist Smart Architectural Aluminium is to showcase a range of new products, as well as outlining its drive to become a carbon neutral business. At the heart of the Smart stand will be a 4 metre by 6 metre run of MC600 Smart Wall curtain walling, complete with a new Smart Wall commercial door. This new rebated swing door delivers excellent U-values and weather protection and with an anti-finger trap, is ideal for schools, hospitals and other public buildings. Another new door to be launched is an extension to the Evolution range, a suite of products developed for refurbishment projects where traditional steel doors and windows need to be replaced. With like-for-like sight lines, Evolution is perfect for renovation projects – replacing steel systems with a modern, thermally‑broken, aluminium equivalent. The Visoglide Plus sliding door completes Smart’s new door display. With slim sight lines and exceptional thermal

panels, ideal for creating sloping floors in wetrooms ready for tiling, Thermal Bridging Blocks, for areas where load‑bearing insulated walling is required, and Bath Panel Kits. The Marmox Stand promises to be an interesting experience for anyone in the industry and a must for those directly involved, as most are, in areas involving insulation in all its forms. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01634 835290 sales@marmox.co.uk www.marmox.co.uk

performance, the product is available up to 2.4 metres by 5.2 metres; with the option of auto‑slide gearing, it is designed for high end commercial applications. Amongst the company’s new window systems are the Alitherm 700 and Eco Futural ranges, featuring auto-gearing solutions, ideal for use as part of buildings’ natural ventilation and climate control systems. Also on display will be the Slide 2000 horizontal sliding window, developed specifically for high volume, light commercial applications and where an open sash is required to provide increased ventilation. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01934 876100 Fax: 01934 835169 sales@smartsystems.co.uk www.smartsystems.co.uk

Outstanding aluminium constructions at EcoBuild

The Universal range of glazing, door, window, roofing and sign systems offer solutions to a wide range of fabricating, contracting and architectural requirements.

The systems offered cover requirements from simple windows to complex and structural curtain wall facades. A variety of window and door types can be produces including inward opening casements with or without tilt and turn

facility, open out casements, reversible and pivot opening. Standard or heavy duty frames are available together with coupling profiles enabling facade or ribbon glazing to be readily achieved.

www.universal-aluminium.co.uk

t. 0117 955 9091

Universal Components Ltd, Universal House, Pennywell Road, Bristol,BS5 0ER

87 mm

126 mm

NEW MU2075 Elite Window System * MU800 & MU4200 Curtain Wall Systems  MSF Ground Floor Treatment * Designer Doors * Unitherm 55+ & Unitherm 75 Windows * FlexFace Sign Systems * MU2010 Thermal Window System *

With more than 25 years’ experience, Universal Aluminium Systems is one of the UK’s established market leaders in the field of high-grade aluminium construction products throughout the UK and Europe for the glazing and sign industries. With the largest aluminium sign system range in Europe, Universal also offers thermal window systems, curtain walling systems, MSF Ground Floor Treatments and designer doors. The company also works the global distribution network, technical support and industry expertise of parent company Muskita PLC alongside its UK-based operations. Comeandvisitusatthisyear’s Universal will be using the EcoBuild Show to highlight its EcoBuildshow,wherewe’llbe latest product, the MU2075 Elite highlightingourlatestMU2075 Window & Door suite, a fully integrated system constructed EliteWindowproduct, from 34mm Polyamide and compatible with proposed Doc L requirements for 2013.

Using mechanical cleats, the MU2075 system is quick and simple to build, and Universal Aluminium is working towards ‘Secured By Design’ approval for this product. Come and visit us at the Show to see this outstanding aluminium construction product for yourself, as well as Universal’s other aluminium construction systems on display. FURTHER INFORMATION www.universalaluminium.co.uk Tel: 0117 955 9091

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

The SunMaster CS range: Maximise your yield

ndles a h d te a r g te in y tl n e ig Intell tical mounting bracket and prac installation for easy

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Supplied with AC plug

Your search for the ideal inverter is over Choosing the right inverter has never been easier now that the Mastervolt SunMaster CS range is available in 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 20 and 30 kW models for a wide range of applications in residential and commercial projects. With its ďŹ&#x201A;exible technology, exceptional yield and intelligent design, the genuinely comprehensive SunMaster CS range has been widely praised. Choose for a conversion result of up to 98% and minimal system losses in a compact and robust design that suits all available PV panels and is easy to install. For more details and our ďŹ&#x201A;exible support take a look at www.mastervoltsolar.com

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Testo instruments: for durability, functionality and ease-of-use Testo Limited is based in Alton, Hampshire and has been operating for 30 years as the UK subsidiary of Testo AG, selling products throughout the UK and Ireland. It offers an extensive range of instrumentation manufactured to the highest standards, which provides its customers with exceptional durability, functionality and ease of use. Testo instruments are widely used in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration sector, and the process industry, such as manufacturing, service companies and utilities. The food sector, including food manufacture, transport, storage, distribution and retail, also make use of Testo instruments. Thermal imaging, for building surveys, maintenance, electrical inspections and production monitoring, also use Testo instruments. Testo Limited has a fully equipped service, calibration

and repair centre run by an experienced team. Its UKAS (ISO/ IEC 17025:2005) accredited laboratory calibrate a wide range of instrumentation and can manage equipment inventories of varying quantities, offering fixed term contracts with fast turnaround times, at competitive prices. Testo AG, with its headquarters in the Black Forest, is a globally leading manufacturer of portable and stationary measurement technology. Every year, Testo invests approximately 15 per cent of its turnover in research and development and thus has an above-average expenditure on future-oriented technologies. FURTHER INFORMATION www.testolimited.com

Smart solutions for higher yield from PV systems For a PV system, as is the situation with all products, the saying that ‘a chain is only as strong as its weakest link’ certainly applies. When designing a PV installation, the aim is to maximise energy production and avoid power loss. Sometimes a loss is attributable to the solar module, but a significant part is influenced by the inverter. When choosing a suitable inverter, it is important to compare different models, but not just in terms of the efficiency. Mastervolt, a Dutch inverter manufacturer, has carried out a study analysing the yields of a number of PV systems in the same region to determine which factors influence yield. Eleven causes of energy loss were identified, of which seven could be minimised by improving the inverter. For example, up to six per cent can be lost from the shading of the PV array and up to four per cent can be lost by a ‘too late start up’ or a ‘too early shutdown’ of the inverter. Furthermore, up to four per

cent can be lost through grid disturbances. The design of a modern inverter must take these situations of loss into account. As a direct result of the findings, Mastervolt has developed the IntelliConcept, which selectively targets these losses through the means of eight smart solutions for higher yield. The solutions are integrated into each inverter model and tested in a laboratory, under realistic conditions, before each and every device is installed and observed in its real situation. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: +31 (0)20 3422100 info@mastervolt.com

Long-term green benefits for buildings from Gyvlon

Heavy-wear carpets for indoors and outdoors

Floor Screeds are seen as an unintelligent part of the building design, simply a layer of material that sits between the floor covering and insulation/substrate. This is no longer the case. Gyvlon is the market leader in flowing screed technology. All Gyvlon screeds are made from a recycled anhydrite, reducing landfill and carbon compared to cement screeds. And since they‘re anhydrite based, they can be installed as a liquid and still achieve a higher compressive/ flexural strength than cement screeds, eliminating the issues associated with cement. Gyvlon can be installed in bays of up to 800m2 without a joint, installed up to ten times quicker, and can be loaded faster than cement. Gyvlon is factory produced and installed by trained

Rawson Carpets is a UK manufacturing company producing Fibre bonded and Tufted carpet tiles specifically designed and produced for the heavy contract wear areas both for indoor and outdoors. The company’s brand leaders Eurocord, Freeway and Felkirk are ideally suitable for all educational buildings, offices and retail areas. Rawson also produces a comprehensive range of Barrier carpets, Trackmaster, Dominator and Hercules, all designed to help keep the outside dirt from getting on your main carpet area. With 23 stocked ranges and over 274 colour ways to choose from Rawson Carpets have a comprehensive range of stock carpet. For the more discerning customers it offers a full bespoke service to fully match your quality and colour requirements. Through extensive research and development, its colour-match technology

screeders and is installed thinner than cement screeds, allowing for various design solutions. Gyvlon also benefits the building long term as it has a more effective heat transfer allowing quicker heat transfer and lower UFH running temperatures. Gyvlon is also part of innovative building systems, such as Soundbar – Timber Frame Acoustic Solution, Lewis Deck – Steel Deck Solution and Thermoplane – High Performance UFH solution. The company will be exhibiting at EcoBuild Stand N1800 where you can see the products and chat with its specification team. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01925 428780 www.gyvlon.co.uk

enables us to match nearly any corporate colour you desire. Rawson’s patio range for outside use is guaranteed for five years against wear and fading. It is suitable for walkways and areas where you would like an artificial grass effect patio. Introducing New Classmate, Rawson’s acoustic wall insulation product, available in both tile and sheet with 10 different colour ways to choose from. New Classmate can reduce reverberated sound levels by up to 40 per cent. FURTHER INFORMATION www.rawsoncarpets.co.uk Ecobuild stand 705

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about rmation More infore of the futu fﬁciency at m energy e h-efﬁciency.co www.hig

High 73,000 Efﬁciency Up to £73,000 less electricity costs.* High efﬁciency pays off.

• Up to 70% energy savings*, thanks in part to the High- Efﬁciency -Drive • Saves up to 73,000 pounds in electricity costs per pump in 15 years* • Less than 2 years of amortisation time (installation -speciﬁc)

The new high-efficiency series Wilo-Stratos GIGA. *Compared to conventional uncontrolled pumps, based on the “Blue Angel” load profile (RAL-UZ 105 and a n energy price of £0.189. Detailed information can be found in a sample life cycle cost calculation at www.high-efficiency.com.

WILO (U.K.) LTD Second Avenue Centrum 100 Burton-on-Trent Staffordshire DE14 2WJ T: +44 (0)1283 523000 F: +44 (0)1283 523099 E: sales@wilo.co.uk

Energy saving solutions from EMSc EMSc (UK) Ltd manufactures the Star® range of energy saving solutions, including Powerstar, a unique triple wound voltage optimisation system with a patented design that actively reduces electrical energy consumption. As the most experienced manufacturer of voltage optimisation systems in the country – it is currently celebrating the fact that Powerstar has been designed and manufactured in the UK for over a decade – EMSc (UK) Ltd is proud to announce that it recently installed its award-winning system at two of London’s most iconic landmarks, the Palace of Westminster and London City Hall. The estates join other iconic sites such as the Welsh Assembly, House of Keys, Western Australia Parliament and London Stock Market in benefiting from the installation of Powerstar. EMSc (UK) produces HV and LV side voltage optimisation and provides both fixed and electronic voltage optimisation systems, all within its Powerstar product

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 20.1

range. At a time when Japanese and Chinese electronic and engineered solutions continue to dominate the market the company, which has long supported British manufacturing and which recognises the importance of supporting the local economy, is proud to say that its research, development, sourcing and manufacturing is all done in the UK. The company is accredited with the Made in Sheffield accolade in acknowledgement of the quality of its manufacturing process, its expansion into international markets, and the overall success of Powerstar, which is exported worldwide to countries including Cyprus, Sri Lanka, the UAE, Bahrain, Malta and South Africa. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01142 576 200 www.ems-uk.org info@ems-uk.org

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Keim Mineral Paints – pollution-reducing paints Keim has long been synonymous with high quality, durable, environmentally friendly paint systems offering long life decorating solutions with sustainability. Keim Mineral Paints are manufactured in a low impact process using only natural materials and they provide excellent surface protection, longevity, as well as high moisture vapour permeability. Keim Mineral Paints are pleased to offer a range of high performance photocatalytic paints. Keim Mineral Paints are the ideal material to combine with photocatalytic additives which enable a light activated chemical reaction, which removes pollutants, including harmful Nitrogen Oxides from the air we breathe. Air quality is a key environmental concern and paints can be one part of the solution. Keim’s photocatalytic materials can be used both internally and externally and, whereas paint materials are often more likely to be associated with giving off

harmful chemicals, Keim Paints offer an innovative solution, not only by the materials and manufacturing processes used to make the paint itself, but by the positive effect the materials can have on air quality. During Ecobuild, Keim Mineral Paints would be pleased to meet and speak to any visitors with an interest in environmentally friendly and photocatalytic paints and we hope to see you there. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01952 231250 sales@keimpaints.co.uk www.keimpaints.co.uk Ecobuild stand no S454

Plumb Center shows energy efficient technologies at Ecobuild With more than 490 branches nationwide, Plumb Center is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of plumbing and heating products including central heating systems, bathrooms, showers, drainage and energy efficiency technologies. Plumb Center will again be a major Ecobuild partner, with its own stand and also the Practical Installer arena – one of Ecobuild’s most popular attractions. For 2013 the focus for both will be on showing heating installers how they can best participate in the government’s major energy efficiency initiatives planned for this year – the Green Deal and the Renewable Heat Incentive. An exciting live showcase arena, Practical Installer, demonstrates energy efficiency technologies in a practical, dynamic and informative way. At this unique event the industry’s leading manufacturers – including Vaillant, Honeywell, Grundfos,

Baxi, Grant, Glow-worm and JA Solar – come together to show how, in a retro-fit environment, these technologies integrate with products already familiar to installers. Visitors will be able to see real life ‘before and after’ scenarios, highlighting the impact on a property’s energy efficiency – and the economic benefits – resulting from the installation of specific products. Renewables technologies will feature strongly on the Plumb Center stand, with product displays covering the latest in solar thermal, biomass and heat pumps. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 030 4007 www.plumbcenter.co.uk

Protect glass surfaces with Ritec ClearShield®

The new high-efficiency series Wilo-Stratos GIGA

Discover the ‘Non-Stick’ World of Ritec ClearShield® at this year’s Ecobuild show and join the ‘Good Glass’ campaign which is gathering momentum worldwide. New glass is ‘good’ because it has real values such as light transmission for visibility and day-lighting; clarity for pristine appearance and cleanability for low maintenance and hygiene. Ritec provides unique ‘non-stick’ glass surface solutions that combat key problem areas such as limescale build-up, reduced solar efficiency and adhesion of bacteria and viruses. Part treated glass samples will be used to demonstrate how ordinary, high-maintenance glass or ‘Problem Glass’ can be upgraded using the ClearShield System™ to new glass product lines with energy-saving, anti-microbial and light enhancing qualities. For a total surface protection solution, Ritec will also

Wilo UK offers a wide range of pumps for all applications, from small domestic circulators to large commercial pumps and pumping systems. These include pumps for heating, air conditioning and refrigeration, water supply and sewage pumps and lifting plants – its range is massive. Wilo UK also provides a comprehensive servicing capability. Its success has been built squarely on providing exceptional quality, high reliability, leading edge technology and customer care that’s second to none. Wilo has launched the Wilo‑Stratos GIGA here in the UK – the first high efficiency glanded pump – and it’s targeted specifically at the building services and industry sectors. GIGA offers specifiers the chance to easily optimise the energy costs and environmental balance of a building or industrial complex. With its hydraulic

be exhibiting the Ritecoat System™ for metals, paintwork and plastics, which has been developed to create the same ‘non-stick’, easy-clean, low maintenance properties as the ClearShield System™ on glass. As pioneers of durable surface protection for glass and metal for over 30 years, you will be amazed at what Ritec can do – seeing is believing. Visit Ritec at Ecobuild and see for yourself. FURTHER INFORMATION www.ritec.co.uk

output and specification, the new Wilo-Stratos GIGA is ideal for commercial and industrial buildings. Using GIGA will result in emissions savings of approximately 8,000 kg CO2 per year as well as saving up to £70,000 in electricity costs per pump installed over a 15 year lifecycle, compared to conventional uncontrolled pumps. The GIGA has a typical payback period of less than two years. FURTHER INFORMATION www.wilo.co.uk

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Never Drill Again Accessories Award winning German non-drill technology. Holds up to 65kg. Quick, clean and simple. No tools required. Our unique accessories are available in a wide range of designs and finishes. Save time, effort and money. No drilling, no damage, no worries. Try our incredible coat hooks perfect for use in cubicles and public areas. You’ll never have to worry about damage or loss again.

www.reddotproducts.co.uk Free Samples Available Unit 16, Leeway, Newport, NP19 4SL 0845 619 9580 sales@reddotproducts.co.uk

LightSense

See the light...

Energy efficient LED lighting solutions Specialists in bespoke LED commercial lighting solutions and advanced, high performance LED panels & round ceiling lights • Exceptional energy saving • Zero maintenance • Active CO2 reduction • 3 year warranty • Emergency & dimmable versions available • Superior light for any environment

Call today for your free brochure Tel: 01206 820425 info@ledlightsense.co.uk ledlightsense.co.uk

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K2 Solar Mounting Solutions to showcase products at Ecobuild 2013

Sophisticated manual, motorised and automated window-covering systems

As a manufacturer of mounting systems for solar technology, K2 Systems develops innovative system solutions for the international photovoltaic industry. Many years of experience and its attention to service make K2 Systems a pleasant partner in the field of solar mounting systems. International customers appreciate the quality of the company’s reliable carrier systems for use on sloped roofs, flat roofs as well as ground mounted and special projects. The systems are quick and easy to mount and guarantee perfect functionality and durability. Working in partnership with the client, K2 Systems permanently optimises its range of products, also with regard to different market-specific needs. Due to the high quality standards as well as constant internal and external quality control procedures K2 Systems offers a 12 year manufacturer’s

After nearly 50 years of solely developing shades in the United States, MechoSystems has arrived in the United Kingdom. And in a fully functional fashion. MechoSystems has been commercially present in the United Kingdom (and all of Europe) for two decades. In its most recent, notable project in London the company installed its software‑driven, automatedshading control system, SolarTrac®, for The Shard’s 11,000 differing panes of glass. This project was customised and completed from MechoSystems’ headquarters in New York. Now MechoSystems at Milton Keynes is providing technical, manufacturing, and commercial operations. The facility looks to provide its clients in the UK and Europe with everything the company offers from the United

warranty on all components. Trading as K2 Solar Mounting Solutions Ltd the company is based in the UK’s ‘distribution triangle’ to the west of London. The UK branch has a fully stocked warehouse and is able to supply its clients reliably and quickly from within the UK. Managing director Kai Schuebel and his UK team not only strengthen the market presence of K2 Systems and extend their network of distributors, but also intensify and improve often long standing business relationships with personal expert advice and individual project support. FURTHER INFORMATION www.k2-systems.com Ecobuild stand EX S2440

States, but with more accessibility combined with local knowledge. The new Milton Keynes location is open and eager to solve your business’ windowcovering problems – complicated or not: MechoSystems offers manually operated roller shades, electrically operated roller shades, and sun-tracking and PC-based automated shading systems. It also provides roller-screen and lighting systems and controls, A/V and room‑darkening solutions, eco‑friendly solar shadecloths with various styles and openness factors, and customized shading and specialty window shades. MechoSystems are exhibiting at EcoBuild on March 5-7 at Excel, London. FURTHER INFORMATION mechosystems.com

The drill-free way to attach wall accessories

The possibilities for LED lighting are endless

Never Drill Again is an award winning and patented alternative to drilling when attaching wall mounted accessories. The adhesive based system provides an incredibly strong bond and is suitable for use on glass, ceramics, wood, metals, laminates, natural stones and most plastics. The simple attachment procedure takes just a few seconds and requires no tools. There is no noise, no mess and no damage to surfaces. To see just how simple it is to use please visit www.reddotproducts.com. There are over 500 accessories available for use with the adhesive technology, from standard bathroom fittings to kitchen rails, door stops and robe hooks. All are made of high quality, non-ferrous materials and are guaranteed to be rust free and hard wearing. Never Drill Again accessories are widely used in hotels and

LightSense specialises in the development and supply of bespoke LED commercial lighting solutions and advanced, high performance LED panels and round ceiling lights. When choosing between traditional lighting and LED for new projects and refurbishments, the panel option is unrivalled. LED panel lights are a direct replacement for fluorescents; they use 50 per cent less electricity, last for years and require no maintenance or lamp replacement. They offer substantial savings on energy consumption and provide a superior light for any environment. They are environmentally friendly and will help an organisation to achieve its sustainability targets. LightSense also offers floodlights, high bay lighting, street lighting and fluorescent tube replacements to provide a complete LED lighting solution for any project.

other public areas. The unique fixing method means that there is no risk of surface damage which may lead to moisture ingression and the development of germs whilst providing the strength required to hold the accessory in place permanently. Available in the UK exclusively through Red Dot Products, Never Drill Again is the only true alternative to drilling and is very cost effective. For more information and a free sample please contact Red Dot Products. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 619 9580 sales@reddotproducts.co.uk

Accredited to ISO9001, LightSense prides itself on offering very high standards of customer care. The company provides a flexible and personal service, including a free cost‑saving analysis, to ensure that every client achieves the maximum savings possible by switching to LED products. Recent projects include schools, bus stations, car parks, hotels, care homes, a church and retail premises – the possibilities for LED lighting are endless. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01206 820425 www.ledlightsense.co.uk

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Capital CONNeCtIONs CROYDON Getting to Croydon has never been easier. With its If you are planning a conference, corporate or social If you arerail, planning a conference, corporate or unrivalled road, tram and air links, Croydon is event or simply looking for top class accommodation within minutes of the look capital, and beyond. social event, then nocoast further then look no further. Situated between central London and Just 15 minutes from Just 15 minutes fromcentral centralLondon, London, the Gatwick Airport, the town has of excellent the vibrant and bustling town Croydon vibrant and bustling town of Croydon offers all of the advantages of being rail connections to many of the capital’s offers all of the advantages of costs. being in in thestations. capital without high main Just tenthe miles from central the capital without the high costs. London, East Croydon is the UK’s second Home to a number of blue Home to number of and blue chip16 busiest railainterchange chip companies, Croydon’sonly unrivalled companies, unrivalled road, minutes from links Victoria, 14 minutes road, railaway andCroydon’s tram connect rail and tram and links connect within it within minutes toaround the capital, from Gatwick 30itminutes countryside, coast and beyond. minutes to the capital, countryside, from Brighton and the south coast. coast and beyond. The town features a wide range West Croydon station links the town of top quality hotel accommodation The town a underground wide range of directly to features London’s plus quality excellent shopping facilities top network andhotel is 37accommodation minutes away from encompassing many of the UK’s plus excellent shopping facilities Stratford, home of the brands. 2012 London best‑known stores and There is encompassing many of the UK’s bestOlympics. Meanwhile, Tramlink, also a thriving restaurant quarter and a known stores and brands. There is also wealth of cafes, bars and Croydon’s pioneering andentertainment expanding atothriving restaurant quarter and a28 suitnetwork, all tastes and budgets. tram conveys more than wealth of cafes, bars and entertainment million passengers each year between Step outside the metropolitan centre to suit alland tastes budgets. Croydon theand leafy environs ofis also and you will discover that Croydon Wimbledon and Beckenham. one of the ‘greenest’ London boroughs Step outside the metropolitan centre with you acres of discover parkland that and open spaces and will Croydon and a range of ﬁrst class golf courses. is also one of the ‘greenest’ London

Croydon is less thanCroydon, ten mileswe from Here at Destination can boroughs with acres of parkland and London’s Orbital M25 motorway, provide advice and information on all open spaces and a range of first class the hotels conference facilitiesininthe the linking it toand all major motorways golf towncourses. and with south east,assist while theyour A23arrangements. provides Here ataccess Destination can direct withinCroydon, minutes we to central Located at the award-winning Croydon provide advice and information on allare London and the south coast. There Visitor Centre next to East Croydon the hotels andparking conference facilities in the extensive car facilities in the station, Destination Croydon is funded town and assist with yourImprovement arrangements. by the Croydon Business Town Centre, with which all of the hotel District Company, which represents and and conference venues featured here Located award-winning Croydon is fundedatbythe Town Centre businesses. have discount arrangements. Visitor Centre next to East Croydon

Destination CroydonCroydon is delighted to be station, Destination is funded attending International Confex 2013, by the Croydon Business Improvement March 19 – 21 at ExCeL London. Come District Company, which represents and and meet the team on Stand K480 and isfind funded by Town Centre businesses. out how Croydon offers all the advantages of conferencing in on Read on for more information the capital without the cost. Register at some of the town’s leading hotel and www.international-confex.com. conference facilities and on what Croydon has to offer.

FAst &CONNECTIONS DIReCt CAPITAL London Bridge

CAPITAL ENTERTAINMENT

• 12 mins by train London Victoria

HISTORY & HERITAGE

• 16 mins by train Gatwick Airport

VENUE SUMMARY

• 14 mins by train Brighton & the south coast

VENUES

• 33 mins by train London Heathrow Airport

CROYDON MAP

• 90 mins by road

Telephone 020 8686 9706 www.destinationcroydon.com Telephone 020 8686 9706 www.destinationcroydon.com

EVENT PREVIEW

EVENTS INDUSTRY MOVING FORWARD With 29 years under its belt and showing no signs of slowing down, International Confex, which takes place from 19-21 March at ExCeL, is continuing to expand its horizons as it closes in on a remarkable 30th year Teaming up with sister show Live Experience (formerly known as International Outdoor Event Expo), the event is looking to bring the industry its most relevant show to date, heralding a streamlined education programme that seeks to cover every aspect of the events industry. And after having seen a truly outstanding summer of events and innovations in the UK and beyond, there has never been a more exciting time for industry professionals to come together and experience the future of the events world in one place. Taking place from 19-21 March 2013, the two shows will see exhibitors demonstrating the latest innovations as they offer an exciting glimpse into the future technologies of the events world. Not only will visitors gain inspiration from a range of dynamic exhibitors covering venues, destinations and suppliers, but will also be able to keep up with the key issues in music, sport and experiential events through an invaluable education programme. With this

streamlined programme complementing the vast opportunities to network with leading event professionals, International Confex recognises its role more than ever in driving forward the events industry as an essential component to the UK infrastructure. CONFEX WEEK With so much going on during the show’s core exhibition hours, it can at times be tricky to put aside a few dedicated moments to make those all important new contacts or to catch up with old faces. And with it becoming increasingly difficult to justify taking time out of the office, International Confex and Live Experience organiser, UBM Live is aiming to offer visitors not only an amazing show, but also a valuable networking experience that cannot be matched at any other event. Therefore, this year will mark the introduction of Confex Week, giving visitors the opportunity to facilitate meetings and mingle with potential industry suppliers in and around the event. Features during the

International Confex

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

course of the week will vary from dedicated meeting periods to show after parties, allowing for both formal and casual environments for attendees to network in. Attendees will also get the chance to attend the M&IT Award Ceremony and brush shoulders with some of the most revered individuals in the travel and destinations business. With so much going on during the week, there has never been a better opportunity for event professionals to expand their business horizons in spite of continual economic uncertainty. EDUCATION With International Confex and Live Experience joining forces to offer a streamlined educational programme, attendees can look forward to a sophisticated, content driven show that can help them drive their business forward and get the very best out of the event. The Live Experience Theatre has evolved from the two separate theatres of last year into one integrated programme that will cover the worlds of sport, music, charity and experiential events. Industry heavyweights such as Oxfam’s stewarding team manager Emma Parkinson and London 2012 ceremonies technical director Piers Shepperd will be exploring the ins and outs of their past and future event projects, whilst Liz Richardson and William Bicknell, Director at Closer and Head of Ideas at Chillisauce respectively, will be showcasing their latest experiential event campaigns. With social media still rising to unprecedented levels of importance, the shows will be introducing the Status Update theatre. Though most companies and organisations E

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Major investments planned for Coventry and Warwickshire – a unique destination in a central location Coventry and Warwickshire boasts a diverse, interlinked and culturally rich destination that excels in providing business delegates and organisations a professional, powerful and modern business and conference package. Combining the historically important architecture and industry of Coventry with the rural splendour and beauty of leafy Warwickshire, the area offers an experience that is unique, focused and forward thinking. With famous landmarks, stunning scenery and modern developments, Coventry and Warwickshire offers an engaging and exciting meetings and conference venue destination, with superb high quality guest accommodation and professional support services. Coventry truly is the most accessible city in the UK - centrally located and only one hour away from London on the train and a 20 minute drive from Birmingham Airport and the National Exhibition Centre with links to all major road networks including the M6, M6 Toll, M42, M69, M1, M5 and M40 motorways and the A45 and A46. Major investment is being pumped into the region from Jaguar Land Rover, Severn Trent, TATA Technologies, Aston Martin and EON. This is being complemented by two leading Universities, Warwick – a top 10 UK University,

and Coventry – the top midlands new University. Innovation, technology, enterprise and learning are part of the city and county’s economic DNA, and are at the heart of why it is successful. Coventry and Warwickshire has a global reputation for high value engineering but also low carbon vehicles, intelligent transport and the games industry. The Coventry & Warwickshire Convention Bureau is delighted to confirm attendance at Confex 2013 on stand K140. This year, the Bureau will be showcasing many venues in the area including stand partners: The Techno Centre, Coombe Abbey, The Ricoh Arena, De Vere Village Urban Resort Coventry, The Royal Shakespeare Company, Ardencote Manor Hotel and the Menzies Hotel – Stratford upon Avon – Welcombe Hotel, Spa & Golf Club. Visitors are invited to attend the Coventry & Warwickshire

Destination Showcase lunchtime event from 12pm‑1pm on 19 March 2013 at ExCel. To arrange a meeting with a member of the Coventry & Warwickshire team or to book a place at the Destination Showcase please contact the Coventry and Warwickshire Convention Bureau on Tel: 024 7683 2792 or email cwconference@coventry.gov.uk FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 024 7683 2792 cwconference@coventry.gov.uk

n o i t a c o L l a Centr Unique Destination

Coventry

Coventry &Warwickshire Business and Conference Call (+44) 24 7683 2792 visitcoventryandwarwickshire.co.uk/conference

government_business_advert.indd 1

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1 hour London

Confex 2013

Stand K140 12/10/2012 2:29:30 PM

EVENT PREVIEW  have a basic understanding of how social media can help their business, many still struggle to optimise it accordingly in the parameters of the events industry. That’s where Status Update comes in. Not only will the theatre explore the latest in social media innovations and trends, but will also determine how they can be maximised in the current climate of engagement and interaction. With a lot of companies owing a huge amount of their success to being able to thrive on the social media platform, this is an opportunity that cannot be missed. Additional theatres at the show will include the How To and Corporate Theatre featuring the new corporate programme from the PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association); the Britain for Events theatre showcasing the best of British events from 2012 and the Specialist Programme Theatre which will feature the Association of Event Organisers programme, Association Day and PA Day.

The g thin ‘Some rea will e l’ a Speciaate corporat or , incorp tertainment d CONFEX LOYALTY n a en Anyone who’s serious about s d r a w a , doing business can access the s t g f gi uildin b International Confex and Live m a te gs Experience Loyalty Programme. offerin The Loyalty Programme is all about

LOCATION, LOGISTICS AND SOMETHING SPECIAL Connecting delegates with a world of inspiration, International Confex is set to unite event organisers with an exciting range of venues, destinations and support services, providing the perfect forum to conduct business and source all of the essentials for any kind of event. Such is the breadth of International Confex, the exhibition is divided into three key areas: Location, Logistics and Something Special. The Location area will serve visitors seeking a setting for any sort of event – from a meeting to a corporate day out to even a weekend retreat. Exhibitors within Location are all premier destinations and venues from the UK and around the world, providing the ideal opportunity for visitors to speak with a selection of the leading venues showcasing their services. Any buyers looking for stand designers, production, promotional products, audiovisual and lighting, event technology providers, flooring, graphics, furniture hire and event insurance providers can source products and services from a range of suppliers in the Logistics section. The Something Special area will also incorporate corporate entertainment, gifts, awards and team building offerings and will be home to a number of inspiring pavilions and feature areas.

maximising business opportunities for buyers and suppliers at the event. By booking appointments in advance of the exhibition, delegates will receive a choice of over 1000 suppliers, covering Location, Logistics and Something Special, and an extensive range of rewards and benefits during and after the event. The more meetings booked, the better the incentives are. Visitors and exhibitors will be able to book their meetings in advance through the online booking system, Confex Connect which is available on both show websites. Adding to this, International Confex will also see the support of London & Partners, the official promotional organisation for London. Having launched in April 2011, London & Partners has secured over 300 private sector partners, including many in the events industry like Hilton Hotels, and will be bringing a group of hosted buyers to International Confex from the UK, Europe and the USA, helping to generate thousands of meetings between exhibitors and buyers at the event. LIVE LOUNGE AND THE NEXT BIG THING Not content with offering a comprehensive educational programme alongside a plethora of networking opportunities, International Confex and Live Experience are looking to wow their audience by showcasing the latest in events technology. The brand new Live Lounge will feature an exclusive demonstration from Musion, the company behind the infamous Tupac hologram at the 2012 Coachella music festival. With the events industry continuing to embrace the latest innovations and progressions, the Live Lounge

International Confex

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promises to provide a captivating glimpse into the exciting future of events technology. Returning for its second year is the hugely popular The Next Big Thing, an exciting talent competition that showcases the biggest and brightest new acts looking to break into the corporate entertainment scene. The competition’s winning participant will receive a contract with associated partners Sternberg Clarke, as well as a £1,000 cash prize and a shell scheme stand at the 2014 event, reflecting on International Confex’s dedication to driving forward all aspects of the events sector and providing opportunities for talented individuals to become involved in the vibrant and bustling corporate entertainment industry. From business opportunities to professional development, or just one great piece of inspiration, International Confex and Live Experience are striving to be the events that reflect the events industry, translating this on to the show floor and in turn, to the UK economy. A ticket for one of these shows will get you into both so be sure to take advantage of this ‘two shows, one event’ opportunity. L

Further information on International Confex International Confex and Live Experience will take place from 19-21 March 2013 at ExCeL London. For further information om the shows, and to register for a free visitor pass, please visit international-confex.com or liveexperienceexpo.co.uk and follow us on Twitter @IntlConfex and @live_experience, via the show groups on LinkedIn and on the Confex Group blog for the latest information.

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University of Bath Conferences & Events The University of Bath is the perfect location for conferences, meetings, events and team building.

Inspirational City Inspirational Events

Excellent transport links with the rest of the UK

Bath has world-class venues & excellent facilities, perfect for conferences, events & team building. Contact our team for free services including: • Venue finding • Accommodation booking • Expert advice & recommendations

• Conference dinners for up to 250 • Range of accommodation including double ensuite rooms • Dedicated Events Team • Ample car parking. For more information call us on 01225 383441 or visit our website.

“Excellent, professional service” Tell us what you need: 01225 322435 bath_conference@bathtourism.co.uk

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Endless options at Bath

Easy to get to and around, Bath has world-class venues and excellent facilities to cater for conferences, meetings and events. The city’s mixture of history, character and charm will excite and inspire, giving your delegates a destination to remember. Whatever your requirements – from modern, city centre hotels and stunning historical buildings to magnificent country houses, Bath has everything you need. From the unusual to the informal, whether you are organising a small meeting, larger exhibition or social event, the options are endless. Bath is easy to reach close to both the M4 and M5 motorways and served by a mainline railway station only 90 minutes from London Paddington. In addition Bristol Airport is located just

19 miles west of the city. Bath Tourism Plus is the official tourism marketing organisation for Bath & the surrounding area. We offer event organisers an efficient, professional and responsive service based on our unrivalled knowledge of the destination and its venues. Our free services include searching for venues that match your requirements, and providing you with a comprehensive proposal including rates and availability. For more information on how we can help host your event in Bath visit the team at International Confex, Excel London on the 19th – 21st March 2013, Stand K560.

Set in 200 acres of land at Claverton Down surrounded by trees and greenery overlooking the beautiful city of Bath, The University of Bath is just over 1 mile from the City centre. A regular bus service to the University departs at 10 minute intervals from the City centre. Between June and September the University of Bath can offer conference organisers a choice of 76 meeting rooms to accommodate anything up to 386 delegates, all being fully equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. Larger

events can be accommodated in one of its exhibition halls. University of Bath offer great value conference, meeting and events facilities with excellent 4 star campus accommodation accreditation, superb food and first class service. To find out more about the University of Bath’s wonderful facilities or to arrange a personal showround at a time convenient to you please contact Gail Brown. FURTHER INFORMATION Gail Brown: 01225 383441 g.brown@bath.ac.uk

FURTHER INFORMATION www.bathconference.co.uk bath_conference@ bathtourism.co.uk

Earn a six-figure salary with Expence Reduction Analysts (ERA) Expense Reduction Analysts (ERA) is the UK and Ireland’s leading specialist procurement advice franchise, providing a highly sought after consultancy service for over 20 years in the UK alone. In the current economic climate, the number one challenge that companies face is to reduce unnecessary costs which is made even more difficult by being too busy and not having the correct expertise in house and this is where the opportunity is for an ERA franchise partner. Its specialist procurement advisors are brought in to help, typically keeping 50 per cent of the savings as their fee, meaning that a six figure income is available to not just the elite. Its this business model that enables our franchise partners to pay off their mortgages early, take more holidays a year, or spend more time with their friends and family. In the last few years, we have seen a dramatic increase

Great value conferences at the University of Bath

of talented individuals joining from the public sector, as they have seen for themselves the tremendous proven opportunity that ERA brings to UK businesses. To find out more about the franchise opportunity with ERA, contact the Franchise Team FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 02380 829 737 franchiseteam@erauk.net www.erafranchise.net

Welcome to Croydon – the capital without the cost One of the South East’s primary retail, leisure and cultural destinations with unrivalled access to the capital, countryside, coast and beyond, Croydon offers all the advantages of conferencing in London but without the high cost. Just 15 minutes by rail from the heart of the capital and from Gatwick Airport, Croydon is a diverse and vibrant commercial centre encompassing one of the largest shopping districts outside of central London and boasting a wealth of shops, cafes, bars and leisure facilities to suit every taste and budget. Its wide range of prestigious conference venues and quality hotels are all within walking distance of the centre and close to the thriving restaurant quarter, making Croydon the ideal location for delegates to work, stay and relax. The award-winning team at Destination Croydon, the new

conference bureau service for Croydon, can help you find the ideal venue, negotiate rates and assist with all the arrangements for your event, whether large or small. Let us help make your life a whole lot easier. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 8686 9706 info@destinationcroydon.com

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enhance your business rail travel experience

Rail travel is now even easier with Raileasy4business We are well aware that pricing, timetables and services can be baffling, but our expertise can help ease the operational and financial pressures, when booking business travel. Our flexibility allows us to engage with corporate businesses and travel agents alike. You’ll find our easy-to-use booking tool intuitive and simple to use. A white label version or the standard system can be applied to suit your requirements. There’s some exciting enhancements on the way. Split Ticketing, where a journey can be supplied using a series of tickets between start and finish to bring substantial savings. A printed ticket solution is available as well as Ticket On Departure [TOD]. There are hotel packages and modules to make the most of your destination. Europe and beyond can be connected via Eurostar. Come and meet us at the Business Travel Show at Earls Court, 5th and 6th of February, Stand T8 within the Travel Technology zone of the main show. We’d love to see you, so to make it even easier to make the move to Raileasy4Business, contact us now, or sign up at the show and you’ll receive a discount on the transaction fee.

CONTACT: SHAUN BARRIE OR SIMON RILEY AT info@raileasy4business.com OR CALL 0845 4750440 FOR AN APPOINTMENT OR DEMONSTRATION

EVENT PREVIEW

Exhibitors

MAKE SURE YOU TRAVEL BY BUSINESS CLASS

Taking place in London on 5-6 February, the Business Travel Show is Europe’s main exhibition and conference for business travel managers within the public sector to source, learn and network

For public sector travel managers operating outside official travel frameworks, the Business Travel Show is a great place to discover world-class products and services from more than 200 suppliers, including global travel brands in air, accommodation and travel management, along with innovative traveller services and technology providers.

Buyers and managers can network and negotiate with big brands like Virgin Atlantic Airways, Hilton Hotels, Premier Inn, Travelodge, American Express, Best Western Hotels, Japan Airlines and SIXT, as well as a wide range of exciting start-ups and growing enterprises. For those public sector travel managers operating within official E

ApartmentStay by Ocean Dusk Arik Air International ASAP Ascott Hospitality Management Atos Origin ATPI Aurigny Air Services BCD Travel Berkshire Rooms Best Western Hotels Birchover Hotel Apartments Bridge Street Accommodation . Cabfind.com Cabforce Oy Capita Business Travel Carey Worldwide Chauffered Services Carlson Wagonlit Travel Chambers Travel Management Ltd Choice Hotels Europe City Apartments Ltd Citybase Apartments City Central Aparts Click Travel Concur Technologies Cotels Serviced Apartments Cristal Hotel Cvent DataFlexNet Deep Blue Apartments Network Dolphin House, Mantilla Ltd Dreamhouse Apartments East Coast Main Line Company Egencia ESA Executive Serviced Apartments . Ethiopian Airlines Evolvi Excess Baggage Group FCm Travel Solutions Finnair First Capital Connect First Great Western ScotRail Flybe Frasers Hospitality UK Limited GBTA Europe GetThere GlobalStar Travel Management Go Native Gulf Air Heathrow Express Hillgate Travel Hilton Worldwide Hotelscene Hotelzon UK HRG ITM Japan Airlines Jurys Inns Group KDS Travel and Expense Management Kelly Executive Knightly Apartments Lanyon Europe Ltd LateRooms.com Layer Cake Leslie Edward Events & Consultancy London Chamber of Commerce Louvre Hotels

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Advertisement Business Travel Feature Show

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EVENT PREVIEW  travel frameworks, the Business Travel Show is an opportunity to catch up with preferred suppliers under one roof, engage in peer to peer networking and update your knowledge base.

Exhibitors (continued) BUSINESS TRAVEL TECH ZONE Corporate travel buyers can source all of their corporate travel technology needs in the Business Travel Technology Showcase, which houses a full spectrum of technology suppliers demonstrating new products, services and solutions and a 10-session strong, technology-focused conference programme.

Hostedan c buyersd mix pick an relevant st the mos to create a session e conferencet bespokmme to mee progra eir needs th

LEARNING The show features a high quality, free to attend conference programme designed to help public sector buyers and managers to learn how to buy travel better and increase their efficiency. In excess of 50 thought-provoking sessions shaped by corporate travel experts include the members of the first ever Business Travel Show advisory board provideing in-depth and practical information to buyers. The programme has been shaped with advice from the show’s buyer‑only advisory board members, which include Alison Churchill, procurement controller at the Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board. Buyer-led masterclasses, panel debates and case studies will drill down into topical travel issues, impart best practice, aid benchmarking and allow for invaluable knowledge and experience‑sharing among buyers from similar industries facing common challenges. Hosted buyers can pick and mix the most relevant sessions to create a bespoke conference programme to meet their exact knowledge needs and to fit in with pre‑arranged exhibitor appointments. Speakers include buyers from the likes of Coca-Cola, Rolls-Royce, Microsoft, IKEA, Cisco and Sony Mobile Communications Europe will pass on tips and tricks from the private sector to public sector buyers, covering topics such as demand management, multinational travel programmes, payment solutions, cost forecasting and compliance. The full programme can be found at www.businesstravelshow.com/conference NETWORKING The Business Travel Show offers of peer‑to‑peer networking opportunities and social events that bring together more than 6,000 professionals from across the European business travel community, helping them to build relationships, and share knowledge, experiences and best practice. The 2013 event will host a number of networking and social events for buyers and suppliers to connect, including the Agents and Hosted Buyers lounges, Cellars in the Sky wine tastings, Networking and Discovery Forums and after‑show drinks on Tuesday 5 February at the Central Café.

ASAP PAVILION OF SERVICED APARTMENT PROVIDERS Thanks to their ‘home away from home’ appeal, bookings for serviced apartments are on the up and up. With 20 suppliers showcasing more than 100 serviced apartment locations worldwide, the ASAP Pavilion at the Business Travel Show is a popular one-stop-shop among buyers and bookers to source the information they need to rethink their accommodation strategies. AIRLINE PAVILION If you are looking at your air travel policy, the show’s airline pavilion is the place to be. The Business Travel Show Airline Pavilion hosts a comprehensive line up of global airlines: the perfect place for buyers to source new suppliers and refine their air travel policies. ITM VILLAGE The ITM (Institute of Travel & Meetings) is the leading professional body for buyers, managers and suppliers of business travel and meetings in the UK and Ireland and the Business Travel Show is the association’s exclusive exhibition partner. The ITM returns to the show in 2013 with the ITM Village, where buyers can meet a wide range of supplier members and find out more about the benefits of becoming an ITM member. CELLARS IN THE SKY WINE TASTING Taste the favourites on the Business Traveller stand. There are four hour-long Cellars in the Sky wine tastings during the≈Business Travel Show hosted by the Cellars in the Sky Awards organiser Business Traveller. These events not only give visitors a chance to try the finest airline wines from 2012, they are also fun, informal peer-to-peer networking opportunities. AFTER-SHOW NETWORKING PARTY Business Travel Show visitors and exhibitors are invited to the after-show networking party on Tuesday 5 February between 1730 and 1900. Taking place at the Central Café on the show floor, it’s a great chance to wind down and socialise with new and old industry colleagues after a busy day of appointments and conference sessions. L

Malaysia Airlines Marlin Apartments Masta (Medical Advisory Service for Travellers abroad) Micros Mystifly National Car Parking Navitas Solutions Oakwood Worldwide Oman Air Omega World Travel Parker Car Service Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel Premier Apartments Premier Inn Priority Pass ProCon Redfern Travel Roaming Expert Roomex Rydges Kensington Plaza Hotel Sabre Europe Management Services Saudi Arabian Airlines Signature Cars Sixt Rent a Car Skyline Worldwide Accommodations South African Airways Star Alliance St Ermin’s Hotel stayCity Apartments Ltd Supranational Hotels TCG Consulting The Apartment Service The Corporate Team The Oxfordshire Resort The Serviced Apartment Company SACO thetrainline Business Think Apartments Thomas Cook CFX Transaero Travel Daily Media Traveldoo Technologies Travelodge Travelsavers Worldwide Ind.Network TRX Uniglobe Travel VATit Venue.directory.com Vibe Software Videonations Virgin Atlantic Airways Water to Go Wings Travel Worldview Limited

Business Travel Show

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Further information The Business Travel Show takes place on 5-6 February at Earls Court II, London. For more information and for free registration, visit www.businesstravelshow.com Twitter: twitter.com/btshowlondon Blog: bts-london.blogspot.com

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Look after your staff travelling overseas These days everyone can be a traveller. Whether it’s two weeks’ annual leave, a grand adventure or even working abroad, MASTA can help. From vaccinations, to advice, to its award-winning Travel Health Brief, MASTA’s expertise is second to none. Behind the scenes, the company’s research team constantly monitors disease situations across the world, bringing together health information from many sources and providing it to its own clinic-based Nurse Experts, NHS clinics and surgeries. Its people are chosen because they have a great attitude towards customer service. They want to help everyone’s travels get off to a flying start by doing all they can to make life easier. That could mean providing appointments at convenient times, going the

Meet the KDS team, enjoy our chocolate fountain and see our latest innovations on stand 641 at the Business Travel Show. Sh

extra mile to solve a problem or simply being friendly, welcoming and approachable. With the UK’s largest network of dedicated travel clinics, MASTA has replicated its successful approach all round the country – proving that expertise and customer service are a winning combination when it comes to protecting travellers’ health. MASTA has already supported over 1,000 companies with their duty of care requirements to their employees working or travelling abroad.

www.kds.com @KDS_innovates facebook.com/travel.expense

FURTHER INFORMATION www.masta.com

Protecting the health of workers is vitally important for every organisation. As with any other aspect of business, following good practice when it comes to health can benefit employees and employers alike. At MASTA we have over 25 years of travel health experience providing up-to-date travel health advice and support, so you can fulfil your Duty of Care, helping you manage the health risks to employees travelling and working abroad. MASTA ensure a clear audit trail is available to support you in any future legal challenge, including: • A full record of assessment • Recommendations given • Action taken Protect your employees, protect your company.

http://dutyofcare.masta-travel-health.com tel: 0113 2387500 email: b2b@masta.org

MASTA advert_178x125.indd 1

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02/01/2013 11:28

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Is stress affecting your bottom line? asks ACS

Taking the confusion out of booking business travel

Recent research now indicates that stress is the leading reason for long term sickness absence costing employers billions of pounds every year. Invaluable in todays’ stress aware society, Affronte Corporate Solutions are accredited in Stress Management and organisational wellbeing. Its team of qualified practitioners specialise in evaluating stress flashpoints and the human factors of the work environment, and can assist in getting the best from staff to bring about positive change of both organisational and personal value. Affronte Corporate Solutions offers expert tailored solutions to meet your requirements, including: Classroom or one to one stress awareness and wellbeing training; Team building and coaching; Organisational research; Analysis and evaluation of the work systems, and; Assessment and design of the physical workplace. Affronte Corporate Solutions is a member of the International

Raileasy4business is aware that pricing, timetables and services can be baffling, but its expertise can help ease the operational and financial pressures when booking business travel. The company’s flexibility allows it to engage with corporate businesses and travel agents alike. Its easy-to-use booking tool is intuitive and simple to use, displaying cheap and flexible fares within one screen with easy to understand rules. A white label version or the standard system can be applied to suit your requirements with a full suite of management reports and comprehensive travel policy settings and profiling capability. There’s also some exciting enhancements on the way. Split Ticketing, for example, is where a journey can be supplied using a series of tickets between start and finish to

Stress Management Association; The Chartered Management Institute; The Institute of Leadership and Management, The Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors, The National Society of Psychotherapists and Practitioners on the General Hypnotherapy Register. The company covers all angles of wellbeing to reduce risk, improve performance, and promote a healthier and happier work place. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0800 1777 267 info@corporate-stressmanagement.com www.corporate-stressmanagement.com

bring substantial savings. A printed ticket solution is available as well as Ticket On Departure [TOD]. There are hotel packages and modules to make the most of your destination. Europe and beyond can be connected via Eurostar. Come and meet Raileasy4business at the Business Travel Show at Earls Court, 5-6 February, Stand T8 within the Travel Technology zone of the main show. Sign up at the show and you’ll receive a discount on the transaction fee. FURTHER INFORMATION info@raileasy4business.com Tel: 0845 4750440

Drive down your travel and expense spend

Jurys Inn: for the very best city centre locations

KDS is a leading international provider of Travel & Expense (T&E) management systems for private and public sector organisations. KDS was founded in 1994 with one guiding principal; to drive down its customers travel and expense spend. Today its market leading and innovative software is used by over five thousand customers and two million end users globally to reduce costs and increase control. The KDS unified Software‑as‑a‑Service (SaaS)‑based technology addresses the complete T&E lifecycle, from policy definition and enforcement, and online self-booking, through to automated expense processing and invoice reconciliation. Each stage is handled seamlessly by fully-unified technology; enabling clients to achieve significant efficiencies and cost-savings. KDS offers the most extensive back-end connectivity to financial service and travel providers (airline,

Jurys Inn offers great value, stylish and comfortable threestar accommodation in the very best city centre locations throughout the UK, Ireland and mainland Europe. Awarded Best Independent Brand at the 2012 and 2010 Business Travel awards, Jurys Inn offers a great product that is tailored for corporate customers. Bedrooms are comfortable, well lit and spacious with crisp white linens, high speed internet access and flat screen TVs. All rooms offer spacious bathrooms with spa toiletries. Corporate customers can upgrade to superior rooms which include early check in, high speed internet and other extras. A wide choice of food and drink is served throughout the day in our stylish bar, restaurant and Costa coffee bar. Located in major cities in UK, Ireland and Czech Republic, Jurys Inn hotels are easily accessible by major transport hubs and conveniently

car, rail and hotel) in the industry, ensuring optimised pricing and up‑to‑the‑minute inventory control. To better understand how KDS will help you to cut your travel and expense spend, drive efficiencies and control and obtain levels of management information second to none on the market, please get in touch. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: +44 (0)1784 450400 sales@kds.com www.kds.com

located minutes away from international conference centres such as Manchester Conference Centre, Dublin Convention Centre, Birmingham National Indoor Arena and NewcastleGateshead’s SAGE. Jurys Inn staff pride themselves on their committed, well trained teams. All employees including the CEO have been through the chain’s customer training programme to be exceptional. Each hotel has a dedicated sales team that is happy to discuss your business requirements and outline its extensive offering for the business guest. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0870 4100 800 www.jurysinns.com

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Digital Publishing Specialists

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EVENT PREVIEW

THE PUBLISHING EVOLUTION

Publishing & Media

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The way content is delivered to audiences continues to advance, with new and traditional channels combining to create a truly multichannel marketplace. Against this backdrop, Publishing & Media Expo will provide visitors with thought leadership on the future of this fast-paced industry In line with the ongoing market shift towards a more plural approach towards multimedia publishing, the market leading trade event Publishing Expo has now rebranded as Publishing & Media Expo. Publishing is changing fast, even the concept of ‘publishers’ is evolving as the way in which content is delivered to audiences continues to advance, with new and traditional channels combining to create a truly multichannel marketplace. Publishing & Media Expo, taking place at London’s Earls Court from 26-27 February 2013, is the event shaping the exciting future of publishing: in print, online and mobile. Now in its 8th year, it is the biggest event of its kind in the UK, providing visitors with thought leadership on the future of this fast paced industry and the latest solutions and services to stay ahead of the market – digital, print, mobile, social networks, tablets, and the ‘cloud’. A TIMELY CHANGE Exhibitors, partners and associations affiliated with the show have expressed enthusiasm for the proposed rebrand with many alluding to the change as one born from common sense and realism. The Content Marketing Association’s Chief Operating Officer Julia Hutchinson said: “Putting the media in publishing makes perfect sense. The world is changing rapidly and it is vital that events and the wider industry at large reflect this. Having recently rebranded ourselves we are already reaping the rewards a strategic change in direction brings. Publishing & Media Expo is set to be an unmissable event for anyone involved in the business of publishing, no matter the media.”

NEW FEATURES New features introduced for 2013 will include a theatre dedicated to ‘publishing heroes’ alongside a’ Top 20 movers and shakers’ shortlist, highlighting the most influential and innovative voices in publishing and media today. The best and most ground breaking front covers of the year will also be displayed in a new gallery feature on the show floor. The keynote programme includes speakers and panellists from across the world of publishing and media. The education programme will be split into four theatres; the Audience & Data Theatre, the Production & Design Theatre, the Digital and Multi-Publishing Theatre and the Publishing Heroes Theatre. Highlights of the programme include sessions of app development, multi-platform approaches, future trends and content strategies. The Audience & Data Theatre will host ‘Beyond Linked In or Twitter; traditional social media under pressure’. Just as publishers are getting comfortable with these platforms, Publishing & Media Expo asks what’s next on the horizon? And what will the new set of rules be? Speakers for this enlightening session include Tom Inglis from Feusd and social media consultant, Adam Tinworth. A session on Windows 8 and new opportunities for publishers, presented by senior representatives from Microsoft and Rob Grainger, MD of Stonewash, will continue the theme of future trends and new opportunities for publishers. Content is one of the hottest topics of recent months. In response to that fact, the Production & Design Theatre will feature a session delivered by former COO of the Content Marketing

Association, Julia Hutchinson who is now Head of Content Marketing at Fresh Media Group. This session is entitled ‘Content as currency in today’s attention economy’ and will provide a big picture analysis of the basic principles of new publishing. This session is also hosted by Arif Haq of Gatorade (Pepsico) and additional speakers who are yet to be announced. Also on content, ‘Building a cross media content strategy for tomorrow out of what is working today’ will take place in the Digital and Multi-Publishing Theatre and will outline how, as consumption becomes more and more fragmented, publishers can continue to deliver high quality content for their readership. Independent consultant, Peter Houston and Craig Llewellyn-Williams, associate editor of The Sunday Times are set to deliver this presentation. DESIGN Design will feature heavily within the programme. ‘What is responsive design?’ is a seminar which explains that responsive design can automatically morph itself to fit any type of device or screen to give optimised usability whilst keeping the user experience positive and consistent. With so many channels with which to publish, this technology can only become increasingly important to publishers. Marcus Grimm, Marketing Director at Nxtbook Media, Richard Jones, Technical Director at I-Los and Michael Kowalski, founder of Getcontentment will present this eye opening session. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.publishing-expo.co.uk

YUDU’s self-publishing portal places customers in complete control YUDU is a multi-platform publishing service that enables the publication of interactive, rich media content to the web, mobile and tablet devices. Use the YUDU cloud publishing platform to publish internal communication, magazines, newsletters, reports, training materials, catalogues, brochures and books to the web, iOS devices, Windows 8 platforms and Android tablets. YUDU’s self-publishing portal places its customers in complete control using YUDU’s tools to publish and enhance publications quickly and simply with technical support always just a click away. The ability to

use rich-media and in-app purchasing deepens the user relationships and maximises monetisation opportunities. The publisher determines the level of access granted to the users, publications can be open to everyone, controlled with subscriptions, distributed internally

through an enterprise licence or different content can be available for different users depending on their access levels. The ease and speed at which subject matter, including rich-media, can be quickly converted into a multi-platform app makes YUDU the product of choice for some of the world’s largest brands, organisations and publishing house. FURTHER INFORMATION www.yudu.com 0870 760 9258 sales@yudu.com

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FotoWare F11-00890 FotoWare® and FotoStation® are registered trademarks of FotoWare a.s. Copyright © FotoWare a.s 2011. All rights reserved. Adobe, Creative Suite, Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated. Images from REUTERS and © Getty images.

www.vitax.co.uk or call 01530 510060 for full details www.yemo.nl

Co m m u n i c at i o n anytime,anyone,anywhere

SUPERIOR MEDIA WORKFLOW MANAGEMENT Location independent production Departmental collaboration & Asset Management Supply chain integration Enhanced brand control Web based mobile applications

Web-2-Print & much more

Streamline communications

Public sector Newspaper/Magazine publisher Advertising agencies Corporate Commercial printers

Design it,control it

Diﬀerent channels

See Yemo at Publishing & Media Expo-26-27 February, EarlsCourt2, Stand B1. BOOK APPOINTMENT email : mike.hawley@yemo.eu | call : +44(0)7980 452775 92

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 20.1

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Procurement departments should adopt a best value approach to cable specification, says BASEC Dr Jeremy Hodge, Chief Executive of the British Approvals Service for Cables (BASEC) urges specifiers and contractors not to cut costs on important fire, safety and emergency systems in buildings. It has been widely reported that public sector spending continues to be cut. However council owned buildings still need to be maintained and improved, resulting in specifiers having increased cost pressures and a number of difficult decisions. Unfortunately it is the hidden electrical circuits and cabling that impose a serious problem if they are not upgraded sufficiently or of adequate quality for their purpose. BASEC is aware of a number of cases recently where cables have been incorrectly specified and procured, and this has led to serious cost and delay problems. The first example is through BASEC’s work with the Approved Cables Initiative (ACI) who have identified fire alarm cable used in a fire station, which turned out not to carry the specification or approval requested initially, and it has all had to be removed and replaced. Another example is regarding the use of lighting cable that has been found to be substandard, failing soon after installation. There was no standard quoted yet it has been

used in over 1000 light fittings in one office building alone. Procurement departments need to take a best value approach by prioritising safety above aesthetics and not being tempted to go for the cheapest option of cabling or systems and risk having to replace them. By investing in quality cabling and circuits, the specifier can have confidence in the longevity and performance of the system which could last 30-50 years. In terms of cables, it is important to always look for a manufacturer’s mark that you recognise, which can be helpful in tracing a cable through the supply chain. For peace of mind, you should insist on an independent third-party approved cable with either a BASEC, HAR or equivalent mark and specify on your order the British Standard (BS) number the cable must comply with.

Most public sector buildings now use low smoke, halogen free cabling rather than PVC – this is a deliberate fire safety measure and should not be reversed to save costs. Unlike some other cables, when exposed to flame, low smoke cables do not produce toxic smoke and corrosive gas, so can provide critical protection to people and equipment. When budgets are squeezed, don’t forfeit experience and knowledge simply to help the bottom line. FURTHER INFORMATION www.basec.org.uk

Communication anytime, with anyone, at any time

Easily share your digital assets using FotoWare

Since 2004, Yemo has provided web enabled crossmedia collaboration workflow solutions. By identifying client’s needs, Yemo has constantly delivered and supported these highly successful systems to the private and public sector. From Northcliffe Media to government departments in the Hague, Printspace and other Yemo products have simplified internal/external communication, increased output efficiency/productivity and reduced costs by streamlining the complete production process cycle, from procurement to delivery, on a single platform. The Yemo philosophy of use ‘anytime’, with ‘anyone’ and ‘anywhere’ provide complete access across multiple sites and fulfills mobile requirements. Intuitive ease of use, transparency of operation, flexibility and control are the foundation of Yemo product design and development.

Xenario UK is the UK’s leading supplier of Digital Asset Management software from FotoWare a.s (Oslo). FotoWare make software for storing and managing digital assets in the publishing, public and corporate industries worldwide. Being able to find process and share files such as Word documents, Powerpoint presentations and images, efficiently across the enterprise make the solution extreamly valuable for fast moving companies. The solution is cost effective and scalable. FotoWare’s integration tools for Microsoft Office and Adobe CS series, ensures higher productivity in marketing and graphic design departments. The newly released FotoWeb SR5 contains new set of templates designed exclusively for public use. These templates make it easy for anyone who publishes images and documents

The ability to track and trace assets and products, create reports, control of corporate identity, and flexibility of supply are standard features. Rapid deployment is another element of Yemo software design, so cost is kept to a minimum from the outset. The high investment in the latest web technology to develop standard products ensures that integration with existing systems can be achieved. Come and talk with the Yemo team, Stand B1 at Publishing Media Expo. FURTHER INFORMATION Mike Hawley: +44 (0)7980 452775

to provide quick and convenient access to files. Users can search in all accessible archives simultaneously, and easily download content from the site. These templates also work on portable iOS and Android devices and allow high-res zoom on these devices. Take pictures using your Smart device and send them directly to your asset management system. Using an SD card reader you can also transfer files from your camera to your device and then upload them from there. FURTHER INFORMATION www.xenariouk.com Tel: +44 (0) 1293434995 info@xenariouk.com

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More than a football club

Emirates Stadium is one of the world’s most breathtaking sporting arenas; not only as a pioneering football stadium, but also as a groundbreaking meetings and events venue renowned across the UK and throughout Europe. Boasting an array of versatile, modern and luxurious suites, the Emirates provides everything you would expect of a stage hosting one of the world’s most successful football clubs, and much more. Our dedicated and experienced events team will work with you to create events that are as inspiring as the setting, delivering

tailored solutions to ensure every detail is perfected to create a truly memorable experience for you and your guests. Why not host a memorable event in one of our exclusive suites such as the intimate setting of the Director’s Lounge to the sophisticated and elegant Diamond Club or the magnificent Woolwich Suite, where you will see delicate hints of Arsenal’s heritage and tradition. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 262 0004 events@arsenal.co.uk www.arsenal.com/events

Emmanuel Centre: a truly unique meeting place

Emmanuel Centre is a truly unique place which is regularly used for examinations, AGMs or shareholders meetings, training seminars, council meetings, product launches, church gatherings, exhibitions, rallies, presentations, concerts and conferences. The building’s traditional charm and character comes with modern facilities and fully integrated in‑house audio visual equipment. Originally built in 1928, this Grade 2 Listed building was designed by the world-renowned architect, Sir Herbert Baker, and has a distinctive atmosphere, elegant marble foyer, high vaulted ceilings and huge columns. The main auditorium which seats up to 1,000 is completely circular and supported by 24 pairs of marble columns with natural light

that penetrate through a huge glass dome and arched windows, finished off with original polished English Oak panels along the walls. The impressive main foyer boasts a domed ceiling, marbled flooring, wide staircases, an overhanging bronze light feature and huge arched windows. The conference centre opened in 1997 and has proved a big success, attracting clientele from both commercial and charitable organisations. It offers a competitive yet uncompromising service with added value, affordability and flexibility, all within Westminster, Central London. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 7222 9191 www.emmanuelcentre.com

Emirates Stadium is not only known as one of the world’s most breathtaking sporting arenas, it is also renowned as a groundbreaking meetings and events venue. Boasting an array of versatile, modern and luxurious suites, our dedicated and experienced events team will work with you to create events that are as inspiring as the setting, delivering tailored solutions to ensure every detail is perfected to create a truly memorable experience for you and your guests.

events@arsenal.co.uk

120x185Ad.indd 1

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 20.1

0845 262 0004

www.arsenal.com/events

04/10/2011 17:03

Conferences & Events

LONDON

When the laptop is packed away, London offers business visitors plenty of downtime activities

London has a unique environment that nurtures talent, a work ethos that supports business growth and a unique diversity that allows innovation to thrive – London has all the key ingredients to allow every person or business to excel to new extraordinary heights. Many are attracted by London’s dazzling culture and its unparalleled heritage whilst others are drawn to London’s constantly changing physical and economic landscape. With so many headquarters of international businesses making their home in the UK’s capital, a diverse array of conference and meeting spaces and a buzzing media industry, it’s an ideal destination to hold your government business events and meetings. But what about when the meeting is over? What about your precious downtime when the laptop has been packed away. London is also the ideal city to extend your business trip and get a bit of well-earned relaxation and pleasure from. For most business visitors, part of the attraction of coming to London is the almost endless list of fantastic downtime activities, from sight-seeing to shopping to eating out. Around every corner of London visitors will find new and exciting options. FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD With 61 Michelin stars to its name, London continues to be heaven for foodies. The Shard can be seen for miles and will certainly be one of the places to be seen in 2013. You can take in the view from February, but from April you’ll be able to dine within London’s biggest skyscraper. The people behind Zuma will be opening a restaurant with a contemporary rotisserie and grill menu while Aqua will offer at least two restaurants and one will apparently be a first in cuisine style for the London and European market. Some of the best value food in London is ethnic – Chinese, Indian or Italian. Specific areas of London offer great value, particularly in ethnic cuisine. The street food scene is vibrant and growing – Brick Lane is famed for very good, cheap Indian and Bangladeshi

food, Turkish restaurants are abound in Stoke Newington and Chinatown is found in Soho. London also offers some major calendar events that celebrate food as well as numerous food markets and farmers markets.

LONDON PARKS London has a huge amount of green spaces including more than 600 garden squares, 148 parks and gardens, 122 heaths, commons and greens, 16 city farms, eight Royal Parks and one historic battlefield. It is one of the greenest capitals in the world. In 2013 the capital’s biggest flower show – The Chelsea Flower Show, celebrates 100 years. Always fabulous – this year’s horticultural spectacular is not to be missed. Kew is home to the amazing Royal Botanic Gardens. Covering 326 acres, they’re an oasis of calm. For those feeling like a surge of adrenaline, the Treetop Walkway is a must. It’s 59 feet high and 660 feet long, taking visitors into the tree canopy of a woodland glade.

families, amateur riders and the world’s best elite cyclists pass many of Central London’s famous landmarks on their routes.

Written by London & Partners

CONFERENCE IN THE CAPITAL HIDDEN GEMS IN LONDON There are surprises around every corner in London. From historical sites, to areas of natural beauty, to brilliant but unsung shops, bars and museums, the list of things that you can find ‘only in London’ is almost endless. The Bank of England Museum will allow visitors to hold a bar of gold and see the largest collection of Bank of England notes and associated material in the world. Whereas Neasden in north-west London is home to the truly jaw-dropping site of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, the largest traditional Hindu Mandir outside India. PLEASURE WITHOUT A PRICE A major benefit of London’s cultural offering is that many of the events or museums in the capital are free – which is a huge cost saving to any delegate and a perfect way to compliment any business programme or offer a huge cost saving in your own downtime. Whether it’s watching the Chinese New Year celebrations in China Town, viewing the latest exhibitions at the famous V&A museum or simply watching the street performers in Covent Garden, there really is the opportunity to get something for nothing. London has over 300 museums, galleries and collections, including some of the greatest in the world, as well as some of the most unusual and interesting. Markets are a good source of inexpensive goods – London has over 300 of them, ranging from the attractive Columbia Road flower market to authentic East London markets like Ridley Road, which sells ethnic goods and food, and Walthamstow Market, which has 450 stalls. Although prices and variety of goods vary considerably, there are excellent bargains to be had. L

London e th has all dients re key ingw every to allo business or person el to new to exc rdinary extrao hts heig

SPORT IN LONDON After watching one of the most successful Olympic and Paralympic Games ever, why not see it for yourself. London is a hotbed of great sporting activity all year round and a perfect way to unwind and relax after a busy conference or meeting. Take a trip to north‑west London with a behind‑the‑scenes tour of Wembley. One of the most famous stadiums in the world and the major venue of the Olympic football tournament, the UEFA Champions League Final will return to London for the 150th anniversary of the FA in May and play host to the NFL games for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Minnesota Vikings. A visit to the key Olympic venue in Stratford to the East of London is a must. The Olympic Park will become The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and reopen to the public from July 2013. A new annual, mass-participation cycling event will launch in London from the Olympic Park in August. The two-day cycling festival will be a fantastic public event to watch both

FURTHER INFORMATION www.visit London.com

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A breath of fresh air for conferences and training In the heart of the Hampshire countryside - yet just ten minutes from Winchester - lies The Wessex Conference Centre. A stunning suite of venues and facilities for conferences, meetings, training and team building events. Located on the campus of the renowned Sparsholt College Hampshire, The Wessex Conference Centre offers exceptional value and a variety of flexible spaces, all surrounded by glorious scenery. If you are looking for the perfect conference venue, you can look forward to: • • • • •

Boardrooms, venues and conference centre for up to 250 people Free use of all presentation and audio-visual equipment Plenty of free parking Accommodation: 25 comfortably appointed en-suite bedrooms On-site catering, training and hospitality teams

Or perhaps you are considering a motivational team building day? Take advantage of the College’s 400 acres for events such as a low ropes course, perhaps clay pigeon shooting or even horse-whispering! Speak to our team for inspiration.

The Wessex Conference Centre Sparsholt College Hampshire, Winchester, SO21 2NF info@thewessexcentre.co.uk | 01962 797259 | www.thewessexcentre.co.uk

Bespoke hardwood flooring and quality carpets We supply and install all types of wood flooring and carpet. Specialising in parquet or overlay strip, plank or panel on old or new surfaces, concrete or wood, also over underfloor heating. We import our wood from sustainable sources, and can supply oak or exotic woods from around the world. We believe service and after care are as important as the initial installation. Cleaning and maintenance programme will be implemented. Free advice and estimates are available. We operate from Wimbledon and cover London and the South East. We are fully insured and comply with all company regulations. Email: peter@abingwoodflooring.com Call: Peter Cooper 0208 543 0406 / 07796694932

Corporate & Social Events for up to 300 guests in North West London

• Onsite parking • Special accommodation rates • Leisure facilities • Early booking discounts • Competitively priced packages

www.crownmoranhotel.com 020 8452 4175 | crowncb@moranhotels.com 142–152 Cricklewood Broadway, London NW2 3ED

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Competitive-rates and first class service at the Victory Services Club The Victory Services Club offers eight distinctive rooms to suit any event and conference requirement. This central London venue, just off Marble Arch, is a registered charity that uses revenue from events to support members of the armed services and their families. All of the Club’s clients receive a high quality service, delivered by well trained and friendly staff, at extremely competitive rates. The Club is the first London venue to achieve the Meetings Industry Association’s (MIA) ‘Gold’ standard for ‘Accredited in Meetings’. All rooms have natural daylight, making them suitable for meetings as well as lunches, dinners and receptions. The venue knows how important it is to have all the correct technology in place so that even the most complex event can be effortlessly staged. Its AV services are competitively priced and flexible thanks to its partners that will

meet any additional specialist requirements you may have. The Carisbrooke Hall incorporates one of the largest projection screens in the capital, ideal for large-scale presentations and promotional displays. The Hall also features a purpose built stage, dance floor, galleried balcony and private bar facilities catering for up to 300 people. As you’d expect from a club with military connections, the venue runs like clockwork. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0207 616 8305 / 8354 events@vsc.co.uk www.vsc.co.uk

Central Hall Westminster – steeped in event history As the largest central London conference and events centre, Central Hall Westminster creates a spectacular atmosphere for small and large events. Its clients value the remarkable range of flexible event spaces, stunning décor and natural light flooding our portfolio of 22 rooms. With a 100 year history in hosting events and a prime location opposite Westminster Abbey, this spacious Grade II listed venue is set to leave a lasting impression. From intimate meeting rooms for five delegates to facilities for 350, conference and exhibition space for up to 1,000 guests and 1,400 m2 to the auditorium with versatile floor space, holding 2,200 guests - enjoy the diversity of Central Hall Westminster. A unique, historic venue with marble flooring, spacious foyer areas and a Grand Staircase, design based on the Paris Opera House stairwell. All spaces enjoy

large windows, high ceilings and state-of-the-art technology. Reasons to book Central Hall Westminster: Location – balconies overlooking Big Ben, Houses of Parliament and London Eye; Venue – hosting events since 1912. Notable speakers include Mahatma Ghandi; Versatility – 22 rooms from unique, intimate to spacious up to 2,200 delegates; Architecture – the auditorium holds Europe’s largest domed ceiling. FURTHER INFORMATION www.c-h-w.com

A unique venue in the heart of London

Choose Holiday Inn London for meetings and events

Regent’s College Conference Centre is a unique AIM accredited venue full of rich and diverse history, located within Regent’s Park in Central London. With a selection of rooms available all year round equipped with the latest technology and stunning outdoor event space, it’s an ideal venue for meetings, training, conferences, weddings and summer parties. Rooms are light and spacious and vary in size, scope and character. Tuke Hall, a lecture theatre seats 370 delegates. Herringham Hall meanwhile lends itself to receptions, formal dining and exhibition style events. Surrounded by the magnificent gardens and lake of Regent’s Park the spacious private lawns of Regent’s College provide a rare oasis of tranquillity in Central London. Corporate or private functions and wedding parties of up to 500 can easily be accommodated within the grounds for events such as barbecues, champagne

Holiday Inn London Meetings Cluster, part of Intercontinental Hotel Group (IHG), the largest hotel chain in the world is a specialist team looking after five London Holiday Inns. The team offers you a one stop shop for your meeting and special event enquiries for groups of two to 400. With 43 meeting rooms split among the five properties you will be spoilt for choice. The team’s experience in dealing with government business will help you chose the perfect central London venue and provide you with the necessary expertise to ensure that your events are always a success. All its properties are conveniently located close to major tube stations and motorways making travel for your delegates as hassle free as possible. Contact the team today to know more about its fantastic

receptions, corporate fun days and team building activities. The venue’s award winning in-house catering team, has an excellent reputation for high quality food and impeccable service. They provide an assortment of menus from mid-morning snacks and buffet lunches to formal sit down meals and barbecues in the grounds. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel +44(0) 20 7487 7540 Fax +44(0) 20 7487 7657 conferences@regents.ac.uk www.regentsconferences.co.uk

promotions or find out more about how its team can help you with your event. The hotel cluster includes Holiday Inn London Bloomsbury, Holiday Inn London Brent Cross, Holiday Inn London, Kensington Forum, Holiday Inn London Mayfair, and Holiday Inn London Regent’s Park. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: +44 (0)20 7341 3400 Fax: +44 (0)20 7 341 3366 meetings.london@ihg.com www.holidayinnmeetings.co.uk

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

To TA Nottin L S gham AV City iNG Cou S o ncil fo VE R

£5 00 , 00 benefit 0

Employee solutions for modern thinking authorities With budget cuts rife, authorities are increasingly adopting an innovative approach to boost staff engagement Nottingham City Council is one of several authorities that work in partnership with P&MM Employee Benefits to boost engagement by helping their workforce save on everyday living costs. Nottingham City Council’s Works Perks scheme has been in place for seven years, with a requisite that the scheme should run at zero cost. Tara Bath, Reward and Retention Consultant, Nottingham City Council said: “The Council’s objectives to attract and retain talented people, to support a committed and engaged workforce, and to be an employer of choice, are prominent. Implementing a high quality cost-neutral solution has helped us to achieve this. “Since its inception, various initiatives have been introduced, most recently the development of our holiday purchase scheme which has had the additional benefit for the council of driving savings that would otherwise have had to be found elsewhere. We’ve saved over £0.5 million on salaries and employer’s NI through this scheme since launching.” The employer NI savings which are generated through these and other salary sacrifice schemes ensure that each component scheme more than pays for itself - the Council’s savings significantly outweigh the fees each month.

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Discover how your authority can also make a major impact on your people objectives Award winning benefit solutions l One provider; one integrated scheme: Our solutions are built and managed in house – no reliance on third parties for pricing, distribution or marketing Public sector speciality l Large proportion of clients in the public sector l Experience of building employer NI funded schemes l Quick and hassle-free scheme implementation

call 0845 272 8713 email benefits@p-mm.co.uk www.pmmemployeebenefits.co.uk

SELECTION CRITERIA

Recruitment

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

THE SKILLS TO LOOK FOR WHEN APPOINTING IN 2013

The public sector is in a state of enormous upheaval. We are experiencing the deepest cuts to public spending in living memory, alongside significant public sector reforms in areas like health, education and local government.

The economy is showing no signs of growth, both the public and private sector are making staff redundant to operate more leanly and there seems to be no fast way out of this recession. In this climate, employers are faced with selecting candidates from a large pool of

Although flexibility is important in any job, it becomes even more important when hiring a candidate to work within an already stretched workforce. Employers should look for candidates who demonstrate that they can adapt to change, manage responsibility and quickly become a vital part of any team from day one

applicants for a limited number of positions. At a glance, it seems that this is an easy job for employers, however, in a changing workplace landscape, the skills that employers need to look for have somewhat evolved. All of this means that employers now need to have a broader understanding of the roles which they are recruiting for; for example, many public sector workers need to be knowledgeable about finance even if they are not accountants. The finance professional needs to be a different type of candidate in 2013 and employers should tighten their job specifications in order to make successful appointments in order for their organisation to stay ahead of the curve. This article will look at the necessary skills an employer should look for when hiring in 2013. E

Volume 20.1 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Written by Gill Kelly, Director, CIPFA Recruitment Services

Against a backdrop of recession, budget cuts and redundancies, employers are faced with selecting candidates from a large pool of applicants for a limited number of positions. This may seems like an easy job, but in these times, the skills that employers need to look for have somewhat evolved

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SELECTION CRITERIA  WHAT TO LOOK FOR Although flexibility is important in any job, it becomes even more important when hiring a candidate to work within an already stretched workforce. Employers should look for candidates who demonstrate that they can adapt to change, manage responsibility and quickly become a vital part of any team from day one. Now that big finance departments are a thing of the past, employers should seek candidates that can demonstrate that they can work in these new, more efficient environments. As further budget cuts can’t be ruled out of the foreseeable future, the prospect of more streamlined environments brings with it the need to have better managed information in order to help monitor the use of public resources and improve decision-making. With efficiency and value for money becoming top priorities in the public sector, it is important for employers to look for staff, even those in non-finance roles, who have an understanding of the finance function of their organisation, especially those staff in managerial roles. COMMUNICATION The next necessary skill to look for is a candidate’s ability to communicate. It has already been mentioned how the public sector is becoming more like the private sector and adopting more of a business ethos. Public sector employers need to take on candidates who are able to adopt this mind-set and become more customer focused. In the finance function especially, accountants need to be seen not just as accountants but also as business advisors and employers should look for this ability when interviewing applicants. In this vein, across the public sector a priority has become better joint working. For joint working to be successful, employers should look for candidates who are able to present information in a way that is understandable outside of the finance department and throughout the organisation. This skill is especially important for the finance function, where complicated financial information, pages of figures and acronyms may be baffling. Candidates who are capable of demonstrating business acumen by presenting this information and presenting so that it can be used for business purposes as opposed to just the simple regurgitation of figures, are worth their weight in gold. Candidates who possess this skill will be able to inform better management information and decision-making, adding value and insight for decision makers and making the organisation run more smoothly and effectively. ALWAYS BE PREPARED No ‘essential skills’ piece would be complete without discussing some of the important things to keep in mind when interviewing. Firstly, look for candidates who have properly prepared, this should be evident from the fact that a candidate provides thoughtful

Recruitment

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

A candidate who takes advantage of networking opportunities is a valuable commodity. Connections can provide useful contacts that may become new business partnerships responses; a candidate who has thoroughly prepared, has learnt as much as possible about the role, the organisation and the interviewers shows enthusiasm, dedication and diligence. Employers should also note how presentable an applicant is, both in their appearance and manner – this is a good indication of how well they will fit into the organisation, gel with the team and be committed to their role at the organisation. Each organisation, in both the private and public sector, will have an ethos and vision for its future; interviewers need to make certain that candidates have grasped an understanding of this and will be committed to working towards it. Finally and less obviously, interviewers should look for individuals who are confident enough to be able to identify potential obstacles they may face and suggest how they would overcome them. For example, if the applicant is moving from the public sector to the private sector then, for a good accountant, the switch to IFRS should not be an obstacle and it should not be made one. A strong candidate will embrace this challenge as an opportunity and identifying this skill will help employers sort the great candidates from the good. In interviews it is crucial to identify ability. However, as has been mentioned, in a more challenging environment these required abilities are constantly changing. As the public sector becomes more business focused, competition will begin to drive decisions and contracts will increasingly be outsourced. Procurement, commissioning and contract management are fast becoming new skills that need to be understood by public sector staff; these skills may not have previously been on interviewers’ radars but certainly should be to ensure an appointment that helps build a successful, commercial future for the organisation. JOINT WORKING Beyond commissioning arrangements with the private sector, increased joint working between government agencies is also being driven by a desire for more streamlined working and less ‘isolation’. All of these new arrangements will require a candidate who is a strong negotiator and communicator. As increasingly projects are not managed ‘in house’ but between different agencies or organisations, employers should look for applicants that possess enhanced leadership skills and will effectively manage different projects and teams. Their leadership capabilities will need to be innovative too in order to respond to further budget cuts and to ensure that services are maintained and delivered as effectively and efficiently as possible. Cost-savings, productivity

improvements and process improvements can only be driven through innovative leadership and all of these things are required in modern organisations, especially in the public sector. RECRUITMENT OF SENIOR LEVEL When appointing more senior level candidates, employers must be keen to ensure that there will be as little disruption as possible to day‑to-day operations and that the appointed individual will hit the ground running. Candidates can no longer afford to have a ‘settling in period’ and need to demonstrate value from the start. At interview, look for a candidate with a track record of delivering results, and place a lot more emphasis on their ability to respond to or manage projects alongside balancing reducing resources. At interview, employers should look for the applicant who is aware of emerging trends and legislation affecting key fields and generally stays abreast of key issues as well as having an understanding of how they will affect their organisations. Employers should look for an appointment that is up to date with their key skills and is continuing their own professional and personal development. It is the individual’s responsibility, not the employers, to make sure that employees are gaining the necessary skills to improve; in this competitive job market, candidates should be investing in their own training opportunities to stay ahead. Finally, a candidate who takes advantage of networking opportunities is a valuable commodity. The landscape here is changing dramatically and will continue to do so. These connections can help to improve understanding of the industry and what is going on. What’s more, they can provide useful contacts that may become new business partnerships. Furthermore, people in the same industry are usually just as interested in making new connections; therefore harnessing a candidate’s networking skills is a great way to get your organisation’s name and message known in the industry. This is not a set in stone guide and with the pace of change, especially in public services, I have no doubt that the skills employers should seek will continue to change. However, a lot of the advice in here can be applied across the public sector, private sector and beyond. Hopefully, having read it, when you next look to fill a position, you will feel better equipped to assess candidates and decide the best fit for your organisation. FURTHER INFORMATION www.cipfa.org

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HIGH STREET REGENERATION

BRINGING THE BUZZ BACK

Urban Regeneration

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

How can local authorities turn around the fortunes of their town centres? Once funding has been secured, spending time on the ground with the business owners is key to high street success Written by Susan Williams Founder & Director Of Vision On

The Christmas shopping has been completed for another year and the January sales are in full swing. Britain’s high streets may be bustling with people right now, but how can local authorities ensure their town centres remain busy for the remainder of the year? Local authorities are facing a daunting task. The government has announced that austerity measures will be in place until at least 2018, and high streets are struggling to attract visitors, who now frequently favour online shopping or out of town shopping centres. To help revive the UK’s deteriorating high streets, various funding streams have been made available. In late 2012 the government announced that as part of the Town Team Partners Programme more than 300 towns not selected as Portas Pilots are to receive a share of a £5.5m funding and access to a network of advisers managed by the Association of Town Centre Management. There is also the GLA’s Outer London Fund, provided by the Mayor of London, which has helped many towns including Enfield and Harrow to improve facilities and draw visitors back. So, if town centre managers have access to funding and are making plans to regenerate their high streets, how can they ensure they are getting maximum results from their spend. If engagement of the businesses in the high street and town centre is not handled correctly, business owners can easily start to feel ignored, pressurised and even threatened by plans. THE PHYSICAL IMPACT Physical work may be necessary to regenerate a high street, and this is likely to have a huge impact on retailer’s footfall. Changes to parking restrictions and lighting may also cause problems, leading to trader opposition and increased hostility. This resistance will ultimately result in a slowdown of the project and an increase in cost. In contrast, by ensuring engagement is handled correctly, councils can secure local business support and work alongside them to create greater and more sustainable change. By working with local businesses and understanding their concerns and needs, a town centre manager can start to incorporate these into regeneration plans and provide retailers with the necessary tools and training to make the changes themselves. Successful engagement starts by spending time on the ground, in E

ful Success tion a regenerpending ys starts b the ground, time on with business meetings face-to-face owner nderstand to u ncerns their co

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HIGH STREET REGENERATION be given suitable warning, and proper signage and directions can be provided ensuring people can reach the stores.

North London retailers working together on a Shop Local campaign

Whilst physical regeneration has a clear visual impact on a town centre, in deprived areas regeneration works best when it incorporates training and coaching of the local buisnesses too. It not only improves the place, but also the people  the high street and meeting with business owners face to face. Town centre managers can build trust and break down barriers by listening to the business owner’s views. If business owners are consulted and know that their input has been incorporated into plans they are less likely to oppose them afterwards. They will also feel less threatened if they have a point of contact at the council that they are familiar with and can easily reach should they have any questions. A VOICE FOR THE HIGH STREET Working with Traders Associations is a useful way of making sure that affected businesses are fully aware of any plans and proposals. If there isn’t a Traders Association already in place it is advisable to work with businesses to set one up. Traders Associations can provide a more focused voice for high street businesses which makes liaisons easier. They improve community spirit and can even help tackle crime. Traders Association leaders can then be invited to council meetings to give their feedback on how proposals are likely to affect businesses and offer advice on how to work around this. For example, if new pavements are needed as part of the regeneration plan, local authorities may be under pressure to have work carried out quickly to meet funding deadlines. From a retailers perspective, whilst they too want the improvements to take place, if work is carried out at

Christmas time they could lose 50 per cent of their business during a key trading period. This leads to frustration, anger and opposition which could be avoided with proper engagement in the early stages. Traders Associations can be consulted to find a happy medium, retailers can

Urban Regeneration

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

PARKING Councils may be keen to reduce congestion in a town centre. This can often be achieved by making changes to parking restrictions, which is also a good way to raise much needed revenue. Changes to parking will frequently be met by resistance from retailers who need it to be as easy as possible for their customers to reach their stores, and who need their cars themselves for customer deliveries, stock pickups and banking. By talking to the business owners and Traders Associations, local authorities can ensure there are enough loading bays available or that the most crucial bays aren’t affected, that people are given enough free minutes parking to allow them to buy tickets, and that business owners who need cars for work are given suitable warning and offered help with permit payment. The manner in which councils engage with retailers will ultimately determine a project’s success. If the local businesses support projects and actively participate in training and regeneration plans, a far deeper effect can be achieved. Whilst physical regeneration has a clear visual impact on a town centre, in deprived areas regeneration works best when it incorporates training and coaching of the local businesses too. By working in this way, councils can make a more sustainable change by not only improving the place but improving the people too. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.vision-on.co.uk

Staff at Pier Nursery in south east London receiving their certificate in visual merchandising

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COMMUNICATION

CAN CUSTOMER-CENTRIC OPERATIONS COST LESS?

Each year over 650 customer service professionals gather at the customer strategy and planning conference to find out which approaches are getting the best results and to see presentations from the latest Innovation Award entries. This year some vital themes are emerging – the need for flexible resourcing in customer operations, the opportunity to harness the knowledge of frontline teams, and the diversity of local government approaches to making services accessible at a lower cost. Another major theme is the ramification of new markets for public services. NEW WAYS OF WORKING The migration from NHS Direct services to 111 is a case in point. Some stakeholders have cautiously welcomed the move, such as British Medical Association GPs committee chair Laurence Buckman who said: “The principle behind NHS 111: making patient access to urgent NHS services easier is a good one.” Others however have their doubts: “The Royal College of Nursing has deep reservations about the move to NHS 111,” says its chief executive and general secretary Peter Carter. Behind this mixed welcome may lie the fact that while the headline savings for new contracts are easy to see, the implications for service users take longer to become apparent and people worry that there will be hidden costs elsewhere in the wider system. Our members find that robust planning and analysis is a proven way to manage these risks. In this context it is heartening to see that NHS Direct have made major strides in developing sustainable flexibility – a key requirement for this kind of service – by working with employees, their union representatives and business stakeholders. Previously, 48 per cent of advisors were on personal shift patterns; today it is just 2 per cent and core shift efficiency is up from 73 per cent to 90 per cent. NHS Direct is sharing their experience as part of April’s best practice conference. The recent media focus on the outsourced out-of-hours GP service in Cornwall is an

interesting contrast. The key issues being raised are about precisely those times that require flexible working – bank holidays, early morning, late evenings and weekends – and the consequence of ‘unexpected’ volumes. There is also media comment around the increased callout to the Ambulance service. An integrated approach to dealing with enquiries is clearly important and it is interesting that in some regions the ambulance services themselves are becoming major players in the market for the 111 services. CUT OUT INEFFICIENCIES Another major development in customer operations in recent years has been the desire to re-engineer services so as to reduce customer effort and cut out parts of the process that cause most re-work or are least inefficient. Within a colossal enterprise-wide programme, Debt Management at HM Revenue and Customs will explain how they have harnessed the knowledge of frontline teams to create a ‘time to pay’ wizard that has cut errors by 43 per cent and repeat calls by 70 per cent, with a costbenefit of over £1/4m for this initiative alone. Now implemented across 11 sites and 1,800 agents, the enabling IT was developed in-house. Workshops that give colleagues a platform to share their ideas are run by the corporate Demand Management team and colleagues are deeply engaged in continuous improvement. Understanding how to harness the power of your people and their ideas for innovation is vital if you are to square the circle of improving customer experience at lower cost. Any customer operation will have people who spend all day communicating with customers. Listen to them and you will help your organisation become genuinely customer‑centric. This can be seen clearly at Motability Operations – the not for profit company running the Motability Car Scheme and Powered Wheelchair and Scooter Scheme – who are also speaking at the conference. This was how they have reached a record‑breaking

Learn ers th from otomer at Cus Planning ct Conta tegy 2012 & Straril 29-30 at on Ap rd Grange, Chesfowickshire War

and remarkable 96 per cent in their Customer Satisfaction Index. Operational performance is rising and independent verification shows the operation to be well exceeding benchmarks in employee satisfaction as well as customer experience. This is because advisors are extraordinarily engaged in a culture that supports customer ’lovers’. PUBLIC SERVICE INNOVATION Local government are well in the lead when it comes to localising public service. Last year’s Public Service Innovation Award winner was Transform Sandwell who train and recruit people from some of the borough’s most excluded communities – including some from families where no-one else is in employment. They have also pioneered a local Youth Apprentice Scheme and access for people with learning disabilities. As Sarah Cash, Training and Development Manager explains: “When people with learning disabilities go into a working environment they are often given fairly menial jobs such as photocopying. But this doesn’t ad value for the individual. We wanted to make sure the experience was valuable for the individual as well as us.” This year, Caerphilly Council will show how they increased resource in High Street Customer Service Centres, within exiting budgets, by creating a virtual telephony operation and transferring advisors from the main contact centre. Alongside this, ‘lean’ process re‑engineering, across the whole service request lifecycle, helped deliver efficiency and enable the council to better support vulnerable citizens. Another success was the introduction of mobile data collection and process re‑engineering in Waste Collection, where reduced call volume and more effective call handling saved 3 FTE and cut administration. Join us at Customer Contact Planning & Strategy 2012 on April 29-30 in Warwick to learn about the critical people factors that enabled these transformations, with like‑minded colleagues from the public sector, housing, not for profit and private sectors. This event stands out because of the powerful mix of hands-on operational managers, analysts, planners and customer experience improvement or quality teams from every industry sector. L

Written by Paul Smedley, Founder and Chair of the Professional Planning Forum

The public sector needs further and deeper plans to drive efficiency. Equally it has a unique responsibility to serve the community – not just the most profitable or loyal customers. So how can public sector organisations improve the customer experience? Paul Smedley reports

Customer Services

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

FURTHER INFORMATION www.planningforum.co.uk

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DEBT COLLECTION

THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM

With the government said to lose £21 billion a year on unclaimed payments, is the road to improved public sector collections being blocked by a large elephant? The Lewis Group’s Dave Berry discusses Earlier this year, the government launched a major campaign to reduce fraud, error and debt within the public sector as part of its wider drive and ambition to cut public spending by £80 billion. Speaking at the launch of an interim report by the Fraud, Error, Debt Taskforce, Francis Maude, the Minister for the Cabinet Office spoke of the poor reputation that successive governments had earned for being ‘a soft touch’. He said that while that reputation was undeserved, it had to have come from somewhere: “Whitehall has not been running a tight ship,” he said. “Tens of billions of pounds has been lost each year; debt has been shrugged off. This is not acceptable at any time, but especially not in this time of austerity.”Maude said that the public sector currently loses £21 billion each year, equivalent, he explained, to building 800 new secondary schools or employing another 6,000 nurses; £10 billion a year is lost through payments made in error. GETTING TAX ON TIME As a result, the Taskforce had supported a series of pilots including the use of behavioural insight techniques to prompt individuals to pay their tax on time; application screening processes for tax credits in HMRC; spend recovery audits in the Home Office and Department of Transport to check and recover duplicative or overpaid invoices; and credit reference data to verify the circumstances

different organisations working with central government providing debt-related services which, as Maude confirms, “is hardly maximising resources.” To address this, the Minister talked of creating “a new, centralised enforcement body” to deal with the most resistant debtors, and better use of data and shared intelligence: “Some individuals are overwhelmed,” he concedes. “In one case, a single mother had 22 different parts of government chasing her.” Despite this conciliatory story, the Minister – and the government – seem to be hardening their attitude to debt: “We need a tough, consistent and proportional approach to debtors. And that includes genuinely supporting debtors who are genuinely struggling.” BRING IN THE THIRD PARTY This is all very laudable and, you would think, a tremendous opportunity for those working in the debt collection industry to get closer to government and demonstrate how effective a professional, outsourced collections model can prove. But there’s a snag; indeed there are several. And they all primarily centre around the issue of cost. There is a mindset among those employing a debt collection agency that resents having to pay a third party to collect money that should be theirs by right. There is some resentment too that an external body can succeed when an in-house team appears to have ‘failed’. This resentment, and what appears to be a poor understanding

Maude said that the public sector currently loses £21 billion each year, equivalent, he explained, to building 800 new secondary schools or employing another 6,000 nurses of benefit and tax credit claimants. The recovery audits alone, Maude estimated, could save upwards of £100 million. Perhaps more pointedly, the Minister addressed the challenge of consumer debt, and specifically money owed by consumers to the public purse. Overdue debts cost between £7-£8 billion – 95 per cent of which resides with the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) and HMRC: “Debt is a very emotive subject,” he said, “and it is incumbent upon us to prevent debt from accruing in the first place. But where people deliberately do not pay their debts when they can, take this as a warning: we will pursue all uncollected debts.” The audience at the launch heard how the government’s current debt collection strategy is fragmented: there are 30

of how debt collection agencies work and how they are remunerated, is impacting significantly on the results being achieved. A tender from one of the government’s biggest departments illustrates the point: this particular department informed the agencies of the performance levels they expected and agreed a price, based on the quality of debt they said they would provide. They then subsequently reduced the quality of the debt, but still demanded the same performance levels, and the same price, with no apparent understanding of the commensurate increase in the costs of recovery. A more recent tender appears to tell the same story: the performance required at the costs agreed was simply unachievable: the dozen or so agencies selected for the task

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felt entirely misled, while the perception in government was that outsourcing collections did not work. Now of course there are two sides to every story. Whether those departments chose the right agencies to work with or not is a moot point, but it seems clear that if public sector tenders of the future are more sympathetic to how agencies work, then they will be more successful. Better commission rates and a true ‘partnership’ almost always leads to better performance. THE ELEPHANT But there is one big elephant in the room. At its most simplistic, you have to spend money to recover it. There is always a cost attached to debt collection, but that cost is more than offset by the amount of money collected – public money, it should be stressed, that would otherwise simply be written off. This works well if the department ‘paying’ for the service is the one that receives the cash collected. But in government, it doesn’t work that way. While the costs sit with the individual departments, all of the money collected goes to the Treasury. That means that there is an enormous disincentive for any department to budget for collections, for they pay all of the cost for none of the benefit. In a discussion with one government department recently, we demonstrated how we could collect more than a quarter of their arrears – which amounted to many millions of pounds – but the conversation went no further because they couldn’t afford to spend money collecting cash they would never receive. And with public sector spending cuts as they are, and the need to demonstrate a clear return on investment, departments are more likely in the future to write a debt off rather than spend money to collect it. The system is fatally flawed, and unless and until the government is more joined up in its efforts, it is difficult to see a happy outcome. The government needs to bring all collections relating to the public purse under one roof; it needs to better understand how agencies work and be more flexible in its approach to pricing; and it needs to recognise that lowest cost will rarely mean highest performance. Lesley Hume, the executive director of the Fraud, Error and Debt Efficiency and Reform Group at the Cabinet Office at the time of the campaign launch talked of the need for ‘greater energy and collaboration’ in tackling debt. Agencies are willing, but if they lose money and lose heart, there is always the risk that they will soon lose interest. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.lewisgroup.co.uk

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PRINTING

KEEPING COSTS UNDER CONTROL

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Rob Brown, managed print services manager, OKI Systems UK, discusses how taking a best practice approach to managed print service can help local government keep control of costs Tensions are rising across many local authorities as central government is increasing the pressure to start delivering the huge cuts agreed as part of the coalition government’s austerity programme. In some cases, local authorities are required to cut a quarter of their budgets before the next general election in 2015. With this in mind, it is vital that local authorities are working as cost effectively as possible. In fact, one area local authorities should consider taking a closer look at is print, by successfully managing print it becomes possible to dramatically reduce costs. A report by leading consultancy, the centre for economics and business research (cebr) suggests that the potential annual cost saving from adopting smarter printing practices is £213 million. For many local authorities the challenge is where to start as often they do not have a clear view of print spend or how to streamline the process to make it more cost effective. However, that’s where OKI can help. Working with a global businessto-business brand, dedicated to creating cost effective, professional in-house printing

right job and to design a long‑term print solution which is tailored to a customer’s needs. An experienced print vendor can also point out any previously unseen overheads such as the cost of man-hours spent supporting disparate systems so that savings can be made across the organisation. Having recently deployed OKI’s managed print services approach the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) rationalised its printer fleet down from 1,384 to just 548 devices without compromising workflow. Consequently, Defra made a significant saving in hardware, consumables, running costs and space, while CO2 was reduced by 47 per cent. WORK SMART AND ACT SMART The managed print services audit also highlights ways in which printing practices can be improved, particularly when it comes to operating in a greener manner. For instance, many local authorities are wasting a considerable amount of budget powering printing equipment when it is not in use,

Many local authorities are wasting money powering printing equipment when it is not in use, which is not an effective use of budget solutions, a range of print strategies and products can be implemented to meet each specific department’s needs. Today, this can all be achieved through a managed print services programme – a service that unifies and manages all print processes. MANAGED PRINT SERVICES Any best practice managed print services programme will first involve the print vendor conducting an audit on existing practices including, output volumes and types of printing and paper sizes used. By gaining a transparent view across the print landscape a government department can see where budget is being spent. The results also create the perfect platform for an expert print vendor such as OKI to enhance printer usage and create a more efficient print strategy. For example, it becomes possible to ensure the right printers are being used for the

which is not an effective use of budget. To reduce this pressure OKI ensures all its printers have ‘Deep Sleep’ mode – a setting that reduces power consumption to the barest minimum (often less than one watt). In addition, some of the latest OKI printers also offer ‘Auto-Power Off’ technology, which automatically turns off the printer after extended periods of non-usage. However, managed print services is not just the implementation of printers – it’s about adopting smarter print practices. It ensures that the best print practices are used such as setting the device to default double-sided and mono printing, which reduces paper and toner costs – going green really can help to reduce spend. By deploying managed print services, government departments ensure they are only working with one contract for all of their printing needs including purchasing printers, buying supplies or requesting

maintenance and support. As a result, it is far easier to monitor on-going printing costs and reduce capital investment, which will ultimately help control the budget. Any technical support a local authority may need to ensure that their printers are up and running at all times can also be quickly delivered by OKI. Making sure that print operations and maintenance run smoothly, frees up the time of internal staff as they no longer have to waste time trying to fix faulty printers, which means they can focus on core tasks and work more productively. TIME FOR ACTION Given the increasing pressure government departments are facing to reduce spend; the time has come to take action. In the past, the idea of reducing print costs may have been dismissed as there was a lack of visibility across the area. However, with the deployment of managed print services, it has become possible to not only gain a transparent view of print, but monitor and regulate it in order to cut costs and meet carbon reduction targets. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.oki.co.uk

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EV Charging With its proven Evolt range, APT Technologies is at the forefront of electrical vehicle (EV) charging, with a constantly evolving range of products for domestic and commercial applications. From single point on-street or at-home charging, to multiple charging technologies for whole fleets, APT Technologies is constantly innovating, with solutions that include a new Ultra-fast charger that brings concept of filling stations for electrical vehicles even closer to reality. And with the ability to integrate Evolt with the parking solutions of sister business APT Skidata, and pay for both services via a single ticket, the future is already here. Visit aptcontrols.co.uk/apt-technologies

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EV CHARGING

PUTTING INTELLIGENCE BEHIND VEHICLE CHARGING

The argument for the use of fully electric – or hybrid electric – vehicles has largely already been won. Electric Vehicle (EV) popularity is continuing to gain momentum across Europe’s major cities, spearheaded by environmentally conscious companies, urban dwellers and the so-called ‘early adopters’. And it is being helped by governments’ respective commitments to cut car emissions and make their cities cleaner and more environmentally ‘sound’. If there are dissenting voices around the wider take-up of electrical vehicles, then the arguments tend to fall into two distinct camps: on the one hand, there are those that say that the vehicles are unattractive and do not have sufficient ‘range’ to be of practical use, especially in a business context; on the other, there are those that say that the vehicles simply consume too much energy, and the cost of that energy is difficult to monitor, manage and control. GOING THE DISTANCE To the first point, both the ‘range’ and the viability of vehicles today have increased significantly. Whilst early models may only have been capable of 50 kilometres before recharging, latest vehicles have more than treble the range. This means they are now more than capable of dealing with the vast majority of driving patterns, making them especially viable for commercial fleet needs and for passenger transportation. Indeed the proof is there to see. The list of companies running EV vehicles as part of their fleet is growing, and the number of vehicle manufacturers that are producing viable cars is also increasing: the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, the Nissan LEAF, the Peugeot iOn and the Citroen C-Zero have all started to push the boundaries far beyond the niche, and the prices of EVs are coming down as a result. Additionally, there are clear commitments from local authorities including Greater London Authority with London Mayor Boris Johnson’s announcement of plans to put 100,000 EVs in the capital, including replacing at least 1,000 of the GLA’s fleet of vehicles with electric equivalents, by 2015. MONITORING ENERGY So the second challenge is perhaps the greater one: how to monitor, manage and control the energy being used, and in doing so, monitor, manage and control the costs.

Of course not all charging points are the same, and that in itself still leads to confusion. Slow charging points for use on single vehicles at home or in the workplace are perfectly acceptable if the vehicle can be charged overnight; faster charging points are needed when the demand is to ‘top up’ for routine trips, and when the vehicle can be left for an hour or more. Then there are ‘rapid’ charging points that deliver a charge within a handful of minutes, where the driver may wish to recharge his vehicle mid-journey in a way not dissimilar to current ‘refuelling’. Technology is constantly emerging that will increase the speed (and therefore the convenience) of charge. But the biggest development within the current breed of charging posts is actually around the intelligent energy management SCADA software that supports them. Because it is this software that enables the simultaneous charging of multiple vehicles to become a reality. Indeed it is already proven. TRANSPORT SCOTLAND Transport Scotland recently bid to join the Government’s Plugged-In Places scheme, an initiative which funds commercial and public sector investment in EVs and their requisite infrastructure. As a result, Dundee City Council was given the opportunity to receive contributory funding towards the cost of EVs and charging points – both for council fleet use and, eventually, wider use by the city’s inhabitants and visitors. Fraser Crichton, Transport Officer at Dundee City Council, says that EV travel seemed ideal for the council’s needs: “Most council vehicles do not exceed around 60 or 70 miles in a day and while they can go further, this is more than sufficient for our

Written by Justin Meyer of APT Technologies

Organisations investing in electric vehicles will need to consider whether the charging technology installed today goes the distance and does not restrict their respective plans years down the line

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needs. The vehicles are used during the daytime and re-charged overnight, thereby significantly reducing our carbon footprint.” Naturally, the council’s plans required a reliable and easy-to-operate electrical charging infrastructure in place across Dundee to support its new EV fleet. APT Technologies was chosen because it could provide both the standard 7KW charging units and the rapid charger unit. Its products are also able to support the range of different payment methods, should they be required. The council has so far installed 12 charging posts in Dundee, including two single outlet wall mounted units at a hospital; two dual outlet wall mounted units at the University; and seven dual outlet charging posts plus a dual outlet rapid charger at four councilowned parking sites across the city: “We felt that other city locations should benefit from the opportunity to introduce EVs and charging infrastructure, so we shared the funding with local public bodies through the Dundee Partnership,” says Fraser. The council also hopes to install a further 24 charging units between now and April, of which at least one will be another rapid charger and a minimum of 14 will be open to members of the public. Potential sites at the moment include Dundee’s new V&A Museum and the new Olympic swimming pool, both of which will have new parking facilities. What is important to Dundee is that any technology installed today does not restrict their respective plans for tomorrow. The same will be true of any local authority looking at the possibilities of EVs for the first time. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.aptcontrols.co.uk/apt-technologies

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For one industry with many requirements, calfordseaden is one practice with many solutions WORKING IN THE FOLLOWING SECTORS

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PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS PROFESSIONAL SERVICES REGENERATION RETAIL The award winning Graylingwell Park, Chichester A joint project by Linden Homes, Affinity Sutton and the Homes & Communities Agency, currently one of the UK’s largest carbon-neutral development. calfordseaden are appointed as employer’s agent & technical inspector on behalf of Downland Housing Association, part of Affinity Sutton. Image courtesy of Linden Homes

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ACT NOW TO MEET FUTURE DEMANDS

As the population gets older and funding gets thinner, the demands placed on housing for older people are unprecedented. Local authorities need to act now to meet future needs

Local authorities and registered providers need to look at their stock, consider rationalising their property portfolios, unlock development potential, and look at their maintenance and facilities operations. These are all big challenges that need to be addressed now so future aspirations are met. Providers must seek new models for delivering housing for older people, including self-funding schemes, mixed tenure & mixed use developments, streamlined facilities that require less maintenance, and developments with modern facilities that make use of amenities in the wider community. A COMPLEX REDEVELOPMENT For Cheam Village in Surrey, calfordseaden is acting as planning consultant, architect, structural engineer, mechanical & electrical engineer, Code for Sustainable Homes adviser and CDM coordinator on this redevelopment. The scheme involves a very

complex redevelopment of a sensitive site in a conservation area to provide a multi-million pound retirement village in Cheam, Surrey. calfordseaden was initially appointed by London Borough of Sutton, the current owner of the site, to review initial design options for the existing sheltered housing development and work up development costs and financial models, based on with and without grant funding. Through this review calfordseaden was able to advise on whether the site could be redeveloped within the current planning constraints and to be tendered to a registered provider. The successful tender was Viridian Homes For Living. Now Viridian Homes For Living, in partnership with the London Borough of Sutton, has received planning permission to redevelop and regenerate the site. The scheme, designed by calfordseaden, provides for the delivery of affordable housing, including the

The redevelopment has increased the amount of accommodation for elderly, disabled and vulnerable adults, and improved the quality of living for current and future residents

phased demolition and redevelopment of the Elizabeth House sheltered housing scheme. MEETING COMMUNITY NEEDS Sutton Council is committed to providing the right accommodation for local people in later life and other special needs. The scheme design makes best use of the site to provide level access, affordable housing and services for older people and vulnerable adults. The proposed regeneration complements the local conservation area and conforms to the requirements of the Supplementary Planning Document, Cheam Village. Much of calfordseaden’s design work on this scheme has been produced in Revit, the building design software, built for Building Information Modelling. Through the use of Revit calfordseaden produced a rich, graphical portfolio of images that accompanied the planning application. The Elizabeth House Sheltered Housing site is located in the western part of the Borough in Cheam ward, located off Malden Road (A2043). The site is part of Cheam Village, an area with special historic and architectural character and heritage. Cheam Village is a designated district centre with much of the village selected as a Conservation Area in 1970. The redevelopment will provide housing for the remaining residents of the sheltered housing scheme and others wishing to return to the location. Additionally, it will include extra care housing for older people together with housing for vulnerable young adults. Various opportunities for the local and wider community of Cheam have also been presented. The redevelopment has increased the amount of accommodation for elderly, disabled and vulnerable adults, and improved the quality of living for current and future residents, replacing the substandard existing accommodation. It has also created a safe and secure development that, by design, reduces the risk of crime both internally and externally. What’s more, the redevelopment provides a range of social amenities to serve the needs of the residents and staff, while also promoting links with the local community of Cheam. Commenting prior to the scheme going in for planning, a Viridian Homes For Living spokesperson said: “Absolutely great work by all involved over the past 12 months; it’s been a collaborative and team effort and I believe we have a fabulous scheme that will make a huge difference to the quality of life for the residents of Elizabeth House.” Construction of the new homes started last year and is phased so residents of Elizabeth House can remain in situ until the new accommodation is available for their occupation. L

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FURTHER INFORMATION John Spence, Partner, calfordseaden jspence@calfordseaden.co.uk www.calfordseaden.co.uk

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The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in this free service 4Imprint 13 Abingwood 96 Able World Franchise 52 Act Clean 50 Affronte 89 Amec 28 APT Controls Group 112, 113 Aquobex 44, 49 Arsenal Football Club 94 Athena ANPR 16 Atkore International 66, 118 Autoglym 57 Baileys of Norfolk 46 Balfour Beaty Fleet Services 42, 43 Banner Business Services 16 Basec 93 Bath Tourism 82, 83 Bedrock Tiles 68, 69 BM Trada Certification 20 British Safety Council 27 BSI Group 58 C Brewer & Sons 18 C Sun China 68, 69 Calfordseaden 114, 115 Call Safe 24 Central Hall Westminster 97 Climate Change Solutions 26 Concrete Plumbing 44 Counter Terror Expo 106 Coventry and Warwickshire 80 Crowne Moran Hotel 96 Daily Poppins 6 Debutots 57 Destination Croydon 78, 83 DSDM Consortium 108 Emmanuel Centre 94

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 20.1

EWA 34 Expense Reduction Analysts 83 Flood Wall Systems 48 Fredolsen Travel 52 Glatthaar Fertigkeller 60 Groenveld Transport 38 Groundtel 82 Gyvlon 73 HAAGEN 22 Heat Shot 41 Holiday Inn London Cluster 97 JCAD Risk 12 Jo Jingles 57 Jurys Inn Group 86 K2 Systems GmBH 76 KDS UK 88 Keim Mineral Paints 75 Ladder Safety Supplies 24 LED Lightsense 77 Lexis Nexis 10 LGM 16 Lowell Financial 104 Manpower UK 30 Marmox 71, 74 Marstons 56 Masta 88 Mastervolt 72, 73 McKenzie Clark 32 Mecho Systems UK 62, 77 Megger 110 Newcastle Gateshead OBC OKI Systems 111 Oscar Pet Foods 57 P & MM Employee Benefits 98 Plumb Centre 75 Powerstar 74

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At NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau, we’ve always thought that NewcastleGateshead offers one of the best delegate experiences around. We have an exciting choice of places to meet, from one of the world’s finest music centres to an art deco cinema and one of the world’s largest tree houses. With fantastic travel links right to the heart of our compact city centre, it’s easy to get here too. So we’re not surprised that 82% of delegates that visit here say that they’d like to come back soon. Our experienced and enthusiastic team can help you with everything from finding and booking your perfect venue to accommodation, travel and entertainment for your delegates — and our service is FREE of charge. To discover more about NewcastleGateshead, arrange a familiarisation visit, get a copy of our award-winning Conference Guide or to discuss your next event, talk to the people who know the place best… Call: +44 (0)191 440 5757 Email: conventionbureau@ngi.org.uk Or visit us on stand K260 at International Confex, ExCeL London, 19-21 March 2013

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