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Fired up Encouraging developments for the steel industry Strength to strength 25 years of Airmaster
INTERNATIONAL EDITION Sheffield City Region’s manufacturing success stories
THE MONTHLY INDEPENDENT VOICE OF BUSINESS IN THE SHEFFIELD CITY REGION
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CONTENTS
First For Business
JUNE 2017
www.ffb-online.co.uk
CONTENTS 6 JUNE 2017 AGENDA 6 Andy Waple reports on encouraging developments for the steel industry locally, despite a tough outlook
MANUFACTURING 13 With exciting new developments at Sheffield’s AMRC, manufacturing in the region is in good health – despite an uncertain outlook
DREAM TEAM 16 How to cope when an trusted employee starts dampening the company mood
TAKE IT EASY 19
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The pressure of running a business is extremely challenging. Here First For Business looks at some of the services which can help your firm run more smoothly and take some of the headache away from being your own boss
AWARD WINNERS 26 Who were the all-important winners at this year’s Westside Restaurant Awards?
CORPORATE DINING 31
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There’s never been a better time to wine and dine corporate guests in Sheffield’s plethora of restaurants
EDUCATING SHEFFIELD 38 Google’s high street tech experts are offering free digital skills training for the next six months. sign up now...
Editor Chris Wilson chris.wilson@rmcmedia.co.uk Consultant Editor Andy Waple Chief Feature Writer Clare Parkin
MOTORING 41 Practicality, performance and a bit of extra zing – that’s the recipe for this month’s round-up from Jordan Cutforth
ELECTION CHOICES 44 With the General Election taking place this month, First For Business spoke to some of our local business leaders to ask them what they would like to see in a manifesto to boost the region’s economy…
WORK & PLAY 46 A monthly round-up of news, achievements, celebrations and new faces
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Chief Sub Editor Richard Abbey Sub Editor Richard Smith Operations Director Jillion Wood Publishing Manager Mandy Ogle mandy.ogle@rmcmedia.co.uk Studio Manager Chris Brierley Design Dan Wray, Steve Levers RMC Media 6 Broadfield Court Broadfield Business Park Sheffield, S8 OXF Tel: 0114 250 6300 Twitter: @ffbmagRMC www.firstforbusinessmagazine.co.uk
PREVIEW
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PREVIEW hat does the Sheffield City Region have to offer at an international level? While the General Election seemed to do no more than cloud the issue of how our political leaders will tackle the forthcoming Brexit talks, our local businesses are willing and eager to look outwards, strengthen bonds and bring in business.
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From manufacturing skills to digital industries, in this month’s First For Business chief feature writer Clare Parkin and consultant editor Andy Waple takes a look at what we have to offer. While the UK steel industry is under increasing pressure from global competition, the news that international industrials and metals group Liberty House has taken control of Tata Steels with the promise of increased investment and more jobs is an encouraging development. There are also promising noises coming out of Sheffield Forgemasters, with 2016 financial results signalling that the business is heading in the right direction. With Forgemasters employing 660 staff across its 64-acre Brightside Lane site that is good news. There was an international dimension to
the recent of arrival of Google’s digital skills training centre in Sheffield. The city became the first in the UK to host a Digital Garage on a high street when it opened its doors in Barker’s Pool. The centre is delivering free digital skills training seven days a week for both individuals and businesses and the city has been chosen due to the region’s ambition to have a thriving digital economy and the support from the City Council. Since the latest General Election failed to clear the air, there is already debate about whether Theresa May can survive a full term and many pundits believe there will be another vote on the fate of the nation before the year is out. Whether we have the stomach for another round of sound bites, photo opportunities and stilted debate is another matter, but many of the region’s business big hitters already know what they would like to see in any future government’s manifesto to help boost the region’s economy. From scrapping business rates to an end to charges on empty commercial buildings to extra support for SMEs, we found no shortage of thought-provoking
CHRIS WILSON, EDITOR proposals that might well win your vote. Whoever is running the country, the pressure of running a business is extremely challenging, but help is at hand. We look at some of the services which can help your firm run more smoothly and take some of the headache away from being your own boss. Meanwhile our Dream Team tackles a problem that HR chiefs will know required delicacy and careful action... how to cope when a trusted employee starts dampening the company mood. Along with our regular business news and the latest motoring round-up, that’s just a taste of what’s in First For Business this month. Let us know what you think by tweeting us @ffbmagRMC.
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FORGING AHEAD ANDY WAPLE REPORTS ON ENCOURAGING DEVELOPMENTS FOR THE STEEL INDUSTRY LOCALLY, DESPITE A TOUGH OUTLOOK FOR THE INDUSTRY. 6 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
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ith the UK steel industry under increasing pressure from global competition it is good news indeed that international industrials and metals group Liberty House has taken control of Tata Steels assets with the promise to bring multi-million pound investments at five sites across south Yorkshire and the Midlands, bringing 300 new jobs and securing an additional 1,700.
rose 1.4pc year-on-year in July 2016, largely thanks to the efforts of China Russia and India, Britain’s production had plunged almost 30 per cent which was much worse than Europe as a whole that was down 4.6 per cent.
The news follows gloomy forecast for the industry as a whole, backed by last Autumn’s analysis of the steel business globally. Production figures showed that while worldwide production of steel
The figures and general scenario led to the steel trade body UK Steel stepping up its case for government intervention in the shape of tax breaks, energy prices and business rate rules and with Brexit
British steelmakers remain under intense pressure competing against Asian rivals who can make lower-cost steel that has flooded the western markets.
AGENDA
position in the aerospace markets, utilising recent capital investments at Stocksbridge and investing in additional capacity and new technology. The acquisition marks a major step forward for Liberty’s GREENSTEEL strategy as it gives the Group the largest arc furnace capacity in the UK, a key component in its plan to increase lowcarbon steel production based on recycling metal in furnaces powered by renewable energy. As part of the GREENSTEEL strategy, Liberty’s sister company SIMEC is actively considering investment in bio-diesel power generation at Speciality Steel sites.
firmly at the centre of the Government’s agenda, everybody will be waiting with bated breath. Against this background the Liberty House announcement has been widely welcomed locally. Liberty’s investment announcement came as the company formally completed the £100m deal to acquire the Speciality Steels division of Tata Steel UK; protecting the jobs of 1,700 existing staff at three major sites at Rotherham, Stocksbridge and Brinsworth, smaller sites in Bolton, Lancashire and Wednesbury in the West Midlands and two distribution centres in China. It also announced expansion plans expected to generate an additional 300 production jobs in the business. The acquisition will make Liberty one of the largest steel and engineering employers in the UK with over 4,500 workers.
‘The purchase will make Liberty one of the largest steel and engineering employers in the UK, with more than 4,000 workers at plants located across Britain’s industrial heartlands. "This will mean South Yorkshire remains at the centre of high value steel making and that high value jobs remain in the area.’
The Speciality Steels businesses will also complement Liberty’s engineering operations in the West Midlands which already use steel from these plants to make their precision products. Liberty will explore further downstream investment to make more extensive use of the products from Speciality Steels to boost manufacturing in the UK. Penistone and Stocksbridge MP Angela Smith welcomed the annoucement saying: "The purchase will make Liberty one of the largest steel and engineering employers in the UK, with more than 4,000 workers at plants located across Britain’s industrial heartlands. "This will mean South Yorkshire remains at the centre of high value steel making and that high value jobs remain in the area.” Sheffield Chamber of Commerce executive director Richard Wright urged Liberty House to take a long-term approach saying: “The speciality steel >>>
Speciality Steels produces a range of highvalue steels used in the manufacture of vehicles, aircraft, industrial machinery and equipment for the oil and gas industry. Liberty said it would invest up to £20m in new plant and equipment in the first year alone to boost competitiveness and secure international market leadership for the business, which is being relaunched as Liberty Speciality Steels. The business will increase output substantially at the electric arc furnaces, casting shop and bar mill in Rotherham, with bigger plans across the wider Speciality business in the years ahead. Production from the arc furnaces is expected to rise to over a million tonnes per annum and there are plans for the bar mill to roll over 400,000 tonnes a year. In addition the business will grow its
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division is slightly above a foundation industry but so many supply chains originate from it meaning it has great strategic importance to the whole of the UK. “The industrial strategy released by the Government has at last started to recognise this and that bodes a good future for the industry.” Sanjeev Gupta, executive chairman of Liberty House, said: “The Speciality Steels business is a global leader in its field, with a highly-skilled and well-motivated workforce and we are eager to invest so it can grow and achieve its full potential. We are taking on strategically important capacity that will drive expansion in the years ahead. It will help us achieve our GREENSTEEL vision and facilitate investment in engineering products, thereby reducing the supplychain gaps in the UK, especially in automotive and aerospace sectors. “By investing to acquire Speciality Steels we are casting a big vote of
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confidence in the future of British industry. With the right business model and an innovative approach, the UK steel and engineering sectors can recover and thrive. The Government is now pursuing a new post-Brexit industrial strategy and steel must be at the heart of that strategy,” he added. Meanwhile Sheffield Forgemasters is continuing to put a sticky period behind it as it builds on year-end figures for 2016 that showed the company approaching break-even with a £0.9 million pre-tax loss compared to a 2015 pre-tax loss of
£7.6 million thanks in part to site-wide efficiency measures through continued investment. Chairman Tony Pedder said: “The publication of our year end figures for 2016 shows a substantial amount of improvement across the business. “Despite a pre-tax loss, we accrued exceptional restructuring costs of £1.7 million and with that non-recurring expense taken into account – we posted a modest post-tax operating profit, which is a major step in our recovery programme from 2015. “There are a range of issues which we are addressing in our five-year turnaround plan and the executive team are pursuing these with considerable diligence. In particular we have focused ongoing efforts on cost reduction, efficiency and margin enhancement.” Turnover remains relatively unchanged over the previous year at £73 million, but as well as restructuring the business internally the company continues to make
AGENDA
significant capital investments to support it’s strategy of expanding technical, addedvalue products and services. A £6.5m investment in machining centres to reduce costly production bottlenecks has been made to support this development, with the Sheffield Local Enterprise Development Fund contributing ten per cent to the capital cost. Sheffield Forgemasters continues to further its investment into health and safety, with recent benchmarking placing the company at the high end of best practice and environmental performance also demonstrates performance gains with 98 per cent of processed waste from the plant now being recycled. Graham Honeyman, chief executive at Sheffield Forgemasters, said: “The financial results for 2016 demonstrate that our efforts to turn the business around have delivered and we are clearly heading in the right direction. “We are pleased to report that the business continues to have a firm financial footing having successfully secured a new two-year and three-month £45m credit facility from our long-standing financier, Wells Fargo Capital Finance (UK) Limited. “Due to increased working capital commitments and continued capital expenditure, our net debt increased during the year by £7.9m, but our fiveyear plan, which was finalised during 2016, shows profitability continuing to grow and net debt reducing after 2017. “The cost cutting measures which have taken place over the last eighteen months together with increased gross margin have helped to secure an operating profit sooner than anticipated. “Depreciation of the sterling currency, which resulted from the Brexit decision in June 2016, has also had a positive impact on the company’s results due to the proportion of sales made outside of the UK. “Our business development focus on seeking orders for those products where our robust and comprehensive quality control procedures and strength of our technical and research and development functions, has resulted in a sales portfolio which consists of more technical addedvalue product and services, with less dependency on commoditydriven products. “And continuous improvement initiatives
‘The financial results for 2016 demonstrate that our efforts to turn the business around have delivered and we are clearly heading in the right direction.’
involving lean manufacturing techniques together with fundamental changes to the organisational structure are bringing significant operational efficiencies. The programme of organisational change is set to continue and we expect further improvements to be made over the coming years. “The LEP contribution towards our new machining capacity is significant and demonstrates the commitment the local authority has to the future of the company.” Forgemasters employs 660 staff across its 64-acre Brightside Lane site and serves industries including defence, nuclear power, materials processing, offshore oil and gas and power generation.
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JUNE 2017
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TWO DECADES IN BUSINESS RESPECTED CHESTERFIELD FIRM DIRECT ENGINEERING & SITE SERVICES LTD IS CELEBRATING ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY. ince its launch in 1997, the familyrun business has evolved into one of the most versatile engineering companies in the region. With a team of highly skilled and experienced engineers, Direct Engineering offers a full in house service from design to delivery.
stop-shop to our clients our ethos has remained the same; we are 100 per cent committed to our customers’ total satisfaction. Not only are products manufactured to exact requirements but we always aim to surpass quality expectations and delivery requirements.”
When Managing Director Ray Woolley launched the business 20 years ago it was a small fabrication shop. Now, as the company has grown and developed, it offers: laser cutting, CNC turning and milling, steel fabrication, sheet metal and stainless steel fabrications, CNC pressing, electronics assembly and inspection all under one roof, enabling it to ensure quality assurance and a faster turnaround for its customers.
The company, based on Foxwood Industrial Park, has been able to remain at the forefront of its industry for the last two decades by continuing to reinvest in both the workforce and the latest machinery and technology to remain competitive and ensure that its customers receive the very best in service and quality.
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“We began in a 500 square foot unit but today sit in premises 50 times bigger with 34 staff members,” said Ray. “But while we may have expanded dramatically and are able to offer a one10 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
The firm also has three teams of highly skilled site engineers who carry out pipe installations throughout the UK and Europe, mainly for the plastics, pharmaceutical and food industries. With installations in aluminium and stainless steel, examples of the firm’s substantial
pipework experience include: plastic extrusion lines, blown and vacuum material conveying, chilled water and compressed air. Direct Engineering is marking two decades in business with its first appearance at the Interplas UK show at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham in September – the UK’s leading plastic industry event – to showcase its pipe installation expertise. Interplas 2017 is the only event in the UK to cover all the plastics manufacturing processes, applications and services, making it a major event for the entire plastics supply chain and will feature more than 400 exhibitors. “Appearing at an event like this and showcasing our expertise demonstrates how far Direct Engineering has come since we launched the company,” said Ray.
FEATURE
Managing Director Ray Woolley
Site Manager John Clark
“We’re extremely proud that our customer base has grown over the years and a lot of this is down to the hard work of our dedicated staff members throughout the five divisions of our business.
The company’s site engineers hold all the relevant qualifications for safety and equipment ensuring installations are carried out within customers’ health and safety guidelines.
“Pipe installation is one area that we are particularly proud of and has seen us involved in the design and installation of the largest piping systems in blue chip companies, both in the UK and mainland Europe.� Site Manager, John Clark, who has been with the company for 18 of the last 20 years and will be representing the company at the event, said: “This will be a great opportunity for us to showcase our skills and expertise. “As a company we work very closely with our customers, assisting in the design process and advising on the best possible routes to run the pipework. Our customers come back to us again and again because they are confident we can deliver.�
All Direct Engineering’s engineers have CCNSG Safety Passports, IPAF Power Access Licenses, CITB Site Safety Plus, CITB Health & Safety Pipework and are Safer Contractor Approved. Andy Boulding, Site Team Leader, said: “We pride ourselves on consistently producing and delivering a high quality service. We also offer an annual inspection service agreement on installed pipework to measure levels of wear and to prevent potential downtime in the manufacturing process. “I’m looking forward to attending Interplas 2017 where we will hopefully be able to meet with new prospective clients when they see the competitive service we can provide.� Accredited to ISO 9001 for the past eight years, Direct Engineering is continually striving to achieve improvement in all aspects of the business and is now working towards ISO 14001 and 18001. In 2015 the company achieved the BSEN 1090 Execution Class 2 CE marking for structural steelwork in which the company’s engineers carried out further welding disciplines.
For further information on how Direct Engineering can help your business, call them on +44 (0) 1246 260 058 or email info@directeng.co.uk.
Site Team Leader Andy Boulding
STRONG EXPERTISE Direct Engineering works closely with customers on prototypes and development projects. The work force, which boasts 40 years of combined experience, is only too happy to help customers find solutions within design and manufacture. The strong expertise within Direct Engineering has been proven in most industries which include but are not limited to: > $5,1( > 872027,9( > 216758&7,21 > /$67,&6 > #$7(5 87+25,7,(6 > 2:(5 *(1(5$7,21 > $,/ $7(5,1* $1,7$5<:$5( > ,/ $6
NEW WEBSITE LAUNCHED Direct Engineering is pleased to announce the launch of its new website this month. The new brighter, bolder website is filled with details of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work and details the areas of expertise. There is also a blog to keep in touch with the latest news. Lyn Woolley, director, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;As the business is moving forwards and developing we thought it was important that we had a new website that complemented that. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We hope customers both old and new find the site much easier to navigate.â&#x20AC;? Have a browse at the new website: www.directengineering.co.uk
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First For Business
LOGISTICS
JUNE 2017
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INTERNATIONAL FREIGHT SOLUTIONS EXPLAIN HOW THEY CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS. rying to explain what a freight forwarder is can be quite a challenge. We get asked the question often and generally describe it as a transport company but without any vehicles.
We offer economy or express courier services for your documents, parcels, pallets and part or full trailer/container loads, either by road, ocean or air.
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International Freight Solutions has a dedicated team of knowledgeable staff who will help you every step of the way in processing your shipment to ensure a seamless delivery. Guidance is provided in all aspects of worldwide shipping documentation with advice on customs regulations.
We work with an extensive network of global partners searching for the best solutions for your shipping needs. In many ways, similar to that of a travel agent, the difference being we look for the best deals for transporting goods around the world instead of passengers.
We are here to take care of your international shipping leaving you free to take care of your own business needs.
Over the last 20 years, we have worked closely and built up trusted relationships with all the major international carriers and shipping companies, allowing us access to high level support and heavily discounted rates.
We offer: • International courier service Huge savings using reliable carriers such as DHL, UPS, Fedex • European Road Freight Economy or express pallets / part loads / full trailer loads • Air freight For larger shipments direct to door or airport only • Ocean freight Weekly sailings to and from all the world’s major ports.
CONTACT: International Freight Solutions Mangham Road, Barbot Hall Industrial Estate, Rotherham, S62 6EF Tel: 01709 610000 Email: info@intfreight.co.uk www.intfreight.co.uk
Depending on the size of freight, the destination and how quickly (or slowly) you want to get it there, we will select the most suitable partner to work with.
Taking T Ta aking akiing g car ccare re off yyour re interna nterna t ati at atio tio i io l deliveries ess international C ll: 017 Call: 0 01709 17 709 09 9 61 610 6 000
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INTERNATIONAL MANUFACTURING
JUNE 2017
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WITH EXCITING NEW DEVELOPMENTS AT SHEFFIELD’S AMRC, MANUFACTURING IN THE REGION IS IN GOOD HEALTH – DESPITE AN UNCERTAIN OUTLOOK.
CAUSE FOR OPTIMISM
The Advanced Manufacturing Park is at the forefront of manufacturing technology
ith a Brexit deal still to be reached and worldwide political turmoil, uncertainty for business is to be expected.
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manufacturing technology and is a beacon for the region – hopefully attracting young people to careers in manufacturing.”
However in Sheffield the manufacturing industry is continuing to show its strength and appears to have been relatively unscathed by what is going on in politics.
The official opening of Factory 2050 came hot on the heels of McLaren announcing plans for a new purpose-built Composites Technology Centre in the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District to develop and manufacturing advanced carbon fibre chassis for their supercars.
Just recently The Duke of York officially opened the University of Sheffield’s Factory 2050 at the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC). The factory is the UK's first fully reconfigurable collaborative research facility, dedicated to digital assembly and flexible component manufacturing. Teams at Factory 2050 are reported to be working with manufacturing partners from a wide range of sectors on projects spanning robotics and automation, digitally-assisted assembly and manufacturing informatics. This work, it is said, will help to develop ways of meeting demand for high variation and mass customisation, making sense of big data, human-machine collaboration and looking at techniques for digitally-assisted assembly. Speaking at the opening, Executive Dean of the AMRC, Professor Keith Ridgway, said: "Factory 2050 is an important part in the future development of the AMRC, which is hugely significant for both the Sheffield City Region and the UK. "It will keep us at the forefront of
The President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sheffield, Professor Sir Keith Burnett, said the investment, the innovation, jobs, training and opportunities it offers was “hugely significant for our region, the North of England and the UK’s global, industrial ambitions.” It was also announced in February of this year that the AMRC’s co-founder Boeing is to open a brand new manufacturing facility alongside the AMRC in Sheffield. The facility, to be named Boeing Sheffield, will enable Boeing to bring the manufacture of key high-tech actuation components and systems used in Boeing’s Next-Generation 737, 737 MAX and 777 aircraft in-house, enhancing production efficiency and reducing costs. Meanwhile results from the Sheffield City Region Quarterly Economic Survey for Q1 2017 showed that Sheffield City Region firms continued to show growth
in both domestic and export markets since the new year. More than 300 business leaders in the service and manufacturing sectors completed the survey and forecast a strong outlook for sales in the next quarter with manufacturing firms foreseeing a substantial increase in both domestic and export markets – particularly across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The Master Cutler has also recently returned from a successful trade mission to Dubai which saw several companies taking orders while they were there. Organised by the International Trade Forum (ITF), the party of 12 included: ITF chairman William Beckett, the Immediate Past Master Craig McKay, ITF Director Peter Edwards and Charles Turner, managing director of Durham Duplex. Master Cutler, Richard Edwards, said: “With the uncertainty of our European export markets looming large, we felt it was important for the Sheffield City Region to explore new avenues for our manufacturing industry,” said the Master. “We had every expectation that our visit would give Sheffield City Region companies excellent opportunities to open-up trade links and expand their markets and so it proved to be. “Several companies took orders there and then and all made excellent contacts.” First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 13
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AIRMASTER CELEBRATES SILVER SUCCESS FROM HUMBLE ORIGINS, AIRMASTER HAS GROWN INTO ONE OF THE FOREMOST NAMES IN THE AIR-CONDITIONING INDUSTRY.
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n air-conditioning company which started out as a one-man-band and has grown into one of the wellrespected names in its field is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Airmaster, which provides heating, ventilation and air conditioning services to large corporate organisations through to small and medium-sized businesses, was launched in 1992 by Richard Pogson, an experienced air-conditioning engineer working from home. The reliable service he offered based upon honesty, quality and value for money have proved to be the key ingredients as the company has grown into a wellestablished and reputable organisation offering a first class service at a competitive rate. Tony England joined in 2000 to share the business and it continued to go from strength to strength. Today the firm employs a 40-strong team of qualified designers, project engineers and onsite operatives. A typical Airmaster contract ranges from £300k to over £2m and the company has carried out work for big national names like Morgan Sindall Group and Kier, as well as a number of similar organisations. The company has recently worked on some prestigious contracts in central London, including one right beside Tower Bridge and one close to Fleet Street, as well
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as delivering plenty of projects closer to home.The maintenance team has a core of work within 100-mile radius, but also work on some equally impressive projects nationwide, starting from as small as £150 per year; and they are all treated as equally important. The Airmaster ethos is to ‘add value at every opportunity,’ from corporate organisations to the SMEs like retailers, doctors and dentists which the firm looks after the same principle applies. The company is able to offer the whole package from designing and installing a system from scratch as well as offering a full maintenance service. Over a year ago, Richard and Tony stepped away from the day-to-day running of the company to pursue other interests and Resources Director Lisa Pogson became joint Managing Director with former Operations Director Mark Staniland. The pair have continued to oversee the
growth of Airmaster. When they were appointed the turnover target was £10m, which the team smashed. This year Airmaster are marking their silver anniversary by hitting an impressive turnover of £11m. “We have had great growth and we are very proud of our achievements,” said Lisa, who is also president of Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber of Commerce. “We’ve hit some key industry milestones over the years, like becoming D1Plus Customers of Daikin UK and Achieving Investors in People in 2005 and we’ve continued to maintain those high standards. “We also achieved the ISO 9001 - a quality management system standard which is vital in our industry. “And of course we’ve done some great work with great customers. We have just been told we have been recommended for ISO 14001 too, the next stop for us will be 45001 the new standard for health and safety.”
FEATURE
AIRMASTER’S EXPERTISE CAN HELP YOU CREATE A WORKPLACE THAT YOU CAN BE PROUD OF – AND THAT YOUR STAFF WILL ENJOY. One of the Airmaster’s core aims is to create the perfect workplace experience for businesses; an atmosphere that makes employees feel good about coming to work.
AutoCAD for 3D modelling and design is used as standard.The firm is also able to offer a seven-year warranty on most installations –bringing peace of mind for its customers.
“We aim to bring comfort to your environment in the most energy-efficient and cost-effective way,” added Lisa.
The company source and use only highquality heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technologies and the team is also able to advise on any funding which might be available to support projects.
“We know our industry inside out and any challenge you are likely to have we are sure to have the answer.
“We’ve come a long way since my brotherin-law started Airmaster on his kitchen table,” said Lisa. “We are really proud of the customer-base we have built. For us, the key to success has been hard work, a focus on customer service, honesty and value for money. “We reached £10m in 2016 accounts and will hit £11m this year, even after concentrating on our accreditation goals.
“We can also advise on sustainability issues and environmental compliance.” It is these characteristics which have enabled the company to build a loyal customer-base with repeat sales. Airmaster is approved installers of some of the best equipment on the market including Dakin,Toshiba and Mistubishi. Cutting-edge software like Hevacomp and
“Airmaster has a great team, we have fantastic staff who have helped us along the way - many of who are still with us - we also have fabulous customers and a great Yorkshire base to work from - when you get the right mix it is just great. “We are really proud to be celebrating 25 years with our longstanding customers and staff but we will never rest on our laurels, we are always looking at ways to grow and diversify to ensure another successful 25 years ahead.”
CORPORATE WELLBEING HELPS STRESS LEVELS AT AIRMASTER’ Staff at Airmaster have been helped to stay fighting fit thanks to a new kind of training programme. Firehouse Fitness was launched in August 2014 by co-founders Dennis Roebuck and Rob McGuigan, who were both serving firefighters for a combined 20 years. They have built a reputation and business based on their firefighter themed classes where members use equipment such as hose, barrels and even rescue dummies allied with standard equipment such as kettlebells and sleds to make sessions especially unique and engaging. Recently their services have been extended to corporate clients including employees at Airmaster, Gareth, Rachel and James, all of whom attribute benefits such as new-found energy levels and decreased stress levels to Firehouse Fitness. They also all helped with a charity event in aid of the Little Princess Trust, that they all hope will run again this year. Firehouse Fitness Following the success of the pilot scheme Firehouse Fitness produced a range of workplace health and wellbeing services both online in the form of bespoke training and nutrition plans and offer discounted corporate memberships. facebook.com/facebookfitness.co.uk/
To find out how Airmaster can help your company get in touch. Airmaster Air Conditioning Ltd, Wetherby House, Park Hill, Swallownest, Sheffield, S26 4UN Tel: 0114 288 9911. First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 15
First For Business
JUNE 2017
www.ffb-online.co.uk
Rob Moore
Kevin Kerley
NEGATIVE EFFECT HOW TO COPE WHEN A TRUSTED EMPLOYEE STARTS DAMPENING THE COMPANY MOOD. ROB MOORE RECOVERY EXPERT AND PARTNER AT TAYLOR & EMMETT If you are concerned about a formal process causing upset, the more appropriate route may be to consider informal action in the first instance.This can often be the better way of dealing with the problem rather than launching straight into an investigation and disciplinary action.You may discover the employee is struggling with their workload or that they are struggling with personal issues which, with the input of an informal process may help you to discover.You and the employee may be able to have a constructive conversation about the areas of concern and any additional training or advice may be sought and/or provided which may result in a resolution of the issue. If you mention to the employee that a formal process could be commenced if matters do not change this may be
16 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
DEAR DREAM TEAM One of my longest-serving senior employees has become increasingly negative at work, criticising colleagues and the company. This can rub off on the entire workforce, especially younger and more impressionable staff. I hoped offering a roving out-ofoffice role might make the problem disappear; the individual in question knows our business inside-out and is capable of good work. However they still come into the office once or twice a week and seem to instantly dampen the mood. I fear going down the official disciplinary road will cause even more upset. What are the alternatives?
enough to make the employee understand the impact that their behaviour is having. If this does not work you could issue an informal warning. Obviously, if this approach is unsuccessful and the problems continue, a more thorough investigation may be necessary. An employee having a ‘bad attitude’ is difficult to address as a disciplinary issue unless you have tangible evidence of them failing to follow reasonable management instructions or breaching their duty of good faith and fidelity to the company.You may therefore need to document examples of the employee’s behaviour if you fear that the informal approach is not working so that you can address matters more formally. One word of warning about his change in role is that this should be done with the employee’s clear agreement because, depending on the circumstances, a unilateral change to the role could be a breach of terms which could lead to the employee’s resignation and a claim for constructive dismissal.
DREAM TEAM
KEVIN KERLEY CHAIRMAN OF THE ACADEMY FOR CHIEF EXECUTIVES, SHEFFIELD CITY REGION It seems strange that an employee who has been with you for a long time is suddenly showing no or little motivation to perform. Have you had a one-to-one discussion with the employee concerned? and explained your dismay over their drop-in performance and asked if they have any worries that you can help with? Often this behaviour is down to a personal issue that is out of the remit of their day to day, however is distracting them from their usual level of performance. If you instigate this conversation you may find out that a personal issue is getting in the way of their focus, if they are not forthcoming with an external factor that may be effecting matters, you may wish to explain that their recent poor performance is effecting the overall performance of the business, that you cannot continue to overlook this matter and ask is there anything you can do to help? Do they have all the resources they need? Is there something you are
unaware of that if addressed would solve the matter? Do they need some time out? Employees who have been high performers for a reasonable timeframe usually do not stop performing without reason. Your role as leader is to establish why the drop in performance is occurring and address the matter. The individual concerned may need all kinds of help to enable them to return to their previously high level of achievement. When you discover what is required, then just apply it and observe the improvement. If there is no obvious reason for the drop in performance, then you may need to advise the employee that if targets are not met going forward, and they continue to display unacceptable behaviour with regard to negatively influencing colleagues that they may find themselves in a disciplinary situation. With long-standing employees, who may need to be dismissed for the good of the business going forward, you will need to take expert HR advice to ensure that you handle the matter in the appropriate manner and avoid falling foul of the law and possible having a claim brought against you. If you are unable to bring about change in the individual concerned then you may wish to seek advice
concerning a compromise agreement, this can be a much quicker way of terminating the employment of the individual concerned, than going through a lengthy performance improvement programme alongside disciplinary action. You may also wish to consider the effect this individual is having on the opinion of the workforce regarding your own integrity. If they see that you are avoiding or not dealing with this, then you lose credibility with them as a leader. In my experience putting off dealing with these situations will only escalate the issue and whilst it may be unpleasant, it is in the interest of the business and your colleagues to bring about positive change one way or another.
Any advice? Tweet us @ffbmagRMC
CHALLENGE OUR TEAM. The team will respond to one selected question in each edition of First For Business. Send your questions to ffb@rmcmedia.co.uk. Name withheld on request
â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;You may discover the employee is struggling with their workload, or that they are struggling with personal issues which an informal process, may help you to address.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;
First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 17
PRE-SCHO OO OL FOR AGE 3-4
FRE CHIL E PLAC D ES
UKBullion
Dealers in quality watches & diamonds
339-341 Ecclesall Rd, Sheffield S11 8PF 18 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
Tel: 0114 2664040
First For Business
SERVICES
JUNE 2017
www.ffb-online.co.uk
TAKE IT EASY
THE PRESSURE OF RUNNING A BUSINESS IS EXTREMELY CHALLENGING. HERE FIRST FOR BUSINESS LOOKS AT SOME OF THE SERVICES WHICH CAN HELP YOUR FIRM RUN MORE SMOOTHLY AND TAKE SOME OF THE HEADACHE AWAY FROM BEING YOUR OWN BOSS. CLEANING Let’s be honest, you probably spend more time at work than anywhere else and to have a clean office can be a massive boost for your health and wellbeing. It can also be better for productivity. Find a good reliable, professional cleaning firm which you can count on to be reliable and keep your office consistently clean.
MARKETING, ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS You might be the best in your business, offering the best products in your field but if no one knows about you your business it is destined for failure. The overall marketing umbrella covering advertising, public relations, promotions and sales is hugely important. By bringing in the professionals, even if it is just for one specific project, can help to ensure
your hard work gets the recognition it deserves.
INSURERS Insurance is about protecting against unexpected events. When it goes wrong you want to know that you have some support. An insurance broker can provide advice on various topics of risk and the different insurances that can help to safeguard businesses from every eventuality.
BUSINESS MENTOR With the many different elements involved in growing your business knowing where to start can be a minefield. Business mentors share their skills, expertise, experience and contacts to help propel you to the next level. There are plenty of free and paid-for mentors in the region with knowledge
and experience relevant to all business sectors. The Sheffield City Region Growth Hub can signpost you to suitable mentors for your business or search online by checking out the ‘mentorsme’ website.
BUSINESS RECOVERY If times do get tough business turnaround practices can support you to turn your business around before it is too late. They can help with a number of things from business recovery strategies to advice on debt problems.
ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Accountants do more than tax returns for your company. A good accountant can save you money in lots of ways and help your business grow. They can help your money work harder for you by planning, investing and saving your money. First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 19
CONTRACT CLEANING
First for Business
JUNE 2017
www.ffb-online.co.uk
SERVICE IS THE KEY CRYSTAL CLEAN’S SUCCESS IS DOWN TO ITS HARD-WORKING CONSCIENTIOUS STAFF, SAYS MANAGING DIRECTOR HAYLEY KOSEOGLU.
C
rystal Clean is a commercial cleaning and hygiene company which prides itself on its high standards. Launched in 2008 by Managing Director Hayley Koseoglu, it has developed an excellent reputation in its field, working for clients in office based businesses as well as industrial engineering and manufacturing companies and car dealers. Last year the company scooped the award for best contract cleaning company in the north of England. Hayley believes the company’s secret to success is its staff. “We take care of our staff as they are the ones who take care of our clients day to day,” she said. “Labour is our product therefore managing monitoring and developing our team is one of our top priorities. “Honest hardworking and conscientious are the three qualities we look for in our staff. “It is our belief that we can train anyone to clean but we cannot train good manners and work ethic. “We provide an excellent service which we have been told exceeds that of other companies. We are honest, reliable and provide a high quality service at all times. We can also offer a range of services to our clients now which can save both time and money as we manage it on their behalf.”
Crystal Clean provide an array of commercial cleaning services to a range of industries. As well as specialising in office and business centre, car dealership and industrial cleaning, the firm can also provide clients with computer telephone sanitisation, washroom hygiene solutions and tea towel laundering. And on top of daily contract cleaning services, the company also offer additional services including commercial carpet cleaning, glass and window cleaning, high reach window cleaning and washroom deep cleans. Understanding its customers’ needs is a main priority for Crystal Clean, which is reflected in the tailor-made corporate cleaning service it offers to suit specific customer requirements. Currently the company has a team of 72 covering the entire Sheffield City Region and holds the ISO9001:2015 accreditations. To find out more about the services offered by Crystal Clean and how they can help your business get in touch.
CONTACT: Crystal Clean Service Ltd * Unit 1 Neepsend Triangle, Burton Road, Sheffield, S3 8BW Tel: 0114 4010 550 info@crystalcleanservice.co.uk
WHAT CRYSTAL CLEAN’S CUSTOMERS HAVE SAID ABOUT THE COMPANY…. “We are really happy with the consistent service supplied by Crystal Clean over the past 5 years and would recommend the company wholeheartedly.” “I approached Crystal Clean Services Ltd when we were looking to change our cleaning service provider for our offices. What impressed me straight away about them was their professionalism and how keen they were to provide us with an excellent service. It was an easy decision to award them the contract as I believed that they would deliver high quality service at a competitive price.” “Hayley and her team have provided us with a great service and ongoing support. The standards that her company provides us with are to a very high standard, I find her staff very easy to get along with and have always been on time. Crystal Clean have worked with us to bring a high standard of cleaning to the office, I would recommend Hayley and her team to anyone wanting to hire a cleaning company.”
First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 21
First For Business
GROWTH
JUNE 2017
www.ffb-online.co.uk
SHEFFIELD-BASED ENVIRONMENTAL FIRM GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH.
Jim Scott of the Sheffield City Region Growth Hub is pictured (right) with Dr Kieran Williams of Environmental Monitoring Solutions
GROWING BUSINESS he Sheffield City Region (SCR) Growth Hub is looking forward to another successful year ahead after recently marking its one-year anniversary.
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The company, which employs a team of 23, has received business support and advice from the Sheffield City Region Growth Hub.
In just 12 months, the Growth Hub, which aims to be the single point of contact for all businesses within the nine local authority areas, has had contact with over 4,000 businesses and are currently active with over 1000, helping to create an impressive 780 jobs.
Dr Kieran Williams, development manager at EMS, said: “The company is forever changing and the support from the Growth Hub has made a huge difference into how we operate as a company, they have provided us with a lot of help and advice and we are now accessing a number of support initiatives through the Growth Hub.”
First For Business looks at one of the companies which has benefited from the flourishing service:
With so many awards to its name, Sheffield-based environmental monitoring company Environmental Monitoring Solutions (EMS) is a real success story. The firm specialises in environmental monitoring including: water monitoring, air monitoring, data acquisition, environmental management and training and has seen year on year growth of about 25 per cent. Their continued progression hasn’t gone unnoticed. Last year the firm represented the region at the British Chamber of Commerce national awards in London after scooping both Small Business of the Year and High Growth Business of the year at the regional British Chamber of Commerce awards.
22 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
The British Chamber accolades come on top of other numerous successes including High Growth Business of the Year Award at the last Sheffield Business Awards and Best Partnership with Academia at the YCS People Awards for the firm’s work with Leeds Beckett University. The collaboration with Leeds Beckett involved EMS working on the MANTIS project (Monitoring and Analytics to Improve Service) to help small villages and communities in Africa repair broken hand-operated water pumps. With the University the company designed and deployed a tamper-proof device for a hand pump which does not need to be repowered for years at a time. Devices are also installed to transmit data to pump operators and they can maintain the pumps from mobile devices where appropriate. The device is currently being piloted in Sierra Leone.
Jim Scott, growth advisor for the Sheffield City Region Growth Hub, said: “I’m starting to lose track of all the awards that Environmental Monitoring Solutions are nominated for. And not only nominated, but winning as well. “They’re a great company to work with and it’s a testament to all their hard work that they are now seeing some merit on the back of it.” The Growth Hub is a £4.82million central Government-funded service which acts as a ‘gateway’ for businesses to access specialist support. For more information about the Sheffield City Region Growth Hub and to see what support your company could receive, call 03330 00 00 39 or visit www.scrgrowthhub.co.uk
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FINANCE
First for Business
JUNE 2017
www.ffb-online.co.uk
MANUFACTURING – FACING UP TO BREXIT INVOICE FINANCE COULD BE THE ANSWER TO YOUR CASH FLOW PROBLEMS AS THE COUNTRY HEADS INTO BREXIT, SAYS PHIL MEEKIN.
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ake raw materials or components, process and assemble them and sell the resultant products at a profit – done! What could be easier? If you’re a manufacturer you’ll know how many snags can stop you in your tracks. Whether you make large chunky things on a big scale or are in a small cottage industry, there are so many factors that can interrupt your business. Survival and success depend on strategic planning, good management and being adaptable to cope with change. Whether you voted ‘in’ or ‘out’, Brexit looms. To some business owners it will present a series of threats and challenges, whilst to others numerous fresh opportunities. Either way a good supply of cash flow is essential. Invoice finance, such as factoring or invoice discounting, is an excellent means of generating cash flow for growing businesses. It used to be viewed as a last
As a business owner, you may find that your bank requires a personal guarantee covering 100 per cent of the company’s overdraft, supported by a mortgage over your home. In contrast, a factoring company’s main security is the debtor ledger and whilst a personal guarantee may be required it may be for a lesser amount and does not usually involve the director’s home. Phil Meekin
resort but it now it is seen as an acceptable finance option. To growing businesses it has many advantages over traditional overdraft borrowing. For example the facility grows with your business, so no need to renegotiate terms.
Factoring can release money tied up in invoices within 24 hours – typically 80 per cent. Although the cost of factoring may be higher than an overdraft, having extra cash in the bank means you can negotiate better terms with suppliers. If you are a growing manufacturer and cash flow is tight, invoice finance may be the answer to your needs. For further information, please contact Phil Meekin on 0114 2356780 or email p.meekin@wilsonfield.co.uk
First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 25
First For Business
JUNE 2017
www.ffb-online.co.uk The Samuel Fox Country Inn collect ‘Best Restaurant’
AWARD WINNERS WHO WERE THE ALL-IMPORTANT WINNERS AT THIS YEAR’S WESTSIDE RESTAURANT AWARDS? HANNAH SANDERS AND PHOEBE SEYMOUR REVEAL ALL.
he region’s finest restaurants, cafés and dining pubs came together for the biggest night in the culinary calendar... the 2017 Westside Restaurant Awards.
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More than 200 restaurant owners, chefs and front of house staff celebrated as the prizes were dished out to the best eateries across the region. Baldwins Omega, Sheffield’s premier banqueting venue, provided an opulent setting for the prestigious event staged by our sister magazine. The big winners on the night were the
team from the Samuel Fox Country Inn at Bradwell, which won both the best contemporary and the highly-coveted Restaurant of the Year award. This year’s event was sponsored by our media partners My Fathers Heart and Robinsons Brewery. Back to compère for a second year running, was Great British Bake Off star Howard Middleton, whose charismatic presence and hilarious one-liners made him the perfect master of ceremonies as a grand total of 14 awards were presented.
THE (BIG) WINNERS: WESTSIDE RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR & BEST CONTEMPORARY SAMUEL FOX COUNTRY INN Samuel Fox is a classic country inn serving up exceptional food all made with fresh seasonal local ingredients, providing a warm welcome to all and a south-facing terrace looking onto the pleasant scenery of Bradwell Edge. It is no wonder they have been chosen as Restaurant of the Year, along with Best Contemporary. With beautifully cooked, well-presented food, all delivered by friendly and helpful staff, the Samuel Fox Country Inn is well deserving of this recognition.
26 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
RESTAURANT AWARDS
Hidden Gem with Westside’s Sam Warsop (left) and Howard Middleton (right)
Readers’ Choice winners, 1554
THE WINNERS: BEST NEWCOMER THE FRONT ROOM
BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY THE HYDE PARK INN
BEST ORIENTAL RESTAURANT PATOO THAI
Tucked away in Hillsborough, The Front Room is the new kid on the block in Sheffield’s Indian restaurant scene, but it is already known for its classic dishes – executed with fine-dining mastery – and continued success in delivering “the food of India”.
Owners Tom and Vee O’Reilly have established a traditional, flavoursome menu along with a warm and welcoming atmosphere where anyone is welcome – even your four-legged friends. The setting is a traditional pub, and the food at The Hyde Park Inn delivers big flavours with some style.
The popular and authentic south-east Asian eatery was opened seven years ago by Jariya Sancunakorn and has been chosen as our Best Oriental Restaurant on many occasions. With wonderful food, great service and a beautifully calm setting, Patoo Thai stand out from the crowd.
READER’S CHOICE 1554 With an overwhelming number of votes, this coffee shop situated in Sheffield Cathedral is evidently adored by new and regular clientele alike. The coffee shop is a brand new concept inside the Cathedral and is now somewhere locals can go to enjoy a relaxing drink or a light bite.
YOUNG CHEF OF THE YEAR DAVE COCKERILL, THE TICKLED TROUT Dave Cockerill has worked with Chris Mapp, owner of The Tickled Trout for 18 months and is the sous chef. Chris said: “He is a very hard-working and conscientious young man with an abundance of talent and I am glad to have him in my team. Dave knows my simple rules, understands the ingredients, keeps it simple and most importantly makes it taste good.”
BEST YOUNG CHEF RUNNER-UP PATRICK WHITE, RED LION BAR & BISTRO Patrick studied at Southport College before moving to Sheffield and now helps create a wide range of delicious dishes from the Red Lion Bar & Bistro’s breakfast, lunch and dinner menus at The Peak Edge Hotel.
BEST PUB TICKLED TROUT Owner Chris Mapp said: “I am really pleased and happy for the team, they all work so hard. It is fully deserved as they are a fantastic bunch and I couldn’t ask for anything more. We have excellent service, our friendly and young energetic people.”
BEST CAFÉ/LIGHT BITE HIDDEN GEM The Hidden Gem Café offers a welcome retreat set back from the hustle and bustle of the city. Outside the café comprises a quiet courtyard entrance with views of climbing roses, grass lawns and flowered arches, and inside it is a fine example of a venue that started as a charitable enterprise and is now much more.
BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT PRITHI RAJ There are some things about going to an Indian restaurant that make it an extraspecial dining experience. It’s the little touches; dish after delicious dish served on silver platters, the chance to expand your horizons and taste new combinations of fresh herbs and spices… at Prithi Raj on Ecclesall Road, it’s the whole package and more.
BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT ROSSI’S With its grand décor and delicious dishes, it’s no wonder Rossi’s has stood the test of time. You’ll be ushered through the door by a uniformed doorman into the interior which is nothing short of an art gallery. It has domed ceilings, wall to wall marble and even a statue of David. Rossi’s has been going strong since 1983 and provides locals with traditional Italian cuisine along with a vast selection of world wines.
BEST NIGHT OUT KETTLE BLACK The new kid on the block in Ecclesall Road’s cocktail ‘scene’ is a treasure trove of decadence. It has undergone a glamourous refurbishment and is now drenched in neon worktops, brass hanging lightbulbs and rich wooden floors. David said: “We like to think that we have created something new in Sheffield.”
BEST HOTEL RESTAURANT BROCCO ON THE PARK In the heart of social Sheffield, Brocco is perfectly placed for the city’s green spaces, theatres and universities. Owner Tiina Carr is constantly re-inventing the menu and events, so to keep things fresh and give customers more reasons to come back. First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 27
Located in Doncaster, MB 1nteriors provides a quality bespoke specialist joinery and shop fitting service. Employing highly qualified craftsmen with over 40 years of joinery experience in a wide variety of sectors and applications gives us the ability to handle any joinery requirements that our clients may have. With a fully equipped joinery workshop, the team pride themselves in offering a first-class service to clients, offering creative and effective design solutions for the
commercial and domestic markets. Each job is tailored to the specific needs of individual clients and we place a great emphasis on delivering quality whilst working to and respecting set budgets and time scales. Maintaining the highest possible standards and utilising traditional and modern methods, MB 1nteriors offers a personalised and professional service to all clients, advising them at every stage of development, from inception through to project completion. All timber is sourced from
reliable and conscientious suppliers with sustainability being key to our ethical outlook and vision going forward.
MB 1nteriors specialises in • The supply of bespoke joinery and seating • Reception Counters, Bars and Back fittings • Wall Panelling • The use of reclaimed materials • Supply and installation of staircases • Bedrooms, Kitchens, Skirtings and Bookcases
Unit 17, Durham Lane, West Moor Park, Armthorpe, Doncaster DN3 3FE T: 01302 637337 | E: martin@mb1nteriorsltd.co.uk | www.mb1nteriorsltd.co.uk
Unit 2, No. 2, St PaulĂ&#x160;s Place, 121 Norfolk Street, Sheffield, S1 2FJ
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30 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
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CORPORATE ENTERTAINING
First for Business JUNE 2017 www.ffb-online.co.uk
FOOD FOR THOUGHT THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO WINE AND DINE CORPORATE GUESTS IN SHEFFIELD’S PLETHORA OF RESTAURANTS.
W
hen it comes to fine dining Sheffield has really upped its game over the last ten years.
You can eat your way around the world, without leaving the city – making it an excellent location to entertain your corporate guests.
At Bramall Lane the Copthorne Hotel offers the award-winning 18Fifty5 Restaurant which boasts the ultimate in fine British cuisine, serving local and traditional flavours with a contemporary twist.
There are now a wonderful range of restaurants from all continents waiting to welcome you and cater for your needs.
For something slightly different the University of Sheffield has Inox Dine, which offers a blend of classic British cuisine and distinctive international flavours.
The city’s hotels offer some top quality fine dining facilities. The relatively new Hampton by Hilton Hotel, which opened in 2014, has the Marco Pierre White restaurant by it side.
In the city centre Leopold Square has a range of restaurants from all corners of the globe. The square is inspired by plazas of Barcelona and is a truly wonderful location to entertain guests.
Nearby St Paul’s Place is the home to restaurants offering flavours from America, Italy and France to name a few. Silversmiths, on Arundel Street, is sure to impress. The restaurant specialises in Yorkshire food, using fine locally sourced, seasonal Yorkshire ingredients. While along Division Street, West Street and London Road there are plenty of both independent and chain eateries which can cater for corporate needs. Whatever your tastebuds desire, from one side of the city to the other, there are a plethora of restaurants that are sure to meet your corporate needs. First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 31
THAI RESTAURANT At the heart of Thai cuisine are herbs, spices and an array of delicious tastes
Ideal for corporate meeting, team building events or treating your employees to a special night out. 639 Ecclesall Road, Sheffield S11 8PT Tel: 0114 267 0580 www.allsiamsheffield.co.uk
Open Mon–Fri:12–2.30pm & 6–10pm Sat: 12–2pm & 6–10.30pm Sun: 12–2pm & 6–10pm
FULLY LICENSED ITALIAN RESTAURANT Open 7 days a week 6pm til 11. 30pm
Will open lunchtimes with prior bookings.
Now open for Lunchtime Affordable Fine Dining
All parties catered for • Supervised car park
Certificate of Excellence Winner 2015
12 noon Tuesday to Saturday
Best UK Family Italian Restaurant Runner Up
Timely Lunches – we aim to have all meals prepared and served to your table within 20 minutes
Sunday Lunch with Pianist 12.00–4.00pm
NOW OPEN FROM 4PM ON MONDAY Check our website for our full menu and Sharing Platter Specials
Telephone: 0114 270 6160 111 Arundel Street. Sheffield. S1 2NT www.silversmiths-restaurant.com
3 Sharrow Lane, Sheffield, S11 8AE
0114 2588164
www.rossisrestaurant.vpweb.co.uk
try a taste of
tradition Farmers Ales from Bradfield Brewery
On-Site Brewery Shop open Monday – Saturday 10am until 4pm. Visit our page on Facebook or follow us
info@bradfieldbrewery.com • 0114 2851118 • www.bradfieldbrewery.com Bradfield Brewery Limited.Watt House Farm, High Bradfield, Sheffield, S6 6LG
First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 33
RAJDHANI A JOURNEY TO INDIAN CUISINE
DORE & TOTLEY STATION
Ideal for corporate meetings and team building events Offering you the very best of Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine in our brand new restaurant – a tranquil and exhilarating atmosphere with a unique dining experience. We cater for lunch – Set Menu for 10 people minimum Advance booking and a small deposit required Rajdhani Restaurant, The Old Station, Abbeydale Road South, Sheffield S17 3LB info@rajdhanirestaurant.co.uk | Tel: 0114 2353 280 / 07810 444686 | www.rajdhanirestaurant.co.uk
Building a new home?
why not take a look at what we can do. At Automize Limited we specialize in the design and installation of home automation, integrated audio visual and home cinema systems.
We offer a totally bespoke service so that every system is designed, installed and commissioned to meet your exact requirements.
Our systems can incorporate all elements of audio visual distribution, security, lighting and heating control to offer a simple solution to control all of the technology in your property.
As we are an independent custom installation company we can offer systems and products from a wide range of manufactures to provide the perfect system for your needs.
With over ten years of experience in the custom installation industry we not only have an extensive knowledge of the systems that we install, but also have strong relationships with manufactures to ensure that we continue to provide the best possible service and support.
Now based in Bawtry, Doncaster, South Yorkshire we are ideally positioned to offer our services across the UK and currently have projects throughout Yorkshire, Cheshire and London.
Our engineers are highly qualified and professional to ensure that all of the projects we undertake are carried out with the utmost care and attention to detail.
We also work with a number of property development companies who are forward thinking and have requested our services to install cabling infrastructure into their properties so that systems can be easily added at a later date. As technology is constantly changing
â&#x20AC;&#x153;future proofingâ&#x20AC;? a property with a well thought out cabling infrastructure at the build stage is much more cost effective than trying to install it once the property is completed. If you would like further information about our services and how our systems could be incorporated into your new or existing property we will be more than happy to discuss your requirements. As part of our services we offer a free initial consultation, we also have a showroom in The Courtyard, Bawtry where we can demonstrate our systems. Our showroom has been specifically designed to enable us to demonstrate exactly how our integrated systems would operate in your own home. For a free no obligation consultation, please contact us on 01302 719027.
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Westside Restaurant of the Year Winner 2017 Best Indian Restaurant
Established 2012
WINNER Best Indian Restaurant
Premier Indian cuisine in the heart of Sheffield Opening Hours: Sunday–Thursday: 5.30pm till 11.30pm Friday & Saturday: 5.30pm till 12.30 Open all Bank Holidays Winner Best Indian Restaurant
407 Ecclesall Road, Sheffield S11 8PG 0114 2666002 or 0114 2666003 www.prithirajrestaurant.com
PrithiRaj
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7 Dower House Square, Bawtry DN10 6LS info@bawtryeyeacademy.co.uk
Tel: 01302 711282 www.bawtryeyeacademy.co.uk
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Opening Times Tuesday–Friday 10am–5pm Saturday 9am–5pm Sight tests available on Thursday & Saturdays
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L&TA work with many leading companies & organistations in the region.
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EDUCATING SHEFFIELD GOOGLE’S HIGH STREET TECH EXPERTS ARE OFFERING FREE DIGITAL SKILLS TRAINING FOR THE NEXT SIX MONTHS. SIGN UP NOW... Google digital skills training centre, based in Sheffield, has proved so popular organisers are planning to expand the service.
A
The city became the first in the UK to host a Digital Garage on a high street when it opened its doors in Barker’s Pool just over a month ago. The centre is delivering free digital skills training seven days a week for the next six months to both individuals and businesses. Alina Dimofte, from Google, said they were delighted with the interest and response to the Garage. “It’s going well, she said.” Hundreds of people have already been through the
38 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
Garage and we are hoping to hit 1,000 during our presence on the high street.” She said the city had been chosen due to the region’s ambitions to have a thriving digital economy and the support from the City Council. “People using the service have varied from students wanting to find out more about digital marketing to owners of small businesses going online for the first time to ambitious entrepreneurs looking at exporting and coming for very specialised knowledge through to people who are rebuilding their website and just want someone’s opinion,” she said. “We are also working with schools and
community groups to use the service. We are going to look at how to expand from the city centre to reach more communities in the region.” This could see pop-up Google shops appearing in towns and areas on the outskirts of the city. There are also plans to launch a digital skills app so users of the Digital Garage can continue their learning online. The Garage is open seven days a week and users can either pop in or book a course online with one of the Google experts. Currently workshops are running in: online security for business,
TECH
FAST FACTS > 25( 7+$1 3(5 &(17 2) -2%6 will require digital literacy in the near future and according to the British Chambers of Commerce 76 per cent of businesses in the UK say they have a shortage of digital skills in their workforce. The BCC study found that reasons behind the gap included lack of time for staff training, difficulty in identifying appropriate training and the high costs of training at 32 per cent and 25 per cent respectively. Similarly, another survey found that half of charities donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a digital strategy and 71 per cent of them rated their boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s digital skills as low or needs improvement. > 257+ 5(6($5&+ +$6 )281' that over 88 per cent of attendees of previous Digital Garage events have changed the way they run or promote their business online, with 68 per cent saying they had seen positive results in increased sales, bookings, web traffic or social media after attending Googleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free training.
SUCCESS STORIES Jonathon Blackburn, from Harrogate, who works in property maintenance, attended the Leeds Digital Garage in 2015 and after a session with a Google expert learned about how best to use keywords in Google ads. He said he quickly saw an increase in leads and new business.
understanding google analytics, social media for business, reach new customers online and various sessions in putting your business online looking at all different areas. There are also masterclasses and oneto-one mentoring sessions which Alina said were proving particularly popular. Users bring in their in laptop and get an expert to answer any question they have, before going home, applying the advice and them coming back in a week later. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have been pleased to see repeat visits and go on the journey with them,â&#x20AC;? added Alina. Google is believed to be one of the first companies to offer on the high street free digital training and the company has ambitions to go all around the UK this year outside of London. Torsten Schuppe, Google Marketing, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the digital age, a basic understanding of how the online world works is useful; and when it comes to business, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s essential. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are here to ensure everyone in Sheffield has access to the best free training and advice and are particularly excited to open the first ever Google digital skills training centre on a British high street right here in the Sheffield city centre. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This will make it even easier for you to just pop in and get the skills you need to find opportunities to excel in what matters most to you, grow your business, or launch the next big idea.â&#x20AC;? Edward Highfield, Director of City
Growth at Sheffield City Council, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are delighted to welcome Googleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Digital Garage to Sheffield, a fantastic addition to the heart of our city centre. We know there is still more to be done to empower people to use the internet and tackle the issues that prevent people from engaging with rapidly changing digital culture. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We encourage everyone to take full advantage of this unique opportunity, and look forward to seeing how Google can build even further on Sheffieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reputation for growth, innovation and business success.â&#x20AC;? The Google Digital Garage is being delivered in partnership with Sheffield City Council and local partners including The Good Things Foundation, a charity that supports the digitally and socially excluded to improve their lives through digital.
To register for courses at g.co/SheffieldGarage or pop-in to the centre in Barkers Pool for free advice.The centre is open Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm or Sunday 11am to 4pm.
Now two-and-a-half years on he is receiving ÂŁ100,000 a month worth of leads, converting into ÂŁ50,000 a month of actual new business wins â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all from a spend of ÂŁ400 a month on Google adwords. As a result of the advice he received at the Digital Garage about what keywords to use, Jonathan said he has been able to change the direction of the company and is now able to go for higher earning refurbishment jobs as opposed to lower value property maintenance.
First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 39
D E E W MOV E V A
H
Land Rover Range Rover 3.0 TD V6 Vogue SE 4x4
£61,074 *** VAT QUALIFYING *** · Model year:2014 (64) · Fuel type:Diesel
· Mileage:33,000 · Transmission:Automatic · Engine size:3.0L
Mercedes-Benz E Class 3.0 E350 CDI BlueTEC
£17,475 Sat Nav, Leather /Suede · Model year:2014 (14) · Fuel type:Diesel · Mileage:95,000
· Transmission:Automatic · Engine size:3.0L · Colour:White
Audi A4 2.0 TDI e SE Technik 4dr
£14,495 FULL LEATHER, SAT NAV · Model year:2014 (64) · Fuel type:Diesel
· Mileage:66,000 · Transmission:Manual · Engine size:2.0L · Colour:Grey
OUR PRICE Audi A1 1.6 TDI Sport Sportback 5dr............................................................... £9,985 Audi A3 1.6 TDI SE Sportback 5dr.....................................................................£8,985 Audi A3 2.0 TDI SE Sportback 5dr.....................................................................£9,985 Audi A4 2.0 TDI e SE Technik 4dr...................................................................... £8,885 Audi A4 2.0 TDI e SE Technik 4dr...................................................................... £14,495 Audi A4 2.0 TDI SE 4dr (CVT).............................................................................£2,995 Audi A4 2.0 TDI SE Technik 4dr.........................................................................£14,495 Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TDI e SE 5dr..........................................................................£9,485 Audi TT 1.8 T Quattro 3dr.................................................................................. £2,485 BMW 1 Series 2.0 120i Sport 2dr...................................................................... £6,785 BMW 3 Series 2.0 318i SE Business Edition 4dr............................................. £7,885 BMW 3 Series 2.0 320d EfficientDynamics 4dr (start/stop)............................£10,485 BMW 3 Series 2.0 320d EfficientDynamics Business Edition Touring.......... £11,485 BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo...................................................................................£10,985 BMW K1300S K1300S HP..................................................................................£5,895 BMW X5 3.0 30d M Sport xDrive 5dr.................................................................£17,595 Citroen Berlingo Multispace 1.6 HDi XTR 5dr..................................................£4,995 Citroen C4 Picasso 1.6 HDi VTR+ 5dr............................................................... £5,885 Citroen DS3 1.6 e-HDi Airdream DSport Plus 3dr...........................................£7,985 Fiat 500 1.2 Pop 3dr (start/stop).......................................................................£4,999 Fiat Doblo 1.3 JTD Multijet 16v 4dr...................................................................£4,895 Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi ECOnetic Titanium Navigator 5dr (start/stop)..............£8,495 Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi ECOnetic Zetec Navigator 5dr........................................ £9,485 Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Titanium Navigator Powershift 5dr............................... £7,485 Ford Mondeo 1.6 TDCi ECO Titanium X 5dr (start/stop)................................. £9,478 Ford Mondeo 1.6 TDCi ECO Zetec 5dr (start/stop).......................................... £5,985 Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi Edge 5dr....................................................................... £4,495 Ford Transit Connect 1.6 TDCi L1 200 Limited Panel Van 4dr........................£9,995 Honda Civic 2.2 i DTEC ES-T Hatchback 5dr.................................................... £7,485 Jaguar S-Type 2.7 D V6 Sport 4dr.....................................................................£3,995 Land Rover Range Rover 3.0 TD V6 Vogue SE 4x4 5dr (start/stop)............... £50,895 Lexus IS 220d 2.2 TD SE-L 4dr..........................................................................£5,495 Mazda Mazda3 1.6 D TS Hatchback 5dr........................................................... £4,495 Mercedes-Benz C Class 2.1 C200 CDI Elegance 4dr...................................... £4,995 Mercedes-Benz E Class 2.1 E250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY SE 2dr....................£8,985 MINI Hatch 1.6 Cooper D 3dr............................................................................ £4,495 Nissan Juke 1.6 16v Tekna 5dr (start/stop)..................................................... £8,895 Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi N-TEC+ 5dr................................................................. £10,485 Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Visia 5dr.............................................................................£6,485 Peugeot 207 CC 1.6 HDi FAP GT 2dr.................................................................£4,895 Peugeot 308 1.6 HDi FAP SR EGC 5dr.............................................................. £4,995 Peugeot 508 2.0 HDi FAP Allure 4dr.................................................................£6,985 Peugeot 508 SW 1.6TD Access 5dr EGC.......................................................... £5,895 Peugeot Partner Tepee 1.6 HDi Tepee S 5dr................................................... £6,495 Renault Laguna 2.0 dCi Dynamique 5dr (Tom Tom)....................................... £4,995 Renault Scenic 1.5 dCi FAP Expression 5dr.....................................................£3,685
RETAIL YOU SAVE £11,465 £1,480 £10,495 £1,510 £12,895 £2,910 £9,998 £1,113 £16,995 £2,500 £4,995 £2,000 £16,985 £2,490 £10,995 £1,510 £3,895 £1,410 £8,995 £2,210 £9,995 £2,110 £12,675 £2,190 £13,995 £2,510 £12,995 £2,010 £7,995 £2,100 £21,995 £4,400 £6,584 £1,589 £6,695 £810 £8,995 £1,010 £6,495 £1,496 £6,995 £2,100 £9,995 £1,500 £11,998 £2,513 £8,995 £1,510 £11,995 £2,517 £7,495 £1,510 £6,995 £2,500 £12,495 £2,500 £8,995 £1,510 £6,495 £2,500 £53,995 £3,100 £6,995 £1,500 £6,485 £1,990 £6,985 £1,990 £11,495 £2,510 £6,995 £2,500 £9,995 £1,100 £11,995 £1,510 £7,495 £1,010 £5,495 £600 £6,495 £1,500 £7,995 £1,010 £7,995 £2,100 £8,495 £2,000 £6,495 £1,500 £4,985 £1,300
BMW X5 3.0 30d M Sport xDrive 5dr
£18,495 SAT-NAV TOP MODEL · Model year:2012 (61) · Fuel type:Diesel · Mileage:90,000
· Transmission:Automatic · Engine size:3.0L · Colour:Silver
Milethorne Lane, Doncaster, DN12SU Tel: 01302 368037 Fax: 01302 326905 Email: www.fleetdirect@btconnect.com Website: www.fleetcarsdirectofdoncaster.co.uk Vat No 874 8120 07 Fleet Cars Direct is a trading style of Fleet Direct
MOTORING
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GO WILD IN THE COUNTRYMAN . . . Ever wanted the largest MINI to have a little extra ‘zing’? Well, your prayers have been answered. Say hello to the Countryman JCW. As the biggest and most versatile model in the MINI range featuring the brand’s most powerful engine to date, the new MINI JCW Countryman combines race track feeling and useful versatility on and off the road. With an output of 231hp from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine working with MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel drive system, the MINI JCW Countryman sprints from 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds whether the customer chooses the standard six-speed manual transmission or the optional eight-speed Steptronic sports transmission. The JCW Countryman achieves figures of 40.9mpg and emits 158g/km of CO2. Available now, priced from £30,675.
PRACTICALITY, PERFORMANCE AND A BIT OF EXTRA ZING – THAT’S THE RECIPE FOR THIS MONTH’S ROUND-UP FROM JORDAN CUTFORTH. GRAND DESIGN Vauxhall has revealed its all new SUV. Called the Grandland X, it’ll be the largest SUV in the company’s range beating that of the Mokka X and Crossland X.
HYUNDAI GOES THE DISTANCE To celebrate the first crossing of a passenger vehicle over the Antarctic, Hyundai has created a limited edition version of their seven-seater Santa FE – the Santa FE Endurance Edition. Limited to just 500 units, the Santa FE Endurance Edition will be based on the 4x4 Premium SE. Powered by a 2.2-litre diesel motor, it’ll come with the Convenience Pack and automatic transmission and will feature 19-inch alloy wheels and ‘Endurance’ logos.
The Grandland X offers a selection of ultra-modern assistance and comfort features. Adaptive Cruise Control with pedestrian detection and Automatic Emergency Braking, Driver Drowsiness Alert, and Advanced Park Assist are just some highlights. AGRcertified premium ergonomic front seats, heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats and smart tailgate, that opens with a kick, all ensure driver and passenger comfort. The Grandland X will also come with the latest generation of IntelliLink systems and the personal connectivity and service assistant Vauxhall OnStar, which now includes new services such as hotel booking and parking space search.
Equipment includes smart electric tailgate, panoramic sunroof, autonomous emergency braking, smart cruise control and around view monitor. In addition, the Santa FE Endurance will also feature additional special equipment. The Endurance edition sits at the top of the range and will be priced at £38,995.
FILLING THE GAP Following the launch of the award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulia last year, the range has been expanded to include the Veloce. This new model balances the dynamics and comfort of the Giulia range to offer affordable performance and luxury, sitting between the Giulia Speciale and flagship Giulia Quadrifoglio. The Giulia Veloce will come with a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, partnered with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel-drive. The four-cylinder engine is made entirely of aluminium, generating 280hp and a maximum torque of 295 lb ft of torque at 2,250 rpm, taking it from zero to 62mph in just 5.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 149mph. This new engine returns 46.3mpg on the combined cycle and emits just 141g/km CO2. Available now priced from £37,935.
First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 41
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JUNE 2017
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TIME TO UNWIND
RICHARD ABBEY SWAPS THE STRESS OF THE CITY FOR THE STUNNING SHROPSHIRE COUNTRYSIDE AT FISHMORE HOTEL & SPA. NOWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THE PERFECT TIME TO INDULGE.
t was a case of who would go first. There it was, glistening in the afternoon sun, tempting us after a stint in the sauna and steam room at Fishmore Hallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new SPAshell facility. You go first, no you, no, I insistâ&#x20AC;Ś after much to-ing and fro-ing and umming and aahing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and chivalry on my behalf it has to be noted â&#x20AC;&#x201C; my wife and I decided to jump in the Scandi-style cedar wellness pool instead. The ice bucket would have to wait.
I
In the end it was a good choice; I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really need waking up after an extremely indulgent and relaxing back, neck and shoulder massage in one of the spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four treatment rooms, I was quite happy to be in full chill out mode. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure my wife did too, after her ELEMIS facial and scalp massage. And what a view as well; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not often you can plonk yourself in a hot tub outside with the sun shining and such views afforded to us as the Shropshire countryside and Clee Hills. Even the cows in the field opposite look totally relaxed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; maybe the new spa is rubbing off on them too. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a stunning addition to the privatelyowned Ludlow hotel, which has recently been voted the Best Hotel in the Heart of England by Best Loved Hotels. The contemporary, almost cuboid design â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which was delivered on the back of a truck and put together like giant Lego bricks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is in stark contrast to the 42 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
Georgian main building. But, with its larch wood exterior and full-length windows, it blends perfectly into its surroundings. Inside itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s compact and well thought out with a comfortable lounge overlooking the gardens, luxury changing rooms as well as those previously-mentioned treatment rooms, sauna and steam room. We didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to leave. Inside the 15-room hotel, the bedrooms are spacious and well-designed with luxury bathrooms to match â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ours had a huge bath as well as a walk-in shower, the perfect place to unwind and put on your finery before experiencing Fishmore Hallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s acclaimed 3 AA Rosette restaurant, Forelles. Head chef Andrew Birch has built up quite the following from far and wide and prides himself on choosing the majority of ingredients from within a 30mile radius of the hotel. His showstopping six and nine-course tasting menus are perfect for a celebration, or just to indulge your foodie cravings if you feel like it. And indulge you must, as this was food of the highest order. We opted for the six-course version and were blown away. From the pigs head croquette canapĂŠs served at our table in the orangery to the petit fours taken in the lounge, we couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fault a thing. Stand-out dishes included scallop served with ras el
hanout, cauliflower, apple and coriander; venison served with cavolo nero, artichoke, chestnuts and chanterelles and a chocolate delice with salted caramel and almond ice cream. Service throughout was immaculate. After a good nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep in the comfiest of beds, a hearty breakfast was just what you needed before taking a ten-minute drive into the centre of Ludlow to wander around the many independent shops, delis and antique centres. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also the famed castle and river should you wish to explore further. Of course you may find it too difficult to leave such lush surroundings as those at Fishmore Hall, but if you need sparking into life, you could always take the ice bucket challenge.
DETAILS: 5 ! ) ,! &" -. -. 3- . %-$(*,! '' -. ,. ",*( 4 +!, ,**( +!, )%#$. 5 */ ) /-! .$! " %'%.%!- . -$!'' "*, 4 1%.$ .,! .(!).-. ,.%)# ",*( 4 5 $! -%2 */,-! . -.%)# (!)/ %+,% ! . 4 +!, +!,-*) 5 * "%) */. (*,! 0%-%. 111 "%-$(*,!$ '' * /&
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Do you have a business news story worth shouting about? If you are expanding, celebrating an anniversary or recruiting new faces, put the word out via First For Business... the only monthly independent voice of business in Sheffield City Region. Send your stories and press releases to Mandy Ogle at mandy.ogle@rmcmedia.co.uk or telephone 0114 250 6300.
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ELECTION CHOICES WITH THE GENERAL ELECTION PROVIDING MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS, FIRST FOR BUSINESS SPOKE TO SOME OF OUR LOCAL BUSINESS LEADERS TO ASK THEM WHAT THEY WOULD LIKE TO SEE IN A MANIFESTO TO BOOST THE REGION’S ECONOMY… STEVE PEREZ OWNER OF CASA HOTEL, CHESTERFIELD “For my election manifesto I would like to scrap the existing business rates and replace them with a fairer, simpler tax on company profits, especially focusing on the hospitality sector. I would propose to reduce the VAT within hospitality to eight per cent, the same as our neighbouring countries France and Spain to help boost tourism and jobs in the local area. “Furthermore I would pledge to complete the roadworks ahead of schedule along the M1. The expansion plan for the motorway has been in progress for several years with another projected 18 months around the Nottinghamshire/Derbyshire section. This really effects travel times for both tourism and businesses alike, especially as this is the key line to the north of the country.”
JILLIAN MITCHELL MANAGING DIRECTOR, PROJECT LOGISTICS ARCHITECTURE “I would urge the next Government to make two significant policy changes which would transform the construction industry. Firstly, that they commit to better quality standards for all new housing, in terms of both space and energy efficiency. “Successive erosion of standards and stalling on implementing new energyperformance targets have allowed homes to be built which are simply not big enough to meet the needs of the people who buy them, and which cost more to heat. Incentives to improve performance should encourage behaviour change and not simply be based on financial gain. “Secondly, VAT on extending private residences should be brought in line with that on new-build properties. There is
44 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
little incentive to retain and reuse existing buildings whilst the 20 per cent tax remains. An equitable system of taxation for both new and reused houses would avoid those which are structurally sound to be demolished daily.”
ANDREW McDAID PARTNER, MITCHELLS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS & BUSINESS ADVISERS “A ‘level playing field’ are the words that come to mind when I think of what I would like to see in an election manifesto. The goal must be to treat high street and online businesses fairly and create a tax system that adapts to the growth of the ‘platform economy’, which is leading to an increase in flexible work. “The high street cannot compete with online businesses and independent SMEs on the high street will continue to decline. Business rates for small businesses needs to be addressed. To help SMEs, small business rates relief should be extended to properties worth up to £100,000. “Ninety-eight per cent of UK businesses are SMEs and the tax system needs to be reflective of this. I would like to see a simpler tax system created for small businesses. The current system is confusing and focused on large corporations rather than small ownermanaged business.”
JULIE RICHARDS PRINCIPAL & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE CHESTERFIELD COLLEGE GROUP “A major part of ensuring our economic success as a region and a country depends on our ability to develop the appropriate skills to compete in a changing world. “The next Government must increase
investment in post-16 education to bring us into line with our international competitors. We need an effective system which is funded fairly and sensibly to make sure young people are prepared for working life at the same time as giving adults the opportunity to continue learning, allowing them to upskill or retrain. “Strong, high quality education providers will help to deliver the skills businesses and society needs so it is vital that they are allowed to be innovative to meet local demand. There should also be a period of stability for apprenticeships to allow the recent reforms to embed and to ensure a greater focus on quality for the apprentice and the employer.”
STEVE TAYLOR DIRECTOR, START FINANCIAL PLANNING “The pensions industry continues to evolve, with Workplace Pensions and the Pensions Dashboard being two very important projects still work in progress. It is important that any new Government continues with these very important initiatives and doesn’t delay or derail them. As the State Pension Age disappears off into the distance, private pensions are very important for many people and these initiatives will help individuals take control of their own retirement. A lot of good work has got us to this point, let’s not waste it!”
PETER SWALLOW MANAGING DIRECTOR OF BOLSTERSTONE GROUP PLC, THE COMPANY BEHIND THE CHESTERFIELD WATERSIDE & WEST BAR SQUARE DEVELOPMENTS “With demand for office space across the UK at its highest level since 2008, the government needs to reconsider its
ELECTION 2017
policy in respect of empty rates charges being applied on commercial buildings. The abolition of the empty rates relief in 2008 means rates are charged on buildings that have been empty for more than three months. This has stymied the construction of new commercial properties, leaving both businesses that wish to locate and commercial developers with appropriate sites/land becoming increasingly frustrated.
to help develop our economy rather than another.â&#x20AC;?
â&#x20AC;&#x153;The scrapping of charges on empty buildings would boost the prospects for commercial development throughout the UK, but in particular the regions outside London. Currently, developers are reluctant to take the risk of building new commercial properties, knowing that if they are not quickly occupied they will incur large ongoing costs. The government should incentivise developers to build speculatively; this will boost confidence in the commercial property sector and encourage developers to build out new projects and get â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;mothballedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; schemes off the ground without the risk of incurring expensive rate bills on empty buildings whilst sourcing an occupier.â&#x20AC;?
â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the post-recession period our economy has been rocked by the results of the Brexit referendum, the outcome of the US election and the announcement of a snap general election, all making markets and investors jittery.
MARK SERBY DIRECTOR AT WAKE SMITH SOLICITORS â&#x20AC;&#x153;There must be focus on an industrial strategy with a particular emphasis on unlocking international trade, addressing current and future skills needs, infrastructure and connectivity. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Central to this would be plans to provide a big dose of devolution. We should focus on a Mayor for the whole of Yorkshire. That Mayor should have the same devolution deal enjoyed by Manchester. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In terms of infrastructure and connectivity we should build the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest road tunnel from Manchester to Sheffield and scrap HS2 to build a HS3 connecting the northern cities and joining the ports of Liverpool and Hull. The infrastructure would help to link up our ports, cities and world class universities allowing skills, labour, goods and services to move around more freely. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Little of this will matter if we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t navigate our way to a successful Brexit and in particular secure access to the European single market. We should also retain the ability for workers with skills
PHIL MEEKIN HEAD OF MARKETING AT INSOLVENCY & BUSINESS TURNAROUND EXPERTS WILSON FIELD GROUP
â&#x20AC;&#x153;For the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s businesses to grow and thrive, they need an environment conducive to encourage investment. My manifesto would include: I Brexit â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Clarity and transparency: A 966)28 ! &)2)*-87 1%8',)( > *36 > A 36()6 '3286307 238 83 ,%14)6 continuity of current EU employees A )7396')7 83 1%/) 8,) 86%27-8-32 %7 seamless as possible A 311)6'-%0 '327-()6%8-327 83 8%/) precedence over political point-scoring A 48-1-7) 34436892-8= 83 6)(9') 6)( tape and over-regulation I SME Support â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 99 per cent of all private sector businesses; 50 per cent of start-ups fail within five years. A 8%68 94 7944368 -7 *6%+1)28)( @ centralise and co-ordinate â&#x20AC;&#x153;one-stopshopâ&#x20AC;? A ):3098-32 368,)62 3;)6,397) communication links A 968,)6 ():3098-32 @ 136) 03'%0 decisions A 36) 0%8)6%0 86%274368 0-2/7 *36 northern cities A )88)6 (-+-8%0 0-2/7 I A stable taxation environment
RICHARD WRIGHT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SHEFFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is a danger of this election &)'31-2+ % 32) 79&.)'8 ):)28 @ 6)<-8 negotiation. This is important and we obviously want the best deal, but the ongoing trade relationship which effectively maintains the free market and
free movement of skills is what the vast majority of businesses want to see. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We must also have freedom to trade with and attract investment from the rest of the world, plus a commitment to reversing the trade deficit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A moratorium on burdens on business would be welcome while we get to grips with recent introductions like Apprentice Levies and the Living Wage. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Many businesses accept the current system of wealth distribution is leading 83 73'-%0 (-:-7-32 %2( 2))(7 6)*361 @ ;) must maintain personal incentives while countering excessiveness. Businesses create wealth and jobs and support the type of country we all want to live in. We need a Government that can get the balance right.â&#x20AC;?
HANS HUX CHAIRMAN & GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE AT B. BRAUN MEDICAL LTD â&#x20AC;&#x153;We would like to see more specific ideas and concrete action plans to shape a vibrant economy in a post-Brexit environment. Brexit brings new import and market access challenges, however, we still see opportunities to expand in a demanding healthcare sector. By focusing on our innovative product and services portfolio, and ensuring weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a highly attractive international employer, we can safeguard our business growth and support job creation in the Sheffield City )+-32 â&#x20AC;&#x153;I also believe collaboration between -2(9786= %2( 3:)621)28 -7 /)= We put much emphasis on collaboration, including working with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance helping implement the 368,)62 )2)6%0 374-8%0 ,)0-4%( %2( delivering messages about healthy living to thousands of school children through the Sheffield Sharks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These projects have a huge impact on our communities, supporting entrepreneurs of the future. We fully incorporate them into our vision to allow us to reach both ethical and commercial goals.â&#x20AC;?
What would your election manifesto be? Tweet us @ffbmagRMC
First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 45
First For Business
JUNE 2017
www.ffb-online.co.uk
WORK AND PLAY
A MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS, CELEBRATIONS AND NEW FACES
JOIN THE PICNIC FOR SUPPORT DOGS Support Dogs, the charity that trains dogs to help people affected by autism, epilepsy and physical disability to enjoy a greater level of independence, enjoyed a great response to their showcase event at the Crucible Theatre, Sheffield. From left: David Heugh, Sarah Reilly (Sandbeck Park), Lady and Lord Scarborough
Four new sponsors were gained and the charity’s patrons, Lord and Lady Scarborough, are hosting a private picnic for Support Dogs on the lawn of their beautiful home at Sandbeck Park, near Maltby, on Sunday June 25. Families and dogs are all welcome. A standard or veggie picnic box is included in the price and the children's picnic box is free There will be a marquee, a brass band and a bar. For tickets email Support Dogs Parterships’ Ambassador David Heugh at David.Heugh@supportdogs.org.uk Support Dogs’ amazing partnerships for those affected by epilepsy, autism and disability change lives. Please make a difference Text SDOG15 £5 to 70070 to make a £5 donation or visit www.supportdogs.org.uk/donate
LOADHOG REINFORCES ITS MARKETING ACTIVITY Sheffield-based transit packaging manufacturer Loadhog has appointed 23-year-old Jake Charlton to build the company’s brand awareness. The Sheffield Hallam University marketing, communications and advertising graduate previously worked as a regional marketing assistant at Mattel. Loadhog’s sales and marketing co-ordinator, Naomi Jones said the company’s expanding international presence had led to the company devoting more time to proactive marketing.
Nick Evans joins Start Financial Planning
NICK JOINS START FINANCIAL PLANNING Chesterfield-based Start Financial Planning has expanded its team with the appointment of Nick Evans. Nick (28), from Hasland, joins the independent financial advice firm as a trainee financial advisor. He makes the move to the financial services industry from a career in training and, prior to that, banking where he worked for a high street building society for six years. Start Financial Planning was established last year by Steve Taylor and Michael Heath and delivers financial planning service to individuals and businesses nationwide.
CITY BUSINESS REGION TO HAVE ITS SAY ON INDUSTRIAL STRATEGY The voices and views of the Sheffield city business region will be included in a national consultation on the Government’s Industrial Strategy. Sheffield Chamber of Commerce has been collecting comments and contributions from members to feed into the British Chamber of Commerce (BCC)’s consultation on the Industrial Strategy. The BCC consultation has been designed to ‘ensure that the government’s 46 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
industrial strategy has a clear mission, gets the fundamentals right, and helps both places and industries realise their full potential’. Richard Wright, (pictured), Executive Director of the Chamber, said: “Generally the employer community welcomed the government’s attempt to start to develop an Industrial Strategy for the next 20-25 years – although we all recognise it is very much a work in progress and there are some
big events likely to happen in that period, not least of which, of course, is Brexit. “Some of our members suggested a strategy that had been worked across government departments rather than solely through the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) lens would be better. We have lots of experience of different departments that seem to work in isolation whilst this challenge needs a coordinated approach.” Mr Wright said the point that was made most strongly was the need for some stability of policies for a decade or two.
WORK & PLAY
WORKPLACE CHAPLAINCY AND LISTENING SERVICE LAUNCHED
Tony Pedder (left) with Baz and Linda Gascoyne
TRADE MISSION SEEKS NEW MARKETS IN DUBAI Master Cutler, Richard Edwards, led a successful trade mission to Dubai. The party of 12 included International Trade Forum (ITF) chairman William Beckett, the immediate past Master Cutler Craig McKay, ITF Director Peter Edwards and the managing director of Durham Duplex, Charles Turner.
A new chaplaincy and listening service for businesses across the South Yorkshire region has been launched. South Yorkshire Chaplaincy and Listening Services, created by Peter Birtles, a former Sheffield Forgemasters director, and current chairman Tony Pedder will fill a gap created by the demise of the South Yorkshire Workplace Chaplaincy last year. The service had been in operation since the 1940s and was first known as the Sheffield Industrial Mission. The current 12-strong trained team of chaplain and listeners is expected to rapidly grow into a network across the region offering visits to workplaces, bespoke listening sessions and tailor-made support for employees.
“With the uncertainty of our European export markets looming large, we felt it was important for the Sheffield City Region to explore new avenues for our manufacturing industry,” said the Mr Edwards. “Several companies took orders there and then and all made excellent contacts.” The multi-sector mission’s main aim was to seek opportunities associated with global trade fair Expo 2020, which Dubai is staging.
New charity director Reverend Baz Gascoyne, of The Eccles Church, said: “This is all about developing a comprehensive, combined Christian-rooted chaplaincy and a listening service offering for people in the workplace.
Mission delegates also visited the Polypipe Technical Centre. The Doncaster-based company established themselves in the UAE some years ago.
“We believe the need for confidential pastoral care, encouragement and support stretches well beyond the city of Sheffield and so we are launching a service that covers South Yorkshire.”
“That visit gave us an excellent insight into how business is conducted in the Middle East,” said Mr Beckett.
ANDREW JOINS THE TEAM AT CODA STUDIOS Architecture, planning and design company Coda Studios has appointed Andrew Chetwynd to head the Quality Management Team.
Andrew Chetwynd
Andrew, who has recently completed his studies as an architect, joined Coda 18 months ago. He has worked in both London and Sheffield, with a background in the implementation of large residential projects. Managing Director David Cross, said: “In the time he has been with us he has shown huge commitment and enthusiasm and we are delighted to be able to welcome him to the next level with a role that will perfectly suit his experience.”
SOUTH YORKSHIRE COMPANY POLYPIPE BECOME THE 100TH MEMBER OF THE AMRC Doncaster-based company Polypipe has become the 100th member of the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre with Boeing. The company manufactures a wide range of plumbing, drainage and ventilation systems for residential, commercial and civil infrastructure and construction.
Polypipe Managing Director Cameron McLellan with AMRC Executive Dean Prof Keith Ridgway
Polypipe’s membership of the AMRC will allow it to continue to develop autonomous manufacturing methods that will support the company’s expansion into new markets and sectors. The partnership between Polypipe and the AMRC dates back three years, when the company employed its first cohort of apprentices at the AMRC Training Centre. It is now expanding to include research into factory and off-site build of large components for the construction industry. Polypipe has now become a member of a group of 100 global companies, enjoying access to world-leading high-value advanced manufacturing research and state-of-the-art capabilities at the AMRC.
First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 47
First For Business
JUNE 2017
www.ffb-online.co.uk
THE FLOOW WINS PRESTIGIOUS TECHNOLOGY AWARD
RICHARD SAYS GOODBYE AFTER 47 YEARS WITH MITCHELLS
Insurance telematics leader The Floow has been named as winner of the Red Herring's Top 100 Europe award, a Aldo prestigious list honouring the year’s Monteforte most promising private technology ventures from the European business region.
A senior partner of Chesterfield-based Mitchells Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers, Richard Trueman, has retired after nearly 50 years’ service with the firm.
The company was chosen as one of the most innovative by the Red Herring editorial team – selected from a pool of hundreds from across Europe - with the nominees evaluated on 20 main quantitative and qualitative criteria including disruptive impact, market footprint, financial performance, technology innovation, social value, quality of management, execution of strategy, and integration into their respective industries. CEO and founder of The Floow, Aldo Monteforte, said: “Alex Vieux and Red Herring have a long tradition of accurately charting the future of technology. Being a Red Herring 100 Winner and in the company of leading innovators is a great endorsement of our model as we build a global leader in insurance telematics.”
DERBYSHIRE START-UP BUSINESS WINS MAJOR RAIL CONTRACTS Contracts totalling £100,000 within the rail industry have been won by startup business The Sanitaryware Supplies Company. The online business, which was Andy Dukelow established last year, is the brainchild of Andy Dukelow, the former managing director of Chesterfield-based Franke Sissons. The company supplies a range of commercial sanitaryware for healthcare, transport, stadiums, schools and public washrooms across the country. The contract wins include supplying grab poles, socket boxes and plates for power sockets as part of a major carriage refurbishment project for Trains Bits and More Limited. Additionally, the company is supplying parts for toilet systems as well as fascia panels for contracts with Bombardier and Arriva respectively.
48 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk
Richard Trueman
Richard joined Mitchells in 1970 from Chesterfield Boys School, now Brookfield Community School, and was made partner of the firm in 1978. He leaves 12 months ahead of Mitchells celebrating its 150th anniversary. Under Richard’s leadership, Mitchells has grown to become one of the leading firms of chartered accountants in Chesterfield and north east Derbyshire. From handwriting all accounts in ledgers when he joined, the firm has progressed to become a leader in its field for the adoption of technology, winning awards for its CloudMitchells online service. Richard, who has worked with around 1,200 clients, leaves the firm in the hands of senior partner Tim Leeman, who is supported by fellow partners Andrew McDaid and Tony Hornsby.
ROTHERHAM-BASED ENTREPRENEUR LAUNCHES VINYL RECORD BUSINESS WITH HELP FROM KICKSTART A music-loving Rotherham-based duo has launched their own business specialising in rare records and music memorabilia at the town’s Centenary Indoor Market thanks to a funding boost from the UK Steel Enterprise From left: Keith Williams, Regional Manager (UKSE) Kickstart Fund. at UKSE, with Jason Sayles and Ian Hawkridge Both former employees of Tata Steel and lifelong friends, Vinyl Soundbar founders Jason Sayles and Ian Hawkridge established the company in December 2016 after both being made redundant from their jobs as non-destructive testing engineers following 21 years with the company. Selling CDs, audio cassettes and event tickets for live music hotspot Cutlers Arms the £500 from the Kickstart Fund also allowed the business to purchase vital record cleaning and office administrative equipment to help it get off the ground. Jason said: “The funding that we have received from the UK Steel Enterprise Kickstart Fund has allowed us to buy a computer and a record cleaning machine and now, after just four months, we’ve got a strong and loyal customer base who are delighted to have the shop on their doorstep, as well as access to our product range online.” UKSE is part of Tata Steel and invests up to £1m in growing companies, particularly those creating jobs.
WORK & PLAY
MAKEOVER AND PHOTOSHOOT STUDIO SNAPS UP SHEFFIELD BASE Yorkshire’s biggest makeover and photoshoot studio has opened its first base in South Yorkshire.
Acero at Sheffield Digital Campus.
KNIGHT FRANK APPOINTED TO SHEFFIELD’S ACERO Scarborough International Properties Limited has appointed the Sheffield office of property consultancy Knight Frank to market the landmark 80,000 sq ft Acero office development. This flagship office development comprises five floors and forms the third building of the Sheffield Digital Campus. It is currently being built alongside Electric Works and Ventana House which proved popular with high profile tenants including Sky and WanDisco. The appointment sees Knight Frank work with CPP and Fearnie Greaves as joint agents on the £27m project being funded by Kevin McCabe’s Scarborough and Metro Holdings Limited of Singapore. Peter Whiteley, head of office at Knight Frank in Sheffield, said: “Acero will appeal to businesses looking at expanding in the city centre, companies moving into the centre from the wider area, or even those relocating from another city.” Acero is due to be completed this summer.
Owners Mark and Jane Earnshaw and Lauren Crainer from Chique Photography already operate studios in Wakefield and Huddersfield and saw The Chique Photography team at MBP Sheffield as a ‘strategic move’ for the company’s growing portfolio. The company, which now employs 60 people over the three sites, has taken a five-year lease on a 3,066 sq ft base at Meadowhall Business Park. Chique, which launched in October 2014 and is on target to open five studios in five years, provides professional hair, make-up and photographs. Chique’s move to Meadowhall Business Park follows a string of new tenants, including construction giant NG Bailey and growing project management/surveying practice Auburn Ainsley Limited.
LIGHTWORKS ON THE MOVE 3D rendering software and visualisation experts Lightwork Design has moved to newly refurbished Grade II listed premises in Sheffield. The company, which provides software development and integration services for sales and design configuration systems, computer aided design and virtual reality applications, outgrew its premises on Clarkehouse Road in Sheffield and was looking for a building that suited its newly rebranded image and profile. Lightwork Design has taken 6,021 sq ft in Hillsborough Barracks, located on Langsett Road, and undertaken a significant internal refurbishment on the
PRAISE FOR SHEFFIELD CITY REGION AT CUTLERS’ FEAST Greg Clark, Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, in the last Government, praised the work of the Sheffield City Region and the Cutlers’ Company during the annual Cutlers’ Feast. Mr Clark said that the efforts of every
Richard Edwards
Master Cutler during the past few years, had contributed in part to the unified industrial strategy, announced recently by the Government.
He also praised the city for its forward thinking in establishing the first City Deal and the Sheffield City Region Growth Deal, negotiated by the
From left: Jonny Phillips of Head Office 3, David Forrester from Lightwork Design and Ben White from Knight Frank.
property, which dates back to 1854. Lightworks currently employs 29 staff and is hoping longer term the move will allow further growth and job creation.
Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and Sheffield City Council. Master Cutler Richard Edwards told the 300 guests that the Green Paper concerning the comprehensive industrial strategy was ‘only the start’. “We are a region with the ambition to gain yet more inward investment, as we have the resources and skills that will attract investors,” he said. “Manufacturing is one of the jewels in the national economy.”
First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 49
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