FFB December 2015

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1,000,000 magazines

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DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016 www.ffb-online.co.uk @ffbmagRMC

BUSINESS REVIEW 2015-2016 Retail Matters Special supplement

Northern powerhouse Big decisions ahead for Sheffield City Region

THE MONTHLY INDEPENDENT VOICE OF BUSINESS IN THE SHEFFIELD CITY REGION FREE TO COMMENT • FREE TO CHALLENGE • FREE TO YOU EVERY MONTH

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Recently installed at our Sheffield headquarters 11 meter height of lift 12,500 KG capacity with 27 meter span

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First For Business

CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

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CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 AGENDA 8

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Andy Waple consults his crystal ball to see what 2016 has in store for our region.

DREAM TEAM 12 Our team of experts give their predictions for the coming year.

RETAIL MATTERS 49 Spotlight on retail in the Shefffield City Region.

WORK & PLAY 80 A monthly round-up of news, achievements, celebrations and new faces.

BUSINESS REVIEW MANUFACTURING 15

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37

INTERNATIONAL TRADE 23 EDUCATION & SKILLS 27 CREATIVE & DIGITAL 33 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 37 CONSTRUCTION 43 COMMERCIAL PROPERTY 47 RETAIL 48 HOTELS & CONFERENCES 65

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Chief Sub Editor Richard Abbey Sub Editor Richard Smith

TRANSPORT 73 SPORT 79 ARTS, LEISURE & TOURISM 82

Editor Chris Wilson chris.wilson@regionalmagazine.co.uk Consultant Editor Andy Waple Chief Feature Writer Julie Farmer

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Operations Director Jillion Wood Publishing Manager Mandy Ogle mandy.ogle@regionalmagazine.co.uk Studio Manager Chris Brierley Design Dan Wray, Steve Levers New Media Manager Terri Moore Regional Magazine Company 6 Broadfield Court Broadfield Business Park Sheffield, S8 OXF Tel: 0114 250 6300 Email: ffb@regionalmagazine.co.uk Web: www.ffb-online.co.uk

FRONT COVER: Sheffield city centre from Commercial Street.

Photograph: Mark Rodgers.

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Royal Armouries Museum and Hall, Leeds

The perfect combination for your next Conference, Banquet & Exhibition

Enjoying an enviable and prestigious waterside location near to Leeds city centre; the Royal Armouries Museum and NEW DOCK hall offer a huge range of options for your next event.

RAI are a UK leading conference & events team.

We deliver conferences, banquets, exhibitions and events from 20 to 1200 delegates and coordinate every aspect of your event from the initial planning through to your transport home.

Corporate Hospitality & Event Management

by Royal Armouries (International)

Quality Counts

Member

Armouries Drive, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 1LT Web: www.rai-events.co.uk Email: enquiries@rai-events.co.uk Tel: 0113 220 1990 Fax: 0113 220 1997

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First for Business

CONFERENCES

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

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HISTORY AND HERITAGE ARE THE MAGIC INGREDIENTS THAT CAN ADD REAL APPEAL TO ANYTHING FROM CONFERENCES AND EXHIBITIONS TO PARTIES AND WEDDINGS.

EVENTS WITH THE H FACTOR orkshire’s rich history attracts millions of visitors from all over the world each year. With everything from ancient battlefields to fascinating ruins, it’s little wonder our fair county is the destination of choice for so many.

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It’s also hardly surprising that those who live and work in the region take full advantage of this history when planning important events. There’s nothing quite like a sense of heritage to add an extra special touch to an occasion, after all.

But for those who would rather not settle for a dusty old castle, why not bring your event to life surrounded by history, all in a modern waterfront setting? The Royal Armouries Museum and adjacent NEW DOCK Hall – both run by Royal Armouries (International) plc – occupy an enviable spot at Leeds Dock and host more than 500 events each year.

Be it a conference for 20 delegates, a wedding for 800 guests, a bar mitzvah, an exhibition with over 180 stands or any other type of event you could dream of, they cater for them all. And not only do you have the opportunity to wow guests with this unique location, but you’ll also continue to impress them once they step inside your chosen venue.

NEW DOCK Hall is renowned in the region for hosting an array of fabulous events. From weddings and parties to conferences and exhibitions, its vast space and magical atmosphere make it one of the most unique venues around.

Across the courtyard, the Royal Armouries Museum and its function rooms are full of historical artefacts and armour to pique the interest of your guests. Imagine hosting a pre-event drinks reception in one of the five

Using a drone to showcase the wonderful setting around the Royal Armouries

differently themed galleries, where guests can mingle surrounded by 3,000 years of history.

What’s more, the Royal Armouries International team employs an innovative marketing approach to ensure your corporate clients are as excited about the venue as you are well before the day arrives. Tools such as a drone not only show off the beautiful setting but enable you to offer your customers – some of whom may never have ventured ‘up north’ before – a bird’s eye view of where the event will be held in relation to Leeds City Centre. To see the drone in action, check out the blog on www.rai-events.co.uk.

So whether you are planning a corporate or a personal event – be it big or small – why not consider Royal Armouries Museum or NEW DOCK Hall? The dedicated events team is ready and waiting to turn your ideas into a truly show-stopping occasion. Contact them on 0113 220 1990 or info@rai-events.co.uk to see what they can do for you.

CONTACT: Royal Armouries International plc Armouries Drive, Clarence Dock, Leeds, LS10 1LT Tel: 0113 220 1990 Email: info@rai-events.co.uk www.rai-events.co.uk Facebook: ‘Royal Armouries Int’ Twitter: @RoyalArmouries

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From Concept to Completion If you have the idea we will get it off the ground for you, using state of the art materials and technology. One point of contact within NRC for all trades is a key to speed, scheduling, programming, and cost saving for all clients. Working for the major local universities, NHS, schools, and other blue chip companies has taught us the need for reliability, finishing jobs on time and on budget.

NRC offer individualised turnkey services to suit each client’s needs, whether it be design ideas, cost management, time constraints or even just project management. NRC have developed fully qualified trade teams covering all aspects of refurbishment projects and maintenance service; using our in-house trades gives us more flexibility, knowledge, understanding and less on costs by having to manage sub-contractors.

• Joinery works: 1st and 2nd fixing, bench and site joinery works, bespoke items and specialist joinery needs.

• Plastering – flat or curved, square or rounded corners, rendering, bonding, skimming.

• Tiling – plain or pattern, floor or wall, mosaic or slab, nothing is too small.

• Suspended Ceilings – making good, re-tiling, full new ceilings, design, slope, or something different.

• Flooring – vinyl, carpet, timber, and specialist coverings.

• Partitioning – glass, folding, demountable or dividing – NRC build it all from scratch, timber or metal, pre-manufactured or kit form from specialist.

• Building works and ground works – foundations and drains, structural repairs and more.

• All Decoration, Mechanical and Electrical, Plumbing and Cleaning works brought in by our in-house divisions.

NRC Services Ltd NRC House, Titterton Street, Sheffield S9 3TE T: 0114 261 7222 F: 0114 261 9319 E: contact@nrcservices.co.uk W: www.nrcservices.co.uk

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First For Business

PREVIEW

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

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PREVIEW elcome to the final First For Business of 2015 and our annual Business Review. With the help of expert views from across the region, we are taking a look at what has happened over the last 12 months and what the future holds for 2016.

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Of all the issues up for discussion the most contentious is shrouded in uncertainty and looks likely to remain so for the next few months at least… devolution and the appointment of Sheffield City Region’s first elected mayor.

However, while the name of the first man or woman to take the hot seat will not be confirmed until 2017, it will be fascinating to see how the situation plays out in 2016 as the candidates declare themselves. With real power and a big budget at their disposal this will be a position that carries huge responsibility.

Will the right person emerge, and will local people connect with the whole Northern Powerhouse concept and turn out in numbers to make their votes count come polling time?

Along with the opening of the FARRS link road to Doncaster Sheffield Airport in January and the region’s second University Technical College, due to open at Sheffield’s Olympic Legacy Park in Attercliffe, these are the notable milestones on the near horizon singled out by our consultant editor Andy Waple as we see out the old year and welcome in the new.

CHRIS WILSON, EDITOR

For Martin McKervey, Sheffield City Region LEP board member and partner at Nabarro, attracting national and international investment will play a vital role in an ambitious plan to create 70,000 new jobs, increase GVA by £3.1billion and generate 6,000 new start-up businesses.

Collaboration is the key, he insists, with the public and private sectors and the universities creating the right fiscal and financial environment to attract investors.

Legacy Park emerging as a 26-acre internationally recognised centre for health, wellbeing and innovation. Project lead Richard Caborn tells us about his excitement as the new project is set to take shape in 2016. As well as fresh business and employment opportunities, a new indoor arena will provide a new home for Sheffield Sharks basketball team, and there will be enhanced cycle and running routes for all ages and abilities.

Meanwhile Mel Kanarek, co-founder of Sheffield Digital, reckons Sheffield’s digital businesses could be the hidden accelerator for our local economy. The number of digital businesses in the City Region has expanded rapidly over the last few years with local companies securing big contracts with major companies – Sumo Digital and Disney, for example.

With each new high tech job reckoned to create five new jobs outside tech, it seems Sheffield’s digital industry is thriving, and has tremendous potential as a net contributor to the regional economy.

Alongside sport, there has been an increasingly important role for tourism, leisure and arts in spreading positive messages about Sheffield. Brendan Moffett, director of Marketing Sheffield, was pleased to see hotel occupancy increase as Sheffield kept its title as the Trip Advisor best value city break destination for 2015 and, with a packed calendar of artistic and cultural events, 2016 looks set to be another exciting year.

Sheffield City Region has a fine sporting heritage and that is set to continue thanks to strong links with the business community. For many Sheffield people it was a sad day when the Don Valley Stadium, built for the 1991 World Student Games, was dismissed as an expensive white elephant and shut down – before local tax payers had even finished paying for it.

However, out of the building rubble a bright future has grown with the Olympic

That’s just a taste of what’s in store in this double issue of First For Business. To all our readers, Happy Christmas, and a prosperous New Year. Let us know what you think by tweeting us @ffbmagRMC.

@ Facebook: Regional Magazine Company Twitter: @FFBmagRMC LinkedIn: First For Business magazine Email: ffb@regionalmagazine.co.uk

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First For Business

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

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RIGHT: Bridge construction on the Finningley and Rossington Regeneration Route Scheme, linking Junction 3 of the M18 to Doncaster Sheffield Aiport, is predicted to spark £1.7 billion of private sector investment by 2020

REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL? ANDY WAPLE CONSULTS HIS CRYSTAL BALL TO SEE WHAT 2016 HAS IN STORE FOR THE FUTURE PROSPERITY OF OUR REGION.

here are three notable milestones on the horizon in 2016 that will have considerable significance on the economic well-being of the Sheffield Region.

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Two of them, the opening of the FARRS link road in January and the opening of the second University Technical College in September, will be universally welcomed and will undoubtedly assist the region’s growth.

The third is uncertain and controversial.

While devolution and the region’s first elected mayor will not be introduced until 2017, there will be much preparation work done this year and the resulting jockeying for position among the mayoral candidates will prove a talking

point. Who will throw their hat in the ring for the job are unknown at this stage, but we can no doubt expect to see some old familiar faces.

We have to wait for the vote in parliament on the Government’s Cities and Local Government Bill to see if George Osborne’s dream of the ‘Northern Powerhouse’ becomes reality, but to many it seems a done deal.

If it goes through, the Sheffield City Region will become the second combined authority with an elected mayor. Not many years ago such a concept was unthinkable as the four main authorities, Sheffield, Doncaster, Rotherham and Barnsley, could rarely agree on anything despite all being

Local backing of the Northern Powerhouse has been welcomed by business leaders, keen to strengthen the region’s position as a worldclass manufacturing centre.

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Labour-controlled for most of the time.

It was hard to believe the region could act as one, let alone be run by an elected mayor, yet, largely thanks to the work of the Local Enterprise Partnership, the idea has been embraced.

Local backing of the Northern Powerhouse has been welcomed by business leaders, keen to strengthen the region’s position as a world-class manufacturing centre. Crucially, ruling Labour councillors in all four main local authorities are undoubtedly prepared to swallow their opposition to a mayoral system in exchange for new powers.

Unlike current civic mayors, whose roles are largely ceremonial, the elected mayor will have real power and act as chair of the Sheffield City Region Combined Authority overseeing the Chancellor’s hand-out of £900m over the next 30 years thanks to the ‘historic’ devolution deal. It is hoped the introduction of a mayor will ensure that Sheffield is well placed to receive more powers and

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AGENDA

‘If all goes well the new airport link road will open in the early months of 2016, cutting journey times from Sheffield city centre to 25 minutes, while six million people will be an hour’s drive away or less.’ combined authority, said: “This proposal marks the next step on our devolution journey and will enable local leaders to make bigger and better local decisions over skills, business growth and infrastructure.

“Over the coming months we will be speaking to local residents, businesses and partners about what this means for economic growth in their city region.”

There are of course some misgivings about the deal. Nationally, the Labour Party says the region and its mayor would run the risk of being responsible for implementing Treasury-imposed cuts.

The iPort project will also benefit from the new airport link road

funding from the government in the future.

The authority will have devolved powers to oversee transport budgets, franchised bus services and strategic planning, a prospect that’s been received enthusiastically.

James Newman, outgoing chair of the Local Enterprise Partnership, said recently: “The deal itself is a tremendous step forward for the Sheffield City Region in

that, not only do we take responsibility for transport, spatial planning, skills and business support activity, but Government departments and agencies will be forced into working closely with us on the codesign of employment programmes, trade and inward investment activities, housing projects and key innovation programmes around the City Region’s world class advanced manufacturing facilities. Controlling or influencing our own economic agenda is the big win here and is what devolution is about. “ From a political viewpoint the message is similar. Coun Steve Houghton, the chair of the existing Sheffield city region

Apathy among the business community and public at large is also a danger, and it would be embarrassing if the vote for a mayor was met with the same lukewarm response of voters to the election of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

According to a recent BBCcommissioned survey two-thirds of public in the North had either never heard of, or knew nothing about, the Northern Powerhouse. More than 44 per cent of those asked had never heard of it and 20 per cent had heard of it but know nothing about it.

In a bid to create interest, the business community is being offered the chance to learn of the opportunities devolution could bring when more than 2,000 business figures and senior leaders meet in Manchester in February at the official UK Northern Powerhouse International Conference & Exhibition. It promises to showcase the commercial potential of the North of England in the global market as well as discuss the business opportunities on offer. >>>

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First For Business

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

AGENDA

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‘The FARRS project is great news for tourists who last month heard FlyBe announce routes from the airport to holiday resorts such as Faro, Malaga and Alicante beginning at the end of March 2016.’

Meanwhile everybody will be delighted when Doncaster Sheffield airport becomes much more accessible in the New Year.

If all goes well the new airport link road will open in the early months of 2016, cutting journey times from Sheffield city centre to 25 minutes, while six million people will be an hour’s drive away or less. The Finningley and Rossington Regeneration Route Scheme, to give it its full name, will provide a new highway from Junction 3 of the M18 all the way to the airport.

The £56m road scheme is predicted to spark £1.7 billion of private sector investment by 2020, help create 1 million sq ft of business space, 20,000 jobs and 5,000 homes.

It will also assist the development of the iPort project, the Strategic Rail Freight Interchange, which, its developers predict, will deliver an additional 6 million sq ft of Grade A logistics warehousing linked with a high specification rail freight container yard providing rail freight connections to Europe.

The FARRS project is great news for tourists who last month heard FlyBe announce routes from the airport to holiday resorts such as Faro, Malaga and Alicante beginning at the end of March 2016.

But more significantly, the business community that has lobbied hard for improved connectivity with their key markets has welcomed flights to global hub airports at Amsterdam, Paris and Berlin.

Meanwhile the opening of the region’s second UTC in September will provide a missing link of its own in terms of The Olympic Legacy Park in Attercliffe

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educational provision.

Business leaders have for long bemoaned the region’s education provision, often complaining that it has historically failed to meet expectations and provide young people with the right skills.

The second new one will specialise in human sciences and computing which includes healthcare technology, sports science, exercise medicine and wellbeing, which are all key growth sectors in Sheffield City Region.

They should be delighted to welcome the region’s second University Technical College, due to open at Sheffield’s Olympic Legacy Park in Attercliffe, Sheffield.

Sheffield’s city centre UTC – the first in Yorkshire – opened in September 2013 and has two key specialisms – advanced engineering and manufacturing, and creative and digital industries.

According to Nick Crew, who will be in charge of both UTCs, they will between them provide training for 14-19 year olds in the four key sectors that suffer skills shortages.

UTCs pride themselves on real links with employers – for example more than 40 firms are involved in the curriculum at the city centre UTC, including Siemens Plc, Rolls-Royce, Warp Films and Can Studios.

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First For Business

DREAM TEAM

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

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OPTIMISTIC OUTLOOK THE DREAM TEAM LOOKS FORWARD TO THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FACING BUSINESSS IN OUR REGION IN THE YEAR AHEAD. ROB MOORE RECOVERY EXPERT AND PARTNER AT TAYLOR & EMMETT Access to a diverse pool of talent, excellent connectivity and low operational costs makes Sheffield a truly viable location for professional services.

The city has 117,000 employees working in banking, accountancy, insurance and the law, with the vast majority of firms reporting income growth – many in double digits – thanks to this year’s recovering market conditions.

New regulations and government policy pushing for greater transparency, quality and value are driving unprecedented change that is creating challenges and opportunities to enhance infrastructure, assets and people.

As the economy has picked up, so too has demand for our advice.

Taylor&Emmet’s Business Legal Services departments have just enjoyed their best ever year and we have helped a large number of local businesses.

Although business remains buoyant, there are concerns that we may lose momentum in 2016, due to ongoing problems in the Euro zone, a slowdown in emerging markets and difficulties in the Middle East. These matters seem far removed from Sheffield, but exports play a key role in the success of local firms and a drop in revenue will ripple through the entire business community.

RENATE HALTON INTERNATIONAL TRADE CONSULTANT 2016 will be exciting year ahead. Just to recap a little on the latter end of 2015, there was the devolution deal for the region, the start of a new export drive, as

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DEAR DREAM TEAM: For our annual Business Review we have kept it simple and asked our team of experts one simple question: what does the future hold in 2016?

I write this the UKTI export roadshow truck is stationed at the Advanced Manufacturing Park. Partnership working to drive the export agenda has shaped up in the past few months and the Master Cutler has announced an inaugural export visit to promote the Sheffield City region overseas.

2015 saw the signing of the devolution deal, which leads into an exciting year ahead. This was just the beginning and hopefully this will bring further funding streams. It will be good to see the implementation and delivery of the growth strategy plan, including the Growth Hub. Here partnership working is a major theme to make it happen.

International Trade is firmly on the agenda, UKTI’s GREAT campaign has started and will continue in 2016. I am delighted to see the benefits of increased and collaborative working between business support organisations to increase exports in the region and encourage new exporters.

Other things on the horizon is the EU referendum in 2016. Interesting arguments are emerging, and the For and Against camps are already setting out their stalls. Hopefully, it won’t harm efforts to increase trade and investment in this region.

International trade and the promotion of the region and its manufacturing capabilities is always at the forefront of my activities. I continue to do so in working with the International Trade Forum (ITF) and the Regional Manufacturing Forum and look forward to the joint working of both in 2016 and beyond as the Master Cutler will head an inaugural export visit to Canada in June 2016, organised by ITF.

Another demonstration of partnership working, as one thing is for sure we all have to work together to make it happen in the Sheffield City Region! I am doing my bit – are you?

KEVIN KERLEY ENTREPENEUR AND CHAIRMAN OF THE ACADEMY OF CHIEF EXECUTIVES 2015 was certainly a great year for the Academy. We started with a two-day retreat in Whitby`s newest five-star venue where we set great goals and strategy for the year ahead. We have enjoyed learning from some of the world’s great experts, and also enjoyed some new venues during the year, including a hosted meeting by the Master at the Cutlers’ Hall, a day at the Assay offices, as well as the Advanced Manufacturing Park. We also welcomed several new members to the programme.

2016 holds lots of events that may affect your business, the Rio Olympics, the US presidential elections, the arrival of the living wage, a tax on dividends, a reduction in corporation tax, a possible referendum on Europe – and will interest rates finally rise, or will they remain static?

Technology also brings us change in the form of 3D printing and paying for goods by swiping your phone.

Whatever effect these events may or may not have on your own business, ultimately it is you as the business owner/leader that will dictate the future performance of your business. You will decide the climate, you will make your own weather and you will influence your outcomes, so be positive in the approach of a New Year – manage your expectations not your disappointments.

I have never met anybody in life who achieved their full potential, but I have met many who never stopped trying to reach it, and they are also the ones who seem to have the most successful businesses.

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Vitty Alexander Wealth Management are committed to helping you manage your wealth in a way which reflects your personal circumstances, offering a relationship-based advice service to help advise on the financial choices available to you: Choosing the right investments to protect against inflation and taxation: The right investments can offer real opportunities to enhance your wealth and protect it against inflation. St. James’s Place has a broad range of funds to choose from and Stuart can provide expert advice to help you build an appropriate portfolio. Also to ensure that your investments are arranged as tax efficiently as possible.

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ANNE WILSON IS SMALL BUSINESS APPRENTICEMAKER OF THE YEAR

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nne Wilson, managing director of precision engineering company Numill, has been named Small Business Apprenticemaker of the Year at the Celebrating Enterprise Awards 2015, held at the House of Lords.

The annual event was hosted by the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs (IOEE) and the Small Firms Enterprise Development Initiative (SFEDI), bringing together educators, entrepreneurs and other key figures from the UK’s small business, enterprise and skills sector.

The Small Business Apprenticemaker Award is given in recognition of an individual who has championed the apprenticeship model in their own enterprise and beyond, demonstrating a dedication to extolling the benefits of apprenticeships for learners, SMEs and the wider economy.

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In 2010, foreseeing an industry-wide skills drought, Anne committed to putting apprentices at the heart of Numill.

The business has made a significant investment to employ, teach and support apprentices and safeguard its future. It’s also provided work placements for school-age students via schools and local charity, Workwise.

Anne said: “It is vitally important to nurture our up and coming young people so we can have an employable, skilled workforce for the future.�

During 2016 Anne will continue to identify potential new markets for Numill, with priority sectors being automotive and rail.

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T: 0114 285 5450 F: 0114 234 4363 E: sales@numill.co.uk

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First For Business

BUSINESS REVIEW

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

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MANUFACTURING

BY ANDY TUSCHER, REGION DIRECTOR FOR EEF YORKSHIRE & HUMBER. he importance of manufacturing to the Sheffield Region is more than a romantic attachment to our industrial heritage. Manufacturing businesses are part of communities right across South Yorkshire with many more jobs dependent on the sector. With the links to our academic institutions and facilities such as the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre we have industries that are at the cutting edge of technology, employing thousands of highly skilled people.

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As an outward-looking sector, manufacturers are innovative and inventive, being more than twice as likely to export than firms in other sectors.

Exposure to global competition provides a further spur to improve productivity.

period since the financial crisis. The Eurozone, which still accounts for around half of UK exports, is struggling to rise above anaemic growth whereas the engine of world growth for the last decade, the so-called BRIC economies, are slowing markedly. China in particular is showing all the hallmarks of an overheated economy, with policymakers struggling to adjust domestically. The

Industry also has a strong track record, with growth in productivity over the past five years around four times faster than the rest of the economy and on a par with major developed-world competitors.

Higher skilled employment in manufacturing has undoubtedly contributed to this stronger productivity performance. Over the past decade, the share of hours worked by employees with a degree qualification has grown by almost three-fifths. With this comes better jobs and higher pay.

From technical textiles and personalised medicines to low carbon vehicles and nuclear supply chains – we have the companies and the capabilities to compete and grow in global markets. And many manufacturers have been making the complementary investments in technology, people and business processes that will drive our industry forward.

There is no doubt, however, that industry is currently facing its most challenging

impact of this is being felt especially hard in Sheffield with Chinese steel being exported at a loss, plunging the price of steel to around half of what it was just a year ago.

As well as slowing world markets, there is also the increasing risk posed by political instability which is unlikely to ease in the near future. In response EEF has cut its growth forecast for manufacturing for this year and will shortly do so for 2016.

Despite this however, I remain optimistic for the future of manufacturing, as long as companies don’t operate in isolation.

Embracing future opportunities will be extremely resource intensive and UK manufacturers will only be able to fully exploit them through collaboration – with customers and suppliers, with the research base and with government.

‘There is no doubt that industry is currently facing its most challenging period since the financial crisis.’

There are three steps on the journey that we can start to take today – manufacturers need to build their strategies for this technological revolution, government must commit to a wellresourced future for the UK’s innovation infrastructure and, collectively, we must get a handle on our longstanding skills problem.

If we embrace these three issues then there is no reason why manufacturers in the Sheffield region cannot succeed in the new environment that undoubtedly lies ahead.

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First For Business

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

TEAM EFFORT CHESTERFIELD’S DIRECT ENGINEERING & SITE SERVICES LTD HAS GONE FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH SINCE IT WAS SET UP IN 1997. DIRECTOR RAY WOOLLEY SAYS THE COMPANY’S GROWTH HAS BEEN MADE POSSIBLE THANKS TO THE EFFORTS OF THE LONG-SERVING AND DEDICATED STAFF. hen Ray Woolley set up Direct Engineering & Site Services Ltd in a 500 square foot unit on Thomson Street in Chesterfield he never dreamed that 18 years later his company would require premises fifty times bigger.

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But today, employing over 30 staff and supplying blue chip companies throughout the UK, Direct Engineering occupies a 25,000 square foot site on Foxwood Industrial Park and continues to go from strength to strength through existing client referrals.

Over the past 10 years the company has brought more and more of its facilities ‘inhouse’ to meet customer requirements, expanding its CNC machining, fabrication, sheet metal, and pipe installation teams.

Looking to the future to create a one stop shop, the company is looking at investing further in order to create the whole customer package/experience.

“We have a devoted team of engineers who fabricate and machine a wide range of stainless steel, hastalloy, aluminium, mild steel, plastic and copper nickel products for marine and instrumentation industries,”

16

said Ray. “We are committed to meeting our clients’ exact requirements and exceeding their expectations. We’re extremely proud that our customer base has grown over the years because of word of mouth recommendations. This wouldn’t have happened without the efforts of our long-serving and dedicated team throughout the four divisions of our business.

“Our ethos is centred on customer satisfaction and quality assurance is a driving force within the company. We pride ourselves on consistently producing and delivering high quality products while ensuring a quick turnaround.”

A family dedicated to continuous improvement, Direct Engineering employs Ray’s wife Lyn, as well as the couple’s two daughters Louise and Laura and son Ryan “Working in a family business can sometimes be quite challenging,” said Lyn,

“but one thing we all have in common is being passionate about the future of investing in staff and ensuring we have the very best team possible. We are very customer focused and committed to continually trying to improve on our already high standards.”

Direct Engineering works closely with customers on prototypes and development projects.

The company’s CNC facility offers milling and turning – machining individual products to large batch work.

The fabrication engineers are qualified to BSEN 9606 and ASME 1X in many Ray Woolley

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ENGINEERING

INVESTING IN FUTURE TALENT “Ray himself left school with no qualifications at the age of 16,” said wife Lyn. “He started his working career as an apprentice in fabrication and welding, achieving City & Guilds and then furthering his education in machining. He worked alongside highly skilled and technical colleagues which allowed his passion and knowledge of engineering to grow.

“Ray started the business in a small unit with a guillotine, hand folder and a welder.

With his knowledge he now assists with designs and solutions for clients across the UK and Europe” Demonstrating Ray’s – and the company’s – commitment to investing in staff, Direct Engineering currently has four apprentices as well as permanent members of staff who started out in apprentice positions.

“We love seeing apprentices come to us and climb through the ranks,” said Lyn. “So many young people are let down by the education system and it is important to myself and Ray that they are given an opportunity to shine.”

The company works closely with NLT disciplines and work in varied industries including construction, marine, plastics, pharmaceutical, oil and gas, power, water and catering.

Direct Engineering also carries out specialised sheet metal fabrication for a variety of applications including electrical enclosures, catering equipment, tables, cabinets, cupboards and industrial kitchens.

The company has three teams of site engineers who perform pipe installations throughout the UK and Europe. Typical uses include plastic extrusion lines, blown and vacuum plastic material conveying and pipeline systems for chilled water and compressed air.

Accredited to ISO 9001 for the past six years the company is continually striving to achieve improvement in all aspects of the business and is now working towards ISO 14001 and 18001.

In August 2015 Direct Engineering achieved the BSEN 1090 Execution Class 2 CE marking for structural steelwork in which the company’s engineers carried out further welding disciplines.

Training Services based in Chesterfield to help young people gain nationallyrecognised qualifications as well as workbased learning skills.

“Both myself and Ray are passionate about supporting young people to develop the skills they need and at the same time we are building on the future of the business by bringing in young talent,” said Lyn.

“Some of our full time members of staff started out with us 15 years ago as apprentices so not only have they benefited from the skills they have learnt but we are benefiting from our own investment.

“We have long-serving employees who are thought of as extended members of our family. Their skills have helped Direct Engineering to be where we are today.”

SPECIALIST SPIRAL WELDING SERVICES ARE IN DEMAND One of Direct Engineering’s inhouse services is spiral welding.

This process enables companies to continue to run machinery and equipment whose motors and rotor shafts may require replacement. In many cases replacement components may be obsolete so spiral welding offers an alternative solution to reinstate bent and worn shafts back to original equipment manufacturers’ specification.

“Spiral welding is highly specialised and we take pride in offering this service for components up to 10 tonnes,” said Ray.

CONTACT: Direct Engineering & Site Services Units 1-4 Highlands Place, Foxwood Industrial Park, Foxwood Road, Sheepbridge, Chesterfield, S41 9RN Tel: 01246 260058 Email: info@directeng.co.uk www.directeng.co.uk

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A FOOT PRINT OF QUALITY & SERVICE SINCE 1960

OUR STORY…

Although many companies promote a ‘family atmosphere’, here that’s no marketing ploy.

With decade-spanning staff working alongside the Topham family, dedication is tangible.

Every department works together as a whole, like the well-oiled machines of the industries we sell to, ensuring expectations are always exceeded.

“Since my father set the company up in 1960, we’ve been proud to call ourselves a family business. From warehouse to office, through five different premises, our ethics and standards have never changed. PSF means quality safety gear, footwear and workwear, built to last and designed with the industry in mind. Out of our Sheffield base we sell to the world, based on this reputation.”

Howard Topham, MD.

PSF was established in 1960 by John Topham on the back of his manufacturing sales experience. The first premises opened at Attercliffe in a modern industrial unit.

PSF TODAY PSF is now one of the UK’s leading safety providers, with a nationwide customer base. PSF has the exclusive licence for the UK & Ireland to manufacture and sell Workwear and Footwear under the JCB brand. The brand has established itself as a market leader in the sector, cementing a reputation for unparalleled support and protection. PSF recently launched a new line, Wildcat, combining street styles with industry-standard protection, at a competitive price point.

As well as an extensive footwear range, PSF supplies all kinds of workwear including high visibility, flame retardant, chemical protection, corporate workwear as well as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as head, ear, eye and hand protection, first aid, spill kits and safety signs.

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CUSTOMISED WORKWEAR

Most of the garments in the PSF range of protective workwear and corporate clothing can be enhanced by the addition of your company logo. Customisation methods include:

Direct Embroidery Embroidering direct onto garments is a cost effective way of reproducing multi-coloured logos, giving a very professional appearance.

Most suitable for: • Polycotton workwear • Shirts • Polo shirts • Sweatshirts • Fleece fabrics • Baseball caps/beanie hats

Heatseal Transfer Heatseal transfer requires heat being applied to a colour transfer that is fixed into the fabric or garment.

These transfers can be manufactured in a wide range of colours and sizes and a choice of grades offering different levels of durability.

Ideal for: • Hi-visibility garments • Bespoke uniforms • Workwear • Corporate clothing • Children’s hi-vis vests We can also produce bespoke Safety Helmet stickers, over-laminated for scratch protection.

PROMOTIONAL BANNERS Roller Banners Our roller banners are made with the highest quality materials, using a state of the art manufacturing process.

• Suitable for indoor or outdoor use • Height 2m, with a maximum print width of 600mm • 500gsm satin finish banner material for durability • Banner stand with two feet • Durable, easy to assemble and transport • Comes with black carrier case for protection

Vinyl Banners Our full colour vinyl banners are made using high quality 440gsm PVC for strength and durability to give you that professional, corporate look.

• Suitable for indoor or outdoor • Available up to 20m long, with a maximum print depth of 715mm • Eyelets are available for hanging • High durability inks to prevent fading • Available from £8 per meter

Contact: Progressive Safety, 101 Worthing Road, Sheffield, S9 3JN. Tel: 0114 273 8349 Email: sales@psf.co.uk www.psf.co.uk

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Property & Facilities Management CPP offer an unrivalled Property & Facilities Management service across Yorkshire & the Midlands.

Services include: • Facilities Management • Property & Asset Management • Health & Safety Compliance Audits • Supply Chain Reviews • Relocations and Move Management

Examples of our management portfolio:

Wards Exchange 35,000 sq.ft office

Abbey House 20,000 sq.ft office

Richard Armitage MRICS Associate M: +44 (0) 748 289 8898 E: richard@cppartners.co.uk

SHEFFIELD 0114 2738857

CHESTERFIELD 01246 386997

Steel City House 68,000 sq.ft office

Matthew Fitzgerald MRICS Partner M: +44 (0) 747 886 8861 E: matthew@cppartners.co.uk

NOTTINGHAM 0115 8966611

www.cppartners.co.uk

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First For Business

LIGHTING

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

LIGHTING THE WAY PARTNERSHIP WITH US MANUFACTURER PUTS CONSTELLATION LIGHTING AT THE FOREFRONT AT THE LED REVOLUTION. onstellation Lighting designs and creates LED systems for a wide range of commercial and industrial applications, including freight, warehousing and logistics, external floodlighting, food production and office lighting.

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The company has installations all around the world and has a strong record globally in designing solutions for clients that are cost-effective, provide an early return on investment, reduce energy bills, contribute to improving staff performance and are good for the environment.

Towards the end of 2014, Constellation Lighting became an official UK distributor

for the global industry leader in LED lighting, US-based Cree.

energy efficient luminaires available on the market.

Cree first brought the blue LED to market in 1989 and now leads the LED lighting revolution, which is making energy-wasting lighting obsolete and replacing it with energy-efficient, environmentally friendly and costeffective LED alternatives.

Constellation Lighting is able to back up the products with Cree’s 10-year manufacturer’s warranty so customers can have confidence they are using the most reliable lighting available.

Partnering with Cree strengthens the Sheffield company’s position in the global LED lighting market as it endeavours to provide the highest quality products to its customers. Cree’s technology-leading lighting solutions incorporate the latest in patented nano optic lenses for precise light distribution and some of the most

THE BIG SWITCH AT LINCOLN ELECTRIC As manufacturers of welding wire, equipment and consumables, the correct lighting is important to Lincoln Electric.

With old-fashioned ‘orange’ lights it could sometimes be a strain on the eyes for workers to see inside machines. And with the need to have lighting on 24 hours a day, seven days per week, energy bills were becoming a concern for the company.

The previous lights would have lost on average 30% of their effectiveness in their first year, but the new LED lights decrease to the same level in around 129,000 hours. In the case of Lincoln Electric, where the lights are used 24/7, it will take 14.7 years for their effectiveness to decrease by 30%.

Lincoln Electric turned to Constellation Lighting who replaced all 74 sodium lights with Cree’s patented LED lamps.

And with a 10-year manufacturer’s guarantee, there is no need to worry about maintenance costs or changing light bulbs.

The level of lighting was immediately improved and the company’s energy usage from lighting decreased from 44,400 to less than 15,000 watts. The annual savings added up to a staggering £19,000 per year, meaning Lincoln Electric enjoyed payback of the installation in just 18 months.

Garry Whitworth, from Lincoln Electric, said: “Here at Lincoln Electric we are fully committed to reducing our energy consumption and by switching to LED we have been able to reduce our carbon emissions by 132 tons as well as significantly reducing our running costs.”

Dan Blair, sales director at Constellation Lighting said: “This partnership with Cree has confirmed our commitment to provide our customers with the best possible lighting solutions.”

The colour temperature of LEDs is closer to the daylight spectrum, resulting in better image capture on CCTV, increased visual acuity, improved colour and detail perception and a more pleasant working environment.

Additional benefits of LED lighting systems over traditional incandescent lamps in industrial and commercial applications are: • Up to 85 per cent energy savings • 80,000 hour expected life span • Low heat generation • Instant start-up • Flicker free

CONTACT: Constellation Lighting Unit 1, Holbrook Rise, Holbrook Industrial Estate, Halfway, Sheffield, S20 3FG www.constellationlighting.com Tel: 0114 247 9900 sales@constellationlighting.com

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022 FFB Dec15 07/12/2015 11:06 Page 1

9 98% 8% o off o our ur cclients lients w would ould rrecommend ecommend H Howells owells LLLP LP

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Howells Solicitors is one of the most admired law fir firms ms in the nor north th of England.

At Howells, we will provide: •

The latest electronic conveyancing technology

Our commercial proper property ty depar department tment is headed by Louise W Wainwright, ainwright, who, with 10 years experience, specialises in all aspects of commercial proper property, ty, including freehold, lease negotiations and refinance.

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A client-focused service ser vice

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A smooth and stress-free transaction

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Great value

Louise has acted for a wide range of industrial, retail and office based businesses, high street banks, care homes and residential developers. Staying in regular surveyors contact with lenders, agents and sur veyors in the surrounding area, she has an invaluable insight into the market.

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22

If you would like to make an appointment at Howells or to receive more infor information mation please call Louise on 0114 249 6636. www.howellsllp.com www.howellsllp.com enquiries@howellsllp.com

023 FFB Dec15_Layout 1 07/12/2015 13:58 Page 1

First For Business

BUSINESS REVIEW

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

INTERNATIONAL TRADE NICK PATRICK, HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE, THE INTERNATIONAL TRADE CENTRE OF SOUTH YORKSHIRE.

015 has been a very interesting year for exporting businesses in the UK. At the start of the year the export trend was upwards with a growing confidence in the UK but it flattened out in the middle of the year as global and, more specifically for UK PLC, the European markets fell stagnant. Towards the end of this year the challenges of a strong sterling currency, concern about the global terrorism threats and the ongoing overall zero growth of the global economy took their toll.

2

Looking forward into 2016 we have to remain optimistic because it is vital that we continue to grow exports and bring money into the country. The balance of payments deficit needs to be addressed or our national debt will grow.

International trade is a two-way activity. To build good strong long-term business relationships we need to import as well, so the challenge is to buy in cheap commodities and services but sell high tech products and services. It is interesting that we have a large surplus on services but an even larger deficit on goods at national level.

The government is addressing these issues by increasing the support for businesses.

Many will have noticed the recent high profile advertising campaign ‘Exporting is Great’ and the follow up by UKTI with the ‘Not Difficult, Just Different’ campaign.

The Sheffield City region does have a

Nick Patrick

global demand but either do not consider export in their business planning or actually shy away from it because they think it is too difficult.

A particular feature of businesses in the Sheffield City Region is that they are often not the direct exporter but part of a supply chain into OEMs that in turn export. Being one or two steps back from the eventual customer does bring its own challenges and it’s beneficial if they can find some direct overseas customers themselves.

range of export support organisations including UKTI, the International Trade Forum, the Sheffield City Region Chambers, Medilink and the EEF, amongst some smaller private providers. Their challenge is to make sure that the programs they offer fit the needs of the businesses.

Business Sheffield through the SCRIPT committee (Sheffield City Region International Partnership for Trade) pulls all the stakeholders together and is a good balance of government agency and private business mix.

Despite the challenges from around the world we can do much better. During international trade events it is often the same participants but somehow we need to reach out to all those other companies who manufacture excellent products with

Currently one in five businesses in the UK export. If we can improve that to one in four, it will balance up the trade deficit leaving a little to spare and will push us further along the road to achieving the government’s ambitious target of identifying 100,000 new exporters and doubling exports to £1 trillion by 2020.

The export statistics for the Sheffield area alone for export documents processed from January to October 2015 compared to the same period in 2014 show a 18.5% increase in exporting value. Not bad when the UK’s overall exports are down.

Businesses in the SCR need to give themselves a pat on the back but we must not get complacent, we can all do so much more.

With all the expert help here in the Sheffield City Region, exporting is not difficult, it’s just different.

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024 FFB Dec15 09/12/2015 13:35 Page 1

The Leading International Trade Forum

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An independent members’ forum established to exchange information, knowledge and expertise in all aspects of international trade.

Recognised as the most important forum for exporters in our region, hosting networking events throughout the year, focusing on target export markets.

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International Trade Forum

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025 FFB Dec15 07/12/2015 12:04 Page 1

First For Business

INSOLVENCY

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

INSOLVENCY FEES RISE BUT THE NUMBER OF INSOLVENCIES DROP, SAYS HART SHAW BUSINESS RECOVERY. art Shaw Business Recovery is reminding SMEs that revised fees for bankruptcies and company insolvencies came into force on 16 November 2015.

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Fees and charges are reviewed annually and the revised fee structure ensures that the cost of insolvency processes is paid for by those who use them.

The company winding up deposit – which needs to be paid to the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment – is set to rise by eight per cent to £1,350, whilst the company winding up administration fee will climb by five per cent to £2,520.

Christopher Brown

Christopher Brown, Business Recovery & Insolvency Partner, at Hart Shaw, a founder member firm of the UK200 Group said: “These changes will be subject to Parliamentary scrutiny, but the rise in fees is disappointing for SMEs. However, it is promising to learn that

according to the latest figures from the Insolvency Service, there has been a fall in the number of company insolvencies in England and Wales over the last quarter.

“Some 3,539 companies entered insolvency in Q3 2015; a drop of more than ten per cent compared to Q3 2014.

The decrease in compulsory liquidations marks a drop to the lowest level since 1989. In fact, the estimated liquidation rate in the 12 months ending Q3 2015 was less than half of one per cent of active companies, which is the lowest level since comparable records began in 1984.

“However, if you’re an SME owner that is worried about bankruptcy, insolvency and the associated fees, talk to an expert.”

Hart Shaw Business Recovery has a team of professionals that can assist in this area.

To find out more, please contact Christopher Brown on 0114 251 8850 or chris.brown@hartshaw.co.uk.

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Supporting you to recruit the talent of the future, develop your existing employees and grow your business

Contact us to ďŹ nd out how Barnsley College can beneďŹ t your business.

Email: employer@barnsley.ac.uk Telephone: +44 (0)1226 216 166 Web: www.barnsley.ac.uk Twitter: @BCApprentices Facebook: Barnsley College - Apprenticeships

027 FFB Dec15_Layout 1 07/12/2015 14:00 Page 1

First For Business

BUSINESS REVIEW

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

BY NICK CREW, EXECUTIVE PRINCIPAL, UTC SHEFFIELD.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

o succeed in today’s world, young people need to develop problemsolving as well as technical skills.

Advances in many sectors require a workforce that can innovate, design and create new products. In Sheffield, educationalists and employers are working together to ensure that students’ qualifications and technical training matches the needs of employers, addresses skills gaps and supports economic growth.

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One of the significant milestones for the city in the coming year will be the opening of Sheffield’s second university technical college (UTC). UTCs are state-funded specialist technical schools for 14 to 19year-olds where employers are heavily involved in the curriculum, training the next generation of Britain’s creatives, scientists, engineers and technicians. Students complete traditional academic qualifications, including GCSEs and A Levels, in addition to a technical one. For more information, go to www.utcsheffield.org.uk UTCs provide a well-rounded education and have the latest equipment used by industry.They focus on two specialisms that match the skills needs of the region where they are based. We are proud to have led the way in Yorkshire and Humber with the opening of the region’s first UTC in September 2013 specialising in advanced engineering and manufacturing, and creative and digital. More UTCs are opening across Yorkshire and Humber and 39 have opened nationally.

Studying at a UTC offers strong job prospects for young people. Employers help to design and deliver our curriculum.

Students participate in real-life projects, so they gain experience of work and develop the professional and technical skills to go on to a career or higher education. UTCs also work with universities.The Sheffield College is the lead sponsor of both UTCs and the co sponsors are Sheffield Hallam University and Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Based on the Olympic Legacy Park in Attercliffe, with excellent transport links to Sheffield and Rotherham, the city’s second UTC will specialise in human sciences and

Nick Crew

computing.The £10 million four-storey facility, for 600 students, is part of a multimillion pound investment in cutting edge facilities for healthcare technologies, sports and sports science. Go to www.olympiclegacypark.co.uk

Street, specialises in the advanced engineering and manufacturing, and creative and digital industries. More than 40 employers are providing mentoring, setting curriculum projects and offering work experience.

UTC Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park campus is being built by BAM Construction and has been designed by Bond Bryan Architects.

Employers from the computing, healthcare technology, sports science, exercise medicine and wellbeing sectors will be central to the curriculum design and delivery.

Reflecting on 2015, our proudest moments include seeing our students compete with universities and employers in the prestigious WorldSkills competitions, and our first cohort of students successfully complete their studies with us and go on to university, employment or further training.

The launch of a Sheffield’s second UTC, due to open in September 2016, follows on from the success of the city’s first one. UTC Sheffield City Centre campus, on Matilda

We have had a real vote of confidence from so many partner organisations in Sheffield City Region. Once again, I want to thank them for their support as we look forward to the year ahead.

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First For Business

TRAINING

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

HOW NEW TALENT CAN HELP YOU “Going down the apprenticeship route has given us talented young staff with potential at an affordable rate. The First for Apprenticeships Barnsley Team made it easy by sourcing and filtering all the candidates.”

COULD YOUR BUSINESS BENEFIT FROM EMPLOYING AN APPRENTICE IN 2016?

FIND OUT HOW FIRST FOR APPRENTICESHIPS BARNSLEY CAN HELP YOU RECRUIT AN APPRENTICE AND DEVELOP YOUR BUSINESS.

irst for Apprenticeships Barnsley aims to help small to medium enterprises across the Barnsley borough to access high quality apprenticeship training.

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r More than 80 pe ore m e ar le cent of peop s if it es sin bu a e us likely to eships to offers apprentic le. op pe g un yo nal Source: Natio rvice.

Se p Apprenticeshi

As the employer you decide which training organisation you want to work with, seeking advice and guidance from First for Apprenticeships Barnsley, guaranteeing the right support for the future career path of your chosen candidate and the correct qualification to meet your business needs.

First for Apprenticeships Barnsley remove any uncertainty about the process of employing an apprentice and are there every step of the way to make sure you receive all the support you need to make the right decisions at every stage.

Heather Lord, manager at First for Apprenticeships Barnsley, said: “Apprenticeships are a great way of growing your business, developing new talent and tackling skills shortages.

Apprentices are highly motivated people who are keen to learn, progress and get the most from their job or career.”

Key benefits to your business: Planned growth – Apprenticeships provide the most cost effective route when planning for the future success of your business

28

Melanie Oldham, Managing Director of Bob’s Business

More productivity – Apprentices are trained with the right skills and knowledge for the job enabling them to work efficiently and effectively in your business

Easy staff recruitment – Processes which result in a strong staff retention rate Higher employee satisfaction – Apprentices are highly motivated people who are keen to learn, progress and get the most from their job.

First For Apprenticeships aims to: • Become the first point of contact for Three quarters employers of employers considering say apprentices hips apprenticeships as have reduced th eir an option within recruitment costs . their business

“Having a younger member of staff has undoubtedly encouraged more young people to come in to the practice. So much so that Kira now runs her own clinic. She makes younger patients feel comfortable.”

Source: 2012 Marie Hoyle, business Populus resear • Support the manager, ch. growth of local SMEs Kakoty Practice by raising awareness of CONTACT: the benefits of employing First For Apprenticeships apprentices in their business

• Reduce the number of young people not in education, employment or training by supporting their transition into employment

Queens Court, Regent Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S70 2EG Tel: 01226 216839 Twitter: @FABarnsley Facebook: facebook.com/FABarnsley www.firstforapprenticeshipsbarnsley.co.uk

029 FFB Dec15 07/12/2015 10:49 Page 1

PEOPLE IN THE YOUNG ED ST VE IN RS NESS HOU LIONS OF BUSI shire Business MMUNITY CELEBRATE MIL the South York R BUSINESS CO U ith O w e BY at E br IR le SH RK the New Year. intly ce OF SOUTH YO ng with you in ki would like to jo or er w th siness to ge d To ar E B& ith the local bu E look forw w B& ire . sh as All the staff at rk tm Yo is h hr ut ry Happy C able. g people of So community a ve gether Employ pport the youn To su g d in an m lp co he be to the region help wards Our Mission is ucators across the journey to ed in d n io an at es uc ss Ed d sine work that community an t into a field of million hours bu gh a si er in ov an of in t ga en m ent to lp the next With the invest orking environm e valuable opportunities he w a fering in le op can help by of . Thes u ng yo ni If ar s. place young pe le re r tu ei fu th eir or supports 9 336700. oices about th interests them ease call 0170 Inspirational ch pl or ed ct rm se fo ur in e yo to learn about generation mak a young person r fo es iti un rt oppo

T SUPPORT MPANIES THA O C S RT O PP EL SU TERPRISE MOD OUR SOCIAL EN only for your the future not ERATION to EN y G ke T e EX th N is E TH ise funds to iance hub we can ra mpany compl ng co ni d ai tr an r ng ou ni of ai Tr across our e work r young people but through th fo n, es tio iti sa un ni rt ga po or e op fety and we d Health & Sa and informativ g an tin id ci A t ex rs Fi er e liv de lping young s includ costs whilst he nge of course ng ra ni ai ur tr O . ur on yo gi re availability. reduce ices and course we drastically pr t r en fo id w nf no co e us ar tact same time! Con people at the

d experiences an BE PART OF IT arity presents t of skills ch en n tio pm lo da ve un lowing de The BE Fo al le op pe g ni orga sation for youn tivities. If your opportunities ac on s nd ha e with ake a funding and knowledg eering or to m nt lu vo in t en lvem from you. would like invo ld love to hear ou w e w en th donation others.

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01709 336700

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030 FFB Dec15 08/12/2015 16:43 Page 1

First For Business

DIGITAL

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

CLICK E-COMMERCE PROGRAMME HELPS TRAINING COMPANY TO MAKE THE MOST OF ITS ONLINE BUSINESS.

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health and social care training company is about to launch its first accredited training programme online, thanks to the Click e-commerce programme.

Teach You specialises in health and social care training and delivers its qualifications across the UK. It is one of the companies that has benefited from support from Click, a free fast-track e-commerce accelerator being delivered by start-up experts Enterprise Nation on behalf of Enterprising Barnsley.

Hosted at Barnsley’s Digital Media Centre, Click has given eligible businesses eight weeks of support and technical knowhow to help them turn their business idea into a successful online reality. The intensive support is being followed by 12 months of ongoing mentoring and free access to shared workspace.

Established in 2013, Teach You’s mission is to improve the quality of care people receive through effective leadership in

30

areas such as childcare, residential care and learning disabilities.

Managing director Kerri Hull and her husband Rory worked in social care for 18 years before starting to develop their online training. But they soon realised they wanted to create better e-learning programmes.

When Tracey Johnson of Enterprising Barnsley contacted Kerri to tell her about the Click programme Kerri jumped at the chance.

“It was the best thing that could have happened to us and it’s been so liberating,” said Kerri. “We had our e-learning platform built, but the Click programme tackled all of the issues which were stopping us moving forward. We have

received training from different specialists, who have all been second to none.

Kerri Hull

“We were also offered the opportunity to attend Enterprise Nation sessions in London and a ‘Show Me the Money’ event at KPMG in Canary Wharf.

“It’s been so helpful to look at different business models and learn how our own company could progress.”

Teach You is based at the Digital Media Centre in Barnsley and has recently expanded to larger offices.

Kerri said: “Without the help of Enterprising Barnsley I just don’t think we would be where we are today.”

CONTACT: Digital Media Centre County Way, Barnsley, S70 2EQ Tel: 01226 720700 www.clicktogether.online

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First For Business

CHARITY

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

usinesses across the City Region are being urged to take up the challenge of supporting two of South Yorkshire’s best loved charities.

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WILL YOU TAKE ON THE MASTER CUTLER’S CHALLENGE IN 2016?

The Master Cutler’s Challenge was launched in 2008, when the Master Cutler for that year, Gordon Bridge, invited companies to transform a £50 investment into as much charity fundraising as possible.

Every year has seen the event grow – more than 500 companies have taken part to date, raising in excess of £1 million for a range of charities.

And in 2016 Master Cutler Craig McKay is aiming to see more businesses than ever before take up the challenge of raising money for his chosen organisations, St Luke’s Hospice in Sheffield and Rotherham Hospice.

“Not only is the Master Cutler’s Challenge a landmark annual event for many local businesses but in 2016 it supports two charities very dear to us all,” said Mr McKay, the CEO of Sheffield engineering firm Evenort Ltd.

Master Cutler Craig McKay

“The impact of the work done by St Luke’s and Rotherham Hospice touches so many and one day it

might even mean something to us all very personally.

“We all have a stake in the wellbeing of these charities and I can think of no better way to invest in that than to take part in this year’s Master Cutler’s Challenge.

“I’m really determined that together we make this the biggest, most successful challenge to date.

“For me the challenge is about more than raising funds – there’s so much to gain from taking part as individuals, as businesses and as a business community too.”

Participants are given £50 and the challenge is to use entrepreneurial skills and teamwork to make as much money as possible for the two hospices.

An official Master Cutler’s Challenge launch will be held at the historic Cutler’s Hall on February 4 but companies are already being encouraged to sign up and get the ball rolling.

To find out more visit www.mcc2016.co.uk, call Jack at St Luke’s on 0114 2357594 or Colin at Rotherham Hospice on 01709 308918.

Join us for this year’s bigger y big g gger than gg ever chall challenge! llenge!!

Employee and client engagement Positive PR Supports local community Demonstrates s ingenuity and innovation innov Fun! u

Find out mo more: www.mcc2016.co.uk www.mcc20 Cutler Cutlerss C Company ompany Charitable Trust Trust r Registered Reg Charit Charity y Number 224063. S Stt Luke’ Luke’ss Hospice Registered Charity Number 254402. Rotherham Hospice Registered Charity Number 700356

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First For Business

BUSINESS REVIEW

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

CREATIVE & DIGITAL MEL KANAREK, CO-FOUNDER OF SHEFFIELD DIGITAL. ould Sheffield’s digital businesses be the hidden accelerator for our local economy?

C

When the Tech Nation 2015 report was published, it stated that digital businesses in the City Region employed over 20,000 people. Sheffield was also one of the top five clusters by average company turnover growth.

This report was based on data collected at the end of 2014.

When the survey came round again in October of 2015, more than double the number of companies responded. By the time this article is published, the 2016 report may be available – what story will it tell?

Last January, speaking at an event titled Rise of the Innovation Districts, Bruce Katz of the Brookings Institution told us: “Each new high-tech job creates five new local jobs outside tech”.

In February, Zoo Digital won a significant contract with BBC Worldwide. In June, it was Sumo Digital and Disney. In October, the Floow, one of our leading start-ups, signed an important deal in China.

In November, two large digital employers chose Sheffield as a base for expanding their operations. Between them, they plan to create over 200 new, high value jobs.

In the course of the year, digital companies based in Sheffield won national and international awards in industries ranging from insurance

and transport to gaming and broadcasting.

develop them from start-up to scale-up.

So, there can really be no doubt that Sheffield’s digital industry is thriving and that it has tremendous potential as a net contributor to the regional economy.

However, it also has growing pains to overcome.The challenges are familiar ones and they are not unique to digital: recruitment and skills, access to finance, how to encourage more start-ups and

Digital employers in the city are starting to work with education at all levels to inform young people about the breadth of rewarding career opportunities that digital offers.They are also challenging education to equip those young people with the problem solving, risk taking and creativity skills that employers need. But much more needs to happen, and happen quickly.

Mel Kanarek

The industry also needs space: flexible, adaptable office space where companies can express their personalities and create environments that foster creativity; and community spaces to meet, network, share information and spark collaboration.

And finally, the industry needs profile.

Sheffield’s digital capabilities are world class, but we need to be seen in order to attract talent, investment and opportunities. As one of the core cities represented by Tech North, Sheffield is getting noticed. But we need our own city to recognise us too and to recognise the contribution that digital can make to business and society, across the board.

This time last year, my colleague Chris Dymond wrote in this magazine about the city’s creative and digital industries. He talked about the differences between the ‘C’ and the ‘D’ in ‘CDI’ and suggested that it was time for Sheffield’s digital businesses to have their own organisation to connect, represent and promote them.That organisation now exists: it’s called Sheffield Digital (http://sheffield.digital).

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First For Business

FINANCE

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

THE RAPID RISE OF ETHICAL LENDING IS CREATING THOUSANDS OF JOBS AND NEW BUSINESSES. government small business survey showed that nearly 40 per cent of SMEs trying to access finance experience difficulty, and this rises to 48 per cent if they are trying to get a bank loan. 1

A

The ethical loans market, seen as a real alternative to traditional banking, has experienced a rapid rise over the last year, with over £250 million of loans creating 10,000 new businesses and 25,000 jobs across the UK. That’s according to new research by Responsible Finance, the membership organisation for ethical lenders formerly known as the Community Development Finance Association (CDFA).

Finance For Enterprise (FFE), the Responsible Finance provider serving the Sheffield City Region and neighbouring

areas, has been supporting the start-up and growth of SMEs since 1985. The growth within the Responsible Finance sector is mirrored locally with FFE providing loans in the last 12 months of £7.5 million to 160 SMEs. As the local delivery partner for the government funded Start Up Loans scheme, FFE has lent a further £1 million to 90 new-start businesses during this period.

estimated £35 million in added value to the local economy over the 12 months term.

This funding has supported the creation or safeguarding of around 900 jobs which have helped contribute an

1Small Business Survey 2014: SME Employers (March 2015), Department for Business, Innovation & Skills.

Finance For Enterprise, a registered lender under the Enterprise Finance Guarantee scheme, provides loans up to £150,000 across the Sheffield City Region to businesses unable to access mainstream finance.

CONTACT: Finance For Enterprise, Doncaster Business Innovation Centre, Ten Pound Walk,Doncaster, DN4 5HX Tel: 0333 014 3455 Email: Info@finance-for-enterprise.co.uk Website finance-for-enterprise.co.uk

Helping you move forward

Business loans up to £150,000 These can be used to provide additional capital or headroom in cash flow where bank support is unavailable and/or to provide gap funding for growth and development projects.

www.finance-for-enterprise.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @FinanceFE

Call us today 0333 014 3455

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036 FFB Dec15 09/12/2015 10:01 Page 1

First For Business

FINANCIAL PLANNING

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

ARE YOU FINANCIALLY READY FOR THE FUTURE? ASKS AMY GOODSON OF LEO WEALTH MANANGEMENT. s there enough money in your pension? Have you made a will? Is your family financially protected in the event of your death?

I

Amy Goodson, director of Leo Wealth Management, advises both individuals and companies on aspects of financial planning. She helps businesses establish a clear strategy and direction, including future exit planning and protection against potential risks. Amy works with directors, business owners and professionals. She helps create a plan to achieve realistic and achievable financial goals and focuses on any shortfalls and areas of strength.

working towards a specific goal and financial planning is no different. How do you really know if you can afford that holiday home, enjoy a comfortable retirement, or leave a legacy to your family if you don’t review your finances regularly?”

In the ever-increasing complex world of financial services there are no simple offthe-peg solutions. You need advice you can trust and that is tailored to suit you.

You also need a person who doesn’t talk jargon and explains concepts clearly.

Amy said: “My emphasis is on developing and maintaining long-term relationships.

Face-to-face relationships are incredibly important to me, and is the way I

Amy Goodson

develop my client base. I specialise in providing high quality personal financial advice on most aspects of financial planning. I assist businesses in the increasingly complex area of corporate financial planning, providing guidance on pensions, auto enrolment, protection for directors and key employees, tax reliefs and aspects of exit strategy planning.”

“I understand how difficult it can be for people to put time aside to review their finances, but CONTACT: doing so can be extremely Leo Wealth Management valuable and make all the Tel: 07985 408638 difference in bringing your Email: amy.goodson@leowealthmanagement.co.uk dreams to life. www.leowealth.co.uk “Planning is key when

Amy offers a free personal or business financial review. She also hosts regular seminars and her next will be on Auto Enrolment in February.

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First For Business

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

BUSINESS REVIEW

www.ffb-online.co.uk

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

NEIL LARGE, HEAD OF CORPORATE FINANCE AND COMMERCIAL LAW AT TAYLOR&EMMET LLP.

ccess to a diverse pool of talent, excellent connectivity and low operational costs makes Sheffield a truly viable location for professional services.

A

The city has 117,000 employees working in banking, accountancy, insurance and the law, with the vast majority of firms reporting income growth – many in double digits – thanks to this year’s recovering market conditions.

training and technology to enhance efficiency, but this raises important questions about economic improvement.

Will a more positive outlook make firms less inclined to take tough strategic decisions?

This reducing pressure on management may explain the apparent lack of appetite for merger and diversification recently – only 19 per cent of firms are expected to merge in the next 12 months. Generally,

New regulations and government policy pushing for greater transparency, quality and value are driving unprecedented change that is creating challenges and opportunities to enhance infrastructure, assets and people.

As the economy has picked up, so too has demand for our advice.

Taylor&Emmet’s commercial and corporate finance departments have just enjoyed their best ever year and we have helped a variety of Sheffield companies make acquisitions that will benefit their long term future.

Although business remains buoyant, there are concerns that we may lose momentum in 2016, due to ongoing problems in the Euro zone, a slowdown in emerging markets and difficulties in the Middle East. These matters seem far removed from Sheffield, but exports play a key role in the success of local firms and a drop in revenue will ripple through the entire business community.

Law firms particularly are being battered by the combined effects of the Legal Services Act and changes to legal aid, insurance and compliance. The old market is being torn apart by a period of economic volatility, sweeping away traditional practices and replacing them with new types of businesses.

That said Taylor&Emmet remains optimistic about the challenges ahead.

Like many of our colleagues, we end the year in a far stronger position than we started. We must now continue to innovate, communicate and disseminate the value of using home grown professional services.

Career paths are becoming more complicated and new uncertainties are emerging as recruitment is put back on the agenda. It poses particular difficulties in middle management, where a lack of new posts at the height of the recession is affecting the availability of candidates with seven years’ post qualification experience.

As a sector, we offer high levels of skill and experience and an unrivalled understanding of the local economy. This crucial combination makes us the obvious choice for any city region business.

Across many professions, there are significant drivers for consolidation. We are seeing the number of private practice law firms in England and Wales starting to fall as competition grows and new players use sophisticated marketing to boost brand awareness.

Pressure on professional fees is also on the increase. The default response seems to be investment in

we appear to be treading carefully, reluctant to make any dramatic changes, even to take advantage of growth markets.

Neil Large

‘Although business remains buoyant, there are concerns that we may lose momentum in 2016, due to ongoing problems in the Euro zone, a slowdown in emerging markets and difficulties in the Middle East.’

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First For Business

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

PREPARE FOR CHANGE WOSSKOW BROWN’S NEW HEAD OF COMMERCIAL ADELE DETHICK LOOKS AT HOW THE ROLLOUT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS, ENTERPRISE AND EMPLOYMENT ACT Adele 2015 WILL AFFECT Dethick BUSINESSES OVER THE NEXT 12 MONTHS AND PROVIDES AN OVERVIEW OF THE CHANGES TO EMPLOYMENT LAW THAT WILL MAKE AN IMPACT IN 2016.

38

he Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Act 2015 was introduced in April but much of the roll-out is taking place in 2016, so it is in the coming year that it will have most effect on the owners of small businesses.

T

The introduction of the Act was driven by the Government’s aim to make life easier for small business owners and to make the UK a more enterprising place. Hopefully the outcome will be a good one for businesses in this region, and across the UK, but of course there are many business owners who might not fully understand the implications of the Act. 2016 will also see further changes to Employment Law which will directly impact on many companies within this region.

I’ve outlined below the key changes and implications for businesses which directors, owners and operators might want to prepare for during 2016.

QUARTER ONE One of the first significant changes is to financial reporting, which will affect businesses with accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January.

By 26 March the Secretary of State will have made regulations to require publication of information about gender pay gaps by companies with 250 or more employees.

We might also see changes to Sunday trading introduced this quarter. A short consultation took place about giving powers to local authorities and city mayors to extend trading in their local areas.

The Government’s response is expected in the first quarter of 2016.

QUARTER TWO

By April companies will be required to keep a Persons of Significant Control (PSC) register. This means that all entities

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LEGAL

relation to reporting misconduct by directors. Additionally there will be two new grounds for disqualifying a director; these are where they have been convicted of a company-related offence overseas or where they have instructed a disqualified director.

or persons with significant control over a company must be identified and kept on a public register. The definition of having ‘significant control’ is directly or indirectly holding more than 25 per cent of the shares or voting rights in a company or the rights to appoint/control the board of directors.

New company filing requirements will also come into force in April. These will remove the requirement for companies to file an Annual Return to Companies House but will instead require them to provide a confirmation statement saying the company has provided all information it has been required to provide during a certain period. The statement must be submitted every 12 months, within 14 days of expiry of the previous statement.

The new company filing requirements will also include the option for private companies to keep certain information (including the PSC register) on the public register only, rather than keeping and maintaining their own separate registers.

The aim of these changes is to reduce the administrative burden on companies.

In April we will also see the National Living Wage (NLW) introduced for workers aged 25 and over. The first national living wage will be set at £7.20 (the over-21 national minimum wage rate from 1 October 2015 of £6.70 plus a premium of 50p) and will apply from April 2016. The Government expects the rate to rise to over £9 by 2020. The Low Pay Commission, which advises the Government on the National Minimum Wage (NMW) rate, has been asked to also recommend appropriate levels for the NLW. On 1 September 2015, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) announced a package of measures to improve compliance with the NMW and the NLW. The package of measures includes higher fines and potential disqualification for company directors for non-compliance. The proposals below are expected to be introduced in April 2016: • Doubling the penalties for non-payment of the NMW and NLW. Penalties will increase from 100 per cent of arrears to 200 per cent of arrears but will be halved if employers pay within 14 days. The overall maximum penalty of £20,000 per worker remains unchanged.

• Increasing the budget for enforcement of the NMW and NLW in 2016.

• The establishment of a new HMRC

The Immigration Bill 2015-16 will also be implemented in October 2016. The Bill:

Employers will have to pay a levy to help fund 3m extra apprenticeship’s over the next five years

team dedicated to pursuing the most serious cases of employers deliberately not paying the NMW and NLW. • The introduction of a new penalty of disqualification from being a company director for up to 15 years for the nonpayment of the NMW and the NLW. • The creation of a new position called the Director of Labour Market Enforcement and Exploitation, which will oversee enforcement of the NMW and NLW, the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate and the Gangmasters Licensing Authority.

QUARTER THREE The big topic for quarter three will be apprenticeships. There is to be a levy on large employers to fund 3 million additional apprenticeships over the next five years. A consultation on this was held during September 2015 and it is expected that the date for implementation will be announced in the third quarter of 2016.

QUARTER FOUR

• Extends the existing criminal offence of an employer ‘knowingly’ employing an illegal migrant to having ‘reasonable cause to believe’ an employee

is an illegal worker • Raises the sentence for knowingly employing an illegal worker from two to five years’ in prison • Creates a new offence of illegal working, so illegal workers’ assets can be seized At Wosskow Brown we are introducing some new services which can help companies to address the new requirements. For example, for a small fee we can take care of a company’s annual filing requirements.

Related to this, we are introducing a new company secretarial service for 2016 as well as a registered office service, giving business owners who operate from their home the opportunity to register an office address. This can be a useful option for people who do not want to advertise that they work from home and have expensive equipment and sensitive documents at their private address.

Please contact us for more information on any of the changes or to enquire about our services.

From October the Government will prohibit corporate directors.

Anyone currently in this position CONTACT: will cease to be a director 12 Adele Dethick, Wosskow Brown months from when this comes The John Banner Centre, 620 Attercliffe into force.

Road, Sheffield, S9 3QS There will also be the Tel: 0114 256 6563 introduction of a new approach Email: adele.dethick@wosskowbrown.co.uk for liquidators, administrators www.wosskowbrown.co.uk and administrative receivers in

39

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First For Business

GROWTH

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

LOOK BACK TO MOVE FORWARD BIG PLANS FOR 2016? DON’T JUST DIVE STRAIGHT IN SAYS ANDY WOOD, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF WILSON FIELD. or some businesses this is the busiest time of year; restaurants, bars and retailers for example. For others it is the quietest; manufacturers may have shutdowns and the weather can put the brakes on construction projects.

F

But whatever sector you are in and whether your business is booming or going through a quiet period, it is highly likely that now is a time for reflection.

Many business owners find that Christmas and New Year is a natural time to take stock and compare their current position with the one they were in 12 months previously.

Start by looking at your cash flow. Is your bank balance struggling compared with last year? are you taking longer to pay people? are you chasing customers for payment so that you can pay your own suppliers?

Any business owner who feels their company is in a worse position than last year needs to think about why this is.

Have you let standards slip or relaxed your grip on procedures? If sales have fallen have you ramped-up marketing or cut back overheads? If there has been a deterioration in the stability of the company it is extremely important to address that.

The solution is not always to borrow money for a ‘quick fix’. If the underlying

Wilson Field

Business Recovery & Finance

0800 901 2475 www.wilsonfield.co.uk

problem has not been addressed, it is unlikely that throwing more money at the business will make a lasting impact.

future? If you have big plans and ideas to help your business to grow in 2016 make sure you have ironed out any existing problems first and have the money to enable you to see things through.

I’m always amazed at how many businesses borrow money because they automatically think that doing so is the CONTACT: answer to their problems.

Andy Wood Looking BACK at how you The Manor House, 260 Ecclesall Road South, have been operating can Sheffield, S11 9PS be the best way of moving Tel: 0114 235 6780 FORWARD. Are you www.wilsonfield.co.uk optimistic about the

Time To Pay HMRC Debt

CVA

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MVL

Members Voluntary Liquidation

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office furniture

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L&TA Office Furniture, Sheffield are one of the UK leading suppliers of office desking seating and storage systems. L&TA is ideal for local businesses and corporate customers seeking new or used office furniture to furnish or update their workspace cost-effectively. We are facilities management organisation with experience moving a variety of facility types, including offices, warehouses, libraries and universities.

Aswell as an extensive range of new and second hand office furniture, we also offer office clearance services. Our goal is to provide efficient and cost effective moves, that limit operational downtime and smoothly transition you into your new facilities.

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043 FFB Dec15_Layout 1 07/12/2015 14:08 Page 1

First For Business

BUSINESS REVIEW

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

CONSTRUCTION

BY MARTIN MCKERVEY, SHEFFIELD CITY REGION LEP BOARD MEMBER AND PARTNER AT NABARRO. rowth in the Sheffield City Region is now on a firm footing and business investment, productivity and wage growth are on the rise. Our ambition has produced tangible results and there is real optimism. How we further develop that sense of optimism will be intricately linked to how we position the City Region to attract the national and international investment which is needed if we are to further grow our economy and ensure we are at the forefront of the Northern Powerhouse.

G

We know the challenges we face and these were identified and set out in the LEP’s Strategic Economic Plan. We aim to create 70,000 new jobs, increase our GVA by £3.1 billion and generate 6,000 new start-up businesses.

The UK Government has historically under-invested in the north but there is fresh commitment to building a stronger and better connected northern economy which is rebalanced and less reliant on the performance of financiers in the capital.

This is being demonstrated through the development of major infrastructure projects in the north including continued commitment to bringing high speed rail (HS2) to the Sheffield City Region.

This investment is making the Sheffield City Region a more attractive place for international businesses to locate. We must work hard to articulate our offering to national and international investors. We are already competing and presenting our offering on an international stage and we have seen some very recent important evidence of this e.g. the recent Chinese Premier’s visit to the UK, substantial Chinese investment in Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield, the framework agreement entered into by Sheffield City Council with Sichuan Guodong Construction Co, Korean investment in Rotherham and US investment in the Peak Resort in Chesterfield.

universities, and creating the right fiscal and financial environment which will be attractive to investors. We already see signs of this in the context of the recent Devolution Deals, the development of the Sheffield City Region Investment Fund programme, the development of a housing investment fund, long-term transport funding, and the possibility of 100 per cent of business rate growth retention and working towards full localisation.

The Sheffield City Region’s inward investment team has developed a strong network of professional location consultants and company advisors: we need to ensure they also understand what the Sheffield City Region can provide.

There is also the ‘human capital’ we have such as those in the business and professional services sectors – we have many international players who are able to act as ambassadors for this region.

Up to 70 per cent of investment into the city region comes from companies already located in the area. This is delivered by the local authority investment teams who have a very important role to play. Investment cycles can last several years and the collaboration between the Sheffield City Region investment team and local authority colleagues is building a pipeline

of new investment opportunities.

Inward investment is not a stand-alone package, it is intricately linked with our skills base, our schools and education, and above all it involves creating the right environment for businesses and companies who want to come here to do business with us. Achieving greater profile for the Sheffield City Region is a critical part of our growth aspiration. Marketing our region for the right audience is at the heart of the ambition for sustained economic resurgence in Sheffield City Region. Building profile, knowledge and connections are the key elements in how we support our indigenous businesses to grow and attract greater amounts of foreign direct and portfolio investment into our region. We must look to build relationships with key target business audiences.

Let us take pride in our successes, they are examples of what can be achieved and they are a platform from which we must look to build and achieve even more success. To understand these opportunities, Nabarro and FTI Consulting recently conducted an in-depth survey along with interviews of key market players controlling property, investment funds and portfolios worth more than £150bn. The results of the survey and interviews, which reveal a shift in attitude towards UK real estate, have been published in Growing Opportunities: A New Outlook for UK Real Estate. www.nabarro.com/a-newoutlook-for-uk-real-estate/report

We must also recognise the need for a collaborative approach between the public and private sectors, engaging with our

43

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First for Business

CHARITY

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS ESTATE AGENTS MORFITT SMITH ARE BACKING A CAMPAIGN TO BRING FESTIVE CHEER TO SOME OF SOUTH YORKSHIRE’S POOREST YOUNGSTERS. s we scour the shelves to grab the latest on-trend toy for our children or gift sets for the teenagers in our lives, spare a thought for those who will be waking up to no presents on Christmas Day.

A

One in three children are living in poverty in South Yorkshire – that’s approximately 76,000 children – and this is why Morfitt Smith estate agents has teamed up with Hallam FM Cash For Kids to launch Mission Christmas.

All you need to do to help support this cause is to buy one extra present this year. It can be anything from essentials such as clothes and bath sets to toys and entertainment – just make sure they are suitable gifts for newborns, babies, children or teenagers up to the age of 18.

If you prefer, you can donate money either online, in person at Cash For Kids’ Herries Road head quarters or you can text HALLAM to 70808 to donate £5.

Morfitt Smith are the official drop off point for your Christmas gift donations and with branches in Banner Cross, Hillsborough and Crookes, you’re never far from your local branch. Hundreds more local businesses have also signed up to become drop off points to make this year the best fundraiser yet.

Every Morfitt Smith branch will also be promoting the campaign with a name the bear competition. To enter, just give the bear the best name you can think of and

donate £1 to Mission Christmas.

The bear will then be donated as a gift.

Mission Christmas is an annual campaign, and as usual, the Hallam FM team will be out on their sleigh, spreading Christmas joy to the children of South Yorkshire, collecting gifts from the drop off points and getting involved in Christmas light switch-ons.

The Morfitt Smith team will also be getting into the Christmas spirit by helping out at the Cash For Kids head quarters, handing out presents in Christmas fancy dress costumes.

for bringing friends and families together and we all remember the excitement of waking up on Christmas morning to find out what presents we have, but not everyone is as fortunate,” says Paul.

“Mission Christmas is such an important and worthy cause to ensure that every child has a smile on their face on Christmas morning.”

Last year, Mission Christmas helped 17,000 disadvantaged and hospitalised children have a merry Christmas with approximately £750,000 worth of gifts.

This year, the team are hoping to reach even more children.

If you want to help a disadvantaged child this Christmas, drop your gifts into your local Morfitt Smith branch until Wednesday 23 December. For more information, call into one of their local branches.

The estate agents specialises in selling, but also rent properties all over Sheffield.

Alternatively, you can donate to Mission Joint director and valuer John Morfitt has worked in property for over 30 years and Christmas at www.hallamfm.co.uk/mission or text HALLAM to 70808 to donate £5. spends much of his time visiting clients, Let’s help every child living in South whilst co-director Paul Batty is in charge Yorkshire have a very merry Christmas. of the day-to-day running of the branches. Together, they are dedicated to providing a warm welcome and a CONTACT: personal service.

Morfitt Smith “Christmas is such a Crookes lovely time of year 210 Crookes, Sheffield, S10 1TG Hillsborough 90 Middlewood Road, Hillsborough, Sheffield, S6 4HA Banner Cross 912 Ecclesall Road, Banner Cross, Sheffield, S11 8TR

45

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047 FFB Dec15_Layout 1 07/12/2015 14:11 Page 1

First For Business

BUSINESS REVIEW

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

RICHARD ARMITAGE, ASSOCIATE, COMMERCIAL PROPERTY PARTNERS.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY he past year has represented a strong one for the property market, with conditions now giving landlords hope for a healthy outlook into 2016 and beyond.

T

The industrial sector has seen a return to speculative development this past year, in particular in prime locations along the M1 & M62 corridors. This is genuine cause for optimism; this year, we’ve witnessed a sale at record levels in excess of £90 per square foot for a planned 30,000 sq ft unit at the Advanced Manufacturing Park in Sheffield. The hope is that these increases in development can begin to tackle the issue of a chronic shortage of grade A stock across the region, but more is undoubtedly needed in the year ahead to meet demand.

The Sheffield office market has witnessed a record year in take-up and achieved a new prime rent in the city centre of £23 per sq ft. Like the industrial market, the office market is finally seeing the return of speculative development, particularly in grade A development. This year, proposals have been definitely announced for St Paul’s Place, Sheffield Digital Campus and Steel City House, to name but a few.

In addition to the ever dynamic transactional market, last year saw amendments in regulations of which all property owners and occupiers should be aware. The 2015 changes in the

Construction Design Management (CDM) regulations came into full operation in September and have put a far heavier liability on the party instructing any construction works for all associated Health and Safety on the project. As the definition of construction works effectively covers any form of property work, from construction or refurbishment through to routine repairs and maintenance, this can result in a great deal of responsibility (whether acknowledged or not) sitting with an owner/occupier instructing contractors to carry out works on their property.

When considered in conjunction with the Richard Armitage

new sentencing guidelines for Health and Safety breaches being brought into force on 1 February 2016, it’s clear that safe management systems for properties is increasingly coming into focus for the government.

It would therefore be prudent for all owners and occupiers to take a step back and review how they and their supply chain are managing the compliance requirements across their estate.

Unfortunately, this can be a rather opaque topic to get information on; the HSE provides guidance on responsibilities, but without knowing what assets you need to be maintaining, it’s hard to be certain on exactly what is required.

Given the potential penalties involved, it would be advisable, if unsure, to seek independent advice from a property specialist. They can provide the guidance on the impact of these changes, identify any unaddressed compliance risks and assist in the creation of a strategic maintenance plan going forwards, which can not only act as a risk mitigation but can actually save costs in the long term by extending asset lifespan.

Overall then, 2015 was a healthy step forwards for the Yorkshire property market. The year ahead is certainly one for landlords to be optimistic about, but also for taking stock of their current management arrangements.

47

048 FFB Dec15_Layout 1 07/12/2015 14:12 Page 1

First For Business

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

BUSINESS REVIEW

www.ffb-online.co.uk

RETAIL

BY ANN CADMAN, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE SOURCE SKILLS ACADEMY.

015 has proven to be a bumper year for the retail sector with a sustained period of growth for 30 consecutive months. Continued growth was seen until the end of September when figures were up 6.5 per cent on the year.

Although we have seen considerable growth, October like-for-like sales did fall by 0.2 per cent on last year as consumers held off on their purchases ahead of the Black Friday sales, coupled with unseasonably mild weather. This should not continue through the festive period with spending on Black Friday and Cyber Monday set to break £2bn with over a third of UK consumers taking part in the sales event. 1

2

Black Friday last year broke all expectations as consumers embraced the shopping event, with £1m spent every three minutes (according to KPMG).

Some retailers struggled with supply and systems failed under the pressure of extra demand. With sales this year set to increase further, it will be interesting to see whether retailers have been able to cope with demand and what impact this will have on December sales figures.

As we look to 2016, retail sales should continue to grow and, with predictions that the housing market should achieve moderate growth, this should also help to boost retail sales in homewares, DIY, furniture and floor coverings.2 Retailing continues to be a challenging

48

marketplace as customer expectations heighten and we must go beyond what is good customer service. Retailers now need to deliver the ‘customer experience’ as part of their sales strategy which will manifest itself in true customer hospitality; getting this right will not only keep people in store longer, but will also keep people coming back.

As part of being able to offer a great customer experience it is hugely important to know what your customers want. Retailers that conduct great research to find out what their customers want from their products and their thoughts on the service they receive are

Ann Cadman

likely to succeed by equipping staff with the knowledge of customer expectations – this leading to being able to give the right level of service to meet those expectations, which in turn, should lead to great sales.

Those who are yet to take part in research should consider looking into the Net Promoter Score (NPS) to attain customer satisfaction levels in order to develop their understanding of their customer and ensure they can meet their needs, as well as fully engaging staff, enabling their desire to serve the customer.

Our region has a lot to look forward to in the retail sector over the next 12 months and beyond, with many retail developments taking place, whether they are continuations of projects such as those in Barnsley town centre and at Meadowhall, or new projects taking shape across Sheffield – it certainly is an exciting time for retail in the Sheffield City Region.

I will continue to support the aspirations of the retail sector and to help further develop work to establish the Sheffield City Region as the Retail Hub of the North and I look forward to promoting the fantastic retail offer that our region has to show.

1 www.retail-week.com/analysis/ data/data-black-friday-and-cyber-mondaypredicted-to-break-2bn-barrier 2 www.retailresearch.org/retailforecast

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 1

Retail & Service

Business Matters 6KH̪HOG &LW\ 5HJLRQ 5HWDLO +XE RI WKH 1RUWK ,VVXH 'HFHPEHU

In this issue: BCSC Conference Highlights 5JGHƒGNF #PVKSWGU 3WCTVGT %QPVKPWGU VQ ITQY /GCFQYJCNNŨU OGOQTCDNG [GCT $WFFKPI 'PVTGRTGPGWT RQRU WR KP 4QVJGTJCO

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Welcome Welcome to to our twelfth edition of

Ann A nn n Cadman OBE 8 KEG %JCKT QH VJG 5JGHĆ’GNF %KV[ 4GIKQP 4GVCKN (QTWO CPF /CPCIKPI &KTGEVQT QH 6JG 5QWTEG 5MKNNU #ECFGO[ 8KEG %JCKT QH VJG 5JGHĆ’GNF %KV[ 4GIKQP 4GVCKN (QTWO CPF /CPCIKPI &KTGEVQT QH 6JG 5QWTEG 5MKNNU #ECFGO[

$ $V ZH DSSURDFK WKH HQG RI ZH ORRN EULHĚŠ\ DW H[SHFWDWLRQV IRU WKH &KULVWPDV SHULRG DQG UHĚŠHFW RQ WKH PRQWKV V ZH DSSURDFK WKH HQG RI ZH ORRN EULHĚŠ\ DW H[SHFWDWLRQV IRU WKH &KULVWPDV SHULRG DQG UHĚŠHFW RQ WKH PRQWKV S SUHYLRXV ZH DOVR ORRN DKHDG WR WKH RSSRUWXQLWLHV DQG SRVVLEOH FKDOOHQJHV IDFLQJ UHWDLOHUV IRU WKH 1HZ <HDU UHYLRXV ZH DOVR ORRN DKHDG WR WKH RSSRUWXQLWLHV DQG SRVVLEOH FKDOOHQJHV IDFLQJ UHWDLOHUV IRU WKH 1HZ <HDU ,Q WKH 6KHÍŚHOG &LW\ 5HJLRQ RXU KLJK VWUHHWV ,Q WKH 6KHÍŚHOG &LW\ 5HJLRQ RXU KLJK VWUHHWV towns and city centre centre ha have ve continued to de develop velop and gr grow. ow. Rotherham High Str Street eet continues to welcome new independent businesses and was pr proudly oudly shor shortlisted tlisted for High Street Street of the Year.

Year. Barnsle Barnsley y Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plans to regenerate regenerate the town centr centre e ar are e continuing and the new co covered vered mark market et should E H FRPSOHWHG E\ VSULQJ 6KHÍŚHOGĚľV 5HWDLO EH FRPSOHWHG E\ VSULQJ 6KHÍŚHOGĚľV 5HWDLO Quar ter plans ha ve star ted to tak e shape and Quarter have started take development partner partner is set to be chosen in a development are amongst many other early 2016. These are positive outcomes from from acr oss our rregion egion and positive across there will be more more to look forward forward to in 2016. there Parliamentary vote vote regarding regarding Sunday Sunday The Parliamentary November trading hours was postponed in November There is but is still a hot topic for discussion. There there will be and are are concerns from from no doubt there smaller,r, independent retailers smaller retailers on our high streets streets about extended Sunday Sunday trading, but now more more than e ever, verr, it is important important that our retailers retailers work together to provide provide a level level of consistency for high street street shoppers.

Retail consultant Martin Martin Blackwell, poses an interesting interesting question regarding regarding extended Sunday Sunday trading: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Would â&#x20AC;&#x153;Would the impact of extended Sunday Sunday trading on the costs to retailers retailers be mor more e than offset b by y the impact of extended

Sunda Sunday y trading on customer conv convenience enience and the rretailerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s etailerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to incr increase ease sales and S SURͤWV WDNLQJ LQWR DFFRXQW WKH QHHG WR HQVXUH URͤWV WDNLQJ LQWR DFFRXQW WKH QHHG WR HQVXUH good customer ser service vice to a avoid void congestion and queuing?â&#x20AC;? *1 This leads me nicely on to customer ser service. vice.

Shoppers ar are e expecting more more from from their cel abo ve the shopping experience and to ex excel above competition rretailers etailers and businesses will need to up their game in 2016 and go the extra mile To achie ve this, staff for their customers. To achieve must be fully engaged and lo ve the brand the y love they represent, by by achieving achieving this they they will be eager represent, offer customers true hospitality. hospitality. to offer As I write this, we ar e fast appr oaching Black are approaching Friday and it will be inter esting to see the Friday interesting outcome of this y earâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s e vent and whether it can yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event EH VHHQ DV D VXFFHVV RU QRW $VGD FRQͤUPHG EH VHHQ DV D VXFFHVV RU QRW $VGD FRQͤUPHG in November November that they they would not be taking part part in this y yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s earâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sales, their website stated: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The retailer retailer [ASD [ASDA] A] has listened to customer feedback feedback and rather than inv investing esting in a one-off day day of sales, has announced an inv investment estment of over over ÂŁ26 million in sustained sa savings vings spr spread ead across across a traditional seasonal shop. shop.â&#x20AC;?.â&#x20AC;?

commits hea heavily vily in the American e event vent and the rretailer etailer was one of the founders intr introducing oducing the Black Friday Friday sales e event vent to the UK. It will be interesting interesting to see if any other big UK rretailers etailers P PRYH DZD\ IURP WKH ÍĽDVK VDOHV HYHQW RU RYH DZD\ IURP WKH ÍĽDVK VDOHV HYHQW RU likewise, likewise, those who embrace it.

Moving Moving on to consumer spending, rresearch esearch

by ICM on behalf of Retail W conducted by Week, eek, are set to spend on a verage showed shoppers are average £423 on Christmas gifts and most (41%) will shop during No vemberr, with w mor e than half of November, more V KRSSHUV H[SHFWLQJ WR KDYH ͤQLVKHG WKHLU VKRSSHUV H[SHFWLQJ WR KDYH ͤQLVKHG WKHLU Christmas shopping befor e 1st December before December..*2 W We e will look to rreview eview the festive festive period, of which I am sur sure e ther there e will be inter interesting esting outcomes at our next Retail Matters conf conference erence taking place in F February. ebruary. ,, KRSH \RX HQMR\ RXU ͤQDO LVVXH RI DQG , KRSH \RX HQMR\ RXU ͤQDO LVVXH RI DQG , hope we will see y you ou at our next conf conference erence in the New Year.

Year. All that is left for me to say say is I wish you you a very very Merry Merry Christmas and a successful and prosperous prosperous 2016! *1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Further â&#x20AC;&#x153;Further thoughts on Sunday Sunday tradingâ&#x20AC;? Martin Martin Blackwell, published 11th November November 2015 (Link (Linkedin edin Pulse). *2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Retail Week Week published 30th October 2015.

Asdaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Asdaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision to withdraw fr from om the e event vent is surprising giv given en their parent parent company Walmart Walmart

This Issues highlights Meadowhallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s memorable year

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Quarter Continues to grow

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Budding Entrepreneur pops up in Rotherham

11

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Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 3

The Christmas shopping period is set tto o gr grow ow for 2015. Resear Research ch conducted b by y Mintel suggests sales this December will rreach each ÂŁ42 billion in the UK. 7KHUH ZDV D GUDPDWLF VKLIW LQ 7KHUH ZDV D GUDPDWLF VKLIW LQ UUHWDLOLQJ ODVW \HDU DV WKH 8.

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:KDW LV H[SHFWHG WKLV &KULVWPDV" : KDW LV H[SHFWHG WKLV &KULVWPDV" As mentioned, Mintel suggests sales of are ÂŁ42 billion, a rise of 2.5%, and Adobe ar e predicting pr edicting online sales to rreach each ÂŁ17.7 billion increase which would be a 7% incr ease on 2014. This more data is based on mor e than one trillion visits to over seven years.

4,500 rretail etail websites o ver the last se ven y ears.

Richard Richard Parks, Parks, Director Director of Retail Research Research at Mintel said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ther â&#x20AC;&#x153;There e was a clear message from from Black Friday Friday last year. year. It damaged Christmas gift spending and it took away away sales fr from om full priced sales over over the Christmas as period.â&#x20AC;? period.â&#x20AC;?

(Experian F Festive estive Insight Repor Reportt 2015)

3UHGLFWHG &KULVWPDV ZHE WUDĚŞF 3 UHGLFWHG &KULVWPDV ZHE WUDĚŞF Friday â&#x20AC;˘ Black F riday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 190 million to 200 million Monday â&#x20AC;˘ Cyber Monda y â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 170 million to 185 million Monday â&#x20AC;˘ Manic Monda y â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 150 million to 157million Day â&#x20AC;˘ Christmas Da y â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 150 million to 155 million Boxing Day â&#x20AC;˘ Bo xing Da y â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 170 million to 190 million Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day â&#x20AC;˘ New Y earâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Da y â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 130 million to 137 million

/RRNLQJ WR /RRNLQJ WR Richard Richard Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s says, says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;While we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ignore ignore the fact that economic growth growth is slowing and

ther e ar e uncer tainties ahead, at pr esent, with there are uncertainties present, growing and a strong strong housing market market incomes growing relaxed about the prospects prospects for we can be relaxed retailing in 2016. Overall Overall we can look to modest retailing growth in 2016. That said, retailing retailing is changing growth have ever ever known it. This is not faster than we have where growth growth is just a question of online sales, where growth beginning to slow; nor is it limited to the growth for discounters. way British consumers shop is â&#x20AC;&#x153;The way fundamentally changing. Ther There e is a perceptible perceptible shift towards towards shopping on an as needs basis.

This change is playing playing into the hands of high streets, streets, and they they will be the big winners in the retail retail scene going forward. forward. How rretailâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s etailâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s structural changes pan out will be the most interesting interesting feature feature of the next ffew ew y years, ears, not the odd percentage percentage difference difference in the rate of rretail etail sales growth.â&#x20AC;? growth.â&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;?

Retail Matters Conference 23/02/2016

The Retail Matters Conferences aim to share best practice in the retail sector, helping local SME organisations to grow their businesses, and helping to GUVCDNKUJ VJG 5JGHĆ&#x2019;GNF %KV[ 4GIKQP CU VJG 4GVCKN *WD QH VJG 0QTVJ

The conference will be held on Tuesday, 23rd February 2016 from 1.30pm until 4.00pm at 7KH 6RXUFH $FDGHP\ 0HDGRZKDOO :D\ 6KHÍŚHOG 6 ($

Topics will include Health and Wellbeing, International Trade and Retailer Focus.

The conferences are free to attend, and the last event attracted over 100 organisations from across the region, 100% of whom rated the speakers as either good or excellent.

03

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 4

4GVCKN UCNGU Ć&#x2019;IWTGU TGNGCUGF KP 5GRVGODGT UJQY that they are up 6.5% on the year.

4GURQPFKPI VQ VJG TGVCKN UCNGU Ć&#x2019;IWTGU HQT 5GRVGODGT #PFTGY &GPPKHH %JKGH 'ZGEWVKXG CV $CTPUNG[ 4QVJGTJCO %JCODGT QH %QOOGTEG UCKF ÇĄ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Retail sales improved considerably in September following a long summer of modest growth. For the whole of period July to September they were more than 6 per cent higher than a year earlier; a rate of expansion much stronger than the overall economy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Despite these encouraging results there are still major challenges for many of our retailers across South Yorkshire and especially around reinvigorating our town centre offers.

demonstrations in the town on Saturdays, Rotherham has invested in its town centre, transforming key high street properties and restoring the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic core. It has also helped unique local businesses by supporting over 50 artists to launch businesses and developing the Gallery Town project and they continue to celebrate success through highSURͤOH FRPSHWLWLRQV PRVW UHFHQWO\ LQ WKH *UHDW British High Street competition where they are RQH RI WKUHH QDWLRQZLGH ͤQDOLVWV

â&#x20AC;&#x153;In spite of a variety of issues affecting Rotherham over the past year, which has resulted in a number of marches and

â&#x20AC;&#x153;However, there are still major challenges for Rotherham. The future of the Forge Island site and its impact on the surrounding areas on

Corporation Street need to be resolved quickly, as does the effect of the new Tesco store on Rotherhamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s marketplace offer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In Barnsley the pace of progress and redevelopment can seen before our very eyes.

7KH FRXQFLOĚľV FRPPLWPHQW ERWK ͤQDQFLDOO\ and strategically, has to be commended. The large scale redesigning of public realm space, the major changes to the highly regarded markets, the desire to create new leisure and recreational facilities with vastly improved accessibility and the overall impact on footfall across the town with the opening of the new 6th form college in January are all exciting propositions for a town centre aching to get into the 21st century. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Given the optimism that is hopefully out there looking forward into the New Year, there is still the challenge and indeed the major boost that Christmas always provides. As ever our town centres will take this in their stride, even with the continued attraction of Meadowhall, Parkgate, Trinity (Leeds) and the ever growing enthusiasm for internet shopping. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whatever the future holds, town centre shopping remains, quite literally, at the heart of our local economy. It is more important than ever that we collectively support, promote and nurture everything they continue to offer and representâ&#x20AC;?.

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+P 1EVQDGT VJKU [GCT -KNG[ 6CP HQTOGT RCTVPGT QH C 5JGHĆ&#x2019;GNF NCY Ć&#x2019;TO GUVCDNKUJGF /QUCKE +PVGTPCVKQPCN VQ RTQXKFG KPVGTPCVKQPCN VTCFG CFXKEG VQ DWUKPGUUGU )RU WKH SDVW \HDUV .LOH\ KDV ZRUNHG LQ OHJDO ͤUPV ͤUVW LQ 0DOD\VLD DQG then the UK, since moving to the country in 2002.

He says â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m still practicing law through the Legal Director but starting my own business was not an easy decision. However, I saw a gap in the PDUNHW LQ KHOSLQJ EXVLQHVVHV DQG WR JLYH WKHP WKH EHQHͤW RI P\ IDLUO\ unique experience and perspective. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In my previous role I was used to working with and supporting startup businesses, and now I have taken the step myself. There will be challenges along the way but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no better place to start a business WKDQ WKH 6KHÍŚHOG &LW\ 5HJLRQ Ěš

Through Mosaic International Kiley will help businesses carry out market research and development and provide information and guidance on regulations. Perhaps more importantly is the fact that Kiley understands the cultural differences and the business etiquette in these markets.

With his know-how of the UK and the Far East, Kiley hopes to be able to build the bridge between UK businesses and overseas traders.

Kiley says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Markets in the Far East are ripe with opportunities but it is important you get it right when trading there. Understanding how your SURGXFW ͤWV DQG KRZ WR FRQGXFW EXVLQHVV LV YLWDO ZKHQ PDNLQJ WKLV VWHS and I hope to be the interface between the two parties and building a successful business relationshipâ&#x20AC;?

Kiley gives a brief insight into the retail sector in markets in the Far East Brand:

Buying process:

Forging links:

The British brand is very strong across the world and more so in South East Asia where it is synonymous with quality and style. There are a lot of opportunities here but they must be well thought out. When looking to create a brand or move a product into this market you need to look at high value, niche products.

Low value consumables arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to do well as cost of production is far lower in those markets.

The shopping experience and buying process is very different than in the UK. Where the UK has moved to strong digital market places and omni-channel retailing, a large proportion of Far East retailers and traders donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have an online presence at all. The process relies heavily on face-to-face sales and direct communication.

As most businesses do not have an online SUHVHQFH LW LV YHU\ GL͌FXOW WR ͤQG WKH ULJKW partners. Unlike their Western counterparts, successful businesses tend to be very low key.

Having the right connections and knowing the right people is vital. It is therefore important not to discount businesses who are not on social media or online as to do so may mean that you could lose out on a very important link.

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05

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 6

5CTCJ /GNFTWO 2CTVPGT CV 0CDCTTQ ..2 CVVGPFGF VJG $TKVKUJ %QWPEKN QH 5JQRRKPI %GPVTGU

$%5% %QPHGTGPEG KP /CPEJGUVGT CPF RTQXKFGU CP QXGTXKGY QH KVU MG[ VJGOG How do we â&#x20AC;&#x153;remove the obstacles to growth and ambitionâ&#x20AC;? for the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high streets? This was one of the key questions addressed at the BCSC Conference, which returned to Manchester this year and was attended by some 2,500 delegates.

Local Government Minister, Marcus Jones MP, spoke about working with the retail property trade body, BCSC to help the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high streets to understand the challenges they face, and about the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role in overcoming them.

BCSC Chief Executive, John Coyne, was pleased to welcome Mr Jones to the event: â&#x20AC;&#x153;As the voice of the retail property industry, BCSC is at the vanguard of contributing to and assisting to shape current and new governmental policy and legislation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ranging from planning policy and business rates to high

street regeneration and Sunday trading. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s participation at the conference is very welcome as part of our ongoing HQJDJHPHQW ZLWK KLP KLV RÍŚFLDOV DQG WKH Department for Communities and Local Government.â&#x20AC;?

Mr Jones talked about the growing convenience culture, and developments such as â&#x20AC;&#x153;click & collectâ&#x20AC;? as not being the enemy of the high street, but rather a driving force in getting customers back to the high street. He acknowledged that there is still a lot for some high streets to do to attract modern consumers, and to adapt to their changing needs. He spoke of the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to help, whilst recognising that â&#x20AC;&#x153;one size does QRW ͤW DOOĚš DQG WKDW LW ZLOO EH XS WR LQGLYLGXDO areas to decide what is best for them. The Government wants to see our high streets come back as vibrant places where we live,

BCSC Chief Executive, John Coyne and Marcus Jones MP.

06

work, shop and spend our leisure time, both during the day and into the evening.

To support the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision, Mr Jones told the Conference, ÂŁ1bn is being made available to reduce rates for small businesses, and its report on the restructuring of business rates is to be delivered before the 2016 Budget. He also touched upon greater planning ÍĽH[LELOLW\ ZLWK WKH VXJJHVWLRQ WKDW VRPH residential restrictions in city centres will be OLIWHG )XWXUH SURRͤQJ RXU KLJK VWUHHWV VR WKDW they embrace technology, is also a focus for the Government, he stressed.

But Mr Jones also reminded us that there is only so much that a government can do, which is why the LEPs, working together with Government and business communities, will have a big part to play as well.

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 7

Brief highlights from across the region %HVW LQ %XVLQHVV A Barnsley based ice-cream maker has been named Most Promising New Business at the recent Barnsley and Rotherham Business Awards.

Cowlick Creamery, based at Wharncliffe Business Park, began production earlier this year and has already established strong links with other local businesses and is stocking their â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;all naturalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ice cream across the region in restaurants, cafes and shops.

Commenting on the reasons for winning, the judges said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Cowlick Creamery compiled an excellent award submission, creating a compelling story focussed clearly on the entry criteria. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Carly and Rory are creating their own unique ÍĽDYRXUV RI LFH FUHDP XVLQJ ORFDOO\ JURZQ ingredients, and following a clear and concise growth strategy. Their plans for further development are well thought out, and they KDYH D ͤUP JUDVS RI KRZ WKDW ZLOO LPSDFW RQ DOO areas of their business.â&#x20AC;?

&ODUH *DJH VLJQDWXUH FXSV D KLW ZLWK FHOHEULW\ FRRN 3UXH /HLWK 7KH ZRUN RI DZDUG ZLQQLQJ &KHVWHUͤHOG ceramicist Clare Gage was a hit with celebrity cook and food school owner, Prue Leith, when it DSSHDUHG LQ WKH &HQWUDO UHJLRQ ͤQDO RI %%& ̾V Great British Menu recently.

Clare Gageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature porcelain cups and plates were chosen to display the culinary creation of top chef Pip Lacey in the popular professional cooking competition.

Clare Gageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s textile inspired ceramics celebrate the British tradition of afternoon tea, so were the perfect accompaniment to Pip Laceyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very British dessert of scones. Clare Gageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ceramics are designed and made by Clare KHUVHOI LQ &KHVWHUͤHOG +HU ZRUN IHDWXUHV lace, buttons, patchwork and cross stitch as well as knitted and woven fabric designs. The beautiful range includes cups and saucers, mugs, tableware, vases, jewellery and hanging decorations.

(XURFKDQJH RSHQV QHZ EUDQFK LQ %DUQVOH\ One of Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest foreign exchange SURYLGHUV KDV UHFHQWO\ FUHDWHG ͤYH QHZ MREV LQ Barnsley with the opening of a new branch in The Alhambra Shopping Centre.

Located on the Lower Level near the Cheapside entrance, the new Eurochange branch provides a comprehensive range of travel currencies to individuals and businesses. The branch is the

latest of 20 new openings this year for currency specialists Eurochange, who also have nearby EUDQFKHV LQ 6KHÍŚHOG DQG +XGGHUVͤHOG Managing Director, Giles Custerson said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are delighted to continue the growth of our branch network and our latest opening in %DUQVOH\ ZLOO IXOͤO WKH FXUUHQF\ QHHGV RI WKRVH visiting The Alhambra Shopping Centre.â&#x20AC;?

07

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 8

5KPEG YG NCUV HGCVWTGF VJG 5JGHĆ&#x2019;GNF #PVKSWGU 3WCTVGT KV KU PQY QHĆ&#x2019;EKCNN[ on the map â&#x20AC;&#x201C; literally.

Following a crowdfunding exercise the Antiques Quarter group led by Hendrika Stephens, were rewarded with brown signage marking out the boundary of the quarter at $EEH\GDOH 5RDG %URDGͤHOG 5RDG DQG 4XHHQV Road.

Hendrika explains, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The area has been informally know as the Antiques Quarter for some time by traders, so to be able to formally establish the identity is wonderful, not only for the businesses in the quarter but for the wider community.â&#x20AC;?

7KH ͤUVW SDUWQHUVKLS PHHWLQJ RI WKH $QWLTXHV Quarter was held in November 2012 and over

08

(OOLH *UDFH 3KRWRJUDSK\

the past three years the group has developed into an established brand with a number of followers and supporters. Local Councillors, 03V DQG 6KHÍŚHOG &LW\ &RXQFLO DUH DOVR supporting the group and are in the process of starting a steering group to help decisions such as the signage and other projects move forward much quicker.

The Quarter is now set to take a new step forward under Hendrikaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leadership as she is to develop the quarter into a Social Enterprise under her company, The Monocle Magpie Community Interest Company.

Hendrika explains why the decision was made, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Quarter has now become a pretty VLJQLͤFDQW GHYHORSPHQW LQ WKH FLW\ WKDW LV DOO

about supporting and promoting local and LQGHSHQGHQW 6KHÍŚHOG EXVLQHVV 2SHUDWLQJ merely as a community group greatly limits KRZ HÍŚFLHQWO\ RU HIIHFWLYHO\ LW FDQ EH UXQ DV well as it remaining vulnerable being solely reliant on the efforts of its members. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a social enterprise the quarter opens up the opportunity for a more professional approach and potentially allows ongoing growth and greater opportunity for securing investment. The area is a great example of how collaboration and partnership can create a strong foundation, where this new structure can build on this to take the quarter even furtherâ&#x20AC;?.

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 9

The fundraising activities for VJG #PVKSWGU 3WCTVGT FKFPŨV UVQR at brown signage, as part of the crowdfunding appeal, the group raised funds for banners, information boards and murals.

The aim of the art project is to â&#x20AC;&#x153;encourage and stimulate localised artwork to enhance and identify the Quarter and the independence it stands for.â&#x20AC;? Getting local artists involved is a

IDEXORXV ZD\ WR UDLVH WKH SURͤOH RI WKH TXDUWHU and to make it look more inviting for visitors.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s planned? â&#x20AC;˘ Murals & Lettering on Walls - Planned are ͤYH RU VL[ IXOO VFDOH ZRUNV RQ NH\ ZDOOV LQ WKH Quarter. â&#x20AC;˘ Small Scale Individual Artworks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 25 to 30 pieces each one a project in its own right â&#x20AC;˘ Other projects include projection, 3d sculpture, gorilla gardening and pavement artworks

Local artists are now set to paint murals across WKH 4XDUWHU ZLWK WKH ͤUVW FRPSOHWHG HDUOLHU this year by Jools Matthews, who painted a peacock outside vibrant local centre Vintedge.

Sculptor and artist Simon Kent also completed two smaller â&#x20AC;&#x153;secret gardenâ&#x20AC;? artworks on Queens Road at the site of two bricked up doorways opposite the Heeley Bank Antiques Centre as well as a huge mural by Jo Peel at Hagglers Corner on the Queens Road.

6Q Ć&#x2019;PF QWV OQTG CDQWV VJG 5JGHĆ&#x2019;GNF #PVKSWGU 3WCTVGT CTV RTQLGEV XKUKV YYY UCSCTVRTQLGEV EQ WM

6JG 4GXKXCN QH #DDG[FCNG 2KEVWTG *QWUG $W WKH KHDUW RI WKH 6KH̪HOG $QWLTXHV 4XDUWHU VLWV WKH *UDGH ,, OLVWHG 3LFWXUH +RXVH RQFH NQRZQ DV 6KH̪HOG˚V 3LFWXUH 3DODFH 7KH FLQHPD ͤUVW RSHQHG LWV GRRUV LQ WKH V DQG VDGO\ VWRSSHG VKRZLQJ ͤOPV LQ -XO\ Since then it has had few uses, it was mainly used as a furniture store for the then owners A & F Drake and the Picture House Ballroom was converted and used as a snooker hall for over 30 years.

The Picture House was put on the open market and bought by businessman Phil Robins in 2012. Philâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original plan was to turn the venue into a climbing centre but his plans changed

and the site is now on its way to its former glory. )RU WKH SDVW WZR \HDUV WKH 6KHÍŚHOG $QWLTXHV Quarter group has used the former snooker area as a community space for beer festivals, antiques markets and record fairs, working with the independent traders nearby, as well as using outside space for community events and car boot sales.

This year however has seen the true revival of WKH SLFWXUH KRXVH IRU WKH ͤUVW WLPH LQ \HDUV people were able to enjoy the Picture House for LWV RULJLQDO SXUSRVH ̰ WR ZDWFK ͤOPV 2YHU D ZHHNHQG LQ -XO\ ͤOPV UHWXUQHG WR PDUN the anniversary of its closure in 1975 at an

event organised by art promoters the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hands ofâ&#x20AC;?. Films such as Brassed Off and Four Lions were shown as well as Laurel & Hardy titles as a throw back to Abbeydaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage. The success of the July screenings saw another special showing on Halloween weekend as people gathered to watch the 1922 silent horror, Nosferatu.

There is more to come for this much loved building, the Picture House holds fond PHPRULHV IRU PDQ\ JHQHUDWLRQV LQ 6KHÍŚHOG whether it be from its days as a cinema or as a snooker hall. Hopefully this revival will continue and the old listed cinema, and venue for the local community can be restored to some of its â&#x20AC;&#x153;Picture Palaceâ&#x20AC;? glory.

09

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 10

Makers is all about experience 6LWXDWHG LQ SUHPLVHV RQ $EEH\GDOH 5RDG WKDW KDG EHHQ YDFDQW IRU \HDUV LV D QHZ FRQFHSW LQ UHWDLO -DPHV DQG /LVD :DOOEDQN KDYH QRW RQO\ EURXJKW WKH SURSHUW\ LQ 6KH̪HOG˚V $QWLTXHV 4XDUWHU EDFN WR OLIH EXW E\ RSHQLQJ ˸0DNHUV˚ WKH\ KDYH FUHDWHG VRPHZKDW RI D KXE IRU ORFDO FUDIWVSHRSOH

The shop stocks all kinds of collectables, antiques, crafts and curios but also serves as a venue for people to become â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;makersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; themselves. James and Lisa host workshops, run by local experts, for people to learn new skills such as weaving, laser cutting, jewellery PDNLQJ DQG SXSSHW PDNLQJĚ° DQG ͤQLVKHG products can be sold in the shop.

James, who previously ran Access Space, an HGXFDWLRQDO FKDULW\ EDVHG LQ 6KH͌HOG VDLG ̸,I you think retail is simply about buying things then the place to do that is the internet. It is generally the cheapest place to buy products.

But is it the best? It is certainly not the best place for things that are unique. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you want something collectable or unusual you want to hold that thing in your hand. Often, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even realise you want something unique until you see it. We have been completely amazed by some of the curiosities weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve discovered.â&#x20AC;?

By hosting workshops, and by putting a great GHDO RI DWWHQWLRQ LQWR WKH VKRS ͤWWLQJV DQG stock, James believes Makers is much more than just a shop; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an experience. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People talk about social networks on the internet, but there is nothing social about sitting on your own staring at your phone.

Coming along to a small group and making things with your friends â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or people who will soon be your friends â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is so much more fun. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since we opened in September there have been two more units rented out on this stretch and a third which has re-opened as a takeaway. ,W LV WKH ͤUVW WLPH WKLV ZKROH URZ RI VKRSV has been open in 30 years. Something very important is happening on the high street and it is excellent news for small retailers that offer something different.â&#x20AC;?

0QV LWUV C DQVVNG UJQR 2QH RI WKH ODWHVW HGLWLRQV WR WKH $QWLTXHV 4XDUWHU LQ 6KH̪HOG LV 7XUQHU˚V &UDIW %HHU %RWWOH 6KRS RQ $EEH\GDOH 5RDG DOWKRXJK QRW VWRFNLQJ DQWLTXHV RU YLQWDJH JRRGV WKH VKRS VWLOO KDV WKDW TXLUN\ XQLTXHQHVV WKDW ̨WV WKH TXDUWHU

The decision to open a business and relocate EDFN WR 6KHÍŚHOG KDSSHQHG TXLFNO\ DV 'DYLG explains, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I knew I wanted to own my own business but I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what that would be. I started thinking about the bottle shop summer YLVLWHG 6KHÍŚHOG WR ORRN DW SUHPLVHV LQ the November and we opened our doors in April.â&#x20AC;?

The craft beer market is one thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growing in popularity across the UK, particularly in 6KHÍŚHOG ZKLFK ZLWK LWV EUHZLQJ KHULWDJH DQG micro-brewers, is to be expected. Owner of Turnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, David Turner, spotted the craft beer WUHQG ZKLOH WUDYHOOLQJ LQ $PHULFD ͤYH \HDUV DJR and saw it emerging in London where he was living at the time.

There arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t many bottle shops selling beers from across the globe, as well as locally produced beers, ales and ciders in South Yorkshire, but what makes Turnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stand out HYHQ PRUH LV WKH RSWLRQ RI UHͤOODEOH ̸JURZOHUVĚš Ě° UHͤOODEOH JODVV ERWWOHV DYDLODEOH LQ RU OLWUHV 7KH ERWWOHV DUH ͤOOHG IURP GUDXJKW EHHUV of which there are four to choose from and which are regularly rotated.

'DYLG ZDVQĚľW VXUH ZKHWKHU WKH UHͤOO RSWLRQ would catch on but has found that more of his VDOHV DUH FRPLQJ IURP UHͤOOV WKDQ ERWWOHG EHHUV KH VDLG ̸5HͤOOV ZHUH VRPHWKLQJ , UHDOO\ ZDQWHG to do but it was a huge decision as there arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t many others that offer this kind of service in the UK, so it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really tried and tested. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ZRUNLQJ UHDOO\ ZHOO DQG ZHĚľYH VROG RYHU UHͤOO bottles over the last six months.â&#x20AC;?

Turnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Craft Beer Bottle Shop stocks a range of over 400 nationwide and imported beers as ZHOO DV WKH UHͤOODEOH JURZOHUV

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 11

0HDGRZKDOO LV KHDGLQJ WRZDUGV D EXPSHU &KULVWPDV WKLV \HDU ZKLFK ZLOO SURYLGH D ̨WWLQJ HQG WR D PHPRUDEOH \HDU IRU WKH &HQWUH ERWK LQ WHUPV RI VRDULQJ VDOHV DQG FHOHEUDWLQJ LWV WK DQQLYHUVDU\

UHÍĽHFWHG LQ WKH IRRG GULQN OLQH XS DW WKH Centre. Restaurants in the Oasis Dining Quarter are recording strong growth, buoyed by new international arrivals such as Five Guys burgers, drinks specialist Bubbleology and Nandoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent restaurant expansion. They will be joined by Tapas Revolution shortly.

The Centre has just reported its 19th consecutive month of rising sales, enjoying year on year growth of 5.8%. October saw likefor-like sales up 1.7% on last year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; compared to a national fall of -0.2% it is certainly bucking the retail trend. The growth was fuelled by autumn/winter fashion purchases as the cooler weather hit, as well as a bumper half term week that coincided with month end paydays.

Meadowhallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall retail offering has been boosted by 11 new lettings totalling nearly 28,000 sq ft. The lettings follow the launch of a ÂŁ50m internal refurbishment of the centre which began in late September, just after the anniversary celebrations. The new lettings range from fashion, jewellery, restaurants and international cosmetic and beauty offerings, with the aim of further strengthening the Centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appeal to premium consumers.

This latest announcement follows strong sales increases throughout 2015, consolidating the Centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strongest performance over the past ͤYH \HDUV The increasing sales statistics have also been IXHOOHG E\ LPSURYLQJ FRQVXPHU FRQͤGHQFH

New occupiers include: Jack Wills, Diesel, Michael Kors, Kiko Milano, Joules and Lush.

Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Occitane is relocating from the High Street to Park Lane and Build-a-Bear unveiled its QHZ VW\OH VKRS ͤW WR GHOLJKWHG FXVWRPHUV Goldsmiths is also extending further onto Park

Lane, after taking a new Goldsmiths Boutique store and Rolex is to open a concession within the Centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s planned new Goldsmiths store. A number of the lettings are located within the Park Lane area of the centre which received a ÂŁ3m refresh last year.

With all this retail activity taking place on the malls, the Centre still has a packed eventsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; programme to tempt families and shoppers back time and time again over the festive period; Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magical Kingdom is as popular as ever but, for the rst time, Meadowhall is also hosting its own ice-skating experience in a covered domed-style ice rink that keeps the unpredictable elements off the skaters.

Thousands of tickets have already been booked for this amazing attraction and it will only get busier as the Christmas holiday approaches.

The ice-rink enjoyed a welcome boost after it recently featured on national BBC TV when Meadowhall staff and retailers joined forces for an all-day skate-a-thon in aid of Children in Need.

Christmas in the City $ WUDGLWLRQDO &KULVWPDV LV WKH PDLQ WKHPH IRU IHVWLYH VKRSSLQJ LQ 6KHĚŞHOG WKLV \HDU ZLWK LQGHSHQGHQW WUDGHUV DGGLQJ DQ H[WUD VSHFLDO RIIHU WR FLW\ FHQWUH UHWDLO LQ WKH UXQ XS WR WKH ELJ GD\ As well as traders from across the UK and Europe selling a variety of gifts, jewellery, crafts and fresh produce, the Christmas market in Fargate includes a range of refreshment stalls selling hot food and drinks, including the everpopular Sleigh Bar. The market, housed in traditional wooden huts, runs from 10am to 6pm daily, and will also be open for late-night shopping until 8pm each Wednesday.

To make shopping even more convenient for motorists, it was announced that parking will EH IUHH LQ 6KHÍŚHOG &LW\ &RXQFLO UXQ FDU SDUNV on the three Saturday afternoons in the run-up to Christmas.

With around 80 independent traders selling a KXJH UDQJH RI PHDW ͤVK YHJHWDEOHV EHYHUDJHV and fresh produce at competitive prices, the Moor Market is the place to stock up for the festive season.

From 2pm on Saturday 5, 12 and 19th December, motorists will be able to park for free in car parks in the city centre and also in district shopping centres. The offer does not apply to privately-run car parks.

After the food shopping is taken care of, the market is also the place to go for great-value quirky and unique gifts and crafts, as well as a huge range of wrapping paper, cards and accessories.

Meanwhile, those visiting the city centre would be wise to try the Moor Market, which is the place to go for all the essentials on most peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas shopping lists - whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traditional turkey, sprouts and festive ales or something a little different.

The market will be opening from 8am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday, in the run-up to Christmas, as well as on two Sundays to give shoppers even more chance to pop in and get the things they need.

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 12

Local Rotherham companies give a warm welcome to South Korean businesses $Q LQQRYDWLYH SURJUDPPH WR DWWUDFW QHZ EXVLQHVV VWDUW XSV IURP 6RXWK .RUHD KDV EHHQ FKDPSLRQHG E\ ORFDO 5RWKHUKDP ̨UPV

The 12-week â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Acceleratorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; programme, led

by Rotherham Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Investment and 'HYHORSPHQW 2ÍŚFH 5L'2 KDV VXSSRUWHG ͤYH 6RXWK .RUHDQ EXVLQHVVHV WR GHYHORS WKHLU business ideas to encourage them to set-up in the region.

Located at the Moorgate Croft Businesses &HQWUH WKH ͤYH FRPSDQLHV KDYH WHDPHG XS with over 15 local businesses to help them gain an insight into the UK market. Through a number of workshops, mentoring sessions and knowledge exchange the South Korean companies are now much better informed on running a business in the UK. Charlotte Scothern from Patchwork Pig has been passing on her wholesaler and customer experience with the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Daytripperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; team who have come up with an innovative idea for the umbrella. Charlotte was impressed with the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enthusiasm. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Daytripper team have been wonderful to work with, they have

great energy and enthusiasm for their product which would work well in the giftware and retail market.â&#x20AC;?

Julia Millea for RiDO said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve being delighted by the response from local businesses to get involved, they have been very generous with their time and support, which has been one of the key successes of the programme. The teams received a warm welcome which has helped them to integrate into the business community.â&#x20AC;?

Councillor Denise Lelliott, Advisory Cabinet Member for Housing and the Local Environment at Rotherham Council, has been delighted with the results. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our local businesses have proven to be great ambassadors for Rotherham and the UK. They have all been extremely forthcoming in sharing their skills and knowledge which has been well received by the South Korean companies.â&#x20AC;?

6YQ PGY CRRTGPVKEGU OQXG KP VQ 0Q 1R 0DNHUV (PSRULXP LV DQ H[FLWLQJ UHWDLO VSDFH UXQ E\ DSSUHQWLFHV DQG VKRZFDVLQJ KDQGPDGH SURGXFWV E\ ORFDO FUDIWHUV GHVLJQHUV DQG DUWLVWV Store Manager Matt Webster and Deputy Manager Shannon Swift, No.26â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original apprentices, have welcomed two new starters to the store. Charlotte Cardwell, 23 and Germaine Latham, 18 have joined the Makers Emporium while studying for their Level 2 Retail 4XDOLͤFDWLRQ Both Charlotte and Germaine were actively seeking retail positions when the apprenticeship opportunity arose. Germaine VD\V ̸, KDG FRPSOHWHG P\ ͤUVW \HDU DW FROOHJH studying Health and Social Care to work as a carer but after work experience I felt it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t right for me. I came into Rotherham to look for retail work and met Matt who told me about the apprenticeship opportunity.â&#x20AC;?

As Charlotte and Germaine work towards their /HYHO TXDOLͤFDWLRQ 0DWW LV QRZ VWXG\LQJ

towards his Level 4 Retail Management TXDOLͤFDWLRQ DQG 6KDQQRQ LV QRZ FRPSOHWLQJ KHU /HYHO 5HWDLO TXDOLͤFDWLRQ Matt commented, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Makerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Emporium is a great place for retail apprentices like Charlotte and Germaine to start their retail career. Shannon is an example of what can be achieved after starting at No.26 as a Retail Assistant and is now Deputy Manager helping apprentices start their own career.â&#x20AC;?

Charlotte says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had been unemployed for D \HDU DQG , ZDQWHG WR GR D TXDOLͤFDWLRQ WR KHOS PH ͤQG D MRE VR DQ DSSUHQWLFHVKLS ZDV ideal. I had previous retail experience so I knew that was what I wanted and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m pleased I was offered a position here. I hope my work H[SHULHQFH DW 1R DQG P\ TXDOLͤFDWLRQ ZLOO help me to secure a permanent retail position in future.â&#x20AC;?

The Makers Emporium is a partnership between Rotherham Council, The Source Skills Academy and Rotherham Youth Enterprise and is located on Rotherham High Street.

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 13

$ \RXQJ ZRPDQ KDV EHFRPH WKH ODWHVW LQGHSHQGHQW UHWDLOHU WR VHW XS VKRS RQ 5RWKHUKDPËšV +LJK 6WUHHW DIWHU EULQJLQJ KHU RQOLQH EXVLQHVV LQWR D SRS XS UHWDLO XQLW LQ WKH WRZQËšV ,PSHULDO %XLOGLQJV Leaving school, Katie Cheetham, 18, knew her long term goal would be to run her own business but never imagined it would come so soon, but it did, and in October this year 5RWKHUKDP 0D\RU &OOU 0DJJL &ODUN RÍŚFLDOO\ opened Katieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Baby Blossom Boutique.

The boutique sells a range of clothing and gifts for children from new born to toddler, stocking Blade and Rose and Bob and Blossom, as well as Jelly Cat soft toys.

$IWHU ͤQLVKLQJ KHU *&6(ĚľV LQ 1RWWLQJKDP Katieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family moved back to Rotherham and as someone who was academic it was natural that she would go to college and then onto university. But after starting her AS Levels she realised classroom learning wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t what she wanted anymore and what she did want was to work and gain real world experience.

Katie explains, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was studying business as an AS Level and I always enjoyed business but I found the classroom restrictive and I wanted to get out into the real world and gain some ͤUVWKDQG H[SHULHQFHĚš Katie landed an apprenticeship with a local estate agent and studied towards a level 2 TXDOLͤFDWLRQ LQ %XVLQHVV $GPLQ DQG IHHOV LW LV thanks to her employment and apprenticeship she was able to make this step. She commented, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think I would be doing this today, I was a very different person and working helped me to come out of my shell and JDLQ FRQͤGHQFH , OHDUQW VR PXFK RYHU WKH months I worked at the estate agents.â&#x20AC;?

Baby Blossom Boutique came to life when Katieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cousin gave birth to a little girl and she noticed a gap in the market â&#x20AC;&#x201C; she wanted to buy gifts and clothes for baby Ella, but there

were no local alternatives to the chain retail stores.

Katie began selling products online through eBay and Facebook in November 2014 and then launched a website, she approached Rotherham Youth Enterprise (RYE) with her idea and with the support of Business Coach Daren McDool, took the business forward.

Daren was able to help Katie secure a grant from UK Steel Enterprise and introduced her to the pop-up shop scheme which offers new VWDUW UHWDLO EXVLQHVVHV ÍĽH[LEOH OHDVH WHUPV IRU 12 months. Katie impressed the independent judging panel and bagged herself the shop after showcasing an impressive range of branded clothing, gifts, accessories and keepsakes and setting out her ideas for marketing and promotion.

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 14

0CVKQPCN ICTFGP EGPVTG &QDDKGU YJKEJ JCU C EGPVTG KP %JGUVGTĆ&#x2019;GNF JCU EJQUGP VJG 6GGPCIG %CPEGT 6TWUV CU KVU %JTKUVOCU RCTVPGT HQT The garden centre organised a number of Christmas themed events which took place in November to raise as much money as possible for the cancer charity. Money raised will directly support hospital units funded by the charity.

Catherine Foster, Teenage Cancer Trust Regional fundraiser said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been so impressed with the incredible enthusiasm of 'REELHĚľV &KHVWHUͤHOG DQG ZHĚľG OLNH WR VD\ a huge thank you to all staff and customers who took part in their Christmas fundraising extravaganza! This money will go towards desperately needed services for local young people with cancer.â&#x20AC;?

Fundraising activities included a launch event in October where people could watch live demonstrations including â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;How to decorate your Christmas treeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;How to make a wreathâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. In November there was a parade to

celebrate Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arrival and lastly, there was an ever-popular Ladies Night with seasonal shopping and pampering.

Teenage Cancer Trust is the only UK charity dedicated to improving the quality of life and chances of survival for the seven young people aged 13 to 24 diagnosed with cancer every day.

Teenage Cancer Trust has a unique relationship with the NHS, funding specialist cancer units in NHS hospitals and providing dedicated staff to bring young people together so they can be treated by teenage cancer experts in a place designed just for them.

The money raised will help support the charityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 28 specialist units based in hospitals across the UK and help fund its Expert Care Programme, every ÂŁ25 raised will fund an hour of expert care for young people diagnosed with cancer.

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Siobhan Dunn, Chief Executive at Teenage Cancer Trust said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We feel very lucky to have been chosen by Dobbies staff for this special Christmas partnership. For every young person with cancer we support, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s another we currently canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t reach. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the amazing support of partners like this that will help us reach our goal of supporting every young person with cancer. With all of the festive fun Dobbies staff planned, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sure theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll smash their target and help us provide specialist care and support for more young people with cancer.â&#x20AC;?

Celebrating their 150th year in 2015, Dobbies have a long history of supporting their local communities and charities. As well as supporting the Teenage Cancer Trust this Christmas the company has also supported The Wildlife Trust as part of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 150th Year celebrations. The company hopes to raise ÂŁ50,000 for the Trust.

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 15

In this issue we wanted to highlight some GXGPVU VCMKPI RNCEG CETQUU 6JG 5JGHĆ&#x2019;GNF %KV[ Region this December.

A Dickensian Christmas

Etsy Made Local

Date: Saturday 5 December 2015 Location: Rotherham Town Centre

Date: Saturday 5th December 2015 Location: 8QLRQ 6WUHHW 6KHÍŚHOG

Step back in time with a wonderful day of Dickensian entertainment and fun in Rotherham Town Centre this December.

Etsy Made Local is a great opportunity to meet local makers in \RXU DUHD DQG ͤQG KDQGPDGH XQLTXH JLIWV IRU HYHU\RQH RQ \RXU Christmas list, plus a few treats for yourself!

Times: 10:30am - 3:30pm Cost: Free For more information visit: www.rotherham.gov.uk

Christmas Craft Club Dates: 5th, 12th, 19th December 2015 Location: Moor Market Younger customers can enjoy a full programme of Christmas activities which will take place at the market.

The Christmas craft club will run a variety of different activities planned for each event.

Times: 2pm - 4pm Cost: Free For more information visit: YYY UJGHĆ&#x2019;GNFOCTMGVU EQO

Real Reindeer Experience Date: Saturday 12 December 2015 Location: Rotherham Town Centre For your chance to see some â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;real reindeerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and meet Santa, come along to Rotherham Town Centre for this truly magical experience.

There is also a Christmas market for those special festive purchases.

Times: 10:30am - 3:30pm Cost: Free For more information visit: www.rotherham.gov.uk

Christmas Gifts & Grub Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market & Craft Fair Date: Sunday 20th December 2015 Location: Elsecar Heritage Centre, Barnsley <RX ZLOO ͤQG RYHU VWDOOV RI KRPHPDGH IRRG DQG ZRQGHUIXO handmade gifts, perfect for some last minute Christmas shopping.

Times: 10am - 4pm Cost: Free Fore more information visit: www.elsecar-heritage.com

Times: 10am - 4pm Cost: free For more information visit: YYY HCEGDQQM EQO 'VU[5JGHĆ&#x2019;GNF

%JTKUVOCU %TCHVU CV %JGUVGTĆ&#x2019;GNF Museum and Art Gallery Date: 5th - 24th December 2015 Location: &KHVWHUͤHOG 0XVHXP DQG $UW *DOOHU\ Come along to the Museum and make a pinecone reindeer, paper VQRZÍĽDNHV &KULVWPDV FDUGV IRU \RXU IULHQGV DQG ORWV PRUH Monday and Thursday- Saturday Times: 10am - 4pm Cost: Free For more information visit: YYY EJGUVGTĆ&#x2019;GNFOWUGWO EQ WM

Santa Dash Date: Saturday 12th December 2015 Location: Locke Park, Barnsley Join a festive frenzy of Santas and all that is Christmasy, dashing around Locke Park. The route will take you through cheering FURZGV EHIRUH ͤQLVKLQJ ZLWK 6DQWDĚľV IDYRXULWH D PLQFH SLH Bring your whole family to join in the festive fun! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s open to all ages. Book your place for a festive 2k Fun Run & 10k Run at Locke Park on Saturday 12th December 2015, and help raise funds for Barnsley Hospice.

Cost: Varies For more information visit: www.visit-barnsley.com/santa-dash

Mer Chri ry stm as

Retail Matters_Layout 1 07/12/2015 09:36 Page 16

Florist April Bell, 21 #RRTGPVKEG #RTKN $GNN TGEGPVN[ YQP VJG TGIKQPCN CYCTF HQT #FXCPEGF .GXGN #RRTGPVKEG QH VJG ;GCT CV VJG ;QTMUJKTG CPF *WODGT Ć&#x2019;PCN QH VJG 0CVKQPCN #RRTGPVKEGUJKR #YCTFU This achievement will now see April put forward for the national competition with winners announced in January. April began her apprenticeship journey six years ago and we would like to share her story.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The opportunities I have been able to access through my apprenticeships have been immense. I never thought Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d complete all of the TXDOLͤFDWLRQV , KDYH HVSHFLDOO\ EHLQJ VRPHRQH who has never been academic.

April makes it no secret that she didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enjoy school and often struggled; she didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have high expectations about herself or her future but found her place at Monica F Hewitt through work based learning with The Source Skills Academy. She has achieved both Level 2 and /HYHO TXDOLͤFDWLRQV LQ )ORULVWU\ 5HWDLO 6NLOOV Management Level 3 and is currently working towards a Business and Administration Level 3.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have come a long way, when I think back to when I started I was a completely different person. I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t put pen to paper and didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like answering the phone but nothing really phases me now and I believe I can do anything.â&#x20AC;?

April says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wanted to do an apprenticeship because it gave me the opportunity to complete D TXDOLͤFDWLRQ ZKLOH DW ZRUN , GLGQĚľW ZDQW WR VLW in a classroom all day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; my worst nightmare. I like that what I am learning is relevant to what I am doing, rather than something I wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use or understand. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everything I have learnt through my apprenticeships I have used and it has helped the whole company, not just me.

April says â&#x20AC;&#x153;As we are such a small business we are limited to how many apprentices we can take on but I intend to promote and support apprenticeships and apprentices in any way I can, as it gave me the direction I needed in my life.â&#x20AC;?

April has now taken on the full time PDQDJHPHQW RI WKH ͼRULVW VKRS DQG KRSHV one day to be able to take over the business when the current owner retires. She also hopes WR LQVSLUH RWKHU \RXQJ SHRSOH ZKR PD\ ͤQG HGXFDWLRQ GL͌FXOW DV VKH GLG WR VKRZ WKHP there is an alternative learning path.

Recently April has begun to engaging with new apprentices to share her experiences and help young people to gain work experience. She is also hoping to teach an evening class at college for new apprentices and anyone who ZDQWV WR OHDUQ ÍĽRULVWU\

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Retail & Service

Business Matters FRQWDFW 7KH 6RXUFH 6NLOOV $FDGHP\ RQ PDUNHWLQJ#WKHVRXUFHDFDGHP\ FR XN RU FDOO

065 FFB Dec15_Layout 1 07/12/2015 14:14 Page 1

First For Business

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

BUSINESS REVIEW

www.ffb-online.co.uk

HOTELS & CONFERENCES IAN SLATER, CHAIR OF HOSPITALITY SHEFFIELD AND GENERAL MANAGER OF THE SHEFFIELD METROPOLITAN. ooking back over 2015 we have seen some consistent trading for the city’s hotel sector with average rate growth in every month to the end of the third quarter and year on year growth of 7.8 per cent. Occupancy however has been less consistent with year on year growth only being achieved in four of the first nine months of the year and only achieving marginal year to date growth of 1.2 per cent.

announcement that Sheffield will host the Special Olympics GB National Summer Games in 2017 which will enhance Sheffield’s excellent reputation for hosting major sporting events in the UK whilst the city’s reputation will be further cemented by the completion of the AWRC (Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre ) at Don Valley.

L

This vulnerability in room demand clearly highlights the important role major events play in the city with key international events such as The Sheffield Documentary Film Festival and Tramlines returning in 2015, as well as major sporting events such as the British Swimming and ASA championships, BUCs Nationals and The World Snooker Championships.

The biggest challenge going forward will be to retain these major events with increased pressure on funding and develop and grow new events; key to this strategy will be identifying new events with the greatest potential such as the highly successful Eroica Britannia. In only its second year this classic cycling festival, held at the Bakewell Showground over a long weekend in June, saw over 40,000 visitors from 45 different countries.

Ian Slater

survey of over six million hotel guests.

Jorg Malang, CPO at Hotel Info, commented: “The hotels in Sheffield especially distinguished themselves with an above average quality/ price ratio as well as a high standard of service and very friendly personnel.”

For the hospitality sector, 2016 will see increased pressure on pricing as the living wage is implemented in April as well as the resulting increase in prices throughout the supply chain; more than ever these pressures will make it vital to retain the talented people within our industry and continue to develop closer ties with our colleges and universities in order to stem the growing skills gap within our industry. * According to a Europe-wide survey conducted by hotel.info based on the post-stay reviews of over six million hotel guests who were asked to rate room quality, friendliness, Sheffield has the best hotel customer service in the UK with an average service rating of 8.03.

Looking ahead we have seen the

Alongside festivals and events the city’s Ambassador Programme continues to play a significant role in delivering business tourism into the city and is one of the best examples of the close partnership approach Hospitality Sheffield, the city’s universities and Marketing Sheffield have developed over recent years.

In October. Hospitality Sheffield hosted its 12th annual awards, recognising the latest crop of outstanding talent that exists within the region’s hotels and venues.

Once again Sheffield was recognised internationally for the second time in two years, scoring the highest mark in the UK for guest satisfaction in a Europe-wide

65

066 FFB Dec15 07/12/2015 16:06 Page 1

Your First Choice for Business

Tankersley Manor

- 12 conference and meeting rooms for up to 400 guests, with vehicle access - Exclusive conference and events centre - 98 spacious bedrooms - Superb leisure and spa facilities - Brasserie & Bar (private dining available) - Free Wi-Fi throughout - Tesla Car Charger - 256 complimentary car parking spaces - Leeds Bradford airport â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 27 miles - Only 30 minutes from Leeds, 20 minutes from Sheffield and1minute from the M1 Tankersley Manor, Church Lane, Tankersley, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S75 3DQ 01226 744700 tankersleymanorevents@qhotels.co.uk

9 conference and events rooms Whirlowbrook Hall, Whirlowbrook Park, Ecclesall Road South, Sheffield, S11 9QD

enquiries@whirlowbrook.co.uk

Tel: 0114 321 0209 www.whirlowbrook.co.uk 66

067 FFB Dec15 07/12/2015 12:01 Page 1

First For Business

BUSINESS VENUES

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

THE FLEXIBLE FACILITIES AT THE SHEFFIELD METROPOLITAN HOTEL MAKES IT THE IDEAL VENUE FOR YOUR BUSINESS EVENT.

D

o you want a meeting space tailored to suit you? The Sheffield Metropolitan Hotel has facilities you can really call your own.

training events, customers have found some great uses for the space including carrying out interviews for the medical profession, interviews for television shows, and even the storage of high-end carbon fibre cycles for a charity bike ride.

Whether you are looking for a room to carry out interviews, a place to hold meetings or a venue suitable for a conference or training course, the Sheffield Metropolitan Hotel helps you tailor your very own ideal space.

Starting with a blank canvas, The Met can cater for any type of workplace event, offering you exclusive use of its easily accessible, ground-floor meeting and conferencing facilities.

In line with the rest of the hotel’s exacting standards, these facilities will be sure to meet your requirements, being fully equipped with wall-mounted screens, flip charts and a data projector, natural daylight and air conditioning.

Boasting an enviable reputation as one of Sheffield’s most established hotels and the city’s largest independent hotel, The Met is

a popular choice for visitors.

“Our ability to cater for so many different uses is evidence of our individual and flexible customer service. We have a high number of repeat customers and guests who come to stay with us for weeks at a time; this is testament to the service they receive.”

During 2015 the hotel underwent a discreet refurbishment, with 28 of its 111 The Met prides itself on offering bespoke rooms being transformed. The new-look services to suit client requirements, rooms have been designed to make ensuring they only pay for what they need working more convenient, with suitable with no hidden extras. lighting, a comfortable work desk and new soft furnishings.

CONTACT: Rachel Lawty, Business Sheffield Metropolitan Hotel Development Manager, said: Blonk Street, Sheffield, S1 2AU “The hotel is unique and this Tel: 0114 220 4000 is reflected in the way our Email: sales.sheffieldmet@bespokehotels.com conference space is used. As www.bespokehotels.com/sheffieldmet well as many meetings and

• A hotel conveniently located close to city centre & train station for visitors attending events • Ideal for business, conference and leisure guests • Two ground floor air conditioned meeting rooms

• 111 spacious stylish bedrooms • Picasso Restaurant & Bar • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel for all guests • Fabulous service • On site car parking

The Sheffield Metropolitan Hotel, Blonk Street, Sheffield S1 2AU Tel: 0114 220 4000 Email: sales.sheffieldmet@bespokehotels.com Web: www.bespokehotels.com/sheffieldmet

67

068 FFB Dec15 09/12/2015 09:47 Page 1

G ec ) IN DS 20th D - 2pm s L P N 19/ 0am beer M E 1 SA EEK/13th &/ Sun: e – ouruy!

W th, 12 - 4pm ampl you b

from bradfield brewery fro

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Visit our ou brewery shop for a great range of Farmers Ales available in bottles, 5ltr mini kegs and 10ltr “beer in a box”. jugs, 5lt

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also find a great range of high quality You’ll al Y gifts, clothing and merchandise and practical pra – ideal for the “Farmers fan” in your life!

BROWN HOUSE LANE

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ON-SITE ON -S SIT IITE TE BR BREW B BRE BREWERY REW EW RY SHOP OPENING TIMES: Mon to Sat, 10am - 4pm EWE Christmas stmas Opening Times: Christmas tmas Eve, Eve New Years Eve & Mon 28th December - 10am - 2pm 2pm.

From Sunday 7th December every Sunday 10am - 2pm until Christmas.

Christmas day, boxing day, Sun 27th Dec and New Years Day - WE ARE CLOSED 30th Dec and from 2nd Jan – NORMAL HOURS RECOMMENCE (10am - 4pm)

Watt House Farm, High Bradfield, Sheffield, S6 6LG Tel: 0114 285 1118 • info@bradfieldbrewery.co.uk

OPEN LATE NIGHT THURSDAYS (UNTIL 8PM) – 3rd, 10th & 17th DECEMBER

THE OLD RECTORY Conference & Meeting Room Hire 402b Handsworth Road S13 9BZ tel 0114 2692537 www.orh.org.uk email: tim@orh.org.uk

• Suppliers of local Derbyshire Beef and Lamb, Free Range Pork and Poultry.

• Award winning Sausage and Black Pudding at Bakewell Show 2015 • Delicatessen meats, continental and local cheeses • Friendly and experienced staff

Orders taken online @ www.PaulBowyer.co.uk

Tel: 01433 650252 Main Rd, Hathersage, Hope Valley S32 1BB

68

- Close to junction 33 of the M1 Sheffield - Free car parking for 36 cars - 5 Meeting rooms available to hire - Rates from £10 per hour - Full catering service

015 FFB Oct15 28/09/2015 14:41 Page 1

av-hire-sheffield.co.uk

For business presentations esentati nference and prestige conferences in the Sheffield city region s Quality Audio-Visual equipment hire

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070 FFB Dec15 09/12/2015 09:00 Page 1

Chesworth Cues Snooker cue makers and repairers

• The largest selection of hand and machine-spliced cues in the North of England • Over 600 cues to choose, from £5.25-£725 • Improve your game with a cue made to your specifications • Leather and aluminium cases available from £4-£500

70

Agents For: Mike Wooldridge PERADON Master Cue O’MIN Ballabuska

Martin Chesworth Snooker Cues 702 Abbeydale Road, Sheffield S7 2BL 0114 281 9300 07765 556557 martin@chesworthcues.co.uk www.chesworthcues.com

071 FFB Dec15 07/12/2015 11:56 Page 1

First For Business

EVENTS

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

SET YOUR STAFF TARGETS WITH A DIFFERENCE BY HOLDING A COMPANY EVENT AT RINGINGLOW ARCHERY. inginglow Archery offers a unique venue with a wide range of activities to suit all budgets.

Situated on the edge of the Peak District, yet only four miles from Sheffield City Centre it is a stunning rural location with easy access to the city.

R

What makes Ringinglow Archery unique is their flexibility to provide an event that is exactly what you want it to be, either just a relaxed informal gathering away from the office/business environment or a competitive and challenging event.

Obviously, their main activity is archery and they find, whatever the group dynamics, everyone can get involved â&#x20AC;&#x201C; young or old, male or female. There is nothing better than the sense of achievement from hitting the bullseye!

But as well as archery, they also offer other exciting activities including air rifles, pistol shooting, crossbows, catapults and,

for something a little different, knife and axe throwing!

Each activity can be specified on their own, or in combination for the ultimate top-shot challenge. Alternatively, you can choose one of their themed events, either a Zombie Challenge or a Wild West Experience, with some interesting targets to shoot at!

During all events they guarantee a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with tuition and guidance from fully qualified instructors. And with a fully covered and heated shooting area and complimentary hot drinks available your event promises to be comfortable and enjoyable.

If you are planning a group outing, for whatever reason, drop them an email with your requirements and they will be

more than happy to provide you with a bespoke package for your business, whatever the group size.

And if you want to combine business with pleasure, then Ringinglow Archery can arrange meeting rooms, accommodation and lunches at the nearby Norfolk Arms Hotel.

CONTACT: Ringinglow Archery Smeltings Farm, Sheffield, S11 7TD Tel: 0114 230 3347 Email: ringinglowarchery@gmail.com

)81 &+$//(1*,1* 5(:$5',1*ÂŤ75< ,7 Archery, Crossbows, Air Guns, Knife & Axe Throwing Team Building or Employee Rewards for small or large groups All Weather Facilities only 4 miles from Sheffield City Centre Friendly and Relaxed Surroundings For Bookings or Enquiries ringinglowarchery@gmail.com or 0114 230 3347 Ringinglow Archery, Smeltings Farm, Ringinglow Road, Sheffield S11 7TD

71

072 FFB Dec15 07/12/2015 14:22 Page 1

Europa

Free Breakdown Recovery * & Replacement vehicle When your Mercedes-Benz is serviced by Europa Sheffield, with MobiloLife.

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ÂŁ165

Europa Mercedes-Benz Authorised Repairer Granville Square, 48 Suffolk Road, Sheffield S2 4AL 0114 208 6129 www.europamercedes.co.uk Terms and conditions apply. The MobiloLife guarantee comes as standard on all Mercedes-Benz vehicles registered from October 1998 onwards (excluding Vaneo and Viano). *Breakdown recovery is valid for 12 months from the date of service. Mercedes-Benz will arrange a replacement vehicle for the duration of the repair, for a maximum of 5 days. Subject to standard market conditions and driver must satisfy the requirements of an external rental company. Costs for fuel, fines, and additional services will not be covered. You will be required to produce your full driving licence and credit card details for security reasons. The type and model of the replacement vehicle depends on availability. Contact Europa Sheffield for more details. Offer ends 31st December 2016.

Get your business noticed with

CJ Signs have many years experience at getting businesses seen and noticed, using the most modern equipment, techniques and highest quality materials.

Vehicle Wrapping Vehicle Graphics General Signage OPEN DAY Friday 29 January, 10am - 4.30pm Call us on 0114 247 1501 email enquiries@cjsigns.co.uk or visit our website www.cjsigns.co.uk

72

073 FFB Dec15_Layout 1 07/12/2015 14:15 Page 1

First For Business

BUSINESS REVIEW

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

BY JULIE HURLEY, DIRECTOR OF TRANSPORT, SHEFFIELD CITY REGION.

TRANSPORT ransport is an essential part of our day to day lives, and is a key component of the Sheffield City Region (SCR) economy. A well connected, sustainable, efficient transport network allows SCR business to connect with its customers and staff, it allows us to access work, training and leisure opportunities and ultimately contributes to the overall productivity and quality of SCR as a place.

T

In 2011 we published the SCR Transport Strategy. The strategy set out 26 key policies for the SCR transport network, based on four key goals: to support economic growth, to reduce emissions, to enhance social inclusion and health; and to maximise safety.

Since the publication on the strategy, SCR has made great progress in delivering our objectives, introducing innovative transport interventions to improve the transport offer and address key challenges, including the bus partnerships in Sheffield and Rotherham and proposals to roll these further into Doncaster and Barnsley.

2015 has been a particularly exciting year for the SCR with regards to transport, including commencing the delivery of key schemes, such as the ground-breaking tram train extension to Rotherham and

the Bus Rapid Transit North serving the Lower Don Valley. Furthermore, we have made significant enhancements to our smart ticketing offer.

investment to secure maximum benefit to the region. Longer term certainty allows us to be more ambitious in terms of the solutions we deliver.

We are collectively working with the Northern City Regions, Local Authorities, Counties and Government, to make the case for transformational transport investment in the North of England to realise the huge potential of the Northern Powerhouse. It is estimated that this could see £44 billion additional Gross Value Added (GVA) for the North (£1,600 per individual), building on a strong economy already worth £290 billion GVA.

High Speed Rail nationally has advanced significantly, with Government indicating that the SCR will be served by this major national infrastructure project. We are now considering what the SCR needs to put in place, to maximise the benefits that High Speed Rail brings.

Exciting and unprecedented changes have occurred structurally. SCR’s strong relationship with central government has allowed us to secure devolved, longer term transport funding and increased powers to shape our own destiny. This is a game changer and allows us to drive forward our transport ambition. SCR must now decide how to best target its

There will be some challenges ahead, of that there is no doubt and there is now a need to refresh the Transport Strategy to capitalise on the progress already made and position the SCR in terms of the new opportunities presented through the Northern Powerhouse work and devolution deals. Work on the Refresh will take place in early 2016, this will allow us to further drive forward our policies, so that transport supports sustainable productive growth in SCR and enhances the attractiveness of the region as a place to live and invest.

73

074 FFB Dec15 07/12/2015 10:51 Page 1

075 FFB Dec15 07/12/2015 10:52 Page 1

076 FFB Dec15 09/12/2015 13:34 Page 1

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077 FFB Dec15_Layout 1 08/12/2015 09:26 Page 1

First For Business

MOTORING

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

For the last three years B&B has also been a proud sponsor of Sheffield Theatres

BRANCHING OUT

B&B VEHICLE CONTRACTS LTD IS BUILDING ON ITS SUCCESSFUL CORE SERVICE OF CONTRACT HIRE AND HAS MOVED INTO NEW PREMISES TO ACCOMMODATE THE COMPANY’S EXPANSION.

stablished in 1997, B&B Vehicle Contracts has long been a local source of support for customers, not only providing the highest quality contract vehicles but also outstanding value, a no hassle service and impartial guidance.

E

With a customer base predominantly across the Sheffield City Region – but also spanning the UK from Scotland to Cornwall – B&B is proud to call itself a ‘local company’. It has a proven reputation as a company you can trust, meaning customers are assured of personal attention while also benefiting from a flexible and proactive approach, expert guidance and a range of support services.

Having built up a loyal customer base, which includes major national companies and clients ranging in size from sole traders to fleets of 200, B&B Vehicles is now applying its expertise and ability to source the most cost-effective solutions into new areas. One of the most recent projects, about to start imminently, is providing minibuses for council-run schools, private schools and academies.

To accommodate the expansion the

company has recently purchased and moved into new premises on Fairfield Road in Chesterfield. From its new base the family company will continue to offer the widest choice of vehicles, finance options and support services available and provide a quality service which conforms to rigorous standards.

One of the company’s directors, John Barker, said: “B&B has always functioned like a partner to clients and has always been dedicated to providing the highest quality service at every opportunity.

“We understand that clients want the process of organising contract hire to be as hassle-free and cost effective as possible so we take care of everything and take into account the entire spectrum of a client’s requirements.

Whether you require a car or light commercial vehicle, new or used, we recognise that no two businesses are the same and each will have different vehicle funding and management needs so we offer a variety of solutions in order to give you complete flexibility and cost efficiency.

“We also provide a comprehensive maintenance package which guarantees

maintenance costs on the vehicle, to help you budget accordingly and avoid unexpected costs.”

The company is a keen supporter of community projects and is currently providing Sheffield United Football Club with two Nissan Leaf electric cars to help the club towards its ‘Going Green’ scheme; an attempt to reduce its carbon footprint within the city whilst also reducing its travel costs.

For the last three years B&B has also been a proud sponsor of Sheffield Theatres and shows its support by providing vehicles which are used for everything from transporting props to visiting schools.

CONTACT: B&B Vehicle Contracts Ltd 5A Fairfield Road Chesterfield, S40 4TR Tel: 01246 557080 www.bandbvehiclecontracts.com

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078 FFB Dec15 09/12/2015 09:55 Page 1

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First For Business

BUSINESS REVIEW

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

Richard Caborn

SPORT

BY RICHARD CABORN, PROJECT LEAD, OLYMPIC LEGACY PARK.

n 2016, the biggest London 2012 legacy project of its kind in Europe will start to take shape right here in the Sheffield City Region.

I

On the site of the former Don Valley Stadium will emerge a 26-acre internationally recognised centre for health, wellbeing and innovation - the Olympic Legacy Park (OLP).

Working with the Sheffield Local Enterprise Partnership, the multi-million pound OLP will become a partner in the Innovation District, delivering economic regeneration and demonstrating how the Sheffield City Region, using Olympic legacy, can be a world leader in innovation in the sport, leisure and health and wellbeing sectors.

The OLP model is unique and will make a significant contribution to the city region’s business community. Nowhere else in Europe will researchers have access to 551,500 people to carry out sport and health and wellbeing research from the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre (AWRC).

Where the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) is renowned for leading manufacturing research, the AWRC will place Sheffield City Region at the heart of future global health and wellbeing innovations. As the OLP evolves onto the Innovation District, and with the development of the new landmark AMRC Factory 2050 facility, which is being built close to the AMP on the Sheffield Business Park, each will anchor a new wave of advanced research.

Due to be built on site in late 2016, the AWRC will become the most advanced research and development centre for sport and physical activity in the world creating 'innovations that help people move'. It will make a positive contribution to the NHS to bridge the funding gap through prevention rather than cures, whilst giving the local community exercise opportunities, apprenticeships and jobs.

Toshiba and Westfield Health have already invested as partners of the AWRC and we expect to announce further sponsorship by major national and international brands in 2016.

But the AWRC is not the only major project being developed on site. In the coming year, the city region’s second UTC specialising in computing and human sciences will be completed. The UTC Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park will create apprentices and job opportunities in the healthcare technology, sports science, exercise medicine and wellbeing sectors for 14-18 year olds.

In 2016, we will also see the completion of the community stadium providing 3G outdoor facilities for the Oasis Academy

Don Valley and UTC Sheffield OLP, completion of the Indoor Arena providing community opportunities and a new home for Sheffield Sharks as well as new business opportunities in the sports sector.

Landscaping will link the existing English Institute of Sport Sheffield, iceSheffield and Grass Bowl to the new investments on the site of the OLP providing enhanced cycle and running routes for all ages and abilities and an external testing environment for the research emanating from the AWRC Four years on from London 2012, and with the world’s focus back on the Olympics thanks to Rio 2016, the Sheffield City Region can demonstrate tangible legacy. The staging of the Brazil games will place the Sheffield City Region in the spotlight, provide opportunities to showcase our success and generate further business opportunities.

At the heart of the sport and leisure sector, the OLP is already a city region success story, bringing together providers, users, research and education in a single location working together towards a common objective In 2016, it will continue to develop collaborative working to deliver Olympic legacy and economic regeneration in the Sheffield City Region through inward investments from global companies, new job opportunities and private sector investments in offices and laboratories that will act as a catalyst for the wider regeneration of the Don Valley.

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First For Business

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

www.ffb-online.co.uk

AIRMASTER’S LISA NAMED CHAMBER’S SECOND FEMALE PRESIDENT Lisa Pogson has just been named President Elect at the Barnsley Rotherham Chamber for 2016 and 2017, only the second woman ever to be President in the Chamber’s history. Lisa, currently vice president of the Chamber and founding member of the Women in Business group is resources director at Airmaster, a heating and air conditioning company based in Rotherham. Having left school at 16 for a youth training scheme with a handful of GCSEs and returned to education later in life- gaining her Masters of Science degree in Management Resources at 30, Lisa is a huge champion of improving educational attainment. She works tirelessly to support schools increase skills from enterprise to literacy in the region through her work with projects like BizKids and as a trustee of literacy charity Grimm & Co. Lisa enjoys supporting STEM projects to get more women into science, technology, engineering and maths.

WORK AND PLAY A MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS, CELEBRATIONS AND NEW FACES UTC STUDENTS’ MEDAL HAUL UTC Sheffield engineering students have won three medals in a prestigious national skills competition.

CHINESE COMPANY DOES £190K DEAL WITH AMP FIRM A Chinese company which set up its European base in Sheffield to buy from local manufacturers has been as good as its word, placing its first order – worth £190,000 – at the AMP. CISDI UK, a subsidiary of China’s global engineering giant CISDI, opened its £2.2million offices at Victoria Quays in May. Its first deal, for a remote strand condition monitor, a quality control device to be used for a steel casting machine, has been struck with Sarclad Ltd on Whittle Way. CISDI UK managing director John Lester said: “We are delighted to be buying from Sarclad, a company with a vast amount of expertise in the metals industry.

“The order will be heading for China, where our parent company, CISDI Group, will incorporate it into a continuous casting plant it has won a contract to build for Sha Steel in Zhangjiagang, in the Jiangsu province.”

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The UTC Sheffield teams clinched gold, silver and bronze in this year’s WorldSkills UK after competing against colleges, employers and universities from across the country.

Yorkshire’s first University Technical College (UTC) is the only UTC to win at this year’s WorldSkills UK, in a national first. One of the teams comprised the only girls to compete in their skills category.

The UTC Sheffield medal haul was won by Kamil Zmich (17) and Krzysztof Gornisiewicz (18), who won gold in the mechatronics skills competition; Jaye Griffiths (17) and Hannah Saville (18), who won silver in the industrial control skills competition; and Will Davis (19) and Matt Toone (17), who won bronze in the mechatronics skills competition.

In addition, Jacob Staniforth, 18, Edward Anderson, 18, Jaye Griffiths, 17, and Hannah Saville, 18, have been selected to join the Squad UK for WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017.

NEW S4C BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Solutions for Cleaning has appointed a new business development manager.

Catherine Elliott has more than 25 years’ experience in sales and customer service experience, including over eight years in the contract cleaning industry.

Catherine said: “I aim to always deliver more and exceed expectations. It’s about relationship building, trust and honesty. This is the key to long lasting successful business partnerships and this is something that I feel very strongly about.

“My goal is to further develop the S4C brand as Yorkshire’s Premier Cleaning Solutions Provider. If a client has a challenge or issue we WILL find them a solution. I am also looking to offer extended and additional services to our existing client base and expand our client portfolio and increase our market share even more.”

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WORK & PLAY

BARNSLEY COLLEGE APPRENTICE WINS TOP AWARD Barnsley College Apprentice, Tom Bagley, won the Apprentice of the Year Award at the Barnsley and Rotherham Business Awards on 23 October 2015.

Tom, who is employed at Ardagh Group in Monk Bretton, was nominated for designing a bottle ejector system for the company after he noticed a flaw in the processing system. Following its implementation, the system has made significant savings for the company by reducing waste and increasing productivity. Tom started at the company in 2012 on a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Engineering Maintenance and is now doing a HNC in General Engineering at Barnsley College.

WORLD CLASS SPEAKERS INSPIRE CITY CONFERENCE AMBASSADORS Sheffield’s growing reputation as a popular destination for business tourism was celebrated at the Sheffield Conference Ambassador Dinner, an annual event which celebrates the conference advocates who help bring largescale business events to the city.

An independent research survey has shown that conference delegates accounted for an estimated direct spend of £132.6m in 2014, up significantly on the previous year.

The report also highlighted Sheffield’s success in attracting association conferences accounting for 29 per cent of business in Sheffield, again up on 2013 and significantly higher than the national average of 18 per cent in the rest of the UK. Brendan Moffett, director of Marketing Sheffield, which runs the Programme, said “Sheffield is a very strong city for Business Tourism as evidenced by the strong year on year growth. The Conference Ambassador Programme is a significant contributor and we are keen to accelerate its growth as our Universities go from strength to strength.”

LAW FIRM PLEDGES ONGOING SUPPORT FOR AIR AMBULANCE

WAKE SMITH LAYS GROUNDWORK FOR REHAB CENTRE

A lawyer whose son was airlifted to hospital has backed his firm’s support for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Specialist legal work by Sheffield's Wake Smith has helped three healthcare entrepreneurs secure the go-ahead for the first stage of a new healthcare hub to be built in the city.

Seven years ago Irwin Mitchell family law partner Peter Morris’s son, Joe, became the youngest unaccompanied child to be airlifted after a horse bit off part of his ear at riding stables near York.

Joe was just five when the accident happened and was flown by Yorkshire Air Ambulance to specialists at Leeds General Infirmary, who were able to repair the damage.

Peter, based in the Leeds office of Irwin Mitchell, said: “The crew were just fantastic and I’m sure the speed of getting Joe to hospital was a key factor in the success of the operation.

“You never know when you may need the air ambulance, but you know they will be there if that day comes and they were.

That’s why it’s so important to support the charity.”

Yorkshire Air Ambulance relies on the generosity of individuals and organisations to help save lives across Yorkshire. To keep both its helicopters in the air the charity needs to raise £12,000 every day, which is equivalent to £4.4 million a year.

Kerry Garner, regional fundraiser manager, said: “Irwin Mitchell are fantastic, long-standing supporters of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. They have organized a wide range of fundraising activity and support us in other ways including recently sponsoring our volunteer T-shirts.”

Ray Boulger, Julia Leahy and Toria Chan from STEPS Rehabilitation Limited have been granted planning permission to build a neurological and orthopaedic rehabilitation and recovery centre on part of the site of the former Jacobs Manufacturing Company premises off Abbeydale Road South.

The development, which will offer 23 beds and feature a rehabilitation gym, hydrotherapy pool and cafe, is expected to create 60 permanent jobs, by next summer.

Lisa Davison director in the commercial property department, guided STEPS Rehabilitation Limited through the process of buying the land at Troutbeck Road.

She said: "My work concentrated on putting together the legal framework on the land purchase. This involved solving the tax issues for development costs as healthcare companies are exempt from paying VAT. We also guided STEPS, as a new developer, through the best, and most effective, way to structure the project using a development vehicle."

From left: STEPS chairman Ray Boulger, clinical director Toria Chan, managing director Jules Leahy Wake Smith’s Lisa Davison at the new site

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First For Business

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

BUSINESS REVIEW

www.ffb-online.co.uk

ARTS, LEISURE AND TOURISM

BY BRENDAN MOFFETT, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING SHEFFIELD. t’s been another good year for Sheffield’s visitor economy. The city’s hotels have seen further growth in occupancy and significant growth in rate and Sheffield has kept the title as the Trip Advisor Best Value City Break for 2015.

I

Major events such as the British Swimming Championships, BUCS (The British University Championships),World Snooker and Doc Fest continue to underpin occupancy, but there are some exciting high growth events emerging such as the Children’s Media Conference (CMC) which attracted over 1000 delegates this year.

In October ‘The Outdoor City’ website was launched to coincide with Sheffield hosting the European Outdoor Summit.

The city is now really beginning to capitalise on its outdoor assets and making it easier for visitors to combine the great outdoors with vibrant city life.

A major highlight in the cultural calendar this year has been the excellent Going Public, led by Museums Sheffield, bringing together four leading European private art collections for a series of world-class exhibitions across the city.

Visitors have had the unique opportunity to enjoy work by internationally renowned

artists, such as Jake and Dinos Chapman, Marcel Duchamp, Man Ray, Cao Fei, Anthony McCall, Fiona Tan, Sol LeWitt, Yang Jiechang and more.

The major focus of activity in Arts and Culture for 2016 is the Year of Making.

Year of Making will champion and promote making and creativity in Sheffield in the widest sense – from making great theatre, music and art to making a life, your fortune, your future.

Sheffield is home to industry large and small: from advanced manufacturing and international business, to individual designer-makers. The Year of Making will incorporate our past, present and future in manufacturing, and reveal a skilled city with a strong reputation for excellence and innovation, challenging stereotypical perceptions.

The concept of making underpins everything we do as a city and the Year of Making is an opportunity for collaboration, debate and celebration.

Throughout 2016 the city will come together to curate, programme, celebrate and examine our position as a city by highlighting what we do best, what more we can achieve and showcase our talents

Brendan Moffett

by celebrating the local and the global.

The Year will incorporate existing activities alongside large commissions and national scale events; it will showcase major exhibitions at the Millennium Gallery, new works at Sheffield Theatres and the vibrancy of our festivals with thoughtprovoking discussions, activities and largescale ambition.

This is a great opportunity to unlock hidden talent, break down barriers and celebrate what Sheffield has to offer.

Businesses can help with support for commissioning activity and through networking and contacts.

As if this wasn’t enough… multi awardwinning Sheffield Theatres has announced its most ambitious season in 2016.

Highlights include three world premières – of new plays from Richard Bean (One Man, Two Guvnors), Chris Bush and a coproduction with Third Angel, a new British musical, Flowers For Mrs Harris, by Richard Taylor and Rachel Wagstaff, a regional premiere of Mike Bartlett’s (Bull, Doctor Foster) Contractions and two major new productions of 20th century classics – A Raisin In The Sun and Waiting For Godot.

It’s fair to say that 2016 is set to be another exciting year in Sheffield.

‘Year of Making will champion and promote making and creativity in Sheffield in the widest sense.’

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