BEST OF BRITAIN - Volume 1

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B E S T O F B R I TA I N Volume 1

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Volume 1

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During this time of global economic uncertainty, Britain remains a commercial leader and we are proud to feature the companies & entrepreneurs who continue to contribute towards this success.

‘Best of Britain’ is a testament to the commitment and dedication of these people.

Over the coming years ‘Best of Britain’ will continue to showcase British achievement. As the world strives to recover from the current economic climate we will highlight the companies and individuals who continue to push Britain to the vanguard of trade and industry. We will follow with interest as London prepares to host the Olympic Games for the third time in its history. And we will continue to bring you the best of British business.

This publication is part of the ‘Global Village Partnerships’ group that extends across 20 countries, with the potential involvement of a further 120 countries facilitating a vast worldwide readership. To complement our print model we have developed www.gvpedia.com where all our publications can be viewed and downloaded.

Publisher:

Warren Haley

Sales Director:

Jamie Foskett

Creative Director:

Mike Morgan

Web:

globalvillagelondon.co.uk gvpedia.com

E-mail:

warren.haley@ globalvillagelondon.co.uk

Publisher:

Global Village London Ltd

Printing:

Butler Tanner & Dennis

ISBN:

#978-1-60643-947-0

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in The Best of Britain Vol. 1. Neither Best of Britain nor Global Village London Ltd. take any responsibility for errors or omissions. All rights reserved: No part of this publication shall be reproduced, copied, transmitted, adapted or modified in any form or by any means. This publication shall not be stored in whole or in part in any form in any retrieval system.

Regional Offices:

Bangalore : Bangkok: Brussels : Cairo : Copenhagen : Dubai : Johannesburg : Singapore : Sydney

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Building an Atlas of Success, Sustainability and Culture Best of Britain

With its mission to serve as the premier platform for showcasing and networking the world’s top brands and companies in business, tourism and lifestyle, Global Village Partnerships (GVP) is building an atlas of success, sustainability and culture. This is carried out through the ‘Best of’ book series, the Global Village online information portal and the development of an ever expanding business network of international partners and clients.

Brand Image

networks and the creation of individual brand

Product - www.gvpedia.com

Branding a Nation, a City and its People

awareness by bridging cultures. The result is the

Connecting the world’s most interesting people and organisations

GVP brands and builds the image of the world’s

ultimate interactive corporate gift and P.R. marketing

most exciting economic regions to affect a change in

tool for governments, companies, hotels and business

the perception of a nation, a city and its people by the

people providing leading products and services for

Public Relations Box managed by a user friendly

rest of the world. This then promotes the region in

their region.

‘Enterprise Content Management System’ that allows

terms of its investment opportunities, key industries,

The portal provides GVP customers an interactive

clients to upload their press releases, photos, videos

innovations, people, culture, tourism potential and

Product - The Folders

and management profiles. The latest networking

international objectives.

Fast track to the world

addons and social media applications are integrated

Market Essentials works closely with Foreign

within the site providing maximum reach and feedback.

Product - The Books

Embassies, High Commissions, International

The value proposition for Subscribers to gvpedia.com

Celebrate your success

Chambers of Commerce and Trade Associations

essentially covers four elements: exposure, expertise,

worldwide to produce high quality trade folders. Each

exclusivity and networking.

The ‘Best of…’ publishing series produces annual maxi format book publications in over 30

folder is designed to offer support and advice to

territories, from Bangalore to Belgium. These detail

companies interested in trading with or investing in

Market

success stories of people and companies making

overseas markets.

Promote and network the ‘red apples’

positive inroads into the commercial fibre of both mature and emerging markets. The books showcase entrepreneurial spirit; establishing powerful global

4 | Best of Britain

within each economy GVP’s market sectors embrace publishing, public relations, corporate gifting, online community building

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Sven Boermeester, Chairman with Lisa Durante, Managing Partner, GVP

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and networking. Its target market covers large,

Corporate Social Responsibility

GVP has a 5-year growth plan to develop a further

medium and small entrepreneurial organisations

There is no success without ethics

150 economic territories organically, through each

enjoying growth, success and sustainability. GVP

and sustainability

continent’s regional head office, and through

explores every geographic region to pick the ‘red

The best of world business, travel and lifestyle

apples’ in business, exports, innovation, design,

within the Global Village is dependent on more than

fashion, retail, hospitality, specialty foods, the arts

monetary profit. There is no success without core

and more.

values such as sustainability, integrity and Corporate

partnerships with companies and individuals that have the expertise to showcase their city, state or country.

Social Responsibility (CSR). GVP’s exclusive client Unique Selling Point (USP)

base is selected by invitation only based on these

New markets create new business opportunities

criteria, with the added focus of dedicated chapters

GVP publications promote, showcase and network successful economies, organisations and individuals

covering CSR, sustainability, green innovation and giving back to the community.

from across the globe. The organisation celebrates

I

Regional Head Offices Bangalore

Johannesburg

success and provides recognition amongst its ever

Growth and Opportunity

Brussels

London

expanding international network of influential clients.

Exchanging knowledge, skills and economies

Cairo

Santiago

Its online portal, www.gvpedia.com, provides a

of scale in media

Casablanca

Singapore

Copenhagen

Sydney

Dubai

Washington DC

platform for clients and readers to network, share

With regional head offices in 5 continents, the

best practice and grow new markets, creating exciting

organisation is currently involved in more than 30

new business connections and opportunities.

territories where the ‘Best of’ series is published.

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Chapters | Best of Britain

Luxury Lifestyle Chapter 6 -

Chapter 1 -

Best of Britain

Fashion Chapter 7 -

Chapter 2 -

Business Tourism & Events

Food & Drink Chapter 8 -

Chapter 3 -

Olympic Overview

Design & Interiors Chapter 9 -

Chapter 4 -

Hotels

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Health & Beauty Chapter 10 -

Chapter 5 -

Fine Dining & Cuisine

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Corporate Social Responsibility

Chapter 11 -

Chapter 16 -

Corporate Profiles

Conferencing & Exhibitions

Chapter 12 -

Chapter 17 -

Financial Services

Media, Marketing & Education Chapter 18 -

Chapter 13 -

Biotech & Pharmaceuticals

Entertainment & Shopping Chapter 19 -

Chapter 14 -

Innovation

Setting up in Britain Chapter 20 -

Chapter 15 -

Construction & Engineering

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Chapter 1 | Best of Britain

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Best of Britain | 9

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Digby, Lord Jones

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As I internationalised the CBI over the first few years of this decade and during the 45 overseas ministerial visits I made as Minister of State for Trade & Investment in 2007/2008, I came to the firm conclusion that the one country that does the UK harm more than any other, that appears to take great delight in accentuating our faults and never giving us due credit for our achievements and talent is in fact the UK... yes...ourselves!

The media feeds us a diet of bad news (good news loses the battle for column inches) but apparently we have only ourselves to blame as that’s what sells newspapers! However, consider these facts for a moment: I

The UK is the Destination of Choice for Inward Investment in Europe and is second only to the USA in the World.

I

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The most productive car plant in Europe and the

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most productive in the World is in the UK:

people in the UK), the BBC and, of course, it’s not

Nissan’s plant in the North-East.

Paris, not Madrid, not Moscow or New York but

Almost half of every Rolls-Royce-powered Airbus

London which will host the 2012 Olympic Games.

that flies anywhere in the World has been built in I

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This is SUCCESS on the grand scale. We engage

the UK.

globally. We make brilliant traders. We have a

We have four Universities in the Top Ten in the

reputation around the world for being an open market,

World and only the USA has more than we have

welcoming goods and services, investment and the

in the Top Hundred.

people who bring their talent to work hard and help

This tiny island on a lump of granite in the North

make Great Britain great. We have a reputation for

Atlantic accounts for over 14% of the entire

being innovative and inventive. In fact, in a 21st

global GDP of creative industries, from textile

Century where the developed world will only survive

design to architecture, from advertising to music

on delivering added-value, quality and branded goods

and films.

and services, the UK is in the right position at the

The Number One location for Financial Services

right time to make the most of the global upturn when

in the World is the City of London (in spite of all

it comes (and it surely will!) but we will only succeed

the mayhem).

if we keep investing in our skills base, keep being

I could go on; Pharmaceuticals, Premiership

open to the best the world has to offer and, more

football, Formula One (which employs some 50,000

than anything else, believe in ourselves!

Best of Britain | 11

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United Kingdom - Facts The United Kingdom is made up of Great Britain (England,

Best of Britain

Scotland and Wales) and Northern Ireland, and is one of the twenty seven member states of the European Union (EU).

Capital cities I

London – England

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Edinburgh – Scotland

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Cardiff – Wales

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Belfast – Northern Ireland

Area Land and water: 152,033 square miles Population

S C O T L A N D

UK approximately 60.6 million (England 50,714,000; Wales 2,977,000;

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N

Edinburgh

Scotland 5,108,000; Northern Ireland 1,733,000)

I R E L A N D I

Belfast

E N G L A N D

W A L E S I

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Cardiff

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London

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Languages The two official languages in Britain are English and Welsh, English being the most widely spoken. Scottish Gaelic is also spoken in some parts of Scotland.

People The majority of the population is English, Scottish, Welsh and Irish. However, Britain is an extremely diverse nation with a strong culture of racial integration and unity.

Religion Most people are Christian (71%), although all other religions including Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam and Sikhism are freely practised. About 23% of Britain follow no particular religion.

Weights & measures

UK Domestic Tourism:

Government

Historically Britain used the Imperial System, but new

I

The UK is a constitutional monarchy that is a

EU regulations make use of the Metric System

trips (-2%) of one night or more, spending 21.2

representative democracy, where Queen Elizabeth II

compulsory with the exception of a few items, for

billion (+1%)

is recognised as the head of state, and the elected

example distance and speed are measured in miles

Prime Minister – Gordon Brown – is the head of

and miles per hour.

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Economic profile

Tourism is one of the largest industries in the UK,

The UK is a leading trading power and a financial

accounting for 2.9% of UK Gross Value Added and

centre. Agriculture is an important industry and highly

worth approximately £85.6 billion:

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47.8 million overnight trips to friends and relatives spending £4.8 billion

Latest data (2005) estimates that the English took

efficient. Primary energy, like coal and oil, are major contributors to the economy, but services like banking

Spending by Overseas Residents £ billion

and insurance are the greatest contributors.

Visits to the UK Fares to UK carriers

870 million tourism day trips in England, spending 16.0

£37.4 billion.

2.9 Employment:

Currency Britain uses the pound sterling.

Spending by Domestic Tourists £ billion

The sign for the Great British Pound (GBP) is £.

Trips of 1+ nights

21.0

Day Trips

44.8

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18.8 million overnight business trips spending £4.5 billion

British Tourism Facts

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76.8 million holidays of one night or more spending £14 billion

Government.

Time zone

In 2007 UK residents took a total of 123.5 million

Rent for Second Ownership

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1.0

29 October – 26 March:

Over 2 million jobs are sustained by tourism activity in the UK, either directly or indirectly

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Of these an estimated 1.45 million jobs are directly related, some five per cent of all people in employment in the UK

Coordinated Universal Time (UTC)

Inbound Tourism to the UK:

25 March – 29 October: UTC + 1

Total visits for 2007 are 32.8 million visits, a +0.2% increase compared with 2006, with an decrease of

Climate

-0.3% in spending to £16 billion. The UK ranks sixth

Britain has a fairly temperate climate. The weather

in the international tourism earnings league behind

can vary greatly from day to day, but generally

the USA, Spain, France, Italy and China.

summer (June-August) is a warm 14-25°C, and winter (December-February) is a cool 1-4°C.

The top 5 overseas markets for the UK in 2007 were: Country Visits (000)

Major UK holidays 2009

USA

3,587

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1 January

Germany

3,385

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2 January (Scotland only)

France

3,323

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17 March (Northern Ireland only)

Irish Republic

2,975

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10 and 13 April

Spain

2,158

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4 and 25 May

Country Spend (£m)

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13 July (Northern Ireland only)

USA

2,554

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3 August (Scotland only)

Germany

1,217

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31 August (England, Wales and

Irish Republic

969

Northern Ireland only)

France

865

25 and 28 December

Spain

848

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Economic Overview

Economy of Great Britain The UK economy is well placed to see early recovery from the current economic downturn. In November 2008, the Government set in place new measures to stimulate the economy. VAT was reduced and public spending increased with the intention of helping maintain levels of demand and consumption.

The UK is the world’s fifth-largest economy, with a

sixth-largest manufacturing economy. As a customs

GDP of GBP £1.19 (US $2,345) billion in 2007 and

union the EU allows for imported goods to be freely

the Economist Intelligence Unit has forecast that the

circulated around member states once the initial

UK will have the most stable business environment

customs duty and other charges have been paid.

of all the major European economies for the period

Membership of the EU, and access to its 500 billion

2007-2011. This recent success is attributable to a

consumers, is a pivotal aspect to the UK’s continued

fundamental economic stability achieved through

pre-eminence in trade.

business friendly regulation and legislation, a highly

The UK Government is committed to easing

skilled workforce, a deserved reputation for innovation

constraints on local business and research carried

technology and promotion of trade, globalisation and

out by The World Bank shows that it takes only 13

open markets.

days to set up a business in the UK, compared to

As it has been for centuries, the UK is a leading

14 | Best of Britain

the European average of 32 days. As a Government

trading nation, and it is now the second-largest

body, UK Trade & Investment has a vital role in this

exporter and third-largest importer of commercial

process: they help local businesses to internationalise

services globally. Internationally, the financial services

and expand their influence into foreign markets, while

sector is in a strong position. Thanks to inspired

at the same time working tirelessly to facilitate high

management and innovative products, the

value overseas investment. In 2007, the UK was the

manufacturing sector powers on despite fluctuations

largest recipient of foreign direct investment in Europe

in global trends, allowing the UK to remain the world’s

while consistently being the largest recipient globally

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of investment from the US, and it has achieved an impressive record for outward investment too.

The UK Government has legislated economic policies that have contributed significantly to the past success and the continued strength of the economy.

Policies guarantee that the pound will remain competitive, while economic strategy ensures stability.

The Bank of England has full operational independence in determining interest rates. In terms of local business, the Government recognises the impact of regulation on entrepreneurial activity and the need for regulation to be a presence that does not hamper growth and innovation.

Exactly the same can be said of Government policies regarding taxation. The UK has a relatively lightly taxed economy, with the overall tax burden being far below the EU average. Standard rates of VAT are also the lowest in the EU, with a wide range of essential goods such as food and children’s clothing

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Economic Overview

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being exempt from VAT taxes altogether. At 28%

a business. The UK is also an extremely stable

possible business need. In addition, purchasing

the top corporate tax rate is well below most of the

political environment in which to do business, having

property in the UK is a simple procedure, and most

UK’s major competitors. Personal tax rates, with the

one of the most transparent and least corrupt

importantly there are no restrictions on buying by

highest band at 40%, are among the lowest in Europe

Governments in the world - ahead of France, Japan

overseas companies. Extensive networks of science

and add significantly to the attractions of citizenship

and the US according to Transparency International

parks and business incubators cater to the particular

for potential immigrants. Generous tax allowances,

(2008). The hub of European business activity, the

needs of start-up firms and provide a valuable platform

such as substantial research and development tax

UK has the least restricted business environment in the

for future growth. The UK has been divided into 12

credits, and an extensive network of double taxation

area and as a result has attracted foreign investment

investment regions, each of which has its own

treaties which ensure that business coming over to the

from massive corporations such as Microsoft,

development agency whose sole function is to

UK does not get taxed twice, are further incentives

Coca-Cola and Motorola, to name but a few.

promote growth in the area. Businesses based in the

for overseas investors.

For smaller firms, which often require nursing

UK have access to a wide range of finance and

particularly in the early stages of their development,

incentives, with the long-established and extensive

that is consistently recognised as among the most

ample sources of support and finance are available

UK banking industry offering a variety of commercial

favourable in the world. It has many features that make

because the UK Government recognises the value of

loans, mortgages and credit facilities. UK and EU

it exceptionally attractive to large foreign companies

entrepreneurial initiatives. This includes determined

government organisations also offer a wide range of

seeking to expand, but it also provides a unique

and structured support for companies protecting their

grants and incentives to qualifying businesses,

springboard for small firms or new ventures. The World

intellectual property rights. Commercial property is

particularly those involved with R&D.

Bank has ranked the UK as the sixth best country in

available in abundance and the property market

the world and the best in Europe in which to operate

offers a wide range of options designed to suit every

The UK business sector provides an environment

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For a comparatively small cluster of islands the UK has a remarkable record where research and

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the economy, and this workforce is not only

one of the world’s largest overground and

substantial in quantity, being the second-largest in

underground railway networks, and the transport

the EU, but remarkably impressive in substance and

network in the rest of the country is correspondingly

skills. The UK leads Europe in terms of availability of

first rate. Airports, including Heathrow, Europe’s

qualified staff. Employment is currently at record

largest air hub, provide rapid links to mainland Europe

levels, with an employment level of 74.4% compared

and the rest of the world. Communications networks

with the EU average of 65.3%.

are as well developed, with the UK having one of the

The UK workforce does not consist only of home-grown Britons. Immigrants form a vital part of the country’s diverse labour market, while foreign

most extensive broadband markets and one of the strongest ICT infrastructures in the world.

While the UK economy moves confidently into

entrepreneurs make an essential contribution to the

the future, the nation’s rich heritage should not be

thriving business sector. A UK passport is a sought-

forgotten. It is no surprise that a country that produced

after document. It is not only a booming economy

Shakespeare, Francis Drake, Charles Darwin, the

development expenditure is concerned, and it

but a high standard of living that attracts people to

Beatles and Monty Python should be characterised

generates an impressive 5.5% of world research. R&D

British shores. Free healthcare, low personal taxes,

by innovation and entrepreneurship. The robust,

activity is a high priority, and as the nation is home

highly rated education facilities, a wealth of culture,

never-say-die attitudes of its citizens and a proud

to the world’s top two universities for science (the

history and tradition, and abundant recreation and

tradition of transparent and democratic Government

venerable but cutting-edge Oxford and Cambridge),

leisure pursuits (plus those much-loved institutions

have worked together to create the optimal

and the top six universities in all of Europe, it is small

fish and chips, the Royal Family and the Sunday

environment for long-term foreign investment.

wonder that so many leading global businesses

roast) make the UK an ideal place in which to make a

Home-grown businesses, R&D, communications,

choose to focus their R&D expenditure on the UK,

home and a very attractive destination for foreigners.

transport and Government initiatives and legislation

where they can be sure of benefiting from access to

As a result London has become one of the world’s

are among the best and most advanced in the world,

first-class resources. Government support for

truly international cities, with a community that speaks

and the British never stop to rest on their laurels.

innovation is strong, barriers to entrepreneurship are

over 300 languages. The Government has initiated a

Education and training facilities are outstanding,

the lowest in the world, and the research base is

new immigration system which is aimed at making the

providing the nation with a strong and diverse

second only to that in the United States.

process more straightforward, but most importantly

workforce more than capable of supporting the

is also a points-based system designed to attract the

booming economy. The skilled and talented are

most skilled and talented workers.

attracted to working in the UK because of the enviable

The fact that the UK is home to so many world-class universities and centres of research and development, which are located all around the country,

In 2007 London was voted the top city for

standard of living, combined with favourable tax rates

means that the country has a highly skilled, flexible

business in Europe for the 18th consecutive year.

and infrastructure.The UK is the destination for anyone

and dynamic labour force. The large population of

Multiple key indicators show that it is the world’s

who wants to participate in a time of boundless

60.6 million provides a strong workforce to support

leading financial services centre. The city also boasts

opportunities.

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Top 20 reasons to do business in the UK Best of Britain

The UK is Europe’s leading investment destination for companies relocating and developing their global business.

1. A safe haven.

The UK’s underlying economic stability and its principles-based regulatory system, will see it well set to take full advantage of recovery when it comes.

2. Foreign investment.

The UK is a monetary-magnet to foreign investors, being the second highest recipient in the world and attracting more than any other nation in Europe.

3. Productivity.

Manufacturing accounts for over half of UK exports and the advanced engineering sector is a national success story.

4. Innovation.

Research and development facilities of the highest quality abound, and concepts and firms with an innovative approach find a warm reception in a country where the social climate welcomes progressive ideas and change.

5. Stability.

As one of the most politically stable and least corrupt countries in the world, with centuries of democratic government, the UK is a particularly sensible and safe place in which to conduct business and make longer-term investments.

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15. Skills and labour.

With a strong, flexible and diverse labour force, the UK can cater to every possible business need.

16. Olympic fever.

The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games are to be held in London for the third time in the event’s history. The budget runs into billions and contracts will be awarded to local businesses both big and small.

17. Safety.

By international standards, the UK is an extremely safe country with low levels of street crime and violence and a famously organised and proactive police force.

18. Lifestyle.

Residents enjoy a very high standard of living in the UK, with superb education facilities, publicly funded health care and low personal taxes.

19. Entertainment.

The UK is a great place to visit and a great place to live, with a remarkable heritage of art and entertainment. The culture of creativity in which Shakespeare lived has strengthened and diversified in more recent times with some of world’s best music, film and theatre being produced and enjoyed.

20. Cultural activities and leisure.

Visit some of the world’s top museums and 6. London.

One of the most diverse cities in the world in

11. Transport.

Get where you need to go quickly and efficiently

galleries, dine out at superb international standard, shop till you drop, and enjoy an endless number of

which over 300 languages are spoken, this vibrant

– the world-class UK transport network offers

recreational pursuits. Food and drink, a beautiful

and international city is also one of the best European

everything from cheap and plentiful local and

countryside, outdoor activities from the tranquil to

business centres.

European flights to public transport links meeting

the extreme, sports events and scintillating nightlife

every possible need. Train, tram, taxi and tube, the

are all available when the time comes to relax and

UK has it all.

unwind.

7. Headquarters.

More foreign companies have chosen the UK as their European headquarters than any other nation on the European continent.

12. Communications.

With one of the strongest ICT infrastructures in the world and an extensive broadband market, the

8. Language.

Visiting and resident businessmen find it easy to

UK’s progressive communications network is a global leader.

communicate, as English is the international language for business and the most widely spoken language in the UK.

13. Tax. Corporate tax rates at 28% maximum are well below most of the UK’s main competitors, and the

9. Heathrow.

Heathrow is the largest air hub in Europe and

highest personal tax band of 40% is one of the lowest in the EU.

provides rapid links to the rest of the world and easy access to the 27 member states of the EU. Regular expansions maintain efficiency.

14. Accommodation and property.

Accommodation options from five star hotels right through to self-catering apartments are available,

10. Infrastructure.

By every possible standard the UK’s infrastructure

and for those who want to buy, for business or residential purposes, purchasing property in the UK

measures up to the most advanced and progressive

is a simple and straightforward process with no

in the world.

restrictions for foreign businessmen.

Best of Britain | 19

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Maximise your global potential Best of Britain

In this time of global economic uncertainty it is more important

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than ever that businesses, whatever their country of origin, raise their game to secure their future. Competition in international markets is increasingly fierce and partnership with a proven winner with an outstanding and long respected record of trade and success in attracting investment can be your key to growth.

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With the UK as your partner you are choosing a

UK is one of the most regulated business

and customer-focused. No other organisation is better

world-class location for international business which

environments in Europe.

equipped to support globally-minded companies.

is the leading recipient of inward investment in Europe

At this time of unprecedented change UK Trade &

Every year, we help hundreds of overseas firms, from

and only second in the world after the USA. It has a

Investment (UKTI) can help your company at every

hi-tech start-ups to global industry leaders who all

vibrant and diversified economy and a unique

step of the way. It is the UK Government’s

discover the potential for new global growth from a

combination of success, confidence, innovation,

international business development organisation and

UK base. Our clients cite consistently the importance

quality and ambition to make it a truly global economic

can provide the support that you need to help your

of UKTI support in helping them to overcome barriers

powerhouse. The UK as a base offers easy access

business grow and prosper.

to new business and investment opportunities. For

to the European single market of over 500 million

UKTI boasts an unrivalled network of specialist

us, understanding our customers’ needs is vital.

people and a bridge across the Atlantic into the

advisers throughout the UK and in British embassies

Americas. It is a springboard for global growth.

and diplomatic posts across the world. It leads an

Games less than four years away, the eyes of the

To ensure the long-term stability of the UK, the

With the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic

inward investment network which includes the English

world are firmly on the UK. This provides a perfect

Government has set in place new measures to

Regional Development Agencies, International

platform for UK-based companies to showcase their

stimulate the economy with the intention of helping

Business Wales, Invest Northern Ireland and Scottish

expertise and do business in overseas markets and

maintain levels of demand and consumption and

Development International. The network works with

for firms across the globe to make the most of all that

remaining competitive on the world stage. For over

inward investors at all stages of their decision-making

the UK has to offer.

a decade, economic performance has shown

cycle, becoming their advocate in Government and

resilience and stability. Recovery from the recession

with other public bodies. We also help build the

organisation that helps UK-based companies succeed

of 1990-1992 was better than any other G8 country

capacity of UK-based firms to export and offer strategic

in the global economy and assists overseas companies

and the UK then went on to experience its greatest

impartial advice and research, political support in

to bring their high quality investment to the UK.

period of sustained growth in 150 years. The World

overseas markets and introductions to key contacts.

Bank’s Doing Business Report 2009, states that the

UKTI is innovative, professional, entrepreneurial

UK Trade & Investment is the Government

For information: www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk or telephone +44 (0)20 7215 8000.

Best of Britain | 21

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British Expertise

Best of Britain

Promoting professional services worldwide

22 | Best of Britain

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British Expertise is a trade association dedicated to

of hosting the 2016 Olympic Games. The many

helping companies to develop their international

companies attending had an excellent programme

The strengths of British Expertise are:

business. We have about 220 members who range

organised for them.

I

from large corporate consultants to a wide variety of

Excellent networking both with potential clients and between experts in many

Our programme of meetings ranges very widely,

different disciplines;

other smaller and more specialised consulting

from a few member representatives meeting a UK

companies; and about 25 highly-skilled individual

Trade & Investment officer from a diplomatic post

members. There are also construction companies

abroad, to a large gathering to meet the mayor and

British and other Governments, and the

with international interests. Members work in a wide

others from a major Chinese city, to our major events

international financing institutions, on

range of market sectors, and in many different

of the year - our House of Lords Reception and our

behalf of our members;

disciplines. Their combined global reach means there

Annual Awards Dinner.

are member companies working in nearly every

I

Our website contains much information about us,

country around the world. British Expertise was

including a programme of our events, and access

founded in 1966, and has accumulated considerable

to our weekly newsletter. The website provides a list

respect from Government and private sector agencies

of members with information about them.

with whom we work.

I

membership start at £750 plus VAT for the smallest

trade missions, almost all on behalf of UK Trade &

companies. There is also a one off application fee of

Investment Sector Teams responsible for exports in

£200 (£300 for larger companies) plus VAT. Contact

power, environmental goods and services, sports

us for a no commitment discussion about the value

and leisure infrastructure, ports and construction. A

of membership for your company. Individual

typical mission is one we completed recently to Brazil

membership is also available.

for UK Trade & Investment, to look at opportunities

www.britishexpertise.org

for British companies arising from Brazil hosting the

+44 (0) 20 7222 3651

Wide ranging market intelligence, including information from our programme of meetings, conferences and overseas seminar missions, meeting key people from both private and public sector clients, and the development

Our annual subscriptions for Corporate

In 2008-9 we have a programme of over 20

A proven ability in effective lobbying of the

agencies; I

An expert source of know-how in developing and winning business worldwide, and in helping our members to overcome problems.

2014 FIFA World Cup, and Rio de Janeiro’s hopes

Best of Britain | 23

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East of England Development Agency Best of Britain

The East of England Development Agency is the driving force

24 | Best of Britain

behind sustainable economic growth and regeneration across the six counties of the East of England region – Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.

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The Ideas Region The East of England region is a modern-day hub of ideas and innovation, with the highest level of investment in research and development of any UK region and world-leading environmental expertise and centres of excellence.

The region benefits from its flourishing market towns, complimented by areas of outstanding natural beauty and is right on the doorstep of the London Olympics 2012. The East of England has outstanding and constantly growing international and domestic transport links, with two London airports – Luton and Stansted - within the region, fast access to London, easy routes to Europe and seven major seaports.

The port of Felixstowe is the fifth largest in Europe and handles 40 per cent of the UK’s container traffic.

EEDA looks to capitalise on the assets of the region and act as the driving force behind sustainable economic growth. Despite its already dynamic economy which contributes around £110 billion annually to the UK’s gross value added (GVA) - almost ten per cent of the UK total - the East of England is one of the fastest growing regions both in terms of economy and population. 82% of the population are economically active – the highest proportion in the UK. And this thriving economy is based around worldleading research institutions including the University of Cambridge - an institution associated with more Nobel prize-winners than any other in the world.

More businesses start-up in the East of England than in any other region and this is testament to the comprehensive and leading business support offer available across the region.The EEDA-funded Business Link service provides a on-stop-shop for businesses of all sizes and all stages of development.

Enterprises in the region also benefit from initiatives such as EEDA’s Business Map, which help businesses find the support they require quickly and easily via an interactive online tool. The Business Map (www.bizmapeast.co.uk) facilitates the process firms go through finding tailored support packages, whether it be for advice on finance, recruitment, international trade or marketing to name a few.

For more information on the region please visit: www.eeda.org.uk.

Best of Britain | 25

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East Midlands Development Agency Best of Britain

England’s East Midlands is an incredible place to establish and grow your business in the UK, as well as to live, work and relax.

There are many places waiting to be discovered, such

advantage in niche sectors including life sciences,

as magnificent stately homes that provide a glimpse

food & drink and environmental technologies.

into the past; inspiring countryside with sweeping

transport links and groundbreaking academic research

cities combining shopping with night life; historic

have drawn and retained leading companies like

market towns; and locations that have inspired

Rolls-Royce, Toyota, Bombardier and AstraZeneca

movie makers.

to our vibrant cities and dramatic countryside.

England’s East Midlands is easily accessible at

Whether you need assistance with relocation,

just an hour from London. London St Pancras’

expansion or collaboration, the International Investment

Eurostar connection means we’re on Europe’s

Team are here to help your business. We provide free,

doorstep and the rapidly expanding East Midlands

confidential advice as part of the government-funded

Airport also offers a wide range of international flights,

East Midlands Development Agency (emda).

plus a dedicated freight hub.

Our region has previously been named the number one business location in the UK by independent advisors Deloitte. We have world-class capabilities

26 | Best of Britain

Low operating costs, high living standards, rapid

hills and dramatic rocky outcrops; cosmopolitan

Start your success story. Call +44 (0)115 988 8400, email locate@englandseastmidlands.com or visit www.englandseastmidlands.com To find out about emda, visit www.emda.org.uk

in transport technologies such as automotive,

or go to www.enjoyeastmidlands.com to discover

aerospace and rail. The region also has a competitive

England’s East Midlands.

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Best of Britain | 27

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London Development Agency Best of Britain

Time for London - This vibrant, multi-cultural capital is a world

28 | Best of Britain

leading destination city. Rapid economic development has driven London’s success. The capital now attracts nearly 6% of all foreign direct investment made anywhere in the world, the highest share of any European city.

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The opportunity to visit London is now.

legacy of sports development and economic

London welcomed over 15.4 million staying visitors

regeneration, the city’s investment in jobs and

in 2008, and tourism generates £15 billion a year for

infrastructure is set to benefit London for generations

the city. London’s ever-changing and diverse cultural

to come.

means there is always something new, whether it is on the world-famous West End stage or one of the new music venues. Visitors can choose from 240

The opportunity to invest in London is now.

London is a financial and business hub; home to

museums and 238 free attractions. The city retains

33% of European HQs of global Fortune 500

its fantastic historical features, such as the Royal

companies. What’s more, London accounts for more

Botanic Gardens, Tower of London, Maritime

than half of all European banking activity. Every year

Greenwich, Westminster Palace and Westminster

150,000 people move to the city.

Abbey which are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

With over 300 languages spoken and 14 different

London is the best-connected global city.

Heathrow is the world’s busiest international airport,

faiths practised it is no surprise London is also a

and London’s position at the Greenwich Meridian

world-class destination for food-lovers. The choice

means that it is open for business to Asia, Europe

is staggering - you’ll find cuisine from over 70

and America all during the standard business day.

countries and over 6,000 restaurants. From gastro pubs and Michelin stars to local cafes and markets, London’s food scene caters for everyone’s tastes.

From Wimbledon to the Oval, from Wembley to

The opportunity to study in London is now.

Around 30,000 different courses are offered across the city’s 43 universities and colleges. Students

the Hackney Marshes, London already offers

from all around the world flock to our world-class

world-class sport. And when London hosts the 2012

educational institutions.

Olympic and Paralympic Games the world’s eyes will

London’s opportunity is now.

be on the capital. With a public commitment to a

www.lda.gov.uk

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One NorthEast The North East has a long history of providing a vibrant base

Best of Britain

for international business expansion. More than 500 leading

30 | Best of Britain

global companies are located in the region, making it one of the most dynamic parts of the European Economic Area – the world’s largest trading block.

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Around 40% of companies listed on the Dow Jones have operations in North East England. They include 3M,Caterpillar, Hewlett Packard and Procter & Gamble.

Investment opportunities High growth sectors such as Energy & Low Carbon Technology, Chemicals, and Automotive & Advanced Manufacturing; have proved a magnet for ambitious companies. And there is increasing potential in key areas like Healthcare & Life Sciences, as well as Digital Media and Animation.

A third of UK pharmaceutical production is carried out in the region. Over 200 pharmaceutical, speciality chemical and biotechnology companies employing 34,000 people produce £9bn of GDP. Clusters of firms in North East England make up 58% of the UK petrochemical industry and comprise a fifth of Britain’s process manufacturing capacity.

Public investment in renewable energy technology is creating opportunities for expanding and innovative businesses. This is attracting global players. Clipper Windpower is developing the world’s largest offshore wind turbine in the region. Combined heat and power specialist Yanmar has its European research centre here.

Valued and well supported international firms are involved in a drive to produce the next generation of products, in emerging fields such as printable electronics, functional materials, advanced processes and low-carbon energy.

The region’s network of centres of excellence are generating many commercial opportunities, and at the same time provide vital support to ambitious firms – from university spin-offs to foreign firms locating here. www.northeastengland.co.uk +44 (0)191 229 6200

Best of Britain | 31

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Northwest Regional Development Agency Best of Britain

England’s Northwest is one of the largest regions outside London and the South East. The region has a thriving £111 billion economy, bigger than 15 EU countries, and a population of almost 7 million people.

The region has an impressive reputation as a highly

architecture of its World Heritage Site, this really is a

successful business location, home to 247,000

world-class city. Elegant and ancient, the city of

businesses and a talented and productive workforce

Chester is full of 21st century delights. This walled

of over 4 million people. Producing 50,000 talented

Roman city is perfect for pampering, sophisticated

graduates every year it is also home to one of Europe’s

shopping and fine dining.

largest concentrations of universities.

With some of Europe’s most beautiful countryside

none – the professional football game was born here

including the world famous Lake District National

– as well as the literary heritage of the Romantic poets

Park and a stunning coastline, England’s Northwest

and the history of popular music that goes hand in

boasts an outstanding quality of life. Easily accessible

hand with the Fab Four, and you’re spoilt for choice.

via 3 international airports that connect to 270

Here you’ll also find England’s Golf Coast, the highest

destinations worldwide, it’s a great place to live, work

concentration of championship links courses in the

and visit.

world, as well as Aintree Racecourse, host of the

Sophisticated and stylish Manchester is the original 24-hour city. With legendary shopping and

32 | Best of Britain

Add to this a sporting heritage that is second to

world renowned John Smiths Grand National.

With the myriad events, performances, exhibitions

cutting-edge clubs and bars set in a city renowned

and gigs that keep the region buzzing all year long,

for its progressive urban design. Liverpool is truly

we guarantee you’ll be hooked.

awe-inspiring; with more museums and galleries than

www.enw.co.uk/invest

anywhere else outside London and the iconic

+44 (0)1925 400 495

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Best of Britain | 33

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South East England Development Agency Best of Britain

The South East of England is the Gateway to Europe. Transport

34 | Best of Britain

connections are strong, with Eurostar stations at Ebsfleet and Ashford, air links via Gatwick and ferry and freight services at the main sea ports of Dover, Folkestone, Portsmouth and Newhaven.

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It is also known as the economic powerhouse of the UK, contributing more than £12bn net to the UK Exchequer. Globally, it is the 20th largest economy.

The South East is a successful and prosperous region, offering its eight million people a good quality of life, the highest employment record in the UK and the second highest per capita income. Skills too are top of the agenda, as the South East workforce is one of the most highly qualified in the UK. Visitors can find both rich historic heritage and modern culture in an area that arcs around London, from Dover in the east to the New Forest in the west

GlaxoSmithKline. It is strong in the electronics,

and Milton Keynes in the north. There are ancient

defence, aerospace and marine sectors and can

castles at Hever, Leeds and Arundel; historic

compete on a global stage to attract and support

battlefields such as Hastings; stately homes such as

inward investment from areas as diverse as China,

Blenheim; and world famous towns such as Oxford.

Australia, the United States and Europe.

The many coastal towns and ports offer iconic

With a world class natural heritage to preserve,

buildings like Brighton Pavilion, Bexhill’s de la Warr

part of SEEDA’s work is to be environmentally-friendly

Pavilion and the spectacular 170-metre high Spinnaker

and to reduce its carbon footprint. This is key to

Tower in Portsmouth.

ensuring that economic prosperity goes hand in hand

SEEDA, the South East England Development

with creating a sustainable and lasting social legacy.

Agency, supports high value manufacturing, attracting

www.seeda.co.uk

global brands including Microsoft, Vodafone and

+44 (0)1483 484200

Best of Britain | 35

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South West England The South West combines an exceptionally beautiful

Best of Britain

environment with a refreshing, free-thinking attitude valuing

36 | Best of Britain

success in both life and work.

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The region has a population of over 5 million and an

our world-beating industries, from aerospace, with

economy worth over £90 billion a year that’s grown

9 of the UK’s 12 key aerospace companies in the

more over the last 6 years than any other UK region

region, to a growing environmental technologies

outside London.

sector employing around 100,000 people, and from

South West England is attractive not only to

an Oscar-winning creative industry sector worth

visitors (it’s the UK’s most popular tourism destination)

£8 billion, to the world’s second largest concentration

but also to businesses, investors, students and those

of silicon designers (the first is in the US) along our

seeking to share an enviable quality of life.

very own Silicon Gorge.

It’s the most popular relocation choice for

You’ll also find thriving areas of excellence in

professionally qualified people in the UK and it’s easy

robotics technology, telecoms, marine science,

to see why, it has the countries highest levels of

technology research, computing, interactive

motivation in the workforce, the highest

technologies, automotive manufacturing and food

life-expectancy for men and women, and over 170,000

and drink – there’s just not the space to talk about

VAT-registered businesses (1,500 foreign-owned)

them all, visit swengland.com for more information.

offering exciting and career-enhancing opportunities.

The region also has an exciting tradition of

With over 60% of the UK’s Heritage Coast, almost half the UK’s designated bathing waters, around 25%

innovation and entrepreneurship typified by the likes

of England’s sites of special interest and 4 UNESCO

of Brunel and James Dyson - no surprise then that

world heritage sites, it’s easy to see why the South

it has the UK’s highest proportion of self-employment

West is somewhere you can grow not only your

outside London, Britain’s best business survival rates

business, but your life as well.

and spends more on research & development than

South West England - Business. Life. Inspiration.

the national average.

www.swengland.com

This spirit of energy and innovation is reflected in

Best of Britain | 37

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Advantage West Midlands At the centre of England, the West Midlands Region comprises

Best of Britain

the counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, Staffordshire and Warwickshire and the boroughs of Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton.

Each area has its own distinctive landmarks and personality - from the vibrancy of Birmingham, the UK’s second largest city, to historic market towns like Ludlow in Shropshire and picturesque rural areas such as the Vale of Evesham.

The region offers an excellent quality of life, with competitively priced accommodation in a range of delightful settings, from urban chic to pleasant suburbs and charming rural towns and villages. There is an excellent in-region transport network, which makes commuting a popular option.

Worcestershire County Cricket Ground

We have a wealth of leisure and diverse cultural

38 | Best of Britain

opportunities across the region. From Michelin-starred restaurants to original balti houses in Birmingham’s Balti Triangle, delicious food is always round the corner. Our arts and entertainment scene is as exciting as you’ll find anywhere in the world, with the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford Upon Avon, Birmingham Royal Ballet and the worldrenowned Belfry golf course just some examples of

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Selfridges, Birmingham

Warwick Castle

Severn Valley Railway

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the world-class facilities to be found here.

As you would expect of the region that gave the world Shakespeare and the dictionary, the West Midlands has some of the finest universities, higher education establishments and further education colleges in the country. MBA courses in Aston and Warwick are ranked among the best in the world.

This is a truly diverse region, which enjoys a welldeserved reputation for innovation. It is a region responding to the needs of business, ensuring skills are aligned to the needs of employees, employers and the economy. From the Construction Centre of Excellence in Birmingham, which aims to train students in the construction trade to the Ludlow Vocational Training Centre in Shropshire, opportunities are endless.

The West Midlands Region – where anything is possible. www.thewestmidlandsregion.co.uk +44 (0)121 380 3500

Best of Britain | 39

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Yorkshire Forward Mention the region Yorkshire and Humber and many people

Best of Britain

anticipate some kind of rural idyll populated by weathered men

40 | Best of Britain

in flat caps. Whilst the region does indeed boast some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes, new visitors to the region are often surprised by the dramatic skyline that confronts them as they come off the M62 into Leeds or exit the train station in Sheffield.

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As well as rolling hills and rugged coastline, Yorkshire and Humber is home to a diverse mix of buzzing cities and towns – and one of only three regions in the UK to be fully broadband enabled. Leeds, the self-made capital of the region has seen billions of pounds of private development in recent years and Bradford has been tipped as one of the UK’s top cities poised for growth. Hull, the region’s gateway to Europe, is home to the latest World Trade Centre and is alive with new development, whilst Sheffield has transformed its industrial pedigree for the 21st century and now leads the way in advanced manufacturing and metals.

The region is also home leading the way in key industry sectors. Food and Drink, Healthcare Technologies, Advanced Engineering, Environmental Technologies and the Creative and Digital Industry are all thriving in Yorkshire and Humber and last year attracted over £320 million of overseas investment.

Educational attainment levels in the region are constantly climbing, and whilst the cost of living in the region remains significantly better value than many other parts of the country, the quality of life offered in the region is high. And for the environmentally conscious, Yorkshire and Humber is the only region in the UK to set itself targets for reducing carbon emissions – 20% by the year 2010.

All this shows, that the benefits of living and investing in Yorkshire and Humber are unparalleled.

The question is – what’s keeping you from the region that has it all? www.yorkshire-forward.com +44 (0)113 394 9600

Best of Britain | 41

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Northern Ireland Among the smallest UK and European regions, Northern

Best of Britain

Ireland is also now one of the most dynamic economies.

42 | Best of Britain

At the heart of Northern Ireland’s vibrant business scene and increasing success in global markets is its workforce which is among the youngest and best educated in Europe with a strong work ethic.

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While Northern Ireland has a long industrial and commercial heritage, the region is also one of the

Page 2

grades than other parts of the UK. Far-sighted investment to create the world’s most

cleanest and greenest parts of Europe, making it a

advanced telecommunication network and a modern

magnet for tourists from most parts of the world

infrastructure of high quality science parks, research

especially those seeking activity holidays including

centres of excellence and technology incubators have

fishing and hill walking as well as golf on the region’s

encouraged the growth of innovation led clusters in

world class courses.

ICT, financial services, aerospace, life sciences and

Among other benefits of a largely pollution-free

nanotechnology, as well as more traditional industries

environment are a reputation for food that’s natural,

such as food and drink, engineering, and oil and

wholesome, richly flavoured and traceable, and a

gas equipment. All are focused on global business.

sharp focus on environmental technologies including wave, wind, solar and biomass energy.

Although part of the UK and an integral part of the

Superb telecommunications and a hub for several major airlines mean that Northern Ireland is also within easy reach of the huge European marketplace,

European Union, Northern Ireland now has its own

making the region an ideal nearshore location

locally-elected government committed to economic

particularly for technology companies. It’s hardly

growth through advancing entrepreneurship,

surprising that Northern Ireland has attracted

innovation and international exchanges. Assisting this

technology industry leaders in ICT and software,

commitment are two research focused and industry

financial services and life sciences from the US,

linked universities within an overall education system

Europe and India aiming to grow business in Europe.

that produces students with consistently higher

www.investni.com

Best of Britain | 43

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Scotland With a long-standing reputation for innovation and creativity it

Best of Britain

is no surprise that modern-day Scotland has one of the most

44 | Best of Britain

transformed economies in Europe.

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From a reputation forged in the heavy manufacturing

Scotland’s economic development agency Scottish

and engineering industries of the 19th and 20th

Enterprise, is the country’s inward investment and

centuries, modern-day Scotland is a country that is

international trade organisation. SDI works to both

both rich in opportunity and innovation.

attract foreign investment and partnership into

By adapting to a decline in these traditional areas

Scotland, as well as helping home-grown companies

through a focus on modern, knowledge-driven

take full advantage of the opportunities in international

industries, Scotland has built a diverse and

markets.

successful economy.

Scotland has developed a reputation as a world

In the past year alone SDI has helped secure over 2,500 high value jobs, as well as helping over 700

class location, and earlier this year it was named

high potential organisations within Scotland to do

European Region of the Future in 2008, by the

business internationally.

Financial Times fdi (Foreign Direct Investment) Magazine, ahead of 38 other regions.

A robust infrastructure and a highly skilled

The organisation is particularly focused on a number of key industries which play a central role in the international economy, and where Scotland has

workforce, combined with a competitive cost base,

been identified as having the potential to

means that Scotland offers excellent potential as a

successfully forge a role for itself on the global stage.

business location for both new investors and indigenous companies.

Scottish Development International (SDI), part of

Life Sciences, for example, has experienced significant growth in recent years in Scotland thanks to high levels of biotechnology expertise, a culture

Best of Britain | 45

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Best of Britain

44-45-46-47 Scotland:Layout 1

of innovation and continuing research and technology excellence.

The Translational Medicine Research Institute, for

Scotland also has real strengths in the energy

produce and most skilled food and drink producers

sector, thanks to some of the most favourable energy

in the world and as a result its food and drink industry

resources in Europe. As well as experience in oil and

is thriving. It currently generates over £7.5billion per

example, is harnessing the power of four Scottish

gas technology, Scotland is also a world leader in

year for the country’s economy and accounts for 23

medical schools and NHS Trusts together with

pioneering alternative energy sectors such as offshore

percent of total manufacturing exports. Internationally

substantial investment from international

wind, hydro and fuel cell technology. Renewable

famous whisky brands, fresh seafood and meat,

pharmaceuticals company Wyeth. This groundbreaking

energy has experienced explosive growth in recent

coupled with innovative speciality products, have

project has joined together dispersed resources to

years, and this is set to continue as the need to find

helped to make Scotland’s food and drink industry

create a powerful network of clinical and scientific

alternatives to conventional power sources becomes

exceptionally vibrant, which offers real growth potential

excellence of world significance. Ultimately this project

more pressing.

for the future.

will develop faster ways of getting new cures from the laboratory to the patient.

In addition, Edinburgh BioQuarter will establish

An effective business infrastructure to support

Despite recent global events, Scotland also has

this sector is currently being developed through the

significant strengths in Financial Services. Over the

Energetica project, which aims to create a global

past two years it has been the largest single sector

Scotland as one of the world’s top ten centres for

hub for business development covering all energy

for inward investment and high-value jobs coming to

biomedical commercialisation. This £1.2billion public-

technologies. At its heart is a technology corridor

Scotland. Clearly recent events both globally and within

private sector project brings together, public

spanning 30 miles from Aberdeen north to Peterhead,

Scotland’s banking sector will impact on this success

healthcare, academic research, extensive commercial

designed to attract and grow technology companies

in the immediate-term, however, the country’s skills

laboratory and business headquarters space all on

in a high quality environment.

and strengths – such as a highly skilled workforce and

one location.

46 | Best of Britain

Scotland is home to some of the best natural

competitive operating cost base – remain as strong

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Facts ■

Scottish Development International (SDI) is the single point of contact for all international business development needs.

■

It employs 230 people within both Scotland and in 23 countries across the world including the USA, the Far East and across Europe.

■

It works with all industries, with a focus on areas which have been identified as giving Scotland a real competitive advantage: life sciences, financial services, energy, electronic markets, tourism and food & drink.

■

SDI attracts investment into Scotland to enhance Scottish competitiveness and generate positive economic impact. It also works with Scottish companies to help them make the most of opportunities in international markets.

as ever and provide a strong base for the future.

Next year Scotland will celebrate Homecoming 2009, a year-long programme of events to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of national poet Robert Burns, as well as the Scotland’s contribution to the world such as golf, whisky and innovation.

This celebration of Scotland’s heritage will showcase all that’s best about the country and clearly demonstrate what sets Scotland apart on the global stage. www.sdi.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 141 228 2828

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Wales A stronger Wales can help business weather the storm. The

Best of Britain

economic crisis of 2008 underlines the fact that every country is affected by global trends. But devolution of power to Wales has given us the opportunity of an economic strategy that suits our needs best.

And the signs are that, despite the international

economic sectors (14 in all) which have strong growth

climate, this flexibility is proving a major plus factor

potential – industries that will propel the world

drive up the value added by people at work and

in attracting new investors and supporting local

economy out of the current downturn.

encourage faster progress towards a knowledge-

indigenous businesses.

Major new investments by companies such as Amazon in Swansea, Takao in Ebbw Vale, McKesson at Bangor and HSBC at Newport indicate continued

This helps concentrate public sector investment where the returns are optimal but does not exclude businesses in other sectors.

We have backed this up by streamlining help for

Welsh competitive advantage as a destination for

industry through a new ‘Flexible Support for Business’

international business.

system.

And while the downturn poses problems, Wales

This helps people who wish to start, maintain or

One of our key objectives as a government is to

driven, sustainable economy.

And – in common with other smaller nations – we are turning our handy size to great advantage in pursuing that goal.

A bit like our star rugby wing Shane Williams, recently named International Rugby Board Player of the Year for 2008, our country is proving its agility in

is equipped as never before to respond positively –

grow a business in Wales – with straightforward

and in the process enhance its competitiveness and

access and a team of proactive Welsh Assembly

economic sustainability.

Government relationship managers who keep closely

and we are promoting further collaboration between

in touch with companies.

businesses and universities, with emphasis on

For example, we have identified a range of key

48 | Best of Britain

the global marketplace.

In Wales, active networking is second nature,

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commercialisation of research and development.

One result is a unique initiative –Technium, an all-Wales network of high-quality business innovation and incubation centres specifically designed to

green technologies and products.

We live in a country with enormous assets – the greatest of which is our people.

With major world corporations alongside a growing

nurture young technology-based businesses with high

number of local businesses, Wales is proving well

growth potential.

equipped to face the challenges of the 21st century.

This activity is backed by Centres of Excellence

Ieuan Wyn Jones

– again, linked with Welsh universities – which

Deputy First Minister and Minister for the

encourage businesses to make the vital link between

Economy and Transport

innovation and enterprise.

International Business Wales can explain their

We have recently launched a new Green Jobs

business support and how they can take you through

Strategy for Wales, which aims at making existing

every step of relocating/expanding in Wales.

jobs more sustainable and carbon efficient – and also

Visit the IBW website on: www.ibwales.com

generate a range of new jobs based on emerging

+ 44 1443 845500

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Chapter 2 | Business Tourism & Events

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Business Tourism & Events

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Christopher Rodrigues, Chairman, VisitBritain Britain’s £85 billion visitor economy is our nation’s fifth largest industry, accounting for 3.5 per cent of the economy and employing 2.1 million people. Every year millions of British and international travelers experience a warm welcome here at quality accommodation, attractions, destinations and events that remain second to none.

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Despite ever-increasing competition from the latest

and taking advantage of travellers’ niche interests.

‘hot spots’ around the world, we continue to see new

We continue to convert interest about visiting Britain

routes opening into ports of entry and retain our own

to ‘action’, providing services to help consumers not

‘brag factor’. The best of Britain is our world-leading

only ‘look’ at all our destination offers, but also to

business reputation, a home and work for some of

book, travel, stay, tell and keep in touch.

the most vibrant and diverse communities in the world.

Britain is a destination that hosts a rich calendar

It is our creative industries – fashion, music, film,

of cultural, social and sporting occasions and,

culture, architecture and literature – that help us stand

following the success of Liverpool’s celebrations as

out from the crowd. It is these strengths that continue

European Capital of Culture, accepts the Olympic

to draw visitors from around the world and keeps

torch from China and begins a four-year Cultural

them returning again and again.

Olympiad. As well as London and Britain being host

VisitBritain continues to lead the industry to

city and host nation of the 2012 Games, Wales

ensure we remain one of the most visited destinations

welcomes the Ryder Cup in 2010 and Scotland the

in the world. Staying at the forefront of new technology

Commonwealth Games in 2014.

as the internet continues to be important in ensuring

Such major events represent a once-in-a-lifetime

that the world is aware of the destinations and visitor

opportunity for our visitor economy and – as the

experiences to be enjoyed here.

spotlight turns from Beijing to London, from China

As well as addressing issues like sustainability and responsible travel, quality and welcome, initiatives

to Britain – we will be ready to build momentum and galvanise Britain to welcome the world in style.

are addressing newer, younger generations of visitors

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About Britain Have fun, indulge in trips to historic houses and royal palaces, be enthralled with stories of romantic landscapes that have inspired our literary greats.

Events and destinations galore!

Tour dreamy chocolate-box villages, along miles

The best places to stay Britain offers a huge range of quality-assessed,

Glyndebourne or the Big Chill. This is a destination favoured by the world’s film-makers and home to

of canals and waterways, stopping off at World Her-

‘star-rated’ accommodation to delight. Where a warm

characters as diverse as Harry Potter and James

itage Sites. Enjoy this country’s unrivalled social sea-

welcome and quality is assured – no fear of half-built

Bond, Beatrix Potter and Elizabeth I.

son and its calendar of world-renowned and more

hotels or half-baked holiday ideas here. Idyllic cottages

eccentric events – from Ascot to Henley, London

by the sea and cosy B&Bs, chic city hotels, self-

Fashion Week to the Edinburgh Festival, cheese

catering properties and guesthouses that epitomise

rolling to worm charming.

the very essence of an British break. Holidays on

masses of regeneration giving many a new lease of

boats, campuses, camping and caravan parks. At

life. Discover contemporary architecture like the

hostels and holiday villages. In crofts, thatched

Gateshead Millennium Bridge, Selfridge’s in

cottages and barns, oast houses and farmhouses.

Birmingham or London’s City Hall. Whet your appetite

Best for business With easy accessibility from all parts of the world and the ongoing commercial regeneration of its capitals and regional cities, Britain offers centuries of heritage, inspiring countryside, world-class events and

Our cities have come on leaps and bounds with

for café culture, world-class restaurants and A cultural country 2008 celebrated Liverpool’s position as European

unique cultural experiences. For the world’s business

Capital of Culture and the start of our four-year

community, Britain boasts exclusive experiences for

Cultural Olympiad. We’re home to national museums

incentive programmes, unusual accommodation and

and galleries with free entry, unusual collections at

meeting places, and venues with state-of-the-art

smaller attractions, theatre, ballet and opera to tickle

facilities for exhibitions and conferences.

your fancy, alongside the sounds of Glastonbury,

54 | Best of Britain

City breaks

acclaimed gastro-pubs. And if that’s not enough, there’s shopping for every budget and music and nightlife for every taste.

Rural retreats Explore thousands of miles of coastline and acres of achingly beautiful countryside. Places where –

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whatever the weather – there’s walking, riding, cycling, zorbing or coasteering. Get out and about in national parks, visit seaside resorts to make castles on stretches of golden sand or hunt for fossils on rockier shores.

Family friendly Travelling with 2.4 children or an extended family, with a partner, a pooch or a pack of mates – whatever ‘family’ means to you and whatever your interests, Britain has something to offer. Family-friendly attractions, accommodation with room to spare, kids clubs and all-in-one centres, there’s so much to do that you need never be bored. www.visitbritain.com

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Sustainability As well as meeting its Kyoto obligations on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Britain already benefits from a wealth of protected green spaces. This is a nation of more than 3000 miles of National Trails or Long Distance Paths, 14 National Parks, 80 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty or National Scenic Areas, and more than half a million acres of countryside, moorland, beaches & coastline protected by the National Trust.

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British Waterways has been the catalyst for over

It is an initial step in helping more tourism businesses

£2 billion of waterside regeneration amidst 3000 miles

improve their existing practices and signal to visitors

of navigable waterways and 138 beaches throughout

that they recognise the increasing importance and

Britain and Ireland have Blue Flag status, meeting

value of sustainable good practice.

strict environmental and safety criteria.Throughout

Participants commit to four fundamental

England, Scotland and Wales, 27 World Heritage Sites

sustainability requirements and, over a period of two

– from Gwynedd’s castles and the Dorset and East

years, meet or work towards at least 23 relevant ‘good

Devon ‘Jurassic’ coast to Edinburgh and Neolithic

practices’ from a total menu of 50, such as insulating

Orkney – are safeguarded for future generations and

buildings and water tanks, using low-energy lighting,

the pleasure of visitors and residents alike.

collecting rainwater, using locally-sourced produce

We are also among the first in the world, where businesses are actively signing up as members of the

or promoting eco-friendly travel such as cycling.

The entry-level programme aims to prepare

Green Tourism Business Scheme and the national

businesses for more formal accreditation under an

tourism organisation for England as launched a new

existing and well-established sustainable certification

programme, Green Start, to help accommodation

scheme, such as the Green Tourism Business Scheme

providers and visitor attractions take the first steps

(www.green-business.co.uk), endorsed by Britain’s

towards becoming sustainable businesses.

national tourism agency.

Run by VisitBritain, Green Start aims to encourage

You can find businesses who have committed to

a rapid, widespread and significant increase in the

making a Green Start and those who are members

adoption of sustainable tourism principles, while

of sustainable certification schemes, such as the

avoiding the burden of too much bureaucracy.

Green Tourism Business Scheme by searching on

Participation provides tourism managers and

www.visitbritain.com and

operators with a stepping stone towards accreditation

www.enjoyengland.com.

by a validated sustainable accreditation scheme.

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De-Luxe Britain Britain has always excelled at luxury – Rolls Royce cars, Harris tweed, Connolly leather, Wilton carpets, Paisley shawls – most of it aimed at a small elite of aristocracy and arrivistes, it must be said. These days, though, the whole world wants luxury, so Britannia has shaken her skirts, booked in for a facelift and upped her game.

There has been an unprecedented rise in luxury hotels, bars, shops and spas, many of them in gorgeous historic buildings, others in exciting new builds. Plans are afoot to bring luxury shopping to the heart of the City (London’s financial centre), companies such as Dhillon Hotels and Crazy Bear are renovating historic coaching inns, and the Italian designers Missoni will open their first UK hotel in Edinburgh in 2009. But that’s all to come. Here’s a thumbnail guide, for the man – or woman – on a mission to luxuriate now: Skylon, royal Festival Hall, London This airy, light-filled contemporary restaurant was the final flourish in 2007s’ energetic re-design of the 1951 Royal Festival Hall, which now finds itself on one of the liveliest stretches of the Thames. The Skylon was a steel, aluminium and wire sculpture that came to symbolise the re-energising of post-war Britain; the restaurant has taken the colours and design features of the period and updated them, with bespoke standard lamps, finned bronze chandeliers, walnut floors and a glamorous raised bar. Book a table with a river view, order from the formal restaurant or from the grill (the menu is European with a nod to traditional British) and watch the north bank light up at night.

Skylon, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1. Telephone: 020 7654 7800. www.skylonrestaurant.co.uk Thermae Bath Spa, Bath, Avon Around 2000 years after the Romans recognised the quality of Bath’s mineral waters, Bath’s baths re-opened in their modern incarnation. The architects, Grimshaw, had to work with five historic buildings – including the Cross Bath, an open-air thermal pool fed by its own hot spring and once used by Celts and Romans – as well as designing a modern one, the New Royal Bath, on the site of the city’s old indoor swimming pool. The result is a pleasing jumble of old and new, golden stone, glass and steel, offering treatments that the Romans certainly never enjoyed: dry flotation, body wraps and Shiatsu massage, to name but a few. Loll about in the steaming pool on top of the New Royal Bath, admiring wonderful views

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of the ancient abbey and the spectacular city.

Fortnum & Mason, London

whole hotel, which was originally built in 1865. The

Thermae Bath Spa, The Hetling Pump Room, Hot

Mess with a 300-year-old much-loved London

latest addition, opened in late 2007, is The Landau

Bath Street, Bath. Telephone: 0844 888 0844.

landmark at your peril - but the management at

restaurant, which has its own entrance and can also

www.thermaebathspa.com

Fortnum & Mason, the classy food emporium on

be reached from the hotel, through a corridor lined

Piccadilly, celebrated their tercentenary with a £24

with wine bottles. The restaurant has walls of soft,

Highgrove Shop, Tetbury, Gloucester

million transformation. After a little initial grumbling, it’s

brushed gilt panelling, timber floors, antique brass

The Duchess of Devonshire started it all with a grand

widely recognised as a success: the glass-domed

chandeliers and Chinoiserie silk screens. The chef,

farm shop at Chatsworth, her enormous stately home

atrium brings in light, there’s a new fresh food section

Andrew Turner, specialises in cosmopolitan food

in Derbyshire. That was followed by the hugely

(featuring fish and game from some famous British

and regional British produce.

successful Daylesford Organics in Gloucestershire,

estates) and a wine bar, 1707, on the lower ground

The Langham London, 1c Portland Place,

opened by the Bamford family (of JCB digger fame),

floor. The four restaurants include the revamped – but

London W1. Telephone: 020 7636 1000.

which now has several London outlets. Now the

pleasingly recognisable – brasserie, The Fountain,

http://london.langhamhotels.co.uk

Prince of Wales has joined in, opening a shop in the

where you can indulge in anything from Darjeeling

pretty village of Tetbury, near his Gloucestershire

tea to Champagne. Other floors groan with clothes,

Ffynnon Townhouse, Dolgellau, Wales

estate of Highgrove. The shop is in a grey stone listed

china and glass, bed and bathware, stationery,

The appetite for turning lovely Welsh buildings into

building, with shutters painted Provencal blue, and

games and gifts. It must have worked: it’s packed.

boutique hotels hasn’t abated; this little three-suite

sells everything from stationery and homewares to

Fortnum & Mason, 181 Piccadilly, London W1.

hotel in a Victorian rectory at the foot of stunning

gardening tools and the Duchy Originals organic food

Telephone: 020 7734 8040.

Cader Idris, on the southern edge of Snowdonia, has

range. Opened in March by the Prince of Wales and

www.fortnumandmason.com

all the luxe credentials (Egyptian cotton sheets, spa

the Duchess of Cornwall, all its products are ethically

baths, goosedown duvets, TV/DVD, wi-fi), and also

and environmentally sourced and, wherever possible,

Titanic Spa, Huddersfield, Yorkshire

welcomes families. A fourth suite is just about to open,

locally produced. All profits go to charity.

What the original workers at this Yorkshire textile mill

there is a butler’s pantry with fridge and a room service

Highgrove Shop, 10 Long Street, Tetbury,

would do if they could see it operating today we can

menu, including children’s options. It must run in the

Gloucestershire. Telephone: 01666 505 666.

only imagine: they came into the Colne Valley in

family; the owner’s brother-in-law has an eight

www.highgroveshop.com

Linthwaite from outlying villages to put in a long day’s

bedroom art hotel called Manorhaus in Ruithin

work at the rather forbidding Victorian mill, while

(www.manorhaus.com).

Loch Ness Lodge, Scotland

today’s visitors check into the ground floor spa – all

Ffynnon, Brynffynnon, Love Lane, Dolgellau,

Until now one of the top sports for visitors to Loch

contemporary slate, tile, wood, leather and glass – to

Gwynedd. Telephone: 01341 421774.

Ness was probably monster-hunting. But with the

use the saunarium, mud chamber or ice room, float

www.ffynnontownhouse.com

opening of the purpose-built, exclusive-use residence

to heaven in one of the treatment rooms, or use the

of Loch Ness Lodge, there are many more

hair & nail bar. The mill’s eco-credentials are

opportunities including fishing, shooting, golf on

impeccable, with its own borehole, solar panels and

nearby championship courses and walking, kayaking

heat system using woodchip technology. There are

and mountain biking. The Lodge, which opened in

rental apartments if you want to stay and a spa

2007 can cater for up to 14 guests in the seven

hotel is due to open in 2009.

individually styled en suite bedrooms, with additional

Titanic Spa, Colne, West Yorkshire.

accommodation in the neighbouring Loch Ness

Telephone: 0845 410 3333.

Cottages, has its own spa, and aims to combine the

www.titanicspa.com

latest technology with traditional luxury facilities. Just 15 minutes by road from the Highland capital of

The Landau at The Langham, London

Inverness, with its air and rail links, the lodge also has

The Langham hit the headlines a couple of years ago

its own private helipad.

when it opened the most expensive suite in the world

Lodge at Loch Ness, Brachla, Loch Ness-side,

– complete with its own colossal Sharon Marston

Inverness, IV3 8LA. Telephone: 01456 459469

fibre-optic chandelier – and has been quietly

www.loch-ness-lodge.com

completing a David Collins Studios re-design of the

Best of Britain | 59

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Business and Events Britain is one of the leading destinations in the world for international and British visitors to do business.

London continues to rival Frankfurt and New York

into a hotel to a contemporary purpose-built

Our museums and galleries, theatre and performing

despite challenges for its business reputation. For

conference centre, a tree house or brand new sports

arts, live music and events, are among the best in the

many in the international business community, the UK

stadium. All combine Britain’s rich cultural offerings

world. Visitors rate Britain eighth out of 35 countries

is the only choice when planning meetings,

with value for money, top quality food and wine, and

as somewhere with rich cultural heritage and fourth

conferences, exhibitions and incentive trips. And it

superlative service.

as an interesting and exciting place for contemporary

shows: 27.5 million international and British business

Britain is also renowned for its social season and

culture such as music, films, art and literature.

visits are now made to all parts of the country with

internationally acclaimed calendar of sporting and

visitors spending over ÂŁ9 billion in local economies,

cultural events. As well as hosting the Commonwealth

riences: from literary heritage in Hay to the music,

at venues and hotels, during their stay.

Games in Manchester in 2002 and Liverpool as

comedy, film and fringe performances of Edinburgh,

This is a destination of world-beating facilities and

Our festivals cover the entire spectrum of expe-

European Capital of Culture 2008, winning the 2012

from the music of Glastonbury to Ludlow or the

superlative experiences. From vibrant cities with their

London Olympic and Paralympic Games has put

Bristol Organic Food Festival, to the new Manchester

own distinct characters and state-of-the-art facilities

Britain firmly on the agenda of major corporations

International Festival comprising entirely new works.

to stately homes and historic venues found nowhere

and international associations looking to place their

Is it any wonder the buzz about Britain is so often

else in the world, the range of UK destinations and

meetings, as well as the organisers of sporting,

focused on our cultural achievements or that our

venues is incredible. From a mediaeval castle,

cultural and business events. And with good reason.

festivals help keep millions of international and British

Georgian stately home or ancient prison converted

60 | Best of Britain

Britain has long been known for its cultural appeal.

people visiting year after year?

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Our calendar combines the appeal of London’s West End theatre performances with opera, ballet and live music around the country. And our sporting events hold something for every visitor: Wimbledon and Lords, Ascot and the Grand National, the Henley Regatta and the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, Five Nations Rugby and, of course, Premier League football. Year after year we’re hosting some of the world’s biggest events: from 2009’s Twenty20 World Championships, followed by the Ryder Cup in Wales in 2010 and in 2014, when Glasgow welcomes the return of the Commonwealth Games.

Like our sporting stars themselves, business tourism and major events in the UK are a great, all round success.

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The Best of Britain and Ireland on show 2009 The leading travel trade show promoting tourism in Britain and Ireland is growing to be even bigger and better from 2009.

After almost 25 successful years, it is being extended to bring the enormous diversity of visitor experiences available in the UK to both the trade and a much wider consumer audience as Best of Britain and Ireland from 26 – 29 March.

Best of Britain and Ireland will also be an integral part of British Tourism Week from 23 – 29 March 2009 as we focus on generating greater consumer awareness of the British holiday experience. Backed by Britain’s national tourist boards, Best of Britain is a unique hybrid event where both the trade and consumers can experience the very best that Britain has to offer.

Over the first two days, it will create even greater opportunities for tourism businesses of all sizes to attract new business from the UK. The trade days will continue to offer the opportunity to meet with and be inspired by the diversity of visitor attractions, accommodation, tour operators, transport providers, entertainment agencies and destinations and feature the workshops, seminars, events and networking that attract over 3,500 visitors.

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Subsequent days will be an exciting interactive celebration of domestic tourism for the general public.

Here consumers can discover face-to-face the best of Britain and Ireland’s destinations, attractions, accommodation, experiences, food and drink, history and culture, and areas of natural beauty. Bringing alive the UK’s passion for value-for-money and sustainable leisure time. As well as areas dedicated to the different nations and regions, consumers will follow ‘event trails’, exploring active, coastal, countryside, delicious, heritage and luxury Britain and Ireland.

The new show will take place at ExCeL in London’s Docklands. As well as its reputation as a major international gateway, transport links to and from the capital will make it even easier for exhibitors and consumers to take part. The move will also help the industry capitalise on trade and consumer marketing activities in the run up to the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games and provide an opportunity to showcase Games’ venues to travel and tourism trade buyers from around the world. www.excel-london.co.uk

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Chapter 3 | Olympic Overview

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Olympic Overview

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The London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games London 2012 has sport at its heart and London at the centre, but it is more than London and more than sport. It is a games for London, the UK and the rest of the world, for sport and culture, for volunteers and business.

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In 2012 sport really is coming home as the next

To achieve all our ambitions for 2012 and its

Summer Games return to a country which I frequently

legacy we must build on and accelerate the impressive

boast has either invented or codified just about every

start London has made with its preparations for the

major world sport. Drawing on our heritage, imagination

Games. Excellent progress is already being made in

and ingenuity we are going to stage the greatest

the Olympic Park on venues that we are committed

Games ever, entertaining the world with a sporting

to making fully accessible to ensure the London

and cultural extravaganza and making it a summer

Games are the most inclusive ever.

they will never forget.

The Olympic handover from Beijing marked the

Along with the physical changes, we are working hard to ensure that our kids and future generations

beginning of a great challenge to ensure London

of young people are inspired by this wonderful

delivers a spectacular and memorable Games and

sporting occasion to become more active and take

I am determined we will be left with a real lasting

up sport. But it is not only sport. The next four years

legacy for Londoners for years after the athletes and

also sees an increased nationwide programme of

visitors have departed.

cultural events happening around the country as part

Our goal is to transform the east of London with thousands of new homes and jobs regenerating one

of the Cultural Olympiad.

The next few pages will highlight just some of

of the most deprived communities in the country.

the far reaching benefits that hosting the 2012

And the 2012 Games will also leave a legacy of huge

Games will bring to London for decades to come.

improvements to London's transport network, with projects like the East London Line Extension and the North London Line upgrades benefiting Londoners right across the capital. Combined with the new Crossrail line, these improvements will make London

Boris Johnson

one of the best connected cities anywhere in the world.

Mayor of London

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Olympic Overview

An Olympic Host City In 2012, London will host the Games of the XXX Olympiad. This will be the third time the British capital has hosted the Games, the first being in 1908 and the second in 1948. On August 24 Beijing handed the Olympic flag to London at the Closing Ceremony to mark the passing of the Summer Games to its next host city.

As a host city, London will offer visitors a huge

sporting history will be revealed through special

the family from plays and musicals in the West End

diversity of entertainment and culture during the

exhibitions while the Cultural Olympiad programme,

to live music and clubs. Visitors to the capital can

Games. The city is the number one international

a key part of London’s 2012 activity, will celebrate the

also enjoy the range of London’s cuisine from around

tourist destination in the world and athletes from all

best of arts and culture making it accessible to all

the world, including a wide variety of fine dining

over the world will enjoy home support from the huge

audiences, mirroring the Olympic Games’ celebration

options.

number of communities in the city representing

of sport.

countries from around the globe. With well over 200

In the build up and throughout the Games, London

Already new hotels are being built for the Games and there is accommodation to suit all tastes and

languages spoken in the city, different communities

will have a mixture of sporting and non-sporting events

budgets. By the time the Games arrives in London

around the capital will follow teams from their

across the city, many of them for free. Several big

there will be around 120,000 rooms available for

countries and there is no doubt that local supporters

screens will show the sporting action live from the

visitors ranging from budget level accommodation

will be cheering their teams alongside visitors from

stadiums while festivals of world culture, food and

through to five star luxury across the city.

around the world.

music will also be running.

During the Games a large number of cultural

As a popular tourist destination, London’s offering

With London preparing itself for the arrival of the world’s largest sporting event we look back on the

offerings will be available for visitors to attend with

is already world class with over 200 free attractions

key points from the two previous Olympics held in

music, arts and performance creating a festival

including popular museums and galleries. There is a

London and forward to some of the iconic venues

atmosphere around the city. London’s Olympic and

wealth of history to discover, entertainment for all

that will host events in 2012.

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Olympic Overview

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LONDON 1908

stadium, Dorando Pietri of Italy, collapsed several

Games of the IV Olympiad

times and ran the wrong way. Not far from the

The 1908 Summer Olympics were originally handed

finish, two officials took him by the arms and

to Rome, Italy. However, on 7 April 1906 Mount

brought him to the line. As a consequence, after

Vesuvius erupted devastating the Italian city of

crossing the line he was disqualified. The Gold

Naples. To deal with the crisis authorities diverted

medal went to American Johnny Hayes who was

urgent funds to the reconstruction of Naples. The

second but the glory went to Pietri. Since he had

relief effort plunged Italy into an economic crisis and

not been responsible for his disqualification,

saw the country cancel its plans to stage the 1908

Queen Alexandra awarded him a Gold cup the

Olympics. The Games were subsequently awarded

next day.

to London and opened on 27 April 1908.

White City Stadium acted as the centre piece for

I

The ‘Halswelle Affair’ in the men’s 400 metres,

the Games. The arena had a 68,000 seat capacity

saw British runner Lieutenant Wyndham Halswelle

with a swimming and diving pool and platforms for

impeded by one of his American rivals John

wrestling and gymnastics in the infield. White City

Carpenter. When the judges disqualified

Stadium, which went on to become a greyhound

Carpenter and ordered a re-run, the other two

racing and speedway track, hosted various sports

Americans promptly withdrew, leaving Halswelle

until its demolition in 1985.

to race for the Gold alone.

Key points from the 1908 London Olympic Games: I

I

The distance of the marathon was established at

For the first time athletes marched into the stadium by nationality at the opening ceremony.

42.195km (26 miles and 385 yards) The original distance of 25 miles was changed to

I

The 1908 London Games were also the first to

26 miles so the marathon could start at Windsor

include winter events, as had originally been

Castle and then changed again at the request of

proposed for the Games. There were four figure

Princess Mary so the start would be beneath the

skating events, although these were held months

windows of the Royal Nursery. To ensure that the

after other events which is why the 1908 Games

race would finish in the front of the King, the

opened on 27 April but closed on 31 October of

finish line was moved again by British officials.

that year. This made the 1908 Games the longest in Olympic history.

I

Oscar Swahn from Sweden, aged 60, was the oldest ever competitor to earn an Olympic Gold medal, winning the running deer shooting, single shot.

I

I

The sports of diving and field hockey made their

1908 London Olympic Games at a glance:

first appearance.

I

Open 27 April; close 31 October

I

22 National Olympic Committees.

This Games prompted the establishment of

Finland, Turkey, and New Zealand

standard rules for sports and selection of judges

(as part of the team from Australasia) made their first appearance

from different countries rather than just the host nation.

I

The most famous incident of the Games came

I

2,008 athletes (1,971 men and 37 women)

I

at the end of the marathon. The first to enter the

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110 events

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LONDON 1948

I

A women’s canoeing event was held for the first time.

Games of the XIV Olympiad The 1948 Summer Olympics in London were held after a 12-year interruption caused by the outbreak

I

17-year-old American Bob Mathias won the

of the Second World War. These were the first Games

decathlon Gold only four months after taking up

since the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin.

the sport. He is the youngest athlete in Olympic history to win a men’s athletics event. When

The Games opened on 29 July at the 85,000-seat capacity Wembley Stadium and closed on 14 August

asked how he intended to celebrate his victory,

1948. A leisure ground since the 1880s, Wembley

Mathias replied, ‘I’ll start shaving, I guess’.

Stadium is the world-famous home of the English national football team having re-opened in 2007

I

Fanny Blankers-Koen of the Netherlands was the world record holder in six events, but, according

following a complete redevelopment.

to the rules of the day, was only allowed to enter four. She won all four: the 100m dash, the 80m

Highlights of the 1948 London Olympic Games:

hurdles, the 200m and the 4x100m relay.

I

First Games to be shown on home television.

I

Olympic pictograms were introduced for the first

London. The Czech star won the 10,000m gold

time. There were twenty of them — one for each

medal and was second in the 5000m, and would

Olympic sport and three separate pictograms for

return to the Games in 1952 and 1956 to establish

the arts competition, the opening ceremony and

himself as one of the top distance runners the

the closing ceremony. They were called ‘Olympic

world has seen.

I

Athletics star, Emil Zatopek, made his mark in

symbols’ and intended for use on tickets.

I

Two athletes who became Olympic champions in 1936 managed to defend their titles twelve years later. They were Ilona Elek of Hungary in women’s foil fencing and Jan Brzak of Czechoslovakia in the canoeing Canadian pairs 1,000m.

1948 London Olympic Games at a glance: I

Open 27 July; close 14 August

I

59 National Olympic Committees

I

4,104 athletes (3,714 men and 390 women)

I

136 events

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Olympic Overview

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London 2012 The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games will open on 27 July 2012. After beating strong competition from Paris, New York, Moscow and Madrid, London was awarded the Games on 6 July 2005.

The focus of the London 2012 Games will be the Olympic Park in east London. Up to 180,000 spectators a day will enter the Park to enjoy the Games. The main venues include an 80,000 seat Olympic Stadium and the Cycling Velodrome as well as Fencing, Hockey, Handball and Basketball arenas.

All venues will be easily accessible through a network of footbridges and walkways.

Venues are situated around the city with many being tourist attractions already which will see some of the great sights in London forming an integral part of the Olympic delivery and experience for those visiting for the Olympics.

Here are just a few -: Earls Court – Volleyball Originally opened in 1937, this major exhibition centre will host the Volleyball competition. Easily reached by London Underground or bus transport, Earls Court has hosted major performances by The Rolling Stones, Queen, Elton John, George Michael and Madonna.

Located in west London, Earls Court is within

competitors and spectators. Dorney Lake is owned

is situated on top of a hill, with sweeping views across

easy reach of London’s Natural History Museum, the

by world-famous Eton College but offers year-round

the River Thames to St Paul's Cathedral and beyond.

V&A (Victoria and Albert Museum) and the Science

public access. Many visitors enjoy visiting the

The park is part of the Greenwich World Heritage Site

Museum. These three popular attractions are in the

surrounding beautiful Park and Arboretum.

which also includes the Royal Observatory and the

top 10 of the most visited places in London and together welcomed over eight million visitors last year.

Eton Dorney – Rowing

Nearby Windsor Castle is an official residence of Her Majesty The Queen. As well as a Royal home,

The Royal Observatory is, of course, home of

Windsor Castle is the largest occupied castle in the

Greenwich Mean Time at Longitude 0°. Every place

world and has been a fortress for over 900 years.

on Earth is measured in terms of its distance east or

Dorney Lake is a world-class rowing and flat-water canoeing centre near Windsor, 25 miles west of London.

A 2,200 metre, eight lane course with a separate

Old Royal Naval College.

west from the Greenwich Meridian. The line itself Greenwich Park – Equestrian Greenwich Park will host the Equestrian, Modern Pentathlon and Paralympic Equestrian events.

return lane, Dorney Lake will host the Rowing and

Temporary seating for 23,000 spectators will be built

Flatwater Canoe/Kayak and Paralympic Rowing in

for the Games.

divides the eastern and western hemispheres of the Earth, just as the Equator divides the northern and southern hemispheres.

Greenwich Park is also one of the UK’s top film locations. Stars including Harrison Ford, Pierce

2012. In 2006, Dorney Lake hosted the Rowing

At 74 hectares (183 acres) Greenwich Park is

Brosnan, Hugh Grant and Angelina Jolie have all shot

World Championships with high praise from both

London’s oldest Royal Park, dating back to 1433. It

scenes here. The Park itself has been used in several

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period dramas based on classic novels such as the 1995 version of Jane Austin’s Sense and Sensibility, starring Kate Winslet & Emma Thompson. You can also spot scenes from Greenwich Park in Layer Cake (2004), the crime thriller starring the current James Bond, Daniel Craig.

Horse Guards Parade – Beach Volleyball London will have its very own beach during the Games with the Beach Volleyball competition taking place in one of the most historic venues in the city.

Temporary seats will be erected for 15,000 spectators during the Games and the Prime Minister could almost watch the competition from the Prime Minister’s official London residence at 10 Downing Street.

Situated directly opposite Horse Guards Parade is

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world-famous St James’ Park.

Horse Guards Parade dates from 1745 and takes

Olympic Handball Arena

Olympic Overview

70-71 Olympics:Layout 1

short stroll away at the other end of St James’ Park

to the music, theatre, film and cultural events that will

and Trafalgar Square just round the corner, Horse

take place throughout the summer of 2012. Famous

its name from the soldiers who have provided

Guards Parade is probably one of the best situated

musical performances at Hyde Park include the 2005

protection for the monarch since the restoration of

and iconic venues at the London 2012 Games.

Live 8 concert for 200,000 people with U2, Robbie

the monarchy in 1660.

The Parade is the setting for various military ceremonies throughout the year and hosts the

Williams, Coldplay, Sting and many others.

Hyde Park - Triathlon

In 2007, Hyde Park was the centre piece for the

Hyde Park will host Triathlon during the Games.

Prologue at the Grand Depart for the Tour de France,

Trooping of the Colour, an impressive display of

At 142 hectares or 350 acres, it is one of London’s

when the world’s largest annual sporting event came

pageantry that marks The Queen’s official birthday

eight Royal Parks and has been open to the public

to the British capital for the first time ever.

each year in June.

since 1637.

Hyde Park is home to Speaker’s Corner which

Horse Guards Parade was the traditional entrance

The park is home to a number of grassroot sports

to the Royal Palaces and is still guarded by mounted

clubs, including the Serpentine Swimming Club, whose

place for public debate. Famous speakers here

sentries from the Queen's Household Cavalry. The

members swim in the Serpentine Lake whatever the

include George Orwell, Karl Marx and the Russian

Changing of the Guard still takes place here every

weather – even on Christmas Day.

revolutionary Lenin. The park is home to the Diana,

morning, seven days a week.

Just off Whitehall, with Buckingham Palace a

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Hyde Park lies in the heart of London’s worldfamous West End. The park is expected to be home

dates back to the 1770s and is London’s most famous

Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain which was opened by Her Majesty The Queen on 6 July 2004.

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London’s legendary wax figure museum is also near by.

Underground and London City Airport.

During the Games, Lord’s will host 6,500 spectators with an Archery range created on the outfield of the main ground and the Nursery ground.

Lord’s will return to its traditional role as the home

Wimbledon – Tennis The home of the All England Lawn Tennis Club and the setting for the internationally renowned

of cricket, providing a base for the Marylebone Cricket

Wimbledon tournament since 1877, this venue will

Club and Middlesex County Cricket Club after the

host the Tennis in 2012.

2012 Games.

Wimbledon is the only remaining major grasscourt tennis venue in the world and 30,000 specta-

Regent’s Park – Road Cycling finish Also one of the British capital’s famous Royal

Located in south-west London, Wimbledon is

Parks, Regent’s Park has been open to the public

within easy reach of Kew Gardens, which was officially

since 1845. The park was originally used by King

inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites on 3 July

Henry VIII as a hunting ground.

2003 and is one of 4 World Heritage sites in London.

Situated close to the Archery at Lord’s Cricket

London Underground, train, and bus links provide

Ground and the West End, Regents Park will make a

transport to Wimbledon from where you can get to

great setting for the finish of the Road Cycling events

many other parts of London. Nearby Richmond Park,

in 2012 with 3000 temporary seats built for spectators.

is the largest of London’s Royal Parks at almost 1000

Located to the north of the London’s West End, Image courtesy of Andrew Witnell/Paul Rapson

tors will be able to enjoy competition in 2012.

Regent’s Park is the largest grass area for sports in

hectares (2500 acres) and is home to around 650 free roaming deer.

Central London and is also home to an Open Air Theatre and ZSL London Zoo. North Greenwich Arena – Basketball The North Greenwich Arena is a major music and entertainment venue which will play host to Basketball and Gymnastics during the London 2012 Games.

Also known as The O2 and located in south-east London, it includes a state-of-the-art concert arena,

Oxford Street – the heart of London’s shopping,

music club and exhibition space. Re-opening to critical

restaurants and entertainment for all is within easy

acclaim in 2007, the North Greenwich Arena is a

reach of Hyde Park.

world-class entertainment hub with bars, restaurants and cinema screens.

Lord’s Cricket Ground – Archery Lord’s Cricket Ground, which will host the Archery competition, has been home to cricket since 1814

ExCel – Boxing, Fencing, Judo, Table Tennis In 2012 this 100 acre campus will host a number

and regularly hosts both test matches and one day

of Olympic and Paralympic sports including Boxing,

international matches. In 2009 Lord’s will also play

Fencing, Judo and Table Tennis

host to the ICC World Twenty20 competition – this

ExCeL is an international exhibition and conference

will be the second ICC World Twenty20 competition

centre located on London’s east side which plays

with the inaugural tournament having taken place in

host to a number of large public shows including the

South Africa in 2007.

Motor Show and the Boat Show.

Lord’s is in St John’s Wood, north-west London

Situated in a stunning waterfront location, ExCeL

and close to Regent’s Park, also an Olympic venue

is located in the heart of London’s Royal Docks and

hosting the Road Cycling in 2012. Madame Tussauds,

easily accessible by Docklands Light Rail, London

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Olympic Overview

Science in Sport The ‘secret’ success story behind thousands of amateur and elite athletes the world over.

This family owned and run sports nutrition company was established in 1992 and grew out of the desire to

highest business accolade.

Following its success in cycling, Science in Sport’s

high-energy performance.

Rego: the re-energising energy fuel with

provide the best nutritional advice and products to

products are now used at the top level of many other

micro-nutrients to improve recovery and boost

athletes of all levels.

sports and to date it has helped athletes win Olympic

adaptation to exercise.

Science in Sport mixes experts from a variety of fields to give an unparalleled in-house knowledge of

Golds, Premier League titles and set numerous world records.

the nutritional needs of athletes.

Their first products were used by 1992 Olympic gold medal winner Chris Boardman who helped

Go Bars: a healthy, nutritious and delicious snack bar ideal for athletes and people with active lifestyles.

Every GO-Bar is packed with fruit - the equivalent of

Product Range Science in Sport operates its own in-house

about two whole portions of fruit from your 5 a day.

Go Gel: the world’s first isotonic energy gel. Each

inspire the creation of ‘Rego’, the total recovery sports

manufacturing facility which is ISO 9001:2000

palm sized sachet contains 25g of isotonic

fuel. The company continues to reconcile feedback

certified for product design, development,

carbohydrate energy, which is research proven to

from competing athletes with the latest scientific

manufacturing and marketing. Its drug-free product

enhance endurance by 45%.

research to ensure its product range remains market

range includes:

leading.

In 2005, this unique approach was recognised when Science in Sport was awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category, the

76 | Best of Britain

Smart 1 Energizer Gel: combines the unique

Go Electrolyte: carbohydrate energy fuel with

Go Gel technology to deliver energy with a caffeine

electrolytes to give you ultimate performance in the

kick and antioxidants, to deliver more nutrients and

heat.

stimulation to active muscles.

PSP22: complex carbohydrate energy fuel for

Nocté: the night time drink for athletes which

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optimises sleep and contains all the essential

Classes, have used Science in Sport products for the

ingredients needed by the body for rest, repair and

past four years. The products have been an integral

recovery, whilst maintaining a healthy immune system

part of the team’s nutrition and they played an

and promoting health and well being.

important role in sailing’s historic success in 2008.’

Athlete Advocates

explorer, adds: ‘Over the years I have tried many

Sir Ranulph Fiennes, arguably the world’s greatest GB cyclist Jamie Staff, who won Gold in the team

different energy and sports nutrition products and

sprint at the Olympic Games in Beijing, says: ‘We

find Science in Sport Go Gel’s by far the best in terms

(Team GB Cycling) take Science in Sport products

of ease of use on the move and immediate results.’

before, during and after training to ensure our bodies

Science in Sport Ltd, Ashwood Laboratories,

have enough nutrients so they can perform at their

Brockhall Village, Blackburn, Lancashire,

best. The products are an essential part of our regime

BB6 8BB, UK.

– helping to put nutrients back into our system so

Visit www.scienceinsport.com

we’re ready for another day.’

for more information.

Pete Cunningham, Skandia Team GBR

Email: info@scienceinsport.com

Physiologist, comments: ‘Skandia Team GBR, the

Tel: +44(0) 1254 246 060

British sailing team in the Olympic and Paralympic

Fax: +44(0) 1254 246 061

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Chapter 4 | Hotels

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Best of Britain | 79

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von Essen Hotels von Essen hotels is a private collection of individual country house hotels in the UK and France that have been personally chosen by Andrew Davis, founder and Chairman, to combine

Hotels

the most stunning locations and surroundings with properties that are architecturally breathtaking and individually charming.

The von Essen collection of hotels offer a unique

restaurant at Chateau de Bagnols is, without doubt,

impressive, whether that is a special business retreat

luxury experience. From the small and intimate to the

one of the finest in France. The provenance of food

seeking quiet seclusion or an exclusive use for a

grand and gracious, from creating a feeling of a

is central to von Essen’s philosophy on food and all

major conference.

return to a bygone era of grandeur and gentle

von Essen chefs seek to source local and seasonal

von Essen hotels invests heavily in every one of the

opulence to a more relaxed, informal country house

produce where possible as well as growing much in

hotels and there is an on-going programme to ensure

experience, there is a hotel to suit everyone tastes

their own kitchen gardens.

each property conforms to the demanding standards

and for every occasion. Together, they form a unique

No other collection of spas in the UK can rival the

of luxury and quality that define the von Essen brand.

collection of luxury country hotels, town houses and

rewarding experience of von Essen spas, one that

von Essen hotels also has a strong acquisition plan

castle hotels in England, Scotland, Wales and France

combines impressive facilities, signature treatments,

and has acquired three hotels so far in 2008.

in four sets: Classic, Country, Continental and Luxury

bespoke therapeutic product ranges and unique

Family. Seven of von Essen’s hotels are also a member

locations.

of the prestigious Relais and Châteaux portfolio.

The individual and highly distinctive character of

The restaurants in the von Essen collection of

each von Essen hotel also ensures that events and

luxury hotels rank among the finest in the UK and the

conferences of all types and sizes are inspiring and

80 | Best of Britain

Since last year, the number of distinct sets of hotels within the Collection has grown to five with the development of a central London hotel – the first of the Metropolitan Set. The Classic Set comprises ten hotels, each unique

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in character, but sharing unrivalled locations, cuisine

Hall, Dalhousie Castle, The Greenway, Homewood

and service. The set includes six Relais & Châteaux

Park, Hunstrete House, Lewtrenchard Mano, The

hotels; Buckland Manor, Lower Slaughter Manor,

Mount Somerset, New Park Manor, Seaham Hall,

von Essen hotels first city centre property in early

Ynyshir Hall, Sharrow Bay, Amberley Castle and the

Washbourne Court and Callow Hall.

summer 2009. In conjunction with the 50th anniversary

magnificent Royal Crescent Hotel in Bath, Cliveden,

The Continental Set currently comprises Château

Moonfleet Manor.

The Metropolitan Set launches with the debut of

of The London Heliport, the hotel and heliport

The Samling, Ston Easton Park, and Thornbury

de Bagnols, our first property outside of the UK

development at Bridges Wharf, Battersea, will signal

Castle

(and a Relais & Châteaux hotel), which is widely

a design-led solution, offering state of the art facilities

regarded as one of the finest vineyard Château hotels

for the business and leisure guest and setting new

in the world.

standards of service.

The Country Set of twelve hotels offer the quintessential English country retreat. Food, service and surroundings are to the von Essen hotels

The Family Set, which includes Luxury Family

von Essen house, Roman Way, Bath Business

standard, but provided in a relaxed, informal and

Hotels, has pioneered the successful formula that

Park, BA2 8SG. www.vonessenhotels.com

warming environment that aims to provide a home

allows both adults and children to enjoy these stunning

Telephone: +44 (0) 1761 301 001.

away from home for all of the hotels’ many guests.

country properties. The collection comprises Woolley

The set comprises Bishopstrow House, Congham

Grange, Fowey Hall, The Elms, The Ickworth and

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Brown’s Hotel – London Situated in the heart of Mayfair and just minutes away from the chic boutiques of Bond Street, the vibrancy of the West End and the tranquillity of Green Park, Rocco Forte’s Brown’s Hotel

Hotels

is London’s premier address.

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Situated in the heart of Mayfair and just minutes away

Guests can choose from starters such as potted

from the chic boutiques of Bond Street, the vibrancy

Morecambe Bay shrimps; Romney Marsh beetroot

of the West End and the tranquillity of Green Park,

with Tymsboro’ goat’s cheese and wild herbs; main

Rocco Forte’s Brown’s Hotel is London’s premier

courses include roasted scallops with coastal

address.

vegetables, as well as unusual and traditional cuts of

James Brown, Lord Byron’s butler opened Brown’s

meat on the bone such as Aberdeenshire fillet and

Hotel in 1837 as London’s first ever hotel and it is

sirloin which have a remarkable depth of flavour and

from here that Rudyard Kipling wrote ‘The Jungle

succulence. Working alongside Lee, Fabien Ecuvillon

Book’, Agatha Christie penned ‘At Bertram’s Hotel’

Pastry Chef, offers a pudding menu which includes

and Alexander Graham Bell made the first ever

spotted dick with custard and apple crumble. At

European telephone call.

lunch, the carving trolley also serves traditional roasts

Following a £24-million renovation, this legendary hotel now blends a traditional English style with a contemporary twist, offering a chic and sophisticated

including Roast Brymore veal, hay-baked salt marsh leg of lamb and Loomswood Farm roast duck.

Savour award-winning Traditional Afternoon Tea

atmosphere. Brown’s Hotel boasts 117 luxurious

in The English Tea Room which provides a haven to

rooms and suites each of which has been elegantly

return to after a days shopping - whilst The Donovan

decorated - whilst encompassing state-of-the-art

Bar is London’s hottest meeting place.

technology, outstanding dining, a buzzing bar and relaxing spa.

The Albemarle specialises in the finest quality British cooking. Executive Chef, Lee Streeton and

The Spa at Brown’s offers a wide range of luxurious treatments including their exclusive range of seasonal pedicures, as well as a 24-hour gymnasium.

Brown’s Hotel is home to six private dining and

Director of Food, Mark Hix, have created a mouth-

meeting rooms, which can accommodate up to 72

watering menu featuring great British classic dishes,

guests for a lunch or dinner or up to 120 people for

all using carefully sourced seasonal ingredients.

a reception. Each room boasts an abundance of natural daylight, high ceilings and beautiful antique furniture.

Brown’s Hotel offers a unique range of special accommodation packages. For guests visiting London with the whole family they will love the Family Affair package - where children are treated like royalty and receive a wide range of goodies at no additional charge!

For those wanting to experience the ultimate in luxury, they must stay in one of their Classic, Deluxe, Presidential or Royal Suites, where not only do they receive a choice of 16 pillows, 3 mattresses and different linen, but also their suitcases are unpacked and they too receive so many additional treats.

For further information or to make a booking contact Brown’s Hotel on +44 (0)20 7493 6020 or visit their website www.roccofortecollection.com

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Malmaison Malmaison is a chain of chic hotels, bold in design and rich in

Hotels

colour, which pioneered the concept - affordable chic.

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The brand consists of twelve hotels situated in major UK’s cities, with a new site which opened in Aberdeen in November 2008. Doing the simple things well attracts a loyal following of business travellers, keen to enjoy a stylish alternative to mainstream chains.

Typically the hotels have a bar, brasserie, private dining room and meeting rooms of various sizes as well as additional facilities such as a champagne bar, spa and gym.

Malmaison have always looked at ways of doing things differently within the market place, exceeding people’s expectations and keeping one step ahead of the competition, by blending flamboyant design

ingredients - great beds, moody lighting, power

and spot on innovative services. New innovative

showers, CD players, CD libraries, satellite TV, serious

super-cool venue in which to sip delicious signature

services include plasma screens in our meeting rooms,

wines and naughty nibbles. Other little luxuries include

cocktails created by our in-house mixologists, order

fast and free wireless, inspiring private events rooms,

fast and free internet access, same-day laundry,

a light meal and enjoy the fine imported havanas, all

bespoke toiletries. We remain passionate on style yet

toiletries that you’re encouraged to take with you and

whilst people watching galore.

grounded in desire to deliver service and value. At the

‘vroom’ room service for breakfast, dinner or those

forefront of our minds is, not only is it the innovative

midnight munchies!

touches that our guest experience in-house that matter, but the service they receive throughout; from booking to departure

Malmaison is perfect for the discerning traveller.

Reds, whites, rosés or just bubbly we embrace each and every one of them.

We love it. Prepare for a trip around the world’s

Our Bars & Brasseries Life can be all too predictable, why should where you dine and drink be?

Our Rooms

All-in-all, when it comes to bars, the Mal Bar is a

Grab a quick healthy bite from Café Mal or

finest wines - nose first. Each Mal Bar and brasserie has an expertly stocked cellar, courtesy of our award winning sommelier. Our team of sommeliers bring an infectious love and playful sense of adventure to wine

disappear into a private dining room for days on end.

lovers of all levels of appreciation. No corner of the

It’s for those of us who enjoy the finer things in life –

At work or play your senses are well and truly on

world or the cellar is untouched in their search for that

like a room which is stylish, fully-equipped with

overtime and loving every minute.

perfect Pinot Blanc or that dusty Rioja to compliment

everything you might need and tastefully decorated to enhance that feeling of delicious opulence.

The rooms are an oasis of calm amid the bustle

One premise. When it comes to our food we have only one premise. Divinely tasty, beautifully presented

your meal.

If you’re planning a high powered board meeting

cuisine prepared with incredible local ingredients,

or an annual conference we have a range of

of a great city, with each one unique and dramatic in

served up with a genuine excitement. Whether it’s

professional meeting rooms to suit your needs. For

both style and finish. Velvet and silk cushions, and

business lunches, quick light healthy bites or dinner,

something more informal why not book a table in the

ambient lighting create an extra special touch of

eat, drink and sleep it at the Mal.

bar or brasserie, or for special celebrations and events

luxury.

Life should always be suite, and whether you’re

‘The dishes on our menu allow us the opportunity

we offer the luxury of a private dining room. Private

to showcase some of the best local food producers

dining rooms are few and far between. Good ones

looking for romance, indulgence (or over-indulgence)

who share our passion for great local and seasonal

are even more of a rare bird. The private dining rooms

or even celebrating your honeymoon, Malmaison are

produce that has been grown, harvested and reared

at Mal give you the chance to keep your up close

proud to say that we can offer you the most delectable

to the finest ethical and traditional farming methods.

and personal. Sumptuously designed, the food and

of abodes to stay in. Each hotel has a selection of

That’s real fine food - no wellies required.’

wine are diving, perfect for business or pleasure.

individually designed suites. These heavyweight suites

Our bars are destinations in their own right.

You can find Mal life in Aberdeen, Belfast,

will lift even the most travel weary of spirits. With

Sophisticated and cool music created by Mal’s team

Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool,

showers for sharing, Bose sound systems, flat screen

of music lovers, plasma TVs screening the latest from

London, Manchester, Newcastle, Oxford & Reading.

TVs and DVD player we’ll make your suite life that bit

the international world of haute couture, and subtle

bigger and bolder.

and inviting candlelight all help to create the dark

All our rooms have the complete set of Mal

To book call bookings central on 0845 365 4247 or book online at www.malmaison.com

moody ambience and high octane bar environment.

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Hotel du Vin There is so much more du Vin. We are not simply a hotel attached to a bar and bistro. We are an inspirational place to meet, do business, get married, a base for golf or fishing,

Hotels

a private retreat for celebrations, a spa or even a wine school

86 | Best of Britain

with a difference...Think du Vin.

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Hotel du Vin provide a range of luxury and boutique

finest vineyards by our Chef Sommeliers without

hotels in landmark towns and cities around the

having to leave the room. Or if you prefer relax in one

United Kingdom. They are synonymous with style

of our stylish bars with a great glass of wine or two or

and hospitality, offering exquisite accommodation for

perhaps an aged whisky recommended by people

the business and leisure traveller with a relaxing

who know.

atmosphere throughout.

Picture thirteen sensitively converted spaces, like

Behind closed doors you can also enjoy an undisturbed evening with the wines and the ones you

a Georgian townhouse, a brewery, or a hospital,

love. Each hotel has a collection of elegant spaces

eclectically furnished in a timeless manner. Imagine

for private dining and events. The food – sublime, the

a trademark bistro, serving simple classics, an

company handpicked, the wine absolutely stunning.

outstanding wine cellar, Egyptian linen and monsoon

Whether you are looking for a romantic weekend

showers for your room, a glorious Laroche tasting

away, a relaxing spa break or you are after a haven

room for the wine-lover, a cigar shack in its gardens,

on a busy business trip, Hotel du Vin offers the last

and inspiring original art in its halls.

word in style, sophistication and comfort. Come and experience how easy life can be at Bistro du Vin Poole.

Our Rooms Our luxurious bedrooms and suites are designed to ensure our guests enjoy the finest comforts and the

For lunch, dinner, rooms or meetings the choice is simple.

You can find Hotel du Vin in Birmingham,

ultimate in relaxation. Every bedroom is individually

Brighton, Bristol, Cambridge, Cheltenham, Edinburgh,

designed by our very own Hotel du Vin interior design

Glasgow, Harrogate, Henley, Newcastle, Poole,

team. Relax and enjoy unparalleled luxury, with

Tunbridge Wells, Winchester & York.

Egyptian cotton bedding, fluffy bathrobes, monsoon

Recently voted AA ‘Small Hotel Group of the Year

showers, and role top baths in elegantly designed

2008-9’ and Guardian/Obsever ‘UK Hotel of the Year

bathrooms and bedrooms. We also offer, fast and free

2008’

internet access, satellite TV, mini bars stocked with goodies and our bespoke and oversized toiletries

To book call Bookings du Vin on 0845 365 4438 or book online at www.hotelduvin.com

which are yours to take away.

Our Bistros and Bars Open seven days a week for lunch or dinner our trademark bistros and bars at Hotel du Vin are renowned for serving contemporary stunning classics from the kitchen. You will find our ‘Simple Classics’ menu that changes seasonally, prepared by our award winning chefs, all supporting our philosophy of using the finest and freshest local produce, cooked simply and priced sensibly.

Our menus are complimented by extensive and eclectic wine lists. Just imagine the wines you know and love (and some you’ve yet to discover) served in the most elegant and relaxed of surroundings, accompanied and perfectly complemented by simple classic dining from our bistro kitchen. Try a tasting in one of our glorious Laroche tasting tables where you can be taken on a pilgrimage around the world’s

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Chapter 5 | Fine Dining & Cuisine

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Best of Britain | 89

Fine Dining & Cuisine

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The Fat Duck Bray, Berkshire One of only three restaurants in the UK to achieve the coveted third Michelin Star.

The Fat Duck is located in the village of Bray in

cuisine - only to discover that for him this created

can be felt throughout the world. His menu at his

Berkshire in a Grade II listed building that was built in

more questions than answers. His relentless quest

restaurant, The Fat Duck restaurant in Bray allows

1640. The building was originally a tavern, welcoming

for knowledge has seen him recognised throughout

his guests to enjoy a multi sensory dining experience,

local residents and travellers on their way to London.

the world as one of the greatest modern chefs of our

which always includes that essential Blumenthal

Much has changed since then, as The Fat Duck has

time. His fascinating journey involves associations

ingredient – fun.

come to be at the epicentre of a gastronomic

with biochemists, perfumeries, food psychologists,

revolution that has taken diners, critics and the

DJ’s and food historians, to name but a few. His

of accolades including a coveted third Michelin star,

world’s media by storm.

determination and relentless research have broken

which was awarded in January 2004 and has been

The Fat Duck’s Chef Patron Heston Blumenthal

The Fat Duck has received a prestigious series

down barriers between science and gastronomy and

retained since. The Fat Duck remains one of only

is self taught. With no prior training, he immersed

his groundbreaking innovations have made him a

three restaurants in the UK to have achieved this

himself in the rules and regulations of classic French

leading light in a food movement of modernism that

status. Since then, this has been followed by a whole

90 | Best of Britain

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host of other industry awards, both in the UK and

Snail Porridge have become legendary, as has his

served as if washed up by shellfish foam on tapioca

overseas including becoming The World’s Best

work with liquid nitrogen. Heston Blumenthal

‘sand’ with an iPod playing the sound of waves.

Restaurant as awarded by Restaurant Magazine, 2005.

continues to push the boundaries of taste and

Heston Blumenthal has also received personal

Applause for The Fat Duck also extends to the

flavour and explore the myths surrounding culinary

wine list, which has won individual awards for its

recognition for his achievements including an OBE

alchemistry. In 2005 a lab was established at The

eclectic selection of producers and vintages. Let the

from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and an honorary

Fat Duck to allow greater freedom to explore the

sommelier select your wine to match each individual

doctorate from the University of Reading.

marriage of ingredients, texture and taste.

course with the unforgettable and fun dining

The success of The Fat Duck is undoubtedly

New dishes continue to delight and intrigue diners,

experience that is the Tasting Menu at The Fat Duck.

down to the commitment and passion of the whole

always created from the best produce available,

team. Dishes like Orange and Beetroot Jelly; Nitro

sourced both locally and worldwide, such as The

be made at www.fatduck.co.uk or call

Scrambled Egg and Smoked Bacon Ice Cream; the

Sound of the Sea - a seaweed & seafood combination

+44 (0) 1628 580 333.

To experience The Fat Duck, reservations can

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Fine Dining & Cuisine

Nobu

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The eponymous restaurant was the first European venture for the celebrated Japanese Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa and was opened in conjunction with partners Robert de Niro, restaurateur Drew Nieporent and hotel owner Christina Ong.

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The 150 cover restaurant includes a separate sushi

After graduating from high school, Nobu found a

bar and the minimalist, chic interior boasts stunning

live-in job at a sushi restaurant in Tokyo called Matsuei.

view across Hyde Park through full height windows.

When he was 24 years old, Nobu accepted an offer

Designed by United Designers the interiors make

from one of his customers that took him to Lima, Peru

subtle use of light woods and natural stone to reflect

to open a restaurant. The impact of his time in Peru

the diverse influences of Nobu’s cuisine, incorporating

cannot be overstated. Nobu began weaving Peruvian

the purity and quality materials inherent of traditional

influences into his dishes – the beginnings of his

Japanese design.

signature style.

The menu at Nobu London captures Matsuhisa’s

After a brief stint in Buenos Aires, Argentina,

‘new style’ Japanese cuisine, where traditional

Nobu returned to Japan. Upon returning to Japan, he

Japanese techniques meet South American flavours.

had an opportunity to open a restaurant in Alaska,

This cuisine has become his trademark and the

which he took. In 1987, Nobu opened his first

foundation of his worldwide success. Signature

restaurant Matsuhisa in Beverly Hills.

dishes include Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeno, Tuna

Matsuhisa was an instant success and became

Sashimi Salad with Matsuhisa Dressing, the sizzling

a magnet for food lovers and celebrities alike. It was

Beef Toban Yaki and the famous Black Cod in Miso.

here that his longtime friendship and business

Nobu London was awarded one Michelin Star

relationship with Robert De Niro began. It was at

in 1998, one year after opening, which it still retains

De Niro’s urging that they opened Nobu in New York

today.

City in 1994 with restaurateur Drew Nieporent.

Nobu Matsuhisa Chef Owner

his two grown daughters now live in Tokyo. He

Nobu resides in Beverly Hills with his wife while Nobuyuki Matsuhisa – known to the world simply as ‘Nobu’ – is the acclaimed and highly influential chef

travels the globe, visiting all of his restaurants and scouting new locations to conquer.

proprietor of Nobu and Matsuhisa restaurants all over the globe.

Mark Edwards Executive Chef Mark Edwards has always had a keen interest in food, commencing his chef’s career at age 13 when he took a part time job in a small seafood restaurant near his home in Kent.

As well as overseeing the kitchens for both of the London restaurants, Mark is now executive chef for the Nobu group and works with Nobu to set up the kitchen operations for new and forthcoming projects.

Nobu London private dining Nobu London Private Dining and Events Facilities are now able to provide world renowned and multi award winning Michelin star cuisine in our Private Dining room at Nobu London, in the comfort of your own home and at exclusive events around the globe.

General Manager: Stephan Guicheteau Reservations can be made on 0207 447 4747.

For further information on Nobu London please contact Hayley Abbott on 0207 447 4686 or email hayleya@noburestaurants.com

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Fine Dining & Cuisine

The Providores & Tapa Room The Providores and Tapa Room are actually two restaurants in one, located in the heart of the uniquely contained Marylebone Village just minutes from the hectic rush of Oxford Street & Selfridges - Marylebone Road & Madame Tussauds.

The Providores and Tapa Room are actually two

newspapers and magazines and consulting on

of the day, their customers could partake of anything

restaurants in one, located in the heart of the uniquely

restaurants in New Zealand, Turkey and throughout

from London’s best flat white or glass of chilled NZ

contained Marylebone Village just minutes from the

the UK.

Sauvignon Blanc through to a freshly baked muffin,

hectic rush of Oxford Street & Selfridges - Marylebone

Situated on the ground floor, The Tapa Room is

a spicy bowl of coconut laksa, roast pork belly or a

Road & Madame Tussauds. Here fashionable jewellers,

an all day, seven day a week café / wine bar and

4 course meal of smaller plates. They feel they have

clothing shops, perfumeries and skin care specialists

restaurant, with a no-booking policy, that opens for

more than succeeded.

sit side by side with casual cafes and eateries,

breakfast from 9am Monday to Friday, and from 10am

specialty food shops and fine dining restaurants.

on weekends, continuing to serve delicious smaller

floor is open at midday for lunch Monday to Friday,

Established in 2001, the restaurants are owned and

dishes and desserts until late in the day. Here you’ll

and for brunch on weekends. Dinner is served seven

run by Executive chef Peter Gordon and General

find two communal tables alongside tables for two

nights a week. Here the food is more refined, but with

Manager Michael McGrath. Peter established his

or four, with guests popping in for a glass of wine,

the bold Fusion flavours that Peter is famous for.

name as head chef at The Sugar Club restaurants in

arguably from Britain’s largest New Zealand cellar,

At lunch time the menu follows the more traditional

the mid ’90s and he and Michael have been working

some of the best coffee in town, a legendary

starter, main course and dessert theme, but in the

together in restaurants since 1990. Peter is also a

breakfast or sampling some of the international Tapa

evening changes to one of around 15 dishes, all

widely regarded author and regularly makes

dishes for which the restaurant has a huge following.

similar in size, of which the guests choose 3-5

appearances on television around the world, as well

Peter and Michael set out to establish a casual,

courses, allowing them to sample even more of the

as contributing recipe and travel led articles to

friendly, dining and drinking space where at any time

unique combinations of ingredients, flavours and

94 | Best of Britain

The Providores fine-dining restaurant on the first

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textures that have characterized Peter’s food for over 20 years and for which he is world-renowned. Here you’ll be able to sample New Zealand wagyu, line caught Cornish Seabass, Diver caught Scottish scallops, Jamon Iberico and wild mushrooms, alongside desserts such as raspberry bavarois with Oloroso jelly, coconut tapioca and avocado ice cream or a selection of the finest British cheeses.

The food and service in both restaurants has enormous appeal to locals and tourists alike, with a dedicated client base of people ranging from the media, film, TV as well as mums with their youngsters, families and old and young alike who want great service, a comfortable atmosphere and fantastic food and wine in a gentle ambience.

109 Marylebone High Street, London W1U 4RX. www.theprovidores.co.uk +44 (0)20 7935 6175.

Best of Britain | 95

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Gaucho Gaucho Piccadilly is housed in one of the most historic buildings in London. Dating back to 1923 as the first Spanish restaurant in

Fine Dining

London and established by Zeev Godik as Gaucho in 1994, this

96 | Best of Britain

award- winning Argentine restaurant has grown phenomenally in both size and popularity over the past four years to become known for its world class steaks, fine Argentine wine and passionately slick service.

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Fernando Trocca, Gaucho’s Argentine Executive Chef.

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Located in the east of Mayfair, a stone’s throw from

about the 180 exclusively Argentine wines on the

Piccadilly Circus and Regent Street, Gaucho is found

wine list. The main restaurant features a beautifully

on Swallow Street, a discreet and beautiful

tiled private dining room and a show grill, so that you

pedestrianised hide-away, home to some of London’s

can watch your steaks being prepared. The ground

favourite restaurants.

floor boasts a dark, sensual cocktail bar, wine boutique

The interior, designed by Patsy Godik, is a blend of modern chic and Argentine glamour. Whilst respecting the building’s history, the cowhide

and dining room, whilst the wine cellar provides an intimate and modern setting for your dinner.

The restaurant is acclaimed for its steak, carefully

panelling and seating remind you that you are here to

selected tender beef, from Black Angus Steers bred

enjoy the beef, and the chandelier bedecked rooms

on the finest cattle ranches in the Pampas, but has

take you straight to the tango halls of Buenos Aires.

also become loved for highly acclaimed Argentine

A favourite of Europeans, North and South

Chef Fernando Trocca’s Modern Argentine and Nuevo

Americans and Londoners alike,the ambience is

Latino dishes: such as their empanadas, ceviche

typical of the capital: cosmopolitan! fashionistas and

and tiraditos. The desserts are a mix of fresh fruit

celebrities mix with corporate entertainers and well-

and the very indulgent dulce de leche.

heeled sporting stars, to fill the tables with modern glamour.

The restaurant is one of London’s largest and

From when you enter the restaurant through to your warm departure, the staff at Gaucho all aim to guide you through an informal, yet high quality

busiest high quality restaurants, but hides this fact

experience. Knowledge and passion are highly

well, as it spreads itself over four floors, all of which

evident, but pretension is not. You will be cared for

bring a vibrant new perspective on Argentine life: The

all the way through your visit. You have little option

building’s top floor hosts the ‘Supper Club’ every

but to relax and enjoy!

evening; live music plays nightly in its cocktail bar

To make a booking at Gaucho, please call

and restaurant, whilst sommeliers move around the

+44 (0)20 7734 4040 or visit

floors, offering guests personal tasting and advice

www.gauchorestaurants.com

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Fine Dining & Cuisine

Tom Aikens

98 | Best of Britain

My work is a joy, it is my life, it keeps me very happy. I have found my true vocation. It is not a job, more a feeling of belonging - Tom Aikens

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Awards I

Michelin Great Britain & Ireland 2008 - rising two-star (one star since 2004)

I

AA Restaurant Guide 2009 – Five Rosettes (since 2008 guide)

I

Good Food Guide 2009 – rated 8/10 (since 2004)

I

Academy of Food and Wine 2008 – UK Sommelier of the Year awarded to Gearoid Devaney

I

Square Meal Restaurant Guide 2008 – One Star

I

Harden’s London Restaurants Guide 2008 – 2/2/3

About Tom Aikens Tom Aikens is undisputedly one of the most

The Restaurants In five years, Tom Aikens restaurant has achieved

I

Zagat Restaurant Guide 2008 – 26/22/24

I

Square Meal Restaurant Guide 2007 –

exciting chefs in the UK. Although he has been cooking

noteworthy status among the top restaurants in the

since the age of 16, it was when he launched his own

UK. A modern take on classical French food, the a

eponymous restaurant in London that he truly sealed

la carte and tasting menus offer flavoursome and

his culinary reputation. Tom’s early exposure to food

imaginative dishes, complemented by a predominantly

and wine came from his father and grandfather who

French wine list devised by UK Sommelier of 2008,

were both wine merchants, and the family regularly

Gearoid Devaney. Typical dishes include Poached

I

AA Restaurant Guide 2006 - Four Rosettes

travelled throughout France and sampled fine regional

lobster tail and rabbit fillet roasted in vanilla butter with

I

Egon Ronay’s Restaurant Guide 2006 -

French cuisine.

rabbit cannelloni; Roast Anjou pigeon breast with

Tom and his identical twin brother, Rob, both

confit leg, pumpkin risotto, foie gras mousse and

studied at Norwich City College Hotel School and

hazelnut crumb; and Pistachio meringue with pistachio

Tom’s career began as a Commis Chef at the Mirabelle

mousse, praline and pistachio cassonade with

restaurant in Eastbourne – moving through roles with

pistachio jelly. According to food critic Charles

Michelin-star chefs David Cavalier and Philip Britten,

Campion, ‘the service here is silky and the food is

and spending a formative period with Pierre Koffman

sophisticated and considered. A rewarding place to

as Tante Claire won its third Michelin star.

eat.’ Interior design studio Anouska Hempel Design

After a period at Pied à Terre in London working

used dark colours and natural materials such as

with Richard Neat, Tom spent a year in France

Belgian black hardstone, Black American walnut and

learning from Joël Robuchon and Gerard Boyer. He

Portland stone to create the contemporary look of

then returned to Pied à Terre in 1996 as Head Chef

the restaurant and the 10-seat private dining room,

and co-proprietor where the restaurant maintain its

with artwork by Thomas Joshua Cooper.

second Michelin star. He then spent another period

Tom Aikens opened Tom’s Kitchen in November

at Tante Claire as Head Chef, before working in the

2006, just a few hundred yards from the restaurant.

private sector for Lord Lloyd Webber and the

Tom’s Kitchen offers affordable brasserie-style food

Bamford family. Helping Lady Bamford develop her

all day in a relaxed environment in the ground floor

organic food range for Daylesford Farm further

Brasserie, and First Floor Bar. Emphasising mostly

confirmed Tom’s abiding commitment to sourcing only

British ingredients, Tom and his head chef have

Two Stars I

AA Restaurant Guide 2007 – Four Rosettes

I

Harden’s London Restaurant Guide 2007 – 3/2/3

Three Stars I

Restaurant 2005 I

I

I

I

I

I

I

Seven-hour braised lamb shoulder with onions and

The Brasserie has a relaxed ambience with a grey

star’ status in January 2008), 8/10 in the Good Food

and white marble-topped bar, oak floors, tables and

Guide 2009, five rosettes in the AA Restaurant Guide

chairs, and an open kitchen with a wood-smoked

since 2008, Decanter/Laurent-Perrier Restaurant of

oven, spit roast and grill. The second floor Alfred

the Year 2005 and three stars in Egon Ronay

Dining Room and adjacent Dunhill Den are available

Restaurant Guide 2006. Tom opened his second

for private hire for breakfast, lunch, dinner or meetings.

restaurant, Tom’s Kitchen, in November 2006.

His first cookbook, Tom Aikens: Cooking - was

Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence 2004

continues to guide his principles today.

including a Michelin star in 2004 (and a ‘rising two-

Hotel & Restaurant Restaurateurs’ New Restaurant of the Year 2004

I

given the Time Out Best Breakfast Award for 2008.

Hotel & Restaurant Restaurateurs’ Restaurant of the Year 2004

mainly British dishes. Signature dishes include the

earned numerous prestigious critical accolades,

Harpers & Moët Restaurant Awards Vintage Year 2004

sustainability and integrity – a philosophy that

with root vegetable mash. Tom’s Kitchen was also

Decanter/Laurent-Perrier Restaurant of the Year 2005

created a menu with real comfort value, featuring

opened in Chelsea. The 60-seat site has since

Restaurant Magazine Awards 2005 ‘World’s 50 Best’ - Number Eight

the finest ingredients and taking responsibility for their

balsamic vinegar and the Organic venison casserole

Winner of the 2005 Torres Quiz Master Trophy - Gearoid Devaney

I

In April 2003, Tom Aikens Restaurant was

Hotel & Restaurant Restaurateurs’ London

Arena Chef of the Year 2004 Caterer & Hotelkeeper Catey Award Newcomer of the Year 2004

I

Tio Pepe ITV London Restaurant Awards Best New Restaurant of the Year 2004

I

Tio Pepe ITV London Restaurant Awards London Restaurant of the Year 2004

I

Harpers & Moët Restaurant Awards Best Newcomer 2004

I

Harden’s Restaurant Rémy Excellence Award 2004 Tom Aikens 43 Elystan Street, London, SW3 3NT

published in 2006 and his second cookbook FISH

+44 (0)20 7584 2003

was published in November 2008.

www.tomaikens.co.uk

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Chapter 6 | Luxury Lifestyle

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Best of Britain | 101

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Aston Martin flowing bodywork and luxury interiors; an Aston Martin combines power and sporting ability with refinement and aesthetic beauty. A strong heritage coupled with exceptional quality and craftsmanship has kept Aston Martin at the forefront of car manufacturing and racing for more than 90 years.

Aston Martin DBS

Luxury Lifestyle

Sleek design and attention to detail, with perfectly proportioned

102 | Best of Britain

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Design Studio

Aston Martin Global Headquarters

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Aston Martin’s history dates back to 1914, when

at the brand’s award-winning factory in Gaydon,

2000, Chief Executive Dr Ulrich Bez has overseen a

racing drivers Lionel Martin and Robert Banford

Warwickshire, by a skilled workforce that combines

period of growth and investment that ended Aston

began selling bespoke racing cars. After some early

traditional hand-finishing with high-tech manufacturing

Martin’s 20-year partnership with Ford in June 2007.

track successes, the focus of the fledgling company

techniques. In December 2007, a new purpose-built

As an independently owned company its dealership

– named after the Aston Clinton hill climb course in

design studio opened to house the company’s design

expansion programme has gone from strength-to-

Buckinghamshire – shifted to powerful road cars,

team, led by Marek Reichman. The facility, the first in

strength, with its first two showrooms in China

resulting in the launch of the innovative Atom saloon

the brand’s history, hosts a number of specially

opening in 2008.

during World War II. Post-war, under the guidance of

commissioned art installations as part of Aston

charismatic new owner, David Brown – and thanks to

Martin’s commitment to supporting modern art,

distinctive winged logo (believed to denote speed)

the DB series of saloons - Aston Martin’s reputation

innovation and creativity.

that has evolved over time. Today every car has a

really began to take hold; the DBR1’s considerable

The brand has a strong cinematic tradition that

Integral to Aston Martin’s brand identity is its

hand-made, discreet metal badge on the bonnet and

success at world-famous tracks kick-starting the

began in 1964 with Sean Connery’s 007 driving a

each showroom, a version of the logo rendered in

brand’s racing pedigree.

DB5 in Goldfinger. In 2006, a DBS made its debut,

stainless steel and illuminated by LEDs. Inside the cars,

21st century style in Casino Royale, with new Bond

the wings are etched onto the glass and stainless

track, following the introduction of a family of specially

star Daniel Craig. Both the car and Craig make a

steel ECU (Emotion Control Unit) inserted into the

developed racing cars: the DBR9, DBRS9, V8 Vantage

spectacular return in the sequel, Quantum of Solace.

dashboard to initiate the engine start sequence.

In recent years Aston Martin has returned to the

GT2 and GT4. In both 2007 and 2008, a DBR9 won

Aston Martin dealerships form a central part of

An ability to successfully embrace change, without

the GT1 class at Le Mans, evoking memories of the

the company’s image. An award-winning series of

compromising its worldwide reputation for understated

DBR1’s classic Le Mans victory in 1959. In May 2008,

modern pavilions in high profile international locations

style and elegance, keeps Aston Martin at the pinnacle

the V8 Vantage GT4 took the top three podium spots

reflect the design and attention to detail offered by

of car manufacturing; each design combining form,

in the SP8 class at the famous Nurburgring 24-hour

the brand’s bespoke service. Like its products, the

function and material to produce the aesthetic beauty

event.

approach does not compromise on materials; the

and sporting prowess the brand has been built on.

overall look and attention to detail more in keeping

www.astonmartin.co.uk

Every model, from the 2005 V8 Vantage to the

with a boutique hotel than a car showroom. Since

Aston Martin DBS

V8 Vantage Coupe & V8 Vantage Roadster

V12-engined DBS – debuted in 2008 – is produced

Best of Britain | 103

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Loch Ness Lodge Luxury Lifestyle

Loch Ness Lodge is an elegant and intimate exclusive-use

104 | Best of Britain

retreat in the heart of the Scottish Highlands overlooking the mysterious and beautiful Loch Ness.

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Bringing together the very best of traditional Scottish architecture and more contemporary design, Loch Ness Lodge is a luxurious venue in a truly inspirational setting.

With seven sumptuous, individually designed bedrooms, elegant reception rooms, a spa & therapy area, fine dining and access to some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery, Loch Ness Lodge has everything you could need for an unforgettable event.

Perhaps you are planning a corporate event with a difference, a house party celebration or an intimate wedding? Whatever the occasion, the perfect venue awaits you at Loch Ness Lodge.

Feel the need to escape, unwind, refresh body and spirit? Then why not come for an overnight retreat and experience the true luxury of one of our sumptuous bedrooms.

From Loch Ness Lodge you can access the staggering natural beauty and restorative qualities of the Scottish Highlands, or simply melt into an easy chair in our cosy snug or elegant drawing room and lose yourself in a good book – or the view!

For ultimate relaxation, why not also luxuriate in Escape – our Spa with hot tub and sauna room? If you are able to let us know in advance we will also be delighted to arrange a treatment from our range of therapies.

The danger is one night may not be enough…!

Press Reviews Scots Heritage Magazine, May 2008 ‘No expense has been spared in creating what is undoubtedly one of the finest, if not the finest resort in Scotland. In the 30 something years that I’ve travelled throughout the length and breadth of the country, I have stayed in some very fancy places, but I have to say I’ve never seen anything better...this is one of the few places in Scotland we are prepared to recommend without hesitation.’

Press & Journal, June 2008 ‘This venue provides a subtle, luxurious location which caters for your every wish, and the effortless attention to detail gives the Lodge a character all of its own’. www.loch-ness-lodge.com +44 (0)1456 459 469

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Johnnie Walker Blue Label Luxury Lifestyle

The Epitome of Rarity, Power and Prestige.

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Johnnie Walker Blue label Scotch whisky is the jewel in

the older ones. Rare whiskies that still retain much of

the crown of the celebrated Johnnie Walker portfolio

the character of the distilleries that made them.

and the epitome of rarity, power and prestige.

The ultimate symbol of success, it is the chosen

Blue Label has a mellow, rounded nose, with a dry smokiness mixing with raisin sweetness. One sip

whisky of the world’s elite. In 1820, John Walker

reveals a velvety mouth-feel, then an explosion of

pioneered the art of blending. Over 180 years later,

flavour. At once you’ll discover hazelnuts, honey, rose

the stocks available and the skills handed down

petals, sherry and oranges. Subsequent sips reward

through successive generations of Master Blenders

you with more hidden secrets like kumquats, wispy

allow for the creation of the most exclusive Scotch

aromatic smoke, sandalwood, tobacco, and dark

whisky in the world – Johnnie Walker Blue Label.

chocolate.

Crafted by experts in strictly limited quantities to

Enjoyed in the finest bars and restaurants in the

evoke the powerful character of a traditional 19th

world, Johnnie Walker Blue Label whisky is best

Century blend, every component of Blue Label is

enjoyed from a balloon glass, the palate having first

handpicked from a range of the finest and rarest

been cleansed with a sip of ice-cold highland spring

casks of the Walker reserves. Only particular flavours

water, served on the side.

and properties from exceptional casks are destined to help craft this whisky.

The smoothness and velvety texture of Blue Label

Johnnie Walker Blue Label is the ultimate expression of the whisky blender’s art having won more gold medals for excellence than any other luxury

can only be achieved by using very aged whiskies.

whisky* - proof that, whether savoured in the finest

Whiskies that have had years to mellow and take on

bars or as the ultimate gift for the men who really do

the flavours of the casks they are kept in. Some of

have everything, Johnnie Walker Blue Label is crafted

the distilleries that produced these casks no longer

for the best, by the best.

exist, making the whiskies literally irreplaceable. The

www.johnniewalker.com

* Whisky Magazine 2007

vibrant flavours in Blue Label, on the other hand, can only be achieved by using younger whiskies alongside

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Chapter 7 | Fashion

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Gieves & Hawkes Two centuries of quality & service. All over the world, Savile Row stands for the very best in men’s tailoring and so it is fitting that Gieves & Hawkes should be ‘No 1 Savile Row’: a remarkable

Fashion

address.

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Gieves & Hawkes was formed from two famous

presents these men with modern classics -

businesses: Gieves, founded in 1785 and Hawkes,

simultaneously modern and classic - across their

founded in 1771. Each welcomed a passing parade

wardrobe, from formal evening wear to suiting and

of famous customers whose names would fill a book.

through to casual wear.

The magnificent full dress occasions of British State

While No1 Savile Row remains the international

Ceremonial have been embellished and enriched by

flagship site, it now heads a premium retail network in

their craftsmen’s skills, and overseas monarchs and

the United Kingdom. The distribution of Gieves &

leaders have looked upon Gieves & Hawkes to meet

Hawkes also continues to expand internationally with

their own exacting requirements.

over 100 stores and concessions worldwide.

Internationally recognised marks of excellence,

Gieves & Hawkes take inspiration from a rich

Gieves & Hawkes’ first Royal Warrant was granted in

archive and history while also drawing on over two

the reign of King George III in 1809. The company has

centuries of craftsmanship and innovation. They

held Royal Warrants ever since, an unbroken record

continue to represent quality, excellence, innovation

of service to successive Monarchs and members of

and service of the highest degree.

their families. Gieves & Hawkes currently holds Royal

The finest fabrics, the highest quality design and

Warrants of Appointment to HM The Queen, HRH

production, knowledgeable consultants and superlative

The Duke of Edinburgh and HRH The Prince of Wales.

service: this is what Gieves & Hawkes stands for,

Today Gieves & Hawkes, as the purveyor of

what they are known for and why Gieves & Hawkes

quintessential English style, dresses individuals who

appeals across the generations, as they have for well

are interested in the rules and references of tradition

over 200 years.

but who desire to present these in a visually exciting

Gieves & Hawkes has 23 points of sale in the UK

and contemporary way: in their own way. Confident

and Ireland and a further 70 points of sale in China,

in what they wear, they appreciate luxury and are

Hong Kong and Taiwan.

most interested, ultimately, in style. They have a sense

www.gievesandhawkes.com

of occasion and dress accordingly. Gieves & Hawkes

+44 (0)20 7434 2001

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Vivienne Westwood

Fashion

You have a much better life if you wear impressive clothes.

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Vivienne Westwood was born Vivienne Isabel Swire

The same year Anglomania is shown at the

in Glossop, Derbyshire on 8th April 1941. At the age

Mercedes Benz Fashion week in Berlin and the

to 31st January 2009, Swire Properties host the

of 17 she and her family moved to London.

Vivienne Westwood Retrospective exhibition opens

exhibition in Hong Kong. It will be staged in Cornwall

in San Francisco in March and in Milan in September.

House, TaiKoo Place and will then travel to Beijing.

She began designing in 1971, along with her

worldwide exhibition tour. From 1st December 2008

partner Malcolm McLaren, when London was at the

Vivienne Westwood, in 2007, is also rewarded with

forefront of cultural trends. The showcase for their

the Outstanding Achievement in Fashion at the

that transcends generations. It is for those with a

ideas and designs was the shop at 430 Kings Road,

British Fashion Awards in London.

rebellious spirit who dare to be different and want to

London. With her changing ideas of fashion came

In 2008 Vivienne Westwood shows her Red Label

Vivienne Westwood is a fashion brand for all ages

be ahead of their time. Through an extensive

the change of not only the name of the shop, but the

in London after almost a decade of absence from her

distribution network Vivienne Westwood Products are

entire decor as well. In 1971, 430 King’s Road was

country and calls on the other British brands that now

today sold in 86 countries throughout 5 continents

known as ‘Let It Rock’ and was initially specialised

only show abroad to follow her example.

with over 20 lines of product.

in Fifties rock’ n’ roll clothing and memorabilia before

In February 2008 Westwood launched the

Today Vivienne Westwood Ltd is proud to be a

changing its name in 1972 to Too Fast To Live, Too

Vivienne Westwood Opus, published by Kraken Sport

growing and entirely independent company. Vivienne

Young To Die, and focusing on rock fashion and

& Media Ltd. The Opus features the designer’s family

Westwood is now both recognized as a global brand

black urban culture. In 1974, Westwood changed the

and friends photographed on one of the world’s

and Vivienne herself one of the most influential fashion

shop’s name again to Sex and began dressing cult

largest Polaroid camera.

designers in the world.

band, the New York Dolls. By the time the Sex Pistols

In May 2008 the Vivienne Westwood V&A

www.viviennewestwood.com

appeared wearing Westwood clothes in 1976, the

retrospective went to Museums Sheffield: Millennium

+44 (0)207 437 2203

shop’s name had changed again to Seditionaries, and

Gallery (in Sheffield) as the last English stop of the

info@viviennewestwood.co.uk

in 1979 it changed for the final time to World’s End. In 1981, Westwood unveiled her first runway collection, ‘Pirate’, marking her move away from street culture into the world of traditional tailoring techniques. In 1989 her creativity was formally recognised when John Fairchild, the editor of Women’s Wear Daily, declared her one of the six best designers in the world.

1990 was a significant year for Westwood. She unveiled her ‘Portrait’ collection, revealed her first menswear collection in conjunction with Pitti Uomo in Florence and was awarded the title of British Designer of the Year, an accolade she was to receive again in 1991. In 1992 she was made an Honorary Senior Fellow at the Royal College of Art and was awarded an OBE. 1993 saw her become Professor of Fashion at the Berliner Hochschule der Kunste.

The same year saw the V&A host a Vivienne Westwood retrospective exhibition to celebrate 34 years in fashion - the largest exhibition ever devoted to a living British fashion designer, which is now touring the world. In 2006, her contribution towards British Fashion was officially recognized when she was appointed a Dame.

In 2007 VW ltd. launches two new fragrances, Boudoir Sin Garden and Let it rock.

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Chapter 8 | Food & Drink

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Best of Britain | 115

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The UK Food & Drink Industry The food and drink manufacturing industry is the single largest

Food & Drink

manufacturing sector in the UK, with a turnover of ÂŁ74 billion

116 | Best of Britain

accounting for 15% of the total manufacturing sector.

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The UK food and drink industry is also highly

manufacturers who are experts in retailer own label

manufacturing industry in the world. The industry

innovative: UK manufacturers lead the world in chilled

development, who understand category management

employs some 470,000 people. This represents 13%

recipe dishes and innovative convenience foods. In

and have the experience to help overseas retailers.

of the manufacturing workforce in the UK. In addition,

2007, there were 8,000 new food and drink product

Key success skills for UK producers have been:

an estimated 1.2 million workers in ancillary activities

launches in the UK, by far the highest in any European

account management; consistency of product quality;

depend on a successful food and drink industry for

country (twice as many as in Italy for example) and

value for money; ability to work with a retailer to

their jobs.

only beaten by the US and China. The UK accounts

develop a category; and new product development.

for 5% of all worldwide product launches in food

The UK is still the world’s 6th largest exporter of

and drink.

value-added food and drink and British manufacturers

The UK economy is the fourth largest food and drink

The sector is an important trading partner with Europe: exporting over £11 billion of food and drink products in 2007, two-thirds of which go to the EU.

Reflecting the strength and sophistication of

are amongst the top processors of prepared food in

The industry is an important partner of British farming:

Britain’s grocery retailers and their suppliers, retailer

the world. Britain has a reputation internationally for

buying two-thirds of all the UK’s agricultural produce.

own label product ranges are more highly developed

excellence in producing high quality prepared

All this economic activity is carried out by less than

in the UK than in any other major market in the world.

products, ethnic foods, snacks and convenience

7,000 food and drink enterprises – many of which are

Retailer/supplier relationships have developed to

foods, premium desserts, and health and wellbeing

small companies, employing less than 10 people.

such an extent that they are constantly testing new/

focussed products, such as smoothies, breakfast

unique products, and own label has developed as a

cereals and free-from products; along with the more

of the most successful in the world; UK producers

key strategy-differentiating tool for UK retailers, with

traditional fare that Britain, and in particular specific

already supply to the most exacting specifications to

an increased segmentation of the offering into

regions of the country, are also well known for such

some of the world’s most efficient and profitable

premium, healthy eating, economy, organic, free from,

as tea, biscuits, cheese, whisky, smoked salmon,

retailers. Value added per person employed in the UK

children’s products etc.

jams/marmalades, condiments etc.

The UK’s food and drink processing sector is one

food industry is nearly 20% above the EU average.

The UK market is supported by a large number of

www.foodfrombritain.com

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Speyside Glenlivet Water

Food & Drink

One of the purest premium mineral waters in the world.

118 | Best of Britain

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Drawn from the highest spring in the United Kingdom,

exclusive establishments including the Burj Al Arab

1000 feet above sea level, Speyside Glenlivet is

in Dubai; Macdonald Hotels, Principal Hotels and

tapped underground from mountains that are over

Hand Picked Hotels in the UK and The Ritz in Paris.

500 million years old. The outstanding quality of the

I

Martin Wishart Restaurant, Edinburgh

Speyside Glenlivet Natural Mineral Water is not

water is the reason why the first whisky distilleries

just another bottled water but a strong brand with

were founded in this region over 200 years ago.

unique Scottish provenance.

Summer House, Newmarket Races Lochfyne Gaucho Grill, London

Speyside and Glenlivet are the World’s two greatest whisky producing regions, and from where many of Scotland’s most famous distilleries take their water.

As a company, we pride ourselves on our

UK Restaurants

Range

Dean Timpson at the Compleat Angler

Our natural mineral water is available in still or sparkling forms. They have been packaged specifically

The Square, London I

UK Hotels

distinctive product, with its premium positioning and

with premium restaurants and hotels in mind. Both

Scottish credentials. We have found that these

come in 330ml and 750ml sizes and are presented

Buxted Park, Ashdown Forest

elements are what make our brand so appealing

in elegant glass bottles. The 330ml is delivered in

The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh

internationally, so we use them to our advantage

packs of 24 and the 750ml in packs of 12.

The Dorchester, Park Lane

whenever we can.

Our low mineral content, our brand name and our fine quality presentation ensures our positioning as a

of the lowest mineral contents of any water you will

Food Service Sector and have an impressive client

find in a bottle. This means when you drink it, your

base within the United Kingdom as well as overseas.

pallet is cleansed and refreshed, your taste buds

and Belgium, Speyside Glenlivet Natural Mineral Water is now exported to Japan, Dubai, Thailand and

Macdonald Randolph Hotel, Oxford

Speyside Glenlivet Natural Mineral Water has one

premium beverage brand. We focus on the premium

From initial sales close to home in France, Spain

Radisson SAS, Glasgow

Composition

alerted and you are ready to taste the delicate flavours of your food and wine.

With other bottled waters you often get a taint

The Royal York Hotel I

International Hotels Burj Al Arab, Dubai The Ritz, Paris Imperial Hotel, Tokyo

of chalk or salt - with Speyside Glenlivet, you don’t

The Chedi, Muscat

taste the water, you taste what goes with it.

Tour d’Argent, Paris

top quality products on their menus and wine lists

+44 (0) 1807 590707

Grand Hyatt, Tokyo

and their water offering is no different. We can now

www.speysideglenlivetwater.com

Hong Kong.

The world’s best hotels and restaurants demand

be found on the menus of some of the world’s most

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Camel Valley Camel Valley is the largest vineyard in Cornwall and in just under

Food & Drink

20 years has established itself as amongst the best in the UK.

120 | Best of Britain

Their toll of trophies, awards and medals, for both their wines and their tourism and business achievements is impressive, but only the just rewards of hard work, innovation and attention to detail.

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The vineyards, situated on sunny slopes above the

Camel Valley has concentrated on winning top

River Camel, are half-way between Cornwall’s Atlantic

awards and feature regularly in everything from the

and Channel coasts. In 1989, Bob and Annie Lindo

IWC, Decanter and the IWSC and even the Japanese

planted Seyval blanc, Reichensteiner and Triomphe

Wine Challenge. Currently, Sam Lindo is the 2007

vines and won a bronze medal in the UKVA

UKVA Winemaker of the Year and he won three Gold

competition with their first Seyval blanc vintage. Bob

Medals in the 2007 UKVA competition with the top

soon established himself as a more than proficient

3 sparkling wines. Sam also won the coveted

winemaker, winning the President’s, Jack Ward,

Gore-Browne and Vintner’s trophies, another IWC

Waitrose and Dudley Quirk trophies. In 2005 the

Silver and topped the Decanter awards with his

International Wine Challenge awarded a Gold medal

Bacchusstill wine. Their wines have received praise

for the 2001 Camel Valley Cornwall Brut. Bob also

in the past from several noted wine writers: Jancis

won several Gold medals for tourism and in 2006

Robinson said on BBC’s Today programme that she

was awarded the Cornwall Tourist Board Gold Medal

was ‘very impressed’ with the 1995 Red and Tom

for outstanding services to tourism which was won

Stevenson so liked their Camel Valley Brut, that after

by Rick Stein the year before. The vineyard was also

a tasting ‘he and his wife - unusually - drank the

awarded a Gold Medal in the South West Business

whole bottle’.

Challenge for ‘creating wealth in the rural community’.

The Camel Valley wine range is over 50% bottle

The vineyard has grown from the original 2 ha to

fermented and includes a Seyval blanc blend, Pinot

7 ha with new plantings of Pinot noir, Dornfelder

noir blanc de noir and Pinot noir rosé. Bob and Sam

and Bacchus but the removal of the Triomphe. The

very much try to be distinctive with a fruit forward style

winery, the first in the UK to be built with grant-aid

and are definitely not trying to make a Champagne

from EU funds, soon grew to a 200,000 litre capacity

substitute. This style works very well with Camel

with the arrival, into the business, of the next

Valley retaining the top UK sparkling wine trophy for

generation, son Sam Lindo in 2002. Sam, a maths

the second year running. The winery supplies 150

graduate from the University of Bath, installed a

trade outlets including Rick Stein’s restaurant empire

cooling system for fermentations and in 2005 Camel

and Waitrose and welcomes over 20,000 visitors a

Valley became the first UK winery to use Stelvin screw

year to the winery.

caps for the still wines. Sam had previously done a

www.camelvalley.co.uk

spell at Kim Crawford’s winery in New Zealand.

+44(0)1208 77959

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Steinlager Pure From a land apart, Steinlager Pure is now available in the UK

Food & Drink

and captures New Zealand’s purest ingredients in a smoothtasting beer, reflecting the untouched, unique natural land of New Zealand.

The Steinlager Pure story began in New Zealand a

is created with the highest integrity, using only the

Jade, specially commissioned by Steinlager, and the

year and a half ago, and has since risen to become

finest authentic ingredients sourced from this unique

Nelson Sauvin hop from the lush, untouched South

one of the country’s most iconic brands.

country.

Island of New Zealand, the Steinlager Pure brewers

Tapping in on the purity of the islands of New

Now the number one New Zealand premium beer,

have created a clean, smooth, fresh taste and finish.

Zealand, Steinlager Pure’s story is one which is

the success of Steinlager Pure owes much to its

infl uenced by the partnership of product and place.

ingredients – or lack thereof. Using natural ingredients

yeast, grown in pristine air, delivers a taste of New

sourced only from New Zealand, Steinlager Pure

Zealand at its best.

New Zealand is one of the last touched, least affected islands on earth, and its raw, untouched beauty and pure terrain is protected by the world’s largest ocean.

Drawn from these remote islands, Steinlager Pure

122 | Best of Britain

has no additives and no preservatives.

Cultivated in the land’s rich sub-tropical soil, New

The addition of New Zealand malted barley and

Finally, using only pure, clean New Zealand water, Steinlager Pure is perfectly balanced, from the light

Zealand’s finest hops capture the unique purity of the

New Zealand hop nose to the crisp, clean finish. New

land. Combining a new variety of hopcalled Pacific

Zealand’s unique climactic elements of pristine

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waters, unrivalled clean air and young rich volcanic soils make it an ideal place for brewing a beer of purity, and with nothing more than locally sourced water, malted barley, hops and yeast, Steinlager Pure captures New Zealand nature at its finest.

Steinlager Pure is launching in the United Kingdom in February 2009. For a taste of Britain’s best new imported beer visit www.steinlagerpure.com to find a stockist near you.

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Chapter 9 | Design & Interiors

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David Linley

in the attitude towards collecting pieces of design whether furniture or gadgets - as investment pieces

Much has been achieved in the past 15 years as Britain has embraced the youth and vigour of

and objects of art.

Britain has spawned a generation of amazingly

Modernity whilst at the same time incorporating an

talented designers and architects who have practiced

appreciation for the best of our heritage. Great

all over the world but always maintained certain

projects such as The Eden Project and the restoration

inescapable national characteristics. It'’s not always

of St Pancras are true evidence of this. There is a

easy to see these from within one’ own culture but

renewed pride in the concept of Britishness and this

those on the outside recognise them well enough.

can be seen not only in design but in the rejuvenation

This is not about nationalistic clichés; we have always

of British food for example - we look back to the past,

had our arms and eyes open to influences from around

extract what is best and apply a new modern

the world. The British have always been pioneers

ensibility to create items that are very much of the

and in their own quiet way, revolutionaries. We value

moment. This contemporary point of view

individuality coupled with the restless urge to reinvent

incorporates an awareness of nature, a respect for

ourselves. We try never to take ourselves too seriously

the environment coupled with a realisation that the

but we are very serious about what we are trying to

solutions for our problems do not just lie in the past

achieve; quality, exuberance, audacity but also

but require a belief in a different kind of future. This

responsibility.

is a future where planned obsolescence is replaced

We find ourselves in a period of tumultuous

by the dictum ‘make it once, make it right’. A well

change. This gives the design industry an

made object endures because it has the respect of

unprecedented opportunity to shape the future for

the owner just as it was respected by the maker. The

the better. Designers are meant to be predictive; they

object lasts because it is cared for and is maintained

are meant to see further than their clients. This is

with affection. It is the opposite of the endless appetite

what we are paid for. Our vision has never been more

for novelty for its own sake. I think we have seen this

needed than now.

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Design & Interiors

LINLEY

126 | Best of Britain

British design company LINLEY prides itself on dedication to the pursuit of excellence in the design and creation of fine furniture and interiors. The individual sense of taste and style of the founder and Chairman, David Linley, is prevalent throughout the different areas of the business.

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From an early age David Linley’s creative ability was nurtured by his parents, the late Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon, as they encouraged his passion for making things. His talented father, the eminent photographer, Lord Snowdon was particularly influential. Trained as an architect, he designed amongst other things the Aviary at London Zoo. As a boy, David attended Bedales School - an alternative school which emphasises Arts and Crafts – where he developed an avid interest in wood-working, honing his professional skills at a specially designated School for Craftsmen in Wood.

Through David’s own training as a cabinet-maker in the traditional vein, the company draws on centuries of excellence in British cabinet-making and to this applies a modern interpretation, creating contemporary items that have their own distinct identity and freshness – the epitome of modern British luxury.

This together with David’s particular insight into the unique British sensibility lends the brand authority and distinction. LINLEY pieces have longevity, their quality of construction and on-going stylistic relevance making them future classics.

The business The LINLEY company initially specialised in the creation of bespoke furniture - one-off pieces created for private individuals or businesses, ranging from

Interiors LINLEY has created to date range from

Retail

small pieces such as architectural boxes and humidors

private residences such as an apartment in Norman

to panelled rooms and desks riddled with secret

Foster’s Chesa Futura building in St Moritz through

LINLEY Mayfair, collections of furniture, upholstery,

drawers. This ability to create exquisitely crafted

to commercial projects such as the complete interior

gifts and accessories are sold to a LINLEY customer

pieces remains at the core of what the business does

design of over 25 suites at Claridge’s London where

who is both sophisticated and discerning. Exemplary

today, but has evolved into a wider offering. The

LINLEY has been named the 21st Century legacy

customer service is of paramount importance in

company has moved from the tradition of bespoke

designer. The company has also designed interiors for

keeping with the spirit of the brand – to surprise, to

furniture making through to that of sophisticated

private jets, yachts and restaurants - the Goring Hotel

delight and to inspire.

cabinet design, interior design and retail. High profile

and the Sloane Club being among the most recent.

clients include Oprah Winfrey, Carolina Herrera, Jo Malone and Joseph Ettedgui.

Interior Design A specially designated interior design team works

Part of the company’s ethos is to use the architecture of a building to inspire the creation of the

In the two London shops, LINLEY Belgravia and

On-line LINLEY has recently launched a new website

interior setting, whether it is completely modern, Art

www.davidlinley.com. A wide range of gifts and

Deco or 19th Century. A modern freshness is applied

accessories can be found, from small ticket items

to all that is best from the past creating contemporary

such as bookmarks, key rings and candleholders

alongside cabinet-making designers to put together

classics of today, thus demonstrating an ‘evolution

through to opulent shagreen jewellery boxes and

unique interior design schemes which incorporate

of tradition’. The basic precepts of integrity that

humidors. All items are beautifully packaged, ribboned

LINLEY bespoke and retail pieces alongside items

underline British design and excellence are applied in

and delivered to your door.

sourced from elsewhere to create unique schemes.

all that LINLEY does.

Telephone: +44 (0)20 7730 7300.

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Design & Interiors

MET Studio Design

128 | Best of Britain

MET Studio Design is proud of its reputation as one of the most creative and innovative experience design companies in the world.

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Our story is simple. As experiential storytellers for

commissions from countries as diverse as China,

Week Awards. Recent projects completed include

over 25 years we combine strategic vision and cutting

Dubai, Mexico, the USA and Germany. As a result we

the award winning Hong Kong Wetlands Park where

edge creativity to create environments that truly

now have an international reputation for creativity,

we were both masterplanners and lead designers of

connect with audiences. Our design capabilities

innovation and the efficient delivery of complicated

Hong Kong’s first ever dedicated environmental

stretch from corporate venues, retail and interiors to

projects.

attraction since 2001. It became the world’s largest

visitor attractions, events, exhibitions, museums and

As well as national governments, we have worked

eco-park when it opened in 2006. At Edinburgh Zoo

zoos as well as brand identity and brand experiences.

with many major corporate businesses such as

we designed and built the Budongo Trail, an award

We connect your brand directly with audiences in

Cunard (on the masterplan and refurbishment of the

winning world class Chimpanzee enclosure which

compelling and credible ways. We create environments

QEII), Lucent Technologies (creating an award-winning

opened this year and designed Fusion World, a

and experiences that attract, inform, motivate and

and ground-breaking visitor centre) and PCCW

showcase suite for the Singapore government’s

inspire. Our work inspires fresh perspectives,

(a new visitor centre to promote Hong Kong’s exciting

technology R&D organization A*Star. This exhibit

generates different ideas and opens up new

Cyberport development).

focuses on their latest technological innovations from

opportunities.

MET Studio Design has won numerous UK and

Examples of work for museums include the Field Museum of Chicago, where MET were the first

home entertainment to medical breakthroughs.

MET Studio Design is first and foremost a design

International awards over the years but our proudest

outside consultancy the museum had ever employed.

company but one which is not afraid of delving deep

moment was to be awarded the 2004 Queen’s Award

We were brought in to create a permanent exhibition

into difficult subjects for its inspiration. As well as

for Enterprise in International Trade, in recognition of

called ‘Underground Adventure’, which tackled the

architectural and design skills, a rigorous approach

the company’s export achievements. This is a rare

complex subject of soil – and made it interesting

to researching subject matter, the effective use of

accolade for any company, but rarer still in the

and enjoyable! Nearer to home, ‘Wired Worlds’ at

technology, the often unexpected use of art and, the

design world.

Bradford’s National Museum of Photography, Film

ability to tell stories characterise the company’s

& Television, was the UK’s first exhibition looking at

projects.

and design of corporate visitor centres, museums,

the subject of digital media and, in 2000, was judged

MET Studio Design

exhibitions, zoos and eco-parks – both inside and

to be the best design of any kind in the UK when it

+44 (0) 20 7378 7348

outside of the UK since our inception, with

won the ‘Best of Show’ Award at that year’s Design

www.metstudio.com

We have sold our services – the masterplanning

Best of Britain | 129

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Chapter 10 | Health & Beauty

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Health & Beauty

Champneys – The Place to be...Inspired Whether you want to enjoy essential top to toe pampering or need to seriously de-stress, Champneys tranquil spa retreats and new Town and City Spas are the perfect place to kick back and chill out. A trip to the spa will leave you invigorated, hydrated and thoroughly pampered.

Discover laid-back luxury at one of the Champneys

peace and discreet privacy. Champneys Springs in

reap the health and wonderful beauty benefits of the

four spa retreats scattered across the UK where

Leicestershire is the UK’s first purpose built health

Thalassotherapy pool: just sit back and let the warm

sumptuous accommodation, elegant surrounds,

resort.

mineral-rich water soothe away aches and pains

pampering treats, water therapies, delicious cuisine

Exclusive and glamorous, guests can rejuvenate

while the hydrotherapy jets gently pummel your body

and the latest fitness trends are all a part of

mind and body with an invigorating swim in the

back into shape. Whatever your needs, there’s most

Champneys spa life, focusing on inner health and

25-metre pools, by working out in the impressive

definitely plenty to pamper! Champneys will still your

outer beauty. With a realistic approach to health and

state-of-the-art gym and cardio-fitness theatre, or in

thoughts in a busy world. Little wonder it tops the

beauty there is no better place to be.

one of the dance and spinning studios. After a yoga

A-list for rest and relaxation.

The original Champneys in Tring, Hertfordshire is

or Pilates class, flake out with a good book in the

With plenty of fantastic offers available why not

set in 170 acres of rolling parkland. Champneys

warm comfort of your room, or pamper yourself with

visit www.champneys.com and book yourself a

Henlow in Bedfordshire blends the tradition of the old

the most indulgent beauty treatments from leading

relaxing day or stay to motivate mind and body.

with the new, offering luxury and grace with a cosy

beauty houses and Champneys’ own-name

Whatever your needs, Champneys will help you

atmosphere that makes every guest feel at home.

treatments. From a simple massage to the latest

provide a lasting impression.

Champneys Forest Mere is hidden in the heart of

hi-tech anti-ageing facials - there’s an extensive spa

Hampshire giving it a secluded quality promising

menu to choose from. The spa is also the place to

132 | Best of Britain

If escaping for an overnight break is out of the question, you don’t have to miss out. Whether you

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have a moment in your lunch hour to maintain your

Collection draws upon the expertise and experience

manicure, an hour to de-stress, or maybe an afternoon

that Champneys has gained through its 80-year

to completely unwind and relax, Champneys new

history. Developed and tested by the Champneys

Town and City Spas provide the perfect environment

Expert Therapists along with Clinical Aromatherapists

where you can immerse yourself in relaxing surrounds

and Skin Care Specialists, this luxurious collection

and indulge in a little spa therapy at a convenient

allows you to bring the indulgence of the spa into

location near you. Bringing the expertise of the health

your own home. From skincare, manicure/pedicure

resorts to the high street the boutique-style spas

products to a men’s range and detox we have the

provide luxurious therapy rooms along with a host of

perfect product to suit every requirement and skin type.

blissful therapies and spa rituals. Simply seek as little

Choose from our gorgeous gift sets or alternatively

(or as much) pampering and relaxation as you need!

create your own special selection of your favourite

Choose from Bath, Brighton, Chichester, Enfield,

products and then select ‘Gift wrap’ option on check

Guildford, St. Albans or Tunbridge Wells.

out to have them beautifully packaged in a gift box

Alternatively you could introduce the Champneys spa philosophy into your own home. The Champneys

with your own personalised message. Visit www.champneysgift.com and shop at your leisure.

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The Body Shop Health & Beauty

The original ethical cosmetics company, today operates across

134 | Best of Britain

more than 2,500 stores in over 60 markets worldwide.

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The Soul of Beauty

The Body Shop seeks out wonderful natural

across the world through its unique Community

ingredients from all four corners of the globe to bring

Trade programme. For projects across more than 20

you amazing, effective products to enhance your

countries, the fair price we strive to pay enables

where character, self-esteem and humour are freely

natural beauty. We strive to use our planet’s resources

communities to invest in their future as well as cover

expressed and celebrated. That’s the soul of beauty.

wisely, searching for outstanding natural materials and

their wages and production costs.

It’s not just about looking beautiful. It’s about exuding

ingredients from across the globe to include these

By launching Community Trade over 20 years ago,

To us, beauty is a feeling, a natural way of being,

a vibrant attitude to life.

in our range of products, as we continue to lead the

The Body Shop was a true pioneer in trading fairly in

way by sourcing sustainable ingredients such as palm

the cosmetics industry and remains a clear leader in

oil for use in soaps and introducing 100% recycled

this field. Customers get high quality products and the

Our commitment to seeking and sustaining

PET packaging.

opportunity to demonstrate their ethical purchasing

natural materials and ingredients, and using all our

power, while The Body Shop receives a great

planet’s resources wisely, guides our approach to

that business has the power to make the right kind of

ingredient, gift or accessory in a socially-responsible

business. We set challenging environmental targets,

difference to the world. We believe that trading with

manner.

which we detail in our biennial Values Reports. We

For over 30 years The Body Shop has believed

Our incredible planet

principles and passion can help to safeguard our

were one of the first to make a stand against animal

beautiful planet and those who depend on it, and the

testing in the cosmetics industry, and through our

best way to convince others is to lead by example.

charitable trust, The Body Shop Foundation, we

This unique philosophy continues to drive everything

continue to fund organisations campaigning to end

we do, allowing our customers around the world to

the needless suffering of animals.

become ‘activists’, simply by choosing from our range of products.

The Body Shop has a unique heritage and as a company it continues to stay true to its legacy.

The community of people People are at the heart and soul of our business.

We strive to treat all people in a fair and open fashion, to respect and value their integrity. We take enormous

Community Trade The Body Shop believes that businesses have a

pride in our Community Trade programme, not just because we were the first to bring fair trade to our

responsibility to use trade, not just to make money,

industry, but because of the real difference it makes

but to have a positive influence in the world.

to the lives of the farmers, producers and their

The Body Shop has a long and proud heritage of buying natural ingredients, accessories and gifts from socially or economically-marginalised communities

communities.

Find out more instore, by hosting a party at home or online at www.thebodyshop.com

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Spiezia Organics Health & Beauty

Made for Life is a well established and internationally recognised

136 | Best of Britain

Cornish Company producing a range of award winning skincare products using 100% Organic ingredients for women, babies, men and home.

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Several years ago, the Company made the decision

the place we live in and also the younger people who

to make 100% Organic Skincare and Therapeutic

are going to inhabit this earth long after we are gone!

Products 100% of which are certified by the Soil

Life Products and that’s why we make them.

ALL Spiezia Organics ingredients are certified by

So, we are as much about what we don’t put in

the Soil Association with many of them gown in the

Association because that means they are what they

our products as what we do. We don’t mind that our

UK. This means we can keep an eye on our Carbon

say on the package.

products really need using within 6 months after

Footprint as we don’t want to leave a great dirty big

That means that the customer knows what they

they are opened. That’s good. That means that what’s

one – that’s not right and conflicts with what we are

are getting. If you want to use Pure, Natural and

in them is real and true and that has to be good for

all about.

Organic Skincare you can be assured when you buy

everyone concerned.

from Spiezia Organics – Made for Life – that’s what

We do get our Lavender from France and our

We believe that there are no quick fixes to being

beautiful little rosebuds from Persia. We know it’s not

beautiful and that this is as much about what is inside.

ideal, but believe us we can’t find better quality and

We think that a healthy life involving good friendships,

that’s important too – for us and you. We need to

on the label – Made for Life. We have a very strong

a love of life, exercise, eating good healthy food

ensure that the quality of our product is fantastic and

aversion to a whole load of ingredients which are

(ideally local and fresh produce), laughter and using

that’s where the best comes from.

used in many skincare products. That’s our choice.

skincare products which feels good for you and your

What we do know is that you can make really

family and makes you feel good about life is the

environment and help to make a difference so we will

fantastic skincare and homecare products blending

answer! A healthy skin is a beautiful skin.

continue to do ‘our thing’. All our packaging is fully

you will get.

Spiezia Organics – Made for Life is what it says

oils and wonderful natural flowers and herbs grown ethically and in a way that looks after the Planet.

Spiezia Organics want to look after the

We know that there is various debate about what is

recyclable and has often already been recycled before i.e. we use recycled glass for our bottles. Our

as the skin is your largest living organ we think you

other packaging is all suitable for composting too.

living in Cornwall, which is inspiring and beautiful and

should treat it gently and with respect, love and care.

www.spieziaorganics.com

we all like the idea of doing something positive for

That’s how we make Spiezia Organics – Made for

+44 (0)1326 221797.

Gear Farm, in St Martins, on the Lizard Peninsula.

absorbed by the skin. Until we know all the answers,

The Directors and team at Spiezia Organics all love

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Chapter 11 | Corporate Profiles

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Best of Britain | 139

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Corporate Profiles

Eurostar Eurostar’s new high speed track, new journey times and new stations make the high speed train the first choice for travel between London and Paris/Brussels.

Since November 2007, Eurostar services have been

£664 million, rising 10.9% from 2007. As the one year

the largest enclosed space in the world. Eurostar is

departing and arriving from St Pancras International,

anniversary of the opening of High Speed 1

the only train to glide under this magnificent structure

London’s magnificent destination station in the heart

approaches it is clear the transformation of the service

and into the heart of the station, allowing its travelers

of the city. Not only is it an architecturally stunning

has been a resounding success on many levels.

to rediscover the true art of travel.

The magnificent London St Pancras International

Onboard Eurostar

and historic station, it is also the starting point for Britain’s first high-speed track - High Speed 1 connecting the UK to the European high-speed

The launch of services from St Pancras

The business travel market continues to perform

network for the first time. This means that services

International on High Speed 1 marks a new era for

strongly with corporate travelers switching to high-

are faster, more punctual and even more reliable than

international train travel. Journeys are faster, greener

speed rail for short-haul travel between London and

ever before. Last year, Eurostar saw record traveler

and more comfortable, and the station has become

the Continent, reducing their carbon footprint and

numbers and record revenues from ticket sales.

a London landmark – a place for people to visit even

maximising productivity by taking advantage of

Passenger numbers broke the 9 million barrier for the

if they don’t have a train to catch. Europe’s first

Eurostar’s 10-minute check-in times and the unique

first time with 9.1 million travelers carried – an increase

destination station boasts a world-class brasserie,

work friendly environment of Eurostar’s Business

of 10.3% on the previous year. The launch of Eurostar

boutique arcade and fine-dining experiences. And to

Premier class with its dedicated wi-fi enabled lounges

services on High Speed 1 boosted the number of

add a little sparkle to your day you can visit Europe’s

and onboard cars.

travelers keen to experience 186 mph train services

longest champagne bar, which overlooks the hustle

and the stunningly restored St Pancras International

and bustle of the platforms. The jewel in Eurostar’s

to upgrade from the economy Standard class to

station. Ticket sales also reached a record level of

crown is the original Barlow Shed, which was once

Eurostar’s premium service for leisure travellers,

140 | Best of Britain

Leisure travelers are also taking the opportunity

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Facts I

High Speed 1 provides a dedicated, uninterrupted high-speed track from St Pancras International to the Channel Tunnel and is the culmination of an amazing engineering and construction project built on time and to budget. It means Eurostar trains are able to travel at their full speed (186 mph/300km/h) and has reduced journey times between the Continent and London by at least 20 minutes.

I

The fastest journey time between Brussels and London is 1hr 51 mins and 2hrs 15 mins between Paris and London. And thanks to the dedicated high speed track Eurostar’s services are even more punctual because they are the only ones on the track.

I

Eurostar continues to achieve high levels of punctuality that outstrip the airline competition, with 92.4% of trains arriving on time or early during 2008. In contrast, the latest available UK arrival/departure punctuality figure for airlines competing on Eurostar’s routes is just 65.4% (Jan – Nov 2008, data from Civil Aviation Authority).

I

As many as 18 trains operate every weekday between London and Paris providing a half-hourly service during the morning and evening peaks and close to an hourly service throughout the rest of the day.

I

All Eurostar terminals are centrally located in the heart of the city (meaning no lengthy or costly out of town airport transfers) and London St Pancras International is the best connected of all. Six subway lines serve King’s Cross/St Pancras meaning travellers can reach it from every corner of the city quickly and easily.

I

Seven domestic mainline rail operators serve St Pancras International, King’s Cross and nearby Euston making the terminal easy to reach from all over the UK.

Leisure Select, where travelers relax and enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal and refreshments

I

Hundreds of other UK cities are within easy

served at their seat in reserved, spacious and

reach of St Pancras International, opening

comfortable accommodations.

up the whole of Britain to explore, beyond London to Scotland, the north of England,

Green means of travel

the Midlands or the Home Counties.

Independent research has shown that a Eurostar journey between and Paris / Brussels generates onetenth of the carbon dioxide produced by an equivalent flight. And with the launch of the Tread Lightly campaign in April 2007, Eurostar has become greener than ever. Under this initiative Eurostar has committed to reducing its CO2 emissions by 25% per passenger journey by 2012, and set out an in-depth Ten point plan for reducing environmental impact of the company.

What’s more all Eurostar journeys have been carbon neutral at no extra cost to travellers, resulting in

For more info visit: www.eurostar.com Contact: international.sales@eurostar.co.uk

greener travel between the UK and the Continent.

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Horizon

142 | Best of Britain

Horizon is a world leader in designing and manufacturing hand held test equipment for use in the Digital TV, Digital Satellite and Digital Cable sector.

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Horizon Global Electronics Ltd was established in 2001 by the then Managing Director Mr Paul Pickering (who today still takes an active role within the organisation as CEO) to satisfy a growing need for high quality satellite and terrestrial test meters, reflective of the needs of the industry, offering value, ease of use, durability and reliability with excellent customer support.

Today Horizon is a world leader in designing and manufacturing hand held test equipment for use in the Digital TV, Digital Satellite and Digital Cable sector.

The first product to be developed was the HDSM satellite meter for use in the UK by BSkyB installers.

The main brief was to provide a meter that could be easily operated by an installer who was not an engineer; until this point in time, the normal way of installing was to use expensive, heavy and complicated spectrum analysers. We built upon this initial meter, and its simple-to-use philosophy, and now have a range that covers DVB-S, DVB-T and DVB-C, with combination meters and specialist applications such as WildBlue now catered for.

As Mr. Pickering believed firmly in a reliable and

organisations and companies to research and develop

durable product it became essential that a dedicated

solutions for their worldwide requirements. To date,

after-sales service should be at the heart of the

Horizon has 3 Original Equipment Manufacturing

organisation. This is best illustrated through a high

(OEM) products in its portfolio for leading industry

level of customer retention and recurring business.

brands based in the USA, Germany and France.

Many of the company’s larger clients have used

All products are manufactured in the UK by full ISO

Horizon since inception because the company offers

9002 accredited Contract Electronic Manufacturers.

the highest standards of service, choice and value.

These organizations work in partnership with Horizon

To further this support, Horizon has set up repair and service centres in the UK, Germany, USA and

to give the end user a quality British-built product.

Horizon achieved the Queen’s Award for

now India, travelling and vetting each centre with

International Trade in 2007 as a result of their strong

hands-on training by Horizon staff in the initial stages

export trade business. This record is set to continue

and ongoing monitoring with spot visits.

with new markets opening such as India and China.

Horizon has offices here in the UK developing the

Horizon has proven that UK companies can

next generation in leading edge technologies, and in

compete on a Global manufacturing platform through

Delhi in India; we feel that this sector has vast

innovation, investment and commitment. The Queen’s

opportunities still to be explored, and Horizon is now

Award has recognised the achievements of Horizon,

well placed to take advantage of these, concludes

and this helps establish the brand as

John McLoone the Managing Director.

a market leader and a dedicated

Naturally many emerging economies choose to

provider of ‘Quality, Service & Value’.

launch broadcasting platforms with the latest

+44 (0)1279 417 005

technology; with Horizon’s experience in this sector,

sales@horizonhge.com

we are approached by many of the leading

www.horizonhge.com

Best of Britain | 143

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Chapter 12 | Financial Services

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By Duncan McKenzie, Director of Economics,

and 2007, global turnover of OTC derivatives was up

International Financial Services London (IFSL)

nearly fourfold, international bank lending was up three times, and annual turnover of foreign equities and

The credit crunch has had a major impact on the

foreign exchange markets each more than doubled.

global economy and financial institutions around the

In exchange-traded derivatives, the value of trading

world over the past year. Central banks around the

on Liffe, based in London, is the biggest in Europe

world, including the Bank of England injected huge

and second largest in the world. Some 47% of trades

amount of short term funds to provide liquidity to the

on Eurex, the second largest derivatives exchange

money markets. In the autumn of 2008, this culminated

in Europe, were originated in the UK in 2007. In

in a series of system wide measures by the UK

maritime services London continues to offer the most

Government to address weaknesses in banks’

comprehensive range of specialist services in the

capital and funding structures. These measures

world.

served as a model for other national authorities to draw on in their own markets.

While much remains to be done to learn lessons

In newly developed markets, London is positioning itself as the leading global player in carbon markets, accounting for a half of investments globally in offset

e.g. for market regulation, the UK authorities and

schemes in 2007. The London-based European

market institutions have the opportunity to develop

Climate Exchange accounted for 89% of trading the

well-balanced responses to the crisis that promote

EU’s Emissions Trading Scheme in 2007, while 70

competition, openness and freedom for markets to

companies developing renewable technologies have

evolve and recover. Global agreement and

joined the London Stock Exchange’s Alternative

coordination is required to put in place the broad

Investment Market (AIM).

strategies required to respond to the crisis.

London, as a leading global financial centre, has

London is also establishing itself as the major Western gateway for Islamic finance. Over 20 banks

been deeply affected by the crisis particularly with

supply Islamic financial services, including five that are

regard to the specific challenges in banking.

fully Sharia compliant.

Nevertheless, financial markets in London otherwise

Underpinning the size and growth of business in

have continued to function without interruption

London is a trading culture that favours innovation –

despite volatility and loss of confidence. The structural

itself founded on a cluster of expertise including

strengths that underpin London’s status as a global

professional services such as legal and accounting.

financial centre therefore remain in place. Despite

Other factors include use of English, with access to

ongoing challenges, the autumn 2008 edition of the

a wide range of other languages; while substantial

Global Financial Centres Index found that London and

investment in infrastructure, particularly office

New York were again the two leading financial centres.

accommodation and telecommunications has also

The Z/Yen study, commissioned by the City of London

been important. Over the past twenty years the

Corporation, found that London was still ahead of

geographic area in central London encompassing

New York in all five areas of competitiveness: people,

financial services has expanded out of its traditional

business environment, market access, infrastructure

centre in the ‘Square Mile’. Several major employers,

and general competitiveness.

including banks and law firms, have moved to

London continues to transact more international business than any other centre worldwide in, for

Docklands.

Financial services make a substantial contribution

example, cross border bank lending out of London;

to the UK economy generating a trade surplus of

turnover in foreign equities, foreign exchange and

£35.6bn in 2007, up by nearly a third on 2006,

over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives. Turnover in some

accounting for 8% of GDP and providing employment

sectors may fall back during 2008 but this is set

for over one million people.

against substantial long-term growth. Between 2001

Best of Britain | 145

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Financial Services

The Co-operative Bank The Co-operative Bank has always led the way when it comes to ethical banking and we’re still the only UK high street bank with an Ethical Policy that is voted on by its customers. Since 1992 when our unique Ethical Policy was launched, we’ve given our customers a say on what types of businesses they do, and don’t, want their money to support.

Our Ethical Policy isn’t the only reason why we’re Facts ■

■

■

different to other banks though. We’re also owned

accounts to credit cards, loans and mortgages –

The Co-operative Bank so far has turned

by The Co-operative Group, which means we’re

reaffirms our ethical stance. The think credit card,

away more than £900 million of loans to

accountable to our customers and members rather

launched in 2007, was the world’s first specifically

businesses not in keeping with its Ethical

than stock markets and speculators. So, even though

aimed at ethical shoppers; the first time the card is

Policy.

the global financial markets have seen tough times

used, we make a donation to protect an area of

Co-operative Financial Advisers offer the

in the last year, our co-operative model of business,

rainforest in our customer’s name, after which 25p

opportunity to discuss CFS products

coupled with our responsible approach to managing

is donated to rainforest protection for every £100

face-to-face anywhere in the UK – even as

our customers’ finances, has been an important

spent on the card. Similarly, through our ‘Green

far afield as the Outer Hebrides.

factor in enabling us to remain financially secure. In

Mortgages’ we fund several ‘climate care’ projects

fact we’ve actually seen a 40% increase in personal

around the world. For every year a customer holds

savings and corporate deposits entrusted to us in

a mortgage with us, we pay to offset a fifth of a typi-

2008.

cal UK home’s CO2 emissions – in 2007, mortgage

95% of the electricity used by CFS comes from renewable, green sources and we offset 110% of the remainder of our emissions.

■

Our product range – from current and savings

The Co-operative solar tower in Manchester, the UK’s biggest solar project, generates enough electricity every year to make 9 million cups of tea.

146 | Best of Britain

The Co-operative Bank is part of The Co-operative Financial Services (CFS). Under the brands of The Co-operative Bank (including smile, the internet bank),

customers contributed over £280,000 to combating climate change in this way.

The Co-operative Bank also has a corporate arm

The Co-operative Investments and The Co-operative

that, in addition to offering the full range of financial

Insurance, we are able to offer a wide range of

services expected from any corporate bank, provides

financial products and services and have over 5.5

tailored solutions to meet the most complex funding

million customers.

requirements.

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Through our corporate banking division, we currently provide tailor-made banking packages to a wide variety of public organisations, including 135 local authorities in England and Wales – that’s 33% of the market. Our team’s capability to deliver solutions nationwide has resulted in an increase of 80% in our public sector customers over the last 10 years. In addition to local authorities, our customers also include NHS trusts, schools, leisure trusts, the Police, Fire and Ambulance Services, The National Association of Local Councils and over 700 Parish and Town Councils.

We’ve had an exciting and challenging 2008 collecting a string of awards and accolades recognising us as an excellent customer focused and ethical business. Awards include being voted No 1 high street bank for customer satisfaction by Watchdog viewers in February 08 and for current account customer satisfaction by Which? Money in March 08. Equally, smile was awarded ‘Best Internet Banking Provider’ by Your Money (for the 6th year running) in 2007.

We’re proud of the successes we’ve had both as a business and with our products and it’s fantastic when these achievements are acknowledged by independent sources too. Which is why we were even more proud when, as part of CFS, we this year we also won the highly prestigious accolade of Company of the Year from Business in the Community (BitC).

This award is specifically awarded to companies that through leadership and business integration are improving their overall impact on society - in the workplace, the marketplace, the environment and the community.

For more information on The Co-operative Bank, please visit us at co-operativebank.co.uk

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Financial Services

Aon - it’s all about risk Aon is not just an insurance broker, despite the fact that we place in excess of $50 billion of insurance premium for our clients. We are also the trusted business partner and risk adviser for businesses representing 30% of the global economy, delivering innovation and cost efficiencies. This is achieved by understanding their business, challenging the status quo and aggressively seeking to drive out costs.

Our name is the Gaelic for ‘oneness’. It means that

vote Aon the best insurance broker in the world, in

risk consulting, captive management and risk

we bring together market-leading expertise and

Western Europe and in the UK.

engineering groups in the world. AGRC offers a fully

experience from around the world to deliver a

Aon Risk Services provides multifaceted retail

integrated range of risk consulting solutions including

seamless service to our clients, working in close

brokering and risk management services. Delivering

enterprise risk management, actuarial and analytical

partnership with them to solve their risk problems.

personalised and innovative solutions from a broad

services, risk finance, risk control and engineering,

Through our employee base of 38,000 dedicated

compendium of products and services, Aon Risk

accelerated claims closure services and (re)insurance

people working across 500 offices in more than 120

Services enables clients to use their financial and

company/captive management.

countries, we are able to consistently provide a

human capital by anticipating the obstacles that may

personalised service to clients across the world. Our

stand in the way of achieving their objectives. ARS

leading global organizations on significant issues

diverse network of global offices ensures there are

professionals apply a client-focused approach that

impacting millions of employees worldwide. The

no languages or cultures that we don’t understand

leverages the company’s global network of resources,

evolution of the workforce and global economy have

or appreciate, which enables us to become a valued

world-class technology and specialized expertise to

placed human capital issues at the forefront in the

risk partner to any organisation.

address your business issues.

executive suite.

In fact, a 2008 survey of the insurance sector by Euromoney magazine saw risk managers and CFOs

148 | Best of Britain

Part of Aon Risk Services, Aon Global Risk Consulting (AGRC) is one of the largest dedicated

Aon Consulting serves as a strategic partner to

Aon Benfield is the world’s premier reinsurance intermediary and capital advisor. We provide clients

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Simon Johnson: Dr Simon Johnson, an environmental specialist with Aon Risk Services, speaks at a seminar on the EU’s Environmental Liability Directive.

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with integrated capital solutions and services through a world-class network of experts. Our clients are

you won’t find anywhere else.

Innovation starts from our clients’ business and

better able to differentiate and meet their business

risk issues. We partner with leading insurance

objectives with Aon Benfield’s treaty and facultative

institutions, technology developers, universities and

reinsurance placement services, capital markets and

other organizations to provide our clients with the

advisory expertise, and relevant analytics and technical

solutions they need to navigate the rapidly changing

expertise, including actuarial, enterprise risk

risk environment.

management, catastrophe management, and rating agency advisory.

The technology, consultancy and brokerage services our research and development delivers do more than simply improve established practices.

Research & Innovation With the world of risk changing faster than ever before, new risks demand new solutions. Aon invest

They redefine the way our clients think about risk, changing the game and creating new opportunities. www.aon.co.uk Telephone: +44 (0)20 7623 5500

substantial sums every year on research & development and new products to bring you solutions

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Chapter 16 | Biotech & Pharmaceuticals

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Global challenge, UK opportunity Mohammad S. Alavijeh & Alan M. Palmer

The opportunity Over 10 per cent of global Bioscience R&D funding is spent in the UK, well in excess of share according to population size. In the field of biomedical

The challenge The 21st Century has seen increasing pressure

research alone, 23 Nobel Prizes have been awarded to UK-based scientists in the past 40 years. The

on the pharmaceutical industry, which has led to

continued vitality of UK bioscience is ensured by

uncertainty and instability. This is largely attributable

strong UK Government commitment and support at

to a ‘productivity gap’ arising from a year-on-year

every level – for example, the UK is the world’s

reduction in the number of medicines entering the

third-highest proportion of young science graduates.

market, despite increasing R&D expenditure. Many

The National Health Service also plays a key role,

argue that the industry’s lack of innovation is to blame.

providing an excellent environment for conducting

An alternative view is that this innovation deficit is

clinical trials and gathering data and is itself a growing

simply a myth and that it is more likely that the

source of bioscience innovation.

decline in productivity is the result of a combination

The commercial exploitation of scientific innovation

of other factors – increased competition, market

requires a wide set of skills. Here too the UK is ahead

fragmentation and generic erosion, along with higher

of the game, with a well-educated and culturally

regulatory and commercial hurdles.

diverse workforce and world-class entrepreneurial,

The UK’s pharmaceutical industry, however, is

management, chemistry and biological science

second only to the USA. It makes a strong contribution

expertise. The UK has eight of the world’s top

to the UK’s export business; bringing in a trade

universities (in Europe, four out of the top five), and a

surplus of £4.3 in 2007, pharmaceutical exports

cluster of world-class research centres.

totalled over £14.6 billion in 2007, more than £235,000

In many areas of biotechnology, including stem

per employee. Two of the top five largest

cell research, the UK is a leading global player. A

pharmaceutical companies in the world – AstraZeneca

substantial number (about 40%) of Europe’s publicly

and GlaxoSmithKline – are based in the UK and many

listed biotechnology companies are based in the UK.

other leading players (such as Pfizer, Schering-Plough

And with a world-class bioscience base, supported by

and Novartis) have research centres here. In 2007 the

the Medical Research Council, the Biotechnology

UK pharmaceutical industry remained the country’s

and Biological Sciences Research Council and

largest contributor to R&D, investing over £7.4 billion,

the Wellcome Trust, it is Europe’s most popular

which is £20 million a day, in R&D, accounting for

location for investment in biotechnology.

around a quarter of the UK’s total manufacturing R&D. And the essentials of the market for new

2009 marks the 200th Anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth and the 150th Anniversary of the first

therapeutic agents remain sound as the need for new

publication of his book On the Origin of Species by

medicines is set to increase markedly in the years

Means of Natural Selection. With arguably the

ahead.

greatest idea in human history, Darwin’s legacy lives

Thus the current uncertainty in medical research

on with great vigour in many spheres of human

has to be transient. But it is currently applying a strong

endeavour. One of his key legacies, biological

selective pressure on all bioscience businesses. Only

research, has flourished particularly well in the UK.

the fittest companies will survive.

He laid the conceptual framework for the birth of this

But what constitutes a fit company? In the wise

branch of science and a number of sub-branches,

words of Charles Darwin: ‘It is not the strongest of

including pharmacology which also had its origins in

the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that

the UK. As a result, the UK has always punched well

survives. It is the one that is the most adaptable to

above its weight in the Bioscience arena. In investment

change.’

terms the UK is currently second only to the USA.

Best of Britain | 151

Biotech & Pharmaceuticals

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Pharmidex Blood-brain barrier solutions: powered by NeuroPK, backed by neuroscience, DMPK and drug discovery experience.

New drug development for central nervous system

therapeutic activity or side effects, studies need to be

optimised lead. The range of services include ranking

disorders (CNS) easily qualifies amongst the greatest

conducted in the particular brain region affected by

the ability of compounds to cross the blood brain

challenges for modern medicine. Companies striving

the disease.’ Some assessments fall short because

barrier, comprehensively assessing their

to develop CNS medicines confront a higher rate of

they treat the brain as a histologically-homogenous

neuro-pharmacokinetic and -pharmacodynamic

failure compared to any other discipline. The source

organ. Or place an over reliance on the results of

properties, and working with proprietary delivery

of the challenge is the complexity of the human brain

DMPK studies in assessing CNS therapeutic potential.

technologies to transport compounds with high

and the highly selective barrier that polices the flow

‘Just because it’s in the blood, doesn’t mean it’s in

potential (but low penetrability) across the blood brain

of compounds into it, as well as the challenges

the brain,’ says Alavijeh.

barrier…

involved in designing studies that give consistent and reliable data.

Pharmidex is the only company in the world

In 2007, Pharmidex signed a collaborative

offering direct assessment of brain penetrability and

agreement with Genzyme Pharmaceuticals to launch

free concentration of compounds in extracellular fluid

Cerense, a product development platform designed

to permeate the blood brain barrier is an essential

as a service to CNS R&D departments. Microdialysis

to substantially improve the development success

step on the critical path for CNS drug discovery,’

measurement is one part of an integrated package

of CNS compounds that normally exhibit poor

explains Dr. Mohammad Alavijeh, Managing Director

of blood-brain barrier services designed to expedite

permeability of the blood brain barrier. The platform

of Pharmidex. ‘To best assess the potential for

the transition of new chemical entities from hit to

combines a patented lipid-based drug delivery

‘Effective prediction of the ability of compounds

152 | Best of Britain

SM

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system with Pharmidex’s specialized

chemotherapy has been shown to enable enhanced

neuro-pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic

access of anticancer drugs to the tumor mass and

expertise. Ceresnse can take a non-or low-

to infiltrative malignant cells at the tumor edge.

SM

penetrating lead compound and establish a

‘When we talk of blood-brain barrier solutions,

comprehensive set of data to demonstrate that it

we are talking prediction, assessment and delivery –

gets into the brain where it is able to interact with its

all powered by NeuroPK. Our dream is that NeuroPK

molecular target and produce the desired

becomes established as ‘business-as-usual’ for any

therapeutic benefit.

company developing brain medicines. This will

The impact of Cerense technology for improving SM

®

®

fast-track decision-making and reduce development

the development of CNS therapies is immense and

time for CNS medicines which is the fastest-growing

could touch everything from the treatment of

unmet medical need today,’ said Dr Alavijeh.

Alzheimers’ to brain cancer. Pharmidex is initially

+44 (0)870 240 5978

investigating the ability of Cerense to surmount the

www.pharmidex.com

SM

obstacle of getting chemotherapy into the brain.

Cerense in conjunction with intra-arterial SM

Best of Britain | 153

Biotech & Pharmaceuticals

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BioCity BioCity Nottingham provides ideal facilities for R&D companies and support/service companies, working within the bio, pharma and medtech industries.

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Facts I

BioCity Nottingham is currently home to 40 on-site businesses and 20 virtual tenants (4 of which are foreign);

I

6 of the on-site companies are spin outs from the University of Nottingham and 1 is from the University of Leicester;

I

Over 500 jobs have been created or preserved by the BioCity companies since 2003;

I

Tenant companies have raised over ÂŁ27 million of investment since BioCity was formed;

I

BioCity offer a molecular and microbiology research hotel as well as a 400MHz NMR. Rental of equipment and lab space allows access to highly technical, expensive equipment on a one-off basis;

I

The in-house business advisory team is supplemented by experts in legal, IT, IP and marketing;

I

The BioCity Germinator provides specialist advice and mentoring to early-stage bioscience companies.

A few examples of BioCity companies

I

Petscreen (www.pet-screen.com) Petscreen develops new techniques to help spot canine cancer early and also to assist vets in selecting the best possible treatment for individual pets.

I

Monica Healthcare (www.monicahealthcare.com) Monica has developed a novel device to help expectant mothers and their unborn babies get through complicated pregnancies successfully.

History and Objectives BioCity Nottingham provides ideal facilities for R&D

Partners developing and operating BioCity, which was gifted

within the bio, pharma and medtech industries.

to Nottingham Trent University by BASF at the end

the application of bacteriophage technology to the control of human disease, targeted at markets where current chemical drugs

of 2002. BioCity Nottingham Ltd was formed by a

laboratories and state-of-the-art equipment, BioCity

consortium of Nottingham Trent University, University

Nottingham offers a choice of high-quality furnished

of Nottingham and EMDA.

are failing or ineffective.

I

The flexibility of the site and the variety of suite

RegenTec (www.regentec.net) RegenTec is an independent research

office space and laboratories in a secure professional working environment.

Biocontrol (www.biocontrol-ltd.com) Biocontrol holds a world leading position in

BioCity Nottingham Ltd is responsible for

companies and support/service companies, working With 12,000 square metres of world-class

I

company working within the emerging field

Contact

of tissue engineering.

Miranda Knaggs, Marketing & Communications

R5 Pharmaceuticals (www.r5pharma.com)

sizes available makes BioCity Nottingham the right

Manager, BioCity Nottingham, Pennyfoot Street,

solution for many types of ventures, including new

Nottingham NG1 1GF Tel: +44 (0)115 912 4285

R5 Pharmaceuticals provides a unique

start-ups, university spin-outs, established SMEs,

Email: m.knaggs@biocity.co.uk

proposition to pharmaceutical, biotech and

corporate relocations and expansions and overseas

Website: www.biocity.co.uk

nutraceutical companies which outsource

I

companies seeking to establish an EU base. In

the development, manufacture and training

addition to these superb facilities, BioCity aims to add

requirements associated with new product

value to new ventures by:

development. The facility is one of the few

I

assisting with grants and fundraising

contract clean rooms in Europe to develop

I

ensuring that they benefit from being part of a

and manufacture clinical materials including

community of like-minded companies

tablets, capsules and injectables for phase

tailoring support services for the healthcare and

I and II clinical trials.

I

bioscience sector.

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Chapter 14 | Innovation

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Best of Britain | 157

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Dyson A company founded on invention and design. It started in 1979 when James Dyson bought the then top of the range vacuum

Innovation

cleaner.

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He became frustrated that it instantly clogged and

While working in the Ballbarrow factory James

James continues to work alongside his team of

lost suction. His natural instinct was to pull it apart to

made an industrial cyclone to keep dust out of the

engineers in the UK, solving problems and developing

see why it wasn’t working. He ripped open the bag

work room. He wondered whether the same principle

new technologies. 2006 saw the release of the Dyson

and noticed a layer of dust that was clogging the

would work on a vacuum cleaner. Only one way to

Airblade™ hand dryer. It is the world’s first hygienic

pores. He realised this was a fundamental flaw in the

find out. With the help of cardboard, scissors and

hand dryer that literally scrapes water from hands and

design and became determined to develop a vacuum

some tape he made the first prototype of Dyson

dries them in 10 seconds. Another frustration solved.

cleaner that worked properly.

cyclone technology. 5,126 prototypes later he’d

In 2008, Dyson have been working on space-

To understand James’ tenacity we need to go back to a younger James Dyson. While attending the Royal College of Art he met friend and mentor Jeremy

perfected the Dual Cyclone technology. No clogging.

saving technology with greater manoeuvrability. The

No loss of suction.

DC24 Ball™ sits on a ball instead of using four wheels

It took 15 years of frustration, knock backs and

like a conventional cleaner - it turns on a sixpence.

Fry, of Rotork. Their work together would lead to one

perseverance before James launched the DCO1

So what’s next? Dyson continues to work on new

of James’ earliest designs, the Ballbarrow. From this

vacuum cleaner in 1993. Within 18 months it had

technology – so watch this space…

project came the inadvertant inspiration for his most

become the best-selling vacuum cleaner in the UK.

well known invention, the bagless vacuum cleaner.

Today, Dyson cleaners are available in 45 countries.

The Dyson Customer Care line is 0800 298 0298, it is open 7 days a week. www.dyson.co.uk

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Pace Pace is a leading independent developer of digital TV technologies for the global payTV industry. Our main focus is

Innovation

creating intelligent and innovative products and services that give our customers, payTV operators worldwide, the opportunity to grow and develop, providing superb services to the TV viewer.

Digital TV is about more than just the set-top box. And Pace is much more than a set-top box developer.

The traditional broadcast model of operators controlling what people can watch, and when, is fast disappearing. Now the viewer is taking charge. Digital TV providers are finding they must respond to a multitude of demands from consumers – from wanting the best quality pictures and sound to being able to control how they receive, watch and distribute their content – in order to remain competitive.

At Pace we put our customers at the heart of our business and we understand how to match consumer demand to operator business models. This means being expert in the core elements of digital TV, such as high definition and personal video recorders, and all platforms, including cable, satellite, terrestrial and IPTV. As digital TV services become mainstream across the globe, we look at the next stage of development, generating solutions for the distribution and use of digital TV throughout the home – moving from the static one-room model to a flexible entertainment network.

As the consumer is becoming more demanding about getting what they want, when they want and where they want, we are busy developing innovative solutions that enable content to be viewed and accessed on the move – both securely and easily.

Building on our experience in delivering digital TV services, we are developing new ways of providing advanced digital services, such as high-speed internet, Video-On-Demand (VOD), Pay-Per-View (PPV), high definition (HD) and personal video recorder (PVR) whole home technology to consumers.

Pace: Our history Pace started out in 1982 and spent five years as modem developers before making the transition into television, where we developed the analogue set-top boxes that launched the first payTV television services across the globe. We moved into digital services in 1995.

At each stage of our development we have striven to lead technological development in the marketplace.

As a result, we can claim a number of industry firsts

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along our way, including the first digital satellite set-top boxes in the UK, the first satellite personal video recorder (PVR) in Europe and the first ever high definition set-top box to meet the H.264 DVB-S2 standard.

In 2008 we acquired the set-top box division of Philips, significantly increasing the size of the company and customer portfolio.

The cornerstone of our success is down to a powerful mix of innovative thinking, technological expertise and industry foresight. We have remained at the forefront of this industry by hiring the best people, making the right decisions and believing in our abilities.

It is as a result we have been the launch partner for more than 20 payTV services worldwide and we work with the leading operators across the world.

Contact Pace on Tel: +44 (0) 1274 532000 website: www.pace.com

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Chapter 15 | Construction & Engineering

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Best of Britain | 163

Construction & Engineering

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JCB JCB is the world’s third largest manufacturer of construction equipment. It sells machines into 150 countries around the world. The company has 18 factories on four continents and in 2007, JCB manufactured more than 72,000 machines.

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JCB is the third largest manufacturer of earth moving

The company continues to increase the proportion

and construction equipment in the world. It is the

of major parts manufactured in-house, including

Facts

biggest privately-owned company in the construction

transmissions, axles, cabs, chassis systems, booms,

I

equipment sector and the premier manufacturer in

hydraulic rams and excavator arms. Following a £80

business manufacturing a tipping trailer,

Europe. In 2007, which was JCB’s most successful

million investment in a new engine factory in

made with a £1 welding set.

year ever, it achieved a world market share of 12%

Derbyshire, the company has been producing its own

He sold it at the local market for £45.

on sales of over 72,000 machines. Pre-tax profits

diesel engine, the JCB Dieselmax, which is now used

rose to £187 million on a turnover of £2.25 billion.

to power its UK-made backhoe loaders and telescopic

JCB has become a household name around the

handlers. The JCB Dieselmax engine is also used in a

I

1945: Joseph Cyril Bamford starts his

1953: The backhoe loader is invented and becomes known universally as ‘a JCB’

I

1979: JCB begins manufacturing backhoe

world for its most famous invention, the backhoe

new range of generators, which is a completely new

loaders in India with the opening of a factory

loader, the classic digger that has become a very

product line for the company.

in Ballabgarh as part of a joint venture.

recognisable piece of heavy machinery. First introduced

JCB’s international expansion in recent years

by JCB in 1953, it has become the global brand

includes new factories in the USA, India, Brazil and

leader in this product segment and the company’s

China, as well as new facilities closer to home in the

yellow machines are now a familiar part of the

UK, including a new £40 million factory to build

landscape and language. The JCB name even

tracked and wheeled excavators in Uttoxeter,

appears in the Oxford English Dictionary and has

Staffordshire.

become one of the world’s best known brands.

JCB manufactures over 300 different machines,

I

produced in a new plant in Savannah, Georgia I

2001: Manufacturing of backhoe loaders begins at JCB’s new plant in Saracoba, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Over its 64-year history, JCB has won more than 70 awards for engineering excellence, export, design,

2000: US-manufactured machines are first

I

2006: JCB breaks the world land speed

exporting 75% of its UK-made products to 150

marketing, management and its care for the

record for diesel-powered cars with the JCB

countries. Its product range includes: backhoe

environment. Among them are 23 Queen’s Awards

Dieselmax streamliner car by reaching

loaders; telescopic handlers; tracked and wheeled

for Enterprise. The most breathtaking achievement

350.092mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats in

excavators; wheeled loading shovels; articulated dump

in recent years came in August 2006, when two

Utah, USA.

trucks; rough terrain fork lifts; skid steer loaders;

specially-modified versions of the JCB Dieselmax

A new $20 million factory opens in

compaction equipment; and the Teletruk forklift for

engine were used to power the JCB Dieselmax

Shanghai, China.

the industrial sector. The company also manufactures

streamliner car that broke the world land speed record

products specifically for the agricultural sector

for diesel-powered cars by reaching a speed of

machines and turns in a profit of £187

including the unique high-speed Fastrac tractor range

350.092mph - a record that JCB still holds to this day.

million on a turnover of £2.25bn.

with all-round self-levelling suspension.

Telephone: 0800 581761 www.jcb.com

JCB opens a new excavator plant in Pune,

I

2007: JCB manufactures a record 72,000

India I

2008: A new £40 million excavator factory opens in Uttoxeter, Staffordshire.

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Benoy: International Architects Benoy is an internationally acclaimed, award-winning firm of Architects, Masterplanners, Interior and Graphic Designers.

Bluewater, Kent, UK

Construction & Engineering

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Elements, Kowloon, Hong Kong

4/2/09

ION Orchard, Singapore

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Founded in 1947, Benoy started out as a small

favourite new build by city residents). Bluewater also

department stores, 146 shops, cafés, restaurants,

practice in the Nottinghamshire village of Collingham.

provided the springboard for Benoy’s first foray into

public spaces and performance areas.

The company has come a long way since those

Hong Kong, helping us to secure the prestigious

humble beginnings, and now has design studios in

Elements retail complex in Kowloon. This 85,000m2

global expansion, with schemes across Asia, Europe

London, Newark, Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, Shanghai,

mall, which sits atop Kowloon’s MTR station, is a

and the Middle East. This expansion saw the opening

and Singapore.

triumph of creative, unconventional design.

of studios in Abu Dhabi, Shanghai and Singapore,

Benoy’s commercial turning point came in 1999

which oversees projects including Yas Island, one of

with the successful completion of Bluewater in Kent.

retail projects, Elements provided a valuable foothold

the world’s largest and most prestigious mixed-use

Recognised throughout the industry as a benchmark

in the region. Benoy Hong Kong opened in 2002 to

destinations and ION Orchard, the iconic mixed-use

in retail design, this landmark shopping centre has

oversee the delivery of Elements and the nine storey

development in the heart of Singapore.

more than doubled in value since opening.

APM Millennium Plaza retail project, a raft of high-end

Sited among the white cliffs of a former chalk quarry, Bluewater provides 150,000m2 of retail,

international developments soon followed.

Benoy continues to thrive in the UK, branching

Along the way Benoy has won a string of major awards, including the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise and International Trade. Looking towards

12,500m2 of leisure space and parking for 13,000

out into other architectural sectors including mixed-

the future, Benoy is still driven by the same values that

cars. Home to a wide range of flagship British stores,

use, airports, commercial, hospitality, leisure,

defined the Company six decades ago, creativity,

Bluewater has consistently welcomed over 80,000

residential, transportation and urban regeneration.

intelligence, professional integrity and personal service.

visitors a day, making it one of the UK’s most popular Bluewater, Kent, UK

As well as setting benchmarks for international

In the last five years Benoy has continued its

retail centres.

A string of successful UK developments followed,

Birmingham’s Bullring - which opened in 2003, is one of Benoy’s greatest achievements. The £500m

210 High Holborn,

redevelopment of Birmingham’s City Centre provided

London WC1V 7DL

including Brindleyplace in Birmingham and the

the catalyst for the city’s renaissance. Enjoying 100%

+44 (0)20 7404 7666

Cornerhouse, Nottingham (voted Nottingham’s

occupancy levels from day one, Bullring includes two

www.benoy.com

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Max Fordham LLP Max Fordham LLP are consulting engineers designing services for both individual buildings in a wide range of sectors and for urban masterplanning and infrastructure. Our objective is to create healthy, enjoyable, low-energy, and sustainable environments.

The practice was set up forty years ago with the

minimise their impact on the environment by making

National Trust HQ, Swindon, RSPB Rainham

intention of applying the same detailed attention to the

use of passive design, considering building form and

Marshes and Beaufort Court Zero-Emissions Office,

design of services that architects apply to buildings.

how it influences the environment within. From the

Hertfordshire. We are currently working on over 100

As a result, we design services that are integral to the

start of a project we work with the design team to

projects at various stages of completion including

building rather than separate, specialist installations

develop the form, fabric and orientation of buildings

Transforming Tate Modern in London, MAXXI gallery

and, to promote the coordination and integration

or groups of buildings to make the best use of solar

Rome’s new centre for contemporary arts and the

necessary for this, our engineers are familiar with both

gain and daylighting, minimise overheating, provide

Royal Museum of Edinburgh.

mechanical and electrical services.

ventilation and control energy use. We identify ways

From this broad base we have developed specialisms, enabling us to offer a detailed knowledge, grounded within a wider context, of acoustics,

We also advise on strategies for generating

in which energy consumption, use of resources and

renewable energy to help our clients meet the

the production of waste can be reduced.

requirements of initiatives like the London Plan,

Recently completed work includes award winning

which currently requires that 20% of the site’s energy

computer modelling and building physics, specialist

arts projects such as the refurbishment of the Royal

CAD, environmental audits, urban design and

Festival Hall, The Young Vic and the RAF Museum in

Over forty years, the success of our approach

masterplanning.

Cosford, innovative education work including the City

has brought us many awards, including The Queen’s

of London Academy and Telford College in Edinburgh

Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development and

and sustainable exemplars such as Heelis, the

Building Magazine Sustainable Engineer of the Year

Buildings are responsible for over half the carbon emissions produced by our society. We aim to

168 | Best of Britain

demand be met by renewable means.

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MAXXI, Centre for Contemporary Arts, Rome © Max Fordham LLP

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© Max Fordham LLP/Olivia Hemingway

‘Heelis’ National Trust HQ, ‘Heelis’ © Max Fordham LLP/Oak Taylor-Smith

Wordsearch

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Award 2008. We continue to develop and explore new ideas, working methods and technologies to stay at the forefront of our industry.

Beaufort Court, Kings Langley © Max Fordham LLP/Oak Taylor-Smith

Max Fordham Consulting Engineers London, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Milan t. 020 7267 5161 f. 020 7482 0329 www.maxfordham.com I

Max Fordham LLP are consulting engineers with 160 staff across four offices. Our turnover for the year end 04/07 was £7,799,062 based on work across a wide variety of building sectors in 15 countries.

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Chapter 16 | Corporate Social Responsibility

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Corporate Social Responsibility

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Orange As flagship brand of the France Telecom Group, Orange is one the world’s leading telecoms operators with almost 16.8 million customers in the UK alone.

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Mobile or landline. Broadband at home or on the

up from any of our 350 stores nationwide. Tips and

looking at tomorrow’s social landscape to make it as

move. Business or pleasure. Whatever, wherever, we

advice on data protection and cyberbullying, child

positive, friendly and enjoyable for customers as we

know people get more out of life, together. That’s

safety online and spamming are just some of the

can.

why everything we do is about helping people

features. Pick Orange broadband and you’ll get a

communicate, connect and share. Every day we

content filter, spam filter, virus checkers and a firewall.

environment deserves attention too. Our motivated

transmit 43 million calls, and 21 million text messages

All before you can say, ‘All this broadband lark’s a

workforce is right behind our goal to minimise the

across our network - endless opportunities to create

bit risky isn’t it?’ And we don’t sell pay as you go

impact we have on the environment and it shows.

life-enriching relationships with friends, families and

mobiles without safeguard filter, that’s just standard.

We’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint

colleagues. As the pace of the industry quickens

So that’s all our new customers feeling all safe

Protection comes in many guises and the

by 25% by 2010 and to recycling 80% of our waste

you’ll find us right up there driving a more exciting,

and warm. But getting the message out to our

by 2012. A raft of environmental initiatives launching

dynamic and connected world.

existing customers is every bit as important. So this

this year will keep us on track. Our staff told us they

year we re-launched our safety website with tips

wanted to concentrate on community projects rather

and tools for parents and young people.

than a single national charity which is why you’ll find

Exciting, yes. Dynamic, yes. But right up there with them in our list of priorities is safety. Every new channel brings with it potential hazards from which

In the last two years we’ve focussed on our

our 13,000 employees fundraising and volunteering

our customers need protection. Inappropriate

highest risk group, young people, developing

content, virus targets, spam, text bullying all ruin these

education programmes that raise awareness of text

We’re celebrating our 15th birthday this year. Our

positive advances in technology. But we’re prepared.

bullying and keeping safe online. These programmes

belief that everyone is the sum of their relationships

We know that with use, comes abuse which is why

are now up and running in 60% of schools in the UK.

and that people are better together is a driving force

when we set about developing a positive portfolio of

There are also our Orange Ambassadors – over 100

behind everything we do. With this thought we hope

brilliant products, we also created ones that, as

Orange employees who visit schools and speak to

to create a future that excites and engages our

importantly, keep our customers safe from harm.

students about using mobiles and avoiding any

customers even more for the next 15 years.

internet risks.

www.orange-ftgroup.com and

Day one and Orange customers get info on how to avoid the nasties, whether they’re using their phone

But that was today, we’re working on tomorrow

or the web. Introducing our new Family Guide – a

already. Together with our stakeholders (yes, we

present to every new joiner and waiting to be picked

really do believe that together we can do more) we’re

for over 20 regional projects across the UK.

+44 (0)8703 768 888

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Corporate Social Responsibility

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The Co-operative We have a proud history of running our business in a responsible way, that dates right back to 1844, when the Rochdale Pioneers joined together to provide quality goods at fair prices. Since then, we have stood by the belief that businesses have a purpose beyond the pursuit of profit.

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We're investing £2million to make schools greener

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As a co-operative (the UK’s largest in fact), we are

to set up ‘Walking Buses’ – groups of children who

not governed by shareholders. Rather, we answer to

walk to school together, accompanied by adult

our 3 million members, who, through participation in

volunteers. Our From Farm to Fork scheme invites

our democratic structure, have a say in how we

children to our farms to get good and muddy finding

manage the business.

out where their food comes from. To add to the fun,

Any one over the age of 16, who shops with us and resides in the UK can become a member.

children are taught a healthy recipe, using fresh food, so they can see how easy it is to cook from scratch.

Member’s share in our success, receiving a share of

Our commitment to the community extends

profits, and help shape our social goals agenda. For

beyond the UK. We believe in helping people to trade

example, in 2007, over 100,000 members had their

their way out of poverty: back in 1992 we were the

say on our Food Ethical Policy, which covers areas

first major retailer to champion Fairtrade, and through

as diverse as animal welfare, ethical trading and the

our food stores, we now sell more Fairtrade grocery

environment. In keeping with member’s priorities, at

product lines than any other supermarket. The

the launch of the Policy, we banned the sale of eggs

Co-operative Bank has created a £25m fund to

from caged hens, converted our own-brand hot

support microfinance, the provision of financial

beverages to Fairtrade, and added a further 66

services to the working poor, in order to support the

pesticides to our prohibited list.

development of small businesses in the world’s

Over at The Co-operative Bank, our unique, customer-driven Ethical Policy dates back to 1992.

poorest countries.

It is as a result of this work (and more), that we

The Policy stipulates what types of businesses the

were awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in

bank will, and will not, finance. As a result of the Policy,

the Sustainable Development category in 2007 and,

we have turned away over £900 million of loans to

in 2008, consumers voted us the ‘most ethical brand

businesses that conflicted with our customers’ ethical

in Britain’. This is a title that comes with a lot of

concerns on issues such as oppressive regimes and

responsibility, but it’s one that we are confident we

fossil fuel extraction.

will continue to live up to.

When it comes to the environment, we believe that we are one of the world’s leading businesses in the fight to tackle climate change. This is about more than just sourcing 99% of our electricity from

For information on the work of The Co-operative, visit: www.co-operative.coop/ethicsinaction The GFK NOP Ethics Brands Survey was conducted amongst 3,000 individuals in the UK in 2008.

renewable sources – it’s about wind turbines on our farm land; considering the impact of the products we sell; and mobilising our customers and members.

As well as managing our own impact, we believe it’s crucial to educate the next generation on environmental issues. So, we’ve invested £2 million to help make schools greener, through supplying free Children learn about recycling at Waste Works

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solar panels and other renewable energy solutions.

We also invite Key Stage 2 pupils to our Manchester recycling centre (the largest in the UK), where they can visit our Waste Works education facility to see recycling in action. Over at the windfarm we have built on our farmland in Coldham, children take part in a range of hands-on renewable energy activities as part of the energy education programme. Another of our community projects sees us assisting schools

Best of Britain | 175

Corporate & Social Responsibility

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Tomorrows Company A future for business which makes equal sense to staff, shareholders and society.

Tomorrow’s Company is an independent UK based

practical solutions to complex problems; and that this

active networking. Much of our work takes place in

global ‘think’ and ‘do’ tank that is concerned with the

capacity needs to be increasingly harnessed to tackle

private, at informal dialogues where our network

future of business and its relationship with wider

the big issues we face as a global community.

comes together under Chatham House rules.

society. Our research programmes, wider activities

Tomorrow’s Company was established in 1992

Examples of our current partner and member

and events currently include work on the future of

following an agenda-setting inquiry undertaken by the

organisations include: John Lewis, BSkyB, KPMG,

ownership, the future of business leadership, the

UK’s RSA in the early 1990s, led by Sir Anthony

Marks & Spencer, Electrolux, British Airways, Wragge

future of the supply and demand for global talent,

Cleaver which set out to answer Charles Handy’s

& Co, DBERR, BT and Infosys.

the challenge of sustainability to business planning

question ‘what is a company for?’

and the business response to the challenge of climate change, amongst others.

Our active membership is composed of

Based in the UK, Tomorrow’s Company increasingly

‘Over the years Tomorrow’s Company has done

has an international reach with a programme of activity

some really ground breaking work with various

and contacts around the world.

companies on the role of companies in society.

organisations and individuals from private and public

For over ten years Tomorrow’s Company has

businesses (from the small owner managed business

provided a safe space within which business leaders

inquiry and it was a pleasure to work with people who

to multi-national companies), investors, and private

can talk, listen, reflect and learn. We have created this

have a good understanding of what drives responsible

consultancies, some NGOs and relevant government

space by working in and with our member companies;

business - Stimulating to work with them.’

departments. All our members share with us a view

through a stimulating programme of events, large and

Mark Moody-Stuart, Chairman,

that business has an extraordinary capacity to create

small, which draw from our wide agenda; and by

Anglo American plc

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I was involved in the Tomorrow’s Global Company

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‘BT derives great value from its Leadership Advisory Panel on CSR. They keep us on our toes and continuously challenge us to face up to difficult questions. Mark Goyder from Tomorrow’s Company is a active and valued member of the panel’.

Chris Tuppen, Chief Sustainability Office, BT Tomorrow’s Company NIOC House (entrance on Tothill Street) 4 Victoria Street, London, SW1H 0NE tel: +44 (0)20 7222 7443 fax: +44 (0)20 7222 7585 www.tomorrowscompany.com

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Chapter 17 | Conferencing & Exhibitions

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Best of Britain | 179

Conferencing & Exhibitions

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Wedgewood Destination Management and Event Design Company…

Passion, expertise, creativity and top-class service for outstanding event solutions.

Beginnings...

Great Britain had seriously inauspicious beginnings

(uncovering incidentally what was to become

from isolated, remote, backward landmass to

Scotland) and flooded the land-bridge that connected

‘European player’.

…a small and insignificant lump of land, an isthmus

Britain to the continental mainland. Thus was born

protruding from the cold and wind-swept northern

the English Channel, and with it, our need to become

edge of continental Europe, almost entirely ice-bound,

a sea-faring people.

peripheral to the great human migrations which were

More Europeans came, not always in peace. In

Then what...?

The next thousand years were pretty busy, one way or another. Over a period of 300 years, the

populating the earth. Elsewhere, humanity was

the space of a thousand years, the Romans came,

Norman elite ‘anglicised’ themselves, all the while, of

domesticating animals, sowing the seeds, literally,

bringing their language, their culture and their

course, speaking French, and, in doing so, adding

of agriculture, starting to form the first cities, and

institutions… later the Vikings… the Jutes… the

yet more to the mutli-faceted English language of

already trading their produce far and wide, but

Angles, who gave us the name of England… the

today, until in 1377 Richard II issued his Coronation

backward Britain was still thawing out from the last

Saxons, who founded a ruling dynasty, and gave their

speech in English, then the language of the

Ice Age.

name to many of our counties: Sussex or South

underclasses, the first monarch to do so.

With the thaw, however, things started to happen.

Saxons, Essex, or East Saxons… and, finally, the

Fast forward a few hundred years, often years of

For a while we were joined by land to northern

Normans, themselves descended from Vikings or

conflict not only with the constituent parts of what is

‘Norsemen’.

now the United Kingdom – conflict which now,

Europe and, as the ice melted, homo sapiens came north to explore these ‘new’ lands. It is estimated that

So, in that crucial millennium (in fact, a period of

happily, is restricted to the football pitch and the rugby

the population at this time was no more than 5,000

1120 years, from 54BC to 1066AD), enriched

field – but also with our European competitors, and

souls. Hardy visitors indeed. But the ice kept melting

culturally, commercially and politically, Britain went

Britain was on course to establishing, by the Victorian

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era, a truly global empire. At its height, with English, Welsh, Scottish and Irish expatriots emigrating in all directions, forging new lives for themselves, bringing their culture, their language and, not least, their sporting traditions with them, the British Empire was responsible for over half the world’s trade.

Not any more. Much has changed.

The 21st Century...

Conflict & invasion, invention & education, sports & the arts, sea-faring & empire-building … all have contributed to Britain’s fabulous and enduring heritage, both tangible and intangible – castles, palaces, historic houses, museums, galleries, centuries-old inns and taverns, yes – but, also, the rule of law, the rights of the individual, the procedures and protocols of political debate and of government.

It’s not just all about history though. Today Britain boasts a vibrant culture and is continually evolving with contemporary design, art and music providing new inspirations.

Cue Wedgewood Britain… with nearly 30 years in the business of corporate events, our preferential access to Britain’s most important, prestigious and exclusive venues, combined with our deep understanding of, and affection for, this heritage, enables us to deliver excellence.

Our multi-lingual team of project managers, committed and accountable to your success, will design, operate and deliver your event, according to your expectations and on budget: a success that event participants will talk about for years to come.

We offer an impressive level of creativity: let us provide your corporate guests with a rich and rewarding Great Britain experience, that will refresh and impress even the most seasoned of travellers.

We know Wedgewood can offer you the most effective and successful event.

We stake our reputation on it. Daily.

Wedgewood Britain is the head office of the Wedgewood Destination Management Group, with DMC offices in London, Paris, Mainz, New York, Buenos Aires & Cape Town.

Wedgewood Britain, tel +44 (0)20 7265 7000 fax +44 (0)20 7265 7070 www.wedgewood.co.uk

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The NEC The National Exhibition Centre is the flagship venue of The NEC Group, standing on a 650 acre site in the borough of Solihull, just eight miles from Birmingham City Centre and in the centre of the country.

Opened by the Queen in 1976, The NEC is the

also has an active interest in helping smaller specialist

busiest exhibition centre in Europe. It stages around

shows develop, providing advice, support and

improvement programme was underway, bringing

160 trade and consumer exhibitions each year,

essential services to organisers.

major changes to the venue’s restaurants and car

ranging from world-famous public shows such as

An astounding 8.7 million people live 60 minutes

In Sept 06 the second phase of a £40 million

parks. The impressive upgrades followed an £8

Crufts and Clothes Show Live to huge international

from The NEC, 19.5 million people live 90 minutes

million revamp of the Piazza area, which kick-started

trade exhibitions like IPEX and Spring Fair.

away, 35.4 million people live 120 minutes away.

our ambitious three-year programme.

Direct links to Birmingham International Railway

The flexible, flat-floored event spaces offer endless

The brand new LG Arena, formerly The NEC

Station and Airport and its position at the heart of the

possibilities for all types of exhibitions and events and

Arena, will open in Autumn 2009, following a £29m

UK’s motorway network provide the site with fast

are complemented by extensive conference and

funding package from Birmingham City Council and

convenient links to the rest of the world.

banqueting facilities.

Advantage West Midlands that will be partly serviced

Over four million people visit the centre each year.

The NEC can also provide a multitude of services

And with 20 halls totalling 200,000sqm of exhibition

that provide everything needed for a successful event

space on a 650-acre site it is also the biggest

including - event management, catering, security,

seating, hospitality, bars, restaurants and other

exhibition centre in the UK. As such The NEC is

marketing, advertising, ticketing, audio visual, graphics,

essential customer facilities as well as improved

renowned for large-scale international trade fairs, but

internet and IT, utility and technical services.

backstage areas.

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by a sponsorship deal with LG Electronics.

Work has now started on creating brand new

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Plans for a ÂŁ90 million Leisure and Entertainment Complex on The NEC site are also in the pipeline, in partnership with Genting Stanley Solhull.

Resorts World @ The NEC would create up to 1,000 jobs and is the first phase of a master plan for The NEC site which is designed to deliver a range of leisure and business facilities to compliment the exhibition halls and arena.

The NEC prides itself on being a venue of choice and offering visitors great experience for great value. +44 (0) 121 780 4141 www.thenec.co.uk

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Conferencing & Exhibitions

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EC&O Venues EC&O Venues, Earls Court and Olympia, are based in West London and are the UK’s leading venues for exhibitions, conferences and live events encompassing music, entertainment and corporate events.

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Olympia was built in 1886 and Earls Court in 1937

music events, and has included George Michael, Kylie

and they have played a central role in the nation’s

Minogue, Madonna and many more in recent years.

trading and cultural development ever since. The

Top UK DJ act the Chemical Brothers performed in

venues stage high-profile and prestigious events and

Olympia’s Grand Hall where the iconic roof provided

in 2008 played host to over 300 events, 30,000

a unique and captivating space for the spectacular

exhibiting companies and were visited by over 2.5

light and sound show that accompanied the DJ set.

million people. They are amongst the busiest venues

Within the events industry, EC&O Venues has

in Europe and half of all Londoners have visited one

taken a leadership position on sustainability and

of the venues at least once over the past five years.

recently won the Gold Visit London Sustainable

Earls Court and Olympia has over 100,000 square metres of flexible event space, combined with purpose built Conference Centres at both venues, capable

Tourism Award 2008 and the 2008 AEO Sustainability Excellence Award for its sustainability initiatives.

CSR is now a business prerequisite for many

of holding up to 500 delegates. The in-house IT,

companies with sustainability becoming a growing

marketing and customer services teams at EC&O have

area of importance. In line with this, EC&O has led the

over 70 years experience in delivering outstanding

way over the last three years and taken great steps

events ranging from a B2B conference of 50, up to

forward in the areas of energy efficiency, recycling and

a live event for 20,000. The venues offer a range of

waste management. Earls Court and Olympia were

over 30 bars, cafes and restaurants and work closely

instrumental in the development trial and launch of

with their onsite service partners who match their

BS8901, the British Standard for Event Sustainability,

excellence and together, produce world class events.

EC&O has also developed a Sustainable Development

EC&O Venues benefits from a central London

Policy that includes: identifying and engaging with

location and excellent transport links. Three

customers and suppliers on issues of sustainability;

international airports are within 40 minutes travel

assessing sustainability risks and opportunities

time, the venues are serviced by 3 overground and

presented by hosting events at EC&O; setting

underground stations within 50 metres walking

sustainability key performance indicators and

distance and the West End is just 15 minutes away

objectives for their work on events held in the build-

by tube, offering some of the UK’s finest restaurants,

ings; providing necessary resources and training

night clubs, theatres and visitor attractions.

for those involved in event management within our

EC&O Venues is the home of the BRIT Awards and is renowned for its experience in hosting live

buildings. www.eco.co.uk +44 (0)20 7370 8532

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ExCeL London ExCeL London has staged over 2,500 events since 2000. More than five million people from 200 countries worldwide have visited, experiencing everything from sporting events, gala dinners and religious festivals to award ceremonies, conferences and exhibitions.

ExCeL London is home to eight of London’s top 10

Companies, CMPi, Haymarket, Emap, Clarion Events,

and 45 smaller meeting rooms for 50-200 delegates.

trade shows; two out of three of the UK’s largest

IMIE and National Boat Shows. The conference and

There are five on-site hotels, providing some 1,400

consumer shows; and hosts events for blue-chip

events division, set up in 2004, has built a client list

bedrooms that range from budget to four star, more

corporate clients, government organisations and

that includes Philips, Tesco, Rolls-Royce, Barclays,

than 30 bars and restaurants, 4,000 car parking

associations.

Ernst & Young, Symantec, Toyota, the NHS and

spaces and three on-site DLR stations – linking to the

AstraZeneca. It has also announced some major

Jubilee line.

The Business ExCeL London is one of the UK’s premier venues

congresses including Gastro 2009 UEGW/WCOG

London City Airport, which is five minutes from

London (12,000 delegates), European Academy of

ExCeL London, offers over 350 flights a day from more

for exhibitions, events and conferences, a market

Allergology and Clinical Immunology (8,000 delegates)

than 35 European destinations, as well as a business

currently worth £20 billion. The venue operates across

and European Hematology Association (7,000

flight to New York starting in 2009.

the sector, marketing itself as able to handle almost

delegates).

any event imaginable and boasting 90,000 sq m of multipurpose space. In May 2008, ExCeL London

Expansion Plans Event Space

In 2008 ExCeL London formally launched its

was bought by the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions

ExCeL London is a £300 million international

Phase 2 expansion plan. Work is underway and when

Company as part of its long term vision to create a

venue located on a 100-acre, waterside campus in

complete will increase total event space from 65,000

global network of world-class venues.

Royal Victoria Dock. The venue’s event space

sq m to just under 100,000 sq m. This will include a

includes multipurpose, 65,000 sq m of flat-floor

5,000-seat semi-permanent auditorium, an additional

space, a conference suite for 400-1,100 delegates

conference suite for up to 1,200 delegates and

ExCeL London works with the biggest names in the exhibition business, including Reed Exhibition

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32,500 sq m of additional flat-floor space.

Award Winner

CSR Programme

accolades over the years, and in 2008 was awarded

ExCeL London has received many industry ExCeL London is continually evolving and

‘Best Venue Support’ and the ‘Green Award’ at the

improving, with its corporate social responsibility

Exhibition News Awards, as well as ‘Best UK Venue

programme playing a key role in recent years. This

Committed to Sustainability’ in the C&IT Reader Poll.

has seen the installation of an on-site Materials

The venue was also awarded ‘Best Event Venue’ and

Recycling Facility, colour coded recycling bins and the

‘Best CSR Event’ at the 2008 Eventia Awards. Most

UK’s largest and only commercial wormery. In the

recently the venue picked up the coveted title of

last year the venue reduced its gas consumption by

‘Business Venue of the Year’ at the Visit London

56 per cent and electricity by 15 per cent, resulting

Awards and has been awarded Business Superbrand

in a 31 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions. The

status for the third year running.

venue’s wormery and recycling initiatives allowed it

Tel: +44(0) 20 7069 4000

to recycle 78 per cent of its waste on and off-site.

www.excel-london.co.uk

Its ‘green’ credentials were cemented in 2008 when ExCeL London hosted the first ever event to be awarded the BS8901 standard for sustainability – the MPI European Meetings & Events Conference.

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Chapter 18 | Media, Marketing & Education

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DWA When it comes to media planning and buying for the global technology sector, DWA is the undisputed market leader.

Established in 1996, David Wood & Associates quickly outgrew its humble beginnings in a South London garage, and now has offices in every major time zone – London, San Francisco, Sydney and Singapore.

Computing Awards host Rob Bryden & Star’s Rick Hudson present DWA’s Media Director Stuart Giddings with the award for Technology Advertising Campaign of the Year.

Media, Marketing & Education

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With a client roster that contains many of the world’s most recognisable technology brands, DWA is the world’s largest independent specialist IT media agency.

At a time of economic uncertainty, international technology vendors are under pressure to impact, with greater precision than ever, a customer base that is increasingly hard-to-target. For a single source of expertise on how to maximise return on their media An example of one the adverts DWA placed in its award-winning brand awareness campaign for Konica Minolta, fronted by footballer Ronaldinho.

investments, these companies need look no further than DWA. Over 150 vendors and solution providers agree, trusting DWA to deliver unbiased, cross-media, Computing Awards host Rob Bryden & Star’s Rick Hudson present DWA’s Media Director Stuart Giddings with the award for Technology Advertising Campaign of the Year.

results-oriented campaigns. They include Apple, Dell, Logitech, AMD, NEC, Foundry Networks, Verizon Business, Adaptec, ESET and Juniper Networks.

DWA retains its focus and commitment to technology, and as media usage and consumption has evolved, so too has DWA. With an increasing emphasis on all things digital, DWA has pioneered the use of targeted programmes that deliver tangible ROI through clearly defined metrics. DWA’s traditional background in running brand awareness campaigns is now complemented by new services in the fastchanging fields of demand generation, search marketing, and online trafficking and tracking.

DWA was recently honoured in the prestigious Computing Awards, scooping Technology Advertising Campaign of the Year 2008 for Konica Minolta.

Whereas many brand awareness campaigns fall down through lack of measurability, when planning a £1.4m multimedia campaign for Konica Minolta’s multifunction printer range, DWA ensured that it was accompanied by comprehensive pre-and-post awareness research. Awareness reached an all-time high of 92% of primary decision-makers, resulting in a massive surge in sales of among the UK business community.

Chris Bagnall, Client Services Director, adds, ‘By

budgets are increasingly scrutinised’.

According to Founder and Group Managing

truly understanding our clients’ businesses and the

Director, David Wood, ‘the success of DWA has

competitive marketplace in which they operate, we

DWA is perfectly positioned to support its growing

always been down to the passion that the entire team

are able to firmly grasp the challenges and

client base, in markets where they themselves predict

has for technology and for media. In an increasingly

opportunities that they face. Only with that

the biggest areas of growth.

fragmented media landscape, DWA can accurately

understanding can we then build integrated media

analyse and predict the media consumption habits

and marketing solutions that deliver tangible and

DWA is a true UK success story.

of IT decision-makers globally, enabling our clients to

sustainable results. That all adds up to increased

+44 (0)20 7833 3222

target them in the most dynamic and impactful way’.

revenue for our clients at a time when marketing

www.dwamedia.com

With expansion plans that include India and China,

Privately owned and profitable from its inception,

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Oxford The University of Oxford is one of the world’s leading universities, combining cutting-edge research into the big challenges of the 21st century with a long and distinguished history. The University can lay claim to nine centuries of existence and is the oldest university in the English-speaking world.

Š PA Photocall

Media, Marketing & Education

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© PA Photocall

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Oxford research aims to tackle some of the greatest

researchers at the leading edge of their fields.

manages over 400 patent application families and

challenges facing humanity, including global health,

Competition for places is intense and the University’s

200 licence agreements. Its consulting arm manages

climate change, an ageing population, and poverty.

selection system aims to identify those with the

around 200 consulting projects at any one time.

Historic Oxford research breakthroughs include the

greatest ability in their chosen field of study. Oxford

Oxford University Press, the publishing arm of the

discovery of the link between smoking and cancer,

has educated 25 British Prime Ministers; at least 30

University, is the largest university press in the world,

the discovery and development of penicillin, and the

international leaders; 47 Nobel Prize winners;

with a presence in more than 50 countries and 4,750

discovery of the cell cycle. The University currently

6 current holders of the Order of Merit; at least

employees worldwide. At a conservative estimate,

has the highest external research income in the UK,

6 kings, 12 saints and 20 Archbishops of Canterbury;

over 18,000 jobs in Oxfordshire are supported directly

and very many of its academics are world leaders in

and some 50 Olympic medal winners.

or indirectly by the University, the colleges, Oxford

their field.

The distinctive college system at Oxford, in which

130 nationalities are represented among a student

University Press and University spin-out companies.

In May 2008 Oxford launched one of the biggest

38 colleges are linked to the University in a federal

population of 20,000, and the University undertakes

fundraising campaigns in the world, the Campaign

structure, provides social and academic hubs for

research projects and collaborations all over the globe.

for the University of Oxford, which aims to raise at

researchers and students. Each college is a mix of

38 per cent of academic staff and 35 per cent of

least £1.25 billion to sustain and enhance Oxford’s

people from many different academic disciplines and

students are from overseas.

international standing. The campaign aims to provide

provides a social and academic centre for its

© PA Photocall

Oxford is an international university: more than

Oxford is also an entrepreneurial university. Isis

world-class student support, to fund academic posts

members, including food and accommodation for

Innovation, the University’s wholly-owned technology

and programmes, and to finance a world-class

students.

transfer company, has created over 60 spin-out

research infrastructure.

Oxford boasts one of the best educational

companies since it was established in 1988, whose

www.ox.ac.uk

experiences in the world. The distinctive tutorial system

combined value is around £2 billion. Isis files, on

01865 270010

provides very close contact between students and

average, one patent application each week and

Best of Britain | 193

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Cambridge In 2009, the University of Cambridge reaches a special milestone – 800 years of people, ideas and achievements that continue to transform and benefit the world.

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Celebrating the best of Cambridge’s rich history and

celebration, respecting the past, celebrating the

looking forward to the future, the University will reflect

present and leaving a legacy for the future.

on the myriad achievements and world-changing

Today’s up and coming researchers will be

ideas born within its walls, from the establishment of

featured throughout 2009 in Cambridge Ideas: a

the fundamentals of physics to the discovery of the

year-long series of podcasts and films. Cambridge

structure of DNA; from the transformative thinking of

Ideas aims to showcase the breadth of academic

great Cambridge philosophers, poets and artists, to

expertise and the cutting edge research which is

the groundbreaking work of its many Nobel Prize

taking place at Cambridge.

winners.

Cambridge is one of the world’s leading research

In order to support faculties, departments, colleges and University groups wishing to help

universities. Cambridge affiliates have won more than

celebrate the 800th Anniversary, the University has

80 Nobel Prizes, more than any other institution in

established a 2009 Fund. The fund has attracted

the world. Some of the most famous scientific minds

applications from across collegiate Cambridge.

in history have studied, researched or taught here.

The life and work of Charles Darwin will be

This is the home of Newton and Darwin, Crick and

celebrated throughout 2009, marking 200 years since

Watson, Babbage and Hawking. However, it is also

his birth and 150 years since the publication of ‘On

the place where the first fully 3D computer game was

the Origin of Species’. Taking place from 5-10 July, the

written, where the precursor to the modern webcam

Darwin 2009 Festival will feature talks, discussions,

was invented, and where some of today’s best-known

performances, workshops, exhibitions and tours.

entertainers began their careers.

We also take this opportunity to thank staff, alumni,

Cambridge provides an unparalleled learning

benefactors, students and local residents for their

experience for our students, who come here from all

contribution towards making Cambridge what it is

across the globe. Our teaching staff are world leaders

today.

in their fields. Our researchers are working towards the discoveries and innovations that will transform lives now and in the years to come.

In marking the anniversary, we are aiming to strike a balance between academic achievement and

The full programme of Anniversary events is available online at www.cam.ac.uk/800.

Contact info: University of Cambridge, 800th Anniversary Team +44 (0)1223 761672 www.cam.ac.uk/800

Best of Britain | 195

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Butler Tanner & Dennis Butler Tanner & Dennis is the UK’s leading producer of hi end books, catalogues and brochures. An unequalled heritage of technical innovation coupled with a reputation for high quality products and service has kept the Somerset based company at the forefront of the printing and binding industry for more than 160 years.

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Butler & Tanner’s history dates back to 1845 when

V4/Milano, Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts Club, Aston

the opportunity at BT&D. On becoming Chairman he

WT Butler opened his first hand operated printing

Martin, Sunseeker and Princess. Corporate customers

commented that, ‘Butler Tanner & Dennis is a first

press in the market town of Frome and started to

such as Marks & Spencer, Royal Bank of Scotland

class company run by enthusiastic professionals –

develop the concept of ‘One-stop shopping’ for its

and Vodafone have also entrusted the company with

I’m delighted that my investment might help to

customers.

their corporate reporting documentation.

restore some faith in the UK’s book printing industry’.

From the reign of Queen Victoria, through two

BT&D’s long tradition of craft hardback binding

Butler Tanner & Dennis currently employs just

world wars and to the present day the company grew

has the added advantage of extending the marketing

over 90 people at its printing facility in Frome with an

and evolved and can proudly boast a series of ‘firsts’.

shelf life of the publication and is testament to the

office in London’s West End. An eight person

For example, in 1935, ‘Ariel’ by Andre Maurois, was

innovative technology initiatives that were originally

management team caters for the development and

the first paperback book published by Penguin, who

forged in Frome in the early eighteenth century.

growth of the business in the UK, European and

remain a customer to this day.

In recent years, the company has become

Some of the many prominent authors who have visited Frome to see their books being painstakingly

North American territories.

With its large format printing capacity, the

recognised for printing all manner and type of books,

created include: Lord Viscount Montgomery of

company focuses on three key markets: books,

hi-end hardback luxury literature items and corporate

Alamein, Frank Muir, Richard Noble, Jamie Oliver,

corporate reporting and hi end brochures and

reporting documentation. Clients include the top UK

Michael Palin, Delia Smith, Viscount Linley, Terry Waite

catalogues. Corporate integrity and adherence to

and North American publishing companies, FTSE

and Harold Wilson. Charles Dickens grandson

ethical and environmental business practices,

100 Plc’s and leading international design agencies.

worked for the company as a salesman.

combined with premium quality bespoke products

Modern day book titles include: Oceans for the

In 2008, the company was introduced to a

and service to customers, is the foundation on which

BBC, Cooking for Friends - Gordon Ramsay, Lewis

potential new investor- Felix Dennis, the founder and

BT&D is built.

Hamilton – my story and Russell Brand. Hi-end

head of Dennis Publishing. His convergent personal

+44 (0) 1373 451500

publications for corporate markets include: Honda

passions for UK businesses and books, led him to

www.butlertanneranddennis.com

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Chapter 19 | Entertainment & Shopping

198 | Best of Britain

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Best of Britain | 199

Entertainment & Shopping

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The London Eye An experience beyond comparison.

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Standing a majestic 135 metres high, the London Eye is the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel.

Its 32 fully enclosed capsules offer guests the chance to see one of the world’s most exciting cities from a stunning new perspective both day and night, with unique views revealing aspects of the capital simply not visible from the ground. The London Eye’s location on the banks of the River Thames and opposite the Houses of Parliament ensures that the visual experience is unique and unmatched anywhere.

Having provided countless individual visitors with an experience they’ll never forget, you’ll find it’s also ideal for corporate events, office parties and private celebrations ranging from individual capsules to exclusive hire of the entire wheel for those who really want to live the high life.

The London Eye was conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects and is operated by the London Eye Company Limited, a Merlin Entertainments Group Company. Over 80 prestigious awards have been won for national and international tourism, outstanding architectural quality and engineering achievement. Indeed, since its opening in 2000, this fantastic attraction has mesmerised and enchanted over 32 million delighted customers.

As an iconic 21st century venue and a symbol for modern Britain, it provides the perfect backdrop for an event, allowing visitors to really enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views, famous landmarks and sparkling lights. Over the years, thousands of companies have enjoyed first class facilities for many different purposes, including global launches for car manufacturers, charity events and film launches.

However, there’s much more to it than meets the

As an alternative, guests can indulge in a premium

40 minute circular sightseeing journey along the River

Chocolate Tasting Capsule courtesy of the London

Thames featuring fascinating live commentary revealing

Eye and renowned organic chocolate maker Green &

the history and secrets of this magnificent city.

eye. An outstanding array of fantastic packages are

Black’s, and learn everything about chocolate from

guaranteed to enthrall and impress, including

cocoa bean to delicious bar. Quite simply, confection

worry about a thing as the special events team will

Champagne Flights, Private Capsules with champagne

perfection with heavenly vistas.

organise it all and tailor-make a package that’s perfect

and canapés and combined restaurant and flight experiences to name just a few.

For a truly memorable evening, you can combine

When deciding on your event, you won’t have to

for you whatever your budget or group size. So for

a London Eye flight with a mouthwatering two or three

an event that will deliver great value for money,

course meal at one of the partner restaurants. These

contact the London Eye team now for an experience

guests to enjoy an hour long flight sampling five

restaurants can cater for all tastes and budgets with

beyond comparison.

superb champagnes from Laurent-Perrier in the

private dining areas available at some venues.

Corporate bookings +44 (0) 870 220 2223

The exclusive Champagne Tasting Capsule allows

company of expert London wine and champagne

After admiring the stunning panoramic skyline,

corporate.event@londoneye.com

tasting attraction, Vinopolis, whilst drinking in the

what better way to complete the experience than a

Individual bookings +44 (0) 870 5000 600

spectacular views.

relaxing London Eye River Cruise – an award winning

www.londoneye.com

Best of Britain | 201

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Fortnum & Mason The First 301 Years Since 1707, Fortnum & Mason has scoured the globe for the best produce whether it is foodstuffs or the finest silks, and has presented them to a discerning clientele with wit and charm.

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cigarettes, medical supplies, insect powder, and a cocoa rich chocolate bar (invented specifically for the armed forces) as well as tinned and dried food.

Arbiters of decorum, even in wartime, the company also patented the ‘Fortknee’, a short stocking to cover the knees and lower thighs of lady drivers in the services.

Fortnum & Mason - Talent Spotters Many designers, artists – and even actors – were given the first step on the ladder of success at 181 Piccadilly. The list of those represented includes some of the most innovative and creative talents - Marion Dorn, Duncan Grant, Alvar Aalto, Hayes Marshall, Salvatore Ferragamo and Zandra Rhodes to name but a few. Theatrical designers Oliver Messel and Allan Walton were used to create beautiful settings throughout the store. Rex Whistler and Edward Bawden created memorable Christmas catalogues.

Westminster Wants Many politicians have enjoyed the benefits of the proximity of the Houses of Parliament to the Piccadilly Shop. Benjamin Disraeli declined the offer of dinner at the Carlton Club in favour of a pie and champagne at home with his wife, courtesy of Fortnum & Mason.

When he had eaten and drunk his fill, he declared, The firm started off modestly, in a doorway in Duke

Then insert the blade as far as it will go. Draw the

‘Why, my dear, you are more like a mistress than a

Street selling candles reconstituted from those

handle towards you and the blade will be found to

wife’. Winston Churchill relied on Fortnum’s for

discarded at St. James’s Palace, where William

cut through the tin with perfect ease...’

supplies of Dundee cake and cigars, even at the

Fortnum served as a footman. It always enjoyed the highest possible patronage. By the 1730s it had established a reputation for ready-made delicacies, including their latest invention – the Scotch egg.

The Great Exhibition and Good Things to Eat At the Great Exhibition of 1851 Fortnum &

height of the Second World War. Tiger Hunting and Everest An Expeditions Department opened after the First World War. Travellers were equipped entirely by

Mother Teresa In the 1980s, Fortnum & Mason supplied 1,000

Fortnum & Mason down to the last folding chair.

sausages for a Christmas party for the homeless

Safaris were supplied with goods by the head-load.

organised by Mother Teresa’s Sisters of Charity in

The 1922 Everest expedition had food on a lavish

London. The chefs weren’t told until that morning that

Mason won a gold medal as importers of dried fruits

scale, including 60 tins of quail in foie gras, and four

they had to cook the sausages as well as their usual

and desserts. By this date, Fortnum & Mason was

dozen bottles of champagne. Naturally, Fortnum &

breakfasts for customers. But in the end the staff

the leading supplier of ready to eat luxury foods. As

Mason provisioned the successful Tutankhamun

continued to help for several years and they gave the

tinned goods came into vogue in the 19th century,

expedition.

volunteer drivers a full English breakfast when they

(and Fortnum & Mason were the first to sell Heinz baked beans), instructions were written on each tin sold in Piccadilly, ‘To open the canister first stab a hole with the butt-end of a knife near the upper rim.

came to pick up the sausages.

The Second World War Fortnum & Mason created active service boxes

www.fortnumandmason.co.uk 0845 300 1707

for army officers. These contained apples, wines,

Best of Britain | 203

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The Eden Project Eden is an environmental educational charity. Its aim is to act as a symbol of hope: exploring and communicating how people can work together for a better future.

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If you believe … there should be a place that explores what a great future might look like, that celebrates life and puts champagne in the veins, that’s all about education while getting ‘Mud between your Toes’, that’s a place to hold conversations that might just go somewhere, where research is experience to be shared with everyone, for all those who think the future belongs to us all, then welcome to the Eden Project … home of the Eden Trust.

That’s why we built this place and that’s where the money goes.

Tim Smit, Founder and CEO, Eden Project

The project is a catalyst for change. Money raised

The visitor attraction provides a theatre/stage – using

storytelling, connectivity (with nature and with each

by the charity, the Eden Trust, goes towards our

and celebrating our dependence on plants as a

other), celebration and conversation as our main

programmes and projects on education, research,

backdrop on which to paint stories, examples and

interpretation methods.

conservation and sustainable futures. This includes

ideas connected to hopeful futures: what a social

our on-site public education and interpretation

enterprise is and how it can work, that regeneration is

difference and show ways in which the visitor can get

programme, making the visitors beneficiaries of the

possible, the ‘can do’ attitude, how we can operate

involved. Our ‘Mud between Your Toes’ programme

charity they support.

in a sustainable manner and how we are part of

explores reconnection with nature; ‘Climate

nature and can work with it not apart from it.

Revolution’ looks at positive ideas to tackle climate

The site comprises a 60 metre-deep, 15-hectare former china clay pit containing two vast covered

Eden explores different methods of communication

We exhibit examples of how others are making a

change. Our catering, retail, Waste Neutral programme

Biomes, representing the Tropical and Mediterranean

because different people learn in different ways and

and supply chain project fit in here too… nothing

climates, which sit within an Outdoor Biome. Each

because we research and communicate what works.

franchised, all projects exploring sustainable futures.

Biome contains both the natural landscapes of these

We’ve found talking with the heart is far more

+44 (0) 1726 811 911

climatic zones and examples of the cropped areas.

effective than talking to the head and so use

www.edenproject.com

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Chapter 20 | Setting up in Britain

206 | Best of Britain

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Best of Britain | 207

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Setting up in Britain

Setting up in the UK The World Bank ranks the UK as one of the best European Countries in which to operate a business. Globally ambitious companies want to set up in the UK because if its record of success, confidence, ambition and know-how. A climate of creativity makes for innovation in science, finance, design and the arts.

Research shows that it takes only 13 days to set up

one of the easiest countries to register a property.

a business in the UK, compared to the European

Cushman & Wakefield rate the UK above France,

average of 32 days. In fact, the UK is the easiest

Germany, Ireland and Italy for ease of registering

location in which to establish and run a business in

property.

Europe. It has an open, transparent and business-

framework and a flexible labour force and its

businesses. Investor companies will need to open a

multicultural population stimulates diversity of thought

bank account in the UK, but this is a straightforward

and talent. The UK is keen to welcome people to

process. The UK is home to over 500 foreign banks

the UK with the right skills to support the economy.

and their specialist commercial teams can support

However, in order to enter the UK to work, employees

international businesses seeking to open UK accounts.

must meet the entry criteria, and if required, obtain

There are already more than 2.6 million registered companies in the UK and over 350,000 new

208 | Best of Britain

The UK has a well-established legal and regulatory

friendly system to encourage the formation of new

a work permit and visa.

Geography and history have influenced and

registrations each year. Permission is not required

shaped the UK’s international outlook. It has a global

to establish a business presence in the UK, and it is

business culture that plugs companies into an

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international network. The UK is a highly accessible

Agencies in the English regions and in the Devolved

gateway to Europe for overseas markets and

Administrations of Wales, Scotland and Northern

represents an ideal place to set up a business and

Ireland to provide coverage of opportunities

act as a springboard for global growth.

throughout the UK. It holds details of available

UK government figures show that in the year

commercial property and business premises such

2007-8 there were over 650 new inward investment

as science parks and business incubator facilities.

projects, a firm endorsement of the UK’s attractiveness as a location to set up a business.

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is the UK Government’s inward investment agency. It offers a

UKTI is an international operation. It organises and attends a wide range of industry events all over the world where companies can network and discuss UK opportunities face-to-face with UKTI staff.

comprehensive range of services to assist overseas

For more information contact UK Trade &

companies looking to invest in the UK including help

Investment on + 44 (0)20 7215 8000 or visit:

with research, building contacts, choosing a location,

www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk

setting up an office and growing a business.

UKTI works in partnership with the Development

Best of Britain | 209

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Setting up in Britain

Taylor Wessing

210 | Best of Britain

Taylor Wessing LLP is a full-service law firm with 12 international offices located primarily in Europe’s four major economies.

While Taylor Wessing is a pan-European firm, Britain is one of the cornerstones of the firm’s success, with 105 of the firm’s 270 partners based in offices in London and Cambridge.

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The firm is a leading adviser on inward investment

structured finance team have substantial experience

Taylor Wessing Facts

into and out of Europe, providing co-ordinated

in all aspects of securitisations and asset-backed

■

Number of partners: 270

support for overseas clients who are using the UK,

security transactions. The Projects group advises on

■

Total staff: 1,320

Germany, France or Belgium as a springboard for

a significant range of projects, both in a domestic

■

European expansion. A Dubai office acts as a major

and international context.

Turnover (financial year 2007/08): £185.4 million

portal for Middle Eastern capital moving into European markets. The firm also supports European companies who wish to invest in Asia and vice versa through its offices in Beijing and Shanghai.

Real Estate

London, Munich, Paris, Shanghai.

service and experience for each European jurisdiction.

■

The Corporate Practice has a particular focus on

Languages: Arabic, Chinese, Danish, French,

work, financing structures, development projects and

German, Hebrew, Italian, Mandarin, Persian,

planning and environmental matters.

Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Spanish, English, Serbian and Croatian.

Corporate mid-market deals, specialising in M&A, private equity,

Offices: Beijing, Berlin, Brussels, Cambridge, Dubai, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg,

The Real Estate Practice offers a unique depth of Services range across the spectrum of investment

Main international areas of practice

■

Litigation and Dispute Resolution

■

This substantial practice gives comprehensive

Taylor Wessing LLP 5 New Street Square,

international securities and financial services regulation,

advice on resolving international and domestic

London,

inward investment and tax. The firm’s impressive

disputes, whether by litigation, arbitration or alternative

EC4A 3TW.

venture capital capability ‘undeniably ranks as one

mechanisms such as mediation or adjudication. The

■

Telephone: +44 (0)20 7300 7000

of the top venture capital specialists in the country’

firm’s specialist knowledge crosses sectors, including

■

[Chambers 2008].

construction, banking, fraud, property, insolvency

Fax: +44 (0)20 7300 7100

■

Email: London@taylorwessing.com

■

Website: www.taylorwessing.com

■

‘This increasingly powerful firm has a

and insurance.

Corporate Restructuring The firm deals with the financial and legal restructuring of firms across Europe and the Middle East.

Employment and Pensions The firm is a major player in multi-jurisdictional employment and pensions law across Europe. Its specialist teams handle all aspects of individual and

Intellectual Property A recognised market leader for IP across Europe,

collective employment law, pensions, company restructurings and employee benefits, both

the practice comprises over 100 specialised IP

domestically and internationally on non-contentious

lawyers. The practice has strength across all aspects

and contentious matters including tribunal work and

of contentious and non-contentious IP and is

High Court litigation.

particularly renowned for its sector experience in technology; life sciences and healthcare; media and entertainment; inward investment; outsourcing; and telecoms.

Private Client This well-respected practice offers a high quality international service, advising on all areas of the law relating to the long-term capital preservation of the

Finance & Projects The Finance Practice provides sector-focused

long-standing reputation’

private individual, including taxation, trusts and

(Chambers 2008).

succession, matrimonial law and residential and

Taylor Wessing’s ‘lawyers have some of

advice on domestic and institutional cross-border

agricultural property. The firm is able to combine its

financing transactions within the context of English,

international reach and commercial outlook with the

the best brains in the business, are

French and German law. Expertise includes: bilateral

client handling skills that have always been required

commercially astute and are alive to

and syndicated lending; acquisition finance; project

of private client lawyers.

important non-legal issues’

finance; real estate, investment and development

■

(Chambers 2008).

finance; asset-based finance; hotel financing and Islamic finance. Members of the capital markets and

Best of Britain | 211

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Setting up in Britain

Regus Regus is the world’s largest provider of workplace solutions, offering a wide range of products and services that allow individuals and companies to work however, wherever, and whenever they need.

Operating in over 1000 business centres across 450 cities in 75 countries, Regus’ network provides an instant professional presence for home-based workers near to their clients, or branch offices for business expanding into new markets. Regus centres also offer a productive business environment convenient for workers on the road. Clients can benefit from products and services such as fully furnished, equipped and staffed offices, world-class business support services, meeting, conference and training facilities and the largest network of public videoconference rooms.

As a champion of flexible working, Regus supports the growing trend of mobile and home working.

Services such as Virtual Office and Virtual PA support workers at home and on the road by providing dedicated business addresses as their base as well

212 | Best of Britain

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as mail and call-handing services. Regus also

conducted in strange and inappropriate locations.

provide a more flexible alternative to owning or renting

operates business centres in airports and other

Services such as the Regus Businessworld

your own premises. With short-term agreements and

commercial hubs to serve clients wherever they find

membership card programme ensure workforces

the option to downsize or upgrade services easily

themselves working.

can remain productive whilst working on the move.

according to market needs, businesses are not tied

Launched in June 2008, The Regus Businessworld

to long-term financial or contractual arrangements.

Research by Regus has shown that over two thirds of British workers travelling on business have

Membership programme provides the ultimate in

eavesdropped on confidential business conversations

flexible working. It offers members unlimited access

allows you to benefit from the purchasing power of

and over a third have caught sight of sensitive

to business lounges and cafĂŠs in any of the 950+

a global organisation. This means discounts on

company documents or information on laptops, due

Regus business centres worldwide and is a cost

purchases such as state-of-the art technology office

to the rise in business professionals working in public

effective alternative to working in unsuitable hotel

supplies and local courier services, all of which could

places.

lobbies or coffee shops. Members are able to access

be out of the reach of some companies individually.

a private office, by the hour or by the day and are

In May, Regus launched its Regus Purchasing Group

been able to use this information for their own

also entitled to discounted products such as meeting

which will provide group negotiated discounts to all

business purposes. The findings highlight a negative

rooms, video conferencing and professional

Regus customers and their staff across a range of

trend affecting companies with large travelling

administrative support.

retail and business products.

Worryingly, over 10 per cent of these people have

workforces where remote working has led to a growing professional culture where business is

Furthermore, in the economic downturn, Regus’ serviced offices don’t just offer security; they also

Becoming a client within a Regus centre also

0870 351 8484 www.regus.co.uk

Best of Britain | 213

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Chapter 4 - Hotels

78 - 79 80 - 81

Chapter 13 Biotech & Pharmaceuticals

Von Essen Hotels

150 - 151

Brown’s Hotel

82 - 83

Pharmidex

152 - 153

Malmaison

84 - 85

BioCity

154 - 155

Hotel du Vin

86 - 87

Chapter 14 - Innovation

156 - 157

Chapter 5 - Fine Dining & Cuisine

88 - 89

Dyson

158 - 159

The Fat Duck

90 - 91

Pace

160 - 161

Chapter 15 Construction & Engineering

162 - 163

JCB

164 - 165

Benoy

166 - 167

Max Fordham LLP

168 - 169

Chapter 16 Corporate Social Responsibility

170 - 171

Orange

172 - 173

The Co-Operative

174 - 175

Tomorrows Company

176 - 177

Nobu London

92 - 93

The Providores & Tapa Room

94 - 95

Gaucho

96 - 97

Tom Aikens

98 - 99

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Chapter 6 - Luxury Lifestyle

100 - 101

Aston Martin

102 - 103

Loch Ness Lodge

104 - 105

Johnnie Walker Blue Label

106 - 107

Chapter 7 - Fashion

108 - 109

Gieves & Hawkes

110 - 111

Vivienne Westwood

112 - 113

Chapter 17 Conferencing & Exhibitions

178 - 179

Chapter 8 - Food & Drink

114 - 115

Wedgewood

180 - 181

Speyside Glenlivit Water

118 - 119

The NEC Birmingham

182 - 183

Camel Valley

120 - 121

EC&O Venues

184 - 185

Steinlager Pure

122 - 123

ExCel London

186 - 187

Chapter 9 - Design & Interiors

124 - 125

Linley

126 - 127

Chapter 18 Media, Marketing & Education

188 - 189

MET Studio Design

128 - 129

DWA

190 - 191

Chapter 10 - Health & Beauty

130 - 131

University of Oxford

192 - 193

Champneys

132 - 133

University of Cambridge

194 - 195

The Body Shop

134 - 135

Butler Tanner & Dennis

196 - 197

Spiezia Organics

136 - 137

Chapter 11 - Corporate Profiles

138 - 139

Chapter 19 Entertainment & Shopping

198 - 199

Eurostar

140 - 141

The London Eye

200 - 201

Horizon

142 - 143

Fortnum & Mason

202 - 203

Chapter 12 - Financial Services

144 - 145

The Eden Project

204 - 205

The Co-Operative Bank

146 - 147

Chapter 20 Setting up in Britain

206 - 207

Aon

148 - 149

Taylor Wessing

210 - 211

Regus

212 - 213

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