Business Lancashire July 2018 by The Samuel James Group

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£15m Preston hotel will be a tribute to footballing icon Bill Shankly OBE SIGNATURE Living, the Liverpool based property developer and hoteliers has confirmed that its planned development for the Harris hotel in Preston will now be launched as the Shankly hotel, Preston in honour of the footballing icon and legend, William “Bill” Shankly OBE. Signature Living – the company behind the Shankly hotel and 30 James Street in Liverpool – is currently developing and constructing a number of other iconic football themed hotels. It is currently developing the Dixie Dean in Liverpool – in honour of the England and Everton legend – and the George Best hotel in Belfast – in honour of the former Manchester United and Northern Ireland footballer. The Shankly hotel, Preston will once again be a collaboration between and the Shankly family in partnership with Signature Living. The project will be led by Bill Shankly’s grandson Chris Carline, who is also co owner and curator of the Shankly hotel in Liverpool, along with Signature Living’s Lawrence Kenwright. The decision to develop the hotel into the Shankly was one that both Chris and Lawrence felt was “entirely appropriate and fitting.” Lawrence Kenwright, said; “The Shankly hotel is to not only celebrate his iconic footballing career and achievements, but also to honour the very special relationship he had with the city and people of Preston, having signed for Preston North End in 1933. It is a great honour to be working with Chris and the Shankly family on this exciting project for

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Preston.” Commenting on the announcement and plans, Bill Shankly’s grandson and Shankly hotel co owner and director, Chris Carline, said: “It is a fitting tribute and legacy to my grandfather for a hotel to be named in his honour in Liverpool, but it is also important for his legacy to be honoured in Preston, where he spent much of his playing career. He had some amazing footballing highlights and achievements at Preston and made some incredible friends, including Tom Finney, who my grandfather said was; “the greatest player he ever saw” – I am absolutely delighted that we will be able to bring some of the Shankly magic to this incredible building and share some of the amazing memories with the people of Preston. I cannot think of two better places for Bill Shankly’s name to be remembered, honoured and celebrated. The city is fast becoming a

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vibrant place for nightlife and entertainment and we are extremely excited at being able to contribute to Preston’s hospitality offer.” The former Grade II listed post office building, which is 114 years old, will be transformed into a luxurious 65 room boutique hotel, breathing new life into this iconic building. The Shankly hotel will be modelled on similar lines to the Liverpool hotel, which will feature Shankly memorabilia, complete with photographs, and memorabilia connected to his time at the various clubs he served during his playing and management career. Shankly’s association with Preston started in July 1933 – after a few appearances for Carlisle United – when he signed for Preston North End. Shankly played in the Preston side promoted to the First Division in 1934, and also played with them in two FA Cup finals, winning the iconic trophy in 1938. He was also a member of the Preston team that won the 1941 Wartime Cup Final at Wembley. It was at this time that Shankly made his debut for Scotland in a 1-0 win against England in April 1938. He went on to make four further appearances for his country, plus another seven in wartime internationals and played for a number of different teams during the war, including Liverpool and Arsenal. Roger Jonas, Head of Stakeholder Relations for Signature Living, said: “These are extremely exciting times for Signature Living to be coming to Preston, since there is a new era of excitement and confidence about the city.

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July 2018

WELCOME to the July 2018 edition of Business Lancashire. In this issue, we find out more about our award winners; new appointments and many other great stories as well as a twenty-page BiBAs supplement and an eight-page feature on the energy industry. You can download a digital copy of the newspaper from www. businesslancashire.co.uk/magazines. Finally, Business Lancashire recently won the PR and Marketing Agency of the Year Award at Downtown in Businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lancashire Business Awards 2018. A massive thank you to all our partners, supporters, advertisers and friends for all your help, guidance and encouragement. We accepted the award on behalf of all of you!

CONTENTS MANUFACTURING 4 CYBER SECURITY

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

EDUCATION 10 AWARDS 12 BUSINESS SUPPORT

INTERNATIONAL 21 ACQUISITIONS 22 BIBAS SPECIAL

TRANSPORT 43 CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

APPOINTMENTS 50 PROPERTY 53 ENERGY SPECIAL

CONTACTS & CONTRIBUTORS

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Group Editor: Andy Mann 07951 731722 andy@thesamueljamesgroup.com

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This publication is produced by The Samuel James Group Ltd, Unit 6/7 Eastway Business Village, Fulwood, Preston PR2 9WT. Reproduction of the contents of this newspaper in any form is not permitted, without the permission of the publisher. Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors and/or omissions in advertisements, information, photographs or illustrations. The opinions and advice in this newspaper do not necessarily express the view of the company.

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Heathrow shows off North West’s best to worldwide visitors A major ‘Tourism Takeover’ at Heathrow airport will see the treasures of the North West featured in a large 3D backdrop, that Terminal 5 passengers can snap and share online. To showcase the magic of the region to Heathrow’s 78 million annual visitors, the installation will feature some of the North West’s most legendary spots. Passengers can pose for a photo of themselves standing beside spectacular images of iconic destinations from the GREAT campaign library. The North West frame features the iconic Blackpool Tower, as well as showing Liverpool’s Albert Dock, to lolloping fells of the Lake District. In partnership with the GREAT Britain campaign, Heathrow’s ‘Tourism Takeover’ will hand over valuable terminal space to twelve inspiring installations – featuring marvels from every region and nation of the UK. The plans are part of Heathrow’s pledge to boost UK tourism further – a recommendation which came out of twelve roundtables hosted by the airport to understand how expansion at the UK’s global gateway can benefit every corner of the country. Business representatives, local Councils and colleges

attended Heathrow’s North-West roundtable in Blackpool to discuss how the new runway can drive trade, tourism and transport connections for the entire region. The event also emphasised the need for more frequent and affordable domestic connections for the region. Heathrow expansion, which will be voted on by MPs in the coming weeks, means the potential for new flights to currently unserved UK airports, which could mean a new route to Liverpool John Lennon Airport. Speaking about the plans, Nigel Milton, Director of Communications at Heathrow Airport, commented: “As the international gateway to the UK, we want to inspire our 78 million annual passengers to venture out to the many incredible destinations that can be found across the North West. We recognise the role we play as the nation’s only hub airport, and are committed to driving tourism, investment and growth to every nation and region as we expand. That’s why we are proud to showcase the many diverse attractions that make the North West unique.” Speaking on behalf of GREAT, Conrad Bird, CBE, Director of the GREAT Britain Campaign,

added: “The UK offers an amazing and exciting variety of unique experiences, world class attractions and beautiful landscapes. Heathrow is the first point of welcome for millions of visitors coming to Britain to start their adventure and I’m delighted we’ll be greeting them with this showcase.” Babs Murphy, Chief Executive of the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The North West is ready to take full advantage of an expanded Heathrow airport which will act as the gateway to many of our iconic attractions, including the world famous Blackpool Tower and Pleasure Beach. Expansion at Heathrow means a boost for tourism, a boost for jobs and a boost for our region.“

4 MANUFACTURING

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World class production machine installed in Blackpool FOUNDED in 2013 and Blackpool based, Private Label Nutrition has completed a £250,000 upgrade to their production facilities, creating three new jobs and more than quadrupling the production capacity of the facility. Working in conjunction with its supplier, PTK, South Korean’s leading exporter of pharmaceutical machines, Private Label Nutrition jointly showcased their new PR2000 tablet press at Vitafoods in Geneva, producing over 250,000 tablets per hour. The tablet press was then installed in the Blackpool facility.

Vitafoods is one of the world’s biggest Nutraceutical shows and Private Label Nutrition attended through an ERDF match funding grant, which supports SME companies who want to enhance their international trade performance. The grant was delivered by the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce. Private Label Nutrition employs fifteen members of staff and has seen continual growth since moving to their custom built, manufacturing facility in Blackpool in 2016. The new, upgraded production line has increased capacity for the recently

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certified contract manufacturing facility, which specializes in manufacturing and bottling finished products for a diverse range of sectors, both in the UK and across the world. Richard Richmond, Director, Private Label Nutrition said: “This is a massive investment, however now is the right time for us to commission this state of the art pharmaceutical grade tablet press. It will significantly increase the speed and delivery of our quality products to our clients, which is crucial to maintain our market share in

this fast-paced internet age. Our new production line will definitely help us achieve our future growth objectives.”

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Manufacturing

Helical Technology holds open day for new Visitor Centre FAMILY OWNED, Lytham based manufacturer, Helical Technology, recently unveiled its new Visitor Centre, with a special event and tour for members of the Northern Automotive Alliance (NAA). Founded in 1962, Helical Technology has 250 employees across two sites in Lytham and Warton and is a world leader in the manufacture of acoustic and EGR exhaust valves, actuators and rotators. Exporting nearly 98% of its products, across Europe, America and Asia, the familyowned business supplies products to some of the largest automotive manufactures in

the world. The open day featured presentations from a range of industry leaders including Helical Technology Engineering Director, Charles Morris, Steve Reynolds, Director, National Physical Laboratory and Paul Wingrove, Sales Director, MGS Technical Plastics Ltd. Following the presentations, attendees were given a tour of the state-ofthe-art Visitor Centre, which showcases some of Helical Technology’s industryleading products, as well as detailed information on their development solutions.

Also, as part of the tour of the firm’s Warton testing facility, there was a live drive demonstration of Helical Technology’s 1012bhp supercar, which utilises the company’s evolutionary exhaust valve technology. Charles Morris, who is also Helical Technology’s Director of its Mechatronics Division, said: “We are delighted to have unveiled our new Visitor Centre, with an open day for members of the Northern Automotive Alliance. I’m sure our guests enjoyed the experience, as well as the insightful talks from industry leaders, based here in the

North of England. “The Visitor Centre will act as a focal point for our future events, especially for visiting clients. The well thought out design and use of space is ideal for presenting key information on Helical Technology’s heritage, future plans and giving a hands-on experience of our high-quality products.” Carol Holden, CEO, Northern Automotive Alliance, added: “It was a pleasure to attend the Helical Technology’s Visitor Centre open day. I’m sure I speak on behalf of all attendees in praising this innovative and engaging facility. The

opportunity to hear industry leading speakers and the added bonus of a tour of their Warton testing facility and seeing their fantastic 1012bhp supercar, made for a very enjoyable event. “Helical Technology is another example of a world leader in the automotive industry, thriving in the North of England. I hope others in the region are inspired by the amazing work being undertaken by Helical Technology and can learn from their approach to developing world class products.”

Blackburn based AluFoldDirect named manufacturing company of the year BLACKBURN-BASED aluminium glazing fabricator, AluFoldDirect has been named Manufacturing Company of the Year 2018 (under £25m) at the Made in the North West awards. This latest title brings the Everything Aluminium fabricator’s total 2018 award wins to three and automatically puts them in the Made in the UK awards final in June. Craig Miller, Managing Director, said: “It’s a

real honour to win this third award as it recognises our brilliant team’s hard work and dedication in delivering customers certainty of supply, so they can get on and grow their aluminium business. “Our company motto, ‘That’ll do, won’t do’, along with our two week delivery promise and commitment to right first-time manufacturing means that installers get the products they need, when they need them, ready to fit onsite. I’m glad that this hard

work has been recognised by the award judges.” The Made in the North West awards were held at The Lowry Hotel in Salford on Thursday 10 May. Entries for the awards were up 50 percent on 2017 and the award judges praised AluFoldDirect’s commitment to training, commenting: “AluFoldDirect has overcome the world of skills shortages by upskilling its staff.”

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Manufacturing July 2018

Glasson Electronics lights up Old Vic LANCASTER based, Glasson Electronics has designed and manufactured a lighting display for London’s Old Vic theatre’s Bicentenary Gala Celebration. The lighting specialist installed over 1200 individually controllable LED units based on their DFS3000 product, providing an exciting and versatile backdrop for the special event. Glasson Electronics was the first to develop combined power and data lamp units. Their technology allows control of large numbers of lamps

and LED units using standard light fittings and cable. Glasson’s systems allow for the creation of sophisticated lighting effects with simple control and installation. Specialising in supplying theatre, event and architectural lighting, their clients include the Royal Ballet, Sydney Opera House and rock superstars, Green Day. With in-house design and manufacturing, Glasson Electronics offers a high-quality, specialist and bespoke effect lighting range.

Simon Bibby, Managing Director, Glasson Electronics, said: “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to work with the Old Vic. The installation required over 1200 individually colour controllable LED units arranged into vertical strings and our DFS3000 combined power and data system provided a cost-effective and flexible solution. With combined power and data, all the lights are fitted to standard festoon, creating a very simple installation strategy, whilst enabling individual colour control of

each light. “At Glasson Electronics, we pride ourselves on a personal and bespoke service, ensuring our clients receive high-quality products to match their requirements. We are continuing to expand our range, with the recent introduction of the AC100 system (to control standard 230VAC lamps), Lucias (a narrow beam RGBW LED system) and 3000M (a higher power version of DFS3000).”

8 CYBER SECURITY

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SecurEnvoy announces partnership with Citrix SHEARWATER Group plc, the digital resilience group, who has an office in Preston, is pleased to announce that its portfolio company, SecurEnvoy, has been appointed by Citrix (NASDAQ: CTXS) as one of its first Premier Citrix Ready Partners for the fast-growing Identity and Access Management (“IAM”) sector. Established in 1989 and with annual revenues of $2.8 billion, Citrix solutions are used by more than 400,000 organisations, including 98 per cent of Fortune 500 companies. The Citrix Ready Program showcases verified products that are trusted to enhance Citrix solutions for

mobility, virtualization, networking and cloud platforms. The Citrix Ready designation is awarded to third party partners who have successfully met test criteria set by Citrix before enabling access to Citrix’s extensive customer base and network of 10,000 resellers. As announced at the time of the Group’s acquisition of SecurEnvoy in May 2017, developing and broadening SecurEnvoy’s authentication security solutions beyond multifactor authentication (“MFA”) into IAM has been a key growth objective of the Company, alongside US expansion. Securing a partnership with an

established and prominent market leader such as Citrix for the IAM sector is a significant milestone in achieving these core objectives. Nabeel Youakim, VP of Products & Solutions Architecture at Citrix, said: “We have enjoyed a strong partnership with SecurEnvoy given their ability to deliver highly secure MFA seamlessly, with core Citrix technologies such as NetScaler, XenApp and XenDesktop. Their commitment to integrating with our technology underscores the strength of this solution and we are proud to have them as one of the first Premier Citrix Ready Partners for our IAM

categories. We look forward to their continued success in aligning with Citrix.” Michael (Mo) Stevens, Group Chief Executive Officer of Shearwater, added: “We had identified the US as a significant market for growth for SecurEnvoy and I am delighted that we have been able to secure this new partnership with Citrix. Alongside recently announced channel partner wins in this territory, we are really pleased with the progress of our US strategy and we look forward to building on this fantastic momentum as we move through the year.”

Universal Smart Cards becomes major UK partner for Bluvision ACCRINGTON based Universal Smart Cards, a premier partner of HID Global, has been selected to distribute Bluvision, an innovative easy to deploy solution which delivers plug and play condition monitoring and asset management, using Bluetooth and Wifi technologies. Universal Smart Cards is a leader in the implementation of smart cards and associated assets for a range of applications, including physical access, cashless payments, print management, loyalty and membership, time and attendance and asset tracking. Their one-stop shop strategy combines consultancy, products and advice for the implementation of both smart cards and RFID. HID Global is an American manufacturer, based in Austin, Texas, of secure identity solutions. The company is a subsidiary of Assa Abloy, a Swedish global leader in door opening solutions. The company provides innovative solutions for people, places and equipment, utilising access control, identity management,

real-time monitoring data and predictive analytics. This results in quality information on temperature and vibration deviations, efficient utilisation of equipment, off-site monitoring and easy location of assets, including employees, who may be lone working. Paul May, Commercial Director, Universal Smart Cards, said: “Universal Smart Cards is excited to be offering this innovative, secure, cost effective, easy to use and deploy platform. The plug and play option allows users to track, in detail, the performance and location of assets across an organisation. Downtime can be dramatically reduced, with asset tracking and more. Universal is knowledge to deploy the flexible plug location accuracy of up to one metre the exclusive supplier of HID readers and play monitors, which can track and improved predictive analysis and to NHS England to provide card access the performance of machines and maintenance scheduling. readers for all their core record systems. vehicles, alerting management to issues, “Our state of the art product With the recent launch of allowing for proactive maintenance marries together smart card technology Bluvision’s innovative asset to be carried out, whilst minimising and knowledge, with Bluvision’s management and condition downtime and improving production. Internet of Things multi-application monitoring services systems in the Their cost-effective solution devices, based on tried and tested UK, Universal Smart Cards can provides a single platform (monitoring solutions, to meet an organisation’s now incorporate its experience and console and smart cards) to deliver monitoring needs.”

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

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Preston… a property hotspot? regeneration and it now offers a true alternative for investors who would have previously chosen WITH millions of Manchester or Liverpool. pounds of investment For residents, being ploughed into house prices remain Preston city centre, significantly lower than bringing with it the in other cities. The creation of thousands of significant development new jobs, alongside the in the city centre and improved transport links, wider afield has attracted Preston is undergoing its overseas investment, but biggest transformation that should perhaps be for almost half a century. balanced with a means of All of this is great attracting young ownernews for property occupiers who will live, investors and businesses work and spend their alike. Recent landmark leisure time and money projects include the in city centre shops and refurbishment of the restaurants. grade-two listed Market It’s been a little over Hall, the facelift of a year now, but in the the iconic bus station, short time Farleys’ doors which was earmarked have been open for for demolition just business in the city, a six years ago and the lot has gone on. We are rebirth of the Guild Hall indebted to the members entertainment complex, of the Winckley Square which is set to bring Community Interest more entertainment Company who secured acts and sporting events the investment to to the city. The current regenerate the Square redevelopment of the into an area we wanted old Post Office by Signature Living into the to establish ourselves in. We chose a central Harris Hotel, will bring location for our offices further transformation because it is still the focal to Preston when it point for a large part of opens its doors and is a the city’s professional strong indicator of the community and have growing levels of private sector interest, alongside received a very warm welcome. various businesses, such There is still a lot as Farleys, who realised of work to do, but the city’s potential and replicating the targeted set up operations here. investment made so far Preston has recently in other places badly in featured as one of need of investment will the best places in the yield good long-term UK to live and work, results for the people beating its North West counterparts Manchester living and working in Preston. and Liverpool. It is The city has a bright evident that the City Deal funding has helped future and it is great to hugely in Preston’s be here. Author: Stephen Greenwood, Partner – Farleys Solicitors

10 EDUCATION

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Jack Brocklehurst has a Striking Future THE AFC Fylde Community Foundation has offered a full-time 12-month apprenticeship to Jack Brocklehurst, from Lytham St Annes, following a turn-around in the 17-yearold’s life, as part of the Foundation’s Striking Futures programme. A year ago, Jack was out of education and looking for his next step in life. Based on a passion for sports and a commitment to his local community, Jack got in touch with the AFC Fylde Community Foundation. Initially, he conducted 18 hours of volunteering, which involved running coaching sessions in primary schools and assisting the Foundation in the delivery of programmes throughout the Fylde, to help build his confidence, his communication skills and overall employability. As Jack’s confidence and skills grew, he was offered a place on the Striking Futures programme, made possible through funding provided by Cuadrilla Resources and Spirit Energy. The Striking Futures programme involves an intense 12-week coach training qualification and 25 hours a week of practical coaching in the Fylde community. He achieved a Level 2 in Principles of Coaching Sport and a Level 2 Function Skills Qualification in Maths and English, equivalent to GCSEs.

Following his success, as part of his apprenticeship, Jack will continue to build on his skills and confidence as well as helping the Foundation, as an Assistant Coach, to deliver its range of programmes throughout the Fylde Coast. Tom Hutton, Director of the AFC Fylde Community Foundation, said: “Throughout his time with the Foundation, Jack has grown as a person, as a professional and has become an integral part of the AFC Fylde Community Foundation. As a result, he has become more employable, whilst helping his local community.” Jack added: “I’m excited to begin my apprenticeship and thankful to the Foundation for giving me this amazing opportunity. The Striking Futures programme helped me build my confidence and taught me a lot about employability.” Francis Egan, CEO of Cuadrilla Resources, said: “It is stories like Jack’s that highlight the difference community programmes make to the local area and local people. We’re proud to support the AFC Fylde Community Foundation and the many programmes they implement to help people of the Fylde Coast fulfil their potential.”

Digital agency gives 100s of Lancashire teens a taste for business A BUSINESS scheme for teenagers that recreates a digital work environment, complete with agency boss, live creative briefs, market research, script writing and film making has culminated in a business pitch and prize giving day at County Hall in Preston. Over 200 students from 11 Lancashire schools and colleges attended the Digital Advantage pitch day. The £2,000 first prize was won by 20 teenagers from Heysham High School in Morecambe who will use the money to develop their homework app ‘Witt’, which helps students to clearly see all their homework in one place. The students already have one order from another school for the app and other schools are interested. The Digital Advantage scheme has been running in 20 Lancashire schools and colleges over the last two years – giving over 350 teenagers aged 1618 real-life experience

of what it’s like to work in the digital sector. It is supported by Digital Lancashire and the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership. Digital Advantage has worked with creative and digital companies across Lancashire to arrange 220 five-day long work experiences placements for young people aged 16-18. Lancashire is set to create over 5,000 new creative and digital jobs over the next five years, with most of these in well-paid coding and software engineering posts. The county is a hotbed of digital business start-ups with Lancaster, Burnley, Preston and Blackburn being the main hubs. Digital Advantage and Digital Lancashire are now launching an initiative to create an extra 100 creative and digital apprenticeships in Lancashire each year. Andy Lovatt who runs the Digital Advantage scheme, said: “Many of the teachers we worked with in Lancashire feel

the government focuses too much on traditional ‘EBacc’ subjects at GCSE – English, maths, sciences – whereas employers need more vocational business, media and IT skills. The digital technology industry is growing rapidly and new career opportunities are springing up all the time. We want to equip young people with the knowledge and skills to take advantage of these roles and set up their own enterprises. We’re currently speaking to a number of businesses about how they can support the Digital Advantage scheme through their CSR strategies. Over in Merseyside we’re working with a company who are helping us develop the next generation of their digital talent. I’m keen to hear from other organisations in Lancashire that want to support their local economies in a similar way.”

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Lyndhurst apprentice scoops AMI UK Manufacturing Apprentice of the Month award A LYNDHURST Precision Engineering apprentice has been named the AMI UK Manufacturing Apprentice of the Month for May. Stuart Haydock, from Chorley, now qualifies for consideration for the overall AMI UK

Stuart, who was nominated for the award by Lyndhurst’s Managing Director, Mark Marriner, initially joined them as an advanced apprentice in Engineering, having achieved a BTEC Level 3 (with distinction) in Engineering at Preston College. Stuart has since completed his HNC and is now taking his HND, alongside his apprenticeship at the Chorley engineering firm. Stuart said: “I’m thrilled to have been named the AMI UK Manufacturing Apprentice Manufacturing Apprentice of of the Month. It’s an honour and I’m humbled to have the Year Award 2018. The competition, launched been nominated by Lyndhurst by marketing firm AMI, aims Managing Director, Mark to find and recognise the very Marriner. “I feel that an best apprentices currently apprenticeship, particularly working within the UK an advanced apprenticeship, manufacturing industry.

Education was the best thing I could have done. I have been able to continue my education, whilst undertaking on the job training, with support from Lyndhurst Precision Engineering, I feel that I am part of the family here, making a valued contribution to the company and my team mates.” Mark Marriner, added: “Stuart has shown an excellent attitude to, and aptitude for, learning. He is extremely diligent and conscientious in all he does and he has a high skill level for someone so young. Along with the rest of the team, he has worked on developing and manufacturing components for the nuclear, aerospace, automotive, defence and medical industries, many of which are for major

international blue-chip companies. “We put Stuart forward for the accolade, since his attitude and work ethos is highly commendable and he sets an example for the rest of the team, particularly the younger engineers. He is, without doubt, a valuable and respected part of our high performing team. We have every confidence in him and are certain that he has a very bright future ahead of him. “At Lyndhurst, we rely on young people like Stuart, as does the rest of the U.K. manufacturing and engineering industry. It is fantastic that he has received his due recognition. Hopefully he will go on and win the overall award”.

Blackburn College becomes first in Pennine Lancashire to offer Lancaster University Degree Apprenticeships

BLACKBURN College is delighted to announce the launch of a brand new Management Degree Apprenticeship. The Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) has been designed in conjunction with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and Lancaster University –The Times and Sunday Times University of the Year 2018. The introduction of the Degree-Level Apprenticeship marks a first for the local area – with Blackburn College being first in Pennine Lancashire to offer a Lancaster University awarded Degree -Level Apprenticeship, meaning the qualification has the

backing of a UK Top 10 Universities. A Degree Apprenticeship is an exciting new qualification that enables Apprentices to achieve a full degree while developing practical skills in the workplace. The employers benefit by gaining a highly-skilled employee with both the academic qualifications and the relevant knowledge shaped by their on-the-job experience, ready-made for their business. The new programme has been developed with leading organisations including: CAPITA, the Ministry of Defence, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, The Senator Group and Forbes Solictiors.

Joanne Pickering, Director of HR, Training and Quality at Forbes Solicitors, said: “I am very pleased to champion the development of the Degree Level Apprenticeship. “The collaboration between industry and education is important and having an employer’s perspective in the design of the programme allows the skills needs of our region and the economy to be considered.” Caroline Bracewell, Academic Subject Leader for Business and Accounting at the University Centre at Blackburn College said: “We are very excited to be able to offer the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship.

"It is brilliant news for those wanting to reap the benefits of learning through an Apprenticeship, but graduate with a BA (Hons) Business Management with Leadership degree awarded by Lancaster University.

“Degree Level Apprenticeships are part of a wider Government initiative to support and enable the development of skills in the workplace as well as offer a greater variety of Higher Education options to students. “The programme

is aimed at developing confident, competent, forward-thinking managers using innovative teaching and learning methods, both in the University Centre at Blackburn College and in the workplace.”

12 AWARDS

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Innovative hi-tech company is the most inspiring business in Hyndburn The 2018 Hyndburn Business Awards winners The Beacon Award winner – Emerson and Renwick Ltd Large Business – sponsored by Haworths Chartered Accountants – winner CMAC Group Small Business – sponsored by North Lancs Training Group – winner Sundown Solutions Ltd MicroBusiness – sponsored by Business and Enterprise Trust – winner Pure Perfection (Accrington) Ltd Sole Trader – sponsored by Liz Pollard Consulting – winner Amelia’s Boutique New Business – sponsored by CMAC Group – winner Best Destinations Food Business – sponsored by WHN Solicitors – winner Perfect Plaice MORE than 270 people recently packed Accrington Town Hall for the glitzy Hyndburn Business Awards, presented by Liz Pollard of Liz Pollard Consulting. In their third year, the awards attracted a record 639 nominations and a cheer went up when Church based company, Emerson and Renwick Ltd, was announced as the winner of the Beacon Award. The team, led by Finance Director Andrew McLaughlan, was delighted to collect a bespoke crystal trophy, engraved by Alexis Valentine of Walking on Glass. Andrew said: “What makes this really special is the fact it is the centenary for our company.” In the past few years, the business has grown from a workforce of 120 to 160, with more than 90 per cent of its products exported all over the world, putting Hyndburn firmly on the map. Andrew added: “A key thing for us is that we are a local business, it doesn’t matter where we sell to, we are firstly a Hyndburn business and these awards are important for us to raise our profile.” The Evonne Harwood Event of the Year award, sponsored by the Accrington Observer, was presented by News Editor, Stuart Pike. The award pays tribute to the businesswoman who died last year and in whose honour it is named. The winner was decided by a public vote on Facebook and the J Drinkwater Tournament 2017, organised by Globe Bullough Park Football Club, was selected.

The event attracts 124 teams aged six to under 16 from across the country to play two hectic days of football. Next year is their 10th anniversary and Chairman Graham Roberts said: “It is an honest tournament and not all about winning. It is about children of all abilities being about to play football. This trophy is not for us, it is for all the children who play in the matches.” A lovely meal was provided by Accrington and Rossendale College, before the 17 trophies were handed out in a slick ceremony. Winning the Pride of Hyndburn Award was Accrington Lions Club and President May Edmundson, who hands over the chains next month to Richard Gibson, said it was the highlight of her year. She said: “For our club to win the Pride of Hyndburn Award is absolutely amazing. It will mean so much to our members who are always doing things for other people. It is very special.” Rob Carder, of awards’ organiser Enterprising People, said: “Each year, the awards get better and better and the entrepreneurship we discover in Hyndburn and the amazing success stories, make these awards extra special and a pleasure to organise.”

Creative Business – sponsored by Globe Enterprises – winner My Colourful Memories C.I.C. B2B – sponsored by lovelocalnetworking – winner CM Oxendale Ltd Tourism Business – sponsored by Oswaldtwistle Mills Business and Conference Centre – winner Haworth Art Gallery Independent Retailer – sponsored by North West Logistics Ltd – winner Wyvern Pharmacy Made In Hyndburn – sponsored by Sundown Solutions Ltd – winner Direct-ED Printing Services Customer Friendly Business – sponsored by The Cardboard Box Co – winner Rhoden Manor Cattery Not for Profit Award – winner Accrington Stanley Community Trust Apprenticeship – sponsored by AccRoss – winner Advocacy Focus Pride of Hyndburn – sponsored by Acorns of Lancashire – winner Accrington Lions Club The Evonne Harwood Event of the Year – sponsored by Accrington Observer – winner J Drinkwater Tournament 2017

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Awards

Sika celebrates young talent as sponsor of Construction Development awards CONSTRUCTION chemical specialist, Sika, continued their support for young talent, training, and apprenticeships in the construction sector, as headline sponsor for the Construction Development Alliance (CDA) Young Professionals Awards. The event took place against the heritage backdrop of Burnley Mechanics and was hosted by TV personality and gardening expert Charlie Dimmock, a great advocate of young talent within the construction industry. The event recognised the achievements of five outstanding candidates all between the ages of 16 and 25, who encapsulated the contribution of young people to the North West construction sector. The categories included ‘Overcoming Adversity in Construction’, ‘Young Designer of the Year’, ‘Young Construction Professional’, ‘Young Construction Environmentalist’, ‘Young Apprentice in Construction’; and for the first time in CDA history following a high level of entries, a highly commended was presented in the ‘Young Apprentice in Construction’ category. Rod Benson, Business Unit Manager for Sika, commented: “The CDA aims to support the growth of

the construction and property sectors in the North West, and generate opportunities for young people, helping them develop their talent and long-term careers. We share those same values and are delighted to be able to contribute and assist with this celebration of achievements for young construction professionals across all disciplines at this inspirational biennial event. “We’re very proud to support these awards, which will ensure that the CDA, as a not-for-profit organisation, can continue to raise the profile of its

sector and getting together to celebrate their achievements. Without Sika’s support these awards would not have been able to go ahead.” Charlie Dimmock discussed the need for the effective nurturing of up and coming talent and the importance of skills-based learning. Charlie, commented: “Nurturing young people, and supporting them as they develop their talent, is critical to any industry, and construction and property is a really exciting sector with a huge variety of professions on offer – including both gardening and roofing. Meeting with the young professionals at the awards, hearing their stories and understanding what it is that drives their passion and career ambitions was a real eye opener. I hope these five talented individuals are just the beginning for future talent coming up activities, and involvement in terms the ranks.” of maximising the potential of young Reid, added: “The event proved professionals in the construction and to be an inspiring evening celebrating property sector.” the very best of young talent in the The evening began with a North West’s construction and presentation from Reid Lewis, property sector and also provided an chairman at the CDA, who talked opportunity to raise funds for our about the importance of the awards chosen charity, which for 2018 is and the need to support young people the YMCA Blackburn. Through the within the sector. Reid commented: generous donations from supporters “Sika’s support as headline sponsor has and guests on the night we were able been invaluable over the past few years, to raise a staggering £1,684 and we and it was great to see companies across hope we can continue to raise a larger the construction and property delivery amount at the next awards ceremony in chain supporting young people in the 2020.

New business award for Velocity VELOCITY Composites plc, the leading supplier of advanced composite material kits, providing engineering value-solutions for the global aerospace industry, is pleased to announce that it has been notified of an award to supply its composite material kits to a new customer based in continental Europe. The customer is a Tier 1 manufacturer of component parts for the Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion (“LEAP”) engines used on the latest generation of single aisle aircraft, including the Airbus A320 NEO

and Boeing 737 Max platforms. Following receipt of this award, manufacturing will now commence, with the finalisation of the Long Term Agreement between the parties, to be concluded shortly, which will run through to December 2020. It is envisaged that work on LEAP engines under this agreement could contribute up to $6m to Velocity’s revenues over this period. Jon Bridges, Chief Executive Officer of Velocity, said: This new business award on the largest and

fastest growing engine programme in the world is a significant win in its own right. In addition, with the work being based in continental Europe, this further enhances Velocity’s growth into this territory, and will be a contributing programme for a new manufacturing site for Velocity in mainland Europe. Until the Company determines the right time and location for this site to be established, the composite material kits will be supplied from Velocity’s UK sites.”

Awards July 2018

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Recycling Lives named Sunday Times’ One To Watch RECYCLING LIVES’ impressive growth and unique business model has seen it named by The Sunday Times as the One to Watch. The recycling and waste management business was handed the One to Watch award by the newspaper at a celebration of fast-growing firms in London on June 7. It had been highlighted as one of 10 national businesses considered ones to watch back in April, alongside The Sunday Times’ annual Profit Track 100 league table, ranking the 100 British businesses

with fast-growing profits. It was also ranked #98 in the newspaper’s International Track 200, ranking the 200 mid-market businesses with fast-growing international sales. Headquartered in Preston with nine sites nationwide, Recycling Lives recorded 47% growth in sales in 2016/17, to £46.5m. Contributing to this sales growth was a 49% growth in international sales, to £20.5m – seeing the business winning a Queen’s Award for International Trade earlier this year. It is unique in using its

commercial operations to support and sustain social programmes, working to redistribute food to charities and community groups, rehabilitate offenders through training and employment, and support the homeless through accommodation, training and employment. William Fletcher, managing director of Recycling Lives, said: “We’re changing the way business is done by showing a company can deliver real social impact without compromising on the commercials – in fact, our unique social

programmes have helped to accelerate our growth. We’re proud to be recognised for the way we do business – where both commercial success and social impact are considered in equal measure.” Other winners on the night included e-commerce company The Hut Group, awarded for value creation, bed retailer Dreams, named fastest-growing company, and restaurant chain Turtle Bay, named best emerging brand. After dinner speaker James Timpson OBE, CEO of retailer Timpson,

which runs its own programmes offering opportunities to ex-offenders, talked about developing a “culture of kindness” in his business.

Lancashire Business Award winners announced Male Networker of the Year 2018 Guy Shorrock – Just Construction & Property Networking Female Networker of the Year 2018 Gail Simpson – UCLan Employer of the Year 2018 The Calico Group Employee of the Year 2018 Loredana Emmerson- CoolKit Ltd Newcomer of the Year 2018 Get Staffed UK

Downtown Lancashire in Business The big winners on the evening celebrated the very best of the Red were Daniel Fisher from Tienda Rose county at the 10th annual Digital, who walked away with the Lancashire Business Awards, sponsored CEO Award, John Chesworth from by Liverpool John Lennon Airport, on Harrison Drury Solicitors, who was Thursday 21 June 2018. the Business Personality of the Year The gala dinner, which took place 2018 and Recycling Lives won the at the Stanley House Hotel & Spa, Contribution to Lancashire award. attracted over 200 business leaders to Other winners included Business celebrate the best of the Lancashire Lancashire, B&M Waste Services, Business community. UCLan, RSM UK and NatWest. Frank McKenna CEO of Downtown in Business commented: “The Lancashire Business Awards are always a great night, and this year was no exception. We had an exceptional group of winners, which was fitting as the awards were being hosted for the tenth year, and I believe the 2018 nominations demonstrated the strength and resilience of the county’s business community.”

PR & Marketing Agency of the Year 2018 Business Lancashire – Published by The Samuel James Group Digital Agency of the Year 2018 Twentyone Agency

Property Business of the Year 2018 Cassidy + Ashton Recruitment Company of the Year 2018 Reed Global Customer Focussed Business of the Year 2018 PNG Digital Ltd Hospitality Venue of the Year 2018 The Villa Italian Hotel of the Year 2018 The Villa Wrea Green Business Enabler of the Year 2018 Neil Welsh – PM+M Accountants Business of the Year 2018

Social Media Presence of the Year 2018 Izzy Durose – Izzy Durose Photography

B&M Waste Services

Legal Company of the Year 2018 Harrison Drury Solicitors

Business Personality of the Year 2018

Accountancy Firm of the Year 2018 RSM UK

Solicitors

Business Bank of the Year 2018 NatWest

CEO Award 2018 Daniel Fisher – Tienda Digital John Chesworth – Harrison Drury Contribution to Lancashire 2018 Recycling Lives

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Alpha Pest Control celebrates its silver anniversary PRESTON based, Alpha Pest Control, has celebrated 25 years of service to the pest control industry, with a surprise event in London for employees and key national subcontractors, including representatives from Rokill, CSS Pest Control and West One Pest Control. Established in 1993, the family business has a dedicated team of highly

qualified pest controllers, who provide a quality service to deal with issues relating to birds, rodents, insects, moles and many other pest species. The pest control specialists also install bird proofing, as well as electric fly killers, fly screens, and conduct specialist cleaning. Mike Flynn, Managing Director, Alpha Pest Control is also celebrating

40 years in the sector and he commented: “It was an honour to celebrate our silver anniversary with the core people who have made us successful. During this time, our family run business has steadily grown to be one of the leading pest control firms in Lancashire. “The surprise event was fantastic, especially since everyone thought

they were going for fish and chips, so were shocked when it turned out to be at the Savoy hotel!! The surprises continued when director Mark Sheals announced that to recognise the contribution that every employee has made, everyone will be paid a bonus of £25 for every year of service. “We now look forward to celebrating more anniversaries and continuing to keep our customers and businesses free of pests.”

Bates Box lands first contract

BURNLEY based, Bates Box, has received its first major order following the firm’s recent launch. This order from Inverness based, I-Light, will see Bates Box supply two bespoke power distribution units for a catering event. Bates Box offers a lightweight and efficient power distribution solution, compliant with all U.K and European regulations, for a variety of applications across many sectors, including T.V & film, catering, oil & gas and theatre. Their weather resistant and stackable boxes

provide up to 16 power outlets in a single unit, made from recycled material. Paul Bates, Founder, Bates Box, said: “We’re excited to be fulfilling our first order, especially since the units will provide safe, robust and effective power distribution for the caterers.” Stephen Leslie, Owner, I-Light, added: “We’re delighted to be dealing with Bates Box. Their quality power distribution units and excellent customer service really impressed us and we look forward to using them again in the future.”

New IT Recruitment Division launched in Burnley A NEW IT Recruitment Division, on behalf of GTL Europe, has been recently launched in Burnley, by local IT recruitment expert, Mike Steel. His aim is to create, from scratch, a new Division of approximately ten consultants. GTL Europe is part of The Global Group, a leading business group focused on network services and shared telecom infrastructure. Its service

offerings revolve around networks and network related services for operators and OEMs. Their services are extensively used by fixed line telecom carriers, OEMs and leading corporates in UK, Ireland and mainland Europe. Commented Mike: “GTL Europe offers managed services to the telecoms and utilities sectors and I am delighted to be setting up their first IT Recruitment Division, outside their

head office in Cambridgeshire. “Burnley is one of Lancashire’s main technology and digital hubs and I am certain that there will be a number of vibrant, tech savvy, digital practitioners, who will be interested in working with us and even helping me to set up other targeted locations, such as Leeds and Manchester, in the future. “We are keen to develop strong links with local IT & Telecoms firms

who are struggling to source suitable candidates and are looking for a consultative recruitment partner to help build their success.” “As well as this exciting IT recruitment brief, candidates with skill sets in software development, network engineering and digital marketing, should contact me for a discussion on how we can help secure them new roles with local IT & Digital businesses.

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Business Support July 2018

Root Fifty Two celebrates 10th anniversary with a series of fundraising activities BURNLEY based marketing agency, Root Fifty Two, is celebrating its 10th year in business by conducting a series of fundraising activities for Pendleside Hospice. Established in 2008, the marketing specialist offers a range of solutions, incorporating web design, graphics design and digital marketing. The company’s portfolio of clients includes Fagan & Whalley, Petty Estate Agents, DRN Solicitors and Insignety. To raise vital funds for Pendleside Hospice, Root Fifty Two has created a non-for-profit magazine and all money raised through sponsorship will go to the charity. Other fundraising ideas include a World Cup online prediction competition, in which half of the winnings will go the hospice and the agency is taking part in the Pendleside Hospice Pendle Pub Walk. Kimberley Thompson, Director, Root Fifty Two, said: “We are ecstatic to be celebrating 10 years in business. From humble beginnings, we now have an innovative and friendly team of six and work with some of the region’s biggest companies. “We are committed to giving back to the community that has welcomed us so warmly and it is appropriate that we are celebrating our 10th birthday by raising vital funds for Pendleside Hospice, through a range of initiatives.”

MCK Contract Services celebrates exceptional first 18 months

BURNLEY based, MCK Contract Services Ltd. is celebrating a stellar 18 months of trading. The construction specialist has been involved in over 200 projects since its inception, including high profile, multi-million-pound projects incorporating hydro-electric stations, airport works, sports stadiums and leisure facilities. Founded in 2016 by Michael Preston and based at Burnley Football Club’s Business Hub, MCK Contract Services offers a range of construction based services, including project management, quantity surveying, health and safety audits, pre-qualification questionnaires, tendering and estimating. Key projects they have worked on recently include the construction of a new 11kv switchroom in Rochdale, construction of a haulage yard at Board 24 in Longridge, minor works framework at United Utilities, tenders and estimating services for Accrington Stanley`s new stand and playing field upgrades adjacent to Liverpool FC`s training facility. The firm has

also worked on a series of projects with blue-chip companies such as BAE Systems and Electricity Northwest. Michael Preston, Founder, MCK Contract Services, said: “The first 18 months of trading for MCK Contract Services have significantly exceeded our expectations, both in terms of the blue-chip companies we are involved with, as well as the range of exciting, high-profile projects across the UK. “Working on more than 200 projects clearly highlights that MCK Contract Services has the reputation, capabilities and skill sets to be a high-quality service provider, across a range of disciplines in the construction sector. “With more than 30 years of experience in the construction industry, my portfolio of contacts has proven invaluable. We owe a lot of our success to the relationships we’ve formed across the industry. Demand for our services is increasing day by day as our reputation becomes more established, as the go-to specialist provider in the industry.”

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It’s Go, Go, Go as TeamSport Indoor Karting opens in Preston A BRAND new leisure activity comes to Bamber Bridge as TeamSport Indoor Karting opened its doors to the public on Saturday 16 June. The UK’s leading operator has transformed a unit on the Walton Summit Centre into a state of the art indoor karting venue that’s all set to become a firm favourite with thrill seekers and motor enthusiasts. Race goers have a choice of not one, but three professionally designed tracks to kart on, as two multilevel circuits cleverly join to create a third awesome 800m circuit. With challenging corners, jaw dropping ramps and insanely quick straights, race goers are guaranteed a fun time. TeamSport has invested £1.5m converting the unit, ensuring the venue can cater for everyone; from meeting rooms for corporate teambuilding days to childrens' party rooms and comfortable spectator areas. There’s also a fully licensed snack bar offering hot and cold drinks and a range of pizzas, perfect for refuelling after a few quick laps out on track and celebrating the top spot

on the podium! Dominic Gaynor, Managing Director of TeamSport Karting said; “We’re delighted to be opening our latest centre in Bamber Bridge. It’s a great location and is easy to access from both the City and surrounding motorways. The new team are really looking forward to welcoming race goers to the track. “We’ve a range of race events that caters for everyone, so whether you’re a karting newbie or promising F1 superstar, there’s a race format perfect for you. We’ve also just launched our new Cadet Academy which offers tuition for kids aged 8-16 years to help develop them into advanced racers. “As a hobby, we’re seeing indoor karting growing in popularity across all ages and to support this we run offers such as half price mid-week karting and discounts for students, along with our exclusive Grid Membership. To coincide with our launch of TeamSport Preston, we are offering a special rate of £25 per person on selected events until the end of July.”

Apollo Energy wins Government supplier status APOLLO Energy has been included in the Crown Commercial Service’s three-year framework agreement for Energy Management. The Euxton based business, which provides trusted utility services to public and private sector clients across the UK, has been included in the new three-year framework to support organisations in monitoring and controlling utility usage and costs. The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) helps Government, public and third sector organisations such as hospital trusts, schools, prisons and administrative centres buy common goods and services. Organisations will be able to access Apollo’s Bureau Services under the new framework agreement including Bill Validation and Query Management, Tenant Billing, Budget Forecasting, Analysis and Reporting, Carbon/ Compliance Reporting, Supplier Liaison and Project Tracking. Apollo has been providing trusted utility management services to public and private sector clients across the UK for almost 18 years. Its portfolio includes end-to-end utility management from procurement

for gas, electricity, water and telecoms to Site Works and Bureau Services. Led by Directors, Jackie and Eddie Gray, Apollo employs a team of 17 and is a founding member of the Utilities Intermediaries Association. It jointly holds the number one spot for its services to commercial and industrial clients in an index of Third Party Intermediaries by leading industry commentator, Cornwall Energy. Eddie, said: “Apollo Energy works in partnership with a wide range of private and public sector clients and we are absolutely delighted to have been featured on the CCS’s framework agreement. “Our team is extremely well placed to deliver these services and it’s great that an SME organisation like ourselves has been recognised by the Government’s CCS. “Being included in the new framework means we have an excellent opportunity to strengthen our work with public sector organisations and we’re looking forward to sharing our expertise and capabilities to generate efficiencies and value."

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Business Support July 2018

Stanley House unveils wedding investment programme STANLEY House Hotel and Spa, Mellor, has completed its latest fivefigure renovation project, transforming its largest function suite into a chic and sumptuous venue for weddings and other events. The award-winning hotel’s investment has seen the complete renovation of The Barn to create a bright, welcoming space that gleams with soft natural light and is large enough to be partitioned into two selfcontained rooms. In addition, the lobby of the Grade II listed Manor House has been tastefully renovated in keeping with last year’s improvements, which also saw the investment of a five-figure sum. The restoration of The Barn’s authentic rustic charm saw the hotel working closely for a second time with renowned Lake District-based interior designer, Sarah Jane Nielsen. The newly renovated space provides

a graceful, subtle palette for weddings, along with a broad range of social

events, such as gala dinners, charity fundraisers, exhibitions, conferences,

and corporate occasions. Philip Wharton, general manager at Stanley House Hotel and Spa, commented: “This most recent programme of works reflects our family’s passion and commitment to provide an unrivalled service and truly memorable experience for all our guests. The investment reaffirms that Stanley House truly is a destination of choice in the North. We’ve given guided tours to our forthcoming brides and grooms and we’re proud to see the joy on their faces. “The Barn project has created a space that reflects what modern brides want most of all from a venue – neutral colours, with soft light and an air of understated luxury. “Our guests have been deeply impressed by the way the main window is now a major feature that creates a space that fills with natural light. We’ve also added an expanse of mirrors and chandeliers to create the sense of a large room designed in the grand style. As a result, brides can use the Barn as the perfect canvas for their wedding designs.”

Rosebud helps create over 40 new jobs at Lancashire businesses Rosebud Finance – which provides growth funding for businesses in the county – helped to create over 40 jobs in the year to the end of March 2018. Rosebud provided loans totalling almost £1.3m to six Lancashire businesses during the year to support their expansion plans, which in turn helped them to raise a further £590,000 in finance from other sources. The figures come from Mercia Fund Managers, which manages Rosebud on behalf of Lancashire County Developments Limited (LCDL) – the economic development arm of Lancashire County Council. The companies helped include Lancashire Waste Recycling in Fleetwood, which is investing the money in new plant to enable it to become the first in the UK to manufacture solid renewable fuel pellets, which are increasingly being used to replace coal in heavy industry. The project will create 15 new jobs. True Bearing Chartered Financial Planners, which is based in Euxton and is one of the North’s leading firms of Independent Financial Advisers (IFAs), has secured funding to invest in new technology and create six new job. Rosebud Finance will allow RCS Doors in Rawtenstall, which supplies roller shutters and garage doors, to double the floorspace at its factory, creating four new jobs, while Leyland-based QiSOFT, whose quality management software is used by bluechip customers worldwide, will use the funds to develop new mobile applications and next-generation software.

Peter Rooney, Investment Manager at Mercia Fund Managers, said: “Rosebud Finance remains an important tool to support business growth and job creation throughout Lancashire, especially for those firms that are struggling to obtain finance from the banks. In some cases, securing Rosebud Finance can help unlock finance from other sources or it can be used to invest alongside other public funds such as the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, allowing companies to access even greater sums to support their expansion plans.” County Councillor Michael Green, Cabinet member for economic development, environment and planning, said: “This is exactly the purpose of Rosebud. It shows the breadth and depth of companies we’ve supported in the past year including manufacturers, financial services, a company producing specialized software for industry, and other sectors. “Rosebud has created and supported high-quality skilled jobs in the county, which creates an uplift in the Lancashire economy. Many of these companies are also exporting across the world, which show the quality of their work, their products and services.”

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Funded support boosts Cookson & Clegg’s workforce A LANCASHIRE clothing manufacturer has benefitted from a funded support programme which is helping businesses across the county recruit new staff and achieve growth. Blackburn-based Cookson & Clegg has taken on a new employee thanks to Access to Employment (AtoE), through support from Bootstrap Enterprises. AtoE provides Lancashire businesses with access to potential candidates to help support objectives and achieve growth, in addition to pre-employment training. It is delivered through the Lancashire Employment and Skills Executive Partnership’s (LESEP) network of partners located across the county. Cookson & Clegg was founded in Blackburn in 1860 and produces garments for several of the UK’s leading clothing brands, including Marks and Spencer and Burberry. Its services include pattern cutting, digitising and grading, sampling and bulk manufacturing. After being unemployed for five months and suffering from low confidence, 20-year-old Lee

Rogers from Darwen embarked upon a six-week pre-employment warehousing course, arranged by Bootstrap and delivered at Accrington and Rossendale College. The course equipped Lee with the basic skills required to work in a warehouse environment, including how to check deliveries, monitoring the arrival of fabric and materials and preparing delivery notes, as well as basic employability skills. Lee then began an eight-week work placement at Cookson & Clegg’s factory warehouse in Shadsworth, where he gained industry experience and developed new skills, including picking and packing and operating fabric cutting machinery. Upon completion of the work experience placement, Lee accepted the offer of a full-time position within the company’s warehouse. Victoria Grant, operations director at Cookson & Clegg, said: “We’ve previously struggled to find candidates through traditional recruitment means, so Access to Employment has been great. As an employer, it’s important for us to be able to create

jobs for local people and the programme has helped us to do that. “One of the main benefits of AtoE is that as an employer, we can decide what skills we want potential new employees to be equipped with, so preemployment training programmes can be tailored to your own business needs. “Lee showed great willingness to learn and a positive attitude, and we have a dedicated, hardworking member of staff whose confidence is building all the time. I’m looking forward to seeing him progress as we continue to grow the business.” Lee added: “After being out of work for five months, I’m happy I can now say I am part of a work family. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do before I went on the pre-employment course, but the support and guidance I’ve had has been great.” LESEP secured £6.7million in November 2016 from the Education and Skills Funding Agency (SFA) and European Social Fund (ESF) to deliver AtoE, through its delivery partner network. Preston’s College is the lead accountable body for AtoE.

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32Red becomes new Principal Partner of Preston North End PRESTON North End has come to an agreement with 32Red to become the club’s new principal partner. The 32Red logo will proudly take pride of place on the front of all of the Lilywhites’ first team Nike kits for the forthcoming season, as well as all adult replica shirts. Preston North End supporters had their first

chance to see the kit as unveiled in the kit launch video. In addition, this partnership with the club will provide 32Red, the UK’s multiple award-winning online casino, with a platform at Deepdale to further increase awareness of their brand. The club’s chief executive John Kay, said: “We are

Business Support July 2018 delighted and excited to be partnering with 32Red. This is a fantastic opportunity to cultivate a new relationship with a market leader in their field. “We have agreed a two-year deal with the option of a third year, which provides us a great opportunity to develop the relationship for the benefit of both parties and our supporters. “32Red is a forward-thinking brand with a proven track record of sponsoring high-profile football clubs and we are thrilled that they will be Preston North End principal partner for the next few years. “We look forward to building a strong relationship between our two brands on and off the field.” Neil Banbury, General Manager UK at 32Red, said: “32Red is delighted to add Preston North End to our partnerships for next season. “The club is steeped in history like no other and it will be an honour to associate our 32Red brand with PNE, who are founding members of the Football League. “32Red has a long and successful history in football sponsorships and will look to bring the excitement and entertainment the brand is built on to the fans, a momentous 130 years after William Sudell’s ‘Invincibles’.”

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Levity CropScience appoints distributor in the Philippines BILSBORROW-BASED, Levity CropScience, has appointed a distributor, Farmland Agriland Corp, in the Philippines, giving the Southeast Asian island access to its innovative products. Farmland Agriland Corp, based in Mindanao, will distribute five Levity products: Indra, Albina, Damu, Sulis and Lono. Agriculture is one of the most prominent industries in the Philippines, employing 32% of the population and producing 11% of the nation’s GDP. Levity is currently running trails across the largest banana plantation on the Philippine island of Mindanao, spanning more than 400,000 hectares and producing over nine million tons of bananas each year. The agricultural specialist’s products will also be used

with pineapples and other fruit and vegetables at plantations across the Philippines. “We are excited to be offering our products in the Philippines” said Anna Weston, Co-Managing Director, LevityCropScience, “It’s a very big agricultural market and our distributor, Farmland Agriland Corp, is very well connected in the region. “Farmers across the country will benefit from Levity’s research backed smart fertilisers, which help improve crop resilience and help attain greater yields for growers.” Jennifer Subang, Farmland Agriland Corp, added: “Levity CropScience’s help produce larger and more resilient innovative products are sure to make yields on bananas and other crops life easier for growers across the across international markets." Philippines. The fertilisers, in trials, The Philippines increases Levity have already proven their ability to

CropScience’s continuously growing list of export nations, including the United Arab Emirates, USA, Ghana and Egypt.

TISS continues global expansion with Indian joint venture TISS Ltd, the world’s leading authority on fuel security and siphoning, has announced the launch of a joint venture company in India named TISSKGK Security Systems Pvt. Ltd. The announcement comes as TISS also reveals that during the last 12 months over 180,000 TATA vehicles in India have been fitted with the TankSafe® anti-siphon, due to an OEM factory-fit production agreement with the Indian vehicle manufacturing giant. Over the past two years, fuel security experts at TISS and its joint venture partners KGK Engineering have been working on a TankSafe® device which can meet the demands of an expanding Indian market.

Ryan Wholey, CEO for TISS Ltd, said: “We are delighted to sign a joint venture partnership with KGK Engineering. India, like many countries, relies heavily on its commercial vehicle market and we intend to use this new company to extend our market reach throughout India and beyond.” Ashok Rao, Managing Director of KGK Engineering, added: “As soon as we met with TISS, we knew their TankSafe® anti-siphon was a gamechanger for the commercial vehicle market in India. “We look forward to working with the TISS team to provide fuel security and safety to thousands of vehicles across the country.”

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Acquisition of Ted Carter Fishing Tackle Angling Direct Plc (AIM: ANG.L), the largest specialist fishing tackle and equipment retailer in the UK, is pleased to announce that it has acquired the stock, fixtures and fittings, and goodwill of Ted Carter Fishing Tackle for a total consideration of £125,000 payable in cash, plus stock at valuation. The Directors believe the total consideration values the business at approximately two times annual profits / EBITDA, taking into account the economies of scale and best practises the company will implement upon acquisition. In the year to 31st March 2018, Ted Carter Fishing Tackle generated revenues of c.£1.2 million. Ted Carter Fishing Tackle is situated in Preston, easily accessible from major motorways and offers free car parking next door. Located near to key angling venues, which have supported the growth of the company over the last 50 years, this business has been a key influencer for many anglers in Preston and the surrounding area. The store is approximately 3,000 sq ft, with a very well-presented range of angling equipment covering all disciplines of fishing. The store will be re-branded upon acquisition as Angling Direct Preston. This latest acquisition will increase Angling Direct’s presence in the North West of the country, with other stores to follow soon, and takes the

total number of destination stores to 22. Darren Bailey, CEO of Angling Direct, commented: “Ted Carter Fishing Tackle is a very well established and successful business, with a loyal customer base and knowledgeable team. We expect the acquisition will be earnings enhancing from day one and validates Angling Direct’s long-term strategy – to consolidate the fishing tackle market, whilst expanding our business through acquisition into new areas of the country with a strong angling demographic.” Nick Carter, Managing Director of Ted Carter Fishing Tackle, commented: “We are delighted that a well established business, with similar values to ours, will be taking over Ted Carter. Like us, Angling Direct is committed to providing a best-in class service to all customers and this deal will transform the future prospects for both Ted Carter and its employees. “Angling Direct has an exceptional track record and, having seen how it cares for its customers and staff, we feel that they are by far the best operator to take the business forward. “I would like to thank everybody involved in Ted Carter from the loyal staff and customers, right through to the suppliers, and we look forward to watching the business thrive under Angling Direct.”

Update on acquisition of Xcina Consulting Shearwater Group plc, the digital resilience group, has announced that its portfolio company, Xcina Consulting, who has an office in Preston, has won in excess of 30 new customers since the Group acquired the business in July 2017, which have already generated £1 million in incremental revenues for the business. Prior to acquisition, Xcina Consulting (formerly Newable Consulting) was generating £2.4 million of revenue and was loss making at the EBITDA level. The attraction for the Group was the quality of the incoming team and the opportunity to scale the business. Following the addition of these new client contract wins to existing revenues, the Company is delighted to report that the business is now trading profitability on a reported basis at the EBITDA level and is ahead of the Board’s expectations. As a result of this growth, the business has opened its first international office in the US, which will enable the Xcina Consulting team to better serve its current and prospective multinational clients. Michael (Mo) Stevens, Group Chief Executive Officer of Shearwater, said: “We are thrilled with the substantial progress Xcina Consulting has made since joining the Group. Delivering £1 million worth of new business and becoming profitable in less than a year is a tremendous achievement for Mark and the team, and we are delighted the benefits of accessing the wider Shearwater Group infrastructure are being realised so early on.” Mark Child, Executive Managing Director of Xcina Consulting, added: “The market for business and technology risk assurance and advisory services is rapidly evolving and we are really excited about the expansion of our capability beyond traditional GRC services, which is enabling us to meet the digital, operational and regulatory resilience requirements of our growing client base.”

BiBAs FINALISTS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT

The one they all want to win

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Foreward from Babs Murphy, Chief Executive, North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce The BiBAs (Be Inspired Business Awards) is run by the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce – a not for profit organisation. The BiBAs is one of the most rigorously judged businesses awards programmes in the country and has a recognised and enviable reputation as ‘the one they all want to win’. And to win, you have to prove you are the best. The BiBAs is more than just a trophy for our winners, it is evidence of their success and as a result we do not pick our winners from a simple application. The meticulous approach of our judging process, the BiBAs Winners’ Academy and the national profile of the event means those entrepreneurs that take part in the BiBAs take their minds and business to another level. This year, as in previous years, the 2018 finalists have undergone scrutiny of their application, an interview with a fully trained judging panel, and a visit by the judges to their premises. Our unique BiBAs 'on tour' sessions allow the finalists to show exactly what their business is all about and lets our judges get under-the-skin of our applicants in a way you never could through an interview. The judging process is tough, the standards are high and not many businesses join this elite network of finalists and winners. So when we announce our winners at our ceremony in September, they will all have truly earned their place in the elite club of BiBAs winners.

The BiBAs The largest and longest running awards programme in the county, The Be Inspired Business Awards (BiBAs) celebrates the very best of business in Lancashire. Held annually since 2006, The BiBAs is organised annually by the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, with 18 awards up for grabs, ranging from Employer of the Year to Lancastrian of the Year. The awards ceremony is not only an opportunity to put a spotlight on the leading lights of Lancashire’s business community, it is also one of the top social occasions in the county’s business calendar.

BiBAs FINALISTS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT

The event welcomes some of the biggest names from the county’s business community, as well as from the world of entertainment. Previous guest speakers include Eamonn Holmes, Stephanie Beacham and Simon Callow, while entertainment has been provided by Russell Watson, Peter Andre, The Overtones, and Westlife/Boyzone. As with previous years, the winners of this year’s BiBAs will be automatically enrolled into the BiBAs Winner’s Academy, an exciting and exclusive programme delivered in partnership with UCLan and MHA Moore and Smalley. The winners will have the option to attend leadership masterclasses, growth workshops, business site visits and to be part of The Academy of Alumni, a forum bringing past winners together to learn and grow together.

Ballpark Engineering1 celebrates 30 years in business Ballpark Engineering

BALLPARK ENGINEERING Ltd, based in Barrowford, has recently celebrated its 30th anniversary and is renowned throughout the motorsport industry. “We are only a team of five” said owner, Ian Parkington “but we are one of the few remaining companies who can reverse engineer patterns, produce castings and then machine a finished component all within our own facility, usually at short notice" . “We have built our reputation by supporting motorsport companies, who participate in the World Endurance Championship and also the American IMSA series, which includes the world famous 24-hour race at Le Mans and the Daytona 24- hour. Clients include Ford, Mazda and Aston Martin to name just a few. “I race myself and love the passion and excitement associated with the sport, I understand the need for a quality product, produced to a tight deadline. There is usually only a short window between races in which to get parts manufactured and back on the

car. That’s when my team come into their own! “In fact, our motorsport business, which is 60% of our revenue, grew out of us making parts for our own historic race cars and then fellow competitors asking us to do similar work for them.” Ballpark Engineering Ltd also manufacture the T& K Mechanical Lubricator, which was invented in 1910, to provide oil to lubricate dry bearings. They can be found on steam railway engines, traction engines,large compressors and even submarines. “We acquired the patents in 2004 and now export world wide to countries such as, Australia, Canada, Belgium and France. The business is steadily growing and represents about 20% of our revenue.” “We are delighted to have been selected as finalists in the Engineering Business of the Year category of the 2018 BiBAs. It is a reflection on all the hard work and customer service we have focused on over many years and I would like to thank my team for all their efforts.”

Design & Development Engineers

Proud to be a finalist in the We have over 30 years of BIBA awards Engineering expertise in the design and manufacture of high precision Business of the Year

engineered components for the Ballpark Engineering Ltd share Motorsport, Automotive and Oil our customers passionate desire and Gas sectors. to come out on top. Ballpark Engineering Ltd Ridgaling Farm, Pasture Lane, Barrowford, Lancashire, BB9 6RA T: 01282 616497 www.ballparkengineering.com

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PAKAWASTE BIBA 2018 FINALIST Pakawaste are back at the BIBA’s and this time have successfully secured three finalist positions for the BIBA’s Engineering Business of the Year, Service Business of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year Award 2018. The BIBA awards are a completely independent award programme celebrating business excellence across a wide range of disciplines. They are recognised both locally and nationally and are organised by North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce. The BIBA programme in Lancashire is the region’s leading business awards competition, highlighting the best in Lancashire business and offering businesses and individuals the opportunity to win a prestigious BIBA in their chosen category. Finalists will gather for a gala awards ceremony at Blackpool Tower on Friday 14th September 2018 when the winners will be announced. Over the next couple of weeks, we will be visited by the official panel of BIBA judges. This will give us the chance to demonstrate how we work as a business and what our company does. Once they have gained a better understanding of Pakawaste, we hope that they will award us with these highly prestigious awards. David Hamer, Pakawaste’s CEO commented, “As always, the BIBA’s has attracted an extraordinary level of entries from some of Lancashire’s top performing companies, so we are very pleased to have been selected as a finalist in three categories. We hope to demonstrate the technological and engineering advances that keeps Pakawaste at the forefront of the industry with our ability to listen to and deliver on a customer’s specific requirements, on spec, on budget and on time.” Pakawaste is a forward-thinking company that displays a continual commitment to recognised best practice, innovative business processes and overall high-quality manufacturing and customer focused service - qualities Pakawaste hope the award process will identify.

Pakawaste offers the largest range of waste handling equipment in the UK and is constantly pushing the boundaries of research and development enabling it to continually update its extensive portfolio of products to provide clients with the latest cutting-edge technology in waste handling solutions. For further information on Pakawaste Ltd go to www.pakawaste.co.uk

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h t t p s : / / w w w. p a k a w a s t e . c o. u k

Pakawaste Ltd, Rough Hey Road, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 5AR T: 01772 796688 F: 01772 792474 E: sales@pakawaste.co.uk

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Local Investment Firm Enjoys Recognition How does a local investment firm have over £134 million in investments in its first seven years, be recognised by the UK's leading consumer website for sustainable investing, and be shortlisted for two categories at the 2018 BIBA Awards? Pennine Wealth Solutions (PWS) do this by taking advantage of being local. Our head office is in Chorley, where as traditionally, investment managers are based in London and Edinburgh. We take pride in being able to offer investors the opportunity to attend quarterly investment seminars. They get to meet face to face and question the portfolio managers who look after their investments. These seminars take place at different locations throughout the North West every 13 weeks and attract over 100 attendees to each seminar. The number of people we have attending the seminars shows how valuable they are to the investors and the team at PWS.

One range of portfolios that PWS launched in 2016 focuses on positive investing. Do Good, Avoid Bad, Make Money. In April 2018, PWS was awarded the Good Egg Mark from Good with Money. Good With Money is the UK’s first responsible finance website providing consumers with information about sustainable financial products. Over the past 18 months, PWS has been working hard to educate financial advisers about the benefits and opportunities of sustainable investing. Having this mark will reassure financial advisers of the lengths we have gone to, to provide positive investments solutions for their clients. This year PWS entered the BIBAS for the first time, and we are delighted to have been shortlisted as finalists for two categories, Professional Service Business of the year and Micro Business of the year. We feel that all PWS has to offer to an investor and the recognition we have gained this year, just goes to show that you can compete against the big investments house based in the cities, and that being local to your investors can only be a good thing.

Please note that Pennine Wealth Solutions is only accessible via your Financial Adviser. If you would like more information, please call 0844 770 7721 or contact Sean Fisher on 07583 241668 or e-mail sean.fisher@penninewealthsolutions.co.uk

Simon Rigby is the BiBAs’ Lancastrian of the Year At the 2017 BiBAs the entrepreneur behind the regeneration of Preston city centre was handed a lifetime achievement award. Simon Rigby, whose property empire includes the city’s Guild Hall, collected the Lancastrian of the Year award. The businessman, who was born in to a farming family on the Fylde, has a diverse business portfolio including green energy and care homes, and has been credited with the revival of the Preston Guild Hall and bought a number of other properties in the city including Five’s bar and the Guild Tower office block. The night’s other winners included CoolKit, the Burnley refrigerated van specialist, picked up the Business of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year prizes, with Preston-based Sunshine Events also walking award with the Employer of the Year and Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility awards. Francis Egan, chief executive at headline sponsor Cuadrilla Resources, said the calibre of finalists for the awards’ 18 prizes highlighted the depth of quality within Lancashire’s economy. He said: “It as inspiring to see so many businesses and the individuals behind them being recognised for their

enthusiasm, innovation and sheer hard work at the BiBAs. “My congratulations go out to everyone who made it to The Blackpool Tower for another fantastic night, every one of them is playing a crucial role in ensuring the economy of Lancashire continues to thrive. “With the mark of quality which being a BiBA winner brings, I have no doubt those who walked away with trophies will continue to deliver growth, jobs and investment for the county.” Actor Nigel Havers was the host for the evening with pop stars Bryan McFadden and Shane Duffy, who were part of record-breaking boy bands Westlife and Boyzone, entertaining the crowd after the awards. The other winners on the night include Chelsey-Marie Baldwin, the Blackpool-based former gymnast who was forced to retire from the sport aged just 17, and has gone on to set up her own academy teaching young people in South Shore. She was supported in getting her business underway by a grant from the BiBAs Foundation, a charity set up by the awards which provides grants in support of enterprising initiatives by young people in the county.

Ashley Hackett, CEO of the Blackpool FC Community Trust, was the other individual winner picking up the Business Person of the Year award. Chorley-based Scorpion Automotive was named Exporter of the Year, Lancaster’s Hotfoot Design picked up the Creative Business of the Year prize and Chorley lightning firm Fourth Wall Solutions was the winner of the New Business of the Year category.

Delighted to be a finalist in the micro business and transport business of the year categories

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BiBAs Foundation The BiBAs Foundation, managed by the Community Foundation for Lancashire, was created to develop an enterprising culture in the youth of Lancashire, enabling young people aged 16-24 to flourish, learn and develop business skills or knowledge; continue or expand their enterprising work and to build their capacity for the future. The Foundation is supported by BAE Systems, who employ more than 10,000 people in its military aircraft business in the county. Dave Holmes, Manufacturing Operations Director at BAE Systems, chairs the panel which decides which applications are successful, from the many submitted to the Foundation. The panel also includes BiBAs 2015 Lancastrian of the Year, Ian Hall, and representatives from the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce and the Community Foundation of Lancashire. The Foundation makes grants, based on funds provided from a combination of business and personal donations, prize draw money and the net surplus from the annual BiBAs. The grants facilitate the developing of young people skills and confidence through training and development, qualifications, educational visits, business start-up costs, mentoring and consultancy.

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The BiBAs Business of the Year UtiliGroup Better2Know Cutting Edge Services Flavour Warehouse Roccia Sundown Solutions Suresite Group Winter Gardens Blackpool

Exporter of the Year Ainscough Wind Energy Better2Know Currency Matters First Trace Heating Flavour Warehouse Group55 Levity Crop Science Printed Cup Company

Micro Business of the Year Group55 Bowland Bioenergy Next Day Freight Pennine Wealth Solutions Specialist Training & Consultancy The ATACC Group UK Media and Events Woodside Design

Manufacturer of the Year Beech's Fine Chocolates Bowland Bioenergy Flavour Warehouse Nutree Life Pakawaste Performance Springs Standfast & Barracks The Protein Lab (UK)

New Business of the Year JFN Integrated Solutions Fresh Perspective Resourcing Huxter International LM Training & Consultancy M4B Mosney Mill Richard Holden BBQ Woodside Design

Creative Business of the Year Blue Wren Catapult PR Door4 Marvel at Everything Sundown Solutions Sunshine Events Workhouse Marketing Yellowphin

Professional Business of the Year Brownlow Utilities Fresh Perspective Resourcing Hest Bank Dental Care Nugent Sante Pennine Wealth Solutions Rotherham Taylor True Bearing Watson Ramsbottom

Transport Business of the Year E&C Distribution Fagan & Whalley Gillett Environmental Next Day Freight SCS Logistics Waltonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coaches

Service Business of the Year Sunshine Events Currency Matters Door4 Fresh Perspective Resourcing FTS Merit Granby Marketing Services Pakawaste Suresite Group

BiBAs FINALISTS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT

2018 Finalists Leisure & Tourism Business of the Year Barry Robinson Leisure Hallmark Hotel No 10 Hotel Preston Sunshine Events The Bee Centre UK Media and Events Viva Blackpool Winter Gardens, Blackpool

Third Sector Business of the Year Advocacy Focus Artz for All Ascentis Community Gateway Dance Syndrome Positive Action in the Community Primary Engineer The Bee Centre

Medium Business of the Year Flavour Warehouse B & M Waste Cutting Edge Fox Brothers (Lancashire) Roccia True Bearing Watson Ramsbottom Winter Gardens Blackpool

Construction Business of the Year Fox Brothers (Lancashire) FTS Merit Newbury Homes Pinington Construction S&H Group StormMeister Flood Protection

Small Business of the Year ARC (Fylde Coast Accident Repair) Better2Know Door4 Gillett Environmental JFN Integrated Solutions Nugent Sante Sundown Solutions The Protein Lab (UK)

Employer of the Year Advocacy Focus Are You Owed Money Better2Know FTS Merit Printed Cup Company Sunshine Events Suresite Group UtiliGroup

Family Business of the Year B & M Waste ARC (Fylde Accident Repair) Brindle Distillery Clifton Homecare First Trace Heating Direct FTS Merit No 10 Hotel Preston Waltons Coaches

Engineering Business of the Year Cutting Edge Services Ballpark Precision Engineering JSE K&M Precision Engineering Lyndhurst Precision Engineering Pakawaste Performance Springs StormMeister Flood Protection

Business Person of the Year Anthea Morris – Better2Know Aaron Gorton – Flavour Warehouse Rebekah Fitzhugh – Granby Marketing Services David Marks – Levity Crop Science Yasser Ahmed – Roccia Heath Groves – Sundown Solutions James Sandwell – Sunshine Events Alan Aitken – Woodside Design

BiBAs FINALISTS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT 34ADVERTORIAL

Bank on Currency Matters Currency Matters is a specialist financial services provider delivering exceptional levels of pricing and client servicing to customers in 76 countries, with a diverse and varied client base across 56 industrial sectors, extending from sole traders and SMEs, through to banks, and even a national airline! Established in 2002 by husband and wife team Jon and Michelle Anderson, Currency Matters offers a personal and informed foreign currency exchange facility and replaces the traditional role of the bank in the money exchange transaction; Currency Matters save their clients’ money through commission free transactions and super-competitive exchange rates. Currency Matters has invested heavily in developing first class, disruptive financial technologies (FINTECH) that offer bank grade facilities to all types of clients - in particular Currency Matters supports the SME sector offering real value and cost savings by offering bank-beating foreign exchange rates and fast and efficient international payment processing. If you have a need to convert currency and pay overseas, you really should be talking to Currency Matters!

clients – for example, overseas property buyers and investors, or through Currency Matters Elite, which caters to the elite sports and entertainments industries. After a hugely successful 2017 – which included the appointment of two hugely influential NEDs and a couple of industry awards - Currency Matters has a very exciting development plan for 2018 and 2019. They are currently working on a number of projects that will take the company to a different level in the Money Services Business industry, offering a more extensive and diversified product range, launching additional delivery channels resulting in higher levels of service – especially to our rapidly expanding client base in Latin America.

Whilst 2018 will undoubtedly be a seminal year for Currency Matters, CEO Jon Anderson recognises the Through the desks of Currency Matters challenges that will be brought to Private FX, the company also works with bear to all business with increased regulation (notably GDPR) and with a number of private high net worth

the uncertainties of both the pre- and post- Brexit economic environments saying “These events and scenarios are a reality, and you must consider your options and plan accordingly. We must embrace these new realities, find the positives and create an advantage – we have invested time and money in detailed examinations of the alternative scenarios and have planned accordingly”. Whilst the technology is a fundamental part of the Currency Matters offering, Jon Anderson says that the success of Currency Matters is largely based on the strength of its people, their knowledge and abilities, and their levels of engagement both internally with their colleagues, and also externally to clients, prospective clients, beneficiaries and strategic partners. To achieve their development plans, the company’s staffing and infrastructure support will need to be able to reflect the demand of an expanded business model, so Currency Matters plan to employ an additional twenty staff over the next twelve months, from a current staffing level of twenty four. Attracting and retaining great staff is always a challenge, but HR and Administration Director Michelle Anderson believes that there is a huge

talent pool within the north west of England, “When we took that strategic decision to move our business from London to the north west all those years ago, it was with complete confidence that we would be able to bring onboard the right people – and so it proved and continues to prove. The north west has a strong tradition of banking and financial services specialism – the City and the south east does not have that monopoly!” Currency Matters’ primary delivery channel is through its state-of-theart banking platform, with its white labelled and branded opportunities, and multi-lingual functionality. The company offers bank and non-bank financial institutions the chance to participate in the FINTECH revolution, delivering more efficient pricing and more effective service levels to their clients. Jon Anderson sees huge potential for growth in this area “Currency Matters is quite unique in its ability to offer its proprietary platform to other financial institutions, as either a White Labelled product, or in a CoBranded fully serviced format. We offer financial institutions the opportunity to extend their current client offering and generate a new revenue stream quickly and economically – great tech, low cost and quick to market!”.

For more information contact us: www.currencymatters.co.uk T: 0800 458 6736 E: info@currencymatters.co.uk

BiBAs FINALISTS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT

BiBAs The Process The process itself is much more than submitting a paper entry and a short interview. For finalists, the ‘BiBAs on tour’ model sees the judges visit businesses at their premises, to get a first-hand look and feel about how your business operates.

BiBAs Judging process:

The BiBAs On Tour judging

The BiBAs prides itself on its rigorous judging process, which ensures the winners are the best of the best in Lancashire. That’s why the BiBAs is ‘the one they all want to win’. The judges include some of the best business minds in Lancashire and, in some cases, the UK. Our judging process is then made up of three steps to pick the Winners:

For the second round of judging, judges are sent out ‘on tour’ to get under the

1. Application

After this, judges know their finalists inside out and be well placed to pick their BiBAs winner for each of our categories. ‘BiBAs On Tour’ began on Monday 18 June 2018 and ended on Wednesday 11 July 2018.

The BiBAs 2018 opened for applications on Tuesday, 16 January 2018 and closed on Friday, 6 April. The judging process then got swiftly underway. All applications are eligibility checked to ensure they meet all the entry criteria, before they are benchmarked against the criteria, created by research from the world’s leading business awards.

skin of all the finalists, to find out what makes them tick. This initiative gives finalists the chance to show the judges their culture of excellence, including meeting their workforce and viewing their facilities.

3. The BiBAs Awards Night The Awards Night usually sells out and takes place at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom on Friday 14 September 2018. The anticipated timetable is:

This ensures those who progress to the next stage of judging are the leading lights of Lancashire’s business community.

18:30 Champagne Reception

2. Interview stage

19:30 The BiBAs Gala Dinner

All shortlisted applicants meet their respective category judges in order to select the finalists. This face to face interview provides entrants with their first opportunity to demonstrate what sets their business apart from the competition.

21:45 BiBAs Ceremony

The first round of interviews for the BiBAs 2018 got underway on 14 May 2018 and ran until 24 May 2018. All interviews were held at the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce’s Fylde Coast office in Blackpool. The finalists were announced on 5 June 2018.

23:00 Headline Entertainment 00:00 The BiBAs Presents: The Smooth Radio After Party 01:30 Carriages

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BiBAs FINALISTS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT

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Hotfoot Design wins Creative Agency of the Year at the BiBAs 2017 Lancaster-based Hotfoot Design was the winner of Creative Agency of the Year at the the BiBAs 2017. Hotfoot was founded 11 years ago by creative director Charlie Haywood and is owned and run by Charlie with his partners Aidan Watt and Guy Cookson. The company employs a team of eight and is based at The Storey in the heart of Lancaster. Hotfoot won a raft of new clients in 2017 including Relative Insight, Lancaster Brewery, Beetham Nurseries, Atkinson Vos, Visit Keswick and Brades Farm Barista Milk. Charlie Haywood, creative director, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have won. We’re producing our best creative work, we’re working with some fantastic clients, and we’re having some fun along the way too. We entered last year for the first time and got through to the finals, so it was really special to win this time. I’m thrilled that our unique approach to helping our clients grow their businesses has been recognised.” Mark Oulson-Jenkins from RTR TV, who led the BiBAs panel of judges in the Creative Agency of the Year category, commented: “Throughout each stage

of the judging process, starting with an impressive application, it was clear that Hotfoot reflect the personality of their clients through conceptual and creative application. They are focussed in a specific market which we are in no doubt they will lead with

originality of design and expertise.” As well as creating brand identities, websites and marketing campaigns for clients, Hotfoot also recently launched its own product for hospitality businesses, a gift

BiBAs FINALISTS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT

BiBAs The Academy

FOUNDED in 2015, the winners of the BiBAs are automatically enrolled in the BiBAs Academy, an academy of excellence designed to boost skills, minds and bottom lines. Through partnerships with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) and national accountancy firm, MHA Moore and Smalley, all BiBAs winners are offered free programme leadership masterclasses, site visits and growth workshops. This eight-month programme aims to ‘make the best even better’. The Academy is broken down into the following areas:

1. Academy launch A welcome to the Academy which provides the chance to learn more about its programme of masterclasses, workshops and networking opportunities. This event is followed by the Winners and BiBAs Graduation Dinner, which provides a fantastic opportunity to get to know fellow award winners, previous winners, meet with sponsors and experts from the Chamber, UCLan and MHA Moore and Smalley.

4. Business visits For businesses, it can be enlightening to visit others and observe and reflect on how other people run their organisations. Previous site visits included BAE Systems, Tangerine Holdings, Farmhouse Biscuits & Cuadrilla Resources.

2. Masterclasses Previous masterclass sessions have been held with noble business leaders such as: 5. Business support programmes • Kevin Roberts, former Chairman & Attendance at the Academy will CEO, Saatchi & Saatchi Worldwide; provide access to the range of business support programmes available through • Edwin Booth, Chairman of North UCLan, many of which are funded. West supermarket, Booths; UCLan experts will signpost businesses • Tony Attard, CEO Panaz, to the appropriate support, simplifying Chairman, Marketing Lancashire the process. and High Sheriff of Lancashire; The Academy Alumni • Mike Blackburn OBE; former Regional Director BT, Chairman of As part of the eight-month the Manchester LEP and Regional programme, winners meet on a regular Director North West, IoD; basis and form a network of ambitious businesses with proven track records, 3. Growth workshops able to provide inspiration and support The programme has developed a to one another. number of growth-focused workshops Membership of this community will that are delivered by experts from continue indefinitely, and over the UCLan and MHA Moore and years, the Alumni has accumulated Smalley. All sessions provide practical a collection of past BiBAs winners, information and time given to plan creating a great network that grows and reflect on how to embed this year on year. information back into the business.

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Employer of the Year Sunshine Events

The 2017 Winners

Manufacturer of the Year CoolKit

Best Use of IT Connect Childcare

Professional Service Business of the Year Thomas Consulting

Third Sector Business of the Year CB Partners

Small Business of the Year Bespoke Childcare

Business Person of the Year Ashley Hackett, Blackpool FC Community Trust

Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility Sunshine Events

Service Business of the Year Fairbanks Environmental

Family Business of the Year The Wayfarer

Construction Business of the Year Fox Brothers

Micro Business of the Year 8th Sign

Creative Business of the Year Hotfoot Design

Most Inspiring Young Person of the Year Chelsey Marie Baldwin

BiBAs FINALISTS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT

Business of the Year CoolKit

Medium Business of the Year Hippo Motor Group

New Business of the Year Fourth Wall Solutions

Leisure Business of the Year Winter Gardens Blackpool

Exporter of the Year Scorpion Automotive

Lancastrian of the Year Simon Rigby MBE

TRANSPORT

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Lloyd Motor Group launches health and wellbeing campaign #ExploreYourWorld LLOYD Motor Group has officially launched an exciting new campaign which aims to encourage local people, along with their friends and families, to share what they have been up to whilst out and about in their local area, inspiring others to explore their local community. #ExploreYourWorld is a pioneering campaign designed to encourage local people to share activities that promote health and wellbeing. From walking, running and cycling, to a Sunday night drive out, Lloyd Motor Group is asking local people to get involved by sharing the exciting places they have visited and the activities they have been doing, to inspire others. The purpose of the campaign is to enhance physical and mental wellbeing across the local community, and encourage participation in local activities. Young, old, active or inactive – this is a challenge everyone can take part in, either individually or with others. There will be some great prizes up for grabs too. To get involved, Lloyd Motor Group is asking participants to inspire others by featuring their car or motorcycle in a photo whilst out exploring their world, then sharing this photo of their adventure to any Lloyd Motor Group social media page using the hashtag #ExploreYourWorld. Every month there will be prizes for the best photos, which will fit in with the health and wellbeing theme of the campaign. Craig Kirkpatrick, Head of Marketing for Lloyd Motor Group, himself a keen walker in the Lake District, said: “We are lucky enough to live in a region where some of the most beautiful and iconic locations are just around the corner. We are lucky enough to be within a stone’s throw of the stunning Ribble Valley, the picturesque beaches of Lytham & St Annes and not forgetting the numerous National Parks in the Lake District, which are all easily accessible via the M6. "Every day people are taking part in activities which enhance physical and

mental wellbeing, and we want to capture some of those to help inspire others to get out there, explore and try something new. "From a drive out to a hidden gem of a location, to meeting friends, walking, mountain biking or playing golf, the campaign is open to everyone and we want to hear about all activities that people are getting involved in. We know that many people see their car as an extension of their lifestyle and we want to share that.” With Lloyd Motor Group pages across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, the content will be used to offer inspiration for that next family day out, sports activity or social gathering. Some of the winners and best posts will be published on Lloyd Motor Group’s website along with ideas on local activities, destinations and events. Prizes will be sourced from local organisations and each month Lloyd Motor Group will choose winners based on the popularity, engagement and content of each post. Some of the photos shared will go on to feature across Lloyd Motor Group’s website, representing some of the world’s most premium global car and motorbike brands including Jaguar, Land Rover, BMW, MINI, Honda and Volvo.

Transport July 2018

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€100 million Seatruck investment on Heysham to Warrenpoint route

A €100 MILLION investment by Seatruck Ferries, the Irish Sea freight specialist, will increase capacity on the Heysham to Warrenpoint route by 30%. Seatruck will deploy two larger freight ferries on the route later this summer, in direct response to growing demand for unaccompanied trailer space and enabling the firm to carry 30,000 additional trailers annually on the key crossing. The move will see the four-deck Seatruck Precision and Seatruck

Performance replace the current threedeck vessels and operate an 11-time weekly service between the ports. Alistair Eagles, Chief Executive of Seatruck Ferries, said: “Whatever the outcome of the Brexit land border negotiations, Warrenpoint Port will continue to be a cornerstone of the Seatruck operation. “I clearly remember watching the very first Seatruck sailing from Warrenpoint in 1996. Even back then, we had a very strong belief in our business model, our service and our

future strategy. “Adding larger ships to the Warrenpoint route is the next logical step for Seatruck and I have no doubt that it will be very popular providing more unaccompanied trailer space to our growing customer base, as the industry seeks solutions to the ongoing driver shortage. “The larger vessels underline the need for the Southern Relief Road, which will connect Warrenpoint Port directly to the main Belfast-Dublin motorway. Seatruck fully support this key piece of infrastructure.” In welcoming the announcement, Clare Guinness, Chief Executive of Warrenpoint Port, said: “This is a significant investment by Seatruck Ferries and is a clear commitment to Warrenpoint Port and the wider

Newry, Mourne and Down district, which will directly benefit from the increase in trade. “We have a strong relationship with Seatruck and the Port is supporting the company with the provision of additional terminal areas. “Our recently launched Masterplan outlined our vision for the development of the Port for the benefit of the wider economy and community. Part of that strategy is to grow freight ferry volumes and this welcome announcement will assist the Port in realising that vision. “It also makes all the more pressing, the need for increased space at the Port, which must also be supported by key infrastructure projects such as the South Relief Road.”

You wait for one bus and 18 new ones come along! BLACKPOOL Transport Services (BTS) officially unveiled 18 brand new Enviro200 buses on 25 June 2018. Finished in the ‘Palladium’ brand, the buses offer free Wi-Fi, USB charging points and phone holders, fancy seats and next stop audio/visual announcements amongst other features. The delivery of these 18 vehicles, which are supplied by British manufacturer Alexander Dennis, and are a single deck version of their fellow Enviro 400’s that Blackpool Transport currently have in their fleet, brings the total new buses brought into the fleet since

2015 to 73. Jane Cole, Managing Director at Blackpool Transport said: “Our partnership with Alexander Dennis has gone from strength to strength since 2016. We have received 55 double deck vehicles so far, all delivered to an excellent standard and spent time with ADL and our customers to get the single deck versions spot on for our customers. "This year our launch events will focus on meeting customers along routes 3 and 4 and show them our commitment to bring modern buses to Blackpool and the Fylde. BTS’ events will be a chance to engage Blackpool’s residents at either end of these

two routes and showcase those new vehicles dedicated to that area.” The brand new buses, worth £9.7 million, will operate on Routes 3 and 4 providing

services for local schools, Blackpool and Fylde Colleges, Whitegate Drive Health Centre and customers travelling to-and-from Cleveleys, Marton and Mereside Tesco.

48 CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

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MHA Moore and Smalley consultant completes Coast and Castles for charity ANDY Webster, Consultant with MHA Moore and Smalley, Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers, together with five local businessmen has raised over £3000 for Queenscourt Hospice in Southport. The team cycled over 170 miles in the Coast to Castles charity fundraiser this year. The riders pedalled their way from Newcastle to Edinburgh in just three days. Andy Webster, said: “We are always delighted to fundraise for our local charities, especially Queenscourt Hospice. Queenscourt supports many families in the Southport area and it is great that we had the chance to raise funds and

awareness for the fantastic service the staff at the Hospice provide. I personally was touched by Queenscourt and will be forever grateful when they helped me and my family, at a difficult time.” Queenscourt Hospice provides free care and support to over 800 local people in the hospice or at home for those who are diagnosed with lifelimiting conditions. The hospice ensures that patients enjoy the best possible quality of life, whilst simultaneously providing support for their loved ones. The charity relies on the local community for money and time donations to ensure that they can continue to provide their service.

Utility Aid donates money and time to do more good for homeless charity UTILITY AID, the UK’s leading energy broker, pledged their commitment to Carers Week by volunteering and donating £250 to The Ashley Foundation, a homeless charity based in Blackpool. Tatiana Bentley a call handler at Utility Aid, based at Lancaster House, Amy Johnson Way, volunteered for the day with The Ashley Foundation at Elm House, on Derby Road in Blackpool. Tatiana also handed over the donation – a fantastic example of business and charities working together to enhance people’s lives. National Carers Week, 11 to 17 June

2018, is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlighting the challenges carers face and recognises the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. Giles Hankinson, CEO of Utility Aid, said: “Utility Aid has longstanding relationships with many charities across the country, we have witnessed time and again the remarkable work of the teams who help and care for those who need it most. We are delighted to make this donation as The Ashley Foundation carries out incredible work, supporting people

in the local community. “At Utility Aid, we have pledged our commitment to National Carers Week by volunteering and making donations at various UK charities.” Lee Dribben, CEO at The Ashley Foundation, commented: “The beneficial input of Utility Aid will help us to maintain the valuable service that we provide to the local community.” Utility Aid is the largest ethical energy broker in the UK and has gained an excellent reputation in the not-forprofit sector by helping charities purchase energy in the most cost-effective way.

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CSR

Classic car event a major success THE latest fund-raising event for the £6 million Blackburn Cathedral Appeal was a Classic Car event at Browsholme Hall, Lancashire. The event featured 28 classic cars from vintage to present day, with attendees offered a Concours d’Elegance. Champagne and canapes reception, followed by luncheon of two further courses, The Very Reverend Peter Howell-Jones, Dean of Blackburn Cathedral said: “We are delighted that this superbly organised event has helped raise much needed funds for our Appeal. I would like to thank all the helpers, especially organiser Peter Whitman, Browsholme Hall for the venue and our sponsors:

Peter Jackson Jewellers, the Bowker Motor Group, Investec, Majestic Wines,Charles Campbell, Bespoke Tailors and The Fromm Shoppe, Photographers. As a sponsor, Chris Eccles, MD at Bowker Blackburn and Director, Bowker Motor Group, observed: “Bowker Motor Group provided some of our most eye-catching prestige vehicles, including BMW and Maserati for this successful event at a stunning location. “We know the Cathedral plays an important role in the Blackburn community and we hope many will continue to support the cause.” Commenting why businesses should get involved

with the appeal, Perter Jackson, MD, Peter Jackson the Jeweller, added: “Peter Jackson the Jeweller was delighted to support this wonderful event, raising much needed funds for the Blackburn Cathedral appeal. “We have been in business in Blackburn for over thirty years and owe much of our success to the wonderful people of Blackburn, who have shopped with us all that time. The Cathedral is there for the people of Lancashire in so many ways and it is a pleasure for us to play a small part in helping that support to be provided.”

Tour de Forbes uses pedal power to raise money for St Catherine’s Hospice CYCLING enthusiasts from Forbes Solicitors have created their own version of the Tour de France to raise money for charity. The Tour de Forbes will involve a team of around 35 volunteers making the 100-mile journey from the firm’s Leeds office to its base in Accrington on Friday July 27. The journey will take in all Forbes’ other offices in Manchester, Chorley, Walton Summit, Preston and Blackburn and will raise money for St Catherine’s Hospice, Lostock Hall. Forbes works to support charities located close to its offices and the fundraising event has been arranged by Partner Jonathan Holden, who is a trustee at the hospice.

Jonathan, who is Head of Employment, has organised it to coincide with the real-life Tour de France, which runs from 7-29 July. He said: “We have around 35 colleagues signed up. Some are doing the whole route, others are joining in for sections of the route and everyone at Forbes, not just those cycling, will be involved by supporting with cheers and cake at the pit stops and providing plasters for blisters too! “As well as being 100 miles plus, there is 2,000 metres of climbing, which is like scaling Snowdon twice, so it will be a challenge, but we are proud to be supporting St Catherine’s Hospice for all the exceptional work they do.”

50 APPOINTMENTS

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New Chairman of Lancashire County Council COUNTY Councillor Anne Cheetham JP OBE, who represents Rossendale South, has begun her year in office. Born in Southport, Anne’s family moved when she was young to Deepcut Army Barracks in a civilian posting, which started a journey to many countries around the world. Anne started her career with Vickers Armstrong Aircraft in

Weybridge, and then proceeded to the Commissioner’s Office in Sri Lanka, where she met some of the world’s most well-known leaders in the sixties. While working in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, she met the world’s first female Prime Minister, Sirimavo Bandaranaike of Sri Lanka. She also met Indira Gandhi, the first female Prime Minister of India.

A retired magistrate, Anne served on the bench for 29 years dealing with thousands of cases, including the Sophie Lancaster murder case. Along with her husband Jeffrey, who passed away in 2007, they fostered 24 children. This is a hugely important issue to Anne, who is keen to raise awareness of fostering and adoption

during her year as Chairman. Anne, said: “When we fostered children, Jeffrey and I saw how they had been through difficult times before they came to us. We knew that we could help and support them. “I’m very proud of Crestmoor, the children’s home in my electoral division. It’s rated as Outstanding and I know they have

MBE from HM The Queen, and an OBE from HRH Prince Charles for her fostering work. Helping other people is a key aim for Anne, who previously volunteered with wonderful staff. I’m the Women’s Voluntary proud to say that the Service (now the Royal County Council runs Voluntary Service) at local this home and others hospitals and Meals on around the county. Wheels services, as well as “It’s important to serving tea to visitors at highlight all of the good Strangeways Prison in work by our services to Manchester. help children and young Anne has just served as people, many of whom Vice Chairman to County have been through a Councillor Terry Aldridge difficult start to their during his year in office. The lives and are now getting county council’s new Vice support to help Chairman will be County themselves.” Councillor Paul Rigby, who Anne received an represents Fylde South.

Three new internships to support growth at Crowberry Consulting CHORLEY based Crowberry Consulting Ltd has recently taken on three new internships with support from Lancaster University. The new roles, which include Legal, Digital Marketing and Sustainability Executives will support the company’s existing customers on ISO implementation and development of a new Ethical Auditing Toolkit. Crowberry Consulting’s Managing Director Becky Toal, said: “It is fantastic to receive such support via Lancaster University and the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences in the recruitment of our three new internships. We

received help with the interviews and selection process and, also on boarding elements. I would recommend any SME business to work with Lancaster University to support their business growth.” Crowberry Consulting is a Chamber Low Carbon Approved Consultant and will be supporting Lancashire based business over the next two years on this vital ERDF project. Ross Willoughby joins the team in the role of Sustainability Executive, Ellie Digby in the role of Legal Executive and Kim Snooks in the role of Digital Marketing Executive.

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APPOINTMENTS

Accrington firm sews up new staff after business support

Blackpool’s new conference centre recruits specialist sales team to drive business tourism A LANCASHIRE manufacturer has expanded its workforce and tackled a skills shortage after enlisting the support of a funded programme which helps businesses recruit new staff and achieve growth. Accrington-based The Senator Group, which is the largest British manufacturer of office furniture, has taken on eight staff thanks to Access to Employment (AtoE). AtoE provides Lancashire businesses with access to potential candidates to help support objectives and achieve growth, in addition to pre-employment training. It is delivered through the Lancashire Employment and Skills Executive Partnership’s (LESEP) network of partners located across the county. Before taking on new roles with The Senator Group, the recruits embarked upon the eight-week Preparation for Work course through the Textiles Academy, based at Themis at Burnley College. The academy was established by the company along with other leading textiles, apparel and furniture manufacturers to facilitate training in the industry. The course is delivered by Burnley College, and equips candidates with the basic skills required to gain

employment in the industry including operating machinery, product inspections and repairs, sewing disciplines including overlocking, seaming and twin needle sewing, as well as employability skills such as timekeeping, punctuality and responsibility. The Senator Group, which has showrooms in London, Chicago and New York, approached Access to Employment as a result of a skills shortage in sewing which has affected the recruitment process. Steven Crook, sewing supervisor at The Senator Group, said: “There is a chronic skills shortage in sewing particularly in our industry, furniture manufacturing, and it can be a barrier to recruiting new staff. As an employer, this course has opened up new avenues of employment we would have otherwise not explored. “The process benefits the learners by preparing them for employment in a realistic way, and the fact we can tailor the course to the needs of our business is hugely beneficial, for example teaching the importance of consistent sewing seams – so that those who go on to gain employment with the company are fully prepared.

BLACKPOOL’S Winter Gardens has announced the appointment of Julie Vincent and Rebecca Thompson to head up the sales team for Blackpool’s new £28m Conference & Exhibition Centre. Both are former employees of Blackpool’s Hilton Hotel, which has been a major part of the resort’s corporate travel offer, since it was first opened in 1982. With over 30 years’ experience at the Hilton, Julie was previously the venue’s Senior Event Sales Manager. Rebecca, who joined the hotel in 2005, was also part of the Hilton’s sales operation, specialising in group bookings, meetings and business events. With just over a year to go before completion, the pair will now work alongside the Winter Garden’s senior management team, and the town’s tourism agency VisitBlackpool, to promote the new Conference & Exhibition Centre, which is being built adjacent to the Winter Gardens complex. They will be specifically targeting conference organisers, exhibition producers and event managers across a wide range of sectors including political parties, trade unions, business associations, academic symposiums and national membership organisations. Michael Williams, Managing

Director of the Winter Gardens, said: “Despite the fact we will soon have a fantastic new conference and exhibition centre being added to the existing Winter Gardens site we know we are in a very competitive events market regionally, nationally and globally. “We have therefore been looking to recruit a dedicated sales team who not only understand the needs of the markets we are targeting, but also who have an unrivalled knowledge of Blackpool itself. “Both Julie and Rebecca are from the local area and between them they have nearly 50 years’ experience within corporate travel, meetings and events management. “They will now both be using their expertise gained at the Hilton to highlight to potential clients the amazing opportunities which the new conference and exhibition centre will offer, as well as the £500m transformation Blackpool has enjoyed over recent years in terms of new transport links, new premium hotels, and other improved visitor infrastructure.” Funded through Lancashire’s Local Growth Deal, Blackpool’s new Conference and Exhibition Centre will be able to accommodate 2,000 delegates across a 6,150 square metre footprint.

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APPOINTMENTS July 2018

Fat Media Lancashire strengthens team Enterprise Partnership set to boost capacity with expansion of executive board The Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has announced plans to strengthen its executive board with the recruitment of three new Directors. As well as increasing the number of board members to 22, the three appointments are linked to specific remits which are directly aligned to several of the LEP’s economic priorities. These include skills and technical education, SME business growth and productivity, and strategic placemarketing. In addition to bringing experience and insight to these specialist areas, the successful candidates will also play a major role in helping deliver the LEP’s overarching Strategic Economic Plan (SEP). The SEP is underpinned by a public investment framework valued at nearly £1 billion, with almost 50 strategic development, business growth, innovation, skills, infrastructure and place-marketing initiatives underway across the county. Significant investment projects integral to the SEP include the £320m Local Growth Fund, the £434m City Deal for Central Lancashire and the £20m Growing Places Investment Fund. Other priority programmes currently being delivered through the LEP’s board include the Boost business support service for SMEs,

the county’s Skills and Employment Hub, the £12.5m Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund and the county’s Advanced Manufacturing and Energy Enterprise Zone Cluster. Commenting on the expansion of the LEP board, Chairman Edwin Booth, said: “Lancashire has one of the largest economies in the North, with over 53,000 businesses generating £29bn per year. Employment projections and other performance indicators suggest our economy is set to grow significantly over the next ten years, and we need to be geared up to maximise the opportunities which lay ahead. “We are therefore looking to recruit several new Directors who will help us build on the strong foundations established by the LEP and support our continued delivery of sustainable, high quality and inclusive economic growth. “Further, we are seeking individuals with a range of specialist skills and experience which match a number of the strategic themes within Lancashire’s Strategic Economic Plan. These include skills and vocational training, driving SME growth and destination marketing.” “It’s a very exciting time for the county, and we look forward to hearing from candidates who share our passion and vision for a thriving Lancashire at the heart of the Northern Powerhouse.”

AWARD-WINNING Fat Media has made a trio of new appointments to expand its Lancaster-based office. The digital marketing agency, which also has offices in Bristol and London, has brought in three new members of staff in various roles throughout the business. Andrew Bater, Paulo Lucio and Marcin Lewicki join the firm in senior developer, developer and email marketing executive roles respectively. The new appointments will be working on a wide range of the firm’s clients including major clients in the professional services and leisure sectors, such as international hotel group Yotel. John French, managing director at Fat Media, said: “We’ve had a tremendous start to 2018 and I feel appointing three new members reflects

this. With offices across the country, it’s vital we have the right staff in place to help provide the best services for our clients. “It really is an exciting time to be a part of Fat Media, everybody has settled in extremely well and all three new members will provide extra resources for our offices in both Bristol and London.”

PROPERTY

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A new Eccleston office for Home Truths

HOME Truths Estate and Letting Agents celebrated the official opening of its new Eccleston offices, with Chorley Mayor, Councillor Margaret Lees, her Consort, Councillor Roy Lees, a brass band, and a host of local businesses. Independent, family run estate agent, Home Truths, have more than doubled their workforce over recent years and have outgrown their former Eccleston offices. Chorley Mayor, Councillor Margaret Lees, said: “The opening of the new Home Truths office was a lovely occasion with beautiful weather. I was made to feel very welcome and I wish Home Truths every success for the future.” Home Truths Director, John Ascroft, said: “The Home Truths team have been looking forward to the move to our new offices for some time and we were delighted to mark this special occasion, with friends, family, local businesses and the Mayor of Chorley and her Consort. “At Home Truths, we strive to play an active part in the local community and to celebrate the opening of our new offices with local businesses and members of the community, made the evening a memorable one, for us all!”

Major housing provider brings 40 new jobs to Accrington ONWARD Homes is bringing its new centralised call centre to their Lancashire headquarters on Enterprise Way in Accrington, creating 40 full-time jobs. The housing association, which is the largest provider of social housing with homes solely in the North West, will also be investing more than half a million pounds in modernising, upgrading and reconfiguring its existing office to accommodate the new contact centre and the regional hub for

Lancashire. Accrington has been chosen as the location for its regional hub due to its excellent transport links – good bus and train services and close to the motorway network, and its strong, non-transient labour market to recruit from in the town. Recruitment started in June with the first cohort of contact centre staff starting their training in August. The new facility will be fully operational by April 2019. It will accommodate 50 contact staff in total, who will handle enquiries for all 35,000 properties in the North West, housing more than

Return of the Ducks! LOCAL Estate agents Petty’s is again taking part in this year’s Corporate Challenge organised by Pendleside Hospice, and are bringing back their popular little yellow ducks. After their great success last time round, Petty’s decided they couldn’t leave them out. Ian Bythell, Petty’s Residential Director said “This is such a great initiative by the hospice and we’re really proud to represent our patch as the area’s only chosen Relocation Agent Local Experts. We take our corporate and social responsibility very seriously, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun at the same time and the yellow ducks certainly do that” People can purchase a duck from any of the Petty offices. They’re then asked to take the ducks with them where ever they go over the coming months and to send the pictures back to Petty.

87,000 people. Alastair Cooper, executive director of operations for Onward said: “We wanted to create a single customer contact centre to ensure consistency and quality of service for all our tenants. Customer experience is paramount to our future and a single contact centre allows us to adapt quickly, support the development of colleagues and align with our digital services as they evolve. Accrington offers Onward a scalable, future proof operation which is viable for the long term and brings valuable investment to the town.”

Ian said, “Just this weekend, we had a duck at an Ed Sheeran concert in Edinburgh and last time, we had ducks go to music festivals, on a world cruise and one even ended up in the back of a police car in Australia! But it was also great to see them at the local super markets, school fairs and just chilling in peoples back gardens” Petty’s are also running a Trig Point Challenge and donating £1 for every picture taken at the trig point on Pendle Hill so they’re hoping they’ll get some pictures of the ducks up there too. Christina Cope, from Pendleside Hospice, added: “We’re really grateful to have had a number of prominent local businesses like Petty’s taking part in the challenge and fun initiatives like the ducks really catch people’s imagination. Donations play such a major part in keeping the hospice going and allowing us to continue the important work the hospice does in helping people living with life-limiting illnesses”.

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Property July 2018

Renovation scheme for iconic Burnley landmark A MAJOR renovation scheme is being planned for an iconic Burnley landmark to ensure its long term future. Structural engineering experts have said the 115 feet high chimney at Queen Street Mill is in need of strengthening work, following a detailed inspection. The Grade I listed building, built in 1894, is understood to have suffered damage after being exposed to the elements for more than a century. Cosima Towneley, chair of the Cabinet Working Group for Museums and County Councillor for Burnley Rural, in whose division Queen Street Mill is located, said: “Earlier this year, it was announced that the mill was to reopen to the public, alongside two other museums operated by Lancashire County Council. “However, to allow the work to take place, part of the building has to be cordoned off for health and safety reason. This impacts the council’s ability to open the site fully. “Access to the weaving shed at the museum will be maintained for visitors when the museum does reopen to the public on July 7, to

coincide with the revived Briercliffe Festival. “The Council has decided to limit the number of days the museum will be open this season to ensure work can be undertaken as quickly as possible. “There will be free access to the museum on these days.” County Councillor Peter Buckley, cabinet member for community and cultural services, said: “Queen Street Mill is an important part of the heritage of Burnley and Lancashire as a whole. “As custodians of the building for future generations, the County Council will be carrying out these important works to ensure the chimney is strengthened. “Because of the height of the building, the work will need to be carried out by steeplejacks, who do an incredibly specialist and technical job. “We are sorry that we will not be able to open throughout the summer period as we had hoped, but I really hope people will take advantage of the free opening days to see how amazing this museum is.” Queen Street Mill is the only surviving operational steampowered weaving mill

in the world. It has been used as a backdrop for numerous television documentaries and dramas, as well as featuring in the Oscar winning film The Kings Speech and Mike Leigh’s forthcoming film, Peterloo, due for release on November 2 (to mark the bicentenary of the Peterloo Massacre in Manchester 1819) The mill ceased operation in 1982 and was subsequently turned into a museum, showing the importance of cotton and the industrial revolution in Lancashire. It is the last surviving example of a steam powered Lancashire mill. Sue Ashworth, senior museum manager, said: “Queen Street Mill is a truly unique building which needs to be preserved for the future. “As a Grade I listed building, the work needed is very specialist, so will take some time to complete. It is vital however that this is not rushed, and is done properly." The museum is set to reopen on 7 July, and will then be open to the public on 11 August, 8 September, 15 September and 13 October.

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Property

£160m property deal total for Napthens

James opens first “I Love Homes” office on Garstang High Street A NEW estate agent has opened its first office on Garstang High Street. I Love Homes has been launched by Garstang resident James Diggins following the success of sister company, I Love Park Homes. James, who achieved fame in 2017 with his appearances on Channel Five show, Bargain Loving Brits in Blackpool, has launched the new estate agency to provide an independent service to home buyers, sellers, tenants and landlords in the Garstang, Wyre and Preston areas. He said: “As a local, independent, family run estate and letting agency, the I Love Homes team has a wealth of knowledge about the areas we cover and we

have worked tirelessly to build a fresh approach to helping people buy and sell properties. “Coming from humble beginnings, the I Love Group has grown steadily since we launched in 2014, and establishing a prime location on the High Street in Garstang is a new milestone in our history. “It’s the perfect place to welcome customers to our unique Property Lounge to discuss our services and view our stunning properties. “Offering high street services at online prices means our dedicated team work hard to get your home sold and you can be sure we always uphold our values in quality of service and customer satisfaction.

PROPERTY experts from regional law firm Napthens advised on deals worth more than £160m in the last 12 months. This total was across more than 430 transactions which took place over the 12 months since May 2017, and is a marked increase for the firm’s real estate team over the previous year. The property team has revealed that the bulk of its work involved sales and purchases of freeholds, totaling almost £130m and accounting for almost 70 per cent of the transactions. More than ten per cent of the work involved bank lending and refinancing. Jamie Allison, partner and head of Real Estate at regional law firm, Napthens, said the figures demonstrated the strength of the property sector in Lancashire. He explained: “The market in the region is still buoyant and despite initial fears of a slow down due to factors such as Brexit or the recent rise in interest

rates, we haven’t experienced this. “Demand is certainly highest for industrial units and buildings, particularly freehold opportunities, which is what our figures are backing up. “Residential development has also been active and continues to be so. Although, some developers have highlighted that the process for dealing with planning submissions has sometimes been slower due to the levels of volume they are seeing. “Office premises remains slower as a market and our clients tell us that finding premises can also be difficult. Areas including the South Lakes, East Lancashire and Lancaster all have a decent demand but there remains a lack of available stock.”

#AmazingAccrington lads go from strength to strength – now managing over £100 million worth of properties throughout the North West WHAT started as an idea between two friends 15 years ago, is now a rapidly expanding successful business, born in Accrington. Steven Chippendale and Jamie Allen, joint Managing Directors of Property Shop, are celebrating their success with further expansion. With their dedicated team, they are successfully managing over £100 million worth of properties throughout the North-West. Steven Chippendale, said: “We didn’t expect the business to take off like this! I think it’s because we are such a specialised service, we don’t sell properties – it’s all about renting. Landlords and tenants know they are a priority and not secondary to the sale of a house or customers looking to purchase. It’s important to us to offer a trust-worthy service.” “We have been so busy working hard, we didn’t realise the

amount of properties we have under our belt! Myself and Jamie had to double check, it’s such an achievement, we are grateful to the 17 members of staff for their dedication and also proud to be based in Accrington.” Property Shop offers an unrivalled, unique letting service that is not comparable to any other service in Lancashire. As a specialist dedicated letting agent, they give landlords and tenants reassurance and a quality service. Now managing over 1000 properties, they are undergoing expansion, creating more jobs in

the area and assisting the ever expanding rental market. Jamie Allen, added: “Most of our business has come from word of mouth and we have grown and grown without noticing! I think the reason landlords keep coming back to us is because of the unique services. Unlike other businesses, we only accept quality tenants; part of this process is visiting potential tenants in their current home. The assessment process gives our landlords unrivalled reassurance. We also conduct thorough, regular, documented inspections. We tailor make services to meet their needs and pride ourselves on keeping everything in-house. This includes our maintenance team, meaning no inflated prices!”

Property July 2018

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Accrington business leaders join together BUSINESS leaders from Accrington and districts recently met at The Globe Centre, with guest speaker Stuart Nevison, Chairman of Globe Enterprises Ltd. The #AmazingAccrington initiative allows influential business leaders to meet, learn more about the exciting developments in the Borough and discuss the importance of supporting the community. Many influential business leaders were present, including Andy Holt, owner of Accrington Stanley Football Club and David Welsby, CEO of Hyndburn Borough Council. Murray Dawson, Managing Director of Scott Dawson Advertising and founder of the #AmazingAccrington initiative, said: “It couldn’t be a better time for the town. Stanley’s success, lots of upcoming events and it’s wonderful to see so many individuals here today who want to be involved with the town.” Murray started with a brief history of The Globe Centre, which is currently a modern business hub, actively bringing

businesses to the area. “We always like to try and find a building with story appeal, I didn’t appreciate how influential The Globe Centre has been. For example, in the war it was an ammunitions manufacturing warehouse, employing over 6,000 people!” “It’s not what we can do for individuals, it’s what we can do for the town. We need to embrace and push forward, raising aspirations for the children in the Borough. We are here to find champions for the town, people who want to lead the way to success.” Guest speaker, Stuart Nevison, Chairman of Globe Enterprises Ltd, which has seen the success of The Globe Centre in Accrington, bringing jobs, regeneration and business to the town. Stuart was one of the original founders of AMS Neve, a company which has created audio equipment used on films such as Skyfall, Black Swan and Toy Story 3. These products continue to be prominent across the world. Stuart gave an inspirational talk, detailing his own business journey and the worldwide

importance of his audio products, that were born in East Lancashire. His journey continues through offering a platform for expansion and networking in The Globe Centre, a focal point of the town. “It was a fantastic time, we thoroughly enjoyed it- everyone wanted our products. Paul McCartney was suddenly our best friend, people like the BBC realised the capability of our box. It completely changed the way audio is being processed. I’m not sure how we had the time, we didn’t stop for two decades, but I would do it all again.” “Not many people realise this all happened in East Lancashire, we need to be shouting about all the great businesses and products that have also been born in Accrington. That’s why I am here, to share the story with you all.” David Welsby, CEO of Hyndburn Borough Council, updated the group on future regeneration in the Borough. He focussed on land and investment opportunities, including current expansions of businesses in the area. “There are a large number of

opportunities for businesses in the area. We are currently undergoing a review of green belt space and I want to encourage individuals and businesses to come forward to work with us on expansion. We want to support growth, and, in some circumstances, this can mean reviewing the status of the surrounding land.” “There are excellent spaces here in Hyndburn. For example Altham, The Globe Centre and Frontier Park, there is a huge amount of room for growth. Euro Garages have undergone a large expansion at Frontier Park, situated off Whitebirk roundabout – they have developed on a 90 acre site whilst working closely with us.” Steven Cochrane, former Director of Growth Lancashire Limited, added: “As a company and as individuals we are inspired by working with people in the private business sector. We have all the pieces of the jigsaw already here in Lancashire to be great, Growth Lancashire is the delivery organisation for this. The strength of Lancashire is its diversity, by working together we can raise the profile of the area, create positive partnerships to encourage government investment and deliver advice and solutions to aid business growth. We have a number of grants available for businesses.”

CPUK negotiates second Memoria crematorium contract SKELMERSDALE construction firm Construction Partnership UK (CPUK) has won its second contract to build another muchneeded crematorium for national operator, Memoria. The £2 million project near Retford in Nottinghamshire is expected to be completed by December 2018 and work has begun on a site off Old London Road, Barnby Moor. CPUK is nearing completion on its first Memoria crematorium in Connah’s Quay, Flintshire. Memoria, the 3rd largest private crematoria operator in the UK, is investing in much-needed funeral services for local people in the Retford area with its purpose-built facility aimed at making funeral arrangements easier. Steve Burke, CPUK managing director, said: “As well as the

main steel-frame crematorium building, we are providing a memorial garden, including a pond and water features, burial plots and a car park. “The landscaping is very important in crematoria design and Memoria has chosen a well-located site. “We are pleased to have negotiated this second contract with Memoria, who are a key partner due to the company’s exceptional

track record in this sector and their ambitious plans for continued expansion. CPUK Group is one of the North West’s leading independent building and civil engineering companies with an annual turnover of £50 million. Founded in March 2000, the business operates from purpose-built headquarters at White Moss Business Park in Skelmersdale.

ENERGY

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Lancashire has an abundance of pioneering and innovative organisations within the energy industry. This special energy feature highlights some of those organisations and the excellent work they do in the county.

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July 2018

Energy buyers need more support from the boardroom to invest in new energy technology ENERGY buyers at some of the UK’s most energyhungry organisations are struggling to convince their leadership teams to let them invest in new energy technology, according to research conducted by Centrica. In an annual poll of more than 100 private and public-sector organisations, a third (34%) of respondents warned that achieving board level buy-in was still the biggest energy challenge facing their organisation, down only 1% on last year. Nearly half of respondents believed that political uncertainty could make it difficult for UK businesses to improve their energy infrastructure. A further 34% highlighted that rising pressure

from other areas of their businesses, including wage costs and workforce skills gaps, were diverting attention away from energy investment. The poll showed that appetite to invest had increased, although still less than half (49%) of organisations said they planned to spend more than £1m on energy technology over the next two years (33% in 2017). Gab Barbaro, British Gas Business Managing Director, has urged senior decision-makers in both the public and private sectors to embrace new technologies or risk falling behind. Barbaro said: “We are in the middle of an energy revolution and investing in modern infrastructure is

vital to organisations achieving the resilience and efficiency they need. “Energy buyers recognise this but need support from their boards to help bring the UK’s energy system into the 21st century. “Forward-thinking organisations we work with from around the world are already reducing their costs, lowering their carbon emissions and increasing their productivity by adopting new energy technologies.” When asked what would be the biggest energy trend of the coming decade, half of firms (50%) believed that battery storage would be most important, followed by using Internet of Things devices to manage energy with more flexibility.

ENERGY BASED in Euxton outside Chorley, Apollo Energy was founded in January 2001 by husband and wife team Eddie and Jackie Gray. It provides utility management services to both private and public sector clients throughout the UK and is a founding member of the Utilities Intermediary Association. Apollo works closely with clients to bring visibility and transparency to a complex sector, combining value-added innovation with in-depth industry knowledge and experience. Its procurement team sources bestvalue contracts and provide a range of key services to monitor, manage and control usage as well as advise on regulatory compliance. The company’s Site Works consultants help clients manage utility infrastructure requirements, supporting project managers on installations, metering and supply diversions. Apollo Energy Director Jackie Gray, who leads a team of 17, explained. “When clients first come to us, they often say how much time they spend on the phone dealing with suppliers and never get to speak to the same person twice. They experience real problems in

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Apollo combines valueadded innovation with indepth industry knowledge terms of service and billing. “The beauty of using an energy broker is that we remove all that hassle. We have direct contacts with suppliers’ Billing Managers along with the technical expertise to manage complex processes and resolve matters very quickly. “For clients looking for more in-depth analysis of their invoices then Bill Validation really makes a significant difference, trouble shooting problems so they can be addressed swiftly. It also allows Energy Managers to be proactive in identifying sites that are not performing within the normal parameters. “Our team also support clients on all regulatory and legislative changes and requirements. For example, take an electricity bill from five years ago and the non-energy elements accounted for under

half of it but fast-forward to today and it’s a very different story. “Now, the typical non-energy elements of a bill make up approximately 60 per cent, rising further by 2020. Those costs are a blend of operational charges and levies to support investment in sustainable, low-carbon energy generation. “There’s also a digital revolution coming to the energy industry, and with the government’s ambitious plans for all small businesses to switch to smart meters, it will be here sooner than you think. “Digital innovations are giving businesses new and exciting opportunities to manage and improve their energy profiles, achieving more efficient and cost effective processes, while allowing direct access to lower costs and more widely available renewable energy sources.’’

Shale gas, a boost for Lancashire and beyond Authors: Lee Petts, Chairman of Lancashire For Shale; Phil McVan, energy consultant. THERE’S a popular phrase in estimates on there being 100 such was responsible for 1,200 indirect business and economics that says developments in the shale-rich and a further 3,100 induced jobs ‘a rising tide lifts all boats in the zones of the UK. in 2016 which puts a Lancashire harbour’. It means that when But this is at the national level, shale gas industry on course for good things are happening in the what about here in Lancashire? making an even more significant economy, all businesses feel a Truthfully, it’s too early to say contribution in the future. benefit. with much certainty. But based It’s numbers like these that Shale gas is that rising tide in on the distribution of shale gas excite us at Lancashire For Shale. Lancashire. deposits across Scotland, We want to ensure that local There is nothing else on the Lancashire, North Yorkshire and people and businesses are given horizon with the potential to be the East Midlands, from which every chance to seize the so transformative. we can get a sense of where opportunities that lie ahead, and According to a report by Ernst activity is most likely to occur, it’s to help make these numbers & Young, a successful shale gas possible to imagine a scenario in something of a reality. industry could be responsible for which Lancashire could Whatever the final tally, it is over 64,500 jobs nationally, and a eventually see between 15 and 20 going to be very sizeable and supply chain spend of more than shale gas pads being developed. make a huge difference to the £33 billion at peak. Based on those Ernst & Young Lancashire economy. Most of the predicted jobs forecasts, that would lead to But there are broader benefits (39,405), it says, will be ‘indirect between 5,900 and 7,800 indirect as energy expert Phil McVan jobs’ in the supply chain, with a jobs, between 2,800 and 3,800 explains. further 19,036 ‘induced jobs’ in induced jobs, and a local spend of The march of renewables is the wider economy. Each shale between £4.9 and £6.6 billion. quite rightly continuing gas pad is expected to cost £333 For context, BAE Systems at upwwards. In 2016, wind, solar million to bring on stream, with Warton and Salmesbury - one of and other renewables supplied Ernst & Young basing its Lancashire’s largest employers around a quarter of all the

Benefits of using an energy broker: • Independent assessment of the market, ensuring best value contracts for clients • Simplify a complex industry with specialist knowledge and experience • Tailored supply contracts and dedicated account management • Portfolio management to ensure all new and existing sites are on the correct contracts • Additional services to help you validate bills and track/reduce energy usage - the Carbon Trust state a minimum five per cent energy cost savings for clients who use these services • Track the markets continuously throughout the day to keep clients informed of market conditions • All utility requirements dealt with efficiently within one business • Delivery of fast and efficient new connections and metering installations • Regular updates on new legislation that will affect their business • Dedicated direct contacts for all services

electricity consumed in the UK and that will continue to rise. But, and it’s a significant but: we can’t rely on renewables alone and, for decades to come, will need other sources of power in the mix including gas, which is the lowest carbon of any of the fossil fuels available to us. That’s because, to a large extent, renewables like wind and solar are dependent on the weather and can be unpredictable. They might have met 24% of our needs averaged across the whole of 2016, but on a day-to-day basis, it would have looked much more erratic than that. Can you imagine running your business on just 6 hours a day of electricity, available haphazardly and not always when you need it? From late May to mid-June 2018, during an extended period of warm, calm weather, the output from the UK’s onshore and offshore wind installations slumped to under 6%. Solar did well, but produces nothing at night. Instead, it was gas was that produced most of our electricity,

as it has done consistently for a number of years, taking over from coal. In 2016, for instance, over 40% of our electricity was made by burning gas. So, even if you don’t consume gas in your business directly, you use it indirectly because it's used to supply your electricity electricity that powers everything from the machines in factories, lights and computers in offices, to the card payment devices in retail stores. Businesses simply couldn’t function nowadays without a steady and affordable supply of electricity. That’s how all 52,000 Lancashire businesses can benefit from a successful shale gas industry, whether or not they benefit from work in the supply chain: a local source of gas is going to give us much more control over costs than we have with the imports that meet over half our needs right now, and will be a complementary partner to renewables to help ensure we have continuous supplies of power.

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July 2018

A step closer to unlocking Lancashire’s energy CUADRILLA is a step closer to establishing that Lancashire shale gas can be commercially produced in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. After completing the UK’s first ever horizontal well into UK shale rock at its Preston New Road exploration site in the early spring, the company submitted an application in May to the Government to hydraulically fracture the well. Meanwhile, Cuadrilla has been completing drilling the site’s second horizontal exploration well, through the Upper Bowland shale. Once this is complete, an application for hydraulic fracturing consent will then be submitted for the second well. At the time of writing, and based on its current operations schedule, Cuadrilla plans to be in a position to hydraulically fracture both horizontal exploration wells over the course of the second half of 2018. Earlier this year analysis from core and other test data taken from Cuadrilla’s vertical pilot well drilled through the Upper and Lower Bowland shale rock, along with data recovered and analysed from three of the firm’s previous Lancashire shale exploration wells, informed the company where best to drill the initial horizontal wells into the shale rock’s gas rich zones. This analysis also confirmed that both the Upper and Lower Bowland shale rock formation has low overall clay content and is ideally suited to hydraulic fracturing. Francis Egan, CEO of Cuadrilla, said that from the data the company has amassed so far “we are optimistic that, after fracturing the shale rock, natural gas will flow into these horizontal wells in commercially viable quantities demonstrating that the UK’s huge shale gas resources can be safely produced and contribute to improving the UK’s energy security”. “With Lancashire at the forefront of responsible shale gas exploration, and with our operations at Preston New Road soon to reach their next phase I look forward to Cuadrilla soon being able to flow Lancashire shale gas into Lancashire homes,” he added. Following hydraulic fracturing of the first two horizontal wells in the second half of 2018, Cuadrilla will run an initial flow test of both wells for approximately six months with plans to subsequently connect those wells to the local gas grid network in 2019. Putting Lancashire First & National Importance Back in 2016, the Bamber Bridge based company launched six public commitments to the county and committed Cuadrilla to putting Lancashire first in

terms of job creation, investment, new skills and community initiatives as a result of shale gas exploration and, if exploration is successful, shale gas production in Lancashire. To date, the independently verified tracker figures show that the exploratory work at Preston New Road has benefited the local economy by nearly £9 million, over 700 companies have registered to work with Cuadrilla via the Supply Chain Portal which is hosted by the county’s two Chambers of Commerce, and over £350,000 has been invested through community payments and local sponsorships in the area. “Everyone at Cuadrilla takes great pride in delivering on our Putting Lancashire First commitments,” said Egan. “We are proving that, in Lancashire, shale gas has and will continue to deliver important economic benefits. In the last two years alone our exploration operations have led to nearly £9 million investment in goods and services in the county and the creation of 60 local, well paid, jobs.” In addition to Cuadrilla’s exploration works at Preston New Road gaining momentum, the Government recently issued a Written Ministerial Statement highlighting the national importance that shale gas development has in delivering a safe and secure energy source for the UK, whilst meeting the country’s Climate Change obligations. It also introduced measures to make the planning process

‘faster and fairer’ while additional resources will also be provided to local authorities considering shale gas planning applications. Looking to the future of the industry, and the first-mover advantage for the Lancashire supply chain, the Cuadrilla CEO stated: “We are confident that through our exploration work we can and will demonstrate that the UK’s huge shale gas resources can be safely and responsibly produced and contribute to improving the nation’s energy security, stimulate the county’s economy and power local homes and businesses. “This year promises to be a breakthrough year for shale gas in Lancashire and across the UK, as we start the next leg of the journey to unlocking an indigenous source of natural gas.”

ENERGY

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Non-Commodity Cost Increases Explained BUSINESSES face a number of competing pressures when it comes to both forecasting and managing energy budgets. The importance of correctly buying your electricity and gas remains vital to achieving budget security. However, this is only part of the challenge now facing businesses when it comes to effective energy cost management. Nick Campbell, Director, Energy Intensive Clients, explained: “The non-commodity elements of a customer’s electricity spend have been increasing rapidly over the last few years – particularly on Half-Hourly (HH) electricity invoices. Non-commodity charges are forecast to increase by at least 60% by 2020 making the challenge of buying the commodity element of your energy only part of the challenge of successful energy management. We are working with our clients now to both buy the commodity element and mitigate the impact of non-commodity elements through a range of solutions including self-generation and changes to the infrastructure of a client’s site operations”. As the charts below show, where the commodity cost makes up around 75%-80% of a commercial gas spend, it now only accounts for around 45% of an overall net invoice for electricity:

From 1 April 2018, two specific measures were introduced by OFGEM which, if unchecked, will increase the amount businesses pay for electricity, specifically through a HH meter. These are called DCP161 and DCP228. Jamie Tabord runs the Optimisation Team at Inspired Energy which helps businesses in dealing with non-commodity charging.

Jamie Tabord, commented: “DCP 161 ensures any HH supplies that exceed their assigned available capacity pay significantly more. The penalty charge for exceeding your available capacity will increase on average by an estimated 81%. This charge will vary significantly from region to region. We have successfully negotiated new capacity arrangements for our clients to increase or decrease their capacity to avoid any excess charges.” The aim of DCP 228 is to revise how electricity distribution charges are calculated, so they accurately reflect the costs incurred by network operators during peak and non-peak period. Since 2010, the Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), which in Lancashire is Electricity Northwest, have recovered costs through a triple-tiered, Red-Amber-Green, time-based structure heavily weighted towards the early evening red period. This ensured consistency and incentivised consumers who could flexible manage their demand. However, the methodology generally overstated the peak ‘red’ rates as it included revenues not related to peak conditions. This causes the incentive to manage demand to be higher than it should be, making it unsustainable in the long run. Jamie Tabord explained: “DCP228 focuses more on the time of energy use by businesses as the way in which electricity distribution charges are calculated has changed. Distribution charges currently account for up to 19% of your bill, so the increase could be significant. We are advising our clients on ways in which they may look to re-examine the times at which they use energy and to look at adopting smart technology such as energy storage to create a more diverse generation mix and lessen the reliance on grid delivered power.” To get expert advice on business energy, please visit inspiredenergy.co.uk or call 01772 689 250.