Business Manchester February 2019

MANCHESTER M

Manchester gin lures a dragon p2

Rochdale’s Crossroads Together Social Hens Project p31

February 2019

Manchester Airport to launch private terminal, PremiAir MANCHESTER Airport has revealed plans to be the first major UK airport to open a private terminal, which offers passengers a “private jet experience” while flying on commercial airlines.

The airport has released preview designs of the new terminal, which will be called PremiAir. The PremiAir experience will be available to purchase for passengers irrespective of class of travel or the destination they are flying to.

There will be a number of different services available depending on individual passengers’ preferences. It will be entirely separate to the existing three terminals at Manchester.

The intention is that PremiAir should offer a premium service to a wide range of passengers, whether they are travelling on business, for a special occasion or simply want to add a touch of luxury to their trip.

Passengers using PremiAir to depart from Manchester Airport will kick-off their journey in style, with a range of special services. They include: a personalised welcome, speedy baggage processing, an elegant lounge with complimentary food and drink, and a dedicated security channel. They will then be driven straight to their plane in a private car transfer.

Passengers arriving back into Manchester will also be able to use PremiAir, either as part of a round trip booking or as a standalone service.

They will benefit from a car transfer direct from their plane and use of a dedicated passport control service. They will also be able to relax in the PremiAir lounge while their luggage is returned personally to them.

Andrew Harrison, CEO, Airport Services, MAG, said: “By introducing PremiAir, we’re

offering something unique for all of our passengers, and creating a completely new way to travel.

“It is something a large number of customers have been telling us for some time they would be interested in and we hope the services it will offer will appeal to a wide range of passengers, whether they are travelling for business, want to mark a special occasion or just want to add something different to their experience.

“The launch of PremiAir at Manchester Airport is the beginning of an exciting new project for MAG and we plan to assess opportunities to introduce it at other airport sites in the future. At MAG, we are always looking for new and innovative products to improve the passenger experience, and PremiAir is a significant addition to our portfolio.”

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February 2019

Manchester gin lures a dragon MANCHESTER gin-thusiasts Mark Smallwood and Liam Manton created Didsbury Gin in 2017 and the tipple has already been hailed by Vogue Magazine as ‘one of the most exciting new British gins’.

Following a bumper year making gin, Mark from Middlesbrough and Liam from Manchester took on their biggest challenge yet, the Dragons’ Den. The craft gin makers bagged themselves three minutes to pitch their plans for world domination to the BBC show’s five resident multimillionaires in a bid to convince them to invest their own cash in the craft gin company.

Liam and Mark hooked in offers from both Jenny Campbell and Tej Lalvani. Ex-career banker turned business turnaround specialist and European cash machine entrepreneur, Jenny prides herself on helping young talent realise

their potential and the gin-makers felt an instant chemistry with her. What’s more she has a well documented love of gin and her own gin bar at home!

With the promise of help scaling up the business and reducing costs so they could increase production of the gin, enabling them to offer the right price point to take their product to the bigger retailers and restaurant and bar chains, Liam and Mark took Jenny’s offer of £75,000 for 33.3% of their one year old business.

Since the show was recorded in April 2018, Jenny has already guided Liam and Mark through a rebrand, an upscale of the business as well as legal and financial advice.

Liam and partner Mark were both made redundant from their respective jobs at the beginning of 2018 just as the gin business was starting to take off.

After first deciding not to take

part in the BBC show in January 2018, because they had jobs and didn’t feel that it was the right time for the business, they jumped at the chance later on in the year just after they had been made redundant.

Liam Manton, co-founder of Didsbury Gin, said: “It was terrifying especially when minutes before we went in front of the Dragons we realised that our glasses smelled of egg. Sulphur in the washing machine water had made them disgusting and our gin would also be disgusting. We had to wash everything very quickly before our chances were ruined.”

Mark Smallwood, co-founder of Didsbury Gin, continued: “We loved having the opportunity to appear on the show, and when Jenny offered to invest, everything just seemed like it was coming together. Her no-nonsense Northern personality fits really well with the brand we are building, and

we really liked how straightforward she was with us. She has some great ideas, and saw the growth opportunities for Didsbury Gin both nationally and internationally.

Plus, we know she has a genuine interest in the product because she is a gin drinker herself.”

Jenny Campbell, Dragon and business turnaround specialist, said; “Didsbury Gin is all about Mark and Liam. They instantly drew me in with their charm and I thought this could work. I also went to school in Didsbury so I thought that was a good omen.

They knew their product and the numbers behind the business, they stood their ground when my fellow Dragons attacked and most importantly I liked them. I think gin drinkers across the UK will too.

They have a great brand which will be taking on the classics names by the end of the year. ”

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WELCOME

CONTENTS

...to the February 2019 edition of Business Manchester.

In this issue, we look at how Manchester Airport is planning a new terminal, offering the private jet experience and how a Manchester gin company has secured backing from one of the dragons.

As with every issue of Business Manchester, 10,000 copies will be available at a variety of locations across Greater Manchester, including Manchester Central, Manchester Airport, Spinningfields, seven large supermarkets and a variety of hotels and business centres.

The digital version is available online at tsjg.co.uk/ publications and is emailed to business contacts across the region, giving businesses in Greater Manchester a huge voice.

CONTACTS & CONTRIBUTORS Group Editor: Andy Mann 07951 731722 andy@thesamueljamesgroup.com Editor: Phil Ghayour 01772 364152 07825 884003 phil@thesamueljamesgroup.com

DIGITAL 6 THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

9

EDUCATION 11 AWARDS 12 BUSINESS SUPPORT

16

INTERNATIONAL 24 ACQUISITIONS 25 TRANSPORT 26 CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

31

APPOINTMENTS 35 PROPERTY 40

If you would like to be involved with BUSINESS MANCHESTER, please get in touch:

Design: Robert Leach 01772 364150 / 07930 962609 robert@thesamueljamesgroup.com Group Commercial Director: Sam Whitear 01772 364150 / 0758462676 sam@thesamueljamesgroup.com

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. Š 2019

www.businessmanchester.co.uk

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February 2019

Alternative SME finance provider Capify secures £75 million credit facility from Goldman Sachs CAPIFY, a leading alternative SME finance provider in the UK, has secured a £75 million credit facility from Goldman Sachs to support its future growth plans and provide working capital to thousands of British SMEs over the coming years.

The Greater Manchester-based fintech company will use the new facility to accelerate the growth of its lending business to UK SMEs through its merchant cash advance and business loan products.

Capify has been active in the UK since 2008, executing over 9,000 transactions for UK SMEs seeking working capital for their business. Since inception, Capify has helped deliver £150 million in business loans and merchant cash

advances in the UK. “This is a landmark achievement for Capify and we are very pleased that we have secured this financing with Goldman Sachs, one of the premiere capital providers in the world,” said David Goldin, Founder and CEO of Capify.

“This new multi-year credit facility allows us to deliver on our own growth plans, whilst providing much needed access to capital for UK SMEs to help them to grow, to boost the economy and to create jobs.”

“The credit facility validates our company as a leader in the marketplace and underlines the strength of our business model to provide simple, affordable and smart financial options to

UK SMEs.” Pankaj Soni, Executive Director at Goldman Sachs Private Capital, said: “Capify is one of the leading SME finance providers in the UK. We have been impressed with the management team, business model and innovative finance solutions for SMEs. We look forward to supporting their growth in the years ahead.”

“We are extremely excited about our future relationship with Goldman Sachs,” added John Rozenbroek, Chief Financial Officer at Capify. “The credit facility will enable us to continue on our growth trajectory while offering even more attractive and innovative solutions to thousands of small businesses in need of capital.”

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6 DIGITAL

Code Galaxy is just the ticket for Convenzis CODE Galaxy, has developed a significant partnership with Manchester events company, Convenzis, following a year of growth for both companies.

Convenzis provides fast, accurate and relevant political monitoring, campaigning tools and research services for public and private affairs professionals. The company’s events facilitate technical and practical debate through keynote presentations.

Contributors include UK and foreign ministers, senior civil servants, private sector experts and academics,

discussing the latest initiatives and projects, alongside case studies and comments on best practice.

Over the last year, Code Galaxy has been very effective in raising the digital profile for Convenzis, as it built the firm’s e-commerce platform, allowing users to acquire event tickets, as well as creating and maintaining Convenzis’ branding and email marketing systems.

Daniel Snape, Owner, Convenzis, said: “Code Galaxy has been instrumental in helping us achieve a very successful first year. Since our

inception, we have worked with several high profile international organisations, including Microsoft and the NHS. “Code Galaxy’s great ideas and execution has allowed us to attain a healthy portfolio of clients, requiring us to strengthen our team, with the appointment of three new professionals.”

Nicky Speakman, Managing Director, Code Galaxy, added: “As with all of our clients, helping Convenzis grow as a successful business, is a privilege for everybody

at Code Galaxy. We help a range of organisations across many sectors find solutions for their marketing problems, utilising our email marketing, branding and web design skills.”

The Great Data Heist drops its cover at Manchester Central QUOTEZONE, one of the UK’s leading financial comparison platforms, is encouraging higher education students in Manchester to apply for its new fintech scholarship, provided they aren’t studying finance or computer science.

The fintech firm’s contrarian approach to fostering greater diversity in fintech has been hailed by leading academics, politicians and business leaders.

NB Pedersen, FinTech Programme Leader at Manchester Metropolitan University, said: “FinTech is a diverse and growing sector which is open to people from all backgrounds. No matter who you are, if you have a big idea and combine this with grit and passion, the sky is the limit. That said, you don’t have to do everything yourself. FinTech is all about people, collaboration and sharing.”

Lady Borwick, former member of the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee, added: “It is vital that we do all we can to create jobs and opportunities for the next generation, investing in our young people in order to enable them to drive innovation forward.

“Whether it’s in banking, financial services, technology, media or the arts, finance and technology training is vital. That’s why this scholarship matters, because it gives young people the opportunity to explore these vital skills, which

can in turn help them to take advantage of all the possibilities and career options that arise for them in the future.”

Daniel Broby, Course Director, added: “Initiatives like this are exactly what the Fintech sector needs. The financial sector is being reinvented and we need bright students to think out of the box.

In this respect, diversity of backgrounds is a proven recipe for success.”

Chris Ivory, Professor of Technology and Organisation at Lord Ashcroft International Business School, added: “This scholarship underlines the increasing realisation that the future competitive advantage of digital technology lies with people not technology. Those industries, sectors and nations that prosper are those that fully recognise that the real value-added of technology lies in how it is integrated with new work, skills, roles and organisational forms."

Launched in 2005, Quotezone has grown to become one of the UK’s leading financial comparison platforms, processing almost 3 million price comparisons each year.

Greg Wilson, the fintech entrepreneur behind Quotezone.co.uk, commented on the company’s new Fintech Scholarship: “Talented graduates are the lifeblood of the fintech sector, but our industry faces a looming talent shortage in the not-too-

distant future.

“As an established player in this sector, Quotezone is keen to connect with students that may never have considered a career in fintech, and encourage them to explore how they can be part of this dynamic, fast-growing industry no matter what degree they’re currently working towards.

“While tech companies like ours continue to need computer scientists, and many financial services companies depend on finance graduates, the fintech sector also has a lot to gain from attracting a diversity of other skillsets to the industry, whether that’s law students, liberal arts majors, engineers, philosophy scholars or life scientists.

“In fact, although I’m the CEO of one of the UK’s leading financial comparison platforms, I graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering, which many of today’s university students might not view as a typical entry point to a successful career in fintech. That’s why our new scholarship programme is specifically designed for students that may never have considered a career in this sector.

“The financial services industry has a lot to offer graduates, but we need to demonstrate that our industry cares about these young professionals and is committed to advancing their careers, no matter which degree programme they complete.”

DIGITAL

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jammtoday secures £300,000 funding injection to develop digital platform GC ANGELS, the angel investment arm of the Growth Company, has supported Manchester based jammtoday to secure a funding boost of £300k to develop its consumer focussed investment comparison site. jammtoday co-founders Adam Bickell and Mark Goldman raised £50k seed investment from GC Angels alongside £250k from startup cofounders Nova (co-invested with Sir Terry Leahy) and Deepbridge Capital SEIS Fund. jammtoday is an online investment comparison platform that cuts through the confusion around digital investment managers (so-called ‘robo-advisors’), some of which offer investments starting at just £1 a month. The startup helps users to think about and visualise their investment goals and then creates a simple comparison of shortlisted robo-advisors to best match the user’s needs, investment amount and preferred risk level. jammtoday is using the funding to fast track the consumer launch and expansion of their digital platform which they are developing in conjunction with the FCA’s ‘Project Innovate’, set up to support fintech companies seeking to improve choice, user-experience and better financial outcomes for consumers.

Adam Bickell said: “Consumers are increasingly aware of the advantages of using digital investment managers as a simple, low cost way to invest money,

whether that’s to save for a specific future goal such as a house purchase or for retirement, or just to build a rainy day pot. But as the number of players in this market continues to grow it is getting more complex and time-consuming for people to review them and to make the right choice.

“We’re passionate about making investment intelligence available to everyone and the funding and support we have received has made an enormous difference to the speed and ease with which we have been able to develop our model, which we will be bringing to market soon.”

Darren Gowling, Senior Investment Director at GC Angels, said: “Adam and Mark are experienced financial professionals who recognised that there was a huge volume of investment information out there that most people would never be able to access. The jammtoday model is one that people are very familiar with for buying everything from house insurance to energy suppliers which immediately makes it very accessible and appealing to investors at all levels.

“Working with our partners at Nova and Deepridge Capital, we’re hugely excited to be investing in a business that will help to give everyone control of their investments and access to some of the most innovative financial products on the market.”

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DIGITAL

February 2019

Hub helps Informed Solutions reach out to a global marketplace A LEADING provider of technology services to the private and public sectors has signed a series of bigname clients following support from GC Business Growth Hub. Altrincham-based Informed Solutions was already a long-established, successful business with other UK offices in London and Edinburgh, as well in Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne. Such has been the success of its approach, the company won a Queen’s Award for Innovation in April, an ICT Excellence Award for Emerging Platforms at the World IT Congress in India in February, having previously also won multiple awards at the Australian itNews Benchmark Awards in recent years.

However, Informed Solutions Group CEO, Elizabeth Vega, realised that for the business’s continued development and to strengthen the company’s brand, Informed Solutions needed to reflect this progress in its marketing strategy. At the core of her plans was the launch of a new website

that authentically reflected the company’s core values, while adapting to the different needs of the UK and Australian markets.

Therefore, in early 2017, Elizabeth sought the support of GC Business Growth Hub, part of The Growth Company. After sitting down with the company to identify key areas for improvement, the Hub sent two of the firm’s leadership team on the Greater Connected programme, an intensive business accelerator initiative geared towards supporting the start-up and scale-up ambitions of digital, creative and technology SMEs. The programme helped the leadership team to clearly define the scale-up plans for the business and take a more strategic approach to communications.

This resulted in Informed Solutions launching a new global website in October 2017 to coincide with the company’s 25th anniversary, which Informed Solutions directly attribute the signing of several new high-profile clients to, including the NHS, Royal Mail and Ofsted in the UK and

National Archives Australia. In turn, these new contracts have led to 15 new full-time staff, four one-year student work placements and eleven new contractor roles.

Richard Jeffery, director of business growth, GC Business Growth Hub, said: “Informed Solutions already had a long track record of success.

Nonetheless, Elizabeth and the rest of the leadership still recognised that the company could achieve new levels of success.

“The Greater Connected programme is geared specifically to businesses in Informed Solutions’ sector, and it gives us great pride that Elizabeth and her team credit the changes made after going through the programme to the signing of multiple new clients.”

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THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

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The benefits of buying commercial property in self-invested personal pension schemes Dan O'Neill from Farleys solicitors shares his views: Property and pensions can be excellent long term investments. But what happens if you combine the two and invest your pension in property? Here’s how it can be done via a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP).

• On the SIPP holder’s death, it could be transferred to a beneficiary as a ‘death benefit’.

The death benefit rules make investing in commercial property more popular for What is a SIPP? length of time, gains may be large. The yield on members even into retirement, because it can property tends to be higher than the dividends A self-invested personal pension (SIPP) is an be handed down the generations, tax free in from funds and equities. investment-regulated pension scheme where some cases. you can invest in a wide variety of asset classes • It releases capital back into the business to • It falls outside of an estate for Inheritance Tax and enjoy the tax benefits of a pension. It holds help with cash flow. Many business owners purposes and with the possibility of leaving investments until you retire and start to draw may benefit from buying their work premises the pension and the asset to a non dependent a retirement income. It is a type of personal through their pension, as this can make beneficiary as a pension fund, rather than pension and works in a similar way to a standard significant amount of cash available to the paying it out as a lump sum, there is much personal pension. The main difference is that business for investment. greater scope to avoid the sale of the property with a SIPP, you have more flexibility with the • There is no capital gains tax on the sale of the on death. investments you can choose. property. Any capital gain resulting from an • You can also borrow up to 50% of the net fund How to Invest in Commercial Property in a increase in the value of the property is exempt value of the SIPP for the purpose of buying a SIPP from capital gains tax. commercial property within a SIPP. There are two ways you can invest in commercial • No income tax on rents received - any rental As can be seen, a Self Invested Personal Pension property via a SIPP, by investing in a commercial income is exempt from income tax. If VAT scheme (SIPP) may be an efficient way of saving property fund, or buying commercial premises applies to the purchase of a property, it is for retirement by investing in commercial and putting them in a SIPP. This is proving possible to register the SIPP and elect to tax property. popular with small business owners who put in respect of the property and reclaim the tax their own commercial premises into their SIPPs. on the purchase price and/or any landlord How can I get a SIPP? Those with large pension pots may consider improvements.

• In order to invest in a SIPP, you must be a UK buying other commercial premises to hold • ·It’s not accessible to creditors in the event of resident or transferring from one UK pension within their SIPP. personal or business bankruptcy. A property scheme to another. Once the pension scheme held in a pension scheme is in a totally is established, the funds can paid into the What Types of Commercial Property Can I separate legal entity to the member and/or SIPP by contributions or transfers from other Invest in? his company so it would be protected in the pensions.

Most SIPPs allow you to select from a range of eventuality of financial distress of the member • It is important to seek independent financial commercial property assets, including: or the company. advice to set up the SIPP and to consider • Offices • There is no individual or corporate liability your options regarding your investment.

• Shops on SIPP loans. Where the investor is also the Furthermore, legal advice will be needed in • Factory units owner of the business renting the property terms of the property purchase.

• Warehouses from the SIPP there may also be benefits to Get in touch the business as rent is an allowable business • Hotels Farleys’ dedicated team of commercial property expense.

• Care homes solicitors have experience in the acquisition • It can be purchased in conjunction with • Student accommodation other SIPP investors, such as work colleagues. and disposal of commercial property using What are the Advantages of Holding Owning a business property can also be useful SIPPs, acting for various sizes of pension scheme administrators throughout the North West.

Commercial Property in a SIPP? for succession planning, where instead of purchasing via a number of individual SIPPs; a We have developed specialist expertise and • In terms of the benefits of using a SIPP to invest in property, a clear advantage is the group SIPP or small self-administered scheme regularly act for self-employed individuals and companies who purchase or transfer their offer of potentially strong capital growth. As could be instead used to enable property property is commonly held for a significant business premise through their SIPP. ownership to remain unchanged.

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Thought Leadership

February 2019

Is your company doing enough to manage its Cyber Security Risks?

Kevin Porter, Business Development Director, Xcina reflects on the issue.

On 10 December 2018, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) issued its key findings related to how wholesale banks and asset managers oversee and manage their cyber security, concluding that there is a recognised need and importance for strong cyber security processes and governance. Their findings have relevance for all organisations.

The FCA observed the need for organisations to foster a proactive “security-centric culture”, which transforms cyber away from being an IT related issue to an organisation wide priority, especially at Boardroom level.

Additionally, they concluded that incident management plans did not always appear to reflect the likely impacts of a successful cyber-attack on clients; other market participants and on markets more generally.

Current Landscape

Under Data Protection legislation, such as the EU GDPR and the UK Data Protection Act 2018, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has powers to enforce greater fines for data breaches up to a maximum of £20 million or 4% of annual global turnover, whichever is the greater.

The FCA can also proceed with enforcement actions, which can potentially lead to criminal proceedings or a lifetime ban from performing operations within the financial services sector.

The new Senior Manager and Certification Regime (SM&CR), came into effect from 10 December 2018 and enforces personal accountability and liability against managers who fail to take reasonable steps to prevent breaches occurring.

Operational Resilience

Cyber security should be part of a broader approach to ensure a firm’s operational resilience, with additional focus required around data protection; regulatory compliance; business continuity; third party management; risk management; strategy; governance and training. The aim is to ensure firms can withstand and/ or recover quickly from a cyber-attack.

Threats are ongoing and persistent, with breaches having potential legal, regulatory, operational and reputational impact, leading to client and financial loss.

Attacks are not sector specific.

Organisations are constantly under threat, with a greater expectation by regulators, customers and stakeholders that management will remain on top of these risks, utilising robust resilience processes and policies to minimise and mitigate the impact of cyber attacks.

Operational Resilience is Critical for Survival Every organisation should ask themselves: Can we withstand, absorb and recover quickly from a cyber attack, whilst ensuring continuous operations and data security?

This is because if an organisation suffers a breach from a cyber attack, then prompt action must be taken with senior management’s primary focus on: 1) Identification: detailing the nature of the breach; 2) Containment and Recovery: you must shut down systems or restrict access and take steps to recover data, if required; 3) Investigation and Assessment:

immediately perform a risk assessment to determine adverse impacts; 4) Notification: determine whether individuals, the ICO and/or the FCA should be notified; 5) Evaluation and Response: assess root cause and implement measures to prevent reoccurrence.

Staff Training

Cyber security covers people, process, systems and external events. One of the areas of highest risk relates to people, not only from the perspective of human error, social engineering or fraud, but also due to a lack of awareness of securityrelated policies and procedures; lack of ongoing insights or an ineffective training, e-learning or induction programme.

Cyber-awareness training is a must and should be performed as part of your staff induction as well as on an ongoing basis This should be at least annually, utilising e-learning courses and/or scenario-based training as appropriate.

Role of Senior Managers

The SM&CR places greater onus and accountability on senior managers to effectively manage and plan for cyberattacks. Managers need to demonstrate convincing responses to questions such as: • Is the firm resilient to cyber-attacks?

• Is there a robust cyber / information security framework in place?

• Can the firm mitigate against disruption and personal data loss as well as ensure timely recovery and restoration of services?

Senior management now needs to demonstrate that reasonable measures

have been taken to prevent or minimise the impacts of cyber attacks.

Such measures may include, but are not limited to: • Implementation of an effective cyber security framework; • An effective incident management response process; • Greater oversight of Third Parties, particularly your supply chain; • Adequate and ongoing training; • Improved governance and clearly defined roles and responsibilities; • Regular monitoring and reporting; • Interoperability and communication across key business functions; and • The adoption of a proactive securitycentric culture.

How Xcina Can Help

Xcina, the UK’s leading AIM listed digital resilience company, can help many organisations navigate their cyber resilience journey, through its range of comprehensive services and solutions, notably: • Information Security / Cyber Security; • Regulatory Compliance (SM&CR Compliance Programme – undertaking a gap analysis of SM&CR readiness, plus full support for implementation and ongoing compliance); • Data Protection; • Business Continuity Management; • Third Party Management; • Certified e-Learning training programmes.

For more information, please contact Kevin Porter on 07785 921072

11

EDUCATION

Local apprentice involved in new nation apprentice campaign

THE Department for Education has launched its new ‘Fire it Up’ campaign, designed to raise awareness about the huge variety of apprenticeship options available for people of all ages and backgrounds and the positive impact they can have for apprentices and employers.

Although employers report high satisfaction with apprenticeships, many parents and school advisors still don’t consider technical qualifications alongside a university route to work. Less than a fifth

say that apprenticeships would offer their child a high-quality alternative to a traditional academic route, and just 29% of young apprentices report that they pursued an apprenticeship following advice from their parents, prompting Education Secretary Damian Hinds to warn in December 2018 that Britain must drop its ‘snobby’ attitude’ to technical and vocational education, or risk being left behind our European neighbours after

Brexit, with a widening productivity gap.

The new campaign, which includes national TV and social media adverts and a new ‘one-stop shop’ website that provides helpful information as well as access to thousands of apprenticeship opportunities across the country, will ensure that young people, parents, teachers do not see the full-time academic route as the only valid route into well paid, sought after careers.

Aimen Fatima, Specialist Lab Support Technology Apprentice at the University of Manchester, said: “Choosing an apprenticeship was the best decision I have made, it has given me opportunities I would not have had otherwise been exposed to or dreamt of. My apprenticeship as a specialist apprentice laboratory technician working for The University of Manchester, ensures I get

to work in different and challenging laboratory settings across the whole of the campus.

I was also given the opportunity to travel to Sweden, completing overseas work experience with a Damsel Fly research group.

“Alongside all this valuable experience I am now working towards completing a degree in Chemical Science, which will equip me with the knowledge to help me understand my role further.

“I would strongly encourage others to consider an apprenticeship as route into employment and learning. As an apprentice you will earn money, valuable experience and qualifications at the same time! My skills are well developed and this is what employers want from prospective employees today.”

RMS collaboration with University of Salford Altrincham marketing agency RMS has hailed its Student Placement Scheme with the University of Salford a huge success.

Aware that design students often struggle to find work experience,

RMS created a competition for a student to win a one-month placement at the sharp end in the agency.

The project proved popular, with over 50 students taking part, and the quality of entries so high

that RMS decided to extend the prize and will now be welcoming four students over the next few months.

Working in collaboration with the University’s art department, RMS produced a creative brief for

the students to tackle.

Following submission of initial concepts, the RMS design team provided constructive feedback for the students to consider before entering their final work.

Shortlisted students were then invited to give a formal presentation to the RMS team, who selected the winners.

Lynn Spencer, senior designer at RMS, said: “I remember only too well how hard it was to get real, meaningful experience when I was a student. I feel passionately that successful businesses have a duty to give something back and that’s just what we’ve done with this project.

“It’s been quite timeconsuming but so worthwhile, the quality

of work presented was astounding and is a real credit to the graphic design BA (Hons) course at the University of Salford. It bodes very well for the future of design In the region!”

Jo Greenalgh, lecturer on the graphic design course said: “Continuing to build relationships with agencies such as RMS is extremely important to us, as students are able to experience real live projects and present industry standard professional outputs with the support and feedback of industry professionals. The students all gained valuable experience and the four successful students have further benefitted by securing placements at RMS.”

12 AWARDS

Corporate Punk Manchester volunteers urged to apply for The nominated in Super Achievers awards two categories at the MCA Awards 2019

CORPORATE Punk has been announced as a finalist for Best New Consultancy at the prestigious MCA Awards 2019.

Phil Lewis, who founded the business, is also in the running for Innovation Consultant of the Year.

Corporate Punk uses cutting-edge psychology and a blend of coaching, consulting and training to increase productivity, creativity and growth within businesses. It has worked with Sony, the BBC, KPMG and some of Europe’s fastest growing scale-ups.

Phil Lewis, Managing Director at Corporate Punk commented: “Imagine the impact on productivity and innovation if people were fully energised at work, each and every day. I founded Corporate Punk with the aim to enable

everyone to perform at their absolute best as I believe that’s how businesses today can set themselves up for commercial success.”

In their 22nd year, the MCAs are organised by the Management Consultancies Association and are seen as the benchmark for quality within the UK consulting industry.

The winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony on 28 March 2019.

Claire Croft, Director at Corporate Punk, added: “We’re thrilled to be recognised by these top awards for our unique approach to driving commercial performance. Culture change is not new, but few firms can claim to have driven tangible business transformation in the way we have.”

MANCHESTER based volunteer organisations have the chance to make this year one their volunteers will remember as local training provider Pitman Training, based in Manchester joins forces with a Member of the House of Lords, Baroness Jill Pitkeathley OBE to uncover and reward volunteers.

Looking for individual volunteers, as well as corporate organisations that enable employees to take time out of their workday to volunteer within the local community, Pitman Training has launched an award to showcase and provide recognition for those who actively invest their time in others and dedicate themselves to making a difference in their local communities.

The Super Achievers awards, from Pitman Training, annually celebrates the achievements of entrepreneurs, inspirational achievers, working parents and PA’s, but this year sees the introduction of the new category ‘Volunteer of the Year’ award and the Pitman Training Centre in Richmond House is urging you to nominate your local heroes, those people in your community who go above and beyond for others.

Baroness Jill Pitkeathley OBE is a member of the House of Lords, she was the chief executive of Carers National Association (now renamed Carers UK) for which she was awarded an OBE

in the 1993 Birthday Honours. Lady Pitkeathley was a founding member of acevo, the Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations and she is currently the president of NCVO which champions the voluntary sector and volunteering because they’re essential for a better society. Baroness Jill Pitkeathley OBE said: “I am delighted to have been asked to join the judging panel for the 2019 Pitman Training SuperAchievers awards and even more delighted to see the introduction of and support for the new volunteer award category. Each day, millions of people make a difference through voluntary organisations and volunteering and this is a great opportunity for them to be celebrated and recognised.

I believe that as a society, we can all make a difference to the causes in which we believe.”

Dan Goodall said: “We’re so excited about this new addition to SuperAchievers, as part of this award we want to shine a light on the volunteers who are giving something back to the community and making a difference to the people around them, whether they do this in their own time, or have been given the opportunity through their workplace. We are urging you to nominate your local Leeds heroes – those people in our community who are actively improving the lives of others, in the communities within which they work.”

Awards

13

Bromleys shortlisted for two accolades at 2019 Manchester legal awards Lookers Stockport wins sales award LOOKERS Stockport has won the Sales Excellence Award, for the second year running, at this years’ Kia National Dealer Conference.

The award presented by Steve Hicks, Sales Director at Kia Motors (UK) Ltd, reflects on Lookers’ overall sales performance, including retail performance in their local area.

Michael Pollitt, General Manager at Lookers Stockport commented: “We’re thrilled to have won this award for a second year running. We pride ourselves on our commitment to sales and customer experience so it is an honour to be recognised for this. I want to say a special thank you to all the team here, it is their hard work and effort has helped us to win this award.

“The fact that we were also recognised in the top three performing dealers in the Kia network just shows our commitment to the Kia brand and its products. We’re constantly investing and improving our dealership in all areas from sales and aftersales to our family-like care and overall customer experience.

I am extremely proud of the team and we want to make 2019 our best yet.”

BROMLEYS Solicitors has been shortlisted for two accolades at the 2019 Manchester Legal Awards.

The Tameside firm is a finalist in the Private Client Team of the Year and the Pro Bono/Community Initiative categories.

The 10th annual awards have attracted a record number of entries and will be presented at a gala dinner at Manchester’s Midland Hotel on Thursday, March 7.

At last year’s ceremony, Bromleys was crowned Small Law Firm of the Year.

Senior partner Mark Hirst said: “We are truly delighted and thrilled to be shortlisted at the 2019 Manchester Legal Awards.

“Having won the Small Law Firm of the Year category in 2018, we decided this year to enter our private client team in recognition of its strong growth and specialist expertise, and the Pro Bono/Community Initiative category following a hugely successful year for our flourishing Access to Free Legal Advice programme combined with our increasing involvement in community-based projects.

“The fact that we have been shortlisted for both awards reflects the strength of our team and the commitment of everyone at the firm to the community initiatives that we run.

“It’s great to be recognised for these achievements by the panel of independent judges and we are all looking forward to the awards ceremony.”

Salford Cruise1st wins prestigious CLIA Travel Agent of the Year Award SALFORD Quays based company, Cruise1st, is the winner of the CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) Travel Agent of the Year award, announced at the annual Cruise Excellence Awards at the recent CLIA’s Cruise Forum & Winter Ball.

The ceremony recognises those that contribute to the ever-growing cruise industry, which saw 1,971,000 million Britons take a cruise in 2017, representing an increase of 4.3 per cent against 2016.

Scooping the Award, Cruise1st, one of the UK’s leading cruise specialists, has been recognised for its outstanding customer service, breadth of product and understanding of the market and its outstanding commitment

to the growth of the cruise industry.

Dan Townsley, CEO of Cruise1st, said: “We are exceptionally proud to have won this award and see it as a real indication that great service, amazing staff and hard work certainly pays off. We’ve been building and growing our business over the last few years, even opening the country’s first ever interactive and immersive cruise store in Manchester last year. We now offer not only the best customer service to everyone from regular cruisers to first-timers, but also to give customers great deals on cruises, free hotel stays, exclusive offers and outstanding land excursions.

For this to be recognised by our peers is simply brilliant. We can’t say a big enough Thank You for

this honour.”

Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland director, added: “The CLIA Cruise Excellence Awards celebrates the cruise sector and its continued success. The ceremony recognises the individuals and businesses that make a huge contribution to help this industry grow. From ocean to river, luxury to expedition, there is so much choice when it comes to cruise holidays that there truly is a cruise for everyone. The challenge for travel agents is to be able to show this to those who are yet-to-cruise or have never even considered a cruise, something that each of the finalists at this awards ceremony do outstandingly well.”

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Seminar: Building a Successful Business with Digital With: Mark Wright, Winner of The Apprentice & Director of Climb Online What: Learn valuable and informative advice on how you can grow your own businesses through core digital marketing techniques in Social Media, Video, SEO and Paid Media.

Seminar: Influence in a Changing World With: Warren Cass, author of ‘Influence’ and International Business Speaker What: Understand current trends and how this impacts your business and how to improve the effectiveness of your customer communication.

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Seminar: The Importance of Failure to Achieve Success With: Antony Woodcock Co-Founder & Managing Director of GIG and Winner of Amazon Growing Business Awards Young Entrepreneur 2018 What: The unvarnished truth about what it’s like to grow a business from a standing start to £5M+ with 15,000 unique users in under 2 years.

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16 BUSINESS SUPPORT

AJ Bell plc celebrates following successful stock market listing AJ Bell plc, one of the UK’s largest investment platforms, has issued a trading update for the last three months of 2018. This follows the successful completion of AJBell’s listing onto the London Stock Exchange in December 2018.

Andy Bell, chief executive officer at AJ Bell, commented: “Trading in the first quarter of our financial year continued in line with the growth story we outlined ahead of our IPO and remains on track. We continued to attract new customers and inflows to the platform in

the face of volatile investment markets, which demonstrates the strength and resilience of our business model as we approach our busiest period of the year. Our low-cost and easy-touse investment platform continues to appeal to both retail customers and financial advisers, and providing high quality service to them remains our top priority.

“Platforms have been one of the main beneficiaries of defined benefit pension transfers.

These have declined steadily since their peak in

financial year 2017 and we expect this decline to continue. Despite this and short-term market volatility, the outlook for the platform market remains strong. The FCA is due to deliver the final report of its Investment Platforms Market Study and based on its interim report this is expected to focus on value for money and easier transfers between platforms. Our competitive pricing model and service proposition means we are well positioned to benefit from anticipated developments in these areas.”

Lloyds Banking Group to support North West businesses with £1.3billion of lending AS part of Lloyds Banking Group’s national pledge to lend £18billion to UK businesses, the Group expects to support firms in the North West with up to £1.3billion of lending during 2019.

The £1.3billion is available to firms across the North West and will support entrepreneurs

looking to start-up a new business, micro-businesses seeking to scale up and small businesses considering trading internationally for the first time. It will also support established midsized businesses and large, multinational corporations seeking further growth.

Last year, Lloyds Banking Group supported Cheshirebased housing association Halton Housing who confirmed plans to build 1,000 new homes in the next five years, after securing a £60million funding package.

Lloyds Banking Group Ambassador for the North

West, Nick Williams, said: “The North West is one of the top regional contributors to UK PLC and we want to support the businesses delivering this growth. Up to £1.3billion of lending will help the region’s firms to access investment and realise their ambitions. Here

at Lloyds Banking Group, we’re by the side of business and as part of our plan to help Britain prosper, we’ll support those that need advice or a capital injection, be it to expand into new international markets, overcome recruitment challenges or improve productivity.”

BUSINESS SUPPORT

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Strong growth for Browne Jacobson Manchester health team

THE Manchester health team at Browne Jacobson has cemented its position as the go-to law firm for health work across the North West, after announcing fee income growth of 600 per cent since its launch.

Established in 2013, the specialist team advises on a broad range of clinical negligence, regulatory, criminal and inquest matters for the private and public sectors. The team is led by partner Amanda Callaghan and has grown its headcount from 1 to 25 lawyers over the course of six years.

The team’s strong reputation for advising health and social care providers, commissioners and regulators has contributed

to its significant growth. The team now acts for NHS England, Stockport NHS Foundation Trust; Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust; Bolton NHS Foundation Trust; The Priory and Care UK, amongst others.

Major projects for the team include advising on the development of an integrated healthcare model in Manchester, a project led by partner, Gerard Hanratty. This follows Gerard’s work acting on the merger of three Birmingham and Solihull Clinical Commissioning Groups.

Partner Rebecca Fitzpatrick has also advised on key strategic policy development, including

supporting the ‘Transforming Care Programme’, a national initiative introduced by NHS England to improve the quality of care for patients with learning disabilities or autism. Rebecca has been instrumental in advising on the mental health aspects of the NHS ‘Five Year Forward View’ policy, produced by NHS England to outline the organisation’s priorities until 2021.

Amanda Callaghan, health partner and head of the firm’s Manchester office, said: “We are immensely proud that we have become so firmly embedded in the North West over the last few years. It is testament to the team’s extensive knowledge of the issues

facing the public and private sectors, and breadth of experience advising on complex cases, that our client roster continues to grow at such a rapid rate.

“Our growing reputation in the health sector means we continue to attract the very best talent, and we are committed to further building our footprint over the coming years. Manchester has one of the most innovative health markets in the UK. The 2016 landmark devolution deal gave the city control of its £6bn health and social care budget, and with the move to an integrated health care model, we look forward to playing a central role in future developments.”

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BUSINESS SUPPORT

February 2019

Student mental health start-up reveals national expansion plans A UNIVERSITY of Manchester start-up that can quickly identify students who may be struggling with their mental health has revealed plans to expand.

Third Floor Systems Ltd was founded by Dr Andrew Markwick in 2017 and has since created its first product, ‘StudentCRT’, a software system that puts student wellbeing first.

The system uses several types of student engagement data such as attendance, reports and non-exam marking, to quickly identify students who may be struggling with their mental health. Support and pastoral staff can then personally follow-up with those students before matters escalate.

According to The Office for National Statistics up to 100 students in the UK take their own lives in any given year. In the 2016/2017 academic year 95, UK students took their own lives.

Following a funding boost, Dr Markwick is looking to rollout ‘StudentCRT’ across more schools within the university and at other

universities.

He said: “We wanted to be sure we were doing the best we could to protect our students using the information we collect about anyway, and that’s why we created StudentCRT. “StudentCRT has now been used for wo and a half academic years in the School of Physics & Astronomy, and one year in the School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering (MACE). In recent times, we have had cases of suicide and attempted suicide among the student population in our school.

“These events made us consider whether we were doing our best with the data we had available to try to identify at risk individuals before things could escalate.”

“I took it upon myself to design a system that would make us confident that we were doing our very best for them and would identify at risk students. As such ‘StudentCRT’ was born.”

Shortly after Third Floor Systems Ltd was formed

the company landed a place on UMIP’s Innovation Optimiser (IO) Programme, which empowers innovators from across the University to create startup businesses.

A start up award from IO followed and Third Floor Systems Ltd went on to compete in 2017 in the final of the Pitch@Palace, 10.0 competition at Buckingham Palace founded by The Duke of York in 2014, as a platform to amplify and accelerate the work of entrepreneurs.

Dr Markwick said that a recent NUS report found that eight out of 10 students report struggling with their mental health.

“The system is a secure web application and is one that has great commercial potential. It’s clear to me that any other school, university or organization where the people ‘in charge’ have an interest in the wellbeing of the people they have a duty of care to and have the means to collect data on their attendance and performance, could benefit from this system.”

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BUSINESS SUPPORT

Paragon celebrates three years in Manchester INDEPENDENT building consultancy Paragon is celebrating three years of operating in Manchester, providing project management, cost management, project monitoring and surveying services on a number of major developments in the city.

Located at the Freetrade Exchange, Paragon’s Manchester office has gone from strength to strength, with its headcount rising significantly from two to twenty in the last 36 months.

This expansion has been in direct response to the high volume of work Paragon is undertaking on some of the city’s latest commercial and residential developments transforming Manchester’s skyline.

The company, which has recently been instructed on the Old Granada Studios and ABC buildings as part of the £1.35bn Enterprise City masterplan for St John’s, has also worked on other important projects around the city,

including the 44-storey West Tower, Deansgate Square, 100 and 101 Embankment, and New Bailey, Salford.

Paragon director and head of the Manchester office, James Onions, said: “We’re extremely pleased to celebrate three years in this incredible city.

“Manchester is the capital of the north and a key centre of the Northern Powerhouse with an excellent local talent pool. There are several exciting development projects taking place in the city which are further enhancing the city’s reputation, not just nationally but on a global scale.

“We’ve had an extremely successful three years in the city, and despite current macroeconomic headwinds, the continued occupational and investor demand for both commercial and residential property in Manchester means we remain both optimistic and excited for 2019 and beyond.”

Inflata Nation reveals new expansion plans

THE founders of the UK’s first inflatable theme parks have targeted ten new site openings for 2019, as they unveil ambitious expansion plans.

Inflata Nation run popular indoor inflatable arenas, filled with gigantic ball pools, tall slides, climbing walls and obstacle courses.

Founders Michelle and Matt Ball opened their first park in Manchester’s Trafford Park in October 2017.

Other centres soon followed in Cheshire, Glasgow and Beverley, as well as their first franchise operation in Birmingham.

Michelle, said:: “Our first franchise site opened in Birmingham earlier this year and three more franchise locations are already in development, with several others in the early stages.

“We think ten new locations for 2019 is a very realistic prospect as the market continues to expand, which is great news for anyone who’s been waiting for Inflata Nation to arrive at a venue near them, as we’re hoping to spread across the UK. “And we’re also busy formalising what will be our first international franchise,

with plans to expand into further international markets next year.

“The precise details of that venture is strictly under wraps for the moment, but it’s extremely exciting for Matt and I.” Matt said: “Our model has proved successful so far and we are aiming to roll it out even further over the next 12 months.

“We believe that Inflata Nation offers not only a unique experience for our customers but is also perfectly suited to an ambitious expansion strategy and is an attractive franchise opportunity.”

Inflata Nation is currently in discussions over a handful of other ‘interesting’ sites that will offer new attractions.

Michelle said: “We are delighted with the progress we have made this year, with the new sites in Runcorn, Birmingham and Beverley all up and running.

“We are determined to push on with our plans and retain our position as an industry leader.

“There are exciting times ahead for Inflata Nation and we can’t wait to give more and more people the chance to bounce in our arenas.”

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BUSINESS SUPPORT

February 2019

Beer Piper invests £250,000 BEER Piper, the UK’s market-leading beer line cleaning company, has marked a new chapter in its 30-year history with a £250,000 brand investment and a move to bigger premises in Trafford Park.

The significant investment and move comes after the company was successfully acquired

by Dovefield Ltd in February 2018.

The Greater Manchester-based company was established in 1988 to provide a secondto-none beer line cleaning system for the UK’s hospitality industry. It aims to reduce beer wastage, increase yield for landlords, bar owners and bar managers, and to make cleaning beer lines less time consuming, less costly and less impactful upon operations, giving pub operators and brand owners real time

data on their dispense systems.

Since the company launched, it has continued to innovate and develop its products year after year, building up a strong customer base. Beer Pipers services and products are now used all over the world with an impressive client roster including Brew Dog and True North.

The move to bigger premises in Greater Manchester means that Beer Piper now has access to more warehouse and office space for its expanding team, which will future-proof the business. The brand currently employs nine full time staff in Manchester and has invested heavily in providing service teams across England, Wales and Scotland.

As well as moving to the larger facility in Trafford Park, Greater Manchester, Beer Piper has invested heavily

in recruitment and marketing, which includes business to business PR, social media and digital communications.

Beer Piper expects its turnover to exceed £2 million in the next financial year.

Additionally, Beer Piper is currently working on a new WiFi-enabled machine, which will allow customers to create bespoke cleaning programmes using a mobile phone app, and report easily on progress using cloudbased technology.

Jeff Singer, Commercial Manager for Beer Piper, commented: “This has been an exciting and historic year for Beer Piper, with a move to new, bigger premises and significant investment into our brand positioning and marketing communications.

At the heart of our business is our firm

belief in the value that we provide to our customers. We don’t just provide a service, we partner with our customers to ensure that they are supported and looked after for the duration of our relationship, and some of our customers have been with us for over 20 years.

“Beer Piper’s beer line cleaning systems and services means that landlords, bar managers and owners can increase their yield, and clean their lines efficiently and quickly, even when open to the public. Our systems use powerful, new generation detergents that are manufactured from environmentally friendly ingredients by new parent company, Chemisphere UK, and our unrivalled technical expertise means we offer an exceptional service to our customers. We pride ourselves on trust, and all of our

team members are fully engrained in the values of our company.

“Going forward, we plan to invest even more in new cloudbased technology that will enable us to provide endless reporting options for customers and work even faster and smarter.

We also aim to grow into our new premises and recruit more senior level employees, and even more service teams across Great Britain.

“We predict an exciting future for our brand, as bar managers and hospitality owners demand even more from their partner organisations. We are fully prepared to meet these increasing demands, and we maintain our goal to become the most comprehensively used, most reliable and most recommended beer line cleaning system, not just in the UK but internationally.”

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BUSINESS SUPPORT

Deloitte completes nine deals in two months DELOITTE’S transaction services team in the North West has completed nine deals in the last two months, with deal values doubling to £5.5bn over the last year.

Among a series of high profile transactions, the business advisory firm advised on the acquisition of Mobile Phones Direct by AO.com, the sale of property consultancy GVA by private equity house EQT Partners to Avison Young, and the sale of Manchesterbased logistics service provider Yearsley to Lineage Logistics Holdings. Deloitte also provided financial and tax vendor due diligence to Manchester-based hosting provider UKFast on the sale of a 30 per cent stake to private equity house Inflexion, which valued the business at £405m.

The firm has also started the New Year strongly, advising Waterland Private Equity on its investment in residential services provider Sandcastle Care.

Over the course of the year, the transaction value of the deals advised on is an 87 per cent rise on the £3bn seen over the same period last year, with the team advising on a total of 44 deals. Two sectors have been particularly significant over the last 12 months – consumer business and technology, media and telecoms (TMT).

The Deloitte North West team has advised on 14 deals worth £2.2bn in the consumer business sector (which also includes logistics and travel) which is more than treble the £0.7bn completed over the previous year. This includes some of the region’s most significant transactions including advising Equistonebacked Travel Counsellors

on its secondary buyout by Vitruvian Partners, and Eddie Stobart Logistics Plc on the acquisition of The Pallet Network.

The North West’s flourishing TMT sector has also seen a rise in deal values over the last year, with the Deloitte team advising on transactions worth £1.4bn, again nearly treble the previous year. This includes advising NorthEdge Capital on its investment into Cloud Technology Solutions, as well as Waterland Private Equity’s acquisition of GasTag. To maintain this success, Deloitte has continued to strengthen its transaction services team in the North West, adding over ten new members in the last 12 months. Based across the firm’s Manchester and Liverpool offices, the team now consists of 30.

Dan Wright, Transaction Services Director at Deloitte in the North West, said: “Over the last eighteen months, our transaction services team has been at the heart of some of the region’s most significant deals, demonstrating our range of advisory expertise. Despite the challenging global market conditions, the success of the team in the last year underlines the appetite for growth through acquisition, as well as the opportunity presented to private equity houses.”

AKA North appointed by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust

AKA North has won a competitive pitch to manage all media buying and planning for the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, the independent charity which cares for the five historic Shakespeare heritage sites in Stratford-uponAvon and promotes the enjoyment of Shakespeare’s work, life and times.

AKA has created a bespoke strategy for the Trust based on its varying audiences and their different media consumptions. Consumer and business audiences will be targeted, both in the local areas and across the UK, using digital, out of home, specialist marketing, print and broadcast media.

The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust was formed over 170 years

ago, following the purchase of Shakespeare’s Birthplace as a national memorial. The five Shakespeare Family Homes welcome over 820,000 visitors every year and the Trust holds the world’s largest Shakespeare-related museum, archive and library collection, with over one million documents, 55,000 books and 12,000 museum objects. It also runs award-winning education programmes for all ages, encouraging the understanding and appreciation of Shakespeare’s works.

David Wright, head of marketing at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, commented: “William Shakespeare is the UK’s greatest cultural icon and as guardians of his legacy, we’re

committed to finding new and interesting ways to engage audiences with Shakespeare. Our historical sites, creative programming and educational courses appeal to people all over the UK, and further afield, so we were thrilled to see such a widereaching yet targeted approach from AKA. We’re really looking forward to working with the team.”

Louise Walsh, client services director at AKA, commented: “We’re delighted to be promoting such a unique organisation, to help grow its new and returning visitor base.

Our campaign will kick off in March 2019 and is a fantastic addition to our culture portfolio.”

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BUSINESS SUPPORT

February 2019

pro-manchester and Yorkshire Bank partner to deliver free events to Greater Manchester SMEs

pro-MANCHESTER, a business development organisation delivering unrivalled networking opportunities and events in Manchester has teamed up with Yorkshire Bank, part of CYBG, the UK’s leading SME challenger bank, to deliver events at their new B Works facility on Market Street.

Yorkshire Bank, has established a series of new partnerships with leading businesses and Universities in Manchester to enhance its service offering for SMEs at its B Works store.

The flagship store will be home to two events areas, as well as a café, a co-working space and more. promanchester will deliver a program of activities at the facility, utilising

its already-successful method of bringing together Manchester’s best business events, delivering invaluable insights to help SMEs learn better and work better.

For SMEs, often attending multiple events can be a drain on finances, time or resource. This is why pro-manchester and Yorkshire Bank are offering free events at a variety of times, to suit a variety of sectors, in a location where individuals can use co-working spaces, grab a coffee or both before or after attending the seminars.

Now in its seventh year, promanchester’s SME Club aims to help businesses to grow by providing information, resources and events in order to support

small to medium businesses in the region.

In the past seven years, the SME Club has provided over 600 articles to more than 12,000 SME professionals, using promanchester’s vast network of experts. In the last year, these have varied from helping SMEs who employ migrants in a post-Brexit Britain, to helping SMEs who are looking to develop their SEO strategy.

Sean Williams, Head of City Manchester, Yorkshire Bank, said: “We’re delighted to be teaming up with pro-manchester, an organisation dedicated to spurring business growth in the North West.

“Their events in the B Works

space will compliment the existing support we will be offering to the city’s SMEs in-store and provide them with extra value, helping them to grow their businesses.”

Nicola McCormick, promanchester’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “It was a great pleasure to hear our reputation in delivering slick events had proceeded us when Yorkshire Bank contacted us regarding this exciting new opportunity.

“Our SME Club has been something our members have widely enjoyed being part of in the last seven years, and we’re delighted that we can now begin to build on the expert advice we have already shared with our SME network.

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BUSINESS SUPPORT

Greater Manchester firms to help roll-out of £20m business support programme MADE Smarter, the recently launched £20 million initiative to help the North West’s manufacturing sector through the adoption of more industrial digital technologies, has appointed Andrea Thompson as the Chair of its steering board.

Based at BAE Systems in Lancashire, Ms Thompson is BAE’s Managing Director for Europe & International Programmes. This includes responsibility for BAE’s role in the F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft programme, the world’s largest defence project.

In her role as Chair of the Made Smarter steering group Andrea will oversee the successful development and operational delivery of the Made Smarter programme.

Joining her on the board, which features over a dozen representatives drawn from manufacturing firms

from across the North West, will be Alan Purvis from Salford design and manufacturing firm Mettler Toledo Safeline and Andrea Hough from Worsley-based AT Engine Controls.

Alan and Andrea will help to monitor progress of the pilot project and report on learnings which will help to inform the proposed national roll-out of the Made Smarter concept.

Other outputs will include the ongoing promotion of Made Smarter locally, regionally and nationally, and the strengthening of relationships between Made Smarter and other partners working across the advanced manufacturing agenda in the North West.

The board will also be responsible for ensuring good governance during the lifetime of the Made SmarterNorth West pilot.

Commenting on her appointment as Chair, Ms Thompson, said: “Having spent many years working in global industries like engineering, automotive and aerospace I know how respected and admired the

North West of England’s manufacturing tradition is.

“However, much of this is down to the legacy of the first industrial revolution which started in this region.

With Made Smarter we now have a real opportunity to kick-start a new era of technology-led manufacturing, driven by innovative and ambitious SMEs, throughout the whole of the North West.

“I am very proud to have been appointed to the role of Chair for the steering group, and I am relishing the opportunity to helping shape and develop this exciting project which has the potential to transform the region’s industrial economy.”

Mettler Toledo Safeline’s Alan Purvis said: “All manufacturers can improve their business performance by designing smarter products which can be produced in smarter factories, but we all need to work out how to take advantage of digital tools to raise productivity and collaborate across complex supply chains.

TheMade Smarter pilot is a great opportunity to accelerate this process in the NW.”

New era for historic manufacturer after major refinancing deal JAMES BRIGGS LIMITED, one of Europe’s largest manufacturers of speciality industrial and consumer chemicals, has outlined plans for growth following the completion of a major refinancing and balance sheet reorganisation which sees its management team take a stake in the company.

JBL which was founded in 1830 and is based in Oldham, Greater Manchester, has announced a new £8.5m funding deal with Close Brothers.

Endless, which has backed the business since 2013, will continue to have a majority stake, whilst management will also take a significant shareholding in the business.

Chief Executive Paul Blackaby said the business, which has been through a major turnaround over the last few years, is now on a firm financial footing with a robust balance sheet and the right capital and equity structures to support future growth.

The turnaround in James Briggs’ fortunes is underlined by its financial results for the year to 30 June 2018, which showed EBITDA increasing by 100% to £2.4m on revenues of £45m.

The company, which is one of the largest employers in Oldham with 274 employees, expects its results for 2019 to show further strong traction with revenues surpassing £50m

and EBITDA topping £3m.

Mr Blackaby said the new capital structure and deal with Close Brothers, was an “important milestone as the company enters a new era.”

“We strongly believe that we are now set for the future. Our customers and indeed our valued employees can be confident that we have a healthy, balanced period of sustainable growth ahead of us.

“While it’s impossible to predict precisely what will happen after the UK leaves the EU, this new deal means we can withstand the risks associated with Brexit and that we are prepared for whatever a post-Brexit era Britain might look like.”

Mr Blackaby, who took on the reins of leadership last autumn, said he and the executive team had been preparing diligently and “stress testing” the business to ensure that it could withstand the challenges a disorderly Brexit will bring.

Tom Jack, partner at Endless LLP in Manchester, said: “We are pleased to have supported James

Briggs through some difficult times and delighted that the business is in a far better shape now than it has ever been.

“We have built a strong relationship with Paul and the JBL team and look forward to continuing to support the business through the next stage of its long history.”

24 INTERNATIONAL

Kings Chambers talk sport in Switzerland LEADING Barristers at Kings Chambers, has hosted a Regulation and Arbitration in Sport event, bringing together experts from the UK and Switzerland.

The event, which took place in Lausanne, Switzerland, explored sports law issues relating to regulation, arbitration, CAS

systems and procedures and FIFA Article 17.

The event featured keynote speakers and sports law expert from Kings Chambers including barristers David Casement QC, Kelly Pennifer, Martin Budworth and Dr Gregory Ioannidis, of Sheffield Hallam University and the Academic Panel of Kings

Chambers.

David Casement QC from Kings Chambers said: “The Regulation and Arbitration in Sport event offered an opportunity for Kings Chambers to showcase its expertise in relation to a niche, but growing area of sports law.

Export competition encourages UK SMEs to take UK Plc to the World in 2019 THE Institute of Export & International Trade (IOE&IT) has launched its 10th ‘Open to Export Competition’ to encourage businesses to take ownership of their international strategies.

Sponsored by Bibby Financial Services (BFS), the competition asks SMEs to create a coherent ‘Export Action Plan’ using an online planning tool on OpentoExport.com.

SMEs can then enter their completed plan to the competition for the opportunity to win international trade support from BFS and the IOE&IT, with one winning company being awarded a further £3000 cash towards implementing their Export Action Plan.

The competitions are a key element of the IOE&IT and BFS’s commitment to boosting UK SME exports. The 10th iteration has the theme of ‘Taking UK Plc to the World’, showing that the UK is committed to international trade after Brexit.

Companies have been given until 8 February to enter their ‘Export Action Plans’ into the competition – an extension on the original deadline of 25 January.

Ten shortlisted finalists will then be invited to pitch their businesses at a showcase final at Grant Thornton’s London offices on March 6th. The finalists will pitch to a panel of expert judges about how they would use the £3000 cash prize provided by BFS towards implementing their international growth strategy.

Announcing the tenth competition, Lesley Batchelor OBE, Director General of the IOE&IT, said: “We are delighted to now be launching our 10th Open to Export competition. Since launching the competitions in 2015, we have helped hundreds of SMEs, both home and abroad, to take their next steps in export. We’re now looking forwards to helping UK SMEs to fly the flag overseas alongside our competition

partners Bibby.”

Jim Davis, Managing Director, International, Bibby Financial Services, added: “We support more than 10,000 businesses worldwide and we know from our own experience that trading overseas presents SMEs with tangible opportunities to grow. The IOE&IT is a fantastic support service for SMEs and we’re looking forward to reviewing the competition entries.”

25

ACQUISITIONS

Manchester manufacturer Techtex strengthens presence in healthcare and industrial wipes sector MANCHESTER-based suppliers of healthcare and industrial fabrics, Technical Textile Services Ltd., which trades as Techtex, has announced the acquisition of two competitors, Whitminster International Ltd and Klenzeen Ltd. The newly-enlarged business enjoys a £20m plus turnover, and the deal makes Techtex the largest UK independent manufacturer of high-quality cleansing wipes, taking the workforce to 90.

With two divisions supplying healthcare and industry, the company sources non-woven fabrics and manufactures a range of dry and wet wipe products, including branded, private label and generic products.

The company operates from a modern, 70,000 sq. ft. manufacturing and warehouse facility at the Rhodes Business Park, Middleton, North Manchester. The two acquired businesses share the same directors and are based on a site in Stafford, from where operations will continue.

Founding partners, Sales Director David Beardsworth, Finance Director, Steve Oldfield and Operations Director, Brian Whitney are joined by Whitminster and Klenzeen directors Julian Ashworth, who becomes General Manager, and David Thompson, who becomes Sales Manager.

Director David Beardsworth.

“These acquisitions will further strengthen our offer to customers in healthcare and

industry and will enhance our offer to new markets, including significant overseas opportunities,” said Beardsworth.

Techtex products, including its own Clinitex brand, are found widely in NHS hospitals across England, Scotland and Wales as well as in care homes, private hospitals, shops and factories and the company will continue to supply the Whitminster and Klenzeen brands, which are well-known, predominantly in the industrial and Janitorial marketplace.

David added: “Current customers of all the companies now under Techtex should know that it is business as usual, and thanks to our combined resources, we are focused on an even keener approach to

customer service, technical expertise and product quality.”

Acquisition funding was provided

by HSBC. Mark Boyle, HSBC UK’s Relationship Director for Greater Manchester, said: “Technical Textile Services has a strong reputation in its industry and a clear growth strategy.

We’re proud to support the company as it expands through this acquisition into new markets; achieving sales growth, boosting its manufacturing capacity and creating new jobs in the area.”

Debbie King and Jenny Goodwin from Farleys Solicitors advised Techtex, alongside Ian Liddle who provided support on the property aspects of the acquisitions. Debbie said: “Techtex have a clear vision and

ambitious plans for growth and these latest acquisitions mark an important milestone in that journey. We are delighted to have played a key role in securing the next stage in Techtex’s expansion and look forward to supporting them in the future.”

Tax advice was provided by Nadeem Hussain, from Pierce Business Advisory and Accountancy Group. He said: “Techtex is a really forward-thinking company and has seized fantastic opportunities within the sector to create a strong business model. We’re delighted to have played such a key role in their acquisition and we look forward to supporting them in the future with their continued growth.”

26 TRANSPORT

Manchester Airport retains its crown as best UK airport for fifth year in a row MANCHESTER Airport is flying high after being named the UK’s best airport, for a fifth year running, at the Globe Awards hosted by Travel Weekly.

The UK’s third largest airport fought off competition from the likes of Heathrow, Liverpool, Gatwick and Birmingham to receive the accolade.

The award comes after a strong 2018 for Manchester Airport, which saw it smash its alltime passenger record, as 28.2m people passed through the airport in the calendar year. It also saw Manchester Airport launch a wealth of new routes including Addis Ababa, Mumbai and Seattle.

Voted for by UK wide travel agents, representatives from Manchester Airport

picked up the award from John Barrowman, at a glittering award ceremony at Grosvenor House in London.

Patrick Alexander, Head of Marketing, for Manchester Airport, said: “We’re delighted to receive this fantastic award and would like to thank all the travel agents who voted for Manchester Airport.

“Last year was a great one for the airport with record passenger numbers and expansion by lots of our airlines.

“Looking ahead, 2019 is set to be an exciting year, as well as further route expansion the first new pier on our £1bn transformation will open in April. We’ll also be working hard to try and retain our crown for a sixth year.”

Cube3 on track with Transport for Greater Manchester

MANCHESTER-based brand, web and digital campaign agency, Cube3 has been appointed by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM).

TfGM owns Metrolink, the UK’s largest light rail network, and coordinates public transport and other types of travel, such as driving, cycling and walking throughout the 10 district areas of Greater Manchester.

It aims to make travel easier and more convenient through a better connected Greater Manchester.

TfGM required a company to manage and develop its social media account, Instagram, over the next 12 months.

Mike Mellor, Head of Commercial and Marketing at TfGM, commented: “We wanted to partner with a company that could help us to grow our Instagram account and maximise audience engagement on the platform.

“The team at Cube3 impressed us with their

creative execution and ability to measure every aspect of their strategy against our campaign objectives.

“It was also important to us that in expanding our influence on this channel we didn’t lose sight of building valuable relationships between our brand and our followers, Cube3 demonstrated a real understanding of this. "We are excited to see what’s to come.”

Cube3’s Managing Director, Mark Bailey, added: “After a competitive pitch process, we are delighted to be working with TfGM to develop a content strategy that will accelerate the brand’s growth and expand its influence on Instagram.

“This is an exciting project which involves building and nurturing an online community by celebrating Manchester with engaging, creative visual content and a carefully considered narrative.

“We hope that this is the first of many future partnerships together.”

Transport

27

£100m partnership proposal unveiled for Greater Manchester bus network GREATER Manchester’s bus operators have launched a ground-breaking £100m partnership blueprint to revolutionise the bus network and deliver on the region’s world-class ambitions.

Plans unveiled by OneBus would deliver better connectivity for local communities, ease the cost of travel and tackle the region’s growing congestion and air pollution crisis. This collaborative approach will both improve services for customers and support politicians’ aspirations for economic growth.

Greater Manchester has one of the most extensive and greenest bus networks outside London, with weekly travel from around £2 per day, contactless ticketing, and live bus journey information.

Last year, bus operators also worked with the Mayor to deliver half price bus travel for 16 to 18-year-olds and are in discussions to extend the benefit to offer free travel, with the costs being met by the Combined Authority.

But concern is growing over the impact of too many cars on the region’s roads. Figures from the Department for Transport show that there were more than 1.14million cars licensed in Greater Manchester at the end of 2017, some 17,600 more than

in 2016 and 75,400 more than in 2012.

Congestion has negatively impacted on bus punctuality, costs and fares, while also damaging public confidence in buses. Additionally, more than a third of these vehicles are diesel cars, contributing to the growing air quality crisis.

Gary Nolan, chief executive of OneBus, said: “Buses are central to the future of Greater Manchester and this positive package of proposals can make a real difference to tackling the biggest challenges facing our communities: road congestion and air quality.

“Building on the significant

investment already made by operators, there is a window of opportunity for everyone to work together to deliver a revolution in the region’s bus network that puts customers first and offers excellent value for both passengers and public investment.”

The Mayor and Greater Manchester Combined Authority are currently considering the future of buses and are evaluating an alternative franchising option. This would see taxpayers become responsible for the full cost of the bus network instead of the current system where the majority of costs are covered by

bus operators.

Mr Nolan added: “Franchising is being presented as a zero cost guaranteed route to better buses services, but this is a myth. The major investments we are proposing can be delivered far quicker through a partnership approach and without the risk and extra cost under any alternative model.

“Only by bus operators, the Mayor and the region’s local authorities working together, can we give Greater Manchester, its economy and its communities the dynamic bus network to shape our worldclass city region.”

28

Transport

February 2019

Manchester Airport celebrates record 2018

MANCHESTER Airport’s busiest ever festive period helped the Northern gateway to report a record year for passenger numbers in 2018.

More than 28.2 million passengers passed through the UK’s third largest airport in the last 12 months.

Popular holiday hot spots included Turkey with passenger numbers to Antalya up 50% and Dalaman 30% versus 2017. Agadir also saw a significant increase of 95%. Looking further afield, traffic to Hong Kong was up 39% and Muscat was up 34% against 2017, showcasing the increased demand for longhaul connectivity from the Northern hub.

It was a significant year for the airport as it celebrated its 80th birthday and progressed works on its £1bn transformation. The UK’s third largest airport also added further longhaul connectivity with new routes to Seattle

with Thomas Cook Airlines, Mumbai with Jet Airways and Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Airlines. In all these cases, Manchester is the only UK airport outside of London to offer such services.

Andrew Cowan, Manchester Airport CEO, said: “Last year was a strong one for the airport, with a number of key long-haul routes launched and a range of significant milestones achieved. We also saw strong growth from airlines such as easyJet, Ryanair and Jet2.com, all of which added frequency and capacity.

“For 2019, we’ve already seen significant growth announcements from the likes of easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2.com, TUI and Thomas Cook Airlines, giving our passengers a greater choice of destinations to choose from.

“The year also saw us celebrate our 80th birthday and it was great to celebrate the milestone with a wide range of people and

organisations over the course of the 12 months. Activities ranged from the release of the hugely poignant “Time Flies” film, to our involvement in Manchester Day and the planting of 80 oak trees across the whole of the region.

“Now we are into a New Year, excitement is really building about the delivery of the first phase of our £1bn transformation programme.

There has been impressive progress on what is the biggest investment in our history and in April, the first brand new pier will open to passengers. I look forward to celebrating the occasion with customers, airlines and other partner organisations.

“As 2019 progresses, we will continue to work hard to secure further new routes to important business and leisure destinations across the world, unlocking opportunities for all of the North.”

Transport

29

Double celebration for LJLA with growing passenger numbers and the UK’s best on time performance 2018 was also another successful year for Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LJLA) and the cause for a double celebration with the Airport’s latest passenger figures showing a milestone in passenger throughput, at the same time as having the UK’s best scheduled flight punctuality record.

5.1 million passengers chose to use Liverpool John Lennon Airport in 2018, the highest figures seen at the Airport in seven years and an increase of 3% compared to 2017.

The Airport has seen growth in passenger numbers and services throughout 2018 with a number of new routes having started last year to a diverse mix of destinations including Bergen, Dalaman, Iasi, Palermo, Paphos, Pula, Shannon and Toulouse. LJLA now serves over 70 destinations.

LJLA has also continued to be one of the UK’s best performing airports operationally. The Punctuality League, a report published by OAG, the world’s leading air travel intelligence company, shows that Liverpool had the UK’s best on time performance record in 2018, with over 84% of arriving and departing flights operating within 15

minutes of their scheduled arrival and departure time.

Liverpool has the seventh best record in the world when compared to airports of a similar size for scheduled flight on time performance.

Whilst passenger numbers and choice of destinations continue to rise, the Airport experience for passengers continues to remain one of the UK’s best. Queue times for passengers to go through Airport security remained low throughout 2018, with 97% of passengers taking 10 mins or less to pass through security and over 80% taking less than 5 minutes.

This is great news for the growing numbers of passengers who choose to fly from Liverpool, reassured to know that whilst the Airport has become busier it remains one of the UK’s faster, easier, friendlier airport experiences with queues at a minimum and flights operating on time.

2019 is set to be another busy year for the Airport, with new routes to Corfu, Copenhagen and Varna commencing in the Summer.

John Irving, CEO for Liverpool John Lennon

Airport commented: “2018 has been another very good year for the Airport and for the region’s air travellers too, with Liverpool now offering an even greater choice of destinations and a fantastic passenger experience.

"As an important gateway airport, Liverpool also benefits the City Region, the North West and North Wales with an excellent passenger experience and improved connectivity helping to attract more inward investment and boosting the region’s visitor economies.”

Belle Vue boosts fleet with £650,000 investment BUS and coach hire firm, Belle Vue Manchester, has invested £650,000 to expand its fleet as it gears up for growth in 2019.

The Stockport-based operator has acquired two double-decker executive coaches and a wheelchairaccessible coach.

Managing director Phil Hitchen said the 85-seater Van Hool Astromega and 83-seater VDL Bova Synergy enable Belle Vue to meet increased demand from larger groups.

The coaches are air-conditioned and have reclining seats, mood lighting, a drinks servery, washroom facilities and a DVD system.

They are being used for educational tours of Europe and for

private groups booking trips in the UK. Belle Vue has also upgraded its other double-decker executive coach, a Volvo B12B Jonckheere.

Managing director Phil Hitchen,

said: “Good quality double-decker coaches are generally in short supply across the industry but they have the advantage of enabling larger groups to save on cost, as they only need to book one vehicle

instead of two.

“Our new coaches greatly benefit our strategic partnerships with educational tour operators taking students to Europe, and are proving popular with key clients for UK trips.

“The lift also means that passengers who use a wheelchair or find it difficult to board on foot have easy access to the coach.

We regularly run day trips for such groups, and this addition to the fleet was made with them in mind,” he said.

“We are constantly investing to provide the best possible service to our clients and to ensure our fleet is the most modern around. We are now well-placed to expand the business in 2019.”

30

Transport

February 2019

Marella Cruises customers take off from Manchester on the UK’s only direct flight to Langkawi, Malaysia MARELLA Cruises customers have jetted off from Manchester on the UK’s only direct flights to Langkawi, Malaysia.

TUI Airways is operating the flights from Manchester, as well as Birmingham and London Gatwick, to fly cruisers to the Langkawi homeport for Enchanting Far East and Eastern Sunsets itineraries, forming part of Marella Cruises’ new Asia programme as the cruise line continues its pledge of offering its customers more choice and flexibility.

Manchester Airport celebrated TUI Airways’ cruiseonly inaugural flight with a special surprise performance from a Malaysian dance troupe, as well as cake and drinks. The Boeing 787 then took off for Langkawi with excited cruisers onboard.

Marella Cruises

is the only cruise line to operate cruise-only flights on its own exclusive airline, providing customers with a seamless end-to-end customer experience.

Flying from regional airports, the third largest cruise line in the UK gives customers the opportunity to travel from the airport

most convenient for them. The brand new TUI Airways flights to Langkawi will make it relaxing and stress-free for local customers to start their holiday, before enjoying fantastic, adult-only itineraries onboard Marella Discovery.

Managing Director of Marella Cruises Chris Hackney said:

“We’re really excited to be launching inaugural flights from the UK to Langkawi in Malaysia. We’re always looking at ways we can offer our customers even more flexibility and choice when it comes to choosing a cruise and the TUI Airways flights mark the next step in our continued effort to give our

customers the best holiday experience.

As part of our new Asia programme, our itineraries from Langkawi offer customers amazing destinations to some of the most sought out corners of the world, all alongside nothing but the best service onboard our ships with the friendliest staff at sea.”

Julian Carr, Aviation Director for Manchester Airport, said: “Customers can now get their cruise off to a fantastic start with direct flights from Manchester to Langkawi. South East Asia is a fantastic region to explore and I’m sure the cruises will prove hugely popular with our passengers.”

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Follow US @biz_manchester

31

Rochdale’s Crossroads Together Social Hens Project receives eggs-tremely generous donation from Pets Choice GREATER Manchester-based charity Crossroads Together has received some eggcellent hampers to support its ground-breaking Social Hens Project.

Providing support for families and individuals across Greater Manchester by offering practical care in the home, the Social Hens Project provided five chickens to eight care homes in Rochdale to help combat loneliness and depression and give the residents a sense of purpose. The initiative also aims to help improve wellbeing and social interaction.

PROUD TO SUPPORT AND PROMOTE:

In support of the project, Pets Choice has sent each of the care homes a cracking hamper full of chicken feed and accessories from its Feathers & Beaky collection to help the hens stay in tip-top condition.

The initiative includes Stamford House Care Home, in Rochdale, which provides specialised residential care for older people. Representatives from Pets Choice recently visited the home to handover the product hampers.

Camille Ashforth, Feathers & Beaky product manager, said: “We are so pleased to be able to

support Crossroads Together’s new initiative.

“Tackling loneliness and depression with the help of chickens is a fantastic idea and we are glad to be a part of it by helping the animals to help the residents.”

Paul Parlby, chief executive at Crossroads Together, added: “We’re so grateful for the support that Pets Choice has given us by providing food to help our hens grow and develop, so that they can continue to bring so much joy to the residents of the care homes we’ve introduced the scheme to so far.”

AS PART OF OUR COMMITMENT TO BEING A GOOD CORPORATE CITIZEN

32

CSR

February 2019

Bruntwood gives wellbeing boost to customers in the New Year BRUNTWOOD is pledging to help customers keep their healthy New Year’s resolutions by launching a series of wellness at work initiatives to help enhance professional development and personal wellbeing.

From virtual fitness classes to mindfulness and yoga sessions, Bruntwood buildings across Manchester are signing up to the programme to help boost staff morale and motivation.

Investing in employees’ wellbeing is good for business. It significantly reduces absenteeism and increases productivity. And with 46% of people admitting they turn up to the office feeling too tired to work, it is essential businesses get wellbeing on their radar for 2019.

Bruntwood’s initiatives are supporting them to do just that. The programme builds on its existing active and vibrant community activity across the portfolio, which ranges from art workshops and holistic therapy pop ups to running clubs and social events.

Resident gym at Bruntwood’s Riverside complex, FORM, offers customers a range of personalised programmes, as well as 1-2-1 and group personal training, and an outdoor astroturf training area.

For the first time, FORM will expand its offering in 2019 across other Bruntwood buildings, such as Neo and the newly refurbished Union in Manchester city centre.

The team, led by personal trainers Libby Smith and Ben Wood are on a mission to empower the people of Manchester to lead happier and healthier lifestyles. They will be conducting pop-up studio classes within four training areas ‘Sweat, Lift, Move and Breathe’, featuring everything from cardio, to wellbeing classes for the Bruntwood

community.

At Trafford House, Bruntwood continues its full exercise and wellbeing programme for customers to support them in increasing fitness and physical activity levels.

The pioneering initiative has seen the property company form a unique partnership with international fitness brand, LES MILLS, to offer a variety of 30 – 55-minute virtual classes.

LES MILLS mission is to create a fitter planet by helping people fall in love with fitness and research shows this virtual programming is a great way to get started into exercise while building the confidence for live classes.

For 2019, Bruntwood has also secured a deal with Altius Healthcare, which is headed up by

former England Rugby and Sale Sharks physiotherapist Doug Jones, to provide its Sit Strong corporate wellness programme to customers.

Altius will deliver a programme of physiotherapy services, strengthening and conditioning classes, and wellbeing therapies to firms located across the Bruntwood community.

The initiative will launch in three of Bruntwood’s buildings, Trafford House, Booths Park in Knutsford, and Neo in Manchester city centre, with further buildings to follow.

Toby Sproll, director of retail, amenity and community from Bruntwood, said: “Happy, healthy people are the biggest asset to any business and at Bruntwood our focus has always been creating places where companies can succeed and

thrive. The way in which people work is rapidly evolving and work environments need to reflect this.

Modern businesses need flexible workspaces and wellbeing facilities within easy reach. They need spaces which have people at their heart.

“It’s clear from our customer steering groups that wellbeing at work is no longer a ‘nice to have’, but a ‘must have’. Everyone wants to feel their company is looking after them, and by providing such a wide range of options for our customers we can help all businesses, whatever their size, offer these services to employees.

Whether its fitness facilities, art classes, yoga or mindfulness training there are plenty of wellbeing options to get employees engaged."

Flexible spaces for truly tailored events. Central to what we do.

From intimate meetings to bustling conferences, we’ve got the perfect space for your event.

Welcome to the venue that’s built to meet your exact requirements.

To find out more, call 0161 834 2700 or visit manchestercentral.co.uk

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14/06/2018 13:05

34

CSR

HMG Paints launches two-year charity initiative

HMG Paints Ltd is swapping their laboratory coats for running vests to take on the Great Manchester 10K Run on 19 May 2019. The family business will be supporting four chosen charities selected by the employees.

HMG Paints launched the initiative in 2018 focusing on local charities, supporting The Motor Neurone Disease Association, Forever Manchester, The Cleft Lip and Palate Association and Manchester Mind, and have set a target of £6,000 via their fundraising page.

The Motor Neurone Disease Association is the only national charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland focused on improving access to care, research and campaigning for Motor Neurone Disease, an uncommon fatal condition that affects the brain and nerves.

HMG will also be running for Forever Manchester who work with local communities to inspire and encourage projects that make their neighbourhoods happier, healthier and safer places to be. They help local people to build communities from the inside out, and galvanise the true creative, entrepreneurial spirit for Greater Mancunians to emerge and shine. “Forever Manchester is delighted to be a chosen charity for HMG Paints. It’s fantastic that a local company recognises the value of supporting local grassroot community activity

February 2019

that makes a difference on their doorstep, where they work and where their staff and customers live. We’re looking forward to working together.” commented Jean Mills, Head of Business Development at Forever Manchester.

The Cleft Lip and Palate Association (CLAPA) work to improve the lives of people born with a cleft palate and their families in the United Kingdom. The final charity the company will be raising funds for is Manchester Mind. This local charity is a member of the national Mind network, and has been delivering support services since 1989. All local Minds are independent charities who raise their own funds. Manchester Mind provide support and information to over 5000 young people and adults across the city. In addition, they offer community and employer training to develop awareness and promote wellbeing.

“Supporting charities that were chosen by the people of HMG really brings everyone together and shines a spotlight on the family values that run through HMG. After our launch in 2018 we have been able to see exactly where the donations are going to go and just how much running the 10K and raising vital funds is going to help each charity nationwide and locally to HMG in Manchester.” said Gracienne Ikin, Communications Manager, HMG Paints.

Morson celebrates historic landmark with “50 Weeks of Giving” MORSON has launched their 50th anniversary celebrations by pledging to donate to 50 different worthy causes throughout the year.

The Salford-based recruitment and design giant celebrates half a century in business in 2019 and has embarked on a programme of events to honour this landmark, with charity and community at the heart.

Morson plans for every office worldwide across the Group to take part in the charity activity, with each branch nominating a charity in that region to support.

Morson will help the local

community as part of their ’50 Weeks of Giving’ programme throughout the year by providing donations each week to help schools, homeless shelters, elderly care homes, animal welfare shelters and many other institutions in the Manchester area. The company aims to give £500,000 throughout the year.

All of this will be in addition to the work to raise money for the employee-chosen charities in 2019, Motor Neurone Disease Association and ABF The Soldier’s Charity. The Group hope to have their best ever year of fundraising, surpassing the

record of £160,000 raised in 2016.

Morson Group was formed by Gerry Mason, the late father of the current CEO Ged Mason, in the family home in Salford in 1969.

It has since grown to become the third largest technical recruitment company in the world and the UK’s leading aerospace and rail recruiter, turning over more than £900million.

Since formation, the head office of the company has never moved more than two miles away from its original location. The business now occupies state-of-the-art premises on Centenary Way on the bank of

the Manchester Ship Canal, and this relationship with the local area is something that Morson is keen to celebrate throughout the year.

Ged said: “Manchester has always been a fantastic place to conduct business. From our first office at our family home, to our current corporate headquarters, we have enjoyed working within the diverse and exciting business culture Manchester provides and we are proud of our roots.”

35

APPOINTMENTS

Slater Heelis appoints new practice director

FULL-service law firm Slater Heelis has appointed Naeem Dean as its new practice director as it eyes future growth.

Naeem Dean is a qualified FCCA (Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) with more than 20 years’

experience of managing the finances and operations of legal practices. He will be based at the Sale office of the law firm.

Naeem’s new role at Slater Heelis will see him working closely with the partners and heads of departments and having an involvement in all aspects of the running of the legal practice.

Chris Bishop, managing partner at Slater Heelis, said: “We’re delighted to have Naeem join the team as our practice director. As

we continue to expand, it’s vital that we have an experienced practice director to ensure we’re operating efficiently and are geared up for growth.

“Naeem brings a wealth of senior experience and his legal and commercial background will prove a real asset to the firm and strengthen our senior management team. It has been an exciting year and Naeem’s appointment marks another key development for us.”

Manchester Lawyer appointed Chief Assessor of the Law Society’s Clinical Negligence Panel The Law Society has appointed a top medical negligence solicitor from Manchester’s Fletchers Solicitors as chief assessor of its clinical negligence specialist panel.

Trevor Ward has taken up the post, after being an assessor of the panel since its inception. As chief assessor, he will be responsible for working with the Law Society to administer its clinical negligence accreditation scheme, oversee the application process and ensure it is up to date.

Trevor has more than 30 years’ experience in the legal sector, specialising in all areas of medical negligence, and has been member of the Panel for 25 years. He will hold the post of Chief Assessor for three years.

The clinical negligence accreditation scheme ensures that

the general public can easily able to identify legal practitioners with proven competency in clinical negligence law.

Trevor joined Fletchers Solicitors, one of the UK’s leading medical negligence firms, in November 2017. He is based in Fletchers offices in St James’ Tower in the heart of Manchester City Centre, working alongside a team of 50 solicitors dedicated to dealing with medical negligence cases.

Ed Fletcher, CEO at Fletchers Solicitors, commented: “At Fletchers, Trevor is responsible for handling the most serious, life changing medical negligence cases the firm receives.

“He is highly regarded in the legal industry due to his level of experience and his dedication to upholding high standards of practice within the sector.”

UKFast appoints CFO to deliver next stage of growth BRITISH cloud firm UKFast has announced the appointment of Catherine Greening to the role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) as the firm embarks on an ambitious five-year growth plan.

The move comes as part of the expansion plans linked to the recent investment from Inflexion Private Equity.

Greening, who joined UKFast five years ago as M&A director, played an important role in the recent deal with Inflexion alongside GCA Altium which saw UKFast valued at £405m.

Since joining in 2013, Greening has been closely involved in the development of UKFast and its related companies, including the acquisitions of penetration testing specialist, Pentest Ltd, and of public sector cloud and cybersecurity business Secure Information Assurance (S-IA), now UKFast Public Sector.

Greening said: “As M&A director, I was more focussed on one-off projects designed to add value, such as the acquisition of S-IA. The move to CFO sees me far more involved in the day-to-day operations of UKFast, working more

closely with the other directors to drive business performance.

“The timing wasn’t right at the end of 2018 for an IPO. However, with Inflexion as business partners that still remains a viable option for the future. I’m also excited to see how ClearCloud and Public Sector develop throughout 2019, with both having incredibly strong pipelines.

“For a CFO, the mix of high sales growth and strong cashflow is hugely attractive. UKFast is a business that constantly evolves and leads the market, making it an exciting place to work.”

UKFast CEO Lawrence Jones MBE said: “Since setting up UKFast nearly 20 years ago, there have been some clear areas of investment and growth. The past few years our focus has been very much around expanding our R&D team, building products and investing in infrastructure for the future.

“Our plan for 2019 and beyond is to look at ways to capitalise on our investment. Catherine and her team are well placed to help us accelerate our growth. I am hugely excited by the future, particularly the wealth of opportunities we uncovered during our due diligence.”

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February 2019

Manchester design agency BGN bolsters team with strategic appointments MANCHESTER -based design agency BGN has bolstered its offering with two new appointments to their growing team.

The agency, which is approaching the end of its second year in business, is already carving out a reputation for itself for its brand-led approach to business – maximizing the potential of businesses through effective design, executed across all platforms.

The new hires were strategically chosen to further differentiate the agency from its competitors by strengthening the teams offering in terms of skills, experience and business-minded approach.

Laura Coull has joined the Manchester-based team as brand planner, having worked previously at Amplifon and Unilever as a global communications manager.

Gary Ratcliffe has also joined BGN’s development team to bolster the agency’s in-house development capability. Previously, Gary worked at E-Jigsaw as senior

web developer and has more than seven years’ experience developing and delivering bespoke websites.

The appointments come after an exciting start to the second year for the BGN team as they also take larger office space within Bruntwood’s flagship NEO building.

Antonio Giansante, operations director at BGN, said both new team members had proven that they understood business from a client’s perspective and were passionate about the impact that branding can have.

Antonio, who founded BGN in April 2017 added: “After what’s been a hugely successful first year and a half in business, we’re pleased to welcome Laura and Gary to the growing team here at BGN. “Gary has joined our development team, while Laura brings a wealth of client-side experience and understands business needs from a client perspective.

“Strategy and insight are the cornerstone of effective design and having someone like Laura to come in and

manage the delivery of the brand and marketing strategies we put in place is invaluable for us and our clients.

“We believe in using brand to help businesses grow and as a tool to solve the problems they face. We are now better placed than ever to do just that.”

Laura added: “Joining BGN is an exciting opportunity for me.

“They are a young growing agency working on a real growth trajectory and have some really exciting projects with some great brands in a variety of sectors.

“There was real synergy when I met the team in terms of our brand-led approach to design and passion in making design effective for business.

“I am really looking forward to working with the BGN team and look forward to playing my part in both delivering their growth strategy and doing an exceptional job for our clients.”

Openreach announces 250 engineering jobs in the North West MORE THAN 250 trainee engineers will be hired across the North West, as part of a huge recruitment drive announced by Openreach.

The new roles in Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside will see trainees join the country’s largest team of telecoms experts working to expand, upgrade, maintain and install services over Openreach’s national broadband network.

Across the UK, more than 3,000 trainee engineers are being recruited, mainly to deliver the company’s ‘Fibre First’ programme, which is bringing faster, more reliable and future proof Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) technology to millions of front doors.

Alongside the latest recruitment drive, there’s further good news for the region, with Openreach also announcing Bury and Salford as two of 11 new locations where it will be building new FTTP networks during 2019ii. This brings the total number of towns, cities and boroughs at the forefront of the FTTP build to 25, with the company on-track to deliver its commitment of reaching three million homes and businesses with ‘full fibre’ broadband by the end of 2020.

Clive Selley, Chief Executive of Openreach, said: “Openreach is ambitious for the UK and is determined to build full fibre as quickly as possible to ensure the country has a reliable broadband network capable of supporting future data-hungry services and applications essential for boosting productivity and sustaining our position as a leading digital economy.

“We’re making great progress towards reaching our target of upgrading three million homes and businesses to full fibre by the end of 2020, reaching another 13k premises per week and these new North West recruits will play a crucial role in that programme. Openreach is a people business and our new apprentices will enable us to fulfil our commitments, with an ultimate ambition to deliver the best possible connectivity to everyone, everywhere, equally, across the entire country.”

Jon Corner, Chief Digital Officer, City of Salford, said: “Our digital commitment to citizens in Salford is paramount and you can see this, for example, in our Digital You and Digital Eagles programmes for skills and empowerment. The Openreach full fibre roll-out in Salford is yet another key step towards ensuring that all of our residents can benefit from future digital services and opportunities.”

In addition to Bury and Salford, the other locations where Openreach is building FTTP networks during 2019 are Barking & Dagenham, Bexley, Croydon, Greater Glasgow region, Harrow, Merton, Redbridge, Richmond Upon Thames and Sutton Coldfield.

For the first time, Openreach also plans to publish details on its website detailing its build plans for the next 12 months, including the total number of exchange areas to be reached in each location. The company will update this information every three months.

Matthew Hemmings, Openreach’s director for

fibre delivery in the North of England, said: “We want people from all walks of life to apply for roles at Openreach, to build a diverse workforce that reflects the hugely diverse communities we serve.

Last year we successfully recruited more women than ever before and this year we want to go even further.

“Becoming an engineer can be an incredibly rewarding career, and we’re constantly improving our training and recruitment programmes, providing recognised qualifications, to make sure we attract and keep the best in the business. We’re investing heavily in upskilling our people, so they can now do more for customers in a single visit and we recently launched new career pathways to give our engineers a clear sense of the skills, accountabilities and experience they need to get where they want to be.”

APPOINTMENTS

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Manchester-based presentation design agency makes senior promotions BUFFALO 7, has shifted its focus and reimagined its mission statement to truly encapsulate the evolved, bigger, and better Buffalo 7 organisation.

In addition to creating presentations for some of the world’s top brands, Buffalo 7 expanded its remit to help Manchester businesses of all sizes to improve their presentation skills at free events.

The company also hosted local ‘7 Stories’ events, empowering the community to talk about how they’ve overcome adversity, and took part in fundraising activities for its charity partner, Manchester Mind.

Their hardwork was recognised by the Amazon Growing Business Awards, who announced Buffalo 7 as ‘Creative Industries Business of the Year’.

Buffalo 7 has major plans in place to continue to grow, and expand internationally. In order to keep the momentum going, and focus on the growth of the team, the presentation agency decided to promote from within the company, to form their Board.

The new board directors are; Michelle Sussams, Creative Director, Felicity Chivers, Account Director, Chris Tomlin, Communications Director, Gary Corrin, Client Service Director, Terry Barnes, Finance Director and Richard Barnes Managing Director.

Having such a young team of designers and developers at Buffalo 7 means that the agency has no end of energy or ideas, but Michelle keeps the team grounded with her incredible eye for detail and the ‘how’ behind the grand plans. It’s the

perfect partnership.

She said: “Becoming a member of the board at Buffalo 7 is an exciting opportunity. We have a very talented team of creatives, and to be given the opportunity to help shape the agency’s creative direction is a rewarding challenge.”

Felicity, developed the Project Management team and oversaw its impressive growth. Now, her new position on the Board allows her to concentrate on evaluating every tiny project process, from brief to delivery, to ensure it is as efficient as possible. Felicity is set on improving the client journey more and more every day, building stronger, longer-lasting relationships along the way.

Felicity commented:“We’re committed to clear, open and meaningful communication with clients, it’s what our Project Management team has been founded on. My new position within the Board gives me the opportunity to develop our relationships with wonderful clients, and develop the team to help make sure we’re doing it in the best ways.”

Chris, is not only dedicated to making sure Buffalo 7 tells clients’ stories in the most impactful way, but also to ensuring the wow factor extends to the Buffalo 7 story as well, heading up the Marketing department.

“Communications are an essential part of the Buffalo 7 package,” said Chris. “We’ve worked hard in the Storytelling team to transpose our clients’ messages into clear, compelling narratives, so it makes perfect sense for us to apply this to our own stories within Marketing too.”

Gary, has a unique knowledge of Buffalo 7 from the client’s point of view. Gary’s focus is on providing the studio with a solid pipeline of projects to keep their thumbs from twiddling, and making sure the team blows clients’ minds with everything they deliver.

“As a business, we have some major plans in store for the near future,” said Gary. “But that only comes when we know that we have a secure framework of clients, both new and those coming back for more. The appointment of a Board means that together, we can focus on the future, continuing to deliver amazing projects, time and time again.”

Terry Barnes, Finance Director, is the strong yet silent type. Terry keeps the company in check. Following his previous role in computer programming, he actually retired momentarily, before joining Buffalo 7.

Richard Barnes, Managing Director, the founder of Buffalo 7, commented: “Following a really successful year for Buffalo 7, it was time to look to the future. To ensure success continued, and to enable Buffalo 7’s transition into growth opportunities, we introduced a new Board of Directors that would deliver balance, structure and proven expertise across the business.

“We have strong ambitions to grow into new markets, to broaden our services, and develop and grow our wonderful team. With the Board in place, we are looking forward to a strong and healthy future for the business.”

Forbes Solicitors expands Manchester operation LEADING law firm Forbes Solicitors has expanded its Employment team into Manchester city centre.

The move coincides with Partner, Emma Swan being appointed as Head of Commercial Employment and Partner, Ruth Rule-Mullen being appointed as Head of Public Sector Employment, to oversee the Team’s continued growth within the commercial and public sectors.

Associate Solicitor Sal Chowdhury and Solicitor James Barron are now working full-time out of the firm’s offices at Church House, Deansgate, which was previously only a base for part of Forbes’ Insurance Team.

Jonathan Holden, Partner and National Head of Employment said: “Moving Sal and James into Manchester city centre is part of the strategy to grow our client base in the Manchester area along with an increase in demand for the services we provide.”

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APPOINTMENTS

February 2019

Josh Bolland appointed Chair of BIMA Manchester and a newly structured council.

Josh will be working alongside Ian Finch (Mando), North West Chair and Andy Kent (Angel Solutions), Liverpool Chair as well as Karl Barker (Cube3) and Joanna Hinchliffe (Amaze) to support the growth of BIMA in JOSH Bolland, CEO of Manchesterthe region. based technology and innovation BIMA is Britain’s digital consultancy, J B Cole has been community.

Its councils and appointed Chair of BIMA Manchester. think tanks drive innovation Having previously been recognised and excellence across the digital in the BIMA 100 for achievements in industry, informing thinking, the digital industry in 2016 and 2017, and already sitting on the BIMA North promoting inclusiveness and West council, Josh will now be the focal preparing the industry for the point for BIMA’s growth in Manchester future.

Josh has been the regular host supported by the North West committee

of the BIMA Breakfast Briefings throughout 2018, bringing hundreds of Manchester’s digital scene together with a number of expert guest speakers.

He plans to use his new role as Chair of BIMA Manchester to create a collective of digital experts within the city, running key events and workshops focussed around digital technology and innovation as well as the state of play in the industry.

He said: “BIMA has been a huge part of my personal journey and that of J B Cole too.

I’ve been able to tap into their

support from the beginnings of our agency eight years ago and have found their assistance and guidance invaluable in this time.

“I’m proud to now be in this position where I can help drive BIMA forward in Manchester, support the North West’s digital sector and crucially give something back to the agencies and technology businesses in the city.”

“Manchester is brimming with digital talent and innovative businesses. It’s a huge honour for me to help steer the conversation of the industry in the city.

PMD Business Finance expands with new invoice finance division OLDHAM-based business finance firm PMD has expanded, with the introduction of a new invoice finance division.

The company has appointed Mark Millhouse as head of invoice finance.

This new division will offer all aspects of invoice finance, as well as services such as EFG loans, asset-backed funding, credit insurance, trade finance, stock finance, single debtor funding, export funding and foreign exchange.

Managing director of PMD Business Finance, Peter Dobson, said: “This is a new division of PMD but one that fits perfectly with our asset finance, refinance and loan activities.

Mark brings over 18 years’ experience

in the invoice finance sector and will be offering our clients and referrers access to a diverse range of invoice discounting and factoring facilities.”

The newly-launched division coincides with PMD’s recent office move to a larger space at Howarth Court in Oldham to house its 30+ staff, which has grown from just eight staff members when the business was founded in 2010.

Mark commented: “This is such an exciting opportunity for me; being able to work as an adviser, not a lender, and allowing me to offer completely impartial advice so I can match the most suitable lender to the client’s needs. I’ve known PMD for many years and have always been impressed

with the team, their service levels and wide portfolio of funding options.

“Many SMEs have started to review their cash flow and assetbacked lending requirements, finding that there are now many flexible alternatives offering considerable advantages as opposed to the traditional bank options. One of the key benefits is that the client is more in control of their finances and less

bound to their provider.”

Tom Brown, head of direct finance at PMD Business Finance, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Mark to PMD. Invoice finance is an exciting and complementary addition to our range of facilities and fits perfectly with the clients we work with. We’ve known Mark for some time and he embraces the same ethos and professional standards associated with PMD.”

APPOINTMENTS

39

New role for Steph at JCI PARALEGAL, Steph Peña, has been made social director of Manchester’s Junior Chamber International ( JCI), a network for young go getters.

Steph, who works for the Manchester office of national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP, will be in charge of planning, preparing and promoting a series of JCI events over the coming year.

JCI is a global, not-for-profit organisation, for 18 to 40-yearolds with a mission to provide

development opportunities to empower young people to create positive change.

“We are excited to have this opportunity to be more involved with JCI,” said Steph, a member of Clarke Willmott’s construction law team.

“Since our office has expanded this year there are nearly 20 members of staff eligible to network, attend training and join the community JCI have built.

“It will be great for our ‘up and

coming’ lawyers and paralegals to start building their networks and reap the benefits JCI has to offer.

JCI’s Manchester branch offers its members opportunities to develop their management and leadership skills by heading up projects.

“I’m really looking forward to the next 12 months on the board.

Being part of JCI will broaden my network of contacts and develop my networking skills”.

Manchester -based PHMG appoints Gareth Watt AUDIO branding agency PHMG has appointed Gareth Watt as Head of Talent Acquisition and Development.

Watt joins the Manchester-based company to support ongoing global growth plans and will be both spearheading the entire recruitment process, while managing the continual development of staff across the business.

He brings more than 12 years of experience in blue chip and digital media businesses to the role, having previously worked for Dentsu Aegis Network as UK Head of Recruitment,

and Barclaycard in senior people resourcing positions.

“PHMG has earned an enviable reputation for the quality of its personnel, passion, hard work and people lie at the core of its ongoing success.

"I will be working to further raise the bar with the service we deliver and help PHMG take the next step in their evolution.”

Chief Financial Officer Matthew Toynton, added: “PHMG is a global market leader and we continue to work hard to ensure that our pole

position is maintained.

“Attracting and keeping the star performers in our industry is the bedrock of our success so Gareth’s appointment represents a significant investment in our people. With an innovative approach to talent strategy, from process design to HR technology, he will be helping us to better support our clients and deliver marketleading products and services. We are confident he will help the company continue go from strength to strength.”

40 PROPERTY

Recom in good shape for Barry’s Bootcamp

A SALFORD Quays company has been appointed as the main contractor for a new Barry’s Bootcamp fitness studio in London after successfully completing the firm’s latest UK venue in Manchester.

Recom Solutions is managing the design, procurement and fit-out for Barry’s Bootcamp in Canary Wharf.

Recom’s appointment follows its role as the principal contractor for the new Barry’s Manchester in the ABC Building at Enterprise City, a purpose-built cluster for the creative, media and technology industries on the site of the former Granada Studios.

The 5,500 sq ft studio, the first Barry’s Bootcamp in the UK outside the capital, opened at the end of November.

It is equipped with the firm’s trademark

red lighting and nightclub-specification sound system, as well as customised treadmills, daily fitness classes, a Fuel Bar, showers, a towel service and athleisure and retail partnerships.

Recom was appointed for the Manchester project following a tender process. The contract was completed in 10 weeks.

Recom director Jason McKnight said: “The Manchester scheme was fast-paced, very detailed acoustically and an absolute pleasure to be part of.

“Our team is used to intensive high-end programmes where a keen eye for detail makes or breaks a project.

“The scheme was another feather in our cap of successfully delivering fit-out schemes in the North West, and we are delighted

to have now started on the next Barry’s Bootcamp in London, once again as the principal contractor “Winning repeat work with clients is in line with a key aspect of our business strategy and this new contract demonstrates our ability to secure projects with national firms beyond our North West heartland.”

James Macaskill, co-owner of Barry’s Bootcamp UK, said: “Right from the start when we appointed Recom, its team was very proactive in procurement, design management and client liaison.

“The project was well-managed onsite and, as our first outside of London, it is one of which we, Recom and Manchester can be proud.

“We have now appointed Recom to deliver our next scheme in London.”

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Property

Hurstwood Holdings celebrates the successful launch of its Rossendale office development MANCHESTER-based Hurstwood Holdings is celebrating the successful launch of one of its Rossendale office developments, following a major uptake from local businesses.

The Hurstwood Court facility is home to 22 local SMEs, ranging from video specialists to occupational therapists and financial consultants. Because of this success, only five units at the bespoke, state-of-the-art office space are available, with the facility offering break out areas, meeting rooms and engaging working spaces.

The company is one of the UK’s leading property providers, with over 500 commercial customers occupying its office suites, industrial estates, retail development, leisure and medical facilities across the UK. Based in Manchester city centre, HurstwoodHoldings has been a leader in the development of both commercial and residential properties for more than three decades.

The Hurstwood Court office is one of five developments the company

services on New Hall Hey Road in Rossendale, along with another office block, gym, industrial park and a large retail unit.

Sian Hindle, Sales Manager, Hurstwood Holdings, said: “We are delighted with the positive reaction from local businesses to Hurstwood Court, alongside some of our other successful developments in Rossendale.

“We brought in an experienced interior design to make Hurstwood Court a dynamic and engaging space for local business to thrive alongside each other and it has definitely worked.

“Hurstwood Court is now one of our flagships in exemplifying both our commitment to creating fantastic places to work and the increasing demand for such modern spaces.”

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42

Property

February 2019

Manchester City centre law firm moving to Altrincham A PROGRESSIVE Manchester City law firm, based in Spinningfields, is relocating to 1 Ashley Road, Altrincham.

Ozon Solicitors has taken the first floor of 1 Ashley Road, comprising 3,000 sq ft of office space on a five year lease.

The firm act for individuals, small businesses as well as corporations, insurers, brokers and intermediaries in all sectors of the insurance industry and financial services.

Fiona Dutton, operations manager, Ozon Solicitors, said:“The main driving force behind the relocation from the

city centre is that the majority of staff are South Manchester based. Altrincham became the preferred location as it matched our criteria on so many levels. The tram links provide easy access to the City centre as required but reduce the daily commute. The town centre has a great range of local amenities to suit everyone including the excellent market, great restaurants, gyms and an array of retail options, which along with the top quality office space we have secured, makes it the ideal choice.”

Daniel Lee, director, Properties, said: Regional Property “This high spec office space Solutions, who acted was snapped up very quickly for the landlord EA

reflecting the growing popularity of Altrincham and the demand for quality accommodation in the

town, which is now becoming a rare commodity.”

Planning approved for Bury business park ST. MODWEN has secured planning permission from Bury Council for the development of Chamberhall Business Park in Bury.

The green light for the plans will see the developer and regeneration specialist move towards a start date in the coming months for the 17-acre site off the A65 Peel Way. The first phase will see the development of modern industrial units ranging from 2,500 to 24,000 sq ft.

The scheme will provide for the creation of up to 400 jobs for local people and is seen as critical to

the health of Bury’s economy.

The market has shown over recent years the high level of demand for modern, state of the art, business space and this development will help address the shortage currently seen in Bury and help attract more companies to the borough.

Andrew Day, Asset Manager at St. Modwen, said: “Planning approval was the next stage in the delivery of Chamberhall Business Park, following St. Modwen’s selection as development partner by the Council and the signing of the development agreement last year.

“The scheme we are developing will bring high quality industrial units to Bury, which we know are in

great demand, and will enable expanding local businesses to move premises or provide accommodation for business looking to relocate to the town.

“We are really encouraged by the interest we have already received from potential occupiers and hope to announce a significant pre-let in the near future.”

The site, which is north of the town centre and is close to the M66 motorway and Metrolink, has been allocated by the Council for employment for a number of years.

Chamberhall Business Park will see units positioned in three terraces off an attractive central boulevard, along with two larger detatched self-contained units and a serviced development

plot capable of accommodating bespoke and design and build enquiries.

Councillor Rishi Shori, leader of Bury Council, said: “Creating jobs and attracting investment into our borough is a key priority for the council.

We are determined to ensure that businesses can flourish and ensure that Bury continues to prosper. Chamberhall is a superb town centre location, on a brownfield site, and will play a vital role in contributing to the achievement of that goal.

“We are delighted to be working with St. Modwen to attract a range of companies to Chamberhall, and ensure that our existing businesses also have top-quality accommodation to move into as they grow.”

Property

43

St. Modwen agrees raft of new deals at Wythenshawe Town Centre ST. MODWEN, has agreed a series of lease renewals and a new tenant at Wythenshawe Town Centre.

Lease renewals include high street staples Boots, Halifax, Lloyds TSB and Costa Coffee, alongside independent retailer Shahid Farook, who runs the Fonehive store in Haletop East. All are renewing their commitment to the popular town centre in south Manchester.

National health and beauty retailer Boots has signed a five year lease on its current

premises located at Unit 25 Haletop, directly adjacent to the Metrolink tansport interchange.

The UK’s largest and fastest-growing coffee shop chain Costa Coffee has signed a nine year lease on its unit in The Birtles.

The Halifax has agreed a 10-year lease to remain in Unit A Haletop while neighbouring Lloyds TSB has renewed its lease for an additional 10 years.

Joining the raft of renewals is new tenant Halo Hairdressing and Beauty. The salon

specialises in providing hair stylists, colour technicians and beauticians for a variety of treatments. Daniel Davis, Wythenshawe Town Centre Manager, said: “We are really pleased to have secured these lease renewals with some big UK household names and to welcome our new tenant Halo Hairdressing and Beauty.

“These new deals ensure we retain a wide retail and amenity offering at Wythenshawe Town Centre, which I know will be well received by the local community.”

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Property

Worsley Leisure Centre re-opens after £1.4m update OPERATED by Salford Community Leisure on behalf of Salford City Council, the project has been funded through Salford City Council as part of its £35m master plan to develop leisure centres across the city to boost health and wellbeing.

Worsley Leisure Centre’s equipment suppliers were carefully selected for their knowledge and expertise. Equipment was provided by Prestonbased independent company, Gym Gear, who selected equipment to improve the overall member experience. The new Gym Gear 98e Performance Series cardio with the latest fitness technology was chosen. Members can now enjoy virtual programs and fitness apps alongside audio-visual functionality.

Gym Gear director David Bulcock, said: “Gym Gear is delighted to be once again partnering Salford Community Leisure. Our Entertainment Series Cardiovascular Equipment

will provide enhanced exerciser engagement through a range of on-console features such digital TV, immersive workout landscapes and internet browsing. The consoles seamlessly connect with CircleCloudGo,– Gym Gear’s cloud solution which enables users to create and track workouts as well as connect to their existing, favourite workout tracking devices. A range of HIIT Cardio products will also allow gym goers to achieve their workout goals in a shorter space of time.

Worsley Leisure Centre first opened as public swimming baths 80 years ago and has since hosted in excess of 12 million visits from people across Salford, Greater Manchester and beyond.

The centre now includes an iconic gym added to the existing building constructed in copper to mirror the older red brick part of the building and to complement the red brick of the older local houses in the area.

February 2019

The first floor addition houses a new gym complete with state-of-the-art equipment, a dedicated weights area, a HIIT zone and a modular rig for functional and small group training.

A second, larger, multi-purpose studio has replaced the lower ground floor gym to offer more space for exercise classes.

The extra studio space will also enable more children’s dance and gymnastics classes as well as a range of sessions aimed at helping elderly members get more active.

Plans were proposed and developed by internationally renowned leisure architects, Pozzoni with Wates, as the construction partner and the work commenced in April 2018.

Mark Chew, Director of Leisure at Salford Community Leisure, said: “The centre has been the hub of the local community since opening in 1937 and has now been transformed as part of Salford City Council £35m master plan to develop leisure centres across the city to boost local people’s health and wellbeing.

“This development means we can continue to help more people get and stay active. The new facilities are wonderful news for the community and we’re excited to welcome back loyal members and attract new centre users as well.”

Property

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Key Travel takes ninth floor at Bruntwood’s iconic St James’ building Financial consultant expands in Hale NOW Financial Planning Ltd based at 168 Ashley Road, Hale is growing and expanding into adjoining premises.

It has taken a further 600 sq ft of selfcontained office accommodation on the first and second floors to the rear of the building at 3A Cecil Road, Hale. The business has taken a 10 year lease.

Andrew Morgan, partner, Now Financial Planning, said: “The business has been steadily growing over the last few years and the additional space became available at the right time and we only needed to unlock a door to access it, enabling us to occupy a total of 2000 sq ft in one building. We are looking forward to building on our growth.”

LEADING property company Bruntwood has welcomed third sector travel management leader Key Travel to the newly refurbished ninth floor of its landmark St James’ building on Oxford Road in Manchester.

Key Travel recently announced a merger with Raptim Humanitarian Travel to form the world’s largest travel management company exclusively focused on the academic, humanitarian and faith sectors.

The merged business, which has over 500 employees in ten countries and sales of over £350 million, has taken the entire newly-refurbished ninth floor at St James’, which is just under 20,000 sq ft.

The St James’ Building dates back to 1912 and was once the headquarters of the Calico Printers Association. Bruntwood has sensitively transformed the landmark with a comprehensive refurbishment, which has regenerated the historic building creating a vibrant, contemporary home for Manchester’s next generation of businesses.

Adam Selka, Senior Asset Manager at Bruntwood Works, said: “It’s wonderful to be welcoming Key Travel to this outstanding suite, particularly at this exciting point in the business’ journey. Following our work to regenerate the suite, we harnessed technology in the form of an AR experience to animate the space and show its potential to viewers, but there’s nothing quite like seeing a company move into a new suite and bring it to life by putting their own stamp on the space!

“The ninth floor at St James’ is a unique space

in the city, offering a spacious, dynamic open plan environment in a beautiful period property complete with outstanding contemporary features, facilities and amenities. St James’ also offers customers excellent connectivity, and great access to a vibrant community of the most innovative and exciting organisations in the region. It’s a great space in an unbeatable location and we wish the Key Travel team the very best of luck as they settle into their new home.”

John O Sullivan, Managing Director for Key Travel in the UK, said: “Although we continue to grow our company globally, our Manchester office has always been and will continue to be the heart of our operations. The move to St. James’ will reinforce our presence in the city whilst perfectly accommodating our objectives for future growth and providing a great working environment for our people. We are truly looking forward to becoming part of the history of this great building.”

Glenbrook sells unit PROPERTY development and investment company Glenbrook has announced the investment sale of a industrial unit in Walton Summit, Lancashire, to Knight Frank Investment Management (KFIM) on behalf of LCC Pension Fund, in a deal worth £2.955million, reflecting a 6.53% net initial yield.

Acquired by Glenbrook in March 2017, the unit is occupied by Sliders (UK) Limited, a leading aluminium bi-folding, patio and composite doors

manufacturer. Sliders (UK) limited committed to a new 15-year lease in May 2018.

Speaking about the sale, Chris Lloyd, investment director at Glenbrook, commented: “Our initial objective was to retain this investment within our portfolio but the offer from KFIM was a good one, which will allow us to reinvest our monies into similar value add opportunities.”

Piers Windsor at KFIM, continued: “The acquisition fits well with the Fund’s requirement for

industrial property within the county of Lancashire and we are always keen to work closely with vendors on an off-market basis. The property provides secure, long term income at a yield which represents good value given the strong, strategic north west location.”

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Property

February 2019

£8m contract win for Aberla ABERLA has won its largest contract to date by securing an £8million work package on The Crescent in Salford.

With the successful appointment to the 399-apartment scheme, named ‘Local Crescent’, Aberla M&E, part of the Aberla Group, is due to commence fitout stage, as the project hits the half-way

point in the construction programme.

The PRS development, currently being constructed by Domis, includes a 22 and 16 storey tower and acts as the gateway between Salford and Manchester on Chapel Street. Alongside the towers will be a smaller six-storey block with the entire scheme offering a mix of one, two, three-bed apartments and townhouses. In addition, the residential development will include a swimming pool, yoga rooms and gym facility on the first floor of the tallest tower, plus commercial spaces on the

ground floors.

Aberla M&E will be installing all elements of mechanical and electrical engineering, renewable technologies including a combined heat and power system, and utility services.

Dr Daniel Strosnider, strategy & sustainability director at Aberla Group, sais: “Since joining Aberla 18 months ago, the results of our growth strategy have exceeded all expectations. This Local Crescent project win is the perfect example of how working closely with key partners to provide an outstanding

service has resulted in securing a really exciting opportunity on a key gateway site.”

Kingsley Thornton, director at Domis, commented: “We’ve seen Aberla’s commitment to delivery since working together on a number of schemes across the North West and it was a natural fit that we would appoint them for this significant PRS development in Salford. With the project due for completion in spring 2020 works on site are now ramping up and we’ve real confidence in all the sub-contractor teams appointed.”

Green light for Redfern redevelopment at NOMA NOMA, a 20-acre mixed-use neighbourhood in Manchester city centre, has secured planning permission to redevelop Redfern, a Grade II listed former warehouse and office building, into modern office space with ground-floor retail and leisure units. Hermes Investment Management is the investment manager of NOMA, working on behalf of an institutional investor.

Under the plans approved

by Manchester City Council, Redfern will be revamped to offer over 50,000 sq. ft. of Grade A contemporary office space spread across six floors. Industrial-chic features such as exposed airducts and suspended lighting will help appeal to the tech and creative

firms who increasingly power Manchester’s economy, together with a new roof terrace where workers can relax and socialise.

Redfern’s famous redbrick façade, a hallmark of Dutch Modernist architecture, will also be maintained, with the original period window fittings restored in line with NOMA’s commitment to preserving local heritage.

An additional 7,600 sq. ft. of mixed retail and leisure space split across three units will be provided on the ground floor, which was previously a basement until the excavation of Sadler’s Yard, Manchester’s newest public square.

Redfern was previously home to PLANT NOMA, a community

workshop and ‘village hall’, which has now relocated to Old Bank on the other side of Sadler’s Yard.

Stephen Bradley, Senior Asset Manager at Hermes Investment Management, said: “The go-ahead for Redfern’s redevelopment underlines Manchester City Council’s continued confidence in our vision for NOMA. There is now real momentum behind the neighbourhood, with Amazon moving into nearby Hanover.

Dantzic, another listed building, is due to complete in early 2019. We look forward to taking Redfern forward and will soon be outlining our plans for the new-build opportunities at NOMA, helping cement our position as the UK’s first innovation district.”

Richmal Wigglesworth, Associate at Sheppard Robson, said: “Redfern, our third refurbishment of a listed building on the estate, is an important part of the NOMA jigsaw, fusing desirable office space and staff amenities with the new neighbouring public space, Sadler’s Yard. The strong civic presence of the building, helped by ground floor uses that directly address the public space, will create a vibrant atmosphere and contribute to the NOMA place making. Occupants will feel connected to the building’s heritage, with sensitive refurbishment sitting alongside new elements, such as the addition of a roof terrace area for the office tenants.”

Property

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Major waterfront scheme at MediaCityUK tops out A MAJOR 19-storey waterfront scheme in MediaCityUK has topped out. The Green Rooms is being funded by a joint venture between Atlas Residential and IP Investment Management.

The market-leading residential scheme, which boasts 238 apartments, is being delivered by MediaCityUK’s joint venture partners, Peel Land & Property Group and Legal and General Capital.

Located adjacent to BBC offices on the Manchester Ship Canal, directly opposite ITV’s ‘Coronation Street’, Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium, and Imperial War Museum North, The Green Rooms is nearing completion.

Jonathon Ivory, Managing Director of Atlas Residential UK, said: “The Green Rooms is situated in the heart of MediaCityUK and is

within minutes of some of the UK’s most visited attractions.

“We are pleased to announce that the 19-storey scheme will top out in early 2019 and are excited to be providing high quality apartments for Manchester and Salford’s growing population.”

“MediaCityUK is integral to Greater Manchester’s regeneration story and we are delighted to be part of this. Providing a mix of spacious and well-lit one, two and three-bedroom apartments was always our aim and we are close to completing what has always been a communityfocused vision.”

The Green Rooms will also include a gym with dedicated space for both yoga and pilates.

In addition, this amenity will offer residents the

opportunity to join and participate in a range of fitness classes. The business lounge will boast high-speed internet, sofas, coffee tables and work space.

Selina Williams, Executive Director of IP Investment Management, said: “We are delighted to have reached this key construction milestone in this, our first investment in the UK build-to-rent sector working with Atlas Residential. We look forward to seeing the realisation of Atlas’ vision when the building has completed and opens.”

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