Business Manchester September 2018 by The Samuel James Group

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September 2018

Manchester Airport celebrates one year of construction on its £1bn transformation programme MANCHESTER Airport is celebrating one year of construction on the biggest investment project in its history. The North’s global gateway is spending £1bn on transforming the airport, that will see Terminal 2 become 150% bigger than it currently is and become the focal point of the airport’s operations. The programme got under way a year ago after a visit by the Secretary of State for Transport, Chris Grayling. Since then, the airport’s skyline has changed dramatically as the first pier has been built and over 70% of the steelwork has been erected on the terminal extension. It’s one of the biggest construction programmes in the North of England and there are currently 1,200 people working on site, including 80 apprentices, in trades ranging from plumbing and scaffolding to quantity surveying and civil engineering. Since the first spade went in the ground, £185m has been spent with SMEs in the supply chain within a 35mile radius of the airport. Andrew Cowan, CEO of Manchester Airport, said: “This is the largest investment ever made in

the airport and will transform the experience for our passengers and airlines alike, as well as creating jobs and training opportunities for local people and boosting businesses working on the scheme in the process. “I’m excited to see the first pier open to passengers in just eight months’ time and to press ahead with the rest of the scheme, especially the new terminal building, which is in course to be open to passengers by mid-2020.” The first pier is set to open to passengers in April 2019, at 216m long if it was stood upright, it would be the

tallest building in Manchester. To enable the new pier and terminal extension to be constructed, work has also been progressing on the airfield. In the first phase of airfield works, the apron has been extended to the West; including new taxiways and apron reconfiguration to allow the pier and additional aircraft stands to be used. The second phase, which began in June 2018, involves a new taxiway, increasing the capacity of existing taxiways, new aircraft stands and AGL replacement and installation and is part of the reconfiguration of the airfield

that will help to feed the redeveloped Terminal 2. These phases of the works will see 148,000m2 of new taxiway and apron, 95,000m3 of concrete poured and 25miles of cabling installed with the aim of all excavated material being diverted from landfill throughout. The work is due to be completed by July 2020. Looking further ahead, after the terminal extension the next pier is scheduled to open in 2022 and the refurbishment of the existing Terminal 2 building will also be completed that year. Terminal 1 is currently scheduled to close by 2023 with the third pier set to open in 2024. Once completed, Terminal 2 will have capacity to handle over 35 million passengers a year. Bryan Glass, Laing O’Rourke Project Director, said: “We’re on schedule to deliver the transformation of Terminal 2 and that certainty of delivery has been driven by our offsite construction approach, with elements of the project manufactured offsite and assembled by our expert project team and technicians. There’s no room for complacency of course! Our team is focused on the next milestone, hand over of the first pier in January 2019.”

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to the September 2018 edition of Business Manchester. In this issue, we feature in detail, the UK's leading digital resilience cyber-security organisation, Xcina. We also look forward to the Business Manchester launch event, taking place on 27 September at Manchester Central. Additionally, we find out more about £26m plans to create a waterside dining destination at the Lowry Outlet, plans for the new £250m shopping centre in Bolton and how Bridge Law Solicitors is growing its footprint in the North-West. 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. We hope you enjoy this edition. If you have a story for either online or the newspaper, please email it to Editor@businessmanchester.co.uk

CONTACTS & CONTRIBUTORS Group Editor: Andy Mann 07951 731722 andy@thesamueljamesgroup.com Head of Sales: Paul Walmsley 07825 884106 paul@thesamueljamesgroup.com Editor: Phil Ghayour 01772 364152 07825 884003 phil@thesamueljamesgroup.com

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EDUCATION 12 AWARDS 14 BUSINESS SUPPORT

DELIVERING YOUR DIGITAL RESILIENCE

ACQUISITIONS 40 TRANSPORT 41 INTERNATIONAL 44 CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

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

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Lowry Outlet announces £26million plans

NEW plans for the Lowry Outlet to become a vibrant waterside dining destination have been revealed by Lifestyle Outlets. “The Watergardens”, an elegant dining concept, has been designed by architects Chapman Taylor to maximise the waterfront location with a variety of new restaurants benefiting from the best waterside views in Greater Manchester. In addition, a new waterfront promenade, improved public realm and integrated planting along the canal will connect the Millennium Bridge to the Outlet Mall, creating a unique landscaped waterside location. The Watergardens will incorporate biophilic design principles, to strengthen the connection between nature and natural

September 2018

elements and the man-made environment. Since acquiring the Lowry Outlet, Lifestyle Outlets have already invested millions of pounds with a further £26 million investment planned that will secure over 1900 jobs. Jason Pullen, Managing Director of Lifestyle Outlets said: “The redevelopment will transform the southern waterside of the Lowry Outlet, allowing people to relax and dine with some of the finest waterfront views. “When the work is complete, the Lowry Outlet will be a unique shopping and leisure destination that will draw people from across the region to Salford Quays and MediaCityUK”

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Secarma launches major talent search

BRITISH cybersecurity specialist, Secarma, is on the lookout for ethical hacking talent, and a new managing director, as it seeks to build on the growth it has achieved since it acquired Pentest Limited in 2016. Secarma owner Lawrence Jones, also of UKFast, is on the hunt for 20 additional ethical hackers to fulfil the growing market demand for penetration testing. Lawrence said: “Since acquiring Pentest, Secarma has grown significantly. The last two years have been a very steep learning curve for us but an exciting one. “Secarma is a brilliant

business full of bright individuals with incredible technical skills. It’s time now to really expand and we’re looking to build a management team to make Secarma a £100m business in the next 3-5 years. It is likely to involve more acquisitions but more immediately it requires serious expansion of the team.” Headquartered at the FastForward project at UKFast Campus, Manchester, Secarma’s team of CHECK, CREST and CBEST accredited cybersecurity consultants work remotely from locations across the globe.

“Our pen testers have an excellent reputation for delivering world-class service, but it’s important they have plenty of time to work on their own challenges and research alongside day-to-day client work. “It’s this research that enables them to learn new skills, keeping them at the forefront of the industry. We don’t want to turn this into another average consultancy firm that works pen testers flat out for 24 hours a day. We want to retain and attract the best people to deliver the best service to our clients. “Our approach to development clearly works.

Last year at DEFCON, a global hacking contest, the Secarma team was the only British firm to win in competition against the very best in the world. That record speaks for itself.” Secarma also came out on top in two competitions at the world’s largest hacking convention in Las Vegas last year, exposing more IoT (Internet of Things) vulnerabilities than any other team in the last four years. With Pentest founder John Denneny set to retire, Lawrence is also on the lookout for a new managing director and further senior hires to bolster Secarma’s

leadership team. “John is retiring and while he’s been instrumental in getting us to this level, this is an exciting opportunity for a new managing director with a similar vision to myself to build a £100m business.” Secarma provides advanced threat analysis, compromise simulation and tailored red team operations to enterpriselevel organisations and government. The firm advises clients of all sizes across the UK, Europe, Middle East, Africa and North America.

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Cloud Technology Solutions to launch fortnightly Cloud Surgery for businesses MANCHESTER-based Cloud Technology Solutions (CTS), has announced it will be hosting fortnightly cloud surgeries for businesses in the North West after all places at their latest ‘Next Special’ Google Cloud Platform (GCP) User Group Meetup booked out. Considered the thoughtleader in the GCP space, CTS is hosting the hotly anticipated GCP Meetup event at Plant NOMA, Manchester, a week after the Google Cloud Next conference in San Francisco. The event will look at covering some of the news, releases

and updates that come out of the three day Google Cloud Next exhibition, as well as giving attendees a greater understanding of everything that GCP has to offer. Attending on the day will be Google customer engineer, Ian Pattison, discussing what some of the new releases will mean for customers, with a particular focus on the retail sector. Joining him will be GCP engineer at CTS, Adam Wood, looking at some of the technical releases revealed at Google Next and touching on exciting developments with a live demo.

Finally, Shaun Hall, Head of R&S and DevOps at The Hut Group, will be looking at how they use GCP to power recommendations, personalisation and test analysis on their websites, a network of ecommerce sites that gets 15 million hits per day. For those who were unable to obtain a place at the coveted meetup, CTS is launching a free fortnightly ‘Cloud Surgery’, giving organisations the chance to come along for a chat, keep up with developments in the industry, and have all of their

cloud technology questions answered. The Cloud Surgery will enable businesses to discuss everything and anything cloud tech related, from productivity and collaboration with G Suite and Chrome hardware, to scalable infrastructure and innovative big data with GCP. Plus, guidance on complementary cloud software solutions from CTS’s raft of technology partners. Speaking about the new Cloud Surgery, CEO and co-founder, James Doggart, said:“We’re delighted to be launching this new

Northcoders adds two to teaching team MANCHESTER headquartered Northcoders, the coding bootcamp for the North, has added two new tutors to its teaching team. The new tutors are Anthony Medina and Paul Rogerson. Both are qualified coders and will be responsible for delivering Northcoders’ curriculum, mentoring students on a group and one to one basis, as well as researching and staying abreast of industry news, technology trends and changes in tech. Before joining Northcoders, Anthony taught English in South Korea; whilst Paul previously worked at an international accountancy firm in IT risk consulting and assurance. Anthony said of his new role: “I find helping people to learn really rewarding and I love coding, so Northcoders is the

perfect combination of my two passions. It’s a truly forward thinking and dynamic business so it’s incredibly exciting to now be part of its journey.” Chris Hill, Chief of Operations at Northcoders, added: “We saw real talent in Anthony and Paul. More than that, we saw people with empathy and a natural ability to share their expertise, natural teachers, who will be a great asset to Northcoders and to our students.” Northcoders was recently selected as one of the country’s brightest tech stars in Creative England’s CE50 list, and has launched its new Developer Pathway Course and first ever software apprenticeship programme that aims to drive participation in the tech sector.

initiative and hope these Cloud Surgeries will help organisations further develop knowledge and understanding of everything that cloud technology has to offer. We wanted to make these workshops free so that they’re as accessible as possible to businesses of all sizes.” Founded 10 years ago, CTS provides cloud transformation solutions to a broad range of organisations. The Google Premier Partner has migrated over 7 million users to the cloud including, most recently, Manchester City Council and Homeserve.

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Shoosmiths advises video game developer Firesprite on exclusive PlayStation VR deal THE INTELLECTUAL Property & Creative Industries team at Shoosmiths has advised leading video game development studio Firesprite Ltd on an exclusive license and distribution agreement with global interactive entertainment giant Sony. Headed by partner Laura Harper, Shoosmiths’ IP & Creative Industries experts have advised Firesprite on a major licensing and worldwide digital and disc distribution deal for its new virtual reality game The Persistence. The team also provided advice on brand protection and trade mark registrations. The deal will see Sony take exclusive ownership over the license and global distribution of The Persistence on PlayStation VR (PSVR), which has already received a raft of praise in reviews from across the games community. Liverpool-based Firesprite have previously collaborated with some of the games industry’s biggest names including Sony PlayStation’s Japan Studio. Graeme Ankers, CEO at Firesprite, said: “Whilst we are very much an established AAA games developer, because of the confidential nature of the work that we do, we’ve never really shouted too much about ourselves before. Our work has generally been in the background, like collaborating with Japan Studio on new hardware projects. “We’ve delivered a lot of

incredible projects, but The Persistence is really the first time we are talking about our work because it’s our own Intellectual Property (IP). It’s been a labour of love that we’ve worked on for three years and we feel that we’re ready to really talk about that now for the first time. “Laura and her team at Shoosmiths worked with us on this project and have handled all of our legal and business affairs and IP over the last five years. They have provided specialist contractual and intellectual property support for The Persistence and importantly, helped to negotiate our agreement with Sony”. Laura Harper added: “It was a delight to work on this project with Graeme and continue to provide support for the growth of Firesprite as a leading game development studio. In particular, we have enjoyed working with the company to negotiate this major deal with Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe and Sony Interactive Entertainment America for one of Firesprite’s own VR titles.

“Firesprite’s latest game is already drawing great excitement from across the games industry and we’re pleased to have been able to support the team on this significant deal for the PSVR platform. “Shoosmiths specialise in advising games studios and our experts negotiate development, licensing and publishing deals for our clients and work with accountants to draft tax structures which assist developers to maximise their VGTR and R&D relief. We are committed to maintaining and growing our leading reputation for working with businesses across the UK’s vibrant and diverse creative and digital sector and supporting the growing demand for high-quality, accessible legal expertise across the North West region and beyond. “Our IP & Creative Industries team is enjoying a fantastic period of growth and this has been fuelled in part by the growth of the UK games sector, particularly in the North. We’re looking forward to the future as we continue to expand the practice and our offering even further.”

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EnviroSAR Ltd aims to expand R&D efforts nationally THE FOUNDER of EnviroSAR, whose expertise was used to learn more about two wildfires that devastated vast moorland areas this summer in the North West of England, is aiming to expand further the research and development of her company to better monitor wildfires and the moorland restoration at a national level. Dr Gail Millin-Chalabi launched EnviroSAR, a targeted solution for peat moorland and heathland restoration in the UK, last year and recently appeared on BBC’s The One Show and BBC Breakfast to discuss the company’s involvement in tackling the Tameside and Winter Hill wildfires. EnviroSAR, funded by the University of Manchester’s Innovation Company, UMI3 Ltd, analyses satellite radar data to mitigate wildfire risks, supports planning and execution of land restoration activities to reduce water discolouration and associated costs. EnviroSAR has previously collaborated with fire services and is looking to build stronger relationships with both utility and insurance companies to support wildfire recovery and restoration efforts. Dr Millin-Chalabi said: "The moorland wildfires this summer has highlighted the need for further funding to support research and development work in this area. EnviroSAR is currently exploring opportunities for European Space Agency (ESA) funding to expand the business." The original idea for EnviroSAR came out of Dr Millin-Chalabi’s PhD back in spring of 2016. “I’d been using radar data for characterising and monitoring burnt areas after wildfires,” said Dr Millin-Chalabi, who is a GIS and Remote Sensing Officer in the School of Environment, Education and Development at The University of Manchester. “Not long after coming up with the idea of EnviroSAR we won the European Copernicus Masters Sustainable Living Challenge and are receiving support from UMI3 through the UMIP Innovation Optimiser Programme, which empowers innovators from across the University to create start-up businesses.”

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Intelligent healthcare company Rinicare announces completion of financing “This year we are seeing a much longer wildfire season in the UK. Usually we are over them by midMay. Some are still burning and it’s July. “If we keep experiencing these drier and hotter weather conditions year after year, our wildfire season could start transitioning into the summer, more like, dare I say it, Mediterranean areas and expanding into the months of June and July.” On what can be done to understand patterns of wildfire occurrence and mitigate against wildfire risks she said: “Nationally things need to be more integrated when it comes to what is collected on the ground and what is available through satellite data. “Information has to be shared and managed well and marry together better, rather than piece-meal which it seems to be at the moment. EnviroSAR could really help with that. “A healthy moorland environment should have a high water table and plants such as sphagnum moss, which holds around 20 times its own weight in water. It’s like a sponge. When you have these kinds of plants, even if a wildfire happens it slows the burn down as the landscape is more resilient and so the burn will be less severe. “We also need to connect more socially with local communities in moorland areas.” Utility and insurance companies are vital when it comes to wildfires, according to Dr MillinChalabi: “We are keen to start building stronger relationships with utility and insurance companies as once we get a heavy downpour of rain all that ash and char on the surface is going to potentially run into our watercourse and cause discolouration and sedimentation issues of our drinking water. “The North West of England is a post-industrial revolution area so there is also potential for heavy metals in some of these peaty soils to erode into the wider environment if restoration of the peat moorland does not take place. “EnviroSAR is keen to assist utility companies in regarding where is best to target restoration efforts using satellite technology to try and mitigate downstream environmental issues as much as possible.”

RINICARE Limited, a leading Manchester-based intelligent healthcare company has announced the completion of its financing round by welcoming new investors Catapult Ventures and NPIF, Mercia Equity Finance, which is managed by Mercia Fund Managers and is part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund. The funding will be used to support the commercialisation of Rinicare’s digital healthcare portfolio, which is designed to provide solutions that improve outcomes and reduce costs in a number of settings such as emergency, primary and community care as well as progress its AI-powered predictive algorithm for intensive care. Healthcare providers around the world face the challenge of maintaining sustainable healthcare systems in light of an ageing population and continuously increasing costs. Rinicare’s approach to addressing these challenges is

based on a collaborative effort with clinicians and end users to design advanced wireless communications, innovative prediction algorithms and enhanced software technology solutions that demonstrably improve outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. The company markets its wireless physiological signs technology (PRIME) and its falls prevention system (SAFE) globally in a number of healthcare solutions, which are tailored to individual needs. In addition to its expanding marketed solutions, Rinicare is developing its AI predictive system, Stability, which is initially focused at intensive care and addresses a global market for predictive healthcare analytics. This fast emerging area of healthcare is estimated to grow at a compound annual growth rate of over 25%, reaching an estimated global market value of $24.6billion by 2022. Stuart Hendry, CEO of Rinicare, commented: “We are

very pleased to welcome such high-quality investors in this financing round. We will be using proceeds to support the ongoing commercialisation of our PRIME and SAFE based healthcare solutions in the UK and abroad as well as continuing with the development of world-leading Stability AI intensive care programme that has already captured data from several thousand intensive care patients.” Dr Vijay Barathan, Life Science Partner, Catapult Ventures, commented: “We are excited to work with Rinicare as they commercialise their intelligent health product portfolio in the UK and international healthcare markets. Each product represents an innovative solution and significant market opportunity.” Dr Mark Wyatt, Investment Director at Mercia, added: “I am looking forward to working with the Rinicare team, and I am excited to see their technologies drive efficiency gains and patient benefits into the healthcare system.” Sue Barnard, Senior Relationship Manager at British Business Bank, said: “The healthcare market is evolving rapidly, and is expected to grow significantly over the next few years. The North is home to many innovative businesses in this space, such as Rinicare, and NPIF is pleased to support those looking to enter the next phase of growth.”

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Boxing tracker ready for round two thanks to The Landing REAL-TIME boxing tracker, Corner, which has been developed at The Landing, MediaCityUK, has already been snapped up by boxing pros and coaches, including the GB Olympic boxing team. The rapid growth and success of the smart, wearable boxing technology has led co-founders, Charles Burr and Jerry Krylov, to move on from the start-up and incubator facilities provided at The Landing and into their own HQ in the centre of Manchester. The tracker has been developed to help boxers focus their training and hit their goals faster and its proving to be a fantastic success. British World Heavyweight Champion, Anthony Joshua; Manchester-born boxing coach, Joe Gallagher; and supermiddleweight champion, Callum Smith have all been involved in testing the tracker. Charles and Jerry met just three years ago through mutual friends. Charles, from Manchester, was studying at Imperial College London and was using similar technology to track crocodile rehabilitation process but was keen to adapt it for his big passion, boxing. Jerry, also a keen sportsman, was a student of interior architecture and product design at Glasgow School of Art and was looking for opportunities to design and launch a brand-new product from scratch. Jerry followed Charles to Manchester and they set to work developing the boxing

tracker. They wanted to develop the product to track boxing performance in real-time using wearable sensors so that speed, power, type of punch and work rate could be measured and used to improve performance. After a few weeks working from their homes, they needed somewhere they could work together in an environment full of like-minded tech developers where they could access state of the art user testing facilities. As a specialist incubator for rapid tech start-ups, The Landing, based at MediaCityUK, provided the perfect location for Jerry and Charles to start their new venture, test their prototypes and access the investment and support they needed to grow quickly. Whilst at The Landing, Jerry and Charles have also had the opportunity to take part in a variety of tech accelerators and, in 2016, they were successful in securing a place at the World’s first and largest hardware accelerator in San Francisco. They have also successfully trialled their product on live TV in Scandinavia and France. Jerry Krylov, co-founder of Corner, said: “I remember day one at The Landing. For the first time we had two desks together and we could really set to work developing the product. It was a strange feeling but it was the best move we made. The Landing provided us with the co-working space we needed but it was so much more than that. “The team at The Landing

believed in us and were always looking out for us. They really understood what we were trying to achieve. They provided the user testing labs as well as the connections, investment and training opportunities. It’s been a phenomenal journey and we’re so excited to be ready to move on to our very own HQ. “We have achieved so much in the last three years and we couldn’t have done it without The Landing. The future is really exciting. We also have lots of plans for developing the product further and for building our new HQ, which will incorporate a gym and a professional boxing ring where we can test the product as we develop it. We’ll also have a creative co-working space and photographic studio for other creative start-ups to use.” Paul Billington, commercial director at The Landing, said: “Through sheer hard work and a passion for their product, Jerry and Charles have created

something that is state-of-the-art and is already having a massive impact in both professional and amateur boxing. “At The Landing, we are really proud to support rapid start-ups in the tech sector and Corner is a real success story as they are now ready to move on and launch their very own HQ and that’s exactly what we want for all our tenants. “We support our start-ups from day one, through product development and user testing but we also help them by removing barriers and driving their growth through access to business development opportunities as well as recruitment and investment. During their time at The Landing, Jerry and Charles have completed our incubator course and have taken advantaged of our user testing labs, which are funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), in order to drive the growth of their business.

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Why it is crucial to understand the challenges of Resilience in Digital Environments

accelerating shift towards a pervasively interlinked world of systems and supply chains that touch virtually every aspect of our lives. Goods, services, people, organisations and information are becoming globally interconnected and accessible in ways that were previously unimaginable. We are merely at the start of this digital journey − emergent fields such as machine learning and quantum computing will advance, combine and be applied in ways that will render today’s technologies as antiquated as a manual typewriter. “Immersion in this digital environment presents organisations with the strategic imperative to SHEARWATER Group plc., who has a base in generate value and take advantage of an unparalleled Preston, has partnered with the Institute for Strategy, abundance of new opportunities. Yet increased Resilience & Security (ISRS) at University College reliance and the expectation of continuous London (UCL) to release a ground-breaking digital availability come at a price, predicating operations on resilience focused White Paper. The Paper is entitled the assumption that underlying systems will always Digital Resilience – Understanding the Challenges be present and functional. of Resilience in Digital Environments and it explains “This white paper attempts to draw out some of why it is crucial to understand the challenges of the most important issues of both opportunity and Resilience at a Senior Management/Boardroom level. risk and illustrates the need for consideration of The Paper highlights seven key messages for digital resilience at the most senior levels. I believe Senior Executives: that there has never been a more important time to 1. Digital resilience is about the resilience of your do so.” organisation and its business processes in an all5. More secure does not mean more resilient. Added Michael “Mo” Stevens CEO, Shearwater pervasive digital environment, not the resilience While a less secure technology solution may pose Group PLC: “In 2016, Shearwater Group agreed of your IT function. Organisations must acquire access vulnerabilities, a more secure solution may its transformation strategy to build a leading UK a dynamic state of continual evolution and introduce flawed assumptions, irresilient processes based digital resilience group. This forward-thinking learning and the capability to use new challenges or lead to catastrophic business inflexibility. Any strategy was designed to address the complexities and not merely to rebound, but to bounce forward – new digital infrastructure must therefore be challenges of the future that enterprises will need to crises become pointers towards opportunity and assessed in terms of its overall impact on business meet if they are to survive, evolve and succeed in the catalysts for evolution. resilience, both in terms of opportunity and risk. expanding global digital business environment. 2. Digital resilience is one of the most valuable 6. The networked interactions of processes, We see that many enterprises have yet to move long-term properties of your organisation and it people and technologies generate complex nonbeyond a traditional, defensive “lock-down” approach must be managed at senior leadership level, and deterministic, emergent and unforeseen resilience to corporate perimeters, or to embrace the ongoing understood throughout the entire organisation, vulnerabilities. In a fully connected environment, viability and vitality of their enterprise within the as both a business and a technical matter. It the more tightly coupled, rapid, and efficient context of customers, suppliers and partners. must not be conflated with cybersecurity or digital processes are during normal operation, the “Cyber security has at last been elevated to the disaster recovery. It defines your capabilities for more disruption poses a threat and the greater boardroom, however, business resilience remains forward evolution and survival in the light of a the risk that cascading failure will render core poorly understood, with digital resilience in changing environment, through the successful processes inoperable. particular, seen only as a property of the strength of implementation of an evolving business strategy. 7. Digital resilience requires a fundamental shift an IT system’s security. 3. The core business processes of most firms and in how you manage both risk and opportunity. “This traditional approach fails to recognise 100% of digitally native businesses are now entirely Traditional models of atomised risk mitigation digital resilience as an enabler of today’s dependent upon digital technology. Reversionary and impact analysis are no longer sufficient. entrepreneurial and fast-moving digital business modes of operation, for example, switching to Digital resilience must be assessed in terms of environment, and the resultant competitive processes that are less dependent upon technology, combinations of long-tail effects and capabilities advantage it brings. Digital resilience is the very are often no longer possible in the event of to anticipate, respond, learn and evolve foundation of the modern business and should be disruption or failure. If your assessment is that appropriately to shifts in a hyper-networked digital recognised as the most valuable long-term property significant digital disruption may disable your environment. Digital resilience thinking ensures of an organisation. core business processes, then digital resilience has that the entire organisation is considered and “We are delighted to have supported the become tantamount to business resilience. challenged in the light of enabling and balancing development of this white paper by ISRS, which 4. Digital resilience is about opportunity and risk growth, evolutionary change and security needs sets out a framework for the challenges of a new in equal measure, with new technologies generate appropriately. generation of leadership thinking in the digital novel modes of both resilience and irresilience. Commenting on the report, The Rt Hon. Lord environment. As we stay abreast of the ever-changing Equally a failure to adopt new technology that Reid of Cardowan Executive Chairman, ISRS digital business environment, we look forward delivers superior customer value leads to poor said: “Since its foundation, ISRS has focused on to building on the frameworks, challenges and competitiveness versus more nimble rivals is addressing complex, existential challenges within questions presented and to participating in many a resilience issue as a determinant of business government, business and the public sector. further discussions with the business community that survival or failure. “Today we are witnessing an inexorable and we serve.”

12 EDUCATION

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New football agent academy is a big deal A MANCHESTER football agent has set up an online training academy to help others seal deals with top-flight players. Sam Stapleton has been involved in the lucrative industry for 15 years with his Star Sports and Entertainment agency. He is well known for steering the signing of England ace John Stones from Barnsley to Everton as well as other notable deals. But now the 38-year-old, who first started negotiating when he was still a student, is revealing all the tricks of the trade for those who fancy standing in his shoes. Along with his business partner Zoran Krneta, he has now embarked on his new venture, Football

Further, an in-depth series of eight online tested modules, which take around 16 weeks to complete. Aspiring agents will learn the art of player contracts and negotiations, how to get and keep a client, dealing with the press, as well as all the legal requirements and rules and regulations of the industry. Sam said: “In 2015, there was a deregulation of agents – that means that no one has to do an exam anymore – they complete a criminal check (known as the Test of Good Character and Reputation), pay a fee to the FA and they’re off. Whilst this can be exciting for ‘wannabe agents’, it can also be daunting and without the right support and training,

there’s no guarantee of overnight success in the industry” He hopes that setting up this course will make a small dent in the industry and legitimise the job of agents, letting people see why they’re doing a good job. “I’m doing this to make people stand out from the crowd and get rid of the amateurs. Being on the course gets you a lot closer to doing your first deal. So many people are paying fees to the FA yet know little about what the industry is actually like.” City season ticket holder, Sam, says the new style course should attract four different markets – those who have just left school or university, existing young

agents, people in sales who are considering swapping careers and ex-professionals such as former players themselves. But Sam, who faced many a deadline day dilemma including a failed medical for one player and John Stones going to Wigan from Barnsley, only to sign on the dotted line for Everton at the eleventh hour, was nearly talked out of following his beloved career. As a youngster at school careers evenings, he was laughed at when he said he wanted to be a football agent – and ended up taking a degree course in sports management at Northumbria University. “The type of course I

needed just wasn’t available back then. I wish there had of been as it would have saved me a lot of time, effort and money. I ended up leaving the degree and moving to London to do work experience for an agency, whilst working in a bar to pay my rent. “Being a Football Agent is amazing, interesting and rewarding but as with every business, there are good and bad agents. We hope to be providing detailed education to the next breed of accomplished agents.” The Complete Football Intermediaries Course is now open for registration, with the first intake kickingoff on September 1.

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BDO inspires the talent of tomorrow with NCS partnership BDO’s Manchester office has once again set out to inspire the city’s young people, welcoming more than 1,000 students over the Summer as part of the Government-funded National Citizen Service (NCS). The NCS programme, delivered locally by charity, Salford Foundation, aims to engage 16-17 year olds with new experiences that will support them in

their future working lives. The fourweek programme helps build selfconfidence and instils young people the self-belief that they can take on and achieve anything in life. For the third consecutive year, volunteers from BDO have worked with teams of students to help them learn about making business decisions and budgeting as part of their

EDUCATION

preparation to pitch for funding to deliver a project in the community. This year’s project focused on setting out a business plan for a music festival in Spinningfields, bringing in BDO’s involvement with the Bee in The City initiative. Patrons of the NCS include David Cameron, Baroness Brady of Knightsbridge CBE, Carolyn Fairbairn of the CBI and Bear Grylls. Jillian Smith, who leads CSR for BDO in the region and is a senior manager in the BDO Drive Solutions team, said: “We’re pleased to be supporting the NCS programme once again this summer, it’s a hugely valuable

initiative that teaches young people important skills that can’t be taught inside a classroom. “The ethos behind the NCS programme is also very closely aligned to BDO’s values and our commitment to opening up the accountancy profession to young people of all backgrounds. We hope that, by spending time in our office working alongside our team, we can provide some inspiration and guidance by helping them think about themselves, where they want to be in the world of work, their place within it, as well as whether accountancy could be the right career for them.”

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20 year-old Manchester legal exec nominated for prestigious Insurance Fraud Award SARAH Titterington joined specialist law firm, Horwich Farrelly, straight from a Manchester Sixth Form College in 2015, starting in the Legal Support team aged just 18. Two years on, Sarah has a case load of over 90 files and her investigations into “crash for cash” scams have saved the law firm’s insurance industry clients an estimated £2oo,ooo this year alone. Recognising this outstanding career progression, she has been nominated for a highprofile industry award: Young Fraud Investigator of the Year, in the Insurance Fraud Awards. Sarah works in Horwich Farrelly’s counter-fraud team, helping to co-ordinate the firm’s strategies for dealing with fraudulent or staged accidents and bogus passenger claims. Many of her cases involve drivers deliberately causing collisions before submitting false claims for damage, personal injury and other associated costs, all of which drive up the

cost of car insurance for honest drivers. Sarah commented: “The issue of fraud is serious, affecting not only insurers, but also policy holders. By reducing the payments made on fraudulent cases, we can help to reduce the impact on the consumer. Working within one of the UKs largest specialist counter-fraud units is very exciting as well as challenging. It is a highly rewarding role, helping insurers identify and defend against suspect fraudulent claims. I am delighted to have been nominated for such a prestigious industry award.” Horwich Farrelly’s fraud partner, Jared Mallinson, said: “It was clear from the beginning that Sarah had significant potential. The fact she has progressed so quickly isn’t a surprise; she has fully embraced Horwich Farrelly’s values, ethos, and our training, and is recognised as one of the most knowledgeable fraud investigators in the firm. Her success clearly

demonstrates the potential of our on-the-job training, and that the traditional law degree or even apprenticeship routes, are not the only way to a successful legal career.” The awards, presented by leading trade publication Insurance POST and now in their 10th year, aim to recognise individuals and businesses working to combat fraud in the insurance industry. In the Young Fraud Investigator of the Year category, judges will be looking for a winner who demonstrates a strong balance of both technical understanding and investigative agility. Winners of The Insurance Fraud Awards will be announced at a ceremony at The Brewery, in London, on 4th October 2018.

Affiliated Utilities celebrates award triumph in milestone year A SALFORD-BASED energy management company celebrating a decade in business has been crowned North West consultancy of the year for the third time. Affiliated Utilities scooped the regional accolade in The Energy Live Consultancy Awards in 2014 and 2015 and has made it a hat-trick by becoming the 2018 winner.

The award was presented at a ceremony in London attended by more than 450 people. Motty Broder and Joel Debson founded the business with just two staff and it now has a workforce of 19, having recruited five people in the past 12 months as demand for its services has grown. Affiliated Utilities advises businesses

on all aspects of energy management. Its services include energy and water procurement along with market and legislation updates, bill validation and reporting, meter installations and district heating systems. The company acts for commercial clients ranging from large businesses with multiple sites to those with smaller, single-site operations. Currently it manages an annual energy spend of £350m across more than 4,000 sites nationwide. Commercial clients include retailers, care home and hotel operators and commercial and residential property landlords. Affiliated Utilities, which is based n, Broughton, gives 20pc of its profits to charity. Motty said: “In this milestone year for Affiliated Utilities we are delighted to have once again been voted North West regional consultancy of the year. “It’s fantastic news that the high

standards we pride ourselves upon have been recognised with this accolade. “We are committed to providing an excellent customer service which is fair, transparent and professional. “Our staff have excellent market knowledge and understanding of the needs of our clients and suppliers, and we are seldom beaten on price, giving us a compelling offer which is reflected by our 95 per cent customer retention rate. “None of our success would be possible without the dedication of our loyal staff. We promote a positive, friendly and professional culture with flexible working, a generous bonus system and career development opportunities. “We have recently diversified the business by adding a metering and tenant recharging services arm as we continue to expand. It’s an exciting time for the business and we look forward to the future with confidence.”

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Manchester company recognised for innovative approach to asbestos and Legionella training MANCHESTER-based Airborne Environmental Consultants Ltd (AEC) has been recognised at the UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) Excellence Awards for its innovative Hazard House training tool. The company, which is based at Trafford Park a leading independent health, safety, environmental and risk management consultant. AEC was presented with the Innovation Award, recognising the company’s

impact on UKATA and the wider asbestos industry. The award was presented by Olympic sporting legend Kriss Akabusi at the glittering award ceremony held to mark UKATA’s tenth anniversary. Established in 2008, UKATA is a leading authority for asbestos training provision in the United Kingdom. Delighted to win the industry award, Bob Harris, Technical Director of AEC said: “It is always special when somebody recognises your hard work, but when

that recognition comes from your fellow asbestos training providers then it is extra special.” AEC’s innovative Hazard House, a real house environment used during training courses, was recognised by UKATA for revolutionising the way in which delegates learn about asbestos and Legionella. The new training facility allows delegates to interact with mock asbestos installations and Legionella hazards in situ within a realistically sized and

constructed building. Bob added: “Delivering training that is informative, meets our clients training outcomes, as well as being enjoyable, is not easy. It takes a great deal of effort to keep it relevant to our delegates and that constant evolution in training delivery does rely heavily on innovation on the part of training providers like AEC. “Hazard House is revolutionary in our industry and is part of our continuing efforts to make our training

delivery more and more effective.” Craig Evans, UKATA Chief Operating Officer, added: “We work in a very dangerous industry, so it is great to see one of our members developing new ways to deliver training to the wider industry. There was a very high standard of entries in the Innovation category and it was a great pleasure to present AEC with the award recognising the impact its Hazard House has made on training within the industry.”

16 BUSINESS SUPPORT

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Bridge Law Solicitors opens Wilmslow office MARPLE Bridge, Holmfirth and London based, Bridge Law Solicitors, has now opened an office in the heart of Cheshire, in Wilmslow, headed by rising legal star, Sophie Murgatroyd. The new office will bring the company’s equine law expertise to Cheshire, a major differentiator for the law firm, as few solicitors cover this niche area in the county. The Wilmslow office will also bring experienced family, employment, wills and probate solicitors to the region. Replicating the high-quality service and professional legal offerings of the Marple Bridge, Holmfirth and London offices, it will particularly focus on efficiently and cost effectively resolving disputes.

Sophie Murgatroyd, Solicitor and Head of Wilmslow Practice, said: “It’s a delight to be opening Bridge Law Solicitors’ Wilmslow branch. Following the huge success

of the recently formed Equine Law Department and continued growth in ourlegal practice, we feel it’s the right time to have a presence in the heart of Cheshire.”

Sophie Murgatroyd is recognised as a leader in equine law, as well as being a firm favourite amongst high profile individuals, regularly being instructed to draft social media endorsement agreements. Sophie will continue to focus on all areas of dispute resolution including agricultural work, debt recovery, property disputes and professional negligence. Sophie added: “As a competitive rider myself, it didn’t take long before I was inundated with equine work, allowing the opportunity to expand the firm into the heart of Wilmslow, something no newly qualified solicitor has ever done before. “As a Cheshire girl, having my own office in the county is a real honour. At Bridge Law Solicitors, we are committed to developing a solid footprint in the region, allowing us to both expand and be closer to our large portfolio of clients.”

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Hatch retail competition offers pop-up launch pad to success THE chance to realise retail dreams with four weeks of free pop-up space in the soon-to-be -launched next phase of Manchester’s new shopping and dining destination, Hatch is up for grabs in a unique competition. The winner of the contest will be awarded a 160 sq ft shipping container retail unit for a four-week period at Hatch – an innovative pop-up scheme on Oxford Road, Manchester. Along with rentfree space at one of

Manchester’s most exciting new retail destinations, the competition champion will also win up to £500 towards the fit-out of their new pop-up premises and 12 months free membership with Enterprise Nation, providing access to expert business support to help them take their business to the next level. The Hatch competition is designed to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with a foot on the ladder and the opportunity to take their retail concept to market.

The winner will be given the advice and support they need to launch and build their fledgling businesses. The winning unit will be unveiled at the launch

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of Hatch’s next phase of development, which will see the scheme expand to over 30 units and the incorporation of a live music stage and covered courtyard area. The competition entry period will run from the 1st August to the 14th September, with entrants being asked to answer a series of questions online

and Manchester’s independent shopping emporium Afflecks. Shortlisted finalists will be asked to pitch their plans in person to a panel of expert judges including Toby Sproll, Bruntwood’s Head of Retail, Tony Martin, the General Manager of Hatch and Afflecks, Kate Day, Director at

about their business proposition. The competition is supported by leading property company, Bruntwood, the name behind both Hatch

Manchester Craft & Design Centre, Lucy Ward, Creative Brand Director at Trouva, the online home for independent boutiques and Emma Jones MBE,

O2 appoints Manchester Digital Agency e3creative O2 has appointed Manchester digital agency e3creative following a competitive and rigorous tendering process. The leading telecommunications company selected e3creative to drive Pay As You Go sim card distribution and sim card activation across the UK through digital tools and ongoing marketing strategies. Managing Director of e3creative Jake Welsh, said: “ O2 is a brand that we, as an agency, highly respect and are incredibly proud to join hands with. They’re a backbone in the telecom sector and continue to shape how people connect. We look to join hands with brands that want to innovate through great technology and strategic direction, O2 certainly fall into that remit. We will be looking to drive awareness of O2’s products

through their Star Trader platform, harnessing higher sim activations and reduce sim waste across the UK. “ Their sophisticated digital suite acts as an exemplary platform for our strategic teams to amplify and engage new audiences, turning O2 customers into brand ambassadors. ” e3creative Marketing Director Jessica Bradley said: “ Our plan is to drive the growth of O2 in a tactical way that hasn’t been fully activated before. We will be utilsing core channels to activate the brand. From search, PPC, social media through to CRO, implementing our UX teams to provide research-led strategies to drive better conversions and awareness across the brand.”

17 Founder of Enterprise Nation. Toby Sproll, Head of Retail, Bruntwood said, “As we have seen with Hatch already, the North West is home to a wealth of entrepreneurs offering fresh and exciting new food, drink and shopping experiences. We want to help support these ventures, which play an important role in our regional economy and bring diversity and dynamism to Manchester’s retail and leisure scene. “Hatch is a social hub, part of the Circle Square neighbourhood development, and provides a supportive, lively base for businesses with new concepts to take to consumers. The Hatch competition is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious start-up to take its ideas to market, free-of-charge, in a highprofile location, with high footfall and the full backing of our specialist business support network.”

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Awards September 2018

Sleeping Lions Adventures creates playscapes, where actions speak louder than words HUSBAND and wife team Russell and Catherine Miller are hoping to change the way children play freely with the launch of playscapes company, Sleeping Lions Adventures. Through the creation of temporary destinations (playscapes), Sleeping Lions Adventures allows children to take charge of the way they play while giving parents peace of mind. The pair have received significant funds from both an angel investor and The University of Manchester’s Innovation Company, UMI3 Ltd, through the UMIP Innovation Optimiser Programme, as they bid to grow their offering. Co-founders Russell and Catherine, believe children are turning to i-pads for entertainment rather than playing alongside other youngsters in immersive environments that bolster creativity and sociability. Russell said: “Our playscapes are like mini theatre sets and are a starting point to an adventure. Our latest indoor playscape is Pirates and Sea Monsters, a giant octopus, shipwreck that children can play in that was recently hired for a wedding in Cheshire. “The playscapes encourage children’s curiosity, playfulness and sociability while allowing children’s families to have fun elsewhere, just like they did at the wedding.”

Russell, 45, who works at The University of Manchester, and Catherine, founded the idea after having two children of their own. “Our children are both under the age of four,” said Russell. “Two years ago, Catherine and I talked about how we played in fields, dens and in the street when we were younger. “Sadly, children don’t tend to play like that anymore. There’s a restricted nature to play now and more and more children are using i-pads which we feel is detrimental, particularly when it comes to social interaction. “Following lots of research, we realised that we could create something that could make play possible almost anywhere and that’s what Sleeping Lions Adventures is.” One of the company’s aims is to make it easier for children to attend weddings. The other is creating mini immersive experiences for use in cafes, car showrooms and other retail environments. “The average transaction time to buy a car is three hours,” said Russell, “so we are talking to dealerships about the potential of setting up playscapes so parents can focus on the car they might want while children play freely but with a sense of creativity too. “With weddings, it can often be a case of children not being invited, which can alienate some family members. We are planning to change that.” He added: “It’s also important to thank UMIP’s

Innovation Optimiser team for helping us shape our business idea, they’ve been incredibly supportive.” Kate Park, Director of Kate Park Events, worked alongside Sleeping Lions Adventures during the recent wedding in Cheshire. She said: “Inviting children to weddings has just been made a whole lot more fun with Sleeping Lions Adventures. Their playscape made a huge and positive impact on the wedding party. It looked great in the venue and importantly it kept all the children entertained, leaving their parents able to enjoy the celebration. “Children used to find weddings long and dull, not anymore.”

Clough & Willis retains Law Society’s quality mark for sixth year running BURY & Bolton based law firm, Clough & Willis, has retained its membership to the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme, the mark of excellence for the home buying process, for the sixth year running. Retaining its CQS status marks the firm out as meeting high standards in the residential conveyancing process. The scheme requires practices to undergo an initial strict assessment, compulsory training, self reporting, random audits and annual reviews. It is open only to members of the Law Society who meet the

demanding standards set by the scheme and has the support of the Council of Mortgage Lenders, the Building Societies Association, Legal Ombudsman and the Association of British Insurers. Lorraine Stratton-Webb, partner at Clough & Willis, said: “Our property team is one of the most buoyant and busiest departments in the firm but everything we do is focussed on delivery the best service to our clients. This recognition from the Law Society means a lot to us and reflects our commitment to excellence.”

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Pixel Kicks secures raft of new digital wins PIXEL Kicks, the Manchester based full-service digital agency, has won four new clients. The first is Sugarfree TV, the Northern Quarter based TV service production company. Sugarfee TV works with a number of high profile brands including Adidas as well as Premiership footballers and other leading sporting personalities. The next is Chartrange which is a large North-West based earthworks,

remediation and civil engineering company. Chartrange has worked on several major Manchester city-centre developments including Home and First Street. Pixel Kicks has also been appointed by Global Switchgear Services which offers electronic and switchgear services. Its work includes the installation of new equipment, protection relay testing, servicing and maintaining switchgear, fault

finding, modification and repair, retrofit design and thermographic surveys in all market sectors of the switchgear industry, both in the UK and internationally. The last new win is with Neurohub, a neurological assessment platform that that is being developed in conjunction with The University of Salford.  Matt Hartley, principal sales and account manager at Pixel Kicks, said: “2018 is set to be a game changing year

for Pixel Kicks and these new wins are testament to the skills and talents of our growing team. We are now looking forward to developing engaging online platforms for each business as we also continue to develop our client roster in the property, construction, healthcare, venues and education sectors.”

McGoff Group tops out at Back to the Garden THE McGoff Group has officially topped out at Back to the Garden, its exciting new day nursery on Sinderland Road in Broadheath, Altrincham. The first five children signed up to attend when the nursery officially opened and their parents joined local Councillors Sean Anstee and Kate Burke, the new employee team, industry guests, development funders Puma and the McGoff brothers for a first look around the new setting and to celebrate gaining Ofsted registration. The event was hosted by Stewart and Jeannie Pickering, the husband and wife team and experienced childcare duo formerly behind the kidsunlimited brand who have partnered with the McGoff Group on Back to the Garden and been instrumental in the development of the new concept. Offering a new approach to childcare, Back to the Garden is a child-led, active learning environment with an emphasis on outdoor play in a garden setting away from the pollution associated with being too close to main roads. The brand has a deliberate focus on ‘organic and natural’ which runs through its entire offering from the children’s menu choices to the toys and toiletries that have been selected. Much of the children’s daily activity will centre on the nursery’s outdoor space which features all-weather sand and water play areas, outdoor play equipment, a herb and planting patch and a magnificent tepee which will be used for storytelling, circle time and daily mindfulness, meditation and yoga sessions. Stewart Pickering, said: “After many months of development, planning and build, we are delighted that our fabulous new setting is ready to welcome its first intake and I could not be more proud of Jeannie and the staff who have worked extremely hard to get everything ready. Interest in Back to the Garden has been exceptional and we have been showing parents around and signing children up on a daily basis.”

Awards September 2018

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The Dining Club Group expands partnership portfolio with Meerkat Meal MANCHESTER-based, The Dining Club Group, the world’s largest dining club group, has partnered with leading price comparison site, Compare the Market, to deliver the biggest partnership the dining industry has seen to date, with Meerkat Meals, powered by tastecard. Meerkat Meals, a bespoke dining product developed with The Dining Club Group, offers Compare the Market customers 2 for 1 meals at thousands of restaurants across the UK for an entire year. Matt Turner, Founder of tastecard and CEO of The Dining Club Group, commented: “The Dining Club Group delivers proven business benefits to Marketing & HR teams in organisations of all sizes. Our Commercial team develop truly unique solutions via our brand portfolio, providing incredible incentives to increase customer engagement, drive

sales and improve customer retention, ensuring businesses offer something different to both customers and staff, to help them stand out from the crowd. “With Meerkat Meals, The Dining Club Group aimed to create an industry first that would offer Compare the Market’s existing customers an unbeatable reward. We are extremely excited that our two industry-leading businesses have come together and look forward to providing unbeatable rewards to customers, whilst helping people to eat out more often.” The Dining Club Group collectively engages four million members spending in excess of £600 million per annum in the UK & Ireland, across their three leading dining discount card schemes: tastecard, Gourmet Society and hi-life. Sitting in the unique position of being able to deliver

tailored partnership solutions across their three brands, The Dining Club Group offers data driven insights and analytics along with product and commercial, brand, marketing and supply chain expertise. In addition, The Dining Club

Group has developed a unique technology platform, enabling the Group to feedback customer dining habits data to their restaurant partners, thus helping the restaurants to improve customer experience, drive incremental footfall and ultimately profitability.

Sales surge at Lancashire Farm following Free Range brand and packaging re-design by BGN GREATER Manchester dairy company Lancashire Farm has witnessed a boost in sales after BGN delivered a stylish brand makeover. It comes after Lancashire Farm, founded in 1984, had become the first UK yogurt brand to commit to using exclusively free-range milk. Initial figures show that sales have risen 30% since the new BGNdesigned packaging and launch of Free Range hit shelves at the start of 2018. Brand-led strategic design agency BGN also refined all aspects of the Lancashire Farm brand, bringing the free-range message front and centre, as well as completing an overhaul of the packaging design. Jack Morrison, Brand Manager at Lancashire Farm Dairies, said: “As the first UK yogurt brand to commit to using exclusively free-range milk, it was crucial we entrusted a team who could

deliver that creative proposition. “Antonio, Paul and the rest of the team behind BGN were the best fit

for this next evolution of the brand. What they have delivered is a wellexecuted and relevant creative which

ultimately has given us a key vehicle to communicate and celebrate Free Range on pack.” The Lancashire Farm family produce high quality, natural yoghurt with locally sourced, free-range milk and is aiming to become the no.1 natural yoghurt brand in the UK. Over the past three years, the company and brand has grown by 96%. BGN Founder and Operations Director Antonio Giansante, said: “The Lancashire Farm brand is one that’s been close to my heart for many years now and this next phase of the brand’s lifecycle is a very exciting one. “In Free Range, we now have a clear differentiator in a competitive market. Early signs with regards to sales look great and I’m looking forward to seeing the financial results throughout the next six to 12 months.”

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Fletchers celebrates £6m business wins and doubles Eccles base

FLETCHERS Engineering is celebrating £6m of new business and is doubling the size of its Eccles operation. The engineering solutions company has been appointed by Morrisons Utility Services, to provide service installations for a new battery storage facility in Roosecote, Barrow. The facility, being built for Centrica, will be one of the largest in the UK. Fletchers is delivering stainless steel pipework services, steelwork & prefabricated service modules. In addition, the team will be providing steelworks, access platforms and cooling systems for two large data centres in the South of England, while closer to home at MediaCityUK,

the company is carrying out an upgrade to a new energy efficient heating system at Victoria Building for Peel. Finally, retained client David Lloyd has confirmed that Fletchers will be expanding its remit by managing the maintenance of all of its Northern leisure centres on a three-year contract. Steve Fletcher, MD, commented: “It has been a hugely successful 2018 so far and we are delighted to be working with such high-profile and interesting clients. To help manage the additional work, we have acquired an 18,000 sq ft warehouse close to our base, we will be looking to expand our 140 strong team and add a new fleet of vehicles in the coming months.”

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AKA NORTH on board with Transport for Greater Manchester AKA NORTH has won a major tender to become the media planning and buying agency for Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), to promote awareness of core services and support a sustainability strategy for Greater Manchester’s transport network. AKA NORTH will be responsible for generating brand awareness and delivering a modal shift to sustainable transport modes. It will also support TfGM’s environmental and sustainability initiatives through multi-platform media campaigns and experiential activities, improving customer engagement and enhancing travellers’ experiences throughout

Greater Manchester. AKA NORTH won the contract as part of a comprehensive and competitive tender process. The initial twoyear deal, with an option for a further two years, is a significant partnership opportunity and comes on the back of a series of recent client wins for AKA NORTH, including Great Exhibition of the North and National Museums of the Royal Navy. Mike Mellor, head of commercial and marketing for TfGM, said: “We’re very excited to be working with AKA NORTH as our new media agency partner. They combine the best of two worlds, local insights and knowledge as a Manchester-based

company, alongside their access to the considerable resources of the wider AKA Group. Throughout the tender process they showed us a range of creative campaign ideas to highlight their understanding of audience behaviour along with their technical knowledge to enhance our brand across traditional and digital platforms.” Mike continued: “We aim to make the city region a cleaner, greener, and healthier place to live, work, and play in. And we firmly believe that with AKA NORTH’s help we’ll be able to encourage the public to travel sustainably. The agency joins our organisation at a key time as we

increase our role in the devolution agenda and build awareness of our growing profile amongst residents and visitors into the area.” “We’re delighted and proud to partner with TfGM as its new media agency,” added Gillian Thomson-Woolley, managing director AKA NORTH and Scotland. “With over 5.6 million journeys made using Greater Manchester’s transport network each day, AKA NORTH will be responsible for connecting TfGM to a huge audience. We’ll ensure we deliver our blend of impactful media planning alongside our goldstandard client service to deliver a clear return on investment for TfGM.”

Continued growth for Join the Dots MANCHESTERheadquartered global consumer insight agency, Join the Dots, has released its latest financial figures which show the business generating a revenue of £6.41m in the first six months of 2018 and a 12.7 per cent growth on the same period of 2017. The figures demonstrate the continued growth of the company which celebrates its 20th year of business this year. Despite experiencing a slower Q1 in 2018 while the company completed its restructure, Q2 quickly gained momentum for

the business and has historically been a positive performance indicator for Q3 and Q4. Commenting on the latest financials, CEO of Join the Dots, Quentin Ashby, said: “Our first half of the year has been a period of encouraging growth in a tough economic climate; we have expanded our team internationally with Mallory Salerno who joined our New York office in May as business development director and in the UK we welcomed Phil Jones as non-executive director in June. These appointments cement our

commitment and investment in growing the business’ reach and ensuring we can continue to produce innovative work for both new and existing clients. “We remain confident in the company’s performance in 2018 and continue to invest in delivering high quality services to our clients and a great place to work for our staff.”

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Northern Entrepreneurs invest £1m to accelerate early-stage companies

MANCHESTER and Leeds based entrepreneurs Matt Haycox, Simon Leeming and Dave Watson have launched The Elevate Programme, an initial £1 million investment fund for North West SMEs. The fund will act as an accelerator programme for early-stage companies with aggressive growth plans. Headquartered in Manchester, The Elevate Programme will provide equity funding and acceleration support tailored to each company in the programme. It is now open for applications with the first cohort beginning in October 2018. Dave Watson, Co-founder of The Elevate Programme, said: “We aim to bring the best of both worlds, angel investment with a hands-on accelerator programme. We know there are a number

of fantastic mentoring and support resources out there, but we really want to provide something truly personalised for the companies we are investing in.” The programme is being run with specialists from key functional areas across business strategy, sales & marketing, recruitment, finance and accounting. Companies who receive funding will also benefit from strategic guidance so they are set up with a scalable platform for growth. Simon Leeming, Cofounder at The Elevate Programme, added: “We have seen the gaps in the funding market, we want to offer more than just financial investment and give companies the best chance to grow in the most profitable way possible. The Elevate Programme will enable our

investees to execute their growth strategies at a much faster rate with the support network they need to lean on.” Each investment and support programme will have a tailored solution outside of the mould of a standard investment programme. Matt Haycox, explained: “We know and have experienced the challenges that business owners have when trying to scale a business. There are a large number of incredible companies with exceptional products and services who are operating on a monthto-month basis, running into cash-flow issues, or simply have the directors too involved with the day to day running of the business. These are some of the common challenges we aim to address to enable entrepreneurs.”

Awards September 2018

Scanlans grows revenues MANCHESTER-based Property management and surveying group, Scanlans, has posted a 16 per cent rise in annual revenues. Turnover in the year to March 31 increased to £4.4m from £3.8m, with growth across all of Scanlans’ operations. Its property management division saw a 10 per cent rise in revenues, fuelled by a host of new instructions for apartment block schemes in Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham, and growth for the Scanlans Facilities Management operation. Key appointments in Scanlans’ building surveying and rating teams helped drive a six per cent rise in income for the firm’s surveying arm. The latest figure includes the turnover of Manchester-based property sales, lettings and management agency Pad Residential, which became part of the Scanlans group of companies in early 2017. Scanlans chairman Ian Stanistreet, said: “We are pleased with our performance in our latest financial year and we are well-placed to see further

growth this year. “There has been a marked increase in the number of developments being managed by Scanlans Property Management and, with new schemes under way, we are confident of achieving further expansion this year. “Key recruits in Manchester and Birmingham have enabled us to offer our surveying, valuation and rating services to a wider client base with great success. “The partnership with Pad Residential is helping us to develop our comprehensive management service for build-to-rent blocks. “With most new developments falling into this category or being private rented schemes, working with Pad is helping us to build our strength in these markets.”

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Awards

Red Box Vape launches flagship store and training centre in Manchester BRITAIN’S newest retail vape brand is set to open a flagship store and training centre in Manchester, furthering its plans to become a household name in vaping across the UK. Red Box Vape will launch its second flagship store in Shudehill, in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. The first store opened in Nottingham last month. The premises of the Manchester store will double as the company’s UK training centre. Here, managers, staff and franchisees are placed on an intensive two-week programme to ensure they carry through Red Box Vape’s strict policy of customer service excellence. The family run business began after the owners, CEO Stuart Anderson and his son

James, became intrigued by the number of tobacco smokers they still encountered despite the growing popularity of e-cigarettes and vaping. Stuart said: “The launch of our second flagship store in Manchester’s Norther Quarter represents months of intense work and research – and we’re delighted to see our expectations become a reality. “As the Red Box UK training centre, we are determined that this store represents our values to the letter.” After further research, they discovered that many vape stores appeared dark and intimidating, appealed more to a younger audience, and the customer service levels were not always good.

So, Stuart brought his daughter, Lauren Anderson, on board and the three of them set about creating a brand that would demystify vaping, appear clean and welcoming, and would

and a commitment to selling only e-liquids that were manufactured to strict standards in the UK. Red Box also decided to formulate and manufacture its own e-liquids under the Red

Some Red Box Vape stores will be run directly by the company’s parent company, Red Box Liquids Ltd, while others will operate as franchises, enabling the company to expand more quickly.

estimated seven million adults still smoking in the UK, Red Box believed there was a huge, untapped market out there. The Manchester launch comes only days after a report by MPs on the Governments Science and Technology Committee backed the wider promotion and acceptance of vaping as a key weapon against smoking. Stuart added: “Our initial research highlighted that many long-term smokers were uncomfortable about going into vape shops. Some told us that they guarantee a “very British” Liquids brand. Stuart said: “We’ve were put off by the standard of customer With Manchester and created a business that ‘tattoo parlour’ image. service. Nottingham operating we think is pretty special, “We wanted to This Britishness as the company’s flagship and we have ambitious change all that and create was reinforced by the outlets, several further plans to expand our a brand that professional use of a British icon, retail locations are now network to every part of people and women the red telephone box, being secured around the the UK.” would find welcoming within its branding UK. He said that with an and non-judgemental."

Elucigene targets US for next stage of export drive THE Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester has praised the brilliant endeavour and teamwork at Elucigene Diagnostics as he presented the fastgrowing molecular diagnostics company with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise 2018. The Lord-Lieutenant, Warren Smith, was guest of honour at a ceremony at Elucigene’s Citylabs 1.0 headquarters in Manchester, also attended by employees, partners and advisers.

Describing the award as a “remarkable achievement,” the Lord-Lieutenant said: “These awards are not easily earned. This year 152 Awards for international trade have been made nationally, 15 in the North West and this is one of five in Greater Manchester. “The award is not to an individual, not to the management but to the whole workforce. It does, however, reflect outstanding vision, creativity, sound management, good communication and enthusiastic and loyal workforce. “If one word encapsulates it, it is teamwork, and I hope that this award will be of tangible benefit to Elucigene Diagnostics in the future.

“Both your competitors and your customers will recognise this as a major achievement, and it is certainly a high standard to live up to but it is an incentive to make even further progress in the years ahead.” In response, Elucigene Diagnostics’ Chief Executive, Mark Street-Docherty, said: "The company, which has grown from just five staff to 31 in the last four years, has ambitious plans for further export-led growth. “We are very proud of the Queen’s Award, but we are not standing still. We have our sights set on launching our cystic fibrosis product in the United States in the next 12-18 months. The US is the world’s largest

healthcare market so there is a very substantial opportunity for us there. “We also have some groundbreaking and innovative companion diagnostics products to bring to market in the next six months, which is also extremely exciting.” Mr Street-Docherty dedicated the Queen’s Award to the team, and also thanked the Department for International Trade and Greater Manchester Chamber’s international trade team for the “fantastic support and advice” they have provided the business in supporting its international growth strategy which has seen it export to more than 50 countries around the world.

24 THE Director of BBC North will be among leading figures from the fields of art, culture and property who will select the winning mural design to transform Greater Manchester landmark Trafford House as part of a UK-wide competition run by regional property company Bruntwood. Bruntwood opened entries for the competition earlier this year, to artists from all backgrounds across the UK. Their brief is to create a beautiful 38 metre high mural on the East-facing building, which looks onto the major arterial route of Chester Road and Manchester City Centre. Artists who are not used to working on this scale will be supported through the process. With days to go until the competition closes on August 12th, Bruntwood has announced the stellar judging panel who will choose which talented artist will put their mark on Manchester. Packed with Northern cultural heavyweights, the panel will include the BBC’s Director of the North and Director of Children, Alice Webb;

Awards September 2018

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Bruntwood unveils stellar judging panel for Trafford Landmark Mural Competition

the Dean of Manchester School of Art, Penny Macbeth; Ben Barksy, creator of City of Hope festival; Louise Sutherland, Chair of the Pankhurst Trust; and Bruntwood’s Director of Culture Kate Vokes. The artwork will mark the centenary of the female vote – taking direct inspiration from legendary suffragette Sylvia Pankhurst, who was born just metres from the building, close to Old Trafford tram stop and Old Trafford football ground. Celebrating art and creating spaces which inspire and enliven communities is an

important aspect of Bruntwood’s vision, and the resulting mural will be a key addition to Manchester’s growing collection of iconic murals and street art pieces – which bring colour and spirit to everyday spaces. Kate Vokes, Bruntwood’s Director of Culture, said: “We’re delighted to be announcing this brilliant line up of talented judges from various fields who have generously agreed to give up their time to ensure we select the very best talent to adorn this prominent building. “Bringing colour, life, and character to

Local carpet company floors it BURY-BASED The Cormar Carpet Company is celebrating an awards double, adding a further pair of accolades to its growing list of industry honours. Voted for by leading trade magazine ‘The Stocklists’, Cormar has

picked up two Golds in the Flooring Innovation Awards, which recognise everything that’s new, exciting and innovative in the UK floorcoverings sector. It follows a run of industry wins that include Best Carpet Manufacturer and two Supplier of the

everyday spaces is an important part of art’s role and our ambition for this piece is that it will bring inspiration to people living in Trafford and brighten the commute of thousands of people who pass by the building every day. We can’t wait to see all the entries and are looking forward to the challenge that will face us as we look to choose between the fantastic concepts that people have created in response to the brief.” Ben Barksy, Creator of City of Hope Festival, said: “Street art at its most vital is a vehicle for personal and social

expression. It provides a voice for the voiceless and draws attention to issues that are otherwise easy to avoid. Just like all art forms, there is a wide range of styles, techniques and subcultures. Not all works are immediately accessible but they should, however, always be honest and from the heart. For this project we’re looking for something to celebrate the life and work of Sylvia Pankhurst. It should be engaging, enrich the surrounding area and be true to the power of the subject matter. “It’s easy to see street

Year awards. Cormar’s industry-leading online trade portal, which allows flooring retailers to stock check, order online and manage payments, was awarded Gold in the Services category. It also scooped Gold in ‘Marketing’ for its recent brand relaunch and new consumer website. The company’s brand new look – the first in over a quarter of a century – was a significant investment in moving the business forward and has been backed with a new website that has been reengineered and re-designed to inspire

art now as a sanitized product, but its roots are rebellious and throughout history it has been used as a tool to force witness to issues that would otherwise be censored and suppressed by those in power. Street art therefore is an ideal medium to celebrate the work of Sylvia and the wider Suffragette movement. These were strong and single minded women fighting for their voice to be heard in society. The used direct action and civil disobedience where needed to overturn injustice and inequality. The fact the Sylvia was a keen artist provides the perfect link between the two worlds. “The fact that this project is open to all is a testament to Bruntwood’s passion for helping and nurturing talent. It may well be an established street artist that delivers the winning vision but if it’s someone less experienced or from a different field, then the tools and support will be provided to help them deliver their vision. It’s an opportunity to work at a scale that few could achieve without this support.”

and motivate consumers. “Once again, everyone at Cormar is to be congratulated,” said David Judge, managing director at Cormar. “Awards such as these are won by a whole team of people whose efforts contribute to the quality of our offering and the efficiency of our customer service. “We’ve had a very busy year launching our new brand identity and overhauling all our marketing collateral, all while ensuring we keep our exacting standards in our products and services. So it’s been fantastic to be rewarded by our industry with these accolades.”

Contact Editor@BusinessManchester.co.uk

Awards

Businesses in technology, sustainable events and manufacturing among those in line for prize packages TWELVE businesses have been shortlisted for the prestigious Innovation Showcase Competition at Venturefest North West 2018 on September 13th. Now in its fifth year, the contest was open to small and medium-sized businesses from across the North West and attracted a record 173 entrants competing for four awards: Product Innovation, Service Innovation, Digital Innovation and Innovative Established Business. There’s also an Overall Winner and Audience Winner, which will be chosen by attendees after the finalists make their pitches at the Manchester Central event. Each award comes with thousands of pounds worth of business support for the winner, provided by organisers GC Business Growth Hub and its partners. The competition is one of the highlights of the Venturefest North West 2018 programme, sponsored by NatWest, Dehns, Manchester Metropolitan University and Pomegranate Consulting. A full programme includes keynote speeches from Jenny Tooth OBE, CEO of the UK Business Angels Association, and Richard Noble OBE, project director of the Bloodhound Super Sonic Car project, which will attempt to break the land speed record next year. Speaking about the importance of innovation to businesses, Richard Noble commented: “President Kennedy said of the Apollo moon programme, ‘We choose to go to the

moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard; because that goal will serve to organise and measure the best of our energies and skills.’ Like the US in the 1960s we need technical successes for the UK and our 2019 Bloodhound record challenge will be a big one. “Nothing about the Bloodhound project is easy and it never will be, but success here will bring great rewards in terms of education and confidence. I’m looking forward to sharing some of my learnings and experiences, as innovation is something that should apply to all businesses, large or small, in the north-west and across the country.” More than 1,000 attendees are expected at the event, where they will have access to business leaders and entrepreneurs, potential new partners, collaboration opportunities and a wide range of support. Heather Waters, National Enterprise Manager at headline sponsor NatWest, said: “We know that entrepreneurs and small business owners are looking for more than a provider of financial services. They want a bank that helps them to concentrate on what’s important to them - establishing and growing their business. “That’s why we’re delighted to support Venturefest North West 2018 and be part of an event which gives businesses in the region the opportunity to innovate, grow and access the knowledge, finance and

expertise they need to progress to the next stage of their business journey.” The full Innovation Showcase Competition shortlist is as follows:

in almost real-time.

Digital Innovation finalists: • Brain in Hand – Working out of Hulme, this organisation has created a mobile application to Product Innovation finalists: provide personalised mental health • Radic8 – This Bolton-based strategies. independent air purification • Call Me Help – This Stockportcompany has created INBair O2, based company has developed the world's first recreational oxygen a well-being monitor for elderly purifier, delivering 40% more oxygen people who live alone, that analyses through a sleek headset. their activity levels based on • Reach and Rescue – This Wigantheir electricity usage and alerts a based manufacturer produces long designated guardian. reach telescopic poles and other • Corporation Pop – This Manchester associated equipment for use in company has created the Xploro rescue missions. mobile app, which uses augmented • Redman Racing Boats Ltd – This to prepare children for going into Chester-based organisation aims to hospital, reducing their stress and bring game changing technologies anxiety. to rowing boat design and manufacturing. Innovative Established Business Service Innovation finalists: • Clyz Labs – This laboratory based in Macclesfield uses technological innovation to improve the quality of life and survival of cancer patients through personalised clinical and pre-clinical cancer therapies. • Million Stars Sustainable – This Liverpool-based company has a five-year plan to eradicate 23,000 tonnes of waste from UK festivals by recovering and reusing it. • Urban Chain – This Trafford organisation created a blockchainbased platform to link consumers directly to energy generators and facilitates, switching to the best deal

finalists: • Fulfilment Crowd – This Chorleybased firm provides fulfilment technology to help with the picking and packing of orders across the UK. • Telcom – This Manchester firm has developed Node, a secure, supplier agnostic telecommunications point of presence for buildings, giving the best connectivity solution for both landlords and tenants. • Whitham Mills Engineering – Based in Middleton, this manufacturing company has come up with a food waste tipping solution that uses a state-of-the-art hydraulic system to reduce cost and downtime.

YOUR DIGITAL RESILIENCE DELIVERING YOUR DIGITAL RESILIENCE 1 DELIVERING

DELIVERING YOUR DIGITAL RESILIENCE

Our London Office Octagon Point St Pauls 5 Cheapside EC2V 6AA Our Cardiff Office Tec Marina Terra Nova Way Penarth CF64 1SA Our Preston Office Ground Floor Units 6 & 7 Oliverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place Preston PR2 9WT

CONTACT NUMBERS: CONSULTING 020 3102 7620 INFORMATION SERVICES 02921 888 111 MANAGED SECURITY SERVICE PROVIDER 0800 999 3339

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Unlocking business and customer potential Shearwater Group plc is an AIM-listed company focused on building a UK based group providing digital resilience solutions. Our aim is to acquire and develop information security, cyber and cyber security companies with a leading product, solution or service capability, whose full potential can be unlocked through active management and capital investment.

Our Vision: To be one of the UK’s leading mid-market provider of digital resilience “Digital resilience is the enduring power of an organisation and its information to protect, transform, renew and recover through the application of knowledge, policies, processes, systems and technologies.” Michael Stevens CEO Shearwater Group plc

Our Strategy

Our Values

Use our skills and experience to make strong acquisitions and then utilise our strengths to provide strong development.

Our Values are the foundation of our strategy and are adopted by all members of our Group.

Actively manage and invest to unlock full potential in all business we influence. Utilise our Buy, Focus and Grow method to achieve maximum results.

Morality and ethics are central to our values. They are a clear statement of our commitment to excellence and define the approach we take in our interaction with customers, shareholders and each other.

DELIVERING YOUR DIGITAL RESILIENCE

To stay competitive and responsive in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s digital marketplace, you need to be able to operate secure in the knowledge that you have taken the appropriate steps to safeguard your transactions and your data. You need to make sure that your organisation is digitally resilient. Digital resilience is the enduring power of an organisation and its information to protect, transform, renew and recover through the application of knowledge, policies, processes, systems and technologies. In summary, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about survival, success and evolution in the highly unpredictable and dynamic digital opportunity and threat environment.

Xcina provides digital resilience, operational and regulatory solutions and services, in support of enterprise resilience and effective risk management. Our services and solutions are scalable to your current and future needs. We support companies preparing for increasing legislative and regulatory demands on how data is held and processed, and in making the most of that data, by the ongoing monitoring, analysis, detection and response to cyber threats.

Xcina Mission To provide digital, operational and regulatory solutions and services in support of resilience and risk, which are scalable to current and future needs

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The Digital Environment Digital resilience requires a fundamental shift in how enterprises manage their risk and opportunities. If digital trading and transactions pervade the fabric of a company then traditional models of atomised risk mitigation and impact analysis are no longer sufficient.

Digital resilience is about the robustness of an organisation, its people, technologies and its business processes that enable it to operate in an all-pervasive digital environment, that is increasingly subject to the risk of criminal attack. To achieve effective and enduring digital resilience requires a fundamental shift in how businesses mitigate and manage both risk and opportunity.

Complete user and customer trust will be critical success factors for future online enterprises – effective risk identification, mediation and management capabilities will be essential. True digital resilience is therefore an essential system characteristic and not only a behavioural or physical one, and consequently should be a fundamental design criterion and basis of risk management and mitigation.

Digital Resilience is a dynamic state of continual evolution and learning, where the organisation can use new challenges not merely to rebound but to bounce forward - crises become pointers towards opportunity and the catalysts for evolution. We assess a client’s current level and capabilities in digital resilience and the work that needs to be done.

NEW CLIENT

If weaknesses or gaps are identified, we design an appropriate solution to suit the client’s business needs and objectives. The solution is then implemented and its effectiveness in a front-line role is certified. As the client’s strategy changes so must the solutions provided. Consequently, we run this cycle continuously to provide end-to-end support ensuring that appropriate digital resilience is maintained.

ASSESS

STRATEGY

CERTIFY

DESIGN

Implement

DELIVERING YOUR DIGITAL RESILIENCE

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Our Approach We use our consultancy and a scalable managed security service offering to address the following issues in an holistic and efficient manner: People – making the behaviours and interactions of users, clients and suppliers digitally aware and secure, through effective training

Protection

Technology

Client

People

Governance – setting robust policies and processes to align and protect users, clients and suppliers Technology – ensuring clients systems are as effective and digitally resilient as they need to be Protection – monitoring threats and the network proactively, testing and checking, and providing active defence, rapid response & effective recovery

Governance

As a strategic partner of our Client Companies, Xcina will develop, provide and sustain a Digitally Resilient regulatory compliant frameworks.

Protection

Designing in Digital Resilience

Client

Technology

The fundamentals of Digital Resilience

People Governance

RISK MONITORING & CONTROL

RISK RESPONSE PLANNING

RISK IDENTIFICATION

Management QUALITATIVE RISK ANALYSIS

QUANTITATIVE RISK ANALYSIS

The model enables us to design in Digital Resilience as a normal element of the risk management process of each business.

Digital Resilience is a holistic risk management scheme for digital environments. It promotes good practice and strong and robust processes in organisations by focusing on the three key elements of people, technology and governance. Increasing business awareness of the risks and supporting that with best technology and practices to manage them, coupled with effective oversight, training and monitoring will help to reduce the risk of cybercrime. Developing digital resilience will mean that future digitally enabled organisations will also be able to mitigate the risk and impacts of any type of cybercrime from cyber-vandalism to state-sponsored terrorists and to recover quickly and completely.

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The Role of Xcina Xcina Ltd comprises six core elements plus GeoLang, which is the newest member of the Shearwater Group plc, bringing award-winning data loss protection technology to the Group. Xcina Ventures is the division that we use to conduct our joint ventures and projects with other providers. These are aimed at developing, marketing and providing leading-edge solutions jointly in several market sectors and segments.

Information Services • Cyber Security • Data Security • End Point Protection • Remote Assistant • Onsite Support • Cloud Backup • Business IT Solutions • Disaster Recovery

Xcina Enterprise is the in-house home of collaborative products and services and is used to produce integrated solutions across the Group, which utilise our own products and services or those bought-in from other providers.

Enterprise

Consulting

• Bespoke digital resilience solutions • Host the product or serviceled development teams

• Business Continuity • Data Protection (GDPR) • Information Security • IT Security • Internal Audit • PCI Data Security Standards • Financial Processes & Procedures • Operational Processes & Procedures • Regulatory Compliance • Project and Change Management • Third Party Management

Academy • Deliver accredited online and tutored training packages that support compliance • Capability for staff development through our wide array of professional training courses • Specialist support to develop training packages • Provide blended and immersive learning packages that are effective and efficient

Ventures • Innovation and Technology Investment • Developing services and products with third party companies • Improving/developing capabilities through new technology • Creating joint teams to efficiently develop new offerings

GeoLang

Managed Security Service Provider

• Specialist data management and cyber security consultancy • Provide & develop award-winning data loss protection (DLP) software • Provide professional services for DLP specific audits and compliances

• Assess potential cyber security threats and vulnerabilities • vSOC 24/7 monitoring • Contain and mitigate cyber events before crisis • Protect through cyber incident detection and response programme

As well as providing direct consulting and digital resilience services, Xcina Ltd is also the home to The Shearwater Group plc’s centres of innovation and collaboration: Xcina Ventures and Xcina Enterprise.

DELIVERING YOUR DIGITAL RESILIENCE

Xcina Consulting provides advisory and assurance services across internal audit, risk management (technology and business risk), process review, internal controls and compliance attestation, and organisation and business change.

What we do

How we do it

Business Continuity

Operate an experience model.

Data Protection (GDPR) Information Security – including Cyber Security, ISO27001 IT Security Internal Audit Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards Financial Processes & Procedures Operational Processes & Procedures Regulatory Compliance Project and Change Management Third Party Management

Tailor solutions and services to the client. Provide short term and longer term resourcing solutions e.g. interim roles including heads of control functions. Focused on execution/implementation and not just “pure advisory”. Competitive fees based on day rate or fixed fee. Work with partner firm’s whose products and services complement our own e.g. regulatory compliance technology.

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MSSP provides enterprise grade security for small to medium sized businesses. We innovate and combine the best of class cyber threat intelligence, security operations centres and incident response expertise.

What we do

How we do it

A comprehensive, risk balanced suite of cyber security operational services:

Cyber Threat Intelligence across the deep & dark web to identify and risk assess cyber threat actors.

Assess – identify and assess potential cyber security threats and vulnerabilities

Vulnerability scanning across a digital estate. Penetration Testing and Red Teaming.

Detect – vSOC 24/7 monitoring to detect malicious cyber security activity

Virtual Security Operations Centre (vSOC) including:

Respond – cyber events are mitigated and contained before they escalate to a crisis Protect – a regularly tested cyber incident detection and response programe

• 24/7 network monitoring for hacker intrusions, intellectual property theft and malicious activity • 24/7 host monitoring for compromise and other malicious use • Intelligence Led Post Breach Analytics • Robust and repeatable 6-step incident remediation • On-premise incident first responder co-ordination and investigation

DELIVERING YOUR DIGITAL RESILIENCE

Information Services develops enhanced cyber security or business IT solutions, through offering; value for money; security, surety and rapidity; quality of work; and complete business services and solutions.

What we do

How we do it

• Cyber Security

• We certify Businesses for Cyber Essentials Plus

• Data Security

• We have a range of offerings from On Site to Cloud

• End-Point Protection

• Providing Military Standard IT and Data Security to SME’s

• Remote Assistant

• We work with clients large and small across a range of sectors to provide the best service that is right for them

• Onsite support • Cloud Backup • Business IT

• We have a number of teams within our company that specialise in different areas of business, therefore you can be sure that you will not receive a generic service • We will work with you to fully understand your business using the outcomes from the company analysis to design a plan for the most effective solution to get the best results for you

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Academy

August 2018 September

Xcina Academy is the source of training and support to provide companies with the resources necessary to support onboarding and induction of new staff, delivery of regulatory compliance and development of digital awareness that are essential elements of a digitally resilient enterprise.

What we do

How we do it

• In partnership with Olive Media, we deliver accredited online and tutored training packages that can support regulatory compliance

• Access to training is provided through digital portals that are provided at no cost

• Capability for staff development through our wide array of professional training courses • Specialist support to develop training packages to suit the needs of individual businesses • Provide blended and immersive learning packages that are effective and efficient

• Dedicated and bespoke Apps can be made available for staff to access company content • Companies can choose the training packages that they need from over 300 vocational courses • Content can be Ready-to-Go from our wide catalogue of professional training or bespoke to suit individual requirements • Companies pay only for the content that they access, and training take-up and success rates can be monitored continuously

DELIVERING YOUR DIGITAL RESILIENCE

GeoLang is the newest entity in Xcina Ltd. It provides cuttingedge capability in the protection and management of sensitive data at content level, and will be an integral part of the future digital resilience offerings and regulatory compliance capabilities.

What we do

How we do it

Deliver award winning Data Loss Protection (DLP) software.

Using patented technology (AscemaÂŽ) to protect sensitive information at the content level.

Provide professional services for DLP specific audits and compliances.

Irreversibly fingerprinting documents and analysing content within documents and email streams whilst only storing the fingerprints, not the data.

Offer specialist data management and cyber security consultancy (separate to Xcina Consulting).

Utilizing cyber security experts to provide guidance on information management and policy making for added security. Supply customers with passive monitoring tools to assist documenting where data is stored.

ADAPTIVE DATA LOSS PREVENTION

3711

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SecurEnvoy provides Two Factor Authentication or Multi-Factor Authentications (MFA) technologies. This uses a combination of an individual’s Knowledge, Possession or Inherence to authenticate their identity.

What it is

Our clients

A multi-platform based two-factor authentication system utilising a person’s password and their mobile device or computer to enable access to certain devices, eradicating the need for expensive hardware tokens that are traditionally used to enable MFA.

SecurEnvoy’s customer base spans a wide range of markets such as Financial Services, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail, Government and Utilities.

Why we need it Passwords alone are not inherently secure. They can be stolen, hacked or discovered by the wrong people.

Why is it more secure By supplementing a password with a secondary authentication on a mobile device helps to guarantee that you are who you say you are, increasing security massively.

Many customers highlight the Token less approach to MFA as a huge convenience. The system not requiring a specific individually issued piece of hardware streamlines the speed of delivery, granting of access and the ultimate withdrawal of access for users. The simplicity of use, seamless and fast integration of the system and hassle saved by SecurEnvoy is a positive reported by most of their customers.

A passion for the details, every step of the way. Central to who we are. Be it a meeting for 10 or a conference for 3,000, you can expect the same outstanding experience. Welcome to the venue thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ready to deliver your best event yet. To find out more, call 0161 834 2700 or visit manchestercentral.co.uk

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40 ACQUISITIONS

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Co-Founder buys back global brand Renthal THE co-founder of a global motorcycle and cycle accessories brand has bought back the business 12 years after he sold it to a US group. Motorcycle enthusiasts Henry Rosenthal and Andrew Renshaw established Renthal in 1969, initially making handlebars for trials bikes. The company’s name is a blend of the duo’s surnames. They sold Renthal in 2006 to Motorsport Aftermarket Group. Henry, who has remained actively involved in the business supporting the management team as Chairman, has now bought it back in a multi-million pound deal. Nigel Barratt, head of HURST Corporate Finance, advised Henry on the buy-back.

Renthal operates from a 41,000 sq ft manufacturing and engineering facility in Bredbury, Stockport. The business turns over £12m a year and employs 90 staff. Its management team is led by managing director, Tom Wade. The company is a global leader in the design, manufacture and sale of products for the motorcycle and cycle markets. Products include handlebars, grips, bar mounts, levers, hand guards, chain wheels, chain and brake pads. Around 80 per cent of its products are exported, to more than 60 countries. Renthal’s products are used by Honda, Kawasaki and Suzuki as original equipment for their performance motocross models. Overall its products have been used

by nearly 200 motorcycling world champions and, since it expanded into the cycle products industry in 2010, by six world mountain biking champions. Following the sale of Motorsport Aftermarket Group in April to a syndicate of US private equity investors, the opportunity arose for Henry to buy back Renthal. He said: “When MAG decided to sell Renthal I was determined to

back Tom and the team to maintain the company’s reputation as a trusted brand and continue to support its growth and product innovation.” “Renthal is a world-leading brand, with great products and a dedicated workforce," said Tom. “Next year will be our 50th anniversary and, with Henry’s support and as an independent business, we have an exciting future.”

Buckleigh & Williams Group completes acquisition of Manchester Staff Ltd BUCKLEIGH & Williams Group, has completed its acquisition of Manchester Staff Ltd, a vibrant up-and-coming recruitment firm. With Manchester Staff Ltd now part of Buckleigh & Williams, the consultancy will be able to leverage significant levels of resources, resulting in vastly improved time-to-hire rates, and market leading talent search capabilities. Manchester Staff Ltd, founded in 2016 by Dino Georgiou, already provides a high-quality recruitment service

to office-based sectors such as sales; marketing; HR; finance; and office support. As the name suggests, the company works exclusively with businesses in the Greater Manchester region, and focuses on securing local talent for local jobs. Dino commented: “I am delighted to have formed a strategic partnership with Buckleigh & Williams. We have joint vision of delivering significant growth for Manchester Staff and I look forward to working together with Ian and Alex to

achieve our objective. Combining a local brand, dedicated to delivering jobs for the people of Manchester, with the resources and talent available at Buckleigh & Williams, we will possess the means to propel Manchester Staff Ltd to the highest levels of service and efficiency.” Ian Buckley, Director of Buckleigh & Williams, commented: “We are delighted to have acquired a majority stake in an up-andcoming business like Manchester Staff. We

are proud Mancunians and have ambitious plans to re-invest some of the profits back into local community projects. We have a plan in place to fully support this business with the resources it needs to become a local recruitment powerhouse, and contribute to this great city.”

With immediate effect, Manchester Staff Ltd has re-located to the Buckleigh & Williams HQ at Deanway Technology Building 2, Alex Platt, Director of Buckleigh & Williams, added: “Diversifying into new markets is a key growth strategy for us as a business. We feel

Manchester Staff Ltd is the right company to invest in and has the potential to achieve our growth targets. To achieve this we will bring specialist recruitment techniques normally utilized in high-end markets such as IT, construction and engineering, to the office support sectors. "

TRANSPORT

Contact Editor@BusinessManchester.co.uk

Virgin Trains has partnered with Iron Maiden and Stockportbased brewery Robinsons THE multiple award-winning Trooper beer, which takes its name from the classic Iron Maiden song is now available to purchase onboard all Virgin Trains services for the duration of the band’s sold out ‘Legacy of the Beast’ UK tour. Handcrafted by Robinsons, a 180-year-old family run brewery a stone’s throw from Stockport station, the beer has sold well over 20 million pints worldwide since it was launched back in 2013. Vocalist Bruce Dickinson, a keen real ale enthusiast, was instrumental in the creation of Trooper, a 4.7% golden ale made with a unique blend of Bobek,

Goldings and Cascade hops. To celebrate the launch Bruce a qualified airline pilot, travelled up from London to Stockport in the cab of a Virgin Trains Pendolino. Bruce Dickinson, said: “I’m delighted that our fans will be able to share a Trooper or two together whilst travelling to and from Iron Maiden shows around the UK this summer.” Virgin Trains is committed to working with local suppliers to offer the very best of British produce, with a number of ‘guest’ items on sale at the onboard shops throughout the coming months .

“Based on the first week’s sales, Trooper is proving a big hit with customers,” explained Julie Harper, Food and Beverage Manager at Virgin Trains. “With the recent hot weather, it’s perfect for sipping at 125mph.” David Bremner, Director of Marketing at Robinsons Brewery, added: “It’s fantastic that Virgin Trains have chosen to stock Trooper. Our brewery is within sight of Stockport train station and I’m sure that both Iron Maiden fans and beer drinkers in general will be excited that our fantastic beer is available on board.

a more flexible option that is suited to their ever-changing lifestyle. Despite this, the car purchase space has seen very little innovation in the past few decades and hasn’t moved accordingly. As such, it’s clear to see there is a clear gap and that the current options for car ownership are dated.

want freedom. "We’re taking the same methodology and applying it to the automotive industry to show that a car doesn’t have to be a huge upfront investment or a stressful long-term commitment and to give consumers an alternative that’s suited for the 21st century. “ Initially launching in

Drover vehicle subscription launches in Manchester DROVER, the UK’s very first online Netflix style subscription service for cars, has launched in Manchester offering drivers in the area a new way to get a car. Drover enables customers to pay a monthly online subscription for a vehicle that includes a car, insurance, breakdown cover, servicing and maintenance, road tax and discounted fuel costs at selected fuel partners. Recognising that consumers’ lifestyles are more agile than ever, Drover is offering a genuine alternative for those who may be reluctant to purchase a car outright or who don’t want to commit to a costly, long-term finance plan.

In addition, through its all-inclusive pricing, Drover aims to be completely transparent with customers about costs so they know exactly what they’re signing up for upfront and don’t get stung further down the line. Furthermore, the allinclusive pricing, which starts at £300 per month, means that the stress and hassle of organising insurance, MOT checks and dealing with breakdowns are all ticked off in advance. Felix Leuschner, Founder & CEO of Drover, said: “We know that an increasing amount of consumers don’t hold owning a car in the same regard that previous generations did, and many prefer

"At the same time, the subscription market has seen a 100% growth rate every year the last five years, because of its emphasis on personalisation and flexibility, Companies like Netflix and Class Pass, for example, have seen huge success because they’ve recognised that ultimately, consumers

2016 for Uber drivers, Drover has already seen rapid growth and success and decided to enter the consumer retail market in February 2018 through a phased launch in London. Since then, Drover has 2,000 active drivers on the platform and has handled over 20,000 bookings.

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TRANSPORT September 2018

TIP grows its relationship with Huntapac in new five trailer deal FOURTH generation family company Huntapac Produce Ltd has recently taken delivery of five brand-new 13.4m Gray & Adams single temperature refrigerated trailers from TIP Trailer Services as part of a seven-year deal that includes full repair and maintenance of the Carrier trailer fridge systems. The decision by Huntapac to acquire these latest trailers from TIP follows on from the service they received last Christmas from TIP, who supplied a number of refrigerated trailers in an emergency situation to assist with increased demand during the Christmas peak period. The subsequent five-trailer deal is the first time that Huntapac has worked with TIP on new trailer supply. “We were really impressed by the quality of service we received from TIP during the Christmas peak period, so when we were looking at a possible alternative supplier of trailers for our fleet we decided to place this order with TIP based on their previous excellent service. We have been particularly impressed by the quality of the account management from TIP and the relationship between the two companies has worked really well so far,” said Will Hunter, operations director at Huntapac Produce Ltd. All five G&A refrigerated trailers feature Carrier Vector trailer refrigeration

systems and are expected to cover in excess of 120,000 km per annum over their seven-year life in the Huntapac fleet. Huntapac Produce Ltd was established over 75 years ago and is one of the largest and most successful root producers in the UK, employing over 500 staff and running a fleet of 60 tractor units, 80 fridge trailers and 50 bulk trailers. With its head office in Preston, Lancashire, Huntapac supplies many of the major supermarkets in the UK, as well as independent retailers, wholesalers, food service companies, caterers and food manufacturing operations. “Under the leadership of Warren Hunter, Huntapac Produce has grown significantly in recent times and its distinctive trailers are an everyday sight on our roads. We are really pleased to have had the opportunity to work closely with them on this new trailer deal, which allows us to demonstrate the effectiveness of the TIP customer service operation. We are looking forward to developing a strong and effective working relationship between our two companies over the full duration of this trailer contract,” said Mike Furnival, managing director, TIP Trailer Services UK & I.

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TRANSPORT

Stagecoach reveals ambitious £56m plans to deliver Europe’s biggest investment in electric buses for Greater Manchester STAGECOACH has announced ambitious £56m plans to deliver Europe’s largest single investment in electric buses for Greater Manchester. The first of the planned 105 new zero emissions doubledecker buses and associated infrastructure is hoped to go live from summer 2019, delivering a massive boost to local air quality and UK manufacturing, with the new fleet fully in place by early 2020. Stagecoach, Britain’s biggest bus and coach operator, has pledged to invest £34.6m in the ground-breaking project, which is backed by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, Transport for Greater Manchester and other key organisations. The plans are dependent on a bid for £21.5m in support from the Government’s recently announced Ultra-Low Emission Bus Scheme, which is aimed at cutting emissions and ensuring cleaner and greener journeys. New Enviro400 EV City vehicles, each with a range of up to 190 miles and capacity to carry around 80 passengers, would be built by the UK’s leading electric bus manufacturer Alexander Dennis using battery and power electronics expertise from automotive company BYD. Multi-million-pound Investment will also be made in delivering infrastructure and power requirements at depot level. Intelligent chargers will be used to limit loadings on the electricity supply and maximise vehicle availability. Stagecoach is already the UK’s biggest investor in

hybrid-electric bus technology and has invested more than £1billion in new greener buses over the past decade. The new e-bus fleet for Manchester would significantly outstrip plans recently announced by London Mayor Sadiq Khan for 68 new electric double-decker buses in the capital. Transforming the air quality in Greater Manchester is one part of a wider multi-millionpound partnership blueprint developed by bus operators to deliver a step-change in the region’s bus network. Working with the Mayor and local authorities, it would deliver more comprehensive services, better value fares, simpler ticketing, an improved customer experience, as well as addressing issues around damaging car congestion which impacts bus punctuality. Martin Griffiths, Chief Executive of Stagecoach

Group, said: “This gamechanging initiative is the biggest single investment in e-bus technology anywhere in Europe. It is a clear sign of our bold ambition to transform Greater Manchester’s bus network. “Our plans will put Greater Manchester at the forefront of the drive to improve local air quality, and help cement Britain’s position as global leader in manufacturing lowemission vehicles. It is also part of our wider partnership proposals to maximise the potential of the bus network to drive the region’s economy and better connect its communities. “By working together, bus operators, the Mayor and the region’s local authorities can deliver the quick and sustained improvements we all want to see in Greater Manchester’s bus network, building on

the major progress we’ve already made and avoiding unnecessary extra costs to local taxpayers.” Stagecoach’s plans would see the new e-buses – which would replace conventional Euro 3 and Euro 4 vehicles – based at its depots in Hyde Road and Sharston. Major charging infrastructure would allow buses to be charged simultaneously, enabling a 24 hour-a-day operation. The e-bus fleet would operate four key high frequency services connecting Manchester city centre, Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly railway station, six hospitals and two universities. It would also complement recent public investment in bus priority measures in the south of the city. Two further high frequency services would be operated

predominantly by electric vehicles, supported by existing low carbon certified hybrid vehicles at peak times, meaning 36 buses per hour in each direction would be operated by the new e-bus fleet. The introduction of new electric buses will also enable the cascade of existing low-carbon emissions vehicles onto two routes serving Trafford and Salford. Around 15-20 buses would be introduced a month from summer 2019, with full roll out achieved by early 2020. Infrastructure works would begin in the autumn of 2018 and be fully completed by spring 2019. The new e-bus fleet for Greater Manchester offers a 62% improvement in CO2 emissions over the latest low-carbon emission buses and supports the region’s Air Quality Action Plan. Overall, the initiative would save 2.6 million litres of diesel a year, reduce annual CO2 by 6,800 tonnes, and cut NOx emissions by 24% and particulates by 20% across the fleet. Poor air quality is estimated to contribute to more than 40,000 premature deaths across the UK each year, with emissions from cars and vans estimated to cost £6bn annually to the NHS and society. Stagecoach’s groundbreaking initiative would also help accelerate the introduction of e-buses across Europe. There are currently around 725,000 buses in operation across Europe, but only an estimated 2,500 of those are fully electric.

44 INTERNATIONAL

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Kids Insights to go global after announcing US launch MANCHESTER-based The Insights People is going global after announcing plans to expand into the US, by launching an American version of its pioneering “Kids Insights”. Hailed as the UK’s most comprehensive and dynamic market intelligence tools focused on young people, soaring demand from global major brands has led to the expansion of Kids Insights into the US market. Launched by experienced marketer Nick Richardson in 2017, Kids Insights surveys 20,000 kids each year, offering brands insights into emerging trends to support advertising, content,

licensing, product and marketing investments. By collecting data continuously, Kids Insights is able to uncover entrenched, emerging and flash trends, as well as better understanding the behaviours and consumption, of children. Through its groundbreaking platform, the organisation has identified a series of trends, including the rise of the Fortnite phenomenon as early as last December, and the lack of consumer excitement and interest around the recently released Solo: A Star Wars Story movie. Although just over a year old, Kids Insights now boasts a range of

global clients and brands, including DC Thomson, Finsbury Foods, Guinness World Records, Penguin Random House and SuperAwesome. Already this year, the team has added BBC, Egmont, Hasbro, Sambro, TOPPS Europe and Vivid to its client roster, as well as doubling its team and moving to new offices in the Northern Quarter in Manchester. CEO Nick Richardson, said: “The growth of the business has been incredible over the last year. Our Kids Insights and Parents Insights platforms have grown significantly since we started, and more clients, be it agencies or brands, are continuing to

use our technology and innovation to capture the market intelligence of the future, today. “Many of the brands we work with are global brands, so demand for the real-time insights we provide isn’t just limited to the UK market. Our move into the US is a logical first step in terms of globalising the platform, as we have had significant interest from that market. “We’ve got an amazing team, and an amazing group of partners and supporters

Demand soars for ethical animal tourism MANCHESTER-based, Global Spirit Animals In Tourism Limited, is predicting further growth as holidaymakers around the world pay closer attention to the welfare of animals at international tourist resorts. Global Spirit, the specialist animal welfare auditor, was launched by experienced professional, Hayley Lynagh, in 2015 after she developed a comprehensive, peer reviewed audit process for the travel and tourism industry. A growing portfolio of tour operators, cruise lines, ground operators and suppliers use the robust audit process she developed, which measures the quality of their ‘animal footprint’ against established industry welfare criteria.

Clients include Thomas Cook Group, Virgin Holidays, Carnival and Buffalo Tours. The business is on target to achieve a £150,000 turnover by the end of this year and on track for £500,000 by 2020, thanks to a clutch of new contracts. In total, the company has audited over 100 facilities in more than 20 different countries including Mexico, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Cuba, USA and the Dominican Republic. The company expects to announce a series of new transatlantic deals with USA based clients which will come to fruition in 2019 and stimulate new jobs at its Manchester city centre headquarters on Deansgate. Hayley Lynagh, director of Global Spirit, said:

who can see the opportunities and possibilities we have with both Kids Insights and Parents Insights. We look forward to continuing to support them with the most comprehensive and dynamic market intelligence in those respective markets.” Over the last few months, Kids Insights was named the Best B2B Project at the Big Chip Awards, the longest running and biggest digital industry awards in the UK outside London, among a number of other

regional and industry accolades. Using its groundbreaking “AQuA” (All Questions Answered) technology and real-time online platform, Kids Insights UK surveys 400 different kids, tweens and teens every single week (more than 20,000 every year). Kids Insights US will also survey 400 different kids, tweens and teens every single week. It’s sister platform, Parents Insights, surveys 200 different expecting and new parents every single week.

“Tourists from all around the world are paying an increasing level of attention to the welfare of animals at resorts and using it as a major consideration in their choice of activity. “We are continuing to see the industry as a whole place animal welfare increasingly higher on their agenda, as they recognise the important role travel and tourism has to play in raising standards and bring about global change. “By measuring their excursions against increasingly complex, internationally recognised criteria, and being transparent with customers, they are able to offer assurance to people who are increasingly passionate about the welfare of animals. “Making positive changes post audit is fundamental and we provide individualised reports which include an overview of the facility alongside detailed improvement recommendations where minimum requirements have not been met. “We are proud to be a Manchester-based business playing a positive role in driving up animal welfare standards across the world.”

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INTERNATIONAL

£50k Export Fund loan powers growth for former world cycling champion THE Greater Manchester Export Fund (GMEF) has supported Oldham based internet retailer Fawkes Cycles with a £50,000 loan to fund growth for the business across new European and global markets. Delivered by GC Business Finance, Business Growth Hub and the Department for International Trade (DIT) which are all part of The Growth Company, the GMEF provides access to a wide range of international trade support for both new and existing exporters along with access to loan

funding to enable local businesses to secure and grow export contracts all over the world. Run by Nigel and Mandy Bishop, a former UCI women’s world road race champion, Fawkes Cycles sells a range of leading and niche bikes, parts and accessories and will use the funding to invest in marketing and SEO, creating two new jobs to add to the current team of seven at its Oldham base. Fawkes is aiming to grow its customer based across Europe as well as operating pilot schemes in Asia and Australia to help combat the

coupled with a level of service and quality that they really value. “The UK cycle market alone is worth over £2.5billion and the funding from GC Business Finance now puts us in a far stronger position to be able to strengthen and grow our position at home as well as using a wider reaching marketing and sales strategy to access new territories.” Andrew Nichols, Senior Loans Manager seasonality of the cycle are at the forefront of the at GC Business Finance, market. boom in cycling and we said: “The GMEF Nigel Bishop, said: know that what we offer was designed to help “Having increased sales customers is a seamless innovative companies by 43% in 2017, we really e-shopping experience just like Fawkes; ensuring

that they are able to take what is already proving to be a great success in this country and replicate that model and success across the world. “Specialist online retailers are dominating the marketplace as consumers seek out the choice, convenience and service of expert suppliers and the forecast is for this trend to continue. Mandy and Nigel are using their expertise to develop extremely high levels of customer loyalty and retention and this additional funding now enables them to take their offer to a far wider audience.”

UK sweet expert sells fudge to the Middle East NATIONAL confectionery expert Andy Baxendale has agreed a deal to help supply the Middle East with British fudge. Known throughout the industry as The Sweet Consultant, Andy Baxendale, from Wigan, has 23 years’ experience in the confectionery business with a Master’s of Science in Advanced Food Manufacture. He was contacted by chocolate makers Le Concheur based in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, when they were looking for an expert to oversee their production of British-style fudge and was flown out especially to help with manufacture and staff training. Fudge has become popular in Saudi Arabia because of its unique texture and flavour and because, unlike chocolate, it doesn’t melt in hot temperatures. Andy, who is a former product development manager for Chewits in the UK, said Le Concheur would start selling fudge in their two shops in the next few weeks. “The demand for traditional British fudge in Saudi Arabia has soared recently and people really enjoy the quality and taste of the high-quality product we are able to offer them. “It is a great thing to have for a treat and when the temperature soars to 40 degrees C and chocolate melts easily, it is a fantastic alternative.”

Andy is a respected national consultant in every aspect of confectionery production, with extensive knowledge of regulation and legislation in the industry, advising companies on everything from recipes to staff training and enhanced production techniques. Recently he has been one of the stars of the hit BBC 2 confectionery show The Sweet Makers and is currently working to set up a National Academy of Sweets to teach a new generation the art of confectionery production and development.

46 CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

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Brabners names Mind as its charity partner for 2018/19 INDEPENDENT legal practice Brabners, which has a base in Manchester, has named mental health charity Mind as its chosen charity partner for 2018/19 and has kicked off its fundraising target by raising £5,000 from its annual Charity Challenge. The Charity Challenge took place in the Lake District and is the firm’s first major fundraising initiative of the year. It saw teams of employees, clients, friends and family race against each other in a series of gruelling challenges. From kayaking more than a mile and a half around Derwentwater lake to cycling up to 37 miles through the Buttermere Valley. This route saw teams climb more than 4,000ft as they cycled the Honister and Whinlatter passes, before participants hiked a further 3,800ft as they ended the

challenge with a nine mile fell walk through Outerside, Craig Hill and Sand Hill. Mind promotes the understanding of mental health issues and provides advice and support to the thousands of people across the UK who need it. This event is just one of many that Brabners’ dedicated charity committee has planned to support Mind and will be followed by a number of sponsored challenges to help the firm beat its annual fundraising target of £25,000. Lachlan Nisbet, head of the firm’s charity committee, said: “Mind does a tremendous job of providing thousands of individuals across the country, both young and old, with expert support and guidance around mental health issues. We’re extremely proud that the money we’ve raised will provide Mind with the vital funding

it needs to carry on supporting those who need its help the most, and we’re looking forward to continuing our support as we work together to raise awareness of such an important cause.” Sandra Gilbert at Wirral Mind, added: “One in four people are affected by mental health issues, so

the work we do to encourage open conversation is more important than ever. Events like this not only help us to raise awareness about such an important issue, they ensure the money raised will allow us to continue to provide services to people experiencing distress.

FASTSIGNS support Manchester art scene at HOME FASTSIGNS Manchester has strengthened links with the local arts scene by becoming a corporate member of Manchester-based charitable arts foundation HOME. HOME work with both international and UK artists, producing drama, dance, film and contemporary visual art that aims to create experiences that are both exciting and thoughtprovoking. Manchester’s unique art scene is one of the city’s main attractions, and FASTSIGNS Manchester hopes to increase its appeal further by financially supporting a charity that focuses on international work, new commissions and talent development. “HOME is a Manchester-only charity, and it felt right to help a foundation on our doorstep, especially when it has such fantastic facilities for our community. I’ve been there a good number of times and loved it!” said Richard Wedgwood, Director of FASTSIGNS Manchester.

These facilities include enchanting cinema screens and visual live theatre auditoriums at HOME’s centre near First Street, as well as an on-site bar and restaurant that culture lovers regularly flock to. “Like most not-for-profit organisations, it struggles for funding,” Richard added. “So we’re really pleased to be able to offer some financial support,” Richard added. HOME’s Development Manager, Jenni Willows, said: “We’re delighted to have FASTSIGNS Manchester on board as part of the HOME family of supporters. We hope that we can reciprocate their support with benefits that will help them meet their own business objectives.” “The team went along and had a wonderful time crafting sculptures of film characters out of modelling clay, as well as connecting with others that support HOME’s cause,” added Richard.

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Cowgill Holloway expands Manchester base

COWGILL Holloway, one of the North West’s leading accountancy practices, has bolstered its Corporate Finance team with the appointment of director, Sam Davies. Sam joins from Knight Corporate Finance and will drive Cowgill’s expansion plans as head of the Manchester arm of Cowgill’s Corporate Finance division from its base in XYZ, Spinningfields. Sam has significant experience working with investors, having recently led deals raising investment in excess of £20m from Northern Venture Managers, Yorkshire Fund Managers, Maven and Lloyds Development Capital. The wider Cowgill Holloway Corporate Finance team has completed in excess £100m of deal value in the last 24 months. From its head office in Bolton, Cowgill’s is driving forward with ambitious expansion plans and growing corporate finance from Manchester is a key part of the firm’s growth strategy.

Sam, said: “Manchester is at the centre of the regional M&A market, with over 30 private equity firms based in the city, so it makes sense for us to grow our existing corporate finance business from here. Developing our team in the heart of the city is an exciting challenge and, with a buoyant market, the time is right to capitalise on this. “Cowgill’s is a well-established and highly respected accountancy practice with a long track record of excellence, and looking to the future, in order to recruit and retain the best talent, we know that we need to build our city centre base further.” Head of Corporate Finance, Ian Johnson, added: “We are delighted to have recruited Sam who is a real coup for us. He joins a growing team of directors across the business who are instrumental in delivering our growth plans. Sam fits perfectly with our entrepreneurial ethos and there was an obvious synergy between us from our first meeting.”

HRC Law Llp appoints new Partner PAUL Kirkpatrick has joined HRC Law LLP, the Manchester-based commercial law firm, as a new partner in its commercial dispute resolution team. Joining from national law firm Shoosmiths, where he was partner and led a team of 10, Paul will work with the HRC Law partnership to take the firm to its next phase of growth. Paul brings with him a wealth of experience in setting up and growing a commercial litigation practice working with clients within multinational corporations to fast-growth entrepreneur-led businesses. He advises on a range of complex commercial and contractual issues. HRC Law was founded by Simon Whitehead five years ago and now has a 25-strong team working across employment, corporate & commercial,

property and commercial dispute resolution. Paul, said: “HRC Law presented a different and attractive opportunity when I was looking for a new role in the North West. As a young and entrepreneurial firm, it was clear that HRC Law was somewhere I could make a real difference. The rest of the partner group have built their respective practice areas impressively with strong teams and an enviable client list. I look forward to doing the same.” Simon Whitehead, managing partner at HRC Law, added: “Since starting the business, we’ve held the unwavering belief that finding a cultural match with those joining the firm is the most crucial factor. When combined with Paul’s expertise, client experience and the strength of his network, he became the clear choice for our next partner.”

Kellogg’s hires new director of UK sales KELLOGG’S has appointed a new UK senior sales director as it seeks to drive sales across its cereal and snacks portfolio. Chris Silcock will report directly to Oli Morton, managing director for Kellogg’s UK & Ireland, and will join the senior leadership team in the UK. Silcock joins from Coca Cola European Partners, where in his role as grocery channel director, he helped the business add more retail value growth in 2017 than any other soft drinks manufacturer (+£80m retail sales) and he also led the development and implementation of a new pack and promotional strategy in response to the Government’s soft drinks tax. He will be based at Kellogg’s new HQ in MediaCityUK from midSeptember. The appointment follows former

senior sales director Oli Morton’s appointment to managing director of the UK and Ireland business. Oli, said: “Chris is a great leader and we are delighted to welcome him to our leadership team to run our commercial agenda with our trade partners across the UK. His experience at Coco Cola European Partners helping the company navigate the nutrition debate will also be extremely valuable to Kellogg’s as we continue our health and wellbeing leadership journey.”

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Ambitious growth plans at Stewart Milne Group MANCHESTER based Stewart Milne Group has appointed a Chief Operating Officer to further strengthen the senior management team as it gears up for a new period of growth. Stuart MacGregor, formerly Group Finance Director, will take up the newly created post of Chief Operating Officer following a review of the overall group structure. In his new role, Stuart will work closely with the Group’s Chief Executive, Glenn Allison, with responsibility for managing all aspects of the group’s activities and in particular, overseeing ambitious growth plans across all its business operations. The independent, award-winning housebuilder and timber systems manufacturer has seen substantial growth in house building activity and timber frame sales over the last two

years and currently has a turnover of around £300milion. The group’s homes businesses in Central Scotland and North-West England continue to perform strongly. Stewart Milne Timber System, now the UK housebuilding industry’ leader in modern methods of construction, has seen a significant rise in sales over the last three years which is forecast to increase further due to the continued demand for new housing across the UK. Glenn said: “Stuart has made a huge contribution to realising the group’s growth strategy and has played a critical role in delivering innovative funding partnerships with the UK Treasury and Homes England which have helped facilitate this success. “His proven commercial skills, combined with his extensive financial knowledge and business experience,

make him the obvious choice to support me in delivering our growth ambitions.” Stuart added: “It has been hugely enjoyable and rewarding to work with Glenn and the team in the last three years. As a result of the decisions we’ve taken to invest in strong performing

markets, the business is now well positioned for sustainable growth. I am excited about accepting wider responsibility within Stewart Milne Group and look forward to working with the entire team to drive the business forward.”

WorkMobile expands with appointment of new marketing executive

MANCHESTER-based mobile data capture specialist, WorkMobile, has appointed a new branding and marketing executive as part of ambitious plans for growth. With a wealth of marketing experience

both in-house and as a freelance creative, Jessica Mallard is the latest highly-skilled addition to WorkMobile’s rapidly expanding team. Jessica has spent time working in marketing and events for InternChina, a

global education and internships company, organising and marketing intensive programmes for Education New Zealand and The British Council. Returning to the UK, she was able to use the cross-cultural connections made in her previous role to establish herself as a successful freelance marketer. In her new role at WorkMobile, Jessica will be refining the brand’s identity and messaging,

solidifying its reputation as a leading provider of bespoke workflow solutions. Having recently developed a three-year business plan with the approval and support of its long-term South African investors, WorkMobile is on track to achieve its target of growing recurring revenues by 30% by the end of the year. Jessica said: “Having worked with technology clients in a freelance capacity, I am thrilled

to now be joining an innovative tech business at such an exciting time. “WorkMobile has a fantastic product, which, thanks to the hard work of a passionate team, is constantly improving and evolving. “This constant evolution is one of our key messages as a brand, and I am keen to ensure that it is conveyed effectively in every aspect of our communications strategy.” Andrew Huntly,

CEO of WorkMobile, said: “Jessica is a brilliant addition to the WorkMobile team, bringing with her a host of fresh ideas and enthusiasm. “Her expertise will be vital in helping us achieve our three year growth plan, ensuring that we are able to capitalise on new opportunities and bring our solutions to an ever greater number of sectors.”

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Shoosmiths Manchester marks year of growth with nine hires THE Manchester office of leading national law firm, Shoosmiths has reported strong growth for its conveyancing team against challenging market conditions. Just 15 months after launching, with the appointment of partner, Lisa Gibbs, the Manchester conveyancing team has grown to incorporate

nine specialists. The team has developed a busy pipeline of instructions since being established and further appointments to the team are now planned, with ambitions to double the current headcount, in response to increasing client demand. The team, part of Shoosmiths’ market-

leading national conveyancing practice, offers a highly professional conveyancing service designed to make the process of buying or

selling personal property as efficient and stress-free as possible. Partner, Lisa Gibbs, said: “It has been an excellent first year for our conveyancing

department. At a time when the conveyancing market is generally subdued with a shrinking in conveyancing volumes, our team continues to see a growth in instructions.

Thanks to our focus on delivering exceptional client service, we have a steady stream of referrals from new clients and advise a number of repeat clients.

Davis Blank Furniss makes three appointments MANCHESTER and Glossop law firm Davis Blank Furniss has made three new appointments across the business. The first is Amie Tsang who joins as a senior consultant in the Property team. Before arriving at Davis Blank Furniss, Amie ran her own successful small practice for 20 years. She brings

with her a very loyal client base which is mainly from the UK and Chinese business community. Katherine Darbinean is Davis Blank Furniss’ newest Personal Injury & Clinical Negligence solicitor. Katherine qualified in December 2014 and joins Davis Blank Furniss from Thompsons Solicitors. Her role will

cover higher value claims with severe injuries and some clinical negligence work. Suzanne Thompson has joined the Corporate and Commercial team as a solicitor. Suzanne qualified in 2016 and joins from BLM. Her work includes company restructures, shareholders agreements, company

sales and acquisitions, commercial contracts and terms and conditions and intellectual property matters. Kate Oldfield, managing partner at Davis Blank Furniss, commented: “We are delighted to welcome these three talented lawyers to the team and I’m sure each will play an integral part in the firm’s future growth.”

Malcolm Hollis welcomes graduate INDEPENDENT commercial building consultancy firm Malcolm Hollis is pleased to welcome Elliot Haworth to its Manchester office. Haworth joins the team as part of the firm’s successful graduate recruitment program. Elliot completed a degree in Management at Lancaster University and carried out an internship at IBM before deciding to change careers. He is currently completing his Masters at Sheffield Hallam University. David

McBride, Partner at Malcolm Hollis, said: “It is exciting and rewarding to help graduates begin their careers in the property industry. Our successful graduate program has been in place for nearly 20 years and we pride ourselves in our ability to identify and develop young talent. Many congratulations to Elliot Haworth, we look forward to seeing your career flourish at Malcolm Hollis.”

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Plans to open co-working space as part of £1.5m investment in facilities

PLANS to open a co-working hub for start-ups inside the University of Manchester Innovation Centre (UMIC) have been revealed. The space, currently being renovated as part of a wider £1.5m UMIC investment programme, will house a

variety of companies connected to the University’s Innovation Optimiser (IO) initiative as well as budding entrepreneurs beginning their start-up journey. IO provides support for aspiring entrepreneurs wishing to develop

start-up businesses, social ventures and research student enterprises. So far over 20 start-ups have graduated through its programme in less than three years. Head of UMIC Yvonne Loughlin

said the co-working hub is on track to open in November this year. She said: “We are extremely excited to be launching a coworking hub here at UMIC. “We already house a fantastic variety of innovative businesses, both at the Manchester Incubator Building and Core Technology Facility on Grafton Street as well as at our North Campus Incubator closer to Manchester city centre. “The co-working hub will once again take our approach to a new level. We’re looking forward to giving a home to some of the many young ambitious enterprises that are passing through what is a fantastic Innovation Optimiser Programme run by Tony Walker. “Initially the area will house around 10 businesses, but we anticipate growing that number to 18 soon after. “The great thing about the space is that it will also cater for external entrepreneurs and start-up companies. “UMIC will also host a competition in due course, the winner of which will win up to 12 months free of charge rent in the hub.”

Bolton’s ambitious £1bn new town centre masterplan makes significant step forward BOLTON Council has confirmed in principle over £250m of private sector investment funding to replace the Crompton Place Shopping Centre on Victoria Square, with a new state-of-the-art retail and leisure destination as the first phase of Bolton’s ambitious £1bn town centre regeneration masterplan. The project represents a major new component of the Northern Powerhouse initiative. Working in partnership with the Department for International Trade (DIT) and Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), the Council has secured the involvement of Bolton Regeneration Limited (BRL), a private consortium led by investment and development specialist, Midia. BRL has in turn secured strong interest from a number of major institutional investors and this week agreed heads of terms with Beijing Construction and Engineering Group International (BCEGI) to join the consortium. The final selection of the preferred investor will be made in conjunction with Bolton Council and its

property advisors. A spokesperson from Midia said: "This investment is a fantastic opportunity for one of Greater Manchester’s largest towns to establish itself as major player within the Northern Powerhouse. Midia has extensive experience in partnering with public sector organisations and we look forward to working closely with Bolton Council to deliver a programme of regeneration that secures long-term economic growth for the town.” BCEGI is an equity and construction partner in the £1bn Airport City project at Manchester Airport and the preferred contractor for the new £1bn Salford mixed-use development, Middlewood Locks. Bolton Council’s Cabinet recently gave approval for the replacement of Crompton Place and the implementation of the Bolton town centre development framework. Property management company JLL will continue to manage the existing retail space, which contains 46 retail units, kiosks, office accommodation and a 285-space car park.

Leader of Bolton Council, Councillor Linda Thomas, described the investment by BRL as a “huge opportunity” to transform Bolton town centre. She added: “This is a fantastic vote of confidence in our town and in our Council. It enables us to move forward with the delivery of our masterplan and will act as a catalyst for other developments across our Borough. “I look forward to being able to make further announcements about the investment later in the year.” Deputy Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Ebrahim Adia, said: “This is a resounding vote of confidence in the Council and its vision for the town centre. “The investment will generate significant economic benefits not only for Bolton but also for the wider Northern Powerhouse region, with the potential to create new jobs for our residents. There is a lot of detailed work that now needs to be undertaken but there is no doubt that this is an exciting time for Bolton.”

PROPERTY

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Oxford Road hotel development “The Lume” officially opens this September THE Lume, a new 19-storey hotel development boasting a Crowne Plaza and Staybridge Suites, both hotel brands of IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) will officially open this month in Manchester. Owned by M&L Hospitality and managed by Cycas Hospitality, the 328-room newly built dual-branded hotel is located in the bustling Oxford Road area, within walking distance of the city centre. Crowne Plaza Manchester, Oxford Road, which occupies the lower 12-storeys, features 212 guest rooms, a 120-seat restaurant, bar, fully equipped 24hour gym, club lounge and seven state-of-the-art meeting rooms catering for over 200 delegates. The extended-stay brand Staybridge Suites, which is making its Manchester debut, is located on the upper seven floors. Offering a stylish and social environment along with all the comforts of home, Staybridge Suites – Oxford Road will have a mix of 116 modern studio and one-bedroom suites featuring fully-equipped kitchens and exceptional views of the city. The brand also hosts ‘The Social’ three evenings a week, an

informal opportunity for guests to mingle and get to know their on-site team over complimentary drinks and nibbles. The Lume hotel development is ideally located within the Oxford Road Corridor which boasts a workforce of 60,000 people and is home to The University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust. The dual-branded hotel development forms part of the University of Manchester’s Campus Masterplan, which includes the wider redevelopment of Alliance Manchester Business School. It also adjoins its new two-storey Executive Education Centre, which will provide a new home for the business school’s corporate leadership and management programmes. The hotel’s General Manager, Andrew Fletcher, said: “With the opening date just weeks away, we’re really excited about how combining two hotels under one roof will give business as well as leisure travellers a new way to experience Manchester.” “As the way people travel evolves, we wanted to give guests

the more flexible accommodation options we know they’re looking for, whether they’re staying for a few nights or a few weeks. The Lume will, for the first-time, offer travellers to the North the choice of two different hotel styles in one central location. We’re therefore looking forward to combining personalised homefrom-home touches with an on-site restaurant, buzzing bar and extensive meeting facilities in a way that visitors to Manchester

haven’t had before.” The name ‘The Lume’ was chosen to celebrate the lightfilled ‘illuminated’ hotel and as a nod to the textile ‘loom’, an innovation that helped shape Manchester’s past. It also pays tribute to The University of Manchester’s illustrious ‘alumni’ including Alan Turing, Sir Howard Bernstein and Sir Arthur Stanley Eddington, after whom the meeting rooms are named.

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Property September 2018

Manchester housing charity celebrate 20 years with a new home

Manchester property entrepreneur announced as Chair of the RICS North West Regional Board PROPERTY and development entrepreneur, Stephen Ashworth Chairman and CEO of Crystal Hurstwood in Manchester, a privately owned investment company, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) North West Regional Board. Less than 20% of surveyors in the UK are Fellows of the RICS, a recognition of a surveyor’s significant career achievements and passion for developing the profession across the land, property and construction sectors, and Stephen has achieved the esteemed status for going above and beyond in his role and for the wider profession. Over the past 20 years Stephen has grown Crystal Hurstwood into a £140 million commercial investment and house building group. Today, the company services over 600 commercial customers occupying a range of office, industrial, leisure and retail property, and continues to build high quality homes. Keen to help industry talent develop, Stephen has also established a successful graduate scheme in the business which supports student members in achieving

chartered status of RICS. He is also a volunteer mentor for surveyors in senior role’s looking to become chartered through the RICS’ senior professional assessment. Furthermore, as part of RICS’ 150th anniversary this year, the Board are also responsible for encouraging property firms and professionals in the North West to get behind a campaign, known as Pledge150, which aims to deliver funds for property industry charity, LandAid to deliver at least 150 bed spaces by December 2018, for young people at risk of homelessness.. On his appointment, Stephen Ashworth, said: “Our region’s land, property and construction sectors continue to face many challenges. But as Chairman of the RICS North West Regional Board, I am looking forward to representing the interests of the region’s property professionals, and together with the knowledge and expertise of our experienced Board members, deliver a range of initiatives that will have a positive impact on our industry and profession, as well as our local communities. “The Pledge 150 campaign is also an important initiative in helping to combat homelessness, so myself and the committee will work hard to raise as much as possible to go towards this worthwhile cause.”

GOLDEN Lane Housing Limited has moved its UK HQ into Parkway 4 at Orbit Development’s business park in Manchester just in time to mark two decades of service to the housing charity sector. Originally set up by the Royal Mencap Society, Golden Lane Housing provides specialised housing for people with learning disabilities and currently look after 1800 tenants UK-wide. “It’s been a bit of an unsettled six months but we are very happy in our new home,” said Melissa O’Donnell, Head of Operations for the company. “Parkway is an excellent space for our staff. It is a perfect location to manage a national team with great transport connections. It’s quality accommodation and provides an attractive and well maintained environment for everyone. “We are especially pleased with the break out areas for the team with a fantastic café on site and space for people to have a break from their desks and relax at lunchtime.” Golden Lane

Housing works with over 150 local councils and health authorities across the country, partners with 100 support providers in a national network of expertise. “We provide a person-centred approach for individuals and their families, ensuring they have a home that meets their needs and aspirations. We back that up with a housing and maintenance support service for them, which we have just made into a more specialist repairs offer, and a 24hr helpline. “We also invest in our staff and were placed at number eight in this year’s Sunday Times Best 100 Not for Profit Organisations to work for. We are very proud of that.” Leasing Director for Orbit Developments, Rhys Owen commented: “We are pleased to welcome Melissa and her team on to the park. Parkway 4 is ideal for their requirements and we were glad to provide an easy solution for their requirements. We wish them every success in the new space.”

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Property

Sweco relocates to Abbey House SWEDISH engineering consultancy Sweco has opened a new Manchester office after taking 5,582 square feet at Abbey House on Booth Street. Sweco has agreed a 5-year lease for the fourth floor of the property to provide a city centre base for its 40 strong team. Sweco has consolidated two offices as part of the move, with the majority relocating from their previous base at Manchester Airport. The transaction was secured by Avison Young on behalf of Booth Street Property

Company. Positioned on the corner of Booth Street and Mosley Street, Abbey House has recently undergone a full refurbishment to include new full height windows, newly refurbished reception area to include touchdown meeting rooms, and a new shower facility in the basement. Existing occupiers include Gleeds, Chubb Insurance and Mathys and Squire. Harry Skinner, Senior Surveyor at Avison Young, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;As todays occupiers

are increasingly looking for more from their office space, Abbey House has been completely repositioned to provide Grade A office space with exceptional facilities. We are pleased to see this investment is already paying dividends with the arrival of Sweco, and with further space under offer we look forward to making further announcements soon.â&#x20AC;? Sweco is headquartered in Stockholm and has 14 regional offices throughout the UK, with its head office located in Leeds.

Property September 2018

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100 reasons to celebrate as work begins at 100 Embankment CONSTRUCTION work has started on 100 Embankment, the second and final phase of the Embankment scheme in Salford’s Greengate neighbourhood. As well as marking the start of work on site the joint venture team also launched a new campaign called 100 Reasons, which will celebrate the wide variety of people helping to build the scheme and enhance the community in the Greengate area. The BREEAM Excellent office building is being delivered by Ask Real Estate and the Richardson family in a joint venture with Tristan Capital Partners’ Fund and Salford City Council. Commenting on behalf of the JV partnership, John Hughes, Managing Director of Ask Real Estate, said: “The second phase of the scheme is now well underway and we are looking forward to seeing 100 Embankment emerge alongside its sister building 101 Embankment. The success of 101 Embankment in securing the Swinton letting is testament to the schemes superb location and accessiblity. Being

right at the heart of the city centre and only a short walk from the main transport hubs, shops and restaurants Embankment continues to attract significant interest from occupiers and we look forward to now delivering the second phase.” Explaining the idea behind the 100 Reasons campaign, he added: “The building’s location, connectivity and local amenity will be celebrated. We will also be working with Salford

City Council and BAM Construction to recognise the hard work and achievements of the people who are delivering this building and also those who are helping to create a new community here in Greengate. The campaign will allow us to acknowledge and thank people including apprentices, local community groups, local sub-contractors, schools and individuals who have all had a positive impact in helping to shape this new

neighbourhood.” Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett also said: “The start on site at 100 Embankment is a physical demonstration of the continued development and investment in Salford. Once complete this iconic pair of buildings will provide a new corporate centre for the city bringing more jobs and revenue for the local authority. “This development is a key example of local government entrepreneurialism, leveraging investment from the local authority to kick-start economic growth and bring in revenue. The Council makes a great partner for business and the people of our city benefit from the profits which can be invested back into our services. “The 100 Reasons campaign is a wonderful way to show how investment of this scale is already having a positive impact on the lives of individuals involved in the project and I look forward to hearing their stories.”

David M Robinson doubles its floorplate at Equitable Building THE jeweller, David M Robinson, has doubled its retail space within Henry Boot Developments’ Equitable Building in a deal that illustrates the continued strength of the city centre jewellery district in and around St Ann’s Square. The Equitable Building forms a prime retail pitch onto St Ann’s Square, opposite the Grade I listed church.

The building dates back to the late nineteenth century and lies within the St Ann’s Square conservation area. The square has established itself as home to Manchester’s luxury jewellery stores, including Fraser Hart, Hancocks, Tag Heuer and Mappin and Webb. Tom Dunn, Development Surveyor at HBD’s Manchester office, said:“We

remain heavily invested in the square and are excited to bring forward our wider proposals for the Equitable Building. St Ann’s Square is a hugely attractive part of the city, sitting within the conservation area and home to the

beautiful St Ann’s Church. One of the most pleasant parts of the city, it’s one of the few places that benefits from a sense of tranquility at the heart of the bustle.”

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University launches international search for a partner for its North Campus Development THE University of Manchester’s Board of Governors has approved a proposal to seek a corporate partner to develop its North Campus site in Manchester city centre into a world-class innovation district over the next 20 years. This development is made possible by the scheduled move of the University’s engineering schools to the new multi-million Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD) adjacent to the University’s main Oxford Road campus, in 2021. Working with its partner, the University expects that the mixed-use site will attract research, development, cultural and technology companies, as well as accommodating new residential space. The area and buildings for development are around Sackville Street and adjacent to Piccadilly Rail and Metrolink stations. The plan is to develop the 11.8 hectare (29 acre) site into an exciting research and business campus, where the world’s most valuable ideas will be transformed into reality. The University will retain significant strategic and decision-making influence within the partnership. It will retain the south end of the site where it has significant research activity, including the newly built Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre and the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, and it will continue to hold the freehold for the whole site. Targeting technology and science-related occupiers, the

site will focus on specialities which combine the research and industrial strengths of the University and the city region with national economic priorities. These will include advanced materials, applied health innovation, artificial intelligence and digital technology and industrial biotechnology. The development is projected to generate

be launching an international search in the next few months to find the very best joint venture partner to work with us to develop this prime site with its landmark buildings and unique footprint in the heart of the city. “The development offers the opportunity to transform this quarter of the city centre, generate thousands

potentially up to £2 billion of growth over the next 20 years or more for the local economy and is projected to create up to 6,000 jobs. It will also help to ensure the long-term financial strength of the University by delivering a continuing future income stream for investment in the University’s educational and research activities. The University has been discussing its plans with Manchester City Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. It is envisaged that work on the site will begin after the University transfers staff and existing facilities into its new MECD buildings in 2021. Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and ViceChancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “We will

of new jobs and advance the reputation of the University. It will cement the reputation of the city as the place to be for technology, digital, research and development businesses, where the world’s most valuable ideas will be transformed into reality.” Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council commented: “The potential of the North Campus site is huge and this is great news for Manchester. “There are tremendous opportunities to regenerate this distinctive part of the city and we welcome the University’s growth, investment and job creation ambitions for the development.”

Property

Manchester construction businesses encouraged to inspire next generation of workers

AN initiative to address the skills shortage in the construction sector and make the industry more diverse and inclusive is calling for businesses to get involved and inspire the next generation of workers. Organised by Built Environment Skills in Schools (BESS), Manchester Construction Careers Week will see hundreds of schools across the region find out what it’s really like to work in construction, property, engineering and housing. The focus topic is gender and diversity, which will be explored in detail at the Inspire Summit on 25 September at the Bridgewater Hall with keynote speaker Barbara Rest, the first woman to oversee the construction of a major skyscraper, Trump Tower. Businesses can get involved by demonstrating how tech such as virtual reality and gaming is used in the industry, site tours, classroom demonstrations and digital broadcasts. Previous years have seen digital broadcasts. Kathryn Lennon-Johnson, founder of BESS, said: “Last year we held Construction Careers Week in Birmingham and had over 400 students take part in all kinds of activities. When we first met

the students, on average only 2 per cent stated an interest in a role in construction and less than 10 per cent could name job roles other than architect or bricklayer. After meeting with businesses and employers, 60 per cent of students said they were surprised about the breadth of opportunities. “Meeting and engaging with the students, whether on site or through the use of technology, is a vital step in attracting more young people into the sector, as well as making it more diverse and inclusive. With several schools and colleges across Greater Manchester taking part this year, it’s important we have as many different businesses on board as possible either at Inspire Summit or with other events and activities throughout the week.” Joe Broun, event director and founder of Inspire Summit, said: “The skills shortage in the industry has been widely reported for years now. Not only do we want to attract more people into the industry, but we want to see it become more diverse and inclusive. We want girls and young women to see that a career in construction isn’t ‘just for boys’ – it’s an accessible and exciting career path for everyone.”

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Property September 2018

Construction milestone celebrated at Downtown WITH the concrete frame complete at phase one of Downtown, the McGoff Group celebrated this key milestone in the construction programme with a topping out event on the roof of the Woden Street development. Joining the McGoff brothers James, Declan, Dave and Chris was the team from Wellesley, the development property finance specialist that has provided £39.9m funding to deliver Downtown. Combining a successful construction schedule, with the build expertly executed and managed by multi award-winning McGoff Construction, and impressive sales with all 368 apartments sold, the build of phase two at Downtown will now start much earlier than planned. Occupancy of phase one, which comprises 160 apartments, is planned for March 2019, and the early commencement of construction on phase two, which comprises 208 apartments, will start imminently. Chris McGoff, director at the McGoff Group, said: “The success of Downtown has been superb both in terms of sales and construction and it was

fitting to invite the team from Wellesley to the topping out event on the roof, giving them the chance to see the impressive progress made on site. “Their continued support means we can start the build of phase two immediately, which means completion will be approximately nine or 10 months sooner than expected. With all apartments sold, the excellent design and prominent site of Downtown on the banks of the River Irwell have delivered a truly prestigious riverside residential development.” Graham Wellesley, Founder and CEO at Wellesley, added: “Downtown is a high-quality, aspirational apartment scheme and the impressive pace of sales fully supports this. Working with the McGoff Group on this project has been a pleasure and it was a privilege to attend the topping out event. “Since 2007 property developers have found it increasingly hard to secure funding from banks and building societies. As a specialist alternative lender, we work hard to fill this gap, providing flexible lending packages that meet their needs."

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HRC Law flexes commercial property muscle with Gym King

MANCHESTER-based full-service commercial law firm, HRC Law, has advised on the latest lease in growing creative space Tanzaro House, as popular fitness and lifestyle brand Gym King prepares to move in. Tanzaro House, owned by property investment and development business Charlton Manor Estates Limited, is a dynamic space for fashion brands overlooking Ardwick Green in Manchester. The space has built a solid reputation within the industry as a hub in the North comprising a mix of office, studio and showroom spaces. It’s currently home to over 15 brands, agencies and distributors, including Just Consultancies, Two Squared Agency and The Couture Club, with their newest neighbours, Gym King, taking a 2,000 square foot unit. The transaction was led by commercial property partner at HRC Law, Helen Marsh, who worked alongside Matt Illingworth of Hynes Illingworth, the appointed letting agent, to secure the lease. Helen commented: “Charlton Manor Estates and their tenants are

a prime example of how innovative thinking is shaping the future of fashion. The multi-purpose building provides a flexible space for businesses to grow and be part of a community, and fashion brands are queuing up to join the Tanzaro house community.” Just three years since launch, Gym King has fast become one of the UK’s popular urban wear brands, stocked in the likes of ASOS, JD Sport and Footasylum. The business’ new space in Tanzaro House signals the brand’s expansion as they take up office and showroom space. Simon Kilham, Charlton Manor Estates, commented: “Our properties tend to attract and cater best to tenants in the artistic and creative sectors. It’s crucial for us to work with advisors that understand our industry and our tenants’ sectors. It was clear that Helen and the team at HRC Law could offer valuable insight which offered a seamless transaction for all parties. We’d like to extend our thanks to the team and a warm welcome to Gym King who we’re confident are going to be very happy in their new home.”

Property

Crème Creative moves following Boohoo founder investment MANCHESTER-based fashion and footwear creative content agency, Crème Creative, has moved into 2,700 sq ft of studio and office space at Concept Green, Eccles, using its £100,00 investment from Boohoo founder Jalal Kamani. Kamani invested £100,000 in Crème Creative for a 50% share of the agency and it has been used to take out a five-year lease on a former, industrial cotton mill in Eccles as well as the refurb of the building into office space and a photography studio. When not in use by Crème Creative, the studio, which has been called Foam Manchester, will be hired out to other photographers, agencies and brands. Crème Creative, launched in January 2016 by wives Emma and Katie Nattrass-Daniels, has a 10-strong team and a roster of high profile clients including Foot Asylum, New Balance, Lacoste, Mallet Footwear, isawitfirst.com and Koi

Footwear. The former cotton mill is the perfect space for the agency to grow and with its double apex offers lots of diffused natural light, original brickwork and exposed beams. Crème Creative’s Foam Studio has already been very busy; the agency has shot for a new footwear client Oli x Oliver, for the new Mallet Footwear look-book and New Balance ‘back-toschool’ content. The studio has also been hired out and booked for the filming of a music video. Managing Director, Katie NattrassDaniels, said: “This move will give us the capacity to start working for more high street brands; our ambition is to have names like Top Shop, ASOS, Adidas and Nike in our portfolio. “We took full control of the design and decoration so it’s just as we want it; it’s a sustainable space, including our waste management and energy, which is recycled and renewable.

58 CHRISTMAS PARTY

Property September 2018 YOUR FREE Business Newspaper

Christmas

may be some time away, but the season for booking has just begun. In this special feature, we explore the Christmas party concept and the venues across Greater Manchester where you can hold your celebrations

CHRISTMAS PARTY

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Christmas party survival guide The Christmas party can be a hard affair to navigate and these tips will hopefully add a little clarity to your conduct and how not to regret your attendance.

Romance is not in the air Do not kiss your colleagues at the Christmas party, unless they are your spouse. It’s not appropriate and will make the most awkward of office environments come January.

Don’t be too merry Number one on every party survival guide, but never more important than in this situation. You’re surrounded by colleagues and employers, don’t get too drunk! Whilst most employers are relaxed about people getting a little buzzed, especially if there is an open bar, few will be relaxed about a truly drunken colleague embarrassing themselves. Stick to white wines, beers and water.

Know when to call it a night Graham Norton once said: “No good decisions happen past 11pm.” Keep this in mind when Brian from Accounts is asking “One more shot?”.

Need to profess your love to somebody? Timing is everything, the work Christmas party is not usually the right timing.

Leave the grievances to HR Alcohol can be flowing at these events, so if our first tip didn’t harmonise with you, then you may find yourself with a slightly looser than normal tongue.

Reign in that tongue, since you don’t want to be bringing up any bad vibes with your colleagues at the Christmas party. Talk to HR when everybody is back into work mode, not during the prawn cocktails.

the most wonderful time of the year

There is no prize for last person standing and certainly no prize for ending the night not standing.

Rejoice in the magic that is Christmas with one of Manchester’s most iconic venues The Midland Hotel. Let us take the stress out of planning your festive event with one of our perfectly packaged events; from popular party nights, bespoke private events to our signature Glitter Ball with live entertainment. Then to top your year off we deliver you our dazzling New Year’s Eve Sparkle Ball to bring in 2019 in true style.

To get into the festive spirit call our dedicated Christmas party planner for a brochure on 0161 932 4090 or email: midlandevents@qhotels.co.uk

CHRISTMAS PARTY

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Five ideas for your Christmas party Every organisation, big, small, medium and micro takes a different approach to their Christmas party. Some of the bigger players like to go all out, hiring the biggest room, in most lavish hotel in the busiest city, others, prefer a quainter affair, opting for a personal and relaxed Christmas get-together. We’ve compiled a list of five Christmas party ideas, encompassing a range of potential parties, for you to tweak to suit.

THE SHARED PARTY PACKAGE

Let’s start with an easy one, hotels and restaurants across Lancashire offer shared party packages. No major preplanning, no outsourcing of catering, no huge expense and no stress. Shared party packages are ideal for smaller organisations. Usually venues ask you to choose from a set menu prior to the party and after that all you need to do is choose what to wear. A dance floor and DJ are almost always present for afterdinner boogying, if hosted at a hotel. Attendees often opt to take a room for the night, removing the need for a designated driver or taxi rides home. But make sure you book a room well in advance, they go quick on Christmas party nights!

PRIVATE PARTY

A private party allows an organisation to really tailor an event to their wants and needs. Select your choice of venue, catering, decorations, and music. This may be in-house, though many hotels and restaurants will let you treat your space as a blank canvas, personalising it to be as relaxed or extravagant as you desire.

BE DIFFERENT

For some organisations, the Christmas party is an opportunity to truly express themselves. If you are tired of the traditional options and seeking something different, some elect for an off-the-wall Christmas party.

A SOPHISTICATED EXPERIENCE

If dancefloors, boring turkey dinners and budget Christmas crackers aren’t what your organisation is seeking, a formal dining experience may suit.

Perhaps tailored towards smaller organisation or members of specific departments, the quiet Thinking out of the box, and refined atmosphere offered companies can consider the likes of boat parties, go-karting by some high-end restaurants trips, pub crawls and zoo visits. requires little planning, beyond a reservation and offer an These often offer a rewarding and exciting experience for staff, opportunity to converse and bond. leaving a lasting impression.

GO BIG, REALLY BIG

This is usually aimed at the larger organisations, taking the notion of a private party and then being as extravagant and excessive as possible. Hiring a private room and decorating it is only the start, for a Christmas party that will be talked about for years to come. Think Rio Carnival, Burlesque and Masquerade when it comes to themes, or if it’s a performance you’re after, hire a chart topper, current or legendary. Obviously, such a party will require an immense amount of planning and expense and even some outsourcing, but they aren’t forgotten quickly and will act as a lasting focal point of colleague conversation.

EVENT CITY • MANCHESTER • CHRISTMAS 2018

The best Christmas party in Manchester ! The Dream Circus is coming to town for a night of remarkable curiosity for your enjoyment... • Spectacular Live Entertainment & Performances • Delicious Three Course Dinner • Dodgems, Waltzer & Charity Casino • Amazing Drinks Oﬀers

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C E L E B R AT

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IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR THE BEST CHRISTMAS PARTY EVER…YOU’VE FOUND IT! OK, so that may sound like we’re blowing our own trumpet a little, but in all honesty we really do think we offer the best all-round Christmas party packages. This year the Dream Circus is coming to Event City in Manchester for a night of remarkable curiosity for your enjoyment. Keep an eye out for gravity defying aerial acrobats, sensational performances and weird and wonderful creatures all within a beautifully lit, sumptuously decorated venue. Start your evening with a range of delicious hot and cold canapés whilst relaxing with a drink at our uniquely themed bars. THE BEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR! Entertaining guests for over 20 years, Best Parties Ever operates at 23 venues across the UK and Ireland, providing mixed group parties for eight or more and exclusive hire options for larger corporate events. THE PACKAGE Ticket prices from £39.95+VAT include: • Spectacular Theming and Scenery • World-class Live Entertainment • Delicious Hot & Cold Canapés • Superb Three Course Dinner • Survivors Breakfast • State-of-the-art Disco • Dodgems & Waltzer • Charity Casino* • Full Event Management • Free Cloakroom & Car Parking

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Take your seats in our richly furnished and stunningly glamorous dining room to enjoy an exquisite gourmet four course dinner. Our chefs have created a sumptuous menu including starters such as twice-baked cheese and basil torte with red pepper relish, and parmesan tuile with micro herbs. Mouth-watering main courses include thyme grilled breast of chicken with roasted roots, green beans, dauphinoise and red wine jus, or pumpkin tortellini with wilted rocket, sage pesto, green beans and shaved parmesan. While a decedent dessert of mulled cherry and chocolate marquise with sweet cherry syrup and crushed cinder toffee is served, you will be entertained by a daring show from our troupe of world class entertainers. After dinner, head to the charity casino and try your luck at Roulette and Blackjack, jump on our exhilarating dodgems and waltzer, or simply dance the night away to the great sounds from our resident DJ! For survivors, a special breakfast is served in the small hours before carriages home!

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What an amazing night! Entertainment, food and service was exceptional... The best party we’ve ever had! JOHN LEWIS

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Regional Office: Ground Floor Units 6 & 7 ‪ Eastway Business Village Oliver's Place Fulwood PR2 9WT‬

Regional office: Tec Marina Terra Nova Way Penarth CF64 1SA enquiries@xcina.co.uk Tel 0800 999 3339

Head Office: Juxon House 100 St Pauls Churchyard LONDON EC4M 8BU‬