Ulster Business - October 2018

OCTOBER 2018 Price £2.30 (¤2.60)

Building long-term business partnerships Bank of Ireland UK and NI companies on creating life-long relationships IN FOCUS

Peter Hannan on beef, Brexit and expansion

PROPERTY

The evolution and changing face of a city

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Contents 06 News The latest exclusive news from across the world of Northern Ireland business

37 Commercial Property & Construction

86 Photocall

We look at the changing face of a city centre

A look at some of the announcements and events taking place in the last few weeks

14 Cover Story

53 Food, Drink & Agriculture

92 The Chairman

Bank of Ireland and some of its family businesses speak about building relationships

Is Northern Ireland now becoming a top food hotspot for tourists?

Apparently, someone let him into the Palace of Westminster...

18 In Focus

63 Health at Work

94 Travel

Meat merchant Peter Hannan tells us why he doesn’t think Brexit will ever happen

Emma Deighan finds out the nine to five office environment isn’t cutting it anymore

Brussels and Antwerp are the perfect spot for a long and relaxed beer-related weekend

23 Business Finance & Banking

74 Business Breakfast

96 Technology

Aodhan Connolly on a tough retail landscape amid price wars and rising costs

Ireland’s app economy is booming. Adrian Weckler looks at those leading the charge

What can SMEs do to expand?

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53

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OCTOBER2018 AUGUST 2018

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EDITOR’S COMMENTS

Loss of heritage and retail stalwart hard to take in

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hen you’re writing an introduction to the next issue of a magazine following one of the biggest blows to hit both Belfast’s built heritage and city centre retail since the Troubles, it’s hard to ignore it.

I received a message from my sister - the infinitely more intelligent and better-educated member of the family - that there was a fire at Primark in Belfast. A blaze on the roof.

At the time, while it seemed shocking, there was a general expectation in my mind that it was minor, and would be brought under control Journalistic curiosity led me to the Bank Bankings, less than an hour after the fire began. Then, in the space of little more than an hour or so, a colleague and I watched as a piece of history literally went up in flames.

At the time of print, the building’s shell was all that remained, and there was some division among businesses and those keen to ensure some form of preservation of what was left, as to whether it should be knocked down, and then rebuilt.

As someone who spends most of his working life in and around Royal Avenue and Donegall Place, it’s immediately apparent just how quiet the city is, even at peak times, as its main thoroughfare is cut in half by a cordon, with several businesses still shut.

Publisher Ulster Business c/o Independent News & Media Ltd Belfast Telegraph House 33 Clarendon Road, Clarendon Dock Belfast BT1 3BG Printer W&G Baird Greystone Press, Caulside Drive, Antrim BT41 2RS www.wgbaird.com

On that less than cheery start, I’d like to welcome you to October’s edition of Ulster Business.

As usual, there’s a lot in it, from exclusive news, to interviews, features, and analysis and profiles from some of Northern Ireland’s best and brightest businesses.

And it’s been another busy month for job creation, with more than 1,000 being added across four businesses alone.

There’s also news on a hotel chain’s plan to grow its footprint here, the sale of two major city centre buildings, and plans for the revamp of another.

We also hear from one of the leading lights of the food scene here, Peter Hannan. If you’ve met Pete before, you’ll know the meat wholesaler and retailer is not a character or personality you’ll forget quickly.

One of the most interesting elements of our chat was around Brexit. Pete, like many others in his sector, isn’t a fan of it. But he went further to say he doesn't believe it's actually going to happen, once people see over the edge of the cliff.

On that note, I hope you enjoy this edition of the magazine. ■ John Mulgrew Editor John Mulgrew

Production manager Irene Fitzsimmons

Manager Sonia Armstrong

Graphic design INM Design Studio

Deputy manager Sylvie Brando

Cover photo Khara Pringle

Sales executive Sarah-Ann Gamble

Contact: 028 90 264260 www.ulsterbusiness.com

@ulsterbusiness Independent News & Media Ltd © 2018. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior permission of Independent News & Media Ltd.

OCTOBER 2018

Ulster Business Magazine

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NEWS

A month in numbers 1,000 The number of jobs beings created by four Northern Ireland companies, right across the sectors. That includes more than 400 from PA Consulting in Belfast, and 250 from Alchemy Technology Services in Londonderry.

3.6% The average projected price rise for houses in Northern Ireland, according to KPMG. It predicts the cost of a house will grow by 3.6% this year, the fourth highest rate of all UK regions.

15 The number of Insomnia coffee shops which founder Harry O’Kelly is planning to open across Northern Ireland over the next four years. The expansion, which follows the first location at CastleCourt, could create as many as 150 jobs.

NI businessman revamping major city building

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top Northern Ireland businessman is planning on revamping a major city centre building into an office and retail development, Ulster Business can reveal.

A company linked to Newry man Brian McConville, who runs the successful MJM Group, has submitted plans for the extension and refurbishment of 18 – 19 Donegall Square East.

The works include a new extension, with plans for commercial use at the basement, ground floor and four floors, and office accommodation on the first to third, fifth and sixth.

A design statement from architects Hamilton says the design intention is “to remove any unsympathetic additions and alterations within the listed buildings, retain the original plan form of the buildings, and conserve all extant historic features”.

47% The year-on-year increase in hotel room numbers in Belfast, according to commercial property firm Lambert Smith Hampton. In 2018 to date, 1,170 new rooms have been delivered.

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Brian McConville’s MJM Group is one of Northern Ireland’s fastest growing companies.

MJM Marine is MJM Group’s main business, based in Newry, and headed by founder Brian McConville.

It was set up in 1983 by Mr McConville, and carries out work for many of the world’s top cruise liners, including Star Cruises.

The fit-out specialist is seldom out of the headlines, whether it’s landed new contracts or winning awards.

The company has diversified and grown in influence, with Mr McConville one of just two Northern Ireland business leaders joining Prime Minister Theresa May on an international trade mission to China.

In 2016, Mr McConville was named Businessperson of the Year in the Belfast Telegraph Business Awards.

That includes ornate cornices, ceiling roses and moulded timbers “all of which survive in relatively good condition throughout the building”.

MJM Marine, by chief executive Gary Annett and chairman Brian McConville, was then named Overall Business of the Year at the awards a year later.

The design document says the “new work within the historic structure will follow conservation principles of maximum retention of historic fabric, minimum intervention, reversibility, honest, clarity and sustainability”.

This summer, it completed work on a £50m refit of a huge luxury cruise ship which was docked at Belfast Lough. The Azamara Pursuit received a complete makeover at the Harland & Wolff shipyard.

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Premier Inn ‘looking at two new NI hotels’

By John Mulgrew

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remier Inn is eyeing up opening new hotels in Newry and Enniskillen as it seeks to expand across Northern Ireland, Ulster Business can reveal.

The hotel chain, which has seven hotels here, is seeking developer opportunities in the two new locations, alongside growth in Dublin.

The company, owned by Whitbread, has said it secured 31 new hotels in the UK during the last financial year, and has the same aspirations this year.

It also says it is looking for “property partners and freehold development sites in Dublin and other major cities” as it seeks to grow Premier Inn across Ireland.

Meanwhile, a new report from PwC says hotel prices in Belfast are rising five times faster than the UK average.

In June 2017, the average cost of an overnight stay in Belfast was

£75.67 but has now grown to £79.80.

Belfast is now the fourth most expensive city to stay in the UK, outside London.

PwC Northern Ireland partner, Martin Cowie, said: “The influx of high-quality rooms to the market have driven and continue to support improved RevPAR and ADR for the city.

“Though the full impact hasn’t been realised with easyHotel and the George Best Hotel yet to open as well as Signature Living’s new hotel at the Crumlin Road courthouse which just received planning permission, demand continues to be driven by inbound tourism, domestic holidays and events.”

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NEWS

Quotes of the month “It is our intention to be back up and trading again as soon possible. As you can appreciate, we are at the early stages on this and will confirm details as soon as possible. We hope that this will assist the on-going efforts to drive footfall into the city centre.”

A spokesman for Primark speaking after the retailer announced a £500,000 donation to help firms struggling follow the blaze at its Belfast store.

“The findings are clear about the immigration dividend. Migration drives up productivity and innovation by bringing a range of much needed skills into the economy.”

Angela McGowan, director of the CBI in Northern Ireland speaking following the release of a government report into migration.

Anita Chandraker, PA Consulting, Alastair Hamilton, Invest NI chief executive, Karen Bradley, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and Jiten Kachhela of PA Consulting

1,000 new jobs created across four firms

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lmost 1,000 new jobs are being created across four Northern Ireland businesses amid ongoing expansion plans.

Alan Clarke, chief executive and co-founder of STATSports said: “This is a hugely exciting time for us at STATSports as we embark on the next stage of our journey.

Among the major announcements, international firm PA Consulting is creating 400 new digital specialist jobs, paying an average of £35,000 in Belfast, in a major expansion.

“We have already established our performance monitoring technology with some of the biggest and best known sporting organisations in the world and this investment will allow us to expand our reach even further in both the elite and everyday field sports sector.”

PA Consulting said it was “enhancing its digital expertise” with the creation of the jobs over the next five years. The initial phase of the job creation will be focused on digital engineering roles.

It is receiving support of £3m from Invest NI. PA Consulting already employs around 2,600 people around the world.

“As a responsible organisation, we have scheduled next year’s annual maintenance period at Mini Plant Oxford to start on 1 April, when the UK exits the EU, to minimise the risk of any possible short-term parts-supply disruption in the event of a no-deal Brexit.”

A spokesman for BMW who has said it will not build cars at its Mini plant immediately after the UK leaves the EU next year, to carry out annual maintenance.

Meanwhile, Newry firm STATSports is creating around 237 jobs as part of its ongoing growth plans.

The company produces GPS data monitoring, which is already used by some of the world’s biggest football teams – including Manchester United, Liverpool and Juventus.

The firm says it is making multi-million pound investment in R&D and staff training, alongside support from Invest NI. Invest NI has offered STATSports almost £4m towards its investments in job creation, R&D and staff training.

The new jobs include a range of roles in HR, sports science and sales.

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Earlier this year, it signed a deal with the US Soccer Federation. It means four million players will end up using its APEX monitoring devices.

And native Londonderry man John Harkin has said this is “no question” that his insurance software firm will grow beyond the 256 jobs announced for the city.

His new company Alchemy Technology Services is seeking to fill all the posts within three years, with 80 people set to be recruited by the end of the year.

The roles will be based within the firm’s new headquarters at City Factory building in the city.

Meanwhile, a Lisburn-based security company is creating 90 new jobs in a £500,000 investment.

Mercury, which also has offices in Dublin, Limerick and London, will also change its name to Mercury Security and Facilities Management.

NEWS

Meat Merchant to expand into Republic

By John Mulgrew

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eat mogul Peter Hannan says he will expand the retail arm of his successful Co Down business into the Republic this year, Ulster Business can reveal.

Peter Hannan pictured at his Moira factory shop

The Kildare-born businessman, who runs Hannan Meats in Moira, also believes that, following the negative outlook for the economy in the wake of the vote for Brexit, that the UK’s exit from the EU won’t happen.

In an interview with Ulster Business, Mr Hannan said: “Personally, I don’t think we will Brexit. We need to go and apologise, and say ‘as we were’ and just get on. It was a hell of a bad idea. It was sold based on rubbish information, and that’s why people made a rubbish decision.

saying ‘that’s how far down it is – have a look, if you tell me to jump, I’ll jump… but we don’t have to’.”

business at the headquarters in Moira), do we take that to a city? That wouldn’t be Belfast…

Dublin would be next on the radar.

And he said the business is looking at growing the retail arm of its business, Meat Merchant, into Dublin.

“The question is, if we decide to go south of the border, which we pretty much have, do we do it in Meat Merchant form, or in collaboration with a very good partner?”

“Now that we have a bit of clarity – Theresa May is bringing us to the cliff edge, and

“We are now at a point, do we go forward with the likes of our Meat Merchant (the retail

For the full interview see page 18-20

The key to generating a more vibrant economic future

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tarting to build and grow the next generation of talent is key to generating a vibrant economic future, according to the newly appointed chairman of Young Enterprise Northern Ireland Tim Brundle says that is the “mission of the charity; making a growing impact across Northern Ireland as it forges a connected world of young people, business volunteers and educators dedicated to succeeding through enterprise”.

The dynamic, fast-growing charity, which reaches 90,000 school children every year, launched their first ever Impact report this week which affirms their role in developing an ethos of innovation and entrepreneurship in primary and post primary schools across Northern Ireland.

Young Enterprise offers enterprise and entrepreneurship education for all

OCTOBER 2018

young people, regardless of age, gender, background or location. Today 81% of post primary schools are taking part, but the goal is to extend access to every one of Northern Ireland’s schools”.

“The Skills Barometer and CBI employer research confirms the pressing need for everyone to have employability skills and be commercially aware, not just those who studied business,” Tim said.

“Because these competencies are the foundation of our future economy, the Northern Ireland Executive has recognised the value of enterprise education as part of its economic strategy and embedded it in the curriculum.

“The range of abilities required, whether you’re starting your own business or working for someone else, are wideranging. You need to be able to think innovatively and creatively, to take decisions

Tim Brundle, drector of research and innovation Ulster University

and solve problems, to work as part of a team and communicate clearly. That’s why Young Enterprise is working in partnership with schools to ensure these skills are infused across the education curriculum in NI, and why the Department of Education support us to get schools and young people involved. It’s also why business invests in Young Enterprise. They know we are developing the toolkit and attributes they need for the future workforce”.

For more information about how you can support the charity contact info@yeni.co.uk or 028 9032 7003.

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NEWS

City building goes for more than £21m

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Belfast city centre office building has been sold off for more than £21m in the largest single deal of

2018.

The Metro Building on Donegall Square South went “well above” its £21m asking price, and was sold by commercial property firms Osborne King and Lisney. It was bought by an unnamed private property trust.

Paul Henry, director of Osborne King, said the sales process had “yielded an excellent result with active competitive bidding”.

“The sales evidence is some of the strongest on record. With the Belfast office market having seen prime rents move from £15 a square foot to £21.50 over recent years the new purchaser has an excellent platform

in the Metro to exploit its considerable reversionary potential.

summer period for us and the price achieved represents a great result for our client.

“The Metro Building is located in the heart of Belfast, the opportunity to purchase a building of this quality in this location doesn’t come along very often and we were delighted to have been involved in the sale.”

“The office sector in Belfast presents a great opportunity for investors, and as such the level of competitive demand for this asset was not surprising.

And Nicky Finnieston, investment director at Lisney, said: “This deal rounds off a very busy

Former bank building sold off

In July, Lisney announced the sale of part of the Obel building in the city centre in a deal worth over £15m.

Chris Kirke of Moy ParkGreg Henry

By John Mulgrew

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former Belfast city bank building on the market for £2m - has been sold, Ulster Business can reveal.

The former First Trust building on High Street was placed on the market last summer. The four-storey building was sold off this summer, after being marketed by commercial property firm Lambert Smith Hampton.

Greg Henry, associate director of agency at Lambert Smith Hampton, told Ulster Business: “We were delighted to complete this deal at the end of July following active interest from owner occupiers and investor developers alike.”

Elsewhere, the former First Trust Bank on the Ormeau Road in Belfast could be demolished to make way for a new retail and cafe development.

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A planning application, made by PWD Developments, is seeking to create a mixed use development, which will incorporate two ground floor units and eight apartments.

The proposed scheme would involve the demolition of the two-storey building to make way for the new three-storey project.

The building sits across the The Pavilion and Errigle bars, was put on the market last year with a price tag of around £350,000.

The proposed building design has been developed to improve the streetscape, and according to the architects, offers a clean, crisp and modern interpretation of a traditional design.

NEWS

Moy Park sales soar to £1.55bn

By John Mulgrew

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oultry giant Moy Park has increased its position as Northern Ireland’s largest company after posting sales of £1.55bn.

The company topped the Ulster Business Top 100 Northern Ireland Companies list in 2018 for the seventh year in a row.

Chris Kirke of Moy Park

Now, in its latest accounts, turnover is up from £1.4bn to £1.55bn, while pre-tax profits have increased from £40.8m to £43.9m.

The company supplies Moy Park branded and own label chicken products to leading retailers and foodservice providers throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe.

Speaking about the latest results, Moy Park president, Chris Kirke said: “We are pleased to announce a strong financial performance in 2017, delivering volume and revenue growth in what remains a challenging and competitive marketplace.

OCTOBER 2018

“As part of our strategic investment programme, we have invested £40m in our infrastructure during the year. By continuing to invest in our industry-leading agricultural base and state-of-the-art processing facilities, along with a focus on innovation, we ensure a solid platform for future growth.

“Our business is built on the highest standards of food safety and quality, and we are committed to meeting and exceeding the everevolving expectations of our customers and consumers. Demand for our products remains strong across all our regions and the business is well placed to expand on its position as a leading European food company.”

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BREXIT

With no deal, what exactly are we facing?

Following the publication of a ‘disastrous’ planning document from the Government on a ‘no deal’ Brexit, John Simpson examines the reality of life outside the EU in the worst case scenario

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eaving the EU was never going to be easy. More than 40 years of inherited rules, practices and complex multi-national agreements cannot be wiped out with a simple stroke of the pen. Quietly and stealthily, the UK and Irish economies and social policies have been effectively integrated.

A critical test of leaving is the degree to which that integration is disrupted.

forms. These may range, first, from a serious stand-off with minimal essential working arrangements, for example, to keep airline services operating, the electricity grid functioning and security arrangements to, second (and slightly less disruptive), pragmatic arrangements of continuing mutual recognition of standards and a passive agreement to maintain the inherited patterns of regulatory alignment.

sector and beef and pork trading as well as changes to supply chains for some industries.

If the EU and UK authorities cannot agree on the terms of the UK’s withdrawal, it will be the failure of a prolonged series of negotiations essentially because the UK wants to ensure selected areas of continued co-operation while the EU is avoiding letting the UK have a self-interested ‘cherry picking’ agenda.

With ill-will, airline services might be hit and electricity links made difficult. That degree of disruption would be politically unacceptable. However, challenges to regulatory alignment, or equivalence in comparative standards, are a less remote possibility. Even the apparently simple process of customs clearance and tariff collection might be affected to the point where essential supplies of goods were seriously delayed.

‘No deal’ would mean the inconvenience and extra costs of doing business, providing services and changing aspects of lifestyles that should be avoidable. The odds are that the UK Government (if the hardline Brexiteers in Parliament are contained) is prepared for a workable compromise. An acceptable answer to the Irish border question is in the offing.

If the negotiations fail and there is ‘no deal’, the strict logic would be that the UK would be ‘on its own’ from March 30, 2019.

A complete failure would be against the interests of both parties and that includes specific areas such as Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland.

A ‘no deal’ outcome may take different

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On this island, a ‘no deal’ outcome contains the possibility that an Irish customs and excise border would be expected. Without a withdrawal agreement there will (as a minimum) be uncertainty about crossborder trade which could affect the dairy

A number of business sectors in Northern Ireland operate within the constraints of EU agreements, whether in banking, financial services, information technology and manufacturing. There is some doubt about possible challenges to the continuation of friction free trading from Northern Ireland.

A ‘no deal’ when the UK leaves the EU is an extremely unwelcome prospect. Chances are that a deal will be struck. For Northern Ireland, even if there is a deal, there is a range of critical related questions waiting for clear solutions.

Even an agreed deal will not necessarily be the best possible deal. ■

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Smarter for Business OCTOBER 2018

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COVER STORY

Developing long-term partnerships with local business Bank of Ireland UK has been backing Northern Ireland businesses across the generations. Ulster Business speaks to Gavin Kennedy, head of business banking NI and some of those burgeoning firms it has developed strong relationships with over the decades

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ong-term support is very much at the heart of the decades of partnership between Bank of Ireland and its business customers.

customers – with a combined almost 100year history – from the start, and played a key role as a partner in each of their own growth stories.

And whether it’s offering a wide range of financial assistance, growth support or general advice, the bank has formed life-long partnerships with companies from right across the sectors, and from the large to the very small.

Gavin Kennedy, head of business banking NI at Bank of Ireland UK, told Ulster Business:

It’s been there for three of its longest-running

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“We base our business on a relationship management model – we spend a lot of time with the businesses, we know the owners and their management teams, their growth objectives and ambitions and

understand the businesses.

“That enables us to provide the right suite of products – challenging business plans, providing funding and help. There’s also the chance to introduce them to potential customers, signpost to expert advice, and become a partner to that customer, rather than just be a funder. It’s very much a partnership approach.

“We provide lending facilities to business from the very small micro firm, right through

Eugene McKeever of McKeever Hotel Group, Bank of Ireland’s Gavin Kennedy, Bridgene McKeever of McKeever Hotel Group alongside Eamon McCay, Frylite, and Brian Connolly, Pinnacle

COVER STORY

“The family business started in 1985 when my parents opened the first restaurant in Randalstown – my dad was a chef and mum was teaching,” Bridgene, who is marketing director, said.

“They then bought Corrs Corner. That’s when Bank of Ireland really become involved in the company and helped us out.

“We have been supported by Bank of Ireland in a number of ways.”

That includes the multi-million pound funding for the refurbishment of the Dunadry Hotel, in addition to funding support provided for the acquisition in 2017.

“Bank of Ireland has been with the company during its entire history. In 2010, with the Adair Arms, we were one of the few people back then who were buying, due to the recession,” she said.

their life-cycle, their growth phase, and scaling up to small and medium-sized businesses.”

“It’s in our interest that the company continues to grow and thrive and we have been very important in that role.”

And for Gavin, it’s all about offering a range of services and assistance “under one roof”.

Nowhere is that more evident than with the hugely successful family-owned McKeever Hotel Group.

“We have the ability to lend up to £20m for business customers. There is the consistency to our approach, and that’s really important in the Northern Ireland market.”

Partnership is a phrase that continues to raise its head in Bank of Ireland, regarding both its relationships with business customers, and the longevity and generational nature of the companies it’s developed long-term relationships with.

“We would have many instances where a mother and father have built a business, and now the second generation is taking on the management,” Gavin said. “We are involved across both generations, and we are very privileged to be part of that family and business development.”

OCTOBER 2018

What started out as a family restaurant business in Randalstown, Co Antrim back in 1985, has blossomed into a burgeoning food and hospitality business boasting five hotels across Northern Ireland and Donegal.

And the McKeever Hotel Group is still very much a family affair. In the last 33 years, the breadth of the business has grown to include Corrs Corner in Newtownabbey, the Dunsilly Hotel in Antrim, Ballymena’s the Adair Arms, Dillons in Letterkenny, and its latest hotel, the Dunadry in Antrim.

Today, Eugene McKeever, along with his wife Catherine, daughter Bridgene and son Eddie, run the thriving hotel empire which employs around 300 part-time and full-time staff.

“There has always been trust and the faith with the bank. My dad has always said – speak to your bank manager, and be honest with them.”

The McKeever Hotel Group’s single biggest investment has been with the 80-bedroom Dunadry.

Gavin says that one of Bank of Ireland’s core objectives is to help “customers to thrive”.

“In doing that, it covers a lot of different things, and it’s not just about being profitable,” he said.

“We specifically tailor our packages to the customer needs. Their success, is our success and we are very privileged to be part of that growth story.”

Eamon McCay started his cooking oil business at a small Strabane premises. He’s now grown Frylite from a small family operation to an Ireland-wide firm with more than 240 staff, boasting a turnover of £35m.

And he’s been helped along the way by Bank of Ireland amid ongoing expansion and

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COVER STORY

Fran McKee of Pinnacle

growth. It’s a relationship which has so far lasted more than 20 years, and shows no signs of slowing down.

“I started Frylite in 1988, delivering fresh oil and collecting used oil. I combined all of the areas in one,” Eamon says.

And that initial 900 sq ft building has grown to five depots across Ireland, with a further site on the cards for yet more expansion.

“We supply our vegetable oils to hotels, fast food outlets, commercial businesses, bakeries, industrial food service sector… it’s been gradual growth.”

A depot in Galway in 2001 was followed by another two years later in Dublin, with Coleraine and Cork following a short time later. And its Strabane base is now a 25,000 sq ft building on a four-acre site.

Since 1997, Bank of Ireland has provided facilities to the business including invoice discounting, asset finance and term and cash flow ending, and also previously used stockline facility.

Speaking about his strong relationship with Bank of Ireland, Eamon says a commercial finance package ensured the businesses growth.

“The bank have gotten to know the business.

I felt like I have had a partner, which is invested in the business. Building good

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relationships is one of the values,” he said.

But it’s not just about providing help and finance to customers. Bank of Ireland is sponsor of Catalyst Inc’s Invent competition and is also working with organisations such as the NI Chamber and CBI to showcase and help companies improve skills, digital prowess and scale exports.

Another business with a more than twodecade relationship with Bank of Ireland is Pinnacle.

And just some of the Sage Platinum Reseller’s top customers include everyone from the Irish Football Association (IFA) and Ulster Rugby to Titanic Belfast and Mash Direct.

The software partner, which was set up in Belfast in 1993, now boasts a team of more than 130 experienced providers of Sage business management software solutions, IT services and support.

“Going from humble beginnings, the company has grown into a £15m business,” Fran McKee, Pinnacle’s marketing director said.

The firm, which is headed by founder Ken Montgomery, has been supported by Bank of Ireland through its stages of growth, which has included organic expansion and acquisition.

“We have a solid partnership with Bank of

Ireland, which has nurtured our business since its inception in 1993.”

The firm offers businesses solutions from simple to more complex business needs with Sage. It now has 11 offices across the UK and Ireland, but according to Fran, there is “massive growth on the agenda”.

“We want to be a £20m business within the next few years and as well as growing our Sage division we want to also grow our IT services offering and with the bank’s support we’ll achieve our growth ambitions. You can come to us as a one-stop-shop for IT and software requirements.

“Customers today are very focused on providing a good service as well as achieving their growth ambitions, so they want to have the software in place to help them make decisions and run their businesses effectively.”

And Gavin says the key message is that Bank of Ireland is a “proven and consistent funding partner for businesses over a long period of time.”

“We work hard to build a great rapport and great trust with our clients and these long term relationships are testament to that. It is exciting to share the journey of young and small businesses to growth and expansion and we’re keen to help the next generation seize new opportunities for their businesses.” ■

IN FOCUS

Peter Hannan: Peter Hannan tells John Mulgrew about turning away the big retailers, growing trade by 40% and that he doesn’t believe Brexit will happen once people see what’s at the edge of the cliff 18

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ike many in his industry, Peter Hannan is no fan of Brexit.

But the top-end beef and red meat supplier also doesn’t think it’s going to happen, given how disastrous the post-Brexit landscape is painted, now that it’s been starkly laid out in front of everyone.

The Kildare-born businessman runs Hannan Meats, based in Moira. He’s become something of a star of the Northern Ireland food scene in the last decade – buoyed on by

dry-aged beef and an array of the UK’s best and brightest using his produce.

He’s aged beef for 1,300 days – yes, more than three years – although purely experimental, boosted turnover by around 40% in the last two or three years, picked up more three-star awards from the Great Taste Awards than almost any other food firm, and now plans to expand into Dublin as his next venture, by the end of the year.

Anyone who’s met the Meat Merchant – the moniker given to his retail business in

IN FOCUS

Beef, Brexit and business Moira – will know that the 58-year-old is a personable, larger-than-life character, whose own personality contributes as much to his business and brand, as does his meat.

“Our main areas of growth in the last three years have been into the UK, Republic of Ireland and the continent. We haven’t been looking at doing more at home here, because we have a presence, and we think it’s very adequate. We don’t push that, or cold call. We think the clients that we have in Northern Ireland are the best, and we

OCTOBER 2018

aren’t looking to expand on that.”

France is also becoming a growing market for the company, and Pete says business there is growing “very rapidly”.

He’s also recently signed a deal to supply all of the Hastings Hotels’ spots.

“We have approaches from all sorts (of supermarkets and retailers) over the years,” Pete says. “We are primarily a food service company, so dealing with any of the

multiples – doing it a lot more, or not doing it as well has never been on our radar.

We’ve had them drive in to the yard here – four suits getting out of a black-windowed car. You are watching on the camera and say ‘oh, that’s somebody’.

“Everyone has different ideas. We just don’t believe they are the type of partner that we would want. We don’t want to do 200 tonnes a week of commercial product.”

But a few years ago, he did the highest-

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IN FOCUS

profile grocer of its kind in the UK – arguably the world.

“Five years ago we started to deal with Fortnum & Mason, and they are truly magnificent to deal with,” he said. “That was a turning point because, regardless of what anybody says, the best front window for food in the world is Fortnum & Mason.”

According to Pete, business in the five years since the relationship began has increased by 4,000% – or around 40 times.

What started as a meat wholesale business, blossomed thanks to the success of Hannan Meats’ Himalayan salt-aged Glenarm beef, and has grown into a business with a widevariety of products – many of which have been done for the first time in NI. Aside from selling lesser-known cuts of beef, such as hanger and rump cap, Pete’s business has diversified into dry-aging lamb, and curing both pork and beef in a sugarpit – producing hugely flavoured bacon and cured-beef.

It doesn’t take long for Pete to start naming some of the greatest chefs which call Hannan Meats their beef supplier. That includes Angela Harrnett and Mark Hix.

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He was one of the first UK restaurateurs to exclusively use Peter’s dry-aged beef across all of his restaurants – it all started when Pete met Mark outside one of his eateries and gave him an honest retort to whether he had enjoyed his meal. The beef wasn’t up to scratch.

But it’s not all just awards, top chefs, suppliers, restaurants and celebrity-backing.

Pete says turnover is up around 40% in the last two to three years – sitting at around £10m.

“We have lots of other things going on in the background. Taking our next step forward is something we have been considering. We are at a crossroads as to where we take the business next. We are now at a point, do we go forward with the likes of our Meat Merchant (the retail business at the headquarters in Moira), do we take that to a city? Dublin would be next on the radar.”

no clarity,” he said. “Personally, I don’t think we will Brexit. We need to go and apologise, and say ‘as we were’ and just get on. It was a hell of a bad idea. It was sold based on rubbish information, and that’s why people made a rubbish decision.

“Now that we have a bit of clarity – Theresa May is bringing us to the cliff edge, and saying ‘that’s how far down it is – have a look, if you tell me to jump, I’ll jump… but we don’t have to’.

“This whole thing about immigration.

The thing about bringing 250,000 people into this country every year needed to be explained to take that issue off the table. If you want your fruit picked, if you want doctors and nurses in the NHS, for example... if you want any of those things, then let’s put up the barriers. Unless we take those people in, we don’t have have those things done.

On Brexit, he doesn’t think it’s going to happen – given a clearer image of what life outside the EU could look like.

“… we shouldn’t be in this position, and I don’t think we will be for much longer. Once Theresa May brings these things to the cliff, no one will say that they want to jump.

“No doubt, all of us in business have been reluctant to make decisions because there is

“I think there is a huge head of steam.

People will say ‘we won’t take that deal’.” ■

Hillsborough Castle

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TITLE

The magniďŹ cent Hillsborough Castle, spectacular and truly unique events OCTOBER 2018

hrp.org.uk/hireavenue 028 9268 1342

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RECRUITMENT

The rise of the Recruit-bot

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n 1950, Alan Turing predicted that by the year 2000, computers would be able to pass as human during a text conversation. Alan was a little out, but not by much.

Justin Rush

The automation of processes has been one of the hottest discussion topics in 2018. Given that recruitment of staff is a tremendously time intensive process, and one which requires consistency it must surely be a perfect candidate for automation? Well yes… and no. Automation can assist a great deal, but it can’t do everything, not yet anyway.

It is important to know, candidates that are active in today’s employment market are more and more accustomed to using automated chatbots as part of the recruitment process. Non-human involvement equates to zero bias, and therefore reinforces fairness. This is a massive plus point.

In a survey by Allegis, 58% of candidates stated they were comfortable interacting with AI and recruitment chatbots in the early stages of the application process. An even larger proportion - 66% - were comfortable with chatbots taking care of interview scheduling and preparation.

So what benefits can your business gain from appointing a Recruit-bot?

Streamlining the applicant journey, by ensuring consistency in the recruitment process and asking screening questions and answering FAQs. Ranking applications, this can be undertaken fairly and quickly based upon candidate submissions. As a result shortlisting is quick and clean.

Scheduling assessments and tests, this can be straightforward and without human involvement.

24/7 responses, your bot will can exist across your website and all social channels

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simultaneously. Your recruitment is now ‘always on’ engaging with potential hires.

competencies that are essential for a job such as team-working.

Repetitive tasks eliminated, creating reports, sending on-line forms or adding candidates to a management system can be a thing of the past.

At present, bots aren’t quite ready to handle the intricate aspects of the recruitment process that require patience and finesse. Answering more specific questions that more specialist professionals may want to ask about a job opportunity, selling the career opportunity or negotiation of salary and terms. These aspects are not part of any readily available algorithm… yet. ■

So automation can really help, especially when volume of applications is a potential issue and you need consistency, or when you are recruiting globally across time zones and don’t want to miss out on a potential inquiry.

Some issues do still remain, despite the efforts of artificial intelligence to do it all.

In the main, these are the human factors, for example, the assessment of certain

Justin Rush is director at Belfast-based Abacus Group. He specialises in advising businesses on research, advice and strategy on talent. He can be contacted at justin@abacus.jobs

Business finance & banking Sponsored by

23

BUSINESS FINANCE & BANKING

How to make a How does a growing company help its expansion plans really take off? John Mulgrew takes a look at the options available to SMEs here when it comes to funding

24

W

But there’s additional assistance that can be garnered from less traditional sources, with feedback and support also coming from outside the conventional sphere.

There a numerous options for companies right across the business spectrum – and the options across the traditional banking world are plentiful.

David Nelson, partner at KPMG private enterprise, a global professional services firm, says it “works with companies of all sizes and

hat does a burgeoning small business do when it’s time to scale up?

BUSINESS FINANCE & BANKING

business rocket at every stage of their development - from start-ups to established family businesses.”.

“Our people understand what it takes for companies to be successful at every stage of development – from idea to exit – and will help them make the right decisions at every step of the way,” he said.

“So the support we give to our clients ranges from business planning and raising capital through to help with expanding internationally, M&A, tax advice, R&D incentives, technical accounting matters and complying with regulatory requirements.”

According to First Trust Bank’s head of business banking, Seamus McGuckin, there are “various funding options available to assist SMEs as they grow”. “… be that asset finance, invoice discounting, revolving working capital, loan financing or overdraft facilities.

“First and foremost, however the more

OCTOBER 2018

important support we can offer our clients is our expertise and commitment to understanding their needs and then delivering a service to match. It’s through getting to know our clients and their business that we can best share our knowledge and advice around the type of financial support they need.

“At First Trust Bank, having listened to what our customers wanted, we invested in six new business centres across Northern Ireland to support fast, local decision making. We also established a Small Business Centre to meet the needs of our smaller customers.

Now firmly embedded in their respective communities, these centres – coupled with our expert sectoral advisors – are on hand to help business owners identify opportunity and risks and how best to mitigate or capitalise upon them.”

Richard Donnan, head of Northern Ireland at Ulster Bank, says it “is strongly committed to supporting businesses of all sizes, from micro firms right through to large corporates”.

“Our latest results show a 29% in small business drawdowns, and we continue to work hard through initiatives such as our Boost initiative and our Entrepreneur Accelerator to build mutually beneficial relationships with firms across Northern Ireland.

“A key focus for the bank is the development of digital services that make it simpler, easier and safer for customers to bank with us.

“Our digitally active customer base grew by 21% year-on-year and we are continuing to respond to that change, for example, by introducing our Business Growth Enablers and through the development of our digital platforms such as our mobile app.”

But it’s not all bank financing. The Growth Loan Fund offers assistance to Northern Ireland-based companies who demonstrate growth, and tend to work within the manufacturing, engineering or tradable services sectors.

25

Neil McCabe of WhiteRock Capital Partners and Gregory Bradley, managing director of BLK BOX Fitness

BUSINESS FINANCE & BANKING

“Loans will be typically unsecured and personal guarantees will not be sought.

The loans provided are expected to be complementary to existing sources of finance, including banks, trade finance sources and equity investors.”

Some of the companies availing of the finance include Belfast-based BLK BOX Fitness, which secured £300,000 to grow its online platform and boost exports, along with Fermanagh gin-maker Boatyard Distillery.

Meanwhile, the BGF was set up in 2011 with £2.5bn and has since backed close to 200 companies.

Last year, BGF was the UK’s top institutional investor and ranked the seventh most active private investor in the world by number of investments.

Upstream is a Belfast-based alternative finance company specialising in SME funding,

26

and has also now introduced a trade finance option for clients. The market-first solution unlocks the ability for businesses to finance their working capital needs end to end, from supplier to buyer.

Niall Harkin is director of customer journeys at Danske Bank. He says “personal engagement is still really important” when dealing with small and medium-sized firms looking at expansion.

“That’s why last year we introduced a team of 18 dedicated small business advisers back in to key branches across Northern Ireland, giving customers access to expertise in their local area to discuss business plans and explore funding options,” he said.

“Meanwhile, teams of experienced relationship managers supported by specialists in areas such as cash management, markets and trade finance, support our larger SME customers.

“At the same time, we’re investing heavily in our digital offering, and recently added the capability for SMEs to get lending decisions in a matter of minutes in various situations. ‘future financing’ makes the whole credit process much easier for our customers. For an overdraft, we’ve seen approvals in four minutes and access to money well within 24 hours.

“In the future, customers should be able to go online and request an overdraft increase on a smartphone at home.”

But aside from the financial support, businesses here can also turn to the support from hubs. That includes Ormeau Baths’s Barclays Eagle Labs – which is located at the south Belfast listed building – and the Ignite NI Propel Pre-Accelerator.

The options are out there and available for companies wishing to take that next step, whether traditional banking or alternative streams are the way to go. ■

NI house prices ‘to grow 3.65%’ this year

H

ouse prices Northern Ireland could grow 3.6% this year to around £134,290, according to a forecast from KPMG.

However, despite the relatively strong performance in 2018, the KPMG UK Economic Outlook Report showed that house price growth here will slow each year until 2022.

2.3% in 2019, 1.9% in 2020, 1.8% in 2021 and 1.3% in 2022.

years were expected to see the most modest growth.

And it warned that Brexit was far from the only factor which would affect the UK economy over the next few years.

The growth rate in 2023 is expected to increase to 1.5%.

The business advisory firm pegged annual growth in Northern Ireland house prices at

Areas such as London which experienced the sharpest increase in prices over the last few

The report said the UK economy is set for modest growth if a positive Brexit deal can be reached, with GDP growth of 1.3% in 2018 and 1.4% in 2019 - the lowest in around 10 years. ■

Commercial funding specialists We specialise in providing hire purchase, leasing and invoice finance products, enabling you to release vital working capital back into your business.

Speak to one of our commercial funding specialists today to find out how we can support your work. +44 (0)2890994869 (NI) +353 (0)16994145 (ROI) closecommercialfinance.ie

Close Brothers | Modern Merchant Banking Close Brothers Limited (being a UK registered private limited company and its Irish registered branch of the same name having registration number 907899), trading as (and having as registered business names) Close Brothers Asset Finance, Close Brothers Commercial Finance, Close Brothers Premium Finance Ireland, Close Brothers Motor Finance and Braemar Finance, is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority in the United Kingdom and is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority in the United Kingdom and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. UK registered address: 10 Crown Place, London, EC2A 4FT, registered at Companies House, Number 00195626. Directors: M. Biggs (UK), O. Corbett (UK), G. Howe (UK), J. Howell (UK), L. Jones (UK), E. Lee (UK), B. Macaskill (UK), M. Morgan (UK), P. Prebensen (UK) and A. Sainsbury (UK). Close Brothers Invoice Finance and Close Brothers Commercial Finance are registered business names of Close Invoice Finance Limited, a UK registered private limited company (and its Irish registered branch of the same name having registration number 908024). UK registered address: 10 Crown Place, London, EC2A 4FT, registered at Companies House, Number 00935949. Directors: J. Brown (UK), C. McAreavey (UK), A. Sainsbury (UK), I. Steward (UK), D. Thomson, (UK).

OCTOBER 2018

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BUSINESS FINANCE & BANKING

Are you ready for digital VAT reporting?

Frankie Devlin, partner at KPMG, and Jennifer Upton, director at KPMG, explain what your business needs to know about HMRC’s drive to become one of the most digitally-advanced tax administrations in the world

M

aking Tax Digital (MTD) is one of HMRC’s key strategic priorities, with the aim of modernising and transforming how tax is reported and managed. The first stage of MTD is to bring VAT into the digital domain.

From April 1, 2019, virtually every business in the UK with a taxable turnover above the VAT threshold (currently £85,000) will need to keep its VAT records digitally and submit VAT returns using MTD compliant software.

Similar obligations are expected to extend to other taxes but not until at least 2020.

One of the main reasons HMRC is introducing MTD is to reduce the tax gap across all taxes (i.e. the difference between the theoretical amount of tax that should be due to HMRC and the actual amount collected) by eliminating errors resulting from manual data input.

SUBMITTING VAT RETURNS Under the requirements for MTD, HMRC is not asking businesses to supply more information than they do now. However, MTD requires VAT records to be kept in a digital format and that the nine boxes on the current VAT return must be submitted to HMRC through MTD compatible software through an application programming Interface (API). Therefore, for all VAT periods starting from April 1, 2019 where MTD is applicable, every VAT return must be submitted in this way and there will be no requirement or ability to submit VAT returns through the HMRC portal, as is currently the case.

Businesses can use software which works for them and do not have to rely on a HMRC

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Frankie Devlin

‘one-size-fits-all’ product. Therefore, every business will be required to obtain software which is MTD compliant in advance of April 2019.

MAINTAINING DIGITAL RECORDS Under MTD, HMRC requires that all VAT registered businesses must keep and preserve certain records and accounts in a digital format. There should also be a digital link where the transfer or exchange of data between software programmes or applications is made electronically, without the need for manual intervention. HMRC has advised there will be a ‘soft-landing period’ for the implementation of the digital link, which will not become mandatory until April 2020, but it is still important businesses start planning for this requirement as early as possible.

IN SUMMARY: π Every UK VAT registered entity with a taxable turnover in excess of £85,000 will be subject to MTD requirements

Jennifer Upton

π For all VAT periods beginning from April 1, 2019, under MTD, all UK VAT returns are required to be submitted to HMRC using MTD compliant software π It will no longer be permissible to submit VAT returns through the HMRC portal for VAT periods beginning on or after April 1, 2019 π Businesses will need to purchase or develop the software that best suits their needs, as HMRC is not providing a ‘one-size fits all solution’ π Digital links between all information used to prepare UK VAT returns will be mandatory from April 1, 2020, but HMRC will not impose any penalties for noncompliance for the first year to April 1, 2020. ■ KPMG is working with clients of all sizes and across all sectors to review existing systems to identify any gaps in their MTD reporting requirements. For more information: Frankie Devlin (frankie.devlin@kpmg.ie) or Jennifer Upton (jennifer.upton@kpmg.ie)

BUSINESS FINANCE & BANKING

Home ownership barrier not the mortgage… it’s the deposit

By Mark Graham, chief executive at Co-Ownership

I

t is our mission is to help people into affordable homeownership. With this year being our 40th anniversary and with my children now coming to that stage in their lives when they will soon be looking for their own first home it is interesting to reflect on how things have changed for this generation of first-time buyers.

We were lucky to buy our first home before house prices started to take off in the mid1990s. We had to save for a deposit, but with low house prices that didn’t take us very long. Interest rates were much higher and at one point very briefly went up to 15%, but generally – especially during a long period of growing incomes – the mortgage was affordable.

Today’s first-time buyer has a very different experience of the housing market.

We now have relatively moderate increases

OCTOBER 2018

in prices with (depending which figures you use) an annual increase of between 4% and 6%. A slight drop in house prices was reported for the second quarter of 2018, though year-on-year prices rose by an average 4.4%.

Moderate house price increases are generally regarded as a good thing and a sign of confidence in the economy, but it is house prices relative to earnings that impact many first-time buyers. In Northern Ireland, median gross weekly earnings for full-time employees in 2017 increased by 1.5%. When adjusted for inflation this translates to a 1% reduction.

So, even moderate house prices are making the possibility of home ownership less likely for first-time buyers – even in an era of very cheap mortgages.

Since 2000, house prices have risen more than 250% in the UK compared with earnings growth of just 68%. According to the Resolution Foundation’s research in the 1990s, it took the average young family just three years to save for a reasonably sized deposit. Today, it would take the same family

19 years to save the amount they need.

This explains the paradox we often see where people that apply to us are often paying high rents but are still unable to get a mortgage without our help. The average rent in Northern Ireland is £650 a month and a mortgage will cost around £100 a month less on a typical first-time buyer property.

The issue is sometimes affordability, with banks treading much more carefully when assessing affordability criteria. At times the issue is people not having stable employment, another common experience of this generation of young people. Often though, the issue is about not having a sufficient deposit.

Around a third of first-time buyers now use the ‘bank of mum and dad’ to get into home ownership and I’m sure I will soon be joining that bank, but for the rest it is the help that Co-Ownership provides that may be the only route to an affordable and secure home. ■

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ADVERTISEMENT

Expanding wealth management across Northern Ireland After a 20 year career in private banking and wealth management, Marcus Coppens explains how the wealth management landscape here is changing so rapidly and why he is returning to the Barclays Wealth Management team to lead their financial planning offering in Northern Ireland

I

worked with Barclays more than five years ago, so it’s great to be back at such an exciting time. I’m returning to an ambitious and highly experienced team with a strong Northern Ireland presence and world leading investment infrastructure.

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There is a real and growing need for wealth and investment management support in Northern Ireland at the minute. Historically, family companies and by extension, their wealth, was only realised within the family or a close circle of business professionals. Today, more second and third-generation companies

are being sold and there is a flourishing start up scene from which exits come around a lot more often. This creation of wealth – from owning a company one day, to selling it and being in a cash position the next, comes with a range of challenges. Not least of these is the overriding fear of not wanting to lose

ADVERTISEMENT

Jonathan Sloan, director Jonathan is a director of Barclays Wealth Management.

Having originally trained as a corporate lawyer in London he made the transition into corporate finance with Collins Stewart Europe before joining Barclays in 2008.

Claire McCombe, wealth manager Claire joined Barclays Wealth Management in 2015.

Claire previously held senior management positions within Lloyds Banking Group in London, Dublin and Belfast.

the money, combined with a general lack of sound knowledge of how to structure or invest it efficiently.

Northern Ireland investors tend to be pretty conservative and cautious when it comes to investment. They’re not looking for high risk investment, but rather long-term security, the ability to be financially independent and to provide for their family through the generations.

Phil Baker, wealth manager Phil joined Barclays in 2012 having previously worked as a senior investment manager with Goldman Sachs in London.

clients’ needs. Typically, we work alongside their solicitor, accountant and tax adviser, in order to ensure that a totally holistic view of their financial plans and aspirations is put into place and delivered efficiently.

The world feels like a very uncertain place at the minute, not just in political terms in Northern Ireland, but with border issues and UK/EU uncertainty around Brexit, not to mention how US President Trump is shaking up international relations.

Our business requires trust, proven credentials and the ability to relate to our clients. It can actually be quite a personal and emotional business making sure they are getting the right solution to give them the confidence and comfort that they’re doing the right thing. One of the key strengths which attracted me back to Barclays was the quality of the team, who are highly experienced and intuitive with clients’ needs.

While this context gives individuals looking for advice on their own investments uncertainty, the upside is that Northern Ireland companies are increasingly attractive for outside investment: Northern Ireland gives a foothold in the UK, a road to the Republic of Ireland and the EU and easy access to the US with a short hop and increasing transatlantic connections.

We fully appreciate the weight of responsibility and the commitment our clients place in us when we become the guardian of their family’s future assets.

I think this is why the Barclays Wealth Management business is going from strength to strength here in Northern Ireland: our solutions are practical, solidly-based and geared towards long-term investment security.

Equally important is our ability to relate to our

There’s a growing crop of really good quality companies which are using this stage of the economic cycle to exit or partially exit. Some are also redeploying their liquidated capital into other high-growth businesses, so the recycling of wealth is also becoming self-perpetuating. One of the big attractions of coming back to Barclays was the breadth of the offering here. I’m joining a fullservice NI team, with four wealth managers,

OCTOBER 2018

Cahir Gilheaney, wealth manager Cahir joined Barclays in 2012 originally as part of the international ultra high net worth team. He joined the team in Belfast in 2015.

including Phil Baker, who recently relocated from the London office and Cahir Gilheany who has worked in Barclays for six years.

Jonny Sloan and Claire McCombe were well known to me and are very well-networked in the business and professional services community here.

As someone specialising in financial planning, I was also attracted back to Barclays as they have the tools and investment infrastructure to serve right across the wealth spectrum, including clients in the ultra-high net worth space, or with more complex or international needs.

We already have a number of clients whose portfolios sit in our Private Bank and Overseas Services, looked after by Mark Flynn, a colleague the team work very closely with. It is undoubtedly this ability to serve effectively across the continuum of wealth needs which creates the real stand out position for the local team and the Barclays offering.

Of course, investments can fall in value as well as rise and as with any investment you may get back less than you invested. ■ To contact the team or for more information about Barclays Wealth Management please call 02890 882925 or visit www.barclays.co.uk/wealth

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Founding partners James Gibbons LLB and Conor Devine MRICS

BUSINESS FINANCE & BANKING

New lending platform delivering for Irish entrepreneurs 32

BUSINESS FINANCE & BANKING

B

usinesses and entrepreneurs right across Ireland now have access to a range of funding solutions through Clearpath Finance.

The alternative lending platform founded in Belfast in 2016 by chartered surveyor Conor Devine MRICS and solicitor James Gibbons LLB. The two businessmen have a combined 50 years’ track record in the commercial real estate sector and the new platform is firmly grounded in this experience.

“What we are doing is quite unique”, Conor says. “We have created an alternative lending platform for businesses and entrepreneurs to access from right across Ireland and the UK. If an individual goes to a mortgage broker for a home mortgage they have a wide variety of mortgage providers on their panel, and source the best fit for their customer.

“We are performing a similar function for our customer base, providing commercial funding solutions for our customers. We now have over fifty different lenders who have committed capital to the platform, which we are very pleased with and shows tremendous confidence in what we are trying to do.

“We have spent quite a bit of time over the last 12 months working on our unique selling points and trying to demonstrate to the funding world, that Clearpath is now an excellent route to market for them to deploy their capital.

Conor says that the “funding and finance world continues to be quite an interesting space 10 years after the global financial crisis”.

“For the last number of decades the highstreet banks have been the main source of finance for small businesses. however it would be fair to say that the banking dynamic has been completely changed since the ‘noughties’, not only in Ireland but right across the world.

“Irish banks for example are still going through their own process of rehabilitation and all at the point of writing are still engaged in selling off non-performing loans (NPL).

“It is quite telling, as you would have thought

OCTOBER 2018

the NPL positions would have been sorted out 10 years on. It’s quite incredible that over €100bn (£89bn) worth of Irish business loans have been sold in the past five years. This in itself created a huge vacuum in the market which has attracted a range of new sources of capital outside of mainstream lending into the marketplace.”

Clearpath has found itself involved in this space as we have been involved in the origination of more than €200m (£178m) of new loans to enable promoters to exit positions that were involved in the loan sale process.

In the last 18 months quite a few new funders have entered the marketplace in both Northern Ireland and the Republic, which is great news for the business community and economy. Clearpath Finance is now working with the majority of these lenders to facilitate the delivery of funds in a professional efficient manner.

In the last 12 months Clearpath has originated more than €30m (£27m) in new funding for business borrowers in Northern Ireland.

In the Republic of Ireland they are now hoping close out on up to £10m of new business loans this calender year with a huge appetite to to a lot more throughout 2019.

He says that the process for borrowers is “very straightforward”. They apply to Clearpath for the loan, normally online or by contacting the company by telephone. The Clearpath team will then talk directly to the customer, meet the customer and put forward the funding proposal to the internal credit committee for review.

“If it gets the green light from credit, we advise the customer and guarantee a funding line for the customer subject to terms and conditions. The process itself is efficient and more importantly can be completed often within one week,” Conor says.

The funders who have committed to the platform comprise a cocktail of lenders including high street banks, peer to peer lenders, mezzanine funders, equity houses, and now a number of private family offices have committed to the platform, to deploy their capital.

Three reasons why funding deals fail “What I have found is that there are three main reasons why entrepreneurs fail to get funding,” Conor says. “Firstly the funding deal simply doesn’t stack up. There might be a number of reasons for this including a security issue, maybe not enough repayment capacity, but whatever it is, its not a good deal.

“This kind of proposal would not make it through the Clearpath credit committee, hence we wouldn’t be wasting the time of our lender.

“Secondly, the information presented to the lender is done so in an incorrect manner. This can prove fatal as funders often don’t have the time to make the proposal work, and you may only get one bite at the cheery. Finally, one of the other main reasons people get turned down for funding is that they are simply talking to the wrong people.

“There is a challenge in all of this to the more mainstream traditional banks as their processes can still be quite cumbersome and time-consuming... now the business owner wants a quick decision, so being nimble and quick to form a funding decision is crucial, moving it through the legal process and onto drawdown as soon as possible.”.

Conor says at Clearpath “we continue to refine this process and challenge ourselves rigorously to improve our offering which we would hope in the next 12 months positions us as the number one alternative lending platform right across the island.”.

“We will continue to prove to our funding partners that we are an excellent route to market for them, and in doing this and if we continue to refine and improve our customer experience, we will be at the top of the game in this regard.

“We are deeply passionate about business, helping people, adding value and bringing new capital to the marketplace right across Ireland.” ■ www.clearpathfinance.com TEL: 0333 0042 888 BELFAST ||| DUBLIN ||| MANCHESTER

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Des Kelly, Catherine Martin and Michael Drumm

BUSINESS FINANCE & BANKING

CavanaghKelly: a partner in business across Northern Ireland

M

ichael Drumm has spent his entire professional career training and progressing up through top accountancy and business advisory practice CavanaghKelly.

In the last 10 years he’s been involved in almost every department within the practice, working across audit and accounts, tax and advisory.

Now, one of three partners in the practice – alongside Des Kelly and Catherine Martin – he began his career as a trainee, primarily within audit, and worked there until 2011.

“In 2011, I moved across to our restructuring department. It would have been an extremely busy department at that time following the financial crisis in 2008 but it provided

34

invaluable experience” he said.

And while the workload in that area of the business increased in the months and years following the recession, Michael said an overwhelming majority of the CavanaghKelly core client base were able to successfully trade their way through this tough period.

Following a busy three year period he then joined the corporate finance team as a manager, then onto a more senior role, before joining as a partner this year – heading up CavanaghKelly’s advisory offering.

a wide-range of advisory engagements,” Michael said.

“This includes mergers and acquisitions, disposals, fundraising, business planning, strategic business development, forensic accounting and debt advisory.”

And in the last 24 months, the firm has advised on over 15 M&A deals, with a transactional value of around £80m.

A Queen’s University graduate, who studied law and accountancy, Michael is also a licensed insolvency practitioner.

“Our track record in adding value to businesses and transactions across Northern Ireland can be evidenced by the growth across our own practice the last few years which has largely developed from word of mouth referrals from current clients” he said.

“I now lead our advisory offering. We deliver

“Our advisory pipeline of engagements

BUSINESS FINANCE & BANKING

We always emphasise “ that we want to make a difference, to help a businesses grow and flourish

”

been an expansion in funding providers in the market in recent times meaning there is now good availability of capital across most sectors, and this represents a strong opportunity for businesses.

“We’ve developed close relationships with these investors and funders and regularly act for our clients in identifying opportunities whether it be through investment, expansion or sale”.

ABOUT CAVANAGHKELLY

remains strong whilst our audit and accounts division is achieving year-on-year growth.

We’re very pleased with the impact and effort of management team and staff across the practice”.

And what does the practice offer its clients that sets them apart from the others? Michael says it’s the ability to provide quality specialist advice at a competitive fee level which includes regular direct contact with partners and senior management across the practice.

“We emphasise getting to know our clients so we’re best placed to guide and support.

It’s important to know what drives them, their aspirations, their ethos. We want to build long-term relationships so we can understand their business and identify opportunities.”

“We focus on making a real difference to our clients, to assist them to grow and flourish.”

The practice operates across all sectors but, has a particularly strong presence in retail,

OCTOBER 2018

agri-food, construction, manufacturing and engineering.

And while there remain significant challenges for Northern Ireland businesses, with political instability and Brexit around the corner, Michael says CavanaghKelly is well-placed to deal with the challenges of cross-border business.

“We have clients which operate out of the south, and we have a number of chartered tax advisors who are qualified in the Republic of Ireland – so we are well positioned to deal with the challenges of Brexit.”

Despite the above concerns, there remains positive activity in the marketplace. “We’re finding that deal and banking transactional activity is still reasonably strong, despite Brexit and the issues at Stormont,” Michael said.

“In relation to the current funding environment, there is definitely appetite for investment in Northern Ireland. There has

As one of Northern Ireland’s leading independent accountancy and business advisory practices, CavanaghKelly was formed in 2003 when Sean Cavanagh and Des Kelly merged their individual businesses.

“The marriage was a good example of the whole being greater than the sum of the parts,” Sean Cavanagh, chairman of the practice, says.

For CavanaghKelly, it’s the people which make the business a success. It currently employs more than 70 staff across its offices – which includes Omagh, Dungannon and Enniskillen – with business split across audit and accounts, tax and advisory.

“We are a training practice as well, and we invest heavily in our employees. It’s about investing in people, and focusing on their growth, and health and well-being.”

CavanaghKelly’s key values remain central to its culture: commitment to the quality of advice and dedicated services to clients. They work to ensure that all employees love what they do and to create an environment in which they can excel. ■

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PROFILE

The Pinnacle team on holiday in Portugal to mark 25 years in business

Pinnacle marks 25 years with huge staff bash in Portugal

B

elfast firm Pinnacle – a leading provider of Sage software and IT solutions – has celebrated 25 years in business by taking more than 100 of its staff to Portugal for an an all-expenses paid trip.

Ken Montgomery, chairman and James Spencer, managing director of Pinnacle

The company, which has branches throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland, flew its workers to a five-star resort in Vilamoura, to mark the occasion.

The five-star celebrations included welcome lunch overlooking the Vilamoura Marina, followed by spa treatments and water sports.

The celebrations were hosted at an event at Purobeach club, which included a fire show and live acts, all with the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea. “Pinnacle’s 25th anniversary in business is a very important milestone for us and it had to be marked by thanking the staff who have made the business the success it is today and for the success we will build tomorrow,” James Spencer, managing director of Pinnacle said.

“We wanted every individual in the organisation to feel thanked and special – from our teams fronting calls in reception, right through to sales, marketing, support, consultants as well as the management team.

“The company has ambitious growth plans within our Sage and IT services divisions, and our staff are key to this success.”

And Fran McKee, marketing director of Pinnacle, who organised the event, said: “We have created some very memorable events for our team around key milestones in the business, but venturing to the sun and hosting a white party on the beach was pretty special and unique.

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“Purobeach and the Tivoli Hotel were chosen for their sophisticated ambiance, location, views and accessibility. The event was hosted in June and there is still a buzz in the business post event”.

Pinnacle is a true home-grown success story starting as an IT business in east Belfast, it has grown from humble beginnings to become a £15m turnover organisation, with more than 130 staff working from 11 UK and Ireland offices, servicing over 1,000 customer sites.

And 25 years on, Pinnacle is one of the largest and most successful suppliers of Sage in the UK and Ireland.

You can follow Pinnacle’s journey on social with the hashtag #FacesOfPinnacle

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37

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION

The changing face of John Mulgrew looks at the changing face of Belfast city centre and its building heritage, and speaks to Patrick O’Gorman of Bywater about its £50m mixed-use redevelopment

L

ike many of us, I’ve spent the formative years of my life living in Belfast with the familiar totem of retail anchoring the city centre like a lighthouse amidst a dark sea.

just a facade remaining – the business and architectural community divided as to whether it can kept, versus the detrimental impact an ongoing cordon is having on footfall to many big name and independent traders.

The Bank Buildings, home to Primark for decades, sat as a beacon between Royal Avenue and Donegall Place, linking the north and south ends of the city centre thoroughfare.

But the loss of the building puts fresh focus on what the city centre as a whole could, or will look like, in the next few years – as a number of major international developers earmark substantial mixed-use schemes which are set to change how Belfast as whole operates.

It now, at the time of writing, sits with

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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION

Belfast Waterside

What we want to do is bring in independent “ and local businesses – interesting and different, so that it becomes a focal point ”

Royal Exchange

a city The largest is Royal Exchange – a £400m scheme, long in the pipeline, by Castlebrooke. Outside the city centre, the Belfast Waterside project will see the former Sirocco site close to Short Strand transformed into a mixed-use development including office space, apartments and retail, while the former Northside Regeneration is now on ice.

The latest major Belfast scheme which will see much undeveloped or underdeveloped sections of the north of the city centre, around Smithfield Market is Building Blocks.

OCTOBER 2018

Building Blocks is an office and mixed-use development, worth around £50m, by Bywater Properties and Ashmour.

is the most affordable building, allowing young businesses and start-ups to take on space.

Patrick O’Gorman is principal at Bywater.

“What we have wanted is to do is put together a variety of work and business space,” he told Ulster Business.

“What we want to do is bring in independent and local businesses – interesting and different, so that it becomes a focal point. I think that follows the character of the area, and what Smithfield was like.

“We didn’t just want office space for blue chip companies, but we didn’t just want space for start ups.”

Three new buildings are proposed, alongside the refurbishment of the listed Butcher’s Building.

Around half the 235,000 sq ft floor space being created will be dedicated for office use, accommodating around 1,500 people.

The ‘Mill Building’ includes 115,000 sq ft of top-end office space, while the Gresham Street development, with smaller floor plates, is designed to attract smaller independent businesses, such as law firms.

The Sawtooth building, according to Patrick,

Patrick says the biggest driver for the development is the nearby Ulster University campus – which has faced setbacks and delays in the last two years.

“That is going to bring so much regular footfall to the city and to the northern part of the city centre. The next biggest thing is what happens to Royal Exchange? It’s a big piece of land… I hope it gets put together well, and commercially makes sense.”

He says part of the goal for the various redevelopment schemes is to help attract people to the city centre at weekends, and not just for shopping or pubs in and around the popular nightlife areas.

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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION

Building Blocks

“At the moment, with a family, there aren’t that many reasons to go into the city at the weekends. There is St George’s Market and the museum, but we need more reasons.

“In cities like Manchester, there are areas like the Northern Quarter, where you can just go and wander around. It has its own feel and its own vibe. That’s what Belfast needs to be.”

Going back to Royal Exchange, the £400m revamp could include a 27-storey high-rise building as part of the ambitious scheme which it’s claimed will create 6,000 jobs – according to developers.

The plan will include the creation of three new streets, helping to connect Royal Avenue with the start of the Cathedral Quarter. The redevelopment includes Donegall Street, North Street, Lower Garfield Street, High

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Street and Lombard Street. It’s received the green light for the first stages of the work.

of grade A office space at the site. That will include a 13-storey building.

However, it has been met with some resistance from some groups, including the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society and the Save CQ campaign group.

But aside from large-scale, multi-planning applications, and regionally significant schemes, some of the city’s existing listed buildings are now being given a new lease of life.

As part of it, the proposed 27-storey building mooted for Royal Exchange has been described as a “massive monolith” which they say threatens to overshadow the city’s oldest church.

Towards Short Strand, Belfast Waterside will see the former Sirocco Works redeveloped into a mixed-use scheme including apartments, office space and retail.

The first phase of the development, costing £50m, will see the creation 250,000 sq ft

Work is now well under way on turning the Ewarts building on Bedford Street, a former Victorian linen warehouse, into an office development, with a large multi-storey extension.

Just across the road, Lawrence Kenwright is set to open his new George Best Hotel at the old Scottish Mutual Building – one of several developments in Belfast, including the Crumlin Road courthouse and War Memorial Building on Waring Street. ■

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OCTOBER 2018

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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION

An Englishman, a Frenchman and an Irishman went to the pub…

By Martin McDowell, managing director, Osborne King

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he above used to be the start of a good joke before the era of political correctness made this type of humour unfashionable and likely to embroil one in a law suit from a supposedly wronged section of the community. I grew up in an era where comedians actually had the benefit of free speech and you simply switched off or walked out if you didn’t find them funny. Common sense used to prevail and adults were able to admonish children as part of their development process.

Today the world is different, everyone’s opinion matters even if it is illogical, illconceived and does not stand the scrutiny of even the most cursory of cross examinations.

Politicians have always manipulated the message to try and persuade the electorate that the policy they are peddling today is for our benefit. Once elected they then change tack, claim they never supported the policy that they were elected for and blame the opposition.

One of my clients’ recently told me to stop wasting my time writing about Brexit because nobody cares and the subject is now boring. I tend to agree that the subject has been over discussed but sadly it appears to have been under considered by almost all associated with our path to European exit.

Local, national and European politicians have patently no clue as to how to deliver a workable and practical divorce with both sides predicting a range of dire consequences for the UK economy whether we stay or go.

As ever the true position will never be visible

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Martin McDowell

to the vast majority of voters and, therefore, we will probably never have the chance to understand our exit deal, whether or not we get the chance to vote on it. Never has the duplicitous nature of politicians been more evident than this shambles we are now watching.

Businesses do not have the luxury of endlessly debating a myriad of options, we need to make decisions and act upon them. If we don’t then jobs are lost and families suffer.

Locally we are pathetically represented by a group of politicians who appear not to want to undertake the jobs they were elected to do. Maybe I am just cynical but it appears to me that they are hiding in the shadows hoping that someone comes up with a plan for which they have no actual responsibility.

That way, if it works they can quietly move forward as if they were a part of it, if it fails

then it was not their fault. Do we not deserve better than this?

I read an article in another publication recently, penned by one of my competitors, in which he invoked property professionals to be more optimistic and sell the positives of the NI market. I have spent my entire 35 year career trying to sell the positives of investing in NI. I have stayed here, built a business, paid taxes, employed many people and hopefully delivered pleasing results for our clients. It would be really nice if for once our politicians could simply deliver us a viable business oriented solution that made life easier rather than the constant uncertainty we face.

Imagine business owners delight if the punchline to the gag was “went to the pub and agreed a workable plan”. Now that would make me smile. ■

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N

orthern Ireland practice RPP Architects is expanding its experienced senior team after more than forty years in business.

The business, which has a team of architectural professionals and interior designers in Belfast and Londonderry, has worked on some of the largest and high profile schemes across Northern Ireland.

They have appointed four new associates from valid team members within the business. The new structure assists the practice in delivering experience and expertise in key growth sectors such as interior design, housing, and health and safety.

RPP Architects is led by four directors, Harry McConnell, Peter McGirr, Simon Robinson and Alan Shields with existing associate Philip Murray, and works across diverse sectors within Northern Ireland, the UK and internationally, delivering commercial, healthcare, education, community, transport projects and residential projects.

Some of the practice’s significant past projects include the McClay Library at Queen’s University, Belfast, the Bank of Ireland headquarters on Donegall Square and the Europa Hotel.

RPP Architects expands top team with new associates supplementary service, but as a consultancy in its own right, such as integrated architectural & interiors consultancy still relatively unique with the local market.

Current projects include the AC Marriott Hotel at City Quays, the Belfast Harbour Film Studios at Giant’s Park, the Hastings Hotels’ Grand Central, the Ebrington Hotel in Derry and the new 80-bed mental health inpatient unit at Belfast City Hospital.

The firm is also working extensively within the residential sector. Through RPP’s Bespoke Homes Team the practice is designing new homes, extensions, refurbishments and interiors. Somewhat uniquely, the firm offers a dedicated interior design team. This service allows the practice to offer clients a complete design service down to the finest finished details.

Meet the new associates Mark Higgins, interior designer The Interior Design service is delivered typically within the commercial office, hospitality and residential sectors. The practice is enthusiastic

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Mark Higgins

about developing their interiors consultancy further. Mark has been instrumental to this effort. It has been a busy 18 months for Mark’s team, who have worked extensively on the Grand Central and the AC Marriott Hotel projects. Mark and his team have been involved in all bedroom suite concepts and design, as well as the design of restaurants, bars and all public spaces.

RPP is known for providing a dedicated interior design services to our clients, not only as a

Sean Maguire, principal designer (health & safety) Sean has over 30 years’ experience with major companies, originally as a quantity/ building surveyor, and for the last 20 years, as construction design and management coordinator planning supervisor, and health Sean Maguire

and safety adviser. Sean has been assisting RPP’s clients navigate the ever-changing health and safety landscape. Sean was previously chairman of the Association for Project Safety regional committee.

contract administration and procurement. Paul has been instrumental in the contract award and delivery of RPP’s key large scale mixed tenure residential developments in recent years for some of our major clients.

From the practice’s outset, more than 40 years ago, public housing has been a key interest.

In fact, the practice is currently working for all the major NI Housing Associations, throughout Northern Ireland. The firm has also provided extensive student housing in north and south Belfast.

David McCausland, architectural technician David brings 26 years technical experience in building construction and is now providing the employers agent expertise for housing schemes that are delivered as ‘Design & Build’ by contractors for our Housing Associations.

Prior recent associate appointments within the practice are Paul Donnelly and David McCausland. Together, they are key in leading our specific social housing teams and managing the key interface with our clients.

Paul Donnelly, architect Paul has 20 years experience as an architect.

He specialises in private and social residential development is in skilled in construction

OCTOBER 2018

David McCausland

RPP’s commitment to the social housing sector has continued to evolve over the last five years in response to the various needs and challenges of delivery.

Paul Donnelly

The practice is extremely pleased to have made these new appointments which they see as fundamental in ensuring a first class, flexible and evolving expertise for the benefit of our clients. π

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TECHNOLOGY

Personalised artificial intelligence by OKTO Technologies Philip Dowds, managing director of OKTO Technologies, explains why his company’s top-end BMSButler system Baxter is changing luxury living for the better

T

he ‘Day in the Life’ which is included at part of this edition of the magazine shows how the BMSButler artificial intelligence home system, Baxter, works. Can you tell me about it?

Philip Dowds: We’ve had a great reaction to Baxter, everybody wants to be the homeowner, Steve. Demand has been outstanding for the system, and we are extremely grateful to our customers for providing us with the opportunity to deliver these amazing systems.

It’s early days, but Baxter is already confirmed for installation in the top two new super-prime apartment developments in central London – truly the very best new development in Belgravia, and the very best new development in Mayfair. In total these two projects will provide 51 new apartments at the very pinnacle of the global residential market. Some of the apartments in these developments are on sale at more than £100m.

Those figures are almost incomprehensible. The clients’ expectations must be incredibly high?

Philip Dowds: Yes, I agree. The figures are hard to comprehend, and as you suggest the standards are as high as they come. We’re just finishing off a property right now which is the second largest single dwelling in Central London, the largest being Buckingham Palace.

Another of our recent projects, a large house

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in Knightsbridge, sold in June recording the most expensive home sold in the UK so far in 2018. We consider it a privilege to work in this space and can’t thank our clients enough for the opportunity.

The OKTO team must have very high standards?

Philip Dowds: Indeed we do. I am massively grateful for the hard work and extraordinary standards set by our team – both at our headoffice in Lisburn and on site in London and elsewhere.

We have a no compromise culture. Nothing less than 100% effort in everything we do.

Always. Everything must be right. Especially when no-one is watching. 99% is not good enough.

So, can you explain what Baxter is and how it works?

Philip Dowds: Baxter is the client facing element of our BMSButler System, managing the home systems. A servant will carry out instructions, but a ‘butler’ will anticipate your needs and fulfil them before you need to ask.

We have built an electronic butler. A personalised friendly robot. Its not unlike JARVIS – Tony Stark’s system in the Iron Man films - except Baxter is even smarter than JARVIS was. In more technical terms it’s a personalised context-aware, artificial intelligence and control system.

What exactly does it do? Is it similar to Amazon’s Alexa system?

Philip Dowds: Our goal is to improve our customer’s experience, to make their lives easier. Alexa is quite different, it is a voice user interface. While the voice interface is an important part of Baxter, around 10% of it, its just one of the many tools in our kit. The real goal is no user interface at all, but sometimes using voice, or a touch screen, or a remote can be a useful. It’s really a matter of giving the user a range of options to make the experience graceful, natural and effortless. It’s probably best explained using an example: • Imagine arriving home on a Friday evening after work. You walk into your kitchen and say “Play some music”. Don Henley’s ‘Boys of Summer’ ramps up on to the audio system, the kitchen television switches on to Eurosport with the volume muted.

• The house looks amazing, the temperature’s just so. It’s cosy, you feel great, relaxed, and starting to unwind from the stress of a hectic week.

• This feeling did not just happen, Baxter was working hard in the background helping you.

He was aware it was a Friday. He was aware of the date and the season. He was aware of the temperature that day, and even the level of daylight.

• He was aware when you left your office and started to head for home.

TECHNOLOGY

He adjusted the temperature of the house, the lighting and the blinds to suit the season and the conditions that day, creating the perfect welcome scene for your arrival.

• At the front door, Baxter had recognised you with facial recognition, and when asking for music – knew it was you with speaker recognition.

• He was able to assess where you are in the house by measuring the energy levels and understood your mood by analysing your vocal response. This is what we mean by contextaware – he was able to take action based on all of this data in context.

What is your biggest challenge?”

Finally, where do you see this going, and do you have a target in mind?

Philip Dowds: Yes, we have a very clear goal. We are building a world class company and have a plan in place which within the next five years will see us as the number one cognitive building technology company globally. First we will dominate the London market, then expand outwards.

We’ve already started discussions for projects in New York and beyond. ■

Philip Dowds: Always seeking that extra 1%.

That 1% difference between 99% and 100% is where the magic is.”

OCTOBER 2018

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OFFICE SPACE

Breaking new ground in Northern Ireland office space Timothy Lee, design consultant at PLY Design, has previously worked in London and Hong Kong and now he is using his experience in these cities to inspire the next level of design in the office market in NI

T

he global office market is changing dramatically and, interestingly, for the first time this shift is genuinely being driven forwards by the demands of the tenants and the employees who work for them, rather than by landlords.

With more of us than ever before spending the majority of our lives in the office rather than at home, the onus is firmly on asset managers to deliver spaces which inspire people to work in a creative, collaborative and fully supported environment.

Fit’ concept which puts connectivity and technological building advancements as a central feature of every building design.

We believe that future work spaces should follow this evolution by not only providing comfortable working environments but also great social spaces too.

Your staff need to be able to get away from their desks to refresh their minds. You don’t necessarily have to furnish your office with the most expensive furniture, but you should make sure that it’s comfortable and spread out in a well-lit room.

To encourage this there are several common features which we are incorporating more regularly and we have brought all of them into our recent design-led project for Causeway Asset Management. StepSpace is an exciting first-of-its-kind office space concept aimed at fast scaling tech companies.

A key element of the StepSpace design was to cultivate a space that promotes collaboration and a sense of community yet also grant tenants their privacy. The StepSpace model has instilled this ideology, with a bottom up approach, by placing private offices around the peripheries while centralising and celebrating communal living spaces and open plan amenities.

COMMUNAL AREAS Our working and social environments have moved away from the typical 9 to 5 model, at the same time as our work and social hierarchies have also become more dynamic and flexible.

TECHNOLOGY AND CONNECTIVITY Putting technology at the fore front of office design is also essential to growing businesses in every sector and Causeway Asset Management has recognised this. The company has created an innovative ‘Future-

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StepSpace offers superfast and reliable internet to ensure their tenants have secure connections by which to run their day-to-day operations efficiently.

FLEXIBILITY Growing companies are crying out for office space that will adapt to their requirements and landlords have to be creative in how they approach this problem. StepSpace offers tenants a fully scalable, modular office environment that allows companies to expand their space with them as they grow.

We have achieved this by integrating the latest technologies and design innovation to deliver adaptive workspaces which can grow from a 10 desk office to a 20 desk office over the space of 48 hours.

CREATIVITY The most notable design element which defines StepSpace is our custom curved partition which weaves through the common space acting as soft boundary corridor to private offices. This feature adds a sense of playfulness to the overall space. ■

OCTOBER 2018

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51

LEGAL

Loss of profits fallout shows unexpected impact of exclusion clauses Chris Ritchie and David Black of the litigation and dispute resolution team at law firm Arthur Cox examine how a high-profile fall out between two global firms illustrates the requirement for clearly drafted and fully understood contracts.

I

n 2010, English-based web developer Motortrak secured a deal to provide services to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Australia (FCAA). It was an agreement which, following a number of extensions, had been due to continue until 2019.

David Black and Chris Ritchie

Instead, the arrangement ended acrimoniously in 2016. Earlier this year, an English High Court ruling left Motortrak with no remedy to seek damages from the breakup, despite FCAA having breached the contract by refusing to pay invoices.

The judge based this ruling on a mutual clause that had been written into the original contract, providing that neither party would be liable to the other for loss of profits.

The relationship between the two companies had started to unravel when suspicions rose among senior management at the car maker that Motortrak had secured the lucrative website design contract only after bribing FCAA’s former managing director.

However, FCAA did not choose to terminate the contract there and then but continued to avail of Motortrak services for several months before informing the contractor it was no longer required and thereafter refusing to pay invoices.

Motortrak subsequently sued FCAA for some £1.75m in outstanding invoices and a further £15.6m in respect of alleged loss of profits.

It argued that the exclusion for loss of profits should only apply in connection with the performance of the contract, and not profits lost where FCAA refused to perform the contract. This argument was consistent with a previously decided case and Motortrak must have felt reasonably confident of success.

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However, the court ruled that the particular wording of the clause was clear and found nothing in the factual background, or the contract as a whole, that would override it.

Furthermore, Motortrak was unable to maintain a debt action because it did not continue to provide services after the repudiation of the contract (in order to do so, it would have required the FCAA’s cooperation).

The outcome of this case illustrates that, where an exclusion clause is clearly drafted by parties of equal bargaining power and is not capable of being interpreted in a different way, the court will adopt its literal meaning even if this means depriving the innocent party of any effective remedy.

It is incumbent therefore upon those entering into contracts to ensure that any exclusions are made as clear as possible and are fully understood. The above case demonstrates how such uncertainty can be severely detrimental to a party that failed to appreciate how a lack of clarity would affect their position in the event of a unilateral repudiation.

Exclusion clauses should also take into account the specific deal and the key areas of risk associated, so it is imperative any party carefully considers the types of loss it might suffer before agreeing to an exclusion clause.

Parties should also consider what kinds of breach the exclusion clause should cover and, in particular whether or not it should apply if one party refuses to fulfil its side of the bargain, as occurred in the Motortrak vs FCAA case.

Other considerations include whether the exclusion clause should cover non-contractual claims such as negligence or misrepresentation or claims for breach of duty.

Seeking comprehensive legal advice should help to ensure that such eventualities are covered and that innocent parties are not left to rue the effect of an unexpected court finding. ■ The litigation and dispute resolution team at Arthur Cox is well positioned to advise on all matters related to contractual and other disputes in Northern Ireland. Please call 028 9023 0007 for further information from Chris, David or your regular Arthur Cox contact.

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Celebrating life, every day, everywhere DRINK RESPONSIBLY

FOOD, DRINK & AGRICULTURE

Stephen Toman and Alain Kerloc’h of OX. Pic Elaine Hill

From Michelin W stars to home grown grub

hen you boast the island’s top restaurant and a return to holding Michelin stars, then there’s probably something to talk about regarding Northern Ireland’s food scene.

And while it’s not all fine-dining and foraging, through the success of everything from cheesemakers, top-end lower-cost bistros, breweries and markets, it’s clear that the region’s credentials have never been stronger.

With Ireland’s greatest restaurant and a burgeoning food and drinks scene, John Mulgrew asks has NI firmly forged its place as a foodie tourism hotspot?

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“You can see it – the amount of tourists coming in is unreal,” Stephen Toman, coowner and head chef of the Michelin-starred OX tells Ulster Business.

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FOOD, DRINK & AGRICULTURE Niall McKenna

“Every city has been doing it for years. But we are only starting and it’s still very early days.

“Paul Rankin with Roscoff, Ramore in Portrush, Wine and Brine in Moira, chefs like Stevie Toman and Gareth McCaughey at Muddlers Club.

“But it still has a very long way to go, and there has to be joined up thinking between the bars and hotels.”

Belfast gets the attention, but eating well isn’t confined to the city and is increasingly spilling out everywhere.

In Moira, Chris McGowan’s Wine and Brine is proving to be one of the leading lights of the food scene, and former Deanes Eipic head chef Danni Barry – who was just named best chef in Ulster – had moved her talents to Clenaghans restaurant in Aghalee, while the Parson’s Nose in Hillsborough has Danny Millar behind the stove.

Of course, while there are food and drink brands which have long attracted tourists to these shores – and nothing has had a grasp on the tourist market quite like stalwarts such as Guinness and Bushmills whiskey – many independents are thriving.

In the last two years, a host of cheesemakers, bakers, butchers and charcuterie producers have set up shop here – expanding both in business, and Northern Ireland’s indigenous palate.

It was just named the best restaurant in Ireland by Food and Wine Magazine.

are a couple of spots which have already been tipped for glory by some in the industry.

“Lately, the proportion of tourists has been about 30%. There were some nights here where we had no one local in the restaurant.”

“The tourist business is absolutely crucial.

This town sort of closes in the summer, but tourists are staying in the city centre not worried about a commute.”

OX has helped follow on from a gourmand bedrock foundation of former Belfast stalwarts like Paul Rankin and Nick Price, and existing icons such as Michael Deane and Niall McKenna.

Niall McKenna has just re-opened James Street. What was once two adjacent restaurants has now become one, and sits just behind a chunk of Michael Deane’s empire.

There’s Mike’s Fancy Cheese Co, from Newtownards – producer of award-winning blue cheese Young Buck – along with Dart Mountain and Leggygowan Farm, while Dungannon’s Ispini and Limavady-based Corndale Farm have won numerous awards for their cured meats and sausages, while it’s also becoming hard to miss stalwarts such as Abernethy Butter, produced in Dromore,

As this magazine goes to print, the latest Michelin stars will be announced – and there

“To me the tourism boon is the key for us, as it is with most restaurants,” he says.

Not requiring much of an introduction, Peter Hannan has almost single-handedly changed

OCTOBER 2018

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Celebrating life, every day, everywhere DRINK RESPONSIBLY

FOOD, DRINK & AGRICULTURE

ABV Fest at Carlisle Memorial Church. Pic Michael Burch

how many restaurants here, and across the globe, view meat. He’s been dry-aging Glenarm beef in his salt chambers for the last few years.

Since then, he’s gone on to supply the majority of Northern Ireland’s best restaurants, as well as selling into Fortnum & Mason in London, supplying Mark Hix’s spots, and top-ends eateries across the globe.

Guinness still carriers serious weight when it comes to attracting visitors to these shores, but there are now more than 30 independent breweries here.

That includes Mourne Mountains, Boundary, Farmageddon and Bullhouse, while even smaller producers are now emerging.

And regional markets are also increasingly playing their part in attracting both those in the neighbouring areas, and tourists, to try some of the best NI produce available.

While OX, Deanes and James Street may, among others, attract tourists from across the globe – thanks in part to a strong Googleable repertoire – there are other pockets of gastronomic and zymurgist

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ingenuity which draw their own crowds.

The ABV Fest draws hundreds to the Carlisle Memorial Church in north Belfast each year. The event, which is organised

by Michael and Rosie Kerr, distiller Darren Nugent and drinks distributor Felicia Matheson, brings the best of Irish brewers together with UK, Belgian, Scandinavian and US producers – offering everything from a 3% session ale to huge USbrewed bourbon maple syrup barrel-aged chocolate coffee stout. A mouthful in more ways than one.

Across the city on the same weekend at the start of September, Focal Festival drew both music lovers, food producers, brewers and distillers to Crescent Park in the south of the city.

Tourism NI’s own Northern Year of Food and Drink was so successful, its coverage spilled well into 2017.

“Northern Ireland Year of Food and Drink in 2016 was highly successful in boosting our reputation as a food destination, inspiring trade and positioning food and drink experiences at the heart of the tourism experience,” Tourism NI, chief executive, John McGrillen, said.

“It strengthened our appeal and reputation for quality and uniqueness and, on the back of that initiative, Northern Ireland is now increasingly viewed as a food destination by visitors. The year also acted as a catalyst for the launch of inspirational food and drink experiences which has helped to drive an increase in international visitors.

“Food tourism is big business, often one of the highest categories of visitor spend alongside accommodation, and we continue to recognise this in our work alongside industry to diversify and strengthen our food and drink offering.”

According to Niall McKenna, his other city centre spot Hadskis could see anywhere between 25-30% walk-ins – many of which are tourists.

But, like every other industry, any major development or re-examination of the food landscape here is essentially on ice amid political deadlock.

“We spend more than £500,000 on local meat, dairy, fish and everything else, and that is going directly into our economy. We are on the front line, and we feel it. They need to get back in to government – business needs it.” ■

OCTOBER 2018

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FOOD, DRINK & AGRICULTURE

St Anne’s Square gets new steak restaurant

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new steak restaurant is opening at Belfast’s St Anne’s Square, creating 20 new jobs after an investment of £100,000.

Top Blade, a 46-seater venue, will take over the unit left behind with the closure of Chopin. It says it specialises in flat iron steaks – a cheaper cut from the shoulder – which will cost between £10 and £15 each.

It’s being opened by 22-year-old Zara Peden, who said she wants to offer a cheaper alternative in the city for steak lovers.

“Having visited flat iron steak restaurants in Soho, I knew I wanted to bring this concept to Belfast,” she said.

“Northern Ireland has a long standing love for steak, but from my research, the price point can often act as a barrier.

“People today desire quality, tasty food, that

Zara Peden

is great value for money and that is exactly what we offer. I don’t believe people should pay extra to satisfy their steak craving.

“We have teamed up with Carnbrooke Meats in Dromara to ensure our guests have the best steak possible without paying a premium. I

am confident the people of Northern Ireland and beyond will love what we have to offer.”

As well as steak, Top Blade, which will open daily, will serve vegan dishes including seitan steak and offer a cocktail and spirit drinks menu. ■

Top chef Danni Barry steps down from role

By Stewart Robson

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ne of Northern Ireland’s top chefs has stepped down from her role as a business partner at an acclaimed Co Antrim restaurant.

Danni Barry had worked at Clenaghan’s in Aghalee since the restaurant’s reopening in October 2017 alongside Lisburn duo Stevie and Cristina Higginson.

However, the renowned chef has decided to venture into new challenges, saying that the partnership wasn’t what she was looking for at this stage in her career.

The 33-year-old previously displayed her world-class talents at Michael Deane’s Eipic, helping the Belfast city centre institution to earn a Michelin star.

Danni was named Ireland’s Chef of the Year 2017 at last year’s Restaurant Association of Ireland Restaurant Awards for her culinary masterpieces.

Danni said she was looking forward to taking part in a food festival in Cork while also enjoying some downtime.

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“I’m really looking to take a break at the minute and try something different,” she said.

“Obviously, that was my first partnership in running a restaurant and for one thing or another it just wasn’t for me.

Clenaghan’s owner Stevie Higginson thanked Danni for her service.

And he paid tribute to the culinary star. “We parted company on Saturday morning and we wished her the best,” he said.

“Clenaghan’s will continue as it is. ■

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Julie Flaherty pictured alongside all winners of this year’s Food Heartland Awards

Northern Ireland’s Food Heartland toasts 2018 Award Winners

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ood, drink and hospitality businesses and individuals from across Northern Ireland’s official food heartland are celebrating after securing success in this year’s Food Heartland Awards, proving again that the region deserves its enviable reputation for excellence and innovation.

The Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon area is making a big name for itself at home and away for the quality of its ingredients, food provenance and award-winning artisan produce, and is still celebrating after confirming its place as a top five foodie destination in Ireland.

After an unprecedented number of entries and a shortlist of 12 category awards, a total of nine businesses came out on top after a rigorous judging process spearheaded by chef, writer and broadcaster Paula McIntyre MBE and renowned culinary expert Noel McMeel, executive chef of the exclusive Lough Erne Resort.

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council’s Food Heartland Awards, in association with Power NI, took place at a gala ceremony at The Palace Demesne, Armagh with special guest Jean-Christophe Novelli.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Julie Flaherty said:

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Julie Flaherty (right) pictured with celebrity chef JeanChristophe Novelli, Roger Wilson, chief executive, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and Alan Egner, commercial sales and marketing manager from key sponsor Power NI

“Our Food Heartland Awards represent an important showcase of quality, innovation and outstanding taste for all our businesses – both large and small – and for those individuals who help to power our flourishing food-focused region.

AWARD WINNERS π Best New Start Award Ballylisk of Armagh π Best Growth Business Award Davison Canners Ltd, Portadown π Best Export Business Award Holmes Bakery, Craigavon π Best Marketing Campaign Award Moy Park, Craigavon π Innovation Award Burren Balsamics, Richhill π Sustainability Award Harnett’s Oils, Waringstown and The Yellow Door Deli, Portadown

“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate everyone on their achievements and to everyone involved, to thank them for their efforts, their skills, passion and drive to succeed locally, nationally and internationally”.

π Best Non-Licensed Eating Award The Yellow Door Deli, Portadown π Best Independent Retail Food Business Award Quails Fine Foods, Banbridge π Best Dish Using Local Ingredients Award Newforge House, Magheralin for their Sticky Toffee Armagh Apple Pudding with Mac Ivors Cider & Abernethy Butter Caramel Sauce, and Irish Black Butter Buttermilk Ice Cream

π Rising Star Award (Under 25) James Gracey of Quail’s Butchers, Dromore

π Best Use of a PGI Product in a Food or Drink Product Award Burren Balsamics - Armagh Bramley Apple Balsamic Vinegar

π Best Licenced Eating Establishment Award Newforge House, Magheralin

π Ambassador Award Simon Dougan, The Yellow Door Deli, Portadown

FOOD, DRINK & AGRICULTURE

Embracing local food key to success for Henderson The ‘fresh team’ at Henderson Wholesale launched their own-brand range, enjoy local, back in 2015. Now, the team has invested a six-figure sum in to a fresh look for the range. Neal Kelly, Henderson Group fresh foods director tells us about why embracing the local agri-food market is boosting business

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“W

hen we first introduced enjoy local in 2015, our ambition was to create a line of fresh, quality products that was supporting our local farmers, growers and producers and would provide inspiration and a solution for tonight’s tea for our shoppers” says Neal Kelly, of the own-brand that has challenged the consumer’s perception of local over the past few years.

FOOD, DRINK & AGRICULTURE meant fresh and homemade to them.”

Each label now has a taste test approved stamp, with a line to show where that product was made, picked, baked, bottled, boxed or farmed in Northern Ireland.

Suppliers, farmers and growers range from Daily Bake in Armagh, to McAtamney Butchers in Ballymena. There are products from Clandeboye Estate in Co Down, with whom the company developed a Great Taste Award-winning Greek yogurt with strawberry compote, as well as LacPatrick, Big Pot Co in Cookstown and Avondale Foods in Craigavon.

“Stamps like ‘Made in Cookstown’, ‘Bottled in Coleraine’ and ‘Boxed in Ballymena’ all bring a ‘hyper’ locality to what we’re offering on our shelves, meaning that we’re not just using ‘local’ as a broadly sweeping term – we’re backing up our claim and tracing our field to fork steps to be as transparent as possible to the shopper.”

When asked what products were considered most important to be local, 87% of respondents said fresh chicken and 83% said fresh beef. This was closely followed by fresh bread at 66% and cooked meats at 55%.

Dr Amy Burns, director of the Food and Consumer Testing Suite at Ulster University with Bronagh Henderson, brand manager at Henderson Group with some of the new products from the enjoy local range

Three years later, enjoy local has been refined to a selection of 125 quality products from 18 suppliers to further meet the demand and needs of daily, basket shoppers and the line is on track to bring in £30m this year.

“The recent investment and rebrand comes after we engaged with over 2,000 taste testers and Ulster University’s Fact (Food and Consumer Testing) Suite so that we could include a verified taste tested stamp on all products,” Neal says.

“Our participants also gave us further insight into what exactly local means to them, which elevates the product beyond having important provenance credentials. Our respondents said that local also meant quality, and quality

OCTOBER 2018

Neal said: “The expectation and demand that SPAR and EUROSPAR stores should deliver as high, if not a higher, quality of fresh product than a multiple, big brand supermarket is now common place. And what’s more, we’re delivering on this expectation thanks to rigorous testing outcomes based on appearance, aroma, taste, texture, overall flavour and likelihood to purchase.”

In total, Henderson carried out 2,715 taste tests across 98 products from the range, managed by Dr Amy Burns, director of the Fact Suite in the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Ulster University. Each product delivered an average score of seven out of nine or over, equating to an ‘excellent’ rating according to food standards.

The enjoy local range is available in over 450 stores in Northern Ireland, and as the Fresh Team focus on improving the quality and offering, those outlets have experienced a rise in footfall. Sales of the line increased year on year after an initial injection of £25m

in to the local agri-business community three years ago to create the range.

In 2017, The Kitchen range of homemade meals, sides and desserts was launched to complement the enjoy local products. This range has further extended in 2018.

Neal added; “with both the enjoy local and The Kitchen brands available together, alongside regular branded and SPAR products, we launched the Meal Inspirations campaign which brought together these products into one zone making it easy to find the components for a quality, tasty meal for the whole family.

“It is a streamlined process in-store which helped the shopper find everything they needed in one place. Producing quality products is one thing, but ensuring we meet the demands of the psychology of the shopper is another. All elements of the process have to work well together, and that’s something we’re continuing to invest in.”

Neal also says the way we’re food shopping has changed considerably over the past few years. “Consumers are more likely to pop in to a shop on the way home from work, rather than do the usual ‘big shop’ on a given day or evening,” he said. “We are more aware of waste as a nation, and therefore we want to ensure we’re being not just cost efficient with our food, but waste efficient too.”

As the group continues to own the local agri-food market, and ensure their SPAR, EUROSPAR and Vivo shoppers are more in tune to the local agenda, their products continue to impress, thanks to continuous new product development in house.

“There is no limit to what we can do with our award-winning supplier partners, and we’ll continue to grow the fresh strategy as a group, investing in not just product, but logistics and operations that will make the field to fork journey even smoother. We’re looking forward to the future of fresh,” Neal says. ■ Enjoy local is available now in SPAR and EUROSPAR stores. To find out more, visit www.spar-ni.co.uk/enjoy-local

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Diversity can provide catalyst for SMEs

By John Moore, managing director, Hays Northern Ireland

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he past year has seen a noticeable increase in the number of companies who are recognising the benefits of a diverse and inclusive workplace, with many big employers changing policies in order to champion diversity.

A lot of SME business leaders I meet agree with the principle of increasing diversity and inclusivity, believing it could benefit their organisation’s culture and bottom line. But many struggle to understand how to implement such changes in their own workforce.

Any organisational change is highly dependent on the level of buy-in, understanding and support you can garner from your entire workforce, particularly your middle management tier. They are highly visible across all aspects of a business and how you engage and empower them will determine whether the diversity agenda becomes a reality in your business.

Your middle managers both hire and manage the majority of talent within your business, so you may need to evaluate their existing hiring patterns. Look out for biases they might have towards selecting or rejecting candidates on demographics like gender or age.

You may need to have an open and honest conversation with them about the risk of recurring biases when hiring. Educate them on why they need addressed and work together to develop revised guidelines.

Also find out how your middle managers manage talent day-to-day. You may need to attend team meetings or reviews, as well as objectively analysing selection criteria when it comes to awarding work and giving promotions. Inviting feedback from team members themselves, in a safe environment, can help you gain some real insight.

Cliques are common in any workplace and anyone who is “different” to these groups can end up feeling isolated. Middle managers

John Moore

must understand and be mindful of the impact this can have on team dynamics. They need to be able to spot the signs of stress, withdrawal and even potential workplace bullying within their teams.

They should also be encouraged to inform and educate staff on the company’s diversity and inclusivity commitments. Middle managers can help you as a senior leader ensure that the wider workforce accept and support the organisation’s principles.

Together you will create an environment that benefits from everyone feeling valued and engaged. ■

Five Guys opening third burger joint

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op end burger chain Five Guys is set to open its third Northern Ireland restaurant in south Belfast.

The chain already has one spot at Victoria Square, with a second due at Rushmere Shopping Centre in Craigavon.

The latest restaurant is part of a £1m expansion by Alterity Investments at the Boucher Square site on the Boucher Road.

Construction has now commenced on the new unit with an anticipated completion date of March 2019.

Richard Faloon, commercial director of Alterity Developments, said the “significant extension of Boucher Square cements our commitment to providing the very best onestop leisure and hospitality experience”.

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Brett, Ross and Dery Desmond of Five Guys in Ireland

The Five Guys restaurant is due to open later this year.

restaurant operators who already trade successfully from Boucher Square.

Mark Thallon of letting agents TDK said: “Five Guys is a fantastic operation which will complement the other international

“We expect the addition of Five Guys will soon be enhanced by the announcement of another new occupier in unit six.” ■

Health at work

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HEALTH AT WORK

Are you well?

The rigid nine to five apathetic office environment isn’t cutting it anymore according to research, and top firms are taking note. Emma Deighan looks at wellbeing in the workplace, what your employees want, how to integrate healthy habits and the benefits it can bring to business

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esearch has shown that almost 60% of workers here want increased flexibility in their jobs.

The survey put together by the fast food chain McDonald’s and YouGov said that more than half of people in Northern Ireland, in full-time employment, would like to start earlier than 9am and finish earlier than 5pm.

And 44% of the 4,000 workers questioned said they’d opt for a longer day in return for a shorter working week.

Shift pattern changes are just one element to the everyday working week that is in need

of reformation in an evolving economically active population this survey would show.

And the benefits for a business that incorporates not only flexibility but well-being initiatives into the mix are more than rewarding.

Programmes that focus on health and productivity, the emotional and mental health of employees and job fulfilment pay back according to the CIPD. The professional organisation released its 2018 Health and Wellbeing at Work survey in May. It showed that respondents whose organisation had health and well-being activities in place during 2017 believe they had positive results, including better employee morale and engagement (44%), a healthier and more inclusive culture (35%), and lower sickness absence (31%).

Paul Pomroy, chief executive of McDonald’s UK & Ireland said accommodating the desires of employees is key for retaining and attracting talent.

Paul Pomroy

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He said: “The business case is clear, as are the links to improved happiness and wellbeing – people simply don’t want to work

nine to five anymore. They want to work more flexibly, but that doesn’t diminish ambition, desire or opportunity to progress.”

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) said last year absenteeism was costing companies on average £720 a day.

It also said increasing evidence revealed that healthy, happy and engaged staff improve company performance, makes proactively managing and supporting staff’s health and wellbeing an ever more important business issue.

Its survey revealed that mental health should be at the top of HR agendas as it reported

HEALTH AT WORK

a four-fold increase in the number of UK firms with 5% or more of their workforce disclosing a mental health condition – from 11% in 2013 to 40% in 2017.

Mike Davis, head of SME at AXA PPP Healthcare said mental health issues can manifest into decreased productivity.

“The workplace environment can add to mental health issues amongst your workforce,” he said.

“Signs of stress in a group of people within a business can become apparent through increased dissatisfaction, complaints/disputes being raised, increase in staff turnover and

OCTOBER 2018

grievances against managers.”

And The Duke of Cambridge has also recognised the need for employers to promote good mental health. He will launch, in partnership with the mental health charity Mind, a website as an online gateway to resources, training and information to allow managers to help their employees who may be struggling at work.

One firm here that triumphs in promoting good well-being is Allen and Overy’s 547-employee-strong Belfast office.

To attract and retain talent employees are “nurtured on their career path to create a

productive and enriching work life” said Ciaran McCallion, head of human resources.

“Rewarding careers at Allen and Overy Belfast alongside a strong emphasis on health and well-being are an important part of the overall business strategy. Allen and Overy is committed to creating a mentally healthy workplace, where people feel valued and supported.

“In the last year, there has been an increased focus on health and wellbeing initiatives.

The open working environment encourages staff to talk about mental health and managers are given specialist ‘mindful

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HEALTH AT WORK

manager’ training to equip them with the tools to signpost employees towards the support that they require.”

And the Belfast office held a Men’s Health Week where employees were offered free health checks with Nuffield Health, along with information on common risks men should be aware of and helpful tips in how to manage them.

Over at GolfNow at City Quays, well-being is also high up the agenda.

Rosie McCaul, HR manager at GolfNow said: “We know that we have highly committed team members who go the extra mile for GolfNow and we like to ensure we reciprocate...”

“It is reminiscent of being on a golf course.

Our course map sets out the work/play zones and our rules of play and course etiquette encourage all team members to optimise the space and work collaboratively,” Rosie said.

The global business also has a scrum room, casual meeting spaces, a mindfulness room and quiet booths as well as many collaboration areas around the open space.

She added that the approach “creates the

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space for fun to flourish in balance with a highly collaborative, productive approach to achieving our Individual, team and business objectives.”

GolfNow also offers “healthy week” when Tai chi takes place by the River Lagan, or Thai massage at lunch time, “financial well-being week” and “Comcast Cares Day” (a CSR initiative) and it too provides regular fruit drops as well as professional counselling and support.

Belfast-based cloud IT provider Novosco is another firm advocating new age work practices for better physical and mental health.

Susan Hill, operations manager at Novosco said well-being in the work place is a significant part of the company’s “daily culture”.

Among its initiatives are free fruit deliveries, fortnightly acupressure massages, mindfulness and meditation classes, wellness weeks, as well as charity walks.

“Running a wellness week is also something that we invest a lot of time in, providing talks from Chest Heart & Stroke, Bowel

Cancer UK, Inspire, Revive Active and on various other topics such as financial wellbeing with a healthy lunch also provided.

“The fact is that happy, healthy, and well staff are more productive, better employees, and they are more likely to stay with us – it’s also the right thing to do.”

Clare Kelly, director of Glandore, which provides flexible served office space and coworking, said the company has “developed a comprehensive workplace wellness programme for all our members”.

“Our programme focuses on three areas - ‘grow in life, grow in body and grow in mind’. Today, 87% of employers are committed to workplace well-being and the Glandore Wellness Programme is delivered through monthly webinars, on-site seminars, exercise classes, pamper days and more.”

AXA’s Mike Davis has a word of advice for managers: “It’s also vital to communicate with staff. This means being open with them about current pressures across the business, as well as dispelling rumours which may have a negative impact on staff moral.” ■

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HEALTH • SAFETY • ENVIRONMENT

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PwC growth in NI ‘top performing region’

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rofessional services giant PwC’s Northern Ireland operation is the fastest-growing in the UK, according to its annual report.

It has has taken on 460 staff in its Operate division over the last year, which is based in Belfast.

The firm said its PwC Operate division in Belfast brought in annual sales of over £40m, mainly from markets outside the province.

The division has almost doubled its workforce from 540 to 1,000, operating in helping clients deal with regulations.

Clients in the division are mainly in financial services though there are some working in oil and gas, utilities, retail, pharma and the public sector.

Ian McConnell, the PwC Northern Ireland partner responsible for Operate, said the firm’s investment in the Belfast operation was “a tribute to the availability of skilled graduates and an abundance of technology skills”.

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The practice has also launched a flexible talent network for people seeking to work for just a limited number of days a year.

Kevin Ellis, PwC UK chairman and senior partner, said: “Despite uncertainty over Brexit, all four of our business divisions grew this year, with high demand for technologyrelated services, including cyber, data analytics and GDPR. “And 29% of the firm’s revenues came from inbound - organisations headquartered outside the UK - highlighting the importance of the UK as a global business hub.

“Momentum in our business is good, driven by a strong deals market and demand for technology-driven business expertise, as we see organisations turn to us to help them transform their business models, many in response to digital disruption.”

Overall, PwC in the UK boosted annual revenues by 5% to more than £3.7bn in the year to the end of June.

PwC has also launched fully-funded tech and data degree apprenticeships in Queen’s University, Belfast and another four universities in the UK which will give over 100 students a traditional university experience while receiving paid on-the-job training.

Its annual report reveals that revenues for the UK-based firm were up 5% to more than £3.7bn in the year to June 30, with profit before tax at £935m.

It’s also understood that PwC could move its Northern Ireland operations to the new Merchant Square office development in Belfast city centre.

The Merchant Square development has involved a series of renovations and extensions to Oyster House. The first phase of the scheme was granted planning permission at the end of 2016 for the refurbishment and extension of Oyster House and Royston House, located on the corner of Wellington Place and Upper Queen Street. ■

YOUR HEALTH IS YOUR WEALTH

Business in the Community challenges and supports employers to create inclusive workplaces that encourage people to enjoy long, healthy and active lives. With a focus on Wellbeing and Inclusion, we help businesses in a number of ways by providing: •

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Consultation, resources and support to enable you to create a strategic and bespoke employee engagement and wellbeing plan Support to help you tackle key physical and mental wellbeing issues, eg obesity, drugs & alcohol awareness and stress at work

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Downloadable toolkits and resources to equip you to address important issues such as mental health, sleep & recovery, and the gender pay gap Link & Learn information sessions delivered by subject-matter experts in your place of work across key areas of wellbeing and inclusion, including mental resilience, wellbeing and stress

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Our Equal Lives research reveals that men and women have very similar attitudes and desires in relation to balancing work and caring responsibilities, but business isn’t doing enough to support them. More than 10,000 employees told us about their experiences, attitudes and aspirations in relation to balancing professional employment with personal caring responsibilities for both children and adults.

Healthy Working Lives, our annual conference delivered in partnership with the Public Health Agency, will focus on mental health.

The Carer Passport allows an employee to document information about their caring responsibilities, and how these might impact on their working life. It helps remove or lessen any barriers or discomfort in sharing information with line managers.

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ENTREPRENEURSHIP

The economy’s secret weapon revealed Anne Donaghy, chief executive of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, explains how an entrepreneurial approach by the council is bearing fruit for the economy

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usiness doesn’t stand still. If companies aren’t evolving and flexing to meet the ever-changing demands of customers, then they’ll struggle to grow and will eventually be left behind by their more agile peers.

That’s particularly true in the digital age where disruption, once derided as blocking progress, is treasured.

With this in mind it stands to reason that if local government is to be effective then it must adopt the same mindset.

Growing the economy should be, after all, the number one priority for any council because it helps individuals, communities and the borough as a whole.

It’s certainly front and centre in Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, where we see our role as doing our utmost to provide the best possible conditions for business to flourish.

We focus our efforts on being an enabler to the wealth creators and it could be rightly said that we can be the private sector’s secret weapon.

To do that we have evolved, adopting a private sector approach to improve our own efficiency and ensure we are embedded in the local business community to understand exactly what they need.

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It is one of the reasons we have exciting new additions to our senior leadership team, including two directors who bring that essential level of entrepreneurship.

Katrina Morgan has been appointed director of community with responsibility for delivering the council’s community plan, Putting People First, as well as the delivery of the council’s leisure strategy and well-being agenda.

With a specialism in business improvement and transformation of services, she will work alongside the council’s senior management team to enhance the borough’s community offerings for all its residents and visitors.

She has experience in the private sector and social enterprise world and knows how to apply that experience in a council setting having previously worked in the public sector.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s senior leadership team, left to right: Linda Williams, Siobhan Fisher, John McVeigh, Anne Donaghy, Louise Kennedy, Philip Thompson and Katrina Morgan

Having trained and qualified as a chartered accountant with Deloitte, John has over 20 years’ experience working in senior governance and service improvement roles within the commercial and public sectors, including ASM, Citibank, the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, Northern Ireland Housing Executive and the Financial Services Authority.

Both sets of skills fit perfectly with our vision for the future of the council and will not only help us support the economy but will help us deliver our corporate priorities which also include developing a high-performing council and implementing our community plan, Putting People First.

John McVeigh has been appointed director of support services with responsibility for leading the development of service improvement and value around services to citizens.

As chief executive, I feel so privileged to lead this incredible team at Mid and East Antrim, one which is innovative, ambitious and driven.

He has extensive commercial and public sector experience in driving improvement and business innovation and will work alongside the council’s senior management team to lead the design and implementation of the borough’s transformation and modernising services programme for citizens.

John and Katrina are ideal additions to further enhance the fantastic work of our director of operations, Philip Thompson, director of development, Linda Williams, head of corporate services, Louise Kennedy, and our head of corporate performance and improvement, Siobhan Fisher.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Together with the backing of our elected representatives – who have demonstrated unwavering support to our focus on economic growth – we will be able to also push through a number of initiatives which have the potential to transform the economy in this borough.

A Heathrow logistics hub for Northern Ireland is one such headline project, as part of our development of the Belfast Region City Deal.

The London airport’s planned third runway represents one of the largest manufacturing undertakings and opportunities in a generation and is worth £187bn. Heathrow has been pioneering these hubs where components of the airport will be preassembled before being transported in consolidated loads to the airport Procuring a hub for Northern Ireland could deliver an economic boost of £5bn and create 5,000 jobs for Northern Ireland, and a great deal of work has and will be put into making sure we have the best chance of being a partner in this project.

Meanwhile, the Belfast Region City Deal

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proposals continue apace – plans which are expected to deliver up to £1bn of investment to Northern Ireland. It consists of six councils, all working in partnership with central government and, critically, the private sector as wealth creators.

The city deal will deliver a huge boost to the region’s economic fortunes by uncovering the challenges facing the region and highlighting the most pressing needs through a process of discovery by the councils with the private sector, politicians, universities and colleges.

A similar, but more sector-specific, approach has been taken with the launch of our Manufacturing Taskforce, one which will help recoup the economic losses felt by the closure of the likes of JTI Gallaher and Michelin in the borough.

More than 100 representatives from manufacturing companies, from industry bodies and from the public sector have been brought together by the council to map the sector’s future path to renewed success.

Tourism is also a big part of our economic growth strategy and the council is working

closely with the local hospitality industry to make sure the brilliant assets we have in the borough help to draw visitors. For instance, we’re planning Carrickfergus town centre regeneration, working with our partners in the Department for Communities to achieve a sizeable increase in visitor numbers to Carrickfergus Castle; we’re promoting and investing in the Causeway Coastal Route, including The Gobbins, which has enjoyed a bumper summer with more than 20,000 people visiting so far this season.

These are all examples of how we, as a council, are making sure we are as agile as possible, so we can meet the changing needs of business in our borough and beyond.

I am determined to make sure that we, as the public sector, do our utmost to drive the economy in Mid and East Antrim and act as a true partner to the private sector.

As enablers, we have adapted our approach to make sure we are fully equipped with the skills and resources to do that and to make sure we keep up with the ever-evolving business world, one built by the wealth creators. ■

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EVENTS

The busy business of networking Is corporate hospitality worth the trouble?

Captain John Rees OBE, director of the £20m HMS Caroline says it is an option that not only builds relationships but has positive effects on business.

T

here was a time when corporate hospitality involved chartered flights, once in a lifetime and money-can’t-buy experiences and memories. But what was the point? Was it merely to show off to clients?

Whatever type of corporate hospitality and networking you do or don’t engage in, there are many pros and cons to taking a bit of time out to get to know your clients, and, importantly, for them to get to you know you and your team.

These days, you don’t need to charter a yacht to impress. In fact, unless you really are running in those kinds of circles, an afternoon or evening on board a world-class historic vessel from the early 20th century with drinks on the deck and dinner in the ward room can be as beneficial to relationships and business as an all-singing, all-dancing afternoon, where, let’s face it – there could be too

Captain John Rees OBE

much going on to even get to have a decent conversation.

The corporate hospitality offering on board a vessel such as HMS Caroline which marks the contribution of 10,000 Irishmen to the First World War naval campaigns is remarkably casual, gives everyone the opportunity to talk, and to share an interest in the shared maritime history of Belfast and Ireland.

This is what is important when you’re deciding on your hospitality investments.

First, can you talk comfortably? If you’re planning on a golf day, maybe you will get split up from who you want to be building relationships with.

Secondly, think about the geography of your hospitality plans: will all the action take place in one area so that you won’t lose your potential client? The key is ensuring you get good, quality time with your clients or prospective clients. That is how deals are done and relationships flourish.

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Thirdly, what are the hospitality options?

As with every social situation, no lunch or dinner guest wants to be waiting around for wine to be served, or have their tummy grumbling for an hour after they’ve arrived.

Fourthly, when it comes to planning, be one step ahead. Perhaps there are big tournaments or fixtures coming to Northern Ireland in 2019 – what are the corporate hospitality opportunities?

Should you get your dates in the diary sooner rather than later?

The fifth and final essential point is to be meticulous with your budget. Are you going to be spending more than the benefits of hospitality are going to bring in to your company? While the business of networking can be gradual yet naturally fruitful, you need to make it work for your bottom line. Think carefully before spending thousands on a day out that will do nothing but allow your company to ‘be seen’. ■

Support Cancer Focus NI and turn your workplace PINK this October to raise funds for breast cancer research at Queens University Belfast Decorate pink, don your pink attire and fundraise pink pounds!

To receive your Pink Pack contact Louise T: 028 9068 0765 E: louisegreer@cancerfocusni.org 73

INTERVIEW

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Breakfast BUSINESS

INTERVIEW

By John Mulgrew

The column that doesn’t have time for lunch...

BREAKFASTEER: AODHAN CONNOLLY, DIRECTOR OF THE NORTHERN IRELAND RETAIL CONSORTIUM

morning, have opted for a healthy option – muesli. I’m not sure what that says about me.

BREAKFASTING VENUE: GRAND CENTRAL HOTEL, BELFAST

Back to Brexit, Aodhan says that squeezed margins across the retail sector aren’t going to improve with any additional financial or administrative burden caused by Brexit. And that, for consumers, will mean increased prices.

A

odhan Connolly says there will be opportunities for retail businesses in Northern Ireland once the UK exits the EU in March.

To be fair, that’s probably the only positive Brexit line the director the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium mentions to me, as we sit on the ground floor cafe of Hastings Hotels 23-storey Grand Central on Bedford Street.

“Retail is challenging, and there is a lack of both consumer confidence and business confidence,” he says.

“That is stemming from the political uncertainty around Brexit. It’s the biggest challenge to our industry in a lifetime.

“The fact that we as an industry are not only consumer-facing, and rely on consumer footfall, and spend industry in a lifetime.

The fact that we as an industry are not only consumer-facing, and rely on consumer footfall, and spend, we are also facing deals with other sectors such as construction, services, agri-food – there are complex supply chains.”

Of course, Belfast itself has been hit with another major blow to retail. The fire which gutted the listed Bank Buildings, home to Primark, effectively cut the city centre in two – with a cordon, ongoing at the time of print, stopping the regular free-flowing This is a very coffee-heavy morning for me, I should note. A couple of pods before leaving the house leads to flat white-driven discourse with my breakfast companion.

It’s noted by the staff that I, like others that

OCTOBER 2018

“Anything that adds to that administration, or financial burden, is not welcome,” he said.

“On Brexit, we are talking about tariffs, customs, our colleagues in the front line, the supply chain. We as retailers cannot afford to absorb any more costs.

on retail and they have, or are working on, retail strategies.

“There is nothing in Northern Ireland. We are going to fall behind. Retail, for all of its challenges, is a very good dipstick of how the economy is performing. More than 65% of our GDP is consumer-driven.”

He says the entire landscape of late has meant a huge drop in the number of retail-related planning applications – an indication that shops and others are playing it safe and waiting for the storm to subside.

“Anecdotally, the number of planning applications going through regarding retail, is less than a third of what it had been a few years ago.

“Our profit margins have cut and cut, due to the grocery wars, and there simply isn’t the wiggle room for us to absorb everything, so some of that will have to get passed on to the consumer.”

“People need the certainty. We are still a growth market in NI, and are not at saturation yet. It’s one of the hardest places to do business.

“Our consumers already has have half the disposable income, compared to those elsewhere in the UK. There will be opportunities with Brexit, but we need to get the challenges sorted first.

“When the Assembly was sitting, 80 pieces of legislation went through, and those made it harder to do business, not easier. We in Northern Ireland, need to plan for the future, and make it more business-centric.” ■

“We plan five or 10 years in advance. With the situation now, it allows us to sustain, but it doesn’t allow us to look at further investment and growth.”

He says decision making, or a lack of, is what is at the core of the uncertainty. That includes re-examining rates.

“We need decisions made on that… when Stormont fell, decision making fell. One of the big things for us, and something we should be shouting about, is that retail is undervalued.

THE BILL:

al Hotel

Grand Centr

3 £10.50 Flat white x £3.00 Americano

0 Muesli £4.0 esso £3.00 pr es Double

“Its cont to supply chain, to employment, to GVA. We really are running the risk of falling behind Great Britain. They have lead officials

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PROFILE

Entrepreneur of the month TERRY MOORE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF OUTSOURCE

How is business?

It’s exciting. It’s a great time to be in business in Northern Ireland, the changing landscape in terms of cyber security has added some urgency to the requirement to see technology differently. We must change how we think about IT, how it’s designed, delivered and supported. The heightened awareness of the importance of cyber security has created the space and opportunity for companies like Outsource to be part of a growing centre of excellence in the sector in Northern Ireland and we’re now regarded as a specialist in the area.

How did you get started in the industry?

It wasn’t a conscious decision to end up in the IT industry. I’ve always had a passion for business and innovation and after completing a business degree I had the opportunity to study for a Masters while captaining the university rugby team. IT was the most attractive subject to me at the time so that was the route I went down. I moved to Manchester and worked for a large IT firm for a few years then relocated back home where I continued in the industry. I realised that I wanted to run my own business in order to do things the way I felt was best. When I first started out the business was called Secure IT Systems and it was all about delivering IT solutions with security at the core. In 2004 we re-named as Outsource Solutions. The business had grown to more than just IT and we were becoming integrated within our client’s businesses and delivering solutions to many other areas of their operations which have IT links, such as telecoms, online sales, and integrated security.

The past three years has seen a rapid growth for the business and we now have offices in Antrim, Belfast, Cookstown, Dublin and Edinburgh.

Typically, who are your clients or customers?

When the business was first established the majority of our clients were from the professional services industry, particularly in the legal sector. While the clients we had when we first set up 18 years ago are still clients to this day, we definitely represent a wider range of industries, from hospitality and tourism to aviation, engineering, manufacturing and food production.

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Do you enjoy what you do, and what in particular?

I can say with all honesty that I love what I do. I work very long hours, but the job is part hobby and part passion, so it never feels like work.

I love the opportunity for problem solving and the fact that the industry is constantly evolving with new technology and innovation to help us deliver an even better service to our clients. It’s a fast-paced industry and it’s really exciting to part of.

What is the most difficult part of your job?

Resourcing can certainly be a challenge. Finding the right people for particular jobs is about more than just qualifications and skills, it’s so important to have the right aptitude and client-focused approach which leads to really great work.

What are the challenges facing your sector, and the economy in general?

At Outsource we’re getting ready to develop our academy for use beyond our own staff and clients and are working with local colleges to help design courses which will equip people of all ages with recognised qualifications to help them move into the IT industry. In terms of the economy, there are a few obvious challenges which most business owners will mention regardless of their industry – the uncertainty of Brexit and the lack of devolved government are big issues for the Northern Ireland business community. However, these are things we have no control over and businesses will do what we do best in any situation. ■

Motoring

By Pat Burns

Sponsored by

OCTOBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018

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The Largest Family Owned Motor Retailer in N.Ireland www.donnellygroup.co.uk

MOTORING

Insignia gets the GSi treatment

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eaders of Ulster Business of a certain age will remember the GSi badge on the back of sporty Vauxhalls. The nomenclature has returned and now graces the Insignia, with a GSi trick Corsa to follow soon.

The new Insignia GSi delivers high levels of performance through all-wheel drive, a new chassis and Brembo brakes, and is powered by either a new 2.0-litre BiTurbo diesel, or a refined 2.0-litre turbo petrol unit.

The GSi has an all-wheel-drive system, incorporating a sophisticated twin-clutch differential which provides torque vectoring in the most demanding conditions, turns the GSi into a first-class driver’s car.

Like other models in the Insignia’s range, the GSi has shed weight – in this case, 160 kilograms versus the first-generation VXR which preceded it. Combined with a 10 millimetre lower ride height, the difference

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in the Insignia GSi’s steering, body control and overall agility can be felt immediately.

Significantly, the GSi is the fastest Vauxhall yet around Germany’s Nurburgring, where much of its chassis development was carried out, and is a full 12 seconds quicker than the outgoing, and more powerful Insignia VXR. Exterior design updates include chrome air intakes at the front and a rear spoiler for improved levels of downforce, while on the inside full-leather sports seats, a leather sports steering wheel and aluminium pedals complete the package.

The launch of the 2018 Insignia GSi also marks 25 years since the first GSi badge was seen on a Vauxhall (in 1993 on the then new Corsa).

Ulster Business tested the bi-turbo diesel, combining superb performance with great fuel economy. This engine is based on the Insignia’s existing 2.0-litre (170PS) singleturbo diesel unit, the BiTurbo features two

turbochargers working sequentially. The intake air enters the first turbocharger where it is compressed and passed to the second turbo.

The BiTurbo produces 480Nm of torque from just 1500rpm. It accelerates from 0-60mph in 7.3 seconds and has a maximum speed of 145mph.

This new car is also the first eight-speed automatic transmission to be fitted to a Vauxhall. Compared with the previous generation VXR’s six-speed automatic, the GSi’s eight-speed gearbox is even more responsive, its additional gears maintaining optimum performance.

Specific tuning for the GSi’s ABS, traction control and electronic stability control (ESC) systems have been developed, including a ‘competition mode’, and the option of turning off the ESC completely. In case you want to go back to your youth. ■

SEAT FOR BUSINESS

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BIK................................................................................................................................................... 28% 35 monthly payments.....................................................................................£230.00 plus VAT MPG ............................................................................................................................................... 62.8 Initial rental............................................................................................................ £1,380 plus VAT P11D ..................................................................................................................................£26,185.00 Excess mileage (per mile).........................................................................4p per mile plus VAT

Comfort seats in black alcantra.

18 inch performance alloy wheels.

Navigation system with 8 inch colour touchscreen.

Donnelly SEAT 59 Moy Road, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone, BT71 7DT Tel: 028 8772 2887 www.donnellygroup.co.uk/SEAT *No ownership option. Business users only. Based on a 36 month, 10,000 mile per annum Contract Hire agreement. Excess mileage and damage charges may apply. All Prices Exclude VAT. VAT payable at 20%. 18s+. Subject to status and availability. T&Cs apply. Offer ends 31st October. Indemnities may be required. Not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be withdrawn at any time. Accurate at 09/2018. Freepost SEAT Financial Services.

OCTOBER 2018

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The Largest Family Owned Motor Retailer in N.Ireland www.donnellygroup.co.uk

MOTORING

The new Donnelly Group SEAT showroom

You’ll have to SEAT to believe it

B

usiness motorists from across Northern Ireland are invited to the Donnelly Group’s recently refurbished top-end SEAT showroom in Dungannon.

The showroom, based on Dungannon’s Moy Road, currently houses eight SEAT models, along with over 50 approved used cars on site from the extensive SEAT range.

Donnelly Group, which is Northern Ireland’s largest family-owned vehicle retailer, has introduced a new business contract hire offer on the award-winning SEAT Ateca Xcellence.

Initial rental is now as low as £1,380 plus VAT, meaning that businesses can cost effectively lease one of these distinctive SUVs. Catherine Clifford, sales manager at Donnelly Group Seat Dungannon, said: “At Donnelly Group we work in close partnership with all 18 manufacturers, and SEAT is no exception. This relationship allows us to offer the full range at the best price to suit all types and sizes of business and all budgets.

“In terms of leasing, there are great options

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available with SEAT vehicles, particularly on the Ateca which not only has a sleek and dynamic design, but also comes with a choice of powerful and efficient engines, offering our customers the most advanced driving experience.

on the SEAT Ateca, the cost of maintenance, servicing and even road tax is all included in the price. This applies to all of the finance offers available on the Seat range, meaning that businesses can focus on what really matters.”

“A main priority for companies purchasing a vehicle for businesses purposes, is that the one they acquire can be relied on every day.

Winning the ‘Best Small SUV’ title at the What Car? Awards, reflects just how reliable and versatile these vehicles are.”

Catherine said: “At Donnelly Group, we continually go above and beyond to ensure that the process of choosing the right vehicle is hassle free.

Monthly rental on the SEAT Ateca starts at £230 a month plus VAT, with excess mileage charges standing at £0.04 per mile plus VAT. Dave Sheeran, managing director at Donnelly Group, said: “Leasing a vehicle has quickly become one of the most popular ways for businesses to gain access to a vehicle.

“At Donnelly Group we recognise that for business owners, the costs associated with leasing a vehicle for business use can often be a concern.

“With our new business contract hire offer

“With extensive knowledge of each model and the products available, the SEAT Dungannon sales team are well equipped to find a vehicle which meets the needs of every customer.

“With eight sites in various locations across Northern Ireland, motorists are never far from a Donnelly Group showroom should they need assistance or advice.

“With the full range of award-winning SEAT vehicles now available to test drive, we look forward to welcoming our new and existing customers to the showroom.” ■ For more information on the finance offers available please visit wwww.donnellygroup. co.uk/seat. To book your test drive at the Donnelly SEAT showroom, Moy Road, Dungannon, please call 028 8772 2887

MOTORING

New car sales on rise in NI

N

ew cars sales in Northern Ireland increased marginally in August, according to the latest industry figures.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), some 3,701 new cars were sold across Northern Ireland in August. That’s up 1.48% on the same period a year earlier.

However, the annual figure shows that the number of new cars registered is down by 2.96%, from 39,580 to 38,407.

In Northern Ireland, the Volkswagen Polo topped the list as the most popular car, with 155 powering out of showrooms in August.

There were around 147 Ford Fiestas sold, putting it in second place, with the Ford Kuga coming in at third with 132 vehicles.

Across the UK as a whole, demand for new cars rose by 23.1%. Some 94,094 new cars were registered in August compared with 76,433 during the same month in 2017.

The automotive industry body said that the market is not “booming” and the figures are a result of August being a traditionally slow month for sales.

Sales of petrol models increased by 39.1%

OCTOBER 2018

last month, while diesels fell for the 17th consecutive month, down 7.7%.

Demand for alternatively fuelled vehicles such as hybrids and pure electrics increased by 88.7% to take a market share of 8%.

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes, said: “It’s great to see such strong growth, particularly in the important electric vehicle market.

“However, given August is always a small month in new car registrations ahead of the important plate-change month of September, it would be wrong to view the market as booming.

“Indeed, this past month has seen some significant variances as regulatory changes have disrupted some supplies.

“In the long term, however, the new emissions certification test will give consumers renewed confidence in the performance of all vehicles, helping them choose the latest, cleanest technology that best suits their driving needs, whether that be petrol, diesel, hybrid or plug-in.”

Ulster Bank chief economist, Richard Ramsey said that “new car sales are a barometer of consumer confidence as a car purchase is the largest discretionary

purchase outside of buying a home”.

Meanwhile, BMW has said it will not build cars at its Mini plant immediately after the UK leaves the EU next year, to carry out annual maintenance.

The car giant said essential updating will start on April 1 at the site in Cowley, near Oxford, and last several weeks.

“Planned annual maintenance periods at BMW Group production sites allow essential updating and equipment replacement to be completed over several weeks, while there is no production taking place,” it said in a statement.

“As a responsible organisation, we have scheduled next year’s annual maintenance period at Mini Plant Oxford to start on April 1, when the UK exits the EU, to minimise the risk of any possible short-term partssupply disruption in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

“While we believe this worst case scenario is an unlikely outcome, we have to plan for it.

“We remain committed to our operations in Britain, which is the only country in the world where we manufacture for all three of our automotive brands.” ■

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The Largest Family Owned Motor Retailer in N.Ireland www.donnellygroup.co.uk

MOTORING

MG makes a comeback

E

veryone has heard of MG cars but not everyone is aware that the brand is re-establishing itself here. MG dealers are beginning to become a more common sight around Northern Ireland and while MG is actually owned by a massive Chinese car builder, SAIC Motor, you only have to look at Volvo’s current popularity to see that this is no bad thing. Volvo is also owned by another Chinese manufacturer, Geely.

With sales of compact-SUV and small crossovers continuing to grow across Europe, MG Motor UK has launched all-new MG ZS. With the entry-level model available on the road from just £12,495 – around £2,500 more affordable than the equivalent Nissan Juke, and other competitors: the MG ZS also launches with a host of competitive finance offers.

Coming with one of the longest fully transferable warranties in its class, the MG ZS offers a seven year/80,000-mile warranty

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as standard across all variants. Testament to MG’s confidence in the quality of its design, engineering and manufacturing operations, this industry-beating warranty sees MG back up its promise of quality with a full seven year manufacturer warranty, with rivals such as SsangYong, Hyundai and Toyota only providing five years.

The MG ZS is a global car with a distinct British feel. Completely re-engineered by the UK engineering team, this MG ZS has been tested on UK roads and developed for UK drivers. As such, the Excite and Exclusive models come with three power-assisted steering modes – urban, normal and dynamic – which are designed to give the driver complete control over their ride.

While urban steering offers a lighter and quicker response at low speeds and when parking, the dynamic mode is designed to increase the steering effort, deliver a higher damping effect and increase the centre definition at medium and high vehicle speeds.

Firmly committed to ensuring customers get exceptional value for money, the MG ZS comes with most of the ‘extras’ as standard.

An industry-leading eight inch touch sensitive infotainment screen is supported by DAB radio (on the Exclusive and Excite models), while Bluetooth hands-free and remote central locking is available across the range.

Cruise control is also included, while air conditioning comes as standard on Excite and Exclusive models, and satellite navigation and a rear camera are standard on the Exclusive variant.

Customers can choose from a 1.5 DOHC VTItech, four-cylinder engine with smooth and responsive five-speed manual gearbox, or a 1.0 GDI turbocharged, three-cylinder version of the engine which complements the sixspeed automatic gearbox option to produce a fast-paced and dynamic ride for drivers looking to experience a little extra.

Renault’s value range Dacia is proving a success and there is no reason why MG cannot follow suit. ■

A word from

The Wise The column with an ear for experience...

John Moore, managing director, Hays Northern Ireland How did you start out in business?

I pursued the academic route with a degree in Business Studies and a Postgrad Diploma in Legal Studies. My first job right after university was working in the US, selling merchandising at concerts for the band Pearl Jam – a quality if unconventional start to working life. It taught me focus, negotiation and persistence as well as a great taste in music.

What have you found the most challenging during your years of business, so far The most challenging part has been the pace of change, but this has also been the most enjoyable part – never knowing how businesses and recruiting practices will evolve.

It’s changed from the early days of checking a fax machine on a Monday for applications received over the weekend to an environment today that includes social sourcing, job aggregators and predictive analytics. And at the same time it is still important to keep space in the diary for traditional networking events.

How would you describe your management style?

Style always varies according to circumstances. I’m definitely outcome-driven by nature and that’s important, otherwise you can become distracted. I am always curious to understand what makes people and organisations tick and being collaborative with customers and my own senior management means I’m also learning and adapting my approach all the time.

OCTOBER 2018

What would you change if you could go back and do it all again?

I probably would have asked more challenging questions within my own company as well as from my clients.

There are always things you look back on and would change with the benefit of hindsight.

professionals in Northern Ireland to further their careers while supporting a formidable range of companies to achieve their business objectives. We have done so in a highly ethical manner and we’ve made a material difference to business in Northern Ireland while always taking a long-term view of what makes good business.

Have you done it all on your own?

Not a chance. I’ve been blessed to work alongside some exceptionally driven people who have been open to sharing their successes with me. I work with great teams here in Northern Ireland and I have a peer group throughout the UK and Ireland. I recently attended an international management programme run by Hays and have extended my network even further.

What piece of advice would you give to a 20-year-old you?

Prior to commencing my working life I believed that my qualifications and a good employer would be all I needed to progress my career. If I could offer one piece of advice it would be to identify a mentor and ideally more than one at different stages of your career. The challenges you face will have been encountered by people in your network. Invest time in building and nurturing a network and you’ll find inspiration and opportunity as you develop a prosperous career. ■

How would you like your business to be remembered?

We’ve helped many thousands of

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APPOINTMENTS

Olenick has appointed Claire McBride as managing diirector of its Belfast office.

In her new role she will be responsible forl business growth and lead plans for expansion into the UK and Ireland markets.

Cleaver Fulton Rankin has appointed Amanda Sistern as business development and marketing manager. Ms Sistern, who has 10 years’ marketing experience in a range of sectors.

Jane McManus has been appointed as a solicitor in the planning and environmental department at Cleaver Fulton Rankin. She was admitted to the roll of solicitors in NI in 2014.

Kristina Killen has been appointed as an associate solicitor in the residential conveyancing team at Cleaver Fulton Rankin, as part of the wider private client department. Ms Killen has a wealth of experience in all aspects of conveyancing.

Helen Smyth has been appointed as a solicitor in the dispute resolution department at Cleaver Fulton Rankin. She studied law at Queen’s University and completed her studies at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies.

Marc Kelly has been appointed as a solicitor in the dispute resolution department at Cleaver Fulton Rankin.

He studied law at Queen’s, obtaining a scholarship to study in the US. He was admitted to the roll of solicitors in 2014.

Sophie Maxwell has been appointed as director of the Northern Group and its associated companies Northern Lift Trucks (NI) Ltd and Norspace Ltd. Ms Maxwell is responsible for driving sales growth and revenue for Northern Lift Trucks.

Belfast-based PR firm Jago has appointed Victoria Nicol as a director. She joins joined the practice, bringing more than eight years of management consultancy experience.

Simon Sharkey is now graphic designer with 3fivetwo. Mr Sharkey’s role is to support the sales and marketing team’s activity by designing and editing print and digital material for the group.

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APPOINTMENTS

Roisin McLernon has been appointed as company secretary of the Northern Group and its associated companies. She worked for six years in a large manufacturing firm before joining the company in 2000.

Robert Maye is now group sales manager at 3fivetwo Group’s. Mr Maye’s new role will be to drive sales growth and revenue for the group, implementing a strategic sales plan while managing and supporting the sales team.

Alison McParland has been appointed to the role of talent management executive at the Abacus Group. In her new role Ms McParland is responsible for all inquiries from new hires to development.

Laura Kearney has joined the Abacus Group to work in the field of temporary recruitment. She brings more than four years’ experience of working within temporary commercial recruitment in NI. Matthew Smyth has been appointed as director of the Northern Group and its associated companies Northern Lift Trucks (NI) Ltd and Norspace Ltd. He is responsible for the expansion of the Norspace business throughout Ireland.

Women in Business has appointed Jacquie Henriette as business development manager. She is responsible for identifying and developing the strategic growth within Women in Business.

Gareth Crudden has been appointed as sales executive with 3fivetwo Group. Mr Crudden is responsible for generating new sales leads to expand its customer base and increase brand awareness.

Claire Winter is now group marketing managerat 3fivetwo Group. She will be responsible for managing the marketing activity for group and associated firms including Kingsbridge Private Hospital.

Cheryl McNeill is now programmes manager at Women in Business. Ms McNeill is responsible for planning and managing current programmes, developing new initiatives and sourcing the best facilitators to deliver projects.

OCTOBER 2018

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PHOTOCALL

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1. Kerrie Sweeney, chief executive of Titanic Foundation with Tourism NI chief executive John McGrillen and Hastings Hotels Caitriona Lavery pictured launching the publication of Tourism NI’s Annual Review.

2. Food Heartland Awards 2018 top judges Paula McIntyre and Noel McMeel join deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge Paul Duffy (centre) to sample one of the delicious dishes shortlisted for a Food Heartland Award.

3. Tailored Image has worked closely with Translink to design a full uniform package for Glider drivers portraying the vibrant vision for the brand identity of Glider which entered service in September.

2

4. Antrim-based business Legal-Island has been named as a leader in people management practice globally, having been shortlisted in the Gold Employer of the year category in The Investors in People Awards 2018. Pictured is managing director Jayne Gallagher.

5. David Kerr and Richard Bowman pictured the rebrand of planning consultancy firm Strategic Planning.

The Holywood business announced it has rebranded to become Gravis Planning and will also expand with a new office in Dublin.

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5

3

6

PHOTOCALL 6. Belfast Harbour chief executive Joe O’Neill with captain Marcel Schaar of the Stena Forerunner and Anna Breen, Stena Line’s freight commercial manager of Irish Sea North ahead of the ferry’s first sailing from Belfast to Liverpool.

7. Agnew Corporate has announced the launch of their new brand identity, Agnew Leasing. Pictured launching the rebrand is Graham Thompson, managing director of Agnew Leasing.

7

8. David Kearns and Michael McCusker of Tour Ticket Ireland based at the Innovation Factory on the Springfield Road. The west Belfast pair have started a tour company dedicated to injecting more money into the NI economy.

8

9. Head chef Pierre Caulet and owner Guillaume Rabillat photographed outside the newly opened Mediterranean restaurant 44. Located at Hill Street in Belfast city centre the new eatery has created around 25 jobs.

10. South Eastern Regional College (SERC) has created an educational partnership with fire, security and maintenance services provider Solutions for Systems Limited. Pictured is SERC’s Robert Hamill, William McBride, Solutions for Systems director and SERC’s Jeb Berkeley.

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OCTOBER 2018

10

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11. PA Consulting has announced the creation of 400 new jobs for Belfast.

Pictured launching the new roles are Jiten Kachhela, digital lead, Anita Chandraker, PA Consulting, Alastair Hamilton, Invest NI chief executive, and Secretary of State Karen Bradley.

12. Adam Heyes managing director of Subway development Ireland, Keith Tierney owner of the new Subway restaurant at Titanic Quarter, pictured alongside James Eyre commercial director of Titanic Quarter.

13. General manager, Gavin Carroll and bartender, Mario De Santis toast the return of the second annual Festival of Prosecco to Belfast’s Merchant Hotel, which ran throughout September at the five-star hotel.

14. Thousands turned out for this year’s annual Belfast Mela, together with Spar Organised by ArtsEkta, the Belfast Mela celebrates Northern Ireland’s increasing cultural diversity with music, dance, food and much more from around the world. Nisha Tandon, founder of ArtsEkta is pictured with performers from the Rajasthani Brass Band.

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15. Eurospar staff pictured at the official opening of the new supermarket in Lagan Valley. Work has completed at the new Lisburn on Hillsborough Road, creating 22 new jobs.

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PHOTOCALL 16. Cleaver Fulton Rankin solicitors welcomes six new starts, Pictured are Helen Smyth, solicitor, Amanda Sistern, business development and marketing manager, Marc Kelly, solicitor, Jane McManus, solicitor, Brendan Martyn, associate solicitor, and Kristina Killen, associate solicitor.

17. British Red Cross volunteer coordinator Steven Hughes (right) puts the finishing touches to the charity’s new mobility aids van with the help of Red Cross NI president Terry Cross and Ulster Garden Villages’s executive director Valerie Ingram.

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18. Holiday bargain hunter turned businessman Jordan McCluskey launches his new website The Holiday Ninja which collates offers and deals from a wide range of travel companies.

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19. Ulster Bank has appointed a new inhouse entrepreneurship team. Pictured is Matthew Teague, John Ferris, Lynsey Cunningham, Ulster Bank’s regional director of entrepreneurship and Gabi Logan, who also takes up the position of entrepreneur acceleration manager.

20. Pictured in Danske Bank’s newly refurbished branch at Donegall Square West in Belfast are Aisling Press, head of branch banking at Danske Bank, John Mulhern, the new branch manager and Mandy Mooney, Belfast city manager.

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21. Some of the biggest names from the world of rugby pictured at the Archbishop’s Palace in Armagh along with friends and family of Dr Rory Best OBE to witness the sportsman’s conferment with the Freedom of the Borough of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon.

22. Aodh Hannon of Hannon Coach with Stena Line’s Ian Baillie after the firm revealed plans to expand the company’s direct luxury coach service between Belfast and Glasgow to other towns across Northern Ireland.

23. Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Julie Flaherty is joined by Adam Wallace from Digital Catapult NI as they encourage businesses to attend the Connect with Tech: Emerging Technologies and Your Business on October 10.

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24. Professor Ian Greer, president and vice-chancellor of Queen’s University, Professor Paddy Nixon, vice-chancellor of Ulster University are pictured with Ulster University student Sarah Sweeney (centre).

25. Glenn Patterson, Colin Carberry, A&L Goodbody’s Michael Neill and Jimmy Fay after it was revealed the law firm is the official sponsor of the world premiere production of the stage musical version of popular movie Good Vibrations.

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PHOTOCALL 26. EY chief economist Neil Gibson, Darina Armstrong, chief executive Progressive Building Society, Sarah Travers and John French of The Consumer Council help launch NI Savings Week.

27. Maybeth Shaw, BDO NI with Allie Renison, head of Europe and trade policy at the IoD and Richard Gray, Carson McDowell launch the IoD’s event post-EU summit event, which takes place on at the Merchant Hotel on November 8.

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28. Nichola Daly, director, Daly Recruitment is pictured with Belfast Lord Mayor Deirdre Hargey after the Go For It programme has reached a significant milestone. It’s helped 350 Belfast entrepreneurs launch their businesses since last September.

29. Pictured at the new Catalyst Belfast Fintech Hub in Danske Bank are Conor Houston and Conor Logue from member company Finmondo, Vicky Davies, managing director of strategy and corporate development at Danske Bank with Steve Orr, director of Connect at Catalyst Inc. 30. Launching the ‘New Deal for Northern Ireland’ policy document at Westminster is Colin Neill, Hospitality Ulster, Stephen Kelly, Manufacturing NI, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Karen Bradley and Glyn Roberts, Retail NI.

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CHAIRMAN

Some of the political heavyweights showing up included Conservative peer and former Ulster Unionist Party leader, Lord Trimble, Lord Tebbit, with former Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers and Conservative MPs Bob Stewart and Mark Harper.

The event, which was hosted by DUP MP Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, also heard from Sinn Fein MP Paul Maskey, along with a host of business leaders.

The Chairman From Lords and MPs to Cabinet ministers and top business leaders, the man in the lounge suit paid a visit to Westminster

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or The Chairman it was a case of where to start when it came to the movers and shakers in the world of business, politics and PR. He was cordially invited to the hottest ticket in town, which saw more than 200 business leaders and senior politicians travel to Westminster to hear from the Secretary of State, Karen Bradley, along with Glyn Roberts, chief executive of Retail NI, Colin Neill, chief executive of Hospitality Ulster and Stephen Kelly, chief executive of Manufacturing NI. The event was the biggest NI-focused business event at Westminster in the last few years, and was a chance to call on politicians to return to a power-sharing government and give Northern Ireland a voice on crucial Brexit talks.

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The event heard calls for a restoration of Stormont, the devolution of corporation tax

by April 2021 and an extension of the small business rate relief scheme.

Business leaders included Roy Kinnear, Flybe, Liam McKay of London City Airport, Michael McLarnon of ISL Waste Management, Michael McKinstry, chief executive of Phoenix Gas, along with Michael Bell, Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association and Graham Keddie and Uel Hoey of Belfast International Airport.

Among the other politicians turning out included former MLA Jimmy Spratt, DUP MP Gavin Robinson and Sinn Fein’s Michelle Gildernew.

The glossy world of PR was represented by, among others, Paul McErlean of MCE – who acted as compere for the event – along with Chris Brown of Brown O’Connor and Danske Bank’s Simon Little.

And outside of UK politics, other notable visitors included Minister Zhu Qin of the Chinese Embassy to the UK. There was also a brief visit to the Strangers’ Bar in the Palace of Westminster, once the formal proceedings had finished.

It’s a charming spot, with a solid range of half decent cask ale – certainly interesting enough to keep The Chairman content for a brief refresher after all that business.

Aside from the heavy, hard-hitting business of politics, Botanic Gardens played host to this year’s Belfast Mela. And while it was

wet... very wet, it still managed to embrace the same spirit as previous drier years, with usual raft of colour, culture and cuisine.

Elsewhere, there was also the launch of Jordan McCluskey’s new website, at Babel in Belfast.

Essentially, Holiday NInja – see what he did there with the uppercase I? – is a comparison site for would-be holidaymakers, only it has a Northern Ireland focus.

A host of business types turned out for the launch, including PR bosses Grainne McGarvey and Rachael Harriott, and from the world of journalism, Martin Breen, editor of the Sunday life.

Elsewhere, the Crowne Plaza hotel in Belfast welcomed business leaders and industry leaders to showcase the work of shortlisted finalists for this year’s Construction Excellence Awards.

And what better way to try and draw crowds into the city, following the huge blaze which gutted the Bank Buildings – home to Primark – than Culture Night.

Thousands descended on the city for a night of music, theatre and comedy. It’s the sort of thing which really does boost the cultural credentials of Belfast, each and every year.

Meanwhile, in north Belfast the ABV Fest showcased some of the UK, Ireland and the rest of the world’s top brews. The event, which took place at Carlisle Memorial Church, is now in its fourth year.

Back to the world of Hospitality Ulster, the organisation launched its Top 100 Hospitality Businesses awards. It’s the second time it has run the bash with a Top 100 list, and the launch saw hundreds packed into the Merchant Hotel for the unveiling – which included some rather stylish specs from the man himself, Colin Neill. ■

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Former MLA Jimmy Spratt and DUP MP Gavin Robinson

Glyn Roberts, Stephen Kelly and Colin Neill at the Westminster event

Performers from the Rajasthani Brass Band pictured at the Mela in Belfast

Nick Whelan, Dale Farm, Sinn Fein MP Michelle Gildernew and Cyril Brennan

Madam Wang Shuying, Chinese consul general in Belfast with Chinese dancers at the Mela in Belfast

DUP MP Jeffrey Donaldson helped host the business event

Israeli ambassador to the UK Mark Regev, and ex-Secretary of State, Theresa Villiers

Secretary of State for NI Karen Bradley MP

Liam McKay, director of corporate affairs at London City Airport

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TRAVEL

From Belgium with love: beer, food and jazz John Mulgrew returns to Brussels and takes in neighbouring Antwerp to discover Belgium’s brewing and food scene, while baking in the summer heat and taking in some late-night jazz along the way

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t’s all chocolate and beer over there, isn’t it? - a friend quips when I tell him I’d paid a visit to Brussels and its surrounding northern cities.

There are stereotypes which follow the country around like a bad smell, but some of the positive elements are certainly true.

And while I don’t expect every reader should dive in head first to the country’s superb beer scene, including what some beer geeks revere above all other styles – the tart, funky spontaneously fermented sour brews such as lambics and older blended gueuze – it’s worth trying some of the stalwarts of the historic brewing scene, at the very least.

This trip started in Antwerp – about an hour on the regular train service from Brussels. For

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reference, this is one of probably more than a dozen trips I’ve paid to the country in the last decade.

Antwerp is an accessible port city, known for its diamond quarter. Its main train station is also something to behold. Listed as one of the world’s most beautiful stations, it fuses century-old architecture with grand ceilings, along with its multi-storey renovation in 2007.

The main town squares in Belgium’s northern cities each have a familiar style, with Antwerp’s Grote Markt akin to the capital’s larger Grand-Place. These spots are worth a dander around on a hot day, but expect to pay tourist prices at the raft of outside eateries which scatter the perimeter.

Temperatures in Belgium tend to fall in line with the south of England – a warmer climate than Northern Ireland, with the mercury hitting the late 20s during the summer.

On this latest trip, it was a high of 37C and a low of a little over 20-odd at night. Scorching, but with a crisp Belgian strong pale ale in hand, that’s all made right (with suitable water intake as required, also).

In Antwerp, and Brussels, you’ll find a raft of beers from the six Belgian Trappist monasteries – highlights include Rochefort 10, Westmalle Tripel and the highly sought-after Westvleteren 12 – and those from the moremodern producers, such as Brussels Beer Project and De Struise, fairly readily across the capital, and the surrounding areas.

Brabo Fountain in front of the town hall in the Grote Markt, Antwerp

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with a platter of beer pate, cheese, bread and pottekeis – a fresh cheese spread, somewhere between a smooth cottage cheese and sour cream.

Now, in Brussels there are more than a few great spots for both a wide-range of top-end Belgian brews, and a warm atmosphere.

Frites Atelier is a popular spot for high-end Belgian frites, topped with items such as truffle mayonnaise, Indonesian peanut sauce and a stunning traditional Flemish stew. It’s normally bunged, but the system ensures you aren’t waiting long – and it’s definitely worth the visit.

One of Belgium’s beer-known beer spots can also be found a short distance from the city centre. The Kulminator is a somewhat eccentric spot, run by a husband and wife team. It has a traditional brown cafe feel, cluttered, but has the most extensive range of aged Belgian beers I’ve come across.

To continue the beer theme, we headed to the small town of Lot – before heading on to Brussels for the rest of the stay.

It’s home to Drie Fonteinen – one of Belgium’s most-revered sour beer producers and blenders. A couple of hours well spent with one-off brews and vintage offerings, paired

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The central La Mort Subite is a grand cafe located close to Grand-Place, with a solid range of beer, while Delirium Cafe – known for having the largest selection of beer in the world – is worth a visit. If you’re going as a beer geek, peruse the vast 2,000+ bottle range and find something you can’t get back home, but be aware than it’s become a tourist mecca – with backpacking students filling it in the busy periods to get a filter-clad snap for their timeline.

Moeder Lambic has two spots – one central and one further south. Both are superb, modern Belgian beer bars, with a strong tap selection and the best meat and cheese board in the city.

Brussels has a couple of breweries in its city centre, but Cantillon is the place to visit for those who are either fully immersed in beer, or want to expand their palate.

You can also eat well in Brussels, with lots of spots serving good meat, cheese and pate, with bistro fare such as Flemish carbonnade and rabbit cooked in gueuze beer. There’s also an undercurrent of ‘all-you-can-eat’ rib appreciation, with Amadeo – and similar spots in other cities such as Ghent. We also opted for the beer-friendly and cosy Nuetnigenough.

How to get there There are two main ways to get to Brussels from the island – both Aer Lingus and Ryanair operate regular flights from Dublin to the main airport.

From there, the train system is the only public transport you’ll need to get around. Trains runs from the ground floor of the airport to the city’s main stations – with Brussels Central the most popular spot for connections and proximity.

Starters and mains include black pudding with gueuze beer sauce, veal meatballs and rabbit fricassee with gueuze.

For seafood, the bustling outdoor Noordzee is a great place to stop off for very fresh mussels, prawns and crab.

It’s difficult to know whether the city’s reasonable hotel prices, and flight costs – if booked far enough in advance – are in part due to the terror attacks in 2016. But Brussels is a city moving on from that particularly dark period in its modern history.

We stayed at the five-star Metropole – a grand Art Deco hotel with spacious rooms.

On this occasion we paid little over £80 a night.

Aside from places to eat and drink, the city centre is a very walkable place – it’s the sort of place that merits exploration. The city also boasts a thriving jazz centre, and it’s worth checking online to see what’s happening during your stay.

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Mobile gold: the winners and losers in Ireland’s app economy With over $1bn (£770m) paid out in the last decade, the mobile app economy has become one of Ireland’s biggest digital industries. Adrian Weckler talks to some of the most successful developers

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ne billion dollars – or £770m. It’s a lot of money. But this is how much Ireland’s app developers have earned from Apple’s App Store over the last decade, according to fresh figures.

That’s more than almost any other single component of the digital economy here.

And that’s not even counting revenue from other app stores, such as those for Android, Windows or for the Mac. So is it time we attributed more weight to the app industry? Ask a passer-by and they might think of an app developer as a side-job or something casual. Yet with some 17,000 jobs attached to the activity, Ireland is the 12th-largest ‘app economy’ country in Europe in terms of app jobs as percentage of all jobs, recent figures from Apple showed.

And while it’s true that Ireland doesn’t yet have a Rovio (Angry Birds), Epic Games (Fortnite) or King (Candy Crush), it does have some homegrown world-leading app companies.

Dublin-based 3D4Medical has risen to become one of the top medical app developers in the world.

Its anatomy apps, including the flagship ‘Complete Anatomy’ app, are used by over 200 universities in the world as official teaching aids.

They are now the top-grossing, top free medical apps in the world.

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Every major college from Harvard, Yale and Stanford to Cambridge, Edinburgh and a host of other European campuses now refers to the Irish company’s painstakingly intricate medical apps.

“We still think we’ve only barely scratched the surface,” says John Moore, co-founder of the company, which employs 80 people.”

His company is growing at breakneck speed, doubling its revenue from €5m (£4.5m) in 2015 to over €10m (£9m) last year.

It has been helped somewhat by recognition from Apple, which has repeatedly showcased 3D4Medical as an example of what can be achieved with apps.

In 2015, the firm’s head designer, Irene Walsh, was one of the keynote presenters at Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC).

And 3D4Medical’s apps have appeared in five separate Apple ads. “Obviously we wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Apple,” Mr Moore says. “That’s really where it started for us.

This ability to connect with millions of people through the App Store. It’s been amazing.”

But it is Apple’s App Store that still accounts for the vast bulk of its downloads, he says.

And the vast majority of its revenue is earned outside Ireland.

It’s not just colleges that use the technology.

Down the road at Dublin’s Beacon Hospital, Dr Maurice Neligan has taken to using some

of 3D4Medical’s apps to help explain and consult with patients on treatments.

The success of 3D4Medical’s across the world may be a sign that app development has become a mature, permanent part of ecommerce.

In total, European app developers have garnered around €20bn from App Store apps, according to recent Apple figures.

Some 1.5million jobs are attributable to apps and app development, the tech giant estimates.

“The industry is massive,” says Dermot Daly, co-founder and chief executive of Tapadoo, a Dublin-based app development company.

“You only have to look at the figures that Apple state they have paid out to iOS developers alone. At the beginning of this year’s World Wide Developer Conference, Tim Cook stated that Apple has paid out over $100bn (£70bn) to developers since the App Store began.

He also argues that the ‘gig economy’ wouldn’t be possible without apps. “While many people question the gig economy, services such as Deliveroo, and Lyft wouldn’t exist without apps,” he says. Can the app economy continue to grow?

“Yes and no,” says Vinny Coyne, another of Ireland’s first batch of app developers. Coyne’s popular Eirtext app was one of the original hits of the Irish App Store.

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“The app economy has grown in a much different direction than had been originally envisioned,” he says.”

Mr Coyne says that for independent app developers, paid apps have made way for ‘freemium’ apps. Subscription-based apps, he says are regarded as the holy grail for some developers.

“The main lesson to learn is that different apps require different monetisation models and a lot of experimentation is required to find out what works best,” Mr Coyne says.

“In the early days of the App Store, you could sell an app for €9.99 and make a living. Freemium became really popular once developers were given access to inapp purchase APIs and it has proven very successful in mobile games in particular.

“A lot of developers have been experimenting with subscription pricing lately and it has worked quite well for businesses that provide access to hosted content or services. It’s still a hard-sell for utility-type apps, however.”

Tapadoo’s Daly sees consistent, predictable growth in the app economy to come.

“I believe there is a maturing of the market which is natural and expected,” he says.

“Many people often try to suggest that this is a stagnation but this simply isn’t true. The maturing of the market is leading to less of a gold rush feel to it, and more considered approaches to how apps can benefit businesses. There’s still plenty of room for growth.“ ■

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MY DAY Uncovering the 9-5 Name: Billy McCarthy Position: iMultiply director

8am It’s an early start in our house; some days it’s breakfast with the kids and the school drop, others it’s up and away for 8am business meetings or pre-work events. To use my time well, the school run tends to be followed by an 8.30am at Coffee Yard, always a hive of business activity which sets the tone nicely for the day ahead. I’ve also recently started cycling to work a couple of days a week, navigating Belfast at rush hour is ideal for getting the adrenaline flowing.

9.30am As a relatively recent Northern Irish start up, how we build the company and how the brand is positioned are vital to us.

Companies looking to engage a finance and executive search firm or business professionals considering a career move, have to feel a connection to the firm representing them.

We sit down for half an hour every morning to discuss current initiatives, planned meetings, and events we are either hosting or attending. We are busy just now organising our anniversary celebration on October 18 - a thank you to those in the Northern Irish business community who have been part of our journey so far. I have to say, that the first 12 months of trading have gone by in a flash.

10.30am Meeting new people and making connections is central to how our firm operates, so midmorning coffees are the norm. I aim to meet at least one new company every day and regularly that entails an onsite visit to spend time with the leadership team. It’s fascinating to learn how different businesses operate and succeed. This is also a good time to catch up with contacts from the investment, advisory and banking communities, we are all doing a similar job but from different perspectives and always look to facilitate introductions for each other.

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12.30pm Lunchtimes are an opportunity to meet people who would like our help with making a career move, or to attend an event in and around Belfast. We are members of the IoD, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Catalyst Inc, so we are never short of somewhere to go. Founders and business leaders like to see that we are making the effort and that we want to work with them as a recruitment partner. Face time is essential in that regard, it is difficult to create trust without familiarity.

2pm Afternoons are spent on delivery, as reputations are often won or lost based on how you actually perform your job. Our recruitment process is robust, evidence based and time intensive - I find I am often focussed in the afternoons on detail orientated tasks.

Finance and executive search is a fascinating sector to be involved in, as it allows me to

interact with talent and companies from right across the business spectrum.

We are having great success helping relocators find professional employment in Northern Ireland, and a lot of my time is spent on the phone to people from London, Northern England, Scotland and further afield.

I’m a real champion of living and working here; I made the move from Edinburgh two years ago and its been fantastic both professionally and from a family perspective.

7pm Evenings are a mix of drinks and events, we’ve been running our quarterly ‘iMultiply Connects’ series, where we facilitate introductions within the business community, and the uptake has been fantastic. If there is nothing in the diary, I’m generally all talked out so I head out along the coast for a run, or try hitting some balls at the driving range.

That hour is great for getting that bit of headspace and planning for tomorrow.

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