business@bridgend - Autumn 2013

01656 815322 | business@bridgend.gov.uk Economic Development Unit

www.bridgend.gov.uk click Business Zone

Ford confirms multi-million pound investment at Bridgend Page 2

Are you brave enough to enter the Dragons’ lair?

Healthy future predicted for Mackworth

Bridgend Business Forum Awards 2013

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autumn 2013

Ford confirms multi-million pound investment at Bridgend Ford has confirmed a £24 million investment programme at its high-tech Bridgend engine plant to produce a new fuel-efficient 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine.

technology over a five-year period.

The announcement includes Welsh government support of £12 million and will see employment at Ford Bridgend rise to 2,300 this year – the most in its 33-year history.

Welsh Government Minister for Economy, Edwina Hart said, “The Welsh government has worked closely with Ford to secure this investment and is delighted to confirm a support package of £12 million towards this exciting programme. This will help safeguard and create high quality production and engineering jobs in Wales.”

The Bridgend facility is one of Ford UK locations benefitting from the company’s planned £1.5 billion investment announced in 2010. This long-term investment will directly support programmes linked to the research, development and manufacture of low carbon vehicle

Ford of Britain Managing Director, Mark Ovenden said, “The Welsh government has greatly assisted in maximising the full potential of Ford’s own investment in Bridgend and we have met with the Welsh First Minister and the Minister for Economy to recognise this successful partnership.”

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Ford Bridgend produces 2,668 fourcylinder engines each day and exports to Spain, Sweden, Germany, Russia, Belgium and the US. This delivers an annual export value of £1.5 billion when combined with other Ford UK operations.

The Bridgend plant is the long term European production base for the new 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine. Production will start in 2014 and then ramp up over the following two years to ensure that Bridgend output is maintained at optimum capacity during this period.

The new engine will be built alongside the 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine, which was introduced in 2011.

Are you brave enough to enter the

Dragons’ lair?

The theme of Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2013 is ‘take a step forward’.

With this in mind, the Bridgend Business Forum will be working in partnership with Business in Focus and Cherryblue Training Ltd to host a business event on Thursday 21 November 2013, targeting anyone who currently runs their own enterprise or anyone keen to develop a business idea.

The forum is also seeking individuals who are willing to take the step forward to pitch their business ideas to a panel of experts in a ‘Dragon’s Den-style’ slot.

Whether you are in business or have a business idea which you are passionate about, we want to hear from you. Send your proposal to business@bridgend.gov.uk and a shortlist will be drawn up. The best proposals will be invited to pitch to experts on the day. Prizes will include free mentoring sessions from members of the panel.

A key highlight at the event will be a talk from special guest; Dale Williams, owner of Cardiff-based, Yolk Recruitment Ltd. Considered a future serial entrepreneur, Dale currently owns a property maintenance company and is a business partner in a social enterprise company alongside Yolk. He is also in the process of launching an FMCG food and drinks brand among other projects.

Dale has been seen more recently showing off his culinary skills on the popular BBC’s ‘MasterChef’ programme, where he fought off stiff competition to make it to the finals.

With a passion for young entrepreneurship, Dale is heavily involved in turning ideas into reality by assisting those with business plans and ideas to realise their potential through his social enterprise company. He has also agreed to sit on the judging panel.

There will also be an opportunity to attend a selection of business seminars and presentations covering essential topics for any business; including funding, business planning, marketing, sales and making networking work for you.

Global Entrepreneurship Week (18 -24 November 2013) is the world’s largest campaign to promote entrepreneurship.

Alison Hoy, Chair of the Bridgend Business Forum said: “GEW is all about encouraging the next generation of entrepreneurs, nurturing business ideas and inspiring people to realise their full potential. This event is the perfect platform to access a wealth of useful information and advice, with the unique opportunity to pitch your idea to a panel of business experts.”

Date: 21 November 2013 Venue: Heronston Hotel, Ewenny Road, Bridgend Time: 9am – 12.30pm For further information contact Mary Pope on 01656 815320 or email: mary.pope@bridgend.gov.uk To book a place visit: www.bridgendbusinessforum.co.uk or email: business@bridgend.gov.uk

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Sponsored by

Bridgend Business Forum

Christmas lunch 2013 Guest speaker: Max Boyce We could be singing hymns and arias at the Bridgend Business Forum Christmas lunch this year, when Welsh legend, Max Boyce makes a special guest appearance!

Celebrating a landmark 70th birthday earlier this year, the man from Glynneath is as popular as ever, selling out at recent tours. His humour and music have both diversity and breadth and his popularity extends far and wide. He filled the Sydney Opera House in 2003.

“Max Boyce is the personification of Wales and what it means to be Welsh. His passion-fuelled lyrics, as relevant as they are witty, are the anthem of our nation.” Gareth Evans, Columnist, Western Mail.

There is also a fantastic treat in store for music lovers from four exceptional young singing sisters; LaSe who create a unique blend of voices, uniting various genres including classical; jazz; pop; soul; gospel; show tunes and traditional Welsh and Irish songs.

The lunch, which will take place on Thursday 12 December 2013, at the beautiful, four-star, Coed-Y-Mwstwr country house hotel, Bridgend is in an excellent opportunity to network, entertain key clients or celebrate your company’s annual success.

Cost: £39.50 (+VAT), table of ten £395.00 (+VAT). Cost includes a pre-lunch drinks reception, three course lunch with tea and coffee.

To reserve your place at the event email: business@bridgend.gov.uk website: www.bridgendbusinessforum.co.uk For more information, contact Mary Pope on 01656 815320.

Bridgend accountancy firm celebrates

a decade of success Bridgend Business Forum member, Hawthorn Accountancy Solutions is celebrating ten years of success this year. The company has come a long way since husband and wife team, Paul and Liz Gibbs-Murray established the business in June 2003.

Having outgrown home-working, and the office that followed, the team moved to new premises in 2012.

When asked about the company’s success, Paul is quick to highlight the main reason: “Regardless of the size of business, the level of service is important when you look after a client’s accounts. From the outset, we were determined not to join the list of accountants that only speak to their clients once a year. Businesses want financial support on an ongoing basis and that’s what we offer.”

In addition to accountancy services, Hawthorn has developed a suite of

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office solutions such as secretarial support, training for accounting software and email marketing. Liz explains how the office services became a core part of the business.

“Basically, our existing clients didn’t want to go elsewhere and were recommending us to their clients and suppliers. I think this comes with trust over time, particularly when you’re dealing with the accounts for a business. Paul and I looked at our strengths and decided that, if we had the skills and experience, we could increase our range of services.”

Commenting on their membership of the forum, Liz said: “I always look forward to the forum events, they are always well-organised and well-

attended. The forum has an excellent reputation throughout South Wales as being proactive and organised. Keep up the good work!”

Liz added: “We are a growing team here at Hawthorn Accountancy Solutions, and we are looking forward to the next ten years. We would like to thank everyone in Bridgend and further afield who have supported us over the years.” www.hawthornaccountancy.co.uk

Partnership helps deliver expert HR and employment law advice Bridgend Business Forum is continuing to build on its excellent track record of delivering a series of HR-focused events for businesses in Bridgend and surroundings areas.

The forum has been working in partnership with a number of organisations including the Wales Quality Centre and Hugh James Solicitors to host these events which usually draw, on average, 80 to one hundred delegates per session.

The series will kick off again in the New Year on 13 February 2014, with the perils and pitfalls of TUPE. With the treadmill that is employment law still going strong, Helen Iles and Emma Poole from Hugh James Solicitors will blend the legal with the practical and deliver a comprehensive employment law update on the 3 April 2014, which is a must for everyone with management responsibilities.

Whilst outlining the most recent raft of legislative change to come into force, this session will also take a peek at what the remainder of 2014 and beyond has in store for all employers, and examine a selection of key cases to filter down from the UK courts and employment tribunals.

In the usual way, this event will close with a question and answer session, providing an opportunity to obtain employment advice on any issues you are currently grappling with.

Further on into the year, events programmed in are ‘Data Protection and Intellectual Property’ on 5 June, Employment law update on 9 October and ‘Defamation and Social Media’ on 27 November 2014.

All events start with registration / breakfast at 8.30am and the main event at 9am until 11am.

Advance booking is essential: Please email: business@bridgend.gov.uk For more information contact: Mary Pope on 01656 815320 or email: mary.pope@bridgend.gov.uk

Autumn programme of events: 6 November 2013 Speed networking business breakfast Heronston Hotel & Leisure Club, Bridgend, 7.30 for 8am until 10am 14 November 2013 ICT seminar Waterton Centre, Bridgend 8.30 for 9am -11am In conjunction with Control 2K 21 November 2013 Global Enterpreneurship Week (GEW) 2013 Are you brave enough to enter the Dragon’s Lair?

Heronston Hotel & Leisure Club, Bridgend, 8.30 for 9am until 1pm 27 November 2013 Social media and marketing workshop Waterton Centre, Bridgend 8.30 for 9am - 12.30am In partnership with Wales Quality Centre, Software Alliance Wales and University of South Wales 12 December 2013 Bridgend Business Forum annual Christmas lunch Coed-y-Mwstwr Hotel, Bridgend, 12noon for 12.30pm – 3pm

To book onto any of the above events, email: business@bridgend.gov.uk (advance booking is essential) or visit: www.bridgendbusinessforum.co.uk If you would like to join the Bridgend Business Forum, membership is FREE. Email: business@bridgend.gov.uk or contact: Mary Pope, Business Events Organiser on 01656 815320 or email: mary.pope@bridgend.gov.uk You can follow the forum on Twitter @bridgendforum, like us on Facebook or join the discussion on LinkedIn

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Fund back open for business The Local Investment Fund (LIF) scheme, which offers financial assistance to small and medium-sized businesses, has received a further allocation of funding. The previous round of funding had all been committed, in what is proving to be a real success story for Bridgend County Borough.

Now the council’s Economic Development Unit has been awarded additional LIF monies by the Wales European Funding Office (WEFO) to continue its valuable support.

Deputy Leader Councillor David Sage said: “I had the opportunity to present a report on the Local Investment Fund to Council recently, which outlined the fantastic success of the scheme to date.

“By accessing our LIF grants, local businesses have been able to develop and grow by investing in plant and machinery, ICT equipment, website development, marketing and internal and external building works.

“I am also pleased that the Economic Development Unit is already exploring avenues for developing a new scheme of support for local businesses under the next round of European funding.”

Ray Pearce, Manager of Regeneration and Economic Development added: “To date we have been able to support over 160 companies, both start-ups and existing businesses.

Over £1million has been awarded to local businesses to create jobs and stimulate investment and growth.

“Any companies interested in applying for LIF funds should not delay in contacting us. Although we do have extra money, we have already received a substantial demand for the remaining funds.”

For further information on the Local Investment Fund, contact the team on 01656 815315 or through business@bridgend.gov.uk

“The scheme has made a significant impact on the local economy by creating over 300 new jobs and helping to safeguard nearly 1,300 jobs in the county borough. As a council we are committed to providing local businesses with advice and financial support through the European Regional Development Fund.

Healthy future predicted for Mackworth Mackworth Healthcare has been producing healthcare products in the UK for more than 30 years, serving both national and global markets.

Originating from a small family business and adhering to this ethos today, Mackworth has invested heavily in new product development and technologies for tomorrow’s world of healthcare solutions.

The company, which operates to the highest quality control standards has invested in lean manufacturing processes, using laser guided cutting methods. With support from LIF, the company invested in a laser guided sewing machine which has helped increase output, reduce wastage and in turn improve profitability.

Mackworth has been able to increase capacity by 40 per cent and this has had a significant impact on the business. The company has secured several long term contracts both with its slings and newly introduced hoist range, resulting in increased staff and turnover.

Managing Director, Neil Smith said: “Future opportunities for Mackworth are endless, now that solid investment and a sound structure has been created on the solid foundation of 30 years’ engineering.

“I’m delighted to say that we have not only retained the current and entire original workforce but have since created 16 new jobs over a ten month period.

“This has been developed whilst over achieving our planned growth targets to date.

The company also recently celebrated the accolade of ‘Manufacturing Business of the Year’ at the Bridgend Business Forum Awards 2013.

“We’d like to say a big thank you to the team at the Economic Development Unit at the council, as without the support from LIF, I can confirm that such progress would not have been achieved.” www.mackworth-healthcare.com

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Micro-business scoops BAFTA Cymru award

A Bridgend-based video game developer and publisher has proved it is at the top of its game by picking up the British Academy Cymru Award for Games.

Wales Interactive Ltd, based at Pencoed Technology Park, picked up the award for ‘Go Candy’, a game it developed for creative animation company, Sitting Duck Ltd. The award wasn’t the only recognition the company received, as Go Candy picked up two BAFTA special commendations for sound and music as well as best games design. The company also picked up a special commendation for artistic achievement for its detective adventure game, ‘Stride Files: The Square Murder.’

Since picking up these prestigious accolades, the company has gone from strength to strength. It is now set to launch the first Welsh-language PlayStation 3 game; an indie horror adventure called Master Reboot (Enaid Coll in Welsh) across the globe later this year.

The company has successfully secured funding through the Green Shoots project to develop the business at Pencoed Technology Centre from ‘GamesLab’, a digital games initiative for ICT graduates and masters students to trading fully as a limited company.

Images of the company’s work have also been erected on a mural at Cardiff Airport.

To date, the Green Shoots project has provided funding and advice to over 60 local businesses, which has resulted in the creation of almost 20 full time jobs.

For information about the Green Shoots project, please contact the Rural Enterprise Officer, Andrew Care on 01656 815318 or email andrew.care@bridgend.gov.uk * A micro business is one employing nine people or fewer and with a turnover or balance sheet of less than €2m.

Green light for business starter units at Sony UK TEC Minister for Natural Resources and Food, Alun Davies AM visited Sony UK Technology Centre, Pencoed recently to officially open the first Centre of Rural Enterprise in the county borough.

The centre, which is funded through Bridgend County Borough Council’s Green Shoots project, administered by the Economic Development Unit, will provide small-scale, supported business space for micro enterprises – those employing nine people or fewer. The aim of the centre is to enable businesses to develop and showcase their products, network with other companies and benefit from the many first class facilities that are offered on site.

During the launch the Minister joined Janice Gregory AM for Ogmore, Councillor Mike Gregory; Cabinet Member for Resources at BCBC, Darren Mepham; Chief Executive at BCBC, Sony UK TEC, MD Steve Dalton, OBE and Sir Howard Stringer, former Chairman and CEO of Sony Corporation for a tour of the new facilities.

The Minister said: “It is vital we do all we can to encourage entrepreneurship and help support our smaller businesses so they are able to grow sustainably and create jobs in our rural communities.

“I am therefore delighted to open Bridgend’s first Centre of Rural Enterprise which will help support and develop rural businesses in the area.”

Councillor Mike Gregory said: “The council has enjoyed a long and successful working relationship with Sony UK TEC here, in Bridgend County Borough. We are pleased to be working with them again to deliver the Green Shoots Centre of Rural Enterprise project.

“We are very proud that this is the first centre of its kind in the area and we believe this project is another excellent example of how our organisations can work together to support and nurture enterprises in rural areas such as Pencoed.

“With excellent premises, access to support from a world class organisation and first class communications – the M4 could hardly be closer - what better start could a microenterprise have?”

Seven of the ten units have already been occupied and two of these businesses (Wales Interactive and Dojo Arcade) have also benefitted from a Green Shoots bursary.

Green Shoots is part of the Bridgend reach Rural Development Programme which has received funding through the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-2013 which is funded by the Welsh Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development.

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Trio of Welsh courses to host 2014 Senior Open Qualifying The Royal Porthcawl has been awarded the honour of hosting the first ever Major to be played in Wales when the Senior Open Championship presented by Rolex takes place from 24 – 27 July 2014.

Three of Wales’ leading links courses - Ashburnham Golf Club, Pyle & Kenfig Golf Club and Southerndown Golf Club have also been announced as host venues for the Monday qualifying event prior to the 2014 Senior Open Championship Presented by Rolex.

After a record number of entrants in 2013, it is expected that more than 300 golfers will participate in the qualifying event on Monday 21 July 2014, hoping to earn a place in Wales’ first Major Championship.

They will be vying for approximately 30 spots in the field for The Senior Open Championship and the chance to play alongside some of the game’s all-time greats, such as 2012 champion Fred Couples, Bernhard Langer and home favourite Ian Woosnam.

Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, Executive Director – Championships, at The R&A, said on behalf of the Championship: “Next year’s Senior Open Championship Presented by Rolex will be the first time the Championship has been played in Wales. We are delighted that these three superb links courses, Ashburnham Golf Club, Pyle & Kenfig Golf Club and Southerndown Golf Club, will all be involved, alongside host venue Royal Porthcawl.

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“The Monday qualifying event has become an integral part of The Senior Open Championship, bringing a positive economic impact to the local economy, so we look forward to these three venues playing an important role in the 2014 Championship.”

Advance tickets for The 2014 Senior Open Championship at Royal Porthcawl can now be purchased, with special preChristmas discounts available.

Season tickets bought before December 31 cost just £60 – a 25 per cent saving on the gate price of £80.

One day tickets purchased before December 31 cost £20, a saving of £10 on the gate price, while Wednesday practice day tickets are also available at the reduced price of £10, a saving of £5 on the gate price. Under16s are admitted for free when accompanied by an adult and parking is also free.

Tickets can be bought online via www.senioropengolf.com or by calling +44 (0)800 0232557, with details of hospitality packages also available.

Pi’s the limit for Sony UK TEC Sony UK Technology Centre (UK TEC) has announced that it has made its onemillionth Raspberry Pi. Since securing the multi-million pound third-party manufacturing contract for the credit card-sized computer one year ago, the Pencoed-based business has seen its success grow from strength to strength.

Originally contracted to make 300,000 units of the device for multi-channel electronics distributor, element 14, huge demand for the product has seen the Pencoed-based business pass the seven-figure milestone in under 12 months.

The rapid rise in demand is a big serving of great news for Bridgend County Borough, as it has allowed the business, which is now producing up to 12,000

SONY UK TEC Managing Director, Steve Dalton is presented with a gold-plated Raspberry Pi

units per day, to take on an additional 40 employees.

Steve Dalton OBE, Managing Director of Sony UK Technology Centre said: “The Raspberry Pi is a fantastic example of UK innovation, design and engineering at its best. From the day the product launched we knew the Raspberry Pi would be a success and we wanted to be part of it.

We’ve been delighted and staggered by the continuous demand of the Pi across the world and there are no signs of this decreasing anytime soon.

“The Raspberry Pi is testament that if you have the right product, manufacturer,

distribution channels and customer demand, any idea can be a huge success.”

Councillor Phil White, Bridgend County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities said: “It’s fantastic news that the Raspberry Pi has been such a major success for Sony UK Tec. It has not only brought welcome jobs to Pencoed, but it puts Bridgend County Borough at the forefront of technology and development.

“On behalf of everyone in the county borough I’d like congratulate Sony UK TEC on their impressive achievements with the Raspberry Pi, and wish them the best of luck with it in the future.”

The company is also celebrating after the Pencoed site was crowned ‘Britain's Best Factory’ at the 2013 Best Factory Awards (BFA). The company also walked away with the BFA innovation award and the electronics and electrical plant award at the ceremony which is now in its 22nd year.

More reasons to shop at Porthcawl The developer of Porthcawl’s much anticipated supermarket has been formally confirmed as Wm Morrison Supermarkets PLC by the Cabinet of Bridgend County Borough Council.

More than £5m is set to be invested in the creation of new roads, drainage, utility and infrastructure improvements linked to the new supermarket.

Intended to benefit the community of Porthcawl as well as the overall regeneration scheme, the development of the superstore forms an important part of plans for the waterfront area.

The council is in the process of selecting a contractor to undertake the necessary highways and infrastructure work. When finished, the superstore will provide an important link with Dock Street and the town centre, new car parking facilities for the town and attractive landscaped public spaces, including a new Eastern promenade.

It will also enable the council to focus on other important phases of the regeneration, including land reserved for leisure use in the lower part of Salt Lake and the development of the nearby Jennings Building.

Deputy Leader David Sage said: “Given that it was a little over a year ago that the original Tesco proposals were withdrawn, I am more than happy to see plans in development for building a new Morrisons superstore in Porthcawl.

“We promised at the time that we would make every effort to get this part of the regeneration back on track as quickly as possible. Thanks to a lot of hard work and commitment, we are now in an exciting position where a brand new developer is in place and a contractor for the highway improvements will soon be announced.

“We also said that the superstore was just one element in our regeneration plans, and promised to push on with other projects in the meantime.

“With the all-new Porthcawl Marina quickly taking shape, an emerging townscape heritage initiative scheme for buildings in the waterfront area and preparations underway for marketing the historic Jennings building to potential developers, I think it’s fair to say that we’ve been true to our word.

“This is great news for Porthcawl, and I wholeheartedly support the proposal.”

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Fast, fibre broadband is here!

Superfast Cymru is a multimillion pound programme to roll-out superfast broadband in Wales.

The Welsh Government and BT are working in partnership through the programme to bring the benefits of high speed broadband to areas which are outside the roll-out plans of the private sector.

Of the telephone exchanges which cover Bridgend County Borough, the majority have been upgraded to provide fibre under BT’s commercial roll out programme. The remaining two

exchanges, Maesteg and Ogmore Valley are scheduled to be upgraded shortly to fibre shortly, along with some essential infill work in the Aberkenfig, Bridgend, Pencoed and Pontycymmer exchange areas as part of the programme. Further infill work will be completed on Porthcawl exchange during Summer 2014.

These activities will result in an estimated 6,000 additional premises benefitting from fibre broadband in the county borough by end of December 2013. And a further 8,000 premises during the

2014/15 financial year, resulting in the availability of fibre broadband to the vast majority of citizens and businesses in Bridgend County Borough by 2015.

Superfast broadband will have a big impact for business. Having a fast and more reliable connection will help your business gain the advantage – there are so many tools and services at your fingertips.

To find out more and view when your business will be connected visit: www.superfast-cymru.com

News in brief Digital Development Fund The Digital Development Fund is a £2 million fund designed to assist in supporting creative industries businesses to exploit new business markets in the global digital economy through emerging digital technologies.

The Welsh Government is seeking to fund projects utilising the breadth of digital devices, platforms and channels.

The fund is a pilot, and any feedback aimed at helping to improve the service is welcomed. As the fund is rolled out, eligibility criteria and guidance may be amended where required.

The fund aims to support projects that can achieve significant commercial returns through international market opportunities. The Digital Development Fund can provide funding up to a maximum of £50,000 and up to 50 per cent of the eligible costs of each project.

Support given under this fund is not repayable.

The fund is not intended to be used for start-up investment, early stage research and development only projects, or for the digitisation of non-commercial creative products.

If you would like any help with the application process or you are not sure if your project is eligible for the Digital Development Fund, please read the FAQs and eligibility criteria section on the website: www.business.wales.gov.uk/ digitaldevelopment

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New look Sell2Wales website A new look Sell2Wales website, which is a public sector procurement portal for welsh suppliers and buyers is now up and running.

The new website, which is a combination of the Buy4Wales brand and Sell2Wales is intended to be more modern and reliable than the current sites.

New hardware, software, functionality and site security will all ensure the site is fit for purpose now and for the next five years.

It also has a brand new look and feel.

Existing users from the buyer community can now access many functions that they are already familiar with in addition to a new, simple to use ‘Supplier Finder’ and will also receive quotes for low value requirements using a new function called ‘Quick Quote.’

You can visit the new look website here: www.sell2wales.gov.uk

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New source of funding stands out from the crowd Is your business considering ways it can finance a new venture? An alternative funding opportunity could be the answer you’re looking for.

Growth in internet use has made it easier for large numbers of people to access money from many small contributions instead of few large ones. A relatively new concept, Crowdfunding allows businesses to obtain significant sums of money through small investments from a large number of parties.

Also referred to as peer-to-peer lending, Crowdfunding satisfies companies’ needs to source the finance required to grow their business, while providing investors with a small stake in their business and a financial return. It is becoming an increasingly popular way for small companies to raise finances at a time when opportunities to secure funding through more traditional routes are becoming increasingly restricted.

In December 2012 Business Secretary, Vince Cable recognised the importance of this form of lending by pledging £55 million of Central Government funding to peer-to-peer lenders and other finance suppliers, through the Business Finance Partnership scheme. A recent report carried out by independent charity, Nesta looked at data collected from Funding Circle, the largest peer-to-peer business lending website in the UK. The report found that the average size of the loan raised by the surveyed companies is £35,000, with the average number of people lending money to each company being 418. The average interest rate of loans provided to the sampled companies was 8.02 per cent.

Sixty per cent of the companies in the sample attempted to secure a bank loan prior to approaching Funding Circle.

For more information about how crowdfunding could help your business grow, visit www.ukcfa.org.uk

Success story for former Remploy workers in Bridgend Twelve months ago, Espack Eurologistica took on 12 former Remploy employees from the Bridgend factory, following its closure and the redundancies that followed.

A further four Remploy Bridgend staff, including two profoundly deaf employees, have been matched to machinist roles at Brynwood Holdings on the Brynmenyn Industrial Estate.

One year on, those employees are successfully working in the Espack Eurologistica factory on Bridgend Industrial Estate and are a permanent, vital part of the workforce.

Reasonable adjustments were made specific to individual requirements, which included conducting assistive equipment assessments by the DWP Access to Work Team, resulting in pagers being issued to alert hearing impaired staff to emergency situations. Feedback from the new employees indicates that the workplace adaption has been very successful, with staff commenting that they have ‘been made to feel very welcome’ and are ‘delighted’ with their new roles.

Jorge Escalada and the Espack management team receiving their LIF funding plaque from the Leader of BCBC, Councillor Mel Nott, OBE at Civic Offices

Adaptions to the site had to be made and with the support of Bridgend County Borough Council and Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the company erected a dedicated clean room facility within their existing warehouse. Throughout the process, Espack was also supported by DWP Remploy Personal Case Workers.

Further adaptations included the provision of an on-site canteen, comprising disabled access and replication of Remploy processes, helping to aid the transition to new employment.

These adaptions were supported by a Local Investment Fund (LIF) grant from the council’s Economic Development Unit and an Employer Support Grant which the Welsh Government has made available specifically to help eligible disabled people who used to work for Remploy.

The Welsh Government Employer Support Grant (ESG) scheme encourages businesses in Wales to take on former Remploy staff by contributing towards wage costs on a four year basis and assisting with appropriate training and workplace modifications that may be required to enable them to work safely.

The scheme has now been extended to March 2014.

Councillor Phil White, Bridgend County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities said: “I recently had the privilege of being invited to the Espack Eurologistica factory to view the new facilities and speak to the former Remploy staff. I am delighted that they are happy in their new jobs and that they are fully integrated into the workforce. I am also pleased that the council has been able to play its part, through the LIF fund to support this important transition.

The Espack management team said: “When we considered bidding for the valve kitting process work, following the closure of the Bridgend Remploy factory, we adopted an “if it’s not broken - we don’t need to fix it approach’.

“The Remploy management and production team had an excellent track record of zero defects, with one hundred per cent on time delivery to the customer. This reputation could not be improved upon, so we moved the equipment and people into a new production facility constructed at our existing premises.

“Due to the extremely tight timescale, there were many challenges. However with the support and cooperation of officers from the council’s economic development unit, DWP and Remploy management team, the transfer of operation was one hundred per cent successful with no interruption in supply to the customer.

“The former Remploy team are now fully integrated with the existing Espack team and continue to provide the highest level of service to the customer; zero defects and one hundred per cent on time delivery.”

(L to R) Jeff Peters, Economic Development Unit, BCBC, Councillor Philip White, front row middle Mr Martyn Phillps (ex-Remploy Manager) front right (sitting) John Larkin ex-Remploy. Back row (L to R) far left Robert Williams, Arwyn Lewis Espack Managers, Jason Simmonds and John Richards Ex Remploy.

“It’s also great to hear that the Employer Support Grant scheme has been extended, as it means that we can continue helping these people to find work.”

For more information about the ESG scheme, contact remployprojectmail@wales.gsi.gov.uk or call Vicky Taylor on 07500 814663.

For more information on the Local Investment Fund contact the business enquiry line on 01656 815315 or email: business@bridgend.gov.uk

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And the winner is…

Aircraft Maintenance Support Services Ltd (AMSS Ltd) has been announced ‘Bridgend Business of the Year 2013’ at the inaugural Bridgend Business Forum Awards held at the Coed-y-Mwstwr, Coychurch on Friday 20 September.

to enjoy significant sustained growth in the past three years at a time of global recession.

Council Leader, Councillor Mel Nott, OBE with Gary Lynch, AMSS Ltd and Sian Lloyd.

Alison Hoy, Chair of Bridgend Business Forum, who presented the ‘Bridgend Business of the Year’ award said: “We were extremely impressed with the high calibre of enterprises which applied. It did however make the judging process extremely difficult indeed! These are testing times for many companies, but our award winners show that businesses and entrepreneurs that demonstrate true determination can thrive, even in the most challenging conditions.”

The awards, which celebrated excellence in enterprise across the county borough, were sponsored by Berry Smith Lawyers, Business in Focus, kksolutions, United Graphic Design, Bridgend Business Against Crime and supported by Bridgend County Borough Council, the Local Investment Fund and Chwarae Teg.

Alison Hoy, Chair of BBF with Gary Lynch AMSS Ltd and Sian Lloyd.

The company which has been based in Pyle for over 35 years, scooped the top accolade after earlier being named ‘Manufacuturing / International Business of the Year 2013’.

Andy Cookson Managing Director of AMSS Ltd said: ”We are absolutely delighted to have won these two awards. As a business we compete successfully against global companies, often punching above our weight. We have achieved this by working closely with our business partners here in Bridgend, such as the council’s economic development unit and having the full support of our AM, Carwyn Jones and our MP, Madeleine Moon.

“Not least of all we have been able to gain this recognition because of the highly skilled workforce AMSS have in South Wales. The talent we have in the county borough has vindicated the decision to invest 1.4 million pounds expanding our facilities, creating an additional 40 jobs, reintroducing an apprenticeship scheme all of which has enabled the company

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Council Leader, Councillor Mel Nott, OBE who presented ‘Manufacturing / International Business of the Year’ award to AMSS Ltd said: “I am extremely pleased that the council has been able to provide a platform for these awards through the work of the Bridgend Business Forum. The awards have highlighted just how many excellent businesses operate on our doorstep. We are proud to acknowledge the achievements of these companies, their commitment, dedication, and their contribution to the economy.”

Almost 150 guests were on the edge of their seats, eager to discover which businesses were announced the cream of the crop in the Bridgend County Borough area.

The evening was hosted by BBC TV presenter and broadcaster Sian Lloyd, with Berry Smith Lawyers as the headline sponsor.

Gerald Davies CBE DL

‘Business Student of the Year’ Hazelwood Gardens by Becki.

‘Start-up Business of the Year’ Wiggleys Fun Farm The runners-up in this category were One Nine Design and Liberty Horses.

‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ Fruity Bouquets R Us The runners-up were Linda Narbeth, Cherryblue Ltd and Accelero Digital Solutions.

‘Independent Retailer of the Year’ Home & Colonial Fine Foods The runners-up were Pink Butterfly Brides and Eclectic Vintage Boutique.

“Our team at Home & Colonial are so proud to be winners at the Bridgend Business Forum Awards 2013 and so are our customers. We displayed our award on the counter top on Saturday after the ceremony and it reduced one customer to tears because she was so proud! This award means a lot to us, as being a retailer has been really tough these last few years. We were delighted to see that people could recognise the work and dedication that has gone into making Home & Colonial the success it is today. Bridgend is a fantastic borough, with so much to offer and we are delighted that now the rest of Wales can get to hear about it!” Abbe Vaughan, Owner, Home & Colonial Fine Foods.

‘Manufacturing Business of the Year’ Mackworth Healthcare Ltd The runner-up was First4Numbers.

“Winning the manufacturer of the year award has given a tremendous lift to everyone within our organisation. We have been extremely busy of late with a high value order book and the staff have been working very hard as a result. For them I’m absolutely delighted. I feel that they really deserved this and their hard work has paid off via such recognition.”

Neil Smith, Mackworth HealthCare Ltd

‘Business Services Business of the Year’ ISA Training Ltd The runners-up were TSW Training Ltd and Just Perfect Catering.

“We were delighted to be shortlisted, but to win is just incredible! Especially when we saw the calibre of those shortlisted with us, and indeed of all the businesses present at the event. This is a win for all my team who work tirelessly to keep ISA at the forefront of workbased learning in the hair and beauty sector.”

Shirley Davis-Fox, Managing Director, ISA Training Ltd

Guests were also treated to music from Welsh singing sensation James Williams and new all-female group ‘LaSe’.

The Bridgend Business Forum also celebrated its fifth successful year at the ceremony, and Alison Hoy, Chair of the Bridgend Business Forum said: “These awards are about celebrating success in business and we were absolutely delighted to celebrate the forum’s fifth birthday.

“So much has been has been achieved over the last five years with the support of Bridgend County Borough Council. We have 461 members, held over a hundred business events and seminars to support local business and hosted in well in excess of 1,800 delegates from all over South Wales.”

Councillor Mel Nott, OBE, Alison Hoy, Chair Bridgend Business Forum and Darren Mepham, Chief Executive BCBC with the 5th birthday cake

Economic Development Unit

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Happy campers at new tourist destination A new 60 pitch touring caravan and camping park has been developed in Blackmill, Bridgend by the Edwards family and council's Tourism team.

The site, which has potential for a four or five star rating from Visit Wales (the tourism arm of Welsh Government) has been development to complement the construction of the 'Celtic Trail' (a series of popular mountain bike tracks) adjacent to the farm, as part of the 'The Valleys' regeneration programme.

The land, which was originally used for agricultural purposes and tended by three generations of the Edwards family, was unable to sustain its farming legacy.

As a result, the family diversified in 2000 to provide another income stream; Lakeside Farm Park which has trout fishing lakes, children’s play areas and an impressive function room to host conferences and weddings. The profits from this project have been ploughed back into the business to fund the new site and safe guard the family’s livelihood.

Eira Edwards said: “We received funding support through reach (Rural Development team in Bridgend) to install an electricity supply and an innovative

compost heating system to boost the solar thermal and conventional heating, making the toilet and shower block greener and more sustainable.

“We’ve also installed low voltage lighting within the facility block and under floor heating to ensure a comfortable environment for our visitors.

“The support has also enabled us to install high quality up-cycled Paralympic showers which are fully Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant and are both economical and sustainable.

“We were also able to qualify a Local Investment Fund (LIF) grant through the tourism and economic development teams, which has helped us to landscape the park, clad our shower and toilet block and even develop our new logo!”

have been very helpful with advice and signposting, which has helped us every step of the way to realising this new venture.

“We are really looking forward to promoting the area as a quality tourism destination.”

For more information visit: www.ourwelsh.co.uk

“We are extremely grateful to all the teams at the council, who have worked together to support this project. Officers

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Published by the Economic Development Unit of Bridgend County Borough Council.

News items should be sent to Nicola Fedyszyn, Marketing Officer - Communities. email: business@bridgend.gov.uk T: 01656 815322

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Economic Development Unit