West & North Yorkshire Business Magazine Q1 2020 by West & North Yorkshire Business

West & North

Yorkshire

usiness PRODUCED & PUBLISHED BY WEST & NORTH YORKSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FEATURE Imports,

exports & global trade

Export expertise West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

CONNECTING, SUPPORTING & REPRESENTING BUSINESS IN THE REGION

Q1 2020

Up to 66% off † Business Breakdown Cover for Chamber members Service level

Roadside

Relay

Relay Plus

Home Start

Accident Management

Offer Price

Standard Price

Difference

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Fleetwide 5

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Fleet Europe

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Minibus Rescue

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Specialist 2

Specialist 4

£149.66

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The table below gives you more details about the specific services which can be included within our Business Breakdown cover Roadside

Repair or recovery to the AA’s choice of appropriate local repairer.

Relay*

Transportation of vehicle, driver and up to 7 passengers to a UK mainland address if prompt local repair not possible.

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Extended Relay service to include one of three alternative arrangements for driver and passengers; car hire, accommodation or public transport services.

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For breakdowns at or within ¼ mile of your home address.

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For more information, please contact your local Chamber of Commerce Direct Debit. To make life easier, you can now pay for your breakdown cover by Direct Debit. Based on Fleetwide 3 Standard rates for 3-6 vehicles. All the above prices are per vehicle per year, inclusive of IPT (Insurance Premium Tax). All prices are subject to change. Fleetwide cover does not apply to: specialist vehicles, ie: taxis, mini cabs, hire vehicles, ambulances, police vehicles, vehicles on tradeplates, minibuses, privately owned vehicles (unless used for business purposes), motorcycles and courier vehicles (all of which can be covered on Specialist rates as above), or any vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gvw. Terms and conditions apply. *Relay and Relay Plus services are not provided at or within ¼ mile of driver’s home address. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer prices are only available while your Chamber membership is current. We reserve the right to review pricing at any time. Full terms and conditions available on request by calling 0800 55 11 88. Business Breakdown cover is provided by Automobile Association Developments Limited (trading as AA Breakdown Services). Relay Plus is underwritten by Acromas Insurance Company Limited. Acromas Insurance Company Limited is authorised and regulated by the Commissioner of Insurance, Financial Services Commission, Gibraltar, and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, United Kingdom. Acromas Insurance Company Limited is a member of the Association of British Insurers. Head Office: 57-63 Line Wall Road, Gibraltar. Registered Number 88716 (Gibraltar). UK brand address: Acromas Insurance Company Limited, Enbrook Park, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3SE. Automobile Association Insurance Services Limited is an insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: Fanum House, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 4EA. Registered in England and Wales number 2414212. †

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West & North Yorkshire Business

WELCOME 3

We are local and global

At this point in 2020 I thought that businesses would be benefitting from clarity after the disruption caused by the General Election and leaving the EU. We have increased the Chamber International team to deal with the many queries arising in international trade, helping businesses to trade beyond Europe, prepare for changes in customs requirements and handle product conformity, but there are a number of factors that still need decisions.

Sandy Needham DL Chief Executive West & North Yorkshire Chamber

Sadly, the coronavirus has become the new issue that almost immediately has affected imports from China, which are important for many companies. Businesses are trying to source within the UK, but that is not possible in all cases. The Chamber has formed an Environment Committee and will be involving members in developing guidance and actions that businesses of all sectors and sizes could take to address their own impact on the climate. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great that individuals and companies are offering to share expertise and experience to help others. Transport and infrastructure remain high on the agenda in the North. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had positive news about HS2 and hope that there will also be support for Northern Powerhouse Rail with a city centre station in Bradford, so that travelling to work and to learn will be made easier. The signs are that there will be further announcements on devolution shortly, which could improve the situation on another key business priority, skills.

08455 240 240 editor@yorkshire-business.co.uk www.yorkshire-business.co.uk @WNYorkshire_Biz

In this issue, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find some case studies on local companies, updates on what is happening in our cities and how the Ad:Venture initiative is helping young businesses to grow.

West & North Yorkshire Business

4 CONTACTS 6

MEMBERS’ NEWS

DESIGN design@yorkshire-business.co.uk

REGIONAL NEWS

ADVERTISING advertising@yorkshire-business.co.uk

14 TRANSPORT

SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@yorkshire-business.co.uk

15 IMMIGRATION

GENERAL hello@yorkshire-business.co.uk

16 YORK

WEBSITE yorkshire-business.co.uk

18 ECONOMY

TWITTER @WNYorkshire_Biz

19 TRANSPORT

West & North Yorkshire Business is a quarterly business

EDITORIAL editor@yorkshire-business.co.uk

is comprised of a targeted audience of the major decision

New points based system

A new narrative

Quarterly economic report

advertising or promotion without the express permission of the editorial team. West & North Yorkshire Business has taken all reasonable care to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate on the date of publication. This magazine is published by the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. Printed by Hart & Clough www.hartandclough.co.uk The Chamber group includes Chamber International, Business Enterprise Fund and West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

CLEAN AIR DAY Yorkshire Design Group

22 PROFILE

The Grand, York

23 POLICY

Chamber updates

CASE STUDY

TAX TIPS

CASE STUDY

BUSINESS LEEDS

COVER FEATURE Export experts

26 FEATURE

Export markets

27 FEATURE

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28 FEATURE

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30 FEATURE

E-commerce

Enterprise Europe Network

Power Sheds

VAT in 2020

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New business event

50 PROFILE

Leeds Business Improvement District

Bradford rail campaign

makers and senior executives across both the Yorkshire region and the wider UK business community.

News from across the region

High Speed North

magazine produced by the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. The audience for this publication

News from Bradford, Leeds, York & North Yorkshire

52 PROFILE

Leeds City Council

54 PROFILE

Rance Booth Smith Architects

CHAMBER HUB New serviced offices

58 SOCIAL

What you missed online

59 MEMBERSHIP

Networking works

66 EVENTS

Leeds Chamber Annual Dinner

West & North Yorkshire Business

CONTENTS 5

Powering up production

Lighting up operating theatres

Safety in motion

International voyage

Helping ideas flow

Leeds Chamber Annual Dinner

West & North Yorkshire Business

BRADFORD NEWS

Hope for the future While the Sword of Damocles that was Brexit has diminished, for a few months at least, public health is making all the headlines. More optimistically, there is still much to be positive about on the ground locally and regionally. The city centre landscape continues to change and develop and there are upcoming schemes in the pipeline for that to continue. The city’s Business Improvement District recently celebrated its first anniversary and has already achieved a lot; and we must not ignore the many great businesses and individuals across the District who continue to do a wonderful job in helping to paint our patch as the land of industry, creativity and entrepreneurship. I recently attended a Chamber network conference with British Chambers of Commerce representatives to liaise on better working together across the North. It was a chance for me to discuss business in our district and highlighted even further, the value of regularly speaking with you, our members, about your challenges, which facilitates my feedback to the national Chamber network who in turn, feedback to the government. Change and influence start with these crucial conversations and is just one of the ways we lobby, campaign and push for progress on your behalf. Suzanne Watson President Bradford Chamber

New teaching methods A teaching method used successfully to improve learning in higher education is to be introduced into UK secondary schools for the first time, as part of a new European research project. The University of Bradford – who leads the project – was the first in the UK to use the methodology, known as Team-Based Learning (TBL), for their Pharmacy undergraduate programmes.

Team-Based Learning works as an alternative to lectures or traditional classes, but rather than doing homework after a class, students do it in advance. They are directed to study materials and then tested in class first individually and then in teams on what they’ve learned. The results allow teachers to identify gaps which they can then address. This ensures that all students have the same level of initial knowledge.

Strengthening the team Award winning Bradford business, Tong Garden Centre, has strengthened its team with appointments in People and Culture and Warehouse Operations. Becki Smith has been appointed to the newly created position of Junior People & Culture Business Partner and Matt Kelly has been recruited for the new post of Warehouse Manager.

Mrs Smith will be responsible for supporting the Head of People and Culture in attracting, retaining, developing great people. Mr. Kelly joins the team from an e commerce company and will be responsible for strategically managing the warehouse operation and team: “I am very much looking forward to working with a great new team, building strong, trusting relationships.”

Lifting the Cougars Yorkshire manufacturer Acorn Stairlifts has signed a deal to be primary team sponsor of rugby team the Keighley Cougars. The team, which came close to collapse in December 2018 after several months under new ownership, is enjoying a resurgence

The Broadway, Bradford scoops international environmental award The Broadway, Bradford has been awarded in the Environmental Best Practice category at The International Green Apple Environment Awards. Competing against more than 500 international nominations, The Broadway was presented with a bronze trophy and certificate in a ceremony at the Houses of Parliament. The Broadway was awarded for its approach to sustainability and the environment, particularly highlighting that during 2018, the Centre saved £87k on energy versus the same period in 2017, which equates to a reduction of 46%. The Centre follows best practice in waste disposal and the use of chemical substances, plus has an annual agreement with all retailers to ensure there is a zero to landfill approach to waste disposal.

under new management headed by former 1990s chairman Mick O’Neill and his son Ryan Cowie.

It will start the 2020 League 1 season in style thanks to the five figure Acorn Stairlifts deal which will cover the cost of the new team’s kit and further boost the profile of the team.

Nick Wilson, Acorn Stairlifts Operations Director, said the company’s sponsorship of the team reflected the ‘very special’ place the Keighley Cougars have in the hearts of many of its 500 employees – and a workplace visit from the players last week confirmed the support that’s felt across the workforce.

A multi-million pound investment

Celebrating 15 years

Pardeep Khela, Associate in Bradford-based Schofield Sweeney’s Commercial Property team, has advised the Bramall Group on a multi-million pound investment acquisition.

BEF is celebrating 15 years of supporting businesses having reached a milestone lending figure of £70m.

The obtainment of Nidderdale House in Harrogate for over £4million from Kames Capital marks substantial growth for the group as well as strengthening its future plans. Jonathan Duck, Property Manager, Bramall Properties Limited said: “We are pleased to acquire Nidderdale House and it represents a strong investment for the Bramall Group. The financial strength of the tenant together with the desirable location of the site ensures this will provide good returns.

The Business Enterprise Fund (BEF), which has offices in Bradford, Leeds, Goole, Tees Valley has also opened an office in Manchester this year. The 22 strong team specialises in providing responsible and flexible finance to start-up businesses and SMEs across West and North Yorkshire, the North East and, most recently, the North West, with a focus on those which are making a positive social impact in their communities. In 2019, BEF has introduced a new short-term loan to its offering, which already includes start-up loans between £500 – £25k loans for growing businesses at £25k – £250k.

West & North Yorkshire Business

LEEDS NEWS

At last ‘an end to dither and delay’ The announcement in February by the Prime Minister that HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail should go ahead and in full is testament to the united voice of business and civic leaders across the north of England. The northern Chambers of Commerce have been united and vocal that HS2 and NPR must be built as a single network if we are to capture the full economic benefit. We are hearing parts of HS2 and NPR may be re-badged High Speed North. As long it delivers the same outputs and benefits, we should welcome this move. Whilst high speed rail is still some time off we will continue to lobby on your behalf for improvements to the existing transport network. The Chamber met recently with the transport secretary Grant Shapps and reminded him that Leeds remains the largest city in Western Europe without a mass transit system. We are arranging a visit for him to experience first-hand the challenges of moving round our city. We will also be highlighting the huge opportunities that improved connectivity across our region creates; HS2 and NPR passing through Leeds city centre puts in the order of 10 million people within an hour’s commute. Amanda Beresford President Leeds Chamber

Bootcamp hits milestone Leeds and Manchester based Northcoders – the coding bootcamp for the North – has hit a major milestone in its history after its 500th graduate completed its Developer Pathway course. The Developer Pathway is a unique teaching innovation that promotes a fundamentally different, bespoke and compassionate way of learning to code. It is uniquely personal and ensures that student software developers graduate with the skills to find work that have been learned at a pace that’s right for them. The 500th graduate was Paulina Orawczak, who was working as a sales administrator before deciding to kick-start her career in tech.

Making sustainable packaging The Leeds-based Roberts Mart and Co Ltd, the UK’s leading independent manufacturer and supplier of flexible packaging, has announced a new range of sustainable products, including PCR shrink films; recyclable laminates and pouches; compostables; and heat sealable papers. Ben Roberts, Sales Director of Roberts Mart, explained: “We are acutely aware of the importance of protecting the environment and of reducing plastic waste. Flexible packaging saves resources, such as food and product waste, that occurs on the way to the store and while on display.”

West & North Yorkshire Business

Environmental expansion Leeds based company, Resource, has successfully completed the purchase of new environmentally friendly equipment with funding from Barclays, utilising Green Asset Finance.

Genna Morgan, Barclays Relationship Director, put together the funding package for the deal and said: “This is a pivotal milestone for the future of Resource, as it paves the way for further expansion and growth. The new equipment is a key part of their ambitious plans, and their ability to

operate both efficiently and reduce their impact on the environment.”

Established in 1996, Resource has a team of 60 and is based on the outskirts of Leeds City Centre. The business is a full-service agency providing multi-channel creative and printing solutions. The company is expected to exceed a £10million turnover in 2020. Resource are also hugely proud of their multi-generational workforce. recognising the skills and experience

of people who started their journey with them, but also supporting graduate and apprenticeship programmes to build for the future. Gail Weathers, HR & Performance Director said: “ We have rounded the year off by scooping the SME Company of The Year award at the prestigious Print Awards. The funding from Barclays will support our future growth plans and our continued commitment to being an employer of choice.”

Leading partnerships

Money for Mind

Shopping centre bumper year

Leeds College of Building has furthered its connection to the city through its partnership with the Leeds United Business Club.

Blacks arranged a series of events throughout 2019 to raise money for the Leeds-based mental health charity, including a bake sale and tombola, 30km walk, bingo night, rowathon and Christmas jumper day.

The Merrion Centre, in the heart of Leeds thriving Arena Quarter, is doubly celebrating 2019 following confirmation of one of its most successful festive periods and an overall yearly growth in footfall.

The funds raised by Blacks will ensure Leeds Mind can continue to support Leeds-residents facing mental health difficulties. Services that will benefit from the funds include counselling, employment support and suicide bereavement training.

In addition, it looks as though the new decade is going to be another bumper year for the centre as a whole raft of new venues have already been confirmed to open in 2020.

The long-established institution is reaching out to local supporters, as well as a national audience, through its football sponsorship, appearing throughout every Leeds United home game at Elland Road. Founded in 1960, Leeds College of Building remains the only further education college to exclusively offer courses in the construction and built environment sector. With a total of 6,500 students, the college has grown a national reputation, recruiting from across the UK.

Charli Brunning, Corporate Fundraising Officer at Leeds Mind, commented: “We’re extremely grateful to the team at Blacks for supporting Leeds Mind throughout 2019 and raising such a significant amount.

Against an increasingly tough retail and high street back drop, 2019 proved a highly successful year overall for Leeds longest standing shopping centre as it welcomed a whopping 15 new tenants to its retail, health and beauty and leisure offering.

West & North Yorkshire Business

YORK & NORTH YORKSHIRE NEWS

Rise to the challenge The last quarter has seen changes and challenges (political, meteorological and virological) confronting us all, but equally I’m confident that the business community in York & North Yorkshire will once again prove its resilience and ability to adapt and grow despite proverbially ‘interesting times.’ I am keen that we should maintain our vocal support for essential infrastructure programmes in our region such as enhanced dualling of the A64, the release of funding by central government that will enable the vital York Central project to proceed, and planned improvements to the Northern Ring Road of York (the A1237) which seem all the more essential in light of the City of York Council’s aspiration to reduce the volume of traffic and pollution within the city centre itself. Could the House of Lords be coming to York? Time will tell. The suggestion, however, threw a positive spotlight on our region and highlighted the massive opportunities available to us if we can only seize them with ambition, optimise the benefits of our location and our connectivity, and remove barriers to those currently doing business here, as well as those who might see York & North Yorkshire as a potential future home for their businesses and themselves. Andrew Digwood President York & North Yorkshire Chamber

Transformation success Saville Group, one of the UK’s leading specialist audio visual communication companies has reported a 25% increase in sales, with the financials showing an increase from £35million to £43.5 million for 2018. This significant expansion comes hot on the tail of a major brand transformation in 2018. Following two previous years of record financial performance, this major landmark on the company’s timeline revealed a new look for the parent Saville Group brand, and the creation of two fresh new, highly focussed specialist operating brands, Sparq and Visavvi, leaders in the live event and AV systems sectors respectively.

Yorkshire pudding with a twist An innovative artisan Yorkshire pudding manufacturer plans to fill the UK market after securing major entrepreneurial investment in a deal advised by accountants and business advisers, Garbutt + Elliott. Family business, The Yorkshire Pudding Pie Company, which has developed and protected its namesake gourmet pie, is using the investment to expand production so it can sell its pies nationally. As well as sourcing investment from a small group of food entrepreneurs, the Garbutt + Elliott team, led by corporate finance partner, Tony Farmer, who has joined the Yorkshire Pudding Pie Company board, advised on the company structure, provided start-up advice and will supply accounting, management information and taxation services as the business grows.

Gold standard buses

The team behind Harrogate’s ground-breaking electric buses is celebrating today after winning gold at the UK’s bus industry Oscars.

The UK Bus Awards recognise and reward the industry’s finest talents and are hotly contested by hundreds of bus operators across the country.

The Harrogate Bus Company was chosen as winner of the top prize in the prestigious Environment category at the 2019 UK Bus Awards, for its mission to create the UK’s first ever Low Emission Bus Town.

Awards judges were extremely impressed by the success of Harrogate’s electric buses, describing them as “a beacon of excellence, truly demonstrating the outstanding innovations that are possible within the industry.”

Teaming up for the next gen

Climbing the ranks

York City Football Club and York St John University are pleased to announce their partnership, conceived to help support football’s next generation of players.

Following an increased turnover of 23% to 35.3m, Autohorn Fleet Services has moved from 47th to 14th place in the recent York Press Top 100 Business report. This report is produced annually and is designed to showcase York’s greatest and best businesses.

The partnership comes at an exciting time for York City’s Academy who have gone through a difficult period of rebuilding since the Club exited the Football League. Now, boasting National League Academy status as well as UEFA A or B coaches at all age groups, the Academy is on the up and securing support from York St John University is testament to their progress. This partnership announcement builds on a strong existing relationship between the two organisations. In addition to providing the Club usage of sporting facilities, York St John students work with players on periodic fitness tests and performance analysis, sports science and physiotherapy support.

Autohorn, a company which started in 1995 with 9 Rovers and 5 employees, now proudly stands with 2,000+ vehicles and 70 employees. It has also recently been crowned as the 6th fastest growing business in Yorkshire by Insider Media. The company owns and operates a vast selection of fleet services ranging from; daily vehicle hire, contract hire and short term, flexible vehicle leasing. Early 2020 will also see the introduction of the ‘subscriptionstyle’ leasing option which will give drivers full UK-motor insurance as well as the option to pause, cancel or swap their vehicle as often as every 28 days.

West & North Yorkshire Business

WEST & NORTH YORKSHIRE NEWS

It’s been a hectic few months From a UK General election that clearly sent a very strong signal, whatever your political leanings as to the direction of travel that the UK people now want. Leaving the EU at the end of January, was a cause for mixed feelings, however the die is cast and business can at least move forward with a degree of clarity that has not been there for some considerable time. Still of course much to do and the Chamber will continue to lobby hard to ensure that businesses can trade in a sensible fashion, alignment of standards for many being seen as a core issue. As I write this we now are seeing a new increasing threat with the corona virus creeping now in Italy and Spain, this will have negative consequences for sure if it continues at its current pace, we are already seeing a shortage of materials from the far east in some quarters and also companies’ ability to export is being effected. This will bring price pressures for sure. On a positive note, Government have now committed to HS2 (I noted with interest the Chinese company that offered to build it completely within 5 years and at vastly reduced cost – surely worth asking some serious questions about how it can be achieved), if we can also have Northern Powerhouse rail as well, then we have a game changer for the North and that in turn will lead to positive effects for UK PLC. Nick Garthwaite Chair of the Board West & North Yorkshire Chamber

From ship to shore A Scarborough couple which has set up England’s first commercial seaweed farm is ready to set sail thanks to a £25k loan from the Business Enterprise Fund (BEF). SeaGrown, whose farm is based in the North Sea four miles out of Scarborough, was the brainchild of former fisherman, diver in the Navy and navigating officer Wave Crookes and marine scientist Laura Robinson, who met while on a Royal Research Ship in Antarctica. The duo were inspired to set up a business harvesting seaweed after discovering many of its surprising qualities. The duo’s seaweed was initially harvested from rocks to create products for food, baths, pets and restaurants. SeaGrown will continue to hand harvest seaweed, but in order to sustainably increase levels of production, the couple began the venture into seaweed farming with support from the Coastal Communities Fund. After seeing a significant increase in demand for their products and wanting to expand into bigger industries such as biochemicals, food additives, biofuels and plastics, they approached BEF for funding. Wave Crookes, Director at SeaGrown, explained: “After setting up the company eighteen months ago, it’s magnificent to see our dream of a seaweed farm come to life! Seaweed has many phenomenal qualities, including soaking up of carbon, oxygenating and de-acidifying seawater, its ability to create biodegradable plastic and cut down ruminant animal methane emissions by up to 80%. All it requires is sea and sun to grow, so sustainability is at the heart of our business”. “The funding from BEF has enabled us to purchase the equipment which is fundamental for us to start processing the seaweed. We’ve had an overwhelming amount of interest and support from the local community and have also taken on two full time and two part time employees who’ll be working across all aspects of SeaGrown. The support from Julie and the team at BEF has been outstanding; always communicative and the process was incredibly straightforward.” Julie Micklethwaite, Investment Manager at BEF, said: “As part of our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), we always aim to support businesses who strive to address global challenges – so it’s fantastic to see the passion and dedication Wave and Laura have for SeaGrown. They have impressive knowledge and expertise and are committed to really making a difference in the local and wider community. It’s great to see how our support has helped them on their journey and Wave fulfilling the role of his own name!”

West & North Yorkshire Business

HR consultancy launched ???

Yorkshire law firm Lupton Fawcett has launched an HR Consultancy ??? to provide employers with onestop support to meet HR goals or tackle a crisis. The new team brings together award-winning employment law

solicitors and CIPD-qualified consultants who will work together to tackle issues ranging from disciplinaries and grievances to restructuring and redundancies. The HR Consultancy service is aimed at SMEs without a full HR

team, as well as larger companies that prefer to use external HR expertise.

The team is headed by Deborah Carr, HR Director at Lupton Fawcett, who has more than 20 years experience in HR.

Ending youth homelessness

Naming the HQ

Sustainable planning for airport

Yorkshire Building Society has launched a fixed rate bond in support of End Youth Homelessness (EYH), enabling savers to help homeless young people across the UK into their own homes.

Leeds-based national opera company Opera North today announces that its redeveloped headquarters will bear the name of leading philanthropist, Dr Keith Howard OBE.

Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is submitting fresh plans to build a stateof-the-art terminal, which aims to dramatically improve passenger experience, deliver one of the UK’s most environmentally efficient airport buildings, and support greater economic prosperity for the Leeds City Region, Yorkshire and the North.

The one-year End Youth Homelessness Fixed Rate Bond will see savers receive a 1.35% gross p.a/AER* interest rate, fixed until 31 December 2020. The Society will make a one-off donation to EYH of 0.10% of all balances held in the bonds after the account has been withdrawn from sale. EYH is a national movement of local charities working together to end youth homelessness in the UK. Yorkshire Building Society has been working with EYH since 2017.

The Howard Opera Centre will take on the new name in recognition of a significant personal gift from Dr Howard of £11.25 million towards Opera North’s current redevelopment project, Music Works. Situated in the heart of Leeds city centre the redevelopment work will create a world-class facility to make opera; a new Education Studio and additional rehearsal spaces, including a new rehearsal room for the Orchestra and Chorus of Opera North and a suite of music coaching rooms.

The plans propose the construction of a three floor, 34,000 sq. mt. terminal on an alternative site within the airport’s boundary. If approved, this upgrade would create a modern airport terminal, classified as ‘excellent’ by the BREEAM sustainability standard, which is awarded only to the most environmentally efficient buildings internationally.

West & North Yorkshire Business

14 TRANSPORT

L-R: Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Transport and Sandy Needham DL, Chief Executive, West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce

High Speed North In February 2020 Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that the high-speed rail project HS2 will go ahead. Following publication of the Oakervee review into HS2, which the Chamber fed into, and thorough analysis of the benefits of the project, work on Phase 1 (the route between London and Birmingham) is set to start on April. Government will also revive the legislation to deliver Phase 2a (connecting Birmingham to Crewe) as soon as possible so that preparation works can move forward. The PM reaffirmed his commitment to Phase 2b of the HS2 project, extending highâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; speed rail from the West Midlands to the North.

In order to work out how best to deliver Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) and Phase 2b more effectively, government will draw up an integrated plan for rail in the North, informed by an assessment from the National Infrastructure Commission. This will work to identify the most effective sequencing of all relevant investments in the north, and look at how the two schemes can work together alongside wider investment in transport for the North and Midlands. The Department for Transport (DfT) has since confirmed that it expects the plan to be published by the end of the year. The Chamber welcomed this decision, as a long-standing supporter of highspeed rail infrastructure, we campaigned for the last decade to bring these schemes forward. However, we still read in, the mostly, London based national media that the North only needs NPR; this is not correct and demonstrates a flawed misunderstanding of both HS2 and NPR and their inter-relationship. We have always maintained that the North and the UK needs both schemes to be delivered in step with each other.

Andrew Stephenson, the MP for Pendle, has been appointed as minister for the high-speed rail project HS2. Mr Stephenson became a transport minister in the recent Government reshuffle. In addition he has confirmed that he has been given responsibility for NPR, to have a single minister overseeing both of these projects is a move the Chamber greatly supports and welcomes this decision also. However, we also acknowledge that both of these schemes are still many years away from delivery and in the meantime we must press on with upgrades to the current network and ensure that existing rail journeys see significant improvement. HS2 and NPR will put 8 of the UKs major cities across the north and midlands within easy commuter distance of our region, in turn this will enable companies to draw from a much wider pool of available talent, increasing employment opportunities across the north and better connecting communities.

West & North Yorkshire Business

IMMIGRATION 15

Immigration Policy Government proposes introduction of a new Points Based System (PBS) In February the Government announced plans to introduce a new points based system to control immigration, this will come into force from 1 January 2021. In summary here is our analysis of current proposals Positives

Ares of concern

The salary threshold has been reduced to £26,500, down from £30k. This will be reduced further to £20,480 if the vacancy is on the Shortage Occupation List or the individual has a PhD

• No low skilled temporary route and no time for businesses to adapt

• No cap on the number of skilled migrants

• No regional salary threshold differential • Extension of immigration skills and health charges will increase business costs

• Faster processing times

• Many more businesses will be required to be sponsors, adding cost and complexity

• Government will consult on an additional unsponsored PBS route

• Employers are advised to start applying for sponsorship now.

• Skilled threshold has been moved down from degree to A level equivalent

There will a number of routes of entry available to individuals, including employer sponsored for skilled individuals, student visa entries and proposals to allow up to 10,000 temporary agricultural visas.

• No resident labour market test

• Simplified visitor rules

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) will be commissioned to produce the Shortage Occupation List for all jobs currently under the skilled worker route, and to keep the list under regular review. A more detailed summary is available from the Chamber policy team, please get in touch if you would like a copy. Consultations between stakeholders and government will commence from March and the Chamber will look to bring Home Office representatives to our region to meet with businesses. If you would like to be involved then please email mark.goldstone@wnychamber.co.uk

West & North Yorkshire Business

16 YORK

Historic city looks to future

A project aimed at helping to identify and present a modern, relevant and ambitious narrative and set of values for the city of York is in the process of reaching conclusions. The York Narrative Project has been asking residents, businesses and visitors for their views on what makes the city special, and is now looking to see where it can build on its current strengths and assets. Andrew Digwood, the York & North Yorkshire Chamber President, has been involved in several meetings connected to the project over the last few months, and concludes that despite his own initial reservations, it was a job worth doing. “The York Narrative has come in for some stick and that has perhaps caused those leading it to take some backward steps along the way; and I get that – the spending of any money, public or private, needs to be carefully accounted for, and all projects should be scrutinised for what they can and cannot deliver. I, too, was sceptical when first asked to get involved. However, I do feel that the work has produced a good set of values of which York should be proud, and has the potential to help push the city to another level provided that the outcomes are managed and delivered appropriately. It still needs someone to take a clear lead on the delivery or at least help co-ordinate potential outcomes but if we get that right, it will in my view have been worth doing.” Part of the brief was to ensure that the city’s heritage was respected while at the same time recognising future potential, for example around innovation and development and York’s history as a city of pioneers for social justice. More information can be found about the York Narrative at https://www.york.gov.uk/TalkYork

West & North Yorkshire Business

YORK 17

Could a car ban work in York? Any plans for a ‘car ban’ in York city centre need to be sensible and practically implemented, the local authority has been told.

York & North Yorkshire Chamber President, Andrew Digwood, a partner with legal firm Rollits LLP, has said that the Chamber wants to play its part in the climate emergency and agrees that freeing up parts of the city centre and improving air quality are worthy aspirations. The objective, though, should form only part of a wider ambition that needs to consider robust and reliable alternatives to moving people and businesses around the city. Andrew said that he hopes the local council will engage with the Chamber, which will be encouraging its members to respond to any future consultations on the Council’s transport strategy. The Chamber has not yet submitted formal comments on the plans as it says more detailed scrutiny plus dialogue with senior councillors is needed first (Andrew and Ian Williams from the Chamber policy team have had an initial meeting with senior Council representatives).

Andrew added:

“We recognise the importance of the topic of climate change and managing congestion in and around the city, and the health and welfare of local people; but we’d like to know more details about the planned changes so that we can share and consult with our members. Questions that arise from a proposal such as this include: would it be a 24/7 ban, or just limited times? what impact would it have? what travel alternatives are being considered? Would emission-compliant vehicles be exempt? What incentives are being considered to encourage compliance? We’d like to explore these and other issues first, before formulating any formal position on behalf of Chamber members.” The failed Lendal Bridge closure of 2013-14 also hangs over the latest plans, which were proposed by a Labour councillor, not the ruling Lib Dem-Green coalition. Many Liberal Democrats abstained, but the motion passed due to the support of four Greens.

Who could still drive into the city centre? The ban would apply to non-essential private car journeys. Blue badge users, taxis, delivery vans, buses and emergency services are likely to be exempt.

Which areas would be covered by the ban? Ninety per cent of York bus routes pass through the congested Station Road/ Rougier Street junction. Closing Lendal Bridge to private traffic would free up that junction and help with reliability and journey speed essential to getting more bus-users. Is the council brave enough to close the bridge again?

How would a ban be enforced? Options include: permits for specified streets, changes to one-way systems, ANPR (automatic name-plate recognition) cameras. The Chamber will continue to liaise with City of York Council as it works to develop and flesh out its transport strategy, so that the voice of member businesses can play a part in that conversation.

West & North Yorkshire Business

18 ECONOMY

EMPLOYMENT – Remains strong across the region, but some signs that companies are maintaining headcount against a backdrop of sluggish national economic growth awaiting an end to Brexit uncertainty. INVESTMENT – Some improvements on the previous quarter but manufacturing investment remains slow by historic levels. BUSINESS CONFIDENCE – Despite the uncertainty confidence improved in the last quarter across services and manufacturing, recognition perhaps that uncertainty is the new certainty and a need to just get on with business?

Net balance (%)

10 0

Q1 10 Q2 10 Q3 10 Q4 10 Q1 11 Q2 11 Q3 11 Q4 11 Q1 12 Q2 12 Q3 12 Q4 12 Q1 13 Q2 13 Q3 13 Q4 13 Q1 14 Q2 14 Q3 14 Q4 14 Q1 15 Q2 15 Q3 15 Q4 15 Q1 16 Q2 16 Q3 16 Q4 16 Q1 17 Q2 17 Q3 17 Q4 17 Q1 18 Q2 18 Q3 18 Q4 18 Q1 19 Q2 19 Q3 19 Q4 19

-10

Service

Manufacturing

EXPORT SALESExport BYsalesSECTOR

Q1 12 Q2 12 Q3 12 Q4 12 Q1 13 Q2 13 Q3 13 Q4 13 Q1 14 Q2 14 Q3 14 Q4 14 Q1 15 Q2 15 Q3 15 Q4 15 Q1 16 Q2 16 Q3 16 Q4 16 Q1 17 Q2 17 Q3 17 Q4 17 Q1 18 Q2 18 Q3 18 Q4 18 Q1 19 Q2 19 Q3 19 Q4 19

Net balance (%)

45% 40% 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% -5% -10%

Services

Manufacturing

CAPITAL INVESTMENT BY SECTOR Capital investment 35

30 25 20 15

10 5 0

Service

Manufacturing

PROFITABILITYProfitability EXPECTATIONS expectations 70

60 50 40

30 20

10 0 Q2 12 Q3 12 Q4 12 Q1 13 Q2 13 Q3 13 Q4 13 Q1 14 Q2 14 Q3 14 Q4 14 Q1 15 Q2 15 Q3 15 Q4 15 Q1 16 Q2 16 Q3 16 Q4 16 Q1 17 Q2 17 Q3 17 Q4 17 Q1 18 Q2 18 Q3 18 Q4 18 Q1 19 Q2 19 Q3 19 Q4 19

EXPORT SALES AND ORDERS – International sales remain subdued and forward orders turned negative across services and manufacturing. Some of this will no doubt be connected to Brexit but there are also wider global tensions, trade wars and protectionism which are now impacting our region.

Q2 12 Q3 12 Q4 12 Q1 13 Q2 13 Q3 13 Q4 13 Q1 14 Q2 14 Q3 14 Q4 14 Q1 15 Q2 15 Q3 15 Q4 15 Q1 16 Q2 16 Q3 16 Q4 16 Q1 17 Q2 17 Q3 17 Q4 17 Q1 18 Q2 18 Q3 18 Q4 18 Q1 19 Q2 19 Q3 19 Q4 19

DOMESTIC SALES AND ORDERS – Sales improved for both services and manufacturing in the last quarter with net balance up 11 points and 13 points respectively. Retail showed the slowest increase with leisure and hospitality, information technology and professional services leading the way.

Net balance (%)

Executive Summary

Net balance (%)

Quarterly Economic Report

DOMESTIC SALES Domestic sales

Service

Manufacturing

West & North Yorkshire Business

TRANSPORT 19

Rail campaign bolstered by business support Bradford businesses agree with the oft-repeated claim that Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) coming to the city centre is the opportunity of a lifetime for the city. A survey of Chamber members based in or near the area being considered for a city station shows that most firms agree that business, the city economy and overall prosperity would receive a significant boost with arrival of the major infrastructure project. A number of local businesses would also consider relocating close to the scheme if and when it happens. What has become known as the ‘Southern Gateway’ scheme – whereby a range of opportunities and benefits present themselves in a number of different fields other than just transport connectivity – is being put forward to assist with the lobbying to bring NPR to Bradford.

Recognising that what started out as a rail infrastructure project becomes something much more significant, campaigners and lobbyists, including the Chamber, have for some time been flagging up the merits and advantages for the local economy of the Southern Gateway. While 93% of survey respondents said that NPR would assist businesses in Bradford, high percentages also felt a number of other benefits would be seen locally and regionally. Other comments included: easier to attract new investors and visitors; improved property development prospects; a greater area of pull for entertainment venues; and the scheme would be a ‘truly transformational programme adding to the overall regeneration of the city centre.’ Survey respondents also wanted to see more attractive public spaces close by (84%), good parking facilities (78%), high quality commercial premises (75%) and better retail/leisure facilities (69%).

97% Improved transport/access 84% Improved business opportunities 81% Better overall city centre facilities

The survey was conducted to support the campaign to bring NPR to Bradford, and the findings have been shared with those leading the campaign. Those who said they would consider relocating if NPR happens included an architect, construction consultant, development consultant, newspaper publisher and property agent/surveyor. Marianne McCallum, Chair of Bradford Chamber Property Forum and a Planning Director with WYG, said: “We needed to help create the strongest possible business case for NPR and the Southern Gateway concept, backed by the Chamber survey findings, does just that. Government talk of levelling up the economy needs to be supported by giving the go ahead for a Bradford city centre NPR station. There is no doubt in our minds that this transPennine high-speed rail scheme would pull up Northern economic performance through higher productivity, connectivity, property values and investment levels.”

72% Increased property values 72% Easier to recruit staff 59% Easier to host/entertain clients

West & North Yorkshire Business

20 CLEAN AIR DAY

Clean Air Day 2020

Yorkshire Design Group (YDG) are giving their support to Living Streets Leeds to help deliver a series of events on Clean Air Day, June 18th. We’d love to see other businesses joining us to celebrate the positive message that everyone can take simple steps to reduce air pollution in our city. YDG, a property development and management company, have worked in Leeds for over 30 years to create sustainable locations for business and education amongst residential and leisure uses in the Calls Waterfront and South Bank areas of Leeds, within a short walk from the city centre. The company’s work to rescue and re-purpose the redundant post-industrial warehouses next to the river in Leeds kick-started the original regeneration of the city’s waterfront. Living Streets is a UK charity with a mission to achieve a better walking environment for all and inspire people to walk more. In 2019 Living Streets Leeds brought together more than 20 organisations with the Local Authority to create the Leeds Clean Air Alliance to celebrate Clean Air Day. Paul Ellison, Managing Director of YDG, said “Lots of good things happened in Leeds last year for Clean Air Day, with people walking and cycling to work and several streets closed to traffic, but awareness could be higher. The impact could be much greater if we better connect those events and push the agenda harder to be more ambitious in 2020. We have a keen interest in making Leeds a better city for all its citizens. Reducing air pollution is proven to have a huge impact on health and quality of life and businesses in Leeds have a key role to play.” Ruth Gelletlie, Living Streets, adds “Air pollution is the largest environmental health risk we face today, and in recent years, Leeds has been highlighted in several reports for poor air quality, due to traffic-related air pollution. In 2019 Friends of the Earth said that Neville Street in Leeds was the most polluted road outside London and data from Public Health England has shown that air pollution is linked to five in every 100 deaths of people aged 30 and over in Leeds. The more that we can draw attention to transported-related air pollution and clearly demonstrate that both residents and employers in Leeds want to see real, rapid improvements in air quality in Leeds, the sooner we can see positive effects on health in our local communities. We are working hard to draw together key partners and confirm plans for ambitious actions to make Clean Air Day 2020 in Leeds a hugely positive event.” Paul and Ruth want to hear from businesses who are willing to get involved in Clean Air Day 2020. If you are planning an event and can share this information, or want to discuss ideas for an event, please email Ruth Gelletlie at leedsgroup@livingstreets.org.uk.

West & North Yorkshire Business

22 PROFILE

The Grand, York achieves 84% plastic reduction in less than a year At the start of 2019, The Grand’s Junior Board (made up of six junior members of staff) launched a project that meant a lot to the team; eliminating all single-use plastic before 1st January 2020. The plan involves replacing various items used in the hotel with more sustainable substitutes such as; biodegradable bin bags, bamboo dental kits and reusable cork coasters. In addition to this, unnecessary packaging was removed from household essentials like robes, slippers and bedside favours. Food and drink products like Actimel cartons were swapped out for fresh smoothies and likewise used Nespresso pods were returned to the supplier to be reused to make stationery.

With only 4 items remaining, The Grand managed to eliminate the majority (84%) of single-use plastic from the guest experience and hotel by the 1st of January 2020. Commenting on the board’s progression over the past year, Junior Board Managing Director and Marketing Executive at the hotel Olivia Odudu said: “We have developed ourselves, The Grand and those around us to become a more sustainable and experience driven enterprise than we could have ever imagined. “With customer satisfaction and the future for everyone in mind, we constructed new ways to continue to provide exceptional service whilst also being sustainable.” Although the team have not reached their target of 100%, another member of the board and Guest Relations Assistant, Edward Gough said:

“We are thrilled with the outcome of the project and it has been extremely rewarding to be a part of something so important.” Throughout the project, the team at The Grand reduced waste and energy consumption and would like to thank their suppliers for the continued support. Commenting on the future of the Junior Board, another member of the board and Restaurant Host, Anna Titley, said; “We will continue to eliminate the outstanding SUP items to ensure that we reach our Grand Goes Green goal completely in 2020.”

The Grand, York 01904 380038 www.thegrandyork.co.uk

West & North Yorkshire Business

POLICY 23

High quality panel point out the positives Businesses in Bradford heard from senior influencers recently. A well-attended meeting heard about recent economic development successes and also about emerging opportunities. Council Leader Susan Hinchcliffe, Economic Partnership Chair Dave Baldwin and West Yorkshire Police Superintendent Alisa Newman were all panellists. The latter covered the challenges of tackling crime and anti-social behaviour with recently-reduced budgets. Bradford Chamber’s Property Forum Chair, Marianne McCallum of WYG also gave a brief update, and the event was chaired by Roger Thompson of BHP, who has just completed two years heading up Bradford Professionals’ Network.

Projects covered included: • One City Park - Muse Developments to lead on delivering this major scheme • Transforming Cities Fund – an £80m bid to put sustainable travel and green spaces at the heart of the city • Train stations – redeveloped as high quality gateways, with retail pods in Forster Square’s arches and a major reorientation of Interchange • Bradford Live – 4,000 capacity entertainment facility opening in 2021, strengthening cultural and conference offer • Markets – a transformational £21m new building and market square scheduled for 2022, after which the Oastler Centre and Kirkgate Centre market will close • City Village – the ‘top of town’ will become a 1,000 home new neighbourhood • Townscape Heritage Scheme - a £2m project to help conserve historic properties and public spaces at the ‘top of town’ conservation area, helping to increase property values and encourage business investment • Growth Schemes - supported 240 businesses since 2012, brought 100 empty commercial spaces back into use and generated 660 jobs. Fifty-two start-ups also created. North Parade the most obvious beneficiary, but bars and other venues have also opened in other parts of the city (e.g. Ivegate, Queensgate and Hustlergate) • Heritage - Pennine House (facing Broadway on Little Germany’s edge), a listed former mill is now 109 high quality apartments; Conditioning House – also listed – will become 150 new homes plus office space.

Alastair Gordon appointed new Chair for Chamber’s Transport Group West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce that Alastair Gordon has been appointed as the new chair of the Chamber’s Transport Group replacing Sara Gilmore, from Addleshaw Goddard LLP who has been chair for the last three years. Alastair, a Chartered Civil Engineer by profession, leads Arup’s Transport Planning Team in the North West and Yorkshire. He brings with him 23 years’ experience of delivering major infrastructure schemes within urban centres and has worked on many of the Region’s most significant projects including Leeds Arena and the UK’s largest brownfield regeneration site, York Central. The Chamber’s Transport Group meets roughly every quarter to hear about and discuss new transport related developments and bids. They also influence and challenge government policy to ensure investment in transport projects that improve connectivity across the Region. Commenting on his appointment, Alastair said: “West and North Yorkshire has a thriving and ambitious economy but its transport system needs improving if it is to realise its potential. I plan to look at how we can better connect our communities and develop a truly integrated transport offering to allow businesses, residents and visitors to travel easily and effectively. “As our transport system adapts to our growing needs, we need to make sure that these changes are not detrimental to our environment. I will look to new technologies and explore how their adoption can help us create a clean, safe and sustainable network for our communities.” For further information about the Chamber’s Transport Group contact the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

Meet your

export experts

West & North Yorkshire Business

EXPORT EXPERTS FEATURE 25 You’ve just landed an order from overseas, and it feels great. It shows that you’re a growing, healthy business, and will fill up your order book too, helping keep staff busy in the coming months. But then you start to realise – you’ve never sold to this market before! Very soon, the joy gives way to panic… Or, imagine, you’ve received an order from Iran, but your product contains components that were manufactured in the US, and you need advice about compliance – fast. These scenarios are not as unusual as you might think. Chamber International’s client services team receive enquiries every day from businesses who are either looking to enter a new overseas market, or need practical help with an export. Asked for a memorable example, general manager Nikki Clow recalls: “This one company made a speculative bid, and the next we heard they’d won their first export order - nine shipments and 27 forty-foot containers in all! They hadn’t thought how they would receive payment, or compared different delivery terms either – they’d just copied something from the internet. They realised they needed help, so we sent our team in and de-risked the whole contract for them.” Members of West & North Yorkshire Chamber get special preferential access to Chamber International’s client services team, based right at the heart of Chamber’s own offices in Little Germany, Bradford. Export advisors Laura Patterson, Fiorella Duran-Robinson, Ioanna Orfandi, and recent recruit Katja Bruns, receive all new enquiries, and manage the delivery of a wide range of trade services. A truly international team, between them they speak French, Italian, Greek, German, Spanish, Russian… and English, of course. Laura said: “I love working at Chamber International because we have such a strong network of highly experienced specialists; the world of

international trade is constantly changing, and, by working as a team, our individual trade expertise grows every day.” Whether a business requires a tariff classification for their goods, advice about trade preference agreements, Brexit planning, conformity certificates, an origin ruling, in-house training, or customs clearance – the client services team are ready to deliver. Chamber International also facilitates overseas market entry, assists with finding trade partners, and provides a full “Export Office” service to take the pressure off company shipping departments when needed, even during holiday absences. The new exciting new “Chamber Customs” service, being rolled out just as British firms face the prospect of far greater involvement with clearance processes, will ensure their goods safe and efficient passage through UK ports, post-Brexit. Time and again, Chamber members have expressed thanks to Chamber International for helping them avoid mistakes, and saving them trouble and money. “You managed the exporting and associated risk, taking the headache away from me, and ensured a trouble-free delivery”, said one recent email. Fiorella recently received a call from Fantastak, Europe’s leading manufacturer of glue dots and niche adhesive products, who were looking for assistance regarding the origin of their goods. Through careful research, Chamber International uncovered that these goods needed to be classified as being of non-preferential Chinese (rather than UK) origin. Bradford-based Fantastak were so pleased with the help they received, by which they avoided a potentially costly false origin declaration, that they signed up for Chamber membership, and now also receive special reduced rates for export documentation and other trade services. Fantastak’s technical director, Paul Simpson, said: “We sell into 54 countries, and have lots of experience dealing with certificates of origin, but in this instance a major German OEM in the floristry sector wanted us to get the second opinion of the Chamber. I’m so glad we did! The CI client services team understood exactly what we needed, and responded quickly. We’re now talking with the wider Chamber about a number of different matters, as we invest in the business and develop a whole new product line”.

West & North Yorkshire Business

26 FEATURE EXPORT MARKETS

A challenging market with export success Having been in business for over 40 years, and exporting for most of that time, Don Whitley Scientific (DWS) has established a network of distributors around the world. DWS designs, develops, manufactures and sells laboratory equipment to 53 countries and has been a member of the Chamber for many years. DWS operates in a somewhat niche market – its products are used in microbiology and cell culture laboratories in hospitals, contract testing organisations, universities and a number of commercial companies (pharma, food production, dairy, etc). With items costing thousands of pounds, these are not consumable items that are purchased regularly but are capital items that may require grant funding, commercial tenders or are part of managed service contracts. Getting large, heavy but fragile products to overseas customers can sometimes be a challenge but Chamber International’s export team is always on hand to help.

New distributors Exporting products overseas is vital to the growth of DWS’s business and a network of loyal, hard-working, committed distributors is essential. Regular liaison with existing distributors and the recruitment of new organisations to sell in different countries is an important part of the export

strategy. In the last year DWS has extended its network to include distributors in two new countries. Joe Walton, DWS export director said “We rely on Chamber International’s excellent service for export documents and to advise on tricky export challenges but the benefits we get from their expertise go far beyond that, as our developing business in South America demonstrates.”

Strategies In 2020, DWS will give focus to the second tier of their distribution network. A new online, interactive tool (the Whitley Interactive Product Presentation) has been developed that may help these distributors to present all the latest information on Whitley Workstations and spiral platers. The tool is available online and as an app. The sophisticated software has been designed and programmed to DWS’s specification and works in tandem with their websites.

The future DWS will be launching their latest new product (the H25 Hypoxystation) early in 2020 and work is underway putting together marketing materials to share with distributors around the world.

West & North Yorkshire Business

LINKEDIN LINK UP FEATURE 27

Shellfish to China

through the power of connection Chamber International bridges the gap A family fishing firm is exploring new waters thanks to a film project focusing on the seaport of Grimsby. Fastline Shellfish Ltd features in the short film Grimsby United, which demonstrates how the firm, with the help and support of Chamber International, is moving on from its very traditional focus to also consider the benefits of exporting. The film, commissioned by LinkedIn, has been showing in cinema venues nationwide, immediately prior to the screening of blockbuster movie Downton Abbey. As recently as the 1950’s, Grimsby was the largest and busiest fishing port in the world, its fish quay crammed with boats arriving full with fresh catches from the North Sea, but Darren Kenyon, who heads up Fastline, says that his family firm is now one of just a handful of fishing boat operators there.

He knows that his business needs to adapt in order survive and grow, and so has been interested in exporting shellfish, specifically brown crabs, to China - where they are regarded as a delicacy. But, where to start? Film production company Archers Mark approached Chamber International and this introduction provided a dynamic catalyst for change, with in-house specialists from CI providing support to underpin Darren’s export ambitions. A pivotal moment in the film shows export specialist Tamires SouzaCichorz giving Darren the good news that Chinese wholesalers on LinkedIn, whom Chamber International had begun direct discussions with in Mandarin, are showing a positive interest in a business relationship with Fastline.

Darren is quick to acknowledge, having the right help at the right time can make all the difference. The focus now is on increasing capacity to meet demand, and thanks to the power of connection, he can now say, “I’m here to stay!”

West & North Yorkshire Business

28 FEATURE TRAINING A specialist hygiene chemicals company was so impressed with a Chamber International training course on Export Documentation and Import Procedures, that they followed it up with a bespoke programme delivered at their own premises. Christeyns UK - who manufacture chemicals for sectors including textiles; food processing and retail; professional cleaning; medical, pharmaceutical and cosmetics - is a wholly-owned subsidiary of a Belgian company and sees much movement of goods between the two locations: the Republic of Ireland is a significant export market. The firm sees staff development as an integral part of their business. Christeyns Management Accountant, Tom Hickson comments: "Staff training and development is an ongoing process for us. Since mid- to- late 2017, in preparation for Brexit, we have had a focus team in place to further upskill across the company so that we are best prepared for any scenario." "Chamber International's open course on Export Documentation and Import Procedures was impressive," explains Tom, " So much so that we then arranged for a bespoke course to be delivered in-house, to 18 colleagues in all. "From our initial booking experience and the pre-course support we received, right through to the execution of the course by personable and highly knowledgeable people - the entire Chamber International service we received was superb." He goes on: "The course itself was incredibly useful and highly enjoyable and the feedback I have received from the colleagues of mine also in attendance only echo this sentiment." Tom concludes: "We are very much part of a group supply chain, so the recent General Election result gives us a little more clarity now. I know that Chamber International will provide any support we may look for in the future."

“Chamber International’s open course on Export Documentation and Import Procedures was impressive.” Tom Hickson

On course for Brexit and beyond

West & North Yorkshire Business

30 FEATURE E-COMMERCE

New markets for businesses, new challenges for regulators

How e-commerce is changing cross-border trade Technology is shaping the future of international trade. The global explosion in cross-border parcel shipments driven by e-commerce was one of the many subjects on discussion at this October’s World Trade Organization Public Forum, an annual gathering of businesses, academia, law firms and international organisations, held in Geneva. Having a good website makes a business’s brand and products visible across the globe, and can connect them with new customers from the most unlikely places, as Leeds-based Quality Bearings Online discovered a few years ago when they received a phone call late one night from the Netherlands Antilles. The caller had found them during a Google search, and needed a specific bearing for a ferry that connected that person’s island with the South American mainland. The ferry had broken down, leaving a large part of the island cut off. "We had the bearing in stock, agreed the sale and had the bearing with our customer within two days”, explained Simon Riley, managing director at the Leeds company, who, in 2017 were named PD Ports Northern Powerhouse E-commerce Exporter of the Year. "At that point, we didn't immediately think that exporting was the future, but the seed was planted. "Fast-forward to today and we feel we are at the cutting edge of e-commerce by using geo-locating tools to ensure our customers get the right message at the right time. Our sales team use our website as their ‘silent salesperson’; the website attracts the customer in the first place and then they follow up and build relationships from there. "Our whole team has fully bought in to exporting via our website. We strongly believe in the social media side of the web working in our favour, so we have a full strategy based on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn." Simon concluded: "We are on an aggressive growth curve and this is simply down to being an e-commerce business." Small and medium-sized businesses are five times more likely than others to export using the Internet. E-commerce allows micro and small firms to appear

big and established, enabling them to match larger business when it comes to geographical reach. The growth in platform-enabled exporting is also allowing more firms to find their place in international trade, and has seen Amazon create ‘market places’ in 170 countries. eBay categorise ninety percent of their commercial sellers as exporters. However, the use of e-commerce in exporting has created new regulatory challenges, and these are forcing policy makers to look at the need to update existing ‘bricks and mortar’ regulations, in order to create a more relevant trading system that bridges the digital gap. The Geneva-based Global Express Association (GEA), which represents the three biggest fast-parcel carriers (DHL, FedEx and UPS, together handling 30 to 40 million shipments daily), has seen growth of 23 percent in the last three years. Border stoppages also rose from 12 percent in 2017 to 13 percent in 2018, equating to seven million additional shipments being snagged each year. Not surprisingly, GEA are keen advocates of the World Customs Organisation’s Immediate Release Guidelines. These form part of the Revised Kyoto Convention, adopted in 1999, and allow for the use of a ‘de minimis’ regime and automated assessments to avoid delays to small-value, small-size shipments – delays that can often ‘choke off’ trade. Chamber International’s advisors understand the ‘pain points’ and the issues that increase trade costs. We appreciate that trade rules need to be clear and predictable, and that exporters are not always in a position to maintain inventory to allow for unexpected issues arising from changes to the rules. The easier we make it to export, the more accessible trade becomes in this new era of micro-entrepreneurs exporting from their kitchen tables.

West & North Yorkshire Business

32 FEATURE ENTERPRISE EUROPE NETWORK Enterprise Europe Network helps Brandon Medical develop and commercialise innovative surgical lighting. A fast growing Leeds-based manufacturer of world leading technologies for the operating theatre has worked with the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) over a number of years to bring an innovative surgical lighting system to the global market. Brandon Medical developed pioneering surgical lighting that provides a safer and more comfortable environment for surgeons and patients. The lighting delivers perfect colour rendition for the best visualisation of tissue during surgery, uses a soft halo to reduce eye strain, and was designed with minimisation of infections in mind. The high performance lighting, which can be ceilingmounted or used on wheels for extreme manoeuvrability, can be found across the world from hospitals in Mexico to field hospitals in theatres of war. Since EEN began working with the company in 2015, it has increased its turnover by £2.6M and introduced its products to various new markets around the globe.

Smart Grants for smart projects The connection with EEN, part of the Innovate UK family of services, began with Managing Director Graeme Hall seeking to raise finance for the development of the innovative surgical lighting. Support focused on building an application to Innovate UK Smart Grants – an open innovation competition – through which a £250K grant was secured. Over the course of two years, the lighting was designed, prototyped, revised and developed into a market-ready product.

Sales growth through Italian partnership In 2017, Brandon Medical wanted to optimise and boost sales of its new lighting system. EEN facilitated a license agreement with the Polytechnic University of Turin for a revolutionary cloud-based software developed by a team of postgraduates. This software allows the configuration of finished component parts to a specification and generates quotations to be used in field-based sales and marketing. The software required additional development to meet Brandon Medical’s needs. EEN helped the company obtain one of the Italian developers on a work placement through the Erasmus+ programme for the duration of the development project.

Embracing the digital revolution In order to optimise the manufacturing process of the surgical lighting and boost productivity, EEN placed a graduate from the University of Huddersfield at Brandon Medical through Innovate UK’s Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP). The company was awarded a grant of £185K to part-fund the two year placement, which includes support from the university. The on-going KTP project, due to be completed in July 2020, looks at how Brandon Medical can use automation and data analytics to improve product quality and enhance productivity.

The B word As a manufacturer of medical devices, Brexit will bring about huge changes for Brandon Medical. EEN helped them understand and prepare for the changes, particularly around device certification and CE marking. With their enhanced understanding and unique position as one of Britain’s leading manufacturers of medical equipment, EEN offered Brandon Medical’s services as a ‘responsible person’ to EU companies that wish to continue trading in the UK post-Brexit. This offer was disseminated to EEN’s network of 600 partners across the EU.

Next step scaleup Funded by Innovate UK and delivered by EEN, the Scaleup Programme supports a select group of companies on a journey to exponential growth. In February 2020, Brandon Medical was accepted on to this programme. The Scaleup Programme supports businesses that have the ambition to scale. To make that ambition a reality requires a clear strategy, the capability to hire and retain skilled staff, to develop management and leadership capacity, to penetrate new markets and to secure access to finance, and to address all the infrastructure needs of the business. Brandon Medical will receive intensive support in all these areas to achieve compound annual growth rates of at least 60-100%.

Harnessing EEN’s wider network EEN is well connected with support initiatives across the region. Brandon Medical was introduced to the Department for International Trade, which provided funding for attendance of overseas trade shows. Additionally, the Manufacturing Growth Programme provided further funding to enable the upgrade of a CNC machine, and to part-fund a consultant who provided inventory and work-in-progress management solutions.

West & North Yorkshire Business

CASE STUDY FEATURE 33

Lighting up operating theatres

across the world

Propel your business Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) is a fully funded service designed to help you expand your horizons, grow and scale your business, and succeed overseas.

1. Assessment One of our specialist international business advisers works with you to identify challenges, opportunities and growth areas in your organisation.

2. Action plan Our international business adviser works with you to agree an action plan. This sets out how you can tackle barriers to international growth and harness your companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full potential.

3. Delivery Your business receives tailored support through a bespoke package of services delivered face-to-face and remotely by our network of experts and partners.

4. Review Your business works with our adviser to carry out a full review, assessing impact and planning the next steps for sustainable growth.

www.enterprise-europe.co.uk

Harness our scope and reach Our network spans more than 60 countries including the USA, Canada, India and China. With EEN you can access business opportunities right across the globe. From your local UK contact point at the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce we can connect you with 3,000 experts in 600 organisations across more than 60 countries. We also organise 70,000 international meetings each year to connect you with other businesses, technology centres and universities.

Our services Partnering International partnerships Local supply chain opportunities Brokerage events Overseas company missions Due diligence Documentation for export & import

Advice Enter new markets

Grants

Understand EU trade agreements

Loans

CE marking

Letters of credit

EU legislation Local and regional information events

Innovation

Finance

Intellectual property assessment

Blended finance

Innovation diagnostics

Currency exchange

Commodity codes

Building capacity to manage innovation Key account management

Signposting Qualified referrals to our wider network including the Department for International Trade, Chamber International, Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk 0113 203 1383

Drop us an email een@wnychamber.co.uk

International business support for SMEs in Yorkshire and the Humber delivered by the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce

Funded by

West & North Yorkshire Business

36 CASE STUDY

Celebrating shed load of orders

A manufacturer in Bradford is producing shed loads of orders thanks to new state-of-the-art machinery.

West & North Yorkshire Business

38 CASE STUDY

Power Sheds, based on Euroway Trading Estate, was set up in April by entrepreneurs Jack Sutcliffe and Simon Hodson. In the first month they manufactured 15 sheds but are now producing up to 400 per month and still growing. The pair are aiming to triple the size of the company and recruit more staff. Power Sheds has already started to develop partnerships with garden centres who are now selling their sheds around the UK. The company has developed a pallet which forms the base of every shed it produces. The panels are flat-packed and delivered for customers to assemble themselves, meaning the time taken to manufacture each shed is significantly reduced. Jack said: “I know from experience working in the industry that the average time from ordering a shed

to delivery is four to five weeks, but we guarantee the customer will receive our sheds within three working days.” The company has been able to speed up manufacturing thanks to a new automated saw, which cuts the timber to the correct length. The purchase of the saw has been supported by a £6000 grant from AD:VENTURE, a business support program for new businesses in North and West Yorkshire funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The new equipment means that Power Sheds are now looking to expand into Europe. “Having the new saw has streamlined the cutting process which has freed up people to do other things,” Jack added. “It’s made a massive difference to the way we operate because we are no longer restricted by our capacity. “From a sales perspective we don’t expect it to be difficult to reach our target of tripling in size. It’s just being able to meet the demand which we have struggled with, so the new equipment is helping us in that respect.”

“It’s fantastic to see a local company identifying a gap in the market and enjoying huge growth as a result. “Bradford Council is delighted to be a partner in the AD:VENTURE programme. We understand the importance of supporting the growth of start-ups and Power Sheds is a great example of how valuable that support can be for our local businesses.” Steve Hartley Strategic Director, Bradford Council

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West & North Yorkshire Business

40 TAX TIPS

VAT in 2020 : Key points and essential actions The UK has now “left” the EU: Brexit is done – or is it? Many business owners have faced years filled with uncertainty, but with the Brexit agreement now delivered, it is essential whatever happens over the coming months, to understand how Brexit may affect your business. Naylor Wintersgill Chartered Accountants Managing Director Victoria Wainwright looks at some of the key issues to consider in order to ensure your business is VAT-compliant after Brexit.

1 February 2020 – 31 December 2020: “Business as usual” The UK is currently in an 11 month transition period. This means that there are no Brexit-related changes to the UK VAT system in respect of trade between the UK and the EU during this time. The following will remain unchanged until 31 December 2020: • EU cross border supplies of goods and services • Distance selling rules • Intrastat obligations • Tour Operators Margin Scheme • Refunds of VAT incurred in other EU countries • Mini One Stop Shop (MOSS) VAT returns • Rulings of the European Court of Justice

In simple terms, the current position is this: From 1 February 2020 to 31 December 2020 it is “business as usual” for supplies from the UK to the EU and from the EU to the UK. However, if the current transitional period is not extended you need to be prepared for possible changes coming into force on 1 January 2021.

From 1 January 2021 We don’t yet have any detail on what things will look like from 1 January next year. Some things will undoubtedly change, some may be subject to transitional measures and some may even stay the same long-term. This will all depend on the precise arrangements negotiated with the EU. One thing we do already know is that the UK government plans to introduce import controls on EU goods at the border after the transition period ends on 31 December 2020. If you import goods from other EU countries you will need to prepare for these border controls by making sure you obtain an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number. You will also need to consider how best to make import declarations - Chamber International can help advise on this.

• Place of supply rules

If you would like to speak to one of our team of experts to discuss your particular circumstances, please call 01274 733184/0113 3401133 or email hello@naylorwintersgill.co.uk. To find out more about how Naylor Wintersgill can help your business grown and succeed, visit www.naylorwintersgill.com.

VAT in 2020

Key points and essential actions

West & North Yorkshire Business

42 CASE STUDY A North Yorkshire company has set the wheels in motion with a brand-new safety device which could save the lives of drivers, operatives and cyclists. NuVech Solutions Ltd, based in Ripon, has launched the AirBar, an inflatable barrier fitted with LED lights which attaches to the front and back of lorries or vans. The device encourages motorists to slow down and move over and has been designed to alert approaching traffic and protect vulnerable operators working near live traffic.

NuVech Solutions was set up by Sarah and Simon Scaife in December 2017. The husband and wife team previously ran a separate company, Vehicle Transporter Training, which offered accredited transporter driver training courses. Simon has over 30 years’ experience in the vehicle logistics industry.

The AirBar can also operate with the vehicle’s nearside indicator below speeds of 15mph to help alert cyclists of a turning vehicle.

The AirBar was launched in September 2019 in the UK and has already won an innovation award from the Institute of Vehicle Recovery, despite being up against major manufacturers.

NuVech has received orders from national hauliers, recovery companies and manufacturers, and is currently in final negotiations with a large American distributer to market the system in the USA and Canada. The development of the AirBar has been supported by a £4000 grant from AD:VENTURE, a business support programme for new businesses in North and West Yorkshire funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The money was used to adapt the company’s new premises at Phoenix Business Park in Ripon, owned by Harrogate Borough Council.

One of the first companies to order the AirBar is John Macadam and Son, a recovery firm based in Colne, Lancashire which operates across Yorkshire and NorthWest England. Director Alastair Macadam said: “The most important asset we have in the company is our staff and this system helps to protect them, which makes it invaluable. “The device has already proved useful for our drivers - we were dealing with an incident on the M6 involving an overturned HGV and both the police and highways officers commented on the Airbar as being a good idea.”

Sarah Scaife, co-director of NuVech, said: “We used to run driver training courses and one of the common things we found was that drivers were getting hit by passing cars as they worked around their vehicles. This is obviously a real safety concern.

As well as providing the £4000 grant, AD:VENTURE supported Simon and Sarah with creating a business plan, ensuring the device complied with industry legislation, and moving to NuVech’s current premises at Phoenix Business Park in Ripon.

“Our customers have witnessed first-hand the huge benefits to driver safety when the AirBar is deployed so we look forward to working with businesses who are keen to improve safety for their employees and vulnerable road users alike.”

Councillor Graham Swift, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Resources, Economic Development and Enterprise at Harrogate Borough Council said: “It’s fantastic to see a new company based in Ripon developing such an innovative product, and we wish NuVech every success.

“Due to its unique design, the AirBar will improve safety for drivers and operatives in the logistics industry. We wouldn’t have been able to get to this point without the support from AD:VENTURE. Their help has enabled us to get the wheels in motion in bringing the new product to market.”

“We’re delighted to be a partner in the AD:VENTURE programme, it’s a valuable part of the local services we offer to help the growth of start-ups and new businesses like NuVech.”

North Yorkshire vehicle safety firm launches lifesaving AirBar

Bright ideas flow

West & North Yorkshire Business

CASE STUDY 45

Launched in October 2017, Hydro-Flux is a manufacturing company based in Batley, that develops innovations for swimming pool installation and maintenance. This includes FlowBright, a revolutionary swimming pool lighting system that it developed following extensive research and development. Working from his kitchen table, founding director Michael Burnham initially struggled with how to take the theory for an innovation, that could change the way swimming pool lighting systems are installed across the world, and put it into practice. Hydro-Flux wanted to develop a range of products that would meet with the challenges faced by swimming pool trade installers. Having recognised a gap in the market, the company had a product idea but was struggling to raise the funds that would help to take it from kitchen table to order books, creating a credible organisation. The tools required to manufacture the product were expensive, and this was creating a barrier to the success of the business and its progression. Without support it simply could not get off the ground. Hydro-Flux turned to AD:VENTURE, the business support programme for start-up and young companies across Leeds City Region, and BEF to solve their finance conundrum. AD:VENTURE delivered development support and a match-funded grant of almost £20,000 while BEF delivered £80,000 in start-up and growth funding. Thanks to the funding, Hydro-Flux went from kitchen table to furnished offices almost overnight. Hydro-Flux are now attracting huge interest from contacts across the world. Having secured its first two distributors, it is now exploring partnership opportunities with organisations in Dubai, British Columbia, Romania and Turkey. Director at Hydro-Flux, Michael Burnham, comments: “There really is nothing like FlowBright on the market and as we have taken the time and effort to patent the technology, we know we have a real niche that we now need to capitalise upon.”

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Business Leeds has been developed help businesses in the North strengthen and grow. The week will deliver the perfect platform for companies throughout the region to find support with growth strategies, learn from industry leaders and access funding. Businesses looking to export or expand their current export markets will have to opportunity to seek support. The week itself will bring like-minded business professionals together and includes: Property and Investment Dinner, Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lunch, International Conference and Business Growth Conference. If you are looking to network with your peers, enhance or grow your business this event is the platform for you. Sponsorship and speaker opportunities are available please contact marketing@wnychamber.co.uk for information.

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West & North Yorkshire Business

BUSINESS LEEDS 47

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West & North Yorkshire Business

An exciting next chapter for LeedsBID

West & North Yorkshire Business

PROFILE 51 2020 marks the start of an exciting new chapter for LeedsBID (Leeds Business Improvement District) as it enters its second five year term in the city. After a resounding endorsement from businesses across the city centre in the BID’s renewal ballot in November 2019, with 94% of voters supporting the business plan for another five years, the business-led, not-for-profit organisation remains at the forefront of making new things happen in Leeds city centre. Over the next five years, LeedsBID is committing a further £14m back into the city centre – an increase on its £12.5m investment over its first term. Its work will build on the success of projects and initiatives delivered during the BID’s first term but also incorporates new elements in response to consultation and reacting to the requirements of the sectors and businesses it represents across the LeedsBID area (close to 700 businesses in LS1 and a proportion of LS2). As the city ever increases economically and geographically, with the river becoming at the heart of Leeds, it is essential the BID is innovative in meeting the changing conditions and aspirations of the city. In reflecting the make-up of an expanding city, LeedsBID will carry out, with partners including the chamber of commerce, property owners, landlords and existing businesses, a feasibility study to grow the BID to the south of the river. Looking forward to its next chapter, LeedsBID’s work will centre on five areas of focus for 2020-2025: Ambition: “Striving to achieve the best for businesses in Leeds, supporting the aspirations and excellence of the city centre.” A commitment to supporting the city’s ambition to be the best city centre it can be will see LeedsBID working to help future proof the workforce of young professionals – playing an important part in growing, attracting and retaining talents and skills. A continued investment in the development of Ambition:Leeds, the retail and hospitality training academy, will assist in meeting the changing needs of all sectors in the city in uncertain economic times, supporting business aims and aspirations.

Curation: “Creating and maintaining an overall improved city centre experience for those who live, work and thrive in it.” As use of the city centre increases and more businesses make Leeds their home, the presence of the hugely successful LeedsBID Street Rangers is essential to the look and feel of the city centre, and its continued appeal and economic success. They will remain at the heart of working in collaboration with others to curate and manage the challenges of everyday use of a 24 hour city centre. Animation: “Breathing new life into the city with engaging events, activities and installations.” Now an annual event, LeedsBID’s popular Summer in the City will continue to encourage people out of the office to enjoy the city centre, with deckchairs remaining a summer staple along with an assortment of seasonal events and activities to animate key office areas, helping enhance the working environment and employee health and wellbeing. Collaboration: “Connecting with key partners for the greater good of the city and its communities.” Leading a collaborative pooling of time, resources and expertise will see LeedsBID remain a central driver for the city, working together on city-wide projects and campaigns to create improvements and results from the return of Leeds Jurassic Trail to a continued commitment to Big Change Leeds, helping those in most need on the city’s streets. Innovation: “Continuing as a catalyst for change in this city centre, leading transformation with new, exciting ideas and innovative investment.” Supporting the city’s ambition to be a greener city will see LeedsBID’s further work alongside Leeds-based Forge Recycling and Yorkshire Energy in supporting businesses to clean up their operations, looking at waste, recycling and renewable energy while helping cost savings and improving city centre aesthetics. LeedsBID Chief Executive Andrew Cooper said: “We look forward to continuing to work across the city centre with all businesses and organisations on a diverse range of innovative, exciting and collaborative projects in line with our business plan, as we improve Leeds for the better and enhance the city for all those who live, work and thrive in it.” For LeedsBID The Next Chapter 2020-2025 Business Plan and to keep up-to-date with LeedsBID projects, please visit www.leedsbid.co.uk , www.welcometoleeds.co.uk and www.ambitionleeds.co.uk

West & North Yorkshire Business

52 PROFILE

Leeds sets out ambition to raise the bar on wages and living standards

In a full employment market, many employers are already paying well above what’s referred to as the ‘real living wage’ – currently pegged at £9.30 per hour – simply to attract and retain staff. But in-work poverty remains a cruel fact of life for many people and around 24% of workers in Leeds are paid less than the real living wage.

Leeds City Council is committed to raising the bar, not only by paying its staff above the real living wage, but by encouraging companies in its supply chain and other employers in the city to pay the real living wage. All the evidence shows that, rather than increasing costs to business, paying the real living wage has significant benefits in terms of boosting productivity, company reputation, staff motivation and loyalty. Ultimately, it’s not just another cost. There’s also a gain to the bottom line. Based on what employees and their families need to live, the real living wage currently stands at £9.30 per hour outside London for anyone aged 18 or over, compared to the lower national minimum wage of £8.21 for those aged 25 or above. Leeds City Council signed up to the real living wage as the minimum rate of pay for its own staff in April 2018, boosting standards of living for around 5,000 of its directly employed staff. A new approach to procurement also prioritises tackling low pay throughout its supply chain. Cllr Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council, said: “Leeds is proud to invest in higher wages for low paid staff and to be leading the way, working with partners and suppliers, to raise the bar on pay and living standards.”

“But while current employment statistics superficially tick the box, with record high levels of employment across the economy, too many people are still trapped in low paid, insecure employment and in-work poverty.” The council is now championing the cause of Leeds becoming a Living Wage City by increasing the number of businesses in the city that pay the real living wage. In February it brought together businesses in Leeds, including the city’s ‘anchor institutions’ together with other stakeholders, employers and community groups to champion the cause of Leeds as a ‘Living Wage City’. Anchor institutions are those large organisations such as colleges, universities, hospitals and big businesses headquartered in the city. Like the council, they play a key role in the economy as employers. They also wield considerable influence through their spending power and supply chains. According to the Living Wage Foundation, 93 per cent of living wage employers say they benefit from improved reputation, recruitment and retention, as well as broader benefits such as securing contracts. Impact on wage bills and erosion of pay differentials are undoubtedly an issue, particularly for small businesses but, for most, the benefits far outweigh any negative effects.

West & North Yorkshire Business

Speaking at the launch event in February, managing director of Arville Textiles Jim Wight explained why his company opted to become a real living wage employer: “We took the view as a business that we had a moral duty to ensure everyone working for us had a reasonable standard of living. “Practically it does present difficulties because when the real living wage goes up there’s pressure to adopt the increase across the board. But driving productivity is more important for us as a business than penny pinching at the bottom level. “We currently employ over 100 people and only seven of them are on the real living wage. Our emphasis is on upskilling and progressing people so they can earn more.” Craig Burton, managing director of The Works Recruitment and a Leeds inclusive growth ambassador said: “As a recruitment business, we see a huge increase in applications for roles with employers who pay ‘real’ – and better than real – living wages.

“We need Leeds to be a city where we value our people. A wage that covers basic living expenses, with some to spare, is only right and fair. Adopting the real living wage is a small but crucial step towards Leeds itself becoming a ‘city of choice’ for mid- to lowskilled workers.”

“Combined with additional benefits such as flexible working and travel allowances, it allows businesses to position themselves as an employer of choice.

For more information and to find out how to become an accredited living wage employer, visit: www.livingwage.org.uk

West & North Yorkshire Business

54 PROFILE A Saltaire-based architects has strengthened its senior team with the appointment of a new director. Martyn Booker takes the position at Rance Booth Smith Architects 14 years after joining the firm following the completion of his degree in architecture from Huddersfield University. While at Rance Booth Smith he has worked on a portfolio of high-profile projects such as the pioneering Atrium at the University of Bradford, which saw the use of EFTE before it became a mainstream building material. He was also involved in the award-winning restoration of Shibden Park which included a contemporary new interpretation centre and the Scientific Support Unit for West Yorkshire Police incorporating state of the art forensic laboratories. His main focuses in the new position will include ensuring continued client satisfaction, increasing the client database and managing the practice. Fellow Rance Booth Smith director, Linda Hollings, explains: “Martyn has been with the company since 2003 and proven himself to be an indispensable part of the team with the experience, assurance and company insight that made his promotion to director an obvious choice. “His ability to interpret the client’s needs has been key to the successful delivery of many projects and in exceeding the expectations of our clients.” The company’s in-house conservation service, which offers consultation on historic building restoration and adaptations, is overseen by Martyn who also has a diploma in architecture and master’s degree. He says: “The quality of service RBS provides has been key to the longevity of the business and the number of repeat clients we have. While our client base is in Yorkshire, their projects see us working across the country, keeping our portfolio interesting and varied.” Martyn adds: “Challenging times for the construction industry have seen an increased amount of our work focusing on developing our existing built environment which brings great opportunities to create better spaces for people to live and work. Building Information Modelling (BIM) has also transformed how we operate since I started at RBS and has greatly improved the efficiency of projects.” For more information about Rance Booth Smith, telephone 01274 587327 or visit www.rbsarchitects.co.uk

West & North Yorkshire Business

Architects with designs on the future L-R: Allan Booth, Martyn Booker and Linda Hollings, directors at Rance Booth Smith Architects

Quality offices in a heritage area Set your business up to thrive with our newly refurbished, contemporary serviced office space situated in the centrally located and historic area of Little Germany. • ‘Easy in, easy out’ monthly terms with no requirement for a long lease • Competitive rents from as little as £275 per month • High specification and environmental standards including BREEAM accreditation • Secure environment and reception services • Landlord’s services and membership of the Chamber included • Fibre broadband provided • Access to meeting rooms • Member services and support staff on site • DDA compliant, accessible building

If your business is looking for a new home with easy-in / easy-out terms at competitive prices, contact Andrew Robertson, Property Director on 07827 318671 or email andrew.robertson@wnychamber.co.uk The project was part funded by ERDF and has achieved BREEAM very good.

CASE STUDY

Chamber Hub - Devere House Rance Booth Smith Architects Limited were appointed by West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce to carry out the design and refurbishment of the entrance, reception and 4th and 5th floors of Grade II* listed Devere House in Little Germany, Bradford to create flexible highquality serviced offices. The brief was to design a combination of office accommodation including break out areas and shared meeting rooms to cater for new start-up businesses who require flexible office space.

The existing 4th and 5th floors were disused spaces that had deteriorated over the years, the existing toilets were in disrepair and in need of a full strip out and refurbishment. The 5th floor is within the roof space with only three windows, exposed steel trusses and had suffered from a fire a number of years ago. The existing reception area and staircase were remodelled to allow more space and form a seating area. The design also included a new curved reception desk, feature lighting and slimline fully glazed automated entrance door and signage, along with lift refurbishment and staircase refresh. The result is corporate, modern, high quality office spaces which have been well received by everyone.

West & North Yorkshire Business

58 SOCIAL

What you missed online

Melanie Pickering @_MelaniePick

Roche Legal @Roche_Legal

Great @WNYChamber breakfast meeting this morning at @YorkArmyMuseum learning lots about IT security, the Armed Forces Covenant and much more, in a very thought-provoking venue

Inspiring to hear from Laurence Beardmore today at York & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce about his coffee empire. Lunch at Cedar Court. Happy Friday! Smiling face with smiling eyes

The Chamber has seen great activity across all social media platforms in the past several months. The selected posts below are examples of some of the valuable information and discussions shared by the Chamber and our members on a daily basis. We would love to know your thoughts on this quarterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s magazine and your local Chamber. What would you like to know more about or see more of in the future? Did any articles stand out to you? Get involved with the regional business discussion on Twitter by tagging us @WNYChamber and mentioning #YorkshireBusiness.

Bank of England Y&H @BoEYorkshire Leeds @WNYChamber dinner always a highlight of the year. Their President encourages firms to use their services to prepare for Brexit & other changes

Bowman Riley @bowmanrileyarch #national apprenticeship week 2020 workshop with architecture students @leedsbeckett with @LeedsChamber QPS group, set up to champion a better-built environment. Led by @architectcolin & @DanPosti, the workshop introduced a site with a brief of tackling high street decline

Our profiles Twitter @WNYChamber

LinkedIn West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce

Facebook West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce

West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

Project Office Leeds @_projectoffic Great Masterplanning workshop for our #architecture students yesterday with @bowmanrileyarch and @LeedsChamber Quality Places and Spaces group. Many thanks to everyone who participated!

Marianne McCallum @MrsMc13 #bradford being colourful. On my way to 1st @BradfordChamber #propertyforum steering Group meeting of #2020 #regeneration

West & North Yorkshire Business

MEMBERSHIP 59

Networking works Local firms Rollits LLP & Diony aim for new heights through member collaboration Leading law firm Rollits LLP and fast growing digital marketing agency Diony make a flying start to the new year through a flourishing collaboration after meeting through the York Chamber less than a year ago.

Marketing Director, Pat Coyle, said: “Following on from our exploratory chat last summer, the opportunity to work together came up when I was looking for an agency to work with on our new 2020 Vision project.

Rollits partner and Chamber President, Andrew Digwood said: “I met Alistair at a Chamber networking event in York and when I realised that Diony were based in Hull just along the street from our Citadel House office it seemed like a nobrainer to meet for coffee to explore if there were any opportunities to work together in the future”

“It’s always good to get a fresh perspective on things and this is what Diony can provide, and they are on our doorstep. They have turned the traditional marketing agency concept on its head, concentrating on a performance management model which we hope will give us the edge in a crowded legal marketplace”.

Diony’s managing director, Alistair O’Sullivan said: “After being introduced to Andrew Digwood from Rollits, our relationship with the firm has turned into a thriving partnership. We’ve been members for around a year now and haven’t looked back. The chamber has been great for us on so many different angles, and our already fantastic relationship with Rollits proves that. We’ve been working with their Marketing Director on their exciting new 2020 Vision campaign, which has seen generate great results already as we kick start it into an exciting new year.”

The Rollits 2020 Vision campaign along with the appointment of new team members, heavy investment into internal systems and embracing new technologies in a new, refreshing outlook on what can often be seen as a traditional “stuffy” industry. The 180 year old firm currently has 99 staff members made up of 21 Partners, 40 lawyers and 38 admin staff, and their 2020 Vision has been said to be ‘Pivotal’ internally to Rollits just as much as it is externally to their clients, in order to become a benchmark in all they do, and truly raise the bar in quality of service, providing a non-jargon approach, and offering honest, valuable insight through a partnership approach with clients.

Now a team of 6 and currently recruiting 2 additional members of staff, also working with other local members like York Racecourse that they’ve also met through the chamber, Diony are already in early stages of opening their 2nd office in York, after seeing a real growth phase as they come into 2020.

To find out more about Rollits 2020 Vision, visit: https://vimeo.com/389002986

West & North Yorkshire Business

60 LEEDS CHAMBER ANNUAL DINNER

Leeds Chamber Annual Dinner The Leeds Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner took place at the Landmark Queens Hotel on Thursday 30th January.

Speaking at the dinner for the first time as President of the Leeds Chamber of Commerce was Amanda Beresford. Amanda said “I have been involved with the Chamber and its policy activities for many years, leading the planning group and representing our members on the national Chamber planning expert panel” Amanda also talked about HS2, environment and social impact. The main speaker on the evening was Sinead Rocks, Managing Director, Regions & Nations at Channel 4 who said “We hope Channel 4 will act as a catalyst for further growth in the region.” Sinead shared with the room the challenges she had faced moving Channel 4 to Leeds but explained how everyone was looking forward to moving into the Majestic building later this year. The evenings entertainer was Jo Caulfield, a female comedian who had members laughing out loud as she embraced their company values. The evenings raffle raised £2065 for Leeds Chamber Charity ‘The Market Place’ an independent charity founded in 1989 that provide free information, support and counselling to young people aged 11-25. Thank you to LNER for sponsoring the event, your support is greatly appreciated.

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NEWLY COMPLETED QUALITY OFFICES IN A HERITAGE AREA Set your business up to thrive with our newly refurbished, contemporary serviced office space situated in the centrally located and historic area of Little Germany. • ‘Easy in, easy out’ monthly terms with no requirement for a long lease • Competitive rents from as little as £275 per month • High specification and environmental standards including BREEAM accreditation • Secure environment and reception services • Landlord’s services and membership of the Chamber included • Fibre broadband provided • Access to meeting rooms • Member services and support staff on site • DDA compliant, accessible building

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serviced oﬃce space is the access to meeting rooms for client meetings.” Sean Pearson Twenty Twenty Films

For enquiries and information on how we can help you get the right business premises contact Andrew Robertson, Property Director.

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Chamber Hub, Devere House, Vicar Lane, Little Germany, Bradford BD1 5AH West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce British Chambers of Commerce Accredited