West & North Yorkshire Business: Q1 2018 by West & North Yorkshire Business

West & North

Business Yorkshire

Q1 2018

FEATURES Leeds Beckett University invests Are you ready for auto-enrolment? G+E= Customer Service

Geared up for export West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

CONNECTING, SUPPORTING & REPRESENTING BUSINESS

West & North Yorkshire Business

WELCOME 3

WWW.BEFUND.ORG

UNLOCKING YOUR BUSINESS POTENTIAL WITH FLEXIBLE FINANCE

We’re in business to help your business Businesses working together influence decisions that will affect your future. There have been two meetings with national policy-makers on the potential impact of Brexit on professional services and manufacturers and the practicalities of changes on importing and exporting. There will be a meeting with national representatives of the Department for International Trade at the end of January to give members the chance to share views.

At Business Enterprise Fund, we believe in the power of small business. We believe in its potential to transform communities. And we believe in you. Since launching our not-for-profit organisation in 2004, we’ve loaned over £30million to help local businesses thrive and grow. Now, we’ll do the same for you. Sandy Needham

GET IN TOUCH TODAY:

Chief Executive West & North Yorkshire Chamber

INFO@BEFUND.ORG 0800 080 3145

Many hours have been spent talking about transport and infrastructure too. It seems that our push for a Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) is gaining support. But we can’t afford to be complacent on NPR, nor on HS2 as both are needed if companies are to grow. Thanks to everyone who responded to the devolution poll. This is the third year when I’ve commented on the lack of a decision. As we saw in the Budget, no mayor means no money. Could 2018 be the year to move forward finally? The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund is providing finance to our patch and we’re proud that Business Enterprise Fund, a subsidiary of the Chamber, has lent £2m as a fund manager of the NPIF in the region.

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

FINANCE AND SUPPORT FOR SM ALL BUSINESSES IN YORKSHIRE AND THE NORTH EAST Business Enterprise Fund is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 726237) Representative example (Start Up Loans Company): £10,000 loan repayable over 5 years. 60 monthly payments of £193.33. Rate of interest 6% per annum fixed. Representative APR 6.18%. Total amount of credit £10,000. Total interest payable £1,599.80. Total cost of credit £1,599.80. Total amount payable is £11,599.80. This is an illustrative example based on loans of up to £25,000 from the Start Up Loans Company (SULC), rates and terms will vary for similar products from other sources should you not be eligible for a SULC loan. Further information is available on enquiry.

Helping Fund UK Business

We’ve had some impressive speakers at events in the last few months, with more to come. Hearing from successful business people about their good (and bad) experience and future plans is always inspirational. The Chamber is planning for the year ahead and if you think there are business needs that are not being met, let us know. We’re in business to help your business.

West & North Yorkshire Business

4 CONTACTS EDITORIAL editor@yorkshire-business.co.uk DESIGN design@yorkshire-business.co.uk ADVERTISING advertising@yorkshire-business.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@yorkshire-business.co.uk GENERAL hello@yorkshire-business.co.uk WEBSITE yorkshire-business.co.uk TWITTER @WNYorkshire_Biz

CONTENTS 5

MEMBERS’ NEWS News from Bradford, Leeds, York and North Yorkshire

12 16 20 21 22 24 28 30 32 33 34 38

REGIONAL NEWS News from across the region

FEATURE Leeds Beckett University

PROFILE Exa Networks

PROFILE Ahead Partnership

BREXIT Representing business

REPRESENTATION

West & North Yorkshire Business is a quarterly business magazine produced by the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. The audience for this publication is comprised of a targeted audience of the major decision makers and senior executives across both the Yorkshire region and the wider UK business community. © 2017 West & North Yorkshire Business - No Part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any form of 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.

Lobbying latest

BCC COMMENTARY QES results

CONNECTING BUSINESS Leeds North Bar

MANUFACTURING Airedale Springs

PROFILE Christeyns

FEATURE Garbutt + Elliott

INTERNATIONAL Kahn Design

40 42 43 44 46 48 50 51 52

INTERNATIONAL Knitwear by Ross Barr

PROFILE Rance Booth Smith Architects

Nothing sheepish about export plans

PROFILE Peter Brett Associates

PENSION FEATURE Automatic enrolment

INTERNATIONAL Tissuemed

TRAINING Customer satisfaction

CASE STUDY Wilde Child

FINANCE CASE STUDY Marshall’s Beach Huts

ANNUAL DINNER

55 56 66

Bradford Chamber Annual Dinner

PROFILE

RAISING THE BAR 2017 Awards

EVENTS Networking, training and business lunches

Celebrating the best of business

www.hartandclough.co.uk The Chamber group includes Chamber International, Chamber of Commerce.

Dinner puts manufacturing in fastlane

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

Ecology Building Society

Printed by Hart & Clough

Business Enterprise Fund and West & North Yorkshire

Confidence in conferences

Experts in export 38 Moving exports up a gear

West & North Yorkshire Business

BRADFORD NEWS

Recruiting for the future

Boosting confidence As I wrote this column, the first part of the Brexit deal was finally being agreed. Businesses will be pleased that progress is being made at last, and also relieved, as it seems to have been a frustratingly slow process. I know that, concerned with the possible ramifications of the UK leaving the EU, many organisations have formed their own Brexit teams with a view to preparing for what it will mean for them. The recent announcements may have eased some of the concerns. You can find out about the latest Chamber activities around Brexit elsewhere in this magazine. So, what difference will the progress of the Brexit talks have made to Bradford businesses? Boosted confidence no doubt, as will the Barclays research that Bradford is the best place in the UK in which to start a business. The bank’s survey showed that the city has the best overall conditions for businesses to thrive: key points include best business rate relief, road infrastructure (somewhat of a surprise) and value for money for commercial space. Finally, we got a further shot in the arm when the Government hinted its backing for Northern Powerhouse Rail to go through Bradford. Nick Garthwaite President Bradford Chamber

You know the drill

Hlw Keeble Hawson’s continued commitment to developing young talent is reflected by five new trainee solicitors being taken on across its commercial and private client teams.

working with the family law team, Ajun Singh is based in the residential property department and Louise Ward joins the litigation and dispute resolution team.

Three appointments are based at Sheffield where Kate Langley is

Giles Searby, hlw Keeble Hawson partner, said: “Our long-standing

ethos of recruiting, developing and retaining the next generation of lawyers reinforces our reputation as a leading awardwinning firm which prides itself on a high quality of client service. We wish our trainees every success in their new roles.”

A new state-of-the-art dental training and education centre was officially opened by MP Judith Cummins at Bradford College on Friday.

Northern Dental Education Centre will train apprentice dental nurses and deliver CPD courses to dental professionals from all over the country. The £500,000 high-spec facility is a joint enterprise between Bradford College and the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP). The centre includes a classroom that is set up as a dental surgery and one filled with phantom heads - realistic open-mouthed manikins that give learners the opportunity to practise in close to real-life conditions. The facility also boasts a decontamination suite and space for lectures, conferences and workshops.

A winning Approach

Uni’s a blast!

Ilkley-based Approach PR is celebrating after winning two Chartered Institute of Public Relations’ (CIPR) PRide Awards.

Skipton based industrial finishing equipment manufacturer Guyson International, has produced and donated a bespoke blast cabinet for the University of Bradford.

The seven-strong consultancy, which has over 24 industry and business awards won both Outstanding Small PR Consultancy of the Year and Community Relations Campaign of the Year. Managing director of Approach, Suzanne Watson, said: “It is such an honour to have won twice at the PR industry’s most recognised awards – a testament to our hard working and passionate team.”

Armistice Day Poems Three youngsters from across the district performed commemorative poems at Kirkgate Shopping on 11 November after winning the ‘Bradford’s Young War Poet’ title. The annual initiative run by Kirkgate Shopping, which this year partnered with Reading Matters and Anthony Anaxagorou, aims to support the region’s literacy development by giving children the opportunity to celebrate their ancestors by writing a poem for Remembrance Day. The competition crowned 13-year-old Aamna Rafaqat from Bradford Girls’ Grammar School as overall winner with runners up, year six student from Wellington Primary School, Katie Hammond (10), and Finlay Cooper Butters (7) from Horton Park Academy. The event was also attended by The Royal British Legion and the Bradford WW1 group which hosted an exhibition telling the story of Bradford in the Great War during the day.

Growing team A Bradford garden centre has strengthened its senior management team with a board level appointment. Charlie Barker is joining the team in the newly created position of Finance Director. This is an ambitious business and I look forward to helping them to deliver the plans.”

Broad appeal The Broadway Shopping Centre helped to kick off the holiday season in Bradford this weekend, as some famous faces drew in thousands for its official Festive Launch. The Broadway was packed with crowds of people cheering on reigning X Factor champion Matt Terry as he performed alongside fellow former X Factor contestant Christian Burrows and Fame Academy favourite Lemar. General manager Ian Ward was delighted with the event, saying: “To say the launch has been a success is an understatement. “All the performances from the artists were incredible and the enthusiasm of the crowds went a long way to make our Festive Launch an event not to be forgotten.”

Mark Viner, who is a Bradford University alumnus explains: “The additive manufacturing sector is a key market for us here at Guyson and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial technical collaboration with Bradford University on many projects related to this sector.”

In for the win Incommunities has scooped a prestigious national prize, winning ‘Apprentice Large Employer of the Year’ at the 2017 Construction Industry Training Board. Geraldine Howley, Incommunities Group Chief Executive, said: “This award is a fantastic accolade for everyone involved in the delivery of our apprenticeship programme.

West & North Yorkshire Business

LEEDS NEWS

Strength in numbers If 2018 is going to be half as interesting as 2017, then we in for one heck of a year! That’s not to say it will be all good, or all bad…but it probably won’t be dull. While the economy continues to stay on reasonably solid ground, there are various choppy waters that risk unsettling the ship – many of them to do, inevitably, with politics. Brexit will hang over us throughout the year and well into next, I’m sure, and, at the time of writing, the devolution issue remained unresolved. The whole Carillion debacle is, unfortunately, unnerving for some firms and, like other things, is a distraction from getting on with ‘normal business’. On matters closer to home, however, there is still plenty to be positive about. Here in Leeds, this great city continues to go from strength-tostrength, with its top quality firms in sectors like professional services, digital and IT, and health and innovation; not forgetting the retail and leisure attraction that brings in many visitors. We will not rest on our laurels though; the Chamber will strive to keep Leeds up there with the best of the UK’s cities, and I will lead the charge to ensure a strong business voice is heard among local, regional and national policy-makers. Here’s hoping for a strong and successful 2018. Paula Dillon President Leeds Chamber

Social nets San Siro hero Former Leeds United defender Dominic Matteo was amongst other sporting personalities for an evening of fun, food and entertaining challenges at a sporting dinner with a difference being organised by the Jane Tomlinson Appeal. Dominic joined fellow panellists former England full-back Danny Mills, Paralympian Hannah Cockroft and Leeds Rhinos legend Barrie McDermott for the Sporting Social at the Queens Hotel in Leeds . Described as a playful, modern twist on the traditional sporting dinner, the event was hosted by BBC Look North’s Tanya Arnold and panellists recalled some of their career highlights.

Firm cracks export code A Leeds-based electronics manufacturing business, Daletech Electronics, has been given free strategic export advice from an award-winning Yorkshire firm as part of a new export network that is exclusive to businesses in the Leeds City Region. The advice and mentoring from Radio Design Director Eric Hawthorn will help Daletech directors realise ambitions for growth into Europe and beyond under the new Government-backed Export Exchange programme.

The scheme puts seasoned exporters, or ‘patrons’ in touch with Yorkshire SMEs so that they can share first-hand expert knowledge with businesses in the Leeds City Region that want to know more about selling overseas. Eric Hawthorn, Managing Director of Bradford-based wireless infrastructure firm Radio Design has been an Export Exchange patron since the programme launched in July this year.

Dominic, who played for Leeds between 2000 and 2004, said: “It was great evening, raising money for a fantastic cause.”

Director makes the cut One of Britain’s foremost film directors is to receive Leeds Arts University’s first-ever first honorary Master of Arts degree. Clio Barnard was recognised by the North of England’s only specialist arts university during a graduation ceremony in November.

“It will be a huge privilege for me to accept an honorary degree from Leeds Arts University,” said Barnard, whose first feature film The Arbor established her as a leading light in the UK film industry. “The University has long played a vital role in shaping the lives and careers of so many people in the creative arts.”

Global Diversity awards for Yorkshire business leader Barclays today announced that Yorkshire based Relationship Director Alex Fogal has been recognised as an inspirational colleague winning the Business Impact Award in the Barclays Global Diversity Business Awards. The Barclays Diversity Business Awards acknowledge the many achievements of employees who have channelled their passion, energy and enthusiasm into driving our diversity and inclusion strategy forward, supporting customers, clients and colleagues along the way. The awards were held in New York and this year there were 440 nominations, shortlisted to eighteen finalists.

Three’s company

Gordons have blueprint for success

A business in Leeds which offers document management services and confidential waste disposal is celebrating winning a trio of new clients and extending contracts with an additional two organisations.

Yorkshire law firm Gordons has further enhanced its leading property litigation service with the appointment of an experienced solicitor.

McCarthy’s Document Management is now providing a managed archive service for Yorkshire law firm Lupton Fawcett, and for GMI Construction, based in Leeds, both for an initial twoyear contract. In addition, the shredding side of the business, McCarthy’s Safe Shred, is now providing confidential waste disposal services for the Community Options .

Richard Jobes arrives at Gordons following five years at the Leeds office of national law firm Eversheds Sutherland. He then graduated in law at BPP University Law School, Leeds. Welcoming Richard to the firm, Gordons’ Partner and Head of Property Litigation, Richard Cressall, said: “Richard is a straight-talker and an excellent lawyer, which is just the type of person we want at Gordons.”

West & North Yorkshire Business

YORK & NORTH YORKSHIRE NEWS have an “ Universities important role to play

On the up Looking back towards the end of 2017, I’d like to say thank you to members of York & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce for welcoming me as their President. The first few months have been really busy and positive, and I’m looking forward to a packed 2018 events programme. Over the last few months, I have met with members, MPs, representatives of the City of York Council and the Bank of England. York Chamber’s Property Forum has been working tirelessly to put forward members’ views on York Central, development of the Local Plan and the traffic and transport infrastructure improvements that are required to support a successful economy. Many thanks to Eamonn Keogh and the Property Forum. Another key area for our businesses is the skills gap and recruitment issues facing many. I do feel that this needs to be dealt with at source, in schools, where I believe all options whether further or higher education, apprenticeships or employment should be given proper consideration with impartial careers advice and guidance being available to all. Finally, looking further ahead, please remember whether it’s business advice and support, networking, legal help, lobbying, international advice or sharing best practice, then the Chamber is here to provide all the help and support your business needs. Bridget Davies President York & North Yorkshire Chamber

Treske’s role in £500k restoration Treske, the leading North Yorkshire bespoke manufacturer of furniture, kitchens and church furnishings, has played a pivotal role in the £500,000 refurbishment of Chester’s Wesley Methodist Church. The company, based in Thirsk, provided nearly 200 bespoke chairs and trolleys, a new communion table, a lectern and a suspended cross to create a brand-new worship area in the Grade II-listed church in St John Street. Justin Bartlett, Managing Director of Treske, explained: “This was a significant commission for us and we are very proud of the result. The new chairs, communion table, lectern and suspended cross provided by Treske contribute in a very significant way to the overall feel of hospitality and warmth in the modernised space.”

School launches careers network Pocklington School Foundation has launched a new Careers and Business Network to help support current and former pupils as well the wider school community. The Network is open to parents past and present, staff and supporters, and Old Pocklingtonians (OPs), with the aim of sharing advice and expertise to help each other thrive in a highly competitive world. The Network has been developed in conjunction with the Old Pocklingtonian Association, who have been offering careers and mentoring support to former pupils for a number of years. Mark Ronan, Headmaster, said: “We are delighted that Martin has taken the time to help us launch the Careers and Business Network.

York’s top 100 business list Persimmon Plc has topped the list of best performing businesses in York at an awards event held in partnership between York St John University, Make It York and The Press. Dr David Norris, Deputy Dean of York Business School, said: “The York Business School at York St John

both as partners to business and in creating opportunities to bring industry, researchers and the next generation of talent together.

”

Professor Karen Stanton, Vice Chancellor of York St John University

University has worked with Make It York and The Press to produce the first ever Top 100 list of businesses headquartered in the city. Between the top 100, these companies employ over 26,000 people and have a combined turnover of £6.8 billion. Speaking at the event, Professor Karen

Stanton, Vice Chancellor of York St John University said: “Universities have an important role to play both as partners to business and in creating opportunities to bring industry, researchers and the next generation of talent together. We hope this list can inspire more conversations that benefit York’s business community.”

12th century building honoured

Future leader identified

New additions to accountancy firm

An historic East Yorkshire building, which has been rescued from the Heritage At Risk Register, has been honoured in this year’s York Guild of Building Craftsmanship awards.

Pocklington School student James Charlton-Harrison has been identified as a future leader in engineering by a prestigious annual award scheme.

Hunter Gee Holroyd Chartered Accountants has expanded by employing three new team members at its Filey and York Offices.

The Arkwright Scholarships Trust granted the Lower Sixth Form student an Engineering Scholarship at an awards ceremony in Edinburgh for the UK’s most talented STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) students. The ceremony was supported by the Institution of Engineering and Technology and themed around the built environment, supported by Principal Awards Ceremony Sponsors, Arup.

The appointments of Clare Gummerson, Ping Robson and Joseph Walton bring a range of skills and experience to the Hunter Gee Holroyd team.

Watton Priory Barn, near Driffield, which dates back to the 12th century, has been saved by Historic Property Restoration Ltd, who are based in North Shields. The 9,000 bricks and copings for Watton Priory Barn were provided by the award-winning York Handmade Brick Company, who also help to sponsor the York Guild of Building Craftsmanship awards.

“We are delighted to welcome Clare, Ping and Joseph to the Hunter Gee Holroyd team. Their appointments will help us to deliver more accountancy services, alongside our enhanced Payroll and bookkeeping provision, to more small and medium-sized businesses in North Yorkshire,” said Nigel Atkinson, Director.

West & North Yorkshire Business

WEST & NORTH YORKSHIRE

In good shape Despite some concerns 12 months ago, the last year has been a cause for renewed optimism as our businesses continue to perform positively with both domestic and exporting activity increasing for services and manufacturing firms. There is still much to do, though, to build on the progress to date to ensure we achieve our full potential and improve our economic performance and thereby the wellbeing of everyone in Yorkshire. We have some key issues to tackle if we are to achieve the vision of a prosperous and growing economy in which all parts and people play a role. We will continue to make sure the business voice is heard on local, regional and national issues. I believe we will continue to remain behind the pace until we have a devolution settlement and your Chamber will be helping all it can in achieving one that works for business, not just politicians. As Brexit negotiations progress, we will make sure this region’s opportunities and challenges are addressed. Similarly, the transport, housing and skills agendas remain as major issues for business and, while I have seen positive progress on all three throughout Yorkshire, we must ensure we push for further action and outcomes. Working with the public sector is the key to success and shouting at central government while holding a begging bowl is not the way to do it. A more positive and constructive narrative is needed and the Chamber will play its full part in achieving that. Gerald Jennings Chair of the Board West & North Yorkshire Chamber

Platform for success The business community at Bruntwood’s flagship Leeds building Platform continues to grow, welcoming one of the city’s established tech start-up communities, Futurelabs, ahead of its official launch this week. Futurelabs, which was established as a pilot initiative with support from Leeds City Council in 2016, currently houses around 70 people, supporting the city’s grassroots community of start ups and freelancers. The tech incubator at Platform is fast becoming one of the main gateways for the city’s digital sector, following support from Leeds City Council’s Tech Hub Fund which is designed to support start up and scale up businesses from the digital technology and creative industries across the city and beyond.

Yorkshire retailers at risk Level of Yorkshire retailers at risk rises from less than a quarter to almost a third during 2017. The high street is continuing to struggle, according to the insolvency and restructuring trade body R3, which reports that stores in Yorkshire at higher than normal risk of insolvency.

“Given that retail is often seen as the barometer of the economy as it reflects the confidence of consumers, it is extremely worrying to see this downward trend over the last nine months,” comments Eleanor Temple, chair of R3 in Yorkshire and a barrister at Kings Chambers in Leeds

“Any retailer, or other type of business, which is finding current trading conditions difficult to navigate should not wait to act, but should seek advice from a qualified professional. An outside perspective can be vital in analysing the best way forward for a firm in distress.”

Barclays funding boost for Westin Group

Charity bowled over by donation

Agencies hat-trick of contract wins

CHSF is honoured to announce legendary cricket umpire and commentator Dickie Bird OBE as their new charity ambassador. What’s more, Dickie has donated £30,000 of his own money to the fund.

Huddersfield based marketing communications agency, KC Communications have secured contracts with three diverse Yorkshire based clients; Yorkshire Yogi, Microform Imaging LTD, and The Flood Company.

Fund finds 50 to finance The joint fund managers of the NPIF – BEF & FFE Microfinance scheme are celebrating surpassing £2 million loaned to small businesses across Yorkshire, Humber and the Tees Valley, having reached £1 million just four months ago. Bradford-headquartered Business Enterprise Fund and Doncaster’s Finance For Enterprise were named fund managers in February for the Microfinance element of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NPIF) and have since provided over 50 investments to growing SME businesses in the NPIF region. The figures are announced following a report revealing Yorkshire to be one of the lead growth areas of business activity in the UK.

Huddersfield based business Westin Group, has completed the successful acquisition and development of additional premises with funding from Barclays. The site has been totally refurbished and expanded to accommodate the growing group. Eric Brindle, Barclays Relationship Director commented: “This is a significant and pivotal milestone for the future of the Westin Group as it paves the way for further expansion and growth.”

CHSF’s CEO Sharon Coyle said:“We’re beyond thrilled that Dickie Bird – a true Yorkshireman and sporting icon – is becoming our ambassador. Dickie visited the children’s cardiac ward, and his heartfelt engagement with young.”

KC Communications have seen turnover grow 70% year-on-year since it’s foundation in 2014. Managing Director, Katrina Cliffe said: “I am delighted to welcome on board our latest clients and look forward to working closely with them.

West & North Yorkshire Business

WEST & NORTH YORKSHIRE

Representing your business The Chamber represents members across a very diverse range of subjects ensuring the business voice is heard by policy makers. In the last year we have commented on or taken part in the following: • BEIS - Industrial Strategy • DCLG – Housing in the Right Places • Sustainable development • Leeds Talent & Skills plan • Economic Growth Strategies in Leeds, Bradford and Harrogate • York Local Plan • Heathrow expansion • Leeds Clean Air Zone • York Outer Ring Road • A64 Growth Partnership • York Central Community Forum • Leeds Innovation District • Leeds Cycling Strategy • Leeds Flood Resilience • Transport for the North – Strategic Plan For further details please contact representation@wnychamber.co.uk Mark Goldstone Head of Policy & Representation West & North Yorkshire Chamber

Export exchange Yorkshire businesses come together to share advice at free overseas trade event The ExportExchange.co.uk initiative, launched in July to bring together experts in overseas trade within firms from the region, has already helped share exporting knowledge with dozens of growing exporters who have registered to receive advice from experienced local mentors. The first ExportExchange ‘Live’ event has been designed to provide real life examples of what resources are available to new or growing exporters, from grants and matched funding to export documentation, research services and loan funding. “ExportExchange is all about learning from our peers who have successfully grown exporting businesses, and these events will share that same principle. The idea is that we give businesses a succinct and current overview of the different types of support currently available, and get realistic insights directly from businesses about how to best leverage these resources,” said Ms Boldison.

Student revolution A Leeds-based education technology business is set to revolutionise the way universities are able to harness their student data after a three-year trial of its pioneering analysis and monitoring software. Solutionpath has developed a software product called StREAM which measures and analyses student engagement, accurately identifying students who are at risk of early withdrawal from their course, or of underachieving academically.

The company’s sophisticated analytics software monitors and assesses digital interactions logged each time a student engages with the university by carrying out day-to-day activities such as using the library or attending a lecture, alongside data on academic progress. The resulting analytics enable universities to identify students at academic risk at a much earlier stage so that staff can intervene and offer the help and support required. Solutionpath is currently working with 11 universities in the UK and overseas.

Investment boost for Yorkshire Investments by Finance Yorkshire have created or safeguarded more than 16,000 jobs in the region, new figures reveal. Since its launch seven years ago, the SME funder has invested in more than 500 SMEs across Yorkshire and the Humber. The figures show that Finance Yorkshire’s investments have enabled those companies to increase their turnover by a total of £474 million and attract a further £362 million from other private sector sources. The Finance Yorkshire fund achieved full investment of £113 million last year. It was originally developed as a European JEREMIE initiative, capitalised by grants from the UK Government, European Regional Development Fund and debt finance from the European Investment Bank (EIB).

One in a million Digital marketing agency Ignition Search has picked up the top prize at the recent Northern eCommerce Awards in Manchester. The Sheffield-based company won ‘Best eCommerce Search/Marketing Campaign’ for its revenue-boosting campaign on behalf of clothing company Pretty Green. The strategy, described by judges as a ‘definite stand-

out campaign’, saw Pretty Green’s revenue for June 2017 increase 299% on the previous year. Ignition Search’s improvements concentrated mainly on the clothing firm’s pay per click performance. Managing Director of Ignition Search, Dan Kavanagh, said: “Our strategy is a simple one: we use intelligent, data-led campaigns to target our clients’ customer base, delivering market-leading results time and again.”

West & North Yorkshire Business

FEATURE 17

Cut cloth

from the best Leeds Beckett Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new conference centre, Cloth Hall Court, aims to bring world-class business facilities to the region.

West & North Yorkshire Business

FEATURE 19 We caught up with Simon Baldwin, Head of Enterprise and Operations at Leeds Beckett University, to find out why bridging the gap between business and education is a priority. Leeds Beckett University has recently opened the newly-renovated Cloth Hall Court. Could you tell us more about this project and the importance of the University to the Leeds City Region? Leeds Beckett has a long history and tradition of providing conference facilities through Well Met - its dedicated conferencing team. We’ve explored various opportunities to expand this business, and we’ve had phenomenal demand for it. Following an extensive, four-and-a-half-million-pound renovation of our city centre Cloth Hall Court building, Well Met has relocated to the site, alongside our Enterprise and Operations team.

suits business Education

Leeds Beckett University brings around £520 million to the economy annually; with more than 24,000 students studying across our Leeds campuses and 96.4% of all of our undergraduates in work or further study within six months of graduating. We are proud providers of skilled graduates many of whom choose to stay in the Leeds city region to begin their careers.

Tell us more about the services that you offer to businesses? In addition to our University Business Centres for earlystage and growing businesses, we offer a range of bespoke consultancy and research to give companies cutting-edge knowledge and solutions to their challenges. We also offer short courses and continuing professional development (CPD) and are developing degree apprenticeships across all sectors – additionally, we are currently the only university in the Leeds Cty Region approved to deliver degree apprenticeships to SMEs.

You mention creating roles that graduates can fill. Is bridging the gap between education and employment something that Leeds Beckett University is keen to address? One of the best examples of how the University is engaging with new innovative businesses is through our relationship with Sparta Global consulting, connecting our talented graduates with blue-chip digital organisations in Leeds. Our partnership allows computing, gaming and digital technology graduates to bridge the gap between student life and their first graduate-level job by placing them into positions accompanied by a programme of mentoring, support and development. It is essential for us at Leeds Beckett to be committed to our students not just while they are studying, but by helping them to make that first step into employment.

How can universities support business in their region?

Why does Leeds Beckett University strive to connect with the broader region and how do you go about forging these connections?

Our University Business Centres – based in Leeds, Wakefield and soon to launch in Halifax - are home to more than 200 new and innovative businesses, and we plan to grow this to more than 500 over the course of the next year. To date, we have supported more than 850 businesses to accelerate their growth.

Our connections with the broader region have been longestablished, mainly with local authorities. We collaborate with Leeds City Council, Calderdale Council and Wakefield Council, under a framework, to work with local businesses and to share our expertise in areas including economic growth and public health.

Our aim is to enable the businesses that we support to grow and thrive. Support from Leeds Beckett has been proven to almost double business sustainability, with a 95% business survival rate in the first year of trading. That is something we’re really proud of.

For example, in Wakefield, we have started a prosperity commission project, looking at some of the areas of real poverty. We are working with Calderdale around our new University Business Centre, creating innovation and helping new businesses to set up and thrive in Halifax.

We achieve this by combining the expertise of the University and our partners, such as Lupton Fawcett solicitors. They then become more prominent companies, which may one day employ our students and take more extensive support from the University. They have access to our applied research which is demonstrated to have a high impact on business performance, as well as advice, mentoring, training and development.

We also have collaborations with other organisations, including international research and development company, Axxonet Global, and HMP Full Sutton in East Yorkshire. We are collaborating with Axxonet on cuttingedge medical diagnostics and technology, forensic science and digital security projects, and working with the High-Security prison to provide higher education to prisoners, research opportunities, and CPD for prison staff. We want to help them as an organisation to support inmates and help them get ready to reintegrate back into society. For us, universities have crucial roles to play in these areas of support.

Our Wakefield Business Centre opened in January, and we will begin in Halifax in the spring. I would encourage any interested businesses to get in touch to find out more about how we can support them.

West & North Yorkshire Business

20 PROFILE

Ahead of the rest

Getting connected

Ahead Partnership, the Yorkshire based social enterprise that provides students with business-inspired learning to build aspiration and potential, has been crowned the Best Business and Education Partnership nationally at the Chamber Business Awards 2017.

Exa Networks is a leading independent Internet Service Provider based in Bradford. Working with thousands of businesses and schools across the UK, including a significant number of organisations based around Bradford, Exa have been working to provide high-quality Internet services for over a decade, ranging from ultra-fast, low-cost Internet connectivity to VoIP, wide-area networking and far more.

Following a rigorous judging process, Ahead Partnership attended an evening of celebration at The Old Brewery in London on Thursday 30th November, where it fended off tough competition to be chosen overall national winner. It’s Make the Grade programme launched in 2011 and now helps over 60,000 young people explore career options and develop their employability skills each year.

A little over a year ago, Exa transformed Bradford into one of the world’s first gigabit cities, with ultra-fast DarkLight connectivity now available to thousands of companies around the city. As such, Bradford is one of the fastest-connected areas around, with businesses having unprecedented access to ultra-fast speeds, from excellent 300 Mbps service to world-class 10 Gbps symmetrical performance – all at a completely unmatched value for money. We provide Internet services to some of Bradford’s most iconic businesses, with the city being one of our main commercial grounds – we also work with a wide range of local causes as we’re fully committed to giving back to the people of Bradford. Exa stands out from the competition in a few key ways: we deliver more flexible services, better performance and greater value for money than any other ISP. We’re one of the only companies to specialise in creating completely bespoke Internet service packages, accommodating for the specific requirements and requests of our customers – and having worked with businesses ranging from hotels to wind farms, we’re able to provide completely stand-out service for everyone.

Exa Networks 0345 145 1234 support@exa.net.uk www.exa.net.uk @exanetworks

Across most of our connectivity services, we provide guaranteed speeds and high service level agreements, ensuring that our customers get the level of performance that they require at absolutely all times, rather than fractional performance through an over-contended connection. We’re dedicated to giving our customers fantastic prices along with our expert services. Businesses using Exa Networks as their ISP often save thousands annually, particularly with the unmatched value that our ultra-fast services offer. Whatever you’re looking for from an ISP, there’s really no better choice than Exa Networks. Head over to our website at https://exa.net.uk today.

“ I am delighted that our Make the Grade programme has been recognised nationally as an exceptional way for employers to connect into their local schools, colleges and universities.”

Headquartered in Leeds, Ahead Partnership won the award for its work in helping improve the skills and career choices of young people in schools, colleges and universities across the country. Ahead Partnership finds exciting ways of bringing employers and educationalists together to create and run focused employability activities which build confidence, resilience and aspiration. Activities range from enterprise competitions, live briefs, careers panels and interview practice to workplace visits, mentoring and transition skills. Employers co-design and deliver the activities, ensuring strong labour market relevance. Chief Executive of Ahead Partnership, Stephanie Burras CBE, comments: “I am delighted that our Make the Grade programme has been recognised nationally as an exceptional way for employers to connect into their local schools, colleges and universities. Over the last six years we have been working really hard to scale this programme whilst maintaining all the ingredients that have made it such a success. The impact that we achieve each year is entirely down to the diligence and enthusiasm of our exceptional team and our visionary partners from education and business who share our desire to bring opportunity to all. Francis Martin, President of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said: “Bridging the gap between the worlds of education and work is vital to empowering tomorrow’s workforce with the skills that businesses need. Ahead Partnership demonstrates the importance and benefits, to both students and employers, from such tailored and systematic engagement. They are truly worthy recipients of this award.”

West & North Yorkshire Business

22 BREXIT

Trade is key in Brexit talks

A meeting between local businesses and government officials takes place on 31 January. This is the latest of several discussions to look at various trade relationships around the world (including the EU) to help develop ground rules for a future trading system. Representatives from the Department for International Trade will visit Leeds and meet with invited business to exchange the latest thinking on this topic. A recent survey has helped highlight the risks and concerns of Brexit, pointing out that almost two-thirds of businesses expect the fall in sterling to increase their costs over the next 12 months. The national survey, which included members of West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, found that 63% expect costs to increase, including a quarter expecting a significant rise. Only 6% predict a decrease. Nearly three-quarters of manufacturers (73%) and B-2-C firms (71%) anticipate costs increases, compared to 55% of B-2-B firms. Half (46%) were not yet taking steps to manage currency risk. Manufacturers have the highest proportion managing currency risk (76%), compared to B-2-C (57%) and B-2-B (39%). Meanwhile, immediately after progress was confirmed in the first negotiation phase (aka the ‘divorce settlement’) the British Chambers of Commerce joined with others to call for rapid next steps. Chambers of Commerce in seven countries, all bordering the North Sea, called for quick talks on future trade relations and an agreement in a realistic transition period. The seven countries account for 70% of EU-UK trade in both directions. Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “The recent breakthrough in the negotiations was a welcome relief for business communities. Trade thrives between the UK and Europe, and all sides benefit from reaching a business-friendly deal. It’s clear that companies in the UK and in Europe all want talks to move forward to the future trade relationship without delay. There is a real clamour for the negotiations to start on the practical issues that will affect firms, from regulation and customs, to tariffs and taxes. “Businesses trading between UK and Europe have done their best to focus on the potential impact of Brexit on their operations, rather than on the day-to-day political noise. However, businesses both in the UK and around the world want clarity on the key political issues, and it is up to the negotiators to provide that clarity.” The full statement can be found on the Chamber website (news section).

BREXIT 23

European trade vital National survey results have highlighted why the British Chambers of Commerce has said that a future UK-EU trade deal must minimise barriers to trade.

A survey (carried out in partnership with DHL) show that UK businesses regard Europe as their primary trading partner for the foreseeable future. The results found that, over the next three years, the top two markets that most businesses plan to start or continue exporting to are Western Europe (44%) and Central and Eastern Europe (32%). Western Europe (36%) is also where most firms plan to import from. The most significant barriers to trading with foreign markets were identified as tariffs (46%), customs procedures (39%) and local regulations (20%). Exporters’ strategies are shown to be influenced by increased demand from overseas buyers (48%), exchange rates (36%) and Brexit (35%). Likely importers say they will mainly be influenced by the lack of suppliers in the UK (43%), exchange rates (41%), and it being cheaper to import than source in the UK or produce within their business (33%). The survey shows that Europe will not only remain an important market for UK businesses to sell to, but with minimal evidence that UK businesses can substitute domestic inputs for imports in the short term, access to the European market will be crucial for firms to source components.

National Conference to discuss key issues The British Chambers of Commerce annual conference takes place in a few weeks’ time The one-day event on 8 March in central London brings together senior decision-makers, business leaders, young entrepreneurs and opinion formers, to discuss a number of key themes. This year, topics will include the future of the workforce, international trade, managing business risk, and workforce diversity. The event also falls on International Women’s Day and this will form a theme throughout the day. Speakers include former Chief Political Adviser to the Prime Minister and ex-Director of Policy to the Labour Party, Matthew Taylor; Funke Abimbola MBE, senior lawyer and compliance leader for the world’s largest biotech company, Roche. Other senior political figures and commentators from business and the media are currently being secured. Find out more at www.bccconference.co.uk or email f.busby@britishchambers.org.uk

West & North Yorkshire Business

24 TRANSPORT

DEVOLUTION 25

Transport is on the The Chamber’s Transport for the North (TfN) group recently met with representatives from TfN to discuss plans for the future and also the likely legal status of the organisation. The meeting was chaired by Amanda Beresford who was substituting for Paula Dillon. The group includes member representation from Bradford, Leeds and York. Mention was made that TfN will focus upon pan-northern transport solutions which will support economic growth by connecting better the key capabilities of the North and enabling more people to access opportunities.

More details have come forward about the future legal status of TfN and by the start of the next financial year it is likely the following will be confirmed;

Already multi-modal programme level transport corridor work has been undertaken which has identified 7 broad transport corridors which will support other TfN programmes such as future rail franchises, railway line and station improvements, Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR), and the major roads network, and is complementary to partners’ plans.

• Partners will be required to recognise TfN’s plans in their own local/sub-regional plans,

There are 2 corridors which are of particular interest to the Chamber and these are the “Central Pennines” and “Connecting the Energy Coasts”. A programme of workshops for each of the corridors has commenced which will finish mid 2018 when more details will have emerged about priority interventions/developments in each.

This information was welcomed although there was some concerns about TfN only having advisory powers.

• It will only have advisory powers, • It will be a statutory partner with a legal obligation for relevant partners to engage with it,

• It will not become a delivery body, nor will it have any operational assets or powers to raise funds, • It will be able to ask for additional powers in the future but first of all it has to demonstrate its capabilities

Also TfN has developed a Strategic Transport Plan (STP) that is now out for consultation. The Chamber will develop and submit a response to the consultation based upon feedback and comment from business.

Devolution plea to Government

A senior government minister has been urged to intervene in the devolution deadlock hanging over the county. West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce has written to the Secretary of State for Communities & Local Government, Sajid Javid, on the issue. The appeal comes on the back of survey results revealing a strong backing for a regional deal. The impasse has been in place for two years now, with frustration and delay leading to increasingly vexed views. Last autumn, Northern Powerhouse minister Jake Berry attended a meeting in the North, agreeing to listen to Yorkshire’s business view on the topic. The Chamber then conducted a survey to determine what powers and which geographical area was most favoured by its members. Almost half (48%) favoured the largest possible are (Yorkshire & Humber), with threequarters stating they wanted to see devolvement from Whitehall.

The letter to Mr Javid, signed by Chamber Chairman Gerald Jennings, said: “In acknowledging a deal is already in place for Sheffield, we would encourage Government to proceed as planned with that deal but look to work with local authorities and the business community to bring a deal forward to ensure the rest of the region is not punished for its lack of progress to date. Last week’s budget and the announcement of the £1.7bn Transforming Cities Fund which clearly favours those geographies with devolved powers should be a wakeup call to our regional politicians to tell them that the train is already leaving the station and Yorkshire does not yet have a seat on it.” Mr Jennings also added: “This Chamber remains strongly supportive of devolution and stands ready to

support a future administration in its objectives to grow our economy, foster innovation and improve productivity. We strongly believe that if we are given the tools we can make the difference we all want to see in Yorkshire. Brexit negotiations are rightly soaking up much political and civil service thinking and I believe that by bringing the powers, funding and decision making to our region we can allow Whitehall to focus on getting the best possible deal with the EU. In the meantime we can channel the energy and creativity which is in abundance across Yorkshire through devolved powers to deliver an economy that works for all.” At the time of going to print, the Chamber had received no reply to the letter.

West & North Yorkshire Business

26 POLICY

POLICY 27

Development plan lacks ambition, says Chamber The West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce via the York Chamber’s Property Forum continues to be involved and represent members’ views in the development of the City of York Local Plan. The most recent consultation on the Pre-Publication draft of the Plan finished at the end of October. The Chamber’s Property Forum in the city responded to the consultation following a meeting with local members and mentioned the following; • A Local Plan for York is an important document guiding the future development of the city. It is a document that many businesses will refer to when considering plans for expansion and future development and because of this relevant documents should be accessible and easy to read and follow. For those people not involved in the planning system the Plan appears lengthy and intimidating. The Chamber suggested that there should be an introductory/summary chapter at the beginning of the Plan explaining how the policies in the Plan will be used in determining planning applications, particularly for existing businesses looking to expand and for inward investors looking to locate in the city. • The identified employment land supply in the Plan will not cater for York’s future needs and this will constrain economic growth. The Chamber feels that further land should be identified to broaden the portfolio of sites available to meet the demand from York’s diverse high value added businesses as well as potential inward investors. In addition such sites should be located in areas accessible by public transport and be deliverable in the short-term. • The Chamber also expressed its concerns about the approach of the City of York Council to estimating housing requirements and that only the minimum needs of the city will be delivered. In light of the persistent under delivery of housing every year since 2008, the Council should be incorporating a considerable amount of flexibility into the housing numbers in the Plan, particularly when the latest evidence is indicating further upward pressure on the requirement for housing. The Chamber suggests that the housing requirement should be increased and additional land allocations made to meet the housing needs of the city. Overall the Chamber is concerned that the draft Plan does not present a positive or ambitious response to the economic and housing challenges facing the city. York’s economy continues to do well but a growing population needs to be housed, demands for employment floorspace must be addressed, the expansion of the City’s Universities must be accommodated, and significant investment is required for public transport and road infrastructure. The draft Plan fails to properly address these challenges in a joinedup way and the Chambers fears that unless there is adequate housing and employment land provision, it will force people out of York to find housing and employment opportunities elsewhere which in turn will stifle economic growth.

Where the heart is York Chamber of Commerce represents the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce as a member of York Central Community Forum, which, in turn, is part of the public engagement about the York Central site. The York Central site is one of the largest brownfield regeneration sites in England and is located adjacent to York’s existing retail and business core. In addition, it has excellent public transport connections at the heart of the UK rail network and has the potential to provide around 100,000 sq m of commercial space, 6,500+ jobs and 2,500 new homes. Plans for regeneration of the site have been on-going for a number of years; however, the provision of adequate access to the site has proved a barrier. A recent consultation resulted in a preference for access from the west of the site. This was supported by the City of York council and will now lead to more detailed traffic and environmental studies being undertaken, with a view to a planning application for the route being submitted during 2018. Eamonn Keogh, Chair of York Property Forum, commented by saying that the identification of an access route into the site is a major step forward and should speed up the development of the rest of the site. Eamonn added that this will also enable work to progress with the development of an outline masterplan for the site, in which the Chamber will play an active role in when it comes to public consultation.

Education links explored Two of Bradford Chamber’s main policy forums – the Leadership Group and the Local Affairs Committee (LAC) – met recently to discuss issues close to many members’ hearts. Education and skills was the topic at the former group, chaired by President Nick Garthwaite, and plans for a city centre Business Improvement District (BID) was the latter’s focus, under the guise of Mike Martin from TL Dallas. Bradford Council’s Phil Hunter and Jenny Cryer highlighted the various examples of how businesses and educators can work together (this is still a work in progress). A recently published prospectus now sets out the different offers of Bradford’s ‘Education Covenant’ to underpin the aspirations and learning opportunities of young people, and address business issues on future job applicants. It was acknowledged that, while education standards in Bradford were improving, so were they elsewhere, meaning the school ‘league tables’ showed little if any change. Businesses present again highlighted how job candidates are often un-ready or under-prepared for work, in terms of attitude and soft skills. The prospectus can be found at https://www. bradford.gov.uk/media/4196/bfdc-educationcovenant-prospectus-2017_18-digital.pdf The LAC heard from Broadway Centre manager Ian Ward, chair of the BID

Development group, on the results of a feasibility study to both gauge support for the scheme, and to assess how it was felt it could make a difference. A BID is a defined area in which a levy is charged on all business rate payers on top of the rates bill. The levy is then used to develop projects which will benefit businesses in the local area. It has to be something that is in addition to services provided by local authorities. Examples might be extra safety/ security, cleansing and environmental measures. From the businesses taking part in an initial survey, there is strong support for a Bradford BID. It is expected that, if plans for the BID are successful, it could raise around £400,000 per year from approximately 580 rate payers. The boundaries of the BID area are still being discussed. For more information on Bradford’s BID, go to http://bradfordbid.co.uk/ Chamber Chief Executive Sandy Needham is one of two Deputy Chairs of the BID Development Group; the other is Bradford Breakthrough’s Trevor Higgins.

West & North Yorkshire Business

28 QUARTERLY ECONOMIC SUMMARY

BCC COMMENTARY 29

45%

Manufacturers

Currency volatility

CONCERNED WITH EXCHANGE RATES

adds pressure on businesses A new Chamber of Commerce survey reveals that a majority of businesses expect the fall in sterling to increase their costs.

RECRUITING

49%

80%

FULL TIME

Recruitment, looking for staff

INCREASE

40%

21%

DECREASE

UK sales in last quarter

SKILLED TECHNICAL

INCREASE

40%

28% PROFESSIONAL MANAGERIAL

Recruitment

24%

58%

Export sales

DECREASE

The British Chambers of Commerce survey, which included members from West & North Yorkshire Chamber, found that 63% expect costs to increase in the next 12 months as a result of the sterling devaluation. This includes a quarter (24%) who expect costs to rise significantly. In comparison, only 6% expect costs to decrease. Almost three-quarters of manufacturers (73%) and business-toconsumer firms (71%) anticipate costs increases, compared to 55% of business-to-business firms. The Chamber says that many businesses trading abroad are leaving themselves exposed to currency fluctuations, with nearly half (46%) of the survey respondents not taking proactive steps to manage currency risk. Smaller firms are less likely to be managing risk (44% with under-10 staff, 70% with 50-249). Manufacturers have the highest proportion managing currency risk (76%), compared to B-2-C (57%) and B-2-B (39%).

The survey highlights the extent to which the depreciation in sterling is expected to compound the price pressures on firms, underlining the need to ease the domestic cost of doing business. There is also a clear need for more support and information for exporting businesses on the importance of managing currency risk. Mark Goldstone, Head of Policy at West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “While businesses await answers on Brexit, and a return to a stronger currency, they must take steps to prepare for risk. For those trading internationally, it makes sense to explore the options to insure against currency fluctuations. Companies are feeling price pressures from sterling’s depreciation. Following on from the steps taken in the Budget to act on business rates, further actions are needed on the upfront cost of doing business, so that firms can alleviate currency pressures. Weak sterling

reflects the current climate of political uncertainty and lack of clarity on the Brexit process. A clear strategy from government about the nature of the UK’s future trading relationship with the EU would go a long way to reassure and stabilise markets.” Other key findings include: • The most common forms of managing currency risk are invoicing in sterling (27%), opening foreign currency accounts (15%), and waiting for an advantageous rate and buying using the spot market (15%) • Less than a quarter (24%) of businesses say they have a complete understanding of the types of international payment methods available, with 23% saying somewhat and 13% none at all • The biggest challenges businesses face in making or receiving international payments are delays (21%), bad or misleading exchange rates (16%) and hidden fees (16%)

West & North Yorkshire Business

30 CONNECTING BUSINESS

Masters of their craft Often referred to as “the first craft beer bar in Britain,” Leeds North Bar is credited with influencing a new wave of craft beer bars and breweries around the country, with many citing North Bar as one of the original driving forces behind the craft beer revolution in the UK. North Bar quickly became renowned for its alternative approach, quirky style and excellent, friendly service winning the prestigious ‘Best place to drink in Britain’ in the Observer Food Monthly Awards. Over 20 years, owners John Gyngell and Christian Townsley have increased the North Bar group to a total of seven venues and in 2015 they turned their 10-year dream of making their own beer into a reality by opening a 15bbl brewery in Leeds, North Brewing Co. The opportunity for growth was there, with demand outstripping supply for their products. Christian says “Many say this is a great problem to have, but for us, delivering stock on time is crucial – We work hard to maintain our standards of service, and no one wants to let their customers down.” Christian and John looked into what support was available to increase their investment potential, and found out about the Ad:Venture programme, a European Regional Development Funded programme covering the Leeds City Region.

Christian said: “I was delighted to announce we had been successful in our application for the grant of £21k. The application process was hard work but regular meetings with my advisor were invaluable and my experience of writing a thorough business plan as a part of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses programme equipped me for what was described to me by the Senior Economic Development Officer as 'the best he’d seen in a long time'! I’m sure there are similar programmes for growth grants around the country. In addition to that, we’ve also been successful in our application for a grant of around £1200 towards acquiring ‘SALSA’, a food safety accreditation which will open up further opportunities to us whilst implementing further controls to ensure our QC. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my team, in particular my business partner, our Finance Director and our Head Brewer. For anyone looking to grow their business and generate jobs it’s well worth investing time to research what funding is available.” Brewing capacity is now doubling in October 2017, adding several brewing vessels and enabling the brewery to meet current demand, with their beers are now widely available throughout the UK as well as being exported to eight European countries. Driven by passion for great beer, this Brewery comes with an unparalleled wealth of experience, knowledge and existing industry relationships, both in the UK and abroad and their capacity for growth is as great as the worlds love for exceptional craft beer!

West & North Yorkshire Business

32 MANUFACTURING

PROFILE 33

Spring in his step

Christeyns is cleaning up With its headquarters at Rutland Street in Bradford, awardwinning Christeyns UK is a leading supplier in the hygiene world, manufacturing detergents and supplying engineering equipment and expertise in all the markets in which it operates. A renowned and respected partner in the commercial laundry sector across the UK and Ireland, Christeyns is also an expert in its other chosen markets, which include dry cleaning, food and drink hygiene, specialist construction chemicals and professional hygiene. The business has grown in turnover terms every year for the last five years, with profitability improving year on year. Christeyns UK has a strong focus on the acquisition of complimentary businesses and in recent years companies such as Alex Reid and Klenzan have joined the group.

Chamber staff took time out recently to visit one of the District’s many successful manufacturing firms. Airedale Springs (it does what it says on the tin) were visited by Mike Cartwright and Guy Foster to find out more about how the business works. Managing Director, Tim Parkinson, took time out of his working day to show Mike and Guy around the production plant, as well as explaining how the business works. The multi-award winning spring-maker exports around 15% of its products, with the rest sold to the UK market. As a manufacturer of a component part, however, Tim said that possibly as much as 50% of goods sold within the UK may subsequently go abroad. Tim is also an ambassador for local manufacturers, chairing the area’s Industrial Centre of Excellence for Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering. With 26% of Keighley’s working population still employed in engineering, the sector continues to play a vital role in the local economy. The company is in relatively new premises following a large fire in 2010 that nearly wiped out the business. It now produces more than 20 million component parts annually, to almost 500 customers, and has a 34-strong workforce.

“Since starting out in 1945 as a traditional family business, we’ve now combined our sector expertise with the very latest technology. It’s helped us achieve our world-wide reputation for outstanding quality and service. At the core of everything we do is our philosophy, ‘Small enough to care, big enough to mean business’.” Tim Parkinson

‘The Christeyns Way’ has become the broader culture of the company, with focus on Process Improvement at the heart of all policies and a strong emphasis on positive behaviours. Investment in new acquisitions and the development of onsite facilities has provided sustainable growth that ensures stability whilst allowing Christeyns to continually strengthen its position as a leading player in its chosen fields. The firm runs a comprehensive apprenticeship programme to nurture local talent and is introducing the Christeyns Talent Academy, a new initiative that will further support the company’s way of working and make the business futureready. This will encompass employees at all levels, from training future leaders to further development for current key management. Christeyns has be a Silver Investors in People Award and won the 2016 Business In Excellence Apprenticeship award. In the commercial laundry market the company has a UK market share of over 75% but they are not complacent. Constant research into new chemistry and new technologies means Christeyns is always at the cutting edge of the business sectors in which it operates, setting new standards and forging new goals. Training and investment at customer sites has added to their success in this sector.

‘The Christeyns Way’ has become the broader culture of the company, with focus on Process Improvement at the heart of all policies and a strong emphasis on positive behaviours.”

Christeyns actively engages with the community in its support of local corporate social responsibility initiatives where all employees are encouraged to get involved. In 2016 staff donated over £7,600 to local charities as well as many hours of time. Built on the universal values of hard work, enterprise and compassion, Christeyns is very much a part of the industrial fabric of Bradford and a positive contributor to the region’s prosperity whilst actively seeking to engage in its further development.

Christeyns 01274 393286 www.christeyns.com

West & North Yorkshire Business

34 FEATURE

Every customer counts

West & North Yorkshire Business

FEATURE 37 You mentioned personal development, what structures do you have in place to ensure this is successful? So regarding personal development and the sort of things that our staff our people go through I can give a few examples. We run a course with the university, so we’ve worked with the university to develop a bespoke course it lasts nine months 10 days in total and those sessions are all about bringing the best out of people raising their selfawareness understanding how they handle conflict how they deliver good client service and promote themselves and communicate with each other in an efficient way as possible. That’s really important to us incredibly successful.

People positive Garbutt + Elliott are one of Yorkshire’s longest running accountancy firms. With over 150 years serving the businesses across the county, Garbutt + Elliott believe they have the formula for top class customer service.

We caught up with Managing Partner, Russell Turner, to find out what sets Garbutt + Elliott apart from the competition. Firstly Russell, could you tell us a little about who Garbutt + Elliott are? We are one of the top 100 accountants in the UK which we’re very proud of and over last year we grew by nearly 20 percent, and we’re forecasting this year to increase by 15 percent. So we’re a business that’s on the move, and we’re very proud of that. Our people are our most valuable asset, and we work hard to make sure that we create the right culture so that our people can flourish and be the best they can be. That’s really important to us. Our vision is to develop exceptional client service, delivered by extraordinary people and people are so important in any service sector, but in this profession, they’re incredibly important. What makes the difference between a good service and an outstanding service and we want to be outstanding.

What makes outstanding service and how do Garbutt + Elliott go about delivering it? For me, quality service has two aspects to it, the technical ability of the people delivering the service and their attitude, how they behave their mindset. Most accountancy firms tend to run specialized skill courses, and we’re no different to that technical ability is absolutely critical. But alongside that, we run personal development programs. We try and encourage our people to understand how they are their selfawareness what makes good customer client service and how clients would like to perceive us.

All the candidates that have been on it have enjoyed it and come out better for it. Alongside that, we run courses with the Institute of Chartered Accountants called developing leaders in practice. So when people get to a higher level we send them on a path with other like-minded accountants from other firms, and they’re there to help develop themselves and understand a little bit about it, and that’s quite an in-depth profiling that they go through to know how they are.

What are the immediate advantages you are seeing with the company wide training plan? Garbutt + Elliott we firmly believe that excellent client service is about team performance and it’s about everyone within our business working together whether your client facing or not everyone has an equally vital role to play. So our development courses aren’t just for accountants they’re for all our support team as well because we have to accept that without our support team we could not deliver the services that we provide and that’s the sort of culture that we try and emanate throughout the whole of our business that we are a team, and we’re only as strong as the weakest link, and we feel that that comes through with our client services, and we also think that our clients see that we really care about the service we deliver to them and it’s essential to them.

Has this focus on customer service changed the way you approach your work? At Garbutt + Elliott we now see ourselves as being in business that happens to be accountants, not the other way round. The importance of that to us is that we then can understand and appreciate what business owners are going through. I think our clients enjoy that because at the end of the day our clients are all in business just like us, and they need the support the help and at times a perfect sounding board that we can offer because we believe we are in business and we understand the issues that they face. So where you build a relationship with a client is through developing a partnership through trust and report that we don’t want to be seen as suppliers. That’s not what we want to be because we can’t give the best service to our clients. If we’re just seen as suppliers, we’re their business partners we’re there to help them, and we’re there to make sure that we can do everything that we’re good at to make them successful.

West & North Yorkshire Business

INTERNATIONAL TRADE 39

Gearing up

exports for

Alexander Feather, Business Development Executive, Kahn Design

Innovative car styling business looking to move exports up a gear in China An innovative car-styling company, which helps businesses and individuals adapt well-known models to their own ideals, is looking to build sales in China.

1996 when Afzal Kahn designed the RS-R alloy wheel, a wheel with spokes appearing to continue to the rim, and which is now considered a design classic among car enthusiasts.

Kahn Design, a group of four companies working with some of the world’s best-known car marques, is active in all the major continents but now wants to build a network of partner businesses in China with support from overseas trade specialist, Chamber International.

Customers can either bring their vehicle, from a range which includes Range Rover, Jeep Wrangler, Audi and marques such as Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Maserati and Rolls Royce, to receive personalised styling, or buy a brand new vehicle ‘tailor made’ to their specification.

Founded by designer and businessman Afzal Kahn, Bradfordbased Kahn Design, specifies, manufacturers and supplies a wide range of styling accessories, from exhausts, pedals, suspension kits and wheels to sports seats, carpets, interior design and bespoke livery and other adaptations for businesses.

Overseas partner businesses can either buy the vehicles locally and source the required upgrade package through Kahn Design or buy the vehicle ready-styled to the customer’s requirements from Kahn Group which will then export the vehicle for delivery to the customer.

Kahn Design, which includes The Chelsea Truck Co, Project Kahn and Kahn Automotive, was launched in

Kahn Design business development executive, Alexander Feather, says Afzal Kahn’s vision has enabled the business to prosper throughout the

UK, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, South America, Africa and the US as well as becoming active in China. He said: “We are expanding through peoples’ desire to express themselves through adding personalised style to their vehicle. This is particularly true in nations with a strong emphasis on a uniform traditional dress as, through us, drivers apply their individuality through their vehicle rather than their clothing. “We already have a presence in China but it is a huge country and we wish to develop a network of Kahn Design partners to serve a wealthy elite who love British goods and design.” Kahn Design, which has a £20m turnover and 60 staff, many of which speak different languages for dealing with overseas partners, currently achieves about 60 per cent of sales through exporting.

West & North Yorkshire Business

INTERNATIONAL TRADE 41

Yorkshire knitwear entrepreneur has his business showcased in China A Yorkshire men’s fashion company, which wants to help revitalise the UK textile industry, is to step up exporting to China after being selected for a major new showcase of British brands in Beijing. Knitwear by Ross Barr, which won a start-up grant from The Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme in 2015, is being displayed in department store, The British House, near Tiananmen Square, which highlights UK businesses to help them capitalise on China’s appetite for British goods. Ross Barr founder, Ross Barr-Hoyland, 27, a selftaught clothing designer, uses Scottish wool fleeces, which are dyed and spun by West Yorkshire Spinners, Keighley, before being manufactured in Leicester.

The

empire’s new clothes

The company’s first garment, a doublebreasted cardigan, The Spencer, inspired by The Regency period, has sold worldwide and was worn by supermodel David Gandy for the Campaign for Wool Week in London in 2015. Ross Barr-Hoyland appointed Chamber International after attending an event staged jointly with Hong Kong Trade Development Council in Leeds this summer about opportunities for UK businesses being created by China’s 'new silk road'. He said: “I aim to build an authentic British brand to help revive British textiles, combat the decline in former industrial heartlands and provide opportunities for people in these areas.

The British House was founded by Ms Yimei McCabe, a keen supporter of British business who is China adviser to Cambridge Institute of Sustainability, which trains policy, financial and business leaders from China, the World Bank, and EU. The British House features British fashion, homeware, art and education, including well-known brands, such as Turnbull and Asser, Johnstons of Elgin, Heals, Duke and Dexter and John Smedley, and Ross Barr’s garments will be displayed in the Men’s Dressing Room, alongside other clothing and accessory brands.

aim to build an authentic “ IBritish brand to help revive British textiles, combat the decline in former industrial heartlands and provide opportunities for people in these areas.

“I was introduced to The British House by the Department for International Trade. It is an honour to be featured alongside well-known names. I’m looking forward to working with Chamber International to see how we can develop sales in China and along the ‘new silk road’ as it develops.” Ross-Barr, based at Entrepreneurial Spark, Leeds, has generated sales throughout the UK, continental Europe, China, Japan, South Africa, Australasia and South America for The Spencer and has developed two other garments, The Elliott and The Hoyland, which are also picking up overseas sales.

”

Group Retail and Marketing Director for The British House, Jamie Powell, said: “Ross Barr is one of our young designers with an innovative product which supports UK manufacturing. We hope to offer Ross a platform for new business in Beijing and internationally.” Pictured: Leeds knitwear entrepreneur, Ross-Barr Holland wearing his first self-designed cardigan The Spencer.

West & North Yorkshire Business

42 PROFILE

PROFILE 43

Practice makes perfect

Building, brewing, buzzing

Bradford-based Rance Booth Smith Architects have been delivering a range of stunning and award-winning designs for a wide variety of prestigious clients over the last 35 years and they continue to do so today.

Peter Brett Associates (PBA) is an independent practice of engineers, planners, scientists, and economists. With our brand-new office now open in Leeds city centre, and 17 further offices across the UK and Europe, we are capable across all disciplines, providing resilience and capacity to support our clients’ ambitions in the North and beyond. Well-regarded as one of the most important growth areas in the UK, Leeds has become a dynamic centre for property investment, which makes it the perfect location for us to build on our existing presence in the North. With offices in Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh, we already work across the lifecycle of major schemes in the area. Such projects include Sheffield’s Meadowhall, Leeds’ Thorpe Park, the redevelopment of Buslingthorpe Mills, and the iconic Tetley Brewery.

RBS was founded in 1982 and started out in Shipley before purchasing and relocating to 11 Victoria Road, Saltaire in January 1989 where they are still located today. They repaired; restored and reinstated what was originally a grocers shop followed by a variety of other shops including lastly a wool shop from 1970 – 1989 back to its original design, providing quality business premises on three floors.

PBA Director Henk Gelens, pictured here in front of the old brewery headquarters – now an event space and art gallery – is thrilled to be involved with the launch of the Leeds office: ‘PBA is delighted to be open for business in Leeds. We are already involved in several projects in this part of the country, and hope to expand our offerings to other clients. We are excited about the opportunities that Leeds and the wider area can bring – there is a buzz about the place, and everybody so far has welcomed us, and the contribution we can make.’

In 2000, the practice purchased the adjacent premises (number 10), to complete its transformation. The exterior was restored to its original appearance and design from Sir Titus Salt’s day. Times have definitely changed from when the practice was first established. There were drawing boards all over, no one had heard of mobile phones, and ties or bow ties were worn. Now each person has numerous devices, BIM is used, and they are protecting themselves from cyber-crime. Drawing boards and plans chests are nowhere to be seen, and ties are rarely worn. They are pleased to say that they have even refurbished projects that they originally designed in the last century, for the same client! RBS’s core services include architecture, interiors, sustainability and conservation. They undertake a diverse range of work for a wide number of clients including several public bodies and major commercial organisations and educational facilities.

Rance Booth Smith Architects 01274 587327 saltaire@rbsarchitects.co.uk www.rbsarchitects.co.uk @RanceBoothSmith

Peter Brett Associates Part Third Floor, 33 Park Place, Leeds LS1 2RY +44 113 322 3420 leeds@peterbrett.com www.peterbrett.com @PeterBrettLLP Peter Brett Associates

PBA is at the forefront of the infrastructure and development industry, and we recognise that Leeds is too, which makes the pairing ideal. We employ the latest technology to assess optimum land use, reduce programme costs, and create a better experience for clients. We use drones to survey land and monitor progress, GIS tools to map and model infrastructure networks, embedded sensors to provide ongoing Big Data, and BIM processes to boost efficiency and quality. Always keeping in mind our clients’ wants, needs, and of course budget. With exciting career opportunities, room to grow, and a wealth of expertise across the country to rely upon, now is the perfect time to talk to us, we’d love to hear from you.

West & North Yorkshire Business

PENSION FEATURE 45 Every employer has automatic enrolment duties. They need to assess their staff, put them into a workplace pension scheme if they meet certain criteria, write to them to tell them what they’ve done, and complete and submit a declaration of compliance with The Pensions Regulator (TPR). To date, nearly 9 million people have been automatically enrolled in a workplace pension by more than 850,000 employers. And with hundreds of thousands more employers due to reach their duties start date by February 2018, the number of people automatically enrolled will continue to rise. However, an employer’s workplace pension duties do not stop with declaring compliance. And with TPR conducting stop checks on employers across the country to make sure they are complying with their duties, it’s important you are aware what you need to do on a regular and ongoing basis to ensure you comply with the law. Recent research published by TPR shows the majority of employers did not have any difficulty with ongoing duties. The analysis shows that automatic enrolment is ‘business as usual’ for employers, and that it’s easier than they thought it would be. Most micro employers said they spend around half an hour each month meeting their duties and two thirds did not use outside help. Those who did said it cost them around £42 per month to use an accountant or auditor to help them.

What are your ongoing duties?

Pension plan? Automatic enrolment and ongoing duties – what employers need to know

You will need to pay regular contributions into the pension, monitor the age and earnings of your staff and enrol eligible staff, process any requests to join or leave the scheme, and keep and maintain accurate records. You’ll also need to re-enrol eligible staff into an automatic enrolment pension scheme every three years. Let’s take these in turn:

Pay regular contributions into the pension You need to calculate and pay the employer contributions to your staff’s pension scheme on an ongoing basis. In addition, you’ll need to calculate your staff contributions, make the necessary deductions from payroll and transfer their contributions to the pension scheme. You’ll have agreed what these rates are and when to pay them with your chosen pension scheme. By law, you and your staff have to make minimum contributions into the scheme, and you should be aware that these minimum contribution levels are due to increase in April 2018 and April 2019 (see below).

Date effective

Total Employer minimum minimum Staff contribution contribution contribution

Current until 5 April 2018

6 April 2018 – 5 April 2019

6 April 2019 onwards

Monitor the age and earnings of all your staff You will need to monitor any changes in age and earnings of your staff so that you can identify if they become eligible for automatic enrolment. You’ll also need to check eligibility of any new members of staff on the day they start work. Should staff members become eligible (for example by turning 22, or by meeting the earnings thresholds), then you’re required to put them into a pension scheme and pay contributions to it. Your payroll software should be able to support you with this.

Process requests to opt in, join or leave the scheme, and keep and maintain accurate records. Opt in/join: If any of your staff write to you asking to join your workplace pension scheme, you must put them into it within a month of receiving their request. You will have to pay into the pension scheme unless they are aged 16-74 and earn less than £490 a month or £113 per week. Opt out: If any of your staff choose to leave your pension scheme within one month of being put into it, you need to stop taking money out of their pay and arrange a full refund of what has been paid to date. This must happen within one month of their request. Keeping records: You need to keep up-to-date records about your staff, including who you’ve enrolled and when, information about your pension scheme, and the contributions you are paying. You must keep these records for six years, except for requests to leave the pension scheme which must be kept for four years.

Re-enrolment Every three years, you’ll need to assess all your staff who either opted out of their workplace pension scheme or have ceased to become members, re-enrol them if they meet certain criteria, write to them to tell them what you’ve done – and then re-declare your compliance to The Pensions Regulator to let them know what you’ve done to meet your duties. Further information on ongoing duties can be found on The Pensions Regulator’s website.

Useful links: www.tpr.gov.uk/employers www.tpr.gov.uk/ongoing-duties

West & North Yorkshire Business

46 INTERNATIONAL

Sealing the deal

A Yorkshire surgical technology company, which has gained regulatory approval for its main product in China, is working with overseas trade specialist, Chamber International, as it develops sales by gaining a greater understanding of Chinese commerce and healthcare.

Tissuemed, Leeds, whose product, TissuePatch, the world’s only synthetic, self-adhesive patch for preventing leaks during and after surgery, has been approved by China’s Federal Drug Administration (CFDA), asked Chamber International’s China specialist, Matthew Grandage, to offer advice as the company increase its dialogue with the medical devices market in China which totalled more than £30bn in 2015. Soon after CFDA approval, a leading hospital in Sichuan province became the first user of Tissuepatch in China, when surgeons used it during a thoracic procedure. Tissuemed Ltd chief executive officer, David Mandley, says: “TissuePatch is unique in China as the first synthetic sealant in the medical market with a broad range of surgical uses, from neurosurgery to thoracic and general surgery. China holds great potential for us – for example, the country has 12,000 practicing neurosurgeons alone.

“The TissuePatch product range, which was CE Mark approved in 2007, is now exported to 25 countries and China has huge potential. We have many users from different surgical specialisms in large hospitals and the breadth of our regulatory approval has created positive signs that we can expand our market share. “An initial consultation with Matthew Grandage gave us up-to-date and relevant insights on how to proceed. This was very useful as we were starting a week-long visit to the country. I see potential for us to continue to work together as we expand.” Scientists at Tissuemed took five years to develop TissuePatch, which, at 0.04mm, is among the world’s thinnest implantable medical products. It is designed to complement conventional wound closure techniques, such as stitching or stapling, reducing post-operative complications, and the need for extended hospital stays. Tissuemed Ltd was founded in 1985 by two cardiothoracic surgeons at the Cardiac Research Centre at Killingbeck Hospital, who developed and introduced the first CE marked tissue heart value. The heart valve business was divested in 2000 to enable Tissuemed to focus on developing surgical sealants. The company now has 15 staff, and exports more than half of its £1.1m turnover.

You want your staff healthy, happy and here

Take out a business healthcare plan with AXA PPP healthcare and you’ll benefit from 50% off your Chambers membership for 3 years*.

Plus when you take out a plan with us you’ll receive a free Employee Assistance Programme – there to support you and your employees when you need it. Also, by being a Chambers member you can access our Health at Hand service free of charge.

Find out more at wnychamber.co.uk/healthcare-axa-ppp or call today on 08455

240 240

Lines are open 8:30am – 5:30pm Monday to Friday. We may record and/or monitor calls for quality assurance, training and as a record of our conversation. *This offer is available to direct new customers of AXA PPP healthcare only. 50% off Chamber membership is up to the value of £125 per employee you cover, each year for up to three years as long as a current business healthcare plan remains in force on a direct basis. See our website for more details.

West & North Yorkshire Business

48 TRAINING

Keep the customer satisfied Most modern businesses realise that learning and development are vital priorities that can benefit their organisations in numerous ways. Providing staff with tailored training courses that allow them to develop their skills and ensure compliance is seen as important, but it can nevertheless be easy to forget that this investment can have just as big an impact on how an organisation is perceived by its customers, as well as current or prospective staff. As such, it's vital for bosses to consider how their learning and development strategy ultimately affects customer experiences, and to feed those insights back into the way they plan and design training courses. In doing so, they'll be able to make sure they yield the kind of bottom-line benefits they're looking for.

How learning and development can lead to greater customer satisfaction.

Can investment in training lead to a better customer experience?

Incorporating customer feedback directly into learning and development.

Customer satisfaction has always been a vital consideration for any business, but in this hyper-connected age of social media, it's arguably never been more important than it is today.

In this way, a strong approach to learning and development can lead to improved customer feedback - but it's also worth remembering that customer testimonies can also be used to enhance your approach to training.

Thanks to advances in technology, a bad review or complaint posted online can end up being seen across the world, decreasing the value of your brand and putting off potential clients; conversely, a positive testimony can really make your company stand out in a crowded marketplace where potential alternatives are only a click away. As such, the quality of service provided to customers has taken on paramount importance, especially in one-to-one interactions. Fortunately, this is where a strong commitment to learning and development will really pay off. A well-trained staff member will possess the knowledge and skills to handle customer queries as efficiently as possible; more importantly, workers who have benefited from a hands-on approach to training are also much more likely to be engaged and enthusiastic, making it even more likely that the customer will come away from the interaction with a positive impression of the organisation and its culture.

Rather than simply using customer praise as a piece of feel good validation, it's essential to de-construct what aspects of your service have produced the positive reaction, and ensure that these elements are highlighted in future training sessions. Similarly, even negative feedback can become a net positive over time if efforts are made to learn lessons from the criticism and share them with the learning and development team, who can make sure that training materials are designed to address any areas of weakness.

The importance of a comprehensive strategy. This last point ties in with the broader importance of strategic thinking when it comes to develop corporate training. Simply throwing money at learning and development won't necessarily yield results without a clear plan for how this will be accomplished. That means getting the buy-in of everyone in the organisation, from upper management through to ground-level staff, and ensuring that thought is being given to how your approach to staff training aligns with the broader goals and ethos of the company as a whole. From there, your strategy should move on to creating tailored learning materials that are accessible in the format that workers would find most useful - something that's much easier to achieve thanks to the crossplatform multimedia capabilities of modern e-learning solutions, which can be accessed at any time from any device. Finally, steps should be taken to evaluate the progress and performance of your training initiatives against measurable business metrics, as this will allow you to get a clear idea of the kind of return on investment your efforts are yielding. In this way, you'll be maximising your chances of delivering the kind of customer service improvements you're seeking. In summary, an organisationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investment in learning and development can deliver a direct impact in terms of customer satisfaction - but it's vital to get the strategy right if you want to experience the benefits.

West & North Yorkshire Business

50 CASE STUDY

FINANCE CASE STUDY 51

Recipe for success

Matthew Grant, Partner at Garbutt + Elliott tells us how unlocking the full potential of Chamber services has allowed them to help one of their clients realise their potential. Connecting funding potential

Starting an Ad:venture

“I had known Andy Clough of Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) for about six years. We actually met at a Chamber networking event in Leeds, and we’ve kept in touch ever since. When Andy joined BEF we had a good chat about what he was doing within the business and what they could offer my clients.

“Through my connections with BEF, I’ve been introduced to Ad:venture another Chamber partnership who have been instrumental in helping my smaller clients.

The conversation turned to microbreweries which I have a real passion and within my client base I have 12 breweries. One in particular, Wilde Child sprang to mind, a start-up that had been trading for about 18 months. BEF informed me about what was available around the start-up loans that they offer which is how we set the wheels in motion. I put BEF in touch Wilde Child, and they discussed the terms of what they could do together. The funding received by BEF has primarily enabled Wilde Child to find new premises with which to expand, it is going to quadruple the size of their brewing output, and it’s really going to take them to the next level and enable the business to fulfil demand.”

Their advisory role has been integral to them putting together the business plan and the cashflow forecasts to help these businesses achieve the funding that they desired. Often we have a small start-up company they’re not in a position to pay a firm like us for that service. That’s where Ad:venture fits, it’s a real stepping stone to help that client go on to grow which will then become a more valuable client and enable us to provide a greater variety services for them in the future. I met Haroon from Ad:venture and he’s actually put me in touch with a few other businesses that have benefited from our services. So it’s a two-way street, and that networking within the Chamber and the various organisations in the Chamber Group has been a real benefit for Garbutt + Elliott. Working with a lot of high growth entrepreneurial businesses, It’s critical for me to understand the support networks and the funding that’s available out there in the market. Business enterprise fund, Ad:venture and the Chamber are definitely high up on my list now go to organisations to help my clients in those situations.”

Bright future

A rainbow of colour is being added to the picturesque North East coastline at Saltburn-by-the-Sea. Local businessman Stuart Marshall has designed and began installation of a row of beach huts on the Victorian town’s seafront, with plans to reach a total of 45 in time for summer 2018. The £600,000 project, which began in July 2017, was assisted with a Start Up Loan delivered by Business Enterprise Fund (BEF), and has already proved a hit, both locally and from people around the world. “I run a roofing business, and from travelling around the country I’ve always appreciated beach huts in seaside towns – but thought they could be better,” said Stuart. “Saltburn used to have a row of beach chalets, which were operational in the 1950’s but since their demise there has been a gap. Now there are 12 built, I’ve had offers for purchase from visitors as far as Australia!” To their disappointment, Marshall’s Beach Huts are not for sale. Locals and visitors can rent by the day all

year round, including in the colder months, where there has been a surprising uptake. “We’ve had people booking them out for BBQ’s on the beach on Christmas Day!” said Stuart. The project has been part-funded from Stuart’s existing business, with employees bringing his designs to life. “They have a very sturdy design to withstand the stormy coastal conditions,” said Stuart. Inside, the huts are fitted with electricity, tea, coffee and deckchairs, and have hosted a number of parties already. They are also easily accessible for the elderly and disabled. “We wanted to provide something that everyone can use. Looking ahead we want to host school trips, bonfire nights and have a Santa’s grotto over Christmas.” Explained Carol, Stuart’s sister, who is also involved with the venture.

So far three jobs have been created to help manage the leisure huts, with further jobs in maintenance scheduled for the busier months ahead. “It’s great to be funding small businesses with big ideas,” said Simon Jackson, Head of Investment at BEF. “We’re committed to funding businesses in the Tees Valley region and Stuart’s innovation has really added value to Saltburn. He’s seen a gap in the market and I expect more coastal towns will want to follow suit.” “It’s been great to have such fantastic feedback, particularly from Redcar and Cleveland Council,” said Stuart. “Looking ahead we have plans to fulfil orders for similar projects in Hartlepool and Seaton Crewe.” “I’m very grateful for the help BEF have given. We’re really looking forward to seeing this bring enjoyment and add value to the local community.”

West & North Yorkshire Business

52 ANNUAL DINNER

ANNUAL DINNER 53

Alive & kicking – that’s Bradford’s manufacturing! Bradford’s manufacturing sector is alive and kicking – that was the key message from Bradford Chamber’s President to the annual dinner in November. President, Nick Garthwaite, reminded guests that the sector is in a strong position to be able to help drive the city forward, adding that many local firms are “punching above their weight.” With that in mind, Nick declared that the city is to host its first Manufacturing Week in 2018 – a celebration of all things great and good about the sector, both present and future. During the speech, the Chamber President had those in the room involved in manufacturing to stand, getting several to convey a short ‘elevator pitch’ on themselves and their businesses, as examples of the positive things happening in the sector. BASF, Keighley Laboratories and Mansfield Pollard were singled out for special mentions at an event attended by many key decision-makers in and beyond the city, including Council Leader Susan Hinchcliffe and some of the city’s MPs. Other notable firms still highly active in the

sector, said the President, include Borg Warner, Carnaud Metalbox, Seabrook and Spooner Industries. Many others were highlighted by showing their logos on a large screen. While other key policy areas, such as Brexit, devolution and Northern Powerhouse were all touched upon, the speech was very much a reminder of the importance of manufacturing to Bradford’s future, and that it is not a relic from the past. The President reminded the audience of former Prime Minister Harold Wilson’s 1967 speech about changing technologies, and called for a “new white heat of manufacturing digitisation.” This, he said, would help change young people’s perceptions of the manufacturing sector, and persuade them about the positive career options on offer. The importance of education and skills was not forgotten about either: Nick, who runs Christeyns, an international chemicals and detergents manufacturer, announced that the Chamber’s two charities to be supported during his two-year term are both literacy support groups for the under-privileged – Beanstalk (formerly Reading Matters) and Canterbury Imagine. The other keynote speaker was Mark Gallagher, a businessman with many years’ experience in motor car racing, especially Formula 1. After-dinner laughs were provided by comedian Funmbi Omotayo. The event was sponsored by the Business Enterprise Fund, Christeyns, Ecology Building Society and Exa Networks.

West & North Yorkshire Business

Afordable health cover that puts my staf frst and works harder to keep them healthy... Works for me.

PROFILE 55

Ethics & fairness,

westfeldhealth.com

it’s the Ecology way At Ecology, we are dedicated to supporting projects that have a positive impact on the environment and improve the quality of housing across the UK.

Your membership of The British Chambers of Commerce gives you access to innovative, afordable health cover with an exclusive range of benefts. Together, we’ve developed the Chamber Primary Health Plan that will work harder to make your staf feel more valued and motivated, and encourage them to be more proactive about their health.

We specialise in lending for ecological new builds, renovation or conversion of derelict buildings, and energy saving improvements to existing buildings. We also lend to community owned businesses, affordable housing including shared ownership and community-led housing, organic smallholdings and to enable lowimpact sustainable lifestyles, such as moorings for houseboats.

The plan helps policyholders to access essential healthcare, diagnosis and treatment, provides money back towards selected medical expenses, and can be combined with our hospital treatment insurance to provide truly continuous cover.

We put our ethical principles into practice throughout our products and operations, from managing the

environmental impact of our office, in Silsden, to fair pay. We are also the first building society to be awarded the Fair Tax Mark, which accredits a responsible approach to tax. We were rated as an ethical ‘Best Buy’ for our mortgages and savings accounts by Ethical Consumer magazine (July/August 2016 issue). Ecology was recently recognised by the Mortgage Finance Gazette (MFG) awards for its pioneering work to provide mortgages for permanently affordable homes in London. Paul Ellis, who celebrated 25 years at Ecology in 2017 (22 of which as Chief Executive), also received MFG’s Leadership award. We’re always looking for more projects to support. We work with potential

borrowers throughout the application process and project development to deliver a solution that is best suited to their individual circumstances. In many instances we’ll welcome projects that other lenders may not accept including non-standard construction types or unusual tenures. So, if you or anyone you know requires a residential mortgage or commercial funding to renovate or convert a property that needs substantial work, support for a self-build or financing for a community business or communityled housing, call our expert Mortgage Team on 01535 650 770 or visit ecology.co.uk to find out how we can help you.

As a leading provider of corporate health insurance, nobody works harder to keep your employees at their ft and healthy best than Westfeld Health.

To discover the full benefts of harder working health cover, contact us now.

08455 240 240 wnychamber.co.uk/healthcare-chamber-primaryhealth-plan

Ecology Building Society 7 Belton Road, Silsden, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD20 0EE. 01535 650 770 info@ecology.co.uk www.ecology.co.uk

West & North Yorkshire Business

56 RAISING THE BAR AWARDS

Raising the Bar Awards

New categories

November 2017 saw the return of the Chamber’s annual Raising the bar awards. Now in its 6th year the awards are established as a key marker of the success the region’s businesses CSR activities as well as being a showpiece event in the business calendar, recognising and promoting the best of the region’s business.

Raising the Bar recognises businesses of all sizes and with a large increase in the number of applications the judging panel opted to split the community category in to two sections one acknowledging the work of large organisations with over 150 employees and those of smaller companies with less than 150, allowing those with fewer resources to be judged alongside comparable organisations.

From the time the awards were open for submissions, applications poured in with Raising the Bar receiving more applications than any previous year. This encouraging result pointed to the increased focus on better business practices from the counties business community. A record number of applications brought with it incredible insight into the work done over the previous twelve months. Between all of our applicants they had donated a combined total of 20,000 hours to CSR activities and raised an astounding £320,000 over the course of the year. West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Sandy Needham said: “I am thrilled that Raising the Bar, now in its sixth year continues to grow and develop. The commitment by the business community to act more responsibly is something the Chamber will continue to champion and support. This year’s winners exemplified what corporate social responsibility means, from tireless environmental commitments by Hungate York to the incredible fundraising efforts of Arena Group it’s indeed been the most impressive year to date.”

Within the many applications something that stood out was the number of individuals within a company that had excelled at improving their companies CSR credentials. This led to the creation of our second new category this year, the individual award.

Working together

The Raising the Bar initiative would not be possible without the help of our long-term partners and sponsors. From inception, the Provident Financial Group has been vital to the success and continued growth of Raising the Bar. This year saw the Leeds Business Improvement District and Leeds City Council join as event partners. Of course as always the most important contributors are those businesses that take part in making their community a better place to live and work. Pictured: Andrew Edwards, Radio Leeds

Celebrating the social impact of business

West & North Yorkshire Business

58 RAISING THE BAR AWARDS

Economy Award The Broadway Bradford

“I think the impact the Broadway has had on the local economy and the way that I look at it is there’s 85 retailers in the Broadway of which 82 percent are new retailers to Bradford so I talk about this a lot but it’s not necessarily about what the Broadway is doing its about or how we are all working together in Bradford to raise that bar and get to a point where we generate a lot of interest and bringing new business into Bradford.”

RAISING THE BAR AWARDS 59

Economy Finalists

Environment Finalists

aql

ABS UK Print

Exa Networks

Christeyns UK

Hungate York Regeneration

The Broadway Shopping Centre

SCP

The Chamber believes that creating a strong economy that in turn creates jobs and wealth for our region can only be a good thing. It was great to see this year, so many jobs and apprenticeships created, as well as businesses winning contracts locally, regionally and internationally. This year’s winner the Broadway Bradford has had an enormous positive effect on Bradford’s economy and brought dozens of brands into the city for the first time creating a wealth of opportunities.

It has never been so crucial for businesses to act responsibly and look to reduce their environmental impact in any way possible. From big projects driven by efficiencies and cost savings to energy efficient lighting and solar panels shows us that companies are committing to better working practices. Hungate York’s work to not only create a long lasting positive environmental impact but engage the community in the process really stood out to the judges

Environment Award Hungate York Regeneration

“Environmentally we worked tirelessly to make the development as green as possible. We worked to combat urban thermal density which is a way of thinking about, the heat of the area which actually interferes with local wildlife. So we use materials with a low environmental impact, everywhere across our developments, and that helps increase both the plant life the oxygenation levels in the area and keeps the area as natural as possible it keeps everything in sync. For Hungate, it was essential to incorporate local schoolchildren in our green initiatives, and educate them about what they have around them. Keeping residents informed is also key to protecting the future of the development. This was achieved by the installation of information plaques which we did in partnership with the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.”

West & North Yorkshire Business

60 RAISING THE BAR AWARDS

RAISING THE BAR AWARDS 61

Community Award

Community Finalists

Community Award

(under 150 employees)

Under 150 employees

Over 150 employees

(over 150 employees)

Approach PR

Arena Group

Autohorn Fleet Services

DLA Piper

Arena Group

Garbutt + Elliott

First West Yorkshire

Schofield Sweeney

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate

Garbutt + Elliott “I think at Garbutt + Elliott one of the things we really pride ourselves on is the family togetherness the team spirit and CSR is part of that. I mean in particular we now have local charities that we support. So we’re giving something back to the local community it’s not all about just making money and helping our clients. There’s more to it than that. I think it is great for morale great for boosting the team and how we work it affects how we how we feel every day and there’s a great togetherness and spirit in that.”

The organisations short listed in this new category put their weight behind an array of activity that certainly made an impact on their local community. Garbutt + Elliott showed that having CSR as a core pillar of their business the benefits have been felt not only by recipients of their hard work, but within the company itself.

Stories of the great work Yorkshire businesses have done to better their local communities and the wider region have dominated the news we receive from the membership. Arena Group’s commitment to fundraising has reaped huge rewards for great causes, over the last year.

“So this year the highlight of our CSR Raising the Bar activity has to be at twenty-five for twenty-five campaign where we’ve been endeavouring to raise twenty five thousand pounds to celebrate our twenty fifth year in business. We’ve been doing that to support three local hospice charities something that’s very close to our heart. We’ve had employees jump out of planes. The sales team led a Tough Mudder Challenge which was really exciting. We’ve also been able to bring in our friends and family as many have been baking cakes and buns, having special Fridays where we get the barbecue on. We are absolutely delighted to say that we actually raised thirty two thousand pounds which we know is going to go a long way to support those charities.”

West & North Yorkshire Business

62 RAISING THE BAR AWARDS

Education Award Gordons LLP

“So to raise the bar at Gordons, we introduced the Apprenticeship Scheme. We launched it in 2011, and we were actually one of the first law firms to do so. It’s a significant scheme to us and what’s been really important this year is that we’ve had our first two apprentices qualify having come through that programme. We now have Megan and Briony in Gordon’s who are fully trained lawyers having come through that apprenticeship scheme. We’ve had 19 apprentices through the business, so there’s plenty of opportunities for different people. I’m proud to say that the apprenticeship scheme the introduction of it and pioneering that in the legal sector, is one of the best things that we would have ever done as a firm.”

RAISING THE BAR AWARDS 63

Education Finalists

Individual Finalists

BASF

Connor McStay - Jacobs

Gordons LLP

Helen Murphy - Arena Group

Jacobs PWC We often hear from our members that business and education need to work closer together. The companies short listed in this category have excelled in creating pathways into the world of business. Throughout the year we have seen extensive action with the aim of bridging this gap. Gordons Apprenticeship programme impressed not only with its ambition but with tangible successes bring people into the legal profession outside of conventional means.

David Lees - ABS UK Charlene Wortley - SCP Something that stood out with all the work we had seen over the year is that there was stand out employees at companies who embodied their organisation’s commitment to social responsibility. Charlie’s work over the year has helped young women start a career in the industry she feels so passionately about and her dedication is inspiring.

Individual Award Charlie Wortley - SCP

“We’re delighted that SCP’s Charlie Wortley has been nominated in the individual award category. She was one of the apprentices we bought it, and she’s still going through her training. Charlie is encouraging other young women into engineering too and helps them to pick up engineering, maths and science. By her own admission Charlie isn’t one-hundred percent comfortable speaking in front of large groups of people, however, she believes it’s more important to encourage women into our industry and puts aside her discomfort and nerves to champion the sector to other young women. We proudly support her and value people like Charlie who are making a real difference to our industry.”

West & North Yorkshire Business

RAISING THE BAR AWARDS 65

“We are delighted to once again have been involved with West & North Yorkshire Raising the Bar Awards.” Andrew Cooper Chief Executive Leeds Business Improvement District

West & North Yorkshire Business

66 EVENTS February 21 Bradford Professionals Network 7.30am – 9.30am £15 / £30 Devere House, Bradford 21 Business Lunch 12noon – 2pm £30 / £42 Cedar Court Hotel, Harrogate 27 Learning Lunch: Recruitment & Talent Strategies 12noon – 2pm £20 / £30 Devere House, Bradford 28 Pure Networking 7.30am – 9am £20 / £30 Middlethorpe Hall & Spa, York

March

01 Pure Networking 7.30am – 9.30am £20 / £30 Leeds United Football Club 05 York Property Forum 5pm – 7pm £15/ £30 The Grand Hotel & Spa, York 06 Learning Lunch: GDPR 12noon – 2pm £20 / £30 Devere House, Bradford 07 Business Lunch 12noon – 2pm £30 / £42 York Pavilion Hotel 09 Speed Networking 7.30am – 9.30am £20 / £30 The Midland Hotel, Bradford 16 Learning Lunch: Salary & Benchmarking 12noon – 2pm £20 / £30 Devere House, Bradford 20 Leeds Property Forum 5pm – 7pm £15 / £30 Pinsent Masons, Leeds 22 York & North Yorkshire Annual Dinner 6.45pm – 11pm £96 / £120 National Railway Museum, York 27 Bradford Property Forum 8am – 10am £15 / £30 Bradford City Football Club 29 Pure Networking 7.30am – 9am £20 / £30 York Army Museum 29 Learning Lunch:Training for New Managers 12noon – 2pm £20 / £30 Clarion, Leeds

Members’ price / Full price Prices include VAT

April 04 Business Lunch 12noon – 2pm £30 / £42 Doubletree by Hilton, Monkbar, York 05 Pure Networking 7.30am – 9.30am £20 / £30 Cloth Hall Court, Leeds 19 HR Forum 8am – 10.30am £20 / £30 Langleys, York 20 Learning Lunch: Social Media 12noon – 2pm £20 / £30 Clarion, Leeds 25 Pure Networking 7.30am – 9am £20 / £30 Dean Court Hotel, York 26 Learning Lunch: Time Management 12noon – 2pm £20 / £30 Devere House, Bradford 27 Property Lunch 12noon – 2pm £30 / £42 Hospitium, York

t hou d t i le w bra n y !! t t o A b b e l i s a i de n t i t a la u t an ho wit

o f th e la b e l ce n ra a e pp a e th F irst h a se . st imu la te s m y p u rc ss, th e n th e g la Ne x t th e S w ir l in f th e fl a v o u rs st e o th e a ro m a a n d ta ch o ic e o f co n fi rm s m y b ra n d la b e l. .. .

May

02 Business Lunch 12noon – 2pm £30 / £42 National Centre for Early Music, York 03 Pure Networking 7.30am – 9.30am £20 / £30 Leeds United Football Club 04 Learning Lunch: Networking Skills 12noon – 2pm £20 / £30 Devere House, Bradford 11 Business Lunch 12noon – 2pm £30 / £42 Yorkshire Coast College, Scarborough 25 Pure Networking 7.30am – 9am £20 / £30 National Railway Museum, York

At OPM (Labels & Packaging) Group weʻre experts in delivering innovative, agile printed packaging solutions to for ward-thinking organisations. An intelligent brand owner uses print and packaging to inform and inspire the user, with a balance of decoration and functionality creating an identity that is as emotional, colourful and multi-layered as the consumer.

Don’t miss out! Book now at http://chmbr.co/2p

OPM work in partnership to deliver qualit y print that protects your brand equit y ensuring our clients are positioned in the market to achieve positive consumer experience for their brand and its products. Ge t in touch to discuss your print needs today

OPM offer ser vices for customers of all sizes, across the beverage sector From long runs to convenience quantities with short lead times. At OPM we take great pride in the superior qualit y of our printed products across our portfolio. Our technical team are always looking for ways to improve pack decoration without impairing product function by providing innovative packaging solutions.

Certified to PS9000 : 2011, ISO 9001 : 2008 • BRC/ IoP Global Standard Food Packaging Standards Grade AA • • Zero Labels 2 Landfill Scheme Certification Awarded • Full low migration ink site

OPM (Labels & Packaging) Group Limited, The Colour Box, Gelderd Road, Leeds, LS12 6TG

0 2 ! W WO time

% OFF

First Any Return Single & tickets

Onboard First Class

First Class weekday me nu

Accredited Chambers of Commerce and their members can enjoy a 20% discount off our First Anytime Single and Return tickets when signing up to Railblazers. Feel the perks of First Class for less. Just turn up, hop on, and let our Wi-Fi, plug sockets and Quiet Zones help you crack on with some work en route. You’ll be ready and raring for that important meeting. Easy.

FREE Wi-Fi when booki ng

with us

Get a load more out of your business travel and beneﬁt from all of this!

First Class comfort (not a bad start). Enjoy that extra leg room. Complimentary food and drink onboard. Yummy! Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard. Surf away. First Class Lounge access. Nice. Bookings must be made through Railblazers for travel up until 9 March 2018. To take advantage of this great deal, sign up at: railblazers.co.uk/eastcoast using promo code: BCC2017

When can you use your First Anytime ticket – short answer, any time, any train, but not any date. Long answer – every ticket has a start date. If it’s a First Anytime Single, you can use it on the date shown, and on the day after, well, for those of you who are late-starters, you actually have until 04.29 (in the morning) on day three by which to complete your journey. If it’s a First Anytime Return, the outward bit is valid for ﬁve days from the start date (04.29), and the return for one calendar month after the start date (until 04.29). Unused tickets are fully refundable, but we do charge a small admin fee.

First Class Lounge King’s

Cross