Business Edge 71

HARWOODS VOLVO CRAWLEY

Volvo XC40 B3 Core FWD Automatic

For every business

Volvo XC40 B3 Core FWD Automatic with Metallic Paint, Petrol Mild-Hybrid

£410 + VAT PER MONTH PLUS INITIAL RENTAL AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY

• Monthly Payment: £410+vat • Initial Rental: £2,460+vat mpg

• Contract Length: 36 Months

• Mileage per annum: 10,000

• Excess mileage charge 11.5p+vat

We also have available XC60, XC90 including fully electric and plug-in hybrid models

To find out more contact Kate Chapman, Business Development Manager, 07803 088723, kate.chapman@harwoods.co.uk

Ana Christie Chief Executive, Sussex Chamber of Commerce

– this helps improve your mental wellbeing by raising your self esteem and chemical changes in your brain help positively change your mood.

– to boost selfconfidence, build a sense of purpose and connect with others. Try a new hobby or challenge, take on more responsibility at work or mentor a junior member of staff, or

– acts of giving and kindness can help create positive feelings, a sense of reward, a feeling of purpose and self-worth. Say thank you, ask people how they are and listen, spend time with others,

– pay attention to the present moment such as your thoughts, feelings, your body and what is happening around you. It can help you understand yourself better and positively change the way you feel and

Everyone in the workplace has the right to work in an environment that promotes good

Chamber Members benefit from the support provided by Westfield Health and AXA Health. Contact the membership team to . There are various members within the Chamber that can help support businesses with advice, guidance and training. Share your business news and stories with Sussex Chamber. Call our membership

Distinctive

Why should you outsource your manufacturing?

We ask Eleanor Lelliott, Partner and Head of Contract Blending at Leonards Ingredients:

but do not have the time to market it properly, or follow up on those important leads that you know will keep the company growing in 6 months, a year or five years time. By outsourcing the most timeconsuming roles then you can start to focus on the future, whilst knowing your product is in excellent hands.

take you a month to fulfil with your existing equipment and space. Having an experienced processing partner on hand that can run these individual lots, or step in to take over manufacturing wholly can be invaluable for future growth.

We find that our customers come to us for four main reasons; Time, Space, Specialised Food Safety Expertise, and Cost.

Let’s start with the biggest two, time and cost. Many smaller companies or start-ups may be manufacturing in their kitchens or in small units, and are now unable to keep up with demand. Which is a brilliant, but stressful situation to be in. We often find customers turning to outsource manufacturing as this enables them to continue growing the company. It can be very frustrating to have an excellent product, that you know customers want,

Money is another strong reason to look at outsourcing the manufacture of your ambient ingredients. If you have spent thousands on developing an excellent product, completing months of market research and then spending thousands more on packaging and marketing, there isn’t much left in the budget for a factory full of equipment. So by outsourcing this aspect of the process you can save yourself thousands in set-up fees.

Equally, you may already have a site but have this one single run that would

Particularly important for those companies involved in the Nutraceutical Industry is Specialised Food Safety Experience. Leonards Ingredients was set up in the 80’s so has a few decades of experience in blending dry ambient products! Many customers look to outsource production because they need a site that is certified with BRCGS Food safety and this is a full time job in itself. By utilising a site that already has this certification to AA level they can fulfil all their food safety & quality requirements without the effort, time and money.

So if you are running out of time, space or you’re risking your profits to keep your supply chain fulfilled then perhaps it’s time to look at outsourcing the manufacture. If you would like to discuss our capabilities for the production of any dry ambient ingredients, from spice mixes, to protein blends, to chocolate cookie mixes please contact 01825 760262 or ellie@leonards.co.uk

We offer a comprehensive service offering blending from just 30kg to multiple tonne drops, and always with clear and honest communication.

www.leonards.co.uk

Eleanor Lelliott Partner & Head of Contract Blending Leonards Ingredients

“If you have spent thousands on developing an excellent product, completing months of market research and then spending thousands more on packaging and marketing, there isn’t much left in the budget for a factory full of equipment. So by outsourcing this aspect of the process you can save yourself thousands in set-up fees.”

The Fastest Growing Business Group in Sussex Burgess Hill Business Parks Association

We exist to champion our members’ needs and interests and promote business in the Mid-Sussex area. We welcome members from all industries and sectors, accommodating start-ups to SMEs to multi-nationals.

Our association has seen extraordinary growth over the last 12 months. In 2022 our membership grew by over 30%, we now have 168 members. There are all the usual marketing benefits of joining a local business group. Monthly face to face meetings, a SEO optimized website business directory and a highly informative weekly newsletter with 3,500 subscribers. This is all amplified by a social media presence which has grown exponentially across numerous channels.

One of the reasons behind that growth is our distinctive focus. We are a community led organisation where best practice is shared and collaboration achieves results, whether that is sustainability issues, such as solar power generation and creating a local energy cooperative, or equality, diversity and inclusivity. This is where we get the most engagement from our very largest members, it creates a ‘trickle down’ of experience and knowledge for our larger and smaller SMEs. We also work closely with all the local schools. In addition, we’ll be implementing yellow lines that will address numerous problem parking points across the entire 90 acre Victoria Business Park in Burgess Hill. Last month we all came together for the largest business expo in Mid Sussex: Burgess Hill Means Business. With 65 exhibitors, from our largest multinationals to our smallest microbusinesses. Hundreds of external visitors, and a real buzz. It was great to see so many people again. Later this year we bring back our ever popular BH Biz Awards.

If you’re not a member, find out why you should join our dynamic and diverse business group. Contact us today richard. cox@bhbpa.co.uk or call 07393 728688

Willard Conservation Donates Conservation Suction Table to Support Conservation Efforts in Ukraine

Paul Willard CEO Willard Conservation

Rescuing priceless works of art and items of cultural significance is anything but easy at the best of times, but in countries like Ukraine suffering conflict, the brave work undertaken by conservators still in Ukraine demonstrates selfless commitment to their country’s heritage. Willard hopes that by providing the first table of its kind in the country, the lives of professionals still working in the country will be made a lot easier with this vital piece of conservation equipment. Measuring at 3.5meters x 2.5meters, this table is one of the largest in the world.

Painting Conservator-Restorer, Katya Belaia-Selzer has been a vital link to fellow conservators in Ukraine and has been instrumental in the organisation of this donation. Katya recently commented on the awful news of museums in occupied regions in Ukraine being looted and completely emptied. “The table is going to make a big difference and will undoubtedly be a huge morale boost for our Ukrainian colleagues. I keep this image in my head of visiting Kyiv soon when the war is won and seeing their wonderful conservation department all beautifully equipped.”

To support the donation, our regular shipping partner, P&M Packaging of Eastleigh have kindly donated the shipping case to ensure safe delivery of the table, which is planned to commence in the very near future.

Paul Willard, CEO at Willard Conservation said, “We feel compelled to help the

conservation community in Ukraine in their time of extreme adversity. Preservation of the world’s priceless works of art and historic media is of paramount importance and we’re pleased to be able to help in this small but nevertheless, important way”.

paul@willard.co.uk

www.willard.co.uk

Willard Conservation Equipment Engineers of Chichester have donated a conservation suction table worth over £50,000 to The National Centre for Restoration in Kyiv, Ukraine to assist with the protection and conservation of priceless heritage objects in the war-torn country.

Richard Cox CEO Burgess Hill Business Parks Association

Just before the event kicked off the excitement in the air was palpable.

Mental Health & Wellbeing

Businesses across Sussex are increasingly focusing on employee wellbeing and mental health, which is a positive trend.

The values of staff wellbeing

Samantha Lane, HR Manager for FermionX Ltd explains the values of staff wellbeing initiatives and the importance of mental health awareness in the workplace.

Staff wellbeing has always been important for companies to provide - it reduces sickness, increases motivation and morale, but hasn’t been on the top of many companies’ agendas for too long.

Luckily things are now improving and attitudes changing, but there is still a long way to go.

During the pandemic it highlighted the urgent need for businesses to understand the importance of having a happy and healthy workforce.

I have been with FermionX for 2 years now and I am happy to say we have brought in lots of new measures with regards to staff wellbeing. This has been easy to implement as I have had full support from all the Directors and the Management Team.

Recently we’ve introduced a number of simple measures, including free fruit boxes, offering flu jabs to staff, as well as providing an on-site gym.

A suggestion scheme has been introduced, to allow the team to have an active voice in how we develop and progress our staff wellbeing programmes. And since this was implemented, we’ve now put in place a “Cycle to Work Scheme”, an enhanced Maternity and Paternity package and a more comprehensive recycling programme.

To support our teams’ physical health, we’ve worked with Adur and Worthing Wellbeing Team to offer Wellbeing MOT’s as well as access to Occupational Health and Annual Health Surveillance, to ensure our employees do not develop or exacerbate existing medical conditions.

To thank the staff for their continued support and hard-work year on year, we

organise regular treat days as well as Christmas and Summer social events. We’re not finished yet though, we’re still continually seeking ways to improve staff wellbeing and the package we offer and are working on the following:

All Managers are undertaking a Level 2 Award in Mental Health Workplace Responder which will provide them with the knowledge and understanding in relation to mental health conditions and episodes

An Employee Assistance Programme

A staff volunteering Scheme

Becoming a Disability Confident Employer

For me, it’s important to understand that wellbeing isn’t just providing benefits. The way that staff are treated is the most important aspect of being a responsible employer. If staff are happy and content in their work, they suffer with less physical and mental stress, an improved work-lifebalance and increased emotional wellbeing. This is achieved through all aspects within the employee lifecycle, such as training and development and performance reviews. Since we are already doing this, we will be focusing hard on improving employee communications by introducing quarterly meetings with all employees for business updates, an Employee Representative Forum as well as regular meetings with managers to communicate updates, which in turn will be fed back to their teams.

I’m excited for the future of FermionX and I’m so proud of how far we’ve come in such a short period of time.

www.fermionx.com

One effective way for businesses to improve employee wellbeing is to implement mental health strategies that address specific psychological risks and improve the overall wellbeing of their workforce. However, it’s important for businesses to thoroughly understand the root causes of any issues that may be impacting employee wellbeing. This can be done through employee surveys, one-on-one conversations, absence reporting, and exit interviews, which provide valuable insights into the workforce’s needs.

In addition to addressing employee needs, it’s also important for businesses to be aware of and compliant with relevant legislation relating to mental health and stress at work. For example, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 in the UK requires employers to assess their employees’ stress risk and take action to control it. This involves identifying the causes of stress in the workplace, evaluating the level of risk, and implementing measures to control that risk. These steps are necessary to protect employee health and well-being and create a safe and healthy working environment.

While implementing mental health strategies and focusing on risk management and compliance can be effective ways to improve employee wellbeing, it’s important for employers to recognise that external factors can also impact staff wellbeing. Therefore, it’s important for businesses to do what they can to support their employees and recognise the limits of their ability to influence certain external factors.

As always, your Chamber is here to support you as we face the challenges and opportunities that 2023 is bringing.

Rob Clare Chairman, Sussex Chamber of Commerce

Improve your future finances

Good financial management includes planning for the future. As the new year starts it’s a good time to think about your future finances. Here are some things to consider.

married. It is also sensible to review your Will every five years.

Ensure you’re making the most of the inheritance tax allowances. Currently everyone has an allowance of £325,000 and in addition, you can also qualify for a further £175,000. Gifts made between spouses are tax free.

Lifetime gifts

any detrimental impact on your standard of living. It is crucial to provide appropriate evidence to HMRC.

Charity giving

Lasting Power of Attorney

The best way to secure your financial future is to create a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). An LPA allows you to appoint someone to act on your behalf if you become unable to do so, whether because of long periods of travel or an illness. An LPA means someone you trust can manage your financial affairs when you cannot. In addition to an LPA for property and financial affairs you can also create one covering decisions relating to your health and welfare which will ensure your best interests are always protected.

Wills

It is important to ensure that your Will is updated if there are any changes in your life, such as buying a new property or getting

It is possible to gift money before you die. However, if you die within seven years of making the gift, the money will be added back into your estate for inheritance tax purposes. If you survive between 3 – 7 years, the amount of money that is added back will decrease on a sliding scale.

If you do decide to gift property it is important that you do not retain a benefit of the property as this could mean that the value is added back into your estate.

Gifts of surplus income

A great tool for inheritance tax planning are gifts out of surplus income as they maybe immediately excluded from your estate when calculating IHT.

The gift must be made from surplus income only and making the gift must not have

There is so much more to SSAFA Sussex

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is a trusted source of practical, emotional, and financial support for serving personnel, veterans and their families in their time of need. Our teams of employees and over 3,000 volunteers provide support across 89 branches and 58 service committees throughout the UK, enabling the Armed Forces community to thrive.

SSAFA Sussex are seeking volunteers for a variety of rewarding roles, providing personalised, face-to-face support and specialist services across Sussex. Roles are varied, flexible and very rewarding, giving back to those that have served. All backgrounds and experiences are welcome and a military background is not essential.

If your Will provides 10% of your estate to charity; your estate will be able to claim inheritance tax at 36% instead of 40%. Additionally, if you have already left a gift to charity in your Will of 4% (or more) you could increase this to 10% and your beneficiaries will receive the same amount. The difference is the tax that would have been payable will now go to your chosen charity instead.

Contact Mary: mary@ lewisdenley.com.

For more information about Lewis Denley visit: www.lewisdenley.com

Mary Casey Senior Associate, Lewis Denley

NEW industry report finds that email prospecting is number one tactic for generating business leads

prospecting report has just launched and data from almost 50M emails, across 82 industries, reveals that emails are the best way to bring in new sales leads.

In addition, data from over 350 marketing professionals surveyed shows that 59% still rate email marketing as the most reliable channel for driving new business.

approach, with referrals (42%) and webinars or face-to-face events (24%) coming in second and third place after personalised email, to cultivate business leads.

The whitepaper also reveals that 77% of B2B buyers prefer to be contacted over email – more than double any other channel. Customers also state that they want the content of the email campaign, to be engaging and share information and knowledge.

The free whitepaper also provides guidance to ensure email campaigns are successful, providing pointers on how to build your audience and database, personalisation tips, and useful information on forming prospecting campaigns.

The annual whitepaper titled ‘The State of Prospecting’ is the most comprehensive report published on B2B prospecting and is now in its second year. It states that 59% of marketers believe that email is over twice as effective at generating leads than channels such as PPC and paid social media, despite some marketers focussing spend in those channels.

When it comes to new business, most decision makers want a one-to-one

Ryan Welmans, CEO and Co-Founder, Sopro: “We’ve analysed twice as many emails as last year - nearly 50 million. We’ve surveyed five times as many sales and marketing professionals. Our data scientists have dived deeper than ever into our prospecting results, drawing out new insights and new ways to optimise your prospecting. “We do understand that not everybody is as obsessed with prospecting as we are. But whether your business uses email prospecting or not, this report has something for everyone from the best time to send an email to how to create a campaign to ensure it gets opened and read.

About Sopro

What this report does show is that the personal touch is still very much valued, whether that is a bespoke email, a face-toface meeting or hosting a webinar or event to share information and knowledge. The personal approach is very much essential when it comes to marketing and engaging with new customers.”

The white paper is available to download for free at sopro.io/sop2023report, and there is an associated webinar being hosted by Sopro founder, Ryan Welmans, in the first week of February with free registration on Sopro’s website – Ryan invites marketers and sales professionals in Sussex to learn how to get more sales leads for their business, as he shares his expertise and the findings of the reports.

Sopro.io is an award-winning email prospecting business that enhances B2B sales engagement through the use of clever tech and social reach specialist expertise.

Headquartered in Brighton, with offices in London, Skopje, Dubai and Miami, the company employs over 275 email prospecting experts who support more than 500 businesses spanning over 80 different sectors.

Sopro’s technology enables its specialists to source the ideal prospects for customers and connect them when they are ready to talk business. Its social prospecting format has powered over 8,000 campaigns, connecting businesses with their target customers on a one-to-one basis using personalised, conversational email introductions that flow naturally into the sales pipeline.

The company was founded in 2015 by CEO Ryan Welmans and Chief Innovation Officer Rob Harlow. Privately owned and funded, Sopro is now a £18M+ turnover business with over 320 employees, making it one of the fastest growing B2B marketing technology companies in the world.

The most comprehensive B2B

Download State of Prospecting 2023 for free at sopro.io/sop2023report

Meet Founder Ryan (Video)

Pressure or Stress?

What is Stress?

Stress is a feeling of being under too much mental or emotional pressure. When you are stressed, your body releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol which trigger the “fight or flight” response.

There are a number of signs of stress - the most common ones cited are snappiness and irritability, others include headaches and stomach problems, racing heartbeat, dry mouth and shortness of breath. You may feel low in mood, make mistakes at work, struggle to concentrate, become forgetful or catastrophise.

What can I do about my Stress?

There is no magic cure for stress - the key is to deal with the source.

If you aren’t sure quite what is causing your stress then you could keep a diary to help you notice what was going on in the lead up to feeling stressed. This can help you to identify your stress triggers, which will help you start to address those issues.

There are a range of ways to keep your stress manageable and relieve symptoms of stress if they start to cause difficulties. These aren’t rocket science, but we tend to forget to do them when stress levels are high:

Do something creative

Get outside

Exercise

Meditation and Mindfulness

Do something you enjoy

Listen to music

anna@stratuscoaching.co.uk

www.stratuscoaching.com

Don’t firefight stress, anxiety and ill health. Be proactive. Prevent it spreading like wildfire in your company

Making your way in the business world is founded on first-hand experiences, probably none more challenging or stressful than taking on and retaining employees. You may be fortunate with happy & content staff leaving after a productive day. But how long before they’re just going through the motions? Would it be immediately noticeable?

Slow changes in your business can ignite negativity, simmering away unseen. The pessimism starts to gather momentum until it starts affecting everyone involved. The emotional, psychological and social wellbeing that is so important, is suddenly engulfed and all positivity chocked!

There’s a lot of research into employee and workplace wellbeing, which reveals happy and healthy employees are more productive and valuable overall. Enough reason to invest time & money in initiatives and policies to support your staff.

Don’t firefight, take control and Act now!

Show that you are an organisation that cares. No matter what industry you’re in, no matter how long you’ve been operating, you should have a wellbeing strategy in place. Not just because you have a duty of care

and legally bound to do risk assessments, which must include the Mental Health of Employees. But by evidencing and Living your duty of care your employees will benefit, you’ll incentivise new candidates, your business will positivity and passion will flourish.

MyTeamSafe supports organisations like yours by protecting remote staff and your business. Our simple, flexible and affordable Lone Worker App includes our unique Mini survey function to help collect timely information on how your disparate workforce (Working from Home, out making visits or simple working late) are feeling.

Email us at safe@myteamsafe.com to find out more and get a FREE trial. Further discounts available for Charities.

A certain amount of pressure is good for us. It keeps us moving forward, focuses the mind and can motivate us. However, when we have too much pressure then this can tip over into stress and affect our mental health and performance at work.

Anna Golawski Owner Stratus Coaching

Health & wellbeing in the office with The Protein Ball Company

Matt Hunt Director The Protein Ball Company

Eating healthy in the office isn’t always easy; whether it’s busy days stacked with meetings unable to find the time for lunch or sugarfilled office snacks made more accessible than a healthier alternative. Slipping into unhealthy eating habits is easier than we think and breaking them can be difficult.

With health and well-being becoming more important than ever, as an employer, there’s a need to encourage healthy eating habits. Not only will this help boost employee productivity, helping to dodge that afternoon burnout, but healthy eating has also been linked to increased creativity, energy and staff morale.

Three simple tips to help encourage healthier eating habits in your office:

Nutrition-Focused Tasting Sessions

We’ve all heard of ‘Lunch and Learn’, and let’s face it, they can be a bit like marmite, some employees love them and some hate them. Focussing on engaging and informative taste and try sessions, are an excellent way to draw attention to the conversation around healthy eating, particularly in the workplace. Creating a safe environment where employees can ask questions and get involved will encourage them to make positive dietary changes, resulting in better productivity levels within the workplace.

Encourage Lunch Breaks and Healthy Snacking

It can be easy for employees to get lost in their work, forgetting to take their lunch breaks. There to ensure we get some time away from our screens; staff that take their lunch breaks will often arrive back to their desks feeling more energised and refreshed for the afternoon. Additionally, making sure that employees have access to nutritious snacking options will help steer them away from unhealthy sweet treats. Add a fruit bowl into the office or alternative

healthy snacking options that are rich in protein and fibre to help sustain their energy.

Provide Guidance and Support

Most importantly, provide support and encouragement to those making these healthy changes. No employee is expecting their bosses to become nutrition experts but making sure there is an open channel of communication to discuss these things is crucial for making a difference!

Promoting Health and Wellbeing at Work

Phase is a specialist life science recruitment agency in the heart of Horsham town centre.

Katie Benham Operations Coordinator Next Phase Recruitment

The employment landscape has changed dramatically over the last few years, and some of these changes (particularly around flexibility) were emerging long before the Covid pandemic accelerated them. At Next Phase, we recognise the positive effects of a less rigid working structure on the wellbeing of our employees and their families. Given the importance of in-person contact, we are all in the office together on certain days, while Mondays and Fridays are optional days to work from home. We also introduced flexible start times last year, which enable people to fit their external commitments and hobbies around work.

It isn’t just about flexibility. It is important to recognise the value of investing in employee benefits and team events to promote Health and Wellbeing, and to

help with attracting and retaining staff. We conduct regular reviews of our benefits package, and have brought in several new initiatives over the last couple of years.

We invest in a health & life insurance scheme with Vitality which is free for our employees and which their partners can join at a subsidised rate. This brings huge benefits including private healthcare, free (or at least discounted) dental and physio treatment, health assessments, rewards for healthy eating and exercise and discounts on shops and car insurance.

Additionally, we offer everyone two paid volunteering days annually where they can help out the local community and surrounding area of West Sussex. As a recent example, we have helped out at the local food bank to organise food for those struggling with the increasing cost of living. Our volunteering programme has really benefitted our team at Next Phase, and everyone has thoroughly enjoyed helping out.

Promoting a positive culture within our business and bringing everyone together as a team is important to us, so we have regular training days to educate us further on mental health and boosting physical and emotional wellbeing. Our annual teambuilding days, with a range of mental and physical challenges, are also a huge success. We strongly recommend investing in outdoor “away days” to take everyone out of their comfort zone and promote teamwork!

As workforces across the country still feel the rippling effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s become more important than ever for employers to prioritise the health and well-being of their teams.

Next

As an expanding company, we are always on the lookout for highly motivated, ambitious individuals to join us. Our values guide everything we do, and we strongly believe in treating everyone with respect and care.

Now’s the time to invest in apprentices

There’s never been a better time to employ an apprentice.

With high quality training schemes and employer-led frameworks, all designed to ensure apprenticeships are responding to your needs as employers, you can be assured that you’ll feel the benefit of hiring an apprentice.

Skilled employees can deliver substantial value to companies. And by investing in apprentices, you can fill skills gaps and nurture the talents of new and existing staff as well as boost your staff retention and motivation levels!

Many apprenticeship programmes are flexible, which means you can adapt your apprentices’ training to fit the needs of your business.

Train your existing workforce Apprenticeships aren’t just for new staff. They can be a cost-effective and successful way to develop your staff’s skills and knowledge base.

They provide development opportunities for experienced employees to gain formal

qualifications in specialist areas, or even enable staff to progress into different areas of your business.

Your staff are your biggest asset, so why not equip them with the tools they need to excel?

And there’s no upper age limit – staff of any age can be an apprentice, without any changes to their salary or job title.

That’s all well and good. But what the catch? How much will it cost?

Apprenticeships are funded by contributions made by the Government

and employers. How much an employer contributes can vary, depending on a number of things including the type of apprenticeship and the size of the company. As an employer, you may also qualify funding from the Government to help pay for apprenticeship training. The apprenticeship experts at Chichester College Group will be able to explore what options are available to you.

Why choose Chichester College Group?

Chichester College Group is the largest college group in Sussex, with seven colleges across West Sussex and Brighton & Hove. That means you’ll never be far from one of the CCG campuses!

The team at Chichester College Group has developed and maintained close ties to local industries, employers and organisations, ensuring they have an indepth understanding of the training needs of the local region.

Get in touch

To find out more, email apprenticeships@ chigroup.ac.uk, visit www.chigroup.ac.uk/ apprenticeships or call 01243 812948.

What is mobile device management (MDM)

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is a system that allows businesses to securely manage the devices that their employees use to access company data and resources.

Why is Mobile Device Management

So Important?

MDM software allows you to control, secure, and automate any security enforcement policies and compliance standards, across all your company’s laptops, smartphones and tablets within your organisation, as well as any employees’ own devices.

The use of mobile devices has become increasingly common in businesses of all sizes, as they offer employees the ability to access corporate resources and data from anywhere, at any time. There are several reasons why a business might need mobile device management:

1. Security:

As mentioned, mobile devices can be a security risk, as they can be lost or stolen, and may be used to access sensitive information or networks. MDM helps to mitigate these risks by providing a centralised solution for managing and securing mobile devices within an organisation.

2. Compliance:

Many businesses are subject to industryspecific regulations that require them to take certain steps to protect sensitive data. MDM can help businesses meet these regulatory

requirements by providing the necessary controls and safeguards for mobile devices.

3. Support:

Mobile devices can be difficult to support, as they may be used in a variety of different locations and conditions. MDM can help businesses streamline the support process by providing a centralised solution for managing and troubleshooting mobile devices.

What solution does Microsoft provide to solve the problem?

Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based mobile device management (MDM) solution that helps companies manage and secure mobile

devices that access corporate data. With Intune, organisations can set policies and configurations for devices, monitor device compliance, and remotely wipe or lock devices in case of loss or theft. This helps ensure that business data stays secure and that only authorised users can access it.

One of the key benefits of using Intune for MDM is that it allows organisations to manage and secure devices without the need for onpremises infrastructure. This makes it an ideal solution to take advantage of the flexibility and cost savings of the cloud.

To read the rest of this article just scan the QR Code.

Tax and remote working

During the pandemic many workers demonstrated to their UK employers that they could work remotely including from locations outside the UK. If this remains a feature of your business post-pandemic, have you considered the tax issues?

Emma McCartney Senior Tax Manager, Menzies

Overseas corporation tax

Employees based outside the UK may create a permanent establishment of the UK company in the overseas country with corporation tax and reporting obligations arising. There will then need to be an allocation of profits on which that permanent establishment is taxed and transfer pricing rules will require consideration.

Employment tax, social security, and potential for double taxation

Usually, the other country will tax the income a worker receives for duties performed there even if they are employed by a UK company under a UK contract and salary is paid into a UK bank account. The worker could also potentially continue to be taxed in the UK if they remain UK tax resident. A UK company may have a

payrolling obligation overseas even where a Double Tax Treaty offers protection and ultimately no overseas tax is due.

Social security should be considered separately from income tax. Even if not taxed overseas, a worker may still be liable to pay overseas social security contributions but could still be liable to UK National Insurance. The UK company may also be liable for overseas employer’s social security and have withholding obligations. Where there is a relevant social security agreement

in place, social security is normally only paid in one country.

Emma McCartney Senior Tax Manager, Menzies LLP EMcCartney@menzies.co.uk

Green Business Meetings at Tottington Manor

Nestled in the South Downs National Park and just 10 minutes from the A23 and A27. Our natural environment is perfectly suited to the away days that requires clear thinking and an open mind. With plenty of free parking and free wifi underpinned by a dedicated fibre ethernet connection we ensure that you can enjoy the same speed in the countryside as you can in the city.

Tottington Manor provides a sustainable offering to business guests from overnight stays to conferences. With corporate rates that are fixed and not flexing with seasonal demand you can budget and plan ahead. It is the warm welcome and personal hospitality corporate guests receive each time they come to Tottington that brings them back, conveniently located you can be in Central Brighton or Crawley within 20 minutes.

Our Meeting Rooms and Private Dining rooms provide perfect spaces for meetings up to 25, with our larger Downs Suite accommodating up to 100. With our restaurant open 7 days per week we can provide refreshment from as little as coffee & cake through to 4 course meals and taster menus.

Hybrid meetings can be simply facilitated at Tottington Manor with our Business Owl video conferencing system, remote guests joining any meeting will see every delegate around the table and hear and see each speaker clearly throughout the meeting.

Corporate responsibility and sustainability sit on every businesses agenda, at Tottington Manor we have had a sustainable vision at the heart of our plans and have thought carefully about our offering across all areas of the business to minimise our impact on the local and global environment whilst actively working to ensure our local community benefits from our success. We are currently working towards the Green Tourism award to validate the work we have done and provide the quality assurance for our business guests that when you are planning a meeting, offsite training day, corporate hospitality or employee wellbeing event with us that we will not only provide the very best hospitality and service but we will do it sustainably.

So what have we done so far?

All of our ingredients are sourced locally both to reduce food miles, but also to support and benefit local small businesses in the rural economy.

We recruit and prioritise suppliers from the local area for the same reason.

We have removed single use items and packaging where we can

We are actively investing and working to remove oil and gas from the venue so we can

MEMBER OFFERS

Merceric Ltd is currently offering potential new clients a free 45-minute Executive Coaching taster session.

work towards more sustainable sources of energy in the future,

We have invested in low energy equipment from light bulbs to refrigeration to minimise our electrical use.

Later in the spring we will be installing electric charging points to allow guests to charge their vehicles whilst attending a meeting, lunch or staying overnight. There is always more to do and we will continue as all businesses do to reduce our Carbon Footprint, you can follow our journey on linkedin at www.linkedin.com/company/ tottingtonmanor and we’re always happy to share or hear ideas to improve further.

Tel: 01903 815757

Emai: reservations@tottingtonmanor.co.uk

Book Online: www.tottingtonmanor.co.uk/ book-a-table-or-an-event/

Website: www.tottingtonmanor.co.uk

Facebook: www.facebook.com/tottsmanor

Insta: www.instagram.com/tottingtonmanor

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/ tottingtonmanor

Free 1 hour business coaching session.

Feeling unsure, confused, uncertain about what to do?

We are in confusing times and business owners know they should be taking action but are not sure what that is. As business coaches and consultants we help provide some clarity and guidance to get you back on track.

During this time every we should be supporting each other, as such we are offering any Chamber member a free 1 hour coaching session (phone or video only).

Follow the link to get in touch and arrange this: www.catandra.co.uk/contact

This will help you to find out the benefits, as well as how I approach Executive Coaching, especially if it is unfamiliar to you.

Ian Mercer, Executive Coach, Merceric Ltd ian@merceric.co.uk 07505 19 33 11 www.merceric.co.uk

10% discount on courses and training events for other Chamber of Commerce members.

This includes Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) courses.

All courses are on Eventbrite - please use the code “chamber” to receive your discount.

I also offer additional discounts for charities or not for profit organisations.

www.stratuscoaching.co.uk

For a professional, personal, and cost-effective solution for all of your legal advice need, we offer our fellow members a complimentary initial consultations (value £220).

We’re here to help with all family matters, property, wills & probate and future planning, employment and disputes. Meet with a friendly expert at a time to suit you - apply here: www.parfittcresswell.com/free-consultation

Apprenticeship Funding Boost for East Sussex

FUNDING

to cover the full

training costs of

an apprenticeship is being made available to small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) across the county.

Through the council’s Apprenticeship Levy transfer scheme, the Transform programme is offering East Sussex small and medium businesses the chance to apply for a share of over £300,000.

The Transform project, which aims to help SMEs in East Sussex access apprenticeship advice and funding, is part-funded by the European Social Fund and led by East Sussex County Council. It is delivered by the Sussex Council of Training Providers (SCTP). Many local businesses have already benefitted from the scheme, and the advice and support offered by SCTP’s Transform Skills Advisers. Defiant Sports in Eastbourne is an inclusive sports club that aims to reach children and young people who have a barrier to participation, especially those with disabilities or long-term conditions.

Maddie Lock from Defiant Sports said:

“Transform supported us to take on our first ever apprentice, a level 2 Community Activator Coach, to join our small Community Interest Company.

“The Transform team has been extremely helpful throughout, being at the end of the phone whenever we needed them and working through any issues we’ve had.

“Without Transform, we would have missed out on Levy transfer funding, so we would definitely recommend getting a helping hand from them to help you take on an apprentice and save on the training costs.”

The Transform programme has also helped Crowborough care provider, Budden Care.

Budden Care manager, Natasha Gleadle, said: “After applying for Levy transfer funding from the Transform project, the process was so easy and smooth.

“The Transform project has helped six staff members get onto courses and achieve their qualifications that they can use throughout their careers. As a business, the Transform project has helped us develop staff and saved us money. Thank you.”

Apprenticeships offer an opportunity for people to take the first steps onto the career ladder, change career paths or develop new skills in a current role, earn money while training and gain qualifications from entry level to the equivalent of a master’s degree.

Apprenticeships are making a difference in companies across the county as well as playing a vital role helping businesses in East Sussex find the talent they need to grow.

Cllr Rupert Simmons, East Sussex County Council’s lead member for the economy,

MEMBER OFFERS

said: “I am delighted that we are able to offer over £300,000 for apprenticeship training to local small and medium sized businesses.

“The council is committed to working with its partners and local businesses to increase the number of apprenticeships in the county. This money will provide a much-needed boost to improving the skills and training for apprentices in East Sussex as we continue our economic recovery from the pandemic.

“I would urge local businesses to get in touch to find out how they could benefit from the Transform project and the support available.”

Small and medium enterprises in East Sussex that would like support accessing apprenticeships and apprenticeship funding, can contact transform@sctp.org.uk for further information.

Businesses can also visit the Sussex Council of Training Providers website to access the free and impartial Transform skills support service at www.sctp.org.uk/transform-programme

SafeSite Facilities is offering all Sussex Chamber of Commerce members a 10% discount on the hire of its safety and security products and services, which includes social distancing safety barriers and portable hand sanitisation stations.

Please quote SAFEHIRE10 when you make an enquiry to qualify for this special offer.

For further information about the complete range of safety and security products available from SafeSite Facilities visit: www.safesitefacilities.co.uk

Free trial of our pulse HR platform

We give you a link you send it out to your staff, we send you back a fully analysed report of how your staff feel about your business. So you know where you are exceeding and possibly where you could improve. If your staff believe you are a stellar company to work for, then this can be used to assist in recruiting new staff, it also demonstrates to stakeholders how well you run the company.

What do you have to lose? No effort, no time, no cost . . . just great evidence.

For the members, we can offer our luxury socks, made in West Sussex, at a special wholesale price with free delivery in the UK.

You get:

Lower price than RRP

Optional gift boxes at an affordable price, pre-packaged so you don’t have to worry about packing

Free delivery anywhere in the UK

Quick turnaround - ships in 7 - 10 days

Minimum quantity of 20 pairs.

Contact us here if you’re interested: www.peperharowengland.com

Rayner sets its sights on more growth

“I’m here to drive Rayner’s business strategy from a people perspective,” Claire explains, “and one of the main pillars of that strategy is talent acquisition.

“We have great people working here, and Rayner continues to offer great opportunities to great people. 2023 is going to be another exciting year.”

Rayner has certainly enjoyed rapid expansion since switching its business model from high street optician to making pioneering ophthalmic products.

When Claire joined in December 2020, the company had approximately 190 employees… this has risen to 600, with more recruitment on the near horizon.

Rayner is the UK’s only manufacturer of intraocular lenses (IOLs) for cataract sufferers. In fact, a Rayner lens was successfully used in the world’s first ever cataract surgery back in 1949. Today, as a global name in ophthalmic excellence,

it has 10 offices around the world, from North America and Australia to Europe and Asia.

Rayner sells millions of its products to over 80 countries and continues to bring new innovations to market. It also remains fiercely loyal to its 113-year heritage in the UK and ‘Made in the UK’ branding. Foundations are firmly rooted at its stateof-the-art HQ in Worthing, where hightech manufacturing and R&D facilities have been based since 2016.

This blend of forward thinking and traditional values underpin its continued rapid global expansion and homegrown success.

Claire says, “I’d describe us as a ‘small but mighty’ business that is growing. Rayner has a very visible presence here in Worthing and the South East, but we are always on the lookout for new markets. In fact, people are often surprised to find out how global we are!”

Rayner’s decision to keep its core services in the UK has paid dividends. Highly skilled jobs have stayed in the region, along with cutting-edge innovation and a renowned product base. Backed by solid private equity investment, this strategic approach meant no jobs were lost during the pandemic, and manufacturing and recruitment quickly accelerated when demand returned.

Claire adds, “I won’t pretend that recruitment isn’t challenging in the current environment, particularly in technical skills and regulatory affairs. It’s always challenging recruiting for highly specialised technical and regulatory skills, and this has been accentuated recently with the speed and scale of regulation change - significant new regulations (like MDR and MDSAP) and changes to the EU’s relationship with UK and Switzerland - affecting many roles in RA and in Distribution).

“We always aim high, and work hard to attract the best talent, to ensure we carry

on delivering on our value of Focus - we put patients first.”

Attracting the best people means thinking increasingly outside the box. Rayner has built an internal talent pipeline in the UK and US, featuring candidates “who we might not have the right role for just now, but want to nurture for the future. Our employee referral scheme also works really well because great people like ours tend to know great people.

“They know how good it is to work at Rayner, so the people they refer are already aware of what we do and how we operate.”

Rayner has also built “really good” relationships with a few key recruitment partners: “They are almost like an extension of our own team because they also know exactly what we’re looking for.”

Although Rayner runs apprenticeships and early careers initiatives, Claire concedes these tend to be quite ‘niche’ because of the technical nature of the work.

Patients and people are at the heart of Rayner’s business, as global HR Director, Claire Rendell explains.

Claire Rendell HR Director, Rayner

A scheme which proved mutually beneficial is partnering with companies that support ex-Olympians and UK athletes back into the workplace. “It was a great culture fit because that kind of talent is very entrepreneurial and drivenjust like us!

“Our colleagues in the US are also working with army veterans - the military, sports and business ‘triangle’ has been very compatible.”

Rayner’s overarching mission is improving patients’ sight and hence their quality

of life. This sense of duty extends into the workplace too, where employee engagement and meaningful careers are top priorities.

Claire says, “For example, alongside the usual pay and benefits offered at Rayner, we also have many work perks such as yoga, Lunch and Learn sessions and seated chair massages and a life skills allowance for our employees.

“Our people’s wellbeing and mental health is very important, and we want to make sure there’s a good work-life

balance. That’s why we have the life skills allowance, to encourage them to learn a hobby - it doesn’t even have to be work-related.”

Training is also very focused on the individual: “Our people tell us where they want to improve professionally and we provide the resources.”

Rayner’s expansion programme continues, seeking out new markets and acquisitions overseas. Up to 60 new global sales roles will be available this year. Again, this offers employees the chance to learn and grow by working on new projects, or perhaps even relocating overseas.

Claire concludes, “It’s quite a nice problem to have… providing fantastic opportunities in-house as well as inviting new people to join us.”

The outlook is looking bright for this thoroughly British company with a global vision.

Find out more about Rayner’s recruitment at careers.rayner.com

I’d describe us as a ‘small but mighty’ business that is growing. Rayner has a very visible presence here in Worthing and the South East, but we are always on the lookout for new markets. In fact, people are often surprised to find out how global we are!

All Change Please, All Change!

In the 17 years I have been involved in Research and Development Tax Relief, I have never seen so much change and uncertainty around the schemes. Q4 2022 certainly has thrown a spotlight on the Tax Reliefs like no time before.

At the start of the quarter, we were digesting the findings of the recent HMRC & ONS Statistics for the performance of the schemes and also the ONS comparison of Business Enterprise Research and Development Statistics to the R&D Tax Relief Statistics, that were also published on 29th September. In the past there has always been a significant discrepancy between the two, with the Tax Relief statistics always throwing out a far larger number. However, it was “all change” in the BERD statistics as the ONS looked at their modelling and felt it didn’t really represent the efforts of smaller UK businesses in conducting R&D. They waved their magic wand and all of a sudden, the UK had spent an extra £15 billion on R&D in 2018 and up to £16.1 billion more in 2020. The ONS will use this model when they release their full BERD statistics for 2022 later this month.

Then in November, in the shadow of the disastrous 44 days of Liz Truss’s role as Prime Minister, and the prospect of new Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt’s Autumn Statement leading to spending cuts and tax rises, The Times newspaper have written a series of articles shining a light on some of the darker arts of the R&D industry. This has been followed by The House of Lords investigating R&D Tax Relief as part of their wider review of the Finance Bill 2022, where members of the scientific community, the accounting profession and the R&D Tax Relief industry have been called to give evidence.

The problem is clear for all to see, but apparently not HMRC, over the last 5 years there has been a rise in the number of firms that see cold-calling and selling their 100 percent success rates and the notion of free money from HMRC to anyone who will listen.

The changes announced in the 2021 Autumn Statement are already baked into the R&D Tax Relief Scheme and will take effect for accounting periods starting on/ after 1 April 2023.

Some of the changes already coming in may help on the fraud and pushing the boundaries:

notifying HMRC of any external advisor; signing off the R&D Claim by a senior director;

early notification of the intention to claim, which has to be within six months after the year end for a company that hasn’t claimed in the previous three years;

all claims will have to be made digitally; the costs will have to be broken down; and an explanation of the R&D will be required There are other changes coming in that will also affect the value of the claim for accounting periods starting after 1 April 2023:

Subcontractors – only UK based subcontractors will be eligible in claims, so if you are near-shoring or off-shoring your development at the moment, you can still do this, you just won’t be able to include the cost in your R&D claim. Would Re-shoring be a possibility? This is designed to boost the productivity of the UK and to build on the skills already in the country. There are some limited exceptions to this change; Cloud Computing and Data costs – in an effort to keep the tax relief relevant these essential development costs for tech and bio pharma will be eligible

Pure Mathematics – has previously not been considered a science, but with the rise in algorithms, its now to be included.

Jeremy Hunt’s 2022 Autumn Statement has thrown in some significant additional changes, which clearly are hoped will go some way to reduce the effect of fraud and manipulation, but will have a significant effect on genuine claimants:

Whilst I fully expected the enhancement rate for SMEs to be reduced to 100% which would have meant that a profitable company would obtain tax relief equivalent to 25% of eligible costs, and would have maintained the status quo with the current rate of relief equivalent to 24.7%, he went a step further and reduced it to 86%, which reduces the relief to 21.5% of eligible costs;

He has also greatly reduced the repayable tax credit from 14.5% to 10% this means with the reduction in the enhancement rate to 86%, a loss-making company which might previously have received a 33.35% tax relief, it has been reduced to 18.6%; and

It was also considered that he might merge the 2 schemes (SME and RDEC) into one – whilst he didn’t do this, he did greatly enhance the rate of RDEC to 20% from 13%, which equates to a tax saving of 15% of the eligible spend.

If you’d like to know whether you might be able to claim or need support to cope with the coming changes, why not book a noobligation discovery call with me at www. calendly.com/cooden/discovery-bus-edge

Have you ever thought of becoming a Business Mentor?

Business partnerships are a key strategic priority for universities. At the University of Sussex Business School they’re working to build closer links with business and connect with professionals working in the Sussex area.

The Sussex Business Mentors Scheme pairs Business School students with local professionals in order to create a mutually beneficial relationship.

Mentoring can be fun and rewarding; it’s about listening and encouraging, asking questions, giving guidance and helping students get a new perspective on their challenges.

As a mentor, your aim is to help your mentee develop their own skills, strategies and capability so that they are empowered to tackle the next hurdle more effectively, on their own. In return our bright and enthusiastic students will help you get a fresh perspective on your own work and career.

What is the time commitment?

Full training will be provided by the Business School. After that, mentors should be able to commit to spending about an hour with their mentees, between 4 and 6 times per year.

Find out more

If you’re interested in volunteering as a Business Mentor, the University of Sussex Business School would love to hear from you. They welcome members from any sector and there’s still time to join the scheme this academic year. Just complete your application asap and you’ll be invited to join the next training session in March

2023. To find out more and apply visit: sussex.ac.uk/business-school/collaborate/ mentors-scheme

Talent for your business

Or if mentoring isn’t right for you at the moment there are plenty of other opportunities to work with University of Sussex Business School students. These include:

Students in the workplace – your chance to bring top calibre Business School students into your company. Opportunities include paid work placements, internships and job shadowing.

Guest speaking at careers events – raise your company profile to attract future employees.

Class projects – gain a new perspective on your current challenges with collaborative projects undertaken by those studying subjects such as marketing, business, finance, management, policy and economics.

For more information visit: sussex.ac.uk/business-school/collaborate

“Being a mentor is also a chance to enhance your own coaching skills, and potentially open up a network of future business business people. It also provides the opportunity to gain some understanding of how the next generation think about work.”

Welcome to Sussex Chamber of Commerce

Membership of Sussex Chamber of Commerce can help you increase profits, get the best from your people and find new clients. Also, it saves you money, gets your voice heard and puts you in contact with even more businesses.

427 Marketing

427 are a specialist SEO agency based in Shoreham. We offer a straightforward, jargon free Search Engine Optimisation service with a real business focus and real results. We support businesses of all sizes to get better results from Google search generating more traffic, enquires, sales and brand awareness. Our clear, no-nonsense approach means our clients understand what they pay for and what we do each month and that’s how we like it. We work directly with clients as well as through a number of high-profile agencies across the South and beyond.

Website: www.427marketing.co.uk

Beyond Procurement Ltd

Beyond Procurement provides cost and carbon reduction solutions to businesses, BIDs, local authorities, growth hubs and membership organisations. As our work covers the core business principles, it doesn’t matter if you are a start-up or a large multinational, we can save your business money, reduce waste and support you every step of the way on your journey to becoming Net Zero.

Website: www.beyondprocurement.co.uk

Telephone: 01444 416529

Email: c.sykes@beyondprocurement.co.uk

Control Energy Costs

We help you compare different energy options, so you can choose the best fit. Transparency is fundamental - we are open about every aspect of what we do, including our fees. We build long-term relationships founded on mutual trust, keeping promises, taking ownership of problems and giving good advice and negotiating the best deals for clients..

Website: www.cec.uk.com

Telephone: 07778 356240

Email: zoe.perera@cec.uk.com

Educational & Scientific Products Ltd

Educational & Scientific Products Ltd and Sussex vision are a market leading company in the production and distribution of medical models and optical equipment. From our production facility in Rustington, our team of highly trained operatives produces, and hand finishes high quality medical models used in training for healthcare professionals, and optical equipment used by Opticians and Ophthalmologists across the UK and Europe.

Website: www.esp-models.co.uk and www.sussex-vision.co.uk

Email: sales@sussexvision.co.uk

Fresh Online

FreshOnline provides web design and digital marketing solutions to help small businesses succeed online. We do this by building and optimising websites and by designing and managing online marketing campaigns. Also, we offer 1-2-1 and group training in all aspects of online marketing. From our offices in St Leonards-on-Sea, we serve customers across Sussex and Kent

Website: www.freshonline.net

Telephone: 01424 400 090

Email: hello@freshonline.net

Red River Software Ltd

Red River is an award-winning software development company that has been designing and creating outstanding digital platforms, apps and systems to automate businesses for the past 14 years. A company made up of digital professionals, we operate across many industries which allows us to cross-pollinate best practice in one industry into another, thereby expanding the offering to our clients.

Website: www.river.red

Telephone: 0344 880 2357

Email: hello@river.red

Joe Lynch Consulting

Joe is an independent Marketing Effectiveness Consultant. He uses his 20+ years of industry experience to support business leaders to create and deliver effective marketing strategies. He is a particular expert in utilising the power of modern data, statistics and e-commerce capabilities to unlock the full potential of current and future customers.

Website: www.joelynch.uk

Telephone: 07921 038051

Email: joe@joelynchconsulting.co.uk

Plumpton Racecourse

Plumpton Racecourse is a picturesque horse racing and events venue based at the foot of the South Downs in East Sussex. A hidden gem in the world of horse racing, we host 17 enthralling fixtures a year from September –May and are renowned as a nursery ground for the future stars of racing.

We pride ourselves on offering all our guests a warm welcome and a high level of service, whether that be for entertaining business clients, a family celebration, or simply enjoying a day out with friends.

Website: www.plumptonracecourse.co.uk

Telephone: 01273 890383

Email: racing@plumptonracecourse.co.uk

LuxSec

Luxsec are a small IT consultancy focused on providing corporate level IT solutions and services to the SME Sector whilst keeping costs within budget. We help organizations run their business operations with stability and security in unstable and uncertain times. Providing IT Services that meet the demands of today, securing you for tomorrow.

Website: www.luxsec.co.uk

Telephone: 01403 336234

Email: sales@luxsec.co.uk

Equine America

Equine America UK is a global leader in the equine, canine and human supplement industry. Their extensive range of targeted nutritional supplements and external products combine tradition with scientific research to provide innovative products to support optimum health and performance.

As part of this process, Equine America is collaborating with leading veterinary universities to further our understanding of equine nutrition, as well as helping to develop new products, alongside our own, highly qualified and experienced nutritionists.

Equine America have a global customer base, supplying elite riders from all disciplines, including Olympic and World Champions, as well as leisure riders.

Website: www.equine-america.co.uk

Telephone: 01403 255809

Email: info@equine-america.co.uk

Enterprise Services Group Ltd

Founded nearly seventy years ago, Enterprise Services Group have continually provided clients with a complete, tailored cleaning and buildings maintenance solution to suit both size and budget.

Our commitment to investing in the most up to date, state of the art equipment and technology, makes us one of the leading soft service providers in the south of England.

We offer a comprehensive range of facilities maintenance and care solutions including: Office cleaning, Communal and Block Cleaning, Window and Gutter Cleaning, Grounds Maintenance, Buildings Maintenance services and even a 24 hour, 365 days a year reactive call out service.

Website: www.enterpriseservices.co.uk

Telephone: 01403 210412

Email: sam@enterpriseservices.co.uk

The BRITE Project at Plus X Brighton

Plus X Brighton Innovation Hub is an inspiring collaborative working space, that provides access to specialist facilities and business growth support. The University of Brighton is internationally recognised for its ground-breaking SME innovation programmes. Together they have joined forces as partners to deliver Brighton Research Innovation Technology Exchange (BRITE), a one-stop shop to support business leaders wishing to be part of a collaborative community, innovate and grow. For more information and to apply for fullyfunded support, visit www.briteinnovation. co.uk. The BRITE project is receiving up to £5.5m of funding from the European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.

Website: www.briteinnovation.co.uk

Email: hello@briteinnovation.co.uk

For more information call us on 01444 259259

If you’re a member – why not refer someone, we have a generous referral scheme – that saves both you and your referral on membership costs.

Martin Buckland Managing Director

X-Ray Fluorescence Technology in Metals Analysis

Since the introduction of XRF spectrometry in the 1950s, it has been a proven and popular technique for metal analysis and is widely used as an efficient means in quality control for many metal processing facilities.

What is X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF)?

It is a good choice for analysis in many fields. It is a way of delivering rapid and accurate results in a more lightweight and portable form. It is used ideally for checking and analysing incoming materials, finished goods and in-process production parts.

Which ARUN Solution is Right for You?

ARUN’s XRF comes in 3 models: the HELIUS 300, 600 and 900; with the capability of analysing Cast (alloys), Kt (precious metals) or Geo (minerals).

The HELIUS 300 is a low-end version XRF with Si-Pin detector technology. This technology does not allow for light element detection. With its simple pass/fail sorting mode, this solution is for the quick incoming inspection of materials.

The HELIUS 600 is a mid-range version and uses SDD detector technology. It provides reliable results for most alloys. It is the ideal instrument for scrap metals sorting and positive materials identification.

The HELIUS 900 is a high-end version with SDD technology providing reliable results of non-metallic materials. It is the right instrument for environmental and RoHS compliance screening and geological inspections.

ARUN Technology Limited

ARUN is the Centre of Excellence for product Sales, marketing, applications, technical and service support for all our desktop OES and handheld analytical solutions within and outside of the UK.

Email: sales@aruntechnology.com

Tel: +44 1293 513123

Web: www.aruntechnology.com

Flexible Working in 2023 – is your business ready?

The Government confirmed in December that changes to the flexible working rules will be made in 2023 – if you have an employee (even one!) then this applies to you.

What actually is flexible working?

Flexible working is the mechanism through which employees can apply to change the hours they work, the days they work and where they work. For example, the classic post-pandemic request is to work from home either full or part time – but flexible working is not exclusive to this. It could be an employee wanting to change to a 4 day week, share their job with someone else, change their start and/or finish times or, work in a hybrid workplace/home environment.

So, what is changing in 2023?

Currently, employees need to have 26 weeks’ service before they can make a flexible working application – it is currently planned that this be reduced to 1 day i.e. that an employee can make such an application from the beginning of employment;

A greater emphasis on employers consulting with employees on looking at alternative options before seeking to refuse an application;

For employees to be permitted to make two flexible working applications in a 12 month period rather than just one as it stands now; Require employers to respond to employee applications within two months rather than three months as is currently the case; and

Employees will no longer need to set out how their flexible working request might be dealt with by the employer i.e. how the employee feels that their request can happen in reality.

As an employer, why does this matter to me?

These changes are intended to make such applications easier to make and therefore more commonplace throughout the workforce. The Government’s intention is that this “will give employees greater access to flexibility over where, when, and how they work, leading to happier, more productive staff”.

So, is your business ready?

Speak to us at HR At Work – we are experts in employee relations and human resources. Whether in relation to flexible working or other matters, give us a call (01737 924703) or drop us an email (info@hratwork.co.uk) today!

When hacked, will your IT Security provide comprehensive protection? Will your business recover from an overwhelming attack?

For many SME businesses, IT security is something you need, relying on a support company or IT Manager to manage your IT systems.

Many companies feel secure in that they have cloud storage and in the event of Ransomware, believe their data will be safe. Today’s threat actors target Cloud backups and encrypt not only your local data but also your cloudstored data as well. Essentially rendering your off-site backup useless, having data backed up online is no security if your company’s IT security fails to prevent a breach.

A recent spear-phishing report identified some unsettling figures, 350% more social engineering attacks on SMEs than larger businesses, with increases such as 17% in phishing, 16% data breaches, 15% website hacking, 12% DDOS attacks and 10% ransomware. The reality is that 80% of businesses have been hacked, with varying levels of damage or loss caused by intrusions. These criminal attacks are often not reported due to reputation management

by companies. Luxsec has over 30 years of industry experience and provides solutions to help keep your company secure, selecting the right services and products for your company. The first place to start is by running penetration tests, establishing how secure your company is, rest assured we’ve never found a company that does not have security weaknesses in their IT.

We can help you to secure your company and data with Security Posture reviews, this ensures every backup, web-based service and system you have is configured to ensure there are no vulnerabilities left open for attackers. Luxsec also provides incident response which can form part of the continuity planning, many companies have never prepared for what they would do in the event of a hack or data breach. This can cause an additional loss in revenue for the company due to downtime and data loss.

We are more than happy to provide a free initial consultation and advise on the best course of action, call us on 01403 336234 or email sales@luxsec.co.uk

www.luxsec.co.uk

Saving today, for tomorrow

a business and working to reduce its carbon footprint, businesses can send a message to customers and the world at large that they understand their role in curbing greenhouse gases.

Why is Net Zero important for Businesses?

5 Business Benefits of Achieving Net Zero

The UK is currently reducing emissions nationally, however it is not on track to meet a 51% reduction by 2025 or a 57% reduction by 2030. The Government is therefore expected to “introduce more challenging measures” if the UK is to meet future carbon budgets and the net zero target for 2050.

Cost Saving

Who we are

Beyond Procurement Ltd is the procurement consultancy for improving business profits while caring for the planet.

As experts in business sustainability, we have helped tens of thousands of businesses improve their profits, eliminate waste to landfill and reduce the impact they have on the planet, significantly boosting company image, pride and brand value.

What is Net Zero?

Net zero is about achieving a balance between the greenhouse gases put into the atmosphere and those taken out. By measuring the current carbon emissions of

Save money to increase the bottom line. Reduce your company’s carbon footprint and become more sustainable. Minimize environmental impacts associated with carbon emissions. Grow your business in a way that is good for customers, employees, and the planet.

Build competitive advantage through differentiation and brand value.

What Regulations Currently Affect Small Businesses?

Legislation to date, has been mostly focussed on larger businesses, but this is gradually changing and the pressure on smaller businesses and suppliers to become greener and more sustainable is growing.

Trusted by tens of thousands of businesses over our fifteen year history. Beyond Procurement’s buying power provides the best rates and savings across businesscritical commodities.

Our core areas are:

Energy (Electricity & Gas)

Telecoms

IT Support

Merchant Services

Water

Pest Control

Business Insurance

beyondprocurement.co.uk

Mark Richards CEO/Director

Automation – and why it won’t be taking your job

Skills shortages

Wages accelerating

Costs accelerating

Post-pandemic effecting how people work

Brexit still rumbling along

Automation is the only way of keeping business going and it’s not about taking your job, it’s about preserving it.

However you look at it, automation would have touched your life in many ways.

The definition of automation, via Wikipedia, is a wide range of technologies that reduce human intervention in processes, namely by predetermining decision criteria, sub process relationships, and related actions, as well as embodying those predeterminations in machines. The benefit of automation includes labour savings, reducing waste, savings in electricity costs, savings in material costs, and improvements to quality, accuracy, and precision.

But what about the jobs?

Well, think of it this way, what’s the alternative to not adopting technology?

How well equipped are you and your business to survive? Because someone out there is already automating their business, ready to disrupt yours.

Prior to the pandemic, businesses were considering automating some or all aspects of their company and the pandemic sped this decision-making up.

The cause of this was two-fold. The first was because people weren’t working in one place, businesses had to get systems and platforms up and running quickly, and the

second is any planned digital transformation projects were forced to become automated. This has moved the majority of businesses ahead by some ten years, compared to the speed automation was rolling out prepandemic.

Automation has become crucial to business, owing to many factors including Brexit, people suffering with Covid in the long term and a lot of people reassessing their jobs in the face of the pandemic choosing different roles which are less pressured, combining to cause a skill shortage.

Whilst there are Government strategies both at a local and national level, aiming to address the skills gap, everything is combining to push for automation being needed in pretty much all businesses, because with the skills shortage comes wage inflation (as those that can do the jobs get paid well). Which in turn pushes the business to look at other ways of making a profit.

And a drive for profit calls for automation.

The thing that makes automation possible is software and engineering. Software is everywhere! Once you start the process automation can happen in various stages. You don’t need to wait for the robots to come to make the decision.

We deliver impactful software solutions for businesses across a wide sector of industries such as Boeing, Veolia, EasyJet and the NHS, all looking to automate practices.

Take for example our client, Diamond Logistics, a nationwide fulfilment and delivery company whose ambition was to become the UK’s first national same day and express fulfilment network.

We delivered automation into this business with a SaaS platform named despatchlab that integrated Diamond Logistics’ clients’ eCommerce systems, operated their warehousing, fulfilment function, courier network, communicated with carriers such as UK Mail, DPD and Yodel and ran operations and finance within their organisation. The outcome? All-round automation that is making their ambitions became reality.

Whatever industry you’re in, automation will help your business to the next level.

Consider the aeronautics industry and the many ways we accept automation without even thinking about it. You decide to book a flight, you pay for it, check in for it and in many cases drop your baggage in and get to the departure lounge before any human contact - all due to automation. Your luggage is tracked to the correct plane and arrives at the correct destination (most of the time) with minimal human interaction and when you make it to your final destination, likely as anything it’ll be a place you’ve booked online and in many cases, will even check in digitally.

So the question is, what automation could your business benefit from? Talk to us and we’ll help you answer it.

Automation is not just for tech companies. It’s for everyone.

You just need to think like a software company.

Contact us via www.river.red or email hello@river.red

There’s a perfect storm brewing across industries which is accelerating businesses’ needs to automate.

Jim Clark Director

4PL Consultancy - Supply Chain Simplified

If you are in the export or import business, then you would know the importance of expanding your outreach to international locations. Additionally, it is also important to maintain conformity with national and international regulations. One needs exceptional knowledge of international trading and its norms to build a compliant organizational framework.

Need help with your International Trade Compliance? 4PL Consultancy has got your back! We are your one-stop Global Trade Compliance Services provider. With our support, you will get ensured risk reduction and cost control. Our trained experts will look over the complete process and lower the chances of compliance or facing penalties. Moreover, through our compliance services, we will also help you centralize the trade management operations.

4PL Consultancy is a reliable name in the International Trade Compliance Services provider industry. We will help you fill the compliance gaps in your organization’s supply chain and make it infallible. This improves the processing efficiency and in turn boosts the productivity, since all manual tasks are automated through technology.

Also, it makes handling customs regulations, export management, and outbound trade financing easier. With our services, our teams will work on reducing the risk factors that might make an organization incompliant with the trade directives. This will help you save some extra by not paying fines or penalties.

4PL Consultancy’s Global Trade Compliance Services will include support on:

Harmonized System of Tariff Classification

Compliance Audit

AEO and ICP Program

Global and Local Customs Compliance Rules of Origin

Trade Agreements

Tel: +44 330 043 1245

Mob: +44 798 018 1209

4plconsultancy.com

Jon Fowler Director

Fowler Clark Ltd

Fowler Clark are Mechanical and Electrical Building Services Consultants based in Sussex and Surrey with over 30 years’ experience in the Construction Industry. We provide professional MEP design and consultancy services in the commercial, residential, industrial and education sectors, working with Clients from concept and pre-planning stages through to construction. Founded by Jon and Jim in 2020, our main objective is to provide a high quality of service to the clients and stakeholders we work with.

Services Offered:

MEP Design to RIBA Stages 1 – 4 • On-site inspections from RIBA Stage 4 onwards • Energy Strategies • Feasibility Studies • Peer reviews / validation of designs • MEP condition / dilapidation surveys • New-build and refurbishment designs • Design of services upgrades • Value engineering reviews.

What Value will we bring to your Construction Project?

Building Services Engineers are integral to the successful delivery of any constriction project. All too often the building services design is developed towards the end of the detailed design phase, typically once the architectural and structural design has been fixed. Our strategy is to collaborate early with the other design team members, enabling us to address the unique coordination and buildability challenges associated with every project. We help deliver the Client’s vision in terms of functionality and energy consumption, whilst also ensuring the seamless integration of mechanical and electrical systems into the architectural and structural fabric of a building.

How can we help your project meet Energy Targets and Building Regulations?

At Fowler Clark we can undertake energy strategies, dynamic thermal modelling and building services strategy reports to demonstrate compliance with regulatory authorities such as local councils, planning and building control, BREEAM assessors and fire offices. Our design and consultancy service ensures that your construction project adheres to the latest Building Regulations criteria, whilst also keeping cost and efficiency in mind.

Local Support

Fowler Clark are a proud sponsor of Sutton and Epsom Rugby Football Club. We believe that supporting local clubs gives something back to the community and all the amazing volunteers that give up their valuable time.

Please contact us for more information:

Email: jim@fowlerclark.com jon@fowlerclark.com

Tel: Jim: 07540 129232

Jon: 07815 908084

www.fowlerclark.com

Nightingale House, 46-48 East Street, Epsom, Surrey, England, KT17 1HQ

Carbon solutions for your business

I am delighted to be a new member of Sussex Chamber of Commerce. As our first publication in Business Edge, we would like to tell you a bit more about how we operate.

What is Control Energy Costs all about?

We are energy and water consultants, providing businesses with bespoke utility management and procurement solutions. For us, transparency is fundamental - we are open about every aspect of what we do, including our fees. We build long-term relationships founded on mutual trust, keeping promises, taking ownership of problems, giving good advice and negotiating the best deals for clients, helping them find the best fit for their business.

Sustainability is also central to our company mantra and we’d like to share one of our newest ventures in helping businesses achieve carbon neutrality.

What are carbon solutions?

In collaboration with our carbon solutions specialist partner, we have developed a carbon solutions service that helps businesses reduce both their carbon emissions and costs at the same time.

We make sure any action taken to improve your environmental credentials has a strong

and potentially self-funding business case, because we truly believe that being carbon neutral doesn’t need to cost the earth.

With the carbon solutions and energy procurement services working together, you could be certified carbon neutral within 12 months, right up to achieving an internationally recognised standard.

We will also help simplify the process, enabling you to focus on running your business.

Key benefits

No direct cost to your business

Reduce emissions and cut costs

Improve cashflow, profitability and EBITDA

Better efficiencies and processes

Stronger negotiating position and supplier relationships

Want to know more?

To discover how Control Energy Costs can help you on your journey to net zero without the usual associated costs, please get in touch on 01737 556631, email us at info@cec.uk.com or get in touch via live chat on our website.

You can also download a free copy of the carbon solutions brochure on our website: cec.uk.com/carbon-solutions.

Zoe Perera cec.uk.com

The importance of Social Media marketing

Q1: Why is it important for brands to be on social media?

A: Social media presents an opportunity for brands to interact directly with a huge network of potential customers. User statistics alone show why it’s imperative for brands to be on social media. There are more than 57 million social media users in the UK, which equates to 84.3% of the population.

It’s also important to recognise that with generational shifts, comes the need to adapt. Social media is one of the primary channels for brand discovery for generations such as millennials and gen-z, and if your brand is not using these networks, it’s likely they will discover your competitors first.

Q2: Do I need to be on every social media platform?

A: Brands don’t need to be on every social media platform and should look at which platforms they use strategical. In my experience, professional platforms such as LinkedIn are powerful for business-to-business markets, whereas

consumer markets get greater returns from channels such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok - although social media is ever-changing so monitoring new opportunities is key.

Q3: What content should I share and is it worth outsourcing social media management?

A: The content you should share depends entirely on your brand message, values, and what you are trying to achieve. You should look at your content from the eye of your customer – would they stop to look at it or scroll past without a second glance? Brands need to make sure their content resonates with the needs and wants of their customers, whilst also ensuring it is creative and consistent (without being repetitive).

Understandably, social media marketing can be a time-consuming task and requires a resolute team. Investing in social media management from a reputable, third-party agency can be an efficient and cost-effective route for those who don’t have the time to do it themselves.

Adam Horn Be Everywhere | Distinctive Media Group be-everywhere.co.uk

Zoe Perera

Knibbs Computer Services

Knibbs Computer Services have been helping businesses in the Southeast since 1998.

We specialise in IT Support, Cyber Security, VoIP Systems and are Microsoft and Datto partners, we have Your IT Solved.

We can help businesses of any size, from 1 user upwards. Speaking with you in plain English, not technical jargon.

As new members we are offering a free Cyber Security audit to all Sussex Chamber Members.

Please get in touch with us to find out more.

Website: www.knibbs.com

Telephone: 01825 701112

Email: accountmanagers@knibbs.com

Social: linkedin.com/company/knibbs-computer-services-ltd

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Flexibility Matters

Flexibility Matters is the leading flexible recruiter in the Southeast of England. We specialise in professional roles in HR, Finance, Sales, Marketing, IT, Charity and PA/EA/ Office Management.

We support and work in partnership with growing companies, who see the benefits of employing talented staff on a flexible base – whether that is part time, full time, remote, hybrid, term time etc. We appreciate that flexible working has a different definition for every company we work with.

We recruit candidates who are searching for a flexible role to balance work and life and match them with flexible, forward focussed companies. We match based on skills and personality and devise a collaborative, working strategy to suit both client and candidate.

Website: www.flexibilitymatters.co.uk

Telephone: 07810 541599

Email: emma@flexmatters.co.uk

McFagan ManufacturingHolmes Hill Shepherds Huts

Trading as Holmes Hill Shepherds Huts, a team of crafts people, led by Rob McFagan, design and manufacture personalised shepherd huts.

The bespoke, handcrafted huts create stunning low-cost, high-tech office or work studios, holiday accommodation, stunning play spaces, garden rooms or off-grid homes.

Combining technical capability, creativity and passion, Rob’s wider enterprise, McFagan Manufacturing, delivers bespoke steelwork, woodworking, joinery and handmade kitchens and cabinets, all created by skilled Sussex artisans using the finest quality materials.

Website: www.holmeshillsh.com

Telephone: 01825 280488

Email: sales@holmeshillsh.com

Advanced Pressure Vessel Design using Finite Element Analysis:

A pressure vessel is a device designed to contain liquids or gases at raised or lower pressures than the surrounding ambient and these vessels are widely used in many industries such as oil and gas, chemical, food, brewing, pharmaceutical and offshore. Pressure vessels have demanding industrial codes covering design, manufacture, and alteration such as ASME VIII Division 1, ASME VIII Division 2, PD5500 and BS EN13445.

Mr Xuefeng Wu Director TriVista Engineering Ltd

Two approaches are used in pressure vessel design: Design by code and Design by analysis.

The ‘Design by code’ approach is widely used where the pressure vessel design falls clearly within the standard rules and the code provides explicit rules and formula for calculating vessel parameters. This approach has some limitations in that specialised design features may not be covered, and designs also tend to be conservative as they are based on averaged stress.

For certain applications, vessels may require customised design features that make the vessel complex or unusual relative to the ‘design by code’ rules. In these cases, the ‘Design by analysis’ approach codes (such as ASME VIII-Division 2) must be used together with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools. Pressure vessels typically contain structural discontinuity regions that have the highest stresses. FE analysis can identify the stress concentrations of these vessel discontinuities and evaluate these stresses against the code criteria. The Design by Analysis approach also covers a wider range of failure modes such as fatigue, plastic deformation, creep etc.

TriVista are now more routinely providing pressure vessel analysis services using the ‘Design by Analysis’ approach with the FE analysis giving more accurate stress

results to be assessed against the code criteria. TriVista Engineering specialise in FEA, CFD, and mechanical design support. The organisation has been established in Sussex for over 20 years and have satisfied clients all over the UK.

www.trivista.co.uk

Training and Events Diary

Members enjoy discounted rates for training

Tailored Training

Sussex Chamber can provide company bespoke training courses which is a fantastic way of designing one of our training courses to suit your business needs. This is a cost effective way of training a group of your employees at the same time, on a date that suits you and at the premises of your choice.

Foundation Award in International Trade

These courses are delivered online and are structured to match the ten British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) courses. Each course

Training Courses

offers one credit towards the BCC Foundation Award in International Trade and candidates attending six or more courses and obtaining six or more credits received the Award.

Note: receive a discount when booking any six of the courses at the same time. The following prices will apply:

£1026.00 + VAT per person (members = 10% discount)

£1425.00 + VAT per person (non-members = 5% discount)

Gold & Premier members - You can now use your credit pots to pay for training

Foundation Award in International TradeVirtual Training

7th Feb 9:30- 12:30

8th Feb 9:30- 12:30

9th Feb 9:30- 12:30

21st Feb 9:30- 12:30

22nd Feb 9:30- 12:30

23rd Feb 9:30- 12:30

7th Mar 9:30- 12:30

8th Mar 9:30- 12:30

9th Mar 9:30- 13:00

21st Mar 9:30- 12:00

22nd Mar 9:30- 12:30

23rd Mar 9:30- 12:30

4th April 9:30- 12:30

Foundation Award in International Trade- Import Procedures

Foundation Award in International Trade- Documentary Letters of Credit

Foundation Award in International Trade- Agents & Distributors

Foundation Award in International Trade- Preference Rules of Origin

Foundation Award in International Trade- Inward & Outward Processing

Foundation Award in International Trade- Incoterms

Foundation Award in International Trade- Customs Procedures & Documentation

Foundation Award in International Trade- Export Documentation

Foundation Award in International Trade- Understanding Commodity Codes

Foundation Award in International Trade- Understanding Exporting

Foundation Award in International Trade- Methods of Payment

Foundation Award in International Trade- Import Procedures

Foundation Award in International Trade- Documentary Letters of Credit

5th April 9:30- 12:30

6th April 9:30- 12:30

Foundation Award in International Trade- Agents & Distributors

Foundation Award in International Trade- Preference Rules of Origin

Management & Leadership Skills - Virtual & Face to Face Training (F2F) 2nd

Personal Development & Communication SkillsVirtual & Face to Face Training (F2F)

7th Mar 9:30- 16:30

14th Mar 9:30- 16:30

16th Mar 9:30- 16:30

29th Mar 9:30- 11:30

Time Management & Personal Effectiveness (F2F)

Confident & Effective Communication (F2F)

Unshakeable Confidence (F2F)

Time Management & Personal Effectiveness (Virtual)

Sales & Customer Service - Virtual & Face to Face Training (F2F)

1st Feb 9:30- 16:30

3rd Feb 9:30- 16:30

18th April 9:30- 16:30

Great Customer Service (F2F)

Selling Skills for Results (F2F)

Great Customer Service (F2F)

Events

Additional events and forums will be added to this schedule – both virtual and face to face.

For Sector-Based Forums, Bank of England events, Social gatherings, MP events, Purely Networking and many more, go to the following link on our website for an updated list of all of our events: www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk/events

Let’s raise a glass for hospitality

Local hospitality is well and truly back in business.

Conference centres and hotels are heading into the new year with newfound confidence and a real spirit of optimism.

The fact that the region’s hospitality has emerged from pandemic pessimism into a bright new-look future is due, in no small part, to the local community. Their unwavering levels of loyalty and support have helped even the smallest business survive the darkest days, and played a massive part in the sustained recovery. Coming through Covid has made us all appreciate the importance of our local pubs and restaurants so much more. And

simple things that we took for granted –like going out and socialising – are more valued than ever. We all now recognise that the hospitality sector is the real hub of the community… a place to meet, chat, make friends and network.

Business innovation and willingness to adapt to change have also been a major key on the roadmap to recovery. New trends in technology and innovation were bubbling under the surface pre-Covid, but now ordering a pint by app or booking a restaurant takeaway are mainstream.

And we’ve all taken to new ways of enjoying our leisure like ducks to water: staycations, outdoor eating, pop-up dining, enhanced safety and hygiene, and sleek online service are part of the new norm and here to stay.

These are just some of the positives to come out of all the turmoil and prove that while the speed of change has been immense and unprecedented, hospitality is well up to the challenge.

Regional hospitality is well on the road to recovery. So here’s to a prosperous, sustained future!

The largest residential events & conferencing venue on the South Coast: The Hilton Brighton Metropole

Located directly on Brighton seafront and in the very heart of the city the Hilton Brighton Metropole is the largest residential events and conferencing venue on the South Coast.

Equipped with 24 flexible event rooms that have a total of 5,000 square metres of space we can hold up to 3,000 guests. Our unique spaces come in all different shapes and sizes, perfect for any type of event, this includes our converted 1819 chapel. We have meeting packages, on-property tech support, cargo entrances, and creative breaks.

With 321 bedrooms we are able to provide accommodation for your events, making the guest experience smooth and stressfree having everything under one roof. With spacious, light and contemporary rooms it can be sure to be a relaxing stay. Enjoy the best view in town with our Seaview rooms and wake up feeling refreshed with the sea breeze.

We have lots of on-site amenities, including a fully equipped gym, swimming pool alongside Spa facilities, and hairdressers. The Metropole Bar and Terrace offers

outstanding food and beverage to guests and the Brighton community. Our grand breakfast hall, the 1890 At The Met Restaurant offers stunning sea views. By night it is transformed into an immersive dining experience, showcasing Le Petit chef.

The Hilton Brighton Metropole has recently undergone a full hotel refurbishment of all bedrooms, public spaces, and meetings and events spaces. The iconic red brick building, built in 1890 now boasts a modern and contemporary feel throughout whilst still withholding its traditional aspects. In spring this year the hotel is going through an exciting rebranding, as we turn into a Double Tree by Hilton hotel.

No matter what your event entails we have a space for you at our newly refurbished and branded hotel this 2023 and beyond. There is also no better time to book as we are offering Triple Hilton Honors Points to all

meetings and events booked in 2023. Get in touch with our events team by emailing: enquiries.brightonmet@hilton.com or call 01273 720710

With 5,000 sq metres of newly refurbished flexible event space, we are fully ready to accommodate all of your event needs!

321 Bedrooms

24 Meetings & Event Spaces

For more information contact us:

enquiries brightonmet@hilton com

01273 720710 Call

HILTON BRIGHTON METROPOLE, KINGS ROAD, BRIGHTON, BN1 2FU

@hilton b metropole @hiltonbrightonmetrople

Meetings & Conferences

Brand Activations Team

Exhibitions

Weddings & Proposals

Beachfront Events Venue

Brighton i360 is one of Brighton’s most unique beachfront event spaces with sea views and sun terraces. A variety of stunning indoor and outdoor spaces are available to hire for anything from a birthday party to a conference, a product launch to a wedding ceremony. Brightoni360.co.uk/venue-hire events@brightoni360.co.uk | 01273 448372

Photo credit: Caterham Cars

Photo credit: @brightonweddingphotography

Photo credit: Jack Smith Film

Brighton i360: Private Pod Hire

Why plan an extraordinary event at an ordinary venue when you can host anything from a speech to a dinner to a product launch in the futuristic viewing pod at Brighton i360?

Say it from the sky at 450ft! Announce a new product, celebrate a company anniversary, or toast your business success – whatever type of event you’re looking to hold, the Brighton i360 pod is a standout venue to host it.

As you rise gently in the pod the panoramic vistas of the Sussex coast, Brighton and the South Downs open up around you. The stunning views and the stylish glass pod give you a dramatic backdrop you won’t find anywhere else in Brighton or on the South Coast.

You’ll be surprised to discover how we can adapt the space. From building a car in the sky to a private dining room with altitude, or a live DJ set to an exclusive yoga class - the Brighton i360 pod is a blank canvas that can be transformed to suit your requirements.

Party pod

The huge pod can accommodate up to 175 guests for a canapé reception. And because it comes with the South Coast’s highest bar, you can toast your business success or

big company birthday with quality Sussex tipples such as award-winning Nyetimber English sparkling wine, Brighton Gin and Folkington’s soft drinks.

Sky Dining

If you’re really looking to wow your guests, treat them to something extra special - a private Sky Dining experience. The pod will be transformed exclusively for your party, decked out with fine linen and silverware and flooded with mood lighting. You’ll enter to the soundtrack of your choice, or even

live music, and take your seats for a threecourse dinner like no other.

The Detail

Brighton i360 pod can be hired for an exclusive 45-minute timeslot from just £899. Alternatively, you and your guests could take over the pod for a whole evening’s private hire – please contact us for prices. For more information visit brightoni360.co.uk/venue-hire, email events@brightoni360.co.uk or call 01273 448 372.

We love to add the extra WOW to your Special Event with our Giant Lights

Our giant A-Z lights are 4 foot and some of our numbers are 5 foot and they really do add the extra WOW – our lights are available to hire for many different types of Corporate Events.

Here are some examples…

EXPO, Xmas Party, Team Building, Awards Evenings, Charity Events, Product Promotion, Corporate Milestone, Advertising Campaign, Public Speaking plus more ……

A Stunning and Creative Way to…

Gives you great Visual Impact.

A Unique way of getting your message across to existing and prospective clients.

Makes amazing company photo opportunities – with a Team, Select Company Members or the lights on their own.

An added Focal Point at the location of your Event.

Event Styling at it’s Best

All our products above can be hired for any Corporate or Private Event.

We love to help you to create the best Event everytime.

Baldwin Boxall Receives UKCA Certification

for manufactured products placed

to eventually replace CE

Baldwin Boxall is pleased to confirm that all VIGIL2 and VIGIL3 voice alarm products and systems are certified to UKCA and the certificate is available to view on the company’s website: www.baldwinboxall.co.uk/ukca-certificate-forvigil2-vigil3-voice-alarm).

Further guidance and information regarding the new UKCA mark can be found on the Government website: www.gov.uk/guidance/placing-manufacturedgoods-on-the-market-in-great-britain

Baldwin Boxall designs, manufactures, and markets Voice Alarm (VA), Public Address (PA) and Emergency Voice Communication (EVC) products and systems for varying sectors, including commercial, industrial, retail, leisure, transport and public service facilities.

Baldwin Boxall is now renowned for being a leading independent UK manufacturer in the industry with installations in prestigious sites worldwide. The company has a strong network of UK and overseas customers and offers a wide range of products serving

the voice evacuation, emergency voice communications and public address markets.

Product design and manufacture includes meeting core requirements of legislative compliance under varying British Standards and EN54 certification.

The sale of these products is complemented by the provision of commissioning, ongoing maintenance support and training. These services are provided by Baldwin Boxall’s own team of fully qualified engineers. International distributors also provide similar support facilities to end users.

The company enjoys the benefits drawn from having a loyal and dedicated workforce with proficient skills and adaptability. The manufacturing department also utilises a network of local suppliers, again many having long standing association with the company, with experience in its procedures and rigorous quality control requirements.

With R&D, sales, projects, specials, assembly, test, quality, packing and despatch teams all based on the one site in Crowborough, East Sussex, UK, Baldwin Boxall can work efficiently and effectively.

Over the years, the Baldwin Boxall brand has become a steadfast symbol of reliability and quality. When you choose a Baldwin Boxall system you can be certain of the company’s unique and clear commitment to the highest standards in life safety communication systems.

Baldwin Boxall products are robust, reliable, dependable and are backed by a friendly and knowledgeable customer care team and a seven-year warranty. The results of the company’s annual customer surveys are a testament to the assured knowledge that their systems, service, and aftercare are valued so highly that 96% of Baldwin Boxall’s customers said they are extremely/very satisfied overall (2022 customer survey).

Further information, including customer testimonial and product videos, can be found on Baldwin Boxall’s comprehensive website (baldwinboxall.co.uk). Enquiries can be sent to hello@baldwinboxall.co.uk or by telephone 01892 664422

UKCA is a new product marking that will soon be required

on the market in Great Britain. The UKCA marking is intended

marking and requires that certification of Construction Products, such as Voice Alarm Control and Indicating Equipment, is performed by a “UK based Approved Body”.

Baldwin Boxall Communications Ltd was founded in 1982 to offer industry leading communication solutions. The company has remained an independent organisation ever since with a benchmark to fully meet and exceed, wherever possible, its customer requirements.

RISE Horizons programme

A new series of inspiring thematic workshops and masterclasses, using the latest cutting-edge research and industry insights to address sector-specific challenges and their emerging opportunities.

+ Innovation in Tourism and Hospitality

+ Innovation in Manufacturing and Supply Chains

+ Innovation in Health and Adult Social Care

Explore the RISE Horizons programme

rise-innovation.uk

/programmes

RISE membership and participation in this programme is free for eligible small to meduim-sized businesses.

The RISE programme is receiving up to £603,514 of funding from the European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 in England. Grant Reference: 04R21P04430.

The West Sussex Councils are providing partnership funding to support the delivery of RISE, and through this, to provide help and support to SMEs in West Sussex.