If you are reading this and you would like to contribute an article, get in touch with me at: Paul@aspen-waite.co.uk
Welcome to the Spring 2025 edition of our magazine.
It’s an especially good one this time, with so much going on in the world.
I started studying economics when I was 16 and went on to gain an honours degree in the subject from Cardiff University. I like to think that I have applied my core economic knowledge to commercial life as well as anyone could. I have had great success with predictions concerning interest rates but never has there been a more thought provoking time to be an economist.
At heart I am a free market, aspirational, cosmopolitan, wealth creator while also having a strong social conscience. As such my views do not fit easily into the camp of any political party. As I have got older, I can see that the first past the post system in the UK does not work. It is much better to have a centrist coalitional
government than run the risk of a left- or rightwing controlling government.
I am passionate about people and about business. The colour of skin or nationality is of little interest. I like decent people who do their best. I’m not one for trotting out traditional economic theory as if I were for a Keynesian instance. One person who I do greatly admire and who shares my economic opinion is David Ricardo 1771-1823.
Ricardo was an entrepreneur who made his money on the money market before becoming an MP. He championed global free trade.
He basically believed that different countries had various products and services, and that the world should come together to “trade”.
These basic principles have stood the test of time until Trump destroyed the concept of global free trade forever.
For the free trade model to work it has to have the following in place:
a) There is no unfair competitive advantage.
b) Does not include exploitation of labour by using children.
c) Is not at the cost of the environment.
So, China, for instance, has an unfair advantage.
History shows us that nobody benefits from a trade war. Trump justifies his tariffs on the grounds of creating a level playing field, but the maths is childlike and the overall principle fails to understand that many USA industries are dependent on parts/products from other countries.
My predictions are:
• Unnecessary upward inflation
• Loss of value on the stock market
• Unemployment
• The global market will react to what Trump is doing
I intend to be as proactive as I can be in this area and we have excellent insight into this topic elsewhere in the magazine.
Back at home we have the increase in Employers National Insurance. This might just be the most foolish policy introduced in my lifetime. I watched an interview with a Labour Treasury spokesman, and he kept saying that he acknowledged it was bad for big business. This is totally untrue as it particularly hits businesses that are dependent on part time labour, notably pubs, restaurants, care homes etc. This new measure will create carnage.
If you are worried about cashflow then I will gladly spend 15 minutes FOC looking at this with you.
The last few months have been very good in Aspen Waite Land. We are experiencing a strong recovery fuelled by quite a lot of new clients especially in the R&D tax credit space.
I’m on a push to convert R&D clients into General Practice clients for 2 main reasons:
• There are a lot of poor accountants out there,
• It is much better to advise & plan for a client’s R&D claim if one is also the accountant.
The R&D ‘boom’ has gone full circle again, at least for the time being.
My music interests continue to develop especially Evolution Music and Brighton Vinyl.
I am very optimistic about the future.
I have been given a huge opportunity by Dave Edwards to basically be his junior partner and conscience in his property and hotel empire. We have what will be Wales’s biggest wedding venue starting very soon at Glen Usk.
I’m never happier than when being outside, so the recent good weather has been very good for the spirits.
Rugby has been really good this year with Bath, the Red Roses and England (men) all giving me many happy moments.
I believe that our time has come, so am looking forward to turning this into a reality.
Yours positvely, Paul
Empowering Business Success with Aspen Waite Services: Your Comprehensive Partner for Growth
At Aspen Waite, we offer a full suite of business services designed to drive growth and innovation. Whether you’re a start-up or a well-established enterprise, our expert team supports you every step of the way, from day-to-day financial management to long-term strategic planning.
Accounting and Auditing: A Firm Financial Foundation
Our accounting and auditing services go beyond compliance, providing actionable insights that empower decision-making and drive your business forward. We offer tailored solutions, including bookkeeping, financial statements, and detailed audits to ensure you meet all regulatory requirements while optimising your business’s financial health.
Taxation is complex, but our specialist tax advisory services simplify it for you. From corporation tax to VAT, international tax, and personal tax planning, our team ensures you stay compliant while strategically reducing your tax liabilities. This allows you to reinvest savings back into your business, supporting future growth.
R&D Tax Credits: Unlocking Government Funding for Innovation
Aspen Waite is a leader in R&D tax credit consultancy, helping businesses across sectors claim valuable incentives. Our expertise in both technical and financial aspects of R&D projects enables us to submit comprehensive claims that reflect your business’s
innovative activities, maximising the potential refund you can receive.
Corporate Finance: Growth Through Strategic Guidance
For businesses considering mergers, acquisitions, or seeking investment, Aspen Waite provides tailored corporate finance services. Our team guides you through every stage of the process, from due diligence to securing funding, enabling you to make informed decisions that align with your long-term business goals.
Outsourced Payroll: Simplifying Operations and Ensuring Compliance
Managing payroll can be both time-consuming and risky without expert handling. Our outsourced payroll services take this burden off your shoulders, ensuring your employees are paid on time and in full compliance with tax regulations. We manage everything from salary calculations to tax deductions and pensions, so you can focus on running your business.
HR Consulting: Empowering Your
Workforce
People are your most valuable asset. Aspen Waite’s HR consulting services provide expert advice on recruitment, employee retention, and workplace management. From creating employment contracts to managing disciplinary procedures, we help ensure your workforce remains productive and engaged while adhering to employment law.
Business Recovery: Rebuilding for Long-Term Success
If your business is facing financial difficulties, Aspen Waite’s business recovery team can provide strategic support. Our recovery services include debt restructuring, cash flow management, and insolvency advice, helping you regain control and guide your business back to financial stability.
Why SME’s?
It is vital that SME’s are included in the carbon reduction journey. In the UK they represent around 99% of all businesses, 61% of all employees and 50% of all business-related Green House Gas Emissions.
Grants and Funding Consultancy: Unlocking New Opportunities
Why Aspen Waite?
Marketing and Media: Amplifying
Your Brand
In today’s digital-first world, effective marketing is crucial. Aspen Waite’s marketing and media services help your business stand out with tailored strategies, including social media management, content creation, and public relations. Whether you’re looking to build brand awareness or boost sales, our team ensures your message reaches the right audience.
Legacy: Embracing Environmental Responsibility
Aspen Waite is committed to sustainability, and through our Legacy initiative, we help businesses reduce their carbon footprint. From assessing energy usage to implementing waste reduction strategies, we provide a ‘One Stop Shop’ to help any size of business reduce costs, maximise profits and focus on Sustainability.
For any business that is committed to Net Zero we can offer Carbon Literacy Courses and also Carbon Accounting using a sector specific platform. This is a simple, credible, and affordable route for SME’s that are aiming for Net Zero.
Aspen Waite is fully committed to Carbon Reduction itself and are proud to announce that we are ‘On the Road to Net Zero’ , have key staff that are certified ‘Carbon Literature’ and have Sustainability Champions at its offices driving the change. We are proud to be recognised as Climate Champions by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and used as a case study for our contribution to decarbonising the economy.
International Expansion Support: Breaking New Ground
Aspen Waite’s international services help businesses looking to expand abroad. We provide guidance on navigating crossborder regulations, international tax structures, and compliance issues, ensuring a smooth transition into global markets.
Succession Planning: Securing Your Business’s Future
Planning for the future is key to your business’s longterm success. Our succession planning services guide you through preparing for leadership transitions, whether you’re passing the business to family or preparing it for sale. We help ensure your business remains in good hands for years to come.
In addition to R&D tax credits, Aspen Waite helps businesses identify and secure other government grants and funding opportunities. We help you navigate the often complex application processes to access funds that can support your business’s growth and innovation.
Social and Environmental Responsibility Audits:
Assessing Impact
Aspen Waite offers businesses the opportunity to assess their social and environmental responsibilities. Through audits, we help you measure your impact on society and the environment, ensuring you not only meet legal requirements but also enhance your brand’s reputation in the marketplace.
Comprehensive Lifecycle Support: Your Trusted Partner at Every Stage
At Aspen Waite, we provide support at every stage of your business’s lifecycle, from inception through to expansion and succession. Whether you’re a start-up seeking initial guidance or an established company facing new challenges, we have the expertise to help. If a specific area falls outside our in-house expertise, we turn to our trusted network of partners. This extended team ensures that no matter the need, you’ll always have access to the right expertise and advice for your business.
Aspen Waite stands out for its holistic approach to business services. We don’t just provide compliance or advisory services— we build lasting partnerships with our clients, helping them overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Our crossdisciplinary expertise means that we can support you at every stage of your business journey, from early growth to international expansion and beyond.
At Aspen Waite, our mission is simple: to empower businesses to succeed, grow, and innovate. With tailored advice, expert guidance, and a comprehensive range of services, we’re here to help you take your business to new heights.
Aspen Waite People
I created Aspen Waite People to provide a unique outsourced HR offering for small to medium sized businesses.
Our ethic is to “do” – we don’t just provide the answer… we help you create the solution. We are not afraid to roll our sleeves up and to get “stuck in”. We don’t just forward a template, we complete it for you, badge it up with your logo and send for checking and signature.
We provide support covering the full lifecycle of your employees (from onboarding to offboarding) - giving you the confidence to concentrate on running your business.
You want to work with qualified staff to minimise any risks. We agree. Our CIPD qualified staff do not hesitate to roll up our sleeves and create bespoke documentation and HR strategies for every business we work with.
We will work with you to assess where you are with your HR strategy and documentation –then help put a plan into place to embed them. That way we ensure that your business is fully compliant and that we support your personnel appropriately.
It doesn’t stop there. Our team at Aspen Waite People have access to training resources, employee assistance programs and much more to help you run your business efficiently – saving you time and money.
I would invite you to visit Aspen Waite People’s website (www.aspenwaitepeople.co.uk) and our LinkedIn page (www.linkedin.com/company/aspen-waite-people) to find out more about us and the range of services that we can provide.
We will keep you updated on the fast changing world of employment law and we can deal with those challenging staff conversations either in person or via Zoom.
Don’t just take our word for it. We were thrilled to be nominated as finalists in the “Best New Business” category at the Sedgemoor Business Awards in 2023. You can read about it on our regularly updated blog here.
Another satisfied client had this to say –
“I highly recommend Aspen Waite People. They are charming, accessible people with a wealth of knowledge and remarkable response time. We are a better and stronger business with them alongside us”.
If you would like to arrange a free consultation with Rhona then please follow this link: Sign up for a no-obligation HR Review - Aspen Waite People | HR or reply to my email below and I will be pleased to meet you.
LEGACY
BUSINESS HEALTH CHECK
Unlock Hidden Value: A Business Health Check that Works for You
In the fast-paced, competitive world of business, finding ways to save money isn’t just a bonus—it’s crucial to staying ahead. That’s where Aspen Waite Legacy steps in, offering a comprehensive Business Health Check designed to unlock hidden savings across water, energy, and business rates. Our team of experts specialises in uncovering inefficiencies that could be costing your business thousands every year.
Imagine streamlining your operations with lower water bills, optimised energy procurement, and corrected business rates, all without the headache of navigating complex contracts. Aspen Waite’s innovative solutions don’t just fix current inefficiencies—they set you up for long-term financial health.
Water Cost Reduction:
Think water savings are a trickle?
Think again. For businesses with annual costs over £5,000, our team can secure rebates and rectify overcharges, identify billing anomalies, and even reduce your meter size where appropriate. Not to mention, we have an expert eye for detecting leaks—saving you money in
real time and recovering past losses.
Energy Procurement:
Energy costs can drain resources, but with Aspen Waite, businesses spending over £100,000 annually can benefit from independent rate comparisons and cutting-edge energy management. We not only secure the best rates but also implement smart meters and innovative monitoring software to help you reduce consumption. Our unique Price Shield feature lets you fix wholesale prices while still taking advantage of market dips.
Business Rate Reviews:
Did you know your property’s rateable value might not be optimised? Our business rate review ensures you pay only what’s necessary. We’ll conduct a thorough audit, appeal for more favourable rates, and manage your account for maximum efficiency.
Mis-Sold Energy Claims:
Shockingly, 90% of UK businesses have been mis-sold energy contracts, often costing up to £25,000 in hidden fees. Our seasoned consultants can review contracts up to 10 years old, identifying mis-selling points and securing you the compensation you deserve.
Waste Recycling Systems:
Aspen Waite can now offer a wide range of solutions to meet your waste challenges. These include balers, compactors and for unavoidable food waste on site organic digesters. These are all aimed at helping reduce waste volumes, disposal costs and potentially achieve income from any significant waste stream you may have. For example the Aerobic Digester reduces food waste volumes by 81% in a 24 hour period leaving a soil enriching compost.
Aspen Waite Legacy’s Business Health Check isn’t just about cutting costs today—it’s about ensuring sustainable savings for the future. Don’t wait for inefficiencies to erode your profits; act now to secure your financial success.
For more information on how to optimise your business, contact Mark Waite at:
legacy@aspen-waite.co.uk or visit
www.aspenwaitelegacy.co.uk
Unlock Savings with Aspen Waite Legacy: Your Pathway to Efficient Business Operations
In today’s competitive market, financial efficiency is not just an advantage; it’s a necessity. Aspen Waite Legacy brings you a range of cost-saving services designed to optimise your business operations.
With our team’s unparalleled expertise in water and energy cost reduction, business rate reviews, and missold energy claims, we offer solutions tailored to your needs.
• Water Cost Reduction Specialist (Min. £5,000 p.a threshold)
• Secure rebates on water supply and return to sewer charges.
• Identify and rectify billing anomalies and overcharges.
• Verification and downsizing of your water meters.
• Efficient leak detection and subsequent refunds.
• Energy Procurement (Min. £100,000 p.a threshold)
• Achieve best rates through independent rate comparisons.
• Advanced energy monitoring through smart meters and software.
• Employ innovative energy management solutions to lower consumption.
• Benefit from our Price Shield feature: fix wholesale rates and still take advantage of price dips.
• Business Rates Review
• Conduct a comprehensive audit of your business rates.
• Appeal for a more favourable rateable value.
• Review your property usage to optimise rates.
• Manage your rate account for maximum efficiency.
• Mis-Sold Energy Claims
• Expert contract and invoice analysis by seasoned energy consultants.
• Identification of mis-selling points and hidden fees in contracts dating back up to 10 years.
• Note: 90% of UK businesses have typically been mis-sold contracts with an average claim value of £25,000.
Monika Stukova, CFA
Trump Unleashes Radical Tariffs
Trump Unleashes Radical
Tariffs: A Bold Shift in US Trade Policy
On April 2nd, President Donald Trump laid out an unprecedented set of tariffs on all imported goods. He argued that America’s chronic trade deficits were no longer merely an economic problem but had become a national emergency.
On the first day of market reactions, we mainly saw pain in the global stock markets as opposed to the bond market. Oil prices declined, with Brent crude dropping from $75 to $66 a barrel, and copper prices also fell. Bank stocks tumbled in many countries. The VIX, a measure of market volatility, spiked. Bank analysts raised their forecasts for a global recession this year, with JPMorgan Chase estimating the chances at 60%.
The method used to calculate the tariffs has been widely criticised as deeply bizarre. Instead of reflecting a country’s actual tariff rate or trade barriers, the rate was determined by dividing the bilateral trade deficit with that country by its imports and then halving the result.
According to Trumpian logic, since China charges a 67% tariff on US exports, the US imposed a 34% tariff on Chinese imports. Vietnam was hit hard with a 46% “reciprocal” tariff, in retaliation for its trade surplus in goods with America. Meanwhile, the UK and EU face the new 10% baseline tariff, with a rate of 25% on cars.
Economic Rationale and Concerns
Mr Trump asserts that higher tariffs will curb what he calls the nation’s “addiction” to imported goods and spur domestic manufacturing. He argues that by making imported goods more expensive, American
industry will shift production back home. This move would reduce the trade deficit and generate tax revenue from tariffs.
The US has run current account deficits for many years, and that’s been a concern. But the question remains: what is the best way to address it? The fundamental reason for a significant trade imbalance is that America’s investment rate is higher than its savings rate. Also, it is detrimental for the US to run a fiscal deficit of 6.5% of GDP at the peak of the business cycle.
Analysts have argued that Trump’s tariff policy is utterly incompetent as a form of economic policymaking, even if he is genuinely concerned about the health of the manufacturing sector.
They have also warned that the increase in tariffs will likely drive up the cost of imported intermediate goods, resulting in higher production costs and consumer prices. Some predictions indicate that inflation could increase from near the Federal Reserve’s 2% target to between 4% and 5% in the coming months, potentially pushing the economy towards conditions characteristic of stagflation.
The Challenge of Negotiations
Scott Bessent, the Treasury Secretary, said a few days before the announcement that the tariffs should be seen as caps and that rates would eventually come down. This represents America’s starting negotiation position, which many critics find absurd.
The structure of the policy raises serious doubts about the feasibility of fast, effective bilateral negotiations. With different tariff rates and schedules set for each country, the possibility of genuine, speedy talks appears unlikely.
Trump Put Tariffs on Hold
Twelve hours after his titanic tariffs took effect on April 9th, Mr Trump postponed most of them for 90 days. He explained that more than 75 countries had engaged in negotiations, and, as Scott Bessent noted, countries that did not retaliate were being rewarded.
When Trump announced the delay, markets were euphoric. They breathed a big sigh of relief. In America, the S&P 500 climbed by nearly 10%, its fastest daily rise since 2008. The NASDAQ enjoyed its highest single-day rise since 2001.
What has actually been delayed are “reciprocal” tariffs, the extra duties that vary from country to country depending on the size of the trade surplus they run with America. The baseline 10% tariff on all imports remains in place, with cars facing a higher tariff of 25%.
The most worrying aspect is what’s unfolding with China. Since the tariff delay applies only to countries that have not retaliated, and China did retaliate, we’re seeing a spiralling increase in tariffs on both sides. Even as Mr Trump announced a 90-day delay
for other nations, he raised the tariff on China to 125%, accusing them of showing a “lack of respect” for global markets. China’s tariffs, including in retaliation, reached 84%. These levies are high enough to severely disrupt goods trade between the world’s two largest economies. Rewarded countries are now mulling over what to offer in return. In the past week, some have proposed buying more American LNG. Others are suggesting more favourable access for American businesses in their home markets, or even increased defence spending. These ideas have already surfaced in talks with South Korea and Japan, though it remains unclear what Trump ultimately wants.
The key question is: what will Mr Trump settle for? Will he agree to a 0% tariff or a reduction from the announced rates? Ultimately, it all comes down to one person, and negotiating countries will want to speak directly with the president as soon as possible.
Monika Stukova, CFA
The Power of Integrative AI Tools and Your Business
DREW ARMSTRONG - ASPEN WAITE MEDIA R&D TECHNICAL REPORTS
I was born in 1990 and the rate of technology change in my life has been exponential. For my parents and grandparents, the change has been even more outlandish.
Two definitive technological standouts that I have witnessed, in relation to changing how businesses work and interact, have been mobile phones, and the internet (do you remember the dial up days?!). Until recently, these have taken my highest pole positions for technologies that have disrupted businesses workflow in the last 35 years.
With it they have interconnected us all in a way never seen before, giving rise to new types of customer interaction and the way businesses sell to the world.
Customers now look to google when researching companies, products, and services with more shopping being done online than on foot in the high street. This shows the importance of a business needing a digital imprint online. Websites and Socials are ways to beam out brand and company values in an impactful way. A chance to pull in or push away clients and customers, depending on the level of quality a company brand emanates.
With over 3 Billion monthly users of Facebook worldwide, it is safe to say that social media has been integrated into our daily lives, and
businesses have had to adapt to this too.
Those who have not adapted have been overtaken by those who have capitalised on things like targeted advertising on social media platforms, and building an online presence. Who would have thought that social media ‘Influencers’ would play such a key roll in product advertising and selling in today’s online world. Times are changing. Podcasts are getting more views than CNN, making advertisers think of new ways to sell their product to a wider audience.
My new winner of disruptive business technology is Artificial Intelligence, AI, which is taking the world by storm.
Within just five days of ChatGPT’s launch, the platform reached 1 million users, setting a record for the fastest user acquisition in digital history. As of December 2024, there were around 300 million weekly active users on this platform alone. I can imagine that number has only increased.
Large language models have opened so many new avenues of opportunity for people, and businesses to level up.
Coding, marketing, planning, research, content, copy, data analysis, coaching, creative ideas, art, and so much more, the uses are only limited by the creativity
you can muster in the prompts you use!
AI is a powerful business tool, and in collaboration with a creative, intelligent professional, work can be streamlined and enhanced in many areas.
I use it as a high-powered research assistant, making me able to analyse data sets, projects and R&D technologies faster than ever before. Things that would usually take a week can be evaluated in minutes, freeing up more time to focus on the creative or specialised element of the task, the part that needs more of a human touch.
There will always be specialists in all areas of expertise. I see AI as a tool that can help these people become more effective, by tapping into the internet of data out there, and getting high quality results and answers within seconds, based on science and published research. I don’t think AI will replace the need for specialists, but if used properly, can help people become more specialist.
All answers from AI also need to be fact checked as sometimes it can present incorrect data. It is not a replacement tool, but a research tool.
There is the fear that we will become too heavily reliant in AI, lowering our intelligence and ‘giving our power away’ to the computer. This is a valid concern, and why we need to use AI discerningly. Lazy people will get burned, but intelligent, hardworking people will thrive. An unintelligent person using AI will still get worse results than an intelligent person using AI. Meritocracy will still prevail in my opinion.
We still need to harness our creative power, input, work ethic and discernment as professionals, so as not to lose these abilities over the quick and easy output of AI. Use it or lose it as they say! (I have not used AI to generate any of this article, as it is based on opinion, and I want it to be a full representation of my thoughts on the matter).
There are lots of other AI tools out there as well as the Large Language Models (LLMs) that can help businesses become more streamlined, plan better and thrive. You can now build apps, websites and programs without needing to know how to code, which can help entrepreneurs get creative without spending thousands. Lowering the barrier of entry for people, presenting more opportunities.
There are positives and negatives to most things, and I have not touched on the implications of AI in the creative industry (particularly music and Art), but AI has certainly disrupted the way businesses work, and if used in a positive way, can help them grow, thrive, become more productive, and in turn more profitable.
If you would like to know how AI integration can help your business thrive, contact Aspen Waite today!
Drew Armstrong
AW Radio: On the Rise –
Locally Rooted, Globally
Tuned-In
Broadcasting Without Borders
AW Radio is turning up the volume in more ways than one! In just a few short years, what started as a bold and creative extension of the Aspen Waite Group has grown into a lively and much-loved radio station with a distinctly unique voice— and that voice is being heard around the world.
In the last six months, AW Radio has welcomed 5,627 unique online listeners tuning in regularly via our website alone. That’s not counting the thousands more who catch us regularly on DAB in Cardiff and Salisbury, making us a true part of the daily soundscape for so many across the UK.
But AW Radio is more than just numbers—it’s a movement.
A Social Soundwave
Our listeners aren’t just tuning in—they’re engaging. On Instagram, we’ve seen over 16,000 individual users interacting with our content in the past 30 days alone. From video snippets of our vibrant shows to adverts & more, our socials are brimming with content.
On our Pandora’s Box TikTok account, our content has been viewed millions of times since it was started a few years ago.
While the heart of AW Radio beats in the UK, our reach stretches far beyond. In the past month, we’ve had listeners tuning in from the United States, Australia, Canada, France, the Netherlands, and even Brazil.
Our community is as diverse as our programming. Most of our audience falls within the 25-44 age range, but we’re proud to have a broad appeal, attracting loyal listeners from 18 to 65+.
Big News for Bridgwater
We’re currently in the process of applying to run a DAB multiplex in Bridgwater—the very town where Aspen Waite was founded. If successful, this won’t just put us on the DAB map locally—it’ll put us in the driver’s seat.
Owning the multiplex means that any other station wanting to broadcast in Bridgwater would need to go through us. It’s a game-changer that opens the door to new revenue streams and strengthens our local presence in a town with a thriving business and music scene.
Why AW Radio?
We believe radio should be more than just background noise. AW Radio is built on the principle of meaningful entertainment— whether it’s helpful and empowering business talk,
eclectic music sessions, or real, unfiltered conversation.
Tune In and Turn It Up
Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a long-time listener, now is the perfect time to (re)discover what AW Radio has to offer. We’re streaming 24/7 on our website, through the AW Radio mobile app, and on DAB in select locations—with more on the way.
So, tune in, turn it up, and join us on this incredible journey. The future of radio is bright, bold, and it’s happening right here at Aspen Waite.
“AW Radio is where business brains meet music lovers. It’s a vibe.” – Listener review”
Calum Waite Director of AW Radio
‘‘AW Radio is where business brains meet music lovers. It’s a vibe.”
– Listener review
AI: Your Secret Weapon in the Battle of the R&D Report
NATHANIEL WARREN - MEDIA & RADIO
There’s a lot of noise about AI right now. Depending on who you ask, it’s either the dawn of a golden age or the beginning of the robot uprising. Somewhere between ChatGPT writing sonnets and deepfakes stealing faces, people are understandably unsure whether to embrace AI or unplug everything and hide.
The truth, as always, is somewhere in the middle.
AI is incredibly powerful. It can spot patterns faster than any human, automate repetitive tasks, and offer insights that once took teams of analysts to uncover. But with that power comes valid concerns—around data privacy, job displacement, and how we ensure machines stay accountable to human values.
Used responsibly, though, AI isn’t something to fear—it’s something to use. And that’s exactly what we’re doing.
Turning Panic into Productivity
Let’s be honest—no one gets into business because they love paperwork. Especially the kind that comes with acronyms, deadlines, and phrases like “please provide further technical substantiation.” Yes, we’re talking about the R&D report—the necessary (but often dreaded) documentation needed to claim back valuable tax relief from HMRC.
But what if there was a way to make that process smoother, faster, and less souldraining? Good news: there is. It’s called AI, and it’s not just powering self-driving cars and weirdly good movie recommendations— it’s revolutionising how we handle R&D claims, too.
AI to the Rescue (Yes, Really)
At our company, we’ve put AI to work where it truly shines: collating complex information, identifying key technical insights, and translating them into HMRCfriendly language. What used to take hours of back-and-forth, late-night edits, and frantic searches for that one missing detail now takes a fraction of the time.
AI helps us:
• Pull together project data from across teams and systems
• Spot eligible R&D activities based on your input (even if you didn’t realise they qualified)
• Draft reports in a format and tone that HMRC recognises—and more importantly, likes
• Cut down time and stress so your teams can focus on innovation, not admin
It’s not about replacing people—it’s about empowering them. We combine the best of AI with real human expertise to make sure your R&D claims are accurate, optimised, and on time.
“Used responsibly, though, AI isn’t something to fear—it’s something to use. And that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
Why It Matters
R&D tax credits are a huge opportunity for businesses in the UK. But many companies either:
1. Don’t claim what they’re entitled to, or
2. Spend way too much time doing it
With AI on your side, you can sidestep both problems. Think of it as your behind-the-scenes assistant—never tired, always on, and surprisingly good with tax lingo.
But Wait, Is AI Safe?
We get it. The words “AI” and “compliance” don’t always feel like a match made in heaven. But our systems are built with data security, transparency, and HMRC guidelines at their core. You’re not handing over control—you’re gaining a smarter, faster way to work.
And since our team is still involved every step of the way, you can rest assured that every claim is backed by real, experienced professionals who know their way around a regulation (or twenty)
The Spring Clean Your R&D Process Deserves
This spring, while you’re tidying up desks and decluttering inboxes, maybe it’s time to refresh how you handle R&D reporting too. With AI in your toolkit, there’s no need to dread that next report—it might even become something you almost enjoy.
(Okay, maybe not enjoy, but you get the idea.)
So here’s to faster claims, clearer reports, and a little less paperwork panic. AI: not just smart—practically essential.
NATHANIEL
WARRENMEDIA AND RADIO
SERVICES SPOTLIGHT:
PAYROLL SERVICES
Payroll – the backbone of a company
We are passionate about people and are extremely fortunate to work with many people from a multitude of different industries and services. We love working with our clients and thrive on finding solutions to their payroll problems, making things more efficient, structured, and tailored for each individual business, enabling them to concentrate on other important issues within their organisation.
We see payroll as a fundamental part of your business that touches every employee, which potentially shapes the culture and behaviour of your staff. Wages and salaries are a clear statement of the value of each employee’s time and effort; therefore, it is imperative that it is accurate and timely.
Why Outsource your Payroll?
The payroll function of a company can consume a large amount of time and resources. Processing payroll correctly is important as errors or irregularities may cause employees financial difficulty which can result in poor performance or them leaving, as well as creating additional work to correct. Late and inaccurate payroll can result in rumours about how a company is performing financially.
The administrative burden coupled with legislation and compliance can make outsourcing your payroll a smart, cost-effective business decision.
There are many parts to payroll compliance, making sure that your employees are paid with accuracy and the liabilities are filed on time is only part of it.
There are approximately 170 payroll laws in the UK that employers must adhere to, which change and are updated regularly. Some of the current legislation to take into consideration include, benefits, bonuses, commissions, processing and maintaining pensions, statutory payments and attachments of earnings along with elements of human resources for holidays, new employees, leavers, sickness and record keeping.
Why outsource your payroll to us?
• Unleash your ambition
• We will handle your payroll, allowing you to focus on dreaming big with your business.
• We are your Compliance Champions
• You can sleep easier knowing we’re on top of all the latest changes in legislation, regulations and compliance
• Who doesn’t love a Guidance Guru
• Were here to support with everything payroll –every step of the way
• Your time-savers
• We save you time, so you can focus on more important things
• Money savers
• A fraction of the cost of in-house payroll
• Support Squad
• Your team is our team, and we want to be part of that, taking on any payroll challenge you throw at us. Have you ever stopped and considered how outsourcing could benefit you?
Growing Together:
Aspen Waite and Escaler Join Forces to Empower Business Success
ANDRAS TASI- ESEMDEE
A powerful new partnership bringing biweekly masterclasses and expert support to businesses ready for growth
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, finding the right support can make all the difference between merely surviving and truly thriving. It’s this fundamental truth that sparked an exciting new collaboration between two organisations dedicated to business success. During a recent strategic meeting, Paul Waite, CEO of Aspen Waite, and Andras Tasi, CEO of Esemdee, discovered they shared not just a vision but a passion for empowering businesses with practical tools for growth.
“Paul and I had our usual business meeting, discussing ways how we can further support businesses together, and we came up with an amazing project,” recalls Andras Tasi. “The synergy was immediate – Aspen Waite’s commitment to being there for every business perfectly complemented Escaler’s dedication to supporting sustainable growth.”
The result of this meeting of minds is a groundbreaking initiative that combines Aspen Waite’s trusted advisory expertise with Escaler’s innovative growth strategies: The Aspen Waite-Escaler Bi-Weekly Masterclass Series. This collaboration represents more than just a business partnership – it’s a community-building endeavor designed to provide business owners with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to navigate today’s complex business environment.
Power of Community and Expert Guidance
“No business owner should ever feel alone. The right advice, the right people, and the right support make all the difference between standing still and soaring,” says Paul Waite, CEO of Aspen Waite, capturing the essence of this new partnership.
At its heart, the Aspen Waite-Escaler Masterclass Series embodies this philosophy with its tagline: “Learn. Connect. Grow.” Each masterclass delivers real strategies for small business owners and entrepreneurs who want to scale smarter – one session at a time. What makes these sessions particularly valuable is their hands-on approach, focusing on practical implementation rather than theoretical concepts. The
“We designed these masterclasses to address the real challenges business owners face every day,” explains Andras Tasi. “Each event dives deep into one essential growth topic – from email marketing and online reviews to paid advertising, CRM, AI tools, and beyond.”
The expertise shared in these sessions comes from seasoned professionals like Andras Tasi himself, who brings over 25 years of experience in marketing and sales to the table. Having owned and sold five businesses across various industries, Andras offers practical strategies in email marketing, Power of Community and Expert Guidance
“No business owner should ever feel alone. The right advice, the right people, and the right support make all the difference between standing still and soaring,” says Paul Waite, CEO of Aspen Waite, capturing the essence of this new partnership.
At its heart, the Aspen Waite-Escaler Masterclass Series embodies this philosophy with its tagline: “Learn. Connect. Grow.” Each masterclass delivers real strategies for small business owners and entrepreneurs who want to scale smarter – one session at a time. What makes these sessions particularly valuable is their hands-on approach, focusing on practical implementation rather than theoretical concepts. The
“We designed these masterclasses to address the real challenges business owners face every day,” explains Andras Tasi. “Each event dives deep into one essential
to paid advertising, CRM, AI tools, and beyond.”
The expertise shared in these sessions comes from seasoned professionals like Andras Tasi himself, who brings over 25 years of experience in marketing and sales to the table. Having owned and sold five businesses across various industries, Andras offers practical strategies in email marketing, automation, video marketing, and AI-powered growth – all with a focus on building efficient systems that generate leads and boost conversions.
Bi-Weekly Masterclasses: A Roadmap to Business Growth
The masterclass series covers all essential digital marketing areas that form the foundation of modern business growth:
Email Marketing Mastery: Participants learn how to build segmented lists and trigger handsfree email/SMS sequences that transform first-time visitors into loyal buyers. These sessions provide actionable strategies for creating automated marketing funnels that work around the clock.
Reviews & Reputation Management: In today’s digital marketplace, online reputation can make or break a business. These masterclasses teach business owners how to collect, respond to, and showcase online reviews to boost local SEO, build trust, and increase sales – even when feedback is negative.
AI in Marketing & Sales: Perhaps the most forward-looking component of the series, these sessions explore practical applications of voice bots, growth assistants, and generative-AI tools to speed up lead responses and keep sales pipelines full. Participants gain insights into how AI can automate routine tasks, allowing them to focus on strategic growth.
Paid Advertising: Recognising that many small businesses operate with limited budgets, these masterclasses focus on lean-budget advertising strategies specifically designed for micro-businesses. Topics include targeting, split-testing, and tracking ROI without wasting valuable resources.
Social Media Management: The final component helps business owners choose the right channels, batch content creation, and use affordable tools to maintain an engaging online presence with minimal time investment – perfect for busy entrepreneurs who can’t afford to spend hours on social media.
Each masterclass is delivered live via Zoom, making them accessible to business owners regardless of location. Priced at just £47 per session, they represent exceptional value – as Andras and his co-founder Norbert note, “The strategies, tools, and expert guidance shared in this series easily match the value of a £2,500 consulting package – but are available for a fraction of the cost.”
Beyond Technology: Building a Supportive Business Community
What truly sets the Aspen Waite-Escaler partnership apart is its focus on building a supportive community around these educational offerings. While the masterclasses provide valuable technical knowledge, the real magic happens in the connections formed between participants and the ongoing support provided by both organisations.
“We’re not just teaching business owners how to use new tools or technologies. We’re creating an environment where they can connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, share challenges, and celebrate successes together. That sense of community is invaluable.”
This community-building approach reflects Aspen Waite’s longstanding commitment to being there for businesses at every stage of their journey. For over three decades, Aspen Waite has prided itself on providing comprehensive support that goes beyond traditional advisory services. Similarly, Escaler, under the leadership of Andras and Norbert, has built its reputation on helping businesses implement practical growth strategies that deliver measurable results.
Together, they’ve created something greater than the sum of its parts – a holistic support system that addresses both the technical and emotional aspects of business growth. Participants don’t just leave with new skills; they gain confidence, connections, and a renewed sense of possibility for their business future.
The All-in-One Marketing and Sales Platform
Complementing the masterclass series is the partnership’s innovative technology offering – an all-in-one marketing and sales platform designed to “skyrocket your success.” This AI-powered solution helps business owners automate the busywork that often consumes their valuable time.
“Running a small business means wearing a dozen hats – answering calls, chasing leads, scheduling meetings, and handling endless follow-ups,” notes Andras, drawing from his extensive experience as both a business owner and the creator of Escaler.
“But what if you could take back your time and focus on growing your business instead of just running it?”
The platform includes powerful AI agents that handle everything from lead qualification and
around the clock, ensuring no lead goes unanswered and creating a seamless experience for customers –all while business owners stay focused on strategic growth.
As one participant put it, “The combination of expert-led masterclasses and powerful automation tools has transformed how I approach my business. I’m working smarter, not harder, and seeing real results for the first time in years.”
Making 2025 Your Breakout Year
The timing of this partnership couldn’t be more perfect as businesses look toward making 2025 a year of significant growth. The Aspen Waite-Escaler collaboration positions itself as the catalyst for this transformation, with its tagline: “Make 2025 Your Breakout Year with Aspen Waite and Escaler.”
“We’re at a pivotal moment in the business landscape,” observes Paul Waite. “The challenges of recent years have forced many businesses to adapt and evolve, but now it’s time to move beyond survival mode and into a growth mindset. This partnership provides the framework, tools, and support to make that transition successfully.”
The masterclass series is structured to build progressively, with each session building on the knowledge gained in previous ones. However, they’re also designed to stand alone, allowing business owners to select the specific areas most relevant to their current needs. This flexibility ensures that participants can customize their learning journey to address their unique business challenges.
“What we’re offering isn’t just education – it’s transformation,” emphasizes Andras. “We’re providing a roadmap for businesses to not just weather the storms of change, but to harness those winds to propel them forward.”
For businesses interested in experiencing this transformative partnership firsthand, the next masterclass is scheduled soon, with limited spots available to ensure personalized attention and maximum value for all participants. As Paul Waite often reminds his clients, “The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best time is now.” The same philosophy applies to business growth – and the Aspen Waite-Escaler partnership is ready to help businesses plant those seeds of success today.
Join the Journey: Where Business Growth Meets Community Support
As we look to the future, the Aspen Waite-Escaler partnership stands as a testament to what’s possible when two organisations with complementary strengths and shared values come together with a common purpose. This collaboration embodies the best of both worlds – Aspen Waite’s trusted advisory expertise and unwavering commitment to
supporting businesses at every stage, combined with Escaler’s innovative growth strategies and cuttingedge technology solutions developed by Andras and Norbert.
“Together, we’re creating something truly special,” reflects Andras. “A community where business owners feel supported, empowered, and equipped with the practical tools they need to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.”
The Bi-Weekly Masterclass Series is just the beginning of what promises to be a long-term partnership focused on delivering tangible value to the business community. Future plans include expanded workshop offerings, one-to-one coaching opportunities, and continued refinement of the AIpowered marketing and sales platform to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses.
For those ready to take the next step in their business journey, the invitation is clear: join the Aspen Waite-Escaler community and make 2025 your breakout year. Whether you’re looking to refine your marketing strategy, harness the power of AI, or simply connect with like-minded business owners who understand your challenges, this partnership offers the support, expertise, and practical guidance you need to transform your business aspirations into reality.
To learn more about the Aspen Waite-Escaler BiWeekly Masterclass Series or to reserve your spot in an upcoming session, visit: aspenwaite.escaler.co.uk/aspenwaite-escalermasterclass-series
Your business growth journey awaits – and you won’t have to walk it alone.
“Make 2025 Your Breakout Year with Aspen Waite and Escaler.”
The Role of people professionals in the Development of AI, regulation and the CIPD
RHONA HOPE - HEAD OF PEOPLE
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues its rapid advancement and becomes the much touted focus for investment and development, I examine the critical role of the people profession and explain how Human Resources departments may be involved shaping its impact at work
Artificial intelligence and its application for every day, as well as business use, have grown dramatically in the past few years. Apart from within tools like ChatGPT which have received much attention and uptake, AI-capability is being integrated into an expanding range of digital applications as technology evolves. As high-profile companies engage in what could be seen as an AI arms race, we are coming to a point where AI use may become so significant that workforces and workplaces must be rewired to meet the challenges and capture the opportunities that AI brings.
For its part, the UK Government has declared its high ambitions, announcing at the very start of 2025 its AI Opportunities Action Plan, aimed at ramping up AI adoption “to boost economic growth, provide jobs for the future and improve people’s everyday lives”.
The stated core principles which underpin the recommendations are, broadly, for the government to: be on the side of innovators; invest in becoming a great AI customer; “crowd in” capital and talent; and build on UK strengths, especially in catalysing emerging areas such as in AI application and integration, and use of AI in science and robotics.
The highest-profile recommendations are the following:
• A major increase is needed in the UK’s AI-specific compute capability. This will be multi-sourced, a mix of “sovereign AI compute” (that is, computational power owned or controlled by the public sector) and privately owned domestic-based compute, together with international compute accessed via reciprocal agreements with other countries.
• Within six months, the government is to issue a UK AI Infrastructure Plan, a long-term plan to be backed by a 10-year investment commitment covering AI software, skills, and compute.
• A minimum twenty-fold increase in capacity for the UK’s AI Research Resource (a collaboration between the government, a public research body, academia, and private sector IT companies), which provides a cluster of advanced computers for AI research.
• The creation of “AI Growth Zones”, areas of the country which will host giant AI data centres. These will have the necessary access to land and (clean) power, and equally importantly, where construction will be fast-tracked through special streamlined planning services.
• Supporting the AI Safety Institute (AISI) as crucial AI institution for the UK’s AI ecosystem. The government should prioritise building up the AISI as one of the UK’s leading AI institutions, ensuring that it is properly funded, especially for its role in the pre-release testing of frontier AI models, and development of new AI safety assurance tools.
The fifty recommendations cover a broad range of issues; some of the key ones are discussed below, but the plan is engagingly written and is worth reading in full.
Role of the people profession and regulation
According to the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD), an organisation’s ability to navigate the AI landscape and to take a considered, responsible approach to AI adoption, will hinge on the experts in people, work and change – “the people profession”. People professionals will need to leverage their knowledge and experience on aspects of training, job design, workforce planning and organisational change among other things, to guide and equip their organisations in the endeavour.
The CIPD believe that profession should be at the forefront of discussions about AI implementation in their organisations. Employers and their HR teams should introduce clear guidance covering the ethical and responsible use of AI at work, data security and fair treatment of people. They should foster a culture of cross-team collaboration, and help employees develop their skills or reskill as necessary to ensure no-one gets left behind as AI transforms workplaces and careers.
The wide-reaching integration and impact of AI technology also risks a modern day ‘Wild West’, where unprincipled actors and unregulated actions can lead to undesirable outcomes, some of which may not have even been intended or anticipated. This not only underscores the importance of establishing clear, ethical HR policies for AI use within organisations, but also the urgency for safeguards, fair regulation and good governance. Policy-makers around the world are recognising this and are swiftly mobilising to come to consensus. The CIPD is championing better work and working lives on behalf of the profession and will be playing an active and ongoing role in the dialogue. For example, over the course of 2025, the CIPD will be running a range of engagement activities to build a deeper understanding of the organisational development implications of using AI. By creating spaces to discuss and reflect together the CIPD aims to inform the public debate and raise awareness on how people professionals can support organisations in their AI journeys.
Bridge AI
The CIPD is a partner on a project funded by Innovate UK’s government-backed “BridgeAI programme” to help businesses in high growth potential sectors harness the power of AI. The CIPD will be working in conjunction with the Institute for the Future of Work (IFOW) who have a strong track record delivering HRM and AI governance policy research. As part of this work, the CIPD will engage with members over the course of the year to test and refine responsible use of AI guidance and AI skills frameworks. The project is divided into three workstreams:
1. Action research to build a deeper understanding of AI applications and implications within organisations
2. Refining frameworks for ethical and responsible use of AI and organisational development implications
3. Extending the AI skills framework and understanding of skills needs.
For the first workstream, the CIPD is offering an exclusive opportunity for eight organisations of different sizes, industries and digital maturities to take part in the research. Qualifying organisations should be considering, implementing or already using AI in the people team or in other parts of the organisation. The research will involve interviews with senior leaders, employee surveys and action planning workshops, and will be tailored according to the organisation’s stage of AI implementation.
On a less serious note, AI can be fun as social media becomes flooded with Chat GPT images of ourselves.
Rhona Hope Head of People
EMILY WAITE - SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Wellbeing Corner
With the rise of social media and AI it can be easy to feel disconnected from nature and the world around us these days, but one simple way we can negate this is through getting out into the garden! Whether you have a sprawling backyard, a sunny windowsill, or just a love for green spaces, gardening offers a wonderful way to improve your wellbeing and reconnect with nature’s rhythms, and Spring is the perfect time to start!
Spending time with plants helps reduce stress, encourages mindfulness, and gives us that little burst of happiness when we see something grow –especially when we helped it along the way. Here are some fun and achievable ways to bring a little garden magic into your life this Spring...
Start Small at Home
You don’t need acres of land to enjoy gardening. A few pots or containers can go a long way!
• Windowsill Wonders: Herbs like basil, mint, and chives grow happily indoors with a bit of sunlight. Not only do they
smell lovely, but they’re also handy for cooking!
• Balcony Blooms: If you’ve got a balcony or patio, try planting cherry tomatoes, strawberries, or cheerful flowers like pansies and marigolds in containers.
• Low Effort, High Reward: Succulents or spider plants are great for beginners. They’re hardy, forgiving, and bring a little greenery into any space.
Join
a Community Garden
No garden of your own? No problem –community gardens are blooming all over the place!
• Grow Together: Community gardens are shared spaces where locals grow fruit, veg, herbs, and flowers. It’s a great way to learn gardening tips, meet new people, and enjoy the fruits (and veggies) of your collective labour.
• Feel-Good Vibes: Getting involved in a local gardening project can give you a real sense of purpose and connection – both to the earth and to your community.
• Get Started: A quick search online or a chat with your local council or community centre can usually point you in the right direction. Alternatively you can search for community gardening projects close to you using the RHS website: www. rhs.org.uk/get-involved/communitygardening/find-a-group
Visit Gardens and Green Spaces
If planting’s not your thing (yet), you can still reap the benefits of green spaces.
• Nature Walks: A stroll through a local park, nature reserve, or public garden can be just the mental reset you need. Take a moment to notice the colours, scents, and sounds – it’s a natural mindfulness exercise!
• Open Garden Days: Many private gardens open their gates to the public during the Spring and Summer months. They’re full of inspiration and a lovely way to spend a slow Sunday. The National Garden Scheme have listed hundreds of registered gardens to visit on their website. If you have limited accessibility there are even virtual garden tours to choose from too! www.ngs.org.uk/find-a-garden
• Botanical Bliss: Visit a botanical garden for a peaceful day out and a little plant education while you’re at it. Perhaps you’ll find a fallen leaf or petal to take home with you to press, so you can always keep a little piece of nature with you...
Gardening and enjoying nature doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It can be as simple as watering a plant, sowing a few seeds, or spending a quiet moment among the trees.
So this Spring, give yourself permission to grow something – even if it’s just your appreciation for the beauty of the season.
Happy planting!
Emily Waite
emily.short@aspen-waite.co.uk
If, like me, you enjoy growing things in your garden that you can eat, as summer approaches there can often be a glut of certain things – courgettes and beans come to my mind. Here are some recipes that may help you deal with your produce…
Green cucumber & mint gazpacho
John Porteous John.Porteous@aspen-waite.co.uk
No cooking needed here to get a lovely zingy – and very healthy – soup. This recipe serves two people.
Ingredients
• 1 cucumber, halved lengthways, deseeded and roughly chopped
• 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and roughly chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 small avocado, de-skinned and chopped
• 1 bunch of spring onions, chopped
• 1 small bunch mint, chopped
Method
1. In a food processor or blender, blitz all the ingredients, reserving half of the mint and yoghurt, until smooth.
2. Add a little extra vinegar, tabasco, and/ or seasoning to your taste. You can also add a splash of water if you like a thinner soup.
3. Chill in the fridge until very cold, then serve with a dollop of yoghurt, and a sprinkle of mint and chives – and a few ice cubes if you like.
• 150ml natural yoghurt
• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
• A few shakes of green tabasco (to taste)
• Snipped chives to serve
This will keep in the fridge for two days –just give it a good stir before serving.
Broad bean, courgette & anchovy salad
John Porteous John.Porteous@aspen-waite.co.uk
I’m not normally a big fan of salads, but this really is delicious.
It should serve 6-8 people.
Ingredients
• 1.25kg fresh broad beans (to give you about 450g of podded broad beans)
• 250g of baby courgettes
• 225g fresh marinated white anchovies
• 2 roasted red peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 bunch of flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
Method
1. Bring a pan of salted water to the boil and cook the broad beans for 5 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon and put in a bowl of ice-cold water.
2. Slice the courgettes into rounds about 5mm thick and cook in the boiling water for about 4 minutes, until they are just becoming tender, then drain and leave to cool.
3. While the courgettes are cooling, remove the broad beans from their tough outer skins. This might sound boring, but I find it quite therapeutic.
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
4. Place the broad beans and courgettes in a large salad bowl with the anchovies (split into individual fillets if they aren’t already), red pepper slices, chopped parsley and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and mix together.
5. Serve and eat.
You can also add in French beans if you have a glut of them. Top and tail, cut into 2cm lengths, boil until just tender and mix in with the other ingredients.
Crunchy Piccalilli
John Porteous John.Porteous@aspen-waite.co.uk
A classic way to preserve vegetables. Piccalilli is great with cold meats, pork pies, etc.. and homemade is so much better than the stuff you can buy in the supermarket!
Ingredients
• 2 medium cauliflowers, divided into 1” florets
• 450g white onion, roughly diced
• 2 large courgettes or small cucumbers, cut into ¼” rounds, then quartered
• 1lb (450g) green or runner beans, destringed and cut into 1” slices
• 4oz (110g) sea salt
• 2 pints (1.2l) white malt vinegar, plus 5 tbsp extra
• ½ whole nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• 6oz (175g) golden caster sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed with 3 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground ginger
Method
1. Begin the day before by placing the prepared cauliflower and onion in a non-metallic bowl, and the courgettes and beans in another. Whisk the salt into 4 pints (2.25l) of cold water to make a brine, and pour over the vegetables. Put a plate with a weight on top of each to keep submerged, and leave for 24 hours.
• 20z (50g) dry mustard powder
• 1oz (25g) ground turmeric
• 1oz (25g) cornflour
• 2 tbsp water
• You will also need a preserving pan, or a heavy based saucepan with a 9 pint (5l) capacity, and sterilised jars.
2. The next day, drain away the salt water and rinse the vegetables. Place the cauliflower, onion and 2 pints (1.2l) of vinegar together in a pan with the nutmeg and allspice. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer for 8 minutes. Add in the courgettes, beans, sugar, garlic and ginger, stir and bring the mixture back up to a simmer. Cover and cook for a further 4-5 minutes.
The vegetables should still be slightly crisp, so don’t go away and forget about them. Believe me, it happens!
3. Set a large colander over a large bowl, pour the contents of the pan into it and leave to drain, reserving the vinegar.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the mustard powder, turmeric and cornflour. Gradually pour in the additional 5 tbsp vinegar and 2 tbsp water, mixing to a fairly smooth paste. Add a ladleful of the hot vinegar liquid from the vegetables, stir again and transfer to the pan you cooked the veg in.
6. Stir really well to mix everything evenly and then spoon the piccalilli into the hot sterilised jars.
To sterilise your jars put them (and the lids) in the oven below around 60OC to sterilise for about 15 minutes. Be careful, as they should not be too hot to handle.
5. Bring the sauce mixture to a boil, gradually whisking in the remaining hot vinegar. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes, then transfer the vegetables from the colander back into the pan.
Cocktail Cabinet
John Porteous John.Porteous@aspen-waite.co.uk
Classic Pimm’s
The Pimm’s spirit was originally created by James Pimm in 1840 as an aid to the digestion of oysters, but is now best known as a drink to enjoy mixed with ice and garnishes to celebrate the British summer and/or watch Wimbledon!
Ingredients
• Slices of orange, lemon, strawberries and cucumber
• Fresh borage (traditionally) or mint
Method
• 400ml Pimm’s No1 Cup
• 1.2l lemonade
• Optional extra vodka
Half fill a serving jug with ice, add the fruit, cucumber and borage/mint, then pour over the Pimm’s.
Just before serving, top up with the lemonade, stir and serve in tall glasses.
If you want a turbo-charged version, add a few shots of vodka at the same time as you add the Pimm’s!
Another tip is to hull a handful of strawberries, freeze them, and use as ice cubes.
TA6 3LH Tel: 01278 445151 Lions House Media, Trade and Innovation Centre Benjamin Holloway House West Quay Bridgwater TA6 3HW Tel: 01278 445151 London New Broad Street House 35 New Broad St London
