Inspire July 2015

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INSPIRE.10

The business magazine of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce July 2015

Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2015 Winners celebrate their success - page 4 n Welcome to new Patrons – Altro, NIS, PwC and SaBRE n Spotlight on County Town - Hertford page 18 n International Trade – Export Support in High Growth Markets page 30

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GLAMOROUS COUNTRY AWAITS YOU AT SOPWELL HOUSE Separate from the main hotel, access to the exclusive Mews suites are through secure gates and set within beautifully landscaped gardens created by RHS Chelsea Flower Show Gold award winner Ann-Marie Powell.

The Mews offer our guests greater privacy and a choice of more individually designed suites. Some suites include feature fireplaces, four-poster beds, romantic double ended in-room baths, private terraces, cedar wood spa baths and high-end kitchenettes enabling a truly self-sufficient stay.

All Mews guests benefit from the use of the exclusive Mews gardens and hydropool.

To book your luxury stay at the Mews, visit our website www.sopwellhouse.co.uk or call 01727 864477

Cottonmill Lane St. Albans Hertfordshire AL1 2HQ 01727 864477 www.sopwellhouse.co.uk

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Welcome

Contents Inspiring Herts Awards The Circular Economy Patron Focus UH Courses Spotlight on...

Members News Young Chamber HR Academy Member News International Trade New Members Chamber Events Forum News Work Place Business News Members News Dacorum Last Word Patrons

4-10 12-13 14-15 16 18-20 23 24-25 26-27 29 30-32 33-35 36-37 41 42-44 45 46 47 49 50

•••• Editorial and General Enquiries Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce MacLaurin Building, 4 Bishops Square, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9NE Tel: 01707 398400 Fax: 01707 398430 Email: enquiries@hertschamber.com Web: www.hertschamber.com Chief Executive: Yolanda Rugg Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing 3tc House, 16 Crosby Road North, Crosby, Liverpool L22 0NY Tel: 0151 236 4141 Fax: 0151 236 0440 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com Published July 2015 © Benham Publishing and Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com Production Manager Mark Etherington Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: studio@benhampublishing.com Media No. 1416 •••• Disclaimer Inspire is published for Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members.

All correspondence should be addressed to Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce.

Views expressed in Inspire are not necessarily those of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2015.

Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content.

Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

From the Chief Executive As you will see from Inspire 10, life at the chamber and for its members has never been so busy, and so rewarding, as we continue to showcase award winners, and good news stories to inspire others and raise aspirations.

Inspiring Herts Awards The greatest local stage for Herts Chamber members to celebrate success is at our annual awards, and we are indebted to Centre Principal, Mike Murphy at Porsche Hatfield and his team for once again allowing the chamber to take over their stunning showroom, surrounded by the new Classic Porsche range, and stage our fourth year of awards.

Attendees this year were totally inspired also by Sir Hossein Yassaie, founder of Kings Langley based Imagination Technologies, now a global centre of excellence and world leader here in Hertfordshire, who received ‘Outstanding Contribution to Business’, kindly sponsored by LV=. Sir Hossein’s speech gave one clear message “believe in yourself, you need the vision, but you can make it happen.”

I congratulate all the finalists, along with so many most deserving winners, highlighted on pages 4-9, and to our overall winner of the 2015 Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards, Watford based Tusker. There is still time to enter our British Chamber of Commerce Awards, details on our webpage.

The evening takes over 6 months of planning, and it is important to recognise also the stars of the evening from behind the scenes, Nick Eve at Pump House, Steve Folland presenter, Terry Hughes at Richmond Caterers, our Patrons, Pearldrop who captured the spectacular evening on video and Guinea Fowl Creative for the certificates and programs.

International Trade As we ramp up our support to exporters in high growth markets, last month we welcomed two overseas delegations, one from Kazakhstan Embassy who brought in some business leaders across technology, and industrial sectors, keen to explore business to business connections; they attended our networking event at the White Water Centre, exchanging business cards and witnessing Olympic Gold Medallist Etienne Stott and his international competitors in the water. A second delegation was welcomed from the State and Chambers of Commerce in Oklahoma who met our Chairman and team here in Hatfield. We are planning our next International Trade Event on doing business in China with the CBBC where we hope to have a panel of experts who can share their experiences, in helping you understand how to start doing business there, or the key cities to target.

Please contact Francesharris @hertschamber.com for more information on our overseas British Chambers of Commerce.

The Circular Economy Last week we ran a hugely successful conference at Rothamsted Research’s brand new state of the art conference centre, and welcomed over 80 guests to network, share expert knowledge, and debate the issues. We were delighted to have South West Herts MP and Financial Secretary to the Treasury, David Gauke, address the audience on the Governments support for this sector, academic insight into the global issues from Professor Mark Maslin at UCL and Maurizio Catulli from UH sharing his DEFRA funded rental project highlighting the significant potential for scalability and diversification. The half day was brilliantly facilitated by Innovation Director Richard Potter from Sopra Steria, who will be helping steer future activity around best practise sharing, and opportunities for SME’s in environmental entrepreneurial benefits. See page 12-13.

Employment and skills One of our key manifesto pledges is to close the gap between education and employment, and I was delighted to attend and take Luke Sills Head boy from Kings Langley School, and Young Chamber Ambassador, to the House of Lords, for a debate with Michael David, CEO of UK commission for Employment and Skills, and hosted by Baroness Scott of Needham Market.

See page 24 for details.

It was interesting to hear 16 year old Ben Towers who had been running his business since the age of 11, suggest in the debate that business studies teachers would be much more valuable to the students if they had run a business, or worked in industry, a suggestion no one could disagree with.

Best wishes Yolanda

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InspiringHertsAwards

Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2015 The Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce brings local businesses together again to celebrate success The exclusive black tie award ceremony at the Porsche Centre Hatfield was held on Thursday 14th May. With an audience of more than 350 influential business people, Hertfordshire companies were celebrated for outstanding performance and business excellence.

The brilliant Steve Folland returned to the stage for the fourth year to compere the Awards evening and over ÂŁ5000 was raised for charity in a silent auction.

A special accolade was honoured to Sir Hossein Yassaie, Chief Executive of Imagination Technologies for his Outstanding Contribution to Business.

Sir Hossein inspired the audience with a keynote speech, saluting Hertfordshire as an excellent base for the International Company.

Watford based company Tusker received the coveted title of Business of the Year; recognising a record year of growth which has been the result of a long term strategic focus on putting the customer at the heart of their business, and re-invested into new technologies to increase staff efficiencies and customer connectivity.

This has differentiated the organisation from its competitors and retained their position as market leaders, driving profits, efficiencies and job creation.

Neville Reyner, Chairman of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce 4

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InspiringHertsAwards Outstanding Contribution to Business Sponsored by LV=, (Steve Knight) Awarded to Sir Hossein Yassaie, CEO, Imagination Technologies

Community Champion Sponsored by Ocado, Awarded to Teens Unite (Debbie Pezzani, Yeldem Christodoulos, Jodie Pezzani, Lauren Thomas, Hannah Martin)

Entrepreneur of the Year Sponsored by Mercury News Group (Ricky Allan, Commercial Director), Awarded to Catherine Smith, Foxholes Farm Shop

Herts Chamber Left to right, Tamsyn Hammond, Amy Rich, Jodie Reid, Sulina Odwong, Sophie Watts

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InspiringHertsAwards Made in Herts Sponsored by Handelsbanken (Debbie Chilton, Manager - far left) Awarded to FFE Ltd (David Smoley, Tracey Brown and Daniel Waldron)

Guest Speaker - Sir Hossein Yassaie, CEO, Imagination Technologies Most Promising New Business Sponsored by Broxbourne Council and Ambition Broxbourne (Cllr Mark Mills-Bishop, Leader of Broxbourne Council), Awarded to Joanne Miller, Bespoke Verse Ltd

Foxholes Farm Shop,winners of 2 awards From left to right Neil Baker (back left) Michael Leake, Catherine Smith, Mary Sykes - Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce & Sheila Hyham

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InspiringHertsAwards

Achievement in International Business Sponsored by UK India Business Council (Richard Heald Chief Executive - far left), Awarded to Mirage Health Group (Left to right, David Caldwell, Angela Beattie, Igors Goncarovs, Ruth Healy, Nam Ruangrod, Lee Jenkins, Hannah Archer)

The Environmental Award Sponsored by Johnson Matthey (John Gourd, Director - far left) Awarded to Lussmans Fish and Grill Restaurants (Andrei Lussman, Nick McGeown, Tom Filip)

Young Herts Sponsored by Veolia (Keith McGurk), Awarded to Katherine Jeffrey

Excellence in Customer Service Sponsored by Porsche, Awarded to Foxholes Farm Shop (Left to Right Mike Murphy Centre Principal Porsche Hatfield, Catherine Smith Managing Partner Foxholes Farm Shop, Paul Saunders Shoppers Anonymous, Foxholes Farm Shop, Michael Leake, Sheila Hyham, Neil Baker)

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InspiringHertsAwards Business of the Year Winner Awarded to Tusker.

Innovation through Technology Sponsored by Serverchoice, Awarded to Tusker. (Left to right Naomi Wayne, David Hosking, David Brockwell, Alex Gray, Iain Carmichael, Claire Pacey, Kelly Giritlioglou, Amy Ryan, Neil Scott, Scott Lloyd

The Tourism Award Sponsored by Bourne Leisure Ltd (Sue Davies HR Director), Awarded to Sopwell House (Marleen Mason Director of Sales and Abraham Bejerano Owner)

Business of the Year - Medium to Large Sponsored by HB Accountants (Keith Glover), Awarded to FFE Ltd (David Smoley, Tracey Brown and Daniel Waldron)

Social Enterprise of the Year Sponsored by Aldwyck Housing Group, Awarded to Muscle Help Foundation (Martin Nabi, Sulaiman Khan, CEO, Michael McGrath, Danny Pallett, MHF Trustee Sue McGrath, Ryan Tym)

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InspiringHertsAwards Business of the Year - Small to Medium Sponsored by Stevenage Borough Council (Cllr Sharon Taylor), Awarded to Westminster Compliance (Charlie Lack and Helen Marini)

The Schools Award for Education in Employment Sponsored by Youth Connexions Awarded to The John Warner School (David Kennedy Headteacher, Caroline Lewis and Nigel Cook)

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InspiringHertsAwards

Freedom Communications Wins Inspiring Hertfordshire 2015 Award with Trailblazer Apprentice Scheme Freedom’s unique UC apprentice scheme recognised with Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce award for ‘Excellence in People Development’ Freedom Communications’ £2m Higher Unified Communications Apprentice Scheme won the ‘Excellence in People Development’ award at the Herts Chamber of Commerce’s Inspiring Hertfordshire 2015 gala dinner. This comes one year after the scheme’s inception, which is currently the only one of its kind within the UK. The ‘Excellence in People Development’ award recognises Freedom’s approach and commitment to delivering training and qualifications to enhance the skills of its current and future workforce. The scheme, in addition to creating a bespoke Higher Apprentice framework and qualification, offers Freedom’s existing workforce the opportunity to future-proof career prospects through the development of new technological skills.

The highly acclaimed programme, which is part-funded

by Government and backed by local Members of Parliament, is addressing an identified skills gap within the Unified Communications sector. Designed to be scalable for UK wide adoption, Freedom will now enter the Apprentice Scheme into the National Inspiration Awards.

Freedom’s Operations Director, Lisa Clark, commented: “Having invested heavily in our Apprentice Scheme, not just financially but also in terms of energy, passion and time, we are delighted to receive the Excellence in People Development award. We believe that this truly does recognise that we’re cultivating a unique

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technical workforce, helping to drive both business and economic growth.”

Pat Botting, Freedom’s Managing Director, commented: “Throughout our 26 year history, communications technology has evolved from traditional telephony to the new world of Unified Communications. Having seen that during this transition new skills within the market did not also develop, we made the strategic decision to address this with the launch of our own UC Apprentice Scheme. We are thrilled that both our approach and commitment to our people has been acknowledged with this award win.”

Excellence in People Development Sponsored by Longmores Solicitors (Anna Baptist, Senior Partner - Far right) Awarded to Freedom Communications (Left to right, June Valentine, Greig Valentine, Matt Skelton, Ali McGregor, Kate Carter, Lisa Clark)

“Partnering with some of the world’s leading telecommunications and technology vendors, Freedom designs, implements and manages future-proofed network infrastructures and advanced technologies for more than 6,000 locations.‘’

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Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers

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Visit the Foxholes Farm Shop with Butchery and Deli and discover just how passionate we are about

ethically rearing the finest quality grass fed-beef and rare breed Saddleback pork.

Our Tea Shop specialises in 10 flavours of tea, locally ground coffee and a large choice of lunches made from home and locally-sourced produce.

The afternoon tea is also a real treat and great value for money.

Foxholes luxury food hampers make ideal corporate gifts or can be that perfect present for any occasion.

Choose from the "Luxury Bread Dipping", hamper to the "Just Add Cheese" hamper and many more!

Open 7 Days a Week Foxholes Farm. London Road, Hertford Telephone 01992 552900 email enquiries@foxholesfarm.com

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UpFront

The Circular Economy Conference “Simply Perfect” Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce launches its annual Environmental, Sustainability and Innovation Conference

Speakers, left to right, Adam Warner Affinity Water, Prof. Mark Maslin UCL, Martin Fahey Mitsubishi Electric, Richard Potter Sopra Steria, Yolanda Rugg Herts Chamber, David Gauke MP, Maurizio Catulli REBUS, Chris Woodward Enterprise Europe Limited, Max Finney Johnson Matthey, Lee Freeman Auditel

A warm sunny morning welcomed panellists, exhibitors and delegates to the first Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce Environmental, Sustainability and Innovation Conference on Thursday 11 June. The brand new Conference Centre at Rothamsted Research proved to be the ideal setting for expert speakers and local businesses to come together to learn about the benefits of a Circular Economy.

Left to Right; Mary Sykes HCoC, Yolanda Rugg CEO HCoC, Adrian Dixon Panel2Panel, Wendy Walker East & North Herts NHS Trust, Lee Freeman Auditel, Chris Woodward Enterprise Europe Network

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The conference started with a welcome from the morning’s facilitator, Sopra Steria’s Director of Innovation, Richard Potter. Key note speaker, University College London’s

Professor Mark Maslin, then presented to the delegates the importance of a Circular Economy to businesses large and small.

David Gauke, South West Hertfordshire MP, and Financial Secretary to the Treasury, followed this with the Government’s response and encouragement for change. Mr Gauke was delighted to support the Chamber in raising awareness for this globally important topic, inspiring businesses to rethink their processes to ‘design out’ waste from their manufacturing and service models.

Expert panellists then shared their own experiences with the delegates who later

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UpFront

Fiona Edwards, JPA Furniture and Maurizio Catulli, REBUS (Photograph courtesy of JPA Furniture Chris A Holder)

Gareth Humphreys MBE, MBDA and Nicole Sadd, Oaklands College (Photograph courtesy of JPA Furniture Chris A Holder)

Richard Potter, Sopra Steria (Photograph courtesy of JPA Furniture Chris A Holder)

Sue Reason St Albans Girls School with Ella Clarke,Lillybelle Cowland-Kellock, Chloe Cheng and Mariam Kenner (Photograph courtesy of JPA Furniture Chris A Holder)

Left to Right - James Crome JPA Furniture, Professor Mark Maslin UCL, Fiona Edwards JPA Furniture (Photograph courtesy of JPA Furniture Chris A Holder)

Tara Clark, The Green Triangle and Paul Shadbolt Lloyds Bank (Photograph courtesy of JPA Furniture Chris A Holder)

fed back how inspired they were by the thought leadership on the subject and the value they found the in the sessions which gave them an insight into the world of circular economy, networking within this growing sector and understanding the local, national and global opportunities arising from supply chain. The Chamber now looks forward to their continued support in helping to shape practical ways forward to embrace the Circular Economy for our members.

Yolanda Rugg, Herts Chamber CEO “We had superb feedback and I am really proud of the end result and the opportunity

this has created in how we challenge our community to share best practise, develop an obsession for eliminating waste from design stage, and how we facilitate change and grow productivity alongside environmental benefits.”

The Chamber will announce the date for next year’s Environmental, Sustainability and Innovation Conference soon.

“It was a very interesting event and it has generated some interesting opportunities to assist local business…. please bear us in mind for future events.” Expert Panellist

and Exhibitor Chris Woodward, Enterprise Europe Network.

“It was a great event. Very well managed and informative. We enjoyed our time, made some good contacts and learned new things too.” Exhibitor, Nosheen Lone, Tek.One Technologies Limited.

“We would love to be involved in future events. It was a first for us and as a starting point we thought it went very well - great venue!” Gold Sponsor & Exhibitor, Fiona Edwards, JPA Furniture.

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PatronFocus Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce is delighted to welcome on board as new Patron.

PwC St Albans welcomes the Private Business Dynamic Duo If you want great listeners, learn how to grow your business and have fun, meet Suzi Woolfson and Nick Farr

“Family Businesses showed resilience through the downturn with many making bold decisions to continue with capital investments, whether that's been building new factory facilities or expanding into new operations, all of which are beginning to show returns.‘’

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We are private business specialists with over 16,000 private business, family business and entrepreneur clients, with more dedicated specialists on the ground than any other firm. We can help you spot opportunities for growth, manage risk, save money and create value and will work with you to put all the pieces together. We are focused on building long term relationships, based on honesty, trust and

commitment and work with our clients through the ups and downs.

Family Businesses showed resilience through the downturn with many making bold decisions to continue with capital investments, whether that's been building new factory facilities or expanding into new operations, all of which are beginning to show returns.

There has been significant innovation evidenced by

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PatronFocus

the multitude of new start-ups not only in the technology space but also traditional sectors using disruptive technology. Exports and internationalisation are on the up and we are astounded by the creative skills of our budding entrepreneurs who are introducing technologies you could scarcely imagine a few years ago.

All in all, private business is a crucial sector to our economy and, despite all the success stories, needs continued investment to ensure that those that fail due to lack of investment and funding, or simply the complexities of doing business ,have a chance to thrive and make their valuable contribution. The latter is not only the job of the Government - through tax incentives and business support bodies but all of us in the wider private sector, whether that's by making investments, sharing networks, bank lending or simply mentoring and experiential support.

Family Business Survey 2014 We talked to nearly 2,400 family business decision, makers in over 40 countries. We wanted to speak to the leaders in these businesses to see what challenges they were facing now and what sorts of challenges they believe they will face in the future. We wanted to get their views on succession and internationalisation and we wanted to hear from them about how they plan to tackle the issues around attracting and retaining the right talent and skills and also what they are doing to capitalise on the opportunities that digital is bringing.

The 2014 survey shows that family firms remain dynamic and resilient, even though the post-recession economic environment is proving tough.

There are significant shifts underway in the family business sector, and new challenges that these firms will need address if

The St Albans Office

they are to remain as successful in the future as they have been in the past. Only 16% of family business have a discussed and documented succession plan in place. 40% agreed that professionalising the business is a key challenge over the next five years. You can download the full results at www.pwc.com/gx/en/pwc-familybusiness-survey.

Suzi Woolfson and Nick Farr Both Suzi and Nick are dedicated to working with private businesses from start-ups to large private family business.

Even the most successful

businesses need good listeners who can help them grow and tackle the issues and provide challenge.

PwC St Albans office was established over 25 years ago to provide local businesses with a range of services including audit, tax, pensions and consulting advice. The office has 22 partners and directors and over 150 staff. Our clients range from small private companies through to large listed businesses, operating across a wide range of industry sectors including retail, shipping, transport and logistics, hospitality and leisure, media and entertainment.

“The 2014 survey shows that family firms remain dynamic and resilient, even though the post-recession economic environment is proving tough. There are significant shifts underway in the family business sector, and new challenges that these firms will need address if they are to remain as successful in the future as they have been in the past. ‘’ INSPIRE

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ProfessionalDevelopment

Professional Development skills - what do tomorrow's leaders need?

Develop management capability for 25% less with the University of Hertfordshire

“Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce have negotiated a 25% reduction in the cost of any of the UH Courses on the following website for a limited period www.herts.ac.uk/courses”

Improve competitive advantage • Maintain an efficient delivery process and win new business

• Project Management

• Save time, cost and energy

• Supply Chain Management

• Identify and establish new markets • Keep your customers happy

• Strategic Business and Information Systems

• International Business

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• Operations Management

• Marketing

• Project Management Practice (NCPM)

If you would like to book a place or require any further information please contact Laura Shoobridge laurashoobridge@hertschamber.com or phone 01707 398400 4 Bishops Square, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 9NE Tel: 01707 398000 Fax: 01707 398430 www.hertschamber.com

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Audi.

Business attire.

Presentation matters. When you arrive in an Audi, you’re better connected, more efficient and stronger than the competition, so everyone gets the right impression.

A6 Saloon 2.0 TDI SE ultra S tronic: 10,000 miles per annum, 3-year contract hire example: 35 monthly rentals of

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The Audi A6 Saloon mixes comfort, space and luxury with stellar efficiency. Ultra engine technology makes the A6 Saloon 2.0 TDI SE ultra S tronic astonishingly efficient. SE trim is tailored to match the needs of the business driver, with plenty of essential equipment and a low BIK rate. Model features include dynamic suspension, Cruise Control and Audi drive select.

A8 Saloon 3.0 TDI quattro SE Executive tiptronic 258 PS, Clean Diesel: 10,000 miles per annum, 3-year contract hire example: 35 monthly rentals of

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The Audi A8 Saloon is luxuriously appointed and beautifully built, it is a high-performance showcase of prestige refinement, performance and technology.

In 3.0 TDI quattro SE Executive tiptronic specification, it’s as well-equipped as it is powerfully desirable. Model features include permanent all-wheel-drive, climate control with sun sensor and Audi parking system advanced with reversing.

Call Marouf Ahmed on 01462 378 632 or email corporate@hitchinaudi.co.uk to arrange your test drive today.

Hitchin Audi Nightingale Road Hitchin Hertfordshire SG5 1RQ 01462 378 632 www.hitchin.audi.co.uk Standard EU Test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Audi range shown: Urban 38.7-55.4 (7.3-5.1), Extra Urban 55.4-72.4 (5.1-3.9), Combined 47.9-64.2 (5.9-4.4). Official CO2 emission figures 155114g/km. Business users only: Further charges may be payable when vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. Available to over 18s from participating Centres only for

vehicles ordered and delivered by 30 June 2015 (subject to availability). Offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Specification correct at time of publication. Prices quoted and examples shown are correct at time (June 2015) and do not take into account any variation to government taxes or charges arising after the date of publication. Terms and conditions apply. Images used for illustration purposes. Audi Finance, Freepost Audi Finance. Jardine Motors Group includes Lancaster Motor Company Ltd, Lancaster Cars Ltd, Lancaster Luxury Vehicles Ltd, Lancaster plc, Lancaster Specialist Cars Ltd and Lancaster Sports Cars Ltd. All of whom are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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SpotlightOn

Hertford - a town with Hertford is one of those towns that effortlessly takes advantage of its rich heritage while embracing the opportunities presented by an exciting future.

An historic county town with buildings dating back several centuries, it also has a varied business community with its eyes set firmly on developing sectors as diverse as science and finance.

Underpinning that confidence are the many advantages of living and working in the town, not

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least quality of life; indeed, East Hertfordshire has been rated the ninth best place to live in the UK in the Halifax Quality of Life rankings.

Among reasons for that ranking is Hertford’s great selection of independent cafes, delicatessens and restaurants as well as 140 shops.

In addition, Hertford has a museum, a castle, a brewery and a number of art, music and history societies, as well as a lively events programme, all adding up to a busy and thriving town.

Supporting that impression is the business picture with several important industrial estates,

sectors ranging from legal to manufacturing doing well and the education and skills landscape strong.

Indeed, 39% of over-16s in the town attain a degree or other professional qualification compared with the national average of 27%.

e

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SpotlightOn

everything going for it “Hertford has a resilient economy with a mixture of businesses and employers, ranging from the county and district councils to longstanding companies, as well as a strong retail offer and a strong night-time economy.”

Hertfordshire County Councillor David Williams, Cabinet Member for Enterprise, Education and Skills •••

“Hertford has rapidly established itself as the creative hub of Hertfordshire.

Digital Results was one of the first to establish itself in Hertford in 2008 and since then several other new agencies have popped up around town.

“This is great news for businesses in Hertford who now have access to an abundance of creative and digital marketing resources right on their doorstep.”

“Our business is based in Mead Lane, Hertford, where we have a large warehouse used to store and fulfil our clients’ orders.

“Because we store for a lot of ecommerce businesses we could be based almost anywhere, however our local clients have the benefit from being able to access their goods during opening hours.

“My father bought Foxholes Farm, on the outskirts of Hertford, County Town, 50 years ago and ran it as a dairy farm, milking Friesian cows for 30 years.

•••

“From the team’s point of view it’s great to be based in a thriving county town, which has easy access to shops, local amenities and even the local common. Not only is this a beautiful area to work, its central location provides an unrivalled gateway to the wealth of SME clients which we work with across the county.”

Justine Perry, Managing Director, Cariad Marketing

“We were delighted to open the branch here in 2013, looking after Hertford and the surrounding area. We are a relationship bank based on traditional values and have the time to get to know both our individual and corporate customers well, building long term relationships. “ Our bank’s decentralised model enables us to use this local knowledge for our customers benefit, each branch is empowered to make decisions; this means we can act faster and tailor solutions to our customers’ needs.''

Debbie Chilton, Branch Manager, Handelsbanken

Charles Southey Co-Founder, Digital Results

“As a team we love being located in the centre of Hertford. It’s an attractive and easily-accessible place for our clients to visit, with excellent road and rail links to both London and the rest of Hertfordshire.

''Hertford is a historic county town and it’s a good place to live, work and do business.

“Another benefit of being based in Hertford is that the rent is more cost effective than being based in London.

“Two of our major clients are based in London and with good rail services from Hertford East I can be at their offices in just over an hour. We are also ideally situated for van deliveries into London and for easy access to the A1, A10, M25 and the M1.

“Having been a resident in Hertford for a number of years it made sense for me to set up our business in the local area which enables me to travel from home to the office in five minutes. I am also on hand for our clients should they need urgent access out of hours.”

Lynn Bound, TASS Enterprise Ltd

•••

“We then diversified into rearing our own beef breeds of cows for meat production.

Selling at the farmhouse door for two days a week and local farmers markets, including Hertford. And now we have a purpose built Award Winning Farm Shop, with its own butchery, deli and tea shop.

“This is an amazing family journey from one farm on the outskirts of Hertford.

We benefit from being near the town as we do feel part of the community, now that people come down our long rural drive. But equally because we can walk into town and benefit from all Hertford has to offer in the evening and during the day.

“Being just outside the town, we can give our customers the feel of the countryside,

although we are only two minutes out of town.

“The infrastructure around us, A10 and A414 are good dual carriageways for visitors and agricultural vehicles.”

Catherine Smith Foxholes Farm & Shop •••

“Hertford became both the test bed and spiritual home of Lussmanns with three restaurants across the county and a fourth opening in the spring of 2016.

“Hertford, once a dearth of eating out, has today become a fantastic regional hub of both local business and somewhere to commute from into London.

“Lussmanns sits nicely between the high street chain and the one-off independents.

Passionate and proud of our humble beginnings in North Kensington, it soon became clear that we needed to grow and where better to start again than Hertford?

“In eleven years in Hertford we have come to appreciate its intrinsic value to both local business and that of the allimportant High street brand.

“Hertford has helped established Lussmanns credible position on the high street and with three restaurants across the county and a fourth in 2016 it’s fair to say it started here.”

Andrei Lussman Lussmans Restaurant

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SpotlightOn

MP celebrates the advantages of Hertford Despite being the county town, Hertford is often overlooked for its larger neighbours, such as Stevenage or Hatfield. However, like Ware and the other main towns in East Herts such as Bishop’s Stortford and Sawbridgeworth, Hertford enjoys real advantages for both employers and their staff.

The town is well located and has good road and rail links, into London and northwards, whilst the M25, A1(M) and A10 are nearby.

The town has a unique history, having at different times been the home for both Synod and Parliament, and it has largely retained much of that historical character.

Like its neighbour and rival Ware, Hertford remains an attractive town to live in, with numerous rivers and green spaces. Educational attainment is high with excellent schools and so local employers can be confident of a well-educated and trained labour market.

These are some of the reasons why the town retains a broad base of employers and enterprise, from brewing, to printing; from professional services, to some excellent manufacturers.

The town is also central to the wider Hertfordshire economy with its world class pharmaceutical and bio tech firms.

As a county, Hertfordshire lies between London and Cambridge and so has benefited enormously from being at the heart of a cluster of some 200 leading globally significant pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical companies and research institutions.

This is not to say there aren’t challenges. Our train service needs investment, which is why I am lobbying for both new rolling stock and for doubling the track capacity into London. We hope to hear more about this later this year.

Equally, like many market towns, Hertford’s centre is facing the twin threats of online shopping and outof-town retail.

Fortunately the local councils are actively working to help the town compete, with reforms to parking, a vibrant market and a busy calendar of great events to draw people in. And the combination of an increasingly popular arts scene at Hertford Theatre and the awardwinning Museum really add to the sense of local community.

This all contributes to the fact that as a district East Herts enjoys one of the highest qualities of life of any district in the country.

Why should that matter? In an age when retaining good staff is vital, the quality of life which Hertford can offer gives its employers - private and public - a real advantage.

Mark Prisk MP represents the constituency of Hertford and Stortford. He was first elected in 2001 and was re-elected this May with a majority of 21,000. www.markprisk.com

“These are some of the reasons why the town retains a broad base of employers and enterprise, from brewing, to printing; from professional services, to some excellent manufacturers. The town is also central to the wider Hertfordshire economy with its world class pharmaceutical and bio tech firms‘’

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MembersNews

Are you up for the #657Herts challenge?

Hertfordshire-based charity The Muscle Help Foundation has launched its latest local initiative this month with #657Herts.

The charity is aiming to rally together 657 Hertfordshire businesses to make a one-off donation of just £6.57 to be a part of a live donation wall on its website: www.musclehelp.com/657herts.

Your I.C.T. Department? with a personal touch Established in 2000, our business provides high quality, personal ICT services to the SME marketplace.

Our expertise covers all aspects of ICT from hardware installation and maintenance, through networking and internet access to software development and training.

Sigma is distinctive; We pride ourselves on knowing our clients personally whether MD or secretary.

We have proven that the trust and understanding from knowing the person is crucial to the effective support that can keep your business working today, and ready for the future.

The Team We have a strong team now of five, each with our own specialism, combined with a chosen few associates to bring the full spectrum of ICT services to your company.

All local businesses need to do is complete the form on www.musclehelp.com/657hert s upload their company logo and donate £6.57.

The aim is the same as always and very close to The Muscle Help Foundation’s heart: to fulfil 657 Muscle Dreams for children and young people with muscular dystrophy and allied neuromuscular conditions. “That’s one life changing experience for every single muscle in the human body; that’s the #powerof657” said MHF’s CEO Michael McGrath who himself has muscular dystrophy.

Michael and the Team are committed to improving the

quality of life for families who are affected by muscular dystrophy – everybody has a dream whether it’s meeting a global movie icon, a famous chef, a captain of industry, a music band or your favourite rugby stars. Whether it’s about feeling the need for speed at Silverstone, meeting your superhero or snuggling up with meerkats, MHF’s highly personalised, transformative experiences have the same impact: greater self-esteem, improved confidence, an increased sense of hopefulness, connecting and sharing knowledge with other families, unforgettable memories and the establishment of lasting

friendships. So far the charity has delivered 191 dreams to Muscle Warriors with 466 to go.

When the #657Herts live donation wall has been successful, the charity plans to launch further campaigns in Counties across the UK, giving local businesses a chance to donate and have their corporate logo displayed on the MHF website.

Our client base is in the South East of England, primarily in Herts, Beds & Cambs, and is comprised of many different types of business including: Accountants, Solicitors, Hotels, Automotive and Aeronautical Engineering.

The logos below show we are a highly skilled and serious contender for your corporate support needs.

Make Sigma Office your ICT department.

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As a local business you can help the charity reach their goal of delivering 657 Muscle Dreams by simply donating £6.57 today or share the message on Twitter #657Herts. Thank you.

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YoungChamber

KLS Head Boy attends House of Lords event On Tuesday 16th June, Luke Sills, Head Boy at Kings Langley School visited the House of Lords. Here, he writes about his experience.

I was invited as a guest of Yolanda Rugg, Chief Executive of Hertfordshire's Chamber of Commerce, to attend a drinks reception and dinner discussion at the House of Lords. The evening was based around the issue of 'Bridging the Gap between Business and Education' and there were in attendance several MPs from across the country, various Lords and Baronesses, and representatives from the world of business.

These included Michael Davis, the Chief Executive of the UK Commission for Employment and Skills and Dr Adam Marshall an Executive Director of the British Chamber of Commerce.

I was sat on a table with Baroness Garden of Frognal, and Lord Lucas - the editor of the Good Schools Guide.

We had some fascinating discussions about the need to bridge the gap between the education and employment in

the UK, to ensure it meets the needs of employers and the business world. It was astonishing to find out that 57% of employers claim young people do not have the 'soft skills' (communications, resilience and teamwork) desired by industry, and are therefore almost unemployable.

However, when I was asked to address the guests, and give my insight into the issues surrounding the gap between education and business I was proud (and relieved!) to state that at Kings Langley, we ensure that not only academic excellence is achieved - but also the development of the entire person, specifically in terms of building character.

I thoroughly enjoyed the evening, and it was a great privilege to be amongst some very influential people, in the setting of the beautiful Palace of Westminster.

“We had some fascinating discussions about the need to bridge the gap between education and empoyment.‘’

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YoungChamber

Year 12 Gold Crest winners named as ‘Engineers of the Future’ Year 12 physics students Sarah Al-Khazraji, Lilybelle Cowland Kellock, Alexandria Edwards, and Lilly Newby- Ricci each received a Gold Crest award in recognition for work they produced for an engineering design brief set by the Engineering Development Trust (EDT).

“The organisation arranged for the STAGS physics team to work with two inspirational mentors from the Highways Department at Hertfordshire County Council, Assistant network manager Derek Twigg and Assistant Engineer Louisa Augustine-Fraser.‘’

Each year the EDT scheme links teams of four year 12 students and their teacher with a local company or organisation that enables them explore real scientific and technological problems and this year this included the team from St Albans Girls' School (STAGS).

The organisation arranged for the STAGS physics team to work with two inspirational mentors from the Highways Department at Hertfordshire County Council, Assistant network manager Derek Twigg and Assistant Engineer Louisa Augustine-Fraser.

Driven by the requirements of the brief, the pupils were challenged to create a cycle route from STAGS school to St Albans City Station.

The route needed to pass through points of interest and include a raised embankment with a retaining support wall.

The project also had to be costed out and fall within a set budget. The enthusiastic girls worked hard for a total of six months covering 70 hours, and their progress was monitored

by Physics their mentors.

To help the students plan their route they carried out a primary market research survey and used the results to assist them at the planning stage of the project. The students were inspired by a beautiful sparkling cycle path created by Dutch artist & designer Daan Roosagaarde and this led them to come up the idea for a glow in the dark cycle path for St Albans.

Sarah Al-Khazrad said ‘Being involved in this project was amazing and I learnt a lot about the dynamics of teamwork, and the challenges we would be likely to face in the professional workplace’.

The University of Hertfordshire played host and supported this EDT project from September 2014 until the final presentations in April 2015.

They organised the launch day where sixteen teams of four students were formally introduced to the project and their mentors. Once the team had finalised their designs they were invited to attend a two day workshop at the University in January.

Finally on Friday April 24th the project came to a close with the

celebration and assessment day.

All school teams were invited back to Herts University to give a professional presentation of their proposals. Each team was judged by a panel of selected industrial representatives.

Richard Folkson President -elect of the Institute of Mechanical engineering was proud to present students with EES certificates .

After the assessment day HCC Assistant Network Manager mentor Derek Twigg said “I think we've come across some engineers of the future as the standard of work has been exceptionally high. The four students from St Albans Girls' School deserve this gold award and are a credit to their school and families. We wish them good luck in the future."

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HRAcademy

Translation

BCC: Knowledge gaps and a must for your language skills business to grow hold back exporters Translation is undoubtedly essential in “There is a major shortfall in foreign language skills within the business community.”

A shortage of language skills undermines UK export performance • Knowledge of other languages is a critical skill for exporters. 62% of nonexporters that are likely to consider trading internationally in the future see proficiency in foreign languages – or lack thereof – as a barrier to do so.

• Even when business owners claim some language knowledge, very few speak well enough to conduct deals in their buyers’ language, and this is doubly important when conducting business outside the largest cities and administrative centres.

• French remains the most commonly spoken language, with 71% of business owners claiming some knowledge.

However, only five per cent are able to converse fluently enough in French to conduct business deals in that language.

• When looking at other trading partners in the eurozone, 57% spoke no German, 65% no Spanish, and 76% no Italian.

• Looking at faster-growing markets outside the eurozone, the problem is even more acute: 95% of business owners have no knowledge whatsoever of either Russian or Chinese, despite these two economies forecast by the IMF to grow by 3.4% and 7.75% respectively. Less than one per cent feel that they can converse fluently in either language.

BCC recommendation The BCC is calling for a fundamental change in approach to the importance of language learning, to ensure that the next generation of business owners are ‘born global’. The government should revise the national curriculum so that studying a foreign language is compulsory until AS Level. Incentivising language training for SMEs through financial incentives will also ensure a tailored approach for businesses, so that staff can learn the relevant languages they need for conducting business abroad.

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Special O Get 400 ffer

w website ords from your o brochure r company into Germ translated a French, n, Spanish, Simplifie Italian or d Chine se + VAT

£50

today’s globalised marketplace.

The wider scope of available open markets for businesses means ignoring European and Worldwide markets is an unnecessary limitation to growth.

There are multiple reasons why a business requires translation services, international ecommerce, documentation for export, contracts and safety guidelines for foreign employees, to quote a few.

Businesses of all sizes use translation, and it is affordable to all. However, it is best to be aware of the pitfalls.

Choosing a professional translation service The likes of Google Translate can be helpful, but produce a level of translation that is unsuitable for business use.

Similarly, a foreign language speaker isn’t automatically a professional-level translator.

While having a multi-lingual workforce is an asset, loading translations on your staff may distract them from their own valuable job.

Professional translators undergo over 4 years specialised university studies, acquire 5 years of practical experience, focus on industry sectors and train in the use of computer aided translation tools and technologies.

These skills save time and cut costs for your business.

Choosing a professional translation company is invaluable. hey offer added value above and beyond the translation work.

They provide consultancy, vet translators, check quality, manage projects and provide reviews of the original textual content.

Correct translation is a key factor in success or failure when exploring a new marketplace.

It is therefore crucial to get it right. Aiding the expansion of your business is of primary importance to The Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce (HCoC), which is why translation is one of our key service offerings.

HCoC Linguistic Services are backedup by webwide translations How to use the service?

Translation is an integral part of the Chamber’s International Services. For many years HCoC has been assisting its members with an effective and affordable linguistic service. This has been achieved by collaborating with webwide translations, a local reputable company. webwide translations translate from and into any language. They work locally and internationally with a wide range of companies, from Blue Chips to SMEs, and have a solid track record of totally satisfied customers.

To use our translation or linguistic services just call on 01707 398400 or email Frances.Harris@hertschamber.com You will be contacted by webwide translations within a few hours.

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HRAcademy

Olympic Champion shares his story with local businesses More than 40 business representatives came together on 9 June to meet at a Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce networking event, sponsored by Ambition Broxbourne, at the Lee Valley White Water Centre in Waltham Abbey.

They participated in a half hour walking tour of the 2012 Olympic facility and were inspired by the success story of Etienne Stott MBE, Gold Medal Winner 2012 who explained his journey from 12 years of age to current ambitions in the sport.

Etienne told the assembled businesses that he was

delighted they could visit the centre and encouraged more businesses to consider sponsoring sport in future.

Etienne Stott MBE is an English slalom canoeist who has competed since the early 2000s. Etienne and his partner Timothy Baillie qualified with their final time unbeaten,

winning the gold medal in front of a 12,000 strong home crowd at the Lee Valley White Water Centre at London 2012.

The event was attended by businesses and organisations from Broxbourne and across the county including: Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP (PwC), Metro Bank, Ashbourne

Insurance, Teens Unite, Volkerwessels, Cheshunt Marriott, Wenta to name a few and were also joined by an International Trade delegation visiting from Kazakhstan headed up by Marat Karabayev, Official Representative of the Mayor’s of the Southern Kazakhstan, inward investments department.

"We were delighted to facilitate new business supplier relationships being forged as a result of our overseas delegation and attracting a diverse range of local businesses inspired by the Olympic Gold medallist, Etienne Stott."

Yolanda Rugg, Herts Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Etienne Stott MBE with Yolanda Rugg Herts Chamber and the Kazakhstan delegation, Marat Karabayev, Dauren Kozybayev, Askar Ilyaskarov, Abdrakhim Zhumabekov, Yermek Abassov, Dauletbek Kussainov,

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MembersNews

Why you should aspire to be an ‘Authentic’ Leader

By Leona Barr-Jones, Managing Director at Barr-Jones Associates.

Authentic leadership is a relatively recent leadership construct based on the issue of integrity.

According to the theory of authentic leadership, to be a truly great leader you must demonstrate authenticity and trustworthiness. It is no good being one person in the workplace and a completely different person outside of the workplace.

Your personality will be inconsistent and your employees will find it hard to trust you. I am MD of change management and business growth consultancy Barr Jones Associates, and have spent many years training future leaders both in the public and private sectors. Here, I identify the key traits of authentic leadership.

Sometimes leaders have to take risks and if you live by a particular set of values, you may have to take a risk to be true to those values. All great entrepreneurs are risk takers and have strong leadership skills and strong brands.

For example Richard Branson and Jo Malone both have strong brand values based around their own personalities. Both Branson and Malone are clear about their leadership role within their chosen business fields and not swayed by the opinions of others.

3. Authentic leaders show their emotions, and because of this, they are able to connect with their employees. Because of this they share their thoughts and feelings with the people around them. They are very direct and this is often critical to successful outcomes. By contrast directness without empathy is cruel.

4. Authentic leaders are risk takers.

They challenge themselves constantly and are not afraid

They are risk takers and by not playing safe they have often made the biggest difference to their businesses. Working for leaders such as these two, creates a loyal workforce that buys into their leader’s vision. So how can you make sure you are an authentic leader and what traits do you need to nurture?

1. Authentic leaders do what they say they are going to do. If you look at great authentic leaders, they put the mission and the goals of the organization ahead of their own quest for power, money or ego. They are completely consistent, results driven and always have an end goal in mind.

to take risks to achieve their goals. They will step outside their comfort zone to get results 5. They leave a legacy. Authentic leaders build a legacy by adding value to everyone that they deal with and leaving the world a better place in the process.

If you want to find out more about authentic leadership, contact Leona Barr Jones on leona@barrjonesassociates.com

2. Authentic leaders are self-aware and genuine. Authentic leaders are well aware of their strengths and also their limitations. They show their real selves to their followers and do not act one way in private and another in public.

They are happy to admit to their mistakes and they don’t hide them out of fear of looking weak.

Sopra Steria’s Head of Environmental Sustainability nominated for business leader award Siva Niranjan has been nominated as one of the country’s most notable sustainable business leaders in the 2degrees Champions Awards.

Siva was nominated by The CarbonNeutral Company for taking Sopra Steria from the beginning of its sustainability journey to a globally recognised leadership position in just six years.

Through Siva’s passion and energy he has built and championed the company-wide sustainability programme so the whole workforce take ownership of their actions and are working towards achieving

their sustainability goals together.

He coordinates many projects in the countries where Sopra Steria is present and says, “I have been really privileged to lead this area for our company along with some amazing focused, driven and enthusiastic colleagues across the group to make our company world class in this arena.”

2degrees is a leading sustainability organisation, providing a collaboration platform to support more sustainable

business practices that is used by some of the world’s biggest and best known companies. Past sustainability champions include Sky, PwC, and Prince Charles.

Voting is underway and the winners will be announced at a Champions Awards Ceremony in London on 15th July 2015.

Good luck to Siva from all of his Sopra Steria colleagues!

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InternationalTrade

Export Support in HIGH GROWTH MARKETS From the international UK business network

You’ve taken your first steps into exporting...

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...and want to increase your market share Now you’re looking for accredited, tailored and impartial advice...

The international UK business network is strengthening its presence in 40 high growth, emerging markets: ASIA: China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Japan, India, Indonesia, South Korea, Philippines, Pakistan, Kazakhstan

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MIDDLE EAST: UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia EUROPE: Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Romania, Turkey

AFRICA: Nigeria, South Africa, Angola, Morocco, Algeria, Ghana, Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania LATIN AMERICA: Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, Chile

Inspire 10 - June - July_Layout 1 25/06/2015 16:14 Page 31

InternationalTrade

THE INTERNATIONAL UK BUSINESS NETWORK There has never been a better time for British businesses to broaden out their horizons and explore international markets. Improvements in trade finance, trade agreements and online connectivity have increased access to worldwide markets. The BCC Quarterly economic survey shows manufacturers are turning to export markets overseas to fuel their growth ambitions as domestic markets remain weak.

The British Chambers of Commerce, UK Trade & Investment and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office are working together to create an Accredited International UK Business network, providing more practical business to business support for UK exporters.

By using our network’s services you can: • Tap into a reservoir of qualified knowledge on international trade • Quickly establish links with customers and business groups overseas • Receive support to get you started, set up overseas, build market share and expand into new markets

Getting started overseas

Additional services

To help get you started, we can offer practical support that includes: • British business centres - a physical base to help get you started, with access to wi-fi and other office facilities, and fellow companies on hand from the local business network • Matchmaking services - introductions to agents, suppliers and distributors and potential customers • Professional business services introductions to trusted lawyers, accountants, translators, tax advisors, other professional support services

In many markets, you can also take advantage of a wide range of additional services. These include: • Visa, business visa and work permit support • Market overview, research, competitor and sector analysis • Advice on cultural awareness • Tariff and customs research • Finance reporting and book-keeping • Relocation support • Language/translation support • Risk and budget management support • Policy advice

Building market share

Tailored services Once you have started trading in your The network will tailor support to meet your chosen market we can help you build your needs. Some services are free, others market share with: attract a cost. Our networks will provide a • Advice on the best routes to market, fully-priced proposal detailing any costs port Britain whether that’s through a joint venture or applicable and are very competitive, by Export Britain Export Britain representative ort Britain is the destination for more information onestablishing support aavailable fromoffice the comparison to competitor networks.

COREs isNetw SERVICES OFFERED THE ExportBusines Britain the des tion fno orBY mor efor inf orma tion on aange vailable om rnational etina w only one w afor ysupport fr omon a rsupport of aadvic ethefrom the Export Britain istina the des tion mor eSupport infa orma tion vfrailable •click launches and marketing new To of out more NETWORK products and International Busines Netw s Netw e now only one click aservices wa y from ofrange advic efindadvic includes: Int erna tional sBusines e no w only one click awaayrange from a e about the services available in your market please contact that includes: tha t includes: • Access satellite offices in larger markets Market insight your local Accredited Chamber or visit such as China, India or Brazil We can provide you with market www.exportbritain.org.uk.

K and Internaintelligence tional dirthat ectories esearch and publications you can trust and use• toTrade rGrowing aTrregional Tradeof • ne UKwand Int dirtional ect andpresence •resear ade direct esear ch andtions publications UKerna and Int erna Export Britain • Case •sIftudies xport s &•inform blogs suc cch esrsful epublica xport yourtional decisions, andories save youories time you’re looking to expand within your Export Britain is the destination for more • Case s • Export ne w s & blogs tudies of suc c es sful e xport and money: busines ses • Case s • Export ne w s & blogs tudies of suc c es sful e xport ccess to social media networks target region, the network can help by: information on support available from the busines ses busines ses advantage ofnetw up to orks datenetw information • eAvcents cess••and tA media oTake • Useful •links csocial ctres s to social media orks Introducing you to approved business to xport ade mis sions International Business Network. You are a given market, together •links Useful business support links groups in the markets • servic Export von ents and trade mis now only one click away from a range of • eExport evand ents and trsions adewith misbroader, sions • Useful xport es, tr aining sector-specific information provided by that interest you advicethat includes: • Export training and ocumenta tion • servic Export servic es, tr aining and that Britishes, business groups in countries • Connecting you with regional distributors • UK and International directories documenta tion you tion documenta interest and other reputable contacts to get you • Export news & blogs started • Identify challenges and opportunities and • Access to social media networks e visit ww.eofxportbritain. g.uk understand the w nuances doing •or Help you gain access to government and • Export events and trade missions eer visit wcvisit w .eregion xportbritain. org.uk business a particular country or e w ww.exportbritain. org.uk other relevant support nd follow us on Tinwitt @bc ew xport • Export services, training and and follo w fus on witt @bcer ce@bc xport and ollo w Tus onerTwitt cexport documentation • Trade research and publications Export Britain partners • Case studies of successful export port Britain P artners businesses ExportExport BritainBritain Partners Partners • Useful links You will benefit from the same trustworthy, impartial advice that British businesses overseas already rely on.

To find out more visit www.exportbritain.org.uk and follow us on Twitter @bccexport

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ChamberServices

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce International Services Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce helps you take your business to the world.

Whether you are planning to export for the first time, or expanding on your existing export activity.

Our export team can offer practical advice and assistance, with documentation services and through our partnerships provide international marketing and business information and support.

We have a dedicated British Chambers of Commerce approved documentation team who can help with the issue and certification of documents to ensure your goods and services are exported in accordance with international law and procedures.

We can help you with: • Certificates of Origin • Electronic Export documentation • Certification, Legalisation & Notarisation of Export Documentation • EUR1 & ATR customs authentication • Guidance, Reference source, Finding a Freight Forwarder, Translator service, Specialised Export Training Courses, Events & Briefings, Monthly e-mail up-date.

Our partnership with UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) and accreditation from the British Chambers of Commerce, makes the Herts Chamber the first port of call for the British exporter.

Our International Services Team is available Monday to Friday to support you with a wealth of information and on hand to answer any of your exporting queries.

Our export services and documentation are available to all businesses, while only members have access to preferential rates.

Contact the Export Team on +44 (0)1707 398408/09.

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NewMembers

Welcome to new members DHP Law LLP T/A Duffield Harrison Solicitor 56 High Street Hoddesdon Hertfordshire EN11 EX 01992 442 911 www.dhplaw.co.uk

Alterra Consulting Limited Business Consultant/Web Design/ Business Planning 40 Lemsford Village Welwyn Garden City Hertfordshire AL8 7TR 07947 502760 www.alterra-consulting.co.uk

East & North Herts Hospitals Charity Hospital Charity Lister Hospital, Coreys Mill Lane Stevenage Hertfordshire SG1 4AB 01438 286 142

Christian Conference Trust CCT is a Charity that provides Conference Facility’s for Christian Organisations & Businesses Hight Leigh Conference Centre, Lord Street Hoddesdon Hertfordshire EN11 8SG 01992 463016 www.cct.oeg.uk

Software for People Ltd

Tollers Solicitors LLP

Software development, professional payroll training & supporting services for HR & Payroll industry The Maltings, Bridge Street Hitchin Hertfordshire SG5 2DE 01462 441844 www.softwareforpeople.co.uk

Solicitors offering a full range of legal services for 'Business & for You' Hertslands House, Primett Road Stevenage Hertfordshire SG1 3EE 01438 901095 www.tollers.co.uk

Santander Corporate & Commercial Bank (Watford)

Goffs School

Corporate and Commercial Banking, providing domestic & international banking services to our clients Meridien House 69-71 Clarendon Road WATFORD Hertfordshire WD17 1DS 01923 797 142

Price Waterhouse Coopers LLP We provide assurance, tax and advisory services to clients across all industry sectors 10 Bricket Road St Albans Hertfordshire Al1 3YX 01727 892 353 www.pwc.com/uk

Sands Financial Management Mortgage, Insurance and Financial Advice Ground Floor, Unit 1, Gateway 1000 Stevenage Hertfordshire SG1 2FP 01462 420 234 www.sand-fm.co.uk

Secondary School Goffs Lane Cheshunt Hertfordshire EN7 5QW 01992 424200 www.goffs.herts.sch.uk

Dacorum Sports Trust We provide a wide range of sporting and fitness services, including the major sports centres.

Park Road Hemel Hempsted Hertfordshire HP1 1JS 01442 507 100 www.sportspace.co.uk

John Laing Training Training Rosanne House, Parkway Welwyn Garden City Hertfordshire Al8 6HG 01707 244 544 www.jlt.co.uk

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NewMembers Road Victims Trust

Network Integrity Services

Broxbourne Leisure Management

We are dedicated to supporting people affected by the grief and trauma of road death 146 Bedford Road, Kemston, Bedford Bedfordshire MK42 8BH 01234 843 345 www.rvtrust.org.uk

IT Outsourcing The Old Forge,Hatfield House Park Hatfield Hertfordshire AL9 5NB 0330 088 2945 www.nis-it.co.uk

Leisure Club Borough Of Broxbourne, Goffs Lane, Cheshunt Hertfordshire EN8 9XF 01992 449515 www.broxboure.gov

WFHD Consulting Ltd I am a nutritionist working with the local community to fight obesity and increase healthy eating 26 The Trums WATFORD Hertfordshire WD24 6DJ 07818 508947 www.bodybyvi.vom

Hope for Children International charity providing health, education across the world to support children 2nd Floor West 11 Bridge Street HEMEL HEMPSTEAD Hertfordshire HP1 1EG 01442 234 561 www.hope4c.org

Watford UTC Education 18 Colonial Way Watford Hertfordshire WD24 4PT 019213 905 240 www.watfordytc.org

Sopra Steria IT Services & Business Process Services Three Cherrie Trees Lane Hemel Hempsted Hertfordshire HP2 7AH 0307 600 4466 www.soprasteria.co.uk

Hartside Consultants Ltd Accountancy 2 Perrywood Lane,Watton-St-Stone Hertford Hertfordshire SG14 3B 01920 830075

Salinity Develop and refine salt products, food, water, agricultural PO Box 390 Broxbourne Hertfordshire EN11 1GR 01992-447095 www.salinity.co.uk

Lloyds Bank - Beds & Herts Team Commercial Banking Bank House, Primett Road Stevenage Hertfordshire SG1 3CE 07725 426969

Mahon Digital Marketing Ltd Pendley Manor Hotel Hotel with Conference, Leisure and Dinning facilities open to non residents Cow Lane Tring Hertfordshire HP23 5QY 01442 891 891 www.pendley-manor.co.uk

CVS Broxbourne and East Herts Infrastructure charity for the non-profit sector Nigel Copping Community Building, Sanville Gardens, Stanstead Abbots Ware Hertfordshire SG12 8GA 0300 1231034

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We offer expert online marketing services in order to help business achieve their sales goals online Mills Studio Business Centre, Crane Mead Ware Hertfordshire SG12 9PY 01920 444 399 www.mahondigital.co.uk

Hertford Counselling Service Professionally trained counsellors, mental health, talking Therapies, Help2Help Suite 3, Prince of Wales House, 3 Bluecoats Hertford Hertfordshire SG14 1PB 01992 501 850 www.counsekkinghertford.co.uk

UK Crowdfunding Group A range of products and Services tailored for UK Crowdfunding 2 Medd Court, Newsome Place St Albans Hertfordshire AL1 3GR 01727 580850 www.crowdfundingwebsites.co.uk

Thinking Tourism Ltd 22 Stephens Court Harpenden Hertfordshire Al5 4FE 07500 041674 www.thinkingtourism.com

EIC Insurance Services Ltd Commercial Insurance Services Marchmont House, 83/85 Marlowes Hemel Hempsted Hertfordshire HP 1LF 01442 286910 www.eicinsurance.co.uk

Meteor Communications (Europe) Ltd Electronic monitoring solutions The Electricity Works, Campfield Road St Albans Hertfordshire AL1 5HT 07775 511112 www.meteorcommunications.co.uk

Cromwell Hotel Stevenage Hotel with 76 Bedrooms High Street, Old Town Stevenage Hertfordshire SG1 3AZ 01438 779954

MMSpark 73 Dunstable Road Caddington Beds LU1 4AL 07984 056993

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NewMembers The Knights Templar School Senior School age 11-18 Park Steet, Baldock Hertfordshire SG7 6DZ 01462 620700 www.ktemplar.herts.sch.uk

The Nobel School Secondary Education Mobbsbury Way Stevenage Hertfordshire SG2 0HS 01438 222600 www.nobel.herts.sch.uk/

Mill Green Golf Course Set in over 200 Acres of Hertfordshire we combine an excellent golf course with hospitality & charm Gypsy Lane, Welwyn Garden City Hertfordshire Al7 4TY 01707 276 900 www.millgreengolf.co.uk

Chesterfield Downs Golf & Country Club 18 hole golf course, Health club, driving range, restaurant and Function Rooms Jacks Hill, Graveley Stevenage Hertfordshire SG47 7EQ 01462 482 929 www.chesterfielddownsgolf.co.uk

Robert Mills Photography Commercial, Events and Portrait Photography 3 Old Cross Hertford Hertfordshire SG14 1HX 01992 350046 www.hertsbusinessphotos.co.uk

Steve Folland Video & Audio Marketing.

Creation and Strategy 07540 145 655 www.stevefolland.com

Police & Crime Commissioner for Hertfordhsire

Kier Construction

Police 15 Vaughan Road Harpenden Hertfordshire AL4 4GZ 01707 806100 www.hertscommisioner.org

Construction Experience Inc Health Science Education E.C.T 1st floor, Building 7400, Cambridge Research Park, Beach Drive Waterbeach Cambridgeshire CB25 9TN 01223 205 984 www.kier.co.uk

Woodland Consultancy Services

Bespoke Verse Limited

Recruitment Consultants specialising in IT, Accountancy, Engineering, Telecoms & Admin UK-wide Paramount House, 17-21 Shenley Road Borehamwood Hertfordshire WD6 1AD 0208 905 2250 www.woodland.co.uk

Poetry - Inspired gifts and prints.

Unique poems written by Joanna Miller Northfield, Pix Farm Lane HEMEL HEMPSTEAD Hertfordshire HP1 2RY 01442 874784 www.bespokeverse.co.uk

Angels at Play

Air conditioning, heating & ventilation installations and facilities management Unit 11 Maple Park, Essex Road HODDESDON Hertfordshire EN11 0EX 01992 478100 www.macair.co.uk/

Award Winning Childcare Nurseries with Branches in Ware & Hoddesdon Herts 1 The Dockyard,Star Street Ware Hertfordshire SG12 7AN 01920 436 487 www.angelsatplay.co.uk

Home - Start East Herts Trained volunteers giving support to families in need The Annex, Scott House, Hagsdell Rd Hertford Hertfordshire SG13 8WA 01992 505584 www.homestarteastherts.org.uk

Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation Charity, Property, Community benefit society Foundation House, Icknield Way Letchworth Garden City Hertfordshire SG6 1GD 01462 476002 www.letchworth.com

i3Q Systems Limited Computer Installations, Support Consultants & Maintenance Office 13, Gateway 1000, Whittle Way Stevenage Hertfordshire SG1 2FP 01438 518700 www.i3q.com

Macair fmi Limited

Thirdperson Design and brand communication 31 Thrales End Farm, Thrales End Lane Harpenden Hertfordshire AL5 3NS 01587 764814 www.thirdperson.co.uk

Westminster Compliance LLP Business Management Consultant 5 Elstree Way BOREHAMWOOD Hertfordshire WD6 1SF 02034 117888 www.westminstercompliance.co.uk

Trevor Jones Charted accountant based in Waltham Cross dedicated to generating value for clients Springfield House 99/101 Crossbrook Street Waltham cross Herts EN8 8JR 01992 627371 www.trevorjones.co.uk

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ChamberEvents

Save the Date Chamber Brunch - Network on the Wild Side!

This extremely popular event brings together companies from all over Hertfordshire. We invite you to come along for excellent networking with local businesses in the Discovery Centre!

You will then be invited behind the scenes to join the keepers as they perform an amazing cat health check. You will also be able to have a look around the park and find out about the Wildlife initiatives that Paradise are leading on.

This is an opportunity you wont want to miss! *This event sells out quickly - early booking is advisable

Date: 9 July Time: 09.30 - 11.30 Venue: Paradise Wildlife Park White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire EN10 7QA Cost: £15.00 members £20.00 non-members

Can Hertfordshire Support your business growth?

Date: 9 July Time: 19.00 - 22.00 Venue: The Riding School, Hatfield House, AL9 5NQ Cost: £35.00 members

Dinner debate hosted by Lord Salisbury Do we have sufficient focus on key ingredients necessary to sustain local growth and meet demand to grow global competiveness?

How can we help Hertfordshire Businesses grow productivity and address barriers to growth?

Do we have skills, infrastructure, funding and broadband connectivity fit for the future?

The evening debate will join Hertfordshire MP's, local politicians and fellow business leaders across automotive, technology, engineering, manufacturing, tourism, construction healthcare and retail sectors.

Chamber Seminar: Summer Budget 2015 Date: 14 July Time: 17.30 - 19.30 Venue: Fielder Conference Centre, Hatfield Business Park, AL10 9TP Cost: FREE of charge

As the Chancellor prepares his postelection Summer Budget “for working people” he promises to unveil major tax and spending changes, including raising the inheritance tax threshold to £1 million and a five-year freeze on income tax, VAT and national Insurance. Join us at this event in partnership with Kingston Smith LLP for an easy to digest

Budget summary so you don’t have to spend time trawling through the news to find out what matters to you! You can ask the expert, Senior Tax Partner at Kingston Smith, Mike Hayes any questions you have during the seminar or if you have a more personal query, take the opportunity to chat to Mike during the fantastic business networking.

Chamber HR Forum - Holiday Pay is no Vacation!

Date: 15 July Time: 09.30 - 11.30 Venue: Moor Park Golf Club, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, WD3 1QN Cost: £15.00 members £20.00 non-members

Looking at the legislation, the calculation of holiday pay by the employer should be easy. However, the overriding legislation was written in 1998 and has remained, largely, unchanged since that time. In 2015, we are in a position that we have three different types of holiday leave available to our employees.

Join us for an expert industry analysis from Ian Holloway, FCIPP from Software for People in Hitchin, a consolidation of current best practice and a look to the future for holiday pay and upcoming best practice.

Chamber Clay Pigeon Shooting - back by popular demand!

Date: 20 August Time: 12.30 - 17.00 Venue: Atkin Grant & Lang Shooting Ground, Windmill Road, Makyate, St Albans, AL3 8LP Cost: £60.00 members £66.00 non-members

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This very popular annual event brings together companies and business people from all over Herts and surrounding areas to try their hand at this fun sport. The shooting ground offers the finest shooting facilities in the home counties and has the most modern equipment, providing excellent shooting for the novice and experienced alike – no experience

is required as you will be instructed and supervised fully by professional instructors.

After welcome drinks and a snack the instructors will collect allocated teams for a 30-bird competition. At the end of the day we will reitre to the lodge for networking, buffet and refreshments while the scores are calculated, then for the allimportant prizegiving!

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ChamberEvents

Hertfordshire Landlord Investment Show 2015 Date: 24 September Time: 10.00 - 16.00 Venue: Holiday Inn London Elstree, Barnet bypass, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, WD6 5PU Cost: Free ••• Great Reasons why to Exhibit: • Promote your services in the buy-to-let hot spot areas we go to.

• Meet with 100% targeted audience of Landlords.

• Each show will be promoted to thousands of Landlords and Investors.

• We include extensive marketing campaigns which will give you an additional competitive edge.

• Establish you as a buy-to-let experts in areas around the Country or in your area.

Come and meet with over 30 exhibitors within buy-to-let and attend the many different seminars delivered by Industry Experts.

The Landlord Investment Show is a National buy-to-let Property Exhibition that goes to the hot buy-to-let areas. We attract Landlords, Investors, Management Companies, Property Professionals, Letting/Estate Agents, Local Councils and anyone who has an interest in the private rented sector. It is run by Tracey and Steven Hanbury, both are experienced landlords and understand the need for independent up to date advice for new and existing landlords, but as business people also fully appreciate a show needs to deliver successfully to exhibitors too.

Just some of the areas we go to include London Olympia, London-Elstree, Manchester, Maidstone, Croydon, Reading, Colchester, Milton Keynes, Ashford, plus many more. This show on the 24th September will be our 25th exhibition that we have successfully delivered in just 2 years Not to be missed is the Morning Networking Event 9am - 10am.

Come and network with Landlords and Investors along with Property Professionals in an informal surrounding. This networking event is designed to give you an opportunity to meet and discuss local issues, share

best practice and experiences, with decision makers and Industry Experts.

For more information and to get your complimentary show tickets please visit http://www.landlordinvestments how.co.uk/NorthLondon-Herts or call a member of our team on 020 8656 5075.

Dates for your Diary

•Annual Chairmans Dinner 2015 1 October

•Chamber Early Riser Speed Networking 9 September 2015

•Customer Experience Conference 9 October

•Chamber Networking Breakfast: Cybercrime - How to protect your business 17 September 2015 •Chamber Networking Breakfast with Ambition Broxbourne: Speed Networking with a Difference 24 September •West Herts Breakfast Briefing 'Managing People: The Generation Game' 30 September

•North Herts Breakfast Briefing 'Managing People: The Generation Game' 21 October •Chamber Networking Evening & Brewery Tour 19 November •Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce AGM 2015 December •Inspiring Hertfordshire 2016 Awards Launch December

If you would like to register for an event or would like further information or would like to book on to an event please contact Jodie Reid on 01707 398400 or email jodiereid@hertschamber.com Alternatively visit our website www.hertschamber.com INSPIRE

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Events

If you go down to the woods today you're sure of a big surprise…

Paradise Wildlife Park, nestled in Broxbourne Woods, is Hertfordshire’s No.1 Tourist Attraction and a multi-award winning conservation & education led zoo and events venue. It’s also a ‘fabzoolus’ setting for every type of corporate occasion.

Yes, Paradise Wildlife Park is not only home to over 400 exotic animals; it also boasts a choice of fully equipped, contemporary venues, catering for groups of 4-4000.

Choose from The Discovery Centre, Boardroom, Marquee, Tiger Treetops or Safari Suite. The Park has a venue to suit every size and style of event.

From Meetings & Conferences, Team Builds & Family Fun Days, to Parties, Product Launches, Staff Incentives, Client Rewards and Team Days, guests keep coming back for more ‘Monkey Business’.

As Europe’s leading zoo for close-up animal encounters, you can also Feed the Big Cats by Hand, Meet the Meerkats and the Lemurs, Tickle a Tapir, Feed the Red Pandas or even Face your Phobia! These are just a few of the amazing, memorable experiences that Paradise has to offer.

The Park is ideally situated just 20 miles north of London, 7 miles from Junction 25 on M25, and only 25 minutes direct from London Liverpool St. A regular shuttle service operates from the station to the Park.

New Team Builds at Paradise In addition to the ever popular Animal Enrichment, Enclosure Makeover and Challenge team builds, the Park has teamed up with partners to offer more, great team build options to suit all tastes.

I’m a Delegate, Crime Scene Investigates, Crystal Maze and more will be coming soon, but first to launch is ‘Carnivore to Culinary’; an exciting joint venture with The Cookery.

To mark the Park’s continued status as the county’s No 1

Tourist Attraction, and to celebrate its new ventures, numerous awards and accolades over the past 30 years, including the Inspiring Hertfordshire, Business of the Year 2014, Paradise Wildlife Park is giving 10 FREE tickets to every company booking an event at the Park this year.

For enquiries contact sarah@pwpark.com or Sarah Lebentz 01992 476 573. www.pwpark.com

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C C Part 1 – Carnivore Capers

Part 2 – Food Glorious Food

Your adventure begins at Paradise Wildlife Park: • Welcome Welcome & activity briefing • Free-flow refreshments & biscuits • Create enrichment for the Big Cats • Place ‘gifts’ in their enclosure • The Big Release - enjoy the spectacle! • VIP Meet & Greet the Animals • Buffet lunch • Certificates for all

You have explored the beautiful big cats and animals of the world now come and create cuisine from around the world.

Let our chefs teach you how to prepare and cook an amazing dinner which you can then relax and enjoy with colleagues and friends at the end of your very busy day.

BB BB

*Terms and conditions apply. For groups of 5-24 people. Prices subject to VAT. Additional extras are available, including Paradise mini-bus transfer

To book and for further information contact Sarah Lebentz on 01992 476573 or sarah@pwpark.com (www.pwpark.com)

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Choose Choose your your event event at... at...

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ForumNews

Cybercrime Technology can be a real benefit, but let's face it, it can also be a major headache for businesses. Sadly, as more and more companies become heavily reliant on the internet, our systems have become a greater target for cyber criminals.

Even if your company has the most rigorous controls in force, you may still become the victim of an information security incident, which could cost you dear. It's estimated that SMEs lose an average of around ÂŁ20,000, rising to a possible ÂŁ2m for large companies.

You must therefore make sure you have good insurance cover in the event of cybercrime. Policies available can cover incidents arising from hacker attacks, unintentional transmission of a virus, unintentional violation of legislation regarding security, employee dishonestly and even cyber extortion.

When you buy insurance to cover cybercrime, make sure it includes the costs of rectifying your systems so you can put your business back to the way it was before the incident as quickly as possible.

Your policy should also include cover against lost profits, investigation and forensic costs, fines which might be imposed by the regulator, and the cost of notifying data protection authorities.

The effects of a cybercrime on your company aren't just confined to lost or stolen money, repairing the damage and loss of business.

Trust is vital in the business world, and an incident like this will put your reputation at risk. A good insurance policy will provide PR crisis management to avoid or mitigate the effects of bad publicity as a result of the crime.

And as cybercrime is a 24/7 problem, make sure you have 24/7 access to claims handling process.

Has your company got the best insurance cover against this growing problem?

Don't leave it to chance - contact Ashbourne Insurance on 01992 471001 or visit www.ashbourneinsurance.co.uk

Date for your Diary Chamber Networking Breakfast:

Cybercrime - how to protect your business Thursday 17 September 7.30am - 10.00am Holiday Inn Stevenage, St. George's Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 1HS Supported by the Police & Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire, this free of charge event is open to all businesses to attend to hear about the very latest cyber threats and how they can manage the risks against the potential financial and reputational damage resulting from a cyber attack.

To book your place contact Jodie Reid, 01707 398401 jodiereid@hertschamber.com

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WorkPlace

Break clauses in commercial leases - tenants beware A break clause in a lease is a valuable right for a tenant. It is a clause allowing the tenant to terminate the lease early and, depending upon what is agreed and drafted, the break right may arise on one or more specified dates or it may be exercised at any time on a rolling basis.

“Traditionally landlords have included conditions which will need to be satisfied before the tenant is able to exercise its right to break.

Any conditions will need to be completely adhered to because the courts will strictly construe the wording of a break clause.‘’

Rachael Spalton Partner Longmores Solicitors Company Property The principle is therefore fairly straightforward but a tenant seeking to exercise its rights may find that it is not be so simple.

If you are negotiating a new lease, ideally you should try and get the landlord to agree not to include any pre-conditions to the exercise of the break. Traditionally landlords have included conditions which will need to be satisfied before the tenant is able to exercise its right to break.

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Any conditions will need to be completely adhered to because the courts will strictly construe the wording of a break clause.

The following are conditions which can be found in leases: 1. The rent and other sums due must have been paid - on the face of it, this seems reasonable - the rent is a known sum and is payable on specified dates. But if the break date is 31st March and the rent under the

lease is payable quarterly in advance on 24 March (so until 23rd June), what should the tenant pay?

The courts have determined that the tenant must pay the full quarter’s rent until 23 June because it is only at the 31 March that it will become clear whether or not the tenant is entitled to break the lease.

The tenant would, of course, expect to be repaid the additional rent for the period beyond the break date but it

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WorkPlace

will only be entitled to do so if the break clause specifically provides for such reimbursement.

The condition also states that “other sums due” must have been paid.

This will include service charge and insurance contributions.

What should the tenant do if there is a service charge dispute? What if the landlord demands sums just before the break date? As the conditions must be strictly adhered to, all sums must be paid.

The courts have held that nonpayment of interest on historic late rent payments prevented the tenant from exercising a break right, even though the landlord had made no demand for the late payment interest.

2. Vacant possession of the premises should be given – it is possible to write a whole article about what is meant by vacant possession. Suffice to say, it does not mean merely ceasing to occupy the premises.

The courts have decided that vacant possession has not been given where contractors have remained on site to finalise reinstatement works, where security guards have remained on site to prevent squatters and where items have been left in premises.

Each case will depend upon its facts but obtaining vacant possession can be difficult in some circumstances.

3. The tenant obligations in the lease must have been complied with – again, this seems reasonable as surely a landlord can expect a tenant to comply with its obligations?

But, if the condition has to be strictly adhered to then all covenants and obligations in the lease must be complied with and even minor breaches will prevent the tenant from exercising the break right.

A tenant who failed to repaint the premises within the last year of the term, even though it had repainted them just before the last year, was prevented from exercising a break right.

It is almost inevitable that there will be minor breaches in any lease and an absolute obligation to comply with tenant covenants will therefore be extremely difficult if not impossible to comply with.

Sometimes the condition is qualified to refer to material or substantial compliance. Whilst this is no doubt better for the tenant this could still be a very difficult condition to satisfy and is open to argument.

(v) Consider carrying out a compliance audit with a surveyor’s advice before serving the break notice so that the tenant can then take steps to remedy any breaches identified.

So, what steps can a tenant take avoid becoming exorcised about exercising a break right?

(vi) If the tenant agrees to carry out works to the property before the break date, be careful to ensure that the works are completed and contractors have vacated before the break date.

(i)

Check the lease carefully well in advance of the date the date to serve notice of the break to see if there are any conditions.

(iv) Consider asking the landlord to accept the break notice on payment of an agreed amount as damages for any outstanding breaches.

(vii) Remember that there may be general obligations that apply at the end of the term of the lease, which will need to be complied with before the break date. For example, the lease may require the tenant to remove signage, reinstate alterations and redecorate.

A final word of warning, once a break notice has been served, it cannot be withdrawn unilaterally so a tenant must be sure that they want to break the lease.

Rachael Spalton joined Longmores as a partner in the commercial property department on 2nd March.

She is a commercial property specialist and spent 13 years working in large City and West End firms, becoming a partner in 2011.

She has extensive experience in all aspects of commercial property

transactions including investment sales and purchases, development site acquisitions, funding, business leases and the property aspects of company sales and purchases.

Her clients include private investment companies, developers, occupiers, high net worth individuals and banks.

(ii) Pay any outstanding sums due, even if they are in dispute, in cleared funds by the relevant date. Payment can be made on a “without prejudice” basis and disputed later. (iii) Check whether any late payments have been made and pay any interest on those late payments.

“Remember that there may be general obligations that apply at the end of the term of the lease, which will need to be complied with before the break date. For example, the lease may require the tenant to remove signage, reinstate alterations and redecorate.‘’

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WorkPlace

New Parental leave guidelines The world of work is a rapidly changing environment and many mothers today are more career-focused than ever before, which is why new Shared Parental Leave has been established.

As of the 1st December 2014, Shared Parental Leave has become the latest piece of legislation to affect parents.

The new law and guidelines will apply to you if your child was born on or after the 6th April 2015.

According to Emma Williams, Managing Director of HR Initiatives based in Letchworth Garden City: “To qualify for Shared Parental Leave, the mother or adopter must be employed and qualify for maternity or adoptive entitlements, as well as share the main responsibility of care with the child’s father or their partner. The mother needs to give notice to curtail her maternity or adoption leave in order to take up shared parental leave.”

Emma Williams MCIPD BA(Hons) MA Managing Director HR Initiatives

“For a parent to be eligible to take Shared Parental Leave, they must pass the continuity of employment test.‘’

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For a parent to be eligible to take Shared Parental Leave, they must pass the continuity of employment test. This confirms they have worked for the same employer for a minimum of 26 weeks at the end of the 15th week before the week in which the child is due (or is due to be placed) and that they are still employed in the first week that Shared Parental Leave is to be taken.

In addition, the employee must meet the employment and earnings test whereby the parent needs to have worked at least 26 of the 66 weeks leading up to the due date and have earned above the maternity allowance threshold of £30 per week in 13 of the 66 weeks.

Shared Parental Leave may be taken at any time within the period which begins on the date the child is born or placed and ends 52 weeks after that date.

When Shared Parental Leave is chosen, the mother must provide notice to reduce her maternity leave. Maternity Leave does not have to have actually ended provided the mother or adopter has given advanced notice to reduce their entitlements to allow their partner to start Shared Parental Leave.

Therefore, Shared Parental Leave can commence while the mother or adopter is still on Maternity Leave.

An employee may submit up to three separate notices to book leave. Shared Parental Leave must be taken in complete weeks, either of a continuous period, or in discontinuous periods.

If the leave is requested for a continuous period, your employer cannot legally refuse the leave. However, if discontinuous periods of leave are requested, your employer is entitled to refuse the request. If a request for discontinuous leave is refused then the total amount of leave requested in the notice will automatically become a continuous block unless the notice is withdrawn.

Parents may also be entitled to Shared Parental Pay. If the mother or adopter curtails their entitlement to maternity/adoption pay before they have used their full entitlement, Shared Parental Pay may be claimed for the remaining weeks. As before, the parent must pass the continuity of employment test and have earned above the lower earnings limit of £111 for the 8 weeks prior to the 15th week before the due date or placement date. Like Shared Parental Leave, the other parent must meet the employment and earnings test.

Emma Williams concludes: “Although they may sound complicated, these new regulations are designed to give parents more flexibility when it comes to childcare and time off to care for a new baby.

Speak to your partner and your employer as soon as possible to work out the most effective plan for everyone involved.”

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BusinessNews

Hertfordshire to Host the First Annual ‘SynConf 2015 Business and Technology Un-Conference’

2015 Business & Technology Un-Conference Hertfordshire, 11 July 2015 #SynConf 2015

Hertfordshire is excited to host the first annual ‘SynConf Business and Technology Un-Conference’.

The event is being held on the 11th July 2015 at the Business Technology Centre in Stevenage.

We know that this type of ‘Un-Conferencing’ is gaining monumental popularity within the business community and fosters a new culture of collaborative engagement, but what is un-conferencing and how do you ‘learn by doing’?

Unlike a traditional conference with a fixed agenda of PowerPoint presentations delivered by a professional speaker, a unconference is an innovative and constantly evolving conference where everyone who attends has an opportunity to get involved.

At the start of the day attendees suggest what topics should be held within the un-conference sessions and plan their ideas, topics, tutorials, presentations and possibly host speaker slots.

Everyone’s suggestions are shared via the ‘Think-Tank’ wall.

The relevant and most sought after topic is then discussed and the un-conference sessions take shape and form of their own relevance.

It generates interaction and engagement involving topics that are relevant in today’s business world and at this year’s SynConf the three un-conference themes are; Business, Design and Technology.

Brian Norman, Chief Technical Officer of Earthware Technologies and Co-Founder of SyncHerts networking group reports: “With the substantial growth of over 400 online members for SyncHerts networking group, it was evident an annual event was needed. We wanted to bring together local/regional businesses from start-ups, SME’s to the conglomerate, and showcase the people driving these businesses

forward. We are future-proofing a dynamic and ever-evolving skillset by sharing knowledge and gaining expertise. Regardless of what industry sector you work in, technology is needed.”’

On the day of the event attendees shape and form the un-conference sessions, suggest what topics should be held within the unconference sessions and plan their ideas, topics, tutorials, presentations and possibly host speaker slots.

Dr Mark Baldwin, internationally recognised for his work regarding the Enigma Machine and counsel to the recent 'Imitation Game' blockbuster movie will be the keynote speaker for the event.

A ‘Retro Game Museum’ sponsored by ‘DunkTech’ which includes computers, consoles and games from the 1970’s will be available for attendees to view and possibly take the opportunity to reminisce.

Everyone’s suggestions are shared via the ‘Think-Tank’ wall. The relevant and most sought after topic is then discussed and the un-conference sessions take shape and form of their own relevance.

Entry cost for the day is £10 per person and includes lunch and a t-shirt, places are limited to 150 and a number of tickets have already sold.

This method generates interaction and engagement involving topics that are relevant to today’s business world.

For further information and to book/confirm your place please visit www.synconf.co.uk

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MembersNews

All change at top Hertford accountancy practice There have been some movers and shakers at top-20 UK accountancy firm, Wilkins Kennedy LLP’s Hertford office, as they welcomed in the new financial year by celebrating several retirement announcements.

Residents out in force to be part of the Aviva Women’s Tour On Saturday 20 June 2015, thousands of residents came out to support some of the world’s top female cyclists as they battled for victory in Stage Four of the Aviva Women’s Tour.

Rohit Shastri, Colin Wiseman and Steve Golder, have retiried from the practice as of 30th April 2015.

Rohit, who is from Hertford, was former Head of IT before being made in to a Senior Partner. He has contributed to the growth of the Hertford office and has also been an active member of the committee.

Colin Wiseman has been very influential in the development of the Wilkins Kennedy Restructure and Recovery (R&R) offering and the firm as a whole. Steve Golder has had a lifelong career with Wilkins Kennedy, joining and qualifying at Southend before becoming a Senior Partner at the London office. In recent times has undertaken the Finance Partner role for the practice and set new standards and controls essential to assist Wilkins Kennedy’s continued growth. They will be very much missed.

The announcement comes at a time when there were also four significant promotions at the firm. Paul Hopper, Cathy Cooper, Michael Wesley and James Leigh, will be officially made in to Partners from 1st May – a job title that comes with a high level of experience and dedication to the industry.

David Fenn, Managing Partner at Wilkins Kennedy, said: “Rohit, Colin and Steve’s retirement announcements represent just a few of many changes that are happening here, as we continue to grow and move forward.

“To all the retiring Partners, who have played a large part in the development of Wilkins Kennedy, I wish them all the very best for their futures, and thank them for all their hard work and endeavours to develop our practice.”

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Left to right Jeff Stack, CEO Broxbourne Borough Council, Laura Trott, Cllr Mark Mills-Bishop Leader of Broxbourne Borough Council

Stage Four of the elite cycle race was counted down officially by the Mayor of Broxbourne, Councillor Martin Greensmyth, in Waltham Cross town centre, where the atmosphere was electrifying.

Before the race, visitors were able to mingle with the cyclists as they warmed up and have their photographs taken with the riders, and to add to the excitement, there were promotional stalls, BMX demos and a community ride-out. Cycle enthusiasts and families alike were buzzing with excitement as the flag was dropped and the cyclists made their way through the town centre.

They then travelled north along the High Street where resident’s had turned out in their hundreds to cheer them on, to Cheshunt Old Pond, up to Broxbourne and then into Hoddesdon town centre, where they were greeted

by more residents, waving flags and cheering.

Cheshunt’s own Olympic gold medal winner, Laura Trott, was racing and did her Borough proud as she travelled through her hometown. Even the Borough’s mascot, Bob the Badger, came out to cheer her on!

Leader of the Borough, Councillor Mark Mills-Bishop said “We’re proud to have hosted Stage Four of the Women’s Tour for the second year running and have already received some fantastic feedback from Waltham Cross residents who felt honoured that it started in their hometown.

It was great to see so many people come out to show their support and be part of what was one of the biggest sporting events of 2015. I hope it will have inspired some of our residents to get cycling themselves as it’s a great way to get active.”

Broxbourne Council would like to thank all sponsors of Stage Four of the Aviva Tour for helping to make it a very successful event.

This includes Hertfordshire County Council, B3 Living, Merck Sharp and Dohme, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, The Hertfordshire Mercury, Love Hoddesdon, The Marriott Cheshunt, The Pavilions Shopping Centre and LW Developments.

Visitors were invited to take part in the Council’s Twitter competition by tweeting their best photos from the day.

The photos will be judged by Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture, Councillor Dee Hart, and winners will be contacted

by Direct Message.

Photos and videos from the day can be found online at www.broxbourne.gov.uk/ womenstour

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Dacorum

Dacorum’s Den inspires local entrepreneurs Following its success over the last 3 years, entrepreneurs in Dacorum will again have the opportunity to pitch for a chance to win support for their business in a Dragon’s Den style competition.

Dacorum’s Den, organised by the Economic Wellbeing Team in Dacorum Borough Council, together with Maylands Business Partnership, has run three successful programmes from 2012 to 2014, inspiring local entrepreneurs to visualize their business idea and develop a range of skills to give them a competitive edge in their market.

Chris Taylor, Group Manager for Strategic Planning and Regeneration said: “This opportunity highlights our commitment to support our local businesses. We’re always keen to connect entrepreneurs and businesses to provide them with the tools needed to help their business flourish.”

The following was shared about the opportunity from previous winners: Cassie Hicks-Kerr of MMSpark, an online social media marketing training provider commented: “My business, Modern Marketing Spark (mmspark.com) has evolved immeasurably in the past year, and the seed funding to develop my online services was an invaluable part of this growth.

MMSpark has grown by leaps and bounds and is now proud to serve a wide range of diverse clients across Herts, Beds and Bucks, as well as further afield.“ Meena Wells of Cinnamon Travelling Café, a local venture providing homemade, authentic

From left to right: Sue Davies - Bourne Leisure, Cllr. Andrew Williams – Leader of DBC, Mike Penning, MP, Lucy Shaw - TSE Productions, and Peter Willson - Hopespare.

Caribbean and Indian street food said: “The award itself is incredible for start-ups with no investments. The money and advice from the Dacorum’s Den has helped change us from amateurs to professionals overnight and transformed our business.

A year to the day after we won the Dacorum's Den Award, we’ve been chosen as finalists in the Best Newcomer category of the Hertfordshire Food and Drink Awards 2015. None of

this would have been possible without our grant.”

Lisa Westwood of The Tea Tree, a vintage tea room offering local produce also commented on the opportunity: “We’ve had a huge success from appearing at Dacorum’s Den and now our shop is busier than ever.

We are now looking to acquire an alcohol licence so we can hold evening functions, and we have gone from a one man business to employing four additional members of staff.

The next Den is running in June 2015, where 10 more entrepreneurs are pitching their business ideas to a panel of leading local business professionals, including Mike Penning, MP, in the hope of winning a £1000 grant.

In total, the programme has supported 26 businesses, who have received funding from £1000 – £2000 each. The Den has also created 26 additional jobs which is an achievement of a 52% growth rate.

To fi nd out more about the competiti on visit www.daco rumlooknofurther.co.uk/dacorums-den2015 The Economic Well being Team is very passionate about inspir ing and dev el opi ng the local economy.

If you would like mor e info rmation about business suppor t available for businesses in Daco rum, email Lesley C risp on Lesl ey.Cr isp@dacorum.gov.uk o r vi si t www.daco rumlooknofurther /business

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The complete funeral service 2244 hour hour service ser vice • P Private rivate C Chapels hapels of of Rest Rest •M Memorial emorial SStonemasons tonemasons • FFuneral unneral P Plans lans •O Own wn C Crematorium rematorium

Serving the local community for ten generations

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LastWord

Welcome to our new Patron Network Integrity Services Name: Company: Job title:

Q What do you do?

I spearhead business development at NIS, prioritising the diverse needs of all our customers, through tried and tested, latest technologies and business practices.

Q Who do you work for ?

Network Integrity Services Limited, an expanding IT solutions specialist supporting small to medium size businesses.

Q Why did you join the chamber?

We wanted to raise awareness of our growing brand and also learn how other members address day-to-day challenges.

We employ talented individuals who are brilliant problem solvers, but we also like to look outside the box for fresh ideas that avoid complacency.

Q What do you get from it?

We are relatively new to the Chamber, but are encouraged by our early engagement with the Herts Chamber team. Extensive help is available, together with comprehensive options we had totally overlooked, like the added benefits of insurance cover and legal advice.

Q How has it helped your business network?

It is too early to say, although we have noticed several of our clients are on the membership list, which is good news.

As companies grow and become busier it can be difficult to maintain regular contact. Chamber events present further opportunities to network, meet customers and potentially find new ones.

Mustaq Chandia Network Integrity Services Ltd Director

Q What advice would you give someone starting out?

Be determined, with a focussed vision of what you want your business to deliver.

NIS started out with just two mobile phones and zero capital, but we have grown steadily over 13 years into a national business, even during the recession. A well thought out business plan is essential, with clear identification of what differentiates your business.

You must also remain agile, reviewing progress frequently and seeking advice where needed. Professional organisations like the Chamber and its network of members can be a vital source of information.

Q What are your biggest challenges in running and growing a business?

NIS has always focused on long-term growth, customer and staff retention to ensure continuity. We operate in a dynamic environment and there is always activity focused around educating our contacts, from the benefits of new technologies, to understanding risks.

Adding value to our clients’ business is the on-going, crucial challenge, since not all technology is suitable for every customer and no two clients have the same needs.

Gaining the necessary investment for growth remains a challenge for every firm, with funding often difficult since traditional lenders pulled in the reins.

NIS has been fortunate to gain low rate funding, sometimes at zero per cent, from partners like IBM, not just for our own business, but also for customers.

Investment in these approved partner programs is key, with a growth in collaborative working practices. Trusted partnerships and endorsements have become more commonplace, as they provide reassurance for customers, who are better educated today about what they want.

With new technologies, early investment in staff training in globally recognised training is vital to successful project delivery. We are lucky to have a highly skilled team coming up with inspirational ideas, even when the directors have hit a brick wall.

Although new sales, organic growth and acquisitive expansion are fantastic, potential debt collection issues that come with such growth require careful management. Our biggest challenge lies in ensuring a fluid environment, maintaining consistent focus and - more importantly - enjoying what we do!

Q What support do you want from Government?

The recession left many of our smaller customers facing huge challenges, but more recently we have seen rising confidence, with momentum remaining positive, despite a squeeze on margins.

We would like to see this optimism maintained as companies continue to invest.

We have benefited from government training schemes for young apprentices, which is great for smaller firms like NIS and long may this continue. Making funding more accessible for technology providers and with less red tape would benefit SME’s. Subsidies are available for the installation of fibre broadband and we would like to see this extended across the UK. Q How confident are you your business will grow in 2015?

We saw a slowdown prior to the General Election, which we had anticipated in our planning, so took the opportunity to upgrade NIS hosting facilities and services. In addition to the existing Windows hosting services, we now also offer IBM’s Unix (AIX) based cloud services, so we predict another year of growth.

To date the first quarter has been encouraging, with a strong pipeline for NIS expansion during the next two quarters. This is in line with customer feedback we took on board for development this year and reflects the importance of planning. 2015 looks most encouraging, although there may be quieter times ahead, which is why flexibility is so crucial for a swift response to change.

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Patrons

Welcome to our new Patrons The Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce are delighted to welcome new Patrons Altro, NIS, PwC and SaBRE. Along with our existing Patrons, this enhanced membership provides opportunities to influence key policies within the county and nationally along with increased brand awareness and promotion.

Key benefits

Advertising, promotion and brand awareness: • Company exposure with use of Representation: logo on all Chamber literature • Invitation for 2 people to attend including business cards, headed two prestigious dinners for Patrons paper, diary/directory, delegate to gain access to MPs and key lists and e-mails decision-makers and business • Company logo featured on leaders at local, regional and Patron’s banner prominently national level displayed at all Chamber events and activities • 2 places at all of our networking events held around the county • Free banner advertising and Patron’s page on Chamber website • Free table of 10 places at one of with hyperlink to your own the Chamber Annual Dinners website • Herts Chamber annual • Recognition for sponsorship at membership subscription with Chamber Annual Dinner benefits for all your employees • Opportunity to sponsor a business award at Patron’s Awards Dinner • Networking opportunities with the county’s leading business leaders • Feature editorial opportunity in and influential figures in the bi-monthly Inspire Newsletter Chamber for county-wide policy with a 2500 print-run forming • Online version; with over 13000 hits and growing with each edition • Invitations to Patrons to selected • Opportunity to distribute company lunch and breakfast events with literature at attended/hosted opportunities to lobby on key Chamber events policy issues in Hertfordshire, including planning, education and • Agreed individual support plan for your business transport

Patrons

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