C&W In Business July 2015 by Benham Publishing Limited

Issue 48

July / August 2015

Lord Bhattacharyya All in a lifetimeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work - page 4 23

One way of reducing skills shortages is to build a talent pipeline with schools and colleges. The Warwickshire Employability Charter was launched in May 2015 to develop links between businesses and education.

Sign up to the Employability Charter Warwickshire County Council publishes the names of businesses, schools and colleges committed to the charter to help them make contact and develop relationships. Making a commitment to the charter is free and simple to do: just email skillsforemployment@warwickshire.gov.uk stating your commitment and providing the company name to appear on the charter. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll e-mail your charter for you to download, print and display.

For more information call 01926 418027 or visit

www.warwickshire.gov.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Foreword

Let us help you trade abroad

CONTENTS July / August 2015

Dear Member, As we approach the Summer holidays, I suspect (and hope) that business is good for all. When I glance at our quarterly economic survey results, it is good to see that sales and forward orders are looking strong alongside some healthy forecasts for exports. It would be good to see more local companies export and I am always amazed at how many businesses do not routinely think about their export potential. Ensuring your company has a global feel and provides opportunity for export is as simple as, for example, making sure your website is export-savvy and appealing to potential customers abroad. Want to learn more? Contact your Coventry & Warwickshire International Trade Team at the CW International Trade Hub on 024 76 654 186 or 024 76 654 321. Talking of trading abroad, I think we are all conscious of the fact that the Prime Minister is preparing for the first EU leaders' summit since being re-elected and there are a number of hugely significant matters for him to address, not least the situation in Greece and the events in Ukraine. The Prime Minister will be seeking to address the UK's future relationship with the European Union and it seems that there is now broad agreement across the political spectrum that our relationship with the EU needs to change. It is critical that for all of our exporters, and for businesses generally, our relationship with the EU continues to be a productive one with Britain seeking to have absolute guarantees to protect our economic and other interests within the EU and a "common market" that works for British business. After all, British businesses are worldclass and leading-edge and need a Government that is going to provide them with a market, at home and abroad, that is business friendly. At the Coventry Telegraph Business Awards, on Friday 19th June at the Ricoh Arena, we certainly saw some world-class local businesses shortlisted for a variety of prestigious awards. Two great categories were the small-to-medium-sizedenterprise award and the export award, both of which say an awful lot about the vibrancy of our local economy. A huge congratulations to both NSL Automotive who won the Small & Medium Enterprise Award and to Pashley Cycles who won the Export Award. Both companies are great and loyal Chamber Members.

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Also a big well done to Piltec Rubber & Plastics, Potters Poultry and Ultraseal International who were shortlisted for the Export Award. Also, congratulations to O'Brien Contractors who won the overall "Company of the Year 2015", again a great Chamber Member; and, importantly, our congratulations and sincere best wishes to Professor Lord Kumar Bhattacharyya who was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award for all that he has done, and continues to do, for Warwick Manufacturing Group, Warwick University, Coventry and Warwickshire and, indeed, the UK economy. You might note that I still constantly refer to 'Coventry and Warwickshire' as one locality and that is because I am ever hopeful that in all of this talk of newly combined authorities we can find a way of maintaining the close and wonderful ties between our City and County. I know that this is the wish of local Business Leaders who, overall, see the benefit of being part of a larger economic powerhouse with devolved powers around skills and transport, but would not want to see a break in the mutually beneficial relationship between Coventry and Warwickshire. I am interested in hearing your views on the proposed Combined Authorities, all forming a new West Midlands Combined Authority, so please feel free to contact me on louiseb@cw-chamber.co.uk. I was certainly very proud to be part of a united Coventry & Warwickshire Home Team at an inward investment event at the Shard, London, on 16th June. An event which had been led by the Coventry & Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership and Champions and an event which showcased all that is great about doing business here in our sub-region. Finally, your Chamber has some great networking and B2B opportunities coming up. For your diary, it might be worth making a note that our next Business & Trade Expo is on 2nd October; and our highly acclaimed and well-attended annual Economic Conference is on 6th November. I look forward to seeing our members at these events. Kind regards Louise

Business Awards

Policy

Service of the Month

News

Events CWT

8-9 10

International Trade

11-13

Business Support

14-15

Legal &Finance

16-17

Property

18-19

Profile

20-21

Budget

Skills

Around the Region News

25-31 32-40-43

Business Direct

33-39

President &People

44-45

New Members

Mrs L Bennett-Bayliss OBE, DL Chief Executive

Business Awards

CONTACTS At the Chamber

News desk

Members are encouraged to send any news about their firm – new orders, staff, new products, expansions or relocations – for publication in C&W in business.

Region’s success stories showcased at Ricoh

Whilst every effort will be made to publish submitted articles, we cannot guarantee inclusion. Send them to: news@cw-chamber.co.uk Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Chamber House Innovation Village Cheetah Road Coventry CV1 2TL T: 024 76 65 4371 F: 024 76 45 0242

At the publishers

Publisher

Ian Fletcher

Benham Publishing Limited 3tc House, 16 Crosby Road North, Crosby, Liverpool L22 0NY 0151 236 4141

Advertising Contact Alison Seymour alison@benhampublishing.com 07841 115444 Production Manager Mark Etherington Accounts Director Joanne Casey Media Number 1431 © Benham Publishing 2015. C&W in Business is produced on behalf of Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce by Benham Publishing Limited and is distributed to members free of charge. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in C&W in Business, neither Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, nor the publisher can accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies it contains. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber. C&W in Business is printed and distributed by Headley Brothers Limited The official publication of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce

The official publication of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce 4

Coventry and Warwickshire’s business successes were showcased at the 21st Coventry Telegraph Business Awards held at the Ricoh Arena. Hundreds of business professionals gathered to honour the region’s leading business lights at the biggest event in the history of the awards – and Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber members lead the way in many of the categories. “The Coventry Telegraph Business Awards is an event we’re always happy to be associated with,” said Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce. “It helps to highlight all of the great work that’s going on in the region and every business, whether they were winners or made the shortlist, deserves all of the plaudits that come their way. We’d like to congratulate everyone that took part and thank them for playing their part in the region’s success story.” O’Brien Contractors, a longstanding Chamber Member,

scooped two awards. It was voted Property Company of the year, as well as Company of the Year following an outstanding performance in securing millions of pounds worth of business since embarking on a diversification strategy as the recession took hold in 2009. The Company of the Year title was just reward for the hard work, planning and close to £1 million in investment ploughed into the company, an investment that’s paid off with recordbreaking turnover now being achieved. Fellow Chamber members, Pashley Cycles, part of Pashley Holdings Ltd, achieved the Export Award having grown the international trading arm of its business from 15 per cent to 45 per cent over recent years. It now exports bikes to more than 50 countries and is investing in new machinery and increasing its workforce to keep up with demand. Another Chamber member, Coombe Abbey Hotel, topped off an award-winning year by

claiming the Retail award, yet more success on the back of its Best Bedroom award at this year’s Conference & Hospitality Show Awards 2015. The SME award went to rapidly growing engineering company NSL Automotive, formerly Coventry Power Steering Specialists. It’s enjoyed phenomenal growth over the last two years, tripling its turnover to £1 million pounds, extending its product line from 379 components to 1,260 and expanding into new, larger premises to meet the growth in orders. The Technology & Digital award was shared by two Chamber members RDM Group, a Coventry-based manufacturer most noted for its development of autonomous (driverless) vehicles, and Nettitude, an independent cyber security consultancy that provides 360-degree security solutions for corporate IT estates. To round off the night the lifetime Achievement award was presented to Professor Lord Kumar Bhattacharyya, Chairman

and founder of the Warwick Manufacturing Group, now known as the National Automotive Innovation Centre. He was recognised for the key role he has played over a number of years in helping the region stay at the forefront of new automotive technology developments, not to mention the crucial role he played in securing thousands of local jobs by brokering the deal that saw Tata Motors buy Jaguar Land Rover from former owners Ford. Dr Ralf Speth, Jaguar Land Rover chief executive, said, “It’s only right that Professor Lord Bhattacharyya is recognised for his achievements in bringing academia and industry together in order to raise technology, innovation and education standards. His determination to push technological boundaries goes beyond manufacturing, but it is in the automotive sector where we have seen his influence benefit Coventry and the region the most.”

The winners in full: • Business Start Up and Entrepreneur Imperial Candles • Communications - DSA • Export - Pashley Cycles • Manufacturing - Edgetech UK Ltd • Outstanding Professional - James Holden, Leader Communications Ltd • People Development - Contechs Ltd • Professional Services - Almond Care • Property - O’Brien Contractors • Retail - Coombe Abbey Hotel • Small and Medium Enterprise - NSL Automotive Components Ltd • Technology and Digital - Nettitude and RDM Group • Company of the Year - O’Brien Contractors • Lifetime Achievement Lord Professor Kumar Bhattacharyya

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Policy

Businesses will work with new Government Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire have urged the region’s MPs to maintain strong ties with industry. Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said the organisation – which represents thousands of firms across the city and the county – had regular dialogue with MPs locally and looked forward to continuing that relationship on the back of the General Election. She said: “We look forward to working, once again, with those MPs we have developed a very good dialogue with over the years – Geoffrey Robinson and Jim Cunningham in Coventry, Mark Pawsey in Rugby, Marcus Jones in Nuneaton, Nadhim Zahawi in Stratford, Chris White in Warwick & Leamington and Jeremy Wright in Kenilworth & Southam. “We also congratulate Colleen Fletcher on her election in Coventry North East and Craig Tracey in North Warwickshire and will look to develop strong ties with both of them on behalf of businesses – small, medium and large – across the patch. “The Chamber is not a party political organisation but speaks up for members

on a range of issues. It’s vital that we can take the concerns and issues of businesses to the very top and we’ve had great support from our MPs in doing that. “We like to meet them regularly here in the region and we have also taken delegations down to Westminster to talk about specific issues. That must continue. “Business plays a huge part in any constituency and it’s vital that we maintain these ties over the next five years and strengthen them – as it’s our members who will be investing and creating jobs which, in turn, pays for vital services. What business needs is a stable government that helps to provide the certainty they need when it comes to investing and creating new jobs. We hope that, by achieving a majority, the Conservatives can provide that and, as businesses, we are ready to work with MPs on a local level and the Government on a national level to achieve that. “Businesses recognise that the work to put the economy back on track after the recession is well underway, but there are still challenges ahead.

“Recently, several key figures within the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce met David Cameron during his visit to North Warwickshire and presented the British Chambers of Commerce’s Business Plan for Britain to him in person. “That plan sets down exactly what businesses need from this Government over the course of the next Parliament in order for the economy to grow. “We still need to see more companies exporting. Locally, that can be done by tapping into the support from the International Trade Hub at the Chamber, which includes UKTI support. “Also, a very real issue that needs to be addressed is bridging the skills gap in order to fill the needs of those growing businesses who are seeking to create new jobs. “The Chamber, as ever, is ready to support that work and we look forward to working with all of our MPs in the coming weeks, months and years.”

Candidates ‘should outline business vision’

Industry leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire are urging the candidates in the Labour leadership contest to set out their vision for business. Representatives from the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce attended the televised debate between Andy Burnham, Yvette Cooper, Liz Kendall and Jeremy Corbyn which was held in Nuneaton. Paul Carvell, the vice president and North Warwickshire branch chair of the Chamber, attended the event but didn’t get the chance to put his question to the leadership candidates on the night. However, Carvell and his Chamber colleagues are urging the potential leaders

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to ensure they take time to set out their agenda on business over the course of the next few months. He said: “I was disappointed not to get to put my question to the candidates. Not for me, personally, but for the many businesses we represent. “The Chamber is not a party political organisation – we are here to represent the views of business and to provide a voice for companies of all sizes and sectors to decision-makers and those in positions of influence. “Whoever takes over as Labour leader will need to re-set the party’s relationship with business and I wanted to ask how they

intended to do that and what their vision was for business. “The role that business plays in society is absolutely vital – it creates jobs and also generates the taxation that pays for public services. “In our local hustings before the General Election, I felt the candidates from all sides acknowledged that but I think nationally many business people didn’t believe that was the case. “So the Labour leadership candidates must be given the opportunity to set out their vision, their agenda and their policies on business before its members cast their votes.”

Government ‘needs to be clearer on devolution’ Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire have welcomed the Queen’s Speech’s commitment to bolstering the economy. But Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said the picture around devolving powers to the regions remained unclear. The new Government wants regions to have greater control in the way they are run and will devolve further powers to areas. The new legislation is framed around major cities and elected mayors – but there could be an opportunity for areas that choose not to have an elected mayor to still enjoy the benefits of devolution. That’s the issue that Bennett believes need to be clarified but urged all parties to come together anyway to set down a vision for the region. She said: “Broadly, we welcome many elements of the first Queen’s Speech from the newly elected Government. “A commitment to cut red tape and to dramatically increase the number of apprentices is among the policies of which we are very much in favour. “As this Chamber has already come out and said, we do welcome the opportunity for Coventry and Warwickshire to work with Birmingham and the wider West Midlands in terms of drawing down greater investment for this area. “The Northern Powerhouse has gathered momentum recently and it’s vital that our region isn’t left behind when it comes to the benefits that devolution can bring. “There is a line in the summary of the new legislation which states it will provide ‘the legislative framework necessary to deliver the Greater Manchester deal and other future deals – both in large cities that choose to have elected mayors and in other places.’ “This suggests that the devolution of powers will not solely be reserved for those areas that go down the elected mayor route, something that businesses we speak to don’t seem to have a thirst for. “We have seen before that this type of change can be a moving feast and, therefore, can be framed by areas themselves rather than waiting for government to dictate. “That is why it’s vital for this entire region to make a clear commitment to working together in ways that can bring economic benefits to the whole of the West Midlands and propose our version of how that would look back to government. “This should be seen as a huge opportunity rather than a threat - but it is one that we must make the most of.”

Service of the Month

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You’ll benefit from: • Fantastic exchange rates - with a rate that’s typically 4% better than you’ll get with your bank • Expert guidance – a dedicated phone line providing access to moneycorp’s expert professional currency dealers who’ll ensure that you gain optimal value from foreign exchange activities • Quick and easy-to-use online money transfers – allowing you to trade when it’s most convenient for you and ensuring that you’re kept up to speed with live rate information • Peace of mind – moneycorp is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority with all client funds segregated in custom accounts to ensure the highest levels of security. Chamber members also benefit from: • Free Foreign Exchange Healthcheck • Great value transfer fees – transfer fees start from just £5, much less than the typical £20 - £40 charged by the banks • Free account opening.

So if you’re involved in exporting, importing or any other activity involving Foreign Exchange, then you need to get in touch to find out how you can start making significant savings as a Chamber member.

Either call: 02476 654321, email: info@cw-chamber.co.uk or visit www.moneycorp.com/chamberfx to learn more.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

A glimpse into college development

(Left to right): Peter Deeley, Edward Hudson (both Deeley Group), Tamsin Jones, Jennie Harker (both Pershore College), Kevin Gallagher (Deeley Group).

Two key figures in a £5.8 million development at a Midlands horticulture college were given a ‘window of opportunity’ to see how work is progressing. Peter Deeley, of the Deeley Group, and Tamsin Jones, Interim Principal at Pershore College, were given a tour of the site where the first part of more than 11,000 sq ft of glazing, which is valued at £450,000 alone and covers approximately 75 per cent of the building, has been fitted. Deeley Construction, part of the Deeley Group, is transforming the college, which is part of the Warwickshire College Group, including a glass complex that will house a new science and technology centre, a collections house, teaching rooms, project spaces and extensive research and development facilities. Tamsin Jones said the new building was of vital importance to the college and the wider horticultural industry.

She said: “This stunning new building will provide our students with an innovative, technologically-enhanced environment unrivalled in the further education sector. We have been working with experts from RHS Wisley on the project, so it truly is cutting-edge. “Horticulture is a vital industry for the local, regional and national economy so by inspiring young people to focus on horticulture as a career we can help tackle the skills shortages in the sector. These facilities are crucial for the college and our students, but will also benefit local employers and the wider community. “This year we are celebrating 60 years of horticultural excellence at Pershore College, and these new state-of-the-art facilities will ensure we continue to be at the forefront of the industry across the region and nationally.” Work is due for completion in August with Deeley providing a highly-technical facility

to meet the 21st century needs of the college and the sector. Peter Deeley said: “This is a very exciting project and we are pleased with the way work is progressing. It was also great to see the very real enthusiasm for the project at the college and just what it means to them and their future. That’s why our industry is so important. “The glazing will be absolutely stunning when it’s completed and is crucial for the future use of the building.” The double glazed units on the main building will include a body tint to help reduce glare while, in places, it will include a brise soliel that further cuts out glare. The glass on the collections house is just a single but toughened pane which allows the right wavelengths to travel through the glass to support plant growth, whilst maintaining strength. The glass on the roof will also be self-cleaning, helping to cut down on maintenance costs.

‘Step into Summer’ Charity fashion show raises funds for local charities A fashion show in aid of two local charities, organised by Coventry & Warwickshire law firm, Alsters Kelley LLP recently took place at Coombe Abbey raising just over £3,500. The event was held to raise muchneeded funds for Grapevine, who provides advice and support for people with learning disabilities in Coventry and Warwickshire and Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer. Sharon Daniels the owner of three retail clothes outlets in Warwick, Fascino Style, I Do and Jacks of Warwick provided the clothes and choreography for the fashion show. Clare Wightman, Chief Executive from Grapevine said, “Alsters Kelley Solicitors LLP has continued to support Grapevine through their

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CSR programme. We are delighted by their continuous support and also grateful to Ladies First for helping to organise the event.” Cathy Wahlberg, Finance and Operations Member at Alsters Kelley said, “The whole evening was a huge success and we have raised over £3,500 for two extremely important charities. We would like to thank everyone who attended and everyone else involved for all their support and generosity. We are already planning next year’s event.” If anyone would still like to make a donation or would like to be involved in next year’s event then please contact Julie Richardson on 01926 356012 or email: julie.richardson@alsterskelley.com

sponsored column

A welcome extension to Entrepreneurs’ Relief Finance Act 2015 has introduced a welcome extension to Entrepreneurs’ Relief. Historically, individuals reinvesting proceeds from the sale of their business under the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) would need to elect to tax their full gain up front in order to preserve their entitlement to Entrepreneurs’ Relief (ER) and thus the 10% rate of Capital Gains Tax (CGT). Provided the interest in the business being disposed of qualifies for ER, ER will now be permitted on the release of any qualifying gains that have been deferred into investments qualifying for Enterprise Investment Relief and Social Investment Tax Relief. This change also means that it is now possible to reclaim the 10% tax already paid in the 2013/14 tax year and preserve this ER entitlement by investing in a qualifying EIS investment.

Individuals wishing to discuss this further should contact David Thomas or Paul Spencer on 02476 257481 or dt@sgduk.com/ps@sgduk.com. For more information please visit our website www.sgduk.com.

Events

Trade hub is launched

(Left to right): Ajay Desai, Louise Wall and Angela Tellyn (all of the Chamber)

Coventry and Warwickshire’s International Trade Hub was officially launched as experts in export met companies in the region wanting to take their business overseas. The new hub was unveiled at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s headquarters in Coventry where it will be a first port of call for firms looking to export their goods and services. Louise Wall, the group commercial director at the Chamber, made a short speech before companies from across the region held one-to-one sessions with 11 experts in a range of fields – including trading with China, routes to market, digital trade, language and culture, EU Enterprise

support and export documentation. Louise said: “Exporting is absolutely crucial for individual businesses and for the economy as a whole. “It helps to insulate firms from any fluctuations in the domestic market by spreading their customer base into new markets. It is, therefore, vital that we do everything we can to encourage and support more companies to trade overseas and to help those that already export to do more. “There is a wide range of support on offer from both the public and private sector – including the government’s UKTI service which we deliver here at the Chamber.

“We also offer export documentation, training and consultancy and also partner with other organisations who can support with finance or logistics. “The idea behind the International Trade Hub is to offer businesses a first port of call when they need any guidance or support when they come to export. “The help is out there and by knowing that they only have to make one initial call, it should see an increase in exports from this area.” It was revealed in May that exports from the West Midlands were up by 16 per cent for the first quarter of 2015 – one of the highest increases in the country.

Ajay Desai, the Chamber’s international trade team lead, said: “The growth in exporting is very positive for the region but we have to strive for more. “The International Trade Hub is a great way of promoting exporting and offering very real and practical advice. “The one-to-one sessions were very popular – we had more than 50 companies in attendance, all with pre-booked slots. In fact, it was so popular we will look to stage this kind of event once every quarter in order to meet demand.” For more information on overseas trade and exporting contact the Chamber on 024 7665 4321.

“It helps to insulate firms from any fluctuations in the domestic market by spreading their customer base into new markets. It is, therefore, vital that we do everything we can to encourage and support more companies to trade overseas and to help those that already export to do more.”

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Events

sponsored column

Businesses ‘should not be shy’

Automatic Enrolment - Q&A

What is Automatic Enrolment? The law on workplace pensions has changed and every employer with at least one member of staff is now required to comply with Automatic Enrolment by enrolling those who are eligible into a workplace pension scheme and contributing towards it. It is called Automatic Enrolment because it is automatic for your staff – they don’t have to do anything to be enrolled into your pension scheme. (Left to right): Jonathan Garrett (JLR), Paul Sabapathy CBE (Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands), Joe Greenwell CBE (DL), Louise Bennett OBE (DL, C&W Chamber of Commerce), Sandy Andringa (TA Savery & Company), Tim Cox (Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire), Carl Hollier (Industrial Washing Machines), David Burbidge OBE (DL)

Business should not be bashful when it comes to applying for industry’s most prestigious awards. The West Midlands region does not win a proportional share of Queen’s Awards, which are recognised across the globe as mark of quality in the way a company does business The lieutenancies of Warwickshire and the West Midlands are working with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to encourage more businesses to find out more information on the awards and to help them apply. Two companies, TA Savery – based in Coventry – and Industrial Washing Machines from Birmingham, joined Jaguar Land Rover in talking local companies through the process of applying, and the benefits winning

can bring, during the session at the University of Warwick. Louise Bennett, the chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands, urged companies to put themselves forward. She said: “Applying for a Queen’s Award is not a prospect to be taken lightly and it is a comprehensive application, but it can bring very tangible business benefits both at home and abroad. “TA Savery and Industrial Washing Machines were glowing examples of companies who, to begin with, were not too confident about their chances because they did not think they were big enough. “But they both had scored considerable

successes in export, which had become a key part of their business success, and they were both awarded a Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade. “I think their experiences really inspired the other businesses and hopefully we have some more local companies having to visit Buckingham Palace in the near future.” Paul Sabapathy, Lord-Lieutenant of West Midlands, Tim Cox, Lord-Lieutenant of Warwickshire, and their respective deputies David Burbidge and Joe Greenwell also spoke to the businesses and offered support in the application process. All details on Queen’s Awards can be found at www.gov.uk/queens-awards-forenterprise/overview

How will I find out what I need to do and by when? The Pensions Regulator will write to you stating your company’s Staging Date and asking you to nominate a contact for them to communicate with. It is important that you take action in response to these requests and respect the deadlines – with huge daily fines and criminal prosecutions your business cannot afford to get this wrong! This letter starts the process off for your company. Your company’s Auto Enrolment duties begin on your Staging Date, so finding out this date from the Pensions Regulator is important. This is very topical at the moment as we are aware that a number of businesses are receiving this information from the Pensions Regulator.

What do I need to do to comply? As an employer, you need to make sure your eligible staff are enrolled into a pension scheme. Even if you already pay contributions into a pension scheme for your staff, you still need to check if it is suitable for Auto Enrolment. You may need to seek advice from your current pension provider or from a pensions adviser.

My staging date is not until 2017, why bother with it now? Ideally, you should allow up to 12 months before your Staging Date to prepare. However, Dafferns is strongly advising all businesses who have not yet made provision to comply, to start researching options now. The market for the new-style pensions is limited and you may find that, as time goes on, pension providers who have filled their quotas may close their schemes, leaving less (or no) choice in the marketplace for latecomers.

Can my accountant help? Yes, most firms of accountants can offer help and advice to their clients on this subject. To contact Dafferns about Auto Enrolment, please email brian.king@dafferns.com or steve.wheatcroft@dafferns.com. Tel: 024 7622 1046 or visit www.dafferns.com.

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CWT

50 Degrees and Counting

Triumph for CWT Chamber Training Care Worker at WorldSkills 2015 UK Health and Social Care Competition Coventry based CWT Chamber Training’s apprentice Fredrikka Walker scooped first prize in the two initial heats in this year’s WorldSkills UK 2015 Health and Social Care Competition, which were held at South and City College in Birmingham, and are part of the world’s largest vocational skills competition. The heats were held in May 2015 and the first 30 of this year’s 79 competitors from England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, were able to demonstrate their skills in delivering health care in a competitive environment. This year’s competitions are organised by Profiles4Care and sponsored by the NHS Leadership academy. Heat 1 on 13 May saw some fantastic skills being delivered with personal centred health care being demonstrated throughout. The heat resulted in Fredrikka Walker, who works for Individual Care Services and is currently training with CWT Chamber Training in Coventry for her Level 3 NVQ qualification, taking first place. The competition aims to find the best adult health care workers in the country. Regional heats took place between May and June, with the eight highest scorers from across the country going forward to the National Finals at the Skills Show, being held at the NEC in Birmingham this November. Over the course of the day, competitors needed to demonstrate the delivery of excellent health care in a mix of written tests and live activities, assessed by a panel of expert judges from across the country. The activities, which included working with older people and people with learning disabilities, were devised by Profiles4Care Ltd to replicate situations which health and social care workers would be expected to face in their everyday roles. Fredrikka Walker (20) who won 1st prize winner in Heat 1 said; “I thought it was great fun, a good learning experience and challenging. I really enjoyed it and meeting new people. Even though we were competing we got on really well.” Marc Jones, Director at Profiles4Care Ltd said: “The expertise and leadership demonstrated by our frontline care workers has once again been a pleasure to observe. To see competitors confidently showing what they can do when supporting people is a privilege. Health and social care has a lot to look forward to from the people who have taken part in this competition.” Fredrikka is now preparing for the national finals to be held in November 2015 at the NEC World Skills Show with the possibility of going forward to the world finals in Abu Dabi 2017.

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber Training (CWT) has been delivering the Leadership and Management Foundation Degree, in partnership with Staffordshire University since 2008, resulting in great personal success for their graduates. Highlights include graduates gaining promotion to directorship level, moving into senior jobs at leading global organisations and putting their new skills and knowledge into good use, expanding their own businesses. Hear what some of our Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management students have to say: "My skill set and knowledge base in management and leadership was fast tracked. As I was learning I was also becoming a much more rounded manager and progressed in areas of my own personal development, some of which included formal writing approaches and developing both service delivery and staff." Carol Benson FdA, Counselling Coordinator, Valley House Counselling Service, "I chose CWT because it was more flexible for a start, I wanted evening study, plus a couple of my colleagues had already studied at CWT and spoke highly of their experience so I went down that route. Since studying for the Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management I feel personally that I am talking to senior management and board members on more equal footing and am genuinely taken more seriously, contributing to meetings and conversations more." Fred Butler, Premier Group

"I've had many light bulb moments during my studies for the Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management! I now have a lot more commercial understanding and feel comfortable with finance. The teaching sessions and tutorials were brilliant. The experience I came to the course with has been built on." Emma Lawrence FdA, Managing Director, DSA Design Ltd. The benefits of undertaking the Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management are clear, particularly with qualified leaders and managers being in such high demand in the UK. Research carried out by the Department for Business Innovation and Skills, alongside a host of leading business organisations, has revealed many concerning trends within leadership and management in the UK -

ineffective management is estimated to be costing UK businesses over £19 billion per year in lost working hours and 43% of UK managers rate their own line manager as ineffective - with only one in five being qualified. The Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management is an excellent way of stretching and challenging management thinking, developing new skills and strategies to practically improve performance in the workplace. For more information about leadership and management higher education qualifications such as the Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management, call Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber Training (CWT) on 024 7623 1122 or email events@cwtcov.co.uk today. Courses start in September, find out more now!

Men at Work - in the Children’s Workforce This month, to coincide with the Government initiative to recruit more men to the Children’s Workforce, CWT Chamber Training are celebrating the men who are advancing their careers within the Children and Young People’s Workforce through the Apprenticeship programme. Three fantastic examples of inspirational men at work in the children’s workforce are Tre Roodhouse, Theo Carr and Roy Healy. These apprentices have had a wealth of success working in the sector developing new skills and gaining qualifications. Roy has had a varied career including working as a trainer for support workers who help pregnant homeless women in to housing. He then worked within a college delivering elements of The Prince’s Trust programme to young people, before moving into Early Years Education in his role at Nature Trails. Roy has recently carried out in-depth research into the importance of fathers in their child’s development. As a result of this he has developed a training programme which he has now

delivered to his colleagues to improve their knowledge and understanding. Tre Roodhouse and Theo Carr (photographed) both work at Coundon Kidz Club. The owner of the club, Liza Jones, tells us that the business benefits greatly from having male employees as they are incredibly popular with the children and are more likely to be asked to join in with such things as football, or risky play. Tre first attended CWT in 2012 when he began working in the Before & After School Club & Holiday Playscheme. He completed the Level 2 Diploma in Playwork with CWT in May 2013. Tre has ambitions to become a Youth Worker and since Playwork and Youth Work are often combined disciplines he has now commenced a Level 3 Diploma in Playwork as a credible route in to the BA Hons Youth Work at Coventry University. Theo first attended CWT in 2010 to commence a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Children’s Care, Learning and Development. Since completing this, Theo has gone on to complete Level 2 and 3 Diplomas in Playwork enabling

him to undertake a variety of roles within the organisation. Theo loves the fact that his work is so varied. Roy works at Nature Trails Nursery in Rugby and has recently completed a Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People’s Workforce through an Advanced Apprenticeship at CWT. All of our men at work recognise that apprenticeships have been key to their success and are looking forward to a bright future working with Children.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

International Trade

Success for cycles company Stratford-upon-Avon based Pashley Cycles took the prize in the international trade category at the Coventry Telegraph Business Awards – but the real winner was the regional economy. Like many business opportunities, Pashley, which has been supported by the Chamber’s international trade UKTI team for several years, fought off stiff competition from Potters Poultry,

Ultraseal and Piltec in the category. International trade adviser Mick Page said he was delighted to see the recognition given to the exporters in a category sponsored by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce. “All of the shortlisted companies are a credit to this region,” he said. “We talk about the importance of exporting all the

time and the benefits it brings not only to the individual businesses but to the whole economy. “They are real examples of companies that are pushing themselves into new markets and are winning business overseas. By exporting, they are insulating themselves from any fluctuations in the home market by spreading their clientbase to other parts of the world.

Pashley Cycles

well-known classic designs. The firm now also has a range of accessories to complement the bikes. Pashley Cycles has had UKTI assistance with overseas trade show participations; also some assistance with a recent production expansion project.

Potters Poultry

The company has a unique position in being the UK’s only remaining significant volume bicycle manufacturer. It makes a wide range of bikes, including work-bikes, trikes and other specials, in addition to the

Piltec Rubber & Plastics Ltd Piltec is a leading manufacturer of cable lining products and has been innovating in this specialist area for many years,

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providing new solutions for its international customer base. The company is re-engaging with the UKTI team at the Chamber to explore further support.

Potters Poultry is an established family business that understands the needs of its industry through and through.

Ultraseal International Ultraseal is a leading manufacturer of sealants for precision castings in the advanced engineering sector. The company produces sealants which are recyclable, so

“We are delighted to have supported them along the way with everything from trade visits to undertaking market research and from export documentation to credit advice.” For more information on how to take your business onto the international stage, contact the international trade hub at the Chamber on 024 7665 4321.

The company has utilised the Passport to Export scheme, new market research (OMIS), Export Marketing Research Scheme and has also benefitted from trade show support.

more environmentally friendly, thus enhancing production efficiency. The company has been supported by international trade adviser Parminder Hayer with new market research (OMIS) and towards travel to new markets.

International Trade

Success in attracting foreign investment T A Savery wins Queen’s Award for International Trade

A Midlands engineering firm, which exports 80% of its UK-manufactured products, has been recognised for its contribution to the global economy after winning a Queen’s Award for International Trade. Coventry-based T A Savery & Co, which trades as energy absorption specialist Oleo International and hydraulic solutions provider Savery Hydraulics, has won the prestigious award, recognising its sustained success in overseas markets. The award comes at an exciting time for the company, which has recently manufactured the world’s largest elevator buffer, launched an industryfirst global online sales portal, and expanded its international presence with new sales operations in North America. The company’s Chairman, Sul Sahota, said that this award was testament to the company’s innovative design and manufacturing processes, which take place in the UK. He said: “We are delighted to have been awarded one of the most celebrated and high-profile awards for commercial success – the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade which celebrates the very best of British industry. “We have been designing and manufacturing our products from the UK and exporting them overseas for many years and we owe this award to our staff, stakeholders, suppliers and quality processes here in the UK, and to our strong global network of distributors, agents and service centres.“ Savery Hydraulics design and manufacture hydraulic systems for sectors such as the Ministry of Defence, the energy sector and automotive, and recently designed and installed a hydraulic ring main system at Jaguar Land Rover. Oleo International designs and manufactures elevator, rail and industrial buffers in the UK and has a strong sales presence worldwide. Oleo recently manufactured the world’s largest elevator buffer, which will be installed into some of the world’s tallest buildings. Sul said: “The profile of UK manufacturing overseas is still very strong and we have always worked hard to maximise opportunities for our products in overseas markets as part of our ambitious growth strategy. This award is a great accolade for our work to-date and gives us fantastic motivation to build on this international success for further growth.”

Coventry and Warwickshire’s growth areas of advanced manufacturing and engineering and digital technology are reflected in the UK’s success for attracting foreign investment. The UKTI Inward Investment Report 201415 reveals 468 projects across the UK were supported in advanced manufacturing. Other sectors where the UK is performing strongly are financial and professional services, energy and infrastructure and creative industries and ICT – an area where Coventry and Warwickshire is strong with the games development cluster in Leamington, Warwick and Southam known as ‘Silicon Spa’ with over 30 studios directly employing 1,200 people. The London Taxi Company was mentioned in the annual report for its £250 million investment in a new research, development and assembly facility to produce a new generation of revolutionary ultra-low emission London taxis. Supported by the UK government’s Regional Growth Fund, this ground-breaking investment by the Chinese owners of the London Taxi Company, Geely, will create up to 1,000 new jobs at Ansty Park in Coventry. The business will eventually have the capacity to assemble up to 36,000 vehicles a year and the new vehicle will bring economic benefits through the supply chain.

The report also shows the UK strengthened its position as the number one European destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) after recording a total of 1,988 projects – 12% more than in the previous record-breaking year – which created 84,603 new jobs across the UK. Foreign investment has also helped to safeguard just over 23,000 jobs in the UK associated with FDI projects Dr George Gillespie, board director of the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) and chief executive officer of MIRA in Nuneaton, said foreign investment continues to strengthen the UK’s competitiveness in key industries. He said: “Advanced manufacturing and engineering remains a major strength for Coventry and Warwickshire as we develop a growing reputation for being a national and international hub in this specialist area. “The rapid growth in this sector underlines the UK has all the right ingredients to attract foreign trade and investment as highlighted by the plans announced by Geely which is the first green-field investment of its kind in the UK by a Chinese automotive company. “The report shows research and design is generally funded through foreign investment and this is vital to increase productivity and remain competitive in the global economy.

Dr George Gillespie

“Another interesting development is that the UK is now the leading European destination for FDI in creative industries and the ICT sector due to a high level of government support. “I think all this shows that companies across the world are aware the UK is a place to do business as we have the right conditions to help their businesses grow. “All this will improve our economy and create jobs but that doesn’t mean we can rest on our laurels since there remains much work to be done.”

Area plays its part in strong export performance

Firms in Coventry and Warwickshire are making a strong contribution to increasing export orders in the UK, new figures have revealed. The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) issued its Quarterly International Trade Outlook ahead of UK Trade & Investment’s (UKTI) Export Week between May 18 and May 22. The survey, which has been running since 2006, speaks to more than 2,000 businesses and the latest figures reveal

that 46 per cent of manufacturers have reported increased overseas orders in the first three months of this year. In the service sector, that figure remained steady at 33 per cent. Companies in Coventry and Warwickshire are playing their part, as the BCC reported that businesses in the West Midlands are among those to see the highest increase in exporting activity. It’s up by 16 per cent over the past quarter. Louise Bennett, the chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said firms across the city and the county had access to world class support. She said: “One of the challenges set out to the new Government is to help grow our exports and while these figures are very positive, that challenge remains. “I am delighted to see that the West Midlands is making a significant contribution to increased activity and that companies on our patch are, more and more, seeing the business benefits of overseas trade. “On the back of these figures and as Export Week begins, it’s important to remind companies of the world class support they have available here at our International Trade Hub at the Chamber.

“We have a team of UKTI advisers who are able to provide a whole range of support to existing and new exporters. They can assist with research and market information in the first instance and then also offer very detailed advice through the exporting process. “The Chamber also has an export documentation service which is growing in popularity and helps everything from small firms up to some of our region’s largest manufacturers to ensure they have completed the necessary paperwork when exporting. “The thing to stress during Export Week and, indeed, throughout the whole year is that doing business abroad is not a mystery. “Like anything in growing a company, it takes hard work but with the right support and advice it provides a route to a range of new markets and opens up a world of opportunity for your business. “If we are to continue to grow our economy locally, regionally and nationally, we need to build on these positive figures and in no way, shape or form can we believe the job is done.” For more information on exporting call the Chamber’s International Trade Hub on 024 7665 4321. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

International Trade

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Coventry firm seeks to grow foreign markets

Why Training Doesn’t Work

Many business owners and leaders believe that “training doesn’t work.”

A Coventry-based manufacturer has built on its international network of distributors thanks to advice from experts in foreign markets. Induction Technology Group (ITG) has been developing air filter technology for road and race vehicles for 27 years and moved to new, self-built premises in Siskin Drive, Coventry, in 2013 following sustained growth in the UK and further afield. The firm, which caters for a range of vehicles from powerboats to F1 race cars, has strengthened its position in international markets by partnering with new distributors in France and China. ITG sought the advice of the UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) team since it began entering European markets, and called on them once again in the search for fresh distributors to enable further growth. The firm is now working “flat out” and looks set to continue with its impressive

development into several markets, which began with a single seminar visit. “We have been working with UKTI for quite a while,” said Richard Clews, General Manager of ITG. “We were invited to a seminar to learn about the Passport to Export scheme, and found it very useful to talk to other companies to find out what they required and how it could work for everyone. “That scheme enabled us to visit Germany, France and the United States and more recently we visited China and we were able to find a new distributor there. “UKTI helped with introducing us to other people on trade missions and key contacts within different international markets as well as conducting research into foreign markets and providing translation services. “We had been particularly successful in France and in line with our own expansion, we required bigger distributors and we

were helped to find them in France.” Brian Mountford, international trade adviser at UKTI, has worked with ITG for more than 18 months. He said: “ITG is a fantastic example of a UK company which can make a real impact in several different international markets with the right introduction and knowledge. “The firm is undoubtedly one of the market leaders in its very specific field, and this makes it a hugely attractive partner around the world as well as in the UK. “The opportunities for domestic companies to make their mark across the world are out there for firms with desirable products and, with the help of UKTI, the process of finding new markets overseas is a lot more straightforward than expected.”

Scheme allows business to harness talent Exporters are being encouraged to take advantage of a new scheme aimed at incorporating the skills of postgraduate students to aid international business success. UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) West Midlands has teamed up with universities from across the region to create opportunities for businesses to employ the expertise of foreign language-speaking students through its new Postgraduates for International Business programme. The scheme allows companies to hire students to work on particular projects from researching new markets to developing international contacts. The wealth of internationally reputable universities in the area makes the West Midlands the perfect location for such a programme, with large numbers of

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postgraduates with expertise in a range of languages. University schedules typically lend themselves to such work too with term breaks and the capacity for students to manage their own time as well as visa restrictions allowing international students to work up to 20 hours during term-time and during vacations. Gerti Willis, Language and Cultural Adviser for UKTI in the West Midlands, said: “Hiring a student can help companies address the language and cultural barriers associated with market entry and development. “Recruiting a student that is familiar with the language and business culture of a firm’s export market can really open doors and have a dramatic effect on a business’ progress entering a new market.

“Students can help with a wide range of activities, from dealing with enquiries that arrive in a foreign language to making sure that you do not make a cultural faux pas when meeting international clients. “The duration of the project is dependent on its complexity, but companies should bear in mind that students will only be able to work on a part-time basis and have to be paid for their work and funding options are available.” For more information and details of how to apply call Gerti Willis on 0121 607 1942 or email gerti.willis@mobile.ukti.gov.uk. Alternatively consult a local International Trade Adviser.

They’re right: a one off, ‘quick fix’ two day or two week training session doesn’t work. Take tennis, for example. I played in my teens, but nothing since. Recently, I found a tennis coach and I’ve committed to two visits a week to the tennis court. I’ve made some advances. My coach showed me how to hold a racket so that I can hit the ball with the right timing. She developed my forehand swing so I am able to find the right position for maximum strength in the wrist. After six weeks of hard work, a light goes on. The various elements of the game begin to come together. I don’t have to think about every little thing. I ask my coach, “Will I be ready to join the county team soon?” Her reply: “Well for someone who starts tennis as an adult, practising for an hour twice a week, it will take about three years.” I was stunned but I realised that she was right. To reach a semi-pro level was going to take work. I wish I could fix my game by just attending a two day tennis boot camp, but I can’t. Today, we are influenced by the ‘quick fix’ society. Neuroscience research confirms that our brain needs repetition over time to learn. Brain imaging studies show we do more unconscious practising of what we are learning when it is spaced out and reinforced over time. This is true for whatever new skill we want to develop, whether it’s to become a doctor, lawyer, engineer or upgrade sales or leadership skills. It takes time to develop game changing skills. A coach will put you on the right path and your determination and commitment will take your skills to a professional level. ••• Written by Neil Liddell of Sandler Training. Providers of Sales and Management Training ••• Chamber members are permitted one 'Free Pass' to my workshop - 'Acquiring Business is Hard or is it?' Please email for more details. E: nliddell@sandler.com T: 0845 0573563 M: 07547 227442

•••

Business Support

Moving on and moving up Nurturing business growth Coventry based Artisan Plant Nurseries specialises in producing rare and unusual hardy perennials that not only look beautiful, but help to encourage biodiversity and support wildlife. Owned and run by long-time colleagues and friends Andi Strachan and Helen Lockwood the business has successfully targeted a niche market and is now blooming. With more than 35 years’ horticultural experience between them, Andi and Helen had all of the required horticultural skills, but lacked the business skills to start up on their own. They both worked at Ryton Gardens, Andi was Head Gardener and Helen was a gardener/propogator working in the Heritage Seed Library, so when they were both made redundant it provided the spur they needed to branch out on their own. They got in touch with Margaret Bull, Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber Business Adviser, who recommended they attend a 2-day Start-up Workshop. The Workshop provided the critical guidance they would need to be successful; covering essential topics such as, the personal skills needed to run a business, the financial planning and commitments involved and how to develop a sustainable business plan. Margaret began working closely with them and provided useful advice around marketing, finance and business strategy, as well as helping them construct a robust business plan. A thorough analysis of their marketing activities was carried out and strategic advice provided around effectively marketing the business in a competitive retail sector. Initially Andi and Helen considered producing micro greens for the restaurant market. With help from Margaret they quickly came to the conclusion that such an approach was unsustainable from a business perspective and a decision was made to concentrate on producing a range of high-quality rare and unusual plants. 15 months on they’ve built a successful business selling plants online and from their nursery in Kings Hill Lane, Coventry. “Margaret’s advice and help over our first 15 months of business has been invaluable,” says Andi. “I love what we do and it’s hugely satisfying to successfully create a viable business around something that you care deeply and passionately about.” Helen agrees. “I'm now very happy to have my own nursery, especially as I get to work alongside my best friend and horticultural rock star Andi Strachan.” “I’ve known Helen and Andi for some time,” says Margaret Bull, “and it’s been a fantastic journey watching both them and the business grow and become established. As a Chamber it’s always satisfying to help a business get off the ground. Artisan Plant Nurseries has now got past that critical first year and I’m confident that all of the ground preparation and hard work will bear fruit long into the future.”

The Emerald Group is a company that’s definitely going places, not least into new offices with the help of Coventry & Warwickshire Chamberof Commerce! Established in 2009, it provides the very latest IT solutions to help businesses of all shapes and sizes improve productivity and access the most cost-effective IT for both in-house and field-based teams. It targets a wide range of industries and sectors but places a particular focus on tightly regulated industries like Financial Services and those businesses with large mobile workforces, including logistics, construction, property maintenance and engineers. Over the last 6 years it’s gone from strength to strength, delivering IT and Telecommunications solutions to SMEs, including everything from one-off IT infrastructure projects to ongoing operational support. Sarah Windrum, Director, had heard about the Growth Vouchers programme

through the Chamber and got in touch with Richard Warren, Business Relationship Manager to find out more. Following discussions the business didn’t qualify for a Growth Voucher. Richard recommended that they explore the possibility of securing funding through both the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Growth Accelerator programme. This could then be used to help finance a move to larger offices. “The move’s been a great success,” said Sarah. “With the extra space we’ve been able to take on two more people and plan to take on at least two more before the end of 2015. We’ve also secured new contracts worth almost £200,000 over the next few years, including a large contract with Ikea home Delivery – which we wouldn’t have been able to do without the strategic advice we’ve received. “With the help of the Chamber and the programmes it recommended to us we’ve

set out on a process of upskilling and developing our staff. It’s given us the confidence to bid for the contracts we’ve recently secured knowing that we have both the skills and the capacity to fulfil on our promises. Both programmes required match funding from the business, which I believe helped to focus our minds on what we’re hoping to achieve. From my perspective, it’s not about the money, it’s about the mindset!” “It’s a great company that explores every possible angle when it comes to growing the business,” said Richard Warren. “It’s been a pleasure to work with them for the last year or so and I’m convinced that they’ll keep on growing in future years. Supporting growth and success is what the Chamber’s all about, so it’s really pleasing to have played at least a small part in helping The Emerald Group develop and prosper.”

Businesses urged to seek help

A business adviser, who has helped local businesses access more than £1 million in grants in the past two years, is urging more Coventry and Warwickshire firms to ask for support. Helena Bassett, an adviser at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, was shortlisted in the business services professional category at the recent Coventry and Warwickshire First Pro Awards for her work in supporting a range of companies across the region.

In the last two years, Helena has assisted 49 companies in both the manufacturing and service sector to apply for and receive £1.2 million in grant-funding. That has contributed to £6 million worth of projects in Coventry and Warwickshire and has helped to create 80 new jobs. She said: “The beauty of so many of the businesses we’ve supported is the fact that so many of them say they’ve never applied for a grant before and wouldn’t know where to start. “We hold their hand through the process and while you can never guarantee they will be successful in receiving a grant, you can make sure they give themselves the best possible chance. “It’s great that we can support businesses – especially some of the smaller firms – in this way and the fact that it leads to new jobs is positive for the individuals and for the region as a whole.” On top of that, Helena has also mentored around 120 businesses across the city and the county, advising on everything from marketing to cashflow. Helena added: “We help a wide range of companies and it’s such a pleasure to see the passion and the expertise that exists in Coventry and Warwickshire.

“I’d love to hear from more businesses who feel they can benefit from our support. It can be around applying for grants but there is so much more to what we offer – it’s all about helping companies to grow and to reach their potential.” Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said Helena deserved recognition for her work over ten years with the organisation. She said: “We were all very proud to see Helena shortlisted for the First Pro Awards. It was an extremely strong category and while she didn’t win, it was great for her and the Chamber to be recognised in that way. “We do help a whole range of wonderful companies across the patch, from start-ups to more established firms and from manufacturers to service-based businesses. “Helena does a wonderful job as part of a fantastic team we have here.” For more information or to receive support, businesses should call 024 7665 4321 or email supportforbusiness@cwchamber.co.uk

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Business Suppport

Tribute paid to key role in company’s success Dr Ralf Speth, the Chief Executive of Jaguar Land Rover, has paid a glowing tribute to Coventry and Warwickshire for its part in the company’s international success. Dr Speth, speaking at the Coventry and Warwickshire Showcase event at The Shard in London, said that the area’s unique strengths had been a key factor in driving the company forward. The showcase, organised by the Coventry and Warwickshire Place Board, highlighted the business and investment opportunities in the area to around 150 leading national figures from industry sectors – including development and investment. He said: “Our own recovery and transformation at Jaguar Land Rover has been driven by a number of factors – our investment, a global approach and the quality of our people. And I am convinced that the role of Coventry and Warwickshire as a partner, supporter and business location has helped Jaguar Land Rover immensely. “Coventry and Warwickshire is among the top 10 per cent of the fastest-growing economic areas in the country, with a Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy of £17.8 billion. “It is a centre for over 400 advanced manufacturing and engineering companies and, it is within an hour’s drive from 15 universities, producing 100,000 graduates each year. “That is a success story that would be the envy of any region anywhere in the world. Yet success does not happen by accident. “Local government, local businesses, organisations and academia should all take a proactive and cohesive approach to investment. We come together on the Coventry and Warwickshire Place Board to

Left to right: Jonathan Browning (CW LEP chairman), Izzi Seccombe (Leader of Warwickshire County Council), Ralf Speth (Jaguar Land Rover), Ann Lucas (Leader of Coventry City Council), Les Ratcliffe (Chair of the Coventry and Warwickshire Place Board)

make a difference: it is something we are proud to chair. Local partnerships can lay the foundations for a strong future in UK manufacturing.” Dr Speth highlighted the company’s links with the area’s two universities and its ongoing investment at its Whitley headquarters and its new Special Operations base at Oxford Road. He was joined by several other business leaders from the area as well as national commentators and local MPs for the event which was hosted by BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Tony Livesey. Les Ratcliffe, chair of the Coventry and

Warwickshire Place Board, said the Showcase had delivered a very strong message of opportunity to an audience which was normally hard to reach. “We believe Coventry and Warwickshire has a very strong message to deliver, but the only real way of having it heard by the decision-makers in London is to tell them about it in their own back yard,” he said. “The range of speakers and the consistently strong messages they had to deliver certainly made an impact and we will be following that up in the coming weeks, so we can bring many of the audience to the area to see for themselves.”

Turning pipe dreams into business reality

John Dimascio had always been keen on DIY and recently decided to transform his hobby into a business. Determined to start off on the right foot he arranged to shadow a plumber to get hands-on work experience and learn as much as he could before setting out on his own. This initial research convinced him that his dreams could be turned into a viable business and his next step was to seek out some expert advice. John attended the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s free Business Start-Up Workshops and in early March was allocated an Enterprise Coach for one-to-one business mentoring

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to help him progress his idea further. Within just 8 weeks John launched his plumbing and DIY business, JSD Plumbing, based in Coventry. During the one-to-one sessions with his Enterprise Coach, Sandra Garlick, John worked on all aspects of his business, including formulating a business plan and cash flow forecast to ensure that his business was financially viable and sustainable in the long term. With his mentor's input, John also developed his website, Facebook page, Twitter page and a range of marketing materials. John said "I knew that I wanted to start my own business and heard about the free

support provided by the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber. Within days I was attending my first workshop. I have never run a business before and having a business mentor really helped me deal with so much in a short time. "Sandra has been so helpful, I cannot thank her enough. Without her help I would still be a long way off starting. To have someone just an e mail, call or meeting away is priceless. I knew what I wanted to do but was unclear how it could be achieved. Sandra pointed me in the right direction and gave me the motivation I needed to launch. “The work is starting to come through now and the future looks very positive indeed. If anyone were to ask me how to start out on their own I would say the first thing they need to do is contact the Chamber of Commerce before anything else” Sandra Garlick, said "It was a pleasure to work with John, he was extremely committed to getting his business started. I was able to meet with him on a regular basis to work on his business plan to ensure that he was on the right track from the outset. “Our business mentors work with anyone who has a business idea to help them turn that idea into reality. I see these businesses as potential employers of the future and the support they receive from the Chamber ensures that the business starts on a sound footing so that they are trading for many years to come"

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Should I be planning for Windows 10?

You can’t have failed to notice all the press and Social Media noise about the upcoming launch of Windows 10, but what does it all mean for a typical SME? The answer will depend somewhat on which operating system you are currently running on the desktops within your organisation, but there will be benefits from upgrading regardless. Windows 10 will be solid a improvement over Windows 8 and we can already see that further features are coming in the future. Some of the key new features of Windows 10 include; 1. The return of the Start Menu 2. Multiple desktops for Power Users 3. Windows Store apps can work like desktop apps 4. Improvements to the search functionality 5. A new browser called “Microsoft Edge” At an architecture level Windows 10 has been designed as one platform to work across an incredibly broad set of devices, including a PC or laptop, Smart Phones and Tablets, on devices that have 4 inch screens to ones with 80 inch screens, or even with no screens at all. This means a business can have one operating system to support all their users on any device performing any type of activity. To learn more about Windows 10 visit the full article at www.zenzero.co.uk/windows10

Zenzero Solutions are a Microsoft Gold partner, based on the Warwick Technology Park

Legal & Finance

Law firm helps mark 75th anniversary

New head of commercial and residential property for leading law firm Alsters Kelley LLP, one of Coventry and Warwickshire’s leading law firms is pleased to announce that it has strengthened its property team with the appointment of Joanne Herbert as an Associate and Head of Commercial and Residential Property. Joanne qualified as a Chartered Legal Executive in 1996 and joined Alsters Kelley in June 2014. Joanne was previously Director of Conveyancing Services at Thomas Horton LLP in Bromsgrove. Neil Raiseborough, Member and Head of Private Client, said: “Joanne is a great asset to the firm and we have every confidence that she will continue to develop and build on the success of the department. Joanne has accumulated a vast amount of experience in all types of property work both residential and commercial and is a great asset to the firm.” Joanne commenting on her appointment said, “I am looking forward to the challenge of developing and expanding the team as there is so much potential within the firm to make a real difference in the area.” Alsters Kelley LLP has offices in Leamington, Coventry and Nuneaton and Joanne spends time in all three.

A Coventry law firm helped to mark Coventry Citizens Advice Bureau’s 75th anniversary by toasting their relationship which began in 1940. Band Hatton, which merged to form Band Hatton Button in 2013, helped Coventry Citizens Advice Bureau expand in the city after the outbreak of the Second World War. Coventry Citizens Advice Bureau was initially set up as a wartime emergency service.

It dealt with over 1,300 wartime inquiries during its first few months and quickly needed to expand its services. Band Hatton assisted by providing additional office space rent free at its premises at Barbican Chambers in Earl Street. In November 1940, Barbican Chambers was destroyed during the Blitz but the relationship between the two organisations continued and Band Hatton Button still assists Coventry Citizens Advice Bureau with property matters 75 years on. They came together to celebrate their shared history at a reception held at the Coventry Citizens Advice Bureau at Kirby House in Little Park Street. Julie Calcott, partner at Band Hatton Button, said: “It is unusual for two organisations to have worked together for more than seven decades and we are proud that the relationship has continued to evolve. “We wanted to help the Bureau celebrate its 75th anniversary having shared such a longstanding history with the charity, and to also congratulate it for the work it has achieved.

Appointment for Linda Linda Jones, Brethertons Family Partner, was appointed by The Warwickshire Law Society as its new Deputy Vice President. As a local resident to the Rugby area, Linda is a well-known figure in both legal circles and the local community. Linda has over 25 years’ experience in the profession and has built up a formidable reputation in family law, both locally and nationally. Most recently, she has been the brainchild behind the initiative ‘New Beginnings: The Next Chapter’ - a bespoke counselling service, free of charge to Brethertons customers going through family proceedings, to help them manage what is undoubtedly one of the most difficult periods in their life. The Warwickshire Law Society, which has over 500 members and is over 100 years old, invited Linda to sit on the board, with the intention that she will become President of the society in two years’ time. Her responsibility in the current role will be to support the current Vice President and President in their aim of representing and promoting solicitors in the region. Linda, who has succeeded David Murray of Murray Brankin, said: “The Law Society has a huge part to play in ensuring individuals have access to justice and in supporting solicitors during these challenging times. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to supporting justice and the profession, which is something I feel so passionate about.”

Trevor Dyer, Partner and Head of Finance and Administration at Brethertons, is also on the Warwickshire Law Society’s Council, and sits as the Society’s Area Representatives for the Rugby area. Trevor said: “I’m delighted Linda has taken on this role. The Society is a key organisation in our field, in terms of support for lawyers, but also in acting as a gateway for clients looking for solicitors in the area. As a firm that is passionate about client service, Brethertons is proud to have two of its Partners on the committee of such a valuable organisation.”

“It continues to play an integral role in Coventry with its projects and campaigns helping to tackle social issues, and providing support for thousands of people in the city. “Our involvement with the charity started as it looked to source new office space, furnishings and volunteers to expand in the city. “We have since worked with the charity on a number of projects and over the last decade have helped to draw up the property leases for the Bureau’s last three commercial premises.” Coventry Citizens Advice Bureau offers free, confidential and impartial advice on a range of subjects and is involved in projects and campaigns that aim to improve the overall quality of life for those living in Coventry. Simon Brake, chair of Coventry Citizens Advice Bureau, said: “We are exceptionally proud of our long history in helping the people of Coventry with the problems that they face. The fact that we have been able to do this for 75 years, and to share that history with Band Hatton Button, embeds us firmly in the fabric of the City of Coventry.”

Seymours Head of Litigation and Employment has double celebration!

In April 1995, Andrew Hardy joined Seymours Solicitors and this year marked a very special double celebration. As well as achieving two decades of loyal service with the Firm, it was Andrew’s 60th birthday! As Head of the Litigation & Employment Department, Andrew advises Seymours’ clients on a wide variety of civil disputes including landlord and tenant cases, inheritance claims and disputes between neighbours. Due to the breadth and depth of his expertise, Andrew also advises clients on all aspects of family law, employment law disputes and mortgage repossession work. Seymours is the longest-established firm of solicitors in Coventry and Warwickshire and continues to increase its team of committed, highly-experienced individuals. From offices in Coventry and Leamington Spa, Seymours provides a variety of professional services to a wide range of clients, from individuals and Small to Medium Enterprises to one of the top three building societies in the country. Seymours provides its clients with the best legal assistance and advocacy, combining traditional values with a fresh, modern approach. Andrew said “I am absolutely delighted to have spent 20 years at Seymours, watching the whole team flourish. The firm has always retained its friendly personality and continues to deliver a personal, professional service. I truly look forward to watching our continued growth and development during my 60th year and beyond.”

Michael to head up department Coventry based Kundert Solicitors LLP has announced the appointment of Michael Wells to head up the firm’s Commercial Department. Michael specialises in all types of Commercial work and has practised in Warwickshire as a Solicitor for over 15 years and has

strong business connections to the area. He said: “I am very pleased to be joining Kundert Solicitors LLP and to be given the opportunity to provide practical proactive advice and excellent service to the firm’s Commercial Clients. I shall be looking to expand the

Department by providing a one-stop Commercial service”. Paul Hughes, the Managing Partner at Kundert Solicitors LLP, said “Michael joins us with a great deal of experience of working with Commercial Clients. We are very pleased to have recruited Michael

after a lengthy recruitment process to run our Commercial Department. As our local economy continues to improve, we have noted an upturn in commercial instructions. Michael is now on board to be able to deal with these, offering pragmatic advice in a timely and cost efficient manner.”

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Legal & Finance

Firm Coventry’s professionals raise £4,000 for Samaritans welcomes report

(Left to right): Martin Gibbs, Roger Hughes, Keith Boxley (Relationship Director, Barclays Corporate

Coventry’s professionals raised £4,000 for Coventry & District Samaritans, a sum that will enable the charity to operate its listening service for six weeks. The region’s professional services experts donated £2,000 at Coventry & Warwickshire First FirstPro Awards, a sum then generously match funded by Barclays Bank. “We’re very grateful for this incredibly generous donation,”

said Roger Hughes, director of Coventry & District Samaritans. “Samaritans operates 24 hours a day 365 days a year. We are there for everyone, whether their distress is short lived or feels permanent, whether they feel there is no way out and whether they see the problems they face as large or small. “It costs us £4.50 per hour to operate our service and so this donation will enable us to

provide the support to people who need it for over six weeks. It makes a big difference.” The FirstPro awards recognise the very best of the region’s professional talent. Each category winner contributed to the community outside the workplace, supported others, showed active commitment to the region and possessed the intangible x-factor. Maria Thomas, relationship manager at Barclays Bank plc was named overall winner. Run by its members for its members Coventry & Warwickshire First is the only forum exclusively for professional and financial services firms in the region. Its members advise and support businesses from entrepreneurial start-ups to family firms and global organisations. Coventry & District Samaritans marked 50 years of listening in 2014. Established in 1964 by thirteen volunteers and it today has over 100 volunteers.

Midlands insolvency firm Poppleton & Appleby has welcomed a report which highlights the value of the insolvency profession to the UK economy. As formal insolvencies continue to fall following the recession, R3 the trade body for insolvency professionals, has released a report outlining the importance of the profession and how its many strands contribute to the UK economy. The research found that between 2013 and 2014, R3 members helped around 6,700 businesses nationwide – 41 per cent of informal insolvencies – continue trading after entering insolvency, helping to save around 230,000 jobs. Figures are similar in the Midlands where 2,522 cases were handled by the insolvency profession with around 38 per cent rescued after obtaining advice. Andrew Turpin of Poppleton & Appleby, which has offices in Birmingham and Coventry, said: “There is much more to the insolvency profession than advising on formal procedures and we are pleased to see R3’s report highlighting key areas in which the profession has had a positive effect on the UK economy.

“Insolvency is not inevitable and where possible we work with businesses to explore viable options for recovery. The role of the insolvency practitioner can be vital in helping to preserve and protect businesses as well as secure jobs. “We continue to advise dozens of businesses outside formal processes and have strong insights into the impact of problem debt – and, importantly, how it can be tackled. “We work closely with insolvent businesses and their creditors in liquidations, administrations and company voluntary arrangements and have a strong record of maximising returns to creditors. “Throughout the recession there was a sharp rise in insolvencies but as confidence has returned to the market figures have started to decline. “However, the next five years are likely to bring further changes to the insolvency landscape. We have already started to see rising household debts and with inflation and interest rates expected to rise, the role of the insolvency sector and the scope of support available is likely to become more prevalent.”

Ongoing pension reform Further pension changes were introduced at the beginning of this tax year, aimed at enabling individuals to access their personal pension fund from age 55. Whilst this flexibility is to be welcomed, it is not without risk – hence the establishment of the Pensions Guidance Service for people wishing to access their pension.

Changes in the pensions world will directly affect you and your business – and we all need to be prepared, writes new Chamber member Janet Gee, a Wealth Manager with St. James’s Place Wealth Management. The pensions world does not stand still. Auto-enrolment has been introduced as a means of encouraging people in work to save towards their retirement, with an additional, mandatory contribution from the employer. Larger firms will have already have implemented the auto-enrolment requirements for their employees, with smaller firms either meeting, or about to meet, their staging date for implementation. It is an additional cost for businesses, but seeks to address the fact that we are all living longer, and need to save for our retirement.

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Briefly, there are three options available to everyone qualifying to take their pension: cash in the whole lump sum; buy an annuity; or set up a drawdown scheme. Each of these options has tax implications and it will be important to choose the best option to suit your personal circumstances. Some business owners look to sell their business to part fund their retirement, and this will impact on which option may be most suitable for you. Business owners work hard to create their wealth, and in retirement you need your wealth to work for you to support your post-work lifestyle. It is recommended that individuals seek comprehensive, regulated advice in considering which retirement option(s) is most suitable for their personal circumstances – one size does not fit all in the pensions world. I cannot stress enough the importance of taking advice on your pension options - guidance is good but is likely to be insufficient for business owners.

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Property

Shopping centre has new owner Remapping specialist accelerates growth Following a period of unprecedented demand for its engine remapping services, Viezu Technologies has expanded its operations. As part of its expansion and investment programme, the company has relocated its UK headquarters to larger premises in Warwickshire. The new facility now includes an enhanced technical academy area to accommodate training of large groups of up to 30 fleet technicians and engineers; new ride and drive test and demonstration facilities which complement the company’s existing static European drive cycle test cells; and patented fuel monitoring apparatus to calculate inservice emissions prior to and post software installation. “Our expanded operations provide fleets with one of the most advanced and transparent engine remapping services available anywhere in the Europe,” said Paul Busby, CEO, Viezu Technologies. “We’ve experienced a surge in demand for our services in recent years as fleets look for ways to combat rising fuel prices and lower their emissions and this latest investment will ensure we can continue to provide 100% levels of satisfaction, fast turnaround times and the very best levels of training and technical support.” Viezu’s expertise in helping fleets save money and reduce their carbon emissions through remapping was recognised last year when it was awarded the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise for its BlueOptimize™ tuning service. The product has been used extensively by many major fleets across the UK, including BT who saved more than £4m worth of fuel and cut their carbon emissions by 250k tonnes in 2013 after Viezu remapped 24,000 of its vehicles. “Despite the phenomenal success and fuel saving potential of our remapping services, some fleet managers remain sceptical about how their company could benefit,” said Paul. “With these new facilities, we’re now delighted to extend an open invitation to all fleets across the UK to attend one of our ride and drive events so they can experience for themselves the power of remapping and talk with our technical team to dispel any myths and preconceptions they may have.”

A neighbourhood shopping centre just a few miles from Coventry City Centre has been bought for £1.675 million. SP+M, which has offices in Coventry and Birmingham, acted on behalf of a private client of Askew Hawkins to acquire the Ernesford Grange Neighbourhood Shopping Centre in Quorn Way, Binley. It was bought from New Wood Securities Ltd with units currently let to major national retailers including Tesco Express, Boots,

Domino’s Pizza and Ladbrokes, along with other local operators. There is also an office unit as well as some residential. Allsop and Franck-Steier Price acted for the vendor. Jonathan Moore, SP+M’s investment agency director, said: “This is a very good retail centre, which is reflected by the fact that such major retailers have units here. “There was several hundred thousand pounds invested in the centre just a few years ago and that has really breathed new

life into it and made it a pull for operators and, also, made it an attractive purchase. “Our client is very satisfied that they have a strong long-term investment because of the quality of retailers already here and the level of footfall it enjoys. “There could be opportunities for other occupiers in the next few months and the new owners look forward to continuing the success of the centre.”

“This is a very good retail centre, which is reflected by the fact that such major retailers have units here. There was several hundred thousand pounds invested in the centre just a few years ago and that has really breathed new life into it and made it a pull for operators and, also, made it an attractive purchase. Our client is very satisfied that they have a strong longterm investment because of the quality of retailers already here and the level of footfall it enjoys.”

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Property

Company makes the move A company that specialises in helping to grow SMEs has moved into a business hub in Warwickshire to accelerate its own expansion. Rev Marketing has relocated to the Rural Innovation Centre at Stoneleigh Park where it plans to practice what it preaches by focusing on its own strategic growth as well as its clients. Since being founded in 2010 by director Rosie Evans, the company has firmly established itself as a full-service marketing agency working with clients ranging from restaurants and accountants to charities and global software developers. Rev Marketing has achieved at least 50 per cent year-on-year growth largely through word-of-mouth recommendations and has expanded to a team of four employees with additional freelance support. It is now working with GrowthAccelerator, which provides expert coaching and mentoring for high-growth SMEs, to help achieve its full potential. Rosie, an experienced public and private sector marketer, said: “We are working with GrowthAccelerator to formalise our business plan so that we can put some tough targets against our growth because we want to rocket this year. “The majority of our business growth to date has been through word of mouth and now we are being more focused on marketing ourselves.” The company was originally home-based and took its first step into office space in Coventry last September. “Reputation is important when you are trying to grow a business, particularly when you are in the business of growing other businesses, and Stoneleigh Park as a location gives us that,” said Rosie. “With its range of office space and lease terms, the Rural Innovation Centre gives us the flexibility to support the next stage of our growth. Within 12 months, I can see us needing to double the size of our office space and there is potential for us to do that here.

“The working environment also fits with who we are. It’s bright, funky, and safe and secure - and we’ve already been able to put our own stamp on the office by creating a feature wall with our trademark colour red!” Rev Marketing is the latest business to move into the Rural Innovation Centre which has been at near-full occupancy since reaching its first year last September. The Rural Innovation Centre is part of the Warwickshire Rural Growth Network, funded by DEFRA and led by Warwickshire County Council on behalf of the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership.

The building was refurbished by LaSalle Investment Management as part of its ongoing transformation of Stoneleigh Park into a centre of agricultural excellence. Liz Burkinshaw, manager of the Rural Innovation Centre, said: “The flexibility of the Rural Innovation Centre is a major attraction for small firms looking to grow and it has already been a springboard for several companies which is so important in helping them and the wider Warwickshire economy to thrive. “We are looking forward to being the launchpad for Rev Marketing’s next take-off.”

County Council to move storage facility to new site Warwickshire County Council is moving some of its offices and storage facilities in Warwick to a new modern facility on the Heathcote Industrial Estate. Staff from the council’s current storage facility in Montague Road will move to the new facility on completion of refurbishment and fit out of the new facility. Julian Humphreys, project and programme manager, said the facility in Hawkes Point on the Heathcote Industrial Estate had 50,000 sq. ft. of modern storage space and would cater for a wide range of services from fleet maintenance, heritage and libraries. Nick Evans, a director of ehB Commercial, the Leamington-based commercial property consultants, said they had been called in to find a buyer for Hawkes Point, which had been vacant for five years, Mr Evans said the council had owned the freehold on Montague Road since the 1960s. He said the council was likely to move out

“With its range of office space and lease terms, the Rural Innovation Centre gives us the flexibility to support the next stage of our growth. Within 12 months, I can see us needing to double the size of our office space and there is potential for us to do that here. ”

completely next year and was expected to sell the facility, along with the adjacent site which was once used for a school. Both the warehouse facility and the former school are brownfield sites for residential housing and are included in the Warwick District Council Local Plan.

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Pet project is a passion for Fleur A leading educational journal described the work of PET-Xi as “breaking the cycle of negativity” in education. When you meet the company’s co-founder and joint managing director Fleur Sexton it is clear where the company gets that ethos from. Fleur, who together with husband, Chris, has built the company into a nationally-renowned training and education provider, is more bubbly than a shaken bottle of Prosecco – and more optimistic than an American preacher. The word “passionate” may have supplanted “journey” in the lexicon of X-Factor speech, but Fleur is genuinely passionate about education as a life-chances enhancer. And that is passionate with a capital P.

Working Day Fleur’s working day starts early. “The great thing about running your own business is flexibility so I start early. I get up about 5.30am to 6am to look at the reports which have come through from the trainers, experts and leaders. I will go through those and you need a clear brain to do that!” Fleur then takes the children to school – she has just missed the school run once – before arriving at work just after 9am. Fleur oversees the training side – applying the adrenalin shot, as she puts it, while Chris looks after operations and finance. “We have a PET-Xi Foundation which raises money for local youngsters, we sponsor

The Blaze and support Young Chamber, because the Chamber was massively supportive of us in the early days, so there is always plenty to do.” Chris collects the kids from school, while Fleur does the cooking. “Cooking is my hobby, I love it. I am a big believer in eating together and sharing what has happened in the day. Problems are always put in proportion. “We have three kids and three dogs. We often have family round and I love having a house full of people. It is very old fashioned but I love it!”

large proportion of immigrant children at the school, many of them did not speak French and I was teaching them English as a foreign language – their third language. “It really fired me up. They had significant barriers so you had to be inventive. It was about using the linguistic themes rather than just an acquisition of vocabulary. ”It also opened my eyes to how education could be a passage to a better life. These youngsters were from poor backgrounds, but they wanted to learn because they knew education could be a passport out of those circumstances.” Fleur and Chris were engaged at the time and both worked at McDonalds in the French capital – one of the finest places to learn a foreign language!

The Xi in the company name stands for Explosive Inspiration and that, to a degree, sums up what it does. It works across the UK helping boost the performance of youngsters through highly intensive courses run by 59 full-time staff and 350 trainers.

“Chris is not a linguist but he had completed his MSc in Artificial Intelligence, so came out for the year. Working at McDonalds is really fastpaced and you are plunged in at the deep end language wise, so it is sink or swim.”

They can either be youngsters who just need a leg up to ensure they pass their GSCEs and thereby improve their chances of higher qualifications and work, or can be NEETS, young people who are Not in Education, Employment or Training.

After gaining her teaching qualification, Fleur landed a job at Exhall Grange School in Coventry which taught children with disabilities but particularly those who were blind or partially-sighted.

The company has, over the last 20 years, been through several evolutions with its direction often determined by Government policy on education, but now works with more than 15,000 young people from Devon to Newcastle, and from Wales to Norfolk. The company, based at Westwood Business Park, is a classic example of how solving a problem led to developing a business. Fleur, who completed a degree in French at Nottingham University, wanted to be a teacher and her first two stints in the classroom proved vital in sowing the seed which would eventually lead to PET-Xi. “As part of my degree I went to work in France at a school in northern Paris,” she explains. “There was a

“Again that involved breaking down barriers, just different ones. There were children in my group who, because of their sight problems, found it very difficult to retain vocabulary so Chris and I worked on a computer programme to help them. “It didn’t have a name, it was not commercial, it was just to help me teach and the children to learn.” They did not know it at the time but that device – which became Teacher’s P.E.T. – was the start of what is now PET-Xi. News of Teacher’s P.E.T. spread through the education world, so Fleur and Chris decided to sell it and soon floppy discs were winging their way across the region and versions for Spanish, German, Italian and Punjabi were developed. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Profile: Fleur Sexton

The couple were holding down day jobs, and working on the products in the evening before making the jump into business with what was, at that stage, known as Progressive Educational Tools. The arrival of son, Jake, meant they had to start employing staff – including Fleur’s mum, Gaye – to take some of the strain, and that further pushed the business forward. “I had always been immersed in business. My family had always been in business so I had grown up with it and, especially in those days, seeing the importance of team work, looking after staff and really developing a community in the workplace. “Chris also came from a background where hard work was the norm - if a job was worth doing it was worth doing well.” The couple faced barriers of their own. Their second child, Kate, had significant health problems – she was christened in hospital as doctors feared she would not make it home – and then languages stopped being compulsory at schools. “We have had so many changes and, certainly in the early days, had to take some risks but I think you do that willingly when you are building a business and really care about what you do.” The company moved into enterprise learning, and then were introduced to the area of hard-to-reach and vulnerable children. “Kate’s strength as she fought on in those early days had taught me that

barriers are there to be broken. You have to crack on and do your best, and finding our ways round problems and motivating people became one of our main fortes.” Kate’s difficult start had forced Fleur and Chris to structure the business more formally and, as it transpired, led to the company’s expansion. The learning goalposts were shifted again in 2010 with the downscaling of vocational qualifications so, in the six months after the election, PET-Xi had to shift direction once more and that explosive intervention became central. “We decided to do more GSCE intervention work with schools. Basically we pledge to move the D students up a grade by improving their motivation, boosting their confidence and sharpening their skills and we do that in five days. “There is a lead trainer, an expert and two support staff and they work at a ratio of 1:5. We have different materials and different styles of working for different sorts of learners. We have it all covered. “We split out the different parts of a teacher through each team. We have a lead trainer whose job is to really get the energy up, we have an expert who is a qualified teacher, and we then have a nurturer who encourages. “Each youngster has a report written about them and that is read by our team leaders, and if there is a problem with a particular student they will formulate a bespoke plan of action to make sure we achieve the results for the youngster and the school. We are very forensic about it.

“The products side of the business has developed apps and there are videos that cover various scenarios. If the kids don’t show up, they get a phone call – there is literally no escape. “They are assessed on day one and marked again twice on the last day. They then sit the public exam later on and 94 per cent of them move up a grade. And as well as that happening we like to think we have fired their enthusiasm for learning in general. “Schools will bring us in when they know the kids need firing up so that we can really boost their basic skills so that they improve as a result and they will get through. “A lot of the kids don’t have the support. They are loved but they don’t have the social stability, the discipline

and the routine, so that is a big part of what we do. In a way we are saying ‘what can go wrong, we are here to make sure you succeed?’ “If we succeed – and we do – then we get rebooked and word does spread through the education system. We have got a proven track record and the results are there for all to see.” The company now has two offices in Sheffield as well as its headquarters in Coventry and is celebrating its 20th anniversary. “I still love it as much as when we started. Many of our staff have been with us all the way and – while I know it sounds corny - they are literally like family. The support they offer us and each other really mirrors what we offer the youngsters. If we are all in it together then we can’t fail.”

Biography: Fleur Sexton

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Date of birth:

March 4, 1972

Birthplace:

Leamington Spa

Married:

To Chris

Children:

Jake (15), Kate (10), Lara (5)

Hobbies:

Our dogs, cooking, and going to the theatre and the ballet

Favourite book:

My Family and Other Animals

Favourite film:

Nativity, filmed in Coventry directed by a Coventrian – and I am a Coventry fan!

Last holiday:

Paris with Kate

Car:

Jaguar XF R Sport

Favourite gadget:

My Teppanyaki cooker

Budget

Analysing the Budget 2015 Budget response from Louise Bennett, chief executive

As the first Conservative budget for more than 18 years, but in the context of the need to continue to cut the deficit, this was a bold statement from George Osborne. It was a budget where had to balance politics with a need to continue the country’s economic recovery and to provide business with the stimulus it needs to invest and create jobs. We saw from our latest Quarterly Economic Survey that there has been a slight reluctance from firms to invest in machinery and training so it was pleasing to see the Chancellor tackle these head on by increasing the Annual Investment Allowance to £200,000 and also encouraging more apprenticeships. As ever, many of the announcements had already been leaked or, at least, rumoured before the Budget but the reduction in corporation tax, eventually to 18 per cent, was a step few had forecast but is a move that will be welcomed. It is a great advert to the rest of the world to invest in this country and to boost business here. As he said, Britain is open for business, which is a strong message. With our two great universities in mind, I was pleased to see that he sees university as a jewel in the crown for the economy and that he was mindful to ensure that they continue to get the necessary levels of funding to allow them to grow and prosper. Other measures too are welcome – the Roads Fund is something that will strike a chord with businesses and individuals, although how much will be spent, on which roads and when wasn’t 100 per cent clear. Will the additional tax on new cars to create the fund put people off buying one? Probably not, but I am sure there will be a degree of nervousness around that. The freezing of fuel duty is another welcome measure and is one that businesses and individuals will, again, benefit from. In terms of Coventry and Warwickshire in the wider context of devolution in England, the Midlands as the ‘engine room’ of growth was mentioned by George Osborne but again played second fiddle to the Northern Powerhouse. He also talked about ‘elected mayors’ once again and from our feedback from business, there isn’t the stomach for a mayor as part of the West Midlands Combined Authority. We will see how this plays out and, also, ensure the views of businesses on our patch are heard loud and clear as this process progresses. We once again held our budget panel at the Chamber to discuss the changes with businesses from a range of sectors and there was certainly a feeling, more than ever, that we won’t know the true nature of this statement until a few weeks down the line. There were changes announced around the taxation on dividends for business owners and, also, his final announcement around the living wage – that took most by surprise. These will both have an effect on our members and we will monitor the final detail closely to keep businesses informed on what they will mean to them.

(Left to right) Amos Anderson, Peter Deeley, Harbhajan Tiwana, Paul Carvell, Anne Rose, Louise Bennett, Peter Burns, Angela Tellyn, Doug Squires, Harvey Williams, Paul Collier.

George Osborne’s first budget in a majority Conservative government set the right tone for business – but the true fall-out will not be known for several weeks. That was the view of the business panel at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce which included companies from a range of sectors across the region. Measures such as the reduction in corporation tax, freeze in fuel duty, increasing the annual investment allowance, encouraging more apprenticeships and the introduction of a new Roads Fund were all broadly welcomed by business leaders. But, they said, the devil would be in the detail when it came to changes to pensions and the taxation on dividends. Anne Rose, of Burgis & Bullock (accountants), said: “He claimed that very few would see any difference from the changes around dividends but I suspect it could make quite a signifcant difference. This is one we are going to have to look closely at in the next few weeks. “He announced a green paper on pensions that could see the whole system flipped on its head – it’s potentially enormous.”

Paul Carvell, of Stewart Fletcher Barrett (accountants) and vice president of the Chamber, said: “The change to dividends could be major but the true extent of the effect won’t be known for a little while. “The reduction in corporation tax is very positive. I was speaking to international businesses only recently and they said that the 20 per cent rate was drawing investment from other countries into the UK – this will go even further.” Peter Deeley, of the Deeley Group (property), said: “On infrastructure the only mention was on roads – there was nothing on rail, which was a shame. “There was no mention of building houses either and that is a big worry.” Paul Collier, of Lanemark International (manufacturing), said: “There was little on international trade and we would have liked to have seen more on this. “The change to corporation tax was unexpected but that is very good news for business.” Amos Anderson, of Jas Solutions (business support consultancy), said: “The changes to NI contributions for small business are welcome.”

Doug Squires, of Squires Gear & Engineering (manufacturing) and a former president of the Chamber, said: “The increase in the Annual Investment Allowance to £200,000 has to be good. Some businesses have certainly been putting investment decisions on hold so hopefully this will help to stimulate that. “With regards to the living wage, it could push up wages elsewhere but if it acts as an incentive to increase productivity that would be good news for business.” Harbhajan Tiwana, of PET Xi (Training & education), said: “The reduction in corporation tax and the freeze on fuel duty bring clear benefits. We also have 400 to 600 trainers on the road at any one time so the investment in roads is good news.” Harvey Williams, of the RICS (property), said: “The changes to inheritance tax will have no effect on the housing market in Coventry and Warwickshire but the right to buy for housing association tenants does help more first time buyers onto the ladder. “The real rabbit out of the hat was the tax relief on interest rates on buy to let properties.”

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Skills

Apprenticeships are vital for businesses

(Left to right): Peter Burns (President, Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce), Christine Giles (CWT), Jan Ryan (CWT), George Faulkner (CWT), Cameron Ross (Burgis & Bullock), Thomas Richman (Warwickshire County Council), Matthew Hammersley (Chamber)

Companies from across Coventry and Warwickshire were given the lowdown on the benefits of apprenticeships – by two young people who should know best. Cameron Ross, an apprentice from regional accountancy firm Burgis & Bullock, and Thomas Richman, an apprentice at Warwickshire County Council, took centre stage to speak at an event to highlight why apprenticeships are so vital for businesses and individuals. It was jointly hosted by Coventry and Warwickshire’s Chamber of Commerce and the British Chambers of Commerce, as well as the Federation of Small Businesses, to offer local businesses advice and information about the advantages of employing an apprentice. The event, which was run in conjunction with the National Apprentice Service, was held as concerns over rising skills shortages have led to the Government pledging to fund three million new apprenticeships by 2020 as part of the solution to the problem.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Cameron said: “I joined Burgis & Bullock nine months ago and have enjoyed every moment since then. “I left school at 16 and had little idea of what I wanted to do but knew that university did not appeal to me since I did not want to amass huge debts or just be sat in a classroom. “The accounting apprenticeship to me was a much better option as I was able to earn money whilst I learnt, but also gained valuable industry experience in the profession I wanted to follow, and I knew I would not be afforded that opportunity if I’d studied for a degree. “Since Burgis & Bullock have invested in me and funded for my qualifications, I feel even more determined to put in as much as I can to the experience and am sure I will be loyal to the firm for many years to come.” Matthew Wayte, of Burgis & Bullock, and Colin Biddulph, of the National Apprenticeship Service, were also among the speakers at the event, which was staged at Cheylesmore House.

Peter Burns, president of Coventry and Warwickshire’s Chamber, said: “The Chamber is a huge advocate of apprentices and apprenticeships. “We have some fantastic colleges and training providers across the region including CWT Chamber Training, the Chamber’s training arm, that consistently deliver and support successful apprenticeships. “This was a great platform to highlight those successes as well as promote and increase awareness of the services they provide. “My own career began with an apprenticeship at telecommunications company Marconi which led to me eventually becoming services and facilities director so I have experienced first-hand what great stead they position candidates in. “Apprenticeships programmes are proven to be an asset for companies and we hope that the advice provided at the event will encourage them to consider the schemes in future.” For more information on apprenticeships contact CWT on 024 7623 1122.

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Area Focus: Coventry

Engineering company plans a bright future PR company gives backing to campaign A Midlands PR company is helping to bring a ray of sunlight to communities across the region after lending its backing to a new campaign. Advent Communications, which is based at Electric Wharf in Coventry, has become one of the founding members of the Heart of England Community Foundation’s 100 Club. The foundation is the region’s largest grantgiving organisation and manages a range of funds – from large businesses to individuals – and distributes the money to groups that make a positive impact in their area. The Heart of England Community Foundation launched the new 100 Club alongside the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to give up to 100 small and medium-sized businesses the chance to contribute £1,000 to local good causes. Adam Dent, managing director of Advent Communications, said: “We know all about the great causes that the Heart of England Community Foundation help across the Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire area. “The grants can often be relatively small but they make a big difference to the community – whether it’s a sports team, a community event or a social activity for older people, they always have a positive impact. “We are proud to be supporting the 100 Club and it would be great to see more firms across the area giving their backing too.” Tina Costello, director of the Heart of England Community Foundation, said: “It’s great to have this level of support. We know many companies out there want to contribute to the local community and the 100 Club means SMEs can help to make a big difference to their area. “Advent are an established and highlyregarded company in the city and having its support is fantastic news.”

One of the UK’s fastest growing companies has concluded a secondary management buy-out funded by Santander Corporate Banking and advised by Midlands professionals. The Engineering Technology Group supplies high specification machining centres and fixtures and provides engineering services to manufacturers in the automotive, aerospace, and other specialist industrial sectors. Turnover has increased by more than 200% over the past three years to reach £30 million, with the Group supporting major investment programmes in the supply chains of companies such as Jaguar Land Rover and Airbus. Employing 120 people, the Group’s headquarters are in Southam with a recently opened operations centre in Wellesbourne, Warwickshire, and a manufacturing facility in Coventry. The business also has a subsidiary in County Kildare, Ireland, which was set up in 2014. The deal sees sales director Martin Doyle acquire a majority shareholding in the business and step up to become group managing director. The former managing director, John Temple, who led the Group’s first buy-out in 2012, becomes executive chairman and retains a large shareholding. Paul Rhodes, who founded The Engineering Technology Group in 1996, has sold his stake and retires from the business. Mr Temple said: “Martin and I have worked closely together over the last few years to develop the business. This transaction and the new ownership structure is part of the succession plan that will secure the company’s future and ensure continued growth.”

Martin Doyle said: “As group managing director I look forward to cementing our position as the premium brand machine tool and engineering solutions provider in the UK and Ireland and the opportunity to work with a team who I consider to be the smartest people within our industry. ETG is a continuing success story and with the support of all the team, we are embarking on another exciting chapter in ETG’s history.” The deal was funded by Santander Corporate Banking, Birmingham, including finance from the bank’s specialist Growth Capital Fund arranged by James Cooksey and Steve Mitchell. Simon Chapman of Burgis & Bullock Corporate Finance, was lead adviser to The Engineering Technology Group and

structured the transaction. Rick Smyth of The Wilkes Partnership, Birmingham, advised the company and John Temple on the deal. Stephen McElhone of Spearing Waite (Leicester) and Will Lodder of Magma Accountants (Rugby) advised Martin Doyle. Santander’s legal adviser was Emma Hopkinson of Browne Jacobson (Birmingham) and financial due diligence was undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers, Birmingham. Commercial due diligence was carried out by Armstrong Transaction Services and management due diligence was completed by The Quinn Partnership. The financial terms of the transaction are not being disclosed.

University’s registry team up for education leadership award

(L-R) Michelle Brooker, Amelia Hamson, Andrea Bolshaw and Helene Devane from Coventry University’s registry team, which is shortlisted for a THELMA.

Executive Chairman, John Temple (left) and Group Managing Director, Martin Doyle (right

Coventry University’s professional services staff have been commended with a nomination for a coveted higher education industry accolade. The University’s registry team were shortlisted in the ‘Outstanding Administrative Services Team’ category of the Times Higher Education Leadership and Management awards, which highlight the best examples of innovation and teamwork across the sector. Affectionately known as the THELMAs, the awards aim to ‘shine a spotlight on teams who work in the engine room’ of the UK’s universities, celebrating those which have made a particularly impressive contribution to the success of their institution. Coventry University’s registry team underpins the administration of the whole of the students’ academic journey – from enrolment to graduation – as well as supporting the governance of the institution and the quality assurance and enhancement of the whole of the University’s educational provision, both in the UK and overseas. The team was shortlisted based on a number of successful streamlining initiatives

related to the processing of students’ results, which enabled the University to bring forward assessment boards and make students’ results available earlier. As a result, students could be informed of their progress earlier and could make personal arrangements sooner – for example on matters such as travel, accommodation, visas, placements and employment – which contributed to improving the student experience at the University. Coventry’s nomination comes in the wake of the Guardian University Guide 2016, in which the University was ranked top in the whole of the UK for the percentage of final-year students satisfied with assessment and feedback by their tutors. Andrea Bolshaw, academic registrar at Coventry University, said: “We are thrilled to be shortlisted for this award. The recognition of our team’s efforts is a reflection of the hard work that all the staff at Coventry University put in on a daily basis to ensure that we put our students at the heart of everything we do.” www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: Coventry

Government ‘must act on food waste warnings’ If the Government does not offer recycling incentives to small businesses, millions of pounds of food waste will continue to be ignored as a source of renewable energy and fertiliser every year – a Coventry business adviser has warned. A project run over the past ten months in Birmingham’s Balti Triangle has found that restaurant and shop owners would separately collect food waste, provided that any additional costs of food waste collection can be avoided, the time required to set the recycling scheme up would be minimal, and the collection contract offered enough flexibility. Smarter Working West Midlands, a project part funded by the European Union and delivered by Coventry University Enterprises Ltd (CUE), worked in partnership with leading environmental consultancy, Organic Resource Agency (ORA), to carry out the report. The findings indicated that additional costs for food waste bin collections were the main obstacle to SMEs committing to separating food waste for recycling, while the attention span and time that businesses were willing to invest in food waste recycling was limited due to their hectic daily business. Henry Jerwood, Business Adviser at Smarter Working West Midlands, said: “The project clearly found that the potential for separate food waste collections is not yet exploited. “Large amounts of food waste are generated by SMEs in the UK, but the majority of this waste will continue not to be separately collected or recycled unless businesses are supported with incentives to meet the additional cost and time pressures. “At present, there are no legal requirements placed on businesses in England to present

Run for Fun in Coventry

food waste separately, so it will continue to be a low priority in the minds of many small business owners. “We were, however, heartened that restaurants and shop owners which supported the project indicated their interest in separating waste if separate food waste collection became economically beneficial to them. “There’s no doubt that millions of pounds of food waste will continue to be ignored as a source of renewable energy and fertiliser unless changes are made by Government to support businesses to send less waste to landfill or incineration.” Anna Tiefenbacher, of ORA, added: “The SMEs that took part in the research showed a

high degree of cooperation and hospitality and were very generous with their time. “Business owners were sympathetic about the environmental benefits of separating food waste, and it was positive to see big efforts were being made already by businesses to minimise food waste, through practices such as purchasing on a sale and return basis. “The practical constraints and financial risks did, however, create major barriers to businesses committing to long-term separate food waste collections. “Following the report we are investigating innovative options regarding food waste minimisation and collection schemes in order to avoid additional costs to SMEs that want to improve their waste management.”

Tim takes to the road to support charity A marathon runner has received a rapid response to his plea for donations to support a major new ambulance charity. Tim Wigginton, of Essex, who works as a duty locality officer for the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust, has raised £575 for The Ambulance Services Charity (TASC). The newly-formed national charity provides nationwide advice and support services to both serving and retired ambulance personnel and their families and dependents in times of difficulty and urgent need. Tim completed this year’s Virgin Money London Marathon in just over five hours in support of the charity, and the money he raised is the single largest donation the charity has received since it launched at the end of March. The 46-year-old met support staff at the TASC Head Office in Coventry to present the cheque for £575 and to put his name forward as a regional support team member. TASC was formed through the merger of a number of funds including The Ambulance Services Benevolent Fund (ASBF), and The Beds and Herts Ambulance Benevolent Fund. Tim previously supported the ASBF and has helped to raise over £25,000 for the charity in the last four years. He is now keen to take forward his work with TASC as his chosen charity. He said: “The support that TASC provides is vital. The job has changed so much since www.cw-chamber.co.uk

I started 21 years ago, it’s almost unrecognisable. The amount of work the ambulance services community undertakes and the high pressures faced in the job is much greater now so people really need to have access to support. “That’s why TASC is my chosen charity. I am very passionate about the ambulance service and the service we provide and it is important that the staff get the support that they need because without the staff there is no service.” Angie Crashley, Support Services Administrator of TASC, said:

“We are extremely grateful for Tim’s support, and donations such as this really help to make a difference to the lives of those in the ambulance community. “We look forward to working with Tim as a member of TASC to become a member of our Regional Support team in Essex and will encourage support and backing in the London Marathon next year.” If you would like to support the charity, make a donation or to find out more information visit www.theasc.org.uk or call the charity’s Head Office 02477 987922 or email enquiries@theasc.co.uk

Local charity Coventry 4 Good are looking for volunteers to help raise funds for good causes in Coventry at the Coventry Fun Run on 4th October. This annual event hosted by Coventry Three Spires Round Table is the ideal opportunity for families, work colleagues, friends and neighbours to get together to show their support of voluntary and community groups in the City. The Coventry 4 Good ladies team were in Bull Yard, Coventry, to help kick off the promotion of the Fun Run during National Volunteers Week. Coventry 4 Good are looking for volunteers willing to run, jog or walk the three and a half mile Fun Run to raise funds for the Coventry 4 Good grant scheme which is a small funding pot that helps support groups in the City such as luncheon clubs, residents associations, play groups, youth groups and self help groups. These are organisations that are usually run by volunteers that don’t have a dedicated fundraising team or marketing staff to help raise funds or awareness of the role they play helping vulnerable or isolated people in Coventry. All the funds raised by Coventry 4 Good go towards helping sustain these groups. Volunteers can join in to support Coventry 4 Good or to raise funds for the charity of their choice. The last Coventry Fun Run held in 2013 saw over 2500 participants running in the War Memorial Park and the streets of Coventry, raising an amazing £50,575.43 for local charities, good causes, and not-for-profit organisations. This year, we hope we can smash both 2013 numbers for participants and money raised for charity. More information about the Fun Run can be found here: www.coventryfunrun.co.uk Anyone that doesn’t fancy tackling the course but wants to be involved can join the marshalling team and help support the participants during the event.To pledge your support please contact Lucy Bergonzi, Coventry 4 Good at Voluntary Action Coventry on 024 7622 0381 or email l.bergonzi@vacoventry.org.uk Further information on the Fun Run is available at enquiries@coventryfunrun.co.uk

Chamber seeks to work with Coventry MPs Business leaders in Coventry have vowed to maintain strong ties with the city’s MPs to ensure the voice of local industry is heard. Sandra Garlick, the chair of the Coventry branch of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “I’d like to congratulate Geoffrey Robinson and Jim Cunningham on their re-election and also wish Colleen Fletcher all the best after her success. “The Chamber is not a party political organisation – we seek to work with all decision-makers across the region to ensure that the voice of business is heard. “We have met Geoffrey and Jim on numerous occasions over recent years and want to develop a positive relationship with Colleen too in order to ensure our members’ issues are heard.

Area Focus: Coventry Finance brings JB Total Fitness gym to Coventry Local part-time PE teacher John Beetison has realised his dream of opening a fitness centre in Coventry, thanks to a business loan from the Coventry and Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust (CWRT). A brand new business offering personalised one-to-one fitness and nutrition programmes, JB Total Fitness was launched in January 2015 after Mr Beetison received a £15,000 business loan from regional not-for-profit specialist finance provider CWRT. Mr Beetison explains: “Initially I started by running group fitness classes from my place of work, Exhall Grange School in Coventry. I was working with members of staff in the school gym. I felt that being a qualified personal trainer and nutritionist, I could offer more to colleagues and the community, so I approached CWRT for its support in taking my fitness pastime to the next level through opening my very own gym facility.” The £15,000 CWRT loan meant Mr Beetison was able to purchase new equipment and make improvements to the fitness facility that he runs, and he adds: “CWRT has been fantastic in supporting me to reach my goal, from assisting in business planning to guidance and advice on an ongoing basis. I felt that CWRT wanted the business to succeed as much as I did and the entire team has been so supportive and continues to support me as my business grows. I am now looking to recruit a qualified personal trainer to assist me.” CWRT is encouraging local businesses to apply for a business loan. CWRT provides loans of between £1,000 and £50,000 that can be used for any business purpose and the application process is straightforward through a faceto-face process with no computer-based decision making. Mike Musson, Chief Executive of CWRT, comments: “Our mission is to grow the local economy by supporting small and start-up businesses and creating jobs. As a not-for-profit specialist finance provider, we offer a vital boost to the region’s fledgling businesses, including JB Total Fitness, through access to critical affordable business loans which they might not be able to get elsewhere. We are here to remove barriers to growth and offer you an alternative source of finance to grow or start up your business.” CWRT is one of 60 Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFI’s) nationwide and in just under 10 years, has loaned over £4.8 million to more than 300 businesses, leading to the creation of 500+ jobs. To apply for a business loan, please visit: http://cwrt.uk.com/apply/ To find out more about the loan fund, contact Mike Musson, CEO of CWRT on 07539 879487 or email: mikemusson@cwrt.uk.com

Investment sparks growth for mail specialist A Midlands based direct mailing and hand fulfilment specialist has doubled its warehouse capacity, and made a significant investment in machinery and staff, as it grows its presence in the creative industry sector. Jigsaw CCS has invested £60,000 in its future growth plans, including a four figure investment in new printing equipment, which has increased the company’s letter and colour envelope printing capacity, while also increasing its entire portfolio of services. As part of the recent investment, Jigsaw CCS has relocated to larger premises in Coventry, more than doubling its warehouse space to over 6,700 sqft. The purchase has also seen the Coventry firm appoint five new permanent members of staff to meet growing demand for its services. A new business development manager has been appointed to establish the company’s presence in the higher education sector where Jigsaw CCS recently won three new contracts. Jigsaw CCS Managing Director Rebecca Fahy said: “This is a massive period of expansion and reinvestment for Jigsaw CCS. We have continually grown year-onyear since our inception eight years ago. We anticipate that the recent resurgence in direct mailing will further accelerate our future growth plans “Direct mailing has really transformed over the years. Clients are now seeking highly-targeted, personalised creative mailing solutions, of which hand fulfilment is an increasingly sought after service.

Our increased capacity, alongside our investment in new equipment will enable us to really provide our clients with a fully collaborative creative service, which meets their specific requirements.” The company has a longstanding history of working collaboratively with clients, and hopes that its recent investment will further streamline the company’s product offerings, in turn providing greater return on investment for its customers. Rebecca Fahy continued: “Our relocation to larger premises will dramatically

increase our work capacity as a business, enabling us to meet growing demand. Together with the investment in new print equipment the services we provide will also increase, enabling us to bring a number of previously external services in-house.” The recent expansion and investment in equipment marks Jigsaw CCS’s commitment to growth. Last year Managing Director Rebecca Fahy graduated from the Goldman Sachs 10,000 small business programme.

Monkey Business for Coventry company celebrating ten years

Pure Washrooms, based in Exhall Coventry, has celebrated its tenth year in business and recognised the achievement by taking the admin team on a trip to the Go Ape outdoor activity centre. The company, which provides bespoke washroom services to commercial businesses across the Midlands, was started by Directors Martin Pugh and Simon Maitland. They met in 1991 when they worked together for a national washroom service provider. Martin said: “Starting a new business is daunting but when you have expertise in a certain field and can identify gaps in the

market it is too good an opportunity to miss. In our previous roles we realised that every business is different and had different needs. “Traditionally, washroom service companies were completely function-led, with each engineer having a specific role. This meant some sites relied on three or four engineers to complete the job, which was disruptive for the client and washrooms services were taking far too long. “The vision we had, and still have today, is to run a completely service-driven business. The client’s needs come first. Our engineers are trained in all products and each customer is assigned one engineer who gets

to know the client and the site. Services are carried out efficiently with minimum disruption.” Their vision has paid off and the company has grown from strength to strength with its workforce numbers approaching 30 with further plans to expand. Simon said: “An important lesson we learnt early on and one I am keen to pass on to owners of service businesses, is to employ people who take pride in delivering a quality customer service. Much of our success is down to our team and Martin and I can’t thank them enough for their hard work and support. “ www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: Coventry

City of Culture bid represents a massive opportunity The city of Coventry is moving forward with a bid to become UK City of Culture in 2021. A steering group of local figures from business and culture recommended that the city should enter the running for the prestigious title that would bring a range of social, cultural and economic benefits to the city and the wider region. The group, which is made up of artists, cultural leaders, business leaders, the two universities and senior councillors and is led by prominent city businessman and Deputy Lieutenant David Burbidge OBE, has been looking into the city’s potential for success. Such is the strength of the case, the group recommended unanimously that the city should bid. Over the course of this year, work will be undertaken to research and develop the bid, which would be followed in 2016 by an active fundraising campaign and the development of local and national partnerships. The final submission would be delivered to the Departure for Culture, Media & Sport in 2017, who are likely to shortlist up to four top cities. Coventry would discover whether it has been successful in late 2017. Hull has already attracted major national investment towards its planned £18 million budget for 2017, with the Arts Council England, British Council and University already on board. Economic benefits and regeneration are under way on the back of the successful bid and the city has secured over £20 million in positive media coverage. Coventry – and the wider region – would aim to see a similar positive impact as the city celebrates its cultural contribution to the UK. This year is already a celebration of 50 years of Theatre in Education which was invented in Coventry. David Burbidge said: “This is a huge opportunity for Coventry, particularly with support from Warwickshire and the surrounding area, and I feel we are very well placed to launch a serious and ultimately successful bid. “Bidding for UK City of Culture does not mean we are the finished article - not by any means. It means we have a chance to shape

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

By Helen Doughty, Weld Supermarket Picker, Terex Construction To coincide with National Women in Engineering Day, companies across the UK celebrated their female team members, encouraging greater diversity on the shopfloor. Among them was global equipment solutions provider Terex, which is committed to increasing the number of women in its workforce, running a number of initiatives to inspire the next generation. One team member aiming to make her mark is Helen Doughty, a weld supermarket picker at the Terex Construction production facility in Coventry. Here, Helen tells her story.

Working in construction, it’ s ‘not just for the boys’

David Burbidge (left) with Pauline Black, whose band The Selecter released their new album Subculture on Monday (June 15).

the city and explore all of those things that make us distinctive and continue to move us, but also to look head on at some of the challenges we face and use this as a way of tackling some of them. A successful bid would leave a lasting, positive cultural, social and economic imprint on the region.” Pauline Black, singer and founding member of 2-tone ska band The Selecter, said: “Coventry has a very rich history and is ideally suited to be UK City of Culture 2021.” Julia Negus, producer for Theatre Absolute, said: “As part of the city's dynamic independent theatre and arts community, we look forward to supporting the Council and the bid team as they work towards celebrating and championing Coventry in a national and international arena.”

Cllr Faye Abbott, Coventry City Council’s Cabinet Member who has been leading on investigating the feasibility of the bid, said: “This is an amazing opportunity for the city and the time is right for Coventry to go for it.” Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “This bid will have the whole-hearted support of the business community. In themselves, the cultural and social benefits that a successful bid would bring make a compelling case for Coventry to go for City of Culture 2021. “Then, when you consider the economic impact such an accolade would have for Coventry – and Warwickshire – it’s my belief that this is too good an opportunity to miss.”

Warwicknet invites Motofest wifi users to ‘start their engines’ High speed internet connectivity company WarwickNet helped Coventry-based moto exhibition Motofest avoid an online traffic build-up this weekend when it upgraded internet capabilities across the city.

Jobs for the girls

Working with Coventry City Council, WarwickNet increased public Wi-Fi capacity in hot-spot areas including Broadgate and Coventry Cathedral, allowing the trade show’s thousands of visitors to access speedy connections with ease.

WarwickNet’s Chief Executive Ben King said: “Motofest was a brilliant event which saw tens of thousands of people flock to Coventry. The fantastic exhibitions, including Jaguar’s heritage display and stunt shows, meant that visitors wanted to share their experiences in real-time. “We know there’s nothing more frustrating than a poor internet connection so it was imperative to upgrade public Wi-Fi across the city in order to prepare for the sheer volume of people looking to use the free facilities.” Previously providing similar services to other festivals such as Insomnia, WarwickNet’s main activity lies in supplying business parks and industrial estates with superfast broadband connections allowing organisations across the country access to business-grade facilities.

In May 2014, I made the decision to quit my previous role as a warehouse forklift operator and apply for a job at Terex Construction. My husband had worked at the company for a number of years and told me about a recruitment day taking place specifically for women. It sounded like a great idea but, in such a male-dominated sector, I was sure it would be just me who attended. To my surprise, more than 10 women visited the production facility and we learnt more about what a role in the Terex family would be like. A few days later, I received a phone call offering me a job on the factory floor. In total, six of the recruitment day attendees had been asked to join. This meant starting with a group of ladies I already knew, which was really quite exciting. The job I was given suits me down to the ground. I play an instrumental role in the production of Terex compact construction equipment – working on the shop floor as a picker for the weld supermarket. Every day, my key responsibility is to select and deliver hundreds of different parts to the production lines, ensuring that the machine fabricators have the correct components to hand to build whichever model they’re working on. It’s a tricky job, as there are thousands of different parts for the extensive portfolio of equipment manufactured at Terex Coventry, but it’s something I really enjoy doing. The support and camaraderie of the team is hugely motivating and there’s a really positive buzz across the production lines. It’s really motivating to work as part of an energetic company where everyone is committed to doing a great job and takes such pride in their work. I’m proud to be part of the Terex family – it’s a great place to work. Since starting at the Coventry facility last year, I’ve never felt out of my depth or under pressure. One thing I’ve come to realise is that your gender doesn’t matter in construction - there are very few things that a woman can’t do and there shouldn’t be a reason for the industry to be maledominated. My advice to other women considering a job in the sector is to push your worries aside. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you like a challenge, it’s an excellent opportunity to do something ‘hands-on’. Early in my career I worked as a PA. It was never right for me and I’m glad I made the decision to switch to a role in construction instead. “At Terex, I was made to feel right at home from day one. The people I work with are excellent and the support from senior management is second to none. My dream job, of course, is to be a site dumper tester, but for now I’m really enjoying the challenges and opportunities associated with the production line.” Helen Doughty joined Terex Construction in May 2014 as part of the company’s Women in the Workforce programme.

Area Focus: Mid Warks Putting the voice of business to MPs Business leaders in Mid-Warwickshire have vowed to continue to put the voice of local firms to the area’s MPs. David Myskow, vice chair of the MidWarwickshire branch of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said Chris White and Jeremy Wright had been in regular dialogue with the branch and believes that will be maintained. He said: “I’d like to congratulate Chris White and Jeremy Wright on their reelection as the area’s MPs. “They have worked with us at the Chamber over the course of the last Parliament and it’s vital that this is continued over the next five years. “Both have attended branch committee meetings and have met with Chamber delegations that have visited Westminster to discuss crucial issues. “It’s vitally important that this is maintained so we can continue to put the voice of business in the area to our MPs.

Warwick students shortlisted in national competition for social media app Two students from the University of Warwick who are behind an innovative new social networking app were shortlisted in a national entrepreneurship competition. Picditto is a professional network for artists and designers which enables them to convey design concepts using photos. Users can gain feedback from other experts to enhance communication within the art and design industry. It was set up by Andre Wang, who is studying an MSc in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Veronica Chang, who is studying an MSc in e-Business Management. The business partners, from Taiwan, are part of the Warwick Incubator, which brings together students from different departments and disciplines to work on setting up a business. They are the first team from Warwick to have been shortlisted in in the Santander Universities Entrepreneurship Awards. Veronica said: “The art and design industry is not only about what you see but, more importantly, what you make others see. Therefore, getting feedback from certain and critical individuals becomes the key to success for artists and designers. This is what Picditto aims to do.” On making the shortlist, Andre said: “There is a real entrepreneurial spirit at Warwick, which has inspired us and helped Veronica and I get our idea off the ground.”

Scandinavian firm invests in Warwick A Swedish technology company is to create a state-of-the-art business centre in Warwick. Semcon Product Information, part of the Semcon group which employs about 3,000 staff in 10 countries, creates product information with cutting-edge augmented reality and animation to create online technical guides for high technology industries. It has agreed a deal with the CWC Group, which owns and develops Tournament Fields, to move to a bespoke 27,400 sq ft office and research and development complex at the Tournament Fields business park just off the M40. CWC has started fast-track construction works on site with a completion of the main shell in September 2015. The fit-out work, including installing a new mezzanine floor, will allow Semcon to trade from its new location – one of 45 across the world – at the start of 2016. Semcon first moved to Warwickshire seven years ago and employs 140 staff in Kineton, but is now set to grow that number to closer to 200. Torsten Sundin, Semcon's Country manager for Product Information, said the move ended the three-year search for a location that would allow Semcon to continue to grow. "We started in Kineton seven years ago with around 35 staff and have grown throughout that time but we now operate out of four separate buildings and really need to be housed in one,” he said. "We needed a more suitable and efficient building for the work we do and we wanted to create a better environment for our staff and also for our customers. "We predominantly work in the automotive industry and Jaguar Land Rover is a major customer in the UK, so our new centre will be perfectly located between its research and development facilities at Gaydon and Whitley.

"We have been constantly looking for a site and a location which will suit all those needs and at the same time allow us to continue our growth, and Tournament Fields fits all those requirements with the added bonus of giving us great visibility." Much of Semcon's work centres around producing aftermarket information for automotive manufacturers and technicians who work on vehicles. Sundin added: "Growing a workforce as we have is never easy but we have very good links with local universities and colleges and the move to Warwick will allow us to strengthen those relationships. We have allowed space to house around 180-200 staff in the building which will include Semcon Engineering Services, who provide engineering services to automotive manufacturers“. CWC Group Director, Paul Shanley, said: "This move will allow Semcon to continue its impressive growth – and will bring

another leading international company to Tournament Fields. We have attracted a host of high calibre companies drawn by the location and environment we can offer, and that is exactly what has brought Semcon here. "This is exciting news for the Semcon, for Tournament Fields and for the region." Semcon will join Geberit, Eagle Burgmann, Pure Office and West Midlands Ambulance Service at Tournament Fields, which also includes Tournament Court, a 70,000 sq ft courtyard style office development which is now fully occupied. Pic (left to right): Nick Evans (ehB Commercial), Torsten Sundin (managing director of Semcon Product Information UK Ltd), Paul Shanley (CWC Group), Joakim Zetterlund (vice president of Semcon Product Information), Andrew Wall (Wareing & Co).

Charity Fundraising Consultancy moves to new Leamington HQ A specialist consultancy that has helped raise hundreds of millions of pounds for charities and not-for-profit organisations in the UK and overseas has moved its headquarters to Leamington Spa. Working with Leamingtonbased property consultants ehB Commercial, Compton Fundraising Consultants, which employs almost 40 full-time staff at offices in Leamington Spa, London and Manchester, sold its wholly-owned property in Harbury to fund the move to Warwick District Council-owned offices in Hamilton Terrace. Chief executive Andrew Day said that with more than £10 billion donated to charities in the UK last year, there has never been a busier time for Compton Fundraising, which specialises in helping organisations with charitable status to invest in major building projects – clients such as the Royal Albert Hall, the

Globe Theatre, the Black Country Living Museum and numerous hospitals, hospices, schools, universities and churches. He said: “We worked with eHB Commercial because they have advised us on previous occasions and understood our changing requirement for a central location with lower overheads. What we pay for one square metre of office space in Regent Street, London, is more than we pay for our new Leamington premises, which have fantastic links to the town and businesses as well as to the rail and road network.” Simon Hain, a director of ehB, said: “This is a very innovative international organisation looking for offices in Leamington during a boom time for commercial property. Andrew and his team knew what they wanted and we are delighted that we have been able to satisfy their needs to keep such an important consultancy in this region.”

Global Marine Construction Engineers open new headquarters in Kenilworth Proserve, the award-winning international marine construction engineers, has moved to new headquarters in Kenilworth, Warwickshire. The company, whose contracts range from floodgates in Venice to a new container terminal in Haiti, has made the move to enable it to handle larger projects and expand its research and development facility. Martin Hawkswood, director and principal engineer at Proserve, which has just won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation, is now looking to expand its workforce and is seeking civil engineers and ancillary staff to help take the company forward.

HE said: “We are a local company at the cutting edge exporting around the world and we are looking for local people such as civil engineers to help us with our rapid growth.” The purchase of the new offices, on the Princes Drive Industrial Estate in Kenilworth, was handled by ehB Commercial, the Leamingtonbased property consultants. ehB director Simon Hain said the building had previously been owned by the Arthur Rank Foundation who used it as a training centre for young adults and the long-term unemployed.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: North Warks

Expansion plans stepped up A Midlands manufacturer has stepped up its expansion plans after securing a five-figure investment deal to boost its plant facilities. Staircraft, which operates from three sites in Nuneaton, Wednesbury and Coventry, is the leading provider of wooden staircases to major house builders across the UK. It is currently undergoing a rapid expansion programme to extend its manufacturing capacity with a focus on bringing new innovations to market including the design and manufacture of I-Joist floors and decks. The company, which is supported by accountants and business advisers Harrison Beale & Owen, has secured £210,000 through the Regional Growth Fund which was approved by the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership. The Regional Growth Fund is a Government initiative that provides grants to SMEs looking to purchase new assets and create economic growth and local employment opportunities. The cash injection is being used to install a bespoke manufacturing plant at its new factory base in Coventry, creating up to 50 jobs, and enabling the firm to expand its product offering and increase capacity. Andy Hamilton, managing director at Staircraft, said: “We have a strong reputation for innovation and are very good in that area. We are continually challenging ourselves to re-think production and design and improve the overall end-to-end process. “Our aim is to supply a floor with every staircase and address the demand for more rapid build technologies, leading to greater

(From left to right) Phil Ewing (Harrison Beale & Owen). Rob Bent (Coventry City Council), Nick Abell (CW LEP and Wright Hassall), Andy Hamilton (Staircraft)

efficiency, reduced waste and reduced overall build cost. We have already received a great response from the market for our IJoist floor and deck system which is offered as an integrated solution with our stairs. “At the end of last year we expanded our manufacturing capabilities by opening two new premises in Coventry and Wednesbury and, as part of that ongoing programme, we required additional funding to invest in new manufacturing plant. “We have worked with HB&O for around eight years and were very pleased to secure investment through the Regional Growth Fund which helps stimulate enterprises that have significant potential for economic growth. “We are now in the process of fine tuning the new facilities which are completely unique

and have been designed to not only improve efficiency and production costs but to also bring our new innovations to market.” Staircraft employs 150 people and has a current turnover of around £10 million and hopes to increase it significantly on the back of the investment. Phil Ewing, director at HB&O, said: “We worked closely with Staircraft to identify new opportunities for investment which have helped to facilitate the company’s ambitious growth plans including the acquisition of new premises and machinery. “Staircraft has already seen positive results as part of its expansion and we look forward to supporting the company as it embarks on this exciting new chapter in its history.”

North Jenny Hooper named Leader of the Year formalities of shipping goods are highly successful and she has accolade of Leader of the Warwickshire The continuously grown the business, taken care of. Year in the FTA everywoman in building its operations with a Transport & Logistics awards The FTA everywoman in MPs win national and international 2015 has been handed this year Transport & Logistics Awards to Midlands entrepreneur and were established eight years ago, customer base. backing international freight specialist Turnover has doubled each year and have the objective of shining

Business leaders in the north of Warwickshire have vowed to maintain strong ties with the area’s two MPs following the General Election. Paul Carvell, the chair of the North Branch of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said regular dialogue with the MPs was crucial to ensure the views of business in the area are heard. He said: “I’d like to congratulate Marcus Jones and Craig Tracey on their election as the MPs for this area. “Over the past five years, Marcus has been in regular contact with our branch. He has attended meetings and has also hosted us in Westminster when we have travelled to London to discuss key issues. “We would like to develop that same kind of relationship with Craig in order to ensure the voice of business is heard right across the north of Warwickshire. “It’s vital that we can raise issues that are affecting businesses in our area and that our MPs are in a position to take those messages down to Westminster in order to bring about change.”

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Jenny Hooper. Jenny is Managing Director of Nuneaton-based Independent Freight Solutions Ltd, a company which she founded in 2004 and single-handedly built into a thriving multi-million pound business which now provides employment for nine people and supports the import/export and international trade activities of countless firms in the Midlands and beyond. Jenny impressed the judges for her leadership skills both in her own company and within the industry, as results were announced in a glittering ceremony at the London Hilton on Park Lane last week. Independent Freight Solutions Ltd is a specialist supplier of international freight and transport services. The company specialises in providing customised freight forwarding for both import and export, by air, sea, road and courier. Jenny’s vision for Independent Freight was to provide a more specialised service to businesses involved in international trade, going beyond what most freight forwarders offer and adding a level of personal customer care that would ensure that every process runs smoothly and all the

the spotlight on women who are enjoying success working in transport or logistics, demonstrating that this profession holds a wealth of career opportunities for women. As MD of Independent Freight Solutions Ltd, Jenny Hooper has many years’ experience in transport & logistics, particularly in the international arena, specialising in export and international trade particularly to and from the Middle East, North America, Canada and the Far East. Jenny said: “I care passionately about the industry and the service we provide which is so essential for almost every commercial business in some way. Women have a great deal to offer and are increasingly bringing their skills into this traditionally male domain – as the awards demonstrate so clearly. I am honoured to be recognised amongst such a prestigious group of women in the transport and logistics sector. Three cheers to the everywoman Awards for being such a great incentive to women and highlighting the inspiring women in our industry!” Jenny’s formula for Independent Freight has proved

and the company now has a sixfigure annual turnover with eight permanent employees and additional part time and contracted staff. Today Independent Freight occupies a large industrial unit in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, where its head office is co-located with extensive warehousing facilities. It also has an East Midlands base in Derby and a network of warehouse facilities and suppliers throughout the UK, providing nationwide coverage and support for freight consignments. It also now has partners in key international regions including the Middle East and USA and agents serving customers in every continent. Jenny continues to direct the company and is also involved in many industry bodies and women’s organisations, working tirelessly as a business/logistics leader and women’s champion in the Midlands. A founder member of the Midlands branch of the global Women’s Presidents Organisation (WPO), she is also an associate member/nonexecutive director of the Institute of Export and serves as vice-chair of the East Midlands branch. She also served as chair of BIFA East Midlands from 2010-2013.

Back to business

Paul Carvell, Chair of the North Warwickshire branch of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce. With the elections finally over, it’s time to get back to business. Not that business ever stands still. We can’t afford to. So while all eyes were on who would be voted in locally and what the make-up of the Government would be, firms across our area were still working hard to keep our economy growing and unemployment shrinking. On the back of the election, I would sincerely like to congratulate Marcus Jones on his re-election and also Craig Tracey on his victory in North Warwickshire. We don’t take a party political stance at the Chamber – we provide a voice for businesses in this area and work with politicians and decision makers at a local, regional and national level to ensure that voice is heard. Over the past five years, Marcus Jones has been very good to work with from that point of view by always making himself available to come to talk to the Chamber to find out the issues affecting businesses in this region on a day-to-day basis. I am sure Craig Tracey will do exactly the same and we very much look forward to working with both of them over the course of the next Parliament. Our politicians can’t solve all of business’s problems (the Chamber is able to assist on many issues from business support to overseas trade) but we do want them to set the right conditions for companies to grow and take on new staff. That means everything from getting business taxation rules and levels right through to ensuring we have the infrastructure in place across the country to get goods and people around in a timely fashion. I have absolutely no doubt that every business person reading this column will have an issue of their own that they would like to raise with either of the MPs or with the local authorities. Of course, they are able to go ahead and do that directly but I would also urge that they speak to and get involved with this branch of the Chamber. If several businesses are all facing a similar problem, by speaking as one voice it makes it much easier to bring about meaningful change. So the election might be over and we go back to business as usual but that doesn’t mean the chance to make your voice heard has gone. I look forward to hearing from you!

Area Focus: South Warks

Roads and broadband among concerns for businesses

Pressures on the road infrastructure, internet speeds and stumbling blocks receiving Government funding have been identified as among the main concerns for South Warwickshire business leaders. Members of the South Warwickshire branch of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce met to discuss business issues affecting the district and will be sharing the priorities identified with MP for Stratford-upon-Avon, Nadhim Zahawi. An increase in traffic incidents on the A46 was of particular concern to the group. Larry Coltman, branch chair of the South Warwickshire branch of the Chamber, said: “The pressures on the road infrastructure in the district remains a hot topic. “We’ve seen a string of major incidents on the A46 in recent weeks which, understandably, are a major concern for people living and working in the area. “There’s no doubt that the amount of new housing projects being developed is putting increased strain on a road infrastructure which is already struggling to cope at the best of times. “The new homes are needed to sustain the demand in the district, but it is also vital the road network can sustain the growth, as it does of course have a knock-on effect on businesses and also attracting new business here. “The ability to connect to superfast broadband is also vital for many companies to operate efficiently. Delays to bringing this service to some areas of the district is causing some frustration for businesses, as is the difficulty facing some companies accessing Government grants. “The Chamber has a good relationship with Nadhim Zahawi and we’ll be sharing the points raised by our members with him to see what can be done by all parties to address the issues to help continue to promote the district as a great place to live and do business.”

Strong ties with re-elected MP

Business leaders in South Warwickshire have vowed to maintain strong ties with MP Nadhim Zahawi after he was reelected as the area’s Member of Parliament. Larry Coltman, the chair of the South branch of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said Zahawi had listened to the views of businesses in the region over the past five years. He said: “I’d like to congratulate Nadhim Zahawi on his re-election as MP. We are not party political, it’s just vital that we have a strong voice with decision-makers on behalf of our members – who are a range of small, medium and large businesses. “Over the course of the last Parliament, we have had a very good relationship with Nadhim, he has regularly attended our branch meetings and he has been ready to listen to the views and concerns of members. “It’s vital that those issues are heard in order to help us continue to break down the barriers to growth in the area.”

Challenges hinder growth plans A Warwickshire horticultural nursery has seen its business growth plans clipped because of a series of planning issues a nd a lack of land. Greenfingers Nursery, which is based on Kington Lane in Claverdon, grows around 150,000 plants a year and sells to the professional landscaping trade across the country as well as smaller retailers in the region. Since 2006, the company has been looking to expand within Warwickshire which would mean up to 20 new jobs, around £2.5 million investment and the implementation of more efficient, environmentally friendly ways of working. The company bought land near Shrewley and submitted plans to create a new nursery that could help to generate new business but, in 2012, Greenfingers were denied permission. The firm has since sold the site and has, ever since, been told there is no appropriate land available in the area that meet their expansion needs. Alan Beaumont, who founded the business in the early 1980s with wife, Bev, said: “It has been so frustrating. “We want to grow the business, invest, create new jobs and part of our expansion includes using more efficient, environmentally-friendly ways of working such as rainwater harvesting and green energy. “You’d think that would tick every box but, sadly, we have been unable to find anything appropriate and keep being told there are no suitable sites.

“Losing out on appeal was so frustrating and we just feel a small business such as ours deserves a break. We want to future-proof the business and not only would that lead to new jobs, we also use the services of various local companies – from accountancy to transport – which is good for the local economy.” He added: “Generally, I think too many obstacles are placed in the way of businesses growing – including regulation. For example, we have a situation at the moment where a member of staff is retiring and the onus has been placed on us to trace back all of their tax and NI contributions going back 15 years. “Why is that our responsibility and not that of the DWP? We’ve faced other barriers too with major corporations and, at times, you feel

like the odds are just stacked against small businesses such as ours.” Peter Burns, the president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, has been out to see Greenfingers Nursery along with Angela Tellyn, the partnership manager at the Chamber. Peter said: “I am struggling to believe that there is no way for Greenfingers Nursery to be able to expand. We need the jobs and the investment in this region and I will certainly be taking up the baton to see how the Chamber can assist. “This is a fantastic business which is now 35-years-old and this expansion would stand it in good stead for another 35 years – they just need the opportunity to grow.”

Lodders keeps on running

Butterfly Farm awarded Certificate of Excellence

Midlands law firm Lodders is setting a personal best for its fundraising support as it confirms it is to sponsor the Stratford upon Avon Big 10k race for the sixth consecutive year. The Big 10k will take place on Sunday 13th September and organisers expect around 1,500 runners will take part. Charity partner of the Stratford 10k this year is Shipston Nursing Home, which was founded in 1997. It is run by a team of qualified nurses specialising in palliative care who look after terminally ill people in their homes across rural South Warwickshire. Not only is Lodders providing vital financial support for the Big 10k event, it is also fielding a team of runners from its Stratford office, which will be led by Steven Baker, partner in the firm’s real estate team, who said: He said: “Fourteen members of staff took part in the Big 10k in 2014, and our target is to beat this number this September. “The Big 10k is an important feature of Stratford’s annual events calendar, and Lodders is delighted to take a lead role once again in 2015 as a main sponsor of the event,” he added.

“Team Lodders will be represented both on and off the field, with many staff taking on the very important role of refreshments providers, handing out water and bananas, as well as T-shirts, as runners cross the finishing line.” The 10k course will follow the same route as in 2014 – it will start at Stratford Recreation Ground at 9.30am, from where runners can take-in some of Stratford’s most picturesque countryside and landmarks, including crossing the River Avon. Rob Minton, Race Director for Stratford's Big 10K, from Tempo Events added: “At Tempo we're really thrilled that Lodders is continuing its ‘special relationship’ with Stratford's Big 10k for yet another year. We will be pulling out all the stops to help make it a fantastic experience for all the runners coming to complete the race in September.” Stratford 10k is run by Tempo Events; for more information go to: www.tempoevents.co.uk/running/stratfor ds-big-10k/stratfords-big-10k.php

The Stratford Butterfly Farm has been awarded the prestigious 2015 ‘Certificate of Excellence’ Award by TripAdviser, the world’s largest travel website. This is now the fourth year running that the Butterfly Farm has received this award. The accolade, which honours hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveller reviews on TripAdviser. Jane Kendrick, Marketing Manager at the Stratford Butterfly Farm, said:“Being awarded the TripAdviser Certificate of Excellence for the fourth year running is an immense source of pride for the entire team. We would like to thank all of our visitors that have taken the time to complete a review on TripAdviser. The accolade is a remarkable vote of confidence to our business and our continued commitment to excellence.” Currently visitors to the Farm can see an abundance of Blue Morpho butterflies due to a particularly early start to the breeding season. Instead of the usual array of 1,500 butterflies, there are now approximately just over 2,000, making the display even more stunning than usual! To see hundreds of spectacular butterflies, insects, reptiles and spiders visit the Butterfly Farm from 10:00am to 5.30pm every day of the week. Entry fees are Adults £6.25, Seniors & Students £5.75, Children (under 3’s go free) £5.25, Family (2 adults & 2 children) £18.50. Group discounts are available. For more information on the Stratford Butterfly Farm please visit the official website at www.butterflyfarm.co.uk

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: Rugby

sponsored column

Rugby Charity supports Relief Effort in Nepal A Warwickshire-based international development charity, Practical Action, has been supporting both the relief efforts and long-term rebuilding in Nepal following the recent earthquakes. The charity has been working in Nepal for nearly 40 years, providing sustainable technology solutions to the problems that the poorest in the country face every day. Although many members of staff had properties which were affected by the devastating quake, and were forced to sleep outside, the charity mobilised within hours to provide short term measures including water treatment, emergency shelters, energy generation and the deployment of solar communication technology. Achyut Luitel, the Country Director in Nepal said, “We all felt that we should work with those communities who know us and where the organisation has a long presence and good links to the local communities. Two of those areas – Gorkha and Dhading - were close to the epicentre of the quake. In those

90% of the homes have been damaged. To date, aid has been provided to over 7,000 households with distribution of life-saving commodities including food, tents and water purification tablets to vulnerable people made homeless by the earthquakes. Now the immediate relief phase is over, Practical Action’s staff are focusing on the longer term reconstruction effort, using learning gained from other similar disasters. “We plan to spend around £5m, to help rebuild 5,000 houses using the best earthquake resistant technology available. Our other priorities will include re-building basic infrastructure, ensuring that everything has earthquake resilient technologies included in it.” Simon Trace, Chief Executive of Practical Action said: “We’ll be incorporating the long term reconstruction efforts in Nepal into our ongoing work in the country. “As always our priorities include using appropriate technology to increase energy access, improve food security, deliver better

Pledge to re-elected MP

Centre goes on the market

Business leaders in Rugby have vowed to maintain strong ties with MP Mark Pawsey after he was re-elected as the town’s Member of Parliament. Jim Griffin, the chair of the Rugby branch of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said regular dialogue with the MP was crucial to ensure the views of business in the area are heard. He said: “I would like to congratulate Mark on his re-election. The Chamber isn’t party political - we are here to provide a voice for businesses of all sizes and sectors, which is what our branch does in Rugby. “Over the past five years, Mark’s door has always been open to us and, indeed, he has made himself available to come to meet the branch and hear our concerns. “We look forward to maintaining that strong dialogue and believe by providing that voice of business we can highlight issues that may be acting as a barrier to growth here in Rugby and right across the country."

An NHS respite centre in Rugby is being sold and could be turned into a residential care home – or new houses. Admirals Court, in Nelson Way, has been placed onto the market with commercial property specialists Shortland Penn + Moore, and offers are being invited on the 10,506 sq ft building along with the total land of 1.3 acres. James Compton, of Shortland Penn + Moore, is dealing with the sale and believes it could have a future use as a care or nursing home but says a new residential scheme shouldn’t be ruled out. He said: “There are several potential uses. A buyer could come in and refurbish the existing buildings and turn it into a residential care home or a nursing home. “There is also the option to apply for planning permission to demolish the buildings that are currently there and create new homes so we think there is going to be substantial interest in the site.

water and waste management services and of course, reducing the impact of disasters so those affected can continue with their lives as quickly as possible after the event. “All our supporters responded so generously to the earthquake appeal and who continue to share our vision to give communities across the world access to life-changing technologies, and I would like to thank them for enabling us to continue to do our vital work.” For more information about Practical Action and what it does: www.practicalaction.org.uk

“We are seeing more and more that the NHS are looking to dispose of properties in order to reduce costs by bringing their property assets closer together but also to generate the initial cash yield from the sale. There is certainly a trend for this kind of opportunity across this region.” For more information on the property, contact James Compton at Shortland Penn + Moore

Australian firm delighted to base UK operations in Rugby Australian company Fortron has selected Rugby’s Europark Industrial Estate as the base for its new operation in the United Kingdom. Specialists in the manufacture and supply of products and training services to the global automotive industry, Fortron has already employed nine people at Europark, a figure which will soon grow to eleven, with additional staff required later in the year and 2016. Established more than 30 years ago in Perth, Australia; where their global headquarters remains, the company see the Europark estate as the perfect centre for their business in this country. Ivan Hoffman Chief Executive of Fortron, said: “We are delighted to have selected Europark as the base for our new UK operation. Finding the right commercial premises to establish our new UK business

Apology :

was an important factor in our decisionmaking process. Fortunately we managed to unlock an opportunity at Europark with the Landlords, Richard Utley Ltd which made our decision much easier. We are very excited about the future for Fortron in the UK”. Christopher Utley of Richard Utley Ltd, the landlords at Europark, said: “We are fortunate to have a fantastic mix of tenants on the estate and are delighted that Fortron Automotive Treatments have chosen Europark and Rugby for their new UK business”. Fortron have taken occupation of a 6,000 sq ft modern unit and the two other remaining units are also under offer to occupiers. Assisted by their joint letting agents, Andrew Cosnett of BNP Paribas Real Estate UK and Jake Heaton of George & Company; Richard Utley Ltd has in the last couple of months also completed a letting to Elecomm

Ltd, a Sheffield based business specialising in the electrical, mechanical and IT sector. 2015 is proving to be a busy year at Europark with several other projects in the pipeline. This will result in no built available space at the estate and Richard Utley Ltd are putting forward plans for further development of up to 50,000 sq ft at the estate to satisfy the demand in this area for quality manufacturing accommodation. Christopher Utley said: “Towards the end of 2014 we noticed a definite increase in the number of enquiries. Whilst businesses remain understandably cautious they appear more willing to make commitments that will allow their businesses to grow. It is our intention to facilitate this employment growth in Rugby. Accordingly we are working on a number of projects to cater for the freehold and leasehold market which are very exciting.”

The wrong picture was used on a story featuring Potters Poultry on page 30-of the last edition of C & W – we apologise for the error.

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Sponsorship opportunities available to support Rugby’s world cup plans 2015 is a unique year for the birthplace of the game as the world cup, kicking off in September, will be hosted in England. Even though Rugby is not hosting any games, the tournament organisers have given the town a similar status as the venues which will welcome international teams and visitors. Businesses are being encouraged to be part of activities to support a festival celebrating the spirit of both the town and game. Throughout the duration of the tournament a Rugby Village will be located in the town centre which will be a hub for match screenings and cultural events. The area will include a covered structure with a giant screen, stage, audio-visual equipment, food & drink and fan activities, whilst being spectacularly dressed to provide a unique experience to visitors. On non-match days a range of cultural events will take place covering art, music, entertainment, comedy, theatre, poetry, heritage and talks from guest speakers. Ahead of the tournament the town will be dressed in official branding and there are already lots of banners and flags installed as the excitement is building up. Local people are being encouraged to be part of a volunteer programme and an education package is being offered to schools in the area. There are number of different art projects including video productions, interactive trials and giant rugby ball sculptures to be placed around the town. If you would like to find out more about Rugby’s plans for 2015 and would like to be involved, please contact Michael Beirne on 01788 533734 or email michael.beirne@rugby.gov.uk.

News Pro-actions comes to Warwickshire with a free analysis of how to boost your business Pro-actions, the UK’s leading, nonfranchise, independent group of Business Improvement Specialists, have continued their national expansion into the Midlands. The team of results-focused specialists who help SME owners address issues, improve results and kick start growth, are offering a free two hour business review and report to business owners in the region. In addition, a 20% discount on the first three months of business support fees is also available for a limited time. Drawn from a wide range of business and professional backgrounds, Proactions Business Improvement Specialists combine a rich array of skills, knowledge and experience with a commitment to achieving real results for their clients. Their insights and practical guidance have helped over 500 small businesses succeed, a proven track record of which they are rightly proud. Established in Essex in 2007, the Group’s success has seen them grow nationally, with Midlands Director David Thomas leading their mission to bring support to businesses in the region. David has a wealth of business management experience and practical know-how, having spent 25 years in banking and 12 running a successful outsourced services business. He is establishing a regional team of around 40 Business Improvement Specialists, Warwickshire has seen significant growth in the number of specialists responding to the needs of the thriving business community across Coventry & Warwickshire. Working as part of the team with owners and key staff, Pro-actions provides coaching and advice in key areas including planning, structure and organisation, sales, marketing, cash management and time management, to enhance skills and performance and produce measurable, profitable growth. All of this comes within a flexible, contract–free relationship in line with the principle that the client must remain in control. Close relationships with Banks, Local Authorities, LEPs/Growth Hubs, Accountants and other leading professionals, allow Business Improvement Specialists to make these services more accessible for clients. The Group are also registered with the Business Growth Service, enabling them to refer their clients’ businesses for grant and matched funding awards. Pro-actions plan to hold regular free masterclasses, briefings and workshops including some at the Coventry & Warwickshire Growth Hub, which represents the most influential business support organisations in the region. Free monthly half day workshops on key topics will also be available for smaller businesses. For further information contact: David.Thomas@pro-actions.com (telephone 07768-990224) or visit www.Pro-actions.com where you can book directly on to one of the free events.

The evolution of online training is here

The world of online training is changing - for the better. flick learning are a new organisation offering a fresh, market-changing system for training employees online. Their systems and web platform have been in development since late last year and offer fully integrated, mobile optimised training packages that use a gamified and highly interactive approach to e-learning. flick is the brainchild of Louisa Farino, Chris Richardson and Suzee Laxton who, having met through their voluntary activities, collectively bring more than 20 years of experience to this venture. Sharing a strong vision for providing an unparalleled learning experience, they combine a flair for style and design with excellent client communication and technical know-how.

Louisa, whose previous successes include establishing an award-winning restaurant, said, “We're bringing e-learning and online training into the 21st century. We've handpicked our champions and recruited the best developers and most creative thinkers in the industry to deliver a package that truly stands out from the crowd. We've had some great feedback from our initial networking and it's now time to push flick out to a wider audience." Existing training courses include health and safety courses such as food hygiene, fire safety, manual handling, as well as people skills training, and safeguarding. Custom courses are created and tailored to specific companies’ requirements. The basis of each course is strong visuals supported by thoughtful imagery and clever design.

Their systems are cloud-based, with SSL Encryption, and their Learning Management System, (LMS), has an open API which is connected to Zapier, meaning they can integrate with their clients' existing systems or provide a remote dashboard. The LMS also allows organisations to import historical records and data if transferring from another training provider. flick also harnesses the massive influence of the social web through channels like Pinterest Boards and Twitter feeds, by allowing users to use Facebook and Google accounts to access the LMS and course content. They are also developing a mobile app that will work both on and off line - a feature totally unique to flick.

Partnership is simply the best! Coventry and Warwickshire has been revealed as the highest-placed Local Enterprise Partnership in the West Midlands for innovation, according to new research. The Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) has a higher proportion of pioneering businesses creating state-of-the art goods and services than anywhere else in the region and also scores well across the UK. The CWLEP has been ranked an impressive 14th in the Benchmarking local innovation – the innovation geography of the UK report which has been produced by the Enterprise Research Centre (ERC), the UK’s leading independent research institute on the drivers behind business growth and success. ERC’s analysis has produced an innovation league table for 45 LEPs in England and the equivalent zones in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland focusing on six areas of innovation including new products and services being brought to

market, collaboration, and research and development. Jonathan Browning, chairman of the CWLEP, said the findings had been based on analysis from 14,000 firms across the UK relating to their innovation activity between 2010 and 2012. “It is the first time the UK has been mapped on innovation geography and the findings show that businesses within the CWLEP area are performing extremely well,” he said. “This report reinforces Coventry and Warwickshire’s growing reputation for innovation, and highlights that we are particularly strong at collaborative working and research and design. “This area has a strong mix of innovative talent in an array of sectors including advanced manufacturing and engineering, digital gaming and the ground-breaking work carried out at the University of Warwick and Coventry University. “Inward investment remains strong as more companies who are designing their

own products or services or those involved in the supply chain are moving into the area which is creating clusters of innovative excellence. “All this helps the CWLEP’s drive to encourage growth, create jobs and boost the economy and shows we are the most innovative place in the West Midlands.” Professor Stephen Roper, who led the ERC research, said firms’ ability to innovate played an important role in sustaining growth and competitiveness. He said: “Innovation is strongly linked to growth, exporting and productivity – all areas in which the UK economy needs to improve if we want to boost our international competitiveness. “The significant variation between different parts of the UK suggests that some localities are succeeding in creating a more innovation-friendly environment than others.” www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Business Direct

is sponsored by HB&O

Air & Ground shares its storage expertise “We have real expertise in the field of hardto-find goods and we have got the licences to export goods to the United States and Europe so if a customer needs those to export then we can step in and also organise shipping,” explained Mr Powell. Air & Ground is also re-joining the UK Warehousing Association which will enable it to offer a pallet network for its customers. “It is something that we are looking to build up alongside the warehousing,” added Mr Powell. “In the past the majority of our business was in the military and aviation field, but we are now in the midst of diversification and growing the business in new areas for the 21st Century. “We have been doing storage and distribution Warehouses for 10 years now, but we are now concentrating Air & Ground Supply Chain Director Matthew on ramping that up. We have unique skills and Powell, who acts as the first point of contact for abilities that we have developed over the years Air & Ground’s new customers, said: “We have and we are now looking to utilise them in a got extensive storage capability for a wide range different way. of palletised goods and we welcome hearing “We have a 22-strong team within the from potential new customers who need space business and we will certainly be looking of any size for their business’s needs.” to take on more warehousing staff as we grow Air & Ground, which has its headquarters in and take on extra sites,” said Mr Powell. London Road, Shirleywich, near Stafford, has The existing team has specialist skills in 60,000sq ft of capacity within its existing three computer- controlled stock control, inventory warehouses in the village of Hixon, but will also management and large parts handling. identify extra warehousing within the area to Its Hixon warehouses of 15,000, 30,000 meet customer’s requirements. and 45,000 sq ft are all secured with ADT alarms “We are finding new clients from many and 24-hour CCTV security systems and are different industries. We have just signed equipped to handle high-value goods. contracts with a local print company to store The facilities, which stand nine metres to the printing material and a local exhibition eaves, provide multiple loading bays and company to store items from reception equipment such as 10-tonne overhead cranes. desks to exhibition stands. There is also a drive on container port facility. “If we have not got what a customer needs Air & Ground also has a fleet of goods already then we will go out and find something that suits them. We are able to provide a solution handling vehicles and equipment including forklift trucks, said Mr Powell: “We pride to meet any warehousing needs. ourselves on being able to handle goods and pallets of all sizes, including large and awkward items, and we offer a mixture of storage choices. Some of our units have floor storage and others are racked. “We have the flexibility and ability to handle the largest items. “That was proved by us having previously won contracts to store parts for the wings for the giant Airbus A380 aircraft,” explained Mr Powell. Experienced Staffordshire warehousing and distribution business Air & Ground will be concentrating on building up its client base across the West Midlands in 2015. The company, which was formed 19 years ago, is diversifying into offering storage and logistics services after initially being established in the civil and military aviation support sector. The expertise and problem solving abilities the company developed working with some of the biggest names in aviation are now being offered to companies of all sizes across the UK that need to find a flexible and scalable solution to meet their storage and distribution need and free up floor space at their premises and cut staffing costs.

Storage Air & Ground’s pallet storage is on a weekly rate while storage contracts based on a sq ft basis are from six months upwards. “We are happy to negotiate on rates dependent on the individual circumstances of each customer,” added Mr Powell. Businesses that would like to find out more can contact Mr Powell on 01889 271777 or email matthew.powell@airandground.com Air & Ground also has details of its warehousing and other services including

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exporting on its website www.airandground.com from which a brochure can also be downloaded. “We are happy to go out and see clients or bring them in to see our facilities to establish what they need and how we can provide it. “We welcome hearing from any business in the West Midlands looking for a solution to their storage and distribution. In most cases we can find something that is suitable to their needs. We are always prepared to go the extra mile for our customers,” said Mr Powell. Air & Ground also has a United States office and manned by a three-strong team in Fort Lauderdale in Florida. “Companies that are looking to move into the North American market will be able to use that avenue and the storage facilities there,” added Mr Powell. Air & Ground’s warehousing and distribution systems were developed in the demanding fields of civil and military aviation support. “Dealing with the Airbus A380’s internal wing components involved precise handling of exceptionally large aircraft assemblies, storage, barcoding and then delivery. We did that for Airbus and we can do that for any other company,” enthused Mr Powell. Handling of military aircraft parts means that, in addition to high levels of security, the company’s bonded warehouses are covered by JSP – Ministry of Defence storage regulations – and ITAR (International Traffic in Arms). “Our experience ranges from large vehicles and aircraft to small spares and components, from high density storage to management of supply chain. “We can both store and distribute using our computerised stock management system,

warehousing facilities and our highly qualified and experienced staff. “Our team comes from a background in aviation, both civil and ex-military, and specialise in managing all kinds of goods and systems with their focus on quality, safety and the environment.”

Service Mr Powell said that Air& Ground’s efficiency also delivered major cost saving benefits for its clients. The company’s stock analysis software can help customers control their stock levels and achieve savings. The business is also focused on delivering extra for customers and offering great levels of service and solving any problems quickly and effectively. “We pride ourselves on offering outstanding customer service, enforced by our technical expertise, to fulfil the needs of our global customers,” added Mr Powell. Among the other benefits Air & Ground can offer are Just in Time solutions for both clients and their customers, virtual customer control with full tracking, the latest stock control and bar-coding system. “It means we can improve lead times in supplying clients’ needs and help enhance production times. At the same time, use of our services means clients can reduce their need for storage facilities or specialist lifting equipment, reducing their overheads, freeing up space at their owns sites and enabling them to concentrate on their core business.” Air & Ground also supports local charities including the Donna Louise Trust, which supports children with life-limiting conditions and their families, and the Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team to which it has donated a Land Rover equipped to operate in all weather conditions.

Business Direct: Business Services

The self-employment trap - when the music stops, who pays? To start up in business on your own requires you to be an optimist. No pessimist would do it. There are so many things that could go wrong. For a pessimist it’s better to stay safely employed. While setting up a business can be very rewarding, there are risks and whether or not things turn out according to plan, and in common with all projects, you should begin with the end in mind and have some thoughts as to your eventual exit. As a “nation of shopkeepers” the idea of being in business for oneself is as enticing as the prospect of home ownership. The grass is always greener. In the 90s the nation was encouraged to set up small companies and build a nation of entrepreneurs. The unintended consequences were that too many people took up the opportunity and so the gates were largely closed for many in the 1999 budget.

The genie had been released from the bottle. Many potential employers became reluctant to re-employ and so whole industries became awash with “IR35” workers who look, walk and talk like employees but who aren’t employees of the businesses for whom they appear to work. For many there is no choice if they wish to work. The collapse of City Link over the 2014 Christmas holidays has led Vince Cable to remark “there is a big, artificial dividing line in the law” - “the use of sub-contractors has become widespread. A lot of them have no employment status at all. They are not covered by basic labour rights.”

More than a third of the 3,000 workers had become self-employed meaning that they are not entitled to redundancy payments or back pay, at least not in the same way as employees whose claims are in part “preferential” and so take priority over other unsecured creditors. To some extent employee claims will, on insolvency, be paid by the state through the Redundancy Payments Office. Whatever form your business or personal finances take, if you find yourself out of your depth then the earlier you speak with someone who has your best interests at heart the more likely it is that a lifeline will be available.

John Rimmer is an accountant and licensed insolvency practitioner with BRI Business Recovery and Insolvency and recently celebrated his 10th anniversary with the firm. Please contact John or any of the BRI management team on 02476 226839 or jrimmer@briuk.co.uk and visit us at www.briuk.co.uk to find out more.

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Business Direct: Health & Wellbeing

Investing in Health is good for business... If you are relying on people and their health is at risk, then your business is at risk, according to Jennifer Jones-Rigby, Assistant Director at Health Exchange, a social enterprise which has recently become a member of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber. “Productivity, reputation, flexibility, continuity, reliability and quality all depend on the mental and physical state of employees,” she says. “People represent a significant investment in salaries, training, skills, knowledge and experience, yet investment in helping them to remain healthy often comes low on the priority list.” In fact, Jennifer argues, investing in staff wellbeing should not be seen as a luxury. A 2010 report prepared for Investors in People makes the following statement about the critical nature of employee health and wellbeing: "Until now, many of the measures taken by employers to improve workplace health have been categorised as 'perks' or employee benefits...But now employee health is becoming a hard, economic 'factor of production', and the Government, a growing number of businesses and even some Economists are arguing that it is time to take workplace health and wellbeing as seriously as we take research and development, investment in technology and customer relationship management." Source: Bevan, The Work Foundation, 2010: The Business Case for Employee Health and Wellbeing

Did You Know? • On average sickness and absenteeism costs employers £600 - £1,000 per employee per year • Companies that report on employee health and wellbeing outperform those that don’t by 10% • Low productivity due to unhealthy lifestyles is TWICE as costly as sickness absence • On average happiness makes people 12% more productive • Stress and other mental health conditions account for around 40% of employee absence • 1 in 6 workers experiences depression, anxiety or stress The source of these facts and figures, alongside more research and information about Health Exchange’s services for employers can be found at www.workstyle.eu.

Taking Control Investing in employee health and wellbeing can provide an excellent return on investment – and you can do more than just pay for private medical care, you can help your staff to manage their health and wellbeing to reduce the likelihood of needing medical intervention. This will result in a win win situation - you reduce absenteeism and increase productivity, your workforce becomes fitter, more resilient and more motivated. “As one third of many people's lives is spent in the workplace, we think health and wellbeing considerations should be an integral part of the working day,” says Jennifer. Health Exchange’s WorkStyle services range from education and awareness-raising sessions to activity programmes that can include the whole company. “We have a range of ‘off the shelf’ services, which can be taken in isolation or put together to make a unique package. We tailor and adapt our services to suit individual business needs. Health checks can be a good place to start, showing individuals how they are and giving them pointers towards making any beneficial lifestyle changes, and giving the employer an overview of the general state of their workforce’s health and which issues it would most benefit everyone to tackle. Common problems are stress, mild depression and lack of exercise, for which we have a range of solutions. We also have a very effective stop smoking programme!”

The Power of Communities

The Benefits of a Healthy Workforce For the organisation • Reduced absenteeism and associated cost • Reduced presenteeism (staff at work, but unwell so underperforming) • Fewer accidents at work • More engaged, focused and motivated staff • Increased productivity • Reduced staff turnover and associated cost • An enhanced reputation as a good, responsible, employer For employees • Improved physical and mental wellbeing • Greater job satisfaction - better able to 'cope' at work • An enhanced feeling of connection to colleagues through working together on health awareness and lifestyle choices • An improved work life balance • The stamina and motivation to do more at home and at work

Health Exchange has been promoting health and wellbeing in communities since 2006 and has more recently turned its attention to workplace communities. “We believe in the power of 'communities' and peer support to facilitate positive change,” explains Jennifer. “The workplace is a community ideally suited to setting and achieving group goals. Co-operation and friendly competition each play a part in achieving better outcomes than individuals tend to achieve on their own. That said, we also recognise that one-to-one support and encouragement is helpful to some individuals and include it as part of our overall mix. Most importantly of all, people need to enjoy making different and healthier lifestyle choices if they are to form new habits.

Our emphasis is always on finding realistic and pleasurable means for individuals to achieve their personal goals within the group setting.” As a busy working mom, who works full time, Jennifer finds having support from Health Exchange’s in-house workplace wellbeing team really helpful – as do her colleagues. “We are encouraged to take up all sorts of ‘non-standard exercise’ to keep ourselves fit,” she says. “I now make sure that I and the majority of our teams get out and walk at least once a day, having walking meetings in the local park near to our head office. By the end of the week even if I haven’t managed to get to the gym I know I have done at least some exercise every day.”

A Special Offer to get you started Health Exchange is offering a 10% discount to the first 10 businesses that are Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber members to apply before the end of July to take up a WorkStyle Go! Activity Challenge. WorkStyle’s Go! Activity Challenge is an activity-based competition designed to increase the fitness and wellbeing of staff over a month. Working as either teams or individuals, colleagues are encouraged to partake in a range of activities to earn points which are recorded and analysed on a specially-created company-specific Go! Activity website. Employees can monitor their progress through sophisticated graphs and calorie break-downs. They also receive regular emails containing articles and tips designed to support their development during the challenge. For teams, the website displays league tables, which are updated in real-time according to a team-members’ points submission. These allow colleagues to closely monitor their competitors’ performance! Overall the Go! Activity Challenge fosters a sense of community spirit and uses the power of peer support to lift individual performance and achievement. Here’s what one participating organisation said: “Some staff lost weight, which helped them achieve their goals; others just got fitter. It was a very motivating challenge where the team encouraged each other to do better on a daily basis.”

To find out more about WorkStyle services see www.workstyle.eu Call 0121 663 0464 email Workstyle@healthexchange.org.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Business Direct: Business Services

Fuel saving services from Viezu Viezu Technologies is the UK’s leading fuel economy and fleet management tuning service in the UK, and for good reason! The core of Viezu Technologies’ business is making vehicles run more efficiently, saving money in fuel and maintenance costs, and lowering a vehicles carbon footprint -Sounds too good to be true - why not put them to the test - the largest vehicle operators in the UK have and use them every day.

Viezu Technologies Limited 31 Bidavon Industrial Estate, Waterloo Road, Bidford on Avon. Warwickshire. B50 4JN

Viezu provides fuel economy tuning services to some of the biggest fleets on the road, but also to SMEs and private motorists. The beauty of what they provide is that it can save a business operating a handful of vehicles the same reduction in operating costs per vehicle as it does for a fleet of tens of thousands. That means that, for once, smaller operations are not at a disadvantage.

Tel: +44 (0) 1789 774444 www.viezu.com

Viezu have tuned more than 150,000 vehicles to date, and are the only ISO9001 certified provider of these services in the UK. They also won the 2014 Queen’s Award for Enterprise, given by Her Majesty to distinguish those UK businesses that demonstrate excellence in every way.

Share in the same benefits the big fleets already enjoy Viezu operates in more than 64 countries worldwide, and their remapping and fuel economy tuning services are used by some of the UK’s largest fleets. They use Viezu because they know that no one else can offer the same increases in economy and performance, or offer a better price. ROI can be as low as 4-5 months.

More efficient vehicles for a greener future Over the course of the last few years, Viezu estimates that they have been responsible for the logistics and carrier industry emitting 200,000 tonnes less carbon than it would have without them. That is real change, with real results.

What makes Viezu’s services so unique? Viezu offers a range of fuel saving services that can be custom tailored to the unique operating situations, vehicle type and business use, this can include speed and RPM limiting where required. Just ask them what Viezu’s Special projects Team can do for you and your vehicles, or to arrange a no obligation demonstration.

Please take a look at our Videos: • Fleet Tuning Process Explained • Viezu Car Tuning Training Explained • Become a Dealer Join us on Facebook: Viezu International

Viezu is officially ISO certified for the supply of ECU enhancement services including training, tuning program development and fleet services.

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Are you looking for a new challenge?

Find out more about a career at Keoghs ... not your conventional law firm Keoghs has been handling and defending general insurance claims since 1968 and is one of the leading providers of claims-related services to insurers, businesses and other suppliers to the insurance sector. A leader in the UK market, we are the only “Top 50” law firm to focus exclusively in this area.

We have offices in Bolton, Manchester and Coventry. The Coventry office is located on the Binley Business Park (Harry Weston Road) and employs over 100 staff. Our Disease Team is one of the largest, fastest growing and innovative in the U.K. and our Coventry office houses David Pugh, one of the industry’s most respected lawyers.

The team has recently won Defendant Lawyer of the Year 2013, Defendant PI Team of the Year 2013 and Katie Rose, Associate, won the Young Achiever of the Year 2014.

We are currently looking to fill a number of vacancies within the Team, from Business Support Assistants and Paralegals through to Senior Fee Earner level. If you have an interest in law/or studying for a legal qualification, then our Business Support Assistant or Paralegal vacancies may be of interest. If you have industrial disease experience and have been responsible for your own caseload then check out the fee earning vacancies currently available.

Further information can be found on our website at:

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Keoghs LLP Compton Court, Harry Weston Road, Binley Business Park, Coventry. CV3 2SU

We also have a vacancy in our Casualty Team for an experienced Multi Track Fee Earner working on Employers Liability, Public Liability and Product Liability cases up to £250,000 in value. Keoghs have an enviable portfolio of insurer clients and are keen to attract new talent into the business.

We want your time at Keoghs to be both enjoyable and rewarding. As a new colleague at Keoghs, you will have access to a comprehensive benefits package which is our thank you for your hard work and commitment.

If you want to find out about other opportunities we may have at Keoghs Coventry, then please contact us at:

recruitment@keoghs.co.uk

News

O’Brien Contractors sponsors four assisted holidays for charity

Insurance company goes from strength to strength A fast-growing independent insurance broker based in Coventry is branching out again with the launch of a second new division in the first half of this year. Inspire Insurance Services, which operates throughout the UK from its base at Mercia Business Village on Westwood Business Park, Canley, is expanding further with the creation of a financial arm. Inspire Financial Services has been established to provide a full range of financial advice and planning services including retirement planning, savings, investments, financial protection and auto enrolment. Leigh Mackey, managing director of Inspire Insurance Services, said the advent of auto enrolment had instigated the new venture. He said: “Auto enrolment has been the main driver for us setting up a dedicated division specialising in financial management as we identified a need among our core client base and wanted to be proactive and help. “SMEs are now getting to the stage where they need to be addressing the implications of auto enrolment and whilst many may be aware of the new legislation surrounding workplace pensions, few seem to realise what it actually means for their business. “There are huge issues and tough financial penalties that could run into hundreds and thousands of pounds for those who get it wrong and so companies need to plan ahead to ensure they avoid all potential hazards such as shortcomings in existing pension schemes.” Inspire Financial Services follows on from the award-winning company’s launch earlier this year of the Landlords Division, providing insurance cover to residential and commercial landlords. Leigh added: “The Landlords Division has already exceeded expectations with targets for the first six months achieved within the very first month, with an average of three new property agents a week registering for the service. “We are hoping that Inspire Financial Services will take off similarly as where we have moved into niche markets before, our existing clients have taken the additional service offering because we are seen as trusted advisers. “We will then be looking to expand our team which is now nearing 20-strong.”

O’Brien Contractors Limited, a leading civil engineering and groundworks contractor, has presented Stratfordupon-Avon based organisation, ILEAP Charity, with a generous donation to provide four assisted holidays for disabled people with learning difficulties. Operating in South Warwickshire, ILEAP Charity supports people aged from 4 years and upwards, by organising children, youth and adult leisure activity programmes for their members who have a mild / moderate learning disability. Among the holiday opportunities organised, there is a three night stay in Bournemouth for 8 people and 4 staff, staying in fully accessible sea front accommodation at Bournemouth University Student Village. The location will provide the opportunity to take advantage of all the traditional sea side activities and enable ILEAP Charity to work with its’ members on promoting independence through skills for living type activities. Additionally, the charity has also organised a two night stay in Woodhouse Eves in Leicestershire, where 12 people and 6 staff will enjoy a fun filled weekend with their friends, taking part in 2 specialist activities of orienteering and archery, followed by a BBQ and Party. Peter Bazeley, Manager, ILEAP Charity, said: “Thanks to the donation from O’Brien Contractors, we have been able to subsidise these opportunities, making them excellent value and affordable to the majority. On behalf of everyone at ILEAP, we would like to thank O’Brien for thinking of us and for their generous support. “As a small Charity we rely on grants and donations so that children and adults with Additional Needs, can take part in their

chosen leisure pursuits, in the knowledge that they will be safe and supported. This donation will help us to empower our members so that they have the same opportunities as their non-disabled peers during their leisure time.” Two further breaks have also been organised, including a Lads weekend away for 10 and 4 staff to a purpose built activity centre in Shropshire, where the group will enjoy a camp fire and indoor caving, abseiling and rock climbing and an outdoor pursuits weekend for a party of 12 and 6 staff to a purpose built activity centre with all food and accommodation and 4 specialist outdoor pursuit activities.

O’Brien Contractors, Director, Stuart Chamberlain, said: “Over the years, O’Brien Contractors has been fortunate to have great success and feel it is important that we give back to the community whenever possible. We are very pleased to be able to support ILEAP Charity, who provides a fantastic service to disabled people." If you would like to make a donation to the ILEAP Charity you can do so easily at www.justgiving.com/ileap or by e-mailing ileap@stratford-dc.gov.uk For further information please visit www.ileap.co.uk for details.

DSA Win Regional Business Award DSA are delighted to announce that we have won the esteemed Communications Award at this year’s 21st annual Coventry Telegraph Business Awards. Held at the Ricoh Arena on Friday 19 June, the Coventry Telegraph Business Awards celebrate and reward the region’s most esteemed enterprises. This year more than 400 professionals gathered at the stadium to see the winners announced in a ceremony hosted by writer and television comedian, Dominic Holland. Judged by leading business members within the regional community, DSA were rewarded for strong financial performance, creative event concepts and our investment in innovation. The Communications category identifies commitment from DSA to customer service and their subsequent recognition from industry professionals. Managing Director of DSA, Emma Lawrence said, “We are thrilled to receive this award. The accolade recognises every member of the DSA team who strive to work collaboratively in achieving the communication objectives of our international clients.

Operating closely with global partners to deliver bespoke event and visitor engagement services, DSA have an established reputation for excellence. We are passionate about our on-going relationships with clients, working to deliver memorable experiences for them and their own customers. We are delighted that our hard work has been acknowledged and rewarded in this way.”

While celebrating 20 years in business, our ambition at DSA is to continue developing our passion, knowledge and expertise in the live events arena, maintaining our position as an integral and influential supplier to the exhibition industry. We aim to be well-respected and recognised as an outstanding agency who strives to achieve the best return on investment for their dedicated clients.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

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Awards are launched Nominations for Coventry and Warwickshire’s first ever tourism and culture awards are open. The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Quidem, the owners of Touch FM, Rugby FM and Oak FM, to deliver the event, with the ceremony taking place at the Ricoh Arena on Thursday, September 24. The Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership, Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council are also supporting the event that will celebrate the region’s diverse attractions and places. There are 17 categories in total with nominations now open via the www.tourismandcultureawards.co.uk website. Applications close on July 10. Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are delighted to be working with Touch FM and its sister stations. They deliver several awards evenings around the region and they have proved to be extremely popular and successful. “We have been discussing the possibility of a ceremony to honour our wonderful tourism industry, which was highlighted by recent statistics from VisitEngland that said visits to places such as Coventry and Stratford are on the rise. “This event will be designed to capture all of the elements that make Coventry and Warwickshire such a great place to visit – from attractions to individuals.” Steve Orchard, CEO of Quidem – the company behind Touch FM, said: “Shining a big spotlight on the region’s achievers is

something we love to do and we’ve enjoyed great acclaim for our successful awards series. “The local area is packed full of marvellous visitor attractions and world class tourism assets and we are going to celebrate them in style. Along with our partners at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce we’re ready to blow this region’s trumpet!” Councillor Kevin Maton, Coventry City Council Cabinet Member for Business, Enterprise and Employment, said: “I am absolutely delighted that our great city and county will celebrate its tourism and leisure industry in this way. The tourism and hospitality sector supports the employment of thousands of people in Coventry and Warwickshire and has the potential to provide hundreds more jobs in the future. “This is a great place to visit and we should be very proud to shout about the people, organisations and businesses that make this such a special place for residents and visitors.” The full list of categories are: • Best Pub • Best B&B or Inn • Small Hotel of the Year • Large Hotel of the Year • Best Restaurant • Best Experience • Best Venue for Music, Arts & Theatre • Best Retailer • Rising Star

Councillor Izzi Seccombe, Warwickshire County Council leader, said: "Our arts, culture, heritage and leisure destinations create a vibrant tourism economy that is the envy of many. More than 23.5 million day and night trips are taken in Coventry and Warwickshire annually and we should celebrate the popularity of our region.” Jonathan Browning, chairman of the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “The CWLEP is committed to supporting industries which boost the local economy and the world-class cultural activities that we have in Coventry and Warwickshire are a major factor in attracting visitors to our area. “These awards are a great opportunity to showcase the diverse and exciting leisurerelated facilities that we have in Coventry and Warwickshire as well as build on the success of the sector in attracting visitors from across the globe.”

• • • • • • • •

Customer Service Award Culture Award Kids and Families Award The History & Heritage Award The Bright Idea Award Young Tourism Award Business Tourism Award Tourism Event of the Year

Paul Carvell celebrates 25 years at SFB! The Vice President of Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is celebrating an anniversary! Paul Carvell, SFB Managing Director joined Stewart, Fletcher & Barrett (part of The SFB Group) on 1st June 1990. When asked about the 25th anniversary milestone, Paul said: “When I joined SFB, I couldn’t have imagined that in 25 years time I would be standing here as Managing Director of the firm. I am extremely proud of how the firm has grown over the years and a large part of that is down to the team I have around me. SFB has expanded from a traditional accountancy firm, into a one stop shop of business services that helps our clients achieve their goals.”

The SFB team celebrated Paul’s 25 years service by presenting him with a gift that was traditionally themed - a silver Mont Blanc pen. A celebration cake was also given to Paul, which was made by Bedworth firm The Cake Shop. Paul spoke about what SFB was like when he first joined the firm. In 1990, the firm had just one computer. Staff members used typewriters and gave shorthand dictation - an alien concept for SFB’s accounts trainees of today. The SFB Group has been established for 60 years. The firm offers a wide range of services including accountancy, wealth management, commercial insurance, corporate finance, business start up and marketing services. SFB has offices in Nuneaton, Hinckley, Coventry & Wakefield.

Appeal on interest rates Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire say falling unemployment should not be a trigger for interest rates to rise. In Coventry and Warwickshire, the figure dropped below 8,000 in May – in Coventry it fell to 4,552 and in Warwickshire it dropped to 3,327. Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said that it was further positive news but that it was still too early for rates to go up. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

She said: “This is yet further good news on the jobs front. This is developing into a really positive trend and one that we want to see continue. “It’s vital that we don’t become complacent - especially when it comes to younger people and helping them into work. “It’s part of our role to ensure that we work as hard as possible to help maintain this trend of falling unemployment in Coventry and Warwickshire and we see apprenticeships as an important part of that.

“What is clear, also, is that falling unemployment should not trigger an interest rate rise yet. With inflation hovering around zero, there should be no pressure on the MPC to consider a rate rise at this stage with the economy still recovering from the severe recession.” Businesses are welcome to attend the apprenticeship event. For more information or to book onto the event call 024 7665 4321 or email events@cw-chamber.co.uk

Professor considers challenges facing automotive sector

Professor Lord Kumar Bhattacharyya, Chairman and Founder of WMG at the University of Warwick, explores the research challenges facing the automotive sector in his first paper for a Royal Society journal. In “Smarter – lighter – greener: research innovations for the automotive sector” he writes about how legislation controlling vehicle emissions has brought urgency to research underpinning the industry, with a more rapid development of technologies than at any time in the past century. Professor Lord Bhattacharyya was made a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2014 in recognition of his contribution to engineering research and education. He said: “In this paper, I introduce the contribution my research, and that of my colleagues at WMG, has made to the UK’s international competitiveness and societal priorities. “The light-weighting of structures, the refinement of advanced propulsion systems, the advent of new smart materials, and greater in-vehicle intelligence and connectivity with transport infrastructure all require a fundamental rethink of established technologies used for many decades – defining a range of new multi-disciplinary research challenges. “Whilst meeting escalating emission penalties, cars must also fulfil the human desire for speed, reliability, beauty, refinement and elegance, qualities that mark out the truly great automobile.” One of the ways in which WMG will be helping to meet these challenges over the coming years is through the National Automotive Innovation Centre (NAIC), a 33,000 m2 research environment – which is currently being constructed at the University of Warwick campus. NAIC will see academic and industrial R&D teams working together using state-of-the-art equipment and facilities to develop breakthrough designs, technologies and processes – addressing the shortage of skilled R&D staff across the automotive supply chain, developing the talent required for the demands of emerging technologies and engaging future generations of engineers. Professor Lord Bhattacharyya’s paper “Smarter – lighter – greener: research innovations for the automotive sector” is available to download from the Royal Society website: rspa.royalsocietypublishing.org/lookup/d oi/10.1098/rspa.2014.0938. For further information please contact: Lisa Barwick, WMG, University of Warwick Tel: 02476 524 721 Email: L.Barwick@warwick.ac.uk

News New recruitment consultancy starts work Sunshine Recruitment Group Ltd is a new, innovative recruitment consultancy, supplying quality candidates to businesses across Coventry, Warwickshire and the neighbouring counties. We specialise in the sourcing, evaluation and timely presentation of B.R.I.G.H.T. people – Brilliant, Resourceful, Insightful, Genuine, Hardworking and Trustworthy – across permanent, temporary and contract roles. Our mission is to be the market leader in providing high-calibre candidates to local businesses – first time, every time. And with this in mind, our business model is entrenched in four main principles; quality, availability, affordability and reliability. People matter. At Sunshine Recruitment Group Ltd we have adopted a holistic ‘matchmaking’ approach to the exciting client/candidate conundrum – placing as much emphasis on finding the right personality traits for the business, as securing the ideal skills set. Diligent in our approach, the attributes of each individual will be skilfully mapped against the core requirements of the role and characteristics of the business. Only carefully selected candidates will be presented for consideration. “As the former MD of a £multi-million turnover company with a global clientele, plus a proven track record in the progressive world of recruitment – you’re in safe hands,” says Claire Bartley, founder of Sunshine Recruitment Group Ltd. “Whether your chosen path is telesales, customer services, marketing, publishing, PR, advertising, finance, operations, construction, marine, project management, finance, nursing, education, utilities, hairdressing - or even one of the many land-based industries from horticulture to arboriculture – I've accumulated a wealth of consultancy (plus hands-on) experience, across a broad spectrum of sectors, spanning over two decades.” Even with the most reliable partners, securing the right personnel can feel like a rollercoaster ride. At Sunshine Recruitment Group Ltd, an experienced Bright-People Consultant will work tirelessly in partnership with employers and candidates throughout the recruitment journey. We are proud to assure our clients of our best endeavours at all times. For more information, please visit www.brightpeople.co.uk

Parkwood Consultancy Services announces acquisition Parkwood Consultancy Services (PCS) have announced the acquisition of consulting civil and structural engineers BSW Consulting. BSW was founded in 1996 in Exeter and undertakes a variety of engineering projects for a wide range of public and private clients. Jackie Evans, Managing Director of PCS, said: “BSW will perfectly complement the Planning, Environmental and Landscaping Divisions at PCS and will result in us being able to offer an integrated solution to our clients. “The addition of BSW’s experienced team and technical expertise will extend our offer to our clients. Not only will we will be able to design environmental improvements but we will be able to demonstrate how they can be achieved practically on the ground. The addition of the BSW team brings a great deal of solid experience.’’ BSW Directors Ian Jolley and Sarah Buck said “There is a strong synergy between BSW and PCS, and the merger will result in a vibrant environmental and engineering consultancy able to tackle a wide range of projects. We are looking forward to working alongside PCS to give an even better level of service to our existing and new clients.” Parkwood Consultancy Services is based at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire.

Rooted in the past - investing in the future

Given that Sykes Timber was founded in 1862, some 20 years before electricity began to be used in the workplace, a recent installation of more than 257 solar panels demonstrates that as well as being steeped in history this 150 year old company has investment in the future high up on their agenda. “The long term view encapsulates the way we run our business” according to current Managing Director Rick Sykes who alongside his brother Bob is the fifth generation of Sykes’ to run the business “We are very aware of the traditions of the company and we are determined to follow the ethos and integrity of our Quaker forefathers, however, we would not be in business today if we had not moved with the times”. Another such example was the foresight shown by Rick and Bob’s father Stephen to move the business from the middle of Birmingham (where in 1862 the canal and railway network were an essential supply line) to the current location on a 10 acre purpose built site in Atherstone, Warwickshire. A bold move in the 1960s and with the benefit of hindsight, a masterstroke. In a display of loyalty typical of the firm’s employees to this

day most of the staff moved with the company relocating home and family for the opportunity to stay within the family business. Sykes Timber specialise in high quality hardwood and softwood they have sawmills, kilns and a planing and moulding mill all located on site and with deliveries all over the

UK and beyond. Visitors to the yard are impressed by the range and quality of stock. As well as large multi nationals, high end joinery, cabinet making and boat builders Sykes sell to end users large and small with a showroom displaying the range of timbers on offer and a wood store for those looking to select and collect.

A sweet success story There’s nothing better than real Turkish Delight, one of the oldest sweets in the world and the product of many legends. Pablo Picasso used to eat it on a daily basis to aid his concentration. Both Winston Churchill and Napoleon were considered admirers of the delicacy. Truede have continued this grand tradition by using authentic recipes, some of which date back over 500 years. These recipes also have the benefit of being made from natural ingredients. This means that our Turkish Delight, produced in Istanbul, Turkey is GM Free, Gluten Free and suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. We want everyone to be able to enjoy our variety of mouth-watering flavours. Our aim is to provide high quality confectionery for health conscious consumers worldwide. We didn’t just stop at Turkish Delight though, our luxury confectionery products are equally important to us. Truede wafers are filled with chocolate of only the finest cocoa and hazelnut

cream and before you know it the entire box will be empty. Then there are Truede chocolate spoons; a mixture of dark and milk chocolate that are perfect for dipping in tea or coffee or great to enjoy on their own. We supply to a wide range of clients from all around the world; USA, Canada, Poland, Germany, Belgium, Republic of Ireland, Australia, Iceland and the UAE. We also have partnerships with a variety of retailers from delicatessens, department stores and hamper companies to natural food retailers as well as retail chains. If you would like to find out more visit our website: www.truede.com

Road problems ‘will ease’ Businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire have been told that the worst of the “Tollbar pain” will be over by August. The major £150 million reworking of the A45/A46 interchange will see the existing A45 Stonebridge Highway between Stivichall junction and the Tollbar End roundabout widened and an underpass created to take traffic from the A45 Stonebridge Highway on to A46 Coventry Eastern Bypass. Contractors Galliford Try met the Coventry and Rugby branches of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to talk through the scheme and businesses were told that the opening of the new roundabout in August would bring a sizeable improvement. Sandra Garlick, chair of the Coventry branch of the Chamber, said the session had brought home the size of the scheme. “The Tollbar interchange has been a problem for years and with traffic flows growing, it was only going to get worse. Part of Coventry and

Warwickshire’s attraction to investors is its location and connectivity so the work had to be done. “It is a huge operation involving moving whole carriageways on a regular basis so it was bound to cause interruption and there is no doubt that businesses have suffered through the delays. “Galliford Try and the Highways Agency have undertaken a consultation programme with local groups and kept the media informed in a bid to ensure motorists have any up-to-date information and that will continue. “We have offered any help we can, but the news that things should improve after August is very welcome.” Jim Griffin, chair of the Rugby branch, added: “This junction is critical to the whole region with Rugby and Coventry particularly affected – so it’s great to hear that the pain is nearly over. “Many businesses are already reporting a big improvement and, once complete, this will bring significant benefits to the region.”

Plantworx 2015 a huge success for Terex Construction

Leading equipment solutions provider Terex Construction has heralded the recent Plantworx exhibition as its most successful trade show of the year. With more than 2,000 visitors to the stand, more than 1,000 leads collected and huge interest in the latest range of Terex compact equipment, the event provided an excellent opportunity to engage with thousands of equipment professionals from across the country. As well as hosting twice-daily live equipment demonstrations and offering trials for owner-operators, the team exhibited its T4i-compliant TLB890 backhoe loader – a highly productive machine, specifically designed with the user in mind. Featuring a turbo-charged, air cooled 100HP engine, the TLB890 meets the highest levels of international emissions legislation, while delivering quiet operation and a 12.5% increase in torque compared to previous models. Neal Nowick, General Manager at Terex Construction’s Coventry facility, said: “As such a key event in the construction calendar, we’re delighted with the success of this year’s Plantworx exhibition. “With so many visitors to the stand, leads captured and engaged construction professionals, we’re confident that exhibiting at this year’s Plantworx show has been our most successful event of the year so far.”

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

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Companies get in the swing for charity Community groups across Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire are set to benefit from an extra £2,600 after professional firms in the region pitched in for charity. Loveitts, a residential and commercial property company in the region, held a golf day at the Warwickshire Golf and Country Club in aid of the Heart of England Community Foundation. The foundation raises money in a range of ways before distributing it to groups throughout the region in order to help them have a positive impact on their local communities. Fourteen teams representing the financial, property and legal sector took part with Lloyds Bank taking the overall crown. Penmans Solicitors was runnersup while Loveitts finished in a creditable third. On the individual front, Zoe Walsh of Baldwins Accountants picked up the best ladies score while Patrick Murtagh of Cranfield was the top man. Paul Belfield, of Handelsbanken and also the chair of the trustees of the Heart of England Community Foundation, picked up nearest the pin and John Rimmer capped a good day for Baldwins with the straightest drive. Paul Barnes and Chris Edsall, both associate directors of Loveitts, and who had organised the event were delighted

Paul Barnes (Associate Director at Loveitts), Sally Smith (Associate Director at Loveitts), Martin Renshaw (Loveitts), Tina Costello (Heart of England Community Foundation), Chris Edsall (Associate Director at Loveitts), Sue Heyes (Heart of England Community Foundation), Peter Rosier (Managing Director of Loveitts).

with the amount raised for the Heart of England Community Foundation. Paul Barnes said: “It was a fantastic day. The sun was out, the golf was good and we raised a really good amount for a brilliant charity. “The Heart of England Community Foundation helps communities right across the area and their support has a genuinely positive impact on the local area.”

The gift of time

Time is something most of us feel we need more of. A Coventry based babysitting agency, EvaSitters, has solved the problem for many of us. Babysitting gift vouchers are now available to buy for your friends and family, allowing parents to have time for other activities without worrying about childcare. The vouchers offer at least three hours of prepaid evening babysitting to the recipient, so you no longer have to feel guilty about being unable to babysit for your family or friends! The ‘gift of time’

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is a thoughtful present parents will appreciate on special occasions and all year round. Most entrepreneurs will agree that childcare is a big cause of concern in today’s society, especially where both parents work. Building a strong, successful business requires lots of time and commitment, leaving little spare time to interview for and find home help. Evasitters’ staff are all interviewed face to face, screened thoroughly and paid by EvaSitters, so parents do not have to worry about all that.

Tina Costello, director of the Heart of England Community Foundation, said: “There was a really good level of competition and, even though it’s for a good cause, you know every team still wants to do well and win! “We are really pleased with the amount raised and we look forward to distributing it to some great causes.” All good parents will agree that their children are their most valuable possessions, so they cannot afford to be careless about childcare. EvaSitters provides police checked, trained, experienced and caring babysitters to homes in Coventry, Warwickshire and surrounding areas, even at short notice, with no membership, booking or registration fees. Any sensible person will agree that good, reliable childcare is priceless. Having a babysitter or nanny that really gets your children and ensures that they are safe and happy allows you to get on with life without guilt or worry. Although, parents will be willing to pay anything for such a reliable and necessary service, EvaSitters charges the same affordable hourly rate for any day of the week, and parents can get a discount with multiple bookings. For parents on the go, there is also an Evasitters phone app, available for free download from www.evasitters.co.uk The founder of EvaSitters, Dr Afiniki Akanet, a medical doctor, explains why she set up the company: “I wanted to provide an easy to book online babysitting service which allows parents, like me, to have time away from home when required, while also providing flexible wellpaid work for eligible UK residents. Having no membership, booking or registration fees, allows parents to use our service regularly or occasionally without penalty. Because of the large amount of daytime childcare providers, such as nurseries and childminders, EvaSitters specialises in providing childcare after 6pm.”

£4.8 million invested as CWRT celebrates ten years of lending The Coventry and Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust (CWRT) is celebrating its tenth year as a Responsible Finance Provider. CWRT provides loans for local start-ups and small businesses and Mike Musson, Chief Executive, said: “It’s extremely rewarding to see businesses that we have supported prospering ten years on. “We have invested £4.8 million since our first loans in 2005, with more than 350 businesses, leading to the creation of 500+ jobs.” Ten years ago, Coventry’s Brightly Dry Cleaners was among the first recipients of a CWRT loan. The Earlsdon Street business received £25,000 and has since expanded with three concessions across Coventry in Binley Woods, Brinklow and Green Lane, and another one opening at the University of Warwick soon. The firm also has commercial contracts with small businesses, Blue Chip companies, pop stars that play the Ricoh and professional theatrical companies. The company now employs four staff and used the loan to buy its first dry cleaning machine. Anna Jevremovic, owner and Managing Director of Brightly and a retired theatrical costumer, said: “I was referred to CWRT by Warwickshire County Council. I had already remortgaged my house and had put together a business plan. “CWRT really believed in me and my commitment to make my business succeed. I am grateful for their service, funding and early advice, after all my business is still here and thriving even after the financial crisis.” European and government loan funds are available through CWRT as an alternative to high street bank lending to businesses. Available to a wide range of sectors within Coventry & Warwickshire, the start-up or small business loans can be used for a variety of purposes, including equipment purchase, moving to new premises or growing a workforce. Mike Musson said: “We are committed to our role in growing the local economy by supporting small and start-up businesses with finance. As a not-forprofit specialist finance provider, we have gone from strength to strength over the last 10 years as we provide fledgling businesses with access to critical affordable funding which they might not be able to get elsewhere.” CWRT lends between £1,000 and £75,000. The application is straightforward and personal. To apply for the funding, please visit: www.cwrt.uk.com/apply

President & People

Representing the views of business Dear Member, Members of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce will know that I have, during my Presidential term of office, placed huge emphasis on the ‘voice of local businesses’ and ‘influence’ and being seen to actively represent the Chamber at a whole array of events, partnerships and networks. The past couple of months or so have certainly been a very busy time and thank you to all of those Members that have taken the opportunity to ‘meet me’ where we have crossed paths at the many, fantastic events organised by your Chamber of Commerce. On the 31st March, I was pleased to attend an event at Mills CNC’s Technology Campus, Leamington Spa, to witness first-hand a Company that is world-class in CNC manufacturing and also to meet Mr Chuka Umunna MP, Labour Shadow Business Secretary. Whatever your political persuasion, I have to say I was impressed with Chuka and his commitment to ensuring UK businesses have the opportunity to thrive and grow within a business-friendly environment. On the 14th April I was off to the British Chambers of Commerce, in London, to network with all Chamber Presidents and meet key staff of the British Chambers, all of whom work so hard on representing the voice of business into Whitehall. Presidents from the network were given presentations on a wide range of issues that matter most to business, such as where we lobby on taxation, devolution, skills, transport and much more. I came away from the event knowing much more about the British Chambers of Commerce and it reminded me to “remind you” to keep in touch with your Chamber of Commerce, keep abreast of what we do and make best use of the excellent business advice, export advice, events and networks and services that are on offer. During the morning of the 17th of April, I was a guest at a West Midlands Lieutenancy ‘Masterclass’ on how, as a business, you could put yourself forward for a Queen’s Award in Enterprise, Export or Innovation. The Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has led on these Masterclasses, for the West Midlands (and, now. Warwickshire) Lieutenancy and we are beginning to see

some real success stories of businesses that have achieved a Queen’s Award with my personal congratulations to T A Savery & Company Ltd, Industrial Washing Machines Ltd and Jaguar Land Rover, all of whom attended the Masterclass to ‘show and tell’ their’ story. On the same day, 17th April, I was flattered to attend a Civic Dinner Hosted by the Lord Mayor of Coventry Councillor Hazel Noonan to welcome His Excellency Andris Teikmanis Ambassador of the Republic of Latvia to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. During the dinner I had the opportunity to speak to the Ambassador about the real opportunity to promote links with Coventry and with Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber and its Members. So, I will be talking to the Chamber’s International Trade Team (who work with hundreds of businesses, each year, on export) to see how we can follow-up. I found myself in Rugby on the 21st of April, accompanied by the Chief Executive of the Chamber of Commerce, Louise Bennett OBE, our Policy & Partnership Manager, Angela Tellyn, and our Chair of the Chamber’s Rugby Branch, Jim Griffin. Our visit was hosted by the Leader and Senior Team of the Rugby Borough Council. We were afforded a fantastic tour of the exciting developments going on in Rugby both recent, current and future. There is so much forward-thinking development going on in Rugby, it really is a flag ship for our region. On the 22nd of April I attended a Chamber Presidents Assembly at the Hilton, London Euston. 24 of the 53 Presidents, from across the UK accredited Chamber network, heard from John Longworth, Director General, and Nora Senior, President, of the British Chambers of Commerce. We were given a fascinating talk from Andrew Hawkins, ComRes, on the possible outcome of the general election. I will not tell you if he guessed it right or not! We had an update on the British Chambers General Election Plan and then an outline of, what is now, the Chambers post-General Election plan. We discussed and debated shared network campaigns covering International Trade and global accreditation, followed by an interesting debate on how Chambers are bridging the gap between education and business. There was then a useful Masterclass on the “role of the Non-

Executive Director” before networking and dinner. As one of the strongest Chambers of Commerce in the UK, it is so important for Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber to ‘hold its own’ at such events. The end to my month of April could not have been better when, on 29th April, I met the Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon David Cameron MP, at a small VIP event being held at a North Warwickshire Company. As one would expect, I absolutely used the opportunity to push the issues that matter most to local business. Yet again, Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce was able to show how it has maximum opportunity and influence when it is afforded invitations to exclusive meetings such as these. On the same day, I then took the opportunity to visit a Chamber Member company, Green Fingers, in Claverdon. A fantastic business, with massive opportunity to expand and create more jobs, but a Company having real, frustrating problems with planning and/or finding the right land/site for their growth. With the prestigious Coventry Telegraph Business Awards in sight, I gave up some of my time, in May, to help with the judging of awards entrants. The Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is always proud to work in partnership with the Telegraph on these awards as the companies that enter certainly, in my mind, represent the best of business here in our locality. Doing what the Chamber does best, I was able to open one of our many networking events, on 13th May, and this one was a little different as it was an “inter chamber networking event”, at the National Motorcycle Museum, organised jointly by the Coventry Warwickshire Chamber and Solihull Chamber. A great event with some real business-tobusiness opportunities occurring. On the evening of the 15th May I was back in Rugby at the wonderful Pride of Rugby Awards, the Dunchurch Park Hotel, which was an evening of celebrating all that is great in Rugby. Each year, the City of Coventry holds its Annual Meeting which I attended on Thursday 21ts May. At this event - held in the beautiful surroundings of Coventry Cathedral – I witnessed the inauguration of the new Lord Mayor, Councillor Michael Hammon.

Peter Burns MBE

A chance for the Chamber Chief Executive and I to talk to and meet Chamber Members and prospective Members at the ‘Meet Your Chamber’ on 22nd May held in the lovely setting of the Glebe Hotel, Barford. I would urge all Members to make best use of such events as they are really lively, great B2B opportunities, Staying on the theme of networking, on the 3rd of June, I visited a joint networking event between Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber and Northampton & Milton Keynes Chamber. Held at the Holiday Inn, Rugby, Northampton junction 18 of the M1, it really did attract a large crowd with everyone enjoying the benefit of networking with businesses a little further afield. Finally, what a way to end a busy few weeks, when, on 19th of June, I enjoyed dinner and superb entertainment at the Coventry Telegraph Business Awards, held at the Ricoh Arena. A truly great event, run in partnership with Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber; a chance to showcase the best in business in our subregion and how privileged was I to present the Export Award to Pashley Cycles, Stratford Upon Avon. Congratulations to O’Brien Contractors for winning the ‘overall’ Business of the Year Award, a great leading-edge, people-centric business and, of course, a Chamber Member!

Peter Burns MBE

New partner appointed at law firm Midlands law firm Wright Hassall has further strengthened its top ranked specialist agriculture team with the appointment of a new partner. Alex Robinson joins Wright Hassall from Lodders solicitors in Stratford-upon-Avon where she was noted by the legal directories in advising on farms and estates. Working alongside Wright Hassall Partner and Head of Agriculture Paul Rice, Alex will provide legal advice to the firm’s everexpanding portfolio of agricultural businesses and individuals in the rural sector. Alex, who has 12 years’ experience in the agricultural sector, said: “I am looking forward to working with Wright Hassall’s agriculture team.

“The vision Wright Hassall has of providing a suite of legal expertise that supports the whole of a business is one that I share and is a major factor in my decision to join the firm. “A lot of law firms say they understand the agricultural sector but do not provide a full service offering. Wright Hassall has the expertise to advise rural businesses on every aspect of their operations and to provide the specialist legal advice that agriculture clients demand.” Paul Rice, who is the current Chair of the Warwickshire Committee of the Countryside Land and Business Association, said: “Alex’s appointment brings valued expertise and knowledge into the team. “The rural economy contributes over £260 bn to the UK’s GVA, with 9.3 million people

living in rural areas. The agriculture sector is facing some enormous challenges and Wright Hassall is well-placed to advise rural businesses on how to meet these challenges. “Having Alex on board will help to strengthen the legal services offering we are able to provide to clients in the agricultural sector.” Wright Hassall’s agriculture team received the highest Tier 1 ranking in Legal 500 2014, the industry’s independent guide to the legal profession. The team works with many clients across the agricultural sector including the Cotswold Farm Park, The Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers and the Young National Farmers Federation.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

President & People

Jon Sargent retires after 31 years at SFB

Chamber members The SFB Group have said farewell to one of its directors. Jon Sargent who joined Stewart, Fletcher & Barrett (part of The SFB Group) 31 years ago, retired from the firm in June 2015. Jon started his career at Leech Pearson and Evans. He then worked for PWC in both Birmingham and London before joining SFB on 1st May 1984. SFB acknowledged Jon’s retirement by naming a room after him at the firm’s head office in Nuneaton. The ‘Sargent Breakout Room’ will be a place for staff to develop

ideas and to discuss new ways for helping clients achieve their goals. Jon was presented with a number of gifts, as well as a celebration cake which was made by Bedworth firm The Cake Shop. SFB Managing Director, Paul Carvell said “It has been a great privilege and an honour to work with Jon. Over the years we have experienced a lot together and I wish him all the best for the future.” Jon will be greatly missed by everyone at SFB. When asked about his retirement, Jon said “My time at SFB has been fantastic.

It has been a pleasure to work with such a wonderful team and I would like to thank my clients for an amazing 31 years. I am excited about starting a new chapter in my life. I intend to spend more time on the golf course, travelling and spending time with my family.” The SFB Group has been established for 60 years. The firm offers a wide range of services including accountancy, wealth management, commercial insurance, corporate finance, business start up and marketing services. SFB has offices in Nuneaton, Hinckley, Coventry & Wakefield.

Law firm makes appointments A leading Coventry law firm is continuing to strengthen with a trio of senior promotions. Band Hatton Button, in Warwick Road, has announced a round of promotions as part of its ongoing growth and development strategy. Mark Moseley, managing director at the firm, has stepped up to the board as a partner. He joined Band Hatton in 2008 and has over 20 years’ experience as a business leader in the financial and legal sectors. In 2013 he oversaw the successful merger of Varley Hibbs, Button Legal and Band Hatton. Michelle Gavin has been made a partner at the firm after joining the company in January 2014 from SGH Martineau, as associate and head of the firm’s trusts and probate department. Her expertise includes wills, trusts, estate planning, home protection trusts, the administration of estates and trusts along with lasting powers of attorney and court of protection work. Sarah Avern joined Band Hatton in 2003 and is widely regarded as one of the leading residential property lawyers in the city.

She has been promoted to associate head of residential property, where she heads up a team of expert lawyers specialising in a wide-range of property matters including sales, purchases, transfers of equity, shared equity schemes, lease extensions and help to buy purchases. Band Hatton Button is one of the largest law practices in the city with 16 partners and in all over 75 employees now based at the firm. The company offers a wide range of expertise from commercial and residential property to employment, litigation and dispute resolution matters, and personal injury and accident claims, corporate and commercial work, and wills, probate and family matters. Philip Costigan, senior partner at Band Hatton Button, said: “We are extremely pleased to have announced three key promotions at the firm in April this year to coincide with the second anniversary of our merged firm, which will greatly help to strengthen our position in the legal sector. “Mark has been instrumental in the successful development of the firm since his arrival. Our merger has been highly

successful and has allowed our new firm to grow significantly, and Mark played a key part in that process. “Mark, Michelle and Sarah are all highlyskilled professionals with a wealth of knowledge and experience. They have each helped to shape the growth of Band Hatton Button over the last few years and will play a leading role in the firm’s ongoing succession strategy. “Band Hatton Button has a wellestablished reputation for providing an outstanding range and quality of service to its clients and this is thanks to the hard work and dedication of the expert team of lawyers and business professionals at the heart of the business.”

Saville names new Sales & Marketing Director Technology specialist Saville Audio Visual has announced a natural successor for sales and marketing director Ed Everard, who has recently retired after forty years in the business. With almost thirty years experience across many aspects of the business, Andy Dyson has played a particularly influential role in Saville’s award winning success over the past fifteen years. Andy joined the company in 1988 as a warehouseman, before moving into the Hire Division firstly as a Technician, then Conference Manager. After spells at the York, Hull, Coventry and Edinburgh offices, he later became Regional Manager for the north east and Scotland. He was appointed to the main Saville board as Commercial Director in 2012, following several years as Divisional Manager for systems manufacturing, installations, videoconferencing and digital signage.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

There he was instrumental in the restructuring of the company’s sales and technical divisions into a single business unit, increasing efficiency and boosting turnover and profit performance. Now as Sales and Marketing Director, he takes on responsibility for the company’s high profile national sales and marketing operations, which he sees as a new challenge. He said: “I am delighted to take on responsibility for the company’s marketing, developing an area we are already very proud of. Whilst maintaining the industry leading ‘Communicate’ annual publication, I intend to focus on further development of our emarketing including our website and social media presence. I am also looking forward to working with our Conference & Live Events team to capitalise on the investment we’ve made in new technology, in particular in high resolution LED display products.” With major clients throughout the UK corporate, education and health sectors,

plus government departments and military customers, Saville has recently reported record turnover figures for 2014, exceeding £40 million for the first time in the company’s history.

Sales head shortlisted for award

The head of sales at the Ricoh Arena has been shortlisted for a national award which rewards staff in the UK’s meetings, hospitality and events industry. Angela Perkins will be visited by the judging panel from the Meeting Industry Association’s miaList 2015 next month before the winners are announced at the Park Plaza Riverbank London on Monday, September 28. The miaList celebrates those who have made a difference to the industry either to their organisation, customers or the industry overall. Angela, who was crowned the Best Venue Salesperson at the 2014 Exhibition News Awards, secured over £1.5millon worth of business at the Ricoh Arena last year ranging from the UK’s largest gaming festival Insomnia to the UK Radiation Oncology Conference. She has led the Ricoh Arena’s 10strong sales team to increase sales revenue by 36.6% and occupancy (excluding hotel rooms) by 27.2% over the last two years. “I am extremely pleased to have been shortlisted in the sales and marketing people category and I’m looking forward to meeting the judges and talking about the Ricoh Arena,” Angela said. “My mantra is based around making contacts, transforming contacts into clients and then clients becoming friends. “The Ricoh Arena has a ‘wow’ factor which impresses potential clients when I am taking visitors round the venue for the first time. “We always start at the casino since post-meeting and events entertainment is important in our industry and heading down a waterfall staircase into the £36 million casino definitely has a ‘wow’ factor. “The fact we have on-site bedrooms and 20,000 sqm of event space is a real plus for organisers however large or small their event.” Angela has also been one of the driving forces behind the On Your Bike challenge which raised £36,000 for the Memusi Foundation to build a secondary school in Kenya, and the Ricoh Arena collecting £5,000 to buy a guide dog called Rick in the Godiva Puppy Appeal “The Memusi Foundation is a charity which is close to my heart and I am about to return as a volunteer to work at the school for nine days,” she said. “We are also hoping to run a medical camp for the community of Magadi which will, once again, be the only free health check offered for miles around and reaches out to all of the community. “I am planning to climb Kilimanjaro in January to raise further funds for the charity who help children to escape poverty through education.”

New Members

Welcome to new members

5874 Design 16-17 Newhall Hill Birmingham B1 3JH www.5874.co.uk 0121 233 1245 rupert@5874.co.uk

Alderminster Group Ettington Park Business Centre Ettington Park Alderminster Stratford-Upon-Avon CV37 8BT www.alderminstergroup.co.uk 01789 450314 maria@alderminstergroup.co.uk Alvis Robotics Ltd Little Health Industrial Estate Old Church Road Coventry CV6 7NB www.alvisrobotics.com 024 76 638100 nasser@alvisrobotics.com Arquebus Solutions Ltd HDTI Building Coventry University Technology Park Coventry CV1 2TT www.arquebus-solutions.co.uk 02476 158030 mattlewis@arquebus-solutions.co.uk Assured Property Group Unit 46 Innovation Centre Warwick Technology Park Gallows Hill Warwick CV34 6UW www.assuredpropertygroup.co.uk 0844 9778899 katie.sewell@assuredpropertygroup.co.uk Bakes & More 17 Parade Leamington Spa CV32 4DE d36uk2002@hotmail.com CA Consulting Greenways Temple Grafton Alcester B49 6NX www.c-a-consulting.co.uk 01789 773639 christine@fiddis.net Consilium Group Limited Anglo House Worcester Road Stourport-On-Severn Worcester DY13 9AW www.consiliumrecruit.com 01299 828347 russell.tuck@consiliumrecruit.com Davies Environmental 3 Exmoor Drive Leamington Spa CV32 7BB www.daviesenvironmental.co.uk 01926 425104 shane7200027@yahoo.com Dentons Repair & Restoration 11 Aryndel Road Cheylesmore Coventry CV3 5JT www.dentonsrepair.co.uk 07790 325955 craig@dentonsrepair.co.uk

Dolan Holt Oak Tree House Farnell Drive Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 9DJ www.lyndaholt.co.uk 01789 205178 Lynda@dolanholt.co.uk Elegant Designs Ltd Unit 2 Bath Road Nuneaton CV11 5AP www.elegantdesigns.ltd.uk 02476 345111 trevor@elegantdesigns.ltd.uk

Elev Aero Unit 8, Centenary Way Hammond Close Attleborough Fields Industrial Estate Nuneaton CV11 6RY www.elevaero.com 02476 350005 adam@elevaero.com Gibbs Technology Avenue Road Nuneaton CV11 4LY www.gibbstech.co.uk 024 76388828 gjenkins@gibbstech.co.uk Graeme Lloyd t/a Cartridge World 274 Walsgrave Road Coventry CV2 4BL www.coventry.cartridgeworld.co.uk 024 76457235 cwcoventry@cartridgeworld.co.uk Hands On At Work Ltd Curo House, Green Box Westonhall Road Stoke Prior Bromsgrove B60 4AL www.handsonatwork.co.uk 07989 367669 info@handsonatwork.co.uk Ignition Coaching 1 Phillippes Road Warwick CV34 5TR www.ignitioncoaching.co.uk 01926 351090 info@ignitioncoaching.co.uk K Yarwood Wealth Management St James Place House Central Boulevard Blythe Valley Park Solihull B90 8AR www.kyarwoodwm.co.uk 0121 7336733 katie.yarwood@sjpp.co.uk KC & Co 314 Walsgrave Road Coventry CV2 4BL 02476 440078 clivejohnsonkc@gmail.com

Kixo Ltd Sherbourne House Humber AvenueCoventry CV1 2AQ www.kixo.xo.uk 0121 6664925 info@kixo.co.uk

Kudos Catering- Royal Pump Rooms Royal Pump Rooms Parade Leamington Spa CV32 4AA www.rls-dining-events.co.uk 01926 311978 hannah.gill@kudosknowhow.co.uk Lockforce Coventry & Warwickshire 61 Monkswood Crescent Coventry CV2 1BE www.lockforce.co.uk 02477 047791 richardc@lockforce.co.uk Logistat (UK) Ltd Consilium House Timothys Bridge Road Stratford Upon Avon CV37 9NR www.logistatuk.com 01789 205664 peter.marsh@logistatuk.com McColm Cardew 10 Main Street Bilton Rugby CV22 7NB www.mccolmcardew.co.uk 01788 811271 gordon@mccolmcardew.co.uk Merchant Money Ltd Lake View House Tournament Fields Warwick CV34 6RG www.merchantmoney.co.uk 0800 8488480 nigel@merchantmoney.co.uk Moneycorp 100 Brompton Road Knightsbridge London SW3 1ER www.moneycorp.com 0207 823 7400 andy.medler@moneycorp.com Monkey Tree Hosting Coventry Technology Park Puma Way Coventry CV1 2TT www.monkeytreehosting.com 020 33580210 david@monkeytreehosting.com Multi Vision 4 Edward Street Nuneaton CV11 5RH www.multivision.uk.com 02476 641323 info@multivision.uk.com

Nanna (Nanny & Nursery Nurse Agency) 62 Shenstone Avenue Rugby CV22 5BL www.nanna.uk.com 01788 422522 info@nanna.uk.com Pig In The Middle Willowbrook Farm Banbury Road Bishops tachbrook Leamington Spa CV33 9QL www.pig-in-the-middle.co.uk 01926 651806 enquiries@pig-in-the-middle.co.uk Seymours Solicitors Queens House Queens Road Coventry CV1 3JN www.seymours-solicitors.co.uk 024 76553961 stellabroster@seymours.co.uk SmithScribe 40 Hoskyn Close Rugby CV21 4LA www.smithscribe.co.uk 07887 997594 phil@smithscribe.co.uk TBL Fire Protection Ltd 260 Birmingham Road Allesley, Coventry CV5 9HD www.tblfireprotection.com 02476 404534 info@tblfireprotection.com The Makers & Me Ltd 76 Bilton Road Rugby CV22 7AL adam@themakersandme.co.uk The PiR Partnership LLP The Manor House Sheep Street Shipston-On-Stour CV36 4AF www.PiRuk.com 01608 663785 ian@piruk.com Universal Alliance Group 149 New Union Street Coventry CV1 2NT www.universalalliancegroup.co.uk 02476 220799 uk@universalalliancegroup.co.uk Universal Bodyshop Unit 19 Alliance Close Attleborough Fields Industrial Estate Nuneaton CV11 6SD www.universal-bodyshop.com 07899 778165 universalbodyshop@yahoo.co.uk nick@waypoint.org.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Training Dates CWT Training Dates 2015

Duration

Branding for Business NEW

August

Half Day-am

Project Management NEW

Full Day

Microsoft Excel - Intermediate to Advanced

Full Day

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)

Full Day

Making Business Decisions

Full Day

September

October

Professional Telephone Techniques

Half Day-am

Business email Writing

Half Day-pm

Telesales - Getting results

Full Day

Inspirational Leadership

Full Day

Google Analytics

Full Day

Marketing and Promoting your Business

Full Day

Customer Service Essentials

Half Day-am

Account Management NEW

Half Day-pm

Microsoft Excel Advanced Plus

Full Day

Health and Safety in the Workplace (EFAW) HSE approved

Full Day

Half Day-am

Understanding Export and Import Procedures

Full Day

Emergency First Aid in the Workplace (EFAW) HSE Approved

Full Day

Risk Assessment - Principles & Practice (CIEH Accredited Level 2 Award)

Full Day

Effective Communication

Half Day-am

Conducting Team Briefing/Buzz Meetings

Half Day-pm

Microsoft Word - Intermediate to Advanced

Full Day

Successful Sales Techniques

Full Day

Building the Team NEW

Half Day-am

Motivating the Team

Half Day-pm

Full Day

Setting Goals & Targets NEW

Half Day-am

Training & Coaching the Team NEW

Half Day-pm

Full Day

Managing Difficult People

Half Day-am

Understanding Discipline in the Workplace

Half Day-pm

Full Day

Managing Effective Meetings NEW

On line Marketing

Appraising People & Performance

Export Documentation - Getting it Right

Course dates for the quarter are shown above, please contact CWT Chamber Training on 024 7623 1122 or visit www.cwtcov.co.uk for other course dates and further information

Events Opportunity to Meet with a Trade Adviser from France 23 July 12:00 pm - 4:30 pm Chamber House, Cheetah Road, Coventry CV1 2TL Interested in Exporting to France? UKTI is offering companies the opportunity to meet with a trade adviser from their team in Paris, on 23rd July 2015 in Coventry. Audrey Berte is a Senior Trade Adviser at the British Embassy in Paris, specialising in the Automotive, Rail, Engineering, and Infrastructure sectors. Audrey will be available for one-to-one meetings to discuss the practicalities of exporting to France, prospects for your business, and the support available from UKTI.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

This event is free of charge. Meetings are by appointment only and will be taking place on the afternoon of 23rd July at the Chamber of Commerce in Coventry. Please contact Gemma Basterfield gemma.basterfield@mobile.ukti.gov.uk for further information or to request an appointment. •••

Chamber Networking 29 July 4:00pm - 6:00pm Warwick House, 10 Warwick Road, Southam, Warwickshire, CV47 0HN Do you want to showcase your business to local companies, create new professional contacts and spread the word about your business? Chamber Networking is the perfect way to generate new business leads. Don’t miss out on this fantastic networking opportunity! •••

Chamber Quiz Night 6 August 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm Grosvenor Casino, Ricoh Arena, Phoenix Way, Coventry, CV6 6GE Join us for an evening of networking in a fun and relaxed environment as we test your general knowledge. Get together with clients and colleagues at this fantastic networking event. •••

The C&W Business and Trade Expo Launch Event 27 August 11:30 am - 2:00pm Holiday Inn Coventry - South, Coventry, CV8 3DY Member rate - £15 + VAT Non member rate - £25 + VAT Exhibition Stand - £50 + VAT Prepare your business for the biggest Business and Trade Expo in Coventry and Warwickshire this October.

The March 2015 Business & Trade Expo at the Ricoh Arena, welcomed 120 exhibitors and over 500 visitors, making it our the biggest and best expo yet! Can you afford to miss out on this opportunity? Hear from local marketing experts; Todd from Spaghetti Agency and Rob Harrison from Glued Limited, who will share their need-to-know tips to ensure you make the most of your visit. You’ll find out how to promote, prepare and present your business at one of the biggest business exhibitions in Coventry and Warwickshire. Network with local businesses, enjoy a buffet lunch and pick up some exciting and innovative tips! •••

Find out more information or to book a place please see the events pages at www.cw-chamber.co.uk or contact events@cw-chamber.co.uk

Tel: 01788 422500 (24 hrs) First floor, 17 Bank Street, Rugby CV21 2QE