Hillingdon Business Dec 25

Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce

NOTA

Potential for secure yard

Electrically operated loading door

Heather Harvey-Wood heather.harvey-wood@cushwake.com 07917 423467

Alex Doyle alexander.doyle@cushwake.com 07826 537141

7.5m to underside of haunch

kN/m2

oor loading 3 phase electricity

Patrick Rosso patrick.rosso@colliers.com 07825 571048

Stan Gibson stanley.gibson@colliers.com 07776 605378

YC Lau yc.lau@colliers.com 07551 383904

It’s an honour to share my first welcome note as the new CEO of the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce.

Over the past year, our business community has shown real resilience and ambition. From strong collaboration across sectors to the continued growth of our SME network, Hillingdon has demonstrated what can be achieved when businesses come together with purpose. This momentum gives us a powerful platform as we enter the year ahead. My focus is clear: progress, collaboration, and meaningful growth. We want every business, from start-ups to major employers, to feel supported, connected, and part of a thriving local ecosystem.

We also begin the new year with two key highlights:

Hillingdon Business Awards: 29th January 2026

Hosted once again at the Sheraton Skyline Heathrow, this year’s awards have seen record engagement, refreshed criteria, and exceptional finalists. It will be a fantastic evening celebrating the businesses driving Hillingdon forward.

Hillingdon Business Expo – Summer 2026

Next summer’s Expo is set to be our most impactful yet, offering SMEs direct access to buyers, partners, and opportunities from across the borough and beyond.

Looking ahead, we will strengthen our partnerships, introduce more sector-focused

Karen

Liverpool L9 5AQ

Tel: 0151 236 4141

Fax: 0151 236 0440

admin@benhampublishing.com

www.benhampublishing.com

Our Strategic Partners

Tel: 0151 236 4141

karen@benhampublishing.com

Design David

Tel: 0151 236 4141

Media No. 2158

24 32 46 20

dave@benhampublishing.com

NOTA

Amar Nota is Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce’s new CEO. He is also the Founder/CEO of Someone To Talk To and a member of the Board of Trustees at Home-Start Hillingdon . Here he sits down with Sarah Dale to talk about his vision for the Chamber’s future and why he is excited to take on this new challenge.

Amar Nota has been in Hillingdon for more than 40 years, so the borough is extremely special to him.

“I know the borough very well; it is a place that is very close to me,” he says.

“I completed my work experience at the Civic Centre and I played for both local football teams. My family is here. I feel really blessed to have this incredible opportunity to influence positive change right here in the borough that I love. Hillingdon has always been a safe, secure and steady borough and it is a place of progressive stability.”

He says becoming the CEO of Hillingdon Chamber in October was a “great opportunity” for him to support other people in many ways. He joined the Chamber as a member about four years ago and launched the Someone To Talk To support programme through the Chamber.

“Everything I do, I do with purpose and passion,” he says.

“The opportunity of the CEO came to me as a true blessing. It suits my personality and I am really enjoying the role.”

“At

His vision is to boost the stability and growth of the Chamber – which currently has over 400 members – and “bring together all the smaller networks in the borough” to benefit members.

Ensuring the Chamber remains a safe space for members to gain access to advice and support is of utmost importance to Amar, who identified a gap in the market to set up Someone To Talk To, which connects individuals with a diverse range of professionals in the wellness and mental health sector.

“I stay resilient personally by time-blocking to give myself time to reflect between tasks and meetings,” he adds.

“I am a dad of two boys and a husband and a business owner and a CEO so it is

important that you retain some time for yourself and remind yourself when things are going well.

“At the Chamber, I want to ensure that we listen to our members more and we have launched The Big Listen, a series of short slots for members to meet me on a Thursday (either in person or online) to find out what people really want from the Chamber. I am also working with the team to listen to their ideas.

“My leadership style is inclusive, supportive and progressive. Leadership comes from leading an idea, not only a team. Sharing your vision and having a space where everyone can share their ideas is the most important thing.”

the Chamber, I want to ensure that we listen to our members more and we have launched The Big Listen, a series of short slots for members to meet me on a Thursday (either in person or online) to find out what people really want from the Chamber. I am also working with the team to listen to their ideas."

WHY GOOD IDEAS DESERVE BETTER DESIGN

By Amit Patel Founder of Count Creation,

London

People

don’t scroll past bad ideas. They scroll past bad presentation.

In a world where attention lasts three seconds or less, the way your visual brand looks and communicates often determines whether someone stops, reads, or moves on. On social media especially, every decision — whether to click, watch, or follow — begins with a single image, thumbnail, or caption. Strong design doesn’t just decorate a message. It helps deliver it with clarity and impact.

Start with clarity, not decoration

Before you think about logos, fonts, or colour palettes, step back and ask: what is the purpose of your brand, and how should it be positioned? That clarity sets the foundation for every design decision that follows, from your website to your social media posts and more.

A ‘clear brand purpose’ allows your visuals to work harder for you. When design and strategy align, they create recognition, trust, and emotion. Three ingredients that build a memorable brand.

Design principles that work anywhere

Whether you run a café, clinic, law firm, or tech start-up, certain visual principles apply across the board.

Typography (fonts): Choose clear, readable fonts and use them consistently.

Colour: Stick to a few core brand colours and use contrast to make key information stand out.

Hierarchy: One clear idea per post or page. Support it with a strong headline, a short explainer, and a clear call to action.

Space: Don’t be afraid of white space. It helps people focus.

If you can’t read your design at arm’s length or on a phone screen, your audience probably can’t either.

Consistency builds confidence

Good branding is about repetition with intention. Use similar visual grids, colours, and tone across your materials. Once the fundamentals are in place such as hierarchy, contrast, colour, and layout, you can create templates for ongoing use to help you. These become your toolkit for promotions, testimonials, tips, and campaigns, saving time while keeping everything cohesive.

Match visuals with meaning

Images and captions work best when they serve the same purpose. A well-designed post catches attention. A well-written caption keeps it.

Think of captions in four categories: Educate: Three mistakes costing you customers this month.

Encourage action: Book your space before Friday!

Show evidence: How we helped one client save six hours a week.

Engage: Ask questions or invite opinions. Captions provide an opportunity to connect further.

Adapting design to your industry

Different industries express trust and personality in different ways.

Food and Drink: Use strong photography, natural lighting, and brand-coloured backgrounds. Show ingredients you use and behind-the-scenes moments.

Authenticity matters

Professional Services: Keep layouts clean with clear headlines and infographics that help simplify complex information.

Healthcare: Focus on space, cleanliness, and calm tones. Use real team photos and simple icons and design elements to explain services.

Hospitality and Travel: Capture experiences, not just spaces. Show people, emotion, and moments of connection.

Whatever your sector, make your visuals feel real, consistent, and intentional.

Design is not about the way it looks. It is also about clarity and care. Even small businesses have an opportunity to look professional and build trust by paying attention to how they present themselves. Take time to define what makes your brand different. Build visuals that express that difference. Test, refine, and stay consistent. When your message is clear and your presentation is strong, people notice.

For more information visit: www.theampatel.com

West

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DELVE INTO HISTORY WITH A HILLINGDON HERITAGE MEMBERSHIP

A new scheme giving residents and visitors a unique opportunity to explore the borough’s history through exclusive benefits and immersive experiences at its historic sites has been launched.

The Hillingdon Heritage Membership, which was introduced to coincide with Heritage Open Days (12-21 September), the UK's largest annual celebration of history and culture, gives members access to events and activities not available to regular visitors.

Featured venues include the Battle of Britain Bunker Exhibition and Visitor Centre, Uxbridge; Manor Farm House and The Great Barn, Ruislip; Cranford Park, Hayes and Eastcote House Gardens.

Annual costs start from £32 and advantages range from special 'member days' with dedicated access and priority booking for walks and tours, to discounts on food, drinks, and gift shop items. Members will also receive a quarterly newsletter highlighting forthcoming events.

By joining, you will receive:

• Battle of Britain Bunker - One complimentary bunker tour each year, unlimited access to the visitor centre, free admission to the speaker series talks, plus a 10 per cent discount at the café and gift shop

• Manor Farm and The Great Barn - One free guided tour of the house and tour of The Great

Barn each year as part of a member day, as well as access to an expanded speaker series

• Eastcote House GardensOne complimentary walking tour of the site annually, along with access to exclusive speaker series talks

• Cranford Park - Updates on events and activities in the park.

The Museum and Archives Service and new local history museum, which is currently under construction at the Civic Centre in Uxbridge and set to open in December, is also covered by membership, with extras including special ancestry workshops.

Sleeping Beauty

Christmas panto at Compass Theatre

This year’s pantomime at Compass Theatre is Sleeping Beauty and it will be jam-packed with magic, music and comedy this festive season. It runs from Thursday, 4 December to Saturday, 3 January and tickets are priced £16-£21. Email boxoffice@hillingdon.gov.uk for more details.

Eddie Lavery, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Community and Environment, said: "Hillingdon has a wonderfully vibrant heritage with some unique locations for residents and visitors to come and explore, uncover history and see how it has shaped today's borough.

"Memberships will help build a community of like-minded enthusiasts and hopefully encourage new generations of historians from the borough and beyond."

Find out more at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ heritage-membership

Cllr

Eastcote House Gardens

HILLINGDON JOINS LONDON ECONOMIC PROSPERITY BOARD

Hillingdon Council has joined the West London Economic Prosperity Board (WLEPB), a cross-party, joint committee of west London authorities, to unlock new opportunities for growth, investment and innovation.

The council's Cabinet has agreed to formally join Barnet, Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith and Fulham, Harrow and Hounslow as part of the WLEPB.

Facilitated by the West London Alliance (WLA), the joint committee focuses on driving economic growth, investment opportunities and regeneration across the

area by coordinating planning, infrastructure, and equipping residents with the right skills.

The decision will help support the council's ambitious plans for growth and the delivery of exciting projects emerging from the Uxbridge Vision and regeneration of Hayes.

Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth, said: "We're delighted to join the West London Economic Prosperity Board, which will enable us to work in partnership with our neighbouring boroughs to unlock new opportunities for growth, investment and innovation.

"Working closely with neighbouring boroughs and universities across West London will help create exciting growth opportunities for our residents and local businesses."

"We're delighted to join the West London Economic Prosperity Board, which will enable us to work in partnership with our neighbouring boroughs to unlock new opportunities for growth, investment and innovation."

Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth

Former telephone exchange recognised as

a building of architectural significance

North Hayes Telephone Exchange has been added to Hillingdon borough's local list, recognising it as a building of architectural and historical significance.

The former telephone exchange is an example of Brutalist architecture, prominent in England from the 1950s to the 1970s, with its innovative use of precast concrete and thoughtful design that balances functionality with visual impact. Retaining nearly all its original features, the building reflects a significant period in design and construction and holds strong heritage value for the local community.

The local list recognises buildings of architectural or cultural value in the borough – ranging from homes and offices to churches and landmarks.

Following a six-week public consultation, held earlier this year from 1 January to 13 February, in which 68 per cent of respondents supported the inclusion, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet requested further investigation into its redevelopment potential if it was added. After completing this review, the decision to add the telephone exchange was formally approved.

To view all the buildings on the local list and find out how to nominate a building, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/locally-listedbuildings.

Local Hypnotherapist secures third consecutive London Award

Hillingdon-based hypnotherapist

Kate Hoyle has achieved a remarkable hat-trick, claiming the title of London's Hypnotherapist of the Year for the third successive year.

Kate's career path into hypnotherapy stemmed from a deeply personal experience. When her daughter received a diagnosis of clinical anxiety and depression aged just 12, her family turned to hypnotherapy as a treatment option. The remarkable transformation her daughter experienced, having found little success with other forms of therapy, prompted Kate to leave her corporate career and retrain to help others benefit from this therapeutic approach.

Speaking about her recognition, Kate shared her enthusiasm for the growing acceptance of hypnotherapy: "Witnessing firsthand how transformative hypnotherapy can be, I'm thrilled to see it gaining traction as a mainstream intervention. It’s an honour to be recognised for my contribution to this exciting field of therapy."

Kate demystifies the practice for those unfamiliar with it, explaining that hypnosis creates a deeply relaxed state combined with heightened concentration. Crucially, she emphasises that clients maintain complete awareness and control throughout their sessions.

The judging panel particularly highlighted Kate's unwavering dedication to client welfare and the impressive diversity of her practice. Her clientele spans multiple generations and professional backgrounds. This breadth of experience demonstrates Kate's versatility in adapting her therapeutic techniques to meet the unique needs of each client, regardless of age or circumstance. The consecutive awards cement Kate's position as a leading practitioner in London's hypnotherapy community, whilst raising the profile of this increasingly recognised form of therapeutic intervention.

www.katehoylehypnotherapy.com

B P COLLINS NAMED ‘PROPERTY LEGAL TEAM OF THE YEAR’ AT THAMES VALLEY PROPERTY AWARDS 2025

B P Collins has been recognised as ‘Property Legal Team of the Year’ at the prestigious Thames Valley Property Awards 2025, cementing its reputation as one of the leading property law firms in the region.

Sponsored by Haslams Surveyors, the award highlights B P Collins’ consistent delivery of outstanding legal services across the region’s commercial and residential property sectors. The judges noted that, ‘B P Collins played a pivotal role in a number of complex transactions that demanded technical excellence and crossdisciplinary coordination. This collaborative approach further strengthens the firm’s reputation for delivering under pressure.’”

Alison Taylor, property partner and practice group leader at B P Collins, says, “This award is a recognition of B P Collins’ dedication to delivering excellence and innovation in the property sector, while supporting Thames Valley’s growth by advising on key transactions. It also reflects the strength of our advisory work on complex and high-profile matters. Congratulations to the team - from paralegals to partners - for all their hard work this year.”

The Thames Valley Property Awards are regarded as a benchmark of excellence in the industry, celebrating businesses and individuals that make a lasting contribution to the region’s property sector.

With this recognition, B P Collins reinforces its position as a trusted partner for those shaping the region’s future through property investment, development and construction, as well as for individuals and families buying or selling their homes.

This marks the second time the firm has won this category, having previously received the award in 2023. B P Collins’ property disputes partner, Elliott Brookes, won Young Property Professional of the Year in 2024.

B P Collins has offices in Ickenham, West London; Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire; Thame, Oxfordshire and the City.

HILLINGDON’S SARAH GARDNER HONOURED AMONG UK’S MOST INSPIRING WOMEN

Hillingdon’s very own Sarah Gardner BEM continues to set the bar for compassionate leadership, social innovation, and sustainable impact.

In a remarkable year of recognition, Sarah was celebrated as one of the UK’s Women of the Year 2025, marking another milestone in an extraordinary journey of service, purpose, and achievement.

The honour came just days after Sarah won her fifth consecutive National Silver Best Businesswoman Award, previously having received the Best Business Woman’s award Special Recognition Award (2024). Sarah’s national and international recognition also includes International Stevie Awards, Golden Globee Awards, and the prestigious Green Apple Environment Award for her charity’s environmental impact.

As the founder and chair of Serving Our Superheroes, Sarah has turned what began as a small community sewing project during the pandemic into a multi-award-winning charity that has supported over 200,000 people and distributed donations valued at more than £4.5 million. Serving Our Superheroes has been recognised for its

innovative, sustainable model — using upcycled fabrics and recycled materials to make hospital washbags, toiletry kits, and trousers through its Pants for Patients initiative. Each item not only supports dignity in care but also helps divert waste from landfill.

Beyond her flagship charity, Sarah’s influence extends across multiple sectors. She is also the founder of Well-being for All, a mental health charity promoting community resilience; CHEF (Community Health Education Food Project), which helps tackle food poverty through cooking and budgeting education; and the Helping West London Network, a collaboration of nearly 40 charities that has coordinated over £3.17 million in aid to more than 160,000 people. Combined with Serving Our Superheroes’ impact, Sarah has helped mobilise over £7 million worth of aid for those in need.

Sarah’s ethos is grounded in sustainability, inclusivity, and purpose-driven leadership.

“Business excellence without humanity is hollow,” she says. “Real success is about creating something that improves lives, protects the planet, and inspires others to do the same.”

Her recognition at the Women of the Year Lunch serves as both a personal and professional milestone — a celebration not just of her leadership, but of community power and compassion.

LOCAL ARTIST SHOWCASES WORK AT THE DAY OF THE DEAD ART EXHIBITION

AT THE EMBASSY OF MEXICO CENTRAL LONDON

On Friday 7th & 14th November the Embassy of Mexico in London showcased 81 artists, including Anita Duggal’s art piece, ‘Deconstructed Mexican Flag’ (2024), as part of the Day of the Dead Art Exhibition, at the Mexican Ambassador to the UK, Josefa Gonzalex Ortiz Mena’s residence in Belgravia.

Anita’s creation the ‘Deconstructed Mexican Flag’ (2024), was exhibited, and made in Puebla, Mexico during her stint as an artist in residence, January-February 2024, at Arquetopia Foundation, an arts organisation known for its excellence in artist in residence programmes, in Latin America and the World. Both exhibition days combined art and the Day of the Dead, (Dia de los Muertos) a traditional Mexican festival in November that reunites the living and dead. Families create offerings (ofrendas/altars) to honour those that have passed, including animals and humans. The offerings decorated with bright yellow marigold flowers, photos of the departed, their favourite foods and drinks to encourage them and their souls to return for a moment to celebrate.

At the Mexican Ambassador’s residence, the art decorated the interior walls, music, performers and food, and a true experience of Mexico in London. A celebration of life, memory, creativity, and a defiance of time, where brushes, clay, photography, and canvases became offerings to those who came before us.

Anita Duggal is a photo and graphic artist, and creative academic mentor to SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) and SEMH (Social Emotional Mental Health) individuals. She creates decorative art using psychology to foster wellbeing and connection and takes on corporate communication projects aligned with her values.

CELEBRATING RECOGNITION, REFLECTING ON GROWTH, AND CHAMPIONING LOCAL BUSINESS EXCELLENCE.

SEO Visionary of the Year 2025 & Most Client-Focused Web Design Agency 2025 – South East England, Sunil Kalia of AVA SEO reflects on recent achievements and business growth.

As a member of the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce, my relationship with the Chamber has evolved beyond membership.

I have had the privilege of supporting local businesses through the Hillingdon Business Support Programme, acting as a mentor to growing businesses, and delivering digital marketing and SEO workshops to strengthen the borough’s business community.

This year brought further recognition with two national awards from SME News: SEO Visionary of the Year 2025 in the Visionary Leadership Awards, and Most Client-Focused Web Design Agency 2025 – South East England, achieved for the second consecutive year.

Although award titles may appear decorative, these specific accolades are based on a thorough, impartial judging process grounded in research, evidence, and sector impact.

SME News conducts open nominations, six weeks of market analysis, and detailed

case-file reviews carried out by an in-house research team of eight specialists. Their judging panel, composed of directors and heads of research and editorial, assesses businesses against tailored criteria including service excellence, leadership, industry influence, and client feedback.

Being recognised through such a process is a meaningful endorsement not only of my technical expertise but also of my commitment to my craft and measurable outcomes for my clients.

Applying for awards is more than just earning a badge of honour. It provides a moment to reflect and assess the progress, proposal, and impact of your business. The process sharpens focus, highlights strengths, and reveals opportunities.

Recent projects such as the new websites for The Manor Hotel Datchet and Ditton Manor demonstrate the high standard of work that underpins these awards: carefully crafted, strategically developed, and designed to promote sustained growth for the organisations they serve.

Art exhibition at Southlands Art Centre

Hillingdon Artists are exhibiting in the café area of Southlands Art Centre in West Drayton.

The exhibition, which started on Monday, 3rd November runs until Saturday, 7th December.

A new selection of artists will exhibit every month. In November, the featured artists are Josh Gjara-Aura and Lisa Enright. Hillingdon Artists is a diverse organisation dedicated to supporting artists of various disciplines who reside or work in the borough of Hillingdon.

Southlands Art Centre, 75 The Green, West Drayton, UB7 7PW.

Harmondsworth

Christmas market

The iconic medieval Great Barn in Harmondsworth will once again open its mighty oak doors for a Christmas Market on Sunday 7th December.

Enjoy Christmas music, seasonal treats and refreshments and plenty of festive spirit. The event starts at 11.30am until 3pm at Harmondsworth Barn, High Street, UB7 0NL.

Goldfinches and Red Roses ©Lisa Enright

SMALL AND MEDIUM

SIZED

BUSINESSES ARE THE BACKBONE OF OUR ECONOMY

By Danny Beales MP

Image by Roger HarrisHouse of Commons

Small and medium sized businesses are the backbone of our economy. SMEs account for 99.8% of all UK businesses, spanning nearly every major industry. Three-quarters of them are family-owned, anchoring communities with stability and familiarity in towns, villages, and cities across the country. In constituencies like Uxbridge and South Ruislip, their impact is visible daily. From hospitality to life sciences, SMEs provide jobs, prosperity, and a sense of community.

Kickstarting economic growth

Growth is the fundamental mission of this Government, and businesses are what ultimately drive that growth. I want the UK to be the best place in the world to start a business, grow and succeed. Growth works best when there is genuine partnership between Government and industry. That is why I am pleased that the Government is developing a coherent industrial strategy in collaboration with industry leaders across industries like construction, tech, and defence manufacturing.

SMEs make up 16% of all construction companies. Building housing is not just about solving the housing crisis; it is a powerful driver of business growth. It creates jobs, strengthens supply chains, attracts investment, and supports local economies, while also providing the stable housing that

workers and families need to thrive. Building homes also drives supply chain growth, stimulating demand for materials, logistics, and professional services.

Fixing the fundamentals

Alongside the broader industrial strategies, the Government is committed to creating the conditions that best support SMEs. This means fixing the fundamentals and getting the basics for business right.

Late payments, which cost the economy £11 billion annually and force 38 businesses to close every day, are completely unacceptable. The Government has promised landmark legislation, the most significant in 25 years, to give Britain the strongest legal framework on late payments in the G7.

This Government is also reducing business bureaucracy to reduce the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25%. This includes increasing the size thresholds for corporate reporting and cutting duplicate requirements, meaning lighter-touch requirements for up to 44,000 medium-sized private companies who will no longer be required to produce Strategic Reports. This will scrap pointless paperwork and ease the burdens that hold businesses back – so you have the time and money to focus on running successful businesses.

Access to finance

We know that a lack of access to capital is holding back business growth and development in the UK, especially compared to competitors abroad. This Government is working to change that by expanding Startup Loans to offer 69,000 new businesses the chance of finance and mentoring. It is expanding the capacity of the ENABLE programme by £3 billion to £5 billion, helping lenders to unlock more finance options for small businesses. It is helping to boost the availability of early-stage equity finance of innovative businesses across the UK with £340 million.

Supporting our high streets

The UK Government has also committed to the British Business Bank’s Growth Guarantee Scheme for the longer term, which is designed for smaller businesses looking to invest and grow. We are backing the everyday economy and supporting the businesses that make up our high streets, local hospitality venues, and shops. This is of course critical to economic growth, but also to restoring pride of place in our communities across the country.

The Government is investing directly in local businesses, including developing High Streets and Growth Incubators to back high street businesses, redevelop commercial space, and encourage private investment. As well as this, the Government is providing communities funding for up to 350 places around the UK to help local people and businesses drive forward changes in their neighbourhoods.

Skills for the future

I recently met with Heidelberg Materials who told me of the difficulties they have with recruitment. This Government will also be reviewing our broader skills and apprenticeships system, to make sure that the needs of smaller businesses are met, including through £1.2 billion of additional investment per year by 2028-29, engaging with SMEs on accessing apprenticeships and T-Levels, and promoting the government’s skills offer through the Business Growth Service.

Representing you

I want to help make Uxbridge and South Ruislip the best place to start a business, grow and succeed. Looking forward, we must sustain this recovery and build momentum into stronger, sustainable growth which delivers jobs and prosperity across the Borough.

This is where I was born, where I was raised, and where I still call home today. As your Member of Parliament, it is my job to help you. My team and I are ready to support you and your business. If you would like to raise any issues with me, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at danny.beales.mp@parliament.uk.

FURNITURE SOCIAL ENTERPRISE WITH ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AT ITS HEART

Trinity Furniture Store is a social enterprise dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality furniture for the local community.

At a time when the cost-of-living crisis continues to squeeze household budgets, the ability to create a safe, comfortable and well-furnished home has become increasingly difficult for many. We believe that no one should have to choose between essential living costs and basic household items. By offering low-cost, durable furniture, Trinity Furniture Store provides a practical and dignified alternative to high-interest credit, rent-to-own schemes and expensive mainstream retailers. Our approach allows people to furnish their homes without falling into debt or compromising their financial stability.

Our commitment goes far beyond simply selling furniture. We offer reasonable pricing, flexible support and fast, reliable delivery to ensure that local residents can build a home environment that meets their needs. For families struggling with sudden changes in circumstances or unexpected expenses, this service can be transformational. Access to affordable furniture not only improves living standards but also strengthens people’s sense of security, belonging and wellbeing during times of uncertainty.

Partnership working is central to what we do. We collaborate closely with local authorities, housing providers and social services to support individuals and families facing difficult transitions. Through voucher schemes, emergency provision and community referrals, we assist people moving on from homelessness, care settings, domestic violence situations, and supported

housing. These partnerships ensure that vulnerable residents can access essential household items quickly and with dignity, helping them establish stable, long-term homes.

We also take pride in our role as a community hub for opportunity and personal development. By offering volunteering roles and workplace placements, we provide local people with hands-on experience in warehousing, logistics, customer service and furniture refurbishment. These placements build confidence, develop practical skills and create meaningful pathways into employment. In turn, this strengthens community resilience, supports local economic participation and helps individuals take positive steps toward their future.

Environmental sustainability is at the heart of our mission. Every chair, table or sofa we collect and redistribute is one less item destined for landfill. Each year, we divert more than 400 tonnes of usable furniture from waste streams, breathe new life into around 25,000 items, and save carbon emissions in excess of heating and lighting all of Trinity’s current properties. By championing the

principles of the circular economy—reuse, repair and responsible consumption—we demonstrate how environmental action can be woven into everyday community services. Our work aligns strongly with Hillingdon Council’s Strategic Climate Action Plan, which sets ambitious goals for carbon neutrality across council operations by 2030 and a borough-wide reduction in waste and emissions. By extending product life cycles and promoting sustainable consumer behaviour, Trinity Furniture Store provides a practical, community-driven model for achieving these aims while delivering tangible social benefits.

We show how local action can generate a powerful triple impact: improving lives through affordability and support, protecting the environment through reuse and waste reduction, and strengthening the local economy by creating opportunities. At a time of growing environmental and social challenges, this integrated approach offers a hopeful blueprint for sustainable, communitycentred change

Carys Hedley – Director of Operations www.wearetrinity.org.uk

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EMPOWERING LOCAL BUSINESSES TO THRIVE

with the GROWTH Hillingdon Business Support Programme

Following the tremendous success of the first round of the GROWTH Hillingdon business support programme, the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce has secured additional funding to support a further 90 businesses across the borough.

This is an incredible opportunity for local entrepreneurs to access expert guidance, build connections, and accelerate their growth.

Through the first round of funding, which concluded in March 2025, the programme supported 200 businesses, helping them achieve outstanding results. Many saw their businesses flourish, with some opening in new locations, others winning major contracts or projects, and ten taking home awards at the Hillingdon Business Awards 2025.

A number of participants increased turnover, reduced costs, and

even launched new products or services that reached the market successfully. Several businesses made their first sales or found new sales channels, while others created new jobs, safeguarded existing roles, and took important steps toward sustainability by developing decarbonisation plans.

The programme also fostered collaboration with local education providers, connecting more than seventy businesses to apprenticeship and student-hiring opportunities.

During the first round of this programme, the Chamber hosted three Alumni Connect events, bringing businesses together to network, share experiences, and support one another beyond the programme.

Building on that success, the second round of GROWTH Hillingdon launched in September 2025, with over 60 businesses already onboarded and limited spaces remaining. The programme is well underway, with a series of practical and relevant workshops already delivered, covering topics such as digital marketing, finance, and sustainability. Nearly ten businesses have now completed the programme, demonstrating impressive progress and confidence in their next

stages of growth. The Chamber is also planning an exciting Alumni Connect event in December, where current participants, graduates, mentors, and stakeholders will come together to celebrate success and strengthen collaboration.

“Apart from the main benefits of one-to-one mentoring, workshops and networking events, what inspires me most is seeing these businesses come together and support each other through their journeys,” says Megan, Operations Manager at the Chamber. “Hearing how they’re growing and succeeding is truly amazing; it’s a privilege to witness their stories.”

BRIGHT 2025 FOR INTERNATIONAL LIGHTING SPECIALIST EXERCOM

Founded in the UK in 1983, Exercom began as a specialist provider of automation solutions for oil storage facilities around the world and has now expanded its product scope for industrial lighting and security systems.

Over the decades, the company has grown into a mid-sized international organisation with operations in both the UK and the UAE. Its scope has expanded from automation into a comprehensive range of commercial and industrial LED lighting solutions, security systems including CCTV, as well as mechanical and electrical services for forecourts.

Exercom’s lighting portfolio includes streetlights, flood lights, panel lights, and petrol-station canopy lights, alongside a full range of ATEX-approved industrial lighting designed for hazardous environments. The company supports clients across system design, supply, retrofitting, and ongoing maintenance.

Today, Exercom works with facilities management firms, office and commercial car parks, petrol stations, and industrial sites that require high-performance, safety-critical lighting and automation technology.

“2025 has been a strong year for Exercom,” said Ali Mehdi Muhammad, Director of Exercom. “We continued delivering solutions across the UK and the Middle East, expanded our UK commercial lighting portfolio, and completed several new installations for car parks, forecourts, and industrial clients. We also strengthened our product-testing and R&D capabilities, supporting our commitment to long-life, high-efficiency lighting.”

In 2026, Exercom plans to further expand its industrial lighting division - particularly within hazardous and safety-sensitive environments - and enhance its range of automated lighting control systems. These smart solutions will enable businesses to optimise energy consumption, monitor performance, and reduce their carbon footprints.

“We believe in innovation and management. It is imperative that we focus on not just the trade and installation of lighting solutions, but also explore advancements within the sector for long term benefit for our clientele.,” Ali added.

A key challenge in the lighting sector is balancing rapid technological advancement, such as improved energy efficiency, smarter

control systems, and greater durability, with the need to remain cost-effective in a competitive market.

Exercom continuously evolves its product range and project-delivery capabilities to ensure customers receive the most effective and reliable solutions.

The company joined the Chamber of Commerce in 2024 to strengthen its regional presence, build closer relationships with local businesses, and contribute to community and economic development.

Create Enhance Sustain

Exercom Limited - providing industrial lighting and security systems for the UK market.

Lighting solutions for public spaces, street lighting and hazardous areas

With an experience of over 40 years - we strive to provide services to our clientele with a long term solution in mind.

Forecourt Canopy Lighting

Over the years, we have supplied canopy lights for petrol stationswith a 5 year warranty and high standard QAQC checks.

Security Systems and Safety

Find out more from our team at Exercom Limited about our product range for CCTV solutions for your premises - with a broad range of CCTV options available.

Ready to Transform Your Operations?

Connect with us to discover how our solutions can enhance your business.

THE BUDGET AT A GLANCE

Personal taxation

• National Insurance (NI) and income tax thresholds frozen for extra three years beyond 2028.

• Amount under-65s can put into cash ISAs capped at £12,000 a year, with the rest of the £20,000 annual allowance reserved for investments.

• Basic and higher income tax rates on property, savings and dividend income to increase by two percentage points.

Wages, benefits and pensions

• Cap limiting households on universal or child tax credit from receiving payments for a third or subsequent child to be scrapped from April.

• Legal minimum wage for over-21s to rise 4.1% in April, from £12.21 to £12.71 per hour.

• Wage for 18 to 20-year-olds to go up 8.5%, from £10 to £10.85 per hour, as part of a plan to establish a single rate for all adults.

• Basic and new state pension payments to go up by 4.8% from April, more than the current rate of inflation, under the “triple lock” policy.

• Amount people can sacrifice from their salary to avoid paying NI on pension contributions capped at £2,000 a year from 2029.

• Help to Save scheme, which offers people on universal credit a bonus on savings, extended and expanded beyond 2027.

Housing and property

• Properties in England worth more than £2 million to face a council tax surcharge of between £2,500-£7,500, following a revaluation of homes in bands F, G and H.

Transport

• 5p temporary cut in fuel duty on petrol and diesel extended again, until September 2026, before it rises again over six-month period.

• A new mileage-based tax for electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid cars to be introduced from 2028.

• Regulated rail fares for journeys in England frozen next year for the first time since 1996.

• Premium cars to be excluded from Motability scheme.

Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer

Picture by Lauren Hurley / No 10 Downing Street

Photo @ Unsplash

Business taxes

• Tax exemption for small packages from overseas retailers worth under £135 scrapped from 2029, following complaints it hinders small businesses.

• Tax on profits made by gambling firms from online bets to rise from 21% to 40% in April, alongside abolition of 10% bingo tax.

Food and drink

• Tax on sugary drinks extended to prepackaged milkshakes and lattes from 2028, reversing an exemption when the tax was introduced in 2018.

UK growth, inflation and debt

• Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) predicts the UK economy will grow by 1.5% this year, upgraded from a 1% forecast in March.

• Inflation predicted to average 3.5% this year, before falling to 2.5% next year, and returning to the Government’s 2% target in 2027.

Other measures

• English regional mayors to be given powers to tax overnight stays in hotels and holiday lets, echoing existing plans in Scotland and Wales.

• Cost of a single NHS prescription in England frozen at £9.90 for another year (they remain free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland).

Budget support vital as wages push up costs

Reacting to the planned increases in the National Living and Minimum Wages from April 2026, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:

“People are at the heart of every thriving business, and employers want to ensure their workforce is happy, engaged and well paid.

“However, every above-inflation wage increase leads to higher business costs, lower investment and fewer opportunities for individuals. Making employment more expensive risks deepening the jobs crisis among young people.

“Our research shows that labour costs remain the biggest cost pressure for SMEs, cited by 72 per cent of businesses in Q3. There’s a limit to how much additional cost employers can bear without something having to give.

“With unemployment rising, the government needs to use this Budget to ease cost pressures for business. Crucially, there must be no new tax increases for businesses.

“Instead, the Chancellor must invest in growing the economy, enable firms to create more opportunities, and tackle the ongoing skills crisis.”

Our research shows that labour costs remain the biggest cost pressure for SMEs, cited by 72 per cent of businesses in Q3. There’s a limit to how much additional cost employers can bear without something having to give.

Jane

Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce

Photo @ Unsplash

Photo @ Unsplash

A new mileage-based tax for electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid cars to be introduced from 2028.

HOSPITALITY IN HILLINGDON: Sector gears up for festive season

Hillingdon’s hospitality industry is entering one of its busiest and most innovative periods as the festive season approaches, with businesses across Uxbridge, Hayes, Ruislip and Heathrow preparing for a surge in demand.

Local venues are not only bracing for increased footfall but also investing in skills and innovation to ensure the borough remains competitive. The Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce, which represents a growing membership of local businesses, has been at the forefront of this push, offering networking opportunities, training programmes and seasonal events designed to strengthen collaboration across the sector.

Skills drive linked to Heathrow and local colleges

The borough’s proximity to Heathrow Airport gives Hillingdon a unique edge. Hotels, restaurants and bars are focusing on digital booking systems, multi-lingual customer service and leadership training to meet the needs of international travellers.

Apprenticeships are also playing a vital role. Hillingdon Council reports that programmes range from Level 2 (GCSE equivalent) through to Level 7 (degree equivalent), with hospitality team member apprenticeships offering 12month training supported by up to £4,000 in Government funding.

Partnerships with Brunel University London and Uxbridge College are helping to build a pipeline of talent, while crosssector initiatives are linking hospitality with aviation, logistics and retail to create flexible career pathways. This blending of industries is seen as crucial in making hospitality more attractive to young people who want transferable skills and longterm career prospects.

Innovation on the ground

• Airport-driven hospitality is leading the way with tech-enabled check-in systems, fastturnaround dining, and concierge services tailored to international visitors.

• Community-led experiences such as Ruislip’s food festivals and Hayes’ cultural markets are strengthening local identity and drawing visitors from across London.

• Hybrid venues in Uxbridge are combining dining, entertainment and co-working, reflecting changing customer expectations for flexible spaces.

• Sustainability is gaining traction, with zero-waste kitchens, energy-efficient refurbishments, and sustainable sourcing practices influenced by Heathrow’s green agenda. These innovations are not only driving revenue but also fostering deeper connections between businesses and the communities they serve.

Heathrow’s global impact

Innovation is reshaping the local scene in ways that reflect both global trends and community priorities:

Heathrow Airport remains a major driver of demand. In the first half of 2025 alone, the hub welcomed 39.9 million passengers, with forecasts suggesting a record 84 million travellers by year’s end. For Hillingdon’s hotels, restaurants and bars, this represents both a challenge and an opportunity to deliver worldclass service.

The airport’s growth is also shaping the borough’s hospitality workforce. Staff are increasingly required to be multilingual, culturally aware, and adaptable to the fast pace of international travel. Venues near Heathrow are pioneering new formats such as “express dining” and digital concierge services to meet these demands.

A sector with global reach and local roots

Industry leaders say Hillingdon’s hospitality sector is well placed to balance global-facing opportunities with community-rooted initiatives.

The borough’s alignment with the London Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) is seen as a key step in ensuring long-term resilience.

The festive season also provides a chance to showcase the borough’s diversity. From traditional pub gatherings in Ruislip to multicultural food markets in Hayes, Hillingdon’s hospitality businesses reflect the richness of its communities. This inclusivity is increasingly seen as a strength, helping the borough stand out in London’s competitive hospitality landscape.

As the festive season unfolds, Hillingdon’s hospitality businesses are expected to deliver not just memorable celebrations but also a blueprint for how local enterprise can thrive in a changing economy. With strong backing from the Chamber of Commerce, a commitment to skills, and a culture of innovation, the borough is positioning itself as a model for how hospitality can adapt, grow and inspire.

Image by Freepik

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Tucked quietly along Church Road in Hayes is a boutique hotel with an unexpected literary past. The Rosemay Hotel, newly restored yet rich with heritage, was once home to The Hawthorns Boys’ School, where a young Eric Arthur Blair, later known to the world as George Orwell, taught from 1932 to 1933. It was within these very walls that the man who would later pen Animal Farm and 1984 refined his writing and shaped the ideals that would define his voice. The thought of Orwell, with chalk dust on his sleeves, pacing the corridors with that distinctive reflective energy, brings a hush of nostalgia to the present-day Rosemay.

Through the Same Windows

The hotel’s renewal has preserved its soul rather than erasing its past. In the Orwell Library, guests sip tea surrounded by weathered book spines and quotations etched discreetly on the walls. Even the original window frames were restored, says owner Asmi Ali, "because we wanted the light to fall the same way it did when Orwell was here."

“You can almost feel him here, as if the walls remember his words.”

Guest review, Google 2025

Every design choice carries a trace of Orwell’s spirit. Typewriter-style lettering in signage, framed passages from his essays, and earthy tones reflecting his love for the ordinary English countryside, each corner speaks to both history and home.

Echoes of Yesterday

Guests often describe their stay as “time-travel with modern comfort.” One recent reviewer wrote:

“To sleep in Orwell’s former classroom was to experience a collision of timelines, where past ideals whispered through the walls.”

“You can almost feel the literary history in the walls. Perfect for anyone who appreciates a touch of English heritage with their st ay.”

Another called Rosemay “a beautiful slice of British history reborn with care and imagination.”

step beyond heritage and into humanity, exploring how a family-run hotel can turn a stay into a story, and a workplace into a home. Meet the people behind the smiles, the laughter behind the lobby, and the family values that breathe life into Rosemay’s every day.

SPOTLIGHT ON HEATHROW 27TH HEATHROW BUSINESS SUMMIT SEES RECORD ATTENDANCE AS SUPPLY CHAIN INVESTMENT SET TO DOUBLE TO £2 BILLION

Nearly a thousand business leaders gathered for the biggest ever celebration of the small companies from London and beyond who power the UK’s hub airport.

Heathrow’s 27th Business Summit brought together the best of British business at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham, from entrepreneurs and start-ups to family-run firms and household names.

The annual summit serves as a key platform for SMEs to connect with existing Heathrow suppliers, share insights and explore new opportunities to join the airport’s expanding supply chain.

Heathrow currently invests over £1 billion annually in its supply chain and has plans to double that to £2 billion from 2027 — meaning the potential for SME involvement is greater than ever.

As private investment at Heathrow grows, the airport is ensuring that local and smaller businesses – which already make

up 60% of the supply chain – continue to feel the benefit, underpinning jobs and economic growth.

From family-owned businesses to innovative start-ups, SMEs both locally to the airport and across the country play a vital role in the UK economy by keeping over 80 million passengers and over £215bn of trade on the move at Heathrow every year.

The summit was held in partnership with local chambers of commerce and business groups and included speeches from Heathrow’s Chief Executive, Thomas Woldbye and Lord David Blunkett. There were also panel discussions led by Heathrow’s senior representatives and suppliers showcasing procurement prospects.

Participants also had the opportunity to attend workshops offering a clear overview of the supplier journey when partnering with Heathrow and Meet the Buyer sessions, where SMEs could connect directly with decision-makers from several Tier 1 suppliers enabling meaningful conversations and opening doors to exciting opportunities.

Heathrow’s Director of Communities and Sustainability, Becky Coffin, said: “Heathrow is embarking on a major upgrade programme to modernise the airport and enhance the experience for our passengers. Our five-year plan looks to double our private investment to £10 billion — and SMEs will be vital in helping us deliver these upgrades to ensure an even better service.

“This represents a huge opportunity for businesses across the UK to join our supply chain and support Britain’s global gateway, even before construction begins on a potential third runway. SMEs have long been the lifeblood of our success, and it’s fantastic to see so many stepping forward to grow with us.”

Lord David Blunkett, said: “It’s pivotal that as Heathrow grows, so do the communities around it. That growth is not just measured in passenger numbers or infrastructure but in lives improved, careers built and local economies strengthened. Preparing individuals with the skills needed, and offering opportunities to previously excluded groups, will enable many more to benefit from expansion.

“Public entities, businesses and local communities each have a vital role to play— and only by working together can we create the kind of economic foundation that lasts. Bringing these groups together through collaborative initiatives like the Heathrow Business Summit, offers SMEs a platform

to connect with the Heathrow supply chain, unlocking the potential for real, inclusive growth—growth that benefits everyone.”

One of the many businesses in attendance was The Pallet Yard, an SME based in Southall, who make up part of the Heathrow supply chain.

Ruth-Anne Lynch, Co-Director of The Pallet Yard said: “Working with Heathrow is huge for an SME like ourselves. The Business Summit opens doors for new suppliers to start building relationships with Heathrow and its wider network, including with more tier-one suppliers within the supply chain, creating even greater opportunities for growth.”

For more information on how to do business with Heathrow and to see live opportunities visit:  https://www.competefor.com/heathrow/opportunities/

“Heathrow is embarking on a major upgrade programme to modernise the airport and enhance the experience for our passengers. Our five-year plan looks to double our private investment to £10 billion — and SMEs will be vital in helping us deliver these upgrades to ensure an even better service."

Heathrow’s Director of Communities and Sustainability, Becky Coffin

A

New Era of Connection for Hillingdon Businesses & the Community

When Amar Nota stepped into his role as CEO of the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce, one of his first priorities was clear, to listen.

Out of that intention was born The Big Listen!

A simple but powerful new initiative designed to give every business in the borough, from micro-enterprises to major employers, a direct voice at the heart of the Chamber.

What Is The Big Listen?

Each week, Amar dedicates 30 minutes to meet with three local businesses in person or online. To hear what’s really happening on the ground. These conversations aren’t surveys or tick-box exercises. They’re open, honest discussions about the challenges, ambitions, and opportunities shaping Hillingdon’s business landscape.

From start-up issues, thoughts on growth, access to funding, recruitment pressures, and supply chain queries, to sustainability goals and staff wellbeing. Nothing is off limits. Every insight gathered feeds directly into the Chamber’s strategic priorities, partnerships, and advocacy work with local and national bodies.

These conversations aren’t surveys or tick-box exercises. They’re open, honest discussions about the challenges, ambitions, and opportunities shaping Hillingdon’s business landscape.

Why It Matters

The Chamber represents hundreds of businesses across the London Borough of Hillingdon, but representation starts with understanding. The Big Listen ensures that every decision, every campaign, and every partnership reflects the lived experiences of our members.

As Amar puts it:

“Listening isn’t just the first step, it’s the foundation. The more we understand what local businesses need, the better we can collaborate, influence, and drive growth together.”

The Chamber is your route to Business Growth, Business Support & Business Community.

How to Get Involved

If you’re a business owner or leader in Hillingdon, you can register your interest to take part in The Big Listen via the Chamber website. Whether you’re new to the Chamber or a long-standing member, your perspective is invaluable.

Because together, we can shape a stronger, more connected, and more resilient business community, one conversation at a time.

“Listening isn’t just the first step, it’s the foundation. The more we understand what local businesses need, the better we can collaborate, influence, and drive growth together.”

Image by iStock

THE AWARDS NIGHT THAT BRINGS HILLINGDON TOGETHER

AWARDS SPONSORS

Last year’s Hillingdon Business Awards brought together a fantastic cross-section of our local business community: from pioneering start-ups to well-established companies, all contributing to the drive and diversity of the borough’s economy. The buzz on the night, the quality of entries and the celebration of excellence reminded us why this event matters.

As we move into 2026, the Awards return with even more energy, and even more opportunity to shine a spotlight on businesses based in the London Borough of Hillingdon. The ceremony will take place on 29 January 2026 at the Sheraton Skyline Hotel, and tickets are now available.

It’s the perfect chance to join the region’s most engaged and ambitious businesspeople.

AWARD CATEGORIES 'Something for Everyone'

The full range of award categories will once again be open, giving companies of all shapes and sizes a chance to be recognised. These include:

Sector Excellence Awards – Micro and SMEs

Business Services Company of the Year (B2B)

Business Services Company of the Year (B2C)

Retail/Consumer Business of the Year

Creative/Media Business of the Year

Education/Training Provider of the Year

Charity/Social Enterprise of the Year

Technology & Digital Excellence Award

Property/Construction Business of the Year

Sustainability and Innovation Awards

Innovative Company of the Year

Green/Environmental Company of the Year

Equality, Diversity & Inclusive Company of the Year

Corporate Leadership Excellence Awards

Community Partnership Award

Next Generation Awards

Young Entrepreneur of the Year (Age 16-24)

Hillingdon Business Leader of the Year

Judges’ Choice Awards

Hillingdon Best New Business (Under 2 Years)

Hillingdon Business of the Year

Secure your place...

If you’re thinking of attending — whether as a finalist, a supporter or simply wanting to network with the borough’s business leaders — now is the time to book your place. The ticket includes drinks and canapés on arrival, a three-course meal with half a bottle of wine, the awards presentation and entertainment to round off the evening. Early-bird pricing ends on 30 November.

For 2026 we’re building on last year’s foundations. Expect an upgraded experience, even more chances to connect, celebrate and be inspired by the success around us. Whether you’re a solo business owner, a small team, or part of a larger organisation, this is your moment to join the celebration and help raise the profile of business in Hillingdon.

Don’t miss out: secure your ticket, join the party, and be part of a memorable night where achievements are recognised, connections are made and the future of our business community is celebrated.

www.hillingdonchamber.co.uk/hillingdon-business-awards

Business Services Company of the Year (B2B)

Smartax Accountancy Ltd

Apex Accountancy

Pink Fluff HR Consultancy

Uxbridge Employment Agency

The Business Success Company

Perks Direct Ltd

MSC Accident Repair Centre

Nemish K Mehta in partnership with Full Power Utilities

Heart Relocation Ltd

BUSINESS AWARDS

Community Partnership Award

Sheraton Skyline Hotel

APCOA

ARC Uxbridge

Creative / Media Business of the Year

Apex Accountancy/Rohit the Accountant

NetCreater Digital & Print

Count Creation Ltd

FOG Creative

Depictar

Parallel Office and Document Solutions

Business Services Company of the Year (B2C)

Rosemay Hotel

NRG Consultant Group Ltd

London Drains Direct Ltd

Kate Hoyle Hypnotherapy

London Boiler Expert.com Ltd

(trading as Boiler Expert)

BellyTots

HXL Construction Ltd

The Purry Godmother

Captain Fantastic

Charity / Social Enterprise of the Year

Sahan Cares C.I.C

The Daniella Logun Foundation (DLF)

Hillingdon Autistic Care and Support

Trinity Activities

M For Money Credit Union

Well-being for All

Serving Our Superheroes

RaakeshPhoto

Rare Shift Creative Studio

Photo etc. Ltd

Video-DVD Ltd

Education / Training Provider of the Year

Amit Sodha, ActionCOACH

Born with a GIFT

Octillion Training Academy Ltd

Joyous Consultancy

Oxfordian College

Brain Abilitiez

Precise Tutoring - Worldwide Services

Tikitaca

Equality, Diversity and Inclusive Company of the Year

HRUC

Sheraton Skyline Hotel

Heart Relocation Ltd

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

FINALISTS 2026

Green/Environmental Company of the Year

NRG Consultant Group Ltd

Woods Foodservice

ARC Uxbridge

CFone Communications

Mallini au Natural Soap & Skincare

Busy Bees Honey Suppliers Ltd

Parallel Office and Document Solutions

Hillingdon Business Leader of the Year

Dayalan Mahesan Keller Williams

HXL Construction Ltd

Heart Relocation

Serving Our Superheroes

Innovative Company of the Year

Dealdio Ltd

Woods Foodservice

Depictar

Home Instead Ruislip & Harrow

CoChilli Foods Ltd

My Dream Party Shop

Property / Construction Business of the Year

USL Architects

Livewell Architecture Ltd

Dayalan Mahesan Keller Williams

RnR Stays

Crew Contractors

Retail / Consumer Business of the Year

Naked Biotics

TAG Cafe

The Hairdressers

AHAVA Marketplace Ltd

United Kitchen Solutions

Ryefield Books

CoChilli Foods Ltd

My Dream Party Shop

Tanys Bakes

ABC Dance- Any Body Can Dance & LSG- London School of Garba

Technology and Digital Excellence Award

Meteor EdTech Ltd

Dealdio Ltd

AVA SEO Ltd

Young Entrepreneur of the Year

(Age 16-24):

Darkdev (HRUC Student)

Kinnective Care

Lioncrest Retail Ltd

CREATING SPACES FOR SCIENCE AND INNOVATION PIONEERS TO THRIVE

George Wilson from Advanced Research

Clusters (ARC) explains to Karen McLauchlan the importance of creating holistic workspaces to put the UK at the forefront of research, innovation and economic growth.

Designing spaces that shape the way we work matters more than ever. They are where concepts are nurtured, people collaborate and where ideas that can change lives become a reality.

Advanced Research Clusters (ARC) is a trailblazer when it comes to providing a network of science and innovation hubs across London and Oxfordshire.

The ARC network is made up of four campuses - in Uxbridge, Oxford and West London along with the globally significant Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, which is a cornerstone of the UK research industry.

Between them, these critical sites provide more than two million square feet of innovation space and are home to over 300 member companies with 10,000 employees.

George Wilson, Associate Director - Asset Management at ARC, said: “We offer space for leading multinational corporations, scienceready workspaces, co-working and R&D labs, with campuses all set within energising, green environments.

“Science and innovation are at the heart of what we do. In Uxbridge, for example we have a strong, growing cluster of pharmaceutical companies along with other businesses such as Xerox, Pizza Express and Mondelēz who are based there.

“At our other campuses there is innovative science under way – work that is making the world a better place for us all.”

Facilities range from £3.5 billion of science laboratory infrastructure provided by UK

Government in Harwell, right through to incubator spaces in West London to nurture the sector’s brightest new talent.

Partnerships and innovation

In ARC's newly refurbished development in Hammersmith West London, the company has partnered with Imperial College London  to launch Leap – a dedicated accelerator space designed for fledgling science and innovation companies. This 120,000 sq ft of new development also aims to help alleviate the capital’s shortage of early-stage labs and enable rapidly growing businesses to remain in the city as they scale.

ARC, backed by asset manager Brookfield, continues to invest and develop its cluster –including recent expansion at Harwell. The site, which has been the byword for world-class science and innovation for more than half a century, brings together a mix of talent, infrastructure and entrepreneurship to fuel breakthroughs in everything from life sciences and clean energy to space and particle physics.

ARC has built an additional 600,000sq ft of space at Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in the last 12-18 months.

The team is also currently on-site in Oxford working on a further 100,000sq ft of innovation space.

Launched in 2022, ARC was created through the merger of Brookfield's investments in the Harwell Science and Innovation Campusa joint venture with the UK Government - and Arlington, which owned and developed the sites in Oxford, Uxbridge and West London. Bringing science and technology organisations together in clusters around major scientific and research hubs has proved

to be a successful recipe for stimulating innovation and accelerating commercial growth.

And the need for ARC’s facilities and expertise is more critical than ever.

The UK Government has placed science and innovation at the heart of its Industrial Strategy. This 10-year plan is focused on eight key drivers for growth, including advanced manufacturing, digital and technologies and life sciences.

“We welcome Government plans that support our members and growth within science and innovation,” said George.

“The Government has announced it is investing over £2 billion into innovation across various sectors with a focus on AI, the NHS and research and development across the Spending Review period.

“Not only does this support our current members, but it allows start-up to really flourish. It harbours meaningful progress in the UK’s science environment.

“It’s making the UK an outstanding place to start, grow and scale businesses – and a really exciting place for investment in these key areas.”

A momentous anniversary

In Hillingdon, the Uxbridge site has recently celebrated its 20th anniversary during 2025. Stretching across a 70-acre campus, it provides more than 300,000 sq ft of Grade A market leading accommodation.

And like all of ARC’s campuses, it provides much more than just a place to work with community spaces, sports pitches, fishing lakes, a yoga studio, central club house and a busy and eclectic mix of events available to those that work there.

“We offer space for leading multinational corporations, science-ready workspaces, co-working and R&D labs, with campuses all set within energising, green environments."

“In the last 18 months we’ve secured just over 120,000sq ft of lettings on campus,” said George, “which is far and above the fiveyear average for the area.

“It shows that the environment we provide, with 70 acres of green open space away from the hustle and bustle of the city, is what people want. It means we currently have a minimal amount of space available on campus.”

The achievements don’t stop there. ARC Uxbridge was awarded the Workspace of the Year title at the 2025 Hustle Awards, recognising its pioneering approach to designing inclusive, empowering environments for the UK’s leading scientists, researchers and innovators.

“For us it’s an exciting opportunity to do more with the space that we have,” explained George. “We want to provide excellent food and beverage facilities; we want to put on really great events - be that yoga or football or wreath making at Christmas. It means people come on to campus and enjoy coming to work.

“In a world where people are reducing the amount of workspace they have, they are willing to pay a premium for a really excellent product.

“There’s a recognition now in this post-Covid era of the benefits of being in an office two or three days a week to support that spirit of collaboration and innovation.

“Plus, we have outstanding relationships with our members, many of them have been with us for a long time – some who came 20 years ago when we started out in Uxbridge are still with us today.”

Growth and investment

Growth and investment continues to be high on the agenda for ARC.

“We’re always of the mindset that we can’t stand still and we’re always looking to improve and expand,” said George.

Membership of Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce has also been crucial to ARC.

“It’s incredibly important for us to be a heavily involved in the business community we are part of,” he said.

“We have hosted a number of Chamber events here at the Uxbridge site which fosters a real spirit of innovation across the wider Hillingdon business community.

“If you can encourage collaboration then inevitably there is real benefit for the majority of people – be that big corporations or individuals.

“And when it comes to our business, understanding what people want is so important. If we want to attract talent, support growth and nurture innovation, we need to create environments that work for everyone.”

USING AI RESPONSIBLY IN RECRUITMENT

The growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in recruitment has transformed how employers identify and assess potential candidates. From screening hundreds of CVs in seconds to generating automated interview notes, AI promises faster and more efficient hiring processes. However, these benefits come with significant legal responsibilities. According to B P Collins’ employment practice, employers must balance innovation with fairness, transparency and compliance

Should employers inform candidates when AI is being used during recruitment?

The use of AI during recruitment should be disclosed under GDPR, which protects individuals from automated decision making (or ADM) as this will have a significant effect on their application, right down to whether they get through to the next stage or not. Job applicants have a right to object to ADM and to require a human to review their application. Is there a risk that AI notetakers or CVscreening tools could introduce bias?

If the AI’s training data is biased, then the AI will also be biased. For that reason, a human review of the output is essential to check that the scores make sense. If using an AI to score CVs, be critical of the scores. Don’t treat them as being infallible. If a CV has been marked down but you can’t see why, you may want to consider interviewing that candidate anyway.

AI bias is such a risk because job applicants are protected from discrimination. If your CV-screening tool is biased against one particular protected group, you could face discrimination claims in the employment tribunal and defending such claims is costly and complex. This is particularly the case if you need help from the company running the AI tool to help defend against the claims, because you may not have a detailed understanding of the algorithm yourself.

What are the best practices for using AI responsibly when hiring?

Keep the humans in HR. Not only is it a legal requirement under GDPR for AI decisions about recruitment to have human oversight, but the people working for your business know it better than an algorithm does. AI is a tool to help your human employees do their work more quickly and more efficiently, but human oversight is the key to minimising legal risk.

AI can enhance recruitment by improving efficiency and reducing administrative burdens, but it must be used responsibly. Employers should always disclose when AI tools are in use, remain vigilant about bias and maintain strong human oversight. By combining technological innovation with legal obligations, organisations can ensure fairer, more transparent and more trustworthy hiring processes.

For further advice and information about best practice in recruitment and AI in HR please contact B P Collins’ employment team or its HR consultancy, HR2Help at enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk or call 01895 631942.

www.bpcollins.co.uk

IS THERE A PLACE FOR EMOTIONS IN THE BUSINESS WORLD?

By Hülya Erbeyli

Emotions can either be your most powerful resource or your hidden saboteur.

In the fast pace of entrepreneurship, emotions often get pushed aside. We're expected to stay sharp, and in control, especially when leading teams, closing deals, or solving problems.

But here’s the truth: emotions don’t disappear just because we label them unprofessional. They stay in our bodies, quietly influencing how we show up. Over time, avoiding them can lead to chronic tension, loss of creativity, burnout, or habits like overworking, emotional eating, or constant “next thing” chasing.

Let’s say a client makes you angry. On the outside, you handle it professionally… but inside something contracts. If that feeling is ignored, it may show up later as restlessness, irritability, or sleepless nights.

But if you give it space, it speaks. Maybe your boundaries were violated. Maybe something needs to shift.

The emotion isn’t the problem, it’s a messenger. It’s trying to tell you something. And often, that message comes with an opportunity to improve and grow, personally and in your business.

We often forget emotional wellbeing is business wellbeing.

When we lose touch with our emotional state, we lose the very spark that drives meaningful, sustainable growth.

Some signs you may be emotionally off-track:

• You’ve lost joy or meaning in your work

• Creativity has slowed, and procrastination has increased

• You're constantly tired or reactive

• Your body feels tight, heavy, or fatigued

Start with a regular habit:

Pause. Take a few deep breaths into your belly and ask:

How do I feel and what do I need right now?

Sometimes simply acknowledging your need already shifts something.

Other times, it helps you make a plan before those needs become overwhelming.

Emotional mastery isn’t a “nice to have”. It’s a strategic investment.

Entrepreneurs who learn to navigate emotions with awareness lead with more clarity, resilience, and sustainability.

Emotions don’t disappear just because we label them unprofessional. They stay in our bodies, quietly influencing how we show up. Over time, avoiding them can lead to chronic tension, loss of creativity, burnout, or habits like overworking, emotional eating, or constant “next thing” chasing.

Image by Ann Tarazevich @pexels

Holistic Leadership and Business Coach

REIMAGINE BANKING A NEW WAY TO BANK

Steve Chu, Head of Commercial Banking at iFAST Global Bank, talks to Sarah Dale about the benefits for SMEs to banking with a global digital bank and the value of face-to-face networking in the local community.

Reimagine Banking– that is the strapline of iFAST Global Bank. The global digital bank has been designed to make banking easier for SMEs by creating one account for transactions and savings with multiple currencies.

It is part of iFAST Corporation, a global digital banking and wealth management platform, which has its headquarters in Singapore.

Established in 2000, the Group offers a comprehensive range of investment products and services to financial advisory firms, financial institutions, banks, multinational companies, as well as retail and high-networth investors across Asia.

“Face-to-face contact is important to us. We believe that even though we are a digital bank, the human connection is a key and valuable point to establishing a positive relationship with customers.”

In 2022, iFAST Corporation acquired a UK bank and rebranded it as iFAST Global Bank. It provides multi-currency deposits, domestic and international payments, and foreign exchange services. Regulated by both the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), iGB operates across three divisions:

• Digital Personal Banking – enabling individuals, including those abroad, to open a UK multi-currency current account.

• Business Banking – Two dedicated subdivisions were established to serve distinct client segments: Commercial Banking, serving SMEs and corporates with domestic and cross-border payment needs, and Transactional Banking, supporting regulated financial institutions including banks and NBFIs.

• EzRemit – delivering fast and convenient global remittance services.

Steve Chu, Head of Commercial Banking at iFAST Global Bank, said:

“There are many ways our vision of iFAST is changing the landscape of banking. Our customers can have a multi-currency business account, which is very beneficial to companies which operate worldwide. Customers can also benefit from having their current account and savings account as one account which is particularly beneficial for SMEs and start-ups so they don’t have to juggle funds around accounts while earning

“We want to simplify banking and make it easier for SMEs. What customers are looking for is a trustworthy bank.”

Steve worked in banking in Hong Kong in wealth management and investments before moving to the UK in 2021 to work for HSBC UK. He joined iFAST Global Bank in 2023 and built the personal banking team and, along with CEO Inayat Kashif, established the commercial banking team.

iFAST Global Bank is based in the UK at Canary Wharf and has a team of 70-80 employees. In November, they are moving to a larger office, which is double the size of their current space, within the same building to support their growth and are also recruiting to grow the team. As well as the UK team, iGB has a team in Asia, including an IT team in Malaysia and an additional customer services team in Malaysia.

“Having customer service teams based in both the UK and Malaysia mean that our customers can reach us whatever time of dayit is and from wherever they are based,” adds Steve.

The company, which won the Best Newcomer Award at the British Bank Awards 2025, is on a growth trajectory, however, Steve says the challenge they face is raising awareness of how digital banking can benefit customers. “Business banking can be quite traditional,” explains Steve. “Business owners are sticking with the separate current and savings accounts as they don’t realise there is an

option like ours, which makes banking simpler. It is quite a new concept.

“We are new to the industry, but at the same time, we are actively listening to our customers. We are growing our business and growing our customers’ businesses.”

They joined West London Chambers of Commerce two years ago.

“We became Chamber members as we are quite new to the area,” adds Steve.

“Face-to-face contact is important to us. We believe that even though we are a digital bank, the human connection is a key and valuable point to establishing a positive relationship with customers.”

Part of the ethos of iFAST is to give back to the community which they do in several ways, including supporting cultural events such as sponsoring the London Lunar New Year Fair, supporting the Miyabi Matsuri Japanese Summer Festival and this year, they will be sponsoring an Indian community event.

For the past two years, they have sponsored the Bessingby Park Rangers U9/U10 teams, and this year they will continue their support to encourage more children to enjoy and participate in football.

They also provide sponsorships for international student associations, helping students feel welcomed and supported in the UK.

www.ifastgb.com/en/commercialbanking

Membership Benefits

Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce offers tiered membership plans designed to cater to businesses of all sizes. From startups to established corporations, there's a package to suit every need.

Members enjoy a range of benefits including networking opportunities, business support, marketing exposure, and access to professional services. The Chamber's membership structure allows businesses to invest in their growth and contribute to the local business community.

Each category is tailored to the relevant package, based on the number of employees within the organisation.

Connect | 0-3 employees

Connect package is designed for businesses in their first 12 months of trading and provides support to the entrepreneur in getting the new venture off the ground. You can make new connections, learn from other professionals and develop the skills needed to ensure your dream flourishes.

Grow | 4-10 employees

Grow package is suitable for businesses looking to raise their profile and build their network to access growth opportunities. We connect you with opportunities, expertise, networks and connections. We can cut your costs of doing business and provide hands on support to help you grow.

Influence | 11-50 employees

Influence membership is ideal for established, growing businesses who are keen to raise their profile and increase the opportunities to share knowledge.

Influence membership offers the chance to gain perspectives from and collaborate with other business leaders, build long lasting relationships and engage with the community.

The benefits of our packages are broken down into six categories:

• Build and Grow Your Network

• Marketing and Branding

• Professional Services

• Knowledge Insights

• Leadership

• Have Your Say

Inspire | 51-250 employees

Inspire membership is designed for larger employers, often recognised in the community, who are leaders and influencers in their fields.

Inspire members are seeking opportunities to champion real change, see value in collaborating with other Hillingdon businesses for the collective benefit of the Borough.

Patron | 251+ employees

Patron membership is for real movers and shakers in the business, often global brands, who are keen to invest back in the community.

Patron members are interested in collaborating with other global players to maximise the power of the collective to support Hillingdon’s socio-economic growth, skills development and sustainability.

Upcoming Events

Thursday, January 29th, 2026

Sheraton Skyline Hotel London Heathrow, Bath Rd, Harlington, Hayes, Middlesex, UB3 5BP

The Hillingdon Business Awards aims to recognise these businesses for their outstanding achievements, innovation and commitment to excellence.

The awards ceremony will bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs, key stakeholders and community members to collectively celebrate the success stories that define Hillingdon’s business landscape.

Business Support Workshops

Get Connected, Build a Community

You're looking for like-minded business owners in Hillingdon. That's where the Chamber comes in. We're your route to meeting other business owners. How? We'll send you two emails a week with the best events coming up. We'll also include other initiatives across the borough to make your life and doing business easier. We can't wait to share it all with you!

Discount and Benefit Portal Membership Benefits

At the Chamber, our priority is simple: to make sure our members have the support, tools, and resources they need to thrive. That’s why we’ve have our comprehensive Benefits and Discount Portal as part of your membership, giving you and your business access to services that genuinely make a difference.

As a Chamber member, you can download and use our Benefits and Discount App, which is packed with valuable offers and services not only for you as the main member, but also for your family. These include:

• Legal advice

• HR hotline

• Benefits and discount portal

• Health and wellbeing services, including a 24-hour GP, counselling, gym discounts, and health tests

• Financial and insurance guidance

• Cashback on everyday purchases

• Will writing services

What’s more, this app can also be extended to your staff for as little as £1 per week per team member, an incredibly cost-effective way to boost employee wellbeing, retention, and support.

With so much available at your fingertips, why wouldn’t you join the Chamber to access this fantastic platform? And if you’re already a member but haven’t downloaded the app yet, don’t worry, simply get in touch with our team and we’ll be more than happy to help you get set up.

Empowering your business is what we do. Make sure you’re making the most of it.

In a few words tell us a bit about your business ?

When it comes to planning for the future, most of us know we should have our finances and important documents in order, but life gets in the way. That’s where my new start-up steps in. It’s created with real-life experience at its heart, the platform offers a safe and simple way to store all your key financial information, from assets and liabilities to policies, utilities and wills. It not only gives users a clear picture of their net worth, but more importantly, also ensures that nominated loved ones can easily and securely access the information they need if the unexpected happens.

What gives your business 'the x-factor’?

It’s all about helping families when they need it most. The platform is designed to make life a little easier for loved ones trying to find important data after someone passes away and/or for probate. Everyone has something they want to leave behind so this portal aims to help ensure those things don’t get lost or forgotten.

What motivated you to set up in business ?

It came from personal experience. I travelled a lot for work, and I often found myself wondering, “Would my wife know where everything is if something happened to me?” Then I thought about my daughter

SANJAY JOBANPUTRA ASSET INHERITANCE LTD GETTING STARTED

and how complicated it would be for her if something happened to both of us.

Sure, you could keep a spreadsheet somewhere, but documents get lost or forgotten. I wanted a solution that was secure, simple, and accessible, something that really works when it matters most. That’s where the idea for the portal was born.

What do you like most about working as a start-up?

No two days are the same! Coming from a corporate background, where there’s a big support network and structure, this has been a total shift. As a start-up, there are many things that need to be done and you build your own network from scratch. It’s challenging, but also incredibly rewarding; every new hurdle teaches you something new. Also, the flexibility is great!

What has been your greatest business success to date?

The most rewarding thing has been seeing people “get it.” When someone says, “I’ve actually worried about this exact thing,” and then gets excited about the solution, that’s a real win. It’s amazing to see an idea resonate with people facing the same problem but never had a secure and long term practical way to solve it.

What has been your lowest moment?

There was definitely a wobble a few months in. The excitement of starting something

new suddenly turned into anxiety as I began to wonder, “Will people actually use this? Will it work the way I want it to?” It was a real moment of doubt, but pushing through that uncertainty made me realise that the concept and need was real.

In terms of business achievements, where do you want to be within the next 5 years?

I’d love to grow into a medium-sized company, offering not just a portal for assets and inheritance, but a whole suite of services around financial organisation and legacy planning. The goal is to make managing, and ultimately passing on your financial life, as smooth and stress free as possible.

What would be your top tip to someone thinking of starting up their own business?

You cannot do everything yourself; you will need help. Start with a business plan so that you have a clear roadmap for success by detailing your objectives, strategies, and financial forecasts. Get feedback from your target audience, listen to what they say, and adjust where needed. Don’t underestimate local support networks, the Chambers of Commerce have been a fantastic resource for advice and guidance.

www.assetinheritance.com

The most rewarding thing has been seeing people “get it.”

When someone says, “I’ve actually worried about this exact thing,” and then gets excited about the solution, that’s a real win.

THE LAST WORD PALLY RANDHAWA

Director, One Care iT Limited

One

Care

iT

Limited, a Hillingdon-based technology services company, celebrates its 20th anniversary in November 2025. For two decades, we've provided managed IT services and advisory services to building owners & developers. We also focus on sustainable IT solutions, such as smart building systems and lowvoltage LED lighting.

Recently named Innovation Company of the Year with a commendation from West London Business. This award reflects our team’s dedication and our clients’ and partner’s trust. We look forward to delivering smarter, greener solutions and continuing to support our communities. What was your first job and what was the pay packet?

At age 17, I started working in McDonalds, Uxbridge High Street. With no minimum wage in 1997, my hourly pay was £2.97 which increased by a whole 4p!

What do you always carry with you to work?

My sense of humour. It is an essential tool for surviving every morning!

What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

The biggest challenge OCIT faces are advanced cybersecurity threats, a severe talent shortage, the rapid pace of AI integration, complex regulatory compliance requirements and users that think they are IT experts!

If you were Prime Minister, what one thing would you change to help business?

I would make joining the local Chamber of Commerce mandatory. Businesses could gain immense support and valuable learning opportunities by participating in the local business community.

What can you see from your office window?

Currently working from my home office. I see a squirrel planning world domination, a cloud that looks suspiciously like a donut, and my reflection questioning my life choices.

If you could do another job, what would it be?

I would continue what I do now: solving problems, creating technical solutions,

learning constantly, collaborating with skilled colleagues, delivering measurable impact, and embracing new challenges each day with enthusiasm daily.

As a businessperson, what are your three main qualities?

My three main qualities are strategic foresight, decisive leadership, and adaptability. I effectively anticipate market shifts, make timely decisions, and quickly adjust to new challenges and opportunities.

What was your biggest mistake in business?

Failing to diversify our supplier base was a mistake. When one of main supplier had issues, some operational areas within OCIT were made vulnerable. This has since been fixed. Risk management is vital!

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Pursue your passion relentlessly, be resilient in the face of failure, and listen to customer feedback above all else. Adaptability and perseverance are your greatest assets.

Who do you most admire in business?

Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web. His one single creation empowered information; forever changing communication, business, and daily life worldwide.

From everyone at OCIT, we wish all our fellow Hillingdon Chamber Members a very Merry Christmas