Thinking Business February 2018

• OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR KENT INVICTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • February - March 2018 •

Inside:

Medway leading the way for regeneration

Big Interview with Direct 2 Communications Ltd

International Trade

Education and Skills

Providing workforce solutions for the future

0504

Welcome

Welcome & Contents

11

Closing the skills gap

Jo James

Chief Executive

Welcome to the latest edition of Thinking Business, which focuses on one of the biggest issues facing our economy, the need to address our acute skills shortage.

It was an issue highlighted in the most recent British Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Economic Survey, which emphasised the need to kickstart the economy by addressing the barriers to growth.

The organisation highlighted, in particular the growing skills gap, which it says is hindering the ability of companies to find the workers they need to develop.

Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of he British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Labour and skills shortages are set to be the biggest potential drag anchor on business in 2018, since ultimately it is people that make businesses work.

Business itself must do more – by training and investing wherever possible in people – but government must also give firms the confidence to put their livelihoods on the line and go for growth.

“This must be the year employers act rather than just complain on skills, and the year government delivers clarity, leadership and investment in people and infrastructure.

Kick-starting growth, and boosting wages and prosperity for all, depends on this.”

I agree with his comments. So many employers in Kent are expressing concerns about the difficulties they experience when it comes to recruiting young talent.

Contents

4-5 6

Chamber News

Members News

7

Focus on Finance

11

Patron News

15

Healthy Workplace

9-10

12-14

Members News

Members News

Our Patrons 16-18

Spotlight on Medway

20-21 23-29 31 33 34 36-37 37-38

However, there is a lot of work being done in the area to improve the situation.

Be it specialist courses, in-house training programmes or apprenticeships, our educational institutions, training bodies, business organisations and businesses are hard at work.

Our cover feature on page 23 takes a look at some of the work taking place in the area, all of it designed to give our young talent a flying start to their careers.

This edition’s Spotlight feature on page 16 examines some of the many initiatives that are transforming the business landscape in Medway. It’s a terrific story and one that shows how the public and private sector can work together to boost the economy.

Our big interview on page 20 makes for interesting reading as Mark Regnier, Managing Director of Kent company Direct2 Communications, explains why working with your fiercest rivals does not necessarily have to be bad for business.

It’s not an easy concept for everyone but it’s worth considering.

16

23

Finally, I am delighted to announce that in addition to 3 new Patrons, all of our 2017 Patrons will be continuing working with the Chamber for 2018. Welcome to you and its fantastic to have you onboard.

Big Interview Cover Feature Education and Skills The person behind the business Ask the Expert Economy Health News International Trade

40

41

42-43

44

45

46-47

48-49

50

Growth Hub

24 Hours with...

Chamber Events

Chamber Exhibitions

Members Benefits

Business News

New Members

Business News

Editorial and General Enquiries

Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Ashford Business Point, Waterbrook Avenue, Sevington, Ashford, Kent.

TN24 0LH Chief Executive: Jo James Tel: 01233 503 838 Fax: 01233 503 687 info@kentinvictachamber.co.uk www.kentinvictachamber.co.uk

Published February 2018 © Benham Publishing

Disclaimer

Publisher

33

Benham Publishing Limited, Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ Ian Fletcher Tel: 0151 236 4141 Fax: 0151 236 0440 admin@benhampublishing.com www.benhampublishing.com

Advertising and Features

Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 karen@benhampublishing.com Media No.1539

Production Manager

Mark Etherington Tel: 0151 236 4141 mark@benhampublishing.com

Thinking Business is published for Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in Thinking Business are not necessarily those of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2018. Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

Thinking Business

3

Chamber News

BCC: Planning system must work better for business

The planning system in England is more complex, costly and difficult for business than it was 5 years ago, according to a major report published by the British Chambers of Commerce.

The BCC report says that five years after the introduction of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which was designed to make the system less complex and more accessible, businesses are experiencing too many delays and barriers to investment.

The report finds that the government’s focus on new homes is leading to increased pressure on the availability of employment land and premises. A BCC survey of over 900 businesses across the country revealed that one in five firms are struggling to find the land and premises they need.

The report says the government’s pre-occupation with housing at the expense of other land uses is also leading to localised tensions.

New homes are being built adjacent to long-established businesses in towns and cities and causing serious problems, both for new residents and businesses.

The report urges the government to review the NPPF to ensure that the needs of business are on an equal footing with other stakeholders.

4

Thinking Business

Key recommendations include:

• Employment land and uses should be given equal priority to housing, so that people can access jobs and businesses have the space they need to grow and compete.

• Where shops and offices have been converted to homes, councils should ensure there is an alternative supply of quality commercial office space available elsewhere.

problems for the future if we don’t get the right balance of jobs and homes.

Jane Gratton, Head of Business Environment at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “Access to affordable employment land and premises is essential for business innovation, expansion, and long-term competitiveness. Too many firms are now unable to find the land and premises they need. We risk creating big

“Planning for jobs and homes, together with up-front government investment in modern infrastructure, will give people better access to employment opportunities.

It will help businesses access a skilled workforce and provide the platform to compete globally. The planning system must be looked into as part of plans to make the UK Brexit-ready.”

• Where there is high demand for new housing and jobs, there should be intelligent use of the green belt to ensure local communities benefit from the delivery of new homes and infrastructure.

“Firms still face too many barriers, costs and delays as they negotiate the planning system. We need to find a way to make it work better, to provide the strategic certainty for businesses to make their own investment decisions and the freedom and flexibility they need to innovate, grow and compete globally.

“Access to affordable employment land and premises is essential for business innovation, expansion, and long-term competitiveness. Too many firms are now unable to find the land and premises they need. We risk creating big problems for the future if we don’t get the right balance of jobs and homes.”

Chamber News

Water Choice joins us with offer to members

Member companies of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce are to be offered a financial incentive to sign up to a single-billing account for their future supplies of drinking water and sewerage services by Water Choice, a new member of the Chamber.

Water Choice is a division of the South East Water group based at Snodland and is a new name in the non-household open water market. The company, with 38 employees, aims to establish itself as the go-to firm for business customers wanting financial savings and simplicity when deciding who to choose for their future fresh water and waste water requirements.

It is offering a £25 one-off incentive for Chamber members (subject to terms and conditions at www.waterchoice.co.uk) to open a single-billing account, irrespective of which water company supplies their existing services and even if their fresh water and waste water suppliers are currently different.

the best package that suits their needs, and many of those who have switched already have seen financial savings for their business.

“At Water Choice we are committed to making it easy for customers to choose, by being clear and transparent about our services and prices and helping businesses through the switch process.”

Kent Invicta Chamber members wishing to take up the £25 offer should visit waterchoice.co.uk or contact the Water Choice team on 0333 000 0088 for further details.

Tanya Sephton, Managing Director of Water Choice said: “The new competitive market is an exciting time for both businesses and retailers.

“Businesses of all sizes now have a choice and can benefit from negotiating

“At Water Choice we are committed to making it easy for customers to choose, by being clear and transparent about our services and prices and helping businesses through the switch process.”

In My Opinion Gemma Purt Senior Associate Solicitor Family Law

The much publicised ruling by the Court of Appeal which refused Mrs Owens the right to divorce her millionaire husband of 40 years and left her trapped in a ‘loveless and desperately unhappy’ marriage has fuelled calls for parliament to review antiquated divorce laws last reformed in 1969.

As the law stands if parties wish to divorce promptly following separation this will need to be based on one party being ‘blamed’ for the breakdown of the marriage. The alternatives are for the parties to either divorce on the basis of 2 years of separation with consent or wait until 5 years of separation after which time the divorce can proceed even if the other party does not consent. One of the difficulties with waiting until you have been separated for a period of at least 2 years is that you cannot resolve financial matters in a legally binding way until you are within divorce proceedings.

This means that any financial agreement that you reach prior to this is potentially not final.

Resolution, a community of family justice professionals who work with families and individuals to resolve issues in a constructive way, has been championing a campaign for the government to reform divorce laws and introduce ‘no fault divorce’ - Girlings Solicitors’ Family Law team, all members of Resolution, passionately support this campaign.

In my opinion most clients are surprised when you explain their options to them. Often they do not want to have to 'blame' their spouse citing their behaviour in the divorce petition but still want to be able obtain a divorce and resolve financial matters in a legally binding way without having to wait until the expiry of 2 years. Having to 'blame' the other party often cause difficulties between the parties at what is already a very difficult time. I for one am keenly awaiting the outcome of the Owens’ case, now being taken to the Supreme Court, which I hope will lead to a much overdue reform in divorce law.

Gemma can be contacted on 01227 768374 gemmapurt@girlings.com

girlings.com

Thinking Business

5

Members News

Council’s property company expands

Entrepreneurial thinking and Ashford Borough Council go hand in hand.

With recent substantial funding contributions to enable the construction of the Elwick Place cinema and restaurant complex in the town centre and the opening of Ashford College, its property company ‘A Better Choice for Property’ continues to expand since it established in 2014.

Now, the company is making its biggest purchase yet at Victoria Crescent, off Victoria Way, which represents a multi-million-pound investment in the town.

Tracey Kerly, Ashford Borough Council’s Chief Executive, said: “The property company illustrates yet another innovative way that the council is supporting the complex and various housing needs of a growing population.

“We’re delighted to be working with Leath Park Developments on this exciting project which will be built to the council’s lifetime homes and strict space standards that go further than national prescribed space standards. We look forward to growing the business further in the coming years, with the aim of generating more revenue to maintain and enhance overall service provision.”

Darren Welch, Managing Director of Leath Park Developments (a Jenner Group Company), said: “This is another example of Ashford Borough Council’s proactive approach to providing local housing in the area and we look forward to working with the development team to deliver 28 high quality apartments at Victoria Crescent.”

A Better Choice for Property effectively operates as a buy-to-let investment company, targeting people in work in Ashford who can afford to rent. They are given oneyear tenancies that can then be extended by further yearly increments or on a monthly rolling contract, affording flexibility to the tenants, while enabling communities to develop.

The property company has grown a portfolio of 24 two, three and fourbedroom properties in the borough, ranging from flats to detached houses. The company paid interest to the council of £129,000 in the 2016-17 financial year. This money has been put towards the provision of services across the borough.

6

Thinking Business

Kent company ‘one to watch’

Bedfont Scientific Limited has been named as one of Europe’s best in the ‘Ones to Watch’ list, compiled by the European Business Awards.

The European Business Awards, sponsored by RSM, is a cross-industry and crossborder business competition.

This year, the European Business Awards has compiled the first ever ‘Ones to Watch’ list, to highlight companies who have shown exceptional achievement in one of the 12 categories but also reflect the programme’s core values of innovation, success and ethics.

Bedfont, a second-generation family business that specialises in the design and manufacture of breath analysis medical devices, has been named on this list.

Jason Smith, Managing Director at Bedfont, said: “We are only a small company with such a niche concept as breath analysis, so we are humbled to have been included on the ‘Ones to Watch’ list.

“As a company, we endeavour to innovate and improve healthcare worldwide, and are also determined to give back to the local community and are very conscious of our carbon footprint. This would not be possible without our employees, the Bedfont family. It is thanks to their hard work and dedication that we are eligible to be included on such a prestigious list.”

Adrian Tripp, CEO of the European Business Awards, said: “The talent, dedication and innovation at the heart of these companies creates jobs and opportunity, and is what drives their country’s prosperity. The ‘Ones to Watch’ lists will set a benchmark of success for the European business community.”

Bedfont, who applied for the International Expansion award, will now have a chance to compete in the European Business Awards to become a National Winner in their country in May.

Dragon Co-Working: A Community of collaborators There has been a revolution in the workplace: the rise of the freelancer.

According to the European Forum of Independent Professionals the number of freelancers has risen by 82% since the year 2000 and the number is set to rise expeditionally.

It’s clear to see why we have the trend. As a freelancer you enjoy flexibility and control while your clients get focused work and ‘no strings’ employment engagement.

Wonderful but how does a freelancer ensure maximum productivity? A lot comes down to your working environment.

What are the options?

Investing in a dedicated office may seem like a financial risk.

Being home-based might seem initially very shrewd but it comes with the twin downsides of isolation and distraction.

You could join the legion of freelancers who set up camp in coffee shops. This has inherent limitations though. Will you do your best work with a screaming

child interrupting your creative flow or, having missed out on the last plug socket, having your work halted by battery fade.

Roland Stanley has considered these factors and created the perfect solution: Dragon Co-Working, based in Medway.

Channelling 25 years of hospitality experience into the project, Roland has created a flexible, affordable and fun working environment which has attracted some of Kent’s most high-profile businesses and freelancers; particularly those in the creative sector.

As founding tenant Zoe Cairns of ZC Social Media puts it: “Moving to the Dragon Co-working was one of the best decisions we made for the growth of our business.

It’s a place we can be creative, collaborate and meet new businesses to build our network.”

Dragon’s pricing structure means that you can tap into the network for the price of 4 Chai Lattes from Costa but

if you just look at the price you’re missing the point.

As Roland puts it:“This isn’t just about inexpensive office space.

As a community of collaborators, we want to share knowledge and experience so collectively everyone has the tools to develop their business.”

The project is only 8 months old and already, due to demand, we are preparing for stage 2 of redeveloping more usable space.”

To see the community of collaborators in action go to “Dragons Ten” a free bitesize business seminar on March 1st.

Focus on Finance

Is the Apprenticeship Levy diminishing the learn-as-you-earn industry?

Rick Schofield

Tax Partner, Kent Region 01233 629255 (Ashford)

Rick.schofield@wilkinskennedy.com www.wilkinskennedy.com

The Apprenticeship Levy came into force on 6 April 2017 with the aim of creating three million new apprenticeships by 2020.

But instead of increasing numbers, it seems that apprenticeship employment has dropped since the introduction of the Levy.

Is this a case of businesses simply internalising the training process, or is the Levy proving to be a deterrent?

The Government hoped to raise £2.5 billion a year for training, by charging a Levy to organisations with a wage bill of over £3 million. Whilst most firms are not large enough to be liable for the Levy, the Government estimated it would only affect 2% of businesses, both large and medium sized firms (employing between 50 and 200 staff) were faced with new responsibilities.

These new responsibilities include releasing apprentices for one day a week for off-site training and contributing to some of the costs.

It may well be that these responsibilities lie behind the 59% decline in apprenticeships. According to latest figures released by the Department for Education, only 48,000 people actually began an apprenticeship between May and July 2017, less than half the 117,000 who did so in the same period in the previous year.

There has also been speculation that employers are actually spending their time formulating new internal training

schemes that work better for their organisation, as opposed to adhering to Government Levy regimes. For example, a Levy-paying employer has 24 months to spend the funds earmarked for apprenticeships. But by internalising the process, this time period and allocated spend could be more flexible.

It is also fair to say that the scheme has faced some heavy criticism from many industry experts – and this could also be a factor in the decline of apprenticeships. Many experts believe the scheme has been badly organised and implemented. Verity Davidge, Head of Education and Skills Policy at the manufacturers’ organisation, the EEF, said that it is “frankly unsurprising as we continue to hear stories from companies who have hit a brick wall in trying to get Levy-supported apprenticeships off the ground.”

It seems that employers have found it difficult to interpret the complex rules around how the Levy may be used, and accessing the funding has proven

complex. If this is the case, then we believe that as employers become more familiar with the process, everything will settle down and perhaps more opportunities for apprenticeships will come in. It will be interesting to see if any proposals are made to help simplify and encourage greater application.

If you would like further information about the Apprenticeship Levy and how it could benefit your organisation, contact Wilkins Kennedy to see how we can help.

“There has also been speculation that employers are actually spending their time formulating new internal training schemes that work better for their organisation, as opposed to adhering to Government Levy regimes.”

Thinking Business

7

10% off

day delegate rates throughout themonths of February/March 2018 and quote: TBM10 when booking.

Our Café is open for lunch from 12pm – 2pm

The Orchards East Malling

surrounded by 200 hectares of orchards, is a purpose-built event venue in Kent

Situated in a perfect location to escape the hustle and bustle of the office environment, allowing delegates to be more focused and meetings more productive.

• Competitive rates you • FREE Wi-Fi can afford • Dedicated events team • Versatile rooms for 2 – 200 • On-Site Catering • AV Equipment included • FREE parking for 200 cars in rates • Team Building Activities

www.theorchardseastmalling.co.uk

Email: lchalmers-Stevens@baxterstorey.com

Telephone: 01732 523781

Minimum energy efficient standard in force from 1st April 2018 Commercial property landlords will see their responsibility for the energy efficiency of their properties increase significantly from 1st April 2018 following the introduction of the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 (the Regulations) which will make it unlawful for a landlord to grant a new lease or renewal lease of commercial premises in England and Wales with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of either F or G (i.e. the lowest 2 grades of energy efficiency).

From 1st April 2023, Landlords will be prohibited from continuing to let such a commercial property within the scope of the Regulations.

Unless exempted from doing so, improvements will need to be carried out to below standard properties to ensure compliance with the Regulations.

Exemptions Some properties such as industrial sites, workshops, certain listed buildings and holiday lettings do not require EPCs. Tenancies with a term of 6 months or less and tenancies with a term of 99 years or more will also fall outside of the scope of the Regulations.

For properties that would otherwise need to

comply with the Regulations, landlords can apply for exemptions in the following circumstances: • Where an independent assessor determines that all relevant energy efficient improvements have been made to the property or that improvements that can be made would not pay for themselves through energy savings within seven years; • The required consent of any third party, such as a superior landlord, tenant, planning authority or lender cannot be obtained or consent has been given but with conditions the landlord cannot reasonably comply with; or • The proposed improvements to comply with the Regulations would devalue the property by at least 5% of its market value.

Exemptions are only valid for 5 years and must be registered on the central government Private Rented Sector Exemptions Register. It is also worth noting that exemptions do not automatically transfer with the property on the sale or transfer of the landlord’s interest - any purchasers or transferees will need to either re register the exemption or ensure that the

property complies with the Regulations.

Enforcement and Penalties Non-compliance with the Regulations may result in enforcement action being taken by a Local Weights and Measures Authority.

The financial penalty will depend on the property’s rateable value, severity of the breach and length of time it has subsisted during a letting, and could potentially be as much as £150,000 per asset if the breach subsists for three months or more.

Practical Considerations Landlords should therefore start considering what action to take – whether by auditing their property portfolios, carrying out energy assessments, reviewing leases to understand their rights, making any necessary improvements, preparing to apply for exemptions, or looking to dispose of properties where cost implications may be significant.

If you need expert guidance or advice relating to commercial property, please contact Omari Elcock on 01689 887875 or email omari.elcock@cwj.co.uk

8

Thinking Business

Omari Elcock Commercial Property Solicitor

Time to start Tax planning

Members News

• Consider strategies to reduce taxable income for example by making gift aid donations or pension contributions. This is particularly important if there would be a loss of child benefit between £50,000 and £60,000 or a loss of personal allowance if income exceeds £100,000.

• Consider maximising capital allowances by accelerating a purchase of plant or equipment to just before the end of the current accounting period. This will mean the allowances are twelve months

With the nights drawing out and spring just around the corner, now is the time to dust off your finances and make sure that everything is in order before 5 April. earlier than if the purchase was just after the year end.

• Consider transferring incomeproducing assets to a spouse who may otherwise not use their personal allowance but be careful not to fall foul of the settlements legislation.

• Review the way that profits are extracted from your business.

Although dividends now attract a higher level of personal tax, they • The overall annual subscription are still free of national insurance limit for ISAs increased to £20,000 which can amount to 25.8% in for 2017/18 and the new Lifetime combined employee/employer ISA (LISA) allows an adult under contributions. The first £5,000 of the age of 40 to deposit £4,000 and receive a 25% bonus from the dividends are taxed at 0% and this government. will reduce to £2,000 from 2018/19.

Therefore, it might be beneficial to • Remember your capital gains tax draw more dividends now. annual exemption of £11,300.

Mortgage advice available

As you would have most likely seen in the news recently the Bank of England has raised the banks interest rate from 0.25% to 0.5% The first rise since July 2007.

Also the bank of England governor Mark Carney has hinted at two more possible rises within the next 3 years.

How will this affect you and your mortgage?

This will depend on the type of mortgage you have and when any deals you may have end.

If your deal is due to end or you are on a variable rate mortgage then now is the time to seek out a new deal before lenders increase rates. If you are tied in to a deal it is still worth seeing what is available as you may still benefit from switching to a better rate. You may have to pay an early repayment charge to your existing lender if you remortgage.

In any case now is the time to check your mortgage deal and see if you can save money.

At Red House Mortgages we source from the whole of market so we are not tied to one lender ensuring you are getting the best deal available to you rather than sticking to one lender. We also have access to exclusive deals that you won’t find elsewhere.

If you would like further information or advice please contact Martin at Martin.hoare@redhousemortgages.co.uk

• Consider exempt transfers for inheritance tax including small gifts, annual transfers not exceeding £3,000, certain gifts in consideration of marriage/civil partnership and normal expenditure out of income.

Many allowances/reliefs are on a ‘use it or lose it basis’, so take the appropriate action now and don’t leave it too late.

Martin Humphreys FCCA Partner, McCabe Ford Williams Cranbrook

Property expert celebrates successful first year in Ashford

The High Sheriff of Kent, the Mayor of Ashford and a host of clients and business associates helped celebrate the first anniversary of Stafford Perkins Chartered Surveyors – with The High Sheriff George Jessel using his ceremonial sword to cut the ribbon at the firm’s new offices.

Property expert Richard Stafford held the event to mark the first anniversary of the business and to officially open his new town centre office.

He told guests that Stafford Perkins had enjoyed a hugely successful first year thanks to “loyal clients, hard work, great staff and the benefits of being located in a dynamic business location”.

Richard said: “In our first year we have sold and let more than 45,000 sq ft of space and we have over 50 instructions on our website.

We have sold grazing land and just today we’ve taken on two acres of woodland, so it’s not just about commercial space and offices!”

Richard has taken a 90-yearold shop in Ashford and returned it to its former glory.

He bought the freehold to number 11a in Park Street

and has painstakingly restored the front of the building to its original design.

Guest of honour George Jessel praised Richard’s entrepreneurial spirit and hailed Ashford as a location where businesses could thrive and prosper. He then officially opened the office by cutting a ribbon with a swipe of his ceremonial sword.

Richard, a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, set up Stafford Perkins after 30 years working in Kent. His expertise earned national plaudits – commercial property magazine Estates Gazette recognised him as a top deal maker in Kent for four years from 2012 to 2015.

Thinking Business

9

Using technology to transform your business

Members News

New chamber member Cameo Innovations offers a step-by-step approach to using technology to transform local businesses

Digital transformation is the process of reimagining how you bring together people, information and processes to create value for your customers, it also enables you to maintain a competitive advantage in a digital-first world. Digital Transformation is about embracing technology not only to automate existing manual processes but also to offer new and innovative products and services to stay ahead of your competition.

It could be something as simple as adding GPS location and steering capability to agricultural vehicles to maximise land use, through to an accounting firm launching new, automated tax and reporting services via its website to attract new clients.

Rochester-based Cameo Innovations was established to enable small and mid-sized businesses to benefit from the opportunity that digital transformation offers.

Telling better stories with data - introducing DataChronicle

DataChronicle is an Infographics and data design consultancy.

Its founder Soti Coker is passionate about helping businesses and charities to harness the power of data.

His company helps clients do everything from gaining insights from their data, to producing infographics and communicating powerful stories.

Soti said:“Data is powerful but using it can be daunting.We’re here to help clients use data to grow their businesses, speed up their decision-making, communicate their achievements and influence audiences.”

10

Thinking Business

Soti has 18 years of industry experience in the commercial sector as well as eight years at an international research institute. He moved to Folkestone recently, attracted by the coastal scenery and the friendliness of local people.

“There’s a real buzz about Folkestone and a strong entrepreneurial spirit,” said Soti.

“I want to help businesses across the south east to seize opportunities by improving their understanding and use of data.”

One recent client is Kent based consultancy The Training Effect, who cut their reporting times by 30 percent after DataChronicle developed a new system for managing their data and producing reports.

“The new system has allowed me to spend more time engaging with clients and growing the business,” said The Training Effect’s Tania Gauder.

DataChronicle also advised on the report designs and layouts.

The production process was then automated which cut down the likelihood of human errors being introduced.

However, many businesses of this size are put off by the term “transformation”, imagining major disruption of their business, significant distraction from their core activities and a sizeable expenditure of time and resources. So, they do nothing.

What makes Cameo Innovations’ approach different? CEO Simon Northridge says, “Our process is one of ‘Digital Evolution’. This has the same objective, but is

designed and implemented as a series of incremental, selfcontained projects, each of which delivers real business value specifically for that client.”

Digital Evolution makes it much easier for the people in the business to embrace change because it’s gradual and incremental rather than disruptive and revolutionary.

Swinton Business

The results still transform the business.

Swinton Group, is the UK’s largest high street insurance broker and has been trading since 1957.

In 1964 we opened our first high street branch and by 1987, Swinton was a household name, with 220 branches nationwide.

This year we’re celebrating our 60th anniversary.

Swinton Business, is a specialised commercial team within the Group which caters for a wide range of business insurance requirements - from tradesmen and shop owners to landlords and motor traders.

The team now operates out of ten area offices around the UK and has a central business contact centre in Manchester made up of 220 staff. We offer business insurance to over 25,000 SMEs throughout the UK specialising in manufacturing, property, construction and retail.

We provide policies including public liability insurance, employers liability insurance, property insurance, contractors’ all risks cover and optional separate cover for tools or business equipment, motor and all the key classes of cover available in the market.

We have developed and continue to create customerfocused solutions to meet these needs by creating a range of service propositions, ranging from fully advised faceto-face and telephony-based operations and non-advised transactional-based deliverables.

We are solutions-focused and recently implemented non-advised trading, which means we are offering a more streamlined approach which saves time for our customers. This has been well received and we have been credited with a Net Promoter score of 10/10. www.swinton.co.uk/business/ local-offices/dartfordswinton-business

Brachers return as headline sponsor for Leeds Castle Classical Concert 40th anniversary

Chamber Patron Brachers will be returning to sponsor the iconic Leeds Castle Classical Concert event, which celebrates its 40th anniversary on Saturday 14th July.

Patron News

HRH The Princess Royal opens the Arthur Goatham Building

HRH The Princess Royal has today Friday 1 December 2017 officially opened the Arthur Goatham building, the new £10m packhouse and coldstore of AC Goatham & Son at Flanders Farm, Hoo.

The Princess was met by the senior management team of AC Goatham & Son, led

by Senior Partner Clive Goatham, who gave her a tour around the new state of the art apple and pear facility. Her Royal Highness met members of staff, local dignitaries and unveiled a plaque.

The 40th anniversary concert will include an inspiring outdoor programme and once again offer a fantastic line-up of performances, including the world famous Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra conducted by John Rigby.

To celebrate the event’s 40th anniversary, there are plans for a special medley from the pop charts of 1978 and guests from the first ever concert held in 1978 will be welcomed back infront row seats.

Joanna Worby, Managing Partner at Brachers, said: “We are very pleased and proud to be able to extend our sponsorship for another year.

The concert is the highlight of the outdoor entertainment calendar in Kent with many of our clients being fans.

“We are pleased to be headline sponsors and we are looking forward to joining the thousands of spectators on the day.”

Aside from the sensational performances on the stage,in the skies there will be a jawdropping display by the Aero Legends in a 1940s Spitfire and the evening will end in style with a stunning fireworks finale, all against the incomparable backdrop of Leeds Castle.

The concert welcomes back the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) as their chosen charity.

They attended this year with their ½ scale Spitfire which was a big hit with the crowd whose generosity helped them raise over £6,000. RAFA will be celebrating their 100th anniversary so it’s sure to be a memorable year for them, too.

The Arthur Goatham building is named after Clive’s father, who set up the business with his wife Phyllis in 1947.

They began as agricultural contractors and together with Clive, purchased their first farm, Street Farm in Hoo in the 1980’s.

Since then they have expanded their fruit growing business across 27 farms in Medway and Kent, growing some 200 million apples and 50 million pears each year which are sold in supermarkets across the UK. Clive Goatham comments: “I am incredibly proud and honoured for HRH The Princess Royal to have visited Flanders Farm, to have given her a tour of the building and for her to have officially opened it in memory of my late father. My parents would have both been very proud to

have been here today and to have seen how the business has grown. It was fantastic for our team to be able to meet Her Royal Highness and for this to have taken place in our 70th anniversary year.”

Ross Goatham, Managing Director and the third generation in the family business comments: “Our 70th anniversary year has been a fantastic year.

The future of fruit growing has changed significantly over the last 70 years and we are now competing with growers from across the world, so it is important that we invest in the latest technology throughout our business.”

“We are continuously working together with our 20 partner growers and customers towards providing a secure and sustainable British fruit supply for the future. This will be done by securing more orchard sites and over time replanting apples and pears on new and more efficient growing systems. By 2020 we will have planted in excess of two million new fruit trees.”

Thinking Business

11

Members News

Kent Social Enterprise Loan Fund launched

(L-r) Gregory Maynard, Josephine McCartney, Mike Hill, Michael Lane and Alice Wells.

Kent Community Foundation has launched the new Kent Social Enterprise Loan Fund (KSELF), which aims to bridge the increasing funding gap for Kent’s new and existing social enterprises, by offering unsecured loans of between £10,000 and £100,000.

Disputes Conflicts, failure to agree Not all business runs smoothly – disputes inevitably occur.

These can be costly, sour long term relationships and impact future profitability.

So it’s important to resolve them as effectively as possible.

Whitehead Monckton’s Dispute Resolution team can provide you with expert advice and strategies to resolve your business disputes. Ranked in Chambers and Legal 500, we have an enviable track record - achieving excellent agreements whilst preserving future relationships.

Take the first important step before the gloves really come off – contact us today on

Tel: 01622 698047 E-mail enquiries@whitehead-monckton.co.uk www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Whitehead Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in England & Wales. Registered office 72 King Street, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 1BL. Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279.

TB 2/18

12

Thinking Business

Charities and social enterprises in Kent can benefit from a boost to the Kent Social Enterprise Loan Fund, which is delivered by Kent Community Foundation thanks to The Growth Fund, managed by Access - The Foundation for Social Investment and funded

by Big Lottery Fund and Big Society Capital.

Thanks to this support KCF can now offer a higher level of grant as part of the KSELF, which was originally established with funding from Kent County Council in 2012. Combining grants with loans, KSELF now offers bespoke funding of between £10,000 and £100,000 to groups and encourages taking a more enterprising approach to achieving positive change in our communities.

Since the original launch of the social lending programme, Kent Community Foundation has supported more than 200 organisations and has provided loans and grants to the value of £1.238m The Kent Social Enterprise Loan Fund (KSELF) is a blended loan and grant fund, which will offer unsecured loans to assist new and existing social enterprises in Kent with the potential to expand into Medway. There will be a flat interest rate of 5% with a split between capital and interest payments remaining fixed throughout the term.

The financial package will include an element of up to 30% grant. In addition to the funding provided through the Scheme, investment readiness and business support will be provided by Kent Community

Foundation’s dedicated Investment Fund Manager throughout the whole process.

Josephine McCartney, Chief Executive at Kent Community Foundation, said: “We are delighted to announce the launch of KSELF, a blended loan and grant fund which will open up access to much needed finance for charities and social enterprise businesses in Kent and Medway. We hope that the additional grant offering will encourage more organisations to consider this funding option.”

Mike Hill KCC Cabinet Member for Customer and Communities, said: “With the injection of further funding, it is now time for Kent to really get behind social enterprises and support them in their hugely valuable efforts in making communities better.

It is also an excellent opportunity for new organisations, who want to make a difference, to realise their ambitions to benefit individuals and local businesses."

Seb Elsworth, Chief Executive of Access said: “We are very pleased to be supporting Kent Community Foundation in being able to offer more social investment to help charities and social enterprises improve people’s lives and communities in Kent. This is a great example of a Community Foundation offering loans as well more traditional grants to be able to offer the sector the broadest range of support.”

If you are a social enterprise interested in applying for a loan, visit website to download and complete the Loan Enquiry form: www.kentcf.org.uk/apply/apply-for-a-loan

A Creative ChinWag for Kent Businesses

Members News

New KICC members, ChinWag Communications, chose the Maidstone Business Terrace as its HQ to offer award-winning marketing communications and PR solutions for businesses across the region.

Are you making the most of your brand? Does your company stand out in the crowd? Is your message reaching the right customers? ChinWag Communications specialises in partnering with businesses of all sizes across the region to provide branding, copywriting, corporate literature and Public Relations support.

The award-winning team of editor Sandra Diamond and comms expert Tony Foley combines more than 50 years’ experience in publishing and PR with a client

roster including Harrods, Emirates, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Glaxo, Dubai Healthcare City, BBC Magazines and HSBC.

They have written and designed brochures, annual reports, marketing collateral, customer and employee magazines, press releases and speeches for top execs. Their work has won them awards both nationally and internationally.

“The local business environment is exceptionally vibrant with developments such as the Kent Medical Campus, the Discovery

The importance of Being Brave

Just like every other year, 2018 will hold an abundance of challenges for marketing departments and to just do what was done last year which only achieved average results is madness and not particularly Brave is it?

Getting to the root cause of those challenges and finding that core insight, is the only way to create marketing that feels ‘true.’

When it works, it’s like an electric shock that goes not just to the brain but to the heart; ‘safe’ marketing, the kind of stuff that looks how you’d expect it to

look and says what you’d expect it to say, is marketing without insight – easy to make, and even easier to dismiss.

International marketing agency Brave Zone, which has a heritage in Sweden, launched in the UK in early October 2017 and is based in the beautiful Kent countryside. Spearheading the expansion are directors Chris Hedges and Bev Butler.

Chris said: “The marketing landscape continues to change and our aim is to help organisations become fearless when they approach marketing challenges.

“By immersing ourselves in our client’s world and combining Swedish creativity with detailed insight, we are able to make marketing budgets work harder and achieve greater results.”

Science Park and the impressive residential and leisure projects planned for the next decade,” said Sandra.

“We partner with companies to help them maximise their brand through quality PR and media communications.”

Added Tony Foley: “We were especially excited to have developed campaigns for corporations such as BT and Dubai Tourism which value the strength of creative, effective communications and which today are truly global brands.”

ChinWag’s experience enables them to support start-up companies with advice on brand image, corporate positioning and crisis communications. They tailor-make campaigns and literature to agreed budgets and collaborate with digital agencies to enhance your brand online.

Embracing the world of social media

When joining the Chamber, Kaz at the Chamber explained "You must get a Facebook and Twitter account.” I muttered “Er, why? Do I have to?” Kaz replied " Just do it.”

After 40 years of working within the Building Industry it would be fair to say social media is new to me.

The truth is I have avoided these types of media for as long as they have existed. The reasoning is simple, the negative exposure such as Social Media Influencers in the hope of making a million pounds by taking `selfies` and posing at different locations. Let's not forget the conflicting information, fake news, Click Bate and Cyber Bullying .... why would anyone join this Media Nightmare ?

I left the Chamber in a quandary, are there any positives ? After extensive enquires I have been very surprised to discover some of the positives for business from social media such as increased business visibility, Target Marketing, FREE Advertising, networking opportunities and even data analytics Now I'm beginning to see how these positives outweigh the negatives.

My advice to like-minded ‘Old School` Business People’ is to

harness the benefits of social media in a concise way, remember the work / life balance and don't let it consume you, or get a Social Media Manager.

I am now convinced that, if used correctly, social media can be a great instrument to enhance your business and a tool to share and help others. Three words made me think, research and discover. " JUST DO IT" Ian Martin of I W Martin, building painting and decorating specialists in Chatham.

Thinking Business

13

Be part of Avon's success Members News

Avon Products, Inc. is a manufacturer and marketer of beauty and related products.

Its product categories are Beauty, Fashion and Home.

Beauty consists of skincare (which includes personal care), fragrance and colour (cosmetics). Fashion and Home consists of: fashion jewellery, watches, apparel, footwear, accessories, gift and decorative products, housewares, entertainment and leisure products, children's products and nutritional products. The Company's products include Anew Ultimate Supreme Advanced Performance Creme, Anew Vitale Visible Perfection Blurring Treatment, Big & Multiplied Volume Mascara, Avon True Perfectly Matte Lipstick, Avon Life for Him and for Her Fragrances, Far Away Infinity Fragrance and Avon Nutra Effects body collection with Active Seed Complex. The Company primarily sells its products to the consumer through the direct-selling channel.

For more information and opportunities to be part of Avon’s success please contact Tacey Couchman. www.avon.uk.com

Quinn Estates helps skiing talent jump the funding gap

Quinn Estates’ managing director Mark Quinn is giving back to the sport where he first made his name, agreeing sponsorship deals for World Cup alpine ski-star Dave Ryding and two of the UK’s brightest future prospects.

Mark skied for the national team, going on to race on the international ski race circuit, before switching to pursue a career in ski coaching, becoming the youngest top qualified ski instructor and trainer in Britain.

He retired, aged 24, to realise an ambition to set up his own business in property development.

Twenty years since building Quinn Estates from scratch into one of the South East’s most successful property development companies, Mark continues to do all he can to support the sport that first made his name.

In addition to sponsoring Dave Ryding, Mark has also agreed sponsorship packages for British alpine skier Alex Tilley, and Para Alpine Downhill Champion Millie Knight.

These sponsorship packages will provide the three athletes with the means to buy equipment, fund travel and contributing to the team expenses, amongst other expenditures.

Mark said: “I am passionate about sport - skiing in particular.

As a former skier on the national team, I recognise the value of sport and am now in a fortunate enough position where I can support through sponsorship.

There is a lack of funding around many British winter sports, which can cause a huge added stress to our athletes. I’m hoping that our sponsorship will allow these three to focus wholly on their training, so they can expect the best possible results.”

Dave Ryding said: “It’s great to have someone like Mark onboard, who’s fanatical about skiing and obviously made a very good career for himself. To have someone like that behind you really is an honour. It gives you more motivation that people believe in you, that they’re proud of what you’re achieving and want to help you go forward I’m very fortunate.”

Quinn Estates have also recently been involved with The Telegraph

Ski & Snowboard Show, where they hosted a Q&A for Millie Knight, along with her sight guide, Brett Wild.

Millie said: “I think our sponsors generally know how hard we work but I think Mark, with his background in skiing, has an even better understanding of the dedication – and financial costs - that it takes to train competitively. None of what we do would be possible without our sponsors and it’s people like Mark Quinn who help to us achieve what we achieve.”

Likewise, in their property development, Quinn Estates have set the template for delivering regeneration projects with sports and community at its heart.

Their latest project, the Herne Bay Sports Hub, is an exciting new complex that will provide a new base for local football, hockey, tennis and cricket teams as part of a multi-million-pound investment by the coastal Kent town.

MP hails acts of kindness campaign

Damian Green, Ashford MP, visited the headquarters of national recruitment firm HR GO to celebrate its 60th anniversary.

Mr Green, accompanied by Jo James, chief executive of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, spoke to directors and staff at Wellington House, Church Road, and The Cedars, Elwick Road, both in Ashford.

The Cedars is head office of RHL, an HR GO Group joint venture set up 40 years ago and which has been in Ashford for the past 20 years.

14

Thinking Business

HR GO, founded in Dartford in 1957, has expanded nationally and now has an office in Poland.

The business has been marking the anniversary with a 60 Acts of Kindness Campaign.

Staff in Ashford and more than 40 locations across Kent and the UK, are raising money for good causes by tackling a wide range of activities. They include skydiving, sponsored runs, walks

and bike rides, and many hours of volunteering.

Mr Green visited HR GO shortly after the business reached its target of 60 Acts of Kindness, raising more than £47,000 for good causes across the UK. Mr Green told staff: “Sixty Acts of Kindness is a brilliant idea in this special year. You all want to work for a company that does things like that because it means you are part of the community.

Well done.

“It’s good to celebrate longlasting Ashford companies that are expanding. Having started in

Kent and now expanded around the rest of the country and into Europe shows the excellent level of service provided for 60 years.

It’s a huge achievement.

“It’s great that unemployment is so low but it means that recruitment is more important than ever to make sure the right people get into the right jobs.”

Jack Parkinson, company chairman and son of the late founder Betty Parkinson, said he was delighted to welcome Mr Green and Ms James and explain what had been achieved over the past 60 years.

BrandJuice - Virtual Agency

Healthy Workplace Update

offers new approach for Kent brands

With cost-effective and powerful branding and communications.

Having worked for over 25 years at London creative agencies the two partners who run BrandJuice, Duncan Barrow and Danny Phillips, felt some of their clients had been getting a raw deal.

So they left their shiny offices in Covent Garden and headed home to set up a virtual agency from Ramsgate servicing new and existing Clients in the UK and internationally.

“We’re on a mission to search out the most cost-effective ways to

deliver successful creative solutions. And that means ditching the expensive office and the rows of highly paid staff who we worked with in London.”

The agency doesn’t believe in a one-size fits all approach because they know each brand or company need a unique approach. And they deliver the best creativity by tapping into their network of talented contacts only when the Client wants that expertise. They offer a range of services from branding, web-

design and advertising all delivered with great value in mind.

“We know clients don’t like surprises so we’re completely transparent about our costs and fees.”

Now they’re turning their attention to Kent and Duncan is hitting the network circuit hard via Kent Invicta CC …so if you haven’t met him already, you may well do soon.

BrandJuice offers taster projects and consultations for Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce members.

Cripps support Teenage Cancer Trust with Triathlon Challenge

Law firm Cripps is well on its way to smashing its fundraising target for chosen charity of the year – Teenage Cancer Trust.

The charity provides life changing care and support to young people living with cancer across the UK. A series of different fundraising activities have been organised by staff from across the firm.

The latest event with a target of £2,500 for a ‘Triathlon Challenge’ included walking, rowing and cycling over 7,000 miles.This event alone has already raised over £3,100.

Inspired by last year’s ‘Get Cripps to Rio’ fundraising campaign, the Triathlon Challenge was to collectively complete the distance of the world’s longest triathlon 4,200 miles - within a six week period. So keen was the response from staff that this was achieved with two weeks to spare!

The challenge included static rowing, exploring the West Kent

countryside on the Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk and the Tour de Cripps cycling event – a 100km round route between Tunbridge Wells and Kings Hill.

Mollie Ferguson, trainee solicitor and one of the main organisers of the event said: “We are delighted that so many members of staff participated in, and supported this event. One individual completed over 600 miles on their own which is an incredible achievement!”

Senior Partner, Clare Hyland, who led the team on the Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk, commented “Our Charity Committee, supported by our trainees, have done a fantastic job organising this challenge and we are delighted to have raised a substantial sum to add to this year’s fundraising. We have a

number of other events planned for the remainder of the year which will help to boost the fundraising even more. Special thanks also to the local businesses that have helped to make this challenge a success”.

The Triathlon was supported by a number of Tunbridge Wells businesses including cycling café, The Velo House, bicycle shop Cycling Made Easy and cycling club – Southborough & District Wheelers. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, which maintain the route of the Circular Walk, also provided certificates and badges to the walkers who completed the entire walk.

People can still donate on www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/cripps-llp

Don’t fall foul of ‘Phoenix Trading’

It can be tempting as a director of an insolvent company to start a new company ‘afresh’ but if you intend to reuse the name, or a similar name, you may unintentionally commit a criminal offence if you do not have the necessary permission.

What is Phoenix Trading?

By way of illustration, Phoenix Trading will generally arise where a director of the insolvent company becomes concerned with the carrying on of a business using the same, or similar, name within 5 years of the company becoming insolvent.

Is there any way around this?

Liability can be avoided if the court has granted permission for the name to be re-used (before it is re-used).

In addition to this, the directors can be exempt from liability if; 1. The new company acquires the whole (or majority) of the insolvent company’s business under an agreement with the insolvency practitioner; 2. The new company has been known by the similar name for at least 12 months prior to the insolvent company going into insolvency and has been actively trading during that time; or

3. With the court’s retrospective permission within the statutory time limits.

As it is a criminal offence the consequences can be serious, including possible personal liability for the company’s debts.

It is important to obtain early legal advice and at Grant Saw Solicitors, Adina-Leigh Collins can advise you further in this regard.

Please do not hesitate to call on 020 8858 6971.

Close to Your Heart

Anne Hatswell Interventional Suite Manager KIMS Hospital

For most people, the focus of February is Valentine’s Day. Whilst you may be concentrating on the people close to your heart, do you ever take time to think about your own heart? February is also National Heart Month, a key time to raise awareness about the risks associated with heart problems.

Sadly, 70,000 people in the UK die from coronary heart disease each year1. Many of these deaths could be preventable if more people know the signs and symptoms to look out for in order to access the right treatment if and when they need it: • Heart palpitations – the feeling that your heart is fluttering, skipping a beat or beating too fast. This can signal many heart and blood vessel related conditions.

• Shortness of breath.

• Discomfort or pain in your chest, upper back and arms – also known as angina, this is often triggered by exercise but can occur at any time. These symptoms can also signal a heart attack.

• Weakness, dizziness and fainting.

Understanding heart conditions isn’t easy as there are lots of different types. So, having quick access to specialist cardiology services close to home is important. KIMS Hospital in Maidstone, offers fast access to the only private Interventional Cardiology facility in Kent. Its innovative technology supports a wide range of specialist treatments such as: angiogram, PCI stents, pacemaker implants, pacemaker box change and cardioversion. Consultant Cardiologists work alongside a dedicated cardiology nursing team, who care for their patients from diagnosis to recovery.

Keeping fit, eating a balanced diet and regularly monitoring your blood pressure are just a few important factors that can help keep your heart healthy. The cardiology team at KIMS Hospital can assess your heart, highlight any risk factors and offer advice on how to lead a heart-loving lifestyle. The outpatient services include: ECG, echocardiogram, stress echocardiogram and cardiac MRI.

To find out more about cardiology services at KIMS Hospital why not speak to the team: 01622 237 727 enquiries@kims.org.uk kims.org.uk/cardiology 1

Thinking Business

15

www.bhf.org.uk/-/media/.../heart-statistics/bhf-cvd-statistics---uk-factsheet.pdf

Spotlight on Medway

Spotlight on Medway

Growth for all

Chatham Placemaking project - Military Square

2018 represents an important milestone in Medway’s history.

It marks 20 years since the founding of Medway and the creation of the new unitary authority Medway Council, and 20 years that have seen the area transform into one of the most promising growth areas in the UK, laying the foundations for an exciting future.

Medway is already one of the south-east’s fastest growing areas. With Medway Council’s monumental 20-year regeneration vision and programme providing economic and housing opportunities, it is no surprise that the towns of Chatham, Strood, Gillingham, Rainham and Rochester are already acting as a magnet for a diverse range of businesses, property hunters and investors.

Not only does Medway boast the biggest regeneration zone within the Thames Gateway, but it is surrounded by award winning rural areas, as well as a river meandering through the towns providing the perfect recipe for a bustling university waterfront city.

Looking back over the past 20 years

Since the unitary authority was created in 1998, huge transformation and improvements have taken place. Medway already enjoys a world-wide reputation for its rich heritage, including Rochester and Upnor castles, Rochester Cathedral, The Historic Dockyard Chatham and Grade 1 listed buildings, such as The Guildhall, but the last 20 years has seen it catapult into a modern, successful area with an ambitious vision for the future.

The huge legacy challenges which followed the closure of Chatham Dockyard in 1984, including high unemployment, shortage of skills, a weak

16

Thinking Business

economy and health inequalities, have driven the council’s relentless focus on providing more high value employment opportunities and growing a skilled workforce. The dockyard and local area has been transformed and is now home to modern residential developments, retail, office and commercial spaces, as well as a university campus with more than 12,000 students.

What will the next 20 years bring?

Medway is set to become the most successful area of economic regeneration in the south-east.

The vision is simple, by 2035 it will become a leading waterfront university city. It is anticipated that the revitalised urban centres and riverfront developments will bring thousands of new people to Medway – with the population forecast to grow to 330,000.

Medway’s ambitious projects have secured significant government funding and, with the potential for a further £1billion of private sector investment, it is recognised as an area of strategic development by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).

Vibrant regeneration projects

Recognising that Medway is growing and that it has the potential to give its residents, businesses and entrepreneurs an enviable, prosperous future, is driving the council’s dynamic 20-year regeneration programme.

A major regeneration programme is already transforming Medway’s landscape, bring new homes and significant employment space, as well as a range of family facilities to enjoy.

Chatham Maritime and Gillingham Riverside are already being transformed, and Chatham is set to become Medway’s city centre.

The thriving town already has a lot

Leading the way for regeneration

going for it, from the breathtaking views of the River Medway to the iconic sites of the Historic Dockyard Chatham and Fort Amherst. After the council secured £4million from the Government’s Local Growth Fund, through the south-east Local Enterprise Partnership, the Chatham Placemaking project was formed. The improvement plans incorporate the public’s suggestions and bring together the best of the town. The improvements can be seen along the journey from the enhanced railway station to the town centre and through the modern waterfront bus station to the scenic riverside walkway.

Since the start of the project, which is due to be completed later this year, a number of new shops and restaurants have opened in and around the town centre. In addition, plans are underway to enhance Command of the Heights and Fort Amherst, using £2million of Heritage Lottery Fund - adding to Chatham’s charms.

Providing housing for all

Around 30,000 new homes will be built in Medway by 2035 to support an expanding population. A number of development projects have already been completed and many more are in the planning stages.

This year sees Medway’s flagship regeneration programme come to life. Rochester Riverside, which was granted planning approval last year, will see the creation of up to 1,400 homes, a hotel, primary school and much more.

The £400million development will help transform the area into a modern, exciting waterfront and will create hundreds of jobs.

The site, which stretches from Rochester Bridge in the north to Doust Way in the south, is a stone’s throw away from Rochester railway station and the historic heart of the town centre.

In Chatham, regeneration work stretches beyond the high street. Plans are underway for

Spotlight on Medway 115 homes at Chatham Waterfront. The scheme will transform the waterfront area and introduce new ground floor retail space. Designs for a development in Whiffens Avenue are also in their early stages.

Medway is leading the way in providing innovative housing solutions to suit the needs of its local population. One such example is the growth in popularity of modular housing and three sites are already under construction in Medway.

This type of house construction is 40 per cent quicker than traditional methods and from the day a pod arrives it can be ready to welcome new residents within four weeks. Plans are already being developed for 430 homes which will revolutionise the construction industry. Medway is actively encouraging the development of supporting factory units in the area and links to the University Technical College means that the need for a skilled workforce can be met locally.

New housing opportunities have also been created in Gillingham.

The town has one of the largest council-built energy efficient bungalow sites in the UK and the site was officially opened by the Housing Minister last year.

With an ageing population and increasing demand on care services, the council’s housing strategies have sought to develop solutions with partners that cater for local needs.

Leading edge initiatives, such as the award winning Centenary Gardens development and Extra Care schemes, are allowing older tenants, people with mobility needs or with a range of care and support needs to live independently in their own homes.

Medway’s affordable house prices, its proximity to London and local amenities are already drawing people to a better lifestyle than is now on offer in over heated London - it’s easy to see why Medway has earned itself the title of “London living without the price tag”.

Transport links to London and Europe

Medway’s location - just 34 minutes from London by train and close to all major travel networks and midway between the capital and continent means it is the ideal location for businesses, commuters, students and visitors and investment continues in improving connectivity and transport links.

Medway’s five mainline railway stations – Strood, Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham and Rainham – are all linked through high-speed services to London, making it an attractive destination for visitors and tourists.

Medway’s stations are benefitting from investment in an improvements programme; the latest, a £2.59million upgrade to Strood railway station

by Southeastern. This follows on from enhancements to Chatham railway station and the opening of the modernised Rochester railway station, which brings visitors straight into the heart of the historic town and walking distance from an impressive Norman castle and picturesque cathedral. Plans are also underway to ensure the road network is able to meet the needs of drivers living, working and visiting Medway.

The much heralded Lower Thames Crossing will create easy access into Medway from the M25 via the M2 and A2.

This will be a major catalyst to drive further economic development in the area, attracting more business, raising aspirations and putting Medway on the map as a place with great transport connections.

Medway is a centre of educational excellence

Medway is now a centre of educational excellence. It offers a range of outstanding academic and vocational learning opportunities. Four universities have campuses in Medway, including University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University, University of Greenwich and the University for the Creative Arts, and there is also a strong further education offering from the University Technical College and Mid Kent College. More than 80 per cent of Medway schools have an Ofsted rating of good or better.

Strong partnership links have been forged between educational establishments and local businesses enabling

courses to be tailored to meet employment needs. It also allows businesses to tap into first class research on their doorstep.

Today, following an active focus on a broader skills agenda.

Just 1.9 per cent of the population now claims Job Seekers’ Allowance compared to 20 per cent following the closure of the dockyard.

Business is booming in Medway

Medway’s business growth rate outshines both the national and south-east averages, creating great employment opportunities for local people. More than 14,000 businesses call Medway home, and with plans to build around 30,000 new homes and create 17,000 new jobs by 2035 and great transport network links, it’s easy to understand why Medway is making the headlines as the place to locate in.

The area is fast becoming known as a hub for high tech engineering and creative businesses and its proposed major business park, Innovation Park Medway based at Rochester airport, forms part of the North Kent Enterprise Zone.

The multi-site enterprise zone also includes Ebbsfleet Garden City and Kent Medical Campus.

Each site has an important role to play in the future of the local economy and the zone seeks to specialise in digital technologies, education, healthcare and life sciences, as well as engineering and manufacturing. The north Kent powerhouse offers a whole host of opportunities for high value, high-tech businesses looking for a well-connected base in the south-east.

Innovation Park Medway is expected to be a magnet for high value technology, engineering, manufacturing and knowledge intensive businesses looking to grow in a top, affordable location in the southeast. The 15 hectare site will offer up to 100,000m2 of high quality commercial space in a prime spot between London and the continent.

Medway is also focussed on providing employment land opportunities across the lifecycle of a business. The opening, last year, of the Innovation Studios Medway provides small and medium sized companies a sustainable, robust and affordable premises solution in innovative customised shipping containers which have been converted into office spaces. Almost £1million was invested in the project, with £600,000 of the build cost secured via the Coastal Communities Fund. The studios were an immediate hit with all of them fully let within the first month of opening. They complement the larger Innovation Centre Medway, which is now home to more than 200 businesses.

New businesses are regularly emerging in Medway, and one

Cont. page 18

Thinking Business

17

Spotlight on Medway

that has grown from strength to strength since opening last year is Copper Rivet Distillery, a niche gin, vodka and whisky distillery.

Medway is also home to a large number of well-known businesses, including BAE systems, Dovetail Games and Fountain Workshop.

Medway Council is known for taking a very proactive businessfriendly approach in everything it does. Businesses also have the opportunity to bid for millions of pounds worth of council contracts over the coming years.

19% of the adult population in Medway are still smoking; including as many as 1 in 3 people working in routine and manual occupations. It has been found that staff who smoke are more likely to be off sick, and spend on average 6 working days a year taking cigarette breaks. Smoking is therefore an issue that can cost businesses.

It’s not just smoking cessation services that are available at Medway’s Smokefree Advice Centre, as Michelle Saunders, Workplace Health Coordinator at Medway Council explains:

The Leader of Medway Council summarises

Medway’s future is looking rosy

Business is booming and with a rich heritage and vibrant leisure and events programme, it is no surprise that Medway is attracting people from all walks of life.

With a clear focus on supporting businesses of all sizes and providing luxury and affordable housing for the growing population, Medway’s plans to secure a successful future are well underway.

Health Help in the centre of Town

Medway Council’s Public Health team, known as A Better Medway, runs the Smokefree Advice Centre in Railway Street, Chatham. The centre is open Monday to Saturday and supports those who want to quit the habit for good.

“Our Smokefree Advice Centre opened in 2015, and is a great base for people to come and access our services from in the heart of Chatham town centre. As Chatham’s first Dementia Friendly shop, we started offering the full, free NHS Health Check from here in November 2017. Nationally more than 5 million people have high blood pressure and don’t even know it. This can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke and even dementia.

Taking up the free NHS Health Check can identify high blood

For more information on stopping smoking, please pop into the centre at 2-2A Railway Street, Chatham, or call us on the number below.

To book your NHS Health Check, text CHECK to 81066, or call our helpline on 01634 334800.

18

Thinking Business

Cllr Alan Jarrett, Leader of Medway Council, said: “Medway is proving it is not only an excellent place to live, but it has the right ingredients to help businesses grow. We’ve already seen thousands of new businesses flourish, as well as some relocating to Medway from London and further afield after seeing what Medway has to offer.

“Last year saw the start of a number of regeneration projects and I am looking forward to seeing the projects develop this year.

Medway already has a lot to offer, from the urban areas catering for diverse businesses to the rural areas offering an escape from the thriving town centres, but we will continue to explore further opportunities in 2018 to maximise growth and ensure Medway continues to be a great place to live, work, learn and visit.”

pressure and the risk of developing other cardiovascular conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease and stroke. Early detection gives people the chance to make lifestyle changes and literally save their lives.”

FREE NHS Health Checks are available for both smokers and non-smokers at the centre Monday to Saturday for all eligible Medway residents aged 40-74.

The check will assess your risk of developing cardiovascular disease over the next 10 years

For businesses who sign up to our Medway Healthy Workplaces programme we can also deliver these checks in the workplace.

Email healthimprovement@medway.gov.uk to find out more about the programme today.

and will consist of the following assessments: • a blood pressure and cholesterol test;

• height and weight measurement;

• questions about your medical history and that of your close family;

• questions about your lifestyle including alcohol, smoking and physical activity.

The service is completely confidential and you will receive the results of the check instantly.

Taking on new challenges

Business Profile

How did you start out in business?

I started my business life training to be a Chartered Accountant with a small firm – lots of jobs where a cardboard box of receipts landed on my desk that I needed to make sense of!

I enjoyed working with the owners of businesses and learning about what motivated them and the issues they faced.

I qualified as an accountant and decided that tax was an area that challenged and intrigued me so I made the move to a role in tax to study for my Chartered Tax Adviser exams.

Tell us about your past

Since qualifying as a Chartered Tax Adviser, I have specialised in corporation tax. I worked in the corporate tax departments of large accountancy firms such as BDO and Grant Thornton and worked my way up to the position of associate director. I especially enjoyed advising small and medium sized businesses that are mainly owner managed.

I dealt with the tax affairs of companies, advising on restructuring, repatriation of profits and all other issues that come under the corporate tax umbrella, including Research and Development claims for companies in various industries.

Tell us about the business

In the summer I was approached by an ex colleague as he had recently set up a Research and Development Tax Credits business that was doing well and wanted to expand geographically throughout the UK. We are the second of two satellite offices that have been set up and I am now responsible for claims covering the South East of England, although mainly Kent based operating out of the Innovation Centre Medway.

We provide assistance to companies in claiming research and development tax credits.

The research and development claims provide a means of reducing a company’s corporation tax bill or receiving cash back from the Government for achieving an advance in scientific or technological uncertainty.

Some of our current clients include those in the food and beverage, manufacturing and scenery industries. If your company is developing new products, technology or processes then the chances are you have a basis for a claim for Research and Development Tax Credits.

What do you hope to achieve with the new office and who will it serve?

I would love the office to become as successful in it’s first few years as our head office based in Haverhill, Suffolk has. The amount of growth experienced is phenomenal.

I’m also looking forward to enjoying the challenges that come with starting up a new, rapidly expanding business.

I’ve been on the other side of the fence and advised business owners how to grow and helped out with their challenges in the past and now it’s time for me to heed my own advice!

The aim for the South East office is to take on two new members of staff over the coming months. We offer tax training apprenticeships so the office would be two fold, to provide training opportunities for apprentices and to serve the needs of the research and development tax credits market in Kent.

What are you looking forward to in 2018?

The summer; I’m always cold! In all seriousness I’m looking forward to employing staff and mentoring them to help shape their career.

“I would love the office to become as successful in it’s first few years as our head office based in Haverhill, Suffolk has. The amount of growth experienced is phenomenal.”

Hannah Tilson Fiscale 01634 959063 www.fiscale.com Thinking Business

19

Big Interiew

Business enjoys success – Big Interview

Mark Regnier

Managing Director Direct 2 Communications Ltd

Rivals tend not to work with rivals for fear of losing out out on commercial advantages.

However, there is another way, one that sees rivals working together and one Kent business is reaping the rewards of adopting a more flexible approach to its competitors.

Rochester-based Direct 2 Communications Ltd, which is run by managing

20

Thinking Business

director Mark Regnier, believes in working with its competitors when the need arises, particularly if that guarantees a superior service for its clients.

Direct 2 provides a comprehensive range of direct marketing services to help organisations effectively communicate their message.

It uses marketing lists and helps companies put

with a little help from its rivals

As long as companies have done business, they have operated by the fundamental rules of competition. together cutting edge campaigns using methods including email, print and mail-outs.

Their clients include those in the education and health sectors as well as more general businesses.

Mark, who has worked in the field for more than twenty years, said: “I think one of the reasons for our success is our flexible approach to our supply chain.

“One of the things I believe in is working with our rivals if there is a need. People say ‘you’re mad, why would you work with your fiercest competitor?’ but I look at it in a different way.

“My view is that if a competitor has a database list that I need for a specific campaign then why would I not approach them and offer to buy it for the campaign?

Big Interview

“For me, it is about what works best for the client and maybe me offering an olive branch to a competitor can pave the way for other opportunities.”

“For me, it is about what works best for the client and maybe me offering an olive branch to a competitor can pave the way for other opportunities.

2012 and we are currently coming to the end of a twoyear introductory period aimed at giving businesses the chance to prepare for its official arrival

“It is very rare that a marketing company has inhouse access to everything it needs and I firmly believe that a flexible approach to our supply chain is a big reason for our success down the years.

Put simply, the GDPR relates to all organisations that handle EU citizens’ data – and Brexit does not impact on its implementation. This is happening whatever happens with the Brexit negotiations.

“We are growing as a business. We started out mainly working in the education sector but developed into health and some B2B work as well.

“Although they are our specialisms, we will try anything. We will not turn people away. I will never say never.”

As a businessman involved in data management, one of the biggest things on Mark’s mind is one of the biggest changes in data protection in years.

The European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will be enacted in May and will have a significant effect on any business that handles data, including information on those people and companies at whom it targets direct marketing campaigns.

The European Union first proposed the GDPR in

Driving the legislation is the EU’s desire to create international consistency around data protection laws so that both businesses and citizens can be assured that their sensitive information is protected.

GDPR also sets out to severely restrict the way in which marketers can gain access to personal data.

At the moment, digital marketing companies have to ask people if they’d like

to opt-out of receiving communications from them. However, under the GDPR, they’ll have to ask them to opt-in instead.

The result is that companies holding information will have to make sure they’re more transparent about what they plan to do with people’s details.

Mark said: “I am a little surprised that GDPR is still going ahead in the UK because I thought the Brexit vote would prevent that happening.

“GDPR is European Union legislation and we have voted to leave the EU but GDPR is happening in the UK and companies need to be aware what it means for them.

“Basically, GDPR seems to have been heavily geared in favour of the consumer.

It is about giving the

consumer choice and means that companies seeking to market to people will have to ask them for permission to contact them, which to my mind defeats the object of the exercise because you have already contacted them.

“Having said that, although it is another regulation for businesses to contend with, GDPR will make people think about how they approach their marketing.

“The ideas contained in GDPR are the kind of things that those using direct marketing should have been thinking about anyway.

“Are you approaching the right people with the right information? If you are trying to sells cars, you do not want to be sending marketing materials to a pensioner who no longer has a driving licence.”

SPECIAL OFFER

If you have found this article of interest, you may also like to know that Direct 2 Communications Ltd are offering a free Marketing Consultation to Chamber members. What’s more, you can test 500 records from their in-house databases for free, when you make contact with them in February or March 2018 – call 01634 263626 for more info or email mark@direct2communications.com.

Thinking Business

21

DIRECT 2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD Specialists in marketing to Health, Education, Government, B2B and Consumer

DIRECT 2 COMMUNICATIONS provides a comprehensive range of services to help organisations effectively communicate their message DIRECT.

We provide high quality marketing lists covering every vertical market. Combine our lists with cost effective print solutions, traditional direct mail handling facilities and state of the art email broadcast services. We are a one stop shop for all things Direct Marketing related, with many years’ experience in delivering successful DIRECT MARKETING campaigns.

Having recently joined Kent Invicta Chamber, we would like to extend an invitation to all its members. We warmly welcome enquiries from Kent based businesses and for a limited period are offering a free Marketing Consultation to Chamber members (1 hours consultancy, usually billed at £250.00 + vat). What’s more, you can test 500 records from any of our in-house databases for free, when you make contact with us in February or March 2018.

Please call or email for more details, we look forward to assisting you.

Health

Education

Government

B2B

Consumer

For more information on how we can assist with your direct marketing contact

Direct 2 Communications Ltd

D4 Laser Quay, Culpeper Close, Medway City Estate, Rochester, Kent. ME2 4HU Telephone: 01634 263626

Email: enquiries@direct2communications.com

www.direct2communications.com

education & skills

Hadlow Group Apprenticeships

Cover Feature

providing workforce solutions for the future as part of the Government’s Industrial Strategy

The UK Government’s publication of its Industrial Strategy white paper at the end of last year is still resonating with businesses, academics, analysts and apprenticeship providers alike.

Subtitled ‘Building a Britain Fit for the future’, the report focused heavily on the need for better routes into work and training and developing skills fit for a post-Brexit future.

With a plan to tackle the UK’s weak productivity – one of the lowest of the G7 nations – the strategy is aiming to offset any potential problems as the UK leaves the EU. A series of transformative deals are planned, focusing on four key industry sectors seen as having growth potential: construction, life sciences, automotive, and artificial intelligence.

As one of the leading providers of construction apprenticeships in the South East, The Hadlow Group will be one of the key players in addressing widespread skill shortages in that sector.

The Group, which has delivered apprenticeships in the region for nearly 15 years, also offers apprenticeships in Mechanical Engineering, Higher level qualifications and Business and Administration apprenticeships required by all commercial sectors.

The Group’s West Kent & Ashford College and Hadlow College were recently announced as two of the

714 Apprenticeship Providers nationally to be awarded a contract from the Government’s Education & Skills Funding Agency in the application process for non-levy apprenticeship funding.

The high level of demand for this much-anticipated procurement to fund apprenticeships was widely reported.

Paul Hannan, Group Principal and CEO, said: “We’re delighted that The Hadlow Group has secured funding for its apprenticeship delivery. Obviously, this is a massive achievement and a reflection on the quality of our delivery and levels of achievement as well as the excellent work on the original tender by our partnerships and contracts team.”

imperative in building a Britain fit for the future.

To ensure new high quality STEM apprenticeships and implement proposed T-level programmes, which seek to simplify what is currently a very complicated technical qualifications system, the government will put £400 million towards the funding of maths, digital and technical education, with £60m pledged to drive the take-up of apprenticeships.

As well as developing new apprenticeship standards in the STEM subjects, creating new opportunities for learners and businesses and boosting the national economy in the

process, the Institute is committed to reducing the under-representation of women in STEM. Ashford College alumnus Emily-Jo Howarth is one such example of how the tide is turning on this issue. In 2011, she studied a BTEC National Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering as part of an apprenticeship with Southern Water, returning in 2014 to study a BTEC Diploma in Mechanical Engineering.

She is now the Apprenticeship Programme Lead for the company, managing all of the businesses apprentices whether electrical, mechanical or water distribution.

Mark Lumsdon-Taylor, Deputy Group Principal and Deputy CEO, added: “We will be at the forefront of supporting the proposed increase in UK productivity and innovation demanded by the Confederation of British Industry.”

The Institute for Apprenticeships has stated that addressing the skills shortage in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) is

Thinking Business

23

Cover Feature

education & skills

She said: “I was working as an electrical technician within Southern Water and after 6 years on the tools, I then decided to look at a different career as I enjoyed the idea of nurturing people, as well as the engineering side.

Once I had qualified electrically and mechanically, I was able to follow my dream of running our company's apprenticeship scheme. Since I was an apprentice myself, I’d always wanted to look after the apprentices.” A clear case of the apprentice becoming the master?

The Industrial Strategy also highlights the need to transform UK food production, making it more efficient and sustainable, “putting the UK at the forefront of this global revolution in farming….[to] deliver benefits to farmers, the environment and consumers whilst driving growth.”

Hadlow College deliver an accredited, industry-designed, apprenticeship in Food and Drink Processing, which will be a key factor in driving this growth. The new programme will supply the highly-skilled young people needed to fill increasingly

24

Thinking Business

technical roles in the UK's successful agri-food industry.

Recognising that apprenticeships are a vital UK-wide vehicle for employer investment in their workforce, the Hadlow Group’s provision offers the complete package, working with employers in situ to fulfil the demands of the apprenticeship training programme.

As the experts in funding and paperwork, the Group does the hard work for businesses, ensuring they are able to maximise the return on their levy contribution, leaving them to focus on the business in hand.

Closing the productivity gap ahead of Brexit presents many challenges, and high quality apprenticeships are just one key part of the solution. As a training provider for one of the priority sectors of the Industrial Strategy, Hadlow is committed to helping young people develop the skills they need to do the high-paid, high-skilled jobs of the future. In doing so, the organisation will help propel Britain to global leadership of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

“The Institute for Apprenticeships has stated that addressing the skills shortage in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) is imperative in building a Britain fit for the future.”

education & skills

Cover Feature

Thinking Business

25

Cover Feature

education & skills

Campaign targets next generation of engineers

A pioneering campaign to transform the way young people see engineering and boost numbers entering the profession has been launched.

Ministers from across government are joining forces with engineers, industry experts and hundreds of businesses to change perceptions around engineering and highlight the scale of opportunity that careers in the industry hold for young people in the UK. 2018 is officially the Year of Engineering and will see a national drive in all corners of the country to inspire the young people who will shape our future.

Engineering is one of the most productive sectors in the UK, but a shortfall of 20,000 engineering graduates every year is damaging growth.

There is also widespread misunderstanding of engineering among young people and their parents and a lack of diversity in the sector – the workforce is 91% male and 94% white.

The new campaign is aimed at filling those gaps and changing misconceptions, and will see government and 1,000 partners deliver a million inspiring experiences of engineering for young people, parents and teachers.

26

Thinking Business

Activities will include: • a Siemens See Women roadshow aimed at inspiring women, including more black, Asian and minority ethnic girls, into pursuing STEM careers • a new children’s book on engineering from Usborne • the Science Museum and London Transport Museum will be capturing children’s imaginations with interactive exhibitions • schools will get the chance to go behind the scenes at Airbus to meet engineers working on the Mars Rover • Thales in the UK will be inspiring inventors of the future with robot clubs in primary schools • Sir James Dyson, through the Dyson Institute, the James Dyson Foundation and the James Dyson Award, will continue to invest in inspiring young engineers by providing opportunities to apply engineering principles to projects that solve real world problems

The campaign has to-level backing. Secretary of State for Transport Chris Grayling said: “Engineers – whether they are working on cutting-edge technology in aerospace, energy or artificial intelligence – are vital to the lifeblood of our economy.

“We want to show young people and their parents the immense creativity, opportunity and value of the profession. By bringing them face to face with engineering role models and achievements we can send a clear message that engineering careers are a chance for all young people, regardless of gender, ethnicity or social background, to shape the future of this country and have a real impact on the lives of those around them.”

Skills Minister, Anne Milton said: “I want to see everyone whatever their background, wherever they live to have a chance to get a rewarding career or job in engineering whether they come via a technical or academic route.

“The Year of Engineering gives us a great opportunity to work together with business to inspire a new generation of world class engineers. We want to build the science,

technology, engineering and mathematics skills that we need for a growing economy, as highlighted in the government’s Industrial Strategy.”

Crossrail Chair Sir Terry Morgan said: “The Year of Engineering will be a fantastic opportunity to inspire others to take a fresh look at engineering and show the range of opportunities there are for training and jobs in this sector.

We look forward to showcasing the role engineers have played in creating such an amazing project before the Elizabeth line opens to passengers at the end of 2018.”

Mark Richardson, Ocado Chief Operating Officer, said: “Encouraging more young people to enter the engineering profession is essential to ensure the growth and development of new technologies and businesses in the UK. At Ocado we build the world’s most advanced automated warehouses for online grocery, and we hope our involvement in this campaign will offer young people from diverse backgrounds a real insight into the exciting and rewarding life of an engineer.”

To find out more about the Year of Engineering, visit https://www.yearofengineering.gov.uk/

FAST TRACK DEVELOPMENT is a progressive consultancy and learning solutions provider to business and industry. We have a variety of service delivery products ranging from ready to run courses through to executive coaching plans and have an extensive range of training courses available.

Our areas of expertise include: • Leadership and Management Development • Organisational and Personal Development • Change Management • HR Management • Sales and Sales Management • Customer Service • Business Applications Training

Our mission is to be transformational in solving problems and in assisting our clients to achieve superior levels of performance and ultimately competitive advantage.

All of our trainers are highly respected and experienced subject matter experts and are capable of providing superior training solutions across a wide range of subjects.

We are committed to the success of our clients and provide a personal service focused on consultation, partnership and the bespoke needs of the client.

Our focus is to provide learning that generates both tangible and measurable outcomes that successfully impact upon business results and through our wide range of available solutions ensure that we meet your specific learning and budgetary requirements.

If you are interested in looking into Fast track Development further here is the link to our website – www.fast-trackdevelopment.com.

Should you be looking for support in the above mentioned areas then please contact us on 01474 719 036 or email us on enquiries@fast-trackdevelopment.com quoting code FTD2018 to receive a promotional discount of 15% on all day rates.

Offer ends 30th June 2018.

Cover Feature

education & skills

The importance of apprenticeships

IPS International is an Ofsted rated GOOD specialist Apprenticeship training provider and a leading provider of training and consultancy, operating across the UK with offices based in Rochester and Dover.

Business surveys have continually stated that Apprenticeships improve productivity, which means the quality of the service you deliver will be enhanced, as you can train your apprentice to do the job in the way you want.

IPS have found that being based in Medway, only 30 miles from Central London, we are in the heart of a large diverse range of businesses.

These businesses are within different sectors so that we can

28

Thinking Business

encourage to give opportunities and improve skill sets in their work forces.

The IPS head office is based in Medway City Estate, which means we can work with local partners like Medway Youth Trust, KATO and Medway Chamber of Commerce in helping to guide talented candidates to our local employers.

The area has a young, culturally diverse population.

We regularly visit schools in the

area to deliver Information Advice and Guidance (IAG) to students, to help them onto the career path they desire.

We try and make the process of recruiting an apprentice as easy as possible for both the employer and the apprentice.

We have an in-house recruitment department they can work with, and we also help to support apprentices,

helping them with their interview techniques. Being based on the Medway City Estate means we have a local bus service, Strood train station is on route and IPS have a large onsite carpark, so there are multiple ways to reach us and with the Medway 20-year regeneration programme being focused on we can’t wait to see more economic growth.

Visit our website www.ips-apprenticeships.co.uk to find out what Apprenticeships we can offer.

Cover Feature

APPRENTICESHIPS GREAT FOR BUSINESS

AFNOR UK, part of one of the world’s largest groups of accredited third party certification bodies.

AFNOR UK offers a broad range of certification services:

• ISO 9001 • ISO14001 • EMAS • • BS OHSAS 18001 • TickITplus • • ISO 27001 • ISO 20000-1 • ISO 55001 • • ISO 22301 • Risk Management

AFNOR UK offers a broad range of certification services:

L APPRENTICESHIP WEEK SUPPORTING NATIONA 5th-9th MARCH 2018 How can IPS support my business?

• Levy funded training and grants • Reduced cost of appren ce recruitment • Training to na onal standards

WWW.IPS-APPRENTICESHIPS.CO.UK

Certification offers certified companies and their customers a high level of confidence and satisfaction. It guarantees that a product or service has been produced to a consistently high quality and in line with good environmental practice.

We provide training:

ISO/Auditor training ; we offer accredited courses for lead auditors and internal auditors in quality, environment and non accredited courses.

Open learning for the power sector: a selection of courses specially designed to respond to the needs of those working in the energy sector.

Experience has taught us that staff training and awareness are key success factors when implementing a standard or management system.

Certification also offers internal benefits; it streamlines procedures and initiatives, freeing up resources and boosting costefficiency and continuous improvement

That’s why we have developed programmes to complement and supplement these processes using real-life case studies and experienced tutors. Our programmes are practical and hands-on to develop staff skills. From awareness to auditing, we can look after your training needs.

FOR CERTIFICATION: Tracey Leech Phone: +44 (0)1322 314855 Email: tracey.leech@afnor.co.uk

FOR TRAINING: Kerrie Cullen Phone: +44 (0)1322 314855 Email: kerrie.cullen@afnor.co.uk

www.afnor.co.uk

01322 314858

AFNOR UK Ltd, Unit 63, Basepoint, Dartford Business Park, Victoria Road, Dartford DA1 5FS

LET US HELP YOU DEVELOP YOUR BUSINESS Training for businesses and professional development courses at London South East Colleges

Arrange a

FREE consultation now!

We are committed to delivering the highest quality skills development in the region for adults and employers. From apprenticeships to professional development and commercially relevant short courses, we have a range of options to suit your needs. www.LSEC.ac.uk | e: commercial@LSEC.ac.uk | t: 020 8295 7072

Thinking Business

29

Polaris Training Ltd Where Qualifications Matter

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Ensuring your company is fully compliant

FLT Counter Balance

Fire Safety Awareness

MEWP (Cherry Picker) 1b, 3a, 3b

H & S at Work

H & S Principles

First Aid at Work

Emergency First Aid

Powered Pallet Truck (PPT)

•

Driver Safety & Awareness

•

All Master Driver CPC courses are delivered with easy to follow, engaging and informative training material.

Driver •

• • •

Our online, centralised database securely stores all training details. This allows you and your employer to keep up to date with the number of hours training you have completed so far and the content of training undertaken.

With over 190 Master Driver CPC Consortium members located across the UK, you are guaranteed to find a training provider, no matter where you may be located.

Upon completion of your training you will receive certification stating what you have learnt and where.

Finally, the RTITB Master Driver CPC Consortium guarantees you have received your training with a reputable organisation that has worked alongside RTITB in maintaining the high standards of training delivered within the industry.

A Dynamic Training Solution

Since the late 1990s, RTITB have monitored the development of the Driver CPC directive, launching the Master Driver Assessment program in 2000.

This initial program has evolved over subsequent years, resulting in the introduction of the Master Driver CPC Consortium in 2008.

Since its inception we have continued to improve on the Driver CPC training offered by RTITB, presenting a comprehensive, flexible and professional syllabus, developed by industry experts, that benefits drivers and employers alike.

But just how is this dynamic training solution beneficial for your individual needs?

Employer?

•

•

•

• •

The Master Driver CPC Consortium provides nationwide coverage, meaning your drivers can receive high quality training wherever your business is located.

The use of our secure online database allows you to obtain valuable feedback and reports on the strengths and weaknesses of your drivers, helping you to monitor the progress of your drivers and plan future training Our 45 Master Driver CPC modules can be delivered in a series of combinations, offering excellent flexibility and ensuring that your drivers receive training that caters for the needs of your business.

Our professional, informative and easy to follow training materials can be easily adapted to suit the specific needs of your business, thus providing flexibility and a service that is second to none.

Our professional and comprehensive syllabus, developed by industry experts, goes beyond meeting your compliance requirements. Our training could save you money, increase the productivity of your workplace and decrease downtime due to health and safety issues; in short, adding value to your business.

For further details contact us:

Polaris Training Ltd

The Nursery, Dunn Street Road, Bredhurst, ME7 3ND

Phone: 01622 671050 / 01634 374340 Mobile: 07557 475817 Email: info@polaristrainingltd.com

Training company champions a fair approach to charging

The Person behind the Business

Roger Hydes is a businessman with a hard-hitting message, one that challenges not just the training industry but other sectors as well.

Put simply, the Director of Maidstone company Polaris Training, which also has offices in Bredhurst, believes that training companies across the country need to take a hard look at their charging structures to make them fairer.

“That means that companies, particularly ones that are smaller and up and coming, find it easier to access the training that they need. We encourage small companies to group together to make up a training day, and divide the cost of that course between them, making it cheaper for all.

Roger’s tough-talking approach comes from his military background, which comprised 22 years in the regulars, during which he specialised in logistics, and 18 with the Territorial Army and as a civilian instructor to the M.O.D after he left the regulars.

“This is an approach that we use, including when we work with the Chamber, and by making our charges more consistent smaller companies are able to benefit.”

That experience developed in him a pragmatic ‘can do’ attitude and today he and his team of former military personnel use that experience to train companies in everything from forklift trucks and manual handling to health and safety, driver awareness, Driver CPC and first aid.

Roger acknowledges that the approach will not make him popular in every quarter but believes that once training companies think about the idea, they will come to accept its logic.

However, Roger is uneasy about some of the perceived wisdom when it comes to charging for courses.

He said: “Military personnel talk and think differently from civilians. In the Army, you delivered the same course to people wherever they were and made no distinction between different parts of the world in cost, equipment and training methods.

“There was no difference. If you delivered a course in the UK to ten students and the same one elsewhere in the world to 20 students, it was identical.

“And yet some civilian training companies are charging different prices depending on where the course is delivered, even if the content is the same.

“A course delivered in Kent might be one price, but the identical course delivered in Lincoln might be much more expensive.

“Although I understand profits must be made, that cannot be right. We must find a way to even out the system across the country. At Polaris, we do that by charging a standard rate wherever we are running a group course however many people are taking part.

You can contact Polaris Training to find out more about the company’s courses at: www.polaristrainingltd.com or call 01622 671050/01634 374340.

He said: “I know that not everyone likes what we are saying but our experience at Chamber networking events is that it is well received; people can see that it’s a fair approach.”

Another key belief that drives the company is its commitment to helping former armed forces personnel come to terms with life as civilians.

Roger said: “Some of them do not understand the civilian life, finding it complicated and long-winded.

Sometimes I still feel the same.

“What we are trying to do is to give former armed forces personnel a way of adapting to life as a civilian. It makes sense to use their wealth of knowledge and experience they have accrued during their time in the armed forces, using them in a self-employed capacity.

“We are giving them confidence and guidance along with the chance to build a career for themselves.”

Thinking Business

31

Global manufacturer invests in local economy Britannia Materials Handling appointed to Mitsubishi dealer network.

In that latest of a string of positive developments for Britannia Materials Handling of Ashford, the Kent materials handling supplier and service provider has been appointed the county’s authorised Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks dealer.

After a period of uncertainty, what was once a struggling company has secured new ownership and management in recent weeks – transforming its future prospects.

The company’s new ownership is a partnership between Red Diamond Distribution, the UK’s exclusive importer of Mitsubishi forklift trucks and Bronze Materials Handling, the South East’s premiere Mitsubishi dealer.

Bronze has been an authorised dealer of Mitsubishi warehouse and counterbalance trucks for more than 25 years. During this time, the company has maintained an exceptional track record: consistently demonstrating a high level of customer care and support to businesses in the Kent area.

Britannia Materials Handling’s new management team is led by General Manager Laurence Bond.

Laurence brings with him more than 30- years’ experience working in the industry – including 20-years working specifically with Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks.

He says: “Mitsubishi is the third largest producer of fork lift trucks in the world… and you don’t reach that level unless you’re committed to your customers and deliver products and service which are truly exceptional.

“Knowing that Mitsubishi is firmly behind us isn’t just good news for us. It’s great news for businesses in Kent who, until now, have not been able to reap the benefits of a committed, manufacturer-backed dealership.”

Announcing the appointment, Mike Jones, managing director of official Mitsubishi importer Red Diamond Distribution, said: “Like Mitsubishi, we expect our trucks, as well as our dealers to deliver the highest standards of quality, reliability and value for money.

“With an experienced management team and owners committed to support Kent’s growing economy, we are confident in Britannia Materials Handling’s ability achieve exceptional service.”

To ensure this, the company has recently created four new positions in its servicing department.

General manager Laurence says: “A fork lift truck is only as good as the support that accompanies it, so we are looking for three more exceptional service engineers for our team… and an outstanding service manager who will make sure our customers’ trucks are always running as productively as possible.”

To find out what Britannia Materials Handling can do for your materials handling operations (or your career), visit www.britannia-mitsubishi.co.uk or speak to a member of the team on 01233 714076.

Why supporting working Carers makes good business sense

Juggling the demands of caring and work can be challenging and 1 in 6 Carers give up work or reduce their hours.2 Many of these employees will be your most valuable staff, the 45-64 yearolds at the peak of their careers.

Changing demographics and an ageing population mean that 3 in 5 people will end up caring for someone at some point in their lives.3 With the number of Carers in the UK set to rise from 6.5 million to 9 million over the next 30 years, the proportion of working Carers is likely to increase significantly.

As an employer, recognising that there are Carers in your workforce and supporting them to manage their caring

32

Thinking Business

1 in 9 workers1 in Kent will be combining working with caring for a family member, partner, friend or neighbour who due to physical or mental illness, disability, age related difficulties or an addiction cannot cope without their support.

responsibilities can have a positive impact on both their lives and your business.

Supporting Carers in your workforce can: • reduce stress, health issues and sick leave • improve job performance • improve job satisfaction and staff morale • increase commitment to the organisation • attract and retain staff.

Organisations that have introduced flexible working and special leave arrangements for Carers have judged them a success. Their message is clear – it makes business sense to care for Carers.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service – supporting Carers in their workforce “Supporting the well-being of our staff is crucial. Not only does it help people lead happier lives but it improves productivity, reduces sickness and creates a culture of care and support. Well-being becomes more threatened when people are going through difficult times or are Carers looking after others who need their emotional and physical support. As an employer, we are helping our staff to manage balancing their job and their caring role with both compassion and practical tools such as Carers’ contracts.”

Ann Millington Chief Executive, Kent Fire and Rescue Service

Kent Carers Matter is a county-wide campaign developed by five Carer organisations.

To find out more about what you can do as an employer to support Carers in your workforce visit www.kentcarersmatter.co.uk 1 & 2 Employers for Carers 3 State of Caring 2017, Carers UK

Ask the Expert

Antonio Fletcher, Senior Associate at Brachers

The General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) provides some new rights for individuals and strengthens some of the rights that currently exist in the Data Protection Act 1998 (“DPA”).

If your organisation processes personal data, it must ensure that its policies and procedures provide for the following rights and, where applicable, how requests will be dealt with. The definition of “processing” is very wide and includes simply collecting, storing, using, making available and recording personal data.

The right to be informed The GDPR requires organisations to supply the

following information to individuals:

- identity and contact details of the controller of the data (i.e. the person or entity that decides how and why data is processed) and where applicable, the controller’s representative and the data protection officer (if the controller has put one in place); - the purpose of the processing and the lawful basis being relied on for the processing;

- the legitimate interests of the controller if these are relied on as the basis for processing the data; - any recipient or categories of recipients of the personal data; - details of any proposed transfers of personal data to third countries or international organisations and where applicable, the appropriate safeguards;

There is a lot being said about individuals’ rights under the GDPR, but what exactly are those rights?

-

the period for which the data will be stored or the criteria used to determine the retention period of the data;

- the existence of each data subject’s rights;

- the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner;

- whether the provision of personal data is part of a statutory or contractual requirement or obligation and the possible consequences of failing to provide the personal data;

- the existence of automated decision making (e.g. a credit check), including profiling and information about how decisions are made, the significance and the consequences;

- the categories of personal data held (where the data is not obtained directly from the data subject and is, for example, purchased as a mailing list);

- the source the personal data originates from and whether it came from publicly accessible sources (where data is not obtained directly from the data subject);

- the individual’s right to withdraw consent to the processing at any time.

The information provided must be: - concise, transparent, intelligible and easily accessible; and

- written in clear and plain language, particularly if addressed to a child.

The right of access

The right of access to an individual’s own personal data existed under the DPA but organisations must provide more information than was previously

required and must reply within one month from the date of receipt of the request without charging a fee.

The right to rectification

The GDPR requires organisations to ensure that personal data is accurate, kept up to date and is erased or corrected without delay when it is inaccurate.

The right to erasure (right to be forgotten)

This is a new right giving individuals the right to request organisations to delete their personal data in certain circumstances.

The right to restrict processing

This is a new right giving individuals the right to restrict data processing in certain circumstances.

The right to data portability

Individuals have a new right to obtain a copy of their personal data from the data controller in a commonly used and machine readable format and have the right to transmit that data to another controller.

The right to object

Individuals have the right to object to the processing of their personal data including profiling unless the data controller can demonstrate legitimate grounds for the processing which override the individual’s rights.

Where personal data is processed for direct marketing purposes, individuals have the right to object to processing for such purpose.

Rights in relation to automated decision making and profiling

Individuals will have the right not to be subject to a decision based

Ask the Expert

solely on automated processing, including profiling, which has legal effects on the individual or similarly affects the individual.

Organisations that engage in profiling activities will need to consider how to implement appropriate consent mechanisms to continue these activities.

The right to be notified of a data security breach

Where the personal data breach is likely to result in a high risk to the rights and freedoms of an individual, the data controller must notify the individual without undue delay.

GDPR Helpline

GDPR is proving to be a considerable challenge for businesses large and small.

Kent Invicta Chamber is pleased to announce that members can benefit from expert help and advice on issues related to GDPR from a new GDPR Helpline.

The GDPR Helpline is being provided by Kent Invicta Chamber Patron, Brachers LLP, a leading law firm in Kent and will be active until the end of March 2018.

Members are entitled to one query and up to 30 mins of free legal advice.

Further advice can be provided at a 10% discount from normal fees.

To access the GDPR Helpline or for further information visit kentinvictachamber.co.uk/gdpr or email GDPRhelplineT91@brachers.co.uk The service is open 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday on normal working days.

GDPR HELPLINE: Call 01622 776524

Thinking Business

33

Economy

Survey shows that skills shortage is the biggest economic risk for business

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has published its latest Quarterly Economic Survey, which shows that the growth in the UK economy remains subdued.

Based on the responses of more than 7,000 businesses, the survey shows almost all services indicators below their pre-EU referendum levels with the strong performance of manufacturers easing slightly in the final quarter of 2017.

The findings of the survey indicate the skills shortages are reaching critical levels. Of the service sector firms hiring, the percentage reporting recruitment difficulties rose to 71%, the highest since records began.

In manufacturing, the percentage of recruiting firms reporting difficulties is at its highest since Q4 2016.

In the manufacturing sector, the proportion of firms reporting improved export sales and orders fell slightly compared to the previous quarter. The indicators for domestic sales, employment expectations, recruitment, and confidence in turnover are also lower than in the previous quarter.

In the service sector, a key driver of the UK economy, growth remains muted and relatively unchanged from the previous three months, and is below historic averages.

The proportion of firms confident that turnover and profitability will improve in the next year decreased, and firms reporting improved cashflow remains low.

Both sectors have seen considerable rises in the proportion of businesses expecting prices to increase in the next three months. In the services sector, the percentage balance of firms expecting their prices to rise jumped to +36%, the highest since Q3 2008.

In the manufacturing sector, the percentage balance of firms expecting their prices to rise increased from +35% to +50%, the highest since Q4 2016.

The results emphasise the need to kickstart the economy by addressing the barriers to

34

Thinking Business

growth – in particular the growing skills gap – which is hindering the ability of companies to find the workers they need to develop.

Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “While there are many business bright spots across the UK, the evidence from the biggest private business survey in the country shows that growth and confidence remain subdued overall as we enter a new year.

“Labour and skills shortages are set to be the biggest potential drag anchor on business in 2018, since ultimately it is people that make businesses work. Business itself must do more – by training and investing wherever possible in people – but government must also give firms the confidence to put their livelihoods on the line and go for growth.

“This must be the year employers act rather than just complain on skills, and the year government delivers clarity, leadership and investment in people and infrastructure.

Kick-starting growth, and boosting wages and prosperity for all, depends on this.”

Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “These results suggest that GDP growth remained underwhelming in the fourth quarter of 2017. Services sector activity remains subdued with most indicators still below their pre-EU referendum levels.

Consumer-facing firms in particular are facing an uphill struggle due to negative real wage growth, which is continuing to stifle consumer spending. That said, the sector is still likely to have been the main determinant of growth in the fourth quarter.

“Following a strong showing for much of 2017, the manufacturing sector did come off the boil a

little in the last quarter, with most of the key indicators weakening in the quarter.

“The latest results also confirm that inflation remains a concern with a significant spike in inflation expectations in the quarter. While inflation is likely to peak in the coming months it is likely to remain stubbornly above the Bank of England’s 2% inflation target for a prolonged period, maintaining the cost pressures on both consumers and businesses.

“Looking forward, the UK economy is set to continue on an underwhelming growth trajectory over the near term with uncertainty over the impact of Brexit coupled with high inflation and weak productivity likely to dampen overall economic activity.”

Key findings in the Q4 2017 survey: Manufacturing sector: • The balance of firms reporting increased export sales fell from +29 to +25, the lowest since Q4 2016. Export orders fell from +24 to +20. The balance of firms reporting increased domestic sales fell from +24 to +23 and domestic orders from +21 to +18 • The percentage of manufacturers that attempted to recruit in the last three months decreased from 71% to 66%. Of those, 75% had recruitment difficulties.

Of these, skilled manual labour was the leading area of recruitment difficulties (68%) the highest since records began • The percentage of manufacturers expecting their prices to increase jumped from 35% to 50%, standing near historic highs.

The price of raw materials remaining the key driver, with 63% reporting it as a cause of price pressure (up slightly from the 61% in Q3)

• The balance of firms, confident turnover will increase in the next 12 months, fell from +51 to +44, while confidence in profitability held fairly steady at +33, down from +34 • The balance of companies reporting cashflow improvements remains low at +9, while the balance of firms investing in plant and machinery fell from +19 to +16, and investment in training held fairly steady, falling from +20 to +19 Services sector: • The balance of firms reporting improved export sales fell slightly from +14 to +12, and orders from +8 to +7.

Domestic sales rose slightly from +19 +20, while orders fell from +15 to +14 • The percentage of businesses attempting to recruit fell slightly from 52% to 50%.

Of those, the percentage of services firms reporting greater recruitment difficulties rose from 67% to 71%, the highest since records began • The balance of services firms expecting prices to increase, rose considerably from 28% to 36%, the highest since Q3 2008 • The balance of firms that report cashflow improvements remains low, falling slightly from +8 to +7. Investment also remains muted, with investment in plant and machinery standing at +8 (down from +10) and training +15 (up from +14) • The balance of firms confident turnover will increase fell from +40 to +36, the weakest since Q4 2016.

Confidence in profitability also fell from +30 to +27

HOW ARE YOU? Modern life makes it hard to be healthy.

Help your employees nd out how to improve their health by getting involved in One You Kent.

Keeping your workforce healthy, can help maintain productivity. It’s also a great way to show your commitment to your workforce.

Visit kent.gov.uk/oneyouresources to get started with our free employer resources

Health News

The new standard in asthma management is here

The NObreath® FeNO monitor, recommended by The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), is the essential tool for GPs and asthma patients to help improve asthma management.

On November 29th 2017, NICE published the final guidelines on Asthma: diagnosis, monitoring and chronic asthma management, to improve asthma care, which included the NObreath® FeNO monitor from local manufacturer Bedfont Scientific Ltd., as a recommended device.

Bedfont has specialised in the design and manufacture of breath analysis medical devices for more than 40 years and in 2017 their NObreath® FeNO monitor celebrated ten years of improving asthma management.

Jason Smith, Managing Director at Bedfont, said: “Using FeNO measurements to evaluate airway inflammation in asthma represents a significant advance in respiratory medicine that had been expensive to deliver in everyday practice, until now with the NObreath®.

“We are honoured to have worked alongside NICE to help improve basic asthma care. The NICE guidelines are often practised and followed around the world and now the guidance on asthma has been published, we expect countries to follow suit and measure FeNO concentration when assessing potential asthma suffers, helping to save countless lives.

“We will continue innovating and improving health and hope to have a homecare FeNO device in the future, which will enable asthma patients to monitor their FeNO levels anytime, anywhere, to continue improving asthma management one breath at a time.”

36

Thinking Business

Time to tackle the myths and taboos of the menopause in the workplace

With nearly two thirds of women aged between 50 and 64 in work, the menopause is a huge issue facing employers. It will affect all women – that is almost half the current working population – in varying degrees during the course of their careers. As a new report criticises businesses for a lack of understanding and support, employment specialist Amanda Okill, a Senior Associate at Kent law firm Furley Page, examines what more can be done. sweats, sleep disturbances, headaches and weight gain.

Psychological symptoms can include depression and anxiety, panic attacks, reduced stamina, vertigo and short-term memory loss.

With a general embarrassment surrounding the whole issue, this dip in effectiveness and/or high sickness absence due to menopause transition symptoms can lead to friction with the employer and even disciplinary hearings.

There is no doubt that the menopause can affect women’s performance in the workplace, with a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms proving overwhelming to those who suffer the most extreme effects. While pregnancies – another female-only medical condition – have become a core feature of HR thinking, this is certainly not the case when it comes to helping women going through the menopause.

So how big a problem is it?

A survey carried out last year suggests up to 25% of women going through the menopause are considering leaving work because of their experience, while two thirds believe they have no support at work. In my time as an employment lawyer, I can recall several examples of women handing in their notice without much of a fuss. With coping strategies such as ‘hide or manage symptoms without notifying others’, that’s hardly much of a surprise.

Some women are relatively unaffected, but those with extreme symptoms are likely to suffer from a reduced performance in the workplace.

Physically, women can experience irregular and/or heavy periods, hot flushes, night

There is very little case law around discrimination linked to menopausal symptoms, with Merchant vs. BT plc (ET/1401305/11, 27 February 2012) being the first successful employment tribunal case brought under The Equality Act 2010.

Ms Merchant explained, when disciplined for poor performances, that she was “going through the menopause which could affect her level of concentration at times”.

Her manager did not undertake any further investigations of her symptoms. The tribunal upheld her claims of direct sex discrimination and unfair dismissal, saying her manager would never have adopted this “bizarre and irrational approach with other non-female-related conditions”.

A new research report by the Government Equalities Office has criticised employers for a lack of understanding and support. Companies are keenly aware that negative, gender based stereotyping is bad for business, but there is great embarrassment around the issue of the menopause.

As a result, there has to be a cultural shift in all of our understanding in the future.

What can be done?

Strategic measures could include occupational health campaigns backed by management, a menopause sickness absence policy which is no more unusual than maternity leave policy, and the provision of informal support for women during menopause transition.

More immediate practical steps which could be put into place in any office or workplace could include: • Good ventilation and access to fans • Ability to control temperature (air conditioning or windows that open) • Clean, well-equipped and comfortable toilet facilities • Provision of cold drinking water • Lighter, non-synthetic workplace clothing or uniforms • Access to female-only showers • A reduction of exposure to noise, to help reduce fatigue • Quiet workplace rest areas

About Amanda Okill

Amanda specialises in all aspects of employment legislation, employee relations and dispute resolution. She is a member of the Employment Lawyers Association and an associate member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.

She is personally ranked by independent national legal guide, Chambers UK.

For more advice on employment issues contact Amanda Okill visit www.furleypage.co.uk

Looking after yourself

Following on from the last article that explored the importance of developing a mentally healthy workplace for your staff; this article focuses on strategies to look after yourself.

I write this in that back to work January period, invariably defined by bad weather, where thoughts often turn to the year ahead and what we look to achieve in our lives both personally and professionally.

We often start the year with well-intentioned resolutions about drinking less, eating better and exercising more to improve our physical wellbeing but we can often neglect our own mental wellbeing in our plans. So with that in mind, below are some things to consider for the year ahead that are simple to do and can really make a difference:

1. Leave work emails at work

In this 21st Century connected world where our workplace and social lives are never really switched off, we often find ourselves answering emails outside of normal working hours. Does working longer hours past 5pm mean we’re actually working better? We need to think about being kinder to ourselves in this respect; will the world stop spinning or is work lost because we leave it until the next day to answer an e-mail or just leave the work phone at work?

2. Reflect on the positive each day.

If you find yourself focusing on negative things, try this exercise. At the end of each day write down things that have gone well and why, it could be something you did or something that you have said or even a random act of kindness done for someone else, keep an ongoing physical record of this. This exercise can take a bit of time when starting out but with practice and perseverance it can help refocus your mind and make a difference in how you feel.

3. Get outside.

Consider this to be one of your mental wellbeing five a day and take a proper screen break. There is scientific evidence to show that as well as having physical benefits for us there is also a positive psychological impact which can reduce anxiety and stress through getting outside and taking notice of nature and the world around us.

4. Meditate.

As an ex-soldier, I had a very stereotypical view of meditation that involved beanbags, scented candles and chanting.

That was until I faced my fears and gave it a go. There are many different meditations that can be readily found on the internet and can be done in a short period of time, one of my

personal favourites to calm negative thoughts is the Body Scan meditation where you focus on each part of your body from head to toe and allow you to ease the physical tensions we hold each day such as a tight chest and sore neck. I found my productivity was better with a short meditation before I started wading through my emails each morning.

I spoke in my last article about things not needing to be ‘rocket science’ and with just a few minutes a day practicing one or all of the above suggestions we can feel better about ourselves, be more resilient to the stressors of modern life and be more productive.

Wayne Goodwin, Therapy Partners

Health News

Brachers reappointed to medical negligence defence panel

Brachers have been reappointed to the clinical negligence defence panel of the Medical Defence Union (MDU), one of the principal bodies that helps and represents GPs, dentists and other health professionals in medical claims against them.

Brachers has now been on the MDU’s panel for almost 20 years.

The firm has undertaken many cases across the south east, defending GPs and others clinicians from claims against them and also representing them at inquests.

The reappointment reflects our position as a ‘tier one’ clinical negligence (defendant) team in the highly respected independent guide to the legal industry, the Legal 500.

The MDU has warned that billions of pounds are haemorrhaging out of the NHS in clinical negligence damages cases and has been campaigning for legal reforms to ensure that compensation payments to patients remain fair, but also are proportionate and affordable.

Scott Alexander, head of Brachers Medical Defence team, said: “We are delighted to have retained our place on the MDU’s panel. We have a National Health Service to be proud of in the UK. GPs and other clinicians do a fantastic job, often with an ever-increasing case load in an aging population. We are proud to work with the MDU and to represent health professionals with claims against them, to ensure that all cases are fairly heard and that health professionals’ work is robustly defended wherever and whenever appropriate.”

Thinking Business

37

BCC: Securing a business-friendly trade deal with EU must be New Year priority International Trade

BCC and DHL release latest trade survey, focusing on priority markets for businesses over the next few years.

domestic inputs for imports in the short term, access to the European market will be crucial for firms to source components.

A future UK-EU trade deal must minimise barriers to trade says the British Chambers of Commerce, as it releases the results of its survey, in partnership with DHL, which finds UK businesses regard Europe as their primary trading partner for the coming years.

The results, based on the responses of over 1,300 businesses, found that over the next three years, the top two markets which most businesses plan to start or continue exporting to are Western Europe (44%), and Central and Eastern Europe (32%). Western Europe (36%) is also the market which most firms plan to import from.

According to the findings, UK businesses foresee the most significant barriers to trading with foreign markets as tariffs (46%), customs procedures (39%) and local regulations

38

Thinking Business

(20%). The results also show exporters’ strategies over the next three years will primarily be influenced by increased demand from overseas buyers (48%), exchange rates (36%) and the UK’s future withdrawal from the EU (35%).

Businesses looking to import say they will primarily be influenced by the lack of suppliers in the UK (43%), followed by exchange rates (41%), and it being cheaper to import than source in the UK or produce within their business (33%).

The results of the survey underline the importance of the UK and EU reaching a business-friendly trade agreement that minimises costs and trade barriers.

Europe will not only remain an important market for UK businesses to sell to, but with minimal evidence that UK businesses can substitute

Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, (BCC) said: “Europe is the UK’s largest trading partner, so it will come as no surprise that businesses regard access to European markets and products as fundamental to their medium-term trading strategies. Now that negotiations on the future UK-EU relationship are set to begin, businesses need clarity on the practicalities of the future trading relationship between the UK and EU without delay.

“High tariffs, cumbersome customs procedures, as well as conflicting regulatory requirements can deter firms from trading overseas – so a future agreement between the UK and the EU must minimise

barriers and costs, to allow firms on both sides of the Channel to continue trading as freely as possible.

“The devaluation in sterling seen over the past 18 months has been a double-edged sword, providing a welcome boost for some exporters, but a drag on many other firms, who report higher costs for their inputs and components.

While UK firms would like to be able to source inputs on the domestic market, our evidence suggests that swapping imports for domestic supplies isn’t presently an option for many.

If businesses can’t find or afford to source their supplies domestically, easy and quick access to foreign markets is crucial. Both the UK government and EU Commission must work together in the new year to move towards a frictionless trade deal that works for both British and European businesses.”

“Europe will not only remain an important market for UK businesses to sell to, but with minimal evidence that UK businesses can substitute domestic inputs for imports in the short term, access to the European market will be crucial for firms to source components.”

Port of Dover announces fifth consecutive record year for freight

International Trade

Freight volumes through the Port of Dover have reached record levels for the fifth consecutive year.

The Port handled 2,601,162 lorries in 2017 - up on the previous record by almost 10,000 units. It brings the total increase over the last five years to just under 650,000 units or 33% per cent.

This continued growth, says Port of Dover Chief Executive Tim Waggott, is proof that Dover continues to be the port of choice for hauliers travelling to and from Europe – the UK’s largest trading partner.

The latest figures, released today, also underline the need for a post-Brexit trade deal that ensures continued traffic fluidity at this crucial export/import gateway which handles up to 17% of the UK’s entire trade in goods worth up to an estimated £122 billion last year. As Europe’s busiest ferry port, there remains no substitutable capacity elsewhere in the UK to handle Dover’s trade volumes.

Mr Waggott said: “We offer supply chains the shortest sea crossing between the UK and the Continent and, as such, will continue to be the most efficient strategic choice for hauliers.

“The recent year-on-year increases in freight traffic through the Port and continued growth projections further highlight that this key trade route connecting

Ireland, the UK and the rest of Europe is vital to the UK’s economic prosperity as well as the rest of the EU. “With Brexit talks about to move on to trade, it is essential that all sides commit to the right solution to ensure fluidity at Dover and the wider trade corridor along with a more resilient strategic road network to support it. Jobs and livelihoods depend on it.”

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) – one of the UK’s largest trades associations, representing the interests of companies moving goods by road, rail, sea and air – echoed Mr Waggott’s calls on post-Brexit trade requirements.

James Hookham, the FTA’s Deputy Chief Executive, said: “The ease with which vehicles and their loads can pass through Dover and the French ports will be a big test of the post-Brexit arrangement.

With Ro-Ro traffic growing at the current rates, getting clarification on how any future Customs procedures at Dover and elsewhere will work is the top priority for European logistics and supply chain managers in 2018.”

Anastassia Beliakova, Head of Trade Policy at British Chambers of Commerce, agreed. She said: “It is great

news that the Port of Dover is setting records, demonstrating its importance as a route for trade with Europe.

“It is therefore now important to ensure that ports and businesses all across the UK get clarity as our trading relationship with the EU changes.

“The UK Government must ensure to maintain customs cooperation with the EU, minimise customs administration at the border, as well as commit to infrastructure projects that facilitate the flow of goods to and from Europe.”

And Jean-Marc Puissesseau, President-General Manager of Port Boulogne Calais, added his support for fluid trade post-Brexit.

He said: “Like the Port of Dover, the Port of Calais is expecting to confirm record freight traffic this year, with 2 million heavy goods vehicles passing through in 2017.

“Forecast growth in freight traffic on both sides of the Channel in the coming years proves that the Calais / Dover route, the shortest and most economical route, remains a strategic choice for the transport and logistics industry.

“It is essential for the Port of Calais and its hinterland that this traffic flow is maintained and that the ongoing discussions between Europe and Great Britain over Brexit ensure the route’s durability.”

“The UK Government must ensure to maintain customs cooperation with the EU, minimise customs administration at the border, as well as commit to infrastructure projects that facilitate the flow of goods to and from Europe.”

Thinking Business

39

24 Hours with ...

24 Hours with ...

Luke Quilter Sleeping Giant Media

Getting the balance right

Sleeping Giant Media is one of Kent’s business success stories. A company created

by Luke Quilter and Anthony Klokkou in 2008 and launched fully in 2009.

Lukes days are a balance between working with his team, maintaining important contacts and enjoying a home life.

The company, which has now been divided into three separate businesses, was created nine years ago and today employs forty three people, involved in specialist search and social marketing agency and digital training.

Luke said: “My day begins with a 6am visit to the gym, if I am feeling one hundred per cent, then I go home to

check any urgent emails and attend to family life.

“I think it is important to maintain that work-life balance so I do the school run, dropping off at the childminder, that kind of thing.

“I will get into the office about 8.45-9am and the first thing I will do is catch up with the teams. It’s not a case of managing them, rather seeing if I am needed then once that is done I can get on with my own work.

“Although we are a digital business, I believe that there is a lot of value in meeting people face to face, which is why I attend as many networking events as I can and keep up with friends who are involved in business.

“I am in a few groups, which allows me to keep up with people and raise awareness about what we do.

“Business has been going really well. We have just come to the end of our financial year, which saw us record a hundred per cent uplift in profit over the twelve months.

“One of the reasons for that was the success of one of our new businesses, Giant Campus, which specialises

in helping people develop the digital skills that they need.

“We were approached to write content for Google’s Digital Garage, which is used by four and a half million people worldwide. We are still working with Google, which has been good for us.

“I try to be disciplined about what time I leave work at the end of the day because family life is important to me so I will try to leave at 5.45-6pm so that I can be back for bedtime.

“After that, I may have half an hour to follow up on some urgent things that have come in on email then it’s off to bed ahead of doing it all over again the next day!”

“I spend quite a lot of time in London, either seeking new work or catching up with clients. Quite a few of our clients are based in London and we have a lot in Kent as well as those in other parts of the UK.

“Business has been going really well.

We have just come to the end of our financial year, which saw us record a hundred per cent uplift in profit over the twelve months.”

Thinking Business

41

Events

Kent Invicta Chamber Events

Visit www.kentinvictachamber.co.uk/events

Email events@kentinvictachamber.co.uk

Call 01233 503838

Trading with New Markets – Appointing & Working with Agents & Distributors Overseas Understanding the differences between Agents and Distributors and which is more suitable to products or services. Motivating good performance and monitoring outputs.

(With particular reference to planning for a post Brexit world).

International Events

(National Accredited Trade Training)

Part of the 10 core courses accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce.

Candidates achieving pass or merit in any of the courses will receive a certificate.

Those who pass 6 courses will receive a nationally recognised Foundation Award in International Trade.

Chamber Members Non-members

8:30am – 12:45pm

£75.00 + VAT

£95.00 + VAT

Tea/Coffee & Light Breakfast included in cost.

42

Thinking Business

Delegates will be able to Select, Appoint and Work with Overseas Representatives to maximise potential Sales in Export Markets.

Managing Directors, Sales Directors, Sales Managers and Sales Representatives. Personnel traveling overseas on behalf of the company conducting sales. Sales Personnel involved in an administrative and support capacity.

22nd February 2018 Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Ashford Business Point, Waterbrook Avenue, Sevington, Ashford, TN24 0LH

Methods of Payment in International Trade for Exporters and Importers 22nd March 2018 Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Ashford Business Point, Waterbrook Avenue, Sevington, Ashford, TN24 0LH See website for further details.

Kent Construction Focus Group (KCFG) Breakfast

Join us for a KCFG meeting where future plans and developments in Kent are discussed with businesses involved in the construction industry.

This event is only open to those in Kent and in the construction industry.

6th March 2018 Village Hotel Maidstone Castle View, Forstal Rd, Maidstone, ME14 3AQ 7:30am – 9:30am KCFG Members

KCFG Non-members

£15.00 + VAT

£25.00 + VAT

Full English Breakfast included in cost.

Muesli Mafia Breakfast Networking Come along to these informal business 2 business events in a congenial and relaxed atmosphere. Local business people can get together, enjoy mutual fellowship, share their good news, views and discuss topics of mutual interest.

9th March 2018 Ashford International Hotel Simone Weil Avenue, Ashford, TN24 8UX 7:30am – 9:30am

Chamber Members

Non-members

£20.00 + VAT

£25.00 + VAT

Full English Breakfast or muesli alternative included in cost.

Events

Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce South Kent Roadshow

Your business can benefit from over 30 FREE and discounted business services.

Be part of the Ultimate Business Support Network in Kent. Accredited to the British Chambers of Commerce we give you the best of both worlds, local,

county and national support & representation.

If you are looking for a reason why you should join or whether to renew your membership, come along and meet our Service Partners to ensure you are aware of all benefits available to you and your employees.

20th February 2018

Julie Rose Stadium

1864a Willesborough Road, Kennington, Ashford, TN24 9QX

10:00am – 1:00pm (Pop in anytime) FREE to attend

Breakfast Networking “Behind the Scenes” at the Marlowe Theatre Join us and other Kent businesses at The Marlowe Theatre, one of Kent’s most popular theatre venues.

Come along to one of our popular ‘casual’ networking events. The informal atmosphere and relaxed environment is the ideal place to relax and chat to fellow business people.

FREE to attend & no booking required.

Just turn up!

6:00pm – 7:30pm

13th February 2018 Burlington Hotel 3-5 Earls Avenue, Folkestone, CT20 2HR 13th February 2018 Jarmans Solicitors 3rd Floor, Bell House, Bell Road, Sittingbourne, ME10 4DH

15th February 2018 KIMS Hospital Clydesdale Bank Building, Newnham Court Way, Weavering, Maidstone, ME14 5FT

21st February 2018 Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel, 36 New Dover Road, Canterbury, CT1 3DU

1st March 2018 Bridgewood Manor Hotel, Nr Blue Bell Hill, Walderslade Woods, Chatham, ME5 9AX

Arrival at the Box Office Counter will be followed by bacon rolls with tea and coffee, giving you the opportunity to network and make new connections with fellow business people. After this, we are pleased to offer a backstage ‘behind the scenes’ tour!

Following redevelopment between 2009 and 2011, The Marlowe Theatre boasts 1,200 seats over three levels. The set of the smash-hit Broadway and West End musical ‘Legally Blonde’ (based on the wellloved movie) will provide a focal point for the backstage tour.

After Hours Club

6th March 2018 Conningbrook Hotel, Canterbury Road, Ashford, TN24 9QR 8th March 2018 Margate Football Club, Hartsdowns Road, Margate, CT9 5QZ

21st March 2018

Marlowe Theatre The Friars, Canterbury, CT1 2AS 8:00am – 10:00am Chamber Members Non-members

£8.25 + VAT £28.25 + VAT

28th March 2018 Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel, 36 New Dover Road, Canterbury, CT1 3DU

3rd April 2018 Conningbrook Hotel, Canterbury Road, Ashford, TN24 9QR

10th April 2018 Burlington Hotel, 3-5 Earls Avenue, Folkestone, CT20 2HR Thinking Business

43

Four member services for your protection and peace of mind

Members Benefits

Did you know? As a member you have FREE access to FOUR essential business services

Advice Line

One number giving unlimited access to experienced advisers offering practical advice on HR, employment law, health & safety, legal issues plus tax and VAT matters.

Website

Access to over 750 free template documents covering HR, employment law, health and safety and legal matters.

The website also includes HR and H&S Health Checks.

You need to manage your employment affairs; there may be consequences if you don’t.

This is why you need HR support – whilst the threat of financially crippling employment tribunals has diminished there are still many pitfalls facing employers and they can have serious financial consequences. All employers should be aware of these threats and if you need advice on how to avoid the unpalatable results please call the Advice Line and get practical advice from the HR advisers.

Why should a Sole Trader use these services?

• Access to advice on any legal matter affecting your business including contract disputes, licence protection and more • Advice on your rights and what you can do to help get money from clients who are slow at settling your invoices • If you are having any issues with your landlord you can access all the advice you need to get the resolution you need • If you are ever considering employing or working with someone you can access the advice and documents you need • Access to advice to help you deal with any disputes with your clients

Why should a smallto-medium business use these services?

• Advice to help with a wide range of subjects including absenteeism, disputes, recruitment, annual leave, legislation plus a HR health check • Advice on any business legal matter including contracts, company law, property director or client disputes • Advice on tax or VAT matters including HMRC investigations, property, VAT registration, exemptions and more • Access to over 250 free documents covering risk assessments, policies, regulations plus a H&S gap analysis • Access to free documents you can use to create your own contracts of employment and employee handbook.

Why should a Large Company use these services?

• In the complex world of employment law and HR the advice line enables you to sense check you are doing the right thing • A resource library with over 750 free templates to use and keep your own documents up to date • Keep updated with latest news and changes in legislation • If you need help with complex cases then the enhanced services can help you with things such as difficult disciplinary issues • If you are thinking of outsourcing any elements of your HR system then the team of experts are able to help you

For more information visit www.kentinvictachamber.co.uk/membership/membership-benefits or call the Advice Line on 01455 852037 or Client Services on 01455 852128 Thinking Business

45

Business News

New M20 junction will be a catalyst for economic growth in Ashford

A £104 million project to create a new motorway junction on the M20 at Ashford in Kent has been granted development consent by the Government. J10a will be built 700 metres east of the existing junction 10.

Responding to the announcement by Secretary of State for Transport Chris Grayling, Cllr Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, said: “This is yet more extremely good news for the town and another example of the momentum in Ashford’s transformation. Our Big 8 projects are all moving forward and the future is looking very bright indeed.

“Ashford Borough Council has long campaigned for the delivery of extra road transport capacity to cater for the town’s future needs. Junction 10a is another piece of the borough’s integrated transport infrastructure jigsaw to fall into place.

“The Government's decision to approve the long-awaited junction will be a catalyst for economic and commercial development in Ashford, creating job opportunities and improving the infrastructure of the town.”

Jo James, Chief Executive of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, described the announcement as “fantastic news”.

She said, “So much economic activity has been locked up while we waited for this project to come forward and with this announcement today the brakes will finally come off these investments.

This is a wonderful day for Ashford.”

46

Thinking Business

Lower Thames Crossing’s £8bn economic benefit welcomed

Businesses from across Essex and Kent have been encouraged

by Highways England, the organisation delivering the new Lower Thames Crossing, to start preparing for an £8 billion boost to the South East economy.

At an event organised by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP), more than a hundered senior representatives from business and local authorities saw Highways England provide an animated fly-through of the 13 mile route connecting the M25 in Essex and the A2 in Kent.

The £4.4 - £6.2 billion crossing east of Gravesend and Tilbury is expected to provide £8 billion in economic benefits, along with the creation of 6,000 jobs and training opportunities. It will also create prospects for further growth in housing, and support international trade by connecting to the Port of Tilbury and improving transport links to the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel in Kent.

The SELEP ‘Robots, Routes, Revenue’ event welcomed Tim Jones, Highways England Project Director for the Lower Thames Crossing, who provided an update including recent route design changes.

Before unveiling the animation at the event, Mr Jones said: “We are working closely with local businesses, communities and authorities to ensure we make the most of the new crossing’s potential to unlock economic growth, provide more jobs and homes, and improve access to leisure and retail opportunities.

“The Lower Thames Crossing offers a once in a generation opportunity to significantly improve connections between Essex Thurrock and Kent, and I know the businesses at today’s event are keen to support us in helping to fully realise the benefits this crossing will bring.”

The update on the Lower Thames Crossing coincided with SELEP’s work on its Strategic Economic Plan,

designed to drive forward the economy of Kent, Essex and East Sussex.

Christian Brodie, Chairman of SELEP, added: “For an area to grow and prosper it must have a vision and know where it wants to be, and that is why we are updating the Strategic Economic Plan.

“We must invest in our roads, rail and airports in order to help attract new businesses and jobs, and create an environment that stimulates economic growth.

“If we are to improve our productivity we must invest in our people, our places and our products, and it is imperative we bring forward investment in our infrastructure.”

The Lower Thames Crossing will be the UK’s largest road scheme project and add an extra 70 per cent traffic capacity across the Thames east of London. It will deliver the largest diameter road tunnel in the UK and ease the pressure on the existing Dartford Crossing.

The current Dartford Crossing handles 55 million journeys a year, six million more than it was designed for and suffers closures almost every day due to traffic incidents.

The Lower Thames Crossing design updates in Essex will see changes to the proposed junction with the M25 between junctions 29 and 30.

It aims to provide a safer junction with greater capacity that also blends better with the local landscape.

The junction of the A13 has also been redesigned to improve traffic flows and the junction with the A128 has been removed. Concerns from the local community about the effects of a junction at Orsett Cock on local roads and traffic levels has led to changes to the link to the A13.

A new junction and link road at Tilbury is included in the proposals following widespread support for the investment in order to boost the local and regional economy by improving the connections to the Port of Tilbury. Highways England believes the junction changes proposed for Tilbury will reduce HGV traffic on local roads.

Highways England is also proposing that the route between the A13 in Essex and A2 in Kent is three lanes in both directions and through the tunnels. This will involve widening the A2 to junction 1 of the M2 near Shorne to improve traffic flows.

The proposed junction with the A226 has also been removed following feedback from residents and businesses that it would increase local traffic in the area.

“If we are to improve our productivity we must invest in our people, our places and our products, and it is imperative we bring forward investment in our infrastructure.”

Business News

Unique position drives growth in Kent and Medway, says Kent Property Market Report 2017

Affordability and accessibility to London and Europe are driving strong growth in key commercial sectors in Kent and Medway, according to the Kent Property Market Report 2017.

Produced by Caxtons Chartered Surveyors, Kent County Council and Locate in Kent, the report was launched at the Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel.

The report says that the strength of the UK economy coupled with the county’s unique position and comparative affordability are driving the growth of Kent and Medway’s office, business park and industrial sectors.

There is also a high level of activity in housing markets, with a strong message going out to residential developers that the county is open for business and an attractive place to deliver new homes.

It adds that while Kent and Medway are not immune to the economic uncertainty caused

by Brexit, business activity and occupier demand remain robust and have spread across the county in the last year.

The report finds that the Industrial and Distribution sector has seen short-term benefits from the EU referendum result with the sharp fall in Sterling boosting

exports. Strong demand and a dearth of development in the last decade contributed to an average prime rent rise in Kent and Medway of 9.4% in the last year.

Many of the county’s historic towns are finding it challenging to provide quality office space, a problem exacerbated by the on-going conversion of offices to residential use through permitted development rights with centres such as Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Dartford and Tunbridge Wells all seeing available stock reduced. This is driving rental growth across many of the county’s towns.

Business parks have performed robustly, the report says, with rents largely staying stable. The launch of the North Kent Enterprise Zone taking in Kent Medical Campus, parts of Ebbsfleet Garden City and Innovation Park Medway at Rochester Airport has helped evolve and deepen the county’s science and medical expertise, building confidence for further development.

Kent and Medway has seen a marked improvement in retail performance and towns with an expanding residential base such as Maidstone, Tonbridge and Dartford are seeing good demand, high streets in West Kent continue to perform well.

The report also reveals that between September 2016 and September 2017, Locate in Kent, the county’s investment promotion agency, helped 56 companies find property amounting to 65,314m2 (703,039ft2) in the county,

compared to 45,193m2 (486,462ft2) in 2016.

Ron Roser, Chairman of Caxtons, said that in its fifth year as main sponsor of and contributor to the Kent Property Market Report, he was delighted that research showed Kent was in a positive position.

The Kent Property Market Report is supported by Clague Architects, Cripps, DHA Planning, Kreston Reeves, Handelsbanken and RICS.

“The launch of the North Kent Enterprise Zone taking in Kent Medical Campus, parts of Ebbsfleet Garden City and Innovation Park Medway at Rochester Airport has helped evolve and deepen the county’s science and medical expertise, building confidence for further development.”

Thinking Business

47

Welcome to our new members

New Members

2Plan Wealth Management Chatham 0113 302 1360 www.2plan.com Independent Financial Advisor Acer Projects Ltd Goudhurst 01580 211434 www.acerprojects.com Building Groundworks Landscaping

Barclays Bank Plc (Medway) Chatham 0345 605 2345 www.barclays.com Business Banking BlĂŠ Boutique Ashford 01233 625656 www.blessingbyble.com Event Management

Bluebird Care (Ashford) Ashford 01233 501222 www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/Ashford High Quality Homecare and Support for Customers in their own homes British Racing & Sports Car Club Borough Green 01732 780100 www.brscc.co.uk Motorsport

British Wireless for the Blind Fund Maidstone 01622 754757 www.blind.org.uk Charity

48

Thinking Business

Cameo Innovations Limited Rochester 020 3745 6111 www.cameoinnovations.com Business Technology Consultancy Capital Books (UK) Limited Maidstone 01622 754927 www.capital-books.co.uk Chartered Accountants & Insolvency Practitioners

ChinWag Communications Maidstone 01622 239304 www.chinwagcomms.co.uk Marketing Communications and PR

Chips and Dinks Sittingbourne 07802 323617 www.chipsanddinks.co.uk Hard Surface Repairs in Homes, Business & Cars Corporate Counsel Ltd Bexley 07973 428139 www.corporate-counsel.co.uk Business Growth, Sales & Marketing Custodian Data Centres Ltd Maidstone 01622 230382 www.custodiandc.com Data Centre, Internet Service Provider Dragon Coworking Ltd Rochester 07795 462588 www.dragoncoworking.co.uk Office Solutions/Supplies

F J M Plumbing & Heating Ltd Ditton 01622 913007 www.fjmplumbingandheating.co.uk Consumer/Domestic Services

Flip Out Chatham Chatham 01634 912207 www.flipout.co.uk/chatham Indoor Trampoline Park

Hawden Associates Ltd Faversham 01795 538527 www.hawdenassociates.co.uk Building Services Design Consultancy

Hidden Gem Associates Margate 020 7294 7599 www.hiddengemassociates.co.uk Freelance Personal Assistant I W Martin and Son Ltd Chatham 01634 307363 www.iwmartinandson.co.uk Construction INVVU.co.uk Folkestone 01303 850808 www.invvu.co.uk Construction

La De Da Boutique Broadstairs 01843 863524 www.ladedaboutique.co.uk Bespoke Clothing LN2X Group Ltd London 020 3322 9095 www.ln2x.com/en Payment Security Training

New Members

Maidstone Churches Winter Shelter Maidstone 01622 296450 www.maidstoneshelter.org.uk Charity - Winter Shelter for the Homeless Population of Maidstone Metro Bank (Canterbury) Canterbury 020 3402 8000 www.metrobankonline.co.uk Banking Ming Foods Ltd Swanley 01322 332888 www.mingfoods.co.uk Food Manufacturer

Motor Republic (Kent) Tenterden 01797 360225 www.motorrepublic.com Vehicle Leasing and Procurement One Healthcare Ltd Ashford 01233 423000 www.onehealthcare.co.uk Healthcare/Hospital

P2P Solutions Partnership Ltd Staplehurst 01580 441259

www.p2p-solutions-partnership.co.uk

IT Consultancy and Recruitment Services

Pentagon Shopping Centre Chatham 01634 405388 www.pentagonshoppingcentre.co.uk Shopping Centre

Pettit Group Ltd Sandwich 01304 802720 www.pettitsgroup.com Construction

Strata Ashford 01233 239450 www.strata-bk.co.uk Bookkeeping

Physalis Design London 020 8857 6930 www.physalisdesign.co.uk Landscape Architecture and Planning

Swinton Business Dartford Dartford 01322 473418 www.swinton.co.uk/business/ local-offices/dartford-swintonbusiness Commercial Insurance

Safe Hands Property Management Ltd Canterbury 07799 055565 mail@safehandsproperty management Private and Commercial Property Maintenance

The Video News Company Ltd Chatham 020 8004 9200 www.onlinetvgroup.com Video/TV Production & Training

R Durtnell & Sons Limited Westerham 01959 564105 www.durtnell.co.uk Construction

TDM Recruitment Group Ltd Faversham 01795 531934 www.tdm-recruitment.com Construction and Residential Property Recruitment

UK Battery Sales Sandwich 01304 619000 www.ukbatterysales.co.uk Battery Sales and Distribution

Scarab Sweepers Ltd Tonbridge 07720 069916 www.scarab-sales.com Manufacture, Sales and Support of Road Surface Cleaning Machines and Supply of Associated Services

Veritas Fire Support Services Suffolk 07831 222767 Comprehensive Life Safety Fire Assessment & Protection

South East Water Choice Snodland 0333 000 0088 www.waterchoice.co.uk Water Retailing

Yo Net Maidstone 01622 205669 www.yonet.co.uk Web Design

SME Business Finance Faversham 01795 538029 www.smebf.co.uk Finance Management

Westbray Property Chatham 0333 335 0138 www.westbrayproperty.co.uk Property Services

Thinking Business

49

Business News

Custodian Data Centres expands connectivity into Google, Amazon and Microsoft

By Drew Morley

Kent’s largest data centre, which can power more than 16,000 computer servers, has expanded its connectivity into London.

Custodian Data Centres has added new dark fibre routes into some of London’s major facilities, meaning it can now offer direct cloud connections into Google, Amazon and Microsoft.

Its clients can now have a mix of on-premise infrastructure in Kent and the scalability of cloud by using a hybrid cloud solution.

There have been zero outages at Custodian since Leonard Kay, Commercial Manager, joined the data centre in 2009. He said: “We are really excited by this recent network expansion into three important facilities in London.

“As a result, companies in Kent can now connect directly into major global cloud providers.

It also increases Custodian Data Centres’ ability to connect clients directly to almost anywhere in the world.”

The firm, based at the Maidstone Studios, had just recently invested £4m into expanding its space for storing businesses critical data.

The expansion in space and connectivity means local businesses placing their core infrastructure into a Kent data centre can gain all of the benefits associated with a London data centre without any of the downsides of travel and traffic.

For further information visit www.custodiandc.com

50

Thinking Business

Movers and Shaker

Girlings appoints new head of Corporate & Commercial

Girlings’ fast expanding Business Law department welcomes Chris Brightling as a partner to lead its Corporate & Commercial law team.

Chris, who will be based in Girlings’ business hub in Ashford, joins the Firm from highly regarded Reading-based Field Seymour Parkes LLP where he was a corporate partner heading a team of corporate, banking and tax lawyers.

He brings with him significant experience advising on corporate

acquisitions, disposals and investments as well as other general corporate law matters.

Chris said, ‘Having grown up in Kent, I am delighted to have joined the ambitious Business Law team at Girlings and look forward to growing its corporate and commercial offering.”

Ashford signals its international credentials

Ashford is set to retain its international rail connections after work got under way on a £10.5 million upgrade to the signalling equipment and platforms at Ashford International station.

Recognising the importance of the rail connections to Ashford’s growth, the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP) successfully made a £9.8m bid to the Government’s Local Growth Fund on behalf of the Kent’s business community and residents.

Network Rail has begun work on installing signalling equipment to allow Eurostar’s new e320 trains, as well as those of any other international high speed rail operators, to stop at Ashford.

Christian Brodie, Chairman of the South East Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “The importance of the new signalling system to the future of Ashford, and connectivity of Kent to mainland Europe, was very quickly recognised by ourselves and our partner, the Kent & Medway Economic Partnership.

“Having successfully secured £9.8m from the Local Growth Fund, work is now under way and it will ensure Kent retains its two international stations on the country’s only high-speed rail line.”

The bid to the Local Growth Fund was also supported by Kent County Council and Ashford Borough Council.

Network Rail’s senior commercial scheme sponsor, Mark Ellerby, said: “The work will future-proof the town’s station and preserve its status as part of Europe’s high speed network – one of only four stations in the country to have that honour.

“High speed rail and links to Europe have given Ashford a huge boost over the past 21

years and we are pleased to be working with Eurostar and authorities to keep that going.”

In April, the first of Eurostar’s new e320 trains will call at the station and use the amended platforms and signalling system en route to Brussels and Paris.

Kent County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Cllr Mike Whiting, said: “We fully support this investment which will ensure that Kent continues to be served by European rail services at both its international stations.

“I look forward to the launch of the project in April this year, and the great travel

opportunities to continental Europe this will secure for Ashford and the wider Kent economy.”

Cllr Gerry Clarkson, leader of Ashford Borough Council, said: “It is great to see another of Ashford’s Big 8 projects progressing well, ensuring that Ashford stays the UK’s International Town.

“These works may cause some disruption for residents and passengers over the next few months, but the benefits to Ashford’s economy and its ongoing success will be well worth it to retain direct rail access to Brussels and four of France’s five largest cities.”