Thinking Business February 25

THINKING BUSIN E S S

n The Big Interview with Paul Duckworth, Founder and Creative Director of marketing and design agency Brandspace Media. Page 18

n Ask the Expert. Page 31

n International Trade. Page 36

n Economy. Page 39

n Chamber Events. Page 40

n New Members. Page 48

Welcome to the latest edition of Thinking Business magazine and a very Happy New Year to you all!

Christmas and the festive break already seem to be a dot in the distant past and 2024 brought in a lot of change with a new Government and the Budget, but as a Chamber, we always look ahead and work together

Kent business community continues to be strong and resilient

to ensure the Kent business community continues to be strong, cohesive and resilient.

A new survey by the British Chambers of Commerce shows the urgency for the Government to reset trade relations within the EU is increasing. It is vital that all the red tape for international trade is eased to ensure the UK’s economy can recover and grow. Following the Budget, many businesses are reducing their investment in staff as business confidence has been hit hard. We need the Government’s support for our SMEs.

One of the Chamber’s key strengths is its community and we are constantly learning from each other. In the Big Interview, Paul Duckworth, Founder and Creative Director of Brandspace Media, talks about why branding is absolutely vital for any business. He argues that without taking care of your brand, you are setting yourself up to fail and he shares his insights into the marketing industry.

Upskilling and bridging the skills gap is as much on Kent’s agenda as the rest of the country and in this edition, we take a look at where the skills shortages are in the county, ways employers can work with other organisations to bridge the gaps, and the learning and development trends of 2025.

Traditionally, courses require a considerable time and cost commitment, even if they are supported by an employee’s organisation, but the L&D landscape in the months ahead is prioritising micro learning programmes using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and immersive learning tools through either virtual or augmented reality.

Moving away from the traditional classroom learning environment means individuals can target the specific areas they wish to upskill and also choose micro learning sessions which are informative but can be squeezed into a much smaller amount of time. One to keep an eye on!

Another thing to keep an eye on is our website for all our upcoming events to sign up for. We always have a range of face-to-face and virtual events, as well as webinars on topics which appeal to our members.

Join us in March for the Skills 25 summit at The Mercure Great Danes Hotel in Maidstone, which is sure to be a very informative and worthwhile event. There is also a webinar on trading in Singapore coming up and a networking special to mark International Women’s Day.

I look forward to catching up with you all at one of our next events.

Tudor Price Chief Executive, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce

Tudor Price Chief Executive

The Benefits of Local Government Devolution in Kent from a Business Perspective

Local government devolution in Kent is fast approaching a will be a transformative initiative that promises to bring numerous benefits to businesses operating in the region. By shifting decision-making power closer to the local level, businesses can expect a more responsive and tailored approach to their needs, fostering a more conducive environment for growth and innovation. If you’ve been living on the moon and not heard of devolution, you may not know what it is. So, here’s a quick overview.

Regions that have a minimum of 1.6 million residents, will be encouraged to become a Mayoral Combined Authority (aka Strategic Authority (SA)) over time in return for more localised decision making and greater say over funding. Boroughs and Districts will need to merge into Unitary Authorities and will deliver services locally on behalf of the new SA. Which in the case of Kent & Medway will probably be three, possibly four Unitary Authorities. There will be Mayoral elections and once appointed, the Mayor and the SA will be responsible for road, rail, health, blue light services, planning, and much more. This is the largest shake up of local government that we have seen in several decades.

Democracy and political ideology to one side, this could be good news for Businesses.

Enhanced Local Decision-Making

One of the primary advantages of devolution is the ability for local authorities to make decisions that are more attuned to the specific needs of their communities. This means that businesses can expect policies and initiatives that are better aligned with local economic conditions and challenges. For instance, local councils can prioritize infrastructure projects that directly benefit businesses, such as improving transport links or upgrading digital connectivity.

Streamlined Services and Reduced Bureaucracy

Devolution can lead to more streamlined and efficient public services. By consolidating multiple local authorities into fewer, larger unitary councils, the administrative burden on businesses can be reduced. This simplification can lead to faster processing times for permits, licenses, and other regulatory requirements, allowing businesses to operate more smoothly and with less red tape.

Economic Growth and Investment

With greater control over local budgets and resources, Kent’s local authorities can focus on attracting investment and promoting economic growth. This can include initiatives to support local businesses, such as grants, tax incentives, and business development programs. Additionally, a more localized approach to economic planning can help identify and capitalize on the unique strengths and opportunities within the region, fostering a more vibrant and competitive business environment.

Improved Skills and Workforce Development

Devolution can also lead to better alignment between local education and training programs and the needs of the local labour market. By working closely with businesses, local authorities can develop targeted skills development initiatives that ensure a steady supply of qualified workers. This can help businesses address skill shortages and improve their overall productivity and competitiveness.

Stronger Partnerships and Collaboration

Devolution encourages stronger partnerships between local authorities, businesses, and other stakeholders. This collaborative approach can lead

to more effective problem-solving and innovation. For example, local councils can work with businesses to develop sustainable practices, improve environmental standards, and enhance the overall quality of life in the region. These partnerships can also lead to joint ventures and projects that benefit both the community and the business sector.

Devolution in Kent represents a significant opportunity for businesses to thrive in a more supportive and responsive environment. Quicker decisions that are better aligned with local needs, means businesses can expect improved services, reduced bureaucracy, and enhanced economic opportunities.

Tudor Price, CEO February 2025

Learning and Development 2025 Trends

As head of a busy HR department, one of my priorities is to review the Learning and Development (L&D) needs of staff here within the Firm each year. It also presents an opportunity to research any new tools and techniques available, as well as how programmes are delivered in new and diverse ways – a shift fuelled by the pandemic, when finding alternative ways to deliver meaningful learning and training remotely was a necessity.

Traditionally, courses require a considerable time commitment. The cost can also be prohibitive even if it is supported by an employee’s organisation.

Exploring the L&D landscape in 2025 reveals some interesting trends. It prioritises personalised, micro learning programmes using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and immersive learning tools through either virtual or augmented reality.

Departing from a traditional classroom setting allows L&D to be adaptive and flexible, meaning those with competing demands of home and work can still participate in their own development. Individualised learning further presents opportunities for individuals to cherry pick the material most relevant to them.

The most significant impact on L&D pathways is perhaps in relation to the use of AI, which can target specific areas that people might need to upskill, setting them a test to identify gaps in their knowledge. Furthermore, AI assistants can offer tailored learning and feedback and answer questions immediately to clarify things about which the learner is unsure.

Another trend offered to busy individuals who are keen to learn, but are simply time poor, is to commit to microlearning sessions. Such sessions might only last five or ten minutes but can be efficient and informative. Such platforms also offer flexibility meaning people can study at anytime and anywhere on any device including mobile phones.

Tracey Myhill HR Manager Email: traceymyhill@girlings.com

Learning and Development is entering a new era. How learning is delivered to individuals, the resources people have access to, the flexibility to learn at a convenient time and place and the possibility of micro learning, is changing. This adaptable, modern and dynamic approach means that learning, development and training becomes accessible to more people.

The possibility to create a personalised learning path will undoubtedly be welcomed by those considering engaging with the different forms of learning because creating such bespoke programmes allows everyone to get the most from the learning. For businesses in all industries, including my own, it presents an opportunity to support employees to learn in a way that suits them but that also works for the organisation.

Avoid becoming the victim of an investment scam

Financial

fraud

cases continue to rise, and scammers are using increasingly sophisticated techniques to defraud consumers and investors. We look at some of the more common methods used by scammers, and what you can do to protect yourself.

A recent report undertaken by Barclays indicates that one in five consumers have fallen victim to a scam over the last year, and one in three people know of someone who has been scammed.

Further evidence of the rise in fraud is that the Financial Ombudsman Service reported that they received over 8,700 complaints relating to fraud in the first quarter of 2024, an increase of 42% on the same period in 2023, and double the number of complaints seen in the first quarter of 2022.

These grim reports are a timely reminder of the need to remain vigilant against fraud. Victims may not only face financial consequences –becoming a victim of financial fraud can also lead to considerable emotional harm.

Financial fraud can take many forms, with the most common being cases where consumers are tricked into handing over bank details to fraudsters, after being alerted that they are due to receive a fictitious refund from an organisation or business or owe a fine or have tax to pay.

What can you do to protect yourself?

There are some common-sense steps you can take to help defend yourself against financial scammers. Firstly, always remain vigilant if you receive any unsolicited communication from your bank, H M Revenue and Customs or any other company you deal with.

You should also be cautious when receiving an unexpected phone call. If you’ve been called by someone claiming to be from your bank, end the call and then phone the official bank number from a different phone. This is important, as scammers can keep the line open if you call back from the same phone. You should never disclose passwords, PIN numbers or bank details over the telephone.

Text messages or emails received from a bank or other service provider should be treated with suspicion, especially if the text message asks you to click on an email link. This could direct you to the scammer’s website, where your personal details can be collected. If in doubt, always log on to a legitimate website directly, rather than clicking a link in an email.

It is not only communications from companies and organisations that need to be treated with care. An increasingly common scam is where a scammer contacts an individual via text message, pretending to be the child of the victim, asking for funds to be sent to the child for a fictitious reason.

You should always be wary of cold callers trying to sell you an investment product or service. Don’t allow yourself to feel rushed into making a financial decision, and always take time to think about whether to take up an offer.

Unrealistic investment returns

Scam cases involving investments and pensions continue to rise, and fraudsters are using more convincing ways to make offers look and sound more plausible to unsuspecting consumers. A good rule of thumb is that you should always reject any unsolicited contact offering you the opportunity to make an investment. The contact could come via a telephone call (often from organised set-ups known as “boiler rooms”) or an email and may offer the opportunity to purchase an investment that can provide unrealistic returns that sound too good to be true.

Protect your pension

Pension scams usually take the form of cold calls, offering investment opportunities in high-risk investments, such as overseas property, forestry or other similar unregulated investments. Many of these offers will suggest that the individual needs to transfer their pension to the scammer to access the unregulated investments, and this is often accompanied by high pressure selling tactics.

Another potential scam is a call offering the ability for an individual to access or unlock their pension before the age of 55. This can only legitimately be undertaken in a very limited set of circumstances and treat anyone contacting you to offer such services as being highly suspicious.

Know who you are dealing with

Consumers can help protect themselves from investment fraud by checking who they are dealing with. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Financial Services Register lists details of firms and individuals who are authorised to provide investment and pension advice.

The FCA also provide a list of “cloned” firms on their website, where you can check whether a fake firm has been previously reported for setting up a fraudulent operation that uses the name, address or other details of a legitimate firm.

Don’t add to the statistics

Given the worrying increase in financial fraud, everyone needs to be vigilant to the risk of falling victim to a scam or fraud. Consumers should always treat any unsolicited contact from a financial services provider, a utility company or other organisation with a degree of caution. Trust your instincts, and if something feels suspicious, then report it to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.

© Financial Advice and Services Ltd 2025

Effective use of your 2024 sales data in 2025

Once you have customers on board, there’s work to be done to keep them interested, encourage them to buy again, buy more or recommend you to others.

Think of your customers as year-round buyers

don’t rely on them to remember, tell them!

One way to do this is through digital marketing

– think MailChimp-type e-newsletters.

Lucy Jones, on university work experience with Sarah Hawes from Izzy PR, outlines the basics of e-newsletters:

Content ideas:

News, promotions, company updates, offers, discounts – mix it up and send them out regularly. Monthly or seasonally is a good place to start.

The benefits of e-newsletter marketing:

• Information is delivered directly to the consumer

• Production and distribution is lower cost

• The contemporary format keeps your brand up-to-date

• Content can be repurposed

• Engagement analytics help track brand growth and engagement

• Engagement is encouraged with links and calls to action

• Brand presence boosted amongst your database.

Segment your audience data:

The most effective newsletters are sent out to audience segments – often a slightly different version for each audience group. Subscribers are split up into different groups based on shared characteristics such as demographics, customer history or interests. For example, new customers get a different message to older ones.

Why use segmented data?

• Higher engagement: Customers will click if the content is clearly relevant to them.

• Better use of resources: Allocating certain content to the right receiver is more valuable.

• Increased loyalty: Subscribers are more likely to stay with tailored messages

• Improved customer experience: A ‘one size fits all’ approach is not as effective.

Re-sign your will created during Covid-19 pandemic to avoid risks

A solicitor specialising in wills and estate administration has urged individuals who signed a will remotely during the Covid-19 pandemic to consider re-signing it in the presence of two independent witnesses who are over the age of 18 to ensure the document remains valid.

Kathryn Tunbridge, a Solicitor in Furley Page’s private client team, said: “If you have drafted a will to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes upon your death, it is important to ensure that the document is legally valid. A simple mistake could undo your wishes, and the people and process involved in signing and witnessing a will are fundamental to ensuring it is valid.”

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the UK Government temporarily relaxed the rules to allow remote witnessing of wills via video conferencing between 31 January 2020 and 31 January 2024.

Kathryn continued: “While wills executed via video conferencing during this period are legally valid, re-signing the will now in the physical presence of witnesses would be considered good practice as it will prevent doubts and potential claims concerning a will’s validity in the future.

“Improperly executed wills can lead to disputes among potential beneficiaries, resulting in costly and prolonged legal battles. These disputes can deplete the estate’s assets and create disharmony among family members.

“In addition, we often see problems arising when people use a DIY template or attempt to draft their will without professional legal advice, particularly if a will is not signed and witnessed in compliance with the requirements of the Wills Act, in which case it may be declared invalid. This can result in the estate being distributed according to the rules of intestacy or under the terms of a previous will, which may not reflect your wishes.”

For a will to be legally valid, it must be in writing and signed by the testator in the presence of at least two witnesses who are physically present while the will is signed. Witnesses should not be beneficiaries of the will or related to anyone who is a beneficiary, as they play an essential part in the execution of a valid will by verifying that the testator is the person who is signing the will, that the signature is not forged, and that the testator has not been coerced into signing it.

It is important that the witnesses are physically present at the time of signing, as remote witnessing (e.g. via video conferencing, for example) generally does not meet the usual legal requirements set out in the Wills Act 1837.

For more information visit: www.furleypage.co.uk

How KKB Group can support your construction and civil engineering project in Kent

KKB Group has been providing a full range of services to facilitate construction and civil engineering projects from its Headquarters in Rochester since 2010. The Group consists of four operating companies each with a distinct yet integrated set of skills and services.

KKB Remediation provides a range of enabling works from bulk earthworks to remediation, demolition and a suite of civil engineering disciplines to prepare land for re-development.

The Fleet and Plant divisions offer commercial vehicles and machinery and equipment for hire to the construction sector. Plant available ranges from bulldozers to dump trucks, crushers, excavators, loading shovels, tracked conveyors and screeners. The company specialises in providing environmentally-friendly alternatives: Its fleet of excavators includes a number of the latest hybrid models which can deliver up to 15 per cent reduction in carbon emissions. KKB Group recently took ownership of its first fully electric crushing machine to complement the existing fleet which are diesel-electric

powered. The firms is currently investing to enable its plant to be powered by renewable sources such as Hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).

Finally, Recycled Roadways provides expertise, technology and resources to process inert construction and civil engineering wastes such as concrete, hardcore, asphalt, ballast and excavated soils for re-use on-site or as recycled material feedstock.

See www.kkbgroup.co.uk for more information.

Introducing Marcus Haycock of Transformational Leadership Consulting

Marcus Haycock, of Transformational Leadership Consulting, in partnership with Leadership Management International (LMI), says he is “privileged” to become one of the Chamber’s newest members.

With more than 20 years’ experience, Marcus has been honoured with six national and international awards for leadership and business development excellence.

LMI is not just a training company, it’s a global leader in people and organisational development with over 60 years of expertise. With a track record of more than two million successful participants across 90 countries, LMI’s leadership development programmes are among the most respected in the world.

Marcus said: “It’s a privilege to join this Chamber, with its network of over 1,200 proactive businesses united by a commitment to collaboration and growth.”

Here, Marcus addresses some of the “unprecedented” challenges businesses today face and shares how he feels partnering with him could boost your business.

The challenges faced today:

• Managing and motivating teams effectively.

• Overcoming information overload, stress, and tight deadlines.

• Poor interdepartmental communication.

• Misaligned goals, plateauing performance, and decreasing productivity.

• Limited opportunities for employee growth and development.

In addition, 82% of managers are accidental leaders, says Marcus, who lack structured training, and which contributes to why businesses struggle.

Despite these challenges, the opportunity to transform is immense, by taking the following steps:

• Invest in leadership development to achieve aligned, empowered teams.

• Equip employees with productivity skills.

• Build high performing, engaged teams that thrive in challenging environments.

Why partner with Transformational Leadership Consulting and what sets us apart?

• Highly valued programmes, with a customer satisfaction rating of 4.9 out of 5.

• A money-back guarantee.

• Experience of partnering with multinationals, mid-sized businesses, and solo practitioners.

• A focus on long-term, transformational results, not just training sessions.

If you can relate to any of the challenges above, I would be delighted to connect and have an exploratory discussion with you. Let’s discover how we can work together to unlock your business’s and people’s full potential.

Visit the website and lets connect https://transformationalleadershipconsulting.co.uk/

Finding the Perfect Match

Why is it often so challenging to recruit the right

people?

Finding the ideal candidate is not always easy, especially when you’re competing with other employers for top talent. Here are some ’Valentine’ themed tips to help you in the recruitment process:

Y Love language

Attract Your Match

Start with the job advertisement—it should encapsulate the essence of the role. Include a brief overview of your business and culture, the job title, salary, company benefits, a summary of the position, and the key duties and responsibilities. Don’t forget to add a person specification that defines the ideal candidate’s skills and experience. Use clear, concise language and maintain a positive tone!

Y Online dating Online Presence Matters

Good candidates want to research and understand your business. Consider your online presence: how is your company represented online? - from your website to your social media, as well as customer and employee reviews. These elements are crucial, so make sure your business is portrayed positively. If you identify a negative review, address it professionally.

Y Your profile Showcase Your Company

Are you effectively showcasing the benefits of working for your business? What sets your company apart? On your website be sure to describe your company’s culture, vision, and core values. Highlight what makes working in your organisation a great experience.

Y What can you offer me?

Highlight Your Benefits

Do you offer any enhanced company benefits? Even two extra days of holiday can make a significant difference! If your company benefits are standard, remember to highlight any additional perks, such as snacks, fresh fruit, team events, incentives, and occasional staff lunches.

Y Who do I choose?

Evaluate Candidates Thoughtfully

When deciding who to interview, you might often make that choice based on the candidate’s CV and any supporting statement. If a candidate ticks most boxes on paper but misses a few, keep an open mind - meeting the candidate in person can make all the difference.

Y The Date The Interview Process

The interview is the “getting to know you” stage. Put yourself in the candidate’s shoes: from the greeting upon arrival to the interview room and the people they meet, first impressions count. Use a mix of open and closed questions to determine if the candidate is right for you but also ask yourself if you are the right choice for the candidate. Be transparent about the role and its requirements while keeping the meeting positive. Ensure you ask questions to confirm the candidate’s suitability for the position and remember to consider company culture fit.

Y Be my Valentine Act Quickly

If you have found your ideal candidate, don’t delay. In a competitive market, it is important to move quickly; good candidates often have interest from other employers.

Noreen McKechnie FIRP

Managing Director

Diamond Search Recruitment Ltd www.diamond-search.co.uk

Established in Kent since 2017, Diamond Search Recruitment is an independent recruitment agency and a proud Patron of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, representing the Recruitment and Employment Services Sector.

We are team of highly experienced recruiters who are passionate about connecting great companies with talented professionals.

Roundtable collaboration sparks new ideas to shape future workforce

MidKent College, a Patron of the Chamber, has recently welcomed fellow Chamber members to a series of sector-specific employability ‘roundtables’. These events bring together professionals, educators, and local business leaders to address the key topics that shape the future workforce. These forums focus on how best to prepare students for real-world employment and bridge the growing skills gap across various industries.

Contributors included representatives of every profession and trade that MidKent College reaches, including legal, construction, plumbing, social care and education. The discussion explored the needs of employers, challenges in skills training and innovative approaches to enhance employability among the next generation.

Chris Hare, Executive Director and Deputy CEO of MidKent College, said: “Sector-specific roundtable skills discussions have proved to be a really effective means to validate what courses we offer, and how we can enhance the content to increase employment prospects. We spend a lot of time, especially with full-time students, really grounding them into the understanding of what is required by employers when they go into the world of work.”

The wide-ranging dialogue sparked ideas for hands-on initiatives and strengthened partnerships between educators and local businesses.

Participants emphasised the importance of fostering collaboration between colleges and employers. Kathryn Paisley, Partner at Rix & Kay Solicitors, said: “Hats off to MidKent

College and the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce for a fantastic initiative. I joined an engaged, interested, and interesting group of professionals with the aim to assist the college in supporting its wide range of students by giving them a sense of what employers look for in employees.”

Daniel Arter of Arton Plumbing & Heating Ltd, said: “Being able to share expertise and mentorship is extremely valuable for those trying to enter the field. It’s important for real businesses to get involved to support and encourage the next generation of tradespeople.”

The event provided a platform to discuss challenges in specific industries, such as social care. Penny Lawlor, External Social Care Workforce Manager at Kent County Council, said: “I found it a really valuable opportunity to highlight the challenges within our sector and discuss with partners how we might work together to start addressing these.”

For some participants, the roundtable offered new avenues for collaboration. Damian Constable, Head of Communications at Ovenden Plant Hire, said: “I’ve attended quite a lot of these events, but this one stood out because of the engaging discussions in a smaller group. It’s always great to hear how much others invest in training and work experience. We’re keen to have further conversations with the college about supporting students.”

The MidKent College roundtables reaffirm the critical role that education and industry partnerships play in addressing skills gaps and preparing students for meaningful careers. They highlight opportunities including training programs, new technology and finding creative ways to make industries more accessible and appealing to young people.

If you would like to take part in a MidKent College roundtable, please contact the Chamber, who facilitate these events.

Eight years of growth –and there’s so much more still to come

Proud of its team’s wealth of experience spanning 25 years, AAA Building and Civil Engineers Ltd is a family-run business established in 2016 which has quickly become a familiar name within the civils and construction sector.

Over the last eight years, the growth of AAA has been impressive both in terms of size and reputation. Working throughout the UK, the company has successfully and safely executed a wide range of contracts –anything from labour-only supply to large-scale £5 million packages covering all aspects of civils.

AAA Building and Civil Engineers Ltd say they pride themselves on loyalty and building relationships with all clients, whether it be small domestic or large commercial projects, and that each project is treated with the same attitude and consistency by their teams. AAA Building and Civil Engineers Ltd’s reputation speaks for itself throughout the South East of the UK, with the company’s teams working alongside some of the country’s leading contractors such as Jackson Civils, Volker Stevin, Ovenden Earth Movement, Knights Brown, Breheny Civil Engineering and MJ Church.

AAA has also recently ventured into the utilities sector, building partnerships with some of the leading contractors for Southern Water including Trant Engineering, MKE Engineering group, Mechanica Utilities, Unitspark and Knowlton & Newman. As the business continues to grow, say bosses, the vision stays the same: remaining firm on being the best and ensuring all work for its clients is safe, cost efficient, and environmentally friendly. With a clear ambition to succeed in every aspect, AAA remains focused and always tries to give something back.

aaabuildingandcivilengineers.co.uk

Have you considered these key points in property development?

Woodchurch-based architectural design and building company Vernacular Homes, which celebrates 25 years this year has added a new service to partner with landowners looking to develop existing property or build new.

An unused outbuilding or vacant land can hold a huge amount of development potential for a new home or commercial building.

Managing Director Oliver Burgess explains some considerations:

1. Planning restrictions – thorough understanding of local restrictions is essential; the local planning authority can be very supportive of certain types of development.

2. Protected areas – plots or buildings in a National Landscape (Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty) could be restricted in terms of what can be built in order to conserve the local environment.

3. Design ideas – do the plans make the most of the space and light? Will they appeal to potential buyers or users and give the maximum return on investment? An experienced eye can come up with suggestions you may not have envisaged.

4. Conservation – if you are planning to convert a traditional building such as a barn or oast house, it’s vital to work with an expert to meet any conservation, nature, or listed building requirements and preserve character.

5. Utilities - access to water, electricity, drainage and broadband is a key concern, especially in rural areas.

The team at Vernacular Homes offers a comprehensive service for landowners and developers, taking care of the project from start to finish – full design, planning and build, anticipating any challenges.

Contact vernacularhomes.com for information.

Kent Business Show –how to collect and use data

If you’re exhibiting at the Kent Business Show in March, don’t miss the opportunity to collect data from potential clients – it can provide various commercially useful marketing opportunities.

Judith Andrews, a data protection and GDPR expert from Business Tamer explains how to prepare:

1. Understand ‘personal data’ This includes anything that identifies an individual, such as name, email addresses, phone numbers, and job title. UK GDPR rules apply to how you collect data and where.

2. Obtain consent

You can ask for any information you like but you must be clear about how you’ll use it. A digital or printed privacy notice explaining how you intend to use and store their data is best.

3. Only collect what is necessary Only request information that is necessary for your purposes – known as ‘data minimisation’.

But don’t let that hinder your creativity –if knowing a person’s favourite ice cream flavour can legitimately support your business goals, ask!

4. Train your team

Everyone gathering and using information on behalf of your business must understand how to do so in a compliant way. Consider organising some training.

5. After the show

Review all data collected and delete unnecessary information. Sort it into meaningful categories such as business type, location etc. and then get in touch asap! Consider sending a special offer or free information to start building a positive relationship. But make sure it is relevant to them.

For all you need to know on UK GDPR and data compliance, visit Judith’s stand at the Kent Business Show where you can pick up her new book, “The Business Owner’s Guide to GDPR,” which she is launching on the day.

For more information visit: www.businesstamer.co.uk/

Tap into the power of colour in design

Colour is possibly THE most powerful visual design element: 80% of consumers believe it increases brand recognition, and 84.7% say it’s the primary reason they choose a particular product.

Famous brands like Cadbury, Tiffany, IBM, and Orange have enjoyed huge success by pinning their brand’s reputation to a specific shade, so it’s vital that designers understand and consider why it’s quite so powerful…

Howell & Hicks Creative walk us through it:

1. Emotional Impact: Colour influences our emotions and perceptions, often subconsciously; warm reds, oranges and yellows evoke energy and excitement, while cooler blues and greens convey trust, calmness and relaxation.

2. Psychological Associations: Colour can also influence behaviour e.g. red can increase heart rates, encouraging impulsive actions, which is why it’s often used for sales, while corporate designs often use blue because it feels trustworthy and reliable.

3. Brand Identity and Recognition: Consistent use of colour increases brand recognition, building associations and influencing perceptions over time.

4. Visual Hierarchy and Focus: Colour helps create a visual hierarchy, guiding the eye to key elements and highlighting important information e.g. promotional messages.

5. Aesthetic Appeal and Balance: Well-thought-out colour schemes create visual unity and impact to deliver appealing designs and generate consumer engagement.

6. Cultural Significance: Finally, colours symbolise different things in different cultures. For example, white is associated with purity and peace in Western cultures but can signify mourning in the Far East –vital knowledge when targeting specific audiences across diverse, global markets.

See www.hh-creative.com

Is Your Brand at the Heart of Your Business?

If you’re considering a rebrand, a refresh, or launching a new product, it’s the perfect time to ask yourself, “Is my brand at the heart of my business plan?”. Whether you’re a startup or an established business planning for growth, your brand is paramount to how you connect with customers.

A strong brand is more than just an identityit represents your mission, vision, values, and plays a huge part in building a company culture. It’s also the foundation for building genuine relationships with your customers. It sets the tone for how you connect, communicate, and earn trust over time. Customers want to feel valued and understood, and your brand is the bridge that fosters that connection.

That’s where Oak Creative comes in. We specialise in helping businesses navigate their brand journey, whether it’s crafting a new identity from scratch or revitalising an existing one. By leveraging real audience insights and competitor analysis, we build trustworthy, professional brands that resonate deeply with their target market.

A Creative Partnership with Oak Creative is just that, a partnership. We work as an extension of your team, sharing objectives and responsibilities to ensure your brand truly reflects your business. Studio Director Laura Bevan explains, “At the start of a new creative partnership, we define clear goals for the year ahead. These metrics are essential for guiding the process and ensuring we achieve success for your brand together.”

Your brand is the vehicle to express your business personality, show customers why they should choose you, and how you’ll meet their needs. Building a strong, clear brand is an investment in your future. Make it the foundation of your business plan this year - because when your brand thrives, so does your business! www.oakcreative.co.uk

The Untapped Power of Workplace Mental Health Training

In today’s challenging, high-pressure work environments, mental health support is commonly only associated with severe conditions like depression and anxiety. However, workplace mental health training should be viewed as more than just a tool for those struggling with these challenges. It’s a vital resource for everyone.

Mental health training can have a profound impact on morale, productivity, and overall performance. When employees feel mentally supported, their focus sharpens, problem-solving abilities improve, and they are more resilient to setbacks.

A well-rounded mental health program cultivates a growth mindset—a belief that skills and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This is essential for fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Take inspiration from top athletes: they don’t undergo mindset training because they lack determination or skills, but because it keeps them positive and focused on winning. The same principle applies in the workplace. By equipping employees with mental resilience tools, businesses can unlock untapped potential, creating an atmosphere where challenges are seen as opportunities and setbacks become stepping stones.

As we start the New Year with many challenges for businesses, we should view investing in workplace mental health training as not just about reducing illness—it’s about creating a workforce that is engaged, motivated, and equipped not only for maintaining good well-being but for achieving lasting success.

For further information please visit www.maximisementalhealthtraining.com

Furley Page showcases French legal expertise to visiting French law students

Leading South East law firm Furley Page was privileged to host a group of French law students from Université du Littoral Côte d’Opale (Boulogne-Sur-Mer) visiting Canterbury, accompanied by their English teachers Tifaine Golliot and Marc Capliez.

The event showcased the distinctive work of the firm’s French Avocats practising in the UK.

During the gathering, one of Furley Page’s French Avocats shared her professional journey, from her studies in France to her current role at Furley Page. She provided insights into the differences between French and British lifestyles, particularly regarding working conditions. The students also learned about the daily activities of the team and the vital role of their expertise for clients with interests in France.

What sets Furley Page apart from other firms is its unique team which includes two in-house experts in French law – Deborah Vaysse and Sharon Wilson-Dutin – both of whom have studied, qualified, and practiced law in France before bringing their expertise to the UK.

This international experience enables Furley Page to offer clients a deep understanding of both French and English legal systems, ensuring tailored and effective advice.

Deborah said: “In true English tradition, we welcomed our guests with tea and shortbread biscuits, ensuring they felt right at home –though we’ll admit, there was a bit of a French twist on the biscuits!

“The students showed great enthusiasm, especially in learning how their legal knowledge could be applied across the Channel. They also had the chance to discover how they could pursue a career as an English-qualified solicitor with a foreign university degree, through an enlightening presentation by Heather Dunlop, a Solicitor and member of Furley Page’s Private Client team. Heather, who studied in Canada before qualifying in England and Wales, provided invaluable insights into transitioning into the English legal field with a foreign degree, inspiring the students to consider international opportunities.”

This event underscores Furley Page’s core values and commitment to fostering cultural and professional exchanges between France and the UK, while also highlighting the rewarding opportunities of working in an international environment where diverse expertise and experiences come together to deliver exceptional client service.

For more information visit www.furleypage.co.uk

First South East recruitment arm for Kingdom People

Medway-based recruitment business, MC Personnel, was acquired by Kingdom Services Group in November of 2024 in an exciting evolution of the longstanding business.

Established in 1998, MC Personnel has over 400 staff which it places into the Industrial, Food, Production, Manufacturing, Hospitality and Driving sectors throughout Kent, SE London and Essex.

The business has now been rebranded as Kingdom People (Kent) to align with the existing brands within the Kingdom Group.

The Gillingham-based office and dedicated team will remain in the same location as it continues to specialise in bespoke temporary and permanent staffing solutions.

Joining the Kingdom People brand will allow the team to provide a more comprehensive service, covering more sectors and locations across the UK!

Mike Rogers, COO of Kingdom People, said: We are delighted to welcome the MC team, colleagues and customers to Kingdom. The acquisition of MC Personnel is an important step in the growth of Kingdom People as it becomes our 6th branch location and increases our footprint in core and new vertical markets including, hospitality/ catering and transport.

Danielle Cassidy, Director of Kingdom People Kent, said: Having successfully led and developed the MC Personnel business, we are now really pleased to be joining the Kingdom Group. Having built great relationships with many leading organisations, the business now moves into its’ next and exciting phase of development as the first SE recruitment arm for Kingdom People.

The recruitment business, formerly known as MC Personnel, will now venture into a new chapter as Kingdom People Kent.

Good Health and Safety: A Shared Responsibility

Good health and safety practices don’t just rely on policies—they thrive on collaboration. Together, Occupational Health and Health and Safety teams can create safer, healthier workplaces.

OH provides support by combining health surveillance with practical health education, making H&S managers’ roles easier and measures more effective.

Health Surveillance: Supporting H&S Goals

Health surveillance offers a great opportunity to collaborate with employees on protecting their health. E.g., during a hearing test, OH clinicians can explain the risks of forgoing hearing protection such as Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL), which is irreversible. This reinforces the importance of wearing hearing protection consistently and correctly, aligning with H&S goals to reduce workplace risks.

Lung function tests for workers exposed to dust or chemicals provide opportunities for clinicians to reiterate the importance of respiratory protection and proper ventilation. Skin checks for employees handling hazardous substances also provide a chance to highlight the correct use of gloves to prevent dermatitis. These conversations turn routine checks into moments of education with a captive audience, directly supporting H&S initiatives.

Upskilling Managers for Long-Term Impact

OH doesn’t just support employees—it also equips managers with the skills they need to create safer environments. Training sessions, such as Stress Management for Line Managers, help managers recognise and address stress in their teams and themselves. This supports mental wellbeing whilst contributing to a healthier workplace and stronger compliance with H&S policies.

Building a Culture of Collaboration

When OH and H&S work together, the impact extends across the entire business. Employees are healthier, compliance strengthens, and morale improves. OH services help H&S managers achieve their goals by providing expert guidance, practical education, and targeted support. Together, they create workplaces where safety and wellbeing are at the heart of operations.

Contact All Health Matters today for support with your Health and Safety initiatives.

For more information on workplace health services, at your site or ours, contact All Health Matters: www.allhealthmatters.co.uk

Churchill Square Business

Centre has thanked its customers and staff after raising a record-breaking £1,573 for Gillingham

Street Angels

in 2024

It’s the highest amount of money ever raised by the Kings Hill based serviced office provider, which nominates a new charity each year as part of its pledge to support local communities.

Gillingham Street Angels works tirelessly with people experiencing food poverty, homelessness and financial difficulties.

Centre manager Toni Wilkinson said her seven-strong team had organised numerous fund-raisers over the year, including raffle ticket sales and clothing donations, and had ordered a delicious buffet from the charity when it hosted the successful Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce Connections event in September.

“We’re delighted with the amount of money raised, which is all down to the generosity of our business customers,” said Toni.

The centre is home to dozens of SMEs and start-ups who occupy 195 office suites in one of the most prestigious business park developments in the South-East.

Following an end of year vote among its customers, the centre has chosen to support Offham-based Spadework in 2025, a charity which supports adults with learning disabilities to develop their independence and personal skills. This is achieved through diverse activities such as horticulture, woodwork and working in Spadework’s onsite kitchen and café.

Toni said: “We had a shortlist of charities, but our customers voted overwhelmingly to support Spadework, many of whom shop there for their organic produce and garden supplies. We’re looking forward to throwing our weight into supporting them next year.”

On another note, Churchill Square Business Centre’s business support coordinator Sandra Wood is set to retire at the end of January with plans to emigrate to Australia. She plans to move to Warners Bay, which is situated on beautiful Lake Macquarie in New South Wales, two hours north of Sydney, and home to her son, his wife and two grandchildren, aged three and five. “My son wants me to be part of their lives and for them to have memories of me.” It marks the end of a 14-year career at Churchill Square. Centre manager Toni Wilkinson said: “Sandra’s dedication, warmth, and professionalism have made a great impact on our team and everyone she has worked with. While we are sad to see her go, we are excited for her as she embarks on a new chapter, which is to retire in Australia to be closer to her son and grandchildren.”

❛❛ We had a shortlist of charities, but our customers voted overwhelmingly to support Spadework, many of whom shop there for their organic produce and garden supplies. We’re looking forward to throwing our weight into supporting them next year.

Maybell Omatseye from Medway, Kent, has 13 years of experience in the Events and Venues specialist arena. Specialist in enhancing events’ development, delivery, and management, bringing a strategic and agile perspective to every partnership and leveraging strategic planning, agile coaching, and facilitation expertise to drive success across diverse teams.

As business leaders, we continuously strive to improve our products, services, and internal processes. At Brighter City Solutions, we’ve embraced a transformative practice from agile methodologies: retrospectives. And let me tell you, it’s a game-changer how we help event organisers develop, deliver, and manage events.

Event retrospectives are interactive, psychologically safe, and collaborative sessions. When facilitated well, they foster open dialogue after events to analyse what worked, what didn’t, and what could be improved. It’s not about pointing fingers— it’s about uncovering growth opportunities. In event planning, where creativity meets meticulous coordination, retrospectives turn every experience into a stepping stone toward excellence.

The Secret Sauce to Seamless Events: Retrospectives for Success

Here’s how it plays out: following each event, the team and stakeholders reflect together. What exceeded expectations? Were there surprises, inefficiencies, or gaps in communication or logistics? These discussions deliver clarity and actionable insights, enabling us to optimise operations like vendor management, contingency plans, and client engagement. Continuous reflection creates a cumulative effect that can create a ripple effect, transforming good events into unforgettable ones.

Even for non-event companies, retrospectives can enhance event planning, execution, and management to achieve business goals better.

It is a mindset shift: embracing feedback as fuel for continuous growth.

At Brighter City Solutions, we’re creating memorable events and building a culture of continuous improvement, one event team at a time. Facilitating retrospectives the way we do has been our secret sauce to seamless success—and they could be yours, too. Are you ready to think big?”

www.brightercitysolutions.com

Think like a gardener to plan your marketing

It’s cold outside and the days are still too short to get out into the garden much, so it’s planning time for the gardener – and marketing can take its cue from the seasons too.

Gardens, like marketing audiences, have sections – each needing different attention at different times.

No two gardens are the same, and within each, there can be several different sections. It’s not a single plot that needs the same care across the board.

Some areas will need more attention, care, labour and investment. Soil types vary, some parts are in shade, or fully exposed to the elements. A veg plot requires more thought than a woodland corner. Seeds need to be nurtured, grown on, whereas perennials only need the occasional Chelsea chop. On top of that you may choose to make structural changes, add new features, new furniture.

Planning your marketing spend for the next year is not so dissimilar; like the garden, your customer base will have many variations.

Do you know which customers will bloom year after year with very little input from you?

Which will drain your resources and fail to flower?

Which will bring you bountiful returns with the right care?

And what do they respond to - promotions, new products, emails or direct communications?

What ultimately drives ROI? It will be different for each segment and that’s why a ‘blanket approach’ won’t be as effective as something more targeted.

Blankets will keep you and your plants warm in the winter – but not much else.

Why branding really matters

Branding is vital for any business. And being clear and consistent with communication is something Paul Duckworth knows all about.

With a 35-year career in the design, advertising and marketing industry, he is Founder and Creative Director of Canterbury-based Brandspace Media.

A flexible team of multi-skilled graphic designers, web developers and digital marketing experts, Brandspace has experience in all aspects of branding and marketing communications.

From brand identity to annual reports as well as design for print, advertising, event graphics, social media, website design and digital marketing – it provides powerful marketing communications across industry.

Paul says in a post-Covid world, where businesses are still feeling the impact of the pandemic, both he and his clients have had to adapt the way they work.

“Industry has changed massively over the past few years, partly caused by Covid,” he explains.

“The pandemic caused a nightmare scenario, with many companies slashing marketing teams and budgets.

“For us 2024 felt like it was the first year we had fully recovered.

Paul Duckworth, Founder and Creative Director of marketing

and design agency Brandspace Media,

tells Karen McLauchlan why it’s crucial for businesses to get their messaging right.

“But we’ve had to become more flexible and cost effective in the way we work.

“Industry is getting tougher when it comes to cost and time. People want things done increasingly quickly and for less.

“But I think for 2025, while businesses are still quite cautious and have learned to exist on smaller budgets during Covid, they are now moving forward again.”

Paul adds: “Covid has also brought some positive changes – such as home working.

As we don’t have a permanent office, we can now employ the right people and the right skills from further afield, which has been a big plus.

“We have built strong and trusted long term relationships with designers, developers and social media experts that enables them to work from home, giving us and them a more flexible work/life balance. Most are in Kent but some are elsewhere in the UK and even as far as Poland.”

Training as a Graphic Designer at art college in Canterbury, Paul’s passion for branding began when he worked for world-renowned agency Landor in London, followed by brand management at BAA and Polygram.

He expanded his expertise to design for print, and in more recent years added digital marketing and web development to his skills.

His 35-year career has seen him work with organisations including Port of Dover, Barclays, ABI, Sony, Argos, World Travel & Tourism Council, bp society, GSK, Family Building Society, the International Faculty of Finance and Canterbury City Council.

And he says his company’s mantra –‘Taking care of your brand’ – is as true today as when he started in the industry.

“At the start of everything is branding, if that’s not right you’re setting yourself up to fail,” he explains.

“That doesn’t mean we want to rebrand everyone, but what we do is bring consistency to a brand.

“How you represent yourself, your logo, the colours you use and the style you present your business with applies across everything we do for a client.

“That’s really our core strength.”

He says while digital marketing has grown exponentially in recent years, there is still a big place for print marketing.

“Some people have forgotten the value and effectiveness of doing things in print, that’s something we have real strength in.

“Brochures, magazines, newsletters, annual reports – they often work better in printed form and also make a statement about how serious you are as a business.”

As a creative business, Paul says it’s so important for Brandspace to work across industry, rather than focus on one sector.

“Specialising can leave you vulnerable and when you’re working in a creative industry you need that variety – it keeps you fresh and passionate about what you’re doing.

“One day you might be working on an annual report for a building society and the next new packaging for a bottle of vodka. It keeps us stimulated as designers.”

Brandspace’s B2B and B2C clients range from small start-ups to SMEs, corporates, charities and the public sector in markets including financial services, logistics, software, wellbeing, retail, construction, engineering, travel and manufacturing.

And while the growth of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) has certainly impacted the world of marketing and media, Paul says nothing can replace the spark of real human imagination.

“AI is a challenge,” he says, “it has its place, but I worry for the next generation of designers and writers if they can’t think creatively.

“AI can kill creativity, and you must train your brain to be creative.

“You might ask AI to design a logo, but it doesn’t consider the personality of a business, what it stands for and what’s important to it. As a designer you know when something just feels right for a particular client, but AI doesn’t have the feel factor.”

“It is crucial people understand and appreciate the value of creative thinking.”

Brandspace has also looked to expand its network via the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, becoming a member in 2021.

“It was important for us for networking and new business,” says Paul, “and I think being a Chamber member gives you greater credibility.

“We had been members of other networking organisations, but last summer became purely focused on Kent Invicta – to improve those local connections and increase business.”

Talking to Paul it’s easy to understand it’s the creative process that has continued to fire his passion for branding during the past three decades.

And while his career has seen him work for large agencies, he says bigger isn’t always better.

“We are a small, but flexible business which keeps me hands-on with the creative work –which is the work that I love.

“The value is in our people, their expertise and their passion to achieve for clients.

“When committing to work with us it is essential the chemistry is right as we want an open, trusted and lasting ‘partnership’ rather than a more distant client/supplier relationship.

“This always leads to greater success for both parties and is one of the reasons why our clients stay with us for the long-term.”

❛❛ How you represent yourself, your logo, the colours you use and the style you present your business with applies across everything we do for a client. That’s really our core strength.

❜❜

Moving to a cheaper, greener energy system

A recent poll of small businesses showed that nearly two thirds (*) of Britain’s small business owners and senior decision makers think it’s important for them to reduce their business’s carbon footprint.

From those polled, 58% said energy efficiency is at the forefront of their decisionmaking when they are buying new equipment or appliances, with 57% prioritising buying goods from local suppliers and over half (**) saying being a sustainable business is increasingly important to their customers.

With running costs remaining a concern for many small business owners, 65% agreed that better managing their energy usage and costs is a priority for them this year. One small step small business owners can take to help with this is to get a smart meter installed. They are the next generation of gas and electricity meters that are being installed in small businesses and households in Great Britain, replacing traditional meters.

When it comes to running a business, even making small changes and improvements can make a big difference, whether it’s saving money or being good for the planet. Getting a smart meter can help owners to understand exactly how much energy they are using and help

them to control energy costs. A smart meter can also help identify ways to reduce energy consumption – which is good for budgets, as well as the planet. Whether you own or rent your business premises, you may be eligible for a smart meter, and if you are renting, but pay your own energy bills, you can ask your supplier to install one (***).

SMART METER BENEFITS

Smart meters have lots of benefits for small businesses, including:

• Accurate billing: smart meters measure energy usage in near real-time, so no more manual readings or estimated bills. This means you only pay for the energy you use, which can help with managing cashflow

• Control: the data provided by smart meters can give you more control over your business’ energy spend, helping you monitor energy usage and identify where cost savings can be made

• Access to historic energy usage data: small businesses with a smart meter can request free access to 12 months of

data from their energy supplier. This could help with budgeting and reduce bill shock. It could also help you plan for your next bill by identifying any trends or patterns in your energy use across the year

As well as helping to give you more control of your business budgeting, smart meters are playing an important role in Great Britain’s energy infrastructure upgrade, as we continue to increase our use of cheaper, greener renewable energy sources.

The data smart meters provide is key to this innovation, and will enable us to buy, store and consume energy differently to the way we do today, gathering the information the energy networks need that will help the energy system better manage supply and demand. This will make the whole system more efficient and able to use more renewables such as wind and solar power.

So just by having a smart meter installed, you’re helping to create a smarter, greener energy system that will benefit Britain, the planet - and you.

Smart meters are currently available, and installations are happening now.

To find out if your business is eligible, contact your energy supplier or broker; search “Get a smart meter for business” or visit smartenergyGB.org.

“By helping them to take steps to be more efficient with their energy use, smart meters can have a positive effect on a business’ carbon footprint, as well as helping them save money.”

“Smart meters give you access to free and regular information on your energy use. Your energy supplier may provide this via an online platform, app, smart meter display or other data tools.”

Retail and tech giant with centre in Dartford thrilled to receive Top Employer accolade Essential property insurance considerations for new buyers

Amazon in the UK has been recognised for the second consecutive year for its policies which put its people first.

Each year, the Top Employers Institute certifies organisations who are focused on putting their people first through their exceptional HR policies, and Amazon UK, which has a fulfilment centre in Dartford, has been recognised for the second year running. This is also the third successive year the business has been recognised in Europe.

The Top Employers Institute programme certifies organisations based on the participation and results of their HR Best Practices Survey. This survey covers six HR domains consisting of 20 topics including People Strategy, Work

Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity & Inclusion, Wellbeing and more.

Amazon Dartford General Manager, John McEwen, said: “I am thrilled that Amazon has been recognised as a Top Employer in the UK for the second consecutive year. This accolade reflects our unwavering commitment to the development and wellbeing of our employees.

”Our aspiration is to be Earth’s best employer and our teams continuously innovate and enhance our workplace, ensuring that all employees, regardless of their backgrounds, are proud to work at Amazon.”

In 2025, the Top Employers Institute certified more than 2,400 organisations across 125 countries and regions.

Top Employers Institute CEO David Plink said: “Consistency in a not-so-consistent world? In a time of rapid change – where technological, economic, and social factors continually reshape our world – these extraordinary times bring out the best in people and organisations. This year’s Top Employers Certification Programme showcases the resilience of the certified Top Employers 2025, who consistently prioritise the growth and wellbeing of their people, as they enrich the world of work. We are proud to celebrate these people-first leaders and teams as the Top Employers for 2025!”

A happy team is a productive team

– and here’s what

you can do to boost wellbeing

In the midst of a busy day at work, it can be devastatingly easy to overlook your own health and well-being when your focus is being driven by achieving tasks for others, especially in an environment where time is money.

In a world where we are praised and rewarded for working long hours and giving our all for sometimes little in return, taking time out for yourself can feel more like a burden than a necessity.

As a business owner, we can fall short by not paying attention to the needs of our team members. We can become so complacent in our own efforts for success that we miss the needs of those who are helping lay the foundation to succeed.

With the rates of suicide on the increase, the number of mental health complaints rising and seeing the impact first-hand that this can have on those affected, it’s vital we consider how we can improve the lives of those around us. If we look after our people and our people thrive, then in turn so does our business: a happy team is a productive team – something that has been proven time and time again.

Holistic health doesn’t come with a prescription. It is about creating harmony, be it mentally, physically, emotionally or spiritually. It provides an outlet. It brings peace.

Because burn out is real. Depression is real. Suicidal thoughts are real. But sometimes, it’s silent and can arrive with no warning.

So let’s be the bridge. Holistic treatments can help people see life through a new lens, one that offers hope, offers healing and most importantly, a life well-lived.

Lake House Kent is a community founded on the belief that every single one of us deserves happiness and good mental health.

After all, as the old adage goes, we can always make more money, but we cannot make more time. So let’s all look after our colleagues, our friends and our family and grow wiser, happier and healthier together.

To learn more, visit www.lakehousekent.co.uk to find out what options are available for your team.

When purchasing a property, securing the right insurance tailored to your needs is crucial.

From rebuild costs to flood risks, understanding key factors can help protect your investment and avoid unexpected expenses.

Here, Clarke Williams Insurance Brokers share five key considerations:

1. Grade-Listed Properties

Rebuild costs for grade-listed properties often exceed market value due to unique materials and architectural details. A rebuild cost assessment ensures your insurance covers restoration expenses in case of damage.

2. Construction Type and Flat Roofs

Flat roof sections require disclosure and maintenance. Insurers generally accept flat roofs covering 0–20 per cent of the total area but may impose conditions, such as regular upkeep. Being upfront prevents claim complications.

3. Tree Influencing Distance

Nearby trees, especially on clay soil, increase the risk of subsidence. Insurers assess tree proximity, height, and species. Consulting an arborist ensures accurate coverage.

4. Proximity to Water

Properties near rivers or ponds face higher flood risks. Insurers often evaluate proximity (within 250 metres) and may request elevation data or flood defences for premium calculations.

5. Security Features

Strong security measures, like British Standard locks, burglar alarms and CCTV reduce theft risk and premiums. For high-value contents, alarms may be mandatory.

By addressing these factors – rebuild costs, construction details, environmental risks, and security – you can secure accurate quotes and comprehensive coverage.

Visit

London Gatwick awards £30,000 to good causes in Kent

Kent community groups were celebrating this week as London Gatwick announced the recipients of £30,000 from the third round of the London Gatwick Foundation Fund, across Tonbridge and Malling, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks.

The five good causes which benefitted from a financial boost were Paddock Wood Community Advice Centre with £10,000, Tunbridge Wells and District Volunteer Bureau and Community Car Service also with £10,000, Sevenoaks Samaritans received £5,000, while Tonbridge Baptist Church benefitted from £3,000 for day coach trips and finally Tonbridge Lions Club now has £2,000 to spend on supermarket food vouchers for local families.

The London Gatwick Foundation Fund was set up in 2016 to award funding to local groups that work to fight social isolation and tackle disadvantage, raise aspirations and develop skills, improve health and wellbeing, and support children and young people.

Alison Addy, head of external engagement and policy, from London Gatwick, said: “The London Gatwick Foundation fund has helped hundreds of groups since it was founded. It always gives us so much joy to find out how our funding has helped to make people’s lives better.”

Lorraine Ash, regional manager at The Tunbridge Wells and District Volunteer Bureau said: “We fully rely on securing independent funding from various sources to continue to serve the community. “We are extremely grateful for the donation from the London Gatwick Foundation Fund. “The funds will be used towards the cost of providing an office and all the utilities needed to keep the door open and continue to serve our community. “The main service that our charity provides is safe, reliable, affordable transport for vulnerable, disabled and elderly people.”

Jane Rigney, service director at Sevenoaks Samaritans, added: “We are delighted to have been chosen by the London Gatwick Foundation Fund and cannot thank you enough for choosing to support Sevenoaks Samaritans.

“This grant will allow us to spend more time growing and supporting our team of enthusiastic volunteers, ensuring that we can uphold our commitment to being there for everyone who needs us, whenever they need us. We couldn’t do this without you.”

The London Gatwick Foundation Fund is managed on behalf of London Gatwick in Kent by the Kent Community Foundation.

For more information visit: www.gatwickairport.com/company/community/ funding

Helping to build schools and hospitals

More development schemes than ever before have benefitted from early-stage specialist support from Canterbury Archaeological Trust (CAT) due to an increase in work for our consultancy team. Our clients have been provided with increased confidence and certainty when setting out on their pre-planning journeys thanks to

Desk-Based Assessments that have been written for projects ranging from large mixed-use developments to schools, hospitals and private dwellings.

Further down the line, numerous Impact Assessments, Heritage Appraisals and Building Surveys have been produced to help the planning consultants and architects we work with move their schemes

Empowering Future Generations for a Sustainable Planet

Founded in 2022, Mindfully Sustainable Ltd is committed to creating a sustainable living environment by addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time—carbon footprint reduction. Every individual plays a role in global carbon emissions, and in the UK alone, the average carbon footprint per person is estimated to be 10 to 13 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e) annually—more than double the global average of 4.3 tonnes per person. Reducing these emissions is essential to combating climate change and ensuring a habitable future.

At Mindfully Sustainable, we believe that education is the key to transformation. Our unique approach integrates sustainability education into the academic framework of GCSE, IGCSE, A-Level, and IBDP curricula, helping students understand real-world environmental challenges.

While sustainability concepts are embedded in these courses, students often struggle to apply them to everyday life. Our hands-on methodology bridges this gap by engaging students in scientific exploration across Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to identify carbon emission sources and develop innovative solutions.

through the planning process. This increase has enabled us to build our desk-based team further with the addition of a new member of staff, Tom Axtell.

Thanks to external and bespoke in-house training, Tom has already become a valued addition to CAT’s consultancy team. www.canterburytrust.co.uk

Through practical learning, students gain a deeper understanding of climate change, the greenhouse effect, and sustainable practices. By fostering environmental awareness at an early stage, we empower young minds to become responsible global citizens, driving meaningful change in their communities.

At Mindfully Sustainable Ltd, we are not just teaching sustainability—we are shaping a future where every individual contributes to a greener, healthier planet.

For more information visit: https://mindfullysustainable.co.uk

SKILLS 25 – A Cross-Sector Skills Summit.

Collaborate, Innovate, Succeed

The Mercure Great Danes Hotel, Maidstone, Kent

Tuesday 18th March 2025 9am – 3.30pm

Join us on Tuesday 18th March 2025 for Skills 25, a cross-sector skills summit with ambitions to serve as a dynamic platform for exploring and advancing essential skills driving Kent and Medway’s future. Skills 25 will focus on identifying challenges and opportunities related to the skills needed for success across industries and sectors in our evolving economic landscape. Led by the Kent and Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) and funded by UK Government, Skills 25 will serve as a nexus of knowledge exchange, providing actionable strategies to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern workforce.

Skills 25 will feature insights from leading experts in economic development, policy, education, and skills. Attendees will benefit from thought-provoking discussions and practical solutions to address the pressing challenges facing regional employers in workforce development, productivity and growth. A comprehensive schedule of talks, seminars, and workshops will be held throughout the day in dedicated breakout rooms, providing opportunities for networking and cross-sector collaboration. By bringing together industry and education, we aim

to create a lasting legacy of engagement and innovation within the regional skills system.

Why you should attend

Managing Directors, Business Owners, Senior Leaders, and Learning and Development teams from Construction, Manufacturing, Engineering, Food and Food Production, Social Care, Education and the Creative sector attending the summit can expect to:

• Identify challenges and opportunities in the regional skills landscape.

• Learn from industry experts and implement actionable strategies to boost your business success.

• Join thought-provoking discussions, discover innovative solutions, and build valuable connections.

• Foster collaboration between industry and education to drive economic prosperity and future growth.

The summit provides a unique opportunity to network with likeminded individuals and connect with local education and training providers, policy makers and stakeholders. Discover how collaboration can unlock longterm benefits, drive economic prosperity, and fuel future growth.

Booking is now open, and places are free to attend.

Please visit our website to secure your place and view the confirmed speakers so far, with more to follow shortly, here https://info.kentinvictachamber.co.uk/skills-25 or scan the QR code to secure your place

Level 3 Qualification Reforms: What Industry Needs to Know

In an ever-evolving labour market, skills development is paramount to ensuring the UK workforce can meet the needs of a modern economy.

Level 3 qualifications, which generally correspond to A-levels, BTECs and other vocational qualifications, play a critical role in shaping the skills and competencies of young individuals entering the workforce. Recognising the importance of these qualifications, the UK government recently conducted a comprehensive review to evaluate their relevance, effectiveness, and alignment with industry requirements. This report outlines the key findings of the review, the resulting recommendations, and the implications for industries and employers in the UK.

Overview of the Review

The UK government’s review of Level 3 qualifications was initiated to address concerns about skill shortages in various sectors and to ensure that educational pathways are aligned with current and future labour market needs. The review involved extensive consultations with stakeholders, including employers, educators, and students, alongside a detailed analysis of the qualifications landscape.

Key areas of focus included:

• Relevance to Industry: The review sought to assess whether Level 3 qualifications adequately equip students with the skills required by employers across different sectors.

• Quality and Standards: It examined the quality of the qualifications being offered, ensuring they meet robust standards and provide value to learners and employers.

• Diversity of Pathways: An evaluation of the diversity and accessibility of Level 3 qualifications was undertaken, exploring how these qualifications can cater to a range of learner needs and career aspirations.

• Funding and Support: The review also considered how funding mechanisms could support improvements in the quality and accessibility of Level 3 qualifications.

Key Findings

The review produced several important findings that illuminate the current state of Level 3 qualifications and their effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.

Alignment with Industry Needs

One of the most significant findings was that the majority of employers expressed dissatisfaction with the current Level 3 qualifications. While some qualifications remain relevant, the pace of technological advancement and changes in industry practices mean that many existing qualifications do not sufficiently equip students with the necessary skills. This includes a continued focus on T-Levels, which are designed to provide industryrelevant skills and knowledge. Employers also called for a stronger emphasis on digital literacy, soft skills, and adaptability to align with the rapidly changing workforce dynamics.

High Variability in Quality

The review identified a high degree of variability in the quality of Level 3 qualifications across different providers. While some institutions delivered exemplary education tailored to industry needs, others fell short, failing to provide students with the required knowledge and competencies. There was a consensus on the need for standardisation in qualification assessment and delivery to ensure uniform quality across the board.

Barriers to Access

Accessibility emerged as a crucial concern, with many students facing barriers to enrolling on Level 3 courses due to socio-economic factors, lack of information, or inadequate support. The review highlighted the need for more inclusive pathways that consider the diverse backgrounds and capabilities of learners.

Funding and Resources

Finally, the review found that current funding mechanisms for Level 3 qualifications were limiting. Greater funding flexibility is needed to support programme development that is responsive to local industry requirements and learners’ aspirations. The government has decided to retain funding for 157 qualifications that were previously slated for removal. This decision was largely

driven by concerns about the potential negative impact on students from disadvantaged backgrounds and the potential skills shortages that could arise.

Recommendations

Based on its findings, the review proposed several key recommendations for reform:

Curriculum Reform: Curriculum frameworks for Level 3 qualifications should be revised to ensure they include critical skills demanded by employers, such as digital literacy and problemsolving skills.

Enhanced Collaboration: Educational institutions should work closely with industry stakeholders to develop qualifications that reflect real-world job requirements. This partnership would lead to programmes that are relevant and of high quality.

Standardisation and Quality Assurance:

A standardised approach to assessment and accreditation should be established to ensure consistency in qualification quality nationwide. This may involve enhancing the role of external quality assurance bodies.

Increased Funding and Support: The government should consider revising funding policies to encourage innovation and responsiveness in education delivery, while also supporting underrepresented groups in accessing Level 3 qualifications.

Promoting Awareness: More effort must be made to raise awareness of Level 3 vocational pathways among students, parents, and educators, showcasing their value and potential for career development.

Implications for Industry

The outcomes of this review hold profound implications for industry and employers across the UK.

Positive Skills Alignment

If the recommendations are enacted, employers can expect a workforce better equipped with the skills that are necessary to thrive in their industries. Enhanced collaboration between education providers and employers can lead to tailored training programmes that directly address skill shortages.

Improved Quality Assurance

With standardised qualifications, employers can have greater confidence in the capabilities of graduates entering the workforce. This improved quality can reduce training costs and time taken to bring new employees up to speed in their roles.

Expanded Workforce Diversity

Greater accessibility to Level 3 qualifications can help diversify the talent pool. By facilitating entry for individuals from various backgrounds, industries can benefit from a wider range of perspectives and ideas, fostering innovation and growth.

Proactive

Industry Engagement

As employers become more involved in shaping qualifications, they can ensure that these educational programmes are not only relevant but also future-focused, anticipating industry changes and aligning workforce development with emerging trends.

The UK government’s review of Level 3 qualifications marks a significant step towards enhancing the alignment of education with industry needs in an evolving labour market. By implementing the recommendations from the review, we can cultivate a skilled workforce capable of meeting contemporary challenges. This proactive approach not only benefits employers through an improved talent pool but also empowers learners to achieve successful careers in their chosen fields. Ultimately, stakeholders across the spectrum must collaborate to ensure that the reforms are effectively implemented, ushering in a new era of vocational education that supports both economic growth and societal well-being.

How can we bridge the skills gap in 2025?

In today’s rapidly evolving jobs market, the demand for specialised skills is more pronounced than ever. Hands-on experience is crucial to many industries and this is where apprenticeships come into play. What is the current picture in Kent?

By combining practical training with academic learning, apprenticeships offer an invaluable opportunity for both job seekers and employers.

Skills are the foundation of any successful career. They encompass both hard skills, such as technical abilities and certifications, and soft skills, like communication, teamwork and problem-solving. With the pace of technological advancements, it’s critical for workers to continually adapt by upgrading their skill sets. Many industries, particularly in fields like technology, engineering, healthcare and manufacturing, require workers to have highly specialised skills.

A major challenge today is the gap between the skills that employers need and those that job seekers possess. According to recent studies, employers often find it difficult to fill positions due to the lack of qualified candidates with the right skills. This skills gap can be particularly evident in the trades, where specific expertise is crucial.

The local picture

Skills shortages in Kent, like in many other regions in the UK, have been an ongoing concern, with certain sectors facing significant challenges in filling vacancies due to a lack of skilled workers.

Here are a few key areas where skills shortages are particularly notable in Kent:

Construction and Trades

There is a high demand for skilled workers in construction-related jobs, including electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and bricklayers, due to a combination of factors including an ageing workforce, low numbers of young people entering the trade, and increasing demand for new housing and infrastructure development. The lack of skilled tradespeople has caused delays in construction projects, which, in turn, have an impact on housing supply and local development.

Healthcare

There is a high demand for nurses, doctors, care workers and allied health professionals across Kent. This is due to several factors including an ageing population in Kent and the national shortage of healthcare professionals, which have made it harder for local hospitals and care homes to recruit sufficient staff. This has led to additional strain for the local healthcare system with increased workloads and longer waiting times for patients.

Image courtesy of MidKent College

Agriculture and Horticulture

Cover Feature | Education & Skills

Farm workers, especially in seasonal roles such as fruit pickers and packers, are in short supply. This is due to the seasonal nature of agriculture work combined with Brexit-related immigration restrictions meaning fewer workers from the EU coming to Kent to fill these positions. This has created difficulty in harvesting crops on time resulting in potential food waste and financial losses for farmers.

Digital and Tech Skills

The rapid pace of digital transformation and the need for tech solutions have created a demand for professionals with the right skills, but there is a gap between the supply and demand for IT professionals, software developers and cyber security experts in Kent. As businesses increasingly rely on digital technologies, the shortage of skilled tech workers can hinder their ability to innovate and compete in the workplace.

Education and Teaching

There is a shortage of teachers nationally, and Kent is no exception, particularly in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects as well as special education teachers. The pressures of the job, relatively low pay and workload challenges have contributed to fewer people entering the profession. This shortage can lead to larger class sizes, increased stress for current teachers and challenges in delivering a high-quality education.

Engineering and Manufacturing

There is a shortage of engineers, especially in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing. The demand for skilled engineers has risen with the growing importance of innovation in sectors such as aerospace, renewable energy, and technology, however, there is a gap in the number of engineers with the necessary skills and qualifications.

Solving the skills gap

• Apprenticeships and training: Encouraging more apprenticeships and vocational training can help bridge the skills gap, particularly in sectors like construction and healthcare.

• Collaboration with education providers: More collaboration between local employers and colleges/universities can help to ensure that the skills taught align with the needs of local industries.

• Attracting talent: Initiatives aimed at attracting skilled workers from other parts of the UK or internationally could help fill vacancies, particularly in sectors such as tech and healthcare.

There are several initiatives and strategies aimed at addressing skills shortages in Kent. These focus on supporting education, training, recruitment and collaboration between businesses, local authorities and education providers. They include the Kent and Medway Skills Commission, Kent Apprenticeship Scheme with Kent County Council, the University of Kent and Kent Business School, Medway Skills Network, the Kent and Medway Growth Hub, the Workforce Development Fund (WDF), and the East Kent College Group.

Challenges and opportunities

Despite the advantages, there are still challenges when it comes to apprenticeships in the area such as awareness, access to funding and retention once apprentices have completed their programmes. With increasing support from Local Government, businesses and educational institutions, more apprenticeships are becoming available across a variety of sectors. By focusing on both technical and soft skills, apprenticeships provide an invaluable tool for addressing skills shortages and promoting economic growth in the region.

What businesses in Kent

think:

Alice Monk, Director of Communications at All Health Matters says: “The rising cost of employing people has been a challenge, but it’s also highlighted the importance of investing in the people you already have. We have noticed more employers spending their budgets on health promotion and awareness, recognising how valuable a healthy, engaged workforce is. Occupational Health can make a big difference here, particularly with complex sickness absence and return-to-work cases.

“At the same time, some of our clients are feeling the pinch –sadly, we’ve seen a few close their doors due to rising costs. It’s a balancing act, but our approach has always been to offer only what’s needed and, where appropriate, direct clients to other professionals like employment law or H&S specialists. Collaboration is key in tough times, and we believe Kent businesses can work together to support each other.”

Alice is pleased to see Government initiatives such as Skills England to address skills shortages, but she believes “there’s room to do more”.

“In the OH sector, the shortage of trained OH nurses and doctors remains a challenge, but the Society of Occupational Medicine is leading efforts to address this,” she adds.

“It’s important to ensure there is enough support available for the working population to access quality occupational health services.

“We’ve found success in opening our doors to medical professionals interested in transitioning to Occupational Health. Our shadowing schemes have allowed doctors to explore the field, and several now work with us regularly. These opportunities aren’t just good for the individuals – they help ensure businesses have access to the quality OH services they need. Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to working with local businesses to support health and wellbeing, even as costs and challenges rise.”

Graham Clewes Director of Quality, Curriculum and Compliance, Mainstream Group, an independent training provider, says: “As an SME ourselves, as well as a training provider which works closely with business and the public sector, we know very well some of the challenges in the economy right now. We have two views about the recent Budget and Government spending announcements. As an employer, the increase in National Insurance contributions, of course, represents an increase in costs when funding and contract values for delivering our vital work have not increased.

Cover Feature | Education & Skills

“It is one of the fundamental differences the independent training sector faces from FE colleges and schools that our sector is not eligible for grants and subsidies to aid staff recruitment, retention or to offset increased costs. Yet our work is as vital to the economy. But on the flip side, we welcome the focus being given to skills gaps here in the county and across the country.”

Graham says they welcome the Government announcements around economic growth, housebuilding, infrastructure projects, progressing a greener economy and devolution.

“Importantly, the Government has also acknowledged that there are skills gaps in the labour market which, unless addressed, will limit success of its economic growth plans,” he adds.

“So, this is a good start. The formation of Skills England has potential to make a difference but in our view its success will be inhibited if it does not build cross-Government collaboration and inter-department strategy.

“We encourage the Government to be careful when it comes to devolution because some skills gaps are national and are best addressed at that level. We see it most obviously in transport and logistics and HGV driver training. Right now, 75 per cent of our HGV Skills Bootcamp learners are securing work in the sector showing there is demand for them. We know that high proportions of HGV drivers aged 50 and higher are stepping away from the role so we must ensure skills gaps include higher than usual rates of employee churn, particularly in key economic sectors such as transport and logistics.

“Right now, we are focused on two things. First is to maintain quality and performance. We are currently one of the highest performing providers nationally of HGV Skills Bootcamps, achieving 75 per cent job outcomes. In 2023, Ofsted judged our Adult Learning Programmes to be Outstanding. So, we know we are getting this aspect right.

“And second, we are actively inviting local commercial training providers to join us in a new skills partnership. Across the county and the country, there are excellent local commercial training providers embedded within their communities, with specialist facilities, teaching skills and experience in training adults in for example green construction skills. We believe they need to be part of helping address the identified skills gaps and we invite them to get in touch with us.”

Cover Feature | Education & Skills

The University of Greenwich and Twin Group partner to improve career outcomes and support business growth through Industry Placements

The University of Greenwich partners with Twin Group to provide Kent businesses access to skilled, talented, international and early career talent without recruitment costs.

Since 2019, Kent businesses have had the opportunity to hire International Masters students from the University of Greenwich for a one-year placement at the end of their course, giving them access to skilled, early career professionals who have been educated locally at the University of Greenwich Medway campus. 93% of our students were retained by their placement company in 2023, and 480 students have been placed since 2020.

Twin Group prepares these students with employability skills and matches them to skilled roles without cost to the employer. Primarily from STEM and business management backgrounds, these students are helping companies meet skills shortages while allowing them to leverage their master’s level education and research experience in their area of study. While the university has a longstanding relationship with Kent businesses, their partnership with Twin Group has allowed them to deepen the information exchange between the industry and the university through engagement with the Masters’ work placement programme.

These students can be hired cost-free and without needing a visa for up to 3 years because they are under the University Student Visa and can then apply for the Graduate Route at the end of the placement, and Twin Group supports the employer through the hiring process.

Pacadar: A local Kent Success Story

Pacadar UK Ltd., based in Kent, is an international company leading in the pre-cast concrete sector for both civil engineering and building construction projects. Following a recommendation from the Universities Industrial Advisory Board, Twin Group has helped them recruit 12 International Masters students for manufacturing, production, logistics, quality control and health and safety roles.

Gema de la Guia, Pacadar’s People Specialist, says, “Our collaboration with Twin has been essential to share key positions within our business. And so far we have 100% success rate with this placement programme. The international students perform really well. They have a strong background from their University course”.

Gema highlighted their positive attitude, and willingness to create value. She explains, “A strong relationship with the university has allowed us access to local talent and increased our company’s visibility. Most importantly, it allows us to contribute to the educational system, society and the corporate world.”

Other Kent companies that regularly include Masters Placement students are Tag Construction Ltd, Kilnbridge, Wozair Ltd, Imperium Engineers, Synecore Pvt Ltd and Blu-3 (UK) Ltd.

In addition to supporting Masters level students, Twin has 30 years of experience in Skills and Training and supports employers to utilise Apprenticeships, Flexi Apprenticeships and a clearer understanding of the funding options available to support existing staff.

Through collaborations such as this, Twin is helping university students achieve better career outcomes and local businesses access a sustainable pipeline of talented, diverse and dedicated young people ready to add value to the UK companies. Find more information at https://twingroup.org/en/masters1plus1/

University of Greenwich Masters placement students on site at Pacadar UK Ltd. Kent

Produced by Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce

Produced by:

(Business Tenancies) (England and Wales) Order 2003, it is possible that the landlord will have granted a lease within sections 24-28 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 (the Act). The effect of this is that come the end of the lease, unless the tenant agrees to leave, the landlord can only bring the lease to an end by serving a section 25 notice.

Section 25 Notice

DALDEEP JASWAL Partner

Commercial Property Department

djaswal@bussmurton.co.uk

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY LEASES AND SECURITY OF TENURE - PART II OF THE LANDLORD AND TENANT ACT 1954

“My tenant mentioned ‘security of tenure’ so I thought I should check with my Solicitor what that means for me”.

These were the words spoken to me by a landlord client recently who had just been told by their tenant that they had a right to remain in the property at the expiry of their lease and the landlord could not ask them to leave. That wasn’t quite right but the tenant did have a point.

From time to time, I am approached by a landlord who has let a commercial property to a tenant and dealt with the lease themselves. This approach is usually made to me if the landlord is renewing or changing the terms of the lease or getting a property ready for sale. Unless a landlord is well versed in the ‘contracting out’ process required under The Regulatory Reform

When terminating a lease protected by the Act, the landlord must serve a section 25 notice on the tenant and provide a reason for not renewing the tenant’s lease. There is a list of those grounds for the landlord to choose from contained in section 30(1) of the Act. Those grounds include the tenant’s failure in keeping the property in the repair required by the lease, paying rent on time or other substantial breaches of tenant covenants in the lease. There is a further ground involving sub-letting of parts of a building where a landlord can show that the rent that can be achieved from sub-divided parts of a building are substantially less than the rent that could be achieved from a letting of the whole of a building, but it is the least used ground because seldom are the necessary requirements fulfilled. These grounds are referred to as “discretionary grounds” meaning that the Court has a discretion as to whether to order a new lease of the property even if a particular ground is evidenced by a landlord.

The list of mandatory grounds, i.e. where the Court must order possession for the landlord, is a little shorter, but includes the landlord offering the tenant suitable alternative premises on reasonable terms (having regard to the current tenancy), the landlord wanting to occupy the premises for their own use (which is subject to a requirement that the landlord has owned the reversion of the lease for at least 5 years before the end of the tenancy (i.e. the date stated in the section 25 notice)), or the most commonly used ground which is that the landlord intends to redevelop the premises. In each of these mandatory or ‘no fault’ grounds, the tenant might be entitled to statutory compensation based on the rateable value of the property.

Unless the landlord can demonstrate one of the discretionary or mandatory grounds as a reason for not granting the tenant a new lease, it will have no right to bring the tenant’s lease to an end and the tenant will be entitled to request a renewal tenancy from the landlord.

Lease Renewal

Where a landlord is happy to renew the tenant’s lease, it again must serve a section 25 notice to bring the current lease to an end with the offer

of new lease terms on which it will grant a new lease. The minimum notice period is six months (the maximum is 12 months) with a requirement that the date on which the current tenancy is to expire cannot be specified as earlier than the end of the current tenancy. For example, if the existing lease ends on 25 December 2025, the landlord cannot specify in its notice that the lease ends earlier than that date. Where the parties cannot agree terms, the Court can decide these but there are various factors to be considered: market rents and the terms of the current lease. Where a tenant wishes to initiate renewal, a similar process is followed by serving a notice of renewal terms on the landlord under section 26 of the Act. There is nothing stopping the parties agreeing terms informally and completing a lease renewal. This is what tends to happen in many cases.

The above scenarios apply to leases which are granted when the parties specifically agree that the Act is to apply. A tenant might want to ensure it retains the right to renew its lease as its business model might rely heavily on the property and its location. However, the Act will also apply where landlords have inadvertently granted a lease and not followed the contracting out procedure either correctly or not considered the ramifications. This will have the effect of providing the tenant with security of tenure and the above procedure will apply when ending the lease.

Contracting Out

If a landlord follows the contracting out procedure correctly and grants a lease to a tenant so that it is granted outside the ambit of sections 24-28 of the Act, then the landlord is free, come the end of the term, to ask the tenant to leave or offer a new lease to its tenant on terms that it can dictate. The point being that the landlord is not beholden to its tenant to have to grant a renewal lease. When a contracted-out lease has expired, landlords need to be careful not to inadvertently provide the tenant with security of tenure by allowing the lease to continue and doing nothing other than continuing to take rent as this can have the effect of providing the tenant with what is called a ‘Periodic Tenancy’ which will have protection under the Act.

There is a consultation being conducted by the Law Commission as to whether the contracting out model of security of tenure under the Act remains the right approach however the importance of parties ensuring that they seek legal advice not only in relation to the grant of a new lease but also when it is due to expire cannot be emphasised strongly enough.

LEGAL ADVICE YOU CAN TRUST IN KENT AND THE SOUTH EAST

If you are in need of legal advice on any of the above, contact: info@bussmurton.co.uk or call 01892 510 222.

Unique amongst private healthcare providers, we are a Private Limited Company and a fully owned subsidiary of East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, with sites in:

• Ashford (William Harvey Hospital)

• Canterbury (Kent & Canterbury Hospital)

• Margate (Queen Elizabeth Queen Mother Hospital)

Spencer Private Hospitals are pleased to announce the launch of their new Private GP Services at their Ashford and Margate branches.

Take Charge of Your Health with Dr Alexandra Mansell’s GP Services at Spencer Private Hospitals in Ashford.

Dr Mansell offers a personalised and holistic GP service, combining her unique dual training as a nurse and doctor to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care and ensures you are treated as an individual.

As a busy working mother herself, Dr Mansell understands the pressures of balancing family, work and health and is committed to offering care tailored to your needs. Her clinics also streamline paediatric referrals,

ensuring that children receive prompt and specialised care when needed.

Dr Mansell’s offers bespoke health assessments which are designed to take a preventative and proactive approach to your well-being. For businesses, these assessments help keep your workforce healthy by identifying potential health issues early, reducing time off work and ensuring a productive team.

For individuals and businesses alike, Dr Mansell offers a trusted, holistic approach to health that you can rely on. Book your appointment or enquire about tailored health assessments today via her website and prioritise health that fits into your busy life. www.drmansellgp.com

Dr Amilia Alifrangis works from Spencer Private Hospitals, Margate.

Dr Alifrangis is an experienced GP with an interest in Women’s’ health and sport and exercise medicine. She trained and qualified at University College London in 2011, and since then has worked in NHS clinics, urgent care centres across London and Kent.

Dr Alifrangis has previously worked for Bupa Health Clinics for seven years, carrying out health screening, GP appointments, menopause consultations and medical leadership roles. She is also a Senior Lecturer in Medical Education at Kent and Medway Medical school, and a GP appraiser.

Through these roles, Dr Alifrangis has gained considerable experience of caring for patients from all backgrounds, and offers a whole person, preventative care approach in her consultations.

Advice and treatment is tailored to your needs and follow up support can be provided to help achieve specific health goals. She brings these skills and experience to her clinics and offers face to face appointments, Menopause / perimenopause consultations and health assessments.

Clinics are offered weekly, and can be booked directly through Spencer Private Hospitals website or by visiting www.thebaygp.com

Brachers joins Lawfront

Lawfront announces that Brachers has joined the fast-growing legal services group, an exciting development bringing another high-quality client and growth focused firm into the Group and taking revenue to over £100m.

Brachers, a Patron of Kent Invicta Chamber, is a leading firm in the South East, based in Maidstone and Canterbury, with a strong reputation for excellent client care and high-quality services.

This is Lawfront’s fifth large regional firm acquisition and the eleventh in total, taking group fee income to £100m, well on the way to becoming a Top 10 national legal services business.

Lawfront’s strategy is to partner with law firms who hold a leading position in their region, have a strong brand for client service, a dedication to their people, and management teams that have a history of delivering profitable growth. Brachers meet this criteria perfectly. We back our management teams to achieve their growth ambitions through further local “merge-in” acquisitions and by bringing investment and expertise in people, IT and AI, marketing and business development, to accelerate organic growth.

An award-winning firm, Brachers’ commitment to excellence and delivering exceptional results for its clients has seen the firm attain impressive organic growth, achieving over £20million turnover this last year, and receive various industry accolades and awards, including recognition in the prestigious The Times ‘Best Law Firms 2025’ list.

Alongside this, the firm’s commitment to its people and creating an inclusive, collaborative and innovative workplace is reflected in Brachers’ accreditation as an ‘outstanding’ place to work by Best Companies, with the firm named as a Best Companies ‘Top 10 law firm to work for’ in 2024.

This partnership with Lawfront will support Brachers to accelerate its ambitious growth plans, broaden and enhance its services to clients, offer further development to its people and increase its already significant investment in IT.

Neil Lloyd, Lawfront CEO, said: “I am delighted to partner with Brachers, a firm with such a strong reputation in its region, and I look forward to working with Joanna Worby and her team to accelerate the growth of their firm; growth that we have seen with all other group firms under our ownership. Our approach to the general legal services market is unique: backing firms’ management teams, preserving their client facing brands, enhancing the prospects of their people and bringing to bear our considerable experience in marketing, IT, finance, people and compliance. Our proposition is increasingly attractive to firms considering what’s next, as it addresses the major concerns of succession, legacy and the scale of investment required to remain competitive. Others may be considering entering the market but as first mover, we have scale and momentum that will be hard to match.”

Joanna Worby, Brachers Managing Partner, commented: “We are an ambitious law firm with aspirational plans for the future, and our partnership with Lawfront is a great opportunity to accelerate growth and create enhanced opportunities for our staff and clients. Our reputation for high-quality services, our long-standing commitment to our clients and communities, and the strength of our culture is a great foundation for continued success, and being part of Lawfront, who focus heavily on client care, investment and growth, aligns perfectly with our ambition and values. Moreover, having the benefits of being part of a bigger group while retaining our brand and culture are a unique characteristic of Lawfront that made joining an attractive option to us. This is an exciting time for Brachers and we look forward to enhancing our offering to our clients and our staff, and increasing our impact in the South East.”

Rewilding Charity lends support to Macknade, Faversham

How do you create the perfect recipe for a successful partnership between a leading Kent business synonymous with artisan-produced exceptional food and drink and a charity committed to preserving the natural landscape?

Take:

• Nine volunteers

• 3.5 hours

• 650 native hedging plants

• Combine with the company’s 175-year legacy of caring for the environment

And the result? A 160-metre-long brand-new hedge at Macknade in Faversham, Kent, planted by the charity Creating Nature’s Corridors and designed to help encourage biodiversity and carbon capture as well as create an improved living environment for the local community.

Since its inception three years ago, award-winning Creating Nature’s Corridors has completed 42 projects, planted 31,389 native trees and hedges and is well within its target of planting 10,000 trees and hedges every year.

The new hedge at Macknade represents the charity’s first project in 2025 with further planting planned later in the year.

For further information about Creating Nature’s Corridors, to make a donation or to volunteer for future planting initiatives, contact www.thefoodmarketingexperts.co.uk

Panattoni Park Sittingbourne Phase 1 approaches completion

The completion of construction of the first phase of Panattoni Park Sittingbourne is now less than three months away, thanks to the combined efforts of the team at Panattoni UK, and its main contractor Winvic.

The two units that make up phase one comprise 439,228 sq. ft and 205,320 sq. ft of high-quality logistics and distribution space – making it the county’s largest speculative property development in more than a decade. They are scheduled for completion by the end of March 2025.

Panattoni Park Sittingbourne will incorporate the latest sustainability measures, including the installation of roof-mounted photovoltaic panelling which will generate around a fifth of the energy required by the site (1.35MVa).

Panattoni has designed the buildings so they will achieve a BREEAM sustainability rating of ‘Excellent’ in terms of the environmental performance of their construction and secure an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of ‘A’.

The next phase of the project comprises 10 acres which are currently the subject of a planning application being considered by Swale Borough Council. This will create a 58,000 sq. ft highquality logistics and distribution building which has already been pre-let by DPD.

Chancellor backs Lower Thames Crossing

The recent backing by the Chancellor of the construction of the Lower Thames Crossing represents a significant economic impact for our count. Moreover, it validates the years of campaigning and lobbying undertaken by the Chamber in partnership with other stakeholders.

This £9 billion project aims to build a 14.3-mile motorway-style tunnel under the River Thames, connecting the A2 and M2 in Kent with the A13 and M25 in Essex. The primary goal is to alleviate severe congestion on the Dartford Crossing, which currently handles a substantial portion of traffic between Kent and Essex.

The economic benefits of the Lower Thames Crossing are substantial. It is expected to inject around £40 billion into the UK economy by improving connectivity at key ports like Dover, Felixstowe, and Harwich. This will facilitate smoother transportation of goods, reducing delays and boosting productivity. The project is also anticipated to create numerous jobs during the construction phase and beyond, as improved infrastructure attracts more businesses and investment to the region.

Moreover, the project is expected to have a significant positive impact on local skills and employment. During construction, thousands of jobs will be created, including opportunities for apprenticeships and training programs that will enhance the skillsets of the local workforce. Once completed, the improved transport links are likely to attract new businesses and industries to the region, fostering long-term employment growth and economic stability for the local community.

The new crossing will also help reduce journey times by up to 46%, providing a significant boost to both local and national economies. By redirecting traffic away from the heavily congested Dartford Crossing, the Lower Thames Crossing will enhance the efficiency of freight transportation, which is crucial for UK exports.

Overall, the Lower Thames Crossing represents a major investment in the UK’s transport infrastructure, promising long-term economic growth, improved connectivity, and a boost to local skills and job opportunities for Kent and Essex. Your Chamber is already in conversation with the primary contractors to maximise the opportunities for Kent businsses.

SMEs urge Government to reset trade relations with the EU

A new survey by the British Chamber of Commerce’s Insights Unit of 1,111 businesses (92 per cent SMEs) shows the urgency for the Government to reset trade relations with the EU is increasing.

The BCC report, assessing the fourth year of Brexit, identifies fresh challenges as regulations continue to diverge, creating further headaches for traders on both sides of the Channel.

The TCA was agreed on Christmas Eve in 2020 to allow tariff-free trade with the EU once Brexit took effect.

But services access is limited by rules on business mobility and only 15 per cent of exporters think the deal is helping them to grow sales with Europe, while 41 per cent disagree.

❛❛ The Government has talked a lot about a new era of trade relations with the EU. But firms are grappling with increasing costs off the back of the Autumn Budget and this change cannot come soon enough.

The BCC has sent the Government its report examining the main issues the TCA is causing for firms with possible solutions to many of the problems.

The survey also found that alongside easier movement of personnel between the UK and EU, 36 per cent of businesses also wanted to see reduced VAT requirements for exports, and a quarter (24 per cent) wanted mutual recognition of professional qualifications.

Businesses said the biggest barriers to exporting they faced were customs procedures and documentation (45 per cent), export documentation (39 per cent), regulations and standards (36 per cent) and tariffs (34 per cent).

Awareness of upcoming changes in trade rules and regulations being made by either the UK or the EU was also alarmingly low, with more than three quarters of firms knowing no details of much of the legislation.

This includes knowledge of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), Border Target Operating Model (BTOM), Safety and Security Declaration Requirements and new rules on business-to-business movements of parcels to Northern Ireland.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “The Government has said economic growth is its number one priority but if that is going to happen then we need to export more, and the EU is still our biggest market.

“Our modelling indicates that if exports had grown 1.0% in 2024, compared to our forecast of a 2.0% contraction, then the economy could have grown up to 1.7% instead of 0.8%. That is a big difference.

“But the structural trade problems created by Brexit have not eased and, in many respects, they are getting worse as EU and UK rules and regulations head in different directions.

❜❜

“The Government has talked a lot about a new era of trade relations with the EU. But firms are grappling with increasing costs off the back of the Autumn Budget and this change cannot come soon enough.

“We need to see a smart and flexible approach to these negotiations. Our businesses are clear on what they want to see, less paperwork and bureaucracy, greater flexibility on business travel and a balanced Youth Mobility Scheme between the UK and EU.

“There is no time to lose in driving forward the changes we need to see. Firms are suffocating under a blanket of rising costs and improving our trading relationship with the EU could provide the growth needed to transform the dour outlook many are facing.”

The BCC’s TCA Four Years On report has set out 26 recommendations to improve UK-EU trade. Its top five proposals for discussions in 2025 are:

1. Negotiate a deal with the EU which either eliminates or reduces the complexity of exporting food for SMEs.

2. Produce a balanced Youth Mobility scheme between the UK and EU, covering school visits and exchanges, and a time-limited ability to work for young people.

3. Develop new arrangements on changes to regulations to minimise disruption to businesses and raise awareness of any fresh impacts.

4. Establish a supplementary deal, like Norway’s, that exempts smaller firms from the requirement to have a fiscal representative for VAT in the EU.

5. Make a deal to allow UK firms to travel for longer and work in Europe and vice versa and provide mutual recognition of professional qualifications.

THAT SINKING FEELING?

Need more time to focus on your core business?

Be adaptable to changing regulation?

Be able to make commercial decisions without fear of reprisal?

Advo will guide you safely through the employment maze, replacing any headaches with calm confidence

Workforce growth struggles as Budget costs loom

Less than a quarter of firms increased their workforce in Q4 2024, according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Insight Unit’s latest Quarterly Recruitment Outlook (QRO.)

The survey shows 24 per cent of responding businesses said they had increased their staffing numbers over the past three months, down from 27 per cent in Q3, while 60 per cent said their workforce had remained constant and 16 per cent reported a cut in staff.

The research was conducted after the Budget when the National Insurance changes were announced, with the fieldwork carried out between 11 November and 9 December.

A total of 4,808 businesses across the UK responded (91 per cent of whom are SMEs).

The was a slight recovery in the number of firms attempting to recruit – 59 per cent compared with 56 per cent in Q3. For the firms who have attempted to hire over the past three months, 79 per cent of respondents said they had experienced difficulties, up from 76 per cent in Q3. That is the highest level since Q2 2023.

Construction and engineering firms continue to struggle the most finding staff, with 83 per cent reporting recruitment issues. Manufacturers are not far behind with 82 per cent having difficulty, followed by 81 per cent of businesses in the transport and logistics sector. At the other end of the scale, 69 per cent of marketing and communications firms faced problems.

Labour costs continue to be the main pressure businesses are facing to raise prices in Q4, cited by 75 per cent of firms. That is up significantly from 66 per cent in the previous quarter. The pressure is currently felt most keenly in hospitality (87 per cent), then transport (84 per cent), construction (82 per cent) and manufacturing (80 per cent).

More firms are reducing investment in staff, with 19 per cent of responding businesses reporting a cut in training spend compared with 13 per cent in Q3. Meanwhile, 22 per cent said they had increased training investment, down from 25 per cent in the previous quarter,

and 60 per cent of businesses said training investment had remained the same.

Responding to the findings, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Our latest concerning results are likely to represent just the tip of the iceberg.

“Business confidence has been hit hard since the Budget. Employers are now having to plan for a significant increase in employment costs, with steep rises in National Insurance and the minimum wage coming down the track in April. This will inevitably impact on recruitment, retention and staff development. Firms tell us they will have to make some tough decisions to balance the books.

“The cuts in training investment are also worrying because improving skills is a vital part of driving economic growth. Our data shows firms are facing significant challenges recruiting the right people. The problems in the construction and manufacturing sectors are particularly concerning.

“Cost pressures are already casting a shadow over recruitment, employment and training efforts. However, the full impact of these challenges will only become apparent later this year.

“If businesses are to grow and meet future demand, they need a functioning labour market. This means addressing skills shortages, removing barriers to workforce participation, and creating the right conditions for firms to invest in their people.”

Every month we bring you a mix of information sessions, networking events and training sessions with some of the top local business professionals from an array of different industries. Each event is designed to offer invaluable up-to-date information tailored to our attendee’s wants and needs, as well as networking opportunities to help you grow your business.

Every month we bring you a mix of information sessions, networking events and training sessions with some of the top local business professionals from an array of different industries. Each event is designed to offer invaluable up-to-date information tailored to our attendee’s wants and needs, as well as networking opportunities to help you grow your business.

With a mix of events held online and face to face across Kent, you’re sure to find the right one for you.

With a mix of events held online and face to face across Kent, you’re sure to find the right one for you.

Employment Law Update

Employment Law Update

Wednesday 12th February 2025

Wednesday 12th February 2025

Mercure Maidstone Hotel | 8:30am - 12:00pm

Mercure Maidstone Hotel | 8:30am - 12:00pm

Members: £40.00 + VAT | Non-Members: £50.00 + VAT

Members: £40.00 + VAT | Non-Members: £50.00 + VAT

Key developments include a new employer duty to prevent workplace sexual harassment, along with practical measures to implement; and the Employment Rights Bill 2024, which introduces significant updates such as changes to unfair dismissal laws, zero-hours contracts, flexible working arrangements, day-one rights, fire-and-rehire practices, and the Equality (Race and Disability) Bill 2024.

Key developments include a new employer duty to prevent workplace sexual harassment, along with practical measures to implement; and the Employment Rights Bill 2024, which introduces significant updates such as changes to unfair dismissal laws, zero-hours contracts, flexible working arrangements, day-one rights, fire-and-rehire practices, and the Equality (Race and Disability) Bill 2024.

These reforms have been heralded as “the most significant enhancement of workers’ rights in a generation.”

These reforms have been heralded as “the most significant enhancement of workers’ rights in a generation.”

International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day

Friday 7th March 2025

Friday 7th March 2025

Ashford International Hotel | 10:00am - 12:00pm

Ashford International Hotel | 10:00am - 12:00pm

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: Free to Attend

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: Free to Attend

Imagine a gender-equal world free from bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world of diversity, equity, and inclusion, where differences are celebrated. Together, we can #InspireInclusion by celebrating women’s achievements, raising awareness of discrimination, and driving gender parity.

Imagine a gender-equal world free from bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world of diversity, equity, and inclusion, where differences are celebrated. Together, we can #InspireInclusion by celebrating women’s achievements, raising awareness of discrimination, and driving gender parity.

Join us on International Women’s Day with guest speakers Katherine Vass (Women In Business Networking), Lucy Druesne (Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce), and Miranda Chapman (Pillory Barn).

Join us on International Women’s Day with guest speakers Katherine Vass (Women In Business Networking), Lucy Druesne (Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce), and Miranda Chapman (Pillory Barn).

Chamber Connections

Chamber Connections

Thursday 20th February 2025, Hempstead House Hotel, Sittingbourne

Thursday 20th February 2025, Hempstead House Hotel, Sittingbourne

Thursday 6th March 2025, Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel, Pembury

Thursday 6th March 2025, Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel, Pembury

Thursday 3rd April 2025, Platform 26, Chatham

Thursday 3rd April 2025, Platform 26, Chatham

10:30am - 12:00pm

10:30am - 12:00pm

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Join others for our very popular Chamber Connections networking event and receive a warm welcome from your Chamber representative on arrival, who will be on hand to help you meet new members of the business community

Join others for our very popular Chamber Connections networking event and receive a warm welcome from your Chamber representative on arrival, who will be on hand to help you meet new members of the business community

This informal event will give you an opportunity to promote your business and make invaluable connections with local businesses in Kent.

This informal event will give you an opportunity to promote your business and make invaluable connections with local businesses in Kent.

Kent Construction Focus Group

Kent Construction Focus Group

Tuesday 4th March 2025, The Village Hotel, Maidstone

Tuesday 4th March 2025, The Village Hotel, Maidstone

Tuesday 1st April 2025, Chilston Park Hotel, Maidstone

Tuesday 1st April 2025, Chilston Park Hotel, Maidstone

7:30am - 9:30am

7:30am - 9:30am

KCFG Members: £22.50 + VAT | Non-Members: £32.50 + VAT

KCFG Members: £22.50 + VAT | Non-Members: £32.50 + VAT

The KCFG group is made up of companies in the Kent area within the construction sector, including architects, contractors, suppliers, land agents, and more. KCFG provides a one-stop shop for access to local knowledge, expertise, and contacts within the land development and construction sector

The KCFG group is made up of companies in the Kent area within the construction sector, including architects, contractors, suppliers, land agents, and more. KCFG provides a one-stop shop for access to local knowledge, expertise, and contacts within the land development and construction sector.

During the morning, you will enjoy a full English breakfast, followed by a presentation from our guest speakers.

During the morning, you will enjoy a full English breakfast, followed by a presentation from our guest speakers.

Virtual Business Networking

Virtual Business Networking

Tuesday 25th February 2025 | Tuesday 25th March 2025

Tuesday 25th February 2025 | Tuesday 25th March 2025

Online via Zoom | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Online via Zoom | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Business Talks – Afternoon Tea and Networking

Tuesday 11th February 2025 | 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Brandshatch Place Hotel and Spa, Longfield, DA3 8NQ

Employment Law Update – Future Changes To Employment Law Under The Labour Government

Wednesday 12th February 2025 | 8:30am - 12:00pm

Mercure Maidstone Hotel, Maidstone, ME17 1RE

Business Bites – How to Scale Your Business Without Employing More People

Thursday 13th February 2025 | 1:00pm - 1:30pm Online via Zoom

Business Talks – Health and Wellness Activity Tour

Tuesday 18th February 2025 | 10:30am - 12:30pm Lake House Kent, Ashford, TN26 1AR

Chamber Connections - Sponsored by Lumina Energy

Thursday 20th February 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Hempstead House Hotel, Sittingbourne, ME9 9PP

Virtual Business Networking

Tuesday 25th February 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm Online via Zoom

Kent And Medway Manufacturing Focus Group (KMFG)

Wednesday 26th February 2025 | 9:15am - 12:00pm

Smurfit Westrock UK Paper Mill, Snodland, ME6 5AX

Kent and Medway Hospitality Focus Group

Wednesday 26th February 2025 | 11:00am - 12:00pm Eastwell Manor, Ashford, TN25 4HR

Business Bites

Inheritance Tax and Upcoming Changes

Thursday 27th February 2025 | 1:00pm - 1:30pm Online via Zoom

Kent Construction Focus Group (KCFG)

Every month we bring you a mix of information sessions, networking some of the top local business professionals from an array of invaluable up-to-date information tailored to our attendee’s wants help you grow your business.

Tuesday 4th March 2025 | 7:30am - 9:30am

The Village Hotel, Maidstone, ME14 3AQ

Trading in Singapore

With a mix of events held online and face to face across Kent,

Each event will be an eclectic mix of conversation topics as we interview our guest business and encourage questions from the attendees, making sure we bring you the networking event you want to be involved in.

Each event will be an eclectic mix of conversation topics as we interview our guest business and encourage questions from the attendees, making sure we bring you the networking event you want to be involved in.

Wednesday 5th March 2025 | 9:00am - 10:00am Online via Zoom

Chamber Connections

Kent Construction Focus Group

Thursday 6th March 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel, Pembury, TN2 4QL

Conversations with our guest speaker will be followed by three breakout room sessions where attendees can delve deeper into this discussion or discuss their own topic in more depth.

Conversations with our guest speaker will be followed by three breakout room sessions where attendees can delve deeper into this discussion or discuss their own topic in more depth.

Tuesday 6th August 2024 | Tuesday 3rd September 2024

International Women’s Day – Networking Special 2025

The Village Hotel, Maidstone | 7:30am - 9:30am

KCFG Members: £22.50 + VAT | Non-Members: £32.50 + VAT

Friday 7th March 2025 | 10:00am - 12:00pm Ashford International Hotel, Ashford, TN24 8UX

Skills 25 – Collaborate, Innovate, Succeed

Hosted by members of the KCFG committee, Cheryl Causebrook and Ella Brocklebank, we bring you KCFG

Tuesday 18th March 2025 | 9:00am - 3:30pm

Mercure Maidstone Hotel, Maidstone, ME17 1RE

Trading in Singapore

Trading in Singapore

Wednesday 5th March 2025

Wednesday 5th March 2025

Online via Zoom | 9:00am - 10:00am

Online via Zoom | 9:00am - 10:00am

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: Free to Attend

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: Free to Attend

Virtual Business Networking

The KCFG group consists of companies in the Kent area involved in construction, such as architects, surveyors, contractors, construction suppliers, and land agents etc.

Tuesday 25th March 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm Online via Zoom

Embodied Carbon: How to Improve Measurement

Wednesday 26th March 2025 | 10:00am - 12:00pm

Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Ashford, TN24 0LH

Join us for an insightful webinar hosted by the British Chamber of Commerce Singapore, London Gatwick, London Chamber, Surrey Chamber, Sussex Chamber and the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce.

Join us for an insightful webinar hosted by the British Chamber of Commerce Singapore, London Gatwick, London Chamber, Surrey Chamber, Sussex Chamber and the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce.

KCFG provides a one-stop-shop for access to local knowledge, expertise, and contacts within the land development and construction sector.

Kent Construction Focus Group (KCFG)

Tuesday 1st April 2025 | 7:30am - 9:30am

Chilston Park Hotel, Maidstone, ME17 2BE

This event is ideal for UK businesses looking to expand their reach in Asia, as well as Singapore-based enterprises interested in understanding more about the dynamic trade relationship between the UK and Singapore.

This event is ideal for UK businesses looking to expand their reach in Asia, as well as Singapore-based enterprises interested in understanding more about the dynamic trade relationship between the UK and Singapore.

Chamber Connections

Thursday 3rd April 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm

During the morning, you will enjoy a full English breakfast, followed by a presentation from our guest speakers.

Platform 26, Chatham, ME4 4JT

Elevate Your Events with Fundraising Solutions from Backdrop Promotions

Have you considered fundraising while making a positive impact in your community?

Backdrop Promotions invites you to explore the benefits of giving to charity while working in your chosen field. With over 60 years of combined fundraising expertise, we specialise in adapting Silent, Online, and Live auctions to enhance any event. Based in Dartford, Kent, we have easy access to all areas throughout the country by land or rail and willing to assist any event, should travel be involved, this is not a problem.

Corporate businesses can seamlessly integrate fundraising auctions into various occasions, including golf days, gala dinners, sports events, awards nights, and more. Our customized approach ensures that each event not only raises funds for worthy causes but also builds awareness and creates lasting opportunities within the community.

“At Backdrop Promotions, we pride ourselves on our personal yet professional approach,” said Tara Pope the Business Development Director at Backdrop Promotions, “We work closely with our clients to achieve the desired results while making a meaningful difference in their communities.”

We encourage organisations to contact us today to discover how our fundraising solutions can enhance their events and support local charities. Visit our website at www.backdroppromotions.com to learn more about our services and the positive impact we can create together.

ellenor’s new Wellbeing Centre is now open

A new wellbeing centre is now open at ellenor – after an 18-month build.

Celebrating its 40th birthday in 2025, the Northfleet charity’s £5m new building is already making a difference to patients and carers since it opened in November.

Plus, their newly extended and refurbished café is also open – an ideal meeting place for socialising or small business meetings.

Visitors can support the hospice at the same time as enjoying a nice lunch, tea, coffee or cake.

What’s on offer

The wellbeing centre is for in-patients, community patients and also friends, families or carers of someone in the local area who has been diagnosed with a life-limiting condition. Even if their loved one isn’t being cared for by ellenor, they are still very welcome to come, or if they are bereaved – recently or in the past.

The main aim is to help people to live well for longer – despite having a devastating diagnosis.

Wellbeing services available: Cinema room - Fitness - Knitting group - Counselling - Memory making - Music - Gardening - Kitchen/diner - FinancesHolistic therapies

All services are free, most are offered on a drop-in basis and a timetable, available to view on the ellenor website, tells people what’s going on and when. The groups for friends, family and carers, enable people to come together for peer support, chat to someone who understands what they are experiencing and to enjoy something together unrelated to care for a while.

Andy Lowden, Operational Lead for Wellbeing, said: “There’s plenty of living to do, so please come in to see what we have for you to enjoy. Meet people, get help with things and don’t be alone.

“The wellbeing services are here for our local community – and our team is waiting to meet you.”

www.ellenor.org

All for Abigail: New Year’s Honours List recognises baby loss charity founder

When David Ward and his wife Jo launched Abigail’s Footsteps in 2010, one year after losing their daughter, they were determined to make a difference – but had no idea of the huge impact it would have.

Now founder David has been awarded an MBE from His Majesty King Charles III in the New Year’s Honours List.

Abigail’s Footsteps is a baby loss charity which provides support and counselling for bereaved parents and families as well as specialist bereavement training for midwives and healthcare professionals.

Sadly, stillbirths and neo-natal deaths occur daily, yet many hospitals are not equipped to deal with the parental care required. David has made it his mission to ensure health professionals are better equipped and prepared to support bereaved families and every hospital in the country will have an Abi Cooling Cot to give bereaved families valuable time to spend with their baby before saying goodbye.

The citation for the Member of the Order of the British Empire reads: “Founder and Trustee Abigail’s Footsteps for Services to Bereaved Parents Particularly in Kent.”

David said: “When we started the charity, we had no idea what we could achieve, but we were determined to make a difference. At the time, we didn’t realise how much impact the charity would have; now, as we look back, we can see that it has been significant in supporting many bereaved families over the years.

“We have produced and distributed two educational films aimed at teaching midwives about baby loss. In addition, we provide counselling for bereaved parents and support for maternity health professionals. We have also developed the Abi Cooling Cot, which enables bereaved families to spend more time with their babies.

“I am honoured to accept this award from His Majesty on behalf of myself and Jo, who equally deserves recognition, and all of the bereaved families that we have supported over the years. This award honours the memory of our daughter Abigail and acknowledges the wonderful, groundbreaking work that Abigail’s team has accomplished over the past 15 years.”

To find out more about Abigail’s Footsteps visit www.abigailsfootsteps.co.uk

A

whole lot of fun to be had while fundraising to help families – find your challenge for 2025

If your business is looking to support a charity this year and put the fun into fundraising, Holding On Letting Go (HOLG) has some great events to choose from.

Whether you want to gather a team of colleagues or clients to take part in a 5k run, inflatable obstacle course, a marathon or long-distance cycle ride, there’s a fantastic range of UK and overseas events to choose from. You can also join in as an individual or with friends.

Rochester-based HOLG supports bereaved children and their families across Kent and the South East – with many county-based businesses providing corporate fundraising.

CSIS (Civil Service Insurance Society) is one and their funding has helped launch the new fundraising page on the charity’s website, to make finding and booking an event quick and easy.

Simply select your event, fill in the registration details, tell HOLG when you’ve started fundraising and they’ll support you with promotion to boost your donations.

HOLG fundraising officer Pam Meller said:

“A sponsored event is a great team-building opportunity but also a fantastic way to raise funds for HOLG. Participants really enjoy taking on a challenge by attempting something they’ve never done before, trying to smash a personal best, or just having a fun day out – all the while knowing they’re doing good by helping us support more children and families, both before and after a bereavement.

“We wanted to make the process of choosing and registering for an event as smooth as possible so we’re delighted CSIS has sponsored this new page, through fundraising specialists Run4Charity.

“We can’t wait to see many more wonderful corporate supporters wearing our T-shirts and crossing those finish lines in 2025! Find your event here

https://holg.org.uk/upcoming-events/

Law firm Furley Page celebrates 300 years in Kent

Leading South East law firm Furley Page is planning a year of celebratory and charitable events to commemorate its

“momentous” 300-year anniversary.

Furley Page began in 1725 in Canterbury, originally practising in Burgate before relocating to St Margaret’s Street from 1830, where its head office remains.

Evolving through mergers, expansion, and strategic partnerships, the firm has adapted over the years to incorporate modern legal structures while retaining its commitment to delivering excellent client service and expert legal advice to individuals and business clients across the South East and the wider UK.

To celebrate the 300-year milestone, the firm has planned a full calendar of events including

charitable activities, sponsorships and sports competitions, kicking off with support for the Canterbury 10-mile race on 26 January.

Susan Jennings, Partner and Head of Corporate at Furley Page, chairs a working group which has organised the celebrations. She said: “We are extremely proud of our firm’s heritage and to reach 300 years is a momentous anniversary for any business. In keeping with our values, we are keen to celebrate this special year with our staff, clients and the community that the firm has served for so long.

“Furley Page has a long tradition with Canterbury and we’ve supported some clients and local families for generations. Many of our anniversary events will

focus on ways we can contribute to our community, which is a core focus at Furley Page. Our charity, the Furley Page Foundation, will play a key role in raising money for good causes this year, and the firm will be announcing a range of social and community projects as part of our celebrations.”

Jeremy Licence, Managing Partner, said: “In 2025, with 150 colleagues and 19 partners, Furley Page continues to go from strength to strength. We look forward to sharing information about all our events and details of opportunities for our staff, clients and local residents to get involved in our fundraising efforts throughout this special celebratory year.”

We are extremely proud of our firm’s heritage and to reach 300 years is a momentous anniversary for any business. In keeping with our values, we are keen to celebrate this special year with our staff, clients and the community that the firm has served for so long.

For more information about Furley Page please visit www.furleypage.co.uk

Welcome to our new members

AAA Building and Civil Engineers

Rochester 07581 717389

aaabuildingandcivilengineers.co.uk

Civil engineers

ABMV Chartered Accountants

Tonbridge 01732 366077

abmv.co.uk

Chartered accountants

Accel-Heal Technologies Ltd

Hever 01959 569433

accelheal.com

Microcurrent electrical therapy for painful and hard-to-heal wounds

Adams and Co

Snodland 01634 907137

adamsandcompany.co.uk

Chartered certified accountants

Akon Security Services Ltd

Canterbury 01227 469198

akonsecurity.com

Supplying security solutions to protect people, property, and businesses in the South East

Amey Plc

Maidstone 07922 100663

amey.co.uk

Leading provider of full life-cycle engineering, operations and decarbonisation solutions for transport infrastructure and complex facilities

Apex Employment Solicitors

Maidstone 01622 234147

apexemploymentsolicitors.co.uk

Employment solicitors

Arum Landscapes Ltd

Ashford 07599 466615

arumlandscapes.com

Experienced and reliable landscapers

Ascendia AI Ltd

London 020 8050 8821

ascendiaai.net

Specialising in providing cutting-edge AI growth infrastructures that can manage thousands of realistic AI interactions per minute

Ashford Leisure Trust (Stour Centre)

Ashford 01233 663503

freedom-leisure.co.uk

Leisure Centre

Atanak Forwarding Ltd

Folkestone 01304 201007

atanak.org.uk

Worldwide freight forwarding and UK customs clearance services

Aublet Chartered Accountants

Sevenoaks 01732 902232

aublet.co.uk

Chartered accountants

Auto Enlighten Ltd

Tonbridge 01234 280026

tech4techs.co.uk

Everything a professional workshop needs to service, diagnose and repair modern motor vehicles

Black Lab Music Ltd

Maidstone 07583 982285

blacklabmusic.co.uk

Combining bespoke, emotive music production with strategic analysis to give a competitive advantage

Breheny Civil Engineering Ltd

West Malling 01732 223920

breheny.co.uk

Civil engineering services

Buckmore Park Kart Circuit Ltd

Chatham 01634 201562

buckmore.co.uk

World-class karting track

Cain and Co Bookkeeping Services (UK) Ltd

Faversham 01795 602303

bookkeepersuk.com

Bookkeeping, accounts, payroll

Cobb and Jones Recruitment Ltd

Maidstone 01622 584000

cobbjonesrecruitment.co.uk

Accounting, finance and human resources recruitment experts across Kent and the South East

Cohline UK Ltd

Manston 01843 822925

cohline.co.uk

Experts in fluid handling technologies, for all your media transport needs

Data Fusion Ltd

Herne Bay 01227 469860 datafusion.uk

Custom website development, database solutions and hosting services

Degiorgio Properties Ltd

Gillingham 01634 365555

degiorgioproperties.com

Delivering affordable home and building improvements in Kent

Denmark House

Chatham 07879 665113

denmark-house.co.uk

A large property and the perfect getaway offering a variety of services to ensure your needs are catered to, including: a beauty treatment room, recording studio, games room and riding school

DIIC -

(Diversity and Inclusion In Construction) CIC

Gillingham 01634 558557 diic.org.uk

Helping underrepresented groups succeed in male-dominated construction and engineering sectors

DNA Pest Control Ltd

Ramsgate 07563 218462

dnapestcontrol.co.uk

Commercial and domestic pest control

Ebbsfleet United FC Northfleet 01474 533796 ebbsfleetunited.co.uk

Football Club

Euro Site Services

Gillingham 020 8911 0701 eusiteservices.com

Specialist in providing manpower and site support services to major international projects in the construction, engineering, energy and marine industries

GPS Projects Ltd

Rochester 01634 299880 gpsprojectsltd.co.uk

Delivering construction projects in the housing, education, commercial and care sectors

H20 Pumping Solutions

Sevenoaks 0800 059 0100

h20pumpingsolutions.co.uk

Specialists in all pump installations, breakdowns, repairs and servicing

Hecaton Consulting Wadhurst 07870 241672

hecaton.consulting

Bringing insight and leadership to organisations on topics related to data, analytics and AI

Hulfurb Ltd

Dartford 01322 838571

hulfurb.com

Refurbishing, improving, building and maintaining homes

Enhance Protect Connect

IBIS Consultancy

Maidstone 01622 370617

ibisconsultancy.com

Delivering best-in-class education, consultancy, accountancy, and recruitment services

Imicro UK Ltd

Gillingham 01634 949900

imicro.co.uk

Provider of IT managed services

Imperial Concierge and Cleaning Ltd

London 020 3633 6089

imperialconcierge.vip

Concierge and cleaning services

Includes Us Too Ashford 01233 898089 includesustoo.org.uk

Offering a variety of services to support disabled children, young people and their families

Jet Away Cleansing and Drainage Services

Rochester 07873 818841

jetawaycleansing.co.uk

Specialising in drain clearance, gutter cleaning and repairs, exterior cleaning, pressure washing, steam cleaning and high pressure water jetting

Mav Systems Ltd

Eynsford 0333 800 3050

anprcameras.com

Home of intelligent ANPR cameras

Media Lemon Ltd

Rochester 07592 609030

medialemon.co.uk

Social media management and content planning

Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel

Tunbridge Wells 01892 628298

all.accor.com

Four-star Royal Tunbridge Wells hotel built around an 18th century Georgian oast house in the Kent countryside

Minters of Deal

Sandwich 01304 615331

mintersofdeal.co.uk

Providing removals and storage within the local area of Kent

Modus Film Productions

Ashford 01233 273273

modusfilm.com

Video marketing

NetVector IT Services

Edenbridge 0370 050 0040 netvector.co.uk

IT Consulting and Support

Northern Commercials Ltd

Tonbridge 01732 833005 nor-com.co.uk

Committed to supporting transport operators across the county

Oasis Domestic Abuse Service

Kent 01843 269400 oasisdaservice.org

Supporting adults, children and young people in East Kent, Medway and North Kent to live a safe life free from abuse

Oast View Property Services

Maidstone 01622 206348 oastview.co.uk

Roofing services and repairs

Pink Panda Productions Ltd

Gravesend 07936 529231

pinkpanda.london

Marketing Services

PlusU Ltd

Chatham 01634 473 000 plusu.uk

Embroidery and printing services

Port of Dover

Dover 01304 240400

portofdover.com

Ferry Port

QED Consulting Engineers Ltd

Hawkhurst 020 3092 3898

qedconsultants.co.uk

Building services, consultants and sustainability specialists

Realign Your Career

Ashford 07973 406215

activatecareers.co.uk

Career development consultancy

SamSi Property Ltd

Kent 01622 533053 samsiproperty.co.uk

Small scale development company predominantly transforming commercial properties into residential homes throughout Kent and the South East

Sitra (UK) Ltd

Dover 01304 821222

sitra-group.com

National and international transport company specialising in the transport of food production

SKF Logistics Services Ltd

Sittingbourne 07551 808271

skflogistics.com

Warehousing and logistics

SKM Electrical and Smart Solutions

Margate 01843 520040 skmelectrical.com

Electrical installations

Sonant Hearing Ltd

Rochester 01634 479550

sonanthearing.co.uk/contact

Independent Audiologist

Synergy Networking Events

Maidstone 07769 943756

synergynetworkingevents.co.uk

Networking events for all Kent Businesses looking to build genuine and fruitful relationships

Total Crane Services Ltd

Sittingbourne 01795 425101

totalcraneservices.co.uk

Overhead crane and hoist specialists

UK Graphics Supplies Ltd

Canterbury 01303 844000

ukgraphicssupplies.com

Graphic supplies

Vantage Building Control

Whitstable 0800 711 7110

vantagebuildingcontrol.com

Providing building control services to a diverse range of clients and building projects

Weald Building Services Ltd

Maidstone 01622 234228

wealdbuildingservices.co.uk

Working with developers, main contractors and direct with clients on projects that require exceptional finishes, utilising our specialist carpentry skills and creativity

Wilkinson Ltd

Sittingbourne 01795 830000

wilkinson-ltd.com

Chandelier manufacturers and glass restorers

Wonderland Wedding Venues

Tunbridge Wells 07546 874107

wonderlandweddingvenues.co.uk

Wedding venue

Workerbee Recruitment Ltd

Folkestone 01233 328100

workerbeerecruit.co.uk

Recruitment agency

Simon Cook Principal & Chief Executive MidKent College

Following a career in hospitality working around the world, Simon turned to teaching in 2002 to build on his skills and experiences. Rapid progression working in different Colleges led to him joining MidKent College in 2013, before promotion to Principal & CEO in September 2016.

Fast forward to 2024. The College received its first ever consecutive Good grades from Ofsted and its place as an anchor institution at the heart of the Maidstone and Medway communities is unquestionable.

What was your first job and what was the pay packet?

I was an Apprentice Chef back in 1988 and earned £55 per week which back then needed me to go to an office to pick up a brown envelope containing my pay!

What do you always carry with you to work?

I always carry the right attitude. Our role is to provide hope and aspiration to many people for whom they may not be fortunate enough to see that. Our own behaviours and attitudes shape people.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

Ensuring that our society places the right value on skills training versus traditional education.

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

Remove the burdensome regulation that has perverse incentives and creates waste. I note when I visit other countries and have worked in other countries that we appear to have a multitude of layers of regulation that stifles our economy.

What can you see from your office window?

At my Medway campus as I write this, the River Medway looking over Gillingham towards the Isle of Grain. The best view in Gillingham!

If you could do another job what would it be? No idea, I love what I do and have the best job in the world for me.

As a business person, what are your three main qualities?

• Focussed and driven on continuous improvement and sustainable change.

• Partnership working.

• Pragmatic, honest and trustworthy.

What was your biggest mistake in business?

When I opened a restaurant in the late 1990s going too fast at the outset and not pacing myself; quickly hitting burn out.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Never lose sight of your passion and why you do what you do.

Who do you most admire in business?

The diversity of thought, ideas and people that always have a solution to your problem.

East Kent Colleges Group appoints new Chief Executive Officer

East Kent Colleges Group (EKC Group) is proud to announce its new Chief Executive Officer.

After more than a decade in charge, Graham Razey OBE will be stepping down later this year.

Graham joined the organisation in 2010 as the principal of what was then Thanet College in Broadstairs.

During his 14 years in the role, Graham Razey has helped the Group to achieve many milestones such as its ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating in 2023. This achievement also saw the Group become the first General Further Education college to achieve the highest rating in all categories since a new enhanced inspection framework was introduced in July 2022.

Speaking about his time with the Group, Graham Razey said: “It has been a true honour to serve EKC Group and its communities over the past 14 years. Watching the organisation go from strength to strength has been a huge privilege.

“Together, we have achieved incredible things, and I am extremely proud of every single person who has played a part in that.

“I am confident that the new Chief Executive Officer will lead staff and students to a bright future and allow EKC Group to continue to provide incredible opportunities to the communities that we serve.

“I wish them all the best, and would like to thank the Group, our Governing body, the students past and present, our local communities and our key stakeholders for their support during my time with the organisation.”

Set to take over from Graham Razey as the new Chief Executive Officer, is the Group’s current Deputy Chief Executive Lucy McLeod. Lucy has worked for the organisation since 1998 and has supported Graham since he joined in 2010.

Following a rigorous recruitment process, she was identified as an outstanding candidate to lead East Kent Colleges Group to an incredible future filled with many more fantastic achievements.

She said: “Our Group has had such a tremendous impact on me over the years, inspiring a genuine passion for education and our students, and the opportunities we afford them.

“I feel so incredibly privileged to have been chosen to lead the organisation when Graham steps down.

“We have done some amazing things through the years, delivering meaningful positive change in the communities we serve and achieving ‘Outstanding’ at our most recent Ofsted. I can’t wait to see what we can do in our future together.”

Chairman of the Full Governing Body, Charles Buchanan, added: “Whilst there is no doubt that we will be sad to lose Graham, both the whole Full Governing Body and I are tremendously excited for our Group’s future.

“We are confident that under Lucy’s leadership, it is set to be a bright one.”

Lucy McLeod will take over from Graham Razey in the coming months as he prepares to leave the organisation during the summer term.

Sometimes it doesn’t take as much as you think to smarten up an existing brand image.

It’s important to put your best foot forward when reaching out to your audience via your branded communication channels and the easy option is to stick with what you’re comfortable with rather than start over.

But often beneath the years of wear and tear can lie a fundamentally good brand with a clear vision, and all it needs is a little e ort in the right places to revitalise it into a clear, distinctive and consistent look that is memorable, credible and trusted. People rarely buy from a brand they’ve never heard of, even if it is less expensive, because there is a risk attached. But they are usually willing to pay more for a product or service that has earned their trust.

At Brandspace Media we specialise in applying our creative expertise to all aspects of a brand including logos, websites, brochures, advertsing, presentations, social media and event graphics, so you can get ahead of your competitors. Visit our website to find out more or contact us directly to see how we can help.

Visit: brandspacemedia.co.uk

Email: paul@brandspacemedia.co.uk

Call: 01227 478605