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Together, We’re Well Connected Quarterly Business Magazine

Autumn 2021

The Big Interview KENNY MURRAY

General Manager McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks

British Chambers of Commerce Ac

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WELCOME

Welcome to the Autumn edition of our Quarterly Business magazine It has been an incredibly difficult 18 months for all, but with restrictions recently easing both sides of the border, members are telling us that they are beginning to feel more optimistic about the future, as they begin, what in many cases will be, a long road to economic recovery. There remain challenges ahead with the furlough scheme due to come to an end on 30th September. The scheme has provided a lifeline to many since its introduction but whether furloughed workers are returning to the workplace or the wider labour market, it is crucial that employers and the government give them the support and training they need to be re-engaged and productive. Skills shortages continue to be a major issue for businesses and the well-documented lack of HGV drivers is just one example of this. The Chamber has been proud to be a Gateway for the Kickstart Scheme and recently helped its 100th young person start a sixth-month work placement.

successful the return has been. The health and safety of our members and staff remain our top priority and a lot of time has been spent ensuring all our events take place in a safe environment. The Chamber will also continue to run our Round the Screen events on a monthly basis as these have proved very beneficial for members over the last 18 months. We continue to celebrate our 100th year of supporting business and will be very shortly taking part in our Salt to Sea Challenge which will see Board Directors, staff and members walk and cycle 100 miles across the region raising money for the Neuro Therapy Centre. You can find out more about the challenge and any donations would be gratefully received: www.neurotherapycentre.org/Appeal/ chamber-of-commerce-salt-to-sea-challenge

There is still time to submit applications to the scheme and you can do so here: wcnwchamber.org.uk/business-services/ kickstart-scheme/.

And finally, we are looking forward to our Annual Ball & Recognition Awards which are taking place on 12th November. After the turmoil of the coronavirus pandemic, we are really excited to have an evening of celebration and it would be amazing to have you join us for a night to remember! You can view details and get your ticket on the Chamber website: wcnwchamber.org.uk/

We have been delighted to welcome members back to face-to-face networking events and it’s been great hearing how

I wish you all the best and look forward to seeing as many of you as possible over the coming months.

PLEASE NOTE: Some articles in this edition may have been written before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK. Article and image content therefore reflects this time lapse. Contact Matthew Hodgson Churchill House, Queen’s Park Campus, Queen’s Park Road, Chester CH4 7AD t: 01244 669988 e: info@wcnwchamber.org.uk w: www.wcnwchamber.org.uk

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Published September 2021 © Benham Publishing Media no. 1790

Kenny Murray, General Manager McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks

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INSIGHT INTO...

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

Disclaimer The magazine is mailed without charge to all Chamber members

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and distributed to businesses in the region. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in publication are not necessarily those of West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission of the Editor. © 2021. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

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CHAMBER NEWS

100 miles for 100 years: Chamber launch Salt to Sea Challenge The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce is continuing its centenary celebrations by taking on a 100-mile challenge which will see them cycle and walk across the region. Setting off from the Lion Salt Works in Northwich and finishing in Anglesey, the Salt to Sea Challenge aims to raise vital funds for the Chamber’s chosen charity for the year, the Neuro Therapy Centre, and in particular their Virtual Centre. Neuro Therapy Centre supports nearly 500 people from across North Wales, West

Cheshire and the Wirral that have long term neurological conditions including MS, Parkinson’s, MND and ME. The Virtual Centre was established in 2020 in order to provide support throughout the coronavirus pandemic and after its success, funds are now needed to ensure that the services can continue going forward. Chamber Board of Directors and staff will start the challenge by cycling from Lion Salt Works in Northwich to Talacre in North Wales on Friday 10th September. Members of the Chamber are then invited to join the Chamber team for all or part of the walking section from Talacre to Anglesey with the challenge coming to an end at LlanfairPwllgwyngyll on Sunday 12th September.

We are delighted to announce that the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Ball & Recognition Awards Ceremony will be taking place at 6:30pm on 12th November 2021 in the Pavilion at Chester Racecourse.

provided by the Racecourse’s culinary experts, Horseradish:

The highlight of the Chamber’s events calendar, the ceremony will be extra special this year as we celebrate our centenary and 100 years of supporting businesses across the region.

Starter Vegetarian Option Filo baked goat’s cheese, salad Nicoise, tomato sponge, dried olives, Heritage potato crisps

Awards

The night will see the Chamber’s Recognition Awards’ return, which celebrates our Chamber members’ success. There are eight award categories that Chamber members can nominate themselves for and, depending on when this magazine lands on your doorstep, there may still be time to enter with the deadline midnight on 10th September. Visit wcnwchamber.org.uk for more information.

Meal & Entertainment A fantastic three-course meal will be

You can make a donation to Neuro Therapy Centre on their website here: https://www. neurotherapycentre.org/Appeal/chamberof-commerce-salt-to-sea-challenge If you’d like to join the Chamber for the walking part of the challenge, please email: info@wcnwchamber.org.uk for more information.

Debbie Bryce, Chief Executive Officer at West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce said “We are really looking forward to the Salt to Sea Challenge and it would be incredible to see as many members as possible join us along the way, we have our cycling and walking gear at the ready and are eager to get going!

Chamber Annual Ball & Recognition Awards 2021

This will be reflected in the theme of the evening, and we are eager to make this a night to remember!

“The main aim of this Challenge is to raise as much money as possible for a great cause and if you are able to support us with a donation of any size it would be hugely appreciated!”

Starter Confit chicken & leek terrine, burnt onion mayonnaise, herb relish

Main Roast loin of moorland beef, stockpot short rib, tarragon emulsion, sticky port glaze, Peter Jones’ Wirral watercress, Heritage carrot, herb mashed potatoes Main Vegetarian Option Beetroot and red onion Tatin, port wine syrup, Peter Jones’ Wirral watercress, Heritage carrot, herb mashed potatoes

Guests are also set to be amazed by the superb live band Skyknights. An incredible 5-piece party band, Skynights turn their musical skills and on-stage charisma to almost any style of music you can think of: pop, folk, rock, funk, soul, Motown, indie - even a dance tune or two! So be sure to wear your dancing shoes!

Further Details n Bookings: Bookings of 10 or more will receive a 5% discount which will be applied in your basket. n Parking: Free on-site parking available n Dress Code: Black Tie If you or your company would like to donate a prize for the charity auction or raffle taking place on the evening, please contact: j.davidson@wcnwchamber.org.uk. Any members who donate a prize will be included in the programme on the evening and in the next edition of the Chamber’s Quarterly Business Magazine. (Deadline for donations - Friday 1st November). Visit wcnwchamber.org.uk to book your place!

Dessert Chester pudding - a traditional tart with almonds, cream & torched meringue The DJ and compare on the night will be Gary Carr. Gary has been a hit at past Chamber events and will lead the evening, introducing the all-important Chamber Recognition Awards!

n With thanks to our Headline Sponsor Ellis & Co Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers.

CHAMBER NEWS

n L to R: Helen Nellist is welcomed as the Chamber’s new Chair by Debbie Bryce

Chamber welcomes new Chair, Helen Nellist The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce that Helen Nellist, Deputy Principal and Deputy CEO of Cheshire College – South & West, has been elected as its Chair. The appointment was made during the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting that took place on 8th September at Boughton Hall Cricket Club and sees Phill Jones, Innovation & Growth Specialist at RTC North, step down after his two-year tenure as Chairman. With a background in Corporate Marketing, Helen worked for high-profile companies,

such as Sony and IBM, before venturing into education in 2000 when she initially joined the College as a Marketing Manager. Helen has held the role of Deputy Principal and Deputy CEO of Cheshire College since 30th March 2017. Helen is a member of many local and school committees and actively contributes to ensure young people, businesses and wider communities are given the best possible chance of success. On the announcement of Helen’s new role as Chair of West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber, she said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have been elected to the role of Chair of the Chamber. Having previously held the role of Deputy Chair for the past two years, I’m excited to continue contributing my insight to ensure a prosperous and vibrant future for the people of West Cheshire and North Wales.

“We have lots of exciting plans in the pipeline at the Chamber and as Chair, it is a privilege to be able to continue supporting the great work, service and opportunity provided to local businesses and wider communities. It is truly an honour to be taking on this position, particularly during the Chamber’s centenary year, reflecting the longevity, impact and contribution it has made to the local economy and region.” Debbie Bryce, Chief Executive Officer at the Chamber, said on the announcement: “I am delighted to welcome Helen as the new Chair of the Chamber. I have worked closely with Helen for many years now and she has an incredible passion for supporting the region’s businesses. Helen’s skills and experience will be a huge benefit to Chamber members and the wider business community over her tenure as Chair.” The appointment of Helen to Chair comes during the Chamber’s 100th year of supporting business and also see’s Sarah Bailey, Director of Business Banking at NatWest, take the position of Deputy Chair. #WCNWChamber100 | 5

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CHAMBER NEWS

The Winner of the Centenary Bake Off is… The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce is delighted to reveal the winner of its Centenary Bake Off, which has been raising funds for Neuro Therapy Centre, is Olivia Mulhearn from Umbrella Marketing Team!

n Exercises can be carried out at home through live sessions over Zoom and recorded films

Olivia’s chocolate tray bake wowed the judges with its decoration of assorted chocolate bars and centenary theme.

n Counselling support over the phone and virtually

Olivia commented, “It was great to be involved in the bake-off, baking is a real hobby of mine, and it was great to bake and support the Neuro Therapy Centre. Everyone’s bakes looked great, but I’m so pleased to have won!” The Centenary Bake Off raised £136.77 towards Neuro Therapy Centre’s ‘Virtual Centre’, which was launched last year to support vulnerable people with neurodegenerative diseases through the Covid-19 pandemic. The Neuro Therapy Centre’s Virtual Centre allows them to offer the following services;

n Advice and support offered virtually and over the phone

n Dedicated support groups around accepting diagnosis, bereavement, support for Carers and specific neurological conditions n Regular communications to inform, motivate and lift the spirits Jane Johnston-Cree, Centre Director at the Neuro Therapy Centre commented, “Our virtual and telephone support become a lifeline to people with neurological conditions in the region during the last year and we received so many comments from people on how it benefited their lives and helped them to access exercise more frequently and easily. We’re so grateful to

Could you trim, clip, and shave the costs of business energy bills with a smart meter Hairdressers, beauty salons and other close contact services have made a welcome return in recent months, bringing much-needed services back to towns and cities across the UK. While the impact of the pandemic is still being felt, business owners and managers have embraced the changes and adapted to new ways of working to protect their clients, their staff, their business and their bottom line. Energy is a key expense for hairdressers, beauty salons and other close contact services which makes it a crucial area for these businesses to save money and take control of their finances.

the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce for choosing to support us this year – their efforts will be a great contribution to keeping these services going alongside our face-to-face support.” Debbie Bryce, Chief Executive Officer at the Chamber, was thrilled with the success of the Centenary Bake Off, saying, “It was amazing to see the creations made by the participants in the bake-off that were all made to support the running of Neuro Therapy Centre’s Virtual Centre, a truly great cause. “A huge congratulations to Olivia for her winning cake and thank you to all those that took part. The only complaint from the judges was that they were not able to taste test all of the entries!” Although the competition has ended, donations can still be made to the Neuro Therapy Centre here: https://www. neurotherapycentre.org/fundraisers/ chamber-of-commerce-centenary-bake-off

n The winning cake entry!

Mind the planet and your pocket Sustainability is a key focus for many businesses across Great Britain and a smart meter is a step in the right direction, to help business owners and staff cut down on energy waste and make their business more sustainable.

Anyone who manages a business knows the importance of embracing changes, both big and small. A small change like switching to a smart meter could make a big difference to your business. Now more than ever, it is important for business owners to know how much they are spending to keep track of unnecessary energy waste or additional costs. A smart meter could give businesses additional visibility over energy use and costs to make it easier to identify where changes and savings can be made.

A smart meter could help your business save energy, time and money Working around clients’ schedules means that time is precious for business owners. Smart meters send your gas and electricity readings directly to your energy supplier saving you time too! Firms with 10 employees or less could be eligible and installations can be arranged at a convenient time to ensure minimal interruption to your business and your clients. To find out more please visit https://bit.ly/3AM2sju. #WCNWChamber100 |

CHAMBER NEWS

100th Kickstarter placed by Chamber of Commerce “As a company, we strongly believe in people progression and we feel privileged to be able to support young people in achieving workplace experience and skills. The hope is that these skills and experience will enhance their CV’s, which in turn will hopefully secure permanent employment for them in the future. “We have had the pleasure of hosting seven young people through the kickstart scheme (with another two applications in progress). The youngsters have fitted into various departments across our business, from operations, customer care, digital marketing and accounts. “They have all made a huge contribution and been vital in some of our projects. It has been very rewarding to see them all develop and progress. The hope is that they will all learn life-long skills that will assist them well in the future. We have also used the grant set-up costs on training courses for them, ranging from FLT licence training, excel courses and digital marketing courses, which should also boost their employability.

The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce has recently placed its 100th young person as part of the government’s Kickstart Scheme. The leading business membership organisation is an approved gateway for the scheme that launched last year to give 16–24-year-olds claiming universal credit invaluable work experience. Employers can apply via the Chamber with the government fully funding each Kickstarter, paying 100% of the agerelevant National Minimum Wage, National Insurance and pension contributions for 25 hours a week.

“We think this is an excellent scheme. We have loved having the young people in the business. We hope they have enjoyed their time here too and we wish them all the very best for the future.”

“The Kickstart Scheme has been a win-win for both employers and young people across the North Wales and West Cheshire region” explained Chamber of Commerce CEO, Debbie Bryce.

Russell IPM’s latest placement, Cain, has enjoyed his experience so far saying “The kickstart scheme, as well as Russell IPM, has allowed me to get valued work experience, within a friendly environment in a multitude of different roles.

“It has allowed youngsters to gain crucial work experience and skills which will improve their chances of finding longterm work. We’ve also seen employers offer full-time roles to Kickstarters after their placements have finished, highlighting the benefits the scheme is bringing to businesses.” Deeside based business Russell IPM has made full benefit of the Kickstart Scheme taking on seven placements into a variety of roles over the last five months, the last of which was the 100th to be placed by the Chamber.

“One day I could be working in a team to label and box an order, the next working alone or in a duo to manufacture the product, using a range of machinery.”

Andrea Gosling, Human Resources at the leading developer of integrated pest management (IPM) technologies, commented:

The Kickstart Scheme is still open for applications but employers are urged to express their interest as soon as possible by completing the form here: https:// wcnwchamber.org.uk/business-services/ kickstart-scheme/ to ensure sufficient time for the application and recruitment process to be completed prior to the scheme closure on 31st December 2021.

CHAMBER NEWS

Kickstart Placement leads to full-time role for Zhulieta! The Chamber has been an approved Gateway for the Kickstart Scheme since it launched in late 2020 to help young people gain work experience. One of the first businesses to place a Kickstarter was Wrexham based IT company Mediafields. The IT specialists offer a range of support to businesses and individuals and were one of the first companies to contact the Chamber about the Kickstart Scheme. After completing the application process, Zhulieta joined Mediafields in February as an IT Support Assistant and has worked directly with IT equipment and helped users remotely by maintaining systems and resolving problems. Julie has now been offered a permanent part-time role once her sixth-month placement finishes, highlighting how

North Wales Start-Up Club Celebrates Significant Milestone

n North Wales Start-Up Club members celebrate its first anniversary The North Wales Start-Up Club, established by West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce, has reached a significant one-year milestone of being operated in partnership with Enterprise Hub @ M-SParc. The partnership has seen businesses within their first two years of operation attend monthly online meetings, bringing together business owners in the region to share experiences, best practice and to build a business support community.

effective the scheme can be in helping employers finding skilled local talent and supporting young people into employment.

Simon Aston, Owner of Mediafields, was full of praise about Zhulieta saying “Zhulieta has been incredible since she has joined us and it made complete sense to offer her a permanent role once the six-month placement had ended. I would strongly recommend any employer to consider the Kickstart Scheme as it has enabled us to grow in a very difficult and uncertain time.”

“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity the Kickstart Scheme has given me to work at Mediafields and the experience it has provided,” said Zhulieta. “I’ve been wanting to work in IT for many years and finally had the chance to thanks to the scheme. Each of my colleagues has been wonderful and extremely helpful in showing me how to develop my skills further. Every day is different, I’m constantly expanding my knowledge and enjoying every aspect of it. “I’m over the moon for being taken on permanently by Mediafields, it’s a fantastic environment to work in and the scheme itself was a great experience.” The monthly meetings have seen Start-Up Club members also hear from local experts on a number of different topics including; tax, business planning, social media and finance. “Being part of the Start-up Club has been a great way to reflect on my progress whilst also getting relevant business training. Each month, the sessions give me an opportunity to reflect on my achievements since the last month and it has been great to see how other new businesses in my area are doing. Working in the office by myself can feel lonely so every month I can touch base with other people in the same position as me, to share advice and developments whilst also gaining knowledge” said Heledd Owen, Darlunio Heledd Owen Illustration. Jennifer Kennedy, Membership Director at West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, said “We are incredibly proud to have been able to support new businesses through what has been an incredibly challenging year for all. It has been encouraging to see the resilience and adaptability of businesspeople in North Wales and some of the start-ups we’ve had join the club are outstanding. We are really looking forward to watching them develop and hope to see more join us at future meetings!” Sara Roberts, Enterprise Hub Co-ordinator, said “At the Hub, we advise all our members that being part of a community, and asking for support when you need it, is vital for small businesses. No one can do it alone, and especially if you’re an individual running an entire business, there are times when you need to turn to others for support.

n Zhulieta working on a computer at Mediafields We’re really pleased to have been able to offer access to the Start-Up Club for our members, as it provides them with further opportunities to meet like-minded people, and gain expert support in areas they may struggle with, such as specialist marketing or accountancy.” Another member of the Club is Kerry Jones, Founder of The Sunset Plan, who joined from the beginning in June 2020. Kerry explains “I had been working with Enterprise Hwb at M-Sparc so this joined-up approach with other start-ups like myself was a great opportunity to meet people in a similar position. “As the club is held online, it is so convenient to be able to join during the day and gain support with a wide range of business matters. Meeting other businesses has been a real motivator. We update each other at the start of each meeting about what’s been going on. “It’s incredible to see how quickly people are progressing. It is such a supportive space that you can see that people care about each other’s progress. It has opened me up to a world of other businesses and support I wouldn’t have otherwise met. I am now a full member of the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce and have just had an article feature in the latest members magazine which is really exciting.” For more information about the North Wales Start-Up Club, please visit the Chamber website: wcnwchamber.org.uk The Enterprise Hub is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government. #WCNWChamber100 | 9

STRATEGIC MEMBERS NEWS

Join the green business revolution For the first time, the UK will be hosting the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) and Natwest Group are proud to be one of its principal partners. At NatWest, we’re encouraging our small business customers to make a climate commitment as we recognise the need for collaboration and cooperation between governments, businesses, regulators and society, as well as the key role of the finance sector, has in supporting the transition to a low carbon economy.

n We’ve also joined forces with Microsoft to support business customers to understand and reduce their carbon footprints. The platform will provide business customers with personalised carbon action plans and is thought to

be the first tool of its kind at this scale. It will be piloted with business customers later this year. n We’ve introduced Green Mortgages, which offer a discounted interest rate to customers purchasing a property with an Energy Efficiency Rating of A or B. The Green Mortgage supports the bank’s pledge to help customers become more energy efficient with an ambition that 50% of the bank’s mortgage book is at or above EPC C or equivalent rating of C by 2030.

The support of this campaign builds on our purpose-led strategy of helping people and businesses across the UK transition to a low carbon economy. With this in mind, we’ve launched a series of initiatives to help businesses go green: n As part of our Entrepreneur Accelerator programme, at least 25% of the spaces in our 12 UK-wide Accelerator hubs are dedicated to supporting climate focused businesses. Each business will receive mentoring, a dedicated climate cohort community, climate specific events, and office space in one of the hubs across the UK.

Adapt and overcome! During the past 18 months, the pandemic has presented challenges to the Army Reserve including the soldiers of the 3rd Battalion The Royal Welsh. The Annual Deployment Exercise to Slovenia had to be cancelled and took place instead, in Hightown Barracks, Wrexham. However, the training staff laid on excellent packages in urban warfare, live firing and adventurous training. The 3rd Battalion have been busy helping with the pandemic effort (Operation RESCRIPT) which saw a 100-strong company of Army Reservists deployed on a range of tasks including the distribution of PPE and driving ambulances. Others have deployed around the world on exercises or as part of training teams to support host nation armed forces. Routine training in the UK has evolved to utilise a range of online and

face-to-face methods which has enabled the Army Reserve to soldier on without considerable disruption. Major Jeff Moses, the Senior Major of 3 Royal Welsh, has served for 29 years. As a full-time police officer, his Army Reserve service has complemented his police

career and provided him with transferrable skills useful to any employer. “Army training develops a huge range of skills and ability in its soldiers and officers. These include confidence, leadership, endurance, physical fitness, mental agility, teamwork and self-reliance. These benefits are difficult to quantify but they are considerable. I would say that the Army has shaped how I operate in all walks of life and in terms of my full-time employment I am far better equipped. I have always felt that the Army Reserve equipped me with a great sense of determination and a strong work ethic. All employers would value the advantages that military service brings, whether through employing reservists or exregulars.” For further information on the many benefits of employing a service leaver or supporting a reservist please contact: Tony Fish, MOD Regional Employer Engagement Director for North Wales wa-reed2@rfca.mod.uk Office: 01352 755309 Mobile: 07508193902 n Army Reserve soldiers of 3rd Battalion The Royal Welsh on exercise in the UK during the pandemic (2020)

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STRATEGIC MEMBERS NEWS

Online safeguarding through innovation… Government guidance across the UK highlights the importance of safeguarding children and young people from harmful and inappropriate online material (Department for Education, 2021; Department of Education; Welsh Government, 2020). This guidance applies to internet-connected toys, tablets, smart TVs and watches, phones, laptops, and computers. Chester-based cyber security company, Protos Networks, has been working with schools across the UK to simplify online safeguarding. The internet is a vast and borderless world that can be harmful to young people. Content filtering solutions have been effective in preventing access to harmful content, but should action not be taken when a student attempts to access a harmful website?

In 2020, Protos began to research the measures used to protect children and found that, due to its complex nature, internet content filtering was often the responsibility of the IT team. Safeguarding Officers are, therefore, missing out on crucial information that would allow them to act more quickly and precisely. To protect children effectively and act quickly where required, schools must first understand who is trying to access what. When a pupil attempts to access a harmful website, this can now be followed up and appropriate action taken to understand why and prevent them from trying to access it again.

the threats it can pose. We have created a solution that quickly gets the right information to the right people so that action can be taken”. You can find out more about this project here - https://protosnetworks. com/how-protos-have-simplifiedsafeguarding-in-education-withautomation/?utm_content=160181290&utm_ medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&hss_ channel=lis-pbCyvtpWKw Protos can facilitate free trials of the service so that schools can understand the benefits in more detail. Please email Protos Networks at sales@protosnetworks.com or call 0333 370 353.

Neil Gobsill, Director at Protos Networks, explains “As the internet becomes more prevalent in our day to day lives, so does the requirement to protect children from

MEMBERS NEWS

Lord Lieutenant of Clwyd presents North Wales Manikin Manufacturer with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise of Clwyd to our Head Office in Glyndyfrdwy. Many of our staff were able to gather outside the premises to witness the official presentation which included the reading of a scroll from Her Majesty the Queen.

Ruth Lee Ltd was visited by the Lord Lieutenant of Clwyd on Thursday 22nd July, who officially presented the business with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade. Based in North Wales, Ruth Lee Ltd is one of 220 organisations nationally to be recognised with a prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

The Pandemic has been a challenge for us all, though it has presented us with unexpected opportunities because our manikins provide teams with a safer way to train which maintains safer social distancing. We work with a fantastic network of Distributors across the world to supply manikins to organisations dedicated to improving their safety and training standards. We must thank them for their continued dedication to training.

Announced on Tuesday 21st April 2020, during the pandemic, Ruth Lee Ltd was recognised for its excellence in International Trade, specifically, for Outstanding Short-Term Growth in overseas sales over the last three years. The business currently employs 32 people and was set up in the early 90s and has gone on to become a world leader in the design and manufacture of training manikins for industries such as the emergency services, armed forces, lifeguards, maritime and health and social care. Exports represent 70% of the total business and this is growing over-proportionately year-on-year. Ruth Lee Ltd currently sells to more than 50 countries, through a network of more than 40 distributors and has sent manikins to every continent on the planet!

Most importantly, though, I must thank our outstanding team here at Ruth Lee. We are a small business with a truly global reach. I am proud of the hard-work and dedication shown by everyone – it is this which makes Ruth Lee Ltd the success it is today. Ruth Lee Ltd.’s Managing Director, Paul McDonnell said; “We were thrilled to welcome the Queen’s official representative, The Lord Lieutenant

The Queen’s Award is one of the highest business accolades in the country and it was very special to be able to celebrate our achievements as we were officially presented with the award today.”

INSIGHT INTO...

The Wine School of Cheshire

Back in late March 2013, Richard Smith attended a wine tasting with a friend not long after recovering from an illness that had forced a pause in his career. The rest as they say is history, making 2013 quite a vintage year. Richard’s career in wine has involved countless celebrities and he was a butler too! “I remember that event for all the wrong reasons”, Richard said. “It was just so dull and the hosting spent so long talking about himself that the sparkling wine we were due to try had gone flat! That night I bought a website address and started planning! There was nothing in Chester and indeed Cheshire for wine and food lovers to learn a bit more and enjoy an amazing experience with great food and wine without pressure to buy wine and without wine snobbery attached and a bit more sparkle - and not just in the wine glass!” Richard started networking to build contacts and awareness and the first Chester Wine School event, as the business was known back then, was on 22nd June 2013. Since then, all the wine school’s Saturday lunch events, and there have been many, have all included a four-course lunch with matched

wines for every course. Wine School quickly found there was room to grow and began tastings around the County and just a year in, it was clear a name change was needed to properly represent the region. “It was all done over a rather boozy lunch on World Malbec Day with a good friend who is a marketing specialist,” said Richard. “The slight snag was a Cheshire Wine School had previously traded and their web domain and social media accounts all still existed. So the new brand of The Wine School of Cheshire was born” Not too long after the .wine domains were released as the internet moved up a step so the website changed to cheshire.wine. “Even now I’m still asked if there’s a dot something after the wine - the address says exactly what we are!” The coming years have seen some terrific media coverage and Richard has represented many wine producers as a speaker around the UK, working with the Three Wine Men in Manchester: TV’s Oz Clarke, Olly Smith and Tim Atkin MW as well as writer and presenter Susy Atkins. Richard represents Wines of Great Britain annually at the RHS Tatton Park Flower Show too. In 2019, Richard was intronised into the Confrérie des Compagnons de Grandgousier at a ceremony in The Loire Valley in recognition for his support of the region, particularly Touriane and Touraine-Mesland. A rare honour for a non-French citizen! 2020 was a bit of a challenge! A logo refresh on 1st January saw a good start

but then Covid-19 struck the world and the business faced an uncertain future. Richard didn’t waste time to adjust: Wine School quickly moved online with Zoom events and The Wine School of Cheshire was seen by the wider wine world as a pioneer of online tastings. Richard has hosted over 90 online wine tastings since, some with winemakers from around the world and several with Susy Atkins as celebrity guest host. Aside from celebrating 30 years in wine in 2020, one of the best events of the business came in September when Wine School was announced as one of the Small Business 100 by Small Business Britain - a tremendous accolade after such a tough year. We all know that another lockdown forced a very tough start to 2021 and history repeated itself as another Wine School venue in Chester was lost due to the pandemic. Richard recognised that the wider world of hospitality would be different post lockdown and without a venue, there would be no business. So, he needed his own place and quickly! With everywhere still closed, this wouldn’t be easy but a stroke of good fortune and within 36 hours a new permanent Wine School home had been found in Godstall Lane, just moments from Chester Cathedral - now called The Tasting Room at The Wine School of Cheshire. This fantastic intimate venue began welcoming guests from 22nd May and an exciting new chapter awaits for all things wine in Cheshire. #WCNWChamber100 |

CHAMBER EVENTS

Faceto-Face Networking is back! Following the relaxation of coronavirus restrictions, we have been delighted to welcome back Chamber members to our first face-to-face networking events in over 16 months. Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, we have been hosting regular Round the Screen networking events that have given Chamber members an avenue to stay connected despite not being able to meet in person. These have been crucial

for providing a platform for allowing collaboration between members and have facilitated the growth of business relationships. However, as useful as our online events have been, they will never quite replace the face-to-face networking experience of a Chamber event. Whether it is a breakfast Round the Table or a two-course Lunch, our networking events provide a relaxed environment for Chamber members to meet and start working together. “The health and safety of our members and staff remain our top priority and we have taken great steps to ensure that all of our events take place in an as safe environment as possible.” Said Jenny Davidson, Events & Young Chamber Manager at the Chamber. “It has been amazing to see members after such a long time and to hear a room full of chatter once again. We have had brilliant feedback from members so far and it’s great to see the smiles on their faces!”

Return to Round the Table Networking a Roaring Success On 27th July, the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce held its first Round the Table event in over 16 months at Chester Zoo as the return of Chamber faceto-face networking events continued. Nestled between the Red Pandas and Cheetahs at the most visited zoo in the UK, Oakfield House made a perfect venue for Chamber members to meet for breakfast and the building of business connections. Guests were able to catch up whilst enjoying their teas and coffees before hearing from Zoo Ranger, Emily. Emily spoke about the ongoing efforts of the zoo to battle against deforestation for the production of palm oil, with Chester becoming the world’s first sustainable palm oil city in 2019. Chamber members were then split into different tables and given two minutes to introduce themselves and speak about their business. After everyone on the table had spoken, places were swapped and the networking started over again! “As a new Chamber member, it was wonderful to attend a ‘live’ networking

event at such an iconic location,” said June Potts, Director at Menopause 360. “For me, the best part was mixing with likeminded others. Well-attended across a wide variety of business sectors, the true value of networking was realised. Thanks to the organisers for delivering a well-run session. Plus, well done to Chester Zoo, the talk on sustainable palm oil was enlightening!” Once the event had finished, guests were allowed a leisurely walk out of the Zoo, giving them the opportunity to see some of the incredible animals! Events & Young Chamber Manager at the Chamber of Commerce, Jenny Davidson, was delighted to be back hosting a Round the Table event, saying “We are so pleased to be able to offer our Round the Table events to members of the Chamber once again! These are one of our most popular event formats and it was great to see members reconnecting and building new relationships.” “Thank you to Chester Zoo for providing a safe and relaxed venue for the event and also to Emily for her inspiring talk. I’m already looking forward to our next event!”

To give members more flexibility in their networking, our Round the Screen networking events will also be continuing on a monthly basis. This gives members further opportunities to connect with one another. All of our events for the rest of the year can now be booked onto via our website. These include;

Round the Table Networking at Xplore! TUE 14/09/2021 09:00 - 11:00

West Cheshire Women’s Network THU 23/09/2021 09:30 - 11:00

Round the Table Networking at Mercure Chester Abbots Well Hotel WED 06/10/2021 09:00 - 11:00

Chamber Lunch at Village Hotel Chester St David’s TUE 12/10/2021 12:30 - 14:30

Round the Table Networking at Rowton Hall Hotel and Spa TUE 02/11/2021 09:00 - 11:00

Chamber Annual Ball & Recognition Awards 2021 FRI 12/11/2021 18:30 - 01:00

Networking Lunch at Venue in the Park THU 18/11/2021 12:30 - 14:30

We hope to see you at an event soon!

Members Bowled Over by Networking at Boughton Hall Cricket Club

themselves and their business to the person sitting opposite them. This gave individuals the opportunity to have oneon-one conversations and build business relationships. Once the four minutes had finished, one side of the table moved along so that the networking could continue! After the rotation of members, there was time for people on the same rows to mingle and have their own conversations before the event came to a close.

Members of West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce enjoyed breakfast in the sunshine this week at Boughton Hall Cricket Club for a ‘speed networking’ event.

Clara Hughes, Director at Zebra Marketing and Communications, was one of the attendees and said “My last networking event was about 18 months ago – pre-pandemic – so it was slightly daunting heading back into the networking environment. I needn’t have worried, the event was well organised, friendly and interesting. The marquee at Boughton Cricket Club was a great choice of venue, and the morning offered an excellent way to start talking with local businesses again.”

Sitting alongside the Shropshire Union Canal, cricket has been played at Boughton Hall Cricket Club since the 1870s and with the event taking place in the brand-new marquee, it made an ideal location for a Chamber event.

Events & Young Chamber Manager at the Chamber, Jenny Davidson, added “It was great to be back hosting another networking event, this time in the stunning marquee at Boughton Hall Cricket Club who were incredible hosts.

Members were greeted by Chamber staff and then had the opportunity to catch up with fellow guests whilst enjoying a spread of tea, coffee and bacon sandwiches.

“There was a real buzz in the room and the speed networking format went down really well with members and could make a return to events in the future! Thank you to all that attended and we look forward to seeing you again at our upcoming events.”

Attendees were then split into tables and were given two minutes each to introduce

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Cheshire College Set to Upskill Local People after £100m Investment into Vauxhall The region’s largest provider of post16 education, Cheshire College will be delivering the upskilling and reskilling of local people after a £100m investment was made by Stellantis into Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port plant, which will see it transform into the UK’s first manufacturing site dedicated to electric vans and cars. The investment was announced on Tuesday 6 July at a press conference attended by UK Government, Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Kwasi Kwarteng and Vauxhall Motors Managing Director, Paul Willcox. Prime Minister Boris Johnson also recorded a video message, which was played during the conference hailing the announcement as a ‘huge vote of confidence for Ellesmere Port’. With an ethos set around inspiring and engaging young learners and adults with the latest innovations and technologies, Cheshire College will be delivering courses designed to upskill and reskill current and new Vauxhall employees in the future of the motor vehicle industry, which will see no new diesel and petrol cars sold in the UK from 2030.

Dhesi, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College, said: “This is a fantastic boost for both the town and people of Ellesmere Port and here at Cheshire College we’re extremely proud to be a part of this. The automotive industry is embarking on a really exciting journey as the country begins to shift to environmentally friendly electric vehicles and I’m delighted we will be working with Vauxhall to deliver the allimportant training required to support this. “We’re looking forward to continuing our partnership with Vauxhall and will be using the very best cutting-edge technology to deliver the high-quality training needed to ensure more and more of the job opportunities that become available go to people in the local area.” Cheshire College currently supports apprentices working with Vauxhall and the education provider has played a vital role in safeguarding a sustainable future for the town, having consistently supported Stellantis’ plans alongside the UK Government, Cheshire West and Chester

Council and the Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership. “I particularly want to thank our highlyskilled, dedicated workforce for their patience and contribution. Thanks also to Cheshire College for their assistance in providing training for our teams. Producing battery electric vehicles here will support clean, safe and affordable mobility for all. Since 1903 Vauxhall has manufactured vehicles in Britain and we will continue to do so”, said Mark Noble, Vauxhall Ellesmere Port Plant Director.

Industry Experts Inspire Future Generations Thanks To Cheshire College’s NEW Lecturer Development Programme Employing over 200 academic staff across its three Campuses in Crewe, Ellesmere Port and Chester, Cheshire College has a passion for empowering individuals to thrive in the workplace and has launched a programme to provide support and training for new lecturers joining, including the opportunity to complete recognised teaching qualifications. Industry professionals make up over half of Cheshire College’s current teaching staff and bring with them a wealth of specialist sector knowledge to enhance learners’ understanding and skills, with many still working within the business or running their own to keep up-to-date with the latest innovations. Cheshire College’s new Lecturer Development Programme has a dedicated

range of support and development opportunities for industry experts joining their academic team with no prior teaching experience or qualifications, including the chance to complete a Level 4 Certificate in Education & Training before progressing on to a Level 5 Diploma in Education & Training. Silke Novak, Lecturer in Construction joined the College after 11 years of experience in industry which included working as an Electrical Building Services Engineering and also studying for a Master’s in Engineering. She completed her PGCE whilst teaching learners on full-time programmes and said: “Being able to join the College as a lecturer whilst continuing to complete my qualifications on the same site was extremely convenient and meant I was

able to draw on my classroom experiences when completing my qualification and vice versa. “I had a fantastic mentor during this time within the department who supported me with my teaching and completing my qualification, and I’m so glad I made the move from industry into education to inspire the next generation of construction workers.” Available to all lecturers and assessors joining from industry as well as those with prior experience, as Newly Qualified Teachers (NQTs) or trainee teachers, Cheshire College’s Lecturer Development Programme also includes an assigned curriculum mentor and regular 1-2-1 support from the Quality team.

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Cheshire West Crowd to help bring community-led project ideas to life with support from local businesses. Empowered by this new and exciting crowdfunding platform, groups have been busy throughout the summer developing project ideas that will make a positive difference in their local communities.

The deadline to put forward project ideas for the Autumn 2021 round is 15th September 2021. Community-led projects across Cheshire West and Chester will go live on the crowdfunding platform shortly thereafter.

One of many inspiring project ideas is a Community Christmas Show in Neston, submitted by the Little Actors Theatre Company. Samantha Giblin, Artistic Director said “Our idea is important because it is inclusive and will bring the community back together after the pandemic for a fun festive arts experience.

To view further details about the Community Christmas Show and other inspiring local project ideas visit: https://www.spacehive. com/movement/cwc/projects Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council and Cheshire West

“Our Community Christmas Show would be open to all - families, couples, individuals, young and old. No experience would be needed as the community cast will be guided by experienced and skilled theatre professionals.

“Businesses can also offer in-kind support to projects, so we can turbocharge the success of locally-led campaigns. The more people that get involved in the Cheshire West Crowd the more inspiring local places we can create together.” If your business is interested in supporting, please contact: partner@spacehive.com

Creating added value for local people

What is social value? Social Value means creating something extra by the way that an organisation buys its supplies, services and works. “The benefit to the community from a commissioning or procurement process over and above the

“Cheshire West and Chester Council have made over £300,000 available for local projects. With pledges starting at just £2 for those who want to back ideas on their doorstep, Cheshire West Crowd provides a brilliant way for businesses to connect with their customers and communities alongside the council. “We understand that it has been challenging for many businesses. For those that can, we ask you to consider joining the Cheshire West Crowd which offers a creative and collaborative way to boost Cheshire West and Chester.

“We are really excited at the potential for business backing through the Cheshire West Crowd. If we hit our crowdfunding target, participation could be free and it would bring many benefits for those taking part, behind the scenes and spectating including; building self-esteem, team collaboration, experiencing the arts in the heart of the community, forming new friendships and learning new skills.”

Cheshire West and Chester Council spend over £300million each year on supplies, services and works. We want the companies we buy from to provide great quality and great value for money but we also want to recognise the social value that great businesses create. ‘Social value’ looks beyond the core contracts being awarded to encourage and reward those suppliers who create added value for the local society, economy and environment. To support this, the Council is launching its new Social Value policy and is working with the Chamber of Commerce and local businesses to promote this approach.

Crowd Ambassador said: “I’m delighted with the enthusiasm and interest in the Cheshire West Crowd. Local people really are best placed to understand the challenges and opportunities in their area and this model puts them and their ideas in the driving seat.

direct purchasing of goods, services and outcomes,” according to the Social Value Hub. This could mean good employment practices, supporting young people into work, business advice for local charities or planting trees alongside building projects. As part of the Ellesmere Port Public Services Hub and Chester Northgate Development contracts, the social value created by the contractors VINCI Construction includes 703 weeks of apprenticeships, work experience opportunities for 12 local people and over £28m spent with local companies. Social value should not increase costs if done properly. Many businesses already work to have a positive impact on their local community. Social value is about encouraging and supporting you to do this in a way that is clearly recognised and that gains the greatest benefit for the borough.

How does the Council measure social value? The Council has adopted the National Themes, Outcomes and Measures framework for measuring social value. This framework sets out a menu of measures of social value that suppliers can choose from to describe the social value they would deliver as part of a contract. For any appropriate contract worth over £50,000 the Council will ask bidders to propose their social value contribution as part of their bids, with the Council considering this as part of awarding, monitoring and managing contracts. Why Consider Social Value? Whether you think of it as your corporate social responsibility, being communityminded or giving back, it also makes good business sense. Being able to explain the benefit you bring to your local community has always been good marketing, now it could also help you win a council contract. To find out more go to: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/ your-council/policies-and-performance/ council-plans-and-strategies/social-value/ social-value.aspx #WCNWChamber100 |

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Menter Môn takes pride in local environment Menter Môn is a not for profit company providing solutions to the challenges facing rural Wales. We work with businesses, communities and individuals, to deliver meaningful projects, that harness their strengths and contribute to a sustainable future. Menter Môn take pride in our local environment, and we work hard to protect what makes us unique, we have vast experience of protecting natural habitats

and native species. We are proud to offer support to farmers, fishermen and food producers to add value to their produce and to develop local and regional food supply chains. Innovation is also encouraged by adopting new methods of production. This ensures that they can compete in a rapidly changing world. We want to create prosperous communities, where the Welsh language thrives, where housing is available for local people and local young people are employed in high-quality jobs. Our renewable energy schemes complement the environmental work that we’re doing to protect the planet and tackle climate change. Creating clean energy runs alongside boosting the economy, providing opportunities for young people and benefiting communities. Menter Môn supports entrepreneurship and provides advice to individuals wishing to enter the business world. We are also active

Menai Science Park Launches AgriTech Cluster M-SParc by Bangor University has launched an AgriTech Cluster, promoting collaboration and innovation in a high-growth sector with economic benefits for the region. Menai Science Park was recently re-elected as Secretariat for the Welsh Parliament’s CrossParty Group for Digital in Wales and took the opportunity to officially launch the cluster in the Wales-wide forum, established to ensure that the nation is well-placed to benefit from the opportunities of the digital sector. In 2020 the UK invested £24 Million in AgriTech projects, leading to many exciting technological innovations in the agricultural sector, and the launch of the AgriTech Cluster will ensure North Wales can capitalise on this, helping the sector grow in the region. AgriTech is the use of technology and technological innovation to improve the efficiency and output of agricultural processes. In other words, it is the application of technology to improve all elements of the farming and growing processes. Pryderi ap Rhisiart, M-SParc Managing Director, said: “We have seen the number of agri-tech businesses and projects at M-SParc increase over the past few months, with some really exciting projects underway involving our tenants, Bangor University, and ourselves, and we are proud to have

formally launched our AgriTech cluster in the Welsh Parliament’s Cross-Party Group for Digital in Wales. “Our aim is to keep those companies working together, ensuring they have every opportunity to grow in M-SParc, creating commercial products and entering world markets, and of course creating exciting new career opportunities. Where better than North Wales for such a sector to grow?” “To be re-elected as Secretariat of the Cross-Party Group for Digital in Wales is a very exciting opportunity for M-SParc to be involved in helping to move the digital agenda forward in Wales, collaborating with elected officials and a wide range of experts at the forefront of this field. “We are involved in many groups and projects in this sector and feel there is a ‘movement’ developing which we in North Wales can lead from the front on. There are clear opportunities in Digital in Wales across a range of sectors but there are challenges to overcome as well, and this gives us a platform to discuss those challenges and how best to build on the opportunities.” There are big opportunities for the sector, but also significant barriers to growth – such as funding and skills shortages that the Cluster will discuss and address. The Cross-

in growth areas within the economy e.g. digital technology, renewable energy, food and agriculture, and we are also able to engage with regional networks. Whilst our work is varied, we aim to ensure that we always stay true to our vision which is to ensure local benefit. This is at the heart of all our projects and celebrating what makes our communities stand out is a golden thread that runs through all our work. From renewable energy schemes to promoting local food produce and improving broadband services in rural areas to promoting the Welsh language. Everything in our work stems from trying to ensure the prosperity of the community in which we live and work. For further information visit www.mentermon.com

Party Group on Digital also discussed the lack of adoption and the rate of adoption of the technology as a barrier to growth. The cluster already has a range of partners from industry and academia including Naturiol, Diagnostig, the Green Eagle, Tech Tyfu, Bi-meda, Dewin.Tech, Micron Agritech and Henfaes – Bangor University, GLL – Glynllifon and BIC Innovation and we invite any companies or partners wanting to join the Cluster to head to http://www.agritech. cymru/today to sign up. Between these companies and projects, there is significant expertise in vertical farming, identifying and managing parasites and pesticides, using AI for various purposes to make agricultural work easier, making better use of marginal land, increasing the potency of certain vaccines, drone technology and more, with the cluster sure to grow rapidly in the future.

PATRON FOCUS at University of Chester Business School, said: “Congratulations to Lina and Daniel. The competition was intense and very competitive; the level of initiative and enterprise has been incredible - but they are very deserving winners with their new take on how people visit eyewear retailers and purchase their glasses. “On behalf of The Graham Shapiro Foundation, I would like to thank all participants for taking part in the Enterprise Challenge 2021. “The aim of these awards is to encourage entrepreneurial endeavour, reward initiative and recognise that good ideas can come from anywhere and anyone, at any time and the competition has highlighted some remarkable examples.

Graduates with impressive business vision win Enterprise Challenge Greater success is in sight for graduates chosen as winners of the University of Chester 2021 Enterprise Challenge after they impressed an expert panel of judges with their visionary idea to transform the eyewear industry. Juan Rosalina Tejoprayitno and Daniel Barnes were selected from more than 70 entries and 10 finalists for the coveted title, in the initiative run by The Graham Shapiro Foundation and powered by ARCET Global. Juan Rosalina, known as Lina, and Daniel have won £1,000 plus a mentorship programme from the Foundation to further develop Pop Specs, their business which aims to change the way people buy prescription glasses. The pair met while studying for their Master’s in Business Administration at the University’s Business School and quickly became best friends. During the first lockdown of 2020, they set upon the idea to create trendy,

affordable, and instantly ready specs. Dan’s expertise in optics and Lina’s ability to get the job done helped them to make Pop Specs a reality; a dream come true. Using high-tech, cutting-edge machinery, customers can visit a kiosk, and benefit from a fitting service and styling advice. They only need to wait 20 minutes to get their new single vision glasses - including the frame, lens and anti-glare coating, for just £25 to £45. The fashionable frames along with the affordable price range and speed are making Pop Specs stand out from online competitors and other glasses stores. They currently have a kiosk at the Trafford Centre in Manchester and plan to open in more prime locations. Lina, who was born and raised in Indonesia and studied her undergraduate degree in Chicago, said: “Thank you to Graham Shapiro, the Foundation, ARCET Global, the University of Chester Business School and all the judges for this award. “It means so much to us and will help us to expand the business and help others we work with and offer a service to.” Daniel, from Chester, said: “We believe our idea will revolutionise the eyewear industry and this award chosen by inspiring business leaders gives us greater confidence and incentive. “Being a start-up venture, it inspires us to push harder and further. Thank you for all the work in offering this opportunity.” Graham Shapiro, driving force for the Challenge and Entrepreneur in Residence

“I also want to thank our expert judges: Alissa Koopal, Cody Gapare, Joel Blake OBE, John Mohin OBE, Martin Nolan and Rob McKay; my Trustee Mark Hamill and his company ARCET Global for the incredible online awards platform and virtual ceremony, Associate Prof Connie Hancock, Dr Henry Sidsaph and the marketing team at the University of Chester.” Mark Hamill, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of ARCET Global said: “ARCET Global is proud to be able to support such a fantastic initiative. As young entrepreneurs ourselves, we know just how important these opportunities are. Kudos to The Graham Shapiro Foundation and the University of Chester for bringing this to life. “Well done to all the finalists, to make it that far is a huge achievement in itself, and a huge congratulations to Daniel and Lina, we wish you and Pop Specs all the best in the future.” Dr Connie Hancock, Associate Professor and Head of Department for Management at Chester Business School added: “Lina and Daniel are extremely worthy winners - and this award recognises their innovation and drive. We are extremely proud of all they have achieved - and are set to further achieve. “We are privileged to be able to support students and graduates with this Enterprise Challenge made possible by Graham Shapiro, the Foundation, ARCET Global and our amazing judges.” The Graham Shapiro Foundation is a charity that supports mental health, well-being, innovation and young entrepreneurialism in the UK and ARCET Global is a leading provider of professional services. To watch a video of the virtual awards ceremony, videos from all the finalists, and for further information about the Enterprise Challenge, please visit: https://arcetglobal. com/uc-enterprise-challenge. #WCNWChamber100 |

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Ensure Your IT Solutions are Ready for Hybrid Working n Phil Scanlon, Elite Group’s Commercial Director for IT Services.

The true potential of remote working has allayed fears that employees won’t be as productive working away from the office. We have now reached a point where businesses can start phasing employees back into the office, but it is safe to say that flexible working will remain with us and companies will need to consider the possibilities of hybrid working to recruit and retain a talented workforce. A study conducted by the Institute of Directors highlighted that 74% of 1000 company directors were looking to keep home-working in some capacity following the end of the pandemic. At Elite, we know that the key to a successful hybrid working model is efficient and reliable IT and connectivity that allows employees to have access to the same tools that facilitate productivity, whether they are at home or in the office. Reliable IT and connectivity solutions are not just what we offer to our clients – we implement them within our company processes to ensure our employees can work effectively in the office and at home. So, whether your business is planning how to make the move to hybrid working or you’re looking to improve the hybrid working model you already have, we have compiled our 5 top tips for making your IT solutions effective for hybrid working.

1) Ensure Employees Have Their Say It’s common for employees and businesses, in general, to simply use IT support as a solution to

a problem rather than collaborating with them to put preventative measures in place and optimise IT solutions for productivity. Employees will have a good, all-around understanding of what IT/Software requirements they have and many of the potential technology pitfalls they could experience. Similarly, IT support teams will have the experience and skills to outline other requirements that employees may not be aware of and a good understanding of how to fix issues. Therefore, it is a good idea for employees to play an active role in assessing the technology solutions they use every day and work together with IT support teams to ensure that the technology meets their requirements.

2) Utilise Cloud Technology Having the ability to access and share data effectively and safely is vital for hybrid working. Cloud technology allows your employees to, essentially, take the office home with them. The cloud is basically a hub that can be used to safely upload, store and retrieve data from anywhere, as long as employees possess the relevant login information and permissions. Not only is Cloud Technology incredibly useful for businesses, as it offers great scalability and can evolve as your business develops, it can also cope with increased demand and provide a higher level of security compared with on-premises data storage, which can be vulnerable to slow speeds and insecure connections.

3) Prioritise the user’s experience Businesses are always on the lookout and investing in initiatives to improve customer experience (CX). However, your employees’ access to IT and the reliability of their connectivity can have a major impact on your customer’s experience. Inadequate access to data, slow broadband speeds and risks to data security can all have an impact on how successfully your employees can fulfil customer requests. Therefore, it is just as important to prioritise your user (employee) experience, as it is your CX.

4) Preventative Training IT training shouldn’t end at induction – it should be an ongoing process that goes beyond the bare minimum of using corporate IT equipment, password protection and reporting an issue. The aim of comprehensive IT training should be ‘user enablement’, which allows your employees to possess the skills they need to fix common problems, troubleshoot simple issues with the software they are using and know how to get the most out of the applications they use every day. Although it isn’t really possible or practical to teach your employees how to fix every single IT issue it is possible to ensure they are cluedup with solutions to basic errors and issues.

5) Invest in IT Support Employing an IT team isn’t always possible, especially for smaller businesses, but if you’re looking to implement successful hybrid working, there are quite a few pitfalls that can inhibit its success without sufficient IT support. It is a myth that only large companies can have access to top-level IT support. No matter the size or requirements of your business you can gain suitable tech support through outsourcing. Whether you’re looking for specific IT services to plug gaps in your support or outsourcing all of your IT support – investing in experts can help to give you peace of mind knowing that any issues with IT, connectivity, software or hardware can be solved. For more information on how Elite Group can support your hybrid working plans, contact us for more info. Tel: 03330 603123 www.elitegroup.com

Chester BID launched the Chester Gift Card in Nov 2020 as a simple way to lock money into Chester’s economy, supporting businesses and the individuals that own and work for them. This also means if you don’t know what gift to buy for someone, you can give them the gift of Chester with options from across the city, from clothing to beauty services, afternoon teas to cocktails.

5 Reasons to buy a Chester Gift Card 1. A MEMORABLE GIFT A perfect way to say thank you or show you care. Spendable in over 100 businesses on Chester High Street including local independent businesses, big brands, cafés, restaurants, salons and even hotels, they are sure to find something. 2. DIFFICULT TO BUY FOR We all have friends and family who are difficult to buy for, the ones who have everything and the ones who “don’t need anything”. Let them choose how to spend it, whether that be in their favourite restaurant, pub, on a night out or buying something special from a local boutique. The choice is theirs!

3. EXPLORE THE HIGH STREET New to the area, only visiting for a short stay, or just haven’t been to the city centre for a while. A Chester Gift Card is a great way to discover and re-discover everything in the city centre. It’s a socially conscious gift that encourages days out and city wide experiences.

5. SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES Small and independent businesses need more support than ever as they recover from the economic impact of the pandemic. A Chester Gift Card keeps your money local, supporting those in your community.

4. THE PERFECT REWARD OR INCENTIVE FOR STAFF AND CLIENTS Give your teams and clients that feel good factor with the Chester Gift Card. Sign a new client – gift them a Chester Gift Card. Team member with the best customer feedback gets a Chester Gift Card. The possibilities are endless!

To keep up with city centre events and offers subscribe to the Experience Chester newsletter and follow @ChesterBID

HOW DO I BUY CHESTER GIFT CARD? Buy online at ChesterGiftCard.com or in person at Chester’s Visitor Information Centre. You can also post gift cards direct to the recipient with a personal message.

ExperienceChester.co.uk

PATRON FOCUS

Almost 1,500 businesses in the region are in financial distress… but recovery is now being detected says Begbies Traynor

is certainly welcome news for all business owners and employees in West Cheshire and North Wales. “We’re certainly not quite out of the woods yet though and the hard fact remains that there are almost 1,500 companies based locally who are still facing significant financial challenges. “That number will be of major concern not only to the company directors running those firms but to other businesses connected to them in the supply chain. If directors are concerned, they must seek professional advice swiftly. “With changes during 2021 to the UK roadmap out of lockdown and the challenges related to the ‘pingdemic’ issue many companies are still in a precarious position. Sadly, any further lockdowns or restrictions introduced later this year could well be the final straw for many of them. “The ongoing servicing of existing commercial finance arrangements coupled with fresh debt repayments kicking in from bounceback loans and CBILs means it’s likely to be a challenging second half of 2021 for many businesses across our region.” Begbies Traynor launched confidential hotline (0800 056 1059) which enables business owners in West Cheshire and North Wales to resolve the growing challenges they face in repaying bounce-back loans, deferred tax bills and impatient creditors.

n 21% increase in financial distress in West Cheshire & North Wales compared to the same time last year. n However, 11% decrease in distressed firms between Q1 and Q2 of 2021. n Re-opening of economy suggests start of recovery. Research from the Chester office of Begbies Traynor reveals that almost 1,500 local businesses are currently experiencing ‘significant final distress’ – a 21% increase on the same time last year. 1,490 businesses located in West Cheshire & North Wales are now operating under significant financial distress according to the latest Red Flag Alert data for Q2 2021. The quarterly research, produced by Begbies Traynor monitors the levels of financial distress experienced by local companies. However, the good news is that the reopening of the economy made an instant positive impact on the fortunes of firms across the region with an 11% reduction in the number of firms in distress compared

to the previous quarter (Q1 2021 saw 1,668 firms from across the region in significant financial distress compared to Q2 2021 which saw 1,490). Sectors with the highest level of distress in the region by sheer volume of companies are Support Services (203 – a 12% rise on last year), Construction (195 – a 15% rise on last year) and Real Estate & Property (181 – a 33% rise on last year). However, it is worth noting that all three of these key regional business sectors saw recovery in Q2 of 2021 compared to Q1 of 2021. Support Services saw a quarterly decrease in distress of 17%, Construction saw an 13% reduction and Real Estate & Property an 11% reduction. Nationally, there are now 651,492 firms who are currently in significant financial distress which is a 24% increase on the same time last year (526,967). Keith Tully, partner at Begbies Traynor, explains: “The 11% reduction in businesses who are experiencing significant financial distress

Proactive steps can be made by business owners - including refinancing, unlocking fresh alternative funding sources, time-topay negotiation strategies with HMRC and other methods to work with creditors to support business survival. Keith Tully adds: “The personal stress on business owners and finance directors is rising and its clear from the conversations we’re having with people in the business community that there’s still limited awareness of the positive steps owners can take despite being in a precarious financial position. “Begbies Traynor will continue to work closely with local accountants, lawyers and funders to focus on positive outcomes in 2021 for all business owners. Being entrepreneurial about the challenges ahead means being proactive and company directors shouldn’t feel isolated with their financial problems.” Call the confidential hotline on 0800 056 1059.

A brief overview of your role and company. The House nameplate company was founded in the mid-1980’s as a supplier of slate house digits and ceramic and slate house signs to B&Q and the independent shops on the high street. The business had its own foundry and cast its own brass and aluminium signs. A tricky, difficult and hot process!

then start work. My focus at the moment is training up the two people who will take over from me when I step back in a couple of years time to look at other opportunities that we could merge with the House nameplate business. I find stepping back and letting other people do my role difficult as my itch is to interfere, but they will never learn if I stay too involved. I don’t do detail well as I have a low boredom threshold!

35 years on, we are the market leaders in personalised house signs, the only company that can do personalised letterboxes, house digits and, unusually, pet memorials.

Have you had to adapt your business as a result of the coronavirus outbreak? If so how?

As a sideline, we have started manufacturing wooden log stores and recycle bin stores to sit outside your home, and this has been spectacularly successful. My role has been to give a sales focus to the people here and start a sales drive to reverse a steady decline in sales and margin, develop new products and get the right people doing the right jobs.

Can you tell us a short overview of an average day at work? I am in about 5.45am to clear my desk, download the previous day’s sales figures, which we publish on a whiteboard for everyone to see and understand, and

We were 30% internet sales and 70% B2B but 16 months ago, with two-thirds of our staff on furlough and the outlook grim, we decided to reinvent ourselves as an online seller, and thankfully this really took off and saved us, whilst generating much needed daily cash at the same time. We are now a much more

balanced business about 50% B2B and 50% online, cash flow is better and the customer base is broader and more stable.

How has the company grown in recent years? For several years we were in decline as noone thought it worthwhile to go out seeing customers or to do any sales activity, but this has changed now and we have grown 30% this year, and plan further growth with the addition of export to the USA in 2022. The business now has a field sales team, an online sales team and a Head of Sales.

Have you faced any particular challenges recently? Brexit and colleagues self-isolating as close family members catch the Delta variant, though the main business interruption has been the supply of products through the ports from India and Brazil, and the supply of steel to our letterbox manufacturer in Lithuania. What did take three months now takes twice that and the shipping costs have grown enormously.

What are your plans for the future? Keep growing the business, keep enjoying it, and look at merger or acquisition opportunities. #WCNWChamber100 |

YOUNG CHAMBER

More Schools Enter Young Chamber Centenary Challenge Following the launch of the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce’s Young Chamber Centenary Challenge earlier this year, more participating schools have started their micro-businesses in a bid to raise money for a good cause.

The Young Chamber Centenary Challenge has seen the Chamber of Commerce donate hundreds of pounds to local schools in the region as part of its 100 years of supporting business celebrations. Each school has then been challenged

Castell Alun students launch Young Chamber Centenary Challenge

In September, the students are planning to evolve their business idea into an enterprise that can be more sustainable and passed down to the future business students.

Students at Castell Alun decided to set up their own tuck shop for the Sports Day taking place for Year 7 and 8. For this challenge, the students are raising money for Hope House Children’s Hospice which works with terminally ill children and their families.

Jenny Davidson, Events & Young Chamber Manager at the Chamber, said “The students at Castell Alun have created an excellent micro-business, supporting a local charity too, I look forward to seeing how far this enterprise can go!”

to establish an in-school enterprise and convert the initial investment into as much money as possible for a good cause. The Challenge aims also to help develop students’ confidence and aspirations for what they can achieve in the future. The challenge will also give students an invaluable insight into the world of work and develop skills needed in the workplace. Archers Brook School, Castell Alun and Queen’s Park High School have all now launched their entries for the challenge…

Teacher at the School, Lauren Robinson, said “The enterprise challenge is a fun and engaging programme that puts learners’ skills progression at its core. The scheme, in my mind, is essential for ensuring students develop the employability skills that businesses need such as teamwork, clear verbal communication, and a proactive approach towards organising and preparing events. A big thank you to Young Chamber for coordinating such an event and to the sponsors that make schemes such as these available and worthwhile for our students.”

Get involved and help support the next generation! After more than a year of remote support provided by Young Chamber, we are gearing up for the new school year and are in the process of planning events to support students across our 16 Schools and two colleges that are supported by the programme.

The events are all supported by Chamber members that sponsor the Young Chamber programme. By becoming a sponsor, businesses can take an active role in supporting the local community and help to build an effective pipeline of talent that meets their skills needs.

Whether they are careers talks, mock interviews, workshops, office visits or enterprise projects, all of our events are aimed at giving young people the employability skills and experience needed to hit the ground running when they leave education.

Events & Young Chamber Manager at the Chamber, Jenny Davidson, explains “The role of our Young Chamber Sponsors cannot be understated, they have supported over 6400 Students since the

programme launched in late 2017 through a host of different events. “Students have had a tough time during the pandemic and we are really keen to return to the classroom and offer the support of our Young Chamber Sponsors once again.” If you are interested in finding out more about how you could support students across West Cheshire & North Wales, please call 01244 669988 or email youngchamber@wcnwchamber.org.uk.

YOUNG CHAMBER Queens Park High School is the latest school to compete in the Young Chamber Challenge, the students are tasked with creating and running a business from the £100 donation provided by the Chamber of Commerce. The students’ business will be creating handcrafted jewellery from materials such as silver wire and semi-precious stones. The participants at Queens Park High also started a tuck shop, which has been successful as the needs of a wide range of students has been met, such as those who want vegan or sugar-free options.

Queen’s Park High School students mean Business!

Teacher at Queens Park High School, Andrea Watts, commented: “Year 8 students have been busy creating handcrafted rings, earrings and necklaces led by the talented Amy Jones. Each item is unique, made with silver wire and semiprecious stones. Alongside the jewellery business, the tuck shop has boosted revenue and profits.” Jenny Davidson, Events & Young Chamber Manager at the Chamber, said: “The students have shown great entrepreneurial skills in creating not one, but two great businesses and they have shown business knowledge through catering for different dietary requirements.”

Archers Brook School make wellbeing products for Young Chamber Centenary Challenge Archers Brook School have now launched their products which focus on helping with mental wellbeing. Products being made include; scented candles, calming bracelets made with different types of gemstones and dream catchers. Teacher at the School, James Kitchen, explains; “We as a school make a concerted effort to support the wellbeing of our pupils. The pupils’ value this support and they were unanimous in the idea of selecting products that can help people

with their mental wellbeing. The pupils are already benefitting from being able to manage a budget and working together to complete tasks. We are hoping to raise money to buy a portable stall for the school so the pupils can continue to develop these valuable enterprise skills”. Once the products are made, students taking part in the Challenge will be selling

the products at a stall at the school and there are also plans to create an online shop. Jenny Davidson, Events & Young Chamber Manager at the Chamber, said “The students at Archers Brook School have come up with a really good idea and we are excited to see the products they create!” #WCNWChamber100 |

Here I led the centre, developing strong relationships with customers, brands and investors in order to ensure budgets were met and exceeded. In 2014, I joined Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, the UK and Europe’s first designer outlet, as their General Manager. With 8.5 million guests Cheshire Oaks is a leading destination in the overall UK retail market and is the regionally dominant Designer Outlet Centre in the North, home to over 165 premium brands and restaurants. WCNW: What attracted you to the company? What are your main responsibilities? I’ve always valued the importance of the customer experience therefore retail was a natural path for me. As the UK’s leading designer outlet group, I’ve loved working for McArthurGlen since joining back in 2003. In my time at the company, I’ve had the opportunity to work on both sides of the team – first being a brand partner, then joining the centre management team, which has allowed me to immerse myself fully to understand the experience from both perspectives. My role is multifaceted – no day is ever the same! I lead the operations, vision and strategy for Cheshire Oaks in order for it to remain the leading premium retail destination in the UK. We recently invested £60m in additional investment which resulted in an additional 45,000 sqft of retail space at the centre, as well as new and enhanced services including a plan for a state-of-the-art children’s play area, a Changing Places facility and 300 additional car parking spaces. The guest experience is at the heart of everything we do – we strive to be a leading day out destination for visitors who can enjoy our mix of premium and high street retailers and extensive food and beverage offering. We’re also proud to employ over 3,500 members of staff, making us the largest employer in the region. WCNW: What does a typical day involve?

WCNW: To begin, tell us a little about yourself and your background. I have worked in retail since leaving school at the age of 16, working for a range of fashion brands including Church’s Shoes, Austin Reed, Ben Sherman and the Burton Group before joining the team at McArthurGlen in 2003. Having worked for McArthurGlen for 18 years, I’ve had the opportunity to work across a number of locations in a variety of positions,

gaining valuable experience to progress to where I am today. Firstly, I worked at a centre we built and operated in Livingston, Scotland, as a Retail Manager before it was sold. Following this, I moved to Ashford Designer Outlet in 2008 where I supported the new Centre Manager to help lead a team to improve the performance of the centre - which was yet to reach its full potential. I was fortunate enough to take on a role in Berlin before being promoted to Centre Manager for McArthurGlen’s East Midlands Designer Outlet in 2010.

There really is no typical day – with retail being such a fast-paced environment, you have to remain adaptable and flexible because everything can happen at once. It ranges from developing and launching new services to enhance the guest experience such as our new online Click and Reserve, as well as reviewing plans and mock-ups for our new play area facilities, to supporting brand partners and engaging with external stakeholders, from key communities and businesses to Cheshire West & Chester Council and the Police. I’m also a member of a number of key local business organisations, including Cheshire Business Leaders, Ellesmere Port Development Board and Cheshire Oaks Business Partnership, which means I often join board meetings with them and offer support

THE BIG INTERVIEW “Sometimes your greatest blocker is yourself. You need to listen to the people around you and stay open-minded – you will make mistakes, but you will learn from them and come back stronger. As cliché as it sounds, being brave and trying new things will be worth it in the long run!” where needed. I am also a Governor at Cheshire College - South & West - the main further education provider in our area - which is a role I really cherish, as it’s important to work with local young people and help guide them on their career journey. WCNW: Who are your target audience and what is the main aim of the organisation? The aim of McArthurGlen is to bring great brands to everyone at affordable prices. It’s important to us that our guests can access international well-renowned brands with additional value, however, we aim to offer more than just a shopping experience. We pride ourselves on being a great day out for all to enjoy, due to our offering of leisure and dining outlets, as well as our selection of fashion, beauty, home and activewear retailers. WCNW: What projects are you currently working on? Right now, we’re looking ahead to Christmas which will come around much sooner than you think! We’re also working on some exciting initiatives involving sustainability and community artwork, so watch this space. As always, charity and the local community are of the utmost importance to us and will play a role in our upcoming projects for this year. WCNW: Any difficulties? If so, how did you overcome them? Covid has bought many challenges for us as a sector, however, we have approached the pandemic with flexibility and optimism allowing us to offer the best to our employees, brand partners and guests. This has meant we’ve been able to welcome a number of new brands to the centre in order to keep enticing back guests, while also offering a safe shopping experience with a range of health and wellbeing measures in place. We never thought on our 25th birthday that we would be in a global pandemic, but we’re entering our 26th year as a stronger and more agile business. WCNW: Looking ahead, what are your main aims for the organisation and how would you like it to develop? Sustainability is something I’m keen to develop more in the business as this year has taught us that we can all do more to

protect the environment as there is only one planet! Looking forward, we want to welcome back overseas tourists once it is safe to do so as well as explore new partnership opportunities in the region. WCNW: Are there any particular people, business leaders or others you look up to? What have you learned from them? One thing I have learnt throughout my career is that it’s all about the team you have. With the right team, anything is possible and it’s important for leaders to create a comfortable working environment that inspires and empowers employees, celebrating successes and goals as one. WCNW: What are your career aims and aspirations? Is there anything else in particular you’d like to achieve in your lifetime?

I still have a lot to learn and achieve, but I’m grateful for all my experiences and opportunities which have taught me so much already and will help me with my future goals. The world is changing with new opportunities each day, and I hope that what I’ve learnt so far will support the development and growth of the business, the people around me, and of course my own personal development. WCNW: What message would you give to other people in business? Sometimes your greatest blocker is yourself. You need to listen to the people around you and stay open-minded – you will make mistakes, but you will learn from them and come back stronger. As cliché as it sounds, being brave and trying new things will be worth it in the long run! #WCNWChamber100 | 27

BCC NEWS

Carbon footprint a mystery to 9 out of 10 small businesses

of making adaptations (14%) were cited as the three steps businesses would most like to see to help them reduce their carbon consumption within the next six months. While 13% said they would like access to impartial, bespoke advice with an action plan – and almost a third said they look online for advice on net zero and environmental sustainability.

Taking action on emissions Despite a lack of awareness of carbon footprints, many firms are still taking a wide variety of positive actions to reduce their emissions and become greener. Over the next 12 months, 54% of businesses surveyed are planning to reduce their consumption (e.g. of paper, food and plastics), 47% are planning to reduce the energy they use through travel, and 40% are planning to reduce the energy used at their offices and premises. Of those looking to take action, eight in ten (79%) cite concern about the environment as the motivating factor, followed by efficiency gains or cost savings (cited by 59%).

n National business survey finds the vast majority of small businesses have yet to put targets in place to reduce their emissions – with the pandemic pushing climate action down the agenda

The research also showed only one in seven (13%) have set targets to reduce their emissions – down from one in five (21%) when firms were surveyed before the pandemic in February 2020.

n Just 11% of respondents measure their carbon footprint, although half of respondents acknowledge their customers are worried about the environment

In addition, almost two thirds (64%) of businesses surveyed say they don’t see net zero targets as a high priority in the wake of the pandemic, although half (49%) admit their customers are worried about the environment.

n Larger firms are far more likely to be taking environmental action than microbusinesses n Cost is considered the biggest barrier, with 30% claiming lack of finance is holding them back The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and O2 have launched a free online hub for firms to find all the information, tools and support they need to become net zero. Research published today by the British Chambers of Commerce in partnership with O2 has found that only one in ten (11%) responding businesses, of more than 1,000 surveyed in the UK, are measuring their carbon footprint. This falls to 9% for small businesses, and 5% for microbusinesses, with fewer than 10 employees. By contrast, 26% of larger firms, with more than 50 employees, are measuring their footprint.

The findings also show that one in five businesses (22%) don’t fully understand the term ‘net zero,’ and almost a third have yet to seek advice or information to help them develop a net zero roadmap or improve their environmental sustainability. With the impacts of the pandemic and other priorities weighing heavily on small and medium-sized businesses, the research found that smaller firms were far more likely to be behind on climate action. When it came to setting carbon reduction targets, 27% of larger firms have done so, compared to just 9% of microbusinesses.

Barriers and required support The main barriers preventing respondents from making their business more sustainable are high upfront adaptation costs (34%) and a lack of finance (30%). Getting access to grants (28%), tax allowances (14%) and reducing the costs

In response to the findings, the British Chambers of Commerce and O2 have launched a free online hub to help businesses find out how to measure their carbon footprint, set targets and develop an overall net zero strategy. The new hub provides a one-stop-shop for businesses to find out everything they need to know about net zero. It is packed with information on how to apply for grants, where to seek specialist advice and practical tips from firms that have already taken action. Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, said: “This research is a real eyeopener and shows just how big a challenge the UK’s net zero target is. The dual impacts of the pandemic and Brexit have been a huge body-blow to many businesses, so it’s unsurprising that targeting emissions has taken a back seat. “But change has to come, and our Net Zero Hub makes clear that the earlier firms adapt then the greater the advantages will be – they cannot afford to get left behind. “The climate challenge is one that affects every single one of us and business has a big part to play in tackling it. But the Government must also recognise that smaller firms will need access to grants, subsidies and other financial support to help them take effective steps on the journey to a greener future.” To find out more about how the new Net Zero Hub from the BCC and O2 is supporting small and medium businesses on their net zero journeys please visit: https://www. britishchambers.org.uk/page/net-zero-hub-2

ECONOMY

Quarterly Business Report: Business Confidence hits record high as restrictions ease The latest Quarterly Business Report from the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce found that significantly more firms reported improvements in key economic indicators with some measures reaching record levels, such as business confidence. However, the survey of 77 firms, which employ 11,000 people across the region, comes after a year of historical lows and business conditions remain fragile. The report, published in partnership with Cheshire West & Chester Council, shows that an economic recovery is beginning to take shape after the relaxation of coronavirus restrictions in mid-May, the release of pentup demand and the rapid vaccine rollout.

In Focus With Financial Fortress Ltd

Financial Fortress Ltd are Independent Financial & Mortgage Advisers with offices in Chester and Wrexham. Below we hear from Managing Director, Wayne Musker, on his contribution to the Quarterly Business Report You’ve indicated that domestic sales have increased over the last three months. Are there any specific reasons behind this? There are two types of clients. Those that have realised “life is too short” and therefore getting their finances in order to ensure finishing work/paying off a mortgage at some point is now a priority and those that have actually been in a position to save more! As their savings have grown and debts have reduced, this had led clients to get in touch needing our help! You’ve recruited and looking to recruit further in the next three months. Can you explain why this is the case? We have a successful marketing team and manage our own Google-ads and

Key Findings n Business confidence for the next three months, for both profitability and turnover, rose to their highest level on record. n Employment expectations in the next three months also reached their highest level on record with nearly half of businesses seeking to recruit in the upcoming quarter. n Firms’ investment intentions have continued to recover with both readings returning to pre-pandemic levels. n Domestic sales strengthened rising to their highest level in two years reflecting a strong rebound in consumer demand as coronavirus restrictions eased. n However, export sales and orders were broadly flat after a gradual rise over the last year: both remained in negative territory for the fifth successive quarter (meaning more people reporting a decrease than an increase). Debbie Bryce, Chief Executive Officer at the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, commented on the report:

Facebook campaigns; therefore, our advertising and client recruitment has continued right through Covid. Many competitors have furloughed staff, reduced costs and generally turned inwards whereas we haven’t! Given the increased demand, our team needs to expand to cope! This quarter saw the highest level of business confidence recorded by the Quarterly Business Report with Financial Fortress also confident heading into the next three months. What were your reasons behind this? Our business continues to go from strength to strength. Most of our clients are more financially secure than pre-Covid. Some sectors have really struggled including retail and hospitality but most service companies, contractors and the manufacturers we look after have seen a surge in demand. As consumers are able to start spending and come back online, this can only bode well for economic activity going forward.

“Our latest Chamber Quarterly Business Report indicates that WCNW businesses are showing signs of a strong recovery as the UK starts to relax lockdown restrictions. Many readings either returned to or exceeded pre-pandemic levels, with confidence and employment expectations reaching their highest level on record. This latest set of results show that an economic recovery is beginning to take shape, but our members are also telling us that many businesses are far from being out of the woods yet. Whilst firms may be beginning to finally see cash coming in, most have a long way to go before they are trading at pre-pandemic levels.” Gemma Davies Director of Economy and Housing for Cheshire West and Chester Council said: “We welcome the Chamber Quarterly Economic report in particular the intelligence captured from businesses around the key challenges and opportunities they face. As a patron member of the Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to work closely together to ensure we can deliver ongoing support to maintain a strong and resilient economy across the Borough.”

and pensions require stability and certainty for us to be able to plan and generate returns for our clients. Looking forward, how do you see the next 12 months for your business? Using technology, we will continue to expand our operation and hope to build a national presence. A massive challenge right now is our office size and this needs sorting – it is surprising that Chester’s commercial property market has remained subdued! If we had the office space then all I can say is… watch this space!

What would you say is the biggest challenge facing businesses in your industry at the moment? Markets generally continue to be extremely volatile and the geopolitical landscape has uncertainties that come with it. Covid is not yet “finally” dealt with which again all feeds into uncertainty. Everything to do with money including interest rates, investments #WCNWChamber100 |

MEMBERS NEWS

Creative community work with scientific engineers to create tomorrow’s world

When North Wales-based scientific engineering firm Scanwel was looking to rebrand and raise its profile, new marketing manager Katy Harrison called upon her North Wales creative network for help. Scanwel, which was founded in 1974, is an expert solution provider in the vacuum, surface and nanoscience sectors. It has grown from a one-man business operating from a workshop in an old schoolhouse in North Wales, to an international solutions provider to the academic, industrial and scientific community, currently operating from its new premises in Bala. Scanwel is investing heavily in its business infrastructure, to ensure that it is positioned for future growth and acquisition. As a consequence of this, it recognised that the communications channels to its potential clients needed to reflect both its current position and its aspirations for continued expansion. To reinforce this message, Scanwel decided it was time for a rebrand. This included redeveloping the website, updating

its look and feel with a new company video and photography, and fully understanding its current position in the market.

Collaboration is key The management team at Scanwel is lean, so Katy looked for outside design and marketing support from her network of contacts. To this end, she bought together design, videography, photography and marketing support from JC Creative, Knew Productions, Ginger Pixie Photography and Zebra Marketing and Communications. All these businesses are based in North Wales, and along with Scanwel, three of the four are members of the West Cheshire and North Wales Chambers of Commerce. The collective expertise of the team has enabled the project to be carried out in a short space of time.

Good relationships built on trust Katy explains: “Having worked in North Wales for a number of years, I have developed a network of trusted suppliers,

which I’ve met through the Chambers of Commerce or worked with on previous projects. In addition to this, the individual businesses were familiar with each other’s work, so we were able to establish a real sense of collaboration and familiarity across the project from the start. Working with trusted local businesses has also meant that when restrictions have allowed, we have been able to meet face-to-face and build the relationships further.”

Vision for the future Jake Cross of JC Creative explains: “Scanwel needed to develop a strong brand, to position itself in the marketplace. The new brand I developed was fresh, with colours not usually associated with the scientific sector. The strapline was quite fun, reflecting the personality of the business, but also the quality of the products – ‘Scientific engineering for tomorrow’s world’. Once the brand was developed, the website was designed to reinforce the branding’s message and content.” Scanwel’s team decided to share its highlevel messages via a new video on the website. There were challenges in terms of timing, as the initial plan was to showcase the new video at a large industry exhibition. The exhibition was postponed due to Covid, but the video was produced within the same schedule. Richard Knew, of Knew Productions, said: “The video we produced for Scanwel had to capture the future aspirations of the business, the technical knowledge and expertise of the team, and its approach to collaboration and problem solving. We used the brand guidelines developed by JC Creative, to ensure we remained on brand.”

Customers first Katy added: “Melissa from Ginger Pixie Photography has visited us on site several times throughout this project, to capture a variety of images for the new website and also the website shop, which we are currently working on. I think she has captured the team and our products in such a way that complements the new branding. We also engaged Zebra Marketing and Communications’ services, to develop a customer survey, to find out the challenges facing the sector and how our business is currently perceived. The information we have acquired from the survey will help shape our marketing activity going forward.” For further information on Scanwel’s rebranding project or the team that helped deliver it, contact Katy Harrison, marketing manager at Scanwel on 07305 221030 or email katy.harrison@scanwel.com

MEMBERS NEWS Professor Phil Harris appointed Professor Extraordinarius at the University of South Africa Liveryman Professor Phil Harris has been appointed Professor Extraordinarius at the University of South Africa (UNISA), Pretoria. This new role for the Professor Emeritus at the University of Chester is to help strengthen and further the development of doctoral and masters supervision capacity and

collaborative research at the university. The aim is to strengthen international trade and development. Much-travelled, Phil is an international marketing expert with special expertise in public affairs and lobbying who has published over 20 books and written 150 articles. “It is a great honour to be associated with such an excellent institution and colleagues,” said Phil, who as well as being an enthusiast for the writings of Machiavelli and a visiting Professor in China is also very fond of the African continent. n Professor Emeritas of Marketing & Public Affairs, University of Chester

WR Partners continues its growth with three senior Promotions

The last 18 months have been challenging for most businesses, and during this time, few would have considered the bold actions of re-branding or acquiring another large business, WR Partners did both. The leadership team focusing on future growth and offering the best possible client service. During this time and for their continued exceptional performance, three members of the team have been promoted to senior roles within the practice. Sarah Davies has been promoted to Rural Director. Sarah joined the business after completing her A-Levels at 18 and has always worked in the Rural team and is now part of its leadership team. She enjoys the

interesting nature of the industry and how she can help clients overcome their business challenges. On her promotion, Sarah said, “ I have been supported and encouraged over the years by my managers and partners and this really helped my continued personal development, I am now looking forward to developing the team and working more closely with our Rural clients”. Phil Pugh is now a Director working from the Newtown office. He joined the practice in 2008 on the graduate programme and has worked from the Mid-Wales office ever since. He has worked in various areas of accountancy but specialises in work for business and commercial clients. Phil

is excited about the future “I believe a can-do attitude and hard work both with colleagues and clients has been the key to my progression over the years. The team we have at Newtown is youthful and energetic and with their positive attitude I am looking forward to seeing and being part of great things for the office in the future”. Tracey Hayward started working as Financial Controller for the business 21 years ago working from small offices located in a Shrewsbury townhouse. She was a member of the finance team and ran the company payroll. Through this work, she was responsible for the transition from a paper-based payroll to a digital system and developing the payroll bureau service for clients. Through her promotion to Director of Employer Services, Tracey wants to continue to expand the team and the work it does. “By offering our clients the best advice and support for what is arguably one of the most important functions of their business – paying their staff, we build trust and develop long-standing working relationships. I am looking forward to expanding the great team we have now to continue to remove the timely and complicated work that processing a payroll can prove to be for many businesses”. Managing Partner Helen Spencer commented “As a Firm, we are committed to providing our people with career development opportunities, recognising great achievement, and unlocking potential. We share success throughout the year, promoting when people are ready and there is a business need. Sarah, Phil, and Tracey have all worked for the practice for most of their working lives and their dedication and hard work over the years has contributed to the businesses continuing growth. I am personally delighted they have all been promoted to the role of Director and look forward to seeing their journey continue with WR Partners in the years ahead”. #WCNWChamber100 |

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Retraining essential as one in five firms consider job cuts 32

EDUCATION & TRAINING

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has called for the government to extend skills training as new research showed nearly one in five companies are considering staff redundancies as the next phase of furlough tapering begins. With older workers much more likely to still be on furlough, there’s concern that they could go unutilised unless support for retraining is immediately put in place. Carried out by BCC, the survey asked more than 250 businesses with employees still on furlough what their response might be to employers’ contributions to the scheme rising. Nearly one in five (18%) said they would make staff redundant. The BCC survey comes after HMRC data showed older workers were far more likely to remain furloughed than younger ones, raising concerns about what plans are in place to re-skill those who are left without jobs as the scheme winds down – with skills shortages continuing to bite across the UK labour market. Jane Gratton, head of people policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Recent changes to the furlough scheme is likely to result in many thousands of people being released back into the labour market, as employers who are still struggling to recover from the recession are forced to make redundancies and cuts to working hours. “With widespread skills shortages across the economy, some will find new jobs where their skills are in demand, while others will need to retrain for opportunities in a different sector. “Whether furloughed workers are returning to the workplace or the wider labour market, it’s crucial that employers and the government give them the support and

training they need to be re-engaged and productive. Alongside rapid retraining opportunities, the government should extend the Kickstart scheme into 2022 and expand it to enable older workers to gain new skills and experience.” While some workers may need re-skilling or upskilling to re-enter the labour market, firms that are looking to grow their workforce are finding it hard to source suitably skilled staff. A recent BCC survey showed that seven out of ten firms were having difficulty hiring the right talent for their business. The sector with the highest proportion of firms reporting difficulties was construction at 82%, followed closely by hotels & catering at 76%. Of respondents in production & manufacturing, 68% reported difficulties in recruitment. Consumer services firms were the least likely to report difficulties but even in that sector the proportion facing issues was 61%. Jane Gratton said: “As firms are released from lockdown restrictions, the skills and labour shortages they experienced before the pandemic are once again starting to bite. The encouraging increase in job creation across the manufacturing and services sectors is being held back by recruitment difficulties at all skill levels, jeopardising growth and productivity.  “Whether people have found work in a different sector, changed their working patterns or left the UK during the recession, firms are now struggling to find the people they need. It’s vital that business, government and the skills system work together to find solutions.   “Adopting more remote and flexible working patterns will help firms attract skills from a wider talent pool. But we also need access to rapid and agile training and reskilling opportunities for adults in the workforce, alongside a flexible and costeffective immigration system that ensures fast access to skills when these can’t be recruited locally.” #WCNWChamber100 |

Wrexham Glyndŵr University

Why is innovation key in business and how can Universities help?

Business benefits include: the de-risking and acceleration of technology adoption and new product development, enhancement of recruiting, developing and retaining talent, crucial embedding of new processes and advanced skills training and the opportunity to extensively improve business performance, productivity and innovation culture!

Why now? Welsh Government have announced increased funding contribution until February 2022 for eligible KTPs to make them more accessible and cost effective to SMEs based in Wales, and to encourage more businesses to benefit from the programme! This newly extended offer will allow eligible SMEs in Wales to claim 75% of the project costs of a KTP.

What about Management Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (mKTP)?

In a world that is ever changing businesses must be ready to respond to whatever’s thrown their way, whether this be a major flip in supply chain movement, imminent product development requirements, changes to the way in which staff work, or the way a business communicates with their customers. A culture of innovation provides a platform of resilience and creativity to support adaptable and competitive business management. ‘Over the last year or so we have seen a significant increase in businesses reaching out to explore how they can utilise our services to scope innovation projects. This appears to be, in many cases, a direct result of the impact of the pandemic and the way in which this has forced organisations to review how they deliver their services, their cultural and structural approach to changing environments and customer needs and the necessity to diversify their offerings.’ Charlotte Oram-Gettings – Business Development Manager at Wrexham Glyndŵr University, Many businesses first thought when looking to design a new product or undertake a review of processes, may not be to turn to their local University, however, there are a number of funded programmes at Wrexham

Glyndŵr University available to businesses across the region, that provide mechanisms to access a breadth of academic expertise, facilities and equipment to support driving significant change for business growth.

So what is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP)? KTPs are a well-established and well-regarded national innovation support programme, managed by Innovate UK funded by Innovate and co-funders including Welsh Government in Wales. KTPs connect businesses with a specialist academic team to embed expertise, vision, experience and resources to develop capability, new products and processes, to improve their competitiveness, productivity and performance. The Enterprise Team at Wrexham Glyndŵr University are currently working with a number of businesses across multiple sectors on various innovation projects through our funded KTP programme. The academic and business collaboration has been invaluable in allowing organisations across the region to access specialised expertise and technology, ultimately achieving their strategic goals and revolutionising their business.

Following on from the success of the KTP the Management Knowledge Transfer Partnership creates a highly skilled collaborative partnership that establishes a dynamic collaboration between your business and the University. mKTP specifically focuses on delivering human-centred, strategic change, harnessing cultural and structural advances to elevate a business’s sustainable competitiveness in their sector. If you are looking to increase business productivity, achieve greater agility in response to changing environments and to build greater strategic resilience then a Management KTP could be for you.

Why Wrexham Glyndŵ r University? Wrexham Glyndŵr University prides itself in being at the cutting edge of innovative processes and facilities to support growth, enhance productivity, upskill workforce and improve competitiveness through knowledge and skill sharing. The University has recently launched a brand new 3D FAST Lab that enables businesses to access specialised equipment such as 3D printing and prototyping facilities, in addition to the expertise to support product development research. The University has seen engagement from businesses across multiple sectors supporting anything from printing a sample part to test on a production line, to creating a new brand new product or process, the scope and expertise that can be accessed is vast and ever growing.

To find out more get in touch with one our team by contacting enterprise@glyndwr.ac.uk or visit our website here: https://www.glyndwr.ac.uk/en/Business/KnowledgeTransferandInnovation/

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

BCC Research: Nearly 3 in 4 Exporters Report No Sales Growth in Q2

freepik.com

INTERNATIONAL TRADE n Proportion of UK exporters reporting increased export sales (27%) rises from Q1, but proportion reporting decreased sales (28%) remains historically high

Consumer-facing exporters more likely to report decreased export sales

n Manufacturing exporters were more likely to see rising sales than exporting services firms

The breakdown of services between B2B and B2C exporters reveals that a considerably larger proportion of B2C exporters are seeing a fall in overseas sales – 38% of B2C exporters surveyed reported a decrease in export sales, in comparison to 21% of B2B firms. The proportion reporting increased sales though was similar between B2B and B2C, 23% and 22% respectively, for B2B this represents an 11-point fall from 34% reporting increased sales in Q1. While 55% of B2B firms reported sales staying constant in comparison to 40% of B2C businesses. It should be noted that these numbers come on the back of historically high proportions of both B2B and B2C firms reporting decreased sales in the previous quarter, 31% and 51% respectively.

n B2C services exporters more likely to see sales fall, but neither B2C nor B2B seeing significant sales growth n Respondents cited issues with UK-EU TCA as a major barrier to growing overseas sales The British Chambers of Commerce’s Trade Confidence Outlook for Q2, released today, has shown that exporters still face significant issues after a historically weak Q1. The survey of more than 2,800 UK exporters revealed that the percentage of firms reporting increased export sales had risen to 27%, a 7-point rise from the previous quarter. The percentage of businesses reporting decreased export sales fell to 28%, down from 41%, however, this remains a historically high proportion. 45% reported no change in their export sales. The percentage balance data shows that the proportion of firms reporting increased export sales has recovered slightly, after taking a downward turn in Q1. The balance of manufacturers reporting increased overseas sales was up to +8% from -9%, while the balance of services firms reporting increases rose to -7% from -26%. See below graph: Overall, 35% of manufacturing exporters surveyed reported increased overseas sales in Q2, with 27% reporting a decrease and 39% reporting no change.

Across a number of metrics, including domestic sales, confidence and expectation of workforce growth exporters were more likely than non-exporters to report rises. This ties with historical data showing exporters as more likely to display confidence as they push into new markets or develop new products. Given that the recovery in overseas sales continues to lag domestic sales by a significant margin, it can be seen that despite being dynamic businesses exporters are still struggling to grow sales in the face of the issues currently affecting trade. Respondents cited issues arising from Brexit as the main cause of difficulties with export sales in the quarter. Many pointed to ongoing issues with the TCA, increased red tape or costs and losing EU based clients or customers to the perception that trade was now simply too difficult or complex.

Responding to the findings, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, William Bain said: “Six months into the new trading relationship, more than a quarter of goods exporting firms are experiencing continued falls in sales to EU customers. This is a historically high number. “Our exporters are among the best problem solvers and innovators in our economy, and yet our data demonstrates that they are still struggling mightily to resolve the issues that they currently face. “As the UK and EU economies open up, we urge both sides to address the key pressures upon exporters – the red tape around import VAT and the new portals, paperwork and checks for agri-food exports, consistency of approach on customs rules and checks, looming deadlines on CE-marked goods, and the restrictions on labour mobility and service provision. “It’s clear the TCA needs to be built upon and applied in ways which cut the current red tape costs and burdens on EU exports. We must solve these issues so that exports can become a driving force in our recovery from the pandemic.”

Chamber’s Custom Declaration Service Continues to Support Importers and Exporters

The West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce has continued to support importers and exporters through its Customs Declaration Service, ChamberCustoms. We have supplied below some information about customs declaration and frequently asked questions about ChamberCustoms:

Making Customs Declarations Paperwork related to imports and exports is complex and can be confusing. To add to the difficulty, goods are subject to increased border checks, now that the UK has left the EU with any one of 26 government agencies taking an interest. #WCNWChamber100 |

INTERNATIONAL TRADE For example, livestock and animal products will get the attention of the Plant Health Agency, the Port Health Authorities and the Rural Payments Agency. Other agencies include Trading Standards, Environmental Health and the National Measurement Office They all operate at ports to protect consumers, and businesses, from products that are a risk to safety, are counterfeit, could harm our environment or simply aren’t what they say they are. As an importer or exporter, making a declaration requires you to understand everything about the goods you are clearing from a customs perspective. You need to know: n The tariff code for each item in your consignment? n Do your goods require any special licenses or certificates? n Does the UK have a trade agreement in place with the country of export from the UK? n Are your goods subject to any quotas? n Are you importing under a customs procedure? n What is the origin of the goods? n What duty and VAT will you expect to pay at import? n What is the correct valuation of your imported goods, including freight and insurance costs? It’s a businesses’ responsibility to get the paperwork right. Suppliers can advise you on compliance, and even make the declaration for you, but it is YOUR company making the declaration and you will be liable if it’s wrong, so you need a customs broker you can trust. Incorrect declarations could lead to delays and in certain cases, HMRC could impose penalties or prosecute you. In more serious cases, people have been sent to jail.

ChamberCustoms Frequently Asked Questions Q: What are customs declarations and why is it so important that businesses get them right? A: Customs declarations are forms which are used to accompany goods that are entering or leaving a market. They’re used

internationally to communicate the origin of the product and its relevant tariff, to allow customs and regulatory authorities to calculate what duty is payable and understand applicable restrictions. They are crucial because they enable authorities to know where goods are coming from or going to, in order to control the flow of goods, ensure the safety and security of the country and collect the correct duty. Q: What is ChamberCustoms? A: It’s a customs brokerage service, run by your local Chamber of Commerce. Now that the UK has left the EU, the amount of paperwork required to import and export goods from overseas has increased in both volume and complexity. The dedicated team of experts at your local Chambers of Commerce can be trusted to have the expertise and knowledge to help traders to keep on trading. Q: Why is ChamberCustoms unique? A: Put simply, we’re unique because we have direct relationships with every port in the UK. This means we don’t need to rely on any third parties to clear goods for import and export. Most other customs brokers have to rely on third parties to offer a fully national service, exposing you to a loss of control and potentially affecting the accuracy, speed and cost of their service. It can also expose traders to penalties from the tax authorities. Q: How much does it cost? A: Unlike other customs brokers our pricing structure is completely transparent. We charge a small fee to process your declaration directly through HMRC, plus a fixed 10% handling charge for the port fees which we will pay on your behalf.

Could our International Trade training courses help to grow your business? The Chamber has released new dates for its International Trade Training courses which can now be taken as accredited or non-accredited courses. Our upcoming courses are listed below: n BCC Incoterms & Export Documentation - 15/09/2021 n BCC Letters of Credit - 21/09/2021 n Customs Declaration Training - 28/09/2021 n BCC Agents, Distributors and Routes to Market - 29/09/2021 n BCC Understanding Commodity Codes - 06/10/2021 n BCC Preference Rules of Origin - 14/10/2021

Q: Do I have to be a member of my local Chamber of Commerce to use the service?

n BCC Import Procedures & Customs Audit Procedures - 20/10/2021

A: No. The service is open to all businesses who import or export goods.

n BCC Inward and Outward Processing - 27/10/2021

Q: I’m interested in learning more – what do I do next?

n Customs & VAT - 03/11/2021

A: Speak to the Chamber’s International Trade Team on 01244 669985 or email internationaltrade@wcnwchamber.org.uk.

Bespoke courses are also available which can be tailored to your business’s needs.

For more information or to book your place please contact Hayley Gray by email h.gray@wcnwchamber.org.uk or you can call 01244 669985.

KIRSTY CRAIG

How SMEs can become brilliant employers and set a course for growth by Kirsty Craig, Managing Director of Kirsty Craig Associates Hands up!! Who thinks managing people is one of the most challenging aspects any SME business owner has?? Its not a skill that comes naturally to most people and why should it? After all, managing people is THE toughest responsibility because every person is different, unpredictable and motivated by a unique set of factors. Having spent most of my working life in recruitment, I created Kirsty Craig Associates ten years ago to provide HR, recruitment and people development support to SMEs specifically because, in talking with our clients, I recognised that the same issues were coming up time and again. We believe absolutely that people management can make or break a business. Great people can take any business to great places. Unhappy or under-skilled people can drag a business to the ground.

So, how do SMEs become brilliant employers? We’ve identified three key periods in an SME’s lifecycle when investing in your people can pay dividends…

Recruiting your first employee… Recruitment can be unbelievably frustrating. It takes time, energy, and a whole heap of emotional investment with no guarantee of the right outcome. From the moment you decide to build your team, the single most important thing you need is a structured and measurable recruitment process to work with. Not only will this help you to find and hire the right people but you won’t fall foul of current employment legislation either. Creating a strong employer brand that showcases the values and ethos which underpin your business – the ‘why’ someone should want to come and work for you – is essential if you are to achieve the right result. Engaging with your people at every stage of their employment journey with you allows them to see the very best of your business at all times.

When a new recruit is underperforming... So you’ve hired and during the probationary period it becomes clear that your new employee isn’t performing in the way you had expected. You have three options. You could let them go and recruit again. You could sit tight and

hope that things improve with time. Or you could work to understand what the problem is and act accordingly. Has your onboarding and training been successful? Is your new employee feeling supported? Do they understand their role and your expectations? Is there a fundamental clash of values at play? There is much to be learned about your recruitment and onboarding processes. Seize the opportunity to review and make sure that all is in place to make the employee experience the best it can be to give them every chance of being successful in their role.

When your managers are underperforming… The employee who is committed to their role and their employer, and who is delivering the required results for the business, is often promoted to a managerial level as a result. However, whilst they might be wonderful at their current role, being a great manager doesn’t necessarily follow. And why should you expect them to be? Most people leave their job because they are being badly managed – fact. So, making sure that when you promote, you invest in upskilling your new managers through training and coaching, will give you the best opportunity of retaining your key people and a strong bottomline. Prioritising your people may seem counterintuitive (didn’t you hire them to lighten your load, not add to it?) but nothing will have a bigger impact on your business and its success or failure. Equip your people with the skills they need. Instil your company values into their everyday experiences. Identify your business’s mission, vision, and values, and let them inform your recruitment processes. Become a brilliant employer and watch your business soar!

Helping you to become a brilliant employer and set a course for growth... Tel: 01244 732070 | Email: hello@kirstycraigassociates.co.uk 9 The Old Rectory, St Mary’s Hill, Chester, CH1 2DW

www.kirstycraigassociates.co.uk #WCNWChamber100 |

Mae Sir Conwy yn gwneud cais i fod yn Ddinas Diwylliant y DU 2025. Conwy County is bidding to become UK City of Culture 2025. Sir llawn talent, profiad, cyfleoedd a datblygiadau diwylliannol. Unwaith y byddwch yn ymweld ni fyddwch yn ei anghofio. A county full of talent, experience, opportunities and cultural awakenings. Once visited never forgotten.

Cefnogi ein cais! Back our bid! Conwy2025.co.uk

y t n u o C Conwy

joins the race to become the potential host of UK City of Culture 2025 Conwy County Borough Council is one of 20 areas that have submitted an expression of interest to become UK City of Culture 2025 under the title Conwy 2025. Conwy County is ambitious and dynamic. Constantly changing and evolving while still deeply connected to its communities, culture and heritage. A county full of talent, experiences, opportunities and cultural awakenings. Conwy 2025, working with a cast of thousands, will co-produce a playful cultural programme with its communities that celebrates Conwy county and presents it to the world stage. With a spirit of adventure connecting everyone who lives, works and visits through spectacular landscapes, language, heritage and traditions. Utilising the transformational power of culture, Conwy 2025 will create a new model of respectful and sustainable tourism and bring long-lasting social and economic benefits to a spectacular destination. “Conwy 2025 will be the adventure of a lifetime,” said Cllr Charlie McCoubrey, Leader of Conwy County Borough Council. “The county already has an unrivalled reputation for delivering world class events and being a world class destination. Conwy 2025 will create a spark within our communities that will lead to economic growth, wellbeing and connection. “And, as we prepare to launch a new Culture Strategy for Conwy County, bidding for the prestigious status as UK City of Culture 2025 is a tremendous opportunity we are more than ready to deliver. Not forgetting, Conwy 2025 will pioneer a community-driven approach. UK City of Culture is all about you, the residents, businesses and visitors of Conwy county – and how culture can make a difference to you and your community.” Penderyn Distillery recently announced its financial support for Conwy 2025 alongside Conwy County Borough Council. Stephen Davies, Penderyn’s CEO commented:

“Penderyn would stand by Conwy County as partners with the people, organisations and businesses working to create exceptional cultural events and activities throughout 2025.”

To find out more about the campaign follow @Conwy2025 on Instagram and Facebook, #Conwy2025 on Twitter, or visit Conwy2025.co.uk

The Covid Cashflow Legacy the CJRS has been a vital prop and certainly avoided a catastrophe in the employment market whilst the interest free periods and repayment holidays being offered on many of the CBIL loans means that business’ have been looking at healthy bank balances and have spent or are making plans to spend the additional cash.

During the various lockdowns, the different forms of CJRS and CBILS/Bounce back loans provided vitally important financial aid from the Government, which eased cashflow for business’ forced to close or those who may have ceased trading otherwise. In many respects these loans have been perceived as ‘free’ money and

The potential problem in doing this and the effect on cashflow is the ability to service the loan, with much of the normal lending criteria being overlooked due to the need for the cash to oil the working capital cycles of business under extreme stress, the ability of business’ to do this from generating additional profits to cover loan repayments is an important question to be asked and answered if defaults and cashflow problems are to be avoided. When the CJRS scheme finishes in September there is undoubtedly going to be a surge in redundancies and the cost of this needs to be considered if the cash from the CBILS loan has already been used. A further impact on cash

in the business could also be felt if the CBIL loan has been used for capital investment then this will hopefully produce additional profits, but where the real problem sits is where business’ have had to use the CBIL loans to bridge losses incurred during Covid and when markets open up and full trade resumes and full or increased profitability is not realised, then the capital and interest repayments will start to be a problem. In the weeks and months ahead, these problems will take time to develop and evolve and the risk of future variants and lockdowns may improve or exacerbate the situation, some firms will flourish and not look back whilst others will struggle to recover, especially if previously cashflow had been tight. However, all businesses with a CBILS Loan should quantify the impact of this risk when reviewing their business plans in the post Covid world and making contingencies as required. Phil Matthews is part of the WR Partners advisory team offering advice and assistance on all areas of business life.

GETTING STARTED through the pretence, giving people useful and grounded information they could understand. In comes Smashed Grapes.

Who is your ideal client/customer? We’ve got a really broad spread of customers, some just like drinking new and interesting wines, and some really care about our sustainability credentials. Sustainability in wine is a really hot topic, that people don’t generally grasp the reality of. Wine is farmed, like coffee and chocolate but we don’t always think about it in the same Fairtrade lens. It’s quite a shocking stat that from a £5 bottle of wine (supermarket prices) the producer only gets about 31p. That’s mainly down to a lot of tax on wine being fixed. So, if you spend just a little more – say £8, that amount jumps up to over £2.50. This not only means a better deal for the producer, but think about the quality of what you’re drinking – how much love and care would you put into some that that paid you 31p vs £2.50, no brainer right?!

Best moment so far? In April 2021 we switched up our operating model a little and simplified our brand under the ‘Good Wine Company’ umbrella. Since then, we’ve launched our virtual tasting kits and seen over 60% MOM growth pretty much organically.

Smashed Grapes What’s in a name? We’re on a mission to demystify the often quite stuffy and heritage heavy world of wine. Regardless of where a wine is from, or how it’s made, at the end of the day, it’s just Smashed Grapes.

Your position? I’m co-founder along with my business partner Sam. He’s the wine expert, I’m the wine drinker

About your business? Smashed Grapes – The Good Wine Company. Good for customers, producers & the planet. Customers – we want to be the go-to for any wine drinker. Producers – we always pay a fair price for our wines. Planet – We operate as carbon neutral & use all recyclable packaging.

About you! I like to think I’m an honorary northerner now. I moved up here from the midlands in 2006 and never left. I’ve been in the marketing & events world for about the last

15 years, having had the luxury of travelling to some amazing places and working with some fantastic businesses.

Why? I found myself furloughed at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, and as someone who always operates at 110mph I found it very difficult to suddenly not have a purpose, I actually felt a little lost. Me & Sam had discussed the idea of Smashed Grapes at length a few months before, so decided to just make use of the time and throw ourselves into it.

The light bulb moment! I’m a fairly new wine drinker and found that when I tried to upskill myself, to make a better choice in the supermarket/wine shop, I was often talked down to. It felt like a bit of an old boy’s club, if you didn’t already know about wine then you should stick to the cheap stuff. When I learnt about the fundamentals of what makes a wine taste the way it does, it became clear that there was a gap for a company that cut

Biggest challenges? Breaking the supermarket bottle barrier. It’s so easy to sort your wine when you’re picking up the weekly shop. Customer acquisition is definitely our biggest hurdle and one we’re still trying to jump over effectively.

Benefits of the Chamber Start-Up club since you joined? Getting fundamentals right early on, financial planning, structuring etc – sometimes you need a bit of a prod to think about the basics when you’re busy tackling complex problems like marketing strategy, website build, UX design etc

Lessons learnt ………what would you do differently and why! Mantra of ‘Done is better than perfect’ seems to be pretty clear in the world of e-commerce. We spent lots of time working on website flow before we opened the doors. When people visited the site, they acted completely differently to our expectations! So, I’d get live sooner, and iterate once you have real-world use data to work off & keep evolving.

START-UP CLUB #WCNWChamber100 | 43 START-UP

MEMBERS NEWS

Champion promotes former trainee to Group Partner as it celebrates its 50th birthday Champion Accountants has announced the promotion of a former audit and accounts trainee to Group Partner. David Herd, 29, joined Champion’s Blackpool office in 2010 as a trainee, studying for his AAT qualification, before moving straight

onto ACCA. During the last year of the certification, in 2014, David discovered a penchant for tax advisory and relocated to Champion’s Manchester office to work under the company’s group tax partner, Gill Molloy, where he qualified as a chartered tax adviser. Since then, David has been integral to the growth of Champion’s tax advisory arm and has spearheaded the company’s Research & Development (R&D) Tax Relief, Land Remediation Relief and Stamp Duty Land Tax services. David and his team have to date achieved a 100 per cent success rate for R&D, which has resulted in more than £45million of tax relief claimed for clients, whilst total revenue for the team has increased threefold due to a flurry of new appointments. David also launched the company’s Crowdfunding service aimed at high growth businesses looking to raise finance, offering strategic advice across all tax advisory services, alongside a range of support from accounts preparation, management information and payroll. Appointed to the role in Champion’s 50th year in business, David’s promotion marks the company’s ongoing commitment to offer the next generation of accounting talent the best opportunities in the industry; and comes at the start of another new chapter in David’s life. He said: “When I joined Champion 11 years ago, I was promised the chance to earn while I learn and the ongoing opportunity to train to truly succeed in my field. I’ve been lucky enough to work alongside some of the

best in the industry who were happy to give up their time and share their experiences to help me succeed, and I would like to thank them for arming me with the knowledge required to reach this position. “It’s been an exciting time both professionally and personally; I welcomed my daughter into the world just a few months ago and will soon be celebrating my 30th birthday. To have been appointed to the role of Group Partner before the age of 30 was somewhat of a dream of mine, and I put achieving it down to the incredible support I’ve received from the Champion team. “I hope that in my new role, I’m able to inspire our many trainees that they, too, can step into such roles one day with the right backing around them.” Ged Cosgrove, Group Managing Partner at Champion Accountants, said: “Since David joined our team all those years ago, it was clear he had the type of ambition you don’t often come across. He was constantly spotting opportunities, but he didn’t just sit back and wait for other people to make things happen; he acted above his position to convert them into services that have been integral to the success and growth of the Group. “There was no other role discussed when it came to David’s next steps and progression. We want him alongside us at board level, to help shape the future of Champion.” To find out more, visit www.championgroup.co.uk.

Business Wales Town Centre Entrepreneurship Fund Launched The Welsh Government has launched the Town Centre Entrepreneurship Fund as a pilot programme to provide financial assistance for entrepreneurs and businesses who are looking to start and grow a business in one of four town centres across North Wales – Bangor, Colwyn Bay, Rhyl and Wrexham. This fund will be available as a discretionary grant of between £2,500 – £10,000 per business to support with the revenue costs associated with starting up in or relocating to a town centre. In order to access the fund, you must submit an Expression of Interest form and

register with Business Wales. You will then be assigned a dedicated Business Adviser who will support and guide you through the full application process. The Business Wales Town Centre Entrepreneurship Fund is open to applications until 20 June 2022, funds permitting. If funds are used up before this date the scheme will close. For further information please visit https:// businesswales.gov.wales/business-walestown-centre-entrepreneurship-fund or call 03000 6 03000.

MEMBERS NEWS

Local Charity CEO receives National Leadership Accolade

Caring Connections is delighted to announce Paul Growney has been recognised as a Chartered Companion with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). It is one of the highest accolades that can be bestowed on a leader. Chartered Manager status recognises exceptional management skills and is awarded to people who are committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Chartered Companionship is only bestowed on individuals who have consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership within their organisations and sectors. Chartered Companions commit to working with CMI to achieve its mission of better led and managed organisations, and accept personal responsibility for developing a new generation of inspiring leaders and managers. The Companion community aims to reflect society across the UK and worldwide. Research shows that there are groups of people underrepresented in senior management and leadership, which constrains the productivity delivered through diverse leadership teams. Individuals who demonstrate a substantive record of management and leadership, not necessarily all at the top level but clearly on a

Active Cheshire announces new CEO Partnerships chain across the country that aims to better people’s lives through exercise. Mike, 37, has joined the non-profit organisation after his career as CEO of Cheshire FA where he led the County Football Association. He worked alongside a dedicated Board and multiple Committees to govern the grassroots game across the County. Mike is a highly experienced compliance, finance, and communications specialist with a passion for people. The business frontrunner has a track record of leading innovation and for ensuring a supportive, growth-mindset focused environment for staff, and the local community. Active Cheshire Chair Dr. Paul Hancock OBE commented, “We would like to welcome Mike with open arms to our incredible organisation. Mike Watson has significant experience of working in and with the Professional Sport and Activity sector at a national and local level. Active Cheshire has appointed Mike Watson as its new CEO. The charity is part of Active

He brings a vast amount of knowledge in the physical activity and sport areas which tie into our future objectives to embed activity into Cheshire and Warrington communities. I look forward to seeing his work make an impact in this special county.”

pathway where the next step will be reaching senior strategic level, should be nominated or choose to put themselves forward. Paul Growney, CEO at Caring Connections, said: “Massively proud of becoming a companion and support working towards improving leadership across the region. As someone who has dedicated themselves to the local voluntary and community sector, I hope this accolade can aid in improving leadership amongst the community sector.” Professor Bob Cryan CBE DL CMgr CCMI FREng, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, University of Huddersfield, CMI Trustee and Chair, Board of Companions said: “We are delighted that Paul will bring his passion for improving wellbeing, a driver of higher levels of productivity and a top priority for employees and managers alike, to the Chartered Management Institute. Through our community of influential Chartered Companions, we continue to drive home the message that achieving extraordinary, sustained growth requires greater investment in the skills that result in better led and managed organisations. I warmly welcome Paul to the Chartered Companion community that comprises the UK’s most outstanding leaders.”

The multi-award-winning Charity is passionate about positively changing the lives of people across Cheshire and Warrington out of sport and physical activity. Mike Watson, CEO of Active Cheshire said, “I am very pleased to have been offered this role and look forward to working with our partners to reverse the huge dent 2020 has left on many people’s physical and mental wellbeing. Companies like Active Cheshire are vital for local people’s health now more than ever, and I’m joining an incredibly passionate and committed team.” I cannot wait to begin my role and ensuring that Active Cheshire is positioned at the forefront of getting Cheshire Active.” The appointment comes at a time when innovation is being recognised as a key driver of the UK’s post-pandemic growth strategy, Active Cheshire is set to play a strategically important role to build closer connections with the public and private industries. As the lead body for physical activity and sport in Cheshire and Warrington, Active Cheshire’s job is to engage, educate, enable, inspire and influence the local community as well as a wide range of organisations, stakeholders and partners locally to adopt an active lifestyle. Find out more about Active Cheshire: https://activecheshire.org/ #WCNWChamber100 |

MEMBERS NEWS

Delyn Safety launches ISO Accreditations to help businesses establish global standards.

Delyn Safety, based in Mold, North Wales, are excited to announce the launch of their ISO Standard Accreditation offering.

There are many reasons why a business may want to adopt a management system. It could increase your success in tenders, improve internal efficiency, reduce costs or simply prove to your potential customers that you are credible.

gone through the process ourselves and gained our certifications. We are proud to be externally audited for ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 & ISO 45001:2018. Therefore, we know first-hand how to support our customers on this journey to excellence.

This development comes at a time when organisations are getting back to business following one of the most unprecedented times in our economy. Each standard supports its own benefits within every industry, however, they all set businesses apart from the competition as it shows their commitment to compliance, customer service and it informs their customers that they are serious about their needs.

“Delyn Safety’s ISO certification not only recognises our high health and safety standards, but it lets our customers, partners and prospects know that we take their protection extremely seriously.”

Mike Joy, Managing Director at Delyn Safety said: “We have been busy over the last six months increasing our service portfolio. In addition to offering our customers all the support and certification that they need to operate safely, we can now help them to show that they are operating at an internationally recognised standard. “These accreditations strengthen a business’ processes, increases customer satisfaction and will grow their revenue making them a sound investment. For any business to strive, continual improvement is vital and there is no time more crucial than now, where competition is strong. “It would be wrong for us to audit these for other businesses if Delyn Safety hadn’t

First face-to-face event for women’s network Organisers of the West Cheshire Women’s Network are gearing up for its first faceto-face event since the beginning of the pandemic. Founded in 2013, West Cheshire Women’s Network provides an opportunity for businesswomen to come together. Co-hosted by NatWest PLC, Ellis & Co Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers, West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce and Cheshire West and Chester Council; the group meet four times a year with a different guest speaker at every event. Due to Covid restrictions, the group has met online since March 2020. However, organisers are pleased to announce that the third event of 2021 will

be a face-to-face event, taking place at Cheshire View, Christleton. The speaker for this event will be Brady Last, Managing Director and Associate Partner of EY Breakthrough Incentives. Brady began her career in technical  recruitment in London, co-founding Breakthrough Funding in 2015 to disrupt the R&D tax relief sector with a passionate belief in progressive HR practices and world-class customer service.   Today she is managing director for the renamed EY Breakthrough Incentives team and is also an Associate Partner of Ernst & Young.   Brady is also an engaging speaker on subjects including how to scale up a successful business from scratch, and the value of recruiting the right people to share your vision.

Delyn Safety will be delivering three key certifications. ISO 9001 focuses on meeting your customer requirements, enhancing their satisfaction and documenting the quality of your organisation’s processes. ISO 14001 is the standard that sets a framework and criteria for an environmental management system and ISO 45001 which is the standard for health and safety. It exists to help promote and protect the health (both physical and mental) of your employees. Dave Phillips, ISO Business Lead at Delyn Safety added: “To be sure that you are getting the best service, you need to find a certification provider who understands your business needs. That is where we come in. The certification process can sound daunting, but it’s far more straightforward than you might think.” You can find out more information of the ISO certification offered at Delyn Safety by visiting https://delynsafety.co.uk/isoquality-management/. The event will be held on Thursday, September 23, 9.30am – 11am at Cheshire View, Christleton. Book your place on the Chamber website: wcnwchamber.org.uk/events

MEMBERS NEWS

Wrexham Glyndŵr University want to hear from you! The Enterprise Team at Wrexham Glyndŵr University value input and feedback from partners and contacts in industry across all their Business Services, and are calling upon members of the West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce to support their North Wales Growth Deal project research. The team are leading a project to create an Enterprise Engineering and Optics Centre of excellence (EEOC) on campus in Wrexham,

as well as extending the Optics specialism in St Asaph. The EEOC will support (through collaborative R&D) carbon reducing products, processes and services within the strong manufacturing base located in North Wales, Cheshire, Shropshire and the Wirral, combining its world-leading optics and opto-electronics expertise based at OpTIC, St. Asaph with advanced composite manufacturing techniques and Hydrogen fuel exploration housed at a new purpose-built facility located at the Wrexham campus. The outcome of the investment will be a new purpose-built centre at Wrexham and an upgraded state of the art OpTIC laboratory at St Asaph. The former is due to open in the Academic Year 2023/2024 subject to funding agreement, equipped to the latest standard with advanced equipment for R&D in the areas of composite materials and hydrogen, with the OpTIC upgrade in 2022/23 offering advanced optic technology. All facilities will be focused on industry collaboration with innovation knowledge transfer the core outcome.

products and knowledge to drive innovation throughout North Wales and Cheshire. Your support in completing this survey will give us invaluable insights into the market need to ensure our support is a perfect match – thank you for taking the time. The team have put together a short ‘Business Needs’ survey which should take no longer than 5minutes to complete. Your experience and opinions will prove instrumental in driving this project forward and your support is greatly appreciated. You can complete the survey here: https:// www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/PM88VKT For further information about the project or to discuss collaboration please contact the Enterprise team at Glyndŵr University at enterprise@glyndwr.ac.uk.

The EEOC project will enhance the opportunities for business to access world leading expertise and facilities across composite materials, optics and hydrogen. Combining this with the extensive support available will enable business to embed new

Coleg Cambria is attracting more students to business administration as demand in the sector continues to rise In the last 12 months, the college’s Deeside Job Shop has posted more than 50 administrative roles and apprenticeships with companies and public sector organisations across North Wales. And with a new study by analysis site Adzuna and the Institute for Employment Studies revealing vacancies are at their highest levels since records began – with administration in the top five industries experiencing high search volumes – there is a huge shortfall in candidates to fill the void. Suzanne Barnes, Curriculum Director at Deeside, says their new-look Level 2 Business qualification could help alleviate that pressure.

“There is definitely demand out there, we just need more people to join the course and capitalise on these opportunities,” said Suzanne. “The employers advertising the positions with us want to encourage and attract our learners because they will be job-ready on completing the qualification; the skills they acquire during this one-year programme match with their requirements so it’s a winwin for them.” She added: “This is an example of a course where you can see a career path from the onset, and that is attractive to people of all ages, especially given the flexible nature of the modules. “Completing this course also offers the opportunity to progress on to the Level 3 Business Administration qualification, to further improve skills and knowledge prior to gaining employment.”

“It’s ideal for people returning to work after having children, anyone looking to change roles, school leavers and with so many people reflecting on their careers following the challenges of the pandemic, it’s definitely something to consider.” Earlier this year, a report by specialist recruiter Robert Half demonstrated the need for ‘hybrid skilled’ workers who possess both technical knowledge and softer, ‘people-focused’ skills is growing rapidly. With hybrid workforces (where some employees work remotely and others at the office) now seen as a permanent part of the employment landscape by 89% of British employers, job advertisements are requesting more people-focused skills for technical roles and, conversely, more technical, and data-handling proficiencies for administrative job functions. For more information on the range of Business courses available at Coleg Cambria, visit the website: www.cambria.ac.uk. #WCNWChamber100 |

NEW NEW MEMBERS MEMBERS

Welcome Welcometo toWCNW WCNWChamber ChamberofofCommerce Commerce

Embrace Education Ltd

PrintHub

Mill House Steam Mill Street Chester Cheshire CH3 5AL www.embraceeducation.co.uk 01244 316629

03303 326290

The Clatterbridge Cancer Charity

Charity Office The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre Retail Top n Tail Bebington www.retailtopntail.co.uk Wirral 07471 947176 Merseyside CH63 4JY Rhug Organic & Natural Ltd www.clatterbridgecc.org.uk Rhug Estate Office 01515 565566 Faraday Wheelchair Innovations LTD Rhug Estate Unit 33 Corwen Tiger Trailers Percival Lane Industrial Estate Denbighshire Alan Cartwright House Runcorn LL21 0EH Road One Cheshire https://rhugwildbeauty.com/ Winsford Industrial Estate WA7 4UY 01490 413000 Winsford www.faradaywheelchairinnovations.co.uk/ Cheshire 01928 564697 CW7 3RL Rossett Hall Hotel www.tigertrailers.co.uk/ www.everbrightgrouphotels.com/ Inspire - Rewire 01606 339640 rossetthallhotel www.inspire-rewire.com 01244 571000 07767 297475 TTE Training Limited RTC North New Horizons House Lavinia Stamps Ltd The Innovation Centre New Bridge Road Lon Parcwr Business Park Ellesmere Port Sci-Tech Daresbury Cwrt Y Dderwen Cheshire Keckwick Lane Llys Clwyd Daresbury CH65 4LT Lon Parcwr Cheshire www.tteltd.co.uk/ Ruthin WA4 4FS 01513 576100 Denbighshire www.rtcnorth.co.uk/ LL15 1NJ 01925 607040 Vale Resources Limited https://laviniastamps.com/ 9 Inglewood Avenue 01824 710691 Sally Inkster Wolverhampton West Midlands Llinos Bolton www.sallyinkster.com/ 07734 417957 WV3 7BP 07308 991820 07411 595725 Menopause 360 Consultancy Serco - Restart Scheme https://menopause360.co.uk/ Trafalgar House WeMindTheGap 07971 648942 5 Fitzalan Place Ellice Way Cardiff Wrexham Netfloor Systems CF24 0ED Wrexham County Borough www.netfloor.co.uk www.serco-ese.com/restart-scheme LL13 7YL 01829 771000 https://wemindthegap.org.uk/ Smashed Grapes 03339 398818 Phil Tugwell Photography www.smashedgrapes.co.uk www.philtugwellphotography.co.uk 07484 160372 Wrexham Business Finance 07525 940994 www.wrexhamfinance.co.uk South Caernarfon Creameries 01244 509701 PM IT Systems Ltd Limited European Offices Rhydygwystl 6-12 Champion Business Park Chwilog Arrowe Brook Road Pwllheli Upton Gwynedd Wirral LL53 6SB CH49 OAB https://sccwales.co.uk/ https://pmits.co.uk/ 01766 810251 01516 781387

Welcome to WCNW Chamber of Commerce

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WHAT WE’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT

Storengy UK At Storengy UK we are passionate about actively supporting the transition to Net Zero carbon emissions. The earth is warming at an alarming rate with twenty of the last 22 years having been the warmest on record. We believe action urgently needs to be taken to combat climate change and that the UK commitment to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050 is a fundamental part of this. We believe that Storengy UK can achieve this as a company sooner than 2050.

Decarbonising our company While we work on a variety of projects that support the UK’s targets, we are also passionate about how we can decarbonise our site in Cheshire. We are in the process of installing a ground-mounted solar array to generate up to 1.8 GWh per year of green electrical power to reduce the grid supplied electricity used by the site. This will give us a baseload of non-polluting and sustainable energy for our operations. We are also commencing a project to reduce methane emissions associated with our operational shutdown procedure. As part of our operational safety measures, we currently have to vent natural gas within our plant to the atmosphere to remove any risk of combustion during essential maintenance. The project involves capturing and recompressing natural gas that would be otherwise vented to the atmosphere. It will reduce our operational vented methane emissions by 90% annually, significantly reducing the amount of gas released into the atmosphere. We are also carrying out monitoring of all of our equipment to check for emissions.

Bio-methane production In line with our strategic business goals and growth in the green gas sector, we’re thrilled to have acquired Deal Farm Biogas Ltd, a development opportunity which will enable us to construct and operate our first ‘bio-methane to grid’ facility in the UK.

At Storengy we have set ourselves an ambitious target of being net zero by 2025. We intend to deliver net zero through a range of projects including: n Providing Hydrogen Refuelling Stations to facilitate the move away from dieselpowered vehicles. n Minimizing natural gas emissions from our operations through leak monitoring and vent capture. n Investing in the development of biogas plants using farm and food waste to create net zero gas.

Hydrogen Transportation Storengy UK are proud to be leading on Project Vanguard, the 1st green hydrogen refuelling station in the North West, we are providing project delivery, operations and maintenance for this ambitious project. Vanguard will provide a central hydrogen fuelling station for the Local Authority (Cheshire East Council) and Storengy UK fleet vehicles. The project consists of a large solar array, installed by our parent company ENGIE,

to provide energy to an electrolyser. The electrolyser creates the hydrogen from drinking water by splitting the hydrogen atoms from the oxygen in the water. The hydrogen is then compressed and supplied to the refuelling station. Three vehicles, including two refuse trucks owned by Cheshire East Council and one vehicle owned by Storengy UK, will operate on hydrogen to demonstrate the benefits of the technology. The key benefits are: n Innovative step towards Cheshire East Council’s target of net-zero by 2025 n Reduction in CO2 emissions, by nearly 20 tons annually n Reduce diesel use by more than 10,000 litres per year n Air quality benefits for local community - trucks are in use 5 days per week This project demonstrates that fleets in local communities can run on green fuels from a central hub, reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality and taking us one step closer to Net Zero.

n Construction of anaerobic digester at Deal farm site Norfolk

Our acquisition of Deal Farm signals our entry into the UK bio-methane market where we intend to expand rapidly. This diversification of our business builds on our group strengths and supports our vision to be a leading sustainable energy storage and solutions provider. Bio-methane is an important part of the energy transition providing a lower carbon alternative to fossil Natural Gas and we are very excited to be entering this marketplace and providing more sustainable solutions for industries and consumers where a switch to an alternative low carbon gas such as hydrogen is not technically feasible immediately. We will continue to work on exciting projects to help in the transition to Net Zero and are always interested to hear from partners with the same passion!

Health and Safety & ISO Compliance Guaranteed Are you considering obtaining ISO certification and struggling with knowing what you must do to obtain ISO certification? Don’t have internal resources, time or knowledge on how to go about this, then call SQR Group for a free no obligations 1 hour consultation. Our expert consultants will be able to provide you with competent advice and support on what you need to do to become compliant with H&S legislation, the ISO compliance process and we will walk you through the process of obtaining ISO certification for your company. We will support you all the way through the certification process, guaranteeing you obtain certification which could result in wining new clients or retaining current clients. We have over 25 years’ experience in developing and implementing health & safety, quality and environmental (HSQE) management systems and assisting clients achieve and retain ISO certification(s) (ISO9001:2015, ISO14001:2015, ISO45001 & ISO27001:2013), and other industry accreditations such as RISQS, NERS, HERS, FORS, CHAS, Constructionline Etc. across multiple industry sectors such as rail, construction, manufacturing, engineering, utilities, telecommunications, retail etc.

SERVICES n

Health and Safety Consultancy

Health and safety compliance gap analysis and report

Health and safety site inspections and reports

Annual HSQE competent person service

Health and safety training – www.sqrtraining.co.uk)

ISO9001:2015 Quality management systems consultancy

ISO14001:2015 Environmental management systems consultancy

ISO45001:2018 Health and safety management systems consultancy

ISO27001:2013 Information security management systems consultancy

RISQS – Railway safety and compliance consultancy

NERS Management systems and compliance consultancy

HERS Management systems and compliance consultancy

Testimonials We contacted Sean at SQR Group for assistance in gaining a RISQS accreditation. Once we signed up with SQR, we were extremely impressed with the way Sean supported us with the requirements to enable us to gain the accreditation. We thoroughly covered each section of the audit protocol and felt we were in safe hands with Sean with his vast wealth of experience within H&S and the Railway industry. SQR proved to be professional, efficient and with their help we managed to successfully pass the audit. We would recommend them to any company looking to achieve accreditations Tower Lifts

The decision to commence the process to acquire ISO9001:2015 and pursue methods which would improve evidencing our internal auditing process was made simpler by appointing SQR Group Limited. Sean Rintoul invested time prior to our appointment of their services to understand our business model and presented us with a realistic, supportive programme which would assist Intaglio Engraving Limited achieve ISO9001:2015 accreditation. Sean devised methods of recording evidence which complimented our existing Integrated Management System, making the process simpler – with almost no additional time or effort for me! The best part was that I could completely trust Sean, his team and certified company to represent our company professionally. Intaglio Engraving

Tel: 01352716857 Mob: 07595893659 www.sqrgroup.co.uk - SQR Training: www.sqrtraining.co.uk

West Cheshire and North Wales Business September 2021