Business Cornwall September 17

CORNWALL'S PREMIER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION businesscornwall.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2017 / ISSUE 113 / £3.95

PUTTING CORNWALL ON THE BUSINESS MAP

ONTH

TOP TRUMPS GREEN ISSUE PRINTER PLAYS ITS CARDS RIGHT

THIS M

FOCUS ON SUSTAINABLE SECTOR SPONSORED BY

9 772514

842001

Let us help you make an amazing first impression.

TEL: 01726 72548 | WWW.NATIONWIDEPRINT.CO.UK

COVER_Sept17.indd 1

23/08/2017 09:44

CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE. TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS.

Is your mind consumed with the day-to-day running of your business?

When was the last time you took a step back to focus on your business strategy?

With business coaching from the Transform programme you will gain a fresh perspective, giving you clarity to move your business forward. Our coaching addresses your business’ individual needs helping you to access the right tools and resources for high growth.

This programme is available at no cost to qualifying businesses.

To register your interest and find out more, go to: www.transformcornwall.co.uk 01872 300 116

info@transformcornwall.co.uk

@TransformCornwall

Funded by:

0004 Transform Advert AW.indd 1 WelcomeContents_Sept17.indd 2

Delivered by:

@AskTransform

In partnership:

06/06/2017 10:38 16:11 23/08/2017

SEPTEMBER 2017

ISSUE 113

INSIDE FEATURES

REGULARS

11 – INVEST IN CORNWALL

4

AT T RAC T ING T H E MO S T I N N OVAT I V E BU S I N ES S ES INTO T HE U K ’ S MO S T A MB I T I O US R E G I ON

READY TO GO ELECTRIC?

6

BUSINESS NEWS CINEMA FOR BODMIN

14 – BUSINESS GROWTH IT ’ S TO P T RUMP S F O R S T AUS T E L L P R I NT ER

INCOMING

36

ON THE MOVE APPOINTMENTS NEWS

16 – EDUCATION & TRAINING HO W C ORNWA L L’ S E D UC AT I O N P ROV I DER S ARE BREA K IN G T H E MO U L D

23 – GOING GREEN

37

CALLYWITH COLLEGE OPENS

38

OUT OF COUNTY EDEN GOES INTERNATIONAL

OU R A NNUA L F O C U S O N T H E S U S TA INA BIL I T Y S E C TO R S I N T H E D U CH Y

39

30 – ELECTRIC CAR GUIDE

40

F RO M T HE RE N AULT ZO E TO T H E B MW i 8, ELEC T RIC C A R S A R E A S E R I O U S P RO P OS I T I ON

EDUCATION

FSB FSB NEWS ROUNDUP

TOURISM FOUR STARS FOR PENVENTON

42

CREATIVE KNOWLEDGE BANK LAUNCHES

32 – COMPANY PROFILE W E M EET T RU RO - B A S E D E N V I RO N ME NTA L C ONS U LTANC Y, S PA L D I N G A S S O C I AT E S

43

34 – BUSINESS GROWTH

44

JUST A THOUGHT NATIONWIDE PRINT MD JULIAN HOCKING

EVENTS DIARY BUSINESS WHAT’S ON

W E TA K E A LO O K AT T H E S MA RT L I N E P ROJECT

46

CONNECTED NETWORKING WHAT’S GONE

PHOTO: MAKING NATURE WORK FOR BUSINESS, SEE P32

48

THE LAST WORD PKF FRANCIS CLARK’S DANIEL SLADEN

BUSINESS CORNWALL

WelcomeContents_Sept17.indd 3

1

23/08/2017 11:15

SEPTEMBER 2017

ISSUE 113

WELCOME EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Nick Eyriey nick@businesscornwall.co.uk PUBLISHER Toni Eyriey toni@businesscornwall.co.uk BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Morveth Ward morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk ACCOUNT MANAGER Caroline Hill caroline@businesscornwall.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS PFA Research, Julian Hocking DESIGN Hutch Agency - hutchagency.co.uk Printed in Cornwall by Deltor BUSINESS CORNWALL is published 10 times a year by: Tonick Business Publishing Pool Innovation Centre Trevenson Road Redruth TR15 3PL Tel: 01209 718688 SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@businesscornwall.co.uk

ON THE COVER The Invest in Cornwall team CORNWALL'S PREMIER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION businesscornwall.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2017 / ISSUE 113 / £3.95

TH

TOP TRUMPS GREEN ISSUE

THIS MON

FOCUS ON SUSTAINABLE SECTOR SPONSORED BY

9 772514

842001

Cornwall’s reputation in the food and drink industry reached new heights last month, with news that Nathan Outlaw’s fish restaurant in Port Isaac was named the best in the UK by The Good Food Guide.

Cornwall is also striving for a reputation of excellence away from the tourism and food & drink industries. While the Duchy welcomes and encourages more and more visitors, it would also like some of them to stay, especially if it means relocating an innovative, fastgrowing tech-led business down here.

With such facilities as the Aerohub Enterprise Zone, Goonhilly, and the Marine Rewewables Park, Cornwall can now offer much of the infrastructure progressive international businesses are looking for. In this issue, we meet the team from Cornwall’s inward investment service tasked with finding these companies and their mission to put the Duchy on the global business map.

Elsewhere, this month’s issue has a distinctly ‘green’ feel to it, as we focus on Cornwall’s sustainable and environmental sectors. We also profile ecological consultancy, Spalding Associates, and ask whether the time has now come to go electric – by that I mean electric cars.

With that in mind, later this month we are holding a special Business Cornwall LIVE! event where you will have the opportunity to drive a selection of electric cars on one afternoon. More details inside.

This month’s issue has

a distinctly ‘green’ feel to it, as we

focus on Cornwall’s sustainable and environmental sectors

PUTTING CORNWALL ON THE BUSINESS MAP

PRINTER PLAYS ITS CARDS RIGHT

Recipe for excellence

Let us help you make an amazing first impression.

TEL: 01726 72548 | WWW.NATIONWIDEPRINT.CO.UK

Business Cornwall magazine is proud to be a business partner of the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce

Business Cornwall magazine is proud to be media partner of the FSB

EDITOR BUSINESS CORNWALL

Registered under the Data Protection Act All rights reserved No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied, stored in an electronic retrieval system or transmitted without the written permission of the publisher. Stringent efforts have been made by Business Cornwall magazine to ensure accuracy. However, due principally to the fact that data cannot always be verified, it is possible that some errors or omissions may occur. Business Cornwall magazine can not accept responsibility for such errors or omissions. Business Cornwall magazine accepts no responsibility for comments made by interviewees that may offend.

Wow your customers. Stand out from the competition. Win more business.

TEL: 01726 72548 | WWW.NATIONWIDEPRINT.CO.UK

2

BUSINESS CORNWALL

WelcomeContents_Sept17.indd 4

23/08/2017 09:46

Cloud Commuting

Your meeting is only an hour away*...

Take advantage of multiple daily flights to London Gatwick & Manchester year round.

* Flight time only: 1 hr to Manchester - 45 mins to Gatwick Does not include check-in

AD_PAGES_Sept17.indd 1

22/08/2017 15:17

INCOMING

THE CONVERSATION

SPONSORED BY

transformcornwall.co.uk

The big question Electric and hybrid cars are becoming an increasingly common sight on our roads, and by 2040 the Government plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars. Would you tempted to go electric when buying your next car? If not, why not?

Join the conversation @biz_cornwall

/businesscornwall

businesscornwall.co.uk ADVERTORIAL

ARE YOU COVERED?

Michael Bailey, area managing director of Towergate Insurance in Cornwall, urges businesses to check insurance cover as Brexit effect bites 4

here is a real risk that the drop in the pound could leave many businesses underinsured. The financial market’s nervous reaction to the Brexit vote a year ago has led to the pound falling by around 15% against the Euro.

This leaves businesses that import goods from overseas, priced in a foreign currency such as the Euro or Dollar, facing a far higher risk of being underinsured because the sum insured for those goods will be valued in Sterling.

Discovering the shortfall at the point of claiming for a loss can have a huge financial impact because the size of the claim settlement is likely to be reduced. For example, in 2015 a company purchasing machinery or stock costing €250k

BUSINESS CORNWALL

Incoming_Sept17.indd 2

22/08/2017 15:23

THE CONVERSATION

SPONSORED BY

transformcornwall.co.uk

SCOTT BENTLEY

PETER CHILD

JONATHAN DAVIES

LinedUp

Yes, of course I would be tempted – we all should be. The price gap between running an electric car versus fossil fuel has narrowed to the extent that market forces can finally force the change in consumer behavior that we need. Affordability so often is the catalyst for change and we are now at that point. My only reservation would be easy access to nationwide charging points, or battery replacements packs. Without this investment in the infrastructure, it does not become a viable means of transport. However, I can see no reason why this should not be easy to implement, again driven by market forces.

VERONA COCKS

Waves4Power

PKF Francis Clark

I think electric and hybrid is definitely the way forward and yes I would certainly drive one, but it is not the only option.

Interestingly, while the UK has gone for electric, Norway has opted for the hydrogen route. Using electrolysis surplus power is stored in hydrogen cells which can power cars and several other devices including ships and vessels. Electrolysis also generates very useful by products including heat, fresh water and oxygen which can be used by offshore platforms like fish farms and island communities.

Car makers like Audi BMW and Volvo are already a long way down the hydrogen cell power route and the many next generation Norwegian vessels will be hydrogen powered, the economic decisions helped by targeted Norwegian Government subsidies and support.

I would be tempted in the future but whether it’s the next car or the one after that remains to be seen. I have no doubt that we will all be driving them at some point, the speed of development and market forces may well mean that there are no purely petrol or diesel vehicles on sale well before 2040 anyway. At the moment the barriers for me are practicality and the surrounding infrastructure. On many models that I have seen, some interior space is compromised due to space taken up by the batteries and whilst I would be happy to move to a hybrid I think I would struggle to move to a wholly electric vehicle as I am too used to just jumping in my car and not having to worry about putting it on charge overnight or stopping and waiting for it to charge up en-route. Clearly the transition will benefit the environment nationally and globally but I am not sure all individuals will see that same benefits. A colleague of mine who recently moved to a petrol electric hybrid from a diesel commented that whilst there has been a small improvement in his overall MPG this has been very modest due to the petrol engine needing to operate heavily in order to deal with the hilly terrain in Cornwall.

EWAN MCCLYMONT

Setfords Solicitors

Bishop Fleming

I would be tempted to buy a hybrid car which would still give you flexibility while charging stations become more common place. The main issues I think with electric cars are the availability of those stations and the length of time it takes to charge the battery. Whilst the outlay for a hybrid is on the high side the running costs are much lower than petrol or diesel cars, although if you are doing long motorway journeys it may not be so practical. I also understand that the Government is offering concessions on certain hybrids but there may still be a concern over its residual value.

Unless the electricity that is re-charging your electric car is derived from renewable energy, then you have to question exactly how green these electric vehicles currently are. Like all things though, it takes time to change habits and even longer to change an entire industry, so it will improve. I would certainly consider a hybrid car next but not full electric – I think the technology is too young and there’s not enough charge points, particularly in Cornwall. There are also other factors just as important to fuel efficiency – size, weight, design etc , or just don’t drive and get on your bike!

The financial market’s nervous reaction to the Brexit vote a year ago has led to the pound falling by around 15% against the Euro.

INCOMING

needed to insure it for approximately £172k.

Today that sum insured would need to be £217k – a hike of £45k.

Underinsurance affects a number of UK businesses each year – if they are underinsured for either their physical assets or for the impact to business interruption, the size of any claim settlement is likely to be reduced.

During this period of volatility we would strongly urge businesses to check sums insured and limits of liability so that adequate cover is always in place. Regularly review to keep asset sums insured in line with reality, the pound and inflation Getting the numbers right when you buy your insurance policy will help avoid any inadequate sums insured becoming even less suitable yearon-year Sums insured for buildings should be based on the cost of rebuilding not the market

HOWARD MILES

ABG Design

Yes I would be, as with any technology change it’s futile not to embrace as in time you will need to change. Also the more people who embrace the change the cheaper the car becomes for everyone.

value – particular features of your premises might affect the cost of reconstruction With business interruption cover, make sure your gross profit assessment matches the policy.

Accountants and insurers have different ways of measuring gross profit If you buy a simple online package policy check that the liability limits of indemnity, business interruption indemnity periods and other standard policy limits are sufficient For further information, please contact 01209 200727 or email reduth@towergate.co.uk

BUSINESS CORNWALL

Incoming_Sept17.indd 3

5

22/08/2017 15:23

CORNWALL

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY

cornwallchamber.co.uk

BIG SCREEN FOR BODMIN Merlin Cinemas has received planning permission to convert the Public Rooms in Bodmin to a four screen cinema.

Despite some local opposition, the planning committee narrowly approved the application which will provide the investment needed to maintain this Grade II listed building, while delivering a muchneeded leisure facility to Bodmin; one of the largest towns in Cornwall still without a cinema.

Over 2,000 local people signed a petition or wrote letters of support for the proposed cinema.

Geoff Greaves, director of Merlin Cinemas, said: “We are pleased to have completed the next stage in bringing a long-overdue cinema to the town, a process which started in January this year when the council chose to sell the building to us.

Now we have planning permission we can move on and complete our internal design and surveys.”

CARN BREA APPEAL Carn Brea Leisure Centre is appealing for help from the business community to refurbish its swimming pool areas.

Work on the pool began at the end of July and it is hoped will be completed by the end of the year.

Together with help from Sport England and other funders, more than £1M has been raised to date, but another £80k

6

is required to complete the project.

Chief operating officer, Alex Clifton, said: “The Trust has been busy raising the bulk of the money needed however they aren’t quite there and we need the business communities help to get us over the finishing line. It sounds like a lot of money but there’s an awful lot to do.”

The Trust has been busy raising the bulk of the money needed however they aren’t quite there and we need the business communities help to get us over the finishing line

BUSINESS CORNWALL

GeneralNews_Sept17.indd 2

22/08/2017 15:25

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY

cornwallchamber.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF Good Energy has lost its appeal to secure planning permission for a £30 million windfarm in north Cornwall. Plans were refused by Cornwall Council for an 11-wind turbine scheme on farmland at Week St Mary near Bude in 2014, and following an inquiry, the Government has upheld the original decision. Local campaign group chairman, Richard Sowerby, declared himself “delighted” at the ruling.

Cornwall Air Ambulance flew 387 missions in the first six months of 2017, new figures have revealed.

During that time, the charity attended 201 medical incidents and dealt with 180 trauma related injuries. A total of 108 missions involved people suffering from cardiac problems and 42 were to neurological emergencies. The crew responded to emergency 999 calls for help from 57 people who had suffered serious trips or falls and attended 56 road traffic incidents.

The crew also went to the aid of 23 people who had suffered injuries while playing sport, including eight horse riding incidents.

Passenger numbers at Cornwall Airport Newquay are continuing to grow, according to latest figures. 50,933 people passed through the airport in July – up 20% on June 2016. This follows an upward trend which saw a 21% rise in May, while April numbers rose 39% compared to the same period last year. Overall, passenger numbers for the first quarter of the year are reported to be up 26%.

50,933

PEOPLE PASSED THROUGH THE AIRPORT IN JULY

RISE IN APRIL

26%

OVERALL, PASSENGER NUMBERS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF THE YEAR ARE REPORTED TO BE UP 26%.

CORNWALL

OUTLAW IS BEST IN THE UK Restaurant Nathan Outlaw in Port Isaac has been crowned as the best restaurant in the UK by The Good Food Guide.

The esteemed publication put the fish restaurant top of the tree, displacing Cumbria’s L’Enclume, and beating the likes of Heston Blumenthal and Gordon Ramsey.

The Good Food Guide said: “It may seem a little odd that Britain’s best restaurant is one of the most modest - with no car park,

reception-desk or bar, it’s the antithesis of a grand restaurant. Yet it is, in fact, the whole package: from the cooking that seems like an essay on the sea’s varied yield, to the relaxed dining room and impeccable service.” Outlaw said: “Learning that we had scored 10/10 for cooking last year was amazing but this is just mind-blowing."

Padstow restaurant Paul Ainsworth’s at No 6 also features on the list, at 32nd place.

Learning that we had scored 10/10 for cooking last year was amazing but this is just mind-blowing

BUSINESS WEEK MOVE

The Cornwall Chamber of Commerce has announced details of a new time and venue for next year’s Cornwall Business Fair.

The event, which for the past three years has been held at the Eden Project during Cornwall Business Week in mid-May, will in 2018 be brought forward to April 18, at Truro School. Consequently, Business Week is also set to move to the week beginning April 16 along with the Finance in Cornwall, Cornwall Business Awards, Cornwall Sustainability Conference and FSB events.

Chamber chief executive, Kim Conchie, said: “Like business in Cornwall, at Cornwall Chamber of Commerce we like to keep things fresh and vibrant so felt it was time to make a few changes to Cornwall Business Fair 2018.

“I’m confident the revised format will create a real buzz that will appeal to visitors and exhibitors alike.”

£1M INVESTMENT SECURED Cornish Lithium has secured a £1 million investment from a group of experienced mining and natural resources investors.

The funds raised will enable the company to commence exploration activities on the ground in Cornwall. Once drill sites have been selected the company intends to apply for the necessary permits ahead of drill testing of suitable targets.

The new shareholders include former Aquarius Platinum CEO, Keith Liddell; Southern Prospecting director, Chris von Christierson; and Peter Smedvig, who has longstanding understanding of investing in the natural resources sector globally.

Cornish Lithium CEO, Jeremy Wrathall, said: “We are delighted to have secured this investment to commence our exploration programme. We look forward to working with our new shareholders given the wealth of experience they have to offer in the field of natural resources.”

BUSINESS CORNWALL

GeneralNews_Sept17.indd 3

7

22/08/2017 15:25

CORNWALL

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY

sapc.co.uk

NIJHUIS ACQUISITION Nijhuis Industries UK & Ireland has acquired Wadebridge-based consultancy, Aquatic Water Services.

Nijhuis Industries UK & Ireland (formerly Nijhuis H2OK) is part of Dutch group Nijhuis Industries and has its UK base in Truro, offering a range of wastewater solutions.

MD, Tim Cunliffe, said: “Aquatic has an excellent reputation and our two companies have had a long standing relationship. The range of services will complement and strengthen the existing capabilities of the business, serving our customers across a variety of sectors.”

Aquatic Water Services MD, Adrian Caldwell, will continue managing the consultancy’s day-to-day operations, which will now be offered under the trading name of Nijhuis Aquatic Water Services.

FROM LEFT: NIJHUIS INDUSTRIES GROUP CEO, MENNO HOLTERMAN, ADRIAN CALDWELL AND TIM CUNLIFFE

RESTRUCTURE COMPLETE A St Austell-based engineering and manufacturing specialist has completed an overhaul of the business that caps a strong start to the first half of the financial year – including several new contract wins.

Teddington Electronics, Teddington Appliance Controls and Teddington Bemasam have now consolidated under a single trading name of ‘Teddington Systems’.

It represents a strong start to the 2017/18 financial year for the business, which specialises in electronics and critical systems for sectors such as defence, aerospace, energy and transport.

The company has secured several high-profile contract wins recently, including a deal with Babcock Canada to upgrade control panels on the Royal Canadian Navy’s fleet of four Victoria submarines.

MD James Henderson said the move has been made in response to changing market demands. He said: “The landscape for engineering and manufacturing firms is shifting. Critical to our business and others will be the ability to find smarter ways to design, develop and deliver solutions.

“More and more clients are requesting an increasingly integrated approach – bringing design, engineering and testing together to cover the entire product development lifecycle.”

8

The company has secured several high-profile contract wins recently, including a deal with Babcock Canada

BUSINESS CORNWALL

GeneralNews_Sept17.indd 4

22/08/2017 15:26

Louisa Lytton will not be appearing at either performance on Fri 29 Sep

Mon 25 - Sat 30 Sept 01872 262466 hallforcornwall.co.uk

Learn how digital technology can benefit your business Join other Cornish businesses at our latest Technology for Growth Workshops. Giving you the opportunity to think strategically about how you can exploit digital technology to grow your business. Delivered in a jargon-free, easy to understand way, these fully funded events for small to medium sized Cornish companies are an ideal opportunity to learn about the business benefits of digital technology.

To book a place and start your journey with Superfast Business Cornwall go to: www.sfbcornwall.co.uk/workshops-events email: enquiries@sfbcornwall.co.uk or call 0345 600 3936 FUNDED BY

POOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tuesday 12 September PENRYN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thursday 5 October LauNCESTON. . . . . . . . . . . Wednesday 11 October ST auSTELL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tuesday 7 November ST IVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wednesday 15 November VICTORIa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thursday 7 December PLuS: TEChNOLOGY ESSENTIaLS fOR BuSINESS Isles of Scilly 2-day workshop . . 26/27 September

DELIVERED BY

Bookings are subject to eligibility and will be confirmed once submitted. Due to the funding for this programme, businesses can only attend one workshop throughout the duration of the project.

AD_PAGES_Sept17.indd 2

22/08/2017 15:17

CASE

STUDY

HIRE LIKE A PRO

… AND IF YOU’RE A NEW BUSINESS, BRING IN THE BREAKTHROUGH EXPERTS Nicky Luke has helped thousands of businesses recruit talented people to help them grow, develop and prosper

S

he’s seen what’s worked and what’s failed and understands the process from both the employer and candidate viewpoint. As recruitment and talent manager at Unlocking Potential, Nicky and her team offer support for startups looking to recruit, from scoping the role right through to interviews, feedback plus a salary investment.

It’s part of the support offered through Breakthrough, a start-up support programme fully funded by the European Regional Development Fund and delivered by Oxford Innovation in partnership with Unlocking Potential. Nicky says there are some important things to get right with your search for a new employee.

“Recruitment is often a tense time with lots of things to do and too little time to do them,” she says. “However, all too often, we lose sight of the fact that today’s applicants might be tomorrow’s customers. With automation happening left right and centre, we will do well to remember the art of best practise.”

Here Nicky shares some of the tips she gives new employers, including how to make the best impression as an organisation and how to ensure everyone has a positive and fair experience:

Most job boards now have an auto response so that candidates know that their application has arrived. Hurrah for technology!

However, if you ask applicants to come straight through to you, thank them for applying – even an automated response will keep them from wondering if you got their application (and from ringing you to check)!

Be open and transparent about the salary level. Not only do stats show you will get 30% more applicants but it’s only fair to let candidates know what they can expect if they’re offered the job, after putting in all that time with their application and interview. Salary transparency is becoming the norm like never before – just ask the BBC.

UP_Sept17.indd 2

Make your process clear in your advert.

A. Your deadline is your deadline. It is better to have a short turnaround time and extend the advert, than to close a job ad early (lots of candidates might be in the middle of applying–wasting their precious time).

B. If you welcome calls to discuss the job, put a name and number of someone who can help.

C. If you know the interview date, publish it in the advert.

D. If you are only planning on getting back to shortlisted candidates, make this clear and give a date after which they can assume they have been unsuccessful.

If you can make time to let unsuccessful candidates know that they haven’t been selected for interview, this is a nice touch.

Plan your interviews, asking each candidate the same core questions.

Score each candidate objectively against the same criteria and take notes!

When interviewing, let candidates know when they will hear back from you and let them know if that situation changes.

Offer feedback to candidates you have interviewed but decided not to hire.

Thank them for coming to the interview and for their time. Keep it simple - explain how the candidate did well and how they performed against the questions and the job requirements. Avoid getting drawn into long debates over why they have been declined.

Make sure you take up references for your top candidate.

If you’ve started a business in the last 12 months and would like to find out more about the support available for you or to help you recruit new employees, contact Breakthrough: 0845 600 3660 or www.

BreakthroughCornwall.co.uk

22/08/2017 15:33

CORNWALL

INVEST

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

We focus on the work of Invest in Cornwall, the European-funded project dedicated at attracting new business into the Duchy ornwall has always been a dynamic and hard-working region.

As the local economy continues to evolve, more and more businesses are looking to take advantage of its impressive tech infrastructure, creative communities, and growing talent pool to meet their global vision.

The success of programmes such as Superfast Cornwall and Unlocking Potential are well recognised throughout the region with many businesses benefitting from their support. Meanwhile, an area of support aimed at businesses looking to invest into the region for the first time, is lesser known – Invest in Cornwall (IiC), the inward investment service delivered by Cornwall Development Company.

Building on the work of previous projects, the £1.7 million European Regional Development Fund programme looks to develop ‘brand Cornwall’ beyond the holiday reputation, and establish “positive perceptions of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly as a place to do business”.

Invest in Cornwall Sept17.indd 3

Its premise is about using existing assets – everything from geography through to existing business clusters – and attach innovative technologies to them. It supports Cornwall Council and the LEP’s strategy which is based on the six smart specialisation sectors which have been identified as real strengths for Cornwall, namely Creativetech, Healthtech, Spacetech, Agritech, Marinetech and Aerospace.

Securing new businesses into a region is tough. There are similar teams working in regions such as Kent, Northumbria, Scotland and Wales, who also want forward-thinking companies to consider moving to them.

Competition is fierce as regions compete to showcase their offer to potential businesses, all aspiring to increase the positive impact on the local economy and grow the number of high value employment opportunities. The key for the Invest in Cornwall team is to be smart in its approach, FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) has been reported to generate as much as 55,000 jobs per annum in the UK – IiC is dedicated to making sure Cornwall gets its fair share of these opportunities to help generate long-term prosperity for the region.

“Being in front of them wherever they are,

shows we are serious in getting them here,” says Nicola Lloyd, head of inward investment.

“We’re just a small region competing against whole countries. We’re very much holding our own if not punching above our weight.”

Invest in Cornwall has identified markets where like-minded businesses in the specialist sectors are considering their growth options.

The team also works hard to engage with as many people as possible on every trip – always looking for a potential new partner.

“Last year we went to a marine renewables event in Singapore, and also met the Department for International Trade there who provided great introductions with angel investors and new tech businesses. As a result, one of those businesses travelled from India to be with us for the ‘Independence Day’ Healthtech conference IiC helped to promote in July, organised by Falmouth University. The Singapore investor also came along to see if any of his other businesses could benefit from the connections and infrastructure in Cornwall.

“From one trip, not only did we tick a lot of boxes for publicising what is going on in Cornwall in the marine renewables world, but we also made sure we focussed on all the other sectors we deal with as well.

22/08/2017 15:46

INVEST

CORNWALL

Nicola Lloyd Head of Inward Investment

“So while perceptions on a national level might be that we’re a little behind the rest of the UK, the more you get under the skin, the more it’s becoming known that we have a lot to offer beyond just the lifestyle” 12

Events generate a lot of leads for us to follow up whilst also broadening our networks internationally.”

One of the biggest challenges for businesses moving into a new region is knowledge of the infrastructure; everything from office space and funding to talent. Invest in Cornwall helps to alleviate that headache for business-leaders by sharing their expert knowledge of the sector, as well as their connections within the region.

They are also a conduit for connecting people to each other. Almost like a concierge service for the best introductions.

“Introductions to people can be really helpful,” says Lloyd. “The recent Healthtech event is an example of that. We make introductions and then conversations happen – a crucial point for showcasing what Cornwall can offer businesses.”

Those introductions extend to connecting interested businesses with Invest in Cornwall ‘brand ambassador’ – companies who have already achieved commercial success in the region, often on a global scale. The relationship is designed to encourage a flow of ideas and a sharing of what works. It is this sense of community and nextgeneration thinking that is so crucial to the Invest in Cornwall team.

“Our approach has to been quite bold,” says Lloyd. “Cornwall can be too modest. We encourage businesses to come to events with us. Build confidence in the business community, saying you are a global player.”

Once a business has chosen to locate in Cornwall, the Invest in Cornwall team continues to assist. This can be through making further introductions, advising on office locations and connecting them with available funding opportunities.

“Every region offers programmes to try to encourage businesses in, and whilst funding is not our number one focus, we do our bit to make sure that companies can access what they need to and that the right introductions are made. The Enterprise Zone we have in Cornwall offers key benefits, not necessarily just grants and loans, but rate relief. All those things go hand in hand to develop a cohesive offer.”

There has been a commitment to attract inward investment into Cornwall for a number of years, with several European funding programmes establishing significant building blocks to date.

You need only look at Superfast Broadband, the Aerohub Enterprise Zone, Wave Hub, the Marine Renewables Business Park and Cornwall Airport Newquay to see the phenomenal progress which has been made in the region.

The focus on specialist sectors is designed to promote collaboration, with the ambition for global centres of excellence to grow out of these enterprising clusters.

One of Invest in Cornwall’s business engagement managers, Peter Holland, believes that Cornwall should be doing more to talk about the brilliant work that is already happening.

“If you look at all the marine renewables projects in the UK a huge proportion involve Cornish companies. We need to think about how we can be better at telling people how good we are. We want businesses to talk about their work.

Other businesses want to hear about it.”

The Council’s aim is for Cornwall to develop a reputation for excellence among all six of the smart specialisation sectors.

“For marine there are a lot of unique offerings within Cornwall, this is also true for Aerospace as we have Goonhilly and Cornwall Airport Newquay,” adds Holland.

“Agritech, we’re obviously an agricultural region and now, with the Agritech Cornwall project, we have the RD&I opportunities to help drive the Agritech sector in the region. For health technology we are unique in that we have one LEP, one Council, one NHS Trust, and one CCG – alongside dedicated projects such as EPIC and Smartline - both are driving the use of digital technologies in health and care. The infrastructure that businesses can access together with our contacts makes it relatively easy to navigate when compared to other regions in the UK. “So while perceptions on a national level might be that we’re a little behind the rest of the UK, the more you get under the skin, the more it’s becoming known that we have a lot to offer beyond just the lifestyle.”

The perception that Cornwall is more a place to go on holiday than do business comes more from within the UK than abroad.

Lloyd says: “Overseas businesses simply see Cornwall as a part of the UK. In places like the U.S. where driving from San Francisco to San Diego can take six or seven hours within the same state, and people do that without thinking, it really isn’t a big deal to travel for less than an hour on a plane from London to Cornwall.

BUSINESS CORNWALL

Invest in Cornwall Sept17.indd 4

22/08/2017 15:46

CORNWALL

INVEST

CASE STUDIES

Campaign

CFT Group

London interior design agency, Campaign, has expanded to Penryn, seeking creative talent and a better lifestyle.

Accessing support provided by Invest in Cornwall, Directors Ola and Philip Handford have established a creative studio at Tremough Innovation Centre.

Philip Handford comments: “Being so close to Falmouth University allows us to access talent direct from one of the world’s best creative universities. This location gives our creative team an improved quality of life, and space to live and work.”

Invest in Cornwall business engagement manager, Abi Rule, adds: “It’s fantastic to see a global business choosing Cornwall, testament to the dynamic nature and growth of our tech sector. Campaign is joining a thriving cluster of likeminded, ambitious, and outward focusing businesses, which prove that an international client base is achievable from Cornwall.”

“I couldn’t have chosen a better place than Cornwall to set up this business ,” says Marcus Kern, CEO of ‘fintech’ start-up CFT Group, which has recruited 12 employees in the past 12 months.

“It’s fantastic, we are able to live here and operate in a digital industry without having to be in London. The internet connection is amazing; thanks to Superfast Cornwall we have fibre to the premises in our office and there is good talent here for programming and financial service.”

“We also look to piggy back-off UK-wide campaigns. The ‘Britain is GREAT campaign’ resonates globally, and it applies to Cornwall also – we are a part of that message.”

The Cornish way of life is also vital for many inward investors. They want their staff to be happy and productive. There is plenty of research which shows that people who feel like they have a good work-life balance perform better. The Invest in Cornwall team say that it is not something they shy away from promoting.

Business engagement manager , Abi Rule, says: “There always tends to be a lifestyle element for investors who are making the move. One American investor we were speaking to about a move to Cornwall was very keen on ensuring that his staff were happy.

He wanted to keep them, so ensuring that they would enjoy a good work-life balance

was a strategic part of his thinking. There are tangible benefits to the lifestyle. It is not a semiretirement type lifestyle message, but about getting the best talent into businesses and a committed, productive workforce.”

And what of Brexit? Might that have an impact on recruiting international investment into the region?

“For us, it is business as usual. We aren’t speculating on what may, or may not happen.

Businesses take a long time to make big decisions, such as opening new offices and employing new teams. So having Brexit looming when no one knows the true impact will inevitably make a difference.

Most of the businesses we deal with are innovative, often focused on R&D. They don’t want to wait to make their next move. They’re progressive and ultimately we’re seeing inward

investment happen.

“A lot of international businesses we deal with are just looking for a foothold in Europe and we’re still in Europe geographically.

That won’t change.”

T: 01872 326727 E: info@investincornwall.com www.investincornwall.com

SIX OF THE BEST Invest in Cornwall is focused on attracting businesses into Cornwall primarily operating in the ‘smart specialisation’ sectors.

These are areas which have been identified as having the potential to deliver economic growth to the region and offer high quality jobs.

CREATIVETECH - Cornwall is the ultimate location for innovation and creativity. The region’s immense connectivity thanks for superfast broadband, combined with a thriving talent pool means that businesses in this sector are excelling. Two notable high growth businesses are Crowdfunder and Headforwards.

HEALTHTECH - The region’s healthtech sector draws together innovation and technology within a streamlined healthcare system.

Cornwall is unusual in that it only has a single NHS Trust, one Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and one local authority, making it an obvious choice for many looking to access the ‘system’.

SPACETECH - Cornwall is driving sector growth by supporting satellite launch, future flight and satellite technologies. Home to Goonhilly Earth Station Ltd, Cornwall has a rich history and long-established expertise in this industry - from pioneering the first transatlantic satellite communications over Telstar in 1962, to working on the very latest lunar and deep-space missions today.

Invest in Cornwall Sept17.indd 5

AGRITECH - Cornwall’s agricultural heritage is undeniable. The growing Agritech sector brings this rich history together with unrivalled rural connectivity capabilities. The strength of both are helping to revolutionise agriculture as we previously knew it.

MARINETECH - Cornwall is fast becoming a world-class destination for marine renewable technology. This encompasses a range of business needs from research and development, to funding, infrastructure and supply chain. Cornwall can offer businesses the expertise and infrastructure to develop a product from concept to commercialisation AEROSPACE - Cornwall is one of the largest, most diverse, and capable regions in the world when it comes to aerospace. The region boasts a growing and vibrant aerospace cluster. It is located within the south west aerospace cluster, one of the largest in the world and home to 14 of the top 15 aerospace companies. The region is also home to the UK’s only dedicated Aerospace Enterprise Zone, Aerohub at Cornwall Airport Newquay.

22/08/2017 15:46

14

BUSINESS CORNWALL

GrowthProgramme_Sept17.indd 2

22/08/2017 15:38

GROWTH

PROGRAMME

BUSINESS INVESTMENT IS

TOP

CORNISH PRINTING COMPANY HAS EXPANDED ITS CAPACITY AND GAINED NEW CONTRACTS FOLLOWING SUPPORT FROM THE BUSINESS INVESTMENT FOR GROWTH 2 PROGRAMME t Austell Printing Company required investment into new machinery and equipment to enable effective and efficient finishing of playing cards, allowing the business to take on a major new contract with the producers of Top Trump cards, Winning Moves.

The new equipment consists of four different processes that allows the business to finish playing cards in-house. The cards can be cut, finished with round corners, collated into order and cellophane packed. The machinery can handle any size of card and St Austell Printing expects to be printing up to two million packs of playing cards a year. The investment has also allowed the business to take on new staff with a new addition to the bindery department, raising the experience level of the team.

Operations manager, Beth Mayman, managed the project and application to the BIG2 programme. She said: “Winning Moves are a British company but they were outsourcing their print and finish work on Top Trumps cards to Poland, Italy and China which meant their turnaround time could be anything from six weeks to two months.

“The new machinery means we can print, finish, collate and package Top Trump cards on site providing Winning Moves with a faster and more flexible route to market.

“Without the investment from BIG2 we wouldn’t have been able to take on the contract so this funding has made a significant

difference to our business.”

The investment from BIG2, which represents about 17% of the project cost has enabled St Austell Printing Company to enter into a market sector in which they otherwise wouldn’t have been able to compete.

BIG2 business advisor, Rachel Roach, said: “This is a great example of how BIG 2 can enhance and fast-track a business plan for growth. The fund can be a crucial part of the puzzle to enable a project to go ahead.

“We are interested in talking to businesses who have projects that will create jobs and deliver growth, with the hope that we can invest in their future success.”

About Business Investment for Growth 2 BIG2 is delivered by Cornwall Development Company and funded by ERDF Convergence as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014 - 2020. It aims to support 200 businesses in Cornwall with growth projects, and create 360 jobs.

Investments range from £2,500 to a maximum of £75,000 with the average investment typically being £17,000. The programme currently runs until December 2018.

The process starts by registering your interest and completing an application. This should take about one hour, and from this the experienced team can assess the suitability of your business and project for this fund.

This is a great example of how BIG 2 can enhance and fast-track a business plan for growth

Find out more about BIG2 and whether your business is eligible at: www. businessinvestmentforgrowth.co.uk/ BUSINESS CORNWALL

GrowthProgramme_Sept17.indd 3

15

22/08/2017 15:38

Breaking The education sector is at the forefront of developing future talent and future technologies to drive Cornwall’s economy forward

I

t’s a quarter to four on a Wednesday afternoon and there’s an undercurrent of excitement as a group of girls of assorted ages gather outside an apparently unremarkable wooden shed at Cornwall’s top school.

But this is no ordinary hut and they are no ordinary girls, for this is the headquarters of the Truro High School Greenpower Engineering Team.

Founded in 1880, Truro High has been educating girls aged 4-18 for 137 years. It’s a happy and friendly school renowned for producing lovely girls – girls who in 2016 achieved the best exam results in Cornwall at both A level and GCSE. Beneath the smiles though, there’s a steely backbone. The atmosphere may be warm and nurturing but these girls are driven in every sense of the word. They know what they want, they are not scared to take a risk and they fully 16

intend to succeed. Nowhere is this indomitable spirit more obvious than behind the doors of that top secret wooden shed – a shed that will be replaced this summer with a state-of-the-art engineering facility within the main school.

Head of STEM, Jon Dean, explained: “Our Greenpower Engineering Team is symbolic of what we do here at Truro High. We set the girls running with an idea, we give them help and support and challenges along the way and then watch with pride as they learn from their mistakes and get better and better and better.

“The racing not only develops their design and engineering skills but also highlights their tremendous ability to work together as a team and to learn, develop and grow.”

For too long the engineering world has been haunted by the image of back-street garages, dodgy calendars and oily rags. These days it’s a hi-tech industry that offers tremendous opportunities, regardless of gender. That said, there’s still a huge imbalance to be corrected with women still making up only 9% of the UK’s engineering workforce.

It’s an imbalance that Truro High is doing its

bit to redress. The girls start to learn the basics of computer programming with bumblebee shaped robots at the age of four. By seven they are building their own Greenpower Goblin race cars and by ten they are driving them competitively on the track.

It’s this practical appliance of science that runs throughout lessons at the school. The food teacher talks about ‘deconstructing proteins through the medium of making lemon cheesecake’. The art department pushes boundaries constantly in everything from photography to space-age textiles – little wonder that the school swept the board at the recent CreatEd exhibition and, indeed, one pupil has already had her work on display at the Tate Modern!

Headmaster, Dr Glenn Moodie, said: “It’s about creating the right atmosphere where the girls feel confident to challenge the norm.

Many of them will grow up to have careers that haven’t even been invented yet and we want them to aim high, to be bold, to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes and, ultimately, to achieve their dreams.”

BUSINESS CORNWALL

EducationFeature_Sept17.indd 2

23/08/2017 09:47

EDUCATION AND

TRAINING

LAUNCHPAD TO FUTURE GROWTH Q: What do you get if you cross some of the world’s top businesses, a leading creative university and some raw tech talent?

A: Launchpad Designed to foster the growth of tech startups in Cornwall and tackle the brain drain, Falmouth University’s Launchpad is a business incubation and acceleration programme with a difference.

Launchpad reverses the usual start-up model; instead of starting with an idea for a product or service, Launchpad students respond to a problem. Global companies including Hitachi, Amazon, Sony Interactive Entertainment and the BBC pitch a challenge to the students; something they want developed, but don’t have the expertise or capacity to tackle in-house.

Mentored by industry experts and guided by the industry partners, the students then develop a response to the challenge and in doing so, create a viable, marketable product

and a foundation for a business.

The Launchpad programme is underpinned by an MA in Entrepreneurship, but when they graduate, the students are also directors in their own company.

Businesses that were formed on the pilot programme are now thriving. One of those is Hertzian, a company that accumulates and analyses millions of pieces of online customer feedback using ground-breaking Machine Learning & Natural Language Processing technology. Based in Truro, Hertzian is employing new members of staff and is looking to expand further. By the end of itssecond year, Hertzian expects to have a revenue of over a million pounds.

It is predicted that within five years, Launchpad will create 526 new high-value jobs and 65 new companies

like Hertzian,across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

One of Falmouth University’s strategic objectives is to drive the growth of the Cornish economy.

It is in a position to do so, boasting world-class facilities, industry-leading knowledge and global connections.

Through Launchpad, by widening access to Higher Education in Cornwall and by supporting innovation and research in Cornwall’s key areas of specialisation: e-health, aerospace, environment and energy, it is supporting Cornwall’s economic development.

Global companies including Hitachi, Amazon, Sony Interactive Entertainment and the BBC pitch a challenge to the students

BUSINESS CORNWALL

EducationFeature_Sept17.indd 3

23

23/08/2017 09:49

EDUCATION

AND TRAINING

SOLAR POWER WITHOUT THE PANELS Buildings could soon be able to convert the sun’s energy into electricity without the need for solar panels, thanks to innovative new technology being developed by the University of Exeter’s team in Cornwall.

Experts from the university’s Environment and Sustainability (ESI) Institute are developing a pioneering new technique that could accelerate the widespread introduction of netzero energy buildings through the latest Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV).

These products, similar to the solar tile created by Tesla, can become a part of a building’s architecture to generate electricity. The team have created an innovative glass block, which can be incorporated into the fabric of a building and is designed to collect solar energy and convert it to electricity.

It is thought that buildings consume more than 40% of the electricity produced across the globe. This new technology would allow electricity to be produced at the site of use, whilst being seamlessly integrated into the building.

The blocks, called Solar Squared, are designed to fit seamlessly into either new buildings, or as part of renovations in existing properties. They are similar to existing glass blocks by allowing daylight to resonate around a property by replacing traditional bricks and mortar with transparent glass bricks.

Crucially, however, the Solar Squared blocks have intelligent optics that focus the incoming solar radiation onto small solar cells, enhancing the overall energy generated by each solar cell. The electricity generated will then be available to power the building, be stored or used to charge electric vehicles.

The university team, which has created a start-up company at the Penryn campus, Build Solar, to market and produce the pioneering product, is now looking to encourage investment to carry out commercial testing of the product, and then aims to take it to market in 2018.

Co-inventor and Exeter’s research commercialisation manager in Cornwall, Jim Williams, believes that the timing of the technology is favourable. “It’s now clear that the world is moving to a distributed energy system, of which a growing proportion is renewable,” he says. “This, coupled with the shift to electric vehicles means that there are substantial opportunities for new ways of generating electricity at the point of use.”

18

These products, similar to the solar tile created by Tesla, can become a part of a building’s architecture to generate electricity

HOSTED BY TRURO AND PENWITH COLLEGE 17 NOVEMBER 2017

NOMINATIONS CLOSE 11 Sept

To nominate visit: www.truro-penwith.ac.uk/CornwallApprenticeshipAwards

t: 01872 242711 e: nominations@truro-penwith.ac.uk #CornApp17 Hosted by:

/TruroApprentice

@TruroApprentice

In association with:

BUSINESS CORNWALL

EducationFeature_Sept17.indd 4

23/08/2017 09:49

Open Morning Saturday 14 October Come and see why happy girls achieve

Book your place today by calling 01872 242904 trurohigh.co.uk

Falmouth University, proud home of Launchpad - ground-breaking business incubation and acceleration programme Establishing 65 new companies

Creating 526 new jobs Find out more on our website falmouth.ac.uk/Launchpad

EducationFeature_Sept17.indd 5

23/08/2017 09:50

BSc BUSINESS CORNWALL A business and management programme with a focus on employability and an ethos of ethics and sustainability

ips rsh le ola lab Sch avai

BOOK NOW FOR OUR OPEN DAY SATURDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 2017

ExeterUniAd.indd 2

http://ex.ac.uk/businessbsc 23/08/2017 10:14

One of the unique features of the BSc Business programme is the integrated work placements, which complement and expand on the content learnt in class.

Aula Ourtashi, BSc Business Secured a placement with a Penryn start-up, Ultramed, who provide pioneering health technology.

Work Placements and Consultancy Projects Recruit our high calibre, enthusiastic students to inject fresh ideas and up-to-date knowledge into your business To find out more about working with our students email bspcareers@exeter.ac.uk

ExeterUniAd.indd 3

22/08/2017 15:11

AD_PAGES_Sept17.indd 3

22/08/2017 15:17

ENVIRONMENTAL

CORNWALL

Peak From electric cars to renewable energy, Business Cornwall’s annual focus on the local environmental landscape s Cornwall heading towards peak renewable energy? The world economy is gradually heading in this direction; it is predicted to reach peak renewable energy in 2025.

Peak energy shouldn’t be confused with energy depletion. The term ‘peak energy’ is used to describe the moment at which the demand for energy production reaches its highest ever point and subsequently declines. McKinsey and Co recently reported that the world has probably already reached peak coal and is also, likely to reach peak oil within five years!

This is happening at least partly because advances in technology have led to vast increases in energy efficiency. It can also be attributed to slower population growth, lower economic growth and an increase in demand for services, as opposed to goods. As a result, overall demand for energy production is likely to peak in 2025.

Research has shown that a variety of social and environmental factors impact upon both the adoption of renewable energy technology and overall energy efficiency.

There has long been a moral argument for adopting renewable energy and we often hear of the environmental and social benefits. However, it could finally be argued that there is an economic case,

too, for embracing renewable energy technology.

PFA Research’s 2017 renewables survey shows that 49% of respondents believe that installing PV solar panels increases the value of a property. It also shows that 45% feel that installing solar thermal water heating increases the value of a property, thus suggesting that a sizeable number of people view renewable energy as a valuable investment.

Back in 2015, PFA Research also found that the most popular reason for installing renewable energy technology was to save money on energy bills. Overall, 81% of Cornish homeowners said that this was their main motivation for installation.

Correspondingly, the 2015 study showed that 61% of Cornish homeowners would like to install renewable energy technology, but cannot yet afford to do so. This means that the number of homeowners seeking to install renewable energy technology is likely to increase dramatically over the next decade, as technological advances result in reduced energy installation costs.

However, PFA Research’s 2017 survey shows that some renewables are perceived to be better investments than others!

Solar PV is very popular amongst respondents. Overall, 6.3% have already installed PV solar panels and 12.5% plan

to install them in the future, which suggests sizeable potential for market growth.

Correspondingly 49% perceive that they add value to a property. This is good news for solar energy equipment suppliers and fitters in Cornwall, as they have been suffering as a result of Government cuts to subsidies, including the Feed in Tariff, Renewables Obligation and Contracts For Difference.

In contrast, wind turbines continue to polarise public opinion. PFA Research’s 2017 survey shows that only 20% of respondents believe that a wind turbine adds value to a property and that 24% believe that it detracts from its value. This will not surprise the residents of North Cornwall following DCLG’s Sajid Javid’s recent decision to block the plans for a £30 million Big Field wind farm in the area.

Many local residents were concerned about damage to house prices resultant from noise and visual impact of a site located in an area of outstanding natural beauty. This meant that they were not in support of the scheme despite promises from the developer that it would generate enough energy to supply 22,000 homes, in addition to providing a £63,250 community fund and discounted energy to all nearby households.

BUSINESS CORNWALL

Environment_Sept17.indd 1

23

22/08/2017 15:28

CORNWALL

ENVIRONMENTAL

HOMEOWNERS' OPINION THAT RENEWABLES AND RESOURCE SAVING TECHNOLOGIES ADDS/DETRACTS VALUE TO PROPERTIES ADDS VALUE TO PROPERTY

60% 50%

DETRACTS VALUE FROM PROPERTY

49%

ALREADY INSTALLED

45%

40%

36% 32%

30%

26%

24% 20%

20% 10% 0%

6% 6%

PHOTO VOLTAIC (PV) SOLAR PANELS

3% 2%

SOLAR THERMAL WATER HEATING

0%

WIND TURBINE

2% 1%

GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP

2% 1%

AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP

3% 4%

RAIN WATER HARVESTING

BASE: UK HOMEOWNERS; N=983

CHEERLEADERS

It is often the case that those that are most passionate about a product or service are not necessarily those with the means to purchase it! This can pose a challenge for innovative businesses seeking to sell new technologies to a wider market.

For instance, evidence shows that the cheerleaders of renewable energy are often those that are yet to purchase a home or acquire significant assets. Students and younger people are often advocates of renewable energy; 43 British universities divested from fossil fuels in 2016 following student-led campaigning.

A DIFFERENT CHOICE

The general management of waste is becoming an increasingly complicated issue, with new legislation and environmental responsibilities that businesses must adhere to

Environment_Sept17.indd 2

PFA Research’s national research findings also support this, as 43% of those that wish to install solar PV are aged 34 years or under, but only 2.6% of those that have already purchased solar PV fall within this age category.

Those marketing or selling renewable energy technology may be interested to know that PFA

he result is that companies spend more time, money and manpower ensuring that they fulfil their obligations, rather than focusing on the business.

Fortunately, there is help at hand. Roche-based Cornwall Waste Solutions provides a complete waste management service for industry and businesses throughout the south west.

It offers a range of services from liquid and dry waste collection and treatment, through to the disposal of hazardous waste.

The company was founded 18 months ago by directors Shane Beadle and Paul Tregunna, who had both taken voluntary redundancy from a large waste management company, to set up the venture.

Beccy Game joined in January, bringing a wealth of knowledge and support while reacting to customer reporting needs and data control, which forms a growing part of the service agreements.

Cornwall Waste Solutions’ client base has been growing rapidly as well. Earlier this year it announced details of a £1 million contract with St Austell Brewery, while most recently it signed a fixed-period agreement with Boden Group Facilities. But whether working with clients large or small, the company prides itself in offering a flexible and personal approach.

22/08/2017 15:28

ENVIRONMENTAL

Research’s national renewables survey shows that solar PV customers are more likely to be older and male. The results show that those aged between 45 and 54 years are most likely to have installed solar PV, followed by those over the age of 54 years.

The average household income of those opting to install solar PV falls between £45k and £64k. Overall, 21% of those with solar PV fall into this category. An additional 19.4% earn between £25k and £44,999 per year. Solar PV adopters are most likely to report that they are company directors, senior managers or similar.

Interestingly, 17% of those with solar PV are retired and just over 14% work within the public sector.

And it isn’t just about solar PV and wind turbines. Rainwater harvesting is the second most commonly used form of renewable energy technology. A total of 4% of respondents to PFA’s Research’s 2017 renewables survey already has a rainwater harvesting system and an additional 7% wishes to install one. Local organisations, including the Eden Project and Heartlands have used this technology for quite some time, but it is being increasingly adopted by other business and residential properties.

There is growing interest in newer and less commonly adopted technologies, such as ground and air source heat pumps. Fewer than 1% of respondents have installed a ground source heat pump and just over 1% have an air source heat pump. Nonetheless, nearly 3% would like to install a ground or air source heat pump in the future.

In addition to this, Cornwall’s potential to lead the way in a wide range of renewable energy technologies is demonstrated by an ongoing crowdfunding scheme named Abundance that hopes to use the county’s ‘abundance’ of granite to produce a fifth of the country’s power.

WIND IN THE DOLDRUMS?

Cornwall was once known for its onshore wind capacity. There have been wind turbines at Delabole for over 25 years. Despite this, many local residents do not view this technology positively. Coupled with a Government that is not an advocate for onshore wind technology, it seems likely that this will play a lesser role in the move towards peak renewable energy in Cornwall.

Only 0.3% of PFA Research’s survey respondents have installed a wind turbine and just 2% would like to install one in the future, which means that those hoping that onshore wind will lead the way towards peak renewable energy are likely to be disappointed.

In conclusion, the research clearly shows that both Cornwall and the UK as a whole are moving towards peak energy. Growth in fossil fuel consumption is falling. Furthermore, advances in technology and stricter government policy across the globe are gradually helping us to use less energy overall, whether renewable or fossil-based.

It may be increasingly difficult for Cornwall to lead the way in onshore wind, but the

county does benefit from an enabling local environment for the adoption of other forms of renewable energy technology.

This includes an engaged local community that has embraced renewable energy technology by installing solar PV and showing a keen interest in technology, such as solar thermal water heating, ground and air source heat pumps and rainwater harvesting.

It also has a Council willing to adopt renewable energy technologies within large scale social housing programmes and other infrastructure development; several trusted local installers and a longstanding history of embracing renewable energy technology.

This unique combination of factors means that Cornwall is likely to play a leading role in the move towards reaching peak renewable energy by 2025. Therefore, we look forward to seeing what the next decade or so will bring…

How healthy us your business? Need more research to back up your investment? Need more research to back up your investment plans?

Call PFA Research on 01326 375705 or visit www.pfa-research.com

Shane Beadle explains: “We have a fresh and innovative approach when dealing with clients as we understand that strong personal contacts maintain good relations while offering the chance to understand each business and this in turn can produce savings and efficiency levels as we are interested in each business and we care. “Working to an OHSAS 18001 standard, we feel we are offering a change to dealing with large corporate companies that are in the market place, our supply chain means that the revenues generated all remain in Cornwall as we support over 20 local suppliers as this is keeping growth and opportunity alive for Cornwall and SW region.”

Office – 01726 218 755 Email – info@cornwallwastesolutions.co.uk Website – www.cornwallwastesolutions.co.uk

CORNWALL

>> the new smart electric has arrived Fully electric emission-free driving and with sufficient range for all your daily trips. The smart electric means no compromises and more fun than ever: the unique driving enjoyment that only an electric motor can offer.

Visit www.smartsouth-west.co.uk to find out more.

A different choice for our clients

Environment_Sept17.indd 3

smart of Truro > Probus, Truro, TR2 4HX 01872 520 900

23/08/2017 10:41

CORNWALL

ENVIRONMENTAL

FREE ENERGY MANAGEMENT TRAINING WORKSHOPS FOR SMES he Carbon Trust Green Business Fund is a new energy efficiency support service for small and medium-sized companies in England, Wales and Scotland. It provides direct funded support through energy assessments, training workshops, equipment procurement support and up to £5k capital contribution towards energy saving equipment.

Find out how to make the most of the free service and identify opportunities to reduce energy costs within your business by joining a free energy management training workshop.

On a half-day session, you’ll also learn how to apply for funding and be given the chance to apply for a free one-to-one site energy consumption audit.

The workshops are completely free to attend and supported by the Cornwall & Isles

of Scilly Skills Hub, a new EU-funded project to help businesses access and benefit from skills and training support.

“We are delighted to team up with The Carbon Trust to offer local businesses the opportunity to save energy, help the environment and be more sustainable,” comments Josh Hoole, Skills Hub Project Manager. “The aims of the Green Business Fund are very closely aligned with our own - upskilling businesses to become more sustainable - and the workshops are a fantastic example of the cost savings and efficiencies that can be made by investing just a few hours of your time in training. Our expert Skills Connectors will also be at the workshops sharing their knowledge of wider training support and inviting participants to undertake a full and impartial skills review of their business.”

CHOSE THE MOST CONVENIENT VENUE AND DATE FOR YOU:

9am – 12pm Tuesday, October 31 - Launceston Business Space Tuesday, November 7 - Truro Business Space Tuesday, November 14 - Tregenna Castle Hotel, St Ives To book your free place visit, ciosgrowthhub.com/energymanagement

The Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Skills Hub is part funded by the European Social Fund and is match funded by Cornwall Council and the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership.

THE 100% ELECTRIC NISSAN LEAF ACENTA • NO PETROL OR DIESEL COST • 2 YEARS FREE SERVICING*

0

£299

£1,500

Town & CounTry MoTor CenTre

01872 540 585 | towncountry-nissan.co.uk Main A30, Marazanvose, nr Truro, Cornwall Tr4 9DH

The 100% Electric Nissan Leaf: Fuel consumption figures for Nissan LEAF - CO2 while driving 0 MPG N/A.

Offer valid until 1 October 2017 at participating Dealers only and subject to vehicle availability. Finance provided by Nissan Finance, PO Box 495, Watford WD17 1BR. Subject to status. Guarantees and Indemnities may be required. You must be at least 18 and a UK resident (excluding the Channel Islands). Terms and conditions apply, please visit www.nissan-offers.co.uk/termsandconditions or your local Dealer for full details. Model shown is LEAF Acenta at £299 per month with additional metallic paint at £575 and is based on LEAF Acenta with DEPOSIT OF £4,364.00 FOLLOWED BY 24 PAYMENTS OF £299 AND OPTIONAL FINAL PAYMENT OF £12,750.00. Our Dealership introduces Customers to a limited number of finance providers including Nissan Finance. We may receive a commission from the finance provider for the introduction. LEAF Acenta offer based on 8,000 miles pa, excess mileage 0p per mile. Offers not available in conjunction with any schemes or other offers. For terms and conditions relating to Nissan technologies visit www.nissan. co.uk/technologyT&Cs. Always drive carefully and attentively. *Free servicing for 2 years is available when the vehicle is financed through Nissan Finance and servicing must be by a franchised Nissan dealer at specified intervals. Mileage limits from 37,500 apply – please see www.nissan-offers.co.uk/termsandconditions for servicing intervals. Model shots shown are for illustration purposes only. MPG figures are obtained from laboratory testing, in accordance with 2004/3/EC and intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not reflect real driving results. (Optional equipment, maintenance, driving behaviour, road and weather conditions may affect the official results.) Information correct at time of going to print. Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd, The Rivers Office Park, Denham Way, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 9YS.

Environment_Sept17.indd 4

22/08/2017 15:29

ENVIRONMENTAL

AIR QUALITY

Will it choke the planning system? ir quality is not just a problem for London and other large cities.

Poor air quality levels have led to Cornwall Council designating six air quality management areas (AQMAs) in Cornwall. AQMAs have been designated in Camelford, Truro, Gunnislake, St Austell, Tideford, Bodmin and Camborne-PoolRedruth where excessive levels of nitrogen dioxide have been detected.

The Council published an updated strategy in March 2017 to reduce pollution in these areas. Road traffic is the main source of air pollution and, as you might expect, pollution levels increase during the tourist season as traffic levels increase.

Under European law, the Government is required to have a national air quality strategy.

The government published a revised strategy in July this year, following several defeats in court regarding the adequacy of previous proposals.

Coverage of the government’s national air

quality management plan focused on the proposal to ban sales of new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2040. The plan has been criticised however, for lacking more immediate measures to tackle poor air quality.

Air quality may become a significant issue for Cornwall over the coming years. The Council’s local plan requires 52,500 new homes to be built in Cornwall between 2010 and 2030.

Objectors are increasingly turning to air quality to oppose new residential development; developments that fail adequately to deal with the issue of air quality may be refused or challenged in the courts. Particular care will need to be taken for development within existing AQMAs. In such areas developers will need to produce a robust air quality assessment and, where appropriate, effective measures to mitigate the harm that would otherwise be cause to air quality levels.

Given the links to European law, it is not clear how air quality requirements will be

CORNWALL

Under European law, the Government is required to have a national air quality strategy affected by Brexit. In the meantime, it appears that air quality will become increasingly important in the planning process.

James Clark is a senior associate with Foot Anstey Tel: 01872 243300 www.footanstey.co.uk

Want to save energy and become more sustainable?

Energy Management Training Workshops for SMEs • apply for up to £5,000 capital contribution towards energy efficient equipment purchase • identify opportunities to reduce energy costs in your SME

PLUS MEET

the new Skil ls Hub team

who are off participants ering a review of th skills eir business

• sign up for a free one-to-one site audit

Book your FREE place at ciosgrowthhub.com/energymanagement

9am - 12pm Tuesday 31st October Launceston Business Space Tuesday 7th November Truro Business Space Tuesday 14th November Tregenna Castle Hotel, St Ives

Environment_Sept17.indd 5

22/08/2017 15:29

CORNWALL

ENVIRONMENTAL

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE OF CHANGE

C

ornwall Environmental Consultants (CEC) Ltd, is now 25 years old. Like most established businesses, it has seen significant changes – good and bad – in the world around us which has affected the way we do things.

More close to home is the Council’s new Supplementary Planning Documents on Biodiversity and Terrestrial European Sites.

Most developments will need the input of an ecologist, a landscape architect and to consider all trees on site. It therefore makes sense to employ a company that can save you time and money, by offering all three services.

CEC continues to supply ecology, landscape architecture and arboriculture services either separately or as a complete combined service; and it is here to help clients understand and meet the requirements of the new Supplementary Planning Documents and any changes they bring.

It recently launched a new website which is more user friendly and client focused, providing key information on why having a company like CEC on board makes life easier – not harder. It strives to solve planning issues you may encounter and we enjoy the challenge!

CEC recently helped a client gain planning permission on an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). A tricky task - but not impossible - as long as the ecological value and landscape of the area is considered from the outset. This can make all the difference as explained by Gavin Woodford of Woodford Architects.

“The work CEC did was absolutely crucial in helping secure planning permission,” he says. “They really understood the issues and needs around the sensitivity of the project and how a development can respond beneficially to the key values of the AONB designation.”

Visit the new website www.cecenvironment. co.uk, contact CEC on 01872 245510 or enquiries@cecenvironment.co.uk

BATTERY BONANZA he Government recently announced a £246 million investment in battery technology over a four-year period. This is good news for Cornwall and the renewable energy sector.

Lithium is a key component in the manufacture of batteries.

Cornish Lithium has secured the right to explore for lithium in Cornwall, so the county could be well positioned to become a leader in the development of battery technology and manufacture if these elements come together.

What’s happening?

Storage becomes a sub-set of generation under the Electricity Act. Creation of the Battery Institute.

A £45m challenge to make batteries more accessible and affordable.

A modified generation licence for storage will be introduced by Summer 2018.

Planning rules reviewed to assist deployment of larger scale storage projects.

Abolishment of Final Consumption environmental levies.

28

Ofgem’s vision is that storage should not be charged residual charges at transmission and distribution level.

Government to assess the regulatory, network and tariff implications of increased use of electric vehicles and support trials of vehicle-to-grid charging. Ofgem to announce rules to govern this new energy system.

The UK’s advances in battery storage technology and the development of a flexible energy system will allow developers to maximise the opportunity to produce energy, even in grid constrained areas.

Renewable energy sometimes comes under fire for being ‘intermittent’, ‘unreliable’ or even ‘inefficient’. But the main problem facing renewables is the lack of resources to store it on a large scale, when not being generated – battery storage could be the answer.

Mark Tyler is a senior associate at Stephens Scown LLP’s corporate team in Truro. Stephens Scown has a specialist energy team headed up by Sonya Bedford, who can be contacted on 01392 210700, email energy@stephens-scown.co.uk or via www.stephens-scown.co.uk

BUSINESS CORNWALL

Environment_Sept17.indd 6

22/08/2017 15:30

Why wait until 2040?

Renault ZOE – 100% electric

With 250 mile NEDC range,^ easy charging options, low running costs and

5 years’ 0% APR representative* It’s time to make the switch from petrol.

CO2 while driving: 0g/km, MPG: n/a according to NEDC homologation tests. *Finance provided by Renault Finance, PO Box 495, Watford, WD17 1BR. Subject to status. Indemnities may be required. UK residents only (excluding the Channel Islands). Over 18s. Terms and conditions apply. Offers based on 6,000 miles per annum, excess mileage 8p per mile inc VAT. ^Homologated range according to NEDC test cycle, for comparison purposes, 250 miles; real world range will vary according to various factors including driving conditions, driving styles, temperature and topography but is estimated to be between 124 miles in winter and 186 miles in temperate conditions, on the Z.E. 40 battery (available from Dynamique Nav and above). ^^Homecharger provided and installed by Chargemaster PLC and only available for eligible customers. **Less than £3.50 full charge cost, based on: (a) overnight electricity charges (Npower Online Price Fix July 2018 rates for payment via monthly Direct Debit as of May 2017); and (b) a full recharge of the 41kWh battery. Offer is available on new ZOE when ordered and registered by 30 September 2017. Model shown with optional i.d. metallic paint at an extra £650.

Wheal Rose, Scorrier Summercourt Redruth TR16 5BX Newquay TR8 5YA Tel 01209 821133 Tel 01872 511600

Environment_Sept17.indd 7

www.dalescornwall.co.uk Book a test drive

22/08/2017 15:30

TEST DRIVE

P

ELECTRIC CARS

ELECTRIC CAR GUIDE

ublic perception of Electric Cars (EVs) seems to be changing with greater momentum than ever before. One of the greatest factors putting people off switching is range anxiety, as if purchasing an EV will tether you, restricting your flexibility and falling short of your journey needs. However with the average EV now capable of 100 miles + on a single charge ask yourself how many

journeys you do over this, and even then, with the boost in infrastructure including more and faster charging stations, all you need to do is plan your journey with a little more rigour.

Plus, EVs tend to offer better refinement (silent electric motor(s)) than most cars, surprising performance and favourable tax benefits.

And if you’re still not sold, then by 2040 you’re going to have to be if the Government sticks to plans to ban sales of petrol and diesel cars by

this point.

With the EV and Hybrid market growing on a daily basis there are many models to choose from, here we have showcased a broad array from quirky commuters to the more exotic:

RENAULT ZOE EV The Zoe is another one for those looking for something easy to live with and accessibly priced, being one of the cheapest on the market. The Zoe is nonfussy, adequately equipped with a cheeky character and a nimble drive. Get used to the Zoe because there’s going to be more and more of these on our roads.

Range: Likely to be between 126 miles (winter conditions) and 186 miles in temperate conditions (claimed) Cost: From £12235 (Excludes mandatory battery hire) Local dealer: Dales Cornwall 01872 511600 (Summercourt) / 01209 821133 (Scorrier) www.dalescornwall.co.uk

NISSAN LEAF EV

BMW i3 EV The i3 is a highly contemporary car in all respects. A standout looker with an opulent, lounge-like cabin this car is a winner for those looking for something with pizzazz and a more premium feel. Beneath all this also lies a good platform with a decent range and the option of a range extender version (REX) which uses a petrol generator as a safeguard so you should never end up stranded. You naturally pay more for this premium feel. Pretty potent performance, making the 0-60mph benchmark dash in just over 7 seconds.

Range: Up to 125 miles / 206 miles (range extender) Cost: From £33,070 OTR Local dealer: Ocean Falmouth BMW 01326 375100 www.oceanfalmouthbmw.co.uk

ElectricCar_Sept17.indd 2

The first electric car I reviewed and a safe bet. The Leaf is a practical and affordable EV built with purpose. If offers all the practicalities of a normal hatchback and is a straightforward, easy-going car to live with that will become part of the family.

Range: 153 (claimed) Cost: From £21,125 OTR Local dealer: Town & Country Motor Centre 01872 540 585 www.towncountry-nissan.co.uk

23/08/2017 09:53

ELECTRIC CARS

TEST DRIVE

E CLASS E350e PLUG IN HYBRID The E-class is already a beautifully refined luxury executive saloon and the petrol and electric composite in the E350e feels exactly right, gliding along in silence with minimal effort. Being a plugin hybrid you can use it on pure electric for up to 21 miles (more than the UK average commute). As with the BMW i8, you will need to be clever with your driving style to achieve near the claimed 134.5 mpg.

Economy: 134.5mpg* *The manufacturer’s stated fuel consumption and electric range figures are based on the legally prescribed NEDC test cycle, which is performed in a laboratory Cost: From £45,555 Local Dealer: Mercedes Benz of Truro 01872 520900 www.mercedes-benzoftruro.co.uk

SMART ELECTRIC DRIVE EV

BMW i8 PLUG IN HYBRID You can tell that the i3 and i8 are from the same family – The i8 is pushing boundaries in terms of looks and feel. Its batmobile-like looks and dihedral doors that glide upwards when you open them make this a pin-up favourite. Pleasingly, despite virtually everything being electric it still offers a superb driving experience and a great deal of fun.

Range: 134.5mpg* (23 miles on pure electric) *The manufacturer’s stated fuel consumption and electric range figures are based on the legally prescribed NEDC test cycle, which is performed in a laboratory Cost: From £106,310 OTR Local dealer: Ocean Falmouth BMW, 01326 375100 www.oceanfalmouthbmw.co.uk

EV EVENT

If you’re still not sold on the idea then we are holding and EV event at Perranporth Airfield where some of the local dealerships will be showcasing key models with the opportunity to try them out yourself. Head of Electric Vehicles at

A new kid on the block, the Smart electric drive is available as a 2 seater, fortwo, or the 4 seater, forfour. Its range may be on the lower end of the scale but with one of the quickest charging times you won’t be hanging around long before you’re off again!

Range: 96-99 (claimed) Cost: From £16,420 OTR (ForTwo) / £16,915 OTR (ForFour) Local dealer: Mercedes Benz of Truro 01872 520900 www.mercedes-benzoftruro.co.uk

the Renewable Energy Association and Director of ecodrive, Matt Trevaskis will be on hand to answer any technical questions.

Perranporth Airfield, September 22nd, 3pm – 5pm Limited spaces available – please book your ticket by contacting Morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk

BUSINESS CORNWALL

ElectricCar_Sept17.indd 3

31

23/08/2017 09:53

MAKING NATURE WORK

for business We discover the growing role that independent environmental consultancy, Spalding Associates, has to play in the wider world

ince being founded 20 years ago

by Adrian Spalding and Catriona Neil as one of the first ecological consultancies in the UK, Spalding Associates has firmly established itself as the largest independent consultancy in Cornwall.

The company employs six fulltime ecologists and provides its services for Cornwall and further afield.

“We work from Bryher to Belfast, Doncaster to Dover, wherever the work is,” explains Adrian.

Like many businesses, Spalding Associates

32

started on a small scale. Its first job was facilitating a development in Devon despite local opposition, whilst its second job was monitoring wildlife for Cornwall Council.

Since those days, the world has hugely changed and Spalding Associates has changed with it. With a drive for increased environmental and nature conservation benefit in planning and a consequent increased demand for its services, it has developed expertise to take advantage of new industries such as renewable energy projects, while providing a service to traditional business such as house building and barn renovations.

“We provide a high-quality service,” says Catriona. “A key part of our success is employing the right people and giving opportunities for training and career development. Continuing professional development includes attendance at conferences and training events throughout the country, even overseas, and all staff are members of our professional organisation the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management.”

Adrian echoes the point. “This business works because we have the best people, energetic and dedicated to the success of the

BUSINESS CORNWALL

CompanyProfile_Sept2017.indd 2

22/08/2017 16:14

COMPANY

PROFILE

business,” he says. “Without everyone here we would not have had the success we have had.”

The staff all have interesting, and sometimes unusual hobbies, from choral singing to paddle boarding, snorkelling to sailing and even Morris dancing and Tough Mudder obstacle runs.

As a company, though, work is not just about development – as an example the whole team worked on the Isles of Scilly Seabird Recovery Project where rats were removed from St Agnes and Gugh, which involved camping out in all weathers and working from dawn to dusk (and even through the night) – wildlife never rests!

WORK EXPERIENCE

Spalding Associates takes social responsibilities seriously. It has a regular programme of paid work experience to help young people move from university into fully paid work; all of the young people who have worked for them in this way have gone on to other jobs in the industry, in Cornwall and elsewhere, and Jenny, Amy, Katherine and Simon all started work for Spalding Associates after graduating at Exeter University. The company welcomes enquiries for work experience from suitably qualified people.

Another community activity Spalding Associates provides for Cornwall are occasional conferences to examine the relationship between development and the natural environment.

It originated and sponsored the Biodiversity and Planning Conference held at Heartlands in April 2015, convened to bring planners, ecologists and landscape architects together, to inform, inspire and explore how these professions can work together to protect and enhance biodiversity in Cornwall and to share best practice, against the background of a rapid pace of change.

The message was clear - carried out properly, ecological assessments contribute to the success of development projects.

The conference was over-subscribed and Spalding Associates is currently planning a second conference to be held in March next year entitled “Nocturnal Landscapes: Environmental Growth at Night”, and aimed at planners, ecologists, consultants, landscape architects, road engineers, police services, developers, parish and county councillors.

PROTECTING SPECIES

All staff are highly experienced in ecological planning for land use and development. The company aims to help

the client achieve fast, efficient and costeffective planning consents. It has in-house expertise covering all major wildlife issues, including birds, bats, badgers, reptiles and Japanese Knotweed. It also specialises in rarer species, and Catriona is the only person in Britain currently licensed to work with Trembling Sea Mat, a speciality of Swanpool, Falmouth.

The firm took a major step forward when Simon Barnard joined them and developed the best independent bat division in Cornwall.

He says “We know that the prospect of dealing with bats in development can make the strongest developer tremble, but my long experience has shown that there are always ways of achieving cost effective positive outcomes for the client and the bats.”

BREXIT

Many environmentalists are against Brexit, believing that environmental legislation will be watered down once Britain leaves the European Union.

Adrian takes the view, however, that this is an opportunity for environmental regulation to be better targeted at Britain, with the double aim

of greater protection for wildlife coupled with less regulation.

At the moment some wildlife species are fully protected despite being relatively widespread in the UK, Great Crested Newt being the best known example. European legislation also tends to be absolute, with no escape clauses (eg for public health and safety), whereas UK legislation tends to recognise the problems of working in the real world.

Adrian says: “I am hopeful that after Brexit wildlife legislation will be reworked with less money being spent on bureaucracy and form filling and instead targeted directly at key habitats and species of UK value. This is a golden opportunity to protect British wildlife by funding conservation groups managing nature reserves. Our financial support for the project to re-introduce the Large Blue butterfly to the south-west is one example of success.”

Spalding Associates (Environmental) Ltd www.spaldingassociates.co.uk E: info@spaldingassociates.co.uk T: 01872 272 711

BUSINESS CORNWALL

CompanyProfile_Sept2017.indd 3

33

22/08/2017 16:02

GROWTH

PROGRAMME

SUPPORTING YOUR SMARTLINE IS A RESEARCH AND INNOVATION PROJECT AIMED AT HELPING SMES BASED IN CORNWALL AND THE ISLES OF SCILLY DEVELOP INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS, PROCESSES AND SERVICES BY INCREASING UNDERSTANDING OF HOW TECHNOLOGY CAN BE USED TO IMPROVE PEOPLE’S HEALTH AND WELLBEING

34

BUSINESS CORNWALL

GrowthProgramme_Sept17.indd 4

22/08/2017 15:39

SUPPORTING SMES’ RD&I • Grants from £1,000 to £20,000; • Access to research expertise to support RD&I; • Access to comprehensive new data sets for businesses to explore and exploit; and • Opportunities to co-create with end users.

PROJECT FUNDING Smartline is a 3 year project funded by the European Regional Development Fund with additional funding from the South West Academic Health Science Network (SW AHSN). Smartline is being led by the University of Exeter in partnership with Coastline Housing, Volunteer Cornwall and Cornwall Council.

ur objective is connecting communities to help individuals take back control of their health and wellbeing. Cornwall has been the perfect starting point for this project as the infrastructure, talent, necessary resources and general sense of community already exists, says Dr Tim Taylor, Senior Lecturer in the University of Exeter Medical School and Smartline Principal Investigator.

“Helping to ensure that we are in the best place possible to organically grow the development of the eHealth and eWellbeing market business sector in the region, by linking innovation to cutting edge research and working closely with Cornish SMEs’ to support research and development in this field.”

To kick off its business engagement activities, Smartline brought together a unique audience of businesses, clinicians and academics to explore the uses of virtual reality from health and social care to training and

gaming at a free, interactive event held at the University of Exeter’s Truro Campus. ‘Virtual Reality (VR): Learn, Experience, Imagine’ demonstrated the cutting-edge applications of this emerging technology and explored its potential uses in industry and academia in the future.

Businesses from a variety of sectors also participated to talk about and exhibit their applications of virtual reality and emerging technologies. Katie Goode, creative director of the award winning Cornish games studio, Triangular Pixels, demonstrated its first VR game, Unseen Diplomacy (a VR obstacle course).

She says: “Most events we have been to are games or VR related, but this one really opened our eyes to what was possible. While showing our game at this event, it made us realise that we could license it out to be used as a tool for health.

“Within the game, the player is a spy - having to save the world by crawling though vents and rolling under lasers. Players have to

physically do this, actually having to run, or get on their hands and knees. The attendees were really impressed about the physicality to the game, and its potential for use in health.

We can now see there’s a space for us to license Unseen Diplomacy and future titles as health applications, and will be keeping these kind of requirements in mind for future games we develop.”

Contact Smartline to find out more about how it can support your innovation, www.Smartline.org.uk or Smartline@Exeter.ac.uk

BUSINESS CORNWALL

GrowthProgramme_Sept17.indd 5

35

22/08/2017 15:40

PEOPLE

ON THE MOVE

SPONSORED BY www.sapiencehr.co.uk

LONDON LAWYER JOINS COODES Cornish law firm Coodes Solicitors is expanding with a new member of its wills, probate and trusts team.

Clare McLeish has joined Coodes’ Truro office, bringing more than eight years’ experience in London law firms.

She is a member of STEP, the leading professional body for lawyers which specialises in family inheritance and succession planning, and a fully accredited member of Solicitors for the Elderly. She joins from Wimbledon’s leading legal practice, Gregsons Solicitors, where she advised clients on issues relating to Wills, tax, trust and estate administration.

NALDERS ADDS TO TEAM

Nalders Solicitors has appointed a family law expert to manage all family law matters in the areas around Penzance, Helston, and Falmouth.

Lindsey Jackson has a wealth of experience in all areas of family law, having spent 20 years working in the Cornish community. She sits on the Law Society’s Children’s Panel and holds an accreditation through the Family Law Advanced Accreditation Scheme.

Meanwhile, Rebecca Standing has been appointed as a legal executive to its Later Life team, after 15 years at fellow Cornish law firm, Coodes.

And Donna Croot has joined from a Wolverhampton practice as a conveyancing executive.

LINDSEY JACKSON WITH MANAGING PARTNER DALE BAND

FROM LEFT: ANDREW ALLEN, JASON MITCHELL, AND SCOTT BENTLEY

MITCHELL NAMED PARTNER Chartered accountant, PKF Francis Clark, has appointed legal sector expert Jason Mitchell as a partner based at its Truro office.

Andrew Allen, who heads the firm’s specialist national legal sector team, said: “We all join in congratulating Jason on becoming a

DIFFERNET STROKES

FROM LEFT: RICHARD COLLETT AND ADAM TRUDGEON

36

partner. He is an invaluable member of the team with an established reputation in the legal sector nationwide having been a regular speaker at seminars and acknowledged for his expert delivery of in-house training to law firms.”

Truro-based WordPress developer, Differnet Digital, has appointed its first employee.

MD, Richard Collett, felt the time was right to expand the business – hiring Adam Trudgeon to create fast, custom plugins for customers’ sites.

He said: “People love the simplicity of the WordPress platform, but they increasingly want their sites to do clever things like letting web visitors drag and drop photos to make their own profile page. The challenge is doing that without slowing the site down, or compromising security.

Adam’s skills are helping us to do just that. He’s also a great guy to have around."

BUSINESS CORNWALL

OnTheMove_Sept17.indd 2

22/08/2017 15:31

www.truro-penwith.ac.uk

NEWS

SPONSORED BY

EDUCATION

BLOODHOUND ON SKILLS SHOW SCENT This year’s Cornwall Skills Show will be taking place at Cornwall Airport Newquay next month, in partnership with Bloodhound SCC, the supersonic car that hopes to set the 1,000 mph speed record.

Bloodhound has had a base at the airport’s Aerohub Enterprise Zone for the past six years.

The team have already carried out rocket tests at the airport and announced last month that they will be testing the car at speeds of up to 200 mph on Newquay’s 1.7 mile runway in October, ahead of a record bid in South Africa next year. Now, thanks to support form the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), the Careers and Enterprise Company, the Cornwall Education Business Partnership and Cornwall Council, the Cornwall Skills Show will be held on October 30 during Bloodhound’s education day at Cornwall Airport Newquay, helping to inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers.

The show, formerly known as the Cornwall Careers Show, usually attracts more than 3,000 youngsters from across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Last year there were more than 90

CALLYWITH COLLEGE OPENS The new Callywith College in Bodmin has been welcoming its first intake of students.

The keys were officially handed over last month, following the completion of the college’s Temple and Fox buildings.

Callywith principal, Mark Wardle said: “We are delighted to celebrate the handover of the campus. The Temple and Fox buildings and state-of-the-art 3G sports pitch will provide our students with an exciting and vibrant learning environment.

“Kier Construction have done a fantastic job and we look forward to the completion of the Garrow sports building in October.”

exhibitors showcasing the huge range of careers opportunities, training courses and routes into work available across the region.

The show is part of an ongoing campaign to help inspire and prepare young people for the world of work, including science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills. The Cornwall Education Business Partnership has already worked with Bloodhound on a model rocket car competition involving more than 3,000 school children from across the Duchy.

Paul Massey, who chairs the LEP’s employment and skills board, said: “Young people are the future workforce and they need

CCB IS QUALSAFE CCB has been awarded Qualsafe accreditation, meaning it can now offer an even broader range of Health & Safety qualifications.

Qualsafe is one of the largest Ofqual recognised awarding organisations in the UK, and through training organisations like Cornwall College Business, offers

the very best information and careers advice to make informed choices about what they want to do.

“The Cornwall Careers Show is a fantastic event and we hope the link with Bloodhound, which is all about promoting STEM skills, will encourage even more exhibitors and schools to attend.”

qualifications such as Level 2 Health and Safety in the Workplace, Principles of Manual Handling and Safe Moving and Handling.

CMIOSH QTLS trainer at CCB, Chris Bate, said: “The Qualsafe qualifications are ideal for employees who wish to raise awareness of health and safety in their workplace, to better understand the role that everyone plays in maintaining a safe working environment, and to learn how to identify and manage risks effectively.”

PLAY TIME FOR SCHOOLSCAPES A north Cornwall playground company has launched a new range of outdoor play equipment for pre-school children, after securing a funding package of £323k.

Schoolscapes, based in Wadebridge, designs play spaces and makes bespoke equipment for schools, nurseries, youth centres and family holiday venues around the UK. A recent loan of £238k from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking has allowed the company to buy and customise

premises on the Dunveth Business Park. The business also secured a £85k hire purchase facility to buy new IT equipment to streamline its admin processes. The funding has also supported the purchase of new equipment for the workshop, which will allow more elements of the production process to be brought in-house.

CEO, Chris Leavold, said: “The latest funding package from Lloyds will help us continue to grow at a sustainable rate.”

BUSINESS CORNWALL

Education_news_Sept17.indd 3

37

23/08/2017 09:57

OUT OF COUNTY

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY

cornwallairportnewquay.com

EDEN GOES INTERNATIONAL

The Eden Project has launched a new international company to create Edens across the globe.

Eden Project International Ltd (EPIL) is a new entity formed as part of the Eden Trust to partner with like-minded organisations to deliver the Eden mission and to “deliver social and ecological benefits during a time of global environmental decline and social disruption”.

Heading up the new company are Eden Project co-founder Sir Tim Smit, who has been appointed executive chairman, and Eden Project

executive director David Harland, who has been named chief executive.

The ambition of the new wing of the Eden Project is to advance the Eden mission by establishing collaborative Eden projects with international partners across the globe. It will also undertake consultancy services for new and existing projects in a range of areas.

Sir Tim said: “Eden’s mission is to explore our dependence on the natural world, to use that understanding to excite people into delivering transformation where they live and to ask really

serious questions about what a great future might look like for all of us.

“We want the new Edens to act as a heartbeat for those who feel the same way as we do and to develop in all of them the ability to tell the stories that inspire the people who are their constituency.” Eden Project International is currently working on three projects in China and others in Australia and New Zealand.

Other overseas projects, including some in the Middle East and North America, are due to be announced in the coming months.

RETHINK RENEWED Truro-based consultancy Rethink Marketing has renewed an ongoing agreement to provide marketing services to Sussex’s largest estate agency, Mansell McTaggart.

Mansell McTaggart has 17 offices across Sussex and into Surrey. Rethink director, Charlie Snell, said: “We’ve really enjoyed working with Mansell McTaggart on their offering, their messages, website and materials – and we’re thrilled to be asked to continue that process.

“We’re also immensely proud that most of our work comes from out-of-county and we’re proud to be a net-exporter from Cornwall. Onwards and upwards!”

WARRENS ROLL OUT TRAIN DOCKS IN SOUTHAMPTON

Warrens Bakery is continuing its national expansion at a rapid rate.

Just months after opening its first franchise in Birmingham, the Cornish baker has now opened two new stores in Hampshire (Southampton and Eastleigh), and another one in Bridgwater.

Commenting on the latest opening of the

38

new bakery in Somerset, chairman of Warrens Bakery, Mark Sullivan said: “We have big expansion plans in the region, with 20 stores over the next five years and can’t wait to build on our partnership and greet customers who may be more used to seeing our stores when holidaying down by the Cornish coast.”

MASTERS BUYS DORSET GROUP Local businessman and chairman of Truro City Football Club, Peter Masters, has added the Lyme Regis-based ‘View From’ series of newspapers to his expanding media stable.

The eight ‘View From’ papers were acquired from Capital Media Newspapers, and complement Masters’ recent acquisition of the Sunday Independent.

“These are extremely exciting times for the View From group and the Sunday Independent as we work on plans to deliver even better quality, value and ideas for their readers,” said Masters.

BUSINESS CORNWALL

OutOfCounty_Sept17.indd 2

23/08/2017 09:54

NEWS

SPONSORED BY

#FSBCONNECT

www.fsb.org.uk

FSB WOMEN TASKFORCE On the back of the success of the FSB Celebration of Women in Business back in May, FSB recently hosted the first meeting of the ‘FSB Women Cornwall Taskforce’. This business lead group now consists of 16 women and one man (yes men are allowed!) all working towards providing guidance and inspiration to women in business and others needing support affected by inclusivity, diversity or simply confidence issues right here in Cornwall.

The group stems from the national FSB Women Taskforce led by its diversity and inclusivity guru and motorcycle breaker entrepreneur, Helen Walbey. FSB Member Bini Ludlow, of celebrated cookery school and authentic Indian cuisine company Sweet Cumin from Somerset will be the group’s south west connection to the national group while two

local members, Katherine Ogg of Simply Time and Zoe Howard of Caxton Communications, have taken the lead in Cornwall. Watch out for them on social media as #FSBWomenCornwall was agreed as the permanent hashtag for the group alongside Twitter accounts @FSBCornwall and @FSB Women. And look out for a special conference planned for next year.

Find out how to get

This business lead group now consists of 16 women and one man (yes men are allowed!) all working towards providing guidance and inspiration to women in business

BELOW: BREAKOUT GROUPS DISCUSS STRATEGY AND STRUCTURE FOR FSB WOMEN CORNWALL

ALL ABOUT BUSINESS RATE RELIEF Business rates present significant hardship, particularly to small and micro businesses and can often act as a barrier to growth or even to the detriment of business survival. FSB has long campaigned that action needs to be taken to alleviate that hardship and assist businesses with what is in many cases their most major overhead next to utilities and employment

costs. FSB Cornwall is therefore delighted that Cornwall’s allocation of this national scheme has been wisely tailored by the Council to maximise benefit to those Cornish businesses most in need. Help with rising costs will be gratefully received and will be a lifeline to some whilst we seek proper reform of the whole system.

Want to know exactly what this means in cash

CALL TO ACTION

this part of the forthcoming Immigration Bill could well be very damaging to the needs of our local economy.

So in case you didn’t know, the MAC has published a call for evidence and briefing paper in relation to this commission and these documents are available on the MAC website at www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ migration-advisory-committee. The MAC is asking for responses to its call for evidence by October 27. Please forward this information and the above link to your business contacts that could provide real, compelling evidence on business need.

Send your own response direct to mac@ homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk. Copy ann.vandermeulen@ fsb.org.uk in with your response as FSB will be collecting case study evidence to present and reinforce our work on Brexit with Government.

Many Cornish businesses in sectors who rely on staff from a migrant workforce may not be aware of the fact that the Government has commissioned the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to advise on the economic and social impacts of the UK’s exit from the European Union.

Richard Crocker, owner of Lantoom Quarry and an FSB member in Liskeard, has highlighted the huge importance of this to his business and that there will be others like him in many different sectors with particular significance in Cornwall. If the business community here do not know about this consultation or act to give clear evidence on how the free movement of people will affect their workers and their business, then

involved or let us know how FSB Women Cornwall can help by emailing ann. vandermeulen@fsb.org.uk

to you? Join local business owners at our next monthly networking event #FSBConnect at Treloyhan Manor Hotel in Carbis Bay on Thursday, September 14, and guest speakers from Cornwall Council’s revenues team. Your ticket price of £10 includes tea/coffee on arrival, info, networking and a buffet lunch.

Visit www.fsb.org.uk/Cornwall to book.

FSB CONNECT NETWORKING Open to all - Every 2nd Thursday is an FSB networking day!

We are moving our sessions around Cornwall to bring our great brand of networking and practical business advice closer to a venue near you. See our web diary for details and book your place online: www.fsb.org.uk/Cornwall Invite your own business contacts too!

SEP 14– Business Rate Relief – St Ives (see above article) OCT 12 – Which Business Structure is Best - Francis Clark, Truro NOV 9 – Business Plans, Why & How Hannafore Point, Looe DEC 14 – How to Sell – Arundel Arms, Lifton (joint with FSB Devon)

BUSINESS CORNWALL

FSB_Sept17.indd 3

39

22/08/2017 15:20

TOURISM

NEWS

SPONSORED BY

www.visitcornwall.com

MARTHA’S ORCHARD OPENS A luxury new holiday complex has been officially opened in north Cornwall by Visit Cornwall’s chief executive, Malcolm Bell.

Martha’s Orchard in Constantine Bay consists of two houses, one sleeping up to ten and the other up to eight, and seven lodges, four of which have hot tubs and all sleeping up to six in three separate bedrooms. After cutting the ribbon to officially open Martha’s Orchard, Bell was given a tour of the accommodation by Margaret and Patrick Langmaid who also run nearby awardwinning Mother Ivey’s Bay Holiday Park.

He said: “The quality is genuinely outstanding and represents a real step-change in what Cornwall is able to offer self-catering visitors. Both houses are superbly designed, whilst the lodges are like no other lodges I have ever seen.”

VOTE FOR CORNWALL

£1M INVESTMENT A five-star eco-friendly holiday complex in Porthtowan is to upgrade its facilities after securing a £1.15 million funding package from Santander Business Banking.

Established in 1997 by husband-and-wife team John and Pauline Barrow, Rosehill Lodges was originally a campsite until

2006 when The Barrows substantially redeveloped the site into ten luxury lodges with grass roofs.

The investment will allow the owners to make additional improvements which will include recruiting a marketing manager and investing in a new website in the autumn.

Cornwall is in the running to hold onto its title as the Best UK Holiday Destination for an incredible ninth year at the prestigious British Travel Awards 2017 (BTAs).

The award is a public vote and Visit Cornwall is urging people to help defend its title by going online at visitcornwall. com/vote-for-cornwall. Other regions in the running are the Lake District, Norfolk, Northumberland and Pembrokeshire.

Visit Cornwall chief executive, Malcolm Bell, said: “We are so proud of Cornwall’s ruling reign, which is testament to the award winning tourism product we have on offer.

BTA is voted by the public and Cornwall’s winning streak shows the national’s love for our beautiful county shows no signs of stopping". In addition to being shortlisted for the top holiday destination award, the Lost Gardens of Heligan is a contender in the Best UK Leisure Attraction category, and Bude is in the running for the Best UK Coastal Resort.

FOUR STARS FOR THE PENVENTON The Penventon Park Hotel in Redruth has been awarded four stars by the AA. The assessment is the result of a significant, rolling refurbishment programme that has so far cost over £1.5 million.

Forty of the 65 bedrooms have now been significantly upgraded, while the hotel’s public areas have also been transformed.

As part of the ongoing improvement project, the restaurant has also achieved two rosettes.

“Everyone has worked really hard towards fourstar status and I’d like to thank our whole team for their efforts,” said director Aaron Pascoe.

40

BUSINESS CORNWALL

Tourism_Sept17.indd 2

23/08/2017 10:40

Next Month Christmas is a coming!

Advertise your office party venue in next month’s Business Cornwall magazine, or that perfect prezzy in our Christmas Gift Guide.

One less thing to worry about Running a business is time consuming at the best of times and you need the IT systems that underpin your organisation to function reliably and securely.

Cyber security is an issue for businesses of all sizes and CF Systems will provide advice, solutions and ongoing support that will enable your company and your staff to operate securely in the face of the ever increasing threat landscape.

Working with globally recognised vendors we provide security audits, provision of secure infrastructure, staff training and ongoing advice to help your business succeed.

Our friendly and experienced engineers are trained to internationally recognised standards, providing high levels of support with a focus on customer service.

To get involved, email caroline@businesscornwall.co.uk

ering quality and Deliv friendly First Aid r e s u g in Cornwall. trainin Find out how our experienced team of Trainers, and fully accredited courses, can help you meet your legal first aid requirements.

Our Upcoming Courses: Emergency First Aid – 20th September & 27th November First Aid at Work – 20th-23rd September & 27th-29th November

Private courses can also be arranged on request.

01209 717479 / bookings@cblc.co.uk www.carnbrealeisurecentre.co.uk

PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE AND SERVICES TO STARTUPS, SMES AND ESTABLISHED BUSINESSES FOR OVER TWO CENTURIES. Our clients are based all over the West Country and beyond. Our solicitors will provide practical, commercially astute legal advice designed to resolve your legal matter and implement strategies for growth quickly and costeffectively.

01872 241414 www.nalders.co.uk TRURO - ST AUSTELL - FALMOUTH - HELSTON -

All courses fully accredited by:

AD_PAGES_Sept17.indd 4

CAMBORNE - NEWQUAY - PENZANCE Nalders Solicitors is the trade name of Nalders LLP (authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority) a limited liability partnership registered in England & Wales under number OC354499.

22/08/2017 15:17

CREATIVE

AND DIGITAL

SPONSORED BY

CREATIVES COLLABORATE Two Cornish creative agencies have joined forces in order to grow business.

Leap, based in St Austell, and Truro-based MPAD will collaborate on projects in the charity, health, education and sustainability sectors.

The alliance was forged by Leap creative director, Matt Hocking, and MPAD counterpart, Mark Picken.

Hocking, said: “Mark and I have known each other for a long time and have a lot of shared values. We’ve worked on projects before, such as the Cornwall Sustainability Awards and with the European Centre for Environment and Human Health.

“Both organisations are like minded, progressive and have a range of complementary services that considerably extend our individual offerings, so it’s a perfect opportunity.”

42

FROM LEFT: MARK PICKEN AND MATT HOCKING

KNOWLEDGE BANK LAUNCHED

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

A Redruth photography studio has taken its investment levels to new heights.

Figolux’s latest bit of kit – a £10k portable PhotoRobot workstation – means it has spent more than £250k on new equipment since opening for business in 2015.

Director, Andrew McLean Brown, said: “The kit that we use day-to-day to produce our 360-degree imagery is fantastic for work within the studio, however it is not very mobile due to its size and weight.

“This means that we consistently rely on our clients to ship the products they would like photographed to us, which can prove

www.digitalpeninsula.org

challenging, especially in high volumes.

“Our new PhotoRobot Case will give us the freedom to produce 360-degree images away from the studio, on location at our customers’ sites.”

Working with clients across a number of different industry sectors, Figolux provides a wide range of photographic services in addition to its 360-degree photography.

“Through investment in emerging technologies and diversification in the markets we serve, the last two years has seen a real upward trend for the business,” McLean Brown added.

An online resource to help Cornish businesses benefit from digital technology has been launched by Superfast Business Cornwall.

The Knowledge Bank features impartial information and advice to help Cornwall and Isles of Scilly-based businesses exploit digital technology to develop and grow. It includes guides, checklists, top tips and videos on everything from digital marketing to app development.

Meanwhile, the ERDF-funded Superfast Business Cornwall project will be holding a one-day conference at Goonhilly Earth Station on Thursday, October 19.

The Connect to the Future conference will include workshops, keynote speakers, networking opportunities and a digital surgery with Superfast Business Cornwall digital business advisers, as well as a tour of Goonhilly.

To register for free and to find out more about the Knowledge Bank, or to book a place on the upcoming Connect to the Future conference, visit www.sfbcornwall.co.uk.

IMPRIMUS SAVINGS The Redruth-based mailing provider Imprimus has launched a new hybrid mail solution to help Cornish businesses reduce costs.

Once installed onto a computer, users are given the option to print their documents and files through the facilities at Imprimus with a single click. Imprimus claims this outsourcing can deliver saving up to 60% on the cost of their print and postage overheads.

BUSINESS CORNWALL

Creative_Sept17.indd 2

22/08/2017 15:36

JUST A THOUGHT

Why Nationwide Print MD, Julian Hocking, is proud of his environmental credentials

OPINION

GREEN WITH ENVY? was sceptical about ‘going green’ until I participated in the Green Foundation initiative at the Eden Project in 2010/11.

The idea was to motivate business leaders to engage with sustainability, and identify how environmentally conscious decision-making could help companies secure a competitive edge. It really dictated the direction of Nationwide Print for the current decade, and set us on course to become the UK’s greenest printer.

Despite inconsistent policy drivers at a national level, which has led to confusion and patchy growth in the low carbon sector, there is still a strong business case for buying into the latest green technology. I’m a firm believer that bold investments, strong leadership and a clear environmental strategy are better endorsements than accreditation schemes, where reams of form filling-in tend to validate lukewarm actions.

Whatever line of business you’re in, buying the latest equipment will necessarily mean buying something which is more energy efficient than what it replaces. Energy costs are only going to increase in the future, so efficiency should always play a major role in purchasing decisions.

When the payback period is short – for example our intelligent lighting system paid for itself in two years – it’s an easy call.

Longer returns can be harder to justify to stakeholders, but they will thank you in the end. For example, our external insulation and cedar cladding may only save us a few hundred pounds a year, but as energy costs escalate that will become thousands. However, our best

investment has certainly been solar panels; we added to the array last year and so far, have generated 218240 kwh and saved 124396 kg of carbon.

Renewable energy and efficiency measures mean that over the course of a year we produce more energy than we use – a remarkable achievement for an energy-intensive printing business. We don’t like to stand still and are always looking for new ideas. As long as there is a good business case, we will consider investing.

However, it’s worth doing your homework and choosing your moment. For example, right now I would love to buy an electric car for travelling to meetings and for smaller local deliveries, but I predict there will be a big shift towards affordability and choice in the next year or two, so I’m holding back.

Energy storage is something else we also look into periodically, but sadly the right technology at the right price just doesn’t exist yet. The announcement that the Government is to invest £246m in battery technology is a positive step, but it will take a while for the market to feel the benefit.

We’re proud of our environmental credentials and, aside from good business sense, I believe it’s also an ethical imperative. And it certainly has given us that competitive edge, allowing us to secure contracts from the likes of Armani, Rolex, St Austell Brewery and – back where it all started - the Eden Project. After price and quality, it’s another factor our customers take into account when choosing a printer. I’ve gone from a sceptic to a full-blown convert and I’ve no regrets!

The announcement that the Government is to invest £246m in battery technology is a positive step, but it will take a while for the market to feel the benefit

BUSINESS CORNWALL

JustAThought_Sept17.indd 3

43

23/08/2017 09:59

EVENTS

SEPTEMBER

SPONSORED BY www.jh-av.co.uk

SEPTEMBER EVENTS 5

PKF FRANCIS CLARK BREAKFAST BRIEFING

Lowin House, Truro

14

Francis Clark’s Truro office is looking to host a series of ‘Breakfast Briefings’ in the next coming months, aimed at owner managers of growing Cornish businesses. Each one will be set around a topic and will feature short presentations from experts, followed by an open discussion over breakfast. francisclark.co.uk/events

7

12 13

Meeting with BBQ, activities and networking in the inspiring surroundings of BF Adventure. falmouthbusinessclub.co.uk

15

Koffi Lounge at Waterside, Lanivet

19

CORNWALL CHAMBER BIG BREAKFAST

TECHNOLOGY FOR GROWTH WORKSHOP

Pool Innovation Centre

SAPIENCE HR MASTERCLASS

The Hub Club, Carn Brea

EventsDiary_Sept17.indd 2

COPPER & TIN NETWORKING

24

Penventon Park Hotel, Redruth

08

HFC NETWORKS CLUB

Hall for Cornwall, Truro

The next HFC Networks Club will feature a presentation from guest speaker Melissa Mead from the UK Sepsis Trust. The bi-monthly event is open to all individuals working in local business, looking to start-up a company or those hoping to secure employment in the region. chelsean@hallforcornwall.org.uk

HAYLE BUSINESS BREAKFAST

The Hayle Business Breakfast meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Birdies Bistro in Hayle. All welcome. sarah@abodepropertyagents.co.uk

GREENE KING IPA CHAMPIONSHIP

Cornish Pirates v Rotherham Titans (2.30pm) For a truly memorable occasion, match day hospitality is the perfect setting to entertain clients and colleagues alike. Match day Hospitality starts at just £45 per person plus vat robyn.ashurst@cornish-pirates.com

25

CORNWALL CHAMBER INNOVATION NETWORK

Tremough Innovation Centre

Cornwall Chamber of Commerce launched the Chamber Innovation Investment Network (CIIN) during Cornwall Business Week this year. In conjunction with Plymouth University’s Innovation Centres and Mylor Ventures, free Investment Readiness events will take place to prepare a shortlist of companies seeking investment from business angels. cornwallchamber.co.uk

The Copper & Tin is an informal fortnightly meeting of like-minded businesses who work together to refer business to each other, recommend services and generally keep in touch. All are welcome, there are no fees and no membership rules. adrian@adrianbarnettphotography. co.uk

Monthly business breakfast networking gathering of the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber members - £19 +VAT, non-members - £25 +VAT cornwallchamber.co.uk

What to include, what to avoid – a snappy guide to employment contracts and how not to get bitten! Coffee and pastries on arrival. Course places are limited and restricted to one place per company.

Top 5 this month

Local business owners at the next monthly networking event will be joined by guest speakers from Cornwall Council’s Revenues Team who will give a guide to business rate reliefs, what you should be claiming, details on this recently announced extra benefit, how to apply etc. fsb.org.uk/Cornwall

20

FALMOUTH BUSINESS CLUB

CORNWALL CHAMBER LUNCH

A practical workshop explaining how your business can reduce costs and increase profits through exploiting digital technologies. sfbcornwall.co.uk

Treloyhan Manor Hotel, Carbis Bay

BF Adventure

Hotel Victoria, Newquay

Don’t miss out on the chance to network and connect with more than 50 businesses and listen to presenters give you a great insight into what they do. Chamber members - £22 +VAT; nonmembers - £25 +VAT cornwallchamber.co.uk

#FSBCONNECT

26/ 27

10

TECHNOLOGY ESSENTIALS FOR BUSINESS

Carn Gwaval, St Marys

Two-day workshop specifically created for those who are less experienced with digital technology.

The seminar will look at how exploiting digital technology can help you grow your business. sfbcornwall.co.uk

GREENE KING IPA CHAMPIONSHIP

Cornish Pirates v Bristol (2.30pm)

First game of the new season, against Championship favourites Bristol. For a truly memorable occasion, match day hospitality is the perfect setting to entertain clients and colleagues alike. Match day Hospitality starts at just £45 per person plus vat robyn.ashurst@cornish-pirates.com

22/08/2017 15:32

28

FALMOUTH BUSINESS CLUB

Greenbank Hotel

The club meets on alternate Thursday mornings over breakfast in the Working Boat Pub at the Greenbank where a healthy group of local business people invite speakers, conduct business networking, and look for ways to help one another enhance their businesses. falmouthbusinessclub.co.uk

TRURO CONSTRUCTION PROPERTY FORUM

Mannings, Truro

The Truro Construction & Property Forum meets every last Thursday of the month at Mannings in Truro.

The networking event brings together people from across the industry. Entry is a £1 donation to sponsored charity. sarahgreenslade@wwasurveyors.com

29

CORNWALL CAREERS OFFERS LAUNCH

The Eden Project

A must attend event if you are part of a business or school wanting to join the dots between education and the workplace.

Cornwall Careers Offer is a strategic plan that aims to increase the understanding of Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance across both secondary education and businesses in Cornwall. eventbrite.co.uk

For further details of these and more networking events, visit

businesscornwall.co.uk To publicise your event here for free, email news@businesscornwall co.uk

22

BUSINESS CORNWALL LIVE!

Perranporth Airfield

The latest Business Cornwall LIVE! follows on from this issue’s electric car guide and gives you the opportunity to get behind the wheel of some of the latest models at a special event at Perranporth Airfield. Free to attend, but places are strictly limited. morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk

EventsDiary_Sept17.indd 3

NETWORKING Business Cornwall’s Morveth Ward keeps us up to date on the networking scene Over the school holidays there is an obvious change in the tone within the business community – many of us are embracing summer, taking time off and enjoying ourselves – a propensity recognised by the business community means there have been less formal events but many social ones where networking happens by chance, as a by-product. Falmouth Week for instance was actionpacked and included the Royal Air Force aerobatic team, the Red Arrows, which is undeniably one of the world’s best aerobatic display teams. I also heard that many of you headed down to the 80s and 90s night to see headline boyband, Blue.

Crowdfunder hosted its Summer Experience event as it celebrated raising more than £40 million for projects around the UK, welcoming attendees from companies including Virgin, Santander, JC Decaux, Tesco and M&S, as well as local businesses. This was one of the highlight events of the summer for me – hosted at its Newquay HQ there was a buoyant atmosphere, drinks flowing and a broad cross-section of business people to chat to and connect with. The most pertinent thing taken from this event was compounding the fact that Cornwall as a base for a business can breed as much success as

your ambition will allow.

This month plays host to another Future Focus event which is certainly one to look forward to with more exciting keynote speakers: The first speaker announced was The Group Head of Brand at Innocent Drinks, Dan Germain, who has been with the world famous smoothie company since they began and will be sharing some of his experiences and insights.

Gavin Jones from John Lewis Partnership, is the second keynote for the ‘Seeking Tomorrow’s Customer’ event on September 26.

To tie in with Business Cornwall’s sustainability focus this month we will be hosting an electric car event on the afternoon of September 22. The event will showcase a selection of some of the most popular EVs available and being held at Perranporth Airfield will also mean there will be the opportunity to drive the cars there and then. EV expert, Matt Trevaskis of EcoDrive will also be on hand to help with any technical questions.

Crowdfunder hosted its Summer Experience event as it celebrated raising more than £40 million for projects around the UK

26

FUTURE FOCUS

Heartlands, Pool

The latest Future Focus event from Unlocking Potential will feature keynote presentations from John Lewis Partnership’s IT innovation manager, Gavin Jones, and Dan Germain, group head of brand at Innocent Drinks. unlocking-potential.co.uk

27

MARINE I

St Austell Conference Centre

A collaboration event designed to bring together businesses, innovation leaders and specialist experts, to give you the very latest insights on how RD&I in marine technology can attract investment. eventbrite.co.uk

22/08/2017 15:32

CONNECTED

CORNWALL

SPONSORED BY

www.cioslep.co.uk

AGILE ON THE BEACH International tech and business experts descended on Falmouth University for the global Agile on the Beach 2017 conference FROM TOP RIGHT: TOBY PARKINS (HEADFORWARDS); AGILE ON THE BEACH DELEGATES; PAUL MASSEY (BLUEFRUIT) BELOW CONFERENCE SPEAKERS AND ORGANISERS

ROC 5K More than £15k was raised for local people with learning disabilities at the annual ROC 5k charity fun run in Truro TOP ROW FROM LEFT: AT THE START ON LEMON QUAY; MEL COLTON DYER (CORNWALL CHAMBER) BOTTOM ROW FROM LEFT: RICHARD COLLETT (DIFFERNET); EWAN MCCLYMONT (BISHOP FLEMING); THE CORNISH MUTUAL TEAM

46

BUSINESS CORNWALL

Connected_Sept17.indd 2

23/08/2017 09:56

CORNWALL

CONNECTED

SUMMER EXPERIENCE Crowdfunder hosted its Summer Experience event in Newquay to celebrate raising more than £40 million for projects around the UK, including the world’s first flat-pack vehicle, the OX TOP RIGHT: PARTY IN FULL SWING BELOW FROM LEFT: THE OX; ANDREW FINLAY (OXFORD INNOVATION) AND JOHN HARVEY (SAMPHIRE CLUB); DEBORAH EDWARDS (HARLAND ACCOUNTANTS), ROB LOVE (CROWDFUNDER), DAVID HARLAND (HARLAND ACCOUNTANTS), DAWN BEBE (CROWDFUNDER)

ANNIVERSARY PARTY St Ives Brewery’s upper level deck and brasserie was the venue for Sapience HR’s tenth anniversary celebrations BELOW FROM LEFT: THE SAPIENCE TEAM CUT THE CAKE; PAUL RAGLAN, DONNA RAGLAN, AMANDA PADDY, JO COOKE

BUSINESS CORNWALL

Connected_Sept17.indd 3

47

23/08/2017 10:39

THE LAST

WORD

SPONSORED BY Contact: A. E. Verona Cocks E: vcocks@setfords.co.uk | T: 01209 708 651 www.setfords.co.uk

DANIEL SLADEN Everything you need to know about PKF Francis Clark tax director, Daniel Sladen

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG? A writer.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL TIME JOB?

Driving tractors for a summer, which I was disastrously bad at. Fortunately my first permanent job (as a tax trainee with KPMG in London) went a bit better.

WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKETS? Sand, mostly.

Sometimes sea glass.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO RELAX? Walking and kayaking round the coast in west Cornwall, photography, cooking fish.

IF YOU COULD BUILD A HOUSE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD WHERE WOULD IT BE? I’ve

built one in Cornwall so it would need to be further afield. The south east corner of Sicily would be good.

IF YOU COULD INVITE ANY TWO PEOPLE FOR DINNER, WHO WOULD THEY BE AND WHY WOULD YOU INVITE THEM? Liam and Noel

Gallagher. It’s hard to say whether it would lead to one of the great musical reunions in history or just an expensive repair bill, but it wouldn’t be boring.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION? Other than Cornwall, of

course, a three-way tie between northern Scotland, Sicily and the Scillies.

WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST MISTAKE IN LIFE? A lot of things that feel like mistakes at

the time lead to good things in the end so I think it’s too early to say (that said, driving the length of a field completely unaware of the wire fence that had got caught on the back of my tractor was almost certainly a mistake).

WHAT WAS YOUR LUCKIEST BREAK? My wife and daughter agreeing that moving from London to Cornwall was a good idea three years ago.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE DOING IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME? A Land Rover trek to

Patagonia.

48 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

LastWord_Sept17.indd 2

22/08/2017 15:35

The Business Property Specialists

Licensed Trade Sector Opportunities

Admiral Benbow Penzance

Cornish Arms St Ives

Wheel Inn Tresillian

Freehold £650,000

Freehold £499,950

Leasehold £59,950

Pirate Inn Penzance

Mill House Trebarwith Strand

Inn and Lodge Balnoon

Leasehold £45,000

Freehold £1.35m

Leasehold £150,000

Licensed Trade Sector Market Update: The Licensed trade sector is probably the most diverse our business transfer team deal with given the wide range of lease variations, trade profile, location and marketing prices. We have seen a significant uptake in interest in this sector over the last 12 months and as such have committed resources to effectively value, market and sell our Graham Timmins: clients businesses. If you are thinking of selling Head of Business Transfer now is the time!

Beverly Northey: Commercial Surveyor

Paul Collins: Commercial Surveyor

If you are the owner of licensed premises and are thinking of selling now is the time to contact us on 01872 247036 for a Free Market Appraisal.

As business property specialists Miller Commercial can offer you a full range of Commercial Property services from valuations and management through to sales and investment.

Our team of experts and trusted advisers have helped us achieve, for the sixth year running, the accolade of being the most active agent in Cornwall as awarded by Estates Gazette.

Our areas of expertise include: Investment & Development Sales & Acquisitions Business Transfer Valuation & Lease Consultancy Property Management Leasing & Letting

miller-commercial.co.uk AD_PAGES_Sept17.indd 5

22/08/2017 15:18

“Your business is our business.”

Microtest Ltd, Normandy Way, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 1EX Tel: 0845 345 1606 sales@microtestretail.co.uk

AD_PAGES_Sept17.indd 6

22/08/2017 15:18