7643 chamber news interactive

MAY - JULY ‘15 | ISSUE 1

chambernews “

Simple can be harder than complex: You have to work hard to get your thinking clear to make it simple.

But it’s worth it in the end because once you get there, you can move mountains

“

Steve Jobs

INSIDE 5.

THIS ISSUE.

Buying or selling a business - there are humans in this equation too

6.

Stop Charging an Hourly Rate and Make More Money

8.

Accounting and Technology

12.

We are the first step!

presidents corner

We run the things that run your business

RICOH

imagine. change.

The reputation Ricoh copiers and printers have earned in the past represents only one aspect of who we are today. We still supply document solutions, with a range of smart, intuitive devices designed to improve efficiency, productivity and reduce costs in your office, but also deliver a broad range of IT services, business solutions and consultancy. Today, we run the things that run your business.

To find out what Ricoh can do for your business call 07-957 4500 or visit www.ricoh.co.nz 2 / chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015

presidents corner

PRESIDENT Mel Engelbrecht Body and Motion Gym E. motion.mel@gmail.com M. 021 044 2022 P. 07 827 0847 VICE-PRESIDENT Brent Nielsen NZ Institute of Rural Health E. us.three@xtra.co.nz M. 021 576 136 P. 07 823 7551 VICE-PRESIDENT Christine Stevenson Accounted4 E. chris.s@accounted4.co.nz M. 027 635 9708 P. 07 827 5192 TREASURER Janine Peters Ag Technology NZ Ltd E. janinepeters@agtechnz.com M. 021 957 418 P. 07 827 9295 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE LesleyAnn Thomas People In Mind E. info@peopleinmind.co.nz M. 021 537 539 P. 07 823 3250 David Sloane CSC Buying Group E. davids@csc.org.nz M. 021 976 291 P. 07 823 7979 Lesley Nielsen Lewis’ Barristers and Solicitors E. lesleyn@lewislaw.co.nz M. 021 524 824 P. 07 827 5147 Philip Coles Cambridge Real Estate E. philip@cambridgerealestate.co.nz M. 021 432 767 P. 07 823 1945 Emma Sinclair Emma’s Food Bag E. emma@emmasfoodbag.co.nz M. 022 0474 800 Phil Mackay Rouge Cafe E. phil@rougeempire.co.nz M. 021 337 255 P. 07 823 9178 Debbie Sutherland Gold Medal Performance E. debbie@marksutherland.co.nz P. 07 827 7180 CEO Tania Witheford E. ceo@cambridgechamber.co.nz M. 021 636 536 P. 07 823 3460 EVENTS COORDINATOR Aimee Forrest E. info@cambridgechamber.co.nz P. 07 823 3460

Is Your Business

in good shape?

THE FITNESS INDUSTRY HAS GROWN DURING THE PAST DECADES, AND IN CAMBRIDGE ESPECIALLY OVER THE PAST 5 YEARS. Market research reports the demand for health & fitness facilities will continue to rise over the next five years, as the general public becomes more health-conscious and the aging population places a greater emphasis on staying fit.

The fitness and health industry is competitive and continues to become more competitive. Not only do we compete with other fitness services / facilities, weight reducing salons, google and home-use fitness equipment, the industry also competes with other entertainment and retail for the discretionary income in our target markets. Conditions like these may limit our ability to keep going and maintaining our “weight” as a business.

Because the fitness industry is so cyclical, Irrespective of industry, it is important to know the key factors that may influence the shape of your business, having plans in place to ensure sustainability for a healthy and fit outcome in the ‘year-end-figures’.

It is all about “figures”, on the scale, the bank balance AND the blood pressure monitor after you’ve seen the bank balance…

Some important points: Prepare for different seasons. Together with other market factors, the weather can be a significant influence and can impact expected income. Examples; June to October are big, with winter weather causing people to exercise indoors. New Year’s resolutions also play a role in January and February, but that is about how long New Year’s Resolutions lasts… for most.

Know your customer and cater for your customer specifically, ensuring value for money. Do what you do and do it well and know why your customers have chosen you. There are many reasons people choose to exercise, i.e. fitness, weight loss, health related issues, age-related activities, socializing and sport-specific goals. What are their reasons for choosing you?

Technology is key as times have changed.

Example: Comparing your bathroom scale with an electronic scale that calculates your height and BMI reading - no comparison! Fitness technology has done great things to get more people working out and fit, being accountable to their trainer and themselves on a whole new level. Interactive workout programs incorporated into gym equipment, fitness apps, fitbits, the list goes on and on. Help your client track mileage, speed, number of workouts, calories burned, and more by expanding your use of technology.

Staying strong – create a mission statement and stay true to it. In other words focus on what makes you and your business stand out from the crowd. Reinvest in your equipment, facilities and staff. Do not compete on price alone, rather focus on customer service and making sure you deliver an environment and service that will help people meet their goals.

Mel

Mel Engelbrecht President - Cambridge Chamber of Commerce

DISCLAIMER: The information in this publication is of general nature only and readers are cautioned not to act or rely on it without first seeking professional advice. Similarly, any opinions expressed in this publication should not be construed as official policy of the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce.

chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015 / 3

Welcome TO THE NEW LOOK CHAMBER NEWS

Thanks to the team at Kaz Dezign, we have given the Chamber News a new look, with a change in layout and design.

Based on feedback received in our recent survey , we have put together a selection of articles covering a range of subjects.

Whilst look and feel is important the proof and value is in the content and readability.

Therefore your feedback is important to help us make the Chamber News a publication that is a great read and adds value.

Email Tania: ceo@cambridgechamber.co.nz with your comments.

4 / chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015

Matt Hanna Passed away on 04 April 2015

The Cambridge Chamber of Commerce extends our sincere condolences to Matt’s family and the family at Lewis Law. Through Lewis’, Matt was a significant contributor to the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, a friend and a mentor to many. He will be missed.

RIP Matt.

articles

Buying or selling a business

THERE ARE HUMANS IN THIS EQUATION TOO ~ LesleyAnn Thomas ~

The people You’ve decided to sell your business and there’s a seemingly endless list of things to think about… finances, assets, systems, risks and legal considerations. These are the nuts and bolts of the sale and purchase. But it’s important to also think about the “people” side of the process. What will it mean for your staff?

I have seen business acquisitions handled well, but I have also seen them handled badly. The HR considerations, if handled well, will make the transition smoother and less stressful for all involved.

Start with a clear understanding

It’s important to start with a clear understanding between the two parties – vendor and buyer – about the staffing.

You may need to reference some decisions in the sale and purchase agreement.

Considerations: Is the buyer going to take all staff on? Or some staff, not others? Or nobody?

If the buyer takes on some or all staff members, are they going to take them on the same terms and conditions?

Is the buyer going to have a trial period?

Will staff start afresh with their annual leave entitlements?

Is there a 6 month stand-down for bereavement and sick leave with the new owner?

What information will the current owner disclose to the new owner about staff, keeping in mind the protection of human rights and the right to privacy?

It’s important to keep the rumours at bay. If employees don’t have the facts, or if they don’t understand the process, chances are they may imagine the worst. Think

about the timing and messages you want to give to staff.

For the buyer it’s important to think about what documentation is required.

Are some roles in your company protected under legislation?

Buying and selling a business is much more than just the financials.

Take the time to plan the staffing elements and you will reap the rewards of a smoother transition.

If you want to have a chat about the HR elements of buying or selling a business, give us a call at People in Mind, 07 823 3250.

chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015 / 5

~ By Mark Sutherland, Motivation Triggers ~

6 / chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015

articles

If you are self-employed as a consultant or a contractor or you have a service based business like a lawyer or an accountant then you are not doing yourself any favours if you are charging your services on an hourly rate. Watching the clock every six minutes is no fun.

You will make more money offering a value proposition.

Agree on the outcome your client wants and what value and expertise you can bring to that result then decide on your fee.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate – that’s just business.

Value based services allow you to create efficiencies within your business. By this I mean you can create processes and systems that will allow you to deliver your work in a more effective way than just clock watching.

For example you may find your hourly rate used to be $100 per hour, but by offering value based fees for services with improved efficiencies and an agreed fee, your actual fee may work out to be $150 per hour if you were counting the hours. Simply put, you make more money in fewer hours.

This won’t bother your client because they are not watching the clock they are just enjoying your value added services for a fee they agreed to pay.

Here is an example of replacing hourly rates with value based fees.

Bob is a self-employed HR consultant who helps small businesses with their HR needs. For this, Bob charges an hourly rate for individual projects that his clients might give him. In between projects there is no income which makes it difficult for Bob to budget for both business and home financial responsibilities.

By changing his offering to value based services with improved efficiencies, Bob can create a suite of services that small businesses could benefit from. This might include payroll, job descriptions, hiring and firing, team coaching, employment contracts and legal compliance amongst others.

For this suite of services Bob could have a tiered system with different fees attached. Tier one for his premium service might be $1200 per month down to tier four worth $400 per month. He can get a number of clients to build a healthy income.

This is a win-win for the client and Bob. The clients can purchase the suite to meet their needs. Bob has his monthly fee and just gets on with his work. Neither Bob or the client is counting every six minutes.

By getting fees paid on a monthly basis, it is not about how many hours you work it is about the value and results you create for the client. In my own business I haven't charged an hourly fee since 1999. My own personal philosophy is ‘I've quoted you a fee you have agreed to pay; now I will do what it takes to achieve the result.

Cambridge business wins Xero innovation award CAMBRIDGE-BASED WEB DEVELOPMENT COMPANY ROCKETSPARK HAS BEEN NAMED THE MOST INNOVATIVE ADD-ON BY ONLINE ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE GIANT XERO AT THE LONDON XEROCON EVENT. Rocketspark, established in August 2009, beat out 380 Xero ancillary services (add-ons) to take out the ‘Shaking Things Up’ award at the Battersea Evolution in London in February.

The four Rocketspark directors comprise; brothers Grant and Jeremy Johnson, Lee Reichardt and Richard King. All but Grant, who lives in London, call Cambridge home.

“It was definitely not an expected accolade, that’s for sure because Rocketspark is one of Xero’s less established add-ons and is also completely self-funded,” said Grant, who received the award on behalf of the company at the event.

“But the judges said they liked that our system connects with a wide range of other add-ons within the Xero ecosystem.

Rocketspark have developed a very easy to use website builder that has design and simplicity at it’s core. Rocketspark also design websites for businesses for those who want to have access to their team of experts.

“Our tagline is ‘beautifully simple websites’. That means someone who is inexperienced in web design/ development can manage their own website very easily, yet it looks great and represents their company in a positive way.”

“For the past six years we have been building what is now a great and robust product, and we’re ready to start telling people about it, so the award has come at just the right time,” said Jeremy.

You can visit Rocketspark to see both their DIY website system and their design and build options at www.rocketspark.com.

chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015 / 7

~ By Accounted4 ~ ACCOUNTING HAS CHANGED SIGNIFICANTLY OVER TIME DUE TO TECHNOLOGY. THE WORD TECHNOLOGY REFERS TO ANYTHING THAT IS MAN-MADE THAT MAKES A PROCESS EASIER TO COMPLETE.

Think of the accountant armed with a hammer and chisel thousands of years ago and compare this to the accountant in the current day using computers and information technology. Since accounting became a profession, the tasks associated with completing the accounting process have not changed, but the tools used to complete it have. We owe that change to technology!

The presence of computers and software have helped accountants and business owners alike in their daily tasks including paying bills, raising invoices, recording transactions and reporting and analysing financial information.

Accounting programs are popular as they keep all data organised and are easy to use.

As an extension of computers, the Internet has made life easier in many aspects of accounting.

8 / chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015

Documents can be shared and research can be conducted online. IRD allow various different tax returns to be e-filed which allows us to become more paperless - a sustainability initiative.

The buzz word of recent years is the “Cloud”. In an accounting context, Cloud accounting describes accounting systems that are accessed via the Internet and store data to a remote data centre. Cloud services and products allow accounting professionals to interact virtually with clients in a world where work can be accomplished anywhere, anytime and clients and accountants can collaborate on the same information.

Benefits of cloud accounting also include system security, automation of data input due to automated bank feeds, the integration of “add-on” tools and availability of real-time data. Technologies such as smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices allow customers to reap these benefits.

In summary, improvements in accounting technology will shift the focus of accounting from computation to consulting. Accountants and business owners can analyse business information to support business decisions and provide strategic direction.

articles

MAKE YOUR BRAND MORE

VISIBLE THIS WINTER WITH MERCHANDISE FROM ZEST PROMOTIONS

Branded merchandise can be a powerful way to promote your business. At Zest Promotions we are all about providing you with products that raise your visibility in the domain of your target market. We are your local supplier of corporate apparel, imprinted accessories, gifts, event merchandise and more.

Zest Promotions provide a complete service, from product sourcing and branding through to delivery. We can help you find the perfect solution for your business’ needs and aim to make the whole process hassle free.

Our clients benefit from our creative ideas, competitive pricing, attention to detail and quick turnaround. We are also able to mock up samples electronically so you can visualise each product with your logo on it prior to ordering.

With winter fast approaching it’s time to think about ways to make your brand visible this season. Have you considered umbrellas, jackets, beanies, coffee or travel mugs? We have a huge range of items available – check out www.zestpromotions.co.nz to request an online quote, or feel free to get in touch to discuss your requirements.

www.facebook.com/zestpromotionsnz

Cyber Insurance Small to medium businesses (SME’s) in New Zealand are facing an increased threat of security breaches that can affect everyday systems leading to disruption of work flows, additional expense and the loss of critical business and client information. All of which culminate into significant damage to your reputation and bottom line.

Managing the risk of human error, criminal activity or nuisance for any business is a relentless task and even more so for SME’s who have limited budgets and resources to monitor or fend off such attacks. The issues remain even when business functions are outsourced to “trusted” third parties such as IT, marketing, payroll processors, data backup and cloud service providers. Whilst there are many benefits of outsourcing there is an increased risk as you are handing key data to someone else. What if the outsourcer is hacked or goes into liquidation and how easy would it be for you to recover your data? Whilst you are outsourcing key processes it is difficult to outsource your liability. Therefore you will be required to deal with the situation and then try to recover your losses from the outsourcer. This can be difficult as most outsourcers limit their liability by contract.

Don’t rely on traditional insurance policies to cover a cyber event, as it most likely will not. Standalone cyber insurance policies offer broader coverage and most provide crisis management expertise such as IT forensics, PR and legal assistance that is crucial when responding to an incident. These events usually happen at the most inconvenient time so having experts ready to go provides you a fighting chance to get your business back online quickly.

The cause of a cyber event is wide ranging from rogue or negligent employees, to ideological/criminal hackers or indiscriminate malware. Whatever the cause, could your business sustain a loss between $10,000 and $100,000+ to fix the issue?

Want to know more, contact Aon 4 Lake Street, PO Box 950, Cambridge P. 07 823 0500

chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015 / 9

calendar

important dates

calendar may

june

july

05

05

02

12

09

23

OPTIMUM *NEW Onyx Cafe

NETWORKING OVER COFFEE Sue Kohn-Taylor

13

17

31

21

18

28

25

29

30

SEMINAR AFTER 5 Customer Service Workshop

BUSINESS AFTER 5 Fisher Heaslip

Louise Upston Breakfast

SEMINAR AFTER 5 QEC

NETWORKING OVER COFFEE Kaz Graphic Dezign at Sarnia Park

FIRST XV Professional Development

Waipa Networks Business Awards

BUSINESS AFTER 5 MediaWorks

FIRST XV Mid Winter Christmas

FIRST XV Bubble Soccer

SEMINAR AFTER 5

Share what your business is doing to demonstrate sustainability.

Enter at: www.cambridgechamber.co.nz/page/ Sustainability/ CONGRATULATIONS TO

NETWORKING OVER COFFEE

Waipa Networks Business Awards - Excellence Categories Entries Close

March Sustainability Champion Award

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE

CONTACT TANIA OR AIMEE TODAY ON 823 3460

10 / chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015

bseen

1

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bseen in cambridge 1. Creative stalls and exclusive deals on show at the Pop-Up Expo 2. Number crunching can be fun with Accounted4’s NoC 3. A networking buzz in the air at the premier Pop-Up Expo 4. Carricks NoC quiz winners 5. Perfect weather for a picnic on the piazza 6. Great food, great people and great entertainment at the Pop-Up Picnic 7. Accounted4 NoC winners 8. Melodee of Bayleys taking home the grand prize at Compuhubs Ba5 9. Sustainability Winner of the Month - Cambridge Chiropractic 10. The spirit of Maadi, Adopt a School winners Bettie Monroe 11. Networking at the Rocketspark Ba5 12. Resthaven time capsule

chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015 / 11

We are the

first step!

Neighbourhood Support New Zealand

MY NAME IS JUDI SMYTHE; I AM THE CAMBRIDGE TOWN AND DISTRICT NEIGHBOURHOOD SUPPORT (NS) COORDINATOR FOR THE CAMBRIDGE SAFER COMMUNITIES CHARITABLE TRUST. Our role is to work and liaise with; The Cambridge Police (Prevention Officer Peter Bartrum) Waipa Civil Defence (Martin Berryman, Operations Manager, Western Waikato) The Cambridge Community

WHY is Neighbourhood Support THE FIRST STEP: In a Man-made or Natural Disaster?

We work with all emergency services; ie: Police, Fire, Civil Defence services to contact and locate people in an area impacted by a devastating event. For this reason we need an effective and robust database to include all areas of our community: URBAN, RURAL, CBD, COMMERCIAL and INDUSTRIAL It is not “if” but “when” - Remember, New Zealand is one long fault line.

Preparation and Planning – enables better response and the ability to cope: Martin Berryman of Waipa Civil Defence emphasises how the community needs to be prepared when disaster strikes to cope in the first instance. Whilst emergency services will get to you, when they can, realistically you need to have a plan.

Neighbourhood Support can help you; Plan – Help plan and discuss what is needed for you at your home or workplace Network – ensure you are connected so that you know how to contact your neighbours.

As a Business Owner: Have a Plan: You have an obligation to your staff and your customers to assess risk, analyse the possibilities and to have a plan.

Crime: If you think a crime is being committed or someone is in serious danger, call the Police immediately on 111!

As a member of a Neighbourhood Support Group, you can then alert your neighbours.

Do NOT approach the offender. However, stay alert, get details, take in as much information as possible – such as a car registration number (take a photo with your phone), colour and type of vehicle, occupants and what direction they left in – this will be a huge help to the Police.

Make it hard – a lot of our local crime is committed by opportunists.

Take every precaution to prevent or minimise access to property - at night lock gates, use security lights and alarms.

Neighbourhood Support signs demonstrate a community that cares about its neighbours.

*NOTE: Cameras (NS have 2 cameras. If you have an ongoing issue, you can ask the Police to set up a camera to help solve the crime)!

Multi Txt: We have a MULTI TXT SYSTEM. We are able to txt the entire CBD to immediately alert them on behalf of the Police, should there be a need. This can include Commercial and Industrial areas once all are on board.

Information about Multi txt and the process is explained when you attend your respective Neighbourhood Support Group.

in partnership with: TAKE THE FIRST STEP TODAY, CONTACT ME: Judi Smythe, C/- Cambridge Police Station, 18 Dick Street, Cambridge P. 07 827 6172 (leave a message) M. 021 573 323 E: cambridgens@gmail.com

12 / chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015

articles

Knowing who you are as a business, who your customer is, and how they shop will ensure the experience your customer has along their journey

Who is your customer?

What Shopping Experience are they seeking?

Retail Excellence I have been searching for the right tools and information to share with our boutique retail sector, to provide ideas, vision and understanding of innovative retail techniques to raise the bar as we aim for an excellent retail experience.

This quest has become more urgent as Cambridge clarifies its identity and endeavours to retain its unique ‘magic’ or boutique feel.

The growing availability, accessibility and visibility of products online have only increased the opportunity to tailor a message, a product, or a service. The ability to target a specific group or an individual means that if one opts for the once accepted mass appeal this can lead to catastrophic failure even for the best retailer.

I have discovered this is an incredibly dynamic space that continues to change, evolve and mature when it comes to the

shopping experience especially if you start talking about a ‘personalised’ shopping experience.

The ‘now’ generation is all about ME. This attitude and expectation needs to be harnessed and built on. This thread needs to be tangible at every touch point, from first introduction online, to first glance in the store window, to the purchase experience, the follow up and return visit.

We have all heard stories about people walking out of a store as the person in store had not taken time to open conversation or to investigate or identify a want or a need.

This relates to the online space as well, when in those first few seconds of viewing a website the user cannot clearly relate to or identify with the page viewed. First impressions count.

And the ultimate failure; when an assumption is made that someone will not

buy. For whatever the imagined reason, it is assumed the ‘customer’ does not “fit” the brand, or the price or …? And therefore will not buy. Disaster!

Therefore knowing who you are as a business, who your customer is, and how they shop is key. This will ensure your customer’s experience meets and surpasses expectation on their shopping journey; from first touch and every consequent touch point.

No longer is it just about bricks and mortar. It is now about effective cross channel sales that embraces e-commerce, social media, mobile platforms as well as the physical space.

To optimise these opportunities and to provide an excellent shopping experience requires an integrated approach with supporting systems that simplify and enhance the journey as well as providing efficiency, effectiveness and recognition.

chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015 / 13

~ By Julie South, Halo Biz ~ JULIE SOUTH OF HALOBIZ RECENTLY POSTED AN ARTICLE VIA LINKEDIN WHICH ASKED: JUST BECAUSE ‘EVERY BUSINESS’ HAS A FACEBOOK PAGE, DOES IT MEAN YOUR BUSINESS SHOULD HAVE ONE TOO? After a year of consideration, procrastination and pain, Julie closed the door on HaloBiz’s Facebook page because it was too much of a drain on resources for too little return.

Having been an early adopter of social media, Julie had managed to achieve significant and admirable visibility on Facebook, through innovative engagement with her audience, making it fun and informative without the need for any spend.

Over time, Facebook changed its rules and HaloBiz fans started to see fewer updates. It was getting harder, requiring more time, for fewer, smaller, and lesser results. And it was getting harder for her fans as well.

There were more hoops for them to jump through.

Julie said “Sometimes not doing something is harder than actually doing it!”

And that’s how it was for her to pull the plug on the HaloBiz Facebook page. The pain came from her worrying about whether she was doing the right thing - not because it hurt HaloBiz in any discernible or measurable way! In the end there was no pain at all for HaloBiz.

The deciding factors: Facebook introduced paid advertising and required more time and effort to manage. All of these are precious resources which demand a return on investment.

This is where measurement becomes critical. Julie knew Facebook wasn’t where HaloBiz’s leads and sales were coming from.

Just like any sales or marking activity, one needs to review the activity and the return to establish if the activity is worthwhile.

If you are revisiting your Facebook presence Julie suggests: 1. Determine why you have a Facebook page (because everyone else does isn’t a good enough reason. Not really).

2. Decide which metric you are going to measure success by (private messages? engagement (comments)? email / newsletter opt-ins? etc) and then track that component for the next 30 days. Is it going up or down, remaining steady?

3. What is your ROI on that metric and is this ROI one you’re satisfied with? (are the private messages from tyre-kickers that drain your resources, or do they lead to sales)?

4.

What (if anything) can you do to improve this ROI?

Is it worth it?

5.

How much time is Facebook taking you and/or

your staff? Are the results worth it?

6.

How does this rate with other sales-generating

strategies in place in your business?

7.

If (5) is “no” - where could you be investing your

time / energy instead that would show a better ROI? 8.

Ask! Ask your Facebook fans their thoughts?

[if none reply, that could be your answer!]

Julie is not saying that pulling the plug on your Facebook page is the right tactic for your business.

She does however raise an important point whereby it is extremely healthy to review and understand what motivates certain activities and encourages you to question how they fit the business and whether or not they provide the right return on investment for the business.

For more details and to read the article in full go to: www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-pulling-ourfacebook-page-painful-julie-south

14 / chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015

articles

In conjunction with Antanas Procuta Architects, The Cambridge Chamber of Commerce put on a night to remember on the evening of Friday 27 March as the sun set.

The Pop-Up Picnic fundraiser was a first for the Chamber, entertaining over 100 guests under the stars, with perfect weather conditions. The night began with comedy duo The Apologisers leading guests onto the piazza where Harpist Luke Lovegrove set the mood with soulful tunes surrounded by large autumn maple trees generously supplied

by Amber Garden Centre.

Picnickers launched straight into the night, dressing up their tables in a range

of creative themes and laying their picnic for staff, family and friends to enjoy. After a busy week of work, some opted for the menus specifically designed for the event

by Paddock Café.

As the sun set, the music turned up a notch with the Darcy Perry Blues Band getting toes tapping as they meandered around entertaining tables one by one.

Thanks to the generous support of Anatanas Procuta Architects, 80% of ticket sales revenue ($700) was donated to the Sanctuary Mountain® Maungatautari and Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust. A great night had by all!

The Cambridge Chamber of Commerce’s first POPUP Business Expo saw 28+ businesses showcasing their products and services, at the Cambridge Town Hall on Friday 27th March. It was a great environment, buzzing with excitement from start to finish.

The Pop-Up Business Expo featured a Seminar series providing practical information, tips and resources about; Social Media, Websites, Accounting Tools and other resources to assist with business growth and planning.

A variety of businesses involved ranged from Health, Beauty and Lifestyle to Human Resources and Finance.

Tania Witheford – CEO Cambridge Chamber of Commerce said “whilst it would have been ideal to have more foot traffic, as a first event, we have proven the concept. The participation and interaction from our exhibitors was outstanding. A special thank you to all involved!”

chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015 / 15

new members The two biggest challenges businesses experience today are: employing staff that precisely meet your business needs, and of finding the time and qualifications to develop your own managerial and leadership capabilities to grow your business.

FREEDOM is dedicated to resolving both these challenges through our advanced professional education programmes.

FREEDOM is New Zealand’s only private ‘higher education’ institute and we specialise in providing advanced professional education qualifications that ‘create transformative managers and leaders for the world’.

The Institute provides a unique range of employer informed professional qualifications:

Cambridge Work-From-Home Professionals Networking Group This group is designed to enable small business owners, self-employed professionals and entrepreneurs to share ideas and skills to help develop successful businesses.

16 / chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015

Governance (for new or experienced directors and trustees); Advanced Retail Management (for those needing high level ‘thinking’ retail managers); Productivity (for those wanting to achieve more with less); Sustainability ( for those wanting to grow economically, socially, culturally and environmentally from small to large, national to international); Health practice, service and product management; Higher Education (for those in adult education, training, learning, development or capacity building); Accounting, team, project, management and leadership qualifications plus qualifications in New Zealand Studies to support work seekers, new migrants and international students to understand our society, its systems, rights and responsibilities.

FREEDOM faculty all have successful practically experience in the fields they teach, are qualified to facilitate, qualified in their fields as well as active researchers. Classes are

Superior moving solutions We are a husband and wife owned and operated furniture moving company based in Whitehall, rural Cambridge.

We have a family of five and have shifted three times since our youngest was born. We understand the frustration of packing over a week, wondering where everything is, opening a box to grab something to find you could really do with using almost everything in that box. You’re exhausted before you have even begun the moving part!

Chris has had experience moving families

>> Chris & Megan Vuglar P. 0800 266 839

Susan F. Stevenson President (Academic & Research)

small, friendly, interactive and flexible around class time and venue to ensure our learners have the support they need to succeed.

We would love to support you to the next level in your career or your business to grow and prosper. Contact us or drop in for more information, or to enrol.

>> Learner Services Manager, Nikki Going E. lsm@freed-ihe.ac.nz Registry: 1/28 Liverpool Street, Hamilton E. contactus@freedom-ihe.ac.nz P. 07 846 7446 www.freedom-ihe.ac.nz

for almost ten years, it’s fair to say he has it down to a fine art. We train our staff to treat your belongings as if they were their own, with care and respect and we work within your timeframes to have your belongings moved when you need them and delivered when you need them.

As well as furniture, we specialise in transporting offices, commercial shop fittings and kitchens (domestic or commercial). To do this we recognise how to protect these assets on their way to their destination or installation and keep to tight deadlines.

If you’re thinking of moving and could do with a little help, give us a call on 0800 266 839. We’ll give you a competitive quote on any sized house-lot whether it’s a one bedroom apartment or a full five bedroom houselot; just down the road or across the North Island.

E. info@whitehallmovers.co.nz www.whitehallmovers.co.nz

new members

New Waikato based IT recruitment company launches A new IT specialist recruitment company, Burton & Associates opened for business in January, offering unique benefits to employers and candidates in the Waikato market.

Having grown up in the Waikato, Burton started his IT career in Hamilton in the 1970s, working on an ICL System 10 computer for a local pharmaceutical wholesaler. A 30 year IT career followed that included work at the Wanganui Computer Centre (famously bombed in 1982), ANZ Bank, IBM, EDS and Vodafone. Recruitment and management of IT staff was a significant component of that career and through it, he developed a thorough understanding of the profiles of productive and successful IT professionals and how to recruit and retain them. This, Burton maintains, is one of the key differentiators for Burton and Associates.

That point of difference brings benefits to both candidates and to clients. “Clients can have confidence that they are dealing with a company that understands IT people and businesses while candidates can appreciate that they are dealing with somebody who has ‘gone before them’ in the IT industry and who

U Leisure’s mission is to enhance lives within the local community through sport and leisure.

This is done not only on Waikato University’s campus where U Leisure is based, but in the Waikato/Waipa region through local sporting events.

The event that Cambridge locals will be most familiar with is the iconic REV Cycle Race which celebrated its 10th anniversary in February. This event attracts a large local audience of keen cyclists alongside a large contingent of visitors from Auckland and Tauranga. This year our elite race category was granted UCI 1.2 status, attracting professional trade teams from NZ and Australia. This is an area we are looking forward to growing, putting Cambridge on the map and further reinforcing it as a town of high performance. Not only does

>> Visit: www.uleisure.co.nz or phone 07 838 4442

understands the industry and the challenges it presents to IT professionals”.

The other key difference, of course, is the fact that Burton and Associates is locally owned “It is a Waikato business for Waikato business customers and Waikato candidates” – something that Burton is proud of and passionate about.

“There are some aspects of the Waikato IT market and the local candidates that Auckland operators struggle to understand and, to be fair, their efforts are more focused on the Auckland demand for services” said Burton.

A member of both the Cambridge and Waikato Chambers of Commerce, Mr Burton has utilised the local business infrastructure of these organisations to help establish the new business and has been very grateful for the support of local businesses.

>> Burton and Associates can be found at

www.burtonandassociates.co.nz and Local IT service consumers and providers as well as candidates can contact Phil on at phil@burtonandassociates.co.nz.

it bring professionals to the town of Cambridge, but it also allows all of our REV participants to see the best cyclists in action on the Roads of Champions.

If you need expert advice on event management or are keen to partner up with the REV in 2016 please get in touch, we’d love to strengthen relationships with local businesses.

Other local events U Leisure has been involved with include; the Official Opening of the Avantidrome and the Track Cycling National Championships. In Hamilton we run the Gallagher Great Race regatta and the popular Round the Bridges fun-run.

“Your wellbeing is our priority” At Cambridge Family Health we provide excellent healthcare by combining up-to-date medicine with old-fashioned values in a relaxed and friendly family environment.

Our staff are highly trained, locallybased and passionate about serving our community.

We promise to listen to you and use our skills, knowledge and modern facilities to enable you to optimize your health and wellbeing.

Dr Lorraine Brooking, who trained at Otago Medical School, and her colleague, Dr Prabani Wood, who trained at Oxford University, are looking forward to providing a new and exciting opportunity in healthcare for the people of Cambridge.

Lorraine and Prabani are both proud mums; Lorraine’s daughters are aged fifteen and five years old, and Prabani has a six year-old son and three year-old daughter.

Alongside our wide array of experience and skills, we wish to offer the people of Cambridge a walk-in service for urgent medical problems, therefore people do not have to travel all the way to Hamilton for urgent care.

We are also offering our patients the opportunity to sign up to our patient portal, which amongst other things, enables patients to access their medical notes, blood results and order repeat prescriptions online.

We look forward to meeting you at 2 Oliver Street (opposite Mitre 10).

>> Cambridge Family Health 2 Oliver Street, Cambridge P. 07 827 4234 E. admin@cambridgefamilyhealth.co.nz www.cambridgefamilyhealth.co.nz chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015 / 17

new members PomPom Events and Marketing Charlotte Tollervey P. 027 766 7006 www.pompom.co.nz

sponsors special thanks to our

FREEDOM Institute of Higher Education Susan Stevenson P. 07 846 7446 www.freedom-ihe.ac.nz Hamilton International Airport George Clark P. 07 848 9027 www.hamiltonairport.co.nz Whitehall Movers Megan Vugler P. 0800 266 839 www.whitehallmovers.co.nz U Leisure Ltd Amanda Till P. 07 838 4442 www.uleisure.co.nz

Barristers & Solicitors

Ultrafast Fibre Limited Mike Ryan P. 0800 342 735 www.ultrafastfibre.co.nz Tivoli Cinema Karen Focas PO Box 529 Cambridge New Zealand P. 07 823 5064 P h o n e : 0 7 8 2 7 5 1 4 7 F a x : 0 7 8 2 7 7 9 9 1 E m a i l : c r e c p t @ l e w i s l a w. c o . n z www.tivolicinema.co.nz Cambridge Family Health Dr. Prabani Wood P. 07 827 4234 www.cambridgefamilyhealth.co.nz Burton & Associates Phil Burton P. 07 827 8982 www.burtonandassociates.co.nz Harcourts Cambridge Rural Sales Consultant Graham Cook M. 027 454 6229 www.harcourts.co.nz

18 / chamber news / MAY - JULY 2015

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