WORKPLACE RECYCLING LEGISLATION CHANGES IN WALES
INDUSTRY LEADER INSIGHT
COST OF LIVING CRISIS AND WELSH ECONOMY
WORKING PRACTICES AND SUSTAINABILITY FUTURE OF WORK
AI & TECHNOLOGY
RESHAPING INDUSTRY AND EDUCATIONAL
TRAINING PROCEDURES
Strategically positioned in the centre of Cardiff, Meetspace by Urban Space attracts freelancers, remote workers and even business start-ups with its sleek, vibrant interior and modern furnishings. A co-working space like no other in the city, it has been designed to spark creativity and boost productivity. Whether you’re looking for a hot desk, a meeting pod, or some comfy chairs to settle on with your laptop, this workspace is the perfect spot.
Whatever your working needs are, Meetspace has the flexibility to meet them. The individual meeting rooms are kitted out with state-of-the-art technology, including a 60″ touch screen and everything else you need to deliver effective presentations and impress clients. For those looking to network and socialise with fellow professionals, the co-working area has been designed to optimise both efficiency and comfort, while placing you at the heart of the member community, where you can exchange ideas and form connections.
Meetspace is equipped with all the top-notch amenities you’d expect from any modern office, including high-speed internet, the latest audiovisual equipment and a sleek kitchen area fully stocked with refreshments to fuel crunch days and provide comfort tea breaks. Need to store your tech overnight? You can pop it in one of the secure storage lockers, available to access 24/7.
Learn more about Meetspace and book your co-working spot at theurbanspace.co.uk/meetspace/.
Welcome to the first-ever edition of Cardiff Business Life, proudly emerging as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit driving commerce across the city and its surrounding areas.
Within the pages of Cardiff Business Life, we’ll be shedding light on the remarkable journeys of CEOs, entrepreneurs and business luminaries, unveiling the narratives behind their triumphs and the strategies driving them forward.
Here, you’ll uncover the freshest industry innovations and witness the rise of SMEs making significant waves in our local economy. Delving deep into emerging sectors, we’ll uncover trends that not only shape Cardiff’s business landscape but also extend beyond its borders, ensuring you remain ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving marketplace.
However, our commitment extends beyond just reporting; we are your source for all things business in the capital. Think of Cardiff Business Life as your partner in navigating the landscape of Welsh business, from celebrating company triumphs to dissecting game-changing deals, highlighting key appointments and sharing invaluable insights from industry leaders.
Join us as we set out on this exciting journey together, celebrating the energy and resilience of Cardiff’s business community.
Happy reading, Ellie Richards @cardifflife.wales www.cardifflife.wales
WORKPLACE RECYCLING LEGISLATION CHANGES IN WALES
COST OF LIVING CRISIS AND WELSH ECONOMY
OF WORK
WORKING PRACTICES AND SUSTAINABILITY
RESHAPING INDUSTRY AND EDUCATIONAL TRAINING PROCEDURES AI & TECHNOLOGY
WHY SHOULD YOU CARE? INSIDE STORY
AGE IS NOTHING BUT A NUMBER ONES TO WATCH
The Football Association of Wales (FAW) hosted a star-studded business event at Gaucho Restaurant in Cardiff, marking the inauguration of their 2024 business hospitality program.
Over 100 business leaders from Wales’ top companies, including Admiral, Dragon Bet and PwC, gathered for a stunning five-course lunch.
Noel Mooney, CEO of the FAW, delivered a keynote address, while sponsors Pure Cyber, Nathanial Cars and Genero events showcased their support for Welsh football.
The event also featured legendary Welsh footballers Ian Rush, Joe Ledley, and Kevin Ratcliffe, providing guests with a unique opportunity to rub shoulders with footballing royalty. Polly James kept the event lively as the host, ensuring an engaging and enjoyable atmosphere.
This prestigious event signifies the FAW’s commitment to fostering strong relationships with leading Welsh businesses. The successful inaugural event paves the way for a series of exciting business hospitality gatherings planned throughout 2024.
For more information, visit: https://faw.cymru/ hospitality/
FOR Cardiff, the Welsh capital’s Business Improvement District (BID), has appointed Carolyn Brownell as executive director, making Cardiff the first – and only – female-led BID of any Welsh city.
Working with FOR Cardiff since its inception in 2017, Carolyn has been in-post as interim executive director since March 2023 and has championed equality and safety for all Cardiffians within her mandate – making it a great place to work, live, and visit.
In her year serving as interim executive director, Carolyn has championed all women in Cardiff through launching a range of support programmes for women. From pioneering the Welsh-language Ask for Angela scheme to founding the Women’s Safety Charter, to mentoring women in business, she has worked to ensure that Cardiff provides the best possible support for all its residents.
Carolyn said: “Equality and safety for all, but especially women, is one of my highest priorities. Cardiff is already a fantastic place to work, live, and play – my mission now is to make sure that all women within the city feel safe and seen, at all times, at all levels.
“On a wider scale, I’m keen to see Cardiff get the credit it deserves as a capital city. Cardiff’s humility is part of its charm, but the city is just as deserving of a seat at the global table as Paris, Rome, or London – we need some capital city confidence.”
In a recent open letter to the Minister for Finance, Carolyn Brownell highlights the looming issue of business rates for high street businesses. This reduction intensifies financial strain, especially in Cardiff where rateable values are higher.
While FOR Cardiff appreciates the recent £20 million capital fund announcement for high street businesses’ futureproofing, they emphasise that without business rates support, many businesses will struggle to survive. They suggest diverting some of the funding to councils to provide targeted business rates relief based on local needs, advocating for a more gradual tapering back to full payment.
FOR Cardiff urges the Welsh Government to reconsider their current approach to business rates relief in the following letter, advocating for measures that ensure stronger futures for high streets, particularly in the capital city centre.
“Dear Ms Evans,
Congratulations on your return to the cabinet and your expanded remit in the new government. The formation of the new cabinet provides a key opportunity to press the Welsh Government to reconsider its position on cutting business rates relief for retail and hospitality operators.
As you will be aware, this relief is scheduled to be cut from 75% to 40% in the new tax year, a decision which is at odds with the position in England where operators will continue to benefit from relief. Welsh Government have instead developed a £20million future-proofing fund for businesses in this sector to secure their futures with capital investment. Whilst this is a welcome investment, capital improvements offer long-term advantages that are difficult to realise for businesses under such enormous short-term pressures. It is our belief that part of this funding should be diverted to local authorities who will be able to use their local knowledge and discretion to divert further business rates support to the areas of greatest need.
Whilst we appreciate the enormous financial pressures the Welsh Government currently faces, the decision to cut the existing relief so drastically is already resulting in business closures and further damage to already-suffering high streets. This damage will only be exacerbated when the cut in relief comes into force and will have further ramifications across the foundational economy.
This decision is likely to disproportionately impact businesses in Cardiff Central, the constituency broadly aligned to the FOR Cardiff BID area. The nature of business rates means these operators are less likely to qualify for more generalized small business rates relief than their counterparts in other areas of Wales. The response from Welsh Government on this issue is that due to the system of reliefs in place ‘almost half of ratepayers…do not pay rates at all’. This may be true across Wales as a whole and is symptomatic of wider issues with business rates - which we appreciate Welsh Government are working to address - but it is certainly not true in Cardiff Central, where rateable values are higher.
The decision to cut business rates relief has come from a sensible position of attempting to ensure that the businesses who can now afford to pay their full liability do start to do so once again. Unfortunately, the knock-on impacts for small businesses, operating on smaller margins and with the disproportionate costs associated with the outdated format of business rates, are significant. We have already lost many much-loved Cardiff businesses in the first quarter of 2024 alone in association with this relief cut, and it is our firm belief that if the cut goes ahead we will lose more.
As we are sure you are aware our beliefs on this issue are mirrored across the retail, leisure, and hospitality sectors and we would urge you to please reconsider this approach.
Yours faithfully,
Carolyn Brownell FOR Cardiff Executive Director”In an era where business operations are increasingly digitised, cyber security emerges not just as a technical necessity but as the backbone of modern business integrity. It encompasses the strategies, tools and processes designed to protect network systems, devices and data from cyber-attacks. But why, as a business owner, should this matter to you?
So, what is the real cost of ignoring the danger of cybercrime? Consider cyber security as the moat around your castle. Without it, you’re inviting adversaries to your door. The implications of a cyber breach extend beyond mere data loss. They encompass financial liabilities, reputational damage and legal repercussions, especially with tightening regulations around data protection worldwide. For instance, a single data breach can destroy your customer trust, which took years to build, overnight.
Laws and regulations such as the Data Protection Act 2018 and the UK’s implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) have made it clear: protecting your customers’ data isn’t optional. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, but more importantly, it can damage your brand’s credibility beyond repair.
Trust is the currency of business transactions. Demonstrating a commitment to cyber security is now a critical part of building and maintaining this trust. Customers today are more aware and concerned about their data privacy. Showing that your business takes proactive steps to safeguard their information can become a significant competitive advantage.
Cyber threats are no longer just the worries of large corporations. Small and medium-sized businesses are increasingly targeted due to their often-weaker cyber defences. Ransomware, phishing attacks and malware can disrupt your business operations and lead to significant financial losses.
To protect your digital systems from cybercrime, it’s essential to start with strong, unique passwords for all your accounts and change them regularly. Employ robust anti-
virus and firewall software to defend against malware and unauthorised access. Keep all your software updated to patch vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers. Educate yourself and your employees about the dangers of phishing emails and suspicious links, as human error often leads to security breaches. Finally, consider implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) for an additional layer of security and regularly back up your data to ensure you can recover critical information in the event of a cyber-attack. These foundational steps form a strong defence against many cyber threats.
Using separate providers for IT services and cyber security is an essential element of protecting your business. Your IT provider keeps your technology running smoothly, while a cyber security expert protects your business from attack. This approach ensures you get specialised attention for both keeping your systems up and guarding them against threats, making your business both efficient and secure.
Cyber security is not a cost; it’s an investment in your business’s continuity and reputation. In today’s digital landscape, it’s not about if a cyber-attack will happen, but when. Taking steps now to secure your business can prevent catastrophic losses in the future. It’s about safeguarding your livelihood, your employees, and the trust of your customers. Isn’t that worth caring about?
Don’t wait for a breach to realise the value of cyber security. Contact PureCyber today for a consultation and discover how our bespoke services can enhance your business’s digital defence. Remember, in cyber security, proactive action is the key to safeguarding your future.
For more information, visit: https://purecyber.com/
During a time when technology is rapidly advancing, countries around the globe use innovation to boost their economies and promote prosperity. Given Wales’ rich heritage, our nation is well-positioned to harness the transformative power of technology to propel our economy even further.
AI isn’t just a concept for the future; it’s already shaping the way we work today. With the rise of the metaverse, AI is becoming even more integral, opening up new opportunities. But what does this mean for the future of work?
As we know, the relationship between AI and humans is still evolving. Many people worry that AI could lead to job losses, but the reality is that AI is here to complement human work, not fully replace it. For example, while AI might help with tasks like medical diagnosis, it’s still up to doctors and nurses to provide care. As AI becomes more important, there’s a growing need for people with technical skills like programming and data analysis, as well as softer skills like creativity and emotional intelligence — things that AI can’t do.
From the renowned ChatGPT to Mark Zuckerberg’s metaverse, AI is advancing in various areas. Virtual reality and augmented reality, which make up the metaverse, are creating new ways for people to interact online, whether it’s for work or leisure. These technologies are blurring the lines between the virtual world and reality, changing how we collaborate and communicate at work.
Chatbots and digital assistants are also becoming more sophisticated thanks to improvements in natural language processing. This means they can handle more complex tasks and free up employees to focus on more important work.
One company leading the charge in this field is ThinJetty, based in Cardiff. They’re focused on bringing together virtual and human employees to improve sales and customer service. Founded by Stephen Broadhurst, who has extensive experience in AI systems for companies like Sky and Vodafone, ThinJetty is dedicated to making AI work for people, not against them. They offer training and support to help businesses make the most of AI technology.
In addition to utilising ChatGBT as a calculator, for website coding and debugging and generating questionnaires for market research, other innovative technologies are available to provide support in the workplace. Take virtual reality, for example.
In their approach, Clear Pixel VR in Cardiff specialises in recreating hyper-realistic laboratory procedures and equipment within virtual reality. This innovative method lowers costs, eliminates existing learning barriers and offers boundless opportunities for skill enhancement while maintaining competence in industry practices. By leveraging virtual reality technology, they effectively eradicate concerns related to consumable waste and the risk of equipment damage, providing a sustainable and risk-free learning environment.
Clear Pixel provides a diverse selection of VR lab training modules, presenting the choice between utilising an existing library or opting for tailor-made solutions to replicate any lab procedure or equipment.
As Wales embraces the ever-evolving landscape of technology, it’s evident that AI and its allied technologies are not just revolutionising industries but also redefining the future of work. Companies like ThinJetty and Clear Pixel VR exemplify Wales’ commitment to harnessing technology for the betterment of its workforce and economy. Through innovative solutions and a focus on human-centric design, they pave the way for a future where technology enhances productivity, fosters creativity and empowers individuals to thrive in the digital age.
As we continue to navigate this era of rapid technological advancement, it’s essential to embrace the opportunities that AI and the metaverse present while also ensuring that we cultivate the skills and resilience needed to adapt to this everchanging landscape.
last month, Browne Jacobson officially launched REACH mentoring scheme to support aspiring Black lawyers. REACH aims to address the disproportionate under-representation of Black lawyers working in UK law firms, which stands at just 3%, by growing, nurturing and creating a sustainable pipeline of future Black talent.
The UK and Ireland law firm has officially launched its REACH (Race, Equality and Cultural Heritage) mentoring programme following a two-year pilot that provided support to 25 individuals, with 16 going on to secure employment within the business.
As part of the six-month programme, the students will be paired with a mentor from Browne Jacobson or one of its industry partners and take part in a two-week work experience placement at one of the firm’s seven offices, one of which is located in Cardiff. Mentors will share their skills, knowledge and insights to help them gain an understanding of what it is like to work in the legal profession.
Bridget Tatham, Partner at Browne Jacobson and REACH programme sponsor, said: “The legal profession should be accessible to everyone regardless of their race, gender or background. However, the reality is there are still many barriers that prevent individuals from under-represented communities, particularly those of African and Caribbean heritage, from pursuing a career in law.
“We know this is a problem that needs to be addressed and as a business, we are committed to building an inclusive and diverse pipeline of talent, where Black lawyers are not only provided with a level playing field but are equipped with tools and interventions to place them on an equitable and just footing with their peers. We want to provide opportunities for talented individuals of African and Caribbean heritage to thrive in their legal careers.
“This is why we designed a specific initiative to drive positive change in our REACH mentoring programme and our twoyear pilot has delivered exceptional results. We are incredibly proud of the programme’s success and the outstanding
talented Black potential lawyers it has allowed the firm to recruit, retain and hopefully in due course promote. But we know there is a huge amount of work still to do.”
By partnering with universities and sixth-form colleges, Browne Jacobson has been able to identify under-represented students in social mobility ‘cold sports’ and offer programme places to those who are most in need of the opportunity.
Since it was first piloted in March 2022, REACH has already increased the proportion of Black trainees at Browne Jacobson from none in 2016 to 31% in 2023 and 29% in 2024. The firm has also audited recruitment processes to understand where applicants from Black backgrounds fell and implemented impactful changes to create a fairer playing field.
These include anonymising training contracts and apprenticeship applications, removing grade requirements to apply, deploying a contextualised recruitment system to gain a deeper appreciation of candidates’ backgrounds, and introducing a ‘second-look’ policy that seeks to gain a deeper understanding of Black candidates from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
Oliver Holmes, Head of Diversity and Inclusion at Browne Jacobson, added: “Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), in particular driving race equality, is one of our core values as a business – to be at the forefront of and make a positive impact on, society’s biggest issues. It also helps us to better serve the needs of our clients, as well as better represent the communities in which we operate.
“The legal profession is a notoriously competitive environment when it comes to attracting and retaining the best legal talent around. As such, our strategy’s core objective has been to ensure we have a diverse and engaged talent pipeline from which we can recruit our work experience students, apprentices, legal assistants and, in due course, future junior solicitors.”
REACH is the latest diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiative developed by Browne Jacobson, which has won numerous awards including being ranked the top law firm in the Social Mobility Foundation Index.
Its FAIRE (Fairer Access into Real Experience) scheme, which offers in-person and virtual work experience opportunities to candidates from lower socio-economic backgrounds, has engaged more than 30,500 students aged between 16 and 19 at a series of events since 2021.
To find out more, visit: https://www.brownejacobson.com/
In a move aimed at safeguarding Cardiff against the escalating threats of climate change, the city has unveiled its ambitious Rover Way Coastal Risk Management Scheme (CRMP). This initiative, backed by £35 million in funding from the Welsh Government, is poised to fortify 2,326 residential and 204 non-residential properties against the spectre of flooding — a critical step in bolstering the city’s resilience to extreme weather events.
The CRMP will tackle flooding with a mix of intelligent engineering solutions, all customised to fit Cardiff’s coastal layout. From the implementation of a robust rock revetment along the coastline to the strategic elevation of earth embankments, each facet of the scheme is meticulously designed to mitigate flood risk and ensure the long-term safety of vulnerable communities and vital infrastructure.
Notably, the introduction of innovative technologies such as the Dycel block system underscores Cardiff’s commitment to proactive adaptation strategies. This interlocking precast concrete revetment system offers dual-layer protection against erosion, both above and below the waterline, providing an effective barrier against the ravages of extreme weather events.
Cllr Caro Wild, Cardiff Council’s cabinet member for climate change, hailed the CRMP as a pivotal milestone in the city’s resilience agenda. Emphasising the urgency of preemptive action in the face of climate breakdown, Wild underscored the scheme’s role in safeguarding homes, businesses, and critical assets from the looming spectre of flooding.
“As a coastal city with three rivers running through it, it’s vital we take action now to protect homes, businesses and key infrastructure from the increased risk of flooding we will face in the future as a result of climate change.
“Through our One Planet Cardiff strategy we’re playing our part in limiting global temperature rises and doing some really good work to reduce carbon emissions: building a new low carbon heat network, the new solar farm at Lamby Way, developing our network of segregated cycleways, planting tens of thousands of trees annually, and more.”
The CRMP stands as a testament to Cardiff’s commitment to climate resilience. From pioneering low-carbon infrastructure projects to ambitious tree-planting initiatives, Cardiff is forging ahead on multiple fronts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and build a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Photography by Stephen DaviesIn a significant leap forward for life sciences research and drug discovery, a cutting-edge manufacturing facility is poised to open its doors on the Fforest Farm Industrial Estate in Cardiff this June. Spearheaded by a US-based company and leveraging Molecular Devices’ groundbreaking bioreactor technology, this facility marks a pivotal moment in the advancement of medical science. Its primary focus is the mass production of miniature 3D models of human organ tissue, known as ‘organoids’.
Organoids, cultivated from human stem cells, have emerged as a transformative tool for disease research and drug development. Their striking resemblance to human organs offers unparalleled insights into the safety and efficacy of potential therapeutics, addressing the challenge of high failure rates in clinical trials.
Molecular Devices stands as the sole provider capable of manufacturing organoids at an industrial scale, with capacities reaching into the millions per batch. Such volumes are indispensable for high-throughput applications and essential for widespread adoption and expedited drug discovery processes. As a consequence, the need for animal models is poised to diminish, promising accelerated timelines for bringing innovative medicines to market.
The genesis of this groundbreaking initiative can be traced back to the collaborative efforts of Cardiff and Bath Universities, which laid the foundation for industrialising organoid research through the establishment of the biotech startup, Cellesce. Following its acquisition by Molecular Devices, the workforce has seen exponential growth, with further job creation anticipated as pharmaceutical companies increasingly embrace organoid technology.
The inauguration of this manufacturing facility not only reflects the strategic alignment with the Welsh Manufacturing Action Plan but also underscores the UK Government’s ambitious Life Sciences Vision. With the UK’s life sciences industry already a global leader, valued at over £94 billion, this amplifies the nation’s commitment to innovation and economic growth.
By expanding 3D organoid production in Cardiff for global distribution, the company is catalysing a new era of drug discovery. The collaborative synergy between academia and industry showcased holds promise not only for revolutionising healthcare but also for driving economic prosperity within Wales and the broader UK.
The opening of this state-of-the-art facility serves as a beacon of progress, heralding a future where breakthroughs in medical science are not just anticipated but actively pursued.
In the heart of Cardiff lies a bakery that’s more than just a bakery – it’s a testament to perseverance, innovation and the power of community. Pettigrew Bakeries, the sister brand to Pettigrew Tearooms, based in the Grade II listed West Lodge of Cardiff’s Bute Park and led by founder David Le Masurier, has flourished over the past 8 years. The
business has evolved from a single storefront to multiple locations, wholesale operations and a strong presence in local farmers markets.
Pettigrew’s journey began opposite Victoria Park, where David’s passion for crafting artisanal sourdough set the foundation for what would become a culinary sensation in Cardiff. Through dedication and hard work, Pettigrew distinguished itself as a pioneer in the craft baking scene long before it became trendy.
In addition to their original site in Canton, Pettigrew’s Roath Garage Bakery & Café on Moy Road opened in the summer of last year, following the buy-out of another local indie bakery brand, Friends in Knead. Strategic acquisitions and expansion efforts enabled Pettigrew to take over a small bakery shop inside the historic Castle Arcade. The site has recently undergone a full refurbishment and now includes a small upstairs café with seating, overlooking the interior of the Victorian arcade.
Today, Pettigrew Bakeries boasts a team of 11 talented bakers and a total staff of 38, all dedicated to delivering quality
products and exceptional service. Their success story serves as inspiration for business owners who are navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
At a recent celebration marking their 8th anniversary, David expressed gratitude to their loyal customers and reflected on the journey of building a small, family-owned business in a competitive market. “We are thrilled to have celebrated the 8th birthday of our bakery business last month. It was a chance to say thank you to our wonderful customers who have supported us over the years, through some of the most challenging circumstances imaginable for a small, family-owned business.”
As Pettigrew looks toward the future, they remain committed to their core values of quality, authenticity and creativity. Their continued growth and expansion serve as a shining example for business owners everywhere, demonstrating the rewards of hard work, determination, and a passion for excellence.
For more information about Pettigrew Bakeries, visit: https://www. pettigrew-bakeries.co.uk/
The seventh annual CIPD Awards in Wales made a triumphant return at Cardiff City Stadium on Friday, March 15th. With a record number of entries, this year’s awards ceremony celebrated over 80 finalists across nine categories, marking a significant milestone in honouring excellence in people management practice.
Recognising that organisations thrive on the dedication of their people, and are supported by skilled professionals in the field, the event provides a platform to showcase, acknowledge and reward outstanding contributions to the realm of HR and people development in Wales.
Sponsored by an impressive array of supporters and awarded by the professional body for people development, the ceremony underscored its growing reputation as the premier destination for celebrating the achievements of HR and people development professionals across the region. Judged by a panel comprising esteemed HR and business experts, the awards highlighted exemplary practices and innovations in the field.
Amidst fierce competition, 14 exceptional organisations and 9 outstanding individuals emerged victorious, clinching the industry’s most prestigious accolades. Their success not only reflects their commitment to excellence but also serves as a testament to the significance of effective people management in driving organisational success and fostering a thriving work culture.
For more information, visit: https://www.cipdwalesawards.co.uk/
Velindre Cancer Centre, nestled in the neighbourhood of Whitchurch, Cardiff, is set to become one of the most sustainable hospitals in the UK, as the ACORN consortium has achieved financial close for the 180m project.
The specialist cancer hospital is part of Velindre University’s NHS Trust scheme in transforming cancer services in South East Wales to offer patients and carers effective treatment elements which aim to be high-grade and sustainable.
In terms of contraction, ‘soft FM’ services will be carried out by the contracting authority and aspects of the ‘hard FM’ services will be seen by Kier Facilities as agreed in the Mutual Investment Model agreement. The Mutual Investment Model is funding the project and being initiated by the Welsh Government to finance major capital projects to improve publishing services in Wales. The Velindre University Trust will take a stake of up to 15% in the project which targets a BREEAM “excellent” rating.
Richard Coe, project director at Kajima Partnerships, said: “The project represents a paradigm shift in sustainable healthcare, providing cutting-edge facilities and treatment in a building that has been designed with sustainable material innovation, community inclusion and a commitment to preserving the environment at its forefront.”
The sustainability element of the project sees it designed to be all-electric, supporting low energy demand and low operational carbon. They plan to reduce site waste through off-site manufacture of components to minimise transport in turn aiding efficient construction and ensuring good maintenance of the hospital.
The structure and design are set to be led by White Arkitekter, with the centre due to open in April 2027 to begin treating patients. The centre is set to include a Welsh Applefilled orchard and community kitchen garden, as well as routes for cycling, walking and play areas aiming for minimal environmental disruption. Their fabric-first approach and the use of daylight, views and natural materials, aim to contribute to a stress-relieving and harmonious environment for patients, visitors and staff.
“We asked for a design that makes people feel good, that is strong, long-lasting, flexible and efficient. We have got that – and so much more. We look forward to welcoming our first patient into the new centre.”, Says Steve Ham, CEO of Velindre University NHS Trust.
Contractor Sacyr UK will build the centre on the 368,000 sq ft site, with the project being supported by the Welsh Government’s new public-private partnership model and in compliance with the Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015.
Photography by White Arkitekter
The UK’s largest independent builder’s merchant, MKM Building Supplies, opened its 127th branch in Cardiff last month on Colchester Avenue, Cardiff and aims to create 20 new jobs for the area.
The new store will be run by Branch Directors Dan Love and Russ Lewis who have extensive experience in the merchandising industry and are both South Wales residents. Speaking about the opening, Mr Lewis said, “I’ve lived in Cardiff for 48 years and started working on the trade counter of a local merchant at 16 years old. To be leading the first MKM in South Wales, building a best-in-class merchant for trade and retail customers in the community I love is a dream come true.”
Branch Director, Dan Love added: “We are local people working with local customers and trades and we’re here to build relationships together. We want to make everyone feel welcome and provide a service that goes above and beyond.”
MKM Cardiff will supply local tradespeople and the public with diverse stock and products from industry-leading brands such as Siniat, Kronospan, Ox and Super Glass.
Both Branch Directors hope the store will be a central part of the community, opening the doors for everyone from housing developers to weekend DIYers.
For more information, visit: https://mkm.com/
The Welsh Government is changing workplace recycling legislation, effective from 6th April 2024. Under these regulations, businesses will be required to recycle the following materials at minimum:
• Paper/cardboard
• Plastics/metals/cartons
• Glass
• Food (where producing over 5Kg per week)
There are also new rules for unsold textiles and small electrical items.
Where business recycling is separated for collection, the waste collection provider will need to ensure they are collected separately and remain separate.
Recycling and food waste must not enter a residual (nonrecyclable) waste bin. These regulations apply to all businesses & all waste collection companies across Wales.
The incoming legislation is especially important to Cardiff as the capital city of Wales. Business waste contributes 9% of all total waste collected in Cardiff, compared to around 4% in the rest of Wales (The Recycling Strategy for Cardiff, Cardiff Council). There is exciting potential for businesses to boost Cardiff’s recycling rate from our current 63% to the Welsh Government’s statutory target of 70%.
Cardiff Trade Waste has been working with city centre businesses to get compliant with the new workplace recycling laws. We have been working in partnership with Brewery Quarter who approached us back in 2022 when they wanted to increase their recycling rates and minimise their carbon footprint.
As a city centre location packed with industries in the food, drink and nighttime economy, there is often substantial amounts of waste generated - offering a fantastic opportunity to get ahead of the curve, ready for the incoming regulations. The Brewery Quarter is exemplary in its actions and targets towards sustainability. Chris Kearns and his team, with the support from the businesses of Brewery Quarter and St James Place, have seen an incredible 252% boost in their recycling rates. The amount of general waste they send to an Energy from Waste facility has been reduced by 45%.
Brewery Quarter has been ahead of the workplace regulations for some time but wants to reduce general waste to 40% by the end of 2025, which will be a 60% reduction from where it started 5 years ago. The commitment to sustainability and the determined attitude of the team, alongside the co-operation and teamwork from all their occupants’ shines through and there is every confidence they will smash this target.
As Chris eloquently put it, it’s not just about making money as a business, but having accountability and leaving the world in a better place for their children. Brewery Quarter have also installed motion sensor lights; LUX lighting and timers on
their plug points, alongside a huge commitment to manage their recycling.
“In 2019, we calculated 24% to 26% of all refuse from Brewery Quarter was recyclable. From 2022 to date, with the support and cooperation from Cardiff Trade Waste, we’ve seen our recycling capabilities grow to 51% of all waste sent for collection. The guidelines being introduced by the Welsh Government are coincidental, in so much that we were driving hard to achieve best practices, lowering our carbon footprint and striving for our own sustainability targets. This will of course continue and I’m very confident those percentages on recycling will increase with the advice and assistance provided by James and his colleagues at Cardiff Trade Waste.” – Chris Kearns, Centre Manager - Brewery Quarter.
“I have been delighted to help support the Brewery Quarter in their endeavours to increase recycling. Like a number of our customers, they were keen to improve their recycling and sustainability, not just because the workplace recycling law is coming into force, but because they know it’s the ‘right thing to do’. The team and I were able to offer practical guidance and support (including many on-site visits) as well as track and monitor progress providing detailed bin weight analysis. This analysis has been possible due to our investment in onboard weighing and a sophisticated integrated back office system. We’ll continue to work with the Brewery Quarter and anyone else who would like to request our services.” James Simons, Trade Sales Officer - Cardiff Trade Waste.
For more information, visit: https://www.cardifftradewaste.co.uk/
Sophie Jones, Cardiff Trade Waste, Waste Campaigns Officer
Freight Logistics Solutions (FLS), a market-leading provider of logistics and freight management solutions is proud to announce the recent signing of a landmark 5-year contract with Tri-Wall UK, an award-winning global packaging manufacturer.
Tri-Wall UK’s endorsement of FLS speaks volumes about the quality and effectiveness of the services provided. Through this partnership, Tri-Wall UK will continue to leverage FLS’s expertise to enhance its logistics operations, enabling them to offer more flexible solutions and expand their capabilities.
Commenting on the extended partnership, Tri-Wall UK expressed their satisfaction, stating, “Freight Logistics Solutions has been integral to our logistics and operations, making it possible to offer more flexible solutions whilst allowing us to grow our capabilities. Signing a 5-year contract means we will be able to continue this offering, expand our UK operations wider, and support our sustainable journey even more. We’re proud to be an ‘FLS Connect’ client; thank you for supporting us in the past, present, and future.”
In addition to celebrating this significant partnership, FLS is excited to introduce three new service offerings designed to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses:
FLS Forward: Providing variable freight shipping solutions with access to the UK’s largest network of engaged vehicles, FLS Forward offers instant pricing, trusted carriers, dedicated road movements, load visibility, express options, and roundthe-clock availability.
FLS Connect: A comprehensive 4PL service catering to regular, volume-booking customers, FLS Connect offers
reduced contract pricing, enhanced transit coverage, no fuel surcharges, access to top-quality carriers, and a UK-leading digital platform - the FLS Connect portal.
Freight Customs Services: FLS specialises in freight customs services, offering expert support to navigate the complexities of customs declarations post-Brexit, ensuring smooth crossborder operations.
These innovative services are poised to redefine the logistics landscape, offering unparalleled flexibility, reliability and sustainability to businesses throughout the United Kingdom and beyond. Through FLS’ marketleading data hub and digital platform, businesses can access unparalleled insights into their carbon savings and scope 3 emissions, essential to scaling and business success in the current global environment.
Gavin Peters, CEO of Tri-Wall UK, commented on the FLS digital platform and stated “Last year, working with FLS, looking at that portal, we saved 80 tons of CO2. That is by customer, by truck, by company, that we can look at and we can share that information with our customer as well.
The portal is the key. The open access to that portal and that data is amazing.”
FLS remains committed to delivering excellence in logistics solutions, empowering businesses to thrive in today’s dynamic market environment. The company looks forward to continuing its successful partnership with Tri-Wall UK and serving as a trusted logistics partner to businesses across the UK and beyond.
For more information about FLS and its services, please visit https://www.freightlogisticssolutions.co.uk/ or contact +44(0)1633 288 400.
Launched by professional athletes and led by an experienced and dedicated team, Nutrivend’s core focus is making healthier options more accessible. This is achieved through providing responsive, knowledgeable and reliable vending services, offering access to a vast array of global sports nutrition brands.
Nutrivend has recently announced its acquisition of CSN Formulations, operating as CSN Supplements, marking a significant milestone in the Welsh sports nutrition landscape. This strategic partnership merges the strengths of both entities, creating a formidable force dedicated to serving athletes and fitness enthusiasts throughout the UK.
This collaboration underscores the shared vision of both companies for growth and exceptional customer service. Scott Morgan, Founder and CEO of Nutrivend, expresses enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating: “We are incredibly excited about Nutrivend’s acquisition of CSN Supplements. This move enhances our solutions offering by incorporating CSN’s established e-commerce platform and extensive
product range. It signifies a significant leap towards providing our customers with an unparalleled online shopping experience and access to a broader spectrum of premium nutritional supplements. This marks a pivotal moment for us as we merge our strengths to better support everyone’s health and fitness aspirations.”
Nutrivend’s robust national distribution infrastructure and diverse product portfolio will merge seamlessly with CSN Supplements’ loyal customer base and commitment to quality. This integration promises a wider array of products, enhanced online shopping experiences and exceptional service for all customers.
Marc Robinson, of CSN Supplements, sees the acquisition as a tremendous opportunity, “By joining forces with Nutrivend, we can extend our reach, diversify our product offerings, and elevate our level of service. We are confident that this combined force will emerge as a major player in the Welsh sports nutrition market.”
This strategic acquisition heralds positive developments for the Welsh business landscape. The amalgamated entity will create new job opportunities, foster growth within the sports nutrition sector in Wales and establish a prominent Welsh brand as a leader in the UK market.
Looking ahead, Nutrivend plans to leverage its consolidated resources to invest in a robust online presence, expand its product range and enhance customer service offerings. This commitment underscores dedication to building upon the strengths of both companies and exceeding expectations within the sports nutrition industry.
For more information, visit: https://www.nutrivend.co.uk/
over the last year the Morgan Quarter, made up of the Morgan and Royal arcades in Cardiff city centre has welcomed 11 new businesses into its historic arcades and has increased football by 62%.
So far this year, popular doughnut shop, Whocult and independent café Maple & Bean, have become the latest additions to the Morgan Quarter with the UK-wide restaurant, Coppa Club, soon to join them. The openings of these businesses along with the likes of Lucy & Yak, Astrid & Miyu and Beyond Retro have led to a steep increase in footfall – going against the national retail trend.
A recent study by the Welsh Retail Consortium found Wales to have seen the biggest decline in retail footfall of any nation in the UK with shopping numbers declining 8% on a year earlier and 4% compared to January. Despite these numbers, the
Morgan Quarter is bucking the national trend when it comes to retail footfall statistics.
In March, the Morgan Quarter observed a 62% increase in footfall compared to the previous year – with the first week of the month seeing over 100,000 visitors across the two arcades. The familiar shopping destination for Cardiff residents and visitors is currently at 97% capacity, with 61/63 units being filled.
The ongoing success of these two arcades can be credited to the range of independent shops and larger brands all available under one roof. From housing Cardiff favourites like Wally’s and Fresh Baguette Bar, to welcoming new and upcoming businesses like Whocult and Maple & Bean, it is an exciting time for the two arcades.
At the end of March, Whocult opened its fifth store in the Royal Arcade. With four stores across South Wales, including sites at Barry’s Goodsheds and in Newport Market, Whocult has developed a strong reputation for its delicious coffee and doughnuts, trendy, merchandise and unparalleled customer experience.
Their long-awaited opening at 20 Royal Arcade did not disappoint, selling thousands of doughnuts in their first day alone. Whocult owner, Scott Magill, said the Morgan Quarter was the perfect place to open the brand’s fifth store. He said: “We were waiting for the right time and space in Cardiff and the Morgan Quarter appeared to be the perfect location due to its central position in the city and the presence of other independent businesses, aligning well with Whocult’s ethos.”
Photography by Whocult
February marked the opening of the second Maple & Bean, a small independent café which opened in Cowbridge in 2022. Maple & Bean was born after Abbie became frustrated with arriving for breakfast at 11:35am and being ushered onto the lunch menu. Now with all-day breakfasts, stacks of pancakes and amazing smoothies, Maple & Bean has already proved popular since its doors opened at 28 Morgan Arcade.
After their success at the Cowbridge store, Abbie felt confident in looking for another location. She said: “We still can’t quite believe we are in the Morgan Quarter - it is such a beautiful location and a stunning building. We are in such good company with our fellow retailers. It’s very inspiring to be surrounded by people who feel proud of their business, as many of whom are working for themselves.”
This month, Coppa Club is set to be the latest household name opening its doors in the Morgan Quarter. With several stores across the UK, this popular high-street chain known for its excellent food and drink is expected to add to the already impressive footfall seen in the Morgan Quarter this year.
Marika Jones, centre manager at Morgan Quarter said: “We are delighted to see a wide range of stores choosing to open in the Morgan Quarter. There is a distinct sense of community among the businesses here. Everyone wishes success on each other to encourage people into these special arcades.”
The Morgan Quarter is open seven days a week between 8am-6pm Monday to Saturday and 10am-5pm on Sunday. For more information, go to morganquarter.co.uk
I’ve often been asked if I’m a lawyer (I’m not) or if I have a law degree (I don’t). I have however worked with and in the legal profession for over 20 years and most of those years have been based in Wales.
I moved here to work with specialist barristers’ chambers in Cardiff and continued to edit national business of law magazines before founding Legal News Wales in 2020. In November 2025, I’ll become the first ‘non-lawyer’ President of Cardiff & District Law Society - the largest and oldest regional law society in Wales. All this has given me a bird’s eye view of the Welsh legal sector, how it works, competes and the challenges it faces.
The legal sector in Wales is worth over £420 million per year and Cardiff - as a Capital city of a devolved nation - is inevitably the epicentre of legal activity and transformation in the profession.
I’m passionate about identifying the challenges that are often unique to the Welsh legal sector – and there are many. Through CDLS and Legal News Wales, I share best practices and collaborative opportunities to help address them, create a platform to unite the sector here and showcase the incredible work of Welsh lawyers and legal teams. Why? Because of the difference it makes to Welsh businesses and communities when we have sustainable, robust, diverse and accessible legal advice on our doorsteps. Without nerding out, justice is essential to maintain an equitable and fair society and it’s important that outstanding advice can be accessed locally.
The legal profession in Cardiff is as diverse as its communities, featuring ‘Top 50’ and ‘Top 100’ law firms that work
internationally, to multi-office high street firms as well as specialist practices and sole practitioners. The bulk of the legal profession in England and Wales sits within the SME bracket and this is especially true in Cardiff.
Being smaller, nimble and hungry for work means firms can be quick to meet the changing needs of businesses and society, adopt new solutions to do this and collaborate. Cardiff’s professional services collaborate actively and productively and we should all be proud of this. I’ve witnessed the support offered to start-up law firms and existing practitioners through referrals of work and the benefits of sharing ideas, contacts and innovations. There’s a mature awareness that the diversity on offer ensures there’s enough space for everyone – and plenty of choice for clients.
As a member of the Pro Bono Wales Committee, I’m also able to witness the incredible amount of voluntary support offered by legal professionals in Cardiff to those who can’t otherwise access legal advice. While no replacement for a fully funded legal aid system, pro bono work (voluntary representation) is an essential part of maintaining a fair society. The widespread pro bono activity delivered by Cardiff lawyers says something important about their values and ambitions for the local community. It’s something else to be proud of in our thriving city.
If you haven’t yet attended a CDLS or Legal News Wales event, please join us – they’re often free and are the perfect place to be seen and make valuable connections – and if you’d like to share your voice through Legal News Wales, let me know.
For more information, visit legalnewswales.com
The new shipping container-style market, Ffos Caerffili, has finally opened its doors as part of the first stage of the Caerphilly Town 2035 Placemaking Plan. With its name derived from the Welsh word for moat, “Ffos,” the market aims to draw in tourists visiting the nearby Caerphilly Castle from beyond the borough.
Ffos Caerffili, funded and supported by the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns initiative and the European Regional Development Fund, is a brand-new community-focused market and events venue showcasing local produce, goods and services, and is a vibrant focal point for the town.
A recent Google review exclaimed “Just what Caerphilly needed to bring the town centre back to life. Brilliant independent traders. Amazing food. So glad it’s finally open! Well worth a visit.”
As well as residents and visitors, this venue will serve as an exciting opportunity for local businesses and traders. Amongst the traders are Two Shot Social, Lock Up Bottle Shop, Joe’s Plant Place, Circular Studio and Bab Haus.
It’s the perfect opportunity for businesses and traders to test out the demand for their products in the Caerphilly area by occupying one of the containers and moving to a bigger location in the town later if needed. The rental rate for the pop-up shops is also discounted.
From the birth of Ffos Caerffili and the regeneration of Pentrebane Street to an 80-bed hotel, providing muchneeded, high-quality accommodation, the wide-ranging plans for Caerphilly are ambitious and aim to bring a transformative change to the town.
Are you interested in becoming a trader? Visit https://www. caerphillytown2035.co.uk/en/ffos-caerffili/ for more information.
Abreast cancer survivor, who previously struggled with feelings of shame that kept her indoors, has introduced a hair replacement service now available through NHS Wales prescriptions. This service caters to both adults and children undergoing cancer treatment and contending with conditions causing hair loss. With Business Wales backing, she’s committed to affordable, quality solutions offering a better quality of life.
Anastasia, an accomplished stylist with multiple awards, established Scarlett Jack Hairitage salon in the Vale of Glamorgan. The salon specialises in contemporary hair loss solutions for those coping with conditions such as alopecia or the aftermath of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Having previously worked as a hairstylist and hair loss consultant for 15 years, Anastasia was aware that access to quality hair replacement services was extremely limited in South Wales. Then, after becoming a mother and spending the next ten years working at a local college, she received a diagnosis that would impact her life and career forever.
In 2021, Anastasia was diagnosed with breast cancer and promptly began treatment, one of the side effects being hair loss. It was at this point she discovered that access to hair replacement therapy was still just as poor as it had been a decade prior. Worse still, what was available was often not fit for purpose and sold at an unreasonable price point for many already vulnerable people. When Anastasia entered remission in 2023, she decided to change careers to help others.
With support from Business Wales, she made it her mission to ensure those enduring the challenge she’d experienced, could affordably access quality hair replacement solutions that offer real benefits for quality of life.
Speaking of what motivated her to help those who shared similar experiences, Anastasia said: “Losing my hair was very
challenging, I felt a lot of shame and didn’t want to leave my house. Even though I dealt with hair loss when I was a stylist, I still wasn’t prepared. I certainly didn’t think that there would still be such a lack of modern hair solutions.
“It wasn’t until I lost my own hair that I could truly understand and empathise with the challenges people endure. The isolation you feel is hard to describe, but the reality is so many people experience it. I wanted to do something that made a difference, something that could give people their confidence back and the chance to feel equal.”
Anastasia contacted Business Wales in 2022 to help her build the foundation for her business that would provide a desperately needed empathetic and affordable service for those challenged by hair loss.
Nicola Thomas, an Adviser with Business Wales, then supported Anastasia by helping her draft a business plan, access information to help with the start-up process and unlock the funding to build and launch services needed by patients across South Wales.
Anastasia, explained: “Nicola became my lifeline during the start-up process. She helped me build Scarlett Jack Hairitage from the ground up to become an inclusive and safe space that people living with these conditions need.
“Starting a business like this takes resources and investment. As I was unemployed at the time I was able to access the Barriers to Start-up Grant which allowed me to join specialist wig-making courses and purchase the equipment I needed at the salon.”
While Anastasia’s goal has always been to ensure clients can access affordable hair loss solutions, finances are often a real concern for many people battling conditions like cancer. Thankfully, Business Wales’ experts were on hand to help the stylist navigate procurement processes to ensure NHS patients could affordably access her services. One-to-one support provided by Business Wales Advisor, Elgan Richards, enabled Anastasia to prepare and submit successful tenders via Sell2Wales and etenderWales to become an NHS Wales supplier. As a result, patients can now be prescribed vouchers to help cover the costs of wigs.
Business Wales Advisor, Elgan Richards, said: “It’s a common misconception that public sector contracts are out of reach to small businesses, but Scarlett Jack Hairitage proves that this just isn’t the case. We are proud to have helped ensure that people can access the services they need. I hope Anastasia’s success will inspire other businesses to explore how they can follow her example.”
Scarlett Jack Hairitage, whose name was inspired by Anastasia’s two children, offers clients a completely personalised experience. After an initial consultation, customers can choose the colour, cut and style of their wig, or select a ready-made stock wig available at the salon. Both options allow clients to come back for regular maintenance or cuts. The wigs that are a part of the company’s custom service are made by Anastasia using ethically sourced 100% human hair.
Business Wales is funded by the Welsh Government. For more information and support to help your business discover opportunities and to speak to a specialist advisor, contact Business Wales. Call 03000 6 03000 or visit www.businesswales.gov.wales/
cardiff Life Awards 2024 were held on March 21st at The Mercure Cardiff Holland House, bringing together the city’s entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders. BBC radio host Huw Stephens, alongside Stephanie Dodd, managing director of MediaClash, guided the event, leading attendees through a series of speeches, applause, tears and cheers.
Twenty-one awards were handed out, carefully selected by the esteemed judges. Amid the lively atmosphere, there were touching moments as speakers from organisations such as Cerebral Palsy Cymru, Citrus Arts, City Hospice and Tenovus Cancer Care shared their stories and missions.
Congratulations to the Cardiff Life Awards 2024 winners
Arts & Creative – Mercury Theatre Wales
Bar – The Gwaelod y Garth Inn
Business Services – Ogi
Charity – 2wish & Cardiff Women’s Aid
Civic – Media Academy Cymru
Education – Cardiff & Vale Tutors
Employer – New Directions
Event – Tafwyl
Financial – RWB Wealt
Hair & Beauty – Simon Constantinou at O.Constantinou & Sons
Health & Wellbeing – Sarah Alex Carter
Wellbeing Coach
Homes & Interiors – Norah Rose Staging
Legal – AltraLaw
Leisure & Tourism – The Royal Mint Experience
New Business – Weboss
People Services – Cleverchefs
Property – PLATFORM_
Restaurant – Home, Penarth
Retail – Jokeshop.com
Sustainability – Cardiff Cycle Workshop
Technology – Checks Direct
Welsh Language – Menter Caerdydd
Platinum Award – Checks Direct
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet in Bridgend is set to undergo a remarkable transformation with the introduction of a vibrant new dining destination. The eagerly awaited development, valued at multi-million pounds, will breathe fresh life into the food court, evolving it into three contemporary and inviting restaurants.
This initiative not only promises to introduce exciting new culinary experiences to the area but also stands as a testament to the opportunities available to community members by creating over 100 jobs.
Scheduled to reopen its doors in late Autumn 2024, the revamped dining destination will welcome a
diverse array of food and beverage brands, catering to the varied tastes of its visitors. With a focus on modernity and brightness, the newly envisaged restaurants will serve as gathering spots for shoppers and diners, providing a blend of both premium and fast-food options.
Looking to the forthcoming development, Hayden Tucker, the Centre Manager at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend, expressed, “After celebrating our 25th anniversary last year, we’re extremely excited to see plans for the Food Court development commencing... Whether guests visit for lunch after a morning full of shopping or simply stop by for a date night, there will be a wide range of premium and fastfood restaurants suitable for everyone. We are looking forward to the new dining area opening later this Autumn and will have further updates coming soon, so watch this space!”
With anticipation on the rise, McArthurGlen Designer Outlet is set to deliver a dining experience that goes beyond just great food, seamlessly integrating with the vibrant shopping atmosphere. It’s a glimpse into the near future of retail and culinary fusion.
You can keep up to date with the latest developments here: https://www. mcarthurglen.com/en/outlets/uk/designer-outlet-bridgend/
Photography by McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend
Named amongst Aerospace and Defense Review’s Top 5 Aircraft Engine Solutions Companies in the UK, AerMach is an integral strategic partner in aircraft repair and maintenance, as well as a global provider of aftermarket supply chain solutions.
In 2022, AerMach was acknowledged as one of the fastest-growing companies in Wales. Headquartered in Cardiff, the company has recently expanded its operations into the Middle East by establishing an office in Dubai.
AerMach helps its clients in three key ways. First, it offers high-quality used parts to support cost-effective and environmentally friendly operations. Secondly, it provides expert guidance on engine management during maintenance visits to ensure optimal
performance. Finally, when parts reach the end of their lifespan, AerMach helps recover materials to maximise their value. This approach ensures efficiency and value throughout the lifecycle of aviation components.
The company’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions is also crucial to its success. Initially focusing on narrow-body aircraft and engines like the CFM56 and V2500, AerMach shifted gears when demand declined due to COVID19. It saw an opportunity in the growing demand for wide-body aircraft engines and expanded its inventory to include more CF6 engines. This strategic move strengthened relationships with existing customers and opened up new opportunities in the widebody aircraft sector.
For more information, visit: https://aermach.com/
Photography by Gemma Griffiths Photography
Savills Cardiff has established a solid local standing by offering comprehensive property services to local businesses and individuals, as well as nationwide due to diverse sector expertise across teams.
Savills Cardiff has recently disclosed four advancements within its multi-disciplinary office. These promotions, effective from the start of March this year, are within the real estate consultancy’s Planning and Property Management teams.
Chris Potts, head of Savills Cardiff, said: “I am hugely proud of the talent we have within our Cardiff business and therefore it is a great pleasure to congratulate Portia, Nick, Joel and Jake, who have seen their hard work recognised with new positions within their respective teams.”
Savills Cardiff promotions are as follows:
Portia Banwell - Planning Associate Director
Nick Heard - Planning Associate Director
Joel Williams
- Property Management Associate Director
Jake Pearce
- Property Management Associate
For more information, visit: https://www.savills.co.uk/
Community events, such as the Cardiff Half Marathon, are fantastic ways to support charities, boost fundraising efforts and instil a sense of local pride and spirit.
However, Ansvar the insurance experts for charity, faith and notfor-profit sectors are reminding organisations to carefully consider and manage potential risks to ensure the safety and success of their initiatives. They have provided a list of key considerations for event organisers looking to hold an event this year.
Adam Tier, Head of Underwriting at Ansvar commented:
“With the seasons changing, we will start to see more community events taking place across the county. These events can be immensely rewarding and often draw insignificant crowds, injecting vibrancy into the local area and providing a platform for engagement. However, in light of their scale and sometimes unconventional nature, organisations need to be proactive in identifying and managing risks.”
The first recommendation is to plan for the unexpected and ensure to have a comprehensive contingency plan in place. This will help in the case of unforeseen circumstances such as adverse weather conditions, unexpected emergencies or technical failures.
It’s also important to have an adequate amount of volunteers and marshals to help with crowd control, emergency response and overall event coordination to ensure the smooth operation of events. Having enough support is essential and they must be trained sufficiently on safety protocols.
The event must be well protected with adequate insurance coverage. Securing the right insurance will protect you as an organiser from financial losses associated with cancellations, property damage or other unforeseen incidents and will provide peace of mind for yourself and the participants.
Additionally, considering whether the chosen location or venue can accommodate the expected amount of people, ensuring that the location is equipped is vital for participant safety.
To protect yourself further, you must obtain the necessary permits and permissions from the local authorities. This may include permits for using public spaces, serving alcohol or setting up temporary structures.
For more information on risk management solutions tailored to the faith, charity and not-for-profit sectors, visit www.ansvar.co.uk
The University of South Wales offers several events each designed to encourage business growth, collaboration and support. The ‘Learning to Lead’ event can be attended online by interested learners. This event is tailored to people within business looking to move from management roles to leadership roles - making this jump can be intimidating but learning how to harness your skills and confidence can help.
‘Learning to Lead’ will teach you the fundamental skills to adapt to a new work role or title; how to inspire others, create a vision and foster a positive work environment. In this online session, you will begin to explore how to make your transition easier when moving into a leadership role.
Explore more here: https://www.southwales.ac.uk/business-services/ usw-exchange-events-membership/usw-exchange-business-events/
Since 2010, The Welsh Business Show has comprised the largest business exhibitions in Wales, hosting the event annually in Cardiff, Swansea and Carmarthenshire. The Welsh Business Show allows you to brush shoulders with businesses of all sizes, whether you’re a guest or an established business wanting to promote your services to visiting delegates; The Welsh Business Show can provide you with the perfect platform.
Past events have been consistently informative and inspiring for local business starters, hearing seminars delivered by leading UK experts. Enjoy everything the event has to offer, network your way around the room and meet your potential buyers and customers. If you’re looking to drop by the event as a visitor you can meet businesses and their owners, and indulge in the array of products and knowledge shared.
For more information, visit: https://twbs.wales/
Offering a variety of business-themed events for their members throughout the year, Cardiff Business Club grants you access to exclusive occasions where you can learn, grow and network for your business. Receive invitations to engage in discussions with influential professionals spanning various sectors including broadcasting, politics, public service, charity, sports and beyond.
Cardiff Business Club is a community of business leaders who strive to make connections with one another and work together to further each other’s careers. Events are shared online with their members so if you want to become part of the community, join their membership and be the first to know about future events and plans.
For more information, visit: https://www. cardiffbusinessclub.org/
This conference will highlight the outstanding work conducted within the School of Engineering, offering informal networking chances for all research-active staff, extending beyond typical working groups. Researchers at every career stage, from post-doctoral research associates to professors, are encouraged to participate and submit abstracts for oral or poster presentations. The event is intentionally inclusive of all levels, promoting a strong sense of research community and an opportunity for cross-fertilisation of ideas, skill sets and collaboration.
The conference is organised around five themes, providing a platform for all to take part: AI and deep learning, digital twins, net zero, bio-based engineering and future engineering.
For free tickets, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cardiff-university-school-of-engineering-research-conference2024-tickets-763992521197
Attendees of the Introbiz Expo 2024 are in for an unparalleled experience. They’ll have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a day brimming with inspiration from keynote speakers who are industry leaders and accomplished entrepreneurs. The event boasts an exclusive exhibitor showcase featuring the latest innovations and offerings tailored to the SME landscape, all conveniently housed under one roof.
You’ll have plenty of opportunities to network, connecting with professionals who share their interests, potential clients and industry experts. These connections could lead to valuable partnerships for your business
Visit https://introbiz.co.uk/ to find out more.
Quantum Advisory, the leading independent financial services consultancy whose head office is situated in Cardiff, has announced a key partnership to share its pension and employee benefits expertise with the housing sector.
Quantum Advisory has become a commercial partner of Community Housing Cymru, the trade body for housing associations in Wales. The organisation represents 34 not-forprofit housing associations that provide almost 165,000 homes to 10% of the country’s population.
In addition to securing funding and developing policy frameworks to support its vision to make Wales a country where good housing is a basic right for all, Community Housing Cymru is committed to connecting members, opportunities and industry experts.
As a commercial partner of Community Housing Cymru, Quantum Advisory will build upon its existing engagement with members by sharing valuable market and sector insights at dedicated sessions, exhibiting at the trade body’s conferences and identifying opportunities for tailored solutions.
Quantum’s specialist Housing Association service covers the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), Social Housing Pension Scheme (SHPS), group-defined contribution schemes and all other types of pension and employee benefit arrangements. The service includes full scheme reviews, annual pension strategy monitoring, assistance with pension issues surrounding corporate activity, employee financial awareness sessions, and flexible employee benefits and salary sacrifice options.
Stuart Price, partner and actuary at Quantum Advisory, said: “Quantum has enjoyed an excellent relationship with Community Housing Cymru and its members for a long time, so this partnership was a natural next step for us to continue our support for the housing sector in Wales.
Many housing associations participate in either the LGPS or SHPS and our experience of working closely with these schemes means that we understand the advantages and challenges these arrangements bring to housing associations.”
Louise Price-David, head of member services and partnerships at Community Housing Cymru, said: “It is a pleasure to extend a warm welcome to Quantum Advisory as our newest commercial partner.
Quantum Advisory is a leading independent financial services consultancy in the UK, specialising in pension and employee benefit services. Their expertise and tailored solutions are invaluable assets to our sector. We are excited to collaborate with Quantum Advisory to enhance financial well-being and drive positive outcomes for our members.”
For more information, visit: https://quantumadvisory.co.uk/
Bigmoose is an award-winning mental health charity, on a mission to provide free, fast and effective therapy to those in need. As part of the Bigmoose mission, they aim to reduce the rates of suicide.
Central to their services is the provision of suicide first aid courses to businesses and organisations. These courses concentrate on suicide prevention, adeptly equipping participants with the ability to discern warning signs and the confidence to engage in crucial conversations.
Through these courses, Bigmoose ensures a broader network of individuals capable of identifying signs of distress and intervening effectively to avert tragedy.
One grateful participant shared their experience: “Thank you to Bigmoose for providing the opportunity to do the courses and to the course leaders for their informative, gentle approach that didn’t overwhelm or trigger but enabled confidence in the participants.”
Want to host a course within your organisation? Express your interest by emailing alex@bigmoose.co
In the last three decades, some of the world’s most valuable companies have emerged from the visionary minds of young graduates. Brands such as Microsoft, Apple, Google and Facebook stand as testaments to the power of youthful innovation and entrepreneurial spirit.
Enter the Alacrity model, conceived by Professor Simon Gibson CBE and Owen Matthews, bolstered by the support of Sir Terry Matthews. This model harnesses the untapped potential of UK graduate talent, capitalising on their learning agility, focus, cost efficiency, fresh perspectives, blank canvas approach and digital alignment.
At its core, Alacrity UK operates as a charitable organisation with a mission to empower entrepreneurs, foster innovation and invest in people. Through its flagship program, Alacrity UK connects aspiring entrepreneurs with demand-driven business concepts and compatible co-founders, nurturing the growth of tech and cyber-based startups. This program provides participants with expert mentoring, a tax-free monthly stipend and access to investor networks, offering them a launching pad towards success.
In addition to its core program, Alacrity UK spearheads various business growth initiatives, including partnerships with entities such as the Cyber Innovation Hub and Media Cymru. As a result, Alacrity UK is rapidly solidifying its position as a cornerstone for startup acceleration and business support within Wales.
The innovative QR code security solution redefining the QR code experience. QRLA provides top-tier QR code security for individuals and businesses. Their app ensures safe scanning for consumers, while their B2B solutions protect organisations from QR code vulnerabilities.
For more information, visit: https://qrla.io
Lumin Solutions empowers the child social care industry with a cutting-edge DigitalCare Assistant tool designed to improve the quality of care for children. They put emotion, relationships and people at the centre of their design and ethos.
For more information, visit: https://luminsolutions.co.uk
The success of the Alacrity model is further demonstrated by the accomplishments of its alumni:
Founded in 2021. Streetwave maps mobile network performance, highlighting areas with no coverage and unidentified weaknesses. This information enables municipal governments to empower citizens, drive innovation, improve social care efficiency and identify holes in the emergency services network. Streetwave provides geographically comprehensive insights that anyone can understand; collected sustainably.
For more information, visit: https://streetwave.co
Founded in 2021. Validient is a digital client onboarding and engagement system, built for the professional services industry. The first Phase of Validient provides a complete onboarding process for commercial clients which includes KYB, KYC, AML and PEP checks. Validient extends further to streamline internal processes through an action management system.
For more information, visit: https://validient.com
Founded in 2018. Surple build software that helps organisations to optimise their energy use. Through their platform, they are enabling businesses to change the way people view energy. Surple visualises and maps energy usage against trends to identify and reduce the amount of energy that organisations consume.
For more information, visit: https://surple.co.uk
Founded in 2016. Hut Six provides information security awareness training that protects companies through a measurable, bespoke, cloud- based campaign. Providing a comprehensive solution to the greatest information security vulnerability: the human factor.
For more information, visit: https://www.hutsix.io
To find out more about Alacrity UK, head to: https://alacrityfoundation. co.uk/
England possesses one of the world’s largest and most dynamic economies, with a 2021 GDP per capita averaging £34,690, while Wales lags behind at approximately 74% of that figure, just under £26,000, making any increases in the cost of living hit harder in Wales.
Despite a decrease from the previous month and a significant drop from the previous year’s peak, the UK’s inflation rate remains high at 3.40%, compared to the long-term average of 2.83%, leading to an ongoing cost of living crisis. This crisis, driven by steadily increasing expenses for necessities like food, housing and fuel, places immense pressure on individuals and families to stretch their budgets, while also impacting businesses, especially those in the logistics and 4PL industry, due to higher transportation and distribution costs and diminished consumer purchasing power.
One of the main ways that the cost of living crisis has affected the logistics industry, according to Freight Logistics Solutions, is through increased operating costs. For example, the rising costs of fuel, insurance, driver’s transportation and warehousing expenses, especially if they are temperature controlled. This has made it more difficult for logistics companies to remain competitive, especially if they are not able to easily pass on these cost increases to their customers which is why we’ve seen so many major hauliers go under in the past 6 months.
Another way that the cost of living crisis has impacted the logistics industry is through a decrease in consumer spending. As individuals and families are forced to cut back on nonessential purchases to make ends meet, demand for goods and services has decreased. This has led to a decrease in shipping volumes, which has put a strain on logistics companies that rely on consistent stable shipping volumes to stay afloat.
For more information about FLS and its services, please visit https://www.freightlogisticssolutions.co.uk/ or contact +44(0)1633 288 400.
Photography by Danoz
The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards, established in 2012 by Francesca James and headquartered in Cardiff, serves as a platform to recognise the dedication and inspirational narratives of British entrepreneurs and enterprises.
Often dubbed as ‘The Grammys of Entrepreneurship,’ this prestigious awards ceremony receives approximately 5,000 submissions annually, cultivating a thriving community of ambitious entrepreneurs throughout its 11-year history.
Unlike many awards, the Great British Entrepreneur Awards don’t solely honour large corporations. It takes pride in spotlighting exceptional stories of dedication, resilience, bravery, ingenuity and disruption from entrepreneurs leading businesses of various scales and developmental stages.
With a distinguished judging panel comprising seasoned entrepreneurs and industry mavens, the awards program meticulously evaluates applications each year, boasting a comprehensive understanding of the qualities and characteristics they seek to honour.
The Great British Entrepreneur Awards Hall of Fame has an impressive lineup too. Take Alison Edgar MBE for example. A former winner of a GB Entrepreneur Award, she has trained thousands of entrepreneurs nationally and internationally. Her client list ranges from start-ups through to multi-national conglomerates and includes Dragon’s Den and Apprentice winners.
Applications for the 2024 awards close at the end of May. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to win this prestigious award! https:// greatbritishentrepreneurawards.com/
In today’s competitive business world, success depends not only on finances but also on keeping employees healthy and happy. More increasingly, businesses are focusing on their employees’ well-being. One area that often gets forgotten about is hearing health.
Audiology Associates Ltd is renowned for its commitment to exceptional hearing care. With a main office in Ebbw Vale, Cardiff and clinics across South Wales, they provide advanced technology and comprehensive support to all patients. Led by experienced audiologists Rhys Barber and Leah Morris-Barber, the team offers free hearing tests and a 2-week trial for hearing aids, ensuring personalised care for every patient.
But, why should businesses prioritise employee hearing health? It’s not just about altruism; it makes good business sense.
• Untreated hearing loss can hinder communication and productivity. Promptly addressing hearing health issues ensures employees operate at their full potential.
• Hearing loss correlates with increased absenteeism due to stress and isolation. Regular screenings and care reduce these risks, fostering a healthier workforce.
• Supporting employee hearing health cultivates a positive work culture and boosts morale, enhancing engagement and retention.
• To comply with the Noise at Work Regulations 2006, employers must provide health surveillance (Audiometric testing – also known as hearing tests) for all their employees who are likely to be regularly exposed to noise above the upper exposure action values (85dB), or they are at risk for any reason (e.g. they are particularly sensitive to hearing damage or they already suffer from hearing loss).
Prioritising employee hearing health is both a moral obligation and a smart business move. If you’re looking to enhance workplace wellness, productivity and demonstrate genuine care for your employees, you’ve found your next steps.
For more information, visit: https://www.audiologyassociates.co.uk/
In recent years, many companies have begun exploring an innovative approach to working: the four-day working week. In the constantly changing landscape of work culture, the four-day working week has the potential to be the solution to increased productivity, employee satisfaction and a better work-life balance. But, it’s not without its challenges and the four-day working week is certainly not a one-size-fits-all solution. That being said, with proper evaluation, it has the power to be incredibly transformative.
For some, implementing a four-day working week is a factor that could transform their business for the better in a myriad of ways. In 2022, 4 Day Week Global, a non-profit organisation that campaigns for a four-day week, helped to implement a four-day workweek trial in the United Kingdom and enlisted over 60 companies to reduce their workweek. The benefits were evident: they saw a 1.4% average increase in revenue as well as a 57% reduction in attrition. This is
unsurprising when you consider that in a recent Gartner poll, more than 63% of candidates rated the four-day working week as the top innovative approach to work that would attract them to a job. If properly implemented, working four days a week could reduce burnout, offer more flexibility and improve the well-being of the workforce. The idea is that this goes hand in hand with increased productivity and revenue.
The rising popularity and discourse that surrounds the conversation of the four-day working week drew the attention of the Senedd’s Petitions Committee earlier this year. In their report, all except one Member concluded that it is recommended the Welsh Government should support a targeted pilot of a four-day workweek. The report will be debated by the Senedd on the 10th of May 2024.
Joe O’Connor, the then-CEO of 4 Day Week Global, told the Petitions Committee that: “... reduced work time can lead
to improved worker well-being, reduced burnout, reduced stress, and it’s something that can be really transformative in terms of work-life balance for employees when it comes to being able to spend more time with family, in the community, learning new hobbies, new skills and so on.”
The Petitions Committee did specify that the trial should not result in a loss of pay for the workers that participate and that the trial would be implemented most effectively in certain parts of the devolved public sector. The devolved public sector was a very deliberate recommendation, as the Committee heard a widespread agreement on the difficulties of implementing a four-day working week in sectors such as health, education, social care or hospitality.
This illuminates some of the concerns that are brought along with implementing a four-day working week, as well as ways to overcome these hurdles. Scepticism about continuity and quality of work remaining the same, as well as the perceived risk of overwork. Some argue that by condensing the working week into just four days, companies risk piling five days’ worth of work onto employees who are only working for four.
However, this does not invalidate those who argue for the fourday week and instead highlights the need to have a flexible and inclusive perspective. A slower and more gradual approach to the change could allow adaptation and experimentation, addressing issues and allowing organisations to implement the type of four-day week that best suits them. Differences in working hours and working days can affect the type of four-day week that is chosen, and different factors will be more beneficial for different businesses.
Slunks, a hair salon in Cardiff, has implemented a four-day working week for the last three years that has been very
successful. “We always wanted to do a four-day working week because the job can be very demanding and there is a lot of burnout from stylists.” Says Chelsea from Slunks. “Joel, who started Slunks, worked as a hairdresser for several years so understood there needed to be a change. After Covid, we could see that there was a possibility for this.”
“The way we adapted to the four-day working week was to run it as a shift rotation so we could alternate staff days. We also gave staff a weekend rotation so all staff could enjoy a long weekend. The feedback has been great from the staff - they have more time outside of work to enjoy their hobbies and to spend more time with their families, and we found that they’re less stressed at work and actually look forward to a working week.”
Conversely, they are aware that this is a change that could be very difficult for some businesses to make. Chelsea reported that “It’s a really hard time to be in business in Wales and the UK at the moment as there are so many high costs and so many staff shortages, so implementing a 4 day working week for small business at the moment could be really hard.” That being said, for Slunks, adaption and an open mind have revolutionised their working week.
“We have learned a lot in the last three years from implementing the four-day working week, mainly that you have to look at the individual needs of all staff and not just have a one-size-fits-all approach. Some of our team wanted to work five days a week and get a better commission rate and some wanted to work 4 days a week and get less holiday time. The bottom line is we have to make it work for everyone, ourselves included.”
Overwhelmingly, the four-day working week seems to be one trend in business that’s going to stick around. An open mind, willingness to adapt and a fresh approach to work could revolutionise the business landscape in the near future.
As part of Newport Transport’s goal towards a total electric fleet of buses by 2028, two new Yuntong U11DD electric double-decker buses and 11 new E9L Yutong single-deckers have been added to its fleet. Newport Transport now has 57 fully electric buses, representing 80% of the regular non-school operation, reducing carbon emissions and providing eco-friendly transport solutions within South East Wales.
Ian Downie, Head of Yugtong Uk said “The E9L builds upon our experience with over 180,000 zero-emission vehicles in service with 40.7 billion km of operation. The vehicles share the same industry-leading safety systems, with lithium iron phosphate chemistry batteries, which are widely considered to be the safest chemistry available.”
The state-of-the-art transport investment into a cleaner journey is a milestone for the company as the first electric double-decker buses are in operation around the area. The Yutong U11DD double-decker electric buses have only recently been introduced to the UK market with its seating capacity of 70 passengers and will now be in operation on the 30 and X30 routes between Newport and Cardiff.
David Jenkins, the Interim Managing Director at Newport Transport, expressed gratitude for the efforts of Yuntong and Pelican in adapting their E9 product for the UK market, enabling the addition of single-door electric midis buses to their fleet. These new buses mark another significant step in their transition to an all-electric fleet.
In Wales, there are currently 94 electric buses operational, with Newport pioneering their introduction back in 2019 through Newport Transport. The incorporation of these latest fleet enhancements signifies Newport’s achievement of its goal for all public transportation to be free of fossil fuels by 2035.
After a meticulous process of testing, selection, collaboration and anticipation for their arrival spanning two years, Newport Transport is now pleased to manage a fleet consisting of 33 entirely electric buses. This constitutes 32% of the daily fleet needs, making Newport’s electric bus fleet the largest of its
In April 2021, Olivia Jenkins quit her job to pursue her jewellery business full-time. It was a huge leap of faith - but that one leap has paid off hugely as the company expects to surpass almost £10 million in revenue in 2024.
After moving to Reading for university and taking a job at Pandora, Cardiff-born Olivia began to identify issues around everyday gold-plated jewellery. Then, after graduating and joining a global media agency, lockdown caused a ginormous shift in her job that caused Olivia to rethink her career. So, she decided to start a side hustle: D. Louise.
The brand is lovingly named after her Mother, Deborah Louise, who passed away in 2017. According to Olivia, D. Louise aimed to fill a huge gap in the jewellery market: gold-plated pieces that wouldn’t tarnish when wet or worn to the gym. Olivia ensured that her jewellery would remain affordable without sacrificing quality, pairing an impressive level of durability with aesthetics and affordability.
Since leaving her job and pursuing her business, Olivia has gone from strength to strength. From the early days of setting up an Instagram account, searching for suppliers and finding designers, D. Louise has snowballed into a jewellery empire. Every piece of D. Louise jewellery is crafted from tough, eco-friendly and hypoallergenic 361L stainless steel that won’t rust or oxidise. As well as this, Olivia ensured that her coating process would ensure an incredibly robust finish - ten times harder than gold-plating. According to D. Louise, it’s “jewellery you never have to take off.”
The careful thought and consideration that goes into making each piece of jewellery has certainly paid off, as business is booming at D. Louise. Over 350,000 units have been sold since the business started and the upward trajectory is set to continue with several impressive achievements that have happened over the last few months.
One of these impressive achievements is the investment they have recently received from former Gymshark CEO, Steve Hewitt. Olivia first connected with Steve through his advisory
business, Whanau, which led to Steve approaching the brand to foster a long-term connection and becoming an investor and board member. D. Louise plans to use the investment to accelerate their expansion, though Olivia is quick to ensure that there is no doubt that they will remain true to their roots, staying as a direct-to-consumer brand and sticking with their original strategy.
But that’s not all. Recently, D. Louise has announced Flannels as a stockist, the UK’s largest independent luxury retail group. This makes it even easier for customers to acquire pieces from D. Louise and see the products in person. The amazing expansion of the business from a small start-up in Olivia’s bedroom has also caught the eye of Forbes, who recognised D. Louise in their Forbes 30 Under 30 list.
One of the brand’s defining qualities is its quick ability to adapt whilst retaining its core values. Keeping a close relationship with the consumer, D. Louise uses customer feedback and trending searches to advise them on how to develop, having the ability to quickly use this information and turn it into successful collections. The brand ensures that it remains tightly connected with its customers by engaging with them on social media, hosting customer dinners and running influencer takeovers, allowing D. Louise to directly converse with their audience and consumers.
Olivia remains firm in her belief that the hardest part of creating a business is overcoming the first hurdle of starting it. Taking that leap of faith, having belief in yourself and your product and keeping a strong work ethic ensure that, over time, the ball will start rolling.
For more on the D. Louise story, visit: https://www.dlouise.co.uk
We’re hard-wired to live in the present – it’s part of our survival instinct, but your future is a tapestry of events woven from the threads of choices and actions you take every day. Whether you want to spend your retirement cruising around Cardiff Bay on your speed boat, dreaming of sipping piña coladas in the Caribbean or maybe you’ve decided that you’d finally like to live a little closer to your loved ones. Clarity, plan, and action are the tickets to get you to where you want to be.
You may struggle to strike a balance between whether you should live for today or plan for tomorrow. Working with my clients, I instead turn the conversation to what sets their pulses racing:
What do you want on your life’s highlight reel?
At what age can you achieve financial freedom? What legacy do you want to leave for your family to enjoy?
Whatever your goals are, they are unique to you.
My job is to turn those ambitions into a custom-fitted, dynamic, and agile roadmap. You may be dealing with a mishmash of pensions and ISAs - I’m here to bring a bit of clarity, order, and direction to your existing arrangements – always rooted in your goals and values. Consider your assets like soldiers at your command - ready to march forward in your campaign for the life that you want. And for those who do not yet know their ISA from their elbow, fear not—we can build your financial foundations from the ground up.
I love demystifying the often-complicated area of financial management. I make it easier for you to understand how to manage your spending and savings and support you in navigating the emotional side of making financial decisions.
A downside of the survival instinct of living in the moment is that our emotions rule us, and money can push our buttons like nothing else. Whether it’s your circumstances throwing you a plot twist, or you are finding yourself reacting to the market’s movements - seeking the support of a financial adviser who’s one step removed from the situation, can be a real help – we’re emotional beings, not robots after all.
Now, it is inevitable that there will be one of life’s ‘curveballs’ now and then — a break-up or divorce, a life-changing career move, or a surprise expense; your plan will need recalibrating from time to time, and that’s okay. Just as we seek out the advice of people we trust when we’re going through the inevitable choppy seas of business and life, utilising the expertise of a financial ‘First Mate’ is critical to ensure that you stay on course to achieve your goals. I am here to help you adjust your financial sails when the winds of change blow. Together, we can review and refine your financial plan to reflect your new circumstances, ensuring that your goals remain in sight, even if the path to reach them has shifted.
Remember, the future doesn’t just happen — it’s made.
The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.
Millfield Wealth Management Limited is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp. co.uk/products.
The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.
SJP Approved 5/4/2024
Jodie Powling BSc(Hons)
APFS Cert CII(MP&ER)
Chartered Financial Planner & Financial Planning Director at Millfield Wealth 23 Heol y Deri, Rhiwbina, Cardiff, CF14 6YF
WHERE CREATIVITY MEETS STRATEGY AND PASSION FUELS EVERY PROJECT
