CONNECTED magazine January 2013

JANUARY 2013

Enabling Economic Success

CAMBRIDGESHIRECHAMBER.CO.UK

Awards galore!

HESE L REPOTINE RT WHAT

a celebration of local business superstars from across our area

32

MEAN THIS REA LLY Sf of co or chamb mmer ers LOCAL c ENTER e and PR PARTN ERSHI RISE PS

Brewing UP A GLOBAL STORM? Fenland focus: ELgood’s family-run ale brewery is going from strength to strength

PAGES OF YOUR business NEWS AND STORIES

PLUS

meet this month’s new members Business support to boost growth

THE OFFICIAL MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF THE ULTIMATE BUSINESS NETWORK

Introducing the all-new Auris Join us for breakfast on 8 February and drive the latest fleet favourite

Tax efficient s CO2 emission nd a m k / g 9 9 f o great value!

Follow @mmgpetetoyota

Drive the all-new Toyota Auris and other vehicles from the range... join us for a networking breakfast at Peterborough Arena on Friday 8 February and have some fun behind the wheel!

Come along to the Chamber Breakfast event and afterwards enjoy some hospitality courtesy of Marshall Toyota Peterborough. There will be a range of vehicles to test drive and plenty of invaluable advice for business people about choosing the right company cars.

marshallweb.co.uk/toyota/peterborough

Organised by:

Mallory Road Peterborough PE1 5AU Tel: 0844 3349627

In association with: Supported by:

CONTENTS |

Contents 6

5

6-8

Chief Executive’s Comment Fenland Chamber News

9 Ely Chamber News

10-12

Peterborough Chamber News

Charity of the Year

13

14-16 Cambridge Chamber News

13

24-25

30

9 20-21

17-18

Huntingdonshire Chamber News

Cambridgeshire Chamber News

19

20-21

Out & About

23

Ask the Expert

24-25

New Members

26

Policy Update

27

Chamber Updates

28-29

30

Awards Round-up

31

Business Support

32-33

Events

35-37

Sector Updates

38

Heseltine Report

Directory

10-12

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 3

| EDITOR’S COMMENT

ENABLING ECONOMIC SUCCESS

Welcome

Chief Executive John Bridge OBE Editor Sadie Parr Creative Director Jillian Boys Publisher Method methodcreative.co.uk Ebenezer House, Rooks Street, Cottenham, Cambridge CB24 8QZ 01954 253060

The start of the New Year is the perfect opportunity to look ahead and make plans for 2013.

Print Cambridge Printers cambridgeprinters.co.uk

Our monthly magazine underwent a dramatic change towards the end of 2012 and we intend to continue to improve and evolve with each edition. This month we have increased the number of pages to accommodate more member news!

With improved design and production standards going into 2013, we continue to offer the magazine as a useful vehicle for raising your profile and have received such positive feedback that we know members are feeling the benefit.

All members are welcome to share their good news stories and submit an article for the local Chamber pages. All we ask is you limit your copy to 200 words maximum and provide a high-resolution image as a jpeg file direct to me at s.parr@cambscci.co.uk You can also email across photos to be featured on our centre page ‘Out & About’ feature. Please try to select colourful, sharp images so we can feature them. We look forward to seeing what you’ve been up to each month!

Due to the Christmas break there is still time to submit articles for the February edition; copy deadline is Friday 5 January and our focus area is Huntingdonshire.

The Chamber would like to wish all our members a very prosperous 2013 and we look forward to your good news stories as the year develops.

Disclaimer Views expressed in CONNECTED are not necessarily those of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of editorial content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. The editor reserves the right to make amendments without notification.

Membership For more details on the benefits and services available with Chamber membership, contact Peter Watts, Membership Development Officer, on 07545 697799 or Bren Coleman on 01223 209811.

Cambridge Office Enterprise House, The Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9ZR. Tel 01223 237414 Fax 01223 237405 Peterborough Office 6 The Forum, Minerva Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough PE2 6FT. Tel 01733 370809 Fax 01733 237437

Advertise in CONNECTED and reach more than 3000 potential customers every month!

Contact Lorna Hopkins on 01954 253060 or email connected@methodcreative.co.uk

Prices start from as little as £75

Sadie Parr Editor, CONNECTED

Do you follow us on Twitter?

We regularly tweet Chamber news; follow us at @CambsChamber to be kept up to date with all the latest news.

4 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

ENABLING ECONOMIC SUCCESS Email enquiries@cambscci.co.uk www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk @CambsChamber

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S COMMENT |

Support for Chamber Chops

continues

November was a truly inspirational month which saw many Chamber members pledging their support to Chamber Chops, our fundraising campaign in aid of Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust’s (ACT) Robot Appeal.

Currently the Chambers’ nominated Charity of the Year, ACT recently funded the £1.4 million da Vinci robotic surgeon to assist prostate cancer surgery at Addenbrooke’s. The life-changing technology is world-leading and the new robot’s predecessor ensured far fewer complications than traditional surgical methods and much superior recovery rates for over 1,000 men and their families. That included myself and my own family, which is why campaigns to safeguard the future of the robotic programme in our region are so close to my heart.

An exceptional amount, over £3,000, has so far been raised by those Chamber members who sought sponsorship to grow a moustache for the month of November, and the best news is that those donations are continuing to roll in. Thanks to everyone who has played their part. Together we’ve made a contribution towards ensuring that many hundreds more men, over the years to come, can benefit from this pioneering robotic surgery.

Amongst those who have taken part include myself and Peter Watts from the Chamber, Phil Mashinchi and his team at IT Support specialists BrightVisions, Paul Gibbons from the Chambers’ member benefit provider Westfield Health and the Corporate Management Team of Fenland District Council. To all these and everyone else taking part together with all of you who have supported by sponsoring, a great big thank you.

As a Chamber we will continue to raise awareness of the excellent work carried out by ACT, and I hope that, like us, you will continue to support their efforts to improve the experience of patients from across the region at the Addenbrooke’s and Rosie Hospitals.

So to everyone who took part or donated to this very worthy cause, thank you again. Remember, it’s still not too late to make a donation! If you would like to make a contribution, to show your support you can still do so online at www.justgiving.com/johnbridge, where you will also find a selection of pictures taken in November of my own personal ‘Chamber Chops’.

John Bridge OBE Chief Executive, Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

An exceptional amount, over £3,000, has so far been raised, and donations are continuing to roll in

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 5

| FENLAND CHAMBER NEWS

Fenland Chamber FOCUS A round-up of news and events from Fenland

Versatility is the secret to success for Elgood & Sons Feature by Sadie Parr

All hands to the pumps at Wisbech family brewing business Elgood’s!

IT’S exciting times ahead for the Wisbechbased family brewery Elgood & Sons as it looks to export its range of products overseas with negotiations taking place with Russia and America.

Brewers in the USA have a demand for English style bitters and ales, while Russia requires stronger ABV products, so Elgood’s will adapt to meet specific requirements.

For the Olympics, a range of ten seasonal beers of different sporting themes were introduced, along with flavoured beers including honey, raspberry and ginger.

Kate Pateman, Directors’ Secretary, says versatility is essential, “It is important to keep fingers on the pulse in this industry.

We have good relationships with trade institutions and respond to current trends.

“We trial brews, strengths and styles for the different markets; we need to adapt to the market conditions especially when exporting.”

Elgood’s has remained loyal to traditional brewing methods while making important 6 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

technical advances to enable the brewing of a complete range of beers to cater for all of today’s tastes.

We need to adapt to the market conditions Traditionally, Elgood’s brewed for their own portfolio of 35 pubs, but diversification made them a national supplier for wholesale customers stocking their branded products.

Their range of bottled beers already feature nationally through supermarket chains and they are keen to expand this further by exporting into new markets.

In recent years the smoking ban and recession have impacted the pub business.

Elgood’s ability to adapt and evolve across the entire operation means it has weathered the storm and continues to thrive. n

Visitor Centre & Gardens The visitor centre and gardens hidden behind the brewery are open to the public from April to September, attracting hundreds of visitors. They host the Fenland Chamber Informal Networking Evenings which take place on the last Wednesday of the month. Kate sees value in this network: “Hosting the monthly networking meetings in the visitor centre has been extremely beneficial to us. We were put in touch with Chadwick Export Services who advised us on paperwork and classifications for exports. Word of mouth forms a big part of our business and networking and experience of others is a valuable tool.”

FENLAND CHAMBER NEWS |

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

FPM cements legacy of local legend WISBECH business Foster Property Maintenance (FPM) is working to transform the previously derelict land next to Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House into landscaped open space that will act as a lasting tribute to this local legend.

She was a pioneer of social housing and co-founder of the National Trust.

The new ‘Centenary Green’ site will commemorate the hundredth anniversary of Octavia’s death.

“She is rightly seen as a leading social and environmental reformer of her day,” said John Foster, chief executive of FPM. “There is a perfect fit between the values she embodies and the ones that we hold dear at FPM. The majority of our work is in social housing and this is a project we are proud to be working on.” n

Investment at the Isle Campus The Isle Campus of the College of West Anglia is being transformed with £6.5m of investment from both Fenland District and Cambridgeshire County councils and is barely recognisable from a few months ago.

The work continues to improve the facilities with teaching blocks being refurbished or demolished. Mark Reavell, executive director of partnerships and estates at the Campus, says, “The college is changing hugely.” n

Artist’s impression of new Isle Campus buildings

IN BRIEF January 2013 Lilymays shortlisted for East of England award

Work is underway at Centenary Green

In recognition of its great products, Lilymay Florist has been shortlisted in the Wedding Industry Awards 2013 in the category of Florist in the East of England. The shortlisting was based on the opinions and ratings from wedding couples who have voted.

Just Jobs Peterborough celebrates first birthday

Social reformer Octavia Hill was born in Wisbech

NWES assist business dream

Firefighter Tony Bird

Tony Bird attended a Ready for Business seminar run by NWES; a business start-up programme that helps potential entrepreneurs improve their chances of success and help to raise funding.

Tony has worked for the fire service for 10 years and recognised a missing link in communicating fire prevention to business and home owners. n

Online recruitment website, Just Jobs Peterborough, is celebrating a successful launch year. “It’s been a fantastic year for Just Jobs Peterborough. Our website is growing from strength to strength.” says Steve Copeland, managing director.

“Clients are giving us very positive feedback, happy that we are providing a low cost and effective solution to their recruitment needs. We are also creating a hub for local businesses via our news pages and clients are embracing our ethos of local jobs for local people.”

17 years of entertainment Edge Entertainment Consultants celebrated 17 years in November.

Andrew Harvey founded the business in March and, though it has moved offices a few times, it has remained local continually.

The company has grown to include additional staff and has carried out thousands of bookings, turning over millions of pounds and supplied entertainment worldwide.

Andrew said: “We are now the preferred supplier to more local venues than we have ever been before, enjoy a reputation for quality, value and professional service and most importantly we work with some fantastic people , both in terms of our acts and clients.”

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 7

| FENLAND CHAMBER NEWS

Fenland Chamber FOCUS A round-up of news and events from Fenland

Boathouse summit refines Wisbech 2020 Vision The architects of the Wisbech 2020 Vision joined community and business leaders at the Boathouse Business Centre in October for a special summit to consider the best ways of regenerating the town and its surrounding area.

The ambitious Vision was launched in March 2012 by Cambridgeshire County Council Leader Nick Clarke, Fenland District Council Leader Alan Melton and North-East Cambridgeshire MP Stephen Barclay.

L-R: Nicky Morrison (University of Cambridgeshire), Alex Plant (Executive Director, Cambs County Council), Paul Medd (FDC’s Chief Executive), Cllr Alan Melton (FDC’s Leader), Cllr Nick Clarke (Cambs County Council Leader) and Cllr Chris Seaton (FDC’s Deputy Leader)

Planting the seeds of new skills Five young apprentices took a short break from their duties to give Fenland District Council’s Leader and Deputy Leader an insight into their work at the Delamore plant in Wisbech St Mary.

Councillors Alan Melton and Chris Seaton were meeting Managing Director Wayne Eady to discuss progress towards the establishment of a new horticultural skills centre there.

The apprenticeship programme is the first stage in the move to set up a new horticultural skills centre, one of the key projects of the Wisbech 2020 Vision.

The centre aims include the development of curriculum-based skills training for pupils in the 1416 age group and the creation of apprenticeships and work-based employment opportunities for 16-19-year-olds. n

8 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

Detailed proposals are now being finalised The summit was the culmination of the first phase of the project, which has also included public surveys, road shows and workshops.

Key themes identified include the economy, transport, community cohesion, the links between education and employment and the town’s image.

Those attending the meeting heard details of the wide range of ideas that had emerged since the Vision’s launch and discussed which projects should now be given priority. Detailed proposals are now being drawn up, with a final action plan due to be launched at the end of this January 2013.

Councillor Melton said: “This is a long-term project which is vital for Fenland’s future prosperity.” n

Swapping hard hats for aprons Nineteen managers and directors, including managing director for the eastern region Graham Howe, got stuck in to ‘Calamity Kitchen’, a corporate fundraising event with a difference.

Under the watchful eye of professional chefs Neil Hardy and Roger Carter, Kier cooks prepared two starters, mains and desserts before serving them up to 160 hungry guests at Newmarket Racecourse.

Graham Howe, stated: “This was one of the most successful team building and corporate events I have ever taken part in. I am delighted that we have been able to beat our target of raising £10,000 for The Kier Foundation.” n

£10,000 raised for the Kier Foundation The event was held to raise money for The Kier Foundation, which raises funds for and offers practical assistance to charitable bodies throughout the UK.

Kier cooks catered for guests at Newmarket

ELY CHAMBER NEWS |

Ely Chamber NEWS A round-up of news and events from Ely

Marketing to make you hop Emerald Frog Marketing is lending a helping hand to small businesses and start-ups in 2013 with monthly offers.

These will be promoted each month through Facebook, Twitter and online.

The ‘Low Cost, High Impact Marketing’ focus has tips and advice on how to promote your business on a shoestring budget. n

Ely Festive 5K OVER 200 children and adults of all ages took part in the Ely Festive 5K to raise money for the Arthur Rank Hospice and were met by Santa Claus, who listened to their Christmas wishes. Competitors of all abilities ran, jogged and walked the course around the historic city of Ely, some with little or no experience whilst others were dashing for a personal best.

Michael Judkins, one of the partners of sponsor Ward Gethin Archer, said: “A number of our staff took part and the event is clearly going from strength to strength.” n

The Ely Festive 5k is a winter favourite

Jo Evans and Cheriee Chater from Emerald Frog

ECBG Mentoring Scheme In support of local business success, the ECBG offers a mentoring service for start-up or small organisations.

The mentors will coach you in meeting your business goals through a series of informal meetings; stimulating your thinking and providing advice where appropriate. This confidential service is provided on a voluntary basis and your mentor will encourage you to record your progress and achievements throughout.

A bi-annual network meeting for mentors and mentees may also be arranged depending on the level of interest.

If you would like to support our Business Community by offering your time as a mentor or to access this voluntary service please contact Beverly Dixon by email beverly.dixon@gs-fresh.com n

The new local hub for business in Ely

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 9

| PETERBOROUGH CHAMBER NEWS

Peterborough Chamber NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Peterborough

IN BRIEF January 2013 ACR celebrates exam success Anne Corder Recruitment’s Rosie Hooton has been accepted into the Institute of Recruitment Professionals having scored an industry exam success.

Rosie passed the Certificate in Recruitment Practice with a merit, entitling her to become an Institute Member.

Orton Hall scoops international award Orton Hall Hotel & Spa has achieved the top ‘International Quality Award’ in its annual inspection by the Best Western group.

The award is only given to a few select hotels throughout the world that reach an exemplary level of quality. In fact, only 29 British hotels have achieved such an accolade.

To be in with a chance of winning the award every Best Western hotel is rigorously assessed using strict criteria. This includes the cleanliness and quality of both the guest rooms and public areas and also the standards of the restaurants and leisure facilities. All the hotels

must achieve at least minimum standards to remain part of the group, however some hotels go on to achieve Global recognition with an ‘International Quality’ award for their excellence in this area.

Keith Pope, Director of Best Western, said: “It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff that the Best Western PLUS Orton Hall Hotel & Spa has achieved such a great award. As Best Western are all independently owned hotels, it is a great honour for them to be recognised internationally and this award is an international seal of approval.” n

Rosie Hooton with her Certificate

Local law firm leads the way Buckles Solicitors LLP has been ranked top by the Chambers and Partners directory.

Firms and individuals are ranked in bands and Buckles has been placed in band 1, which is the top tier, for eight areas of law for Peterborough and the surrounding area.

Managing Partner, Colleen Gostick, comments: “The latest rankings reflect the excellent work with our clients over the past 12 months.”

Over £4k raised for Age UK! Safe Local Trades organises fund-raising events for their chosen charity Age UK Peterborough. This year there were two events, the Great Eastern Fun Run and a firewalk.

Both events were a success and organiser, Eileen Le Voi, owner of Safe Local Trades, said: “We would like to thank all our runners and firewalkers for taking part in helping to raise £4,185 for this very worthy cause and to everyone who supported us by donating to our teams.”

10 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

The majestic Orton Hall Hotel & Spa in Peterborough

Manufacturing cluster launched ON Thursday 8 November, Opportunity Peterborough held the first Peterborough Manufacturing Cluster event at KingsGate Conference Centre.

The meeting included local manufacturers, as well as partner bodies such as Cranfield University, Peterborough Regional College and UKTI. The aim of bringing together key industry figures was to build a practical network of businesses that can liaise closely for their mutual benefit by sharing knowledge and best practice. n

Oakham Ales brew welcomes home ‘The Vikings’ OAKHAM Ales brewed a special beer ‘Return of the Vikings’ to mark the home coming of the Royal Anglian Regiment, who are also known as the Vikings. The entire regiment was invited for a free pint of ‘Return of the Vikings’ beer at Charters, the popular riverside bar based in Peterborough.

Oakham Ales and sister company, The Oaka Group own Charters, East Restaurant and the Brewery Tap in Peterborough. n

PETERBOROUGH CHAMBER NEWS |

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

IiE Green Standard Law Firm

IN BRIEF

Hunt & Coombs Solicitors are delighted that their Head Office has been awarded the Investors in Environment Green Accreditation.

Managing Director Lynne Ayres said: “We are particularly proud to be the first law firm in the country to achieve this.

Changes to our website and brochures

January 2013

have reflected the firm’s commitment to protecting our environment and encouraging others to do the same.

“All staff have been encouraged to take part, leading to a continued improvement of the firm’s environmental performance over recent years in relation to our services and operations.” n

Three new faces for Hegarty Hegarty Solicitors continues to grow with the creation of three new roles within its busy property department. Vicki Chilton has been appointed head of the Residential Conveyancing department, Sarah Perkins joins the firm as Chartered Legal Executive and Jodi Ross as Conveyancing Executive.

Sarah Perkins, Vicki Chilton and Jodi Ross Investors in Environment Green Accreditation for solicitor firm

Shipping container turned into office Lark Energy helped transform a disused shipping container into a fully functioning office for a Channel 4 television programme.

‘George Clarke’s Small Space Revolution’ was broadcast in November 2012.

Lark Energy designed, supplied and installed an off-grid solar system to provide all the power required for the unique office.

“This was a great project,” said MD Jonathan Selwyn. n

The old shipping container that is now a fully functioning home office

Free WiFi service at the Arena venue PETERBOROUGH Arena is boosting its facilities to event organisers and businesses by offering free WiFi. Initially, the service will be available in the main Arena and Atrium buildings, as well as the popular Peterborough and Cambridge suites. However, the plan is to roll this out to the other suites at the venue.

Peterborough Arena bosses see its introduction as invaluable for organisers of events, conference delegates and other venue users.

Managing Director Keith Dalton said: “It is a big advantage to offer Wi-Fi around much of the venue. The facility is free, which gives us the edge over many large national events venues.” n

Chef de la Maison digital plan The new website for Chef de la Maison was launched at the end of October and includes monthly recipe blogs and great special offers.

The website was designed by fellow Chamber member Something Beckons who also helped with other aspects of social media.

Olsen strengthens its creative and digital team The Olsen Partnership has appointed Vicky Fleming to the position of Creative Online Executive.

Vicky will be responsible for copywriting, web-based communications, implementing email campaigns and providing design support for both web and print projects.

She will also keep up-to-date with continually evolving social media developments and SEO techniques for client sites.

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 11

| PETERBOROUGH CHAMBER NEWS

Peterborough Chamber NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Peterborough

Six ‘first tier’ rankings for Greenwoods

Into the Dragons’ Den

The participants of the Dragons’ Den event

Students recently presented their business ideas to gain funding at a ‘Dragons’ Den’ event held at the Learning Centre at Perkins.

The dragons choose which Young Enterprise companies to invest in. At the start of the academic year, students establish a company, research the market and develop a product or service to fulfil a need. The next stage is to attend trade shows to promote and sell their products and services. n

University presents new lecturer PAUL Stainton, Radio Cambridgeshire Bigger Breakfast Show presenter, has joined lecturing staff on UCP’s BA (Hons) Journalism and BA (Hons) Media Studies courses where he teaches degree students all aspects of radio including reporting, presenting and production. n

Robert Dillarstone, Managing Director

The 2012 edition of The Legal 500 – an independent review of law firms – has just been published and Greenwoods Solicitors LLP has received first tier rankings for its corporate and commercial, employment, health and safety, commercial property, media and entertainment, and personal tax, trusts and probate expertise.

It highlights three Directors, Robert Dillarstone, David Woods and Kathryn Gilbertson as leading individuals in the region’s legal sector.

The publication suggests that Greenwoods’ clients see the benefits of working with excellent lawyers who are strong technically, but who are also very good to work in partnership with. The growing client base shows the firm’s skill in making complex situations accessible to non-legal professionals.

Together we’ll solve IT.

We help growing companies to streamline essential business functions with tailored software solutions.

Call us today and we’ll put our heads together.

t: 01223 597919 adeptsoftware.co.uk

12 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

Managing Director, Robert Dillarstone, is delighted: “I’ve always been a firm believer that the key to success is getting a great team in place. We have worked tremendously hard to get the best team and have been able to celebrate some fantastic successes as a result. But there’s more we want to achieve and we are going to enjoy every moment of making it happen.” n

New employment lawyer joins the team Solicitor Siobhan Thomson has joined Greenwoods’ Employment & Employee Benefits team. Robert Dillarstone is enthused and adds, “Siobhan’s approach mirrors exactly how we like to work with clients.” n Siobhan Thomson

CHAMBER CHARITY OF THE YEAR |

Your New Year

Community Challenge 2012 has been a fantastic year for Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT) and its robotic surgery programme for prostate cancer patients. Not only did the hospital treat its 1000th patient with the da Vinci robotic surgeon, but thanks to many generous supporters, ACT was able to buy a new robot to help treat 1000 more patients.

Many corporate and individual fundraisers continue to support the robotic surgery programme to help make the service even better. This year we challenge you to get involved and be a part of it!

How can you help? Any fundraising activities are welcome, from runs to cake sales to corporate golf days. Why not read Steve and Robert’s fundraising stories below for some inspiration...

Steve’s Tour de France In June, former prostate cancer patient Steve Billis cycled across France to raise £4,225 for the Addenbrooke’s Robot Appeal. Steve was eager to give something back to the surgical team that saved his life through robotic surgery in 2008. Keen to go the extra mile, Steve and his friend Henry Rowe completed an epic 14-day, 873 mile cycle ride from Le Havre to Montpellier.

Steve said: “You never know when prostate cancer might affect you or someone you care

Steve Billis, former prostate cancer patient

for and it is vital to have the best care available when needed. When I read about da Vinci robotic surgery, I knew it was a no brainer.

My operation was a complete success. I was only in hospital for two days and was back to work two weeks later. Apart from some minor aches, I suffered no pain or side effects.

“I can’t thank the team at Addenbrooke’s enough and I’m delighted to have been able to raise so much to help support the future of robotic surgery at Addenbrooke’s.

“But I haven’t stopped there – I’m even thinking of doing more fundraising by organising a quiz night for friends and family!”

2012 has been a fantastic year for ACT Fulbourn Old Farts Fundraising Robert Lacey of Fulbourn Old Farts football team, held his third annual football tournament in May for the Addenbrooke’s Robot Appeal, raising £3,900, almost doubling his £2,000 target!

The event at Fulbourn Recreation Ground saw 16 teams of men of all ages, sizes, levels of fitness and footballing competency come together to run themselves ragged in a fundraising event. It was a sad defeat for the Addenbrooke’s staff team who made an early exit, but the winning team, The Shafters, were delighted to claim the cup for the second year running.

Robert Lacey said: “We got the Fulbourn Old Farts team together after a group of us who are dads in our forties thought it would be fun to play five-a-side football once a week. We decided it would be great to do something for charity and we really wanted to support men at our local hospital, so we organised the charity football match with a raffle and auction and I’m really pleased that we raised so much.” n

Robert Lacey presents his cheque to ACT

How your fundraising could help robotic surgery £18 could buy a cover to insulate scissor tips £45 could buy a clip to bind blood vessels £70 could buy an ‘Endo Catch’ bag to catch and contain tissue specimens £200 could buy a robotic needle holder £250 could buy a pair of robotic scissors £1,405 could buy the total number of disposable items, including those listed above, required to treat one patient with robotic surgery.

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

Your support can help the robotic surgery programme at Addenbrooke’s to provide the best possible care for patients now and in the future.

Why not think about supporting the Addenbrooke’s Robot Appeal as an organisation this year. You could help save 1000 more lives. To find out more about the appeal go to: www.actcharity.org.uk/robot

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 13

| CAMBRIDGE CHAMBER NEWS

Cambridge Chamber NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Cambridge

IN BRIEF January 2013 Ashton KCJ sponsors art exhibition

Ruth Booy and Mary Goode

Ashton KCJ and Headway Cambridgeshire joined forces to put on an art exhibition with a difference at the Williams Gallery in January. All the works of art were created by people who have acquired brain injury and the exhibition was a celebration of their artistic achievements. It also illustrated how changes in the brain can influence the way in which people then see and portray everyday items or the subjects of their imagination.

Elms BMW delivers for Connells Recent new member company Elms BMW celebrated the successful handover of 66 vehicles to Connells Estate Agents for its London operations. The Elms Corporate team staged the delivery in two phases with the final cars being presented at the end of 2012.

Connells runs a fleet of 750 vehicles in total with 120 allocated to Londonbased drivers. Ross Kilroy, local business development manager at Elms secured the

deal after contacting Connells purchasing director Jo Jackson. She was bowled over with the offer of testing a new MINI and was subsequently impressed with the quick and efficient service from the team at Elms.

“It was great to see all the cars lined up when we did the final handover,” said Ross.

“There is always a great feeling when you know you’ve given great service and the customer is as excited as we are!” n

Lucy Avogadri hired by Barr Ellison Lucy Avogadri trained and worked in the City for some years before moving to Cambridge. Elizabeth Deyong, Head of Commercial Property at Barr Ellison Solicitors, is delighted with the latest recruit to her commercial property team: “Lucy has extensive experience of acting for clients with diverse property portfolios including investors and funds, developers and high street retailers.”

Lucy Avogadri

14 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

A successful handover of fleet vehicles for Elms Corporate team to Connells Estate Agents

Giving is good for Method Cambridge based integrated communications agency Method Creative gave its staff a full working day to volunteer at a local charity of their choice in the run up to Christmas.

Arthur Rank Hospice, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Bedfordshire Wildlife Trust, The Green Backyard, Blue Cross and Camsight were some of the local charities included in the feelgood initiative.

Social media lead Lorna Hopkins spent the day learning the ropes at animal re-homing centre, Blue Cross. Volunteer coordinator Emma Laflin said: “Having Lorna with us for the day really helped the Blue Cross in the run up to Christmas.

So many animals come to us at this

time of year so it’s vital we get plenty of volunteers in. We are lucky to receive generous monetary donations from the public and businesses all year round, but equally we always need an extra pair of hands to make sure the charity continues to run smoothly.” n

Method staff gave a day each to local charities

CAMBRIDGE CHAMBER NEWS |

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

Realnet kicks off With the launch of 4G, and the current focus on the importance of mobile optimised websites, it can be a real rush to stay ahead of the technological curve.

However, for one of its latest projects, Realnet used low-fi methods to fulfil a very different type of brief.

Following on from the hugely popular African football platform, Kickoff.com, the site owners asked Realnet to build a dedicated mobile site. However, we realised that this was not to be the sort of cutting edge mobile site that we are used to building.

“Due to the remote location of many of Kickoff’s users, the site needed to have

Adept welcomes first class talent Adept Software Consulting has appointed a first class BSc Computing graduate to join its expanding team. Adam Collins joined the Cambourne team in December, as support desk consultant. The appointment reinforces Adept’s focused approach of supplying

IN BRIEF January 2013 Crowne Plaza gets new name

very limited data requirements, and be suitable for a 2G network,” says Kari Sewell. “It also had to display on older style handsets, rather than the latest smartphones. With some clever tweaks, and a nod to the past, we produced a good-looking and functional site compatible with older technology.” n

technically skilled staff who are just as comfortable discussing complex jargon as they are building relationships.

Adam will work under the wing of Bhavesh Ghadvi, Adept’s current lead support desk consultant until Bhavesh steps up to consultant developer in early 2013. MD David Smith said, “Adam has the combination of technical, academic knowledge and industry experience.” n

What is Learning For? AS the national education debate continues to reverberate through government, the Stephen Perse Foundation in Cambridge is hosting a conference titled ‘What is Learning For?’ on 27 February. The conference will draw together thought leaders from the maintained and independent education sectors, assessment bodies, entrepreneurs, business and not for profit leaders, academics and wellbeing experts.

Speakers include Doug Richards and Prof Guy Claxton, Co-director of the Centre for Real-World Learning among others.

Tricia Kelleher, Principal of the Stephen Perse Foundation, said: “Now is the time for frank, honest discussion and debate among those who have a vital role in shaping learning environments and curriculums for the future.” n

Doug Richard, entrepreneur, will speak at the event

Further to its acquisition by London & Regional (L&R), the Crowne Plaza Cambridge has now been renamed the Cambridge City Hotel.

L&R is planning to make substantial investments in the property aiming to enhance the facilities offered by the hotel to leisure and corporate visitors to ensure that the physical product matches the high standard of service already provided by the hotel’s dedicated staff.

The Cambridge City Hotel is known for its excellent facilities and has over 3,500 sq ft of meeting space — with the largest room capable of hosting up to 300 guests.

Sepura launches apprenticeship scheme

Gordon Watling, CEO of Sepura

Sepura has launched an apprenticeship scheme, which is designed to help develop talent for the future. The scheme welcomes its first apprentices in January 2013. It is a key part of Sepura’s commitment to invest both in the growth of the business and also in the people that it needs to help secure growth.

The programme is being run in association with Cambridge Regional College (CRC) and is focused on training apprentice engineers in a variety of roles within the Product Development function for four days per week.

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 15

| CAMBRIDGE CHAMBER NEWS

Cambridge Chamber NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Cambridge

New PUDLO appointment

Hewitsons invests in the future with double promotions

PUDLO, part of the David Ball Group plc, announces the appointment of Liam Leonard as Internal Technical Sales Coordinator and Rory Dawson as Assistant Contracts Manager for the PUDLO site team.

Liam’s key focus is to build upon the service framework and continue to support customers by dealing with internal technical queries and preparing all project related drawings. Rory’s primary focus will be managing and implementing all training of new Site Support Team staff to ensure they have the required knowledge and high standards of customer experience. n

Hewitsons law firm has shown its commitment to the training and development of its staff with two internal promotions and four new trainee appointments.

Amy Smith, who has been a Legal Secretary with the firm for just over four years, has been promoted to Junior Trust Manager.

Lindsey Merrit, who joined the firm three years ago and has been working as a Residential Property Assistant, has been promoted to Residential Property fee earner.

John Dix, Hewitsons’ Managing Partner,

Communication is our strength.

said: “We send our congratulations to Amy and Lindsey on their recent promotions and wish them continued success in their careers with us at Hewitsons.” n

Lindsey Merrit

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HUNTINGDONSHIRE CHAMBER NEWS |

Huntingdonshire Chamber NEWS A round-up of news and events from Huntingdonshire

New committee chair steps up to challenge

IN BRIEF January 2013 Beacon hire first apprentice Beacon Wealth Management Ltd have just hired their first apprentice, Luke Messenger, along with Paraplanner Paul Grist to support their growing business.

As part of Luke’s apprenticeship he will be attending college every Thursday to study a Business and Administration course/NVQ Level 2.

Paul Grist will support Beacon’s Independent Financial Advisers with research as a Paraplanner.

Graham Smith from Januarys is the new Chair of the Huntingdonshire Chamber Committee

Recently appointed to the position of Chair of the Huntingdonshire Chamber of Commerce Committee, Graham Smith will help to steer on relevant issues that affect companies in and around Huntindgon.

A resident of Hinchingbrook for more than six years, Graham is well established in the area and is a director of regional property consultants Januarys. He has over 30 years’ experience in chartered surveying and is registered under the RICS Approved Valuer scheme. Graham’s main areas of expertise include advising on both landlord and tenant matters, as well as providing detailed appraisals and valuations for borrowing, acquisition and taxation purposes.

Borney Expansion

Kayleigh Smith with Sarah Seal

“With the development of the Alconbury Enterprise Zone it’s important that Huntingdon is well represented,” says Graham. “I hope to help raise the profile of Huntingdon and ensure a good deal for everyone involved. We anticipate significant change in the next five to 10 years and it’s a prime opportunity to support the local business community to benefit from this.”

The father of four is also actively involved in his local church as chair of the fundraising committee and is leading on a three to five year plan to raise £200k for restoration works at the St Mary Magdalene Parish church in Brampton. n BORNEY continues to expand with the addition of two new members of the sales team.

Kayleigh Smith joins as Key Account Manager from sister company, Your Sign Company, bringing her signage and vehicle graphics experience and key account management skills to the team.

Sarah Seal is Account Manager looking after the automotive sector. Sarah has 12 years experience working for the local newspaper in selling print advertising space. n

Luke Messenger and Paul Grist

Cambridge Sensotec offer remote support Cambridge Sensotec announce a new remote support service for their Rapidox gas analyser customers.

Team Viewer allows trained technicians from Cambridge Sensotec to log-in to a customers computer remotely and view firsthand how the connected Rapidox analyser is operating.

Operating the new remote support service

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 17

|HUNTINGDONSHIRE CHAMBER NEWS

Huntingdonshire Chamber NEWS A round-up of news and events from Huntingdonshire

Fundraising gets underway at Huntingdon Gymnastics club NOVEMBER saw the successful launch of the £100,000 fundraising campaign that should allow the start of construction work on a new Gymnastics Hall. Present at the launch was the Mayor of Huntingdon Colin Hyams, Paul Hall (Great Britain Head coach for Men’s Gymnastics), Daniel Keatings (World All Around Silver Medallist) and masks of local hero Louis Smith.

As the Olympic competitor could not be present at his home club, he sent a tweet to his 143,000 followers supporting the campaign.

18

| CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

The launch took place in the reception of the Gym Club where the Mayor of Huntingdon and fundraiser Harry O’Driscoll unveiled the new Totaliser. The launch was followed by a presentation of donations and photographs of gymnasts wearing Louis Smith masks, in order to highlight the future potential in every gymnast in the club.

Paul Hall, the Men’s GB Olympic coach and Head Coach of HGC, said: “Three Olympic, four World and over 20 European Medals show just how important this Club has been to British Gymnastics. We provide a home

Fans cheer as fundraising gets underway

and a direction for over 600 members at all levels of ability. A new building will allow us to offer gymnastics to so many more people from the local and wider community, as well as providing career opportunities to many young adults that are interested in sport and working with children.” n

CAMBRIDGESHIRE CHAMBER NEWS |

Cambridgeshire Chamber NEWS A round-up of news and events from Cambridgeshire

Doxbond marks 20 years

Wyboston Lakes clinches customer service award

In 1992, Peter Allan started Doxbond in Newmarket as part of a franchise operation which quickly split up leaving Peter to go it alone as Doxbond (Cambridge).

Over the past 20 years there have been many changes including secure online hosted solutions. In 2006, Doxbond relocated to Haverhill, which provides an excellent geographical base and also allows access to Suffolk, Hertfordshire and North Essex.

The company prides itself on being flexible and tailoring its service to suit the customer’s needs, whether it’s a requirement for secure offsite storage or to provide a full management package from boxing, indexing, storing and providing regular retrieval service.

Wyboston Lakes has won the accolade for customer service in the annual Bedfordshire & Luton ‘Rising Stars’ Business Excellence awards. The achievement underlines the company’s comprehensive commitment to the training of all employees to provide exemplary standards of service. n

The team at Doxbond celebrate 20 years

Over the next few years the company expects to see a big increase in online solutions and is looking to provide these for clients with the help of official partners. n

Wyboston Lakes

Helping to shape the local skyline for over 75 years Planning | Investment | Agency | Consultancy and Advice | Development and Funding | Landlord and Tenant | Valuations | Property Maintenance | Building Surveying | Architectural Services

01223 326800

www.januarys.co.uk

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 19

| OUT & ABOUT

Official opening for station upgrade

Out&About

Karen Boswell, MD of East Coast Mainline, and Iain Crighton, President of Cambridgeshire Chambers, officially open the upgrade of the Peterborough Station concourse.

Enjoy our monthly montage of events and happenings across the local area with this colourful round-up of Chamber gatherings.

Make sure you send us your photos each month and we’ll include the best of the bunch!

Email images straight to the creative team: connected@methodcreative.co.uk

Business Breakfasts

Peterborough informal networking

Free business breakfast seminars held by local firms Hegarty Solicitors and Duncan & Toplis.

Members and non-members network at the Ramada Hotel Peterborough.

British Chambers of Commerce Awards John Bridge joins Cambridgeshire finalists Pure Resourcing and Sepura.

20

Safari Networking

New member referrals keep wine flowing...

Members network at Holmewood Hall in November.

Helen Bosett presents a bottle of wine to both Mandy Ashpool of Davis Langdon AECOM and Tony Hyde of A.N. Norvys for new member referrals.

| CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

OUT & ABOUT |

Charity support from across the Chamber area Members support the Chamber Chops appeal and grow moustaches during November, while George Hay swap suits for dressing up in aid of the Children in Need appeal.

Construction lunch The Construction Network brings together all professions associated with the development and construction industries.

A right Royal visit Freda and Hilary from the Chambers’ Histon office join the crowds to catch a glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on their official visit.

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 |

21

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ASK THE EXPERT |

Ask the expert: Windows 8 Alex Foster, Technical Director at BrightVisions talks about Windows 8 and the difference to its predecessor, Windows 7, and reflects how fast business and consumer technology has evolved in just over three years.

Q A

Is Windows 8 suitable for businesses?

Q

Q A

hat’s the difference between W Windows RT and Windows 8?

Q

I want to upgrade my current Windows 7 operating system to Windows 8. Can I do this?

Yes, Microsoft has released a Windows 8 Pro version which incorporates the new elements of Window 8 plus additional networking and security enhancements.

Windows RT is a new version of the operating system; this is generally used with basic or portable hardware specifications, but can also be used for some of the thinner and lighter computers too. Although very similar to Windows 8 it does not include many of the features of its bigger brother.

A

Yes. All you need to do is purchase an upgrade license. Microsoft also offer upgrade tools which allows you to upgrade from 7 to 8 seamlessly.

I have a business laptop for travelling and a desktop computer in the office.

Do I need to buy separate Windows 8 copies for each computer?

A

Yes, similar to most operating system software, you will need a separate Licence for each one of your computers.

Q

Security is critical to me and my business. How does Windows 8 handle this?

A

Windows 8 comes with a security package that helps to keep computers more secure against malware intrusion. You can also install your own preferred thirdparty product alongside or as a replacement of the Microsoft solution.

Q

Would upgrading mean that I need to upgrade all our office computer hardware?

A

No, a great aspect of Windows 8 is that there won’t be an immediate need to update your hardware. If your computers can run Windows 7 they should be able to run Windows 8.

Q A

Will my existing programs run on Windows 8?

Q A

My computer doesn’t have touch screen. Do I need one?

This is dependent on the program.

You need to contact the program vendors and they will advise you on the compatibility of your program version.

Although you can use windows 8 with a standard mouse comfortably for navigation, a touch screen is what it is really geared toward and will allow you to get the best out of the system.

The price of Touch screens have lowered over the last few years, so it’s worth looking for this as an option if you’re considering replacing your monitor. n

Do you have expert, informative business advice to share? To be featured as the monthly expert in CONNECTED, contact Sadie Parr by email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

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CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 23

| NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

NEW Members

A warm welcome to our new Chamber members

Downing College, Cambridge www.downing-conferences-cambridge.com We offer a range of outstanding facilities for events of all kinds and sizes in a unique

NEW MEMBERS THIS MONTH

setting amidst 20 acres of lawns and trees yet within the city of Cambridge.

The Howard Theatre is a remarkable mix of old and new and has both tiered and gallery seating, The Grace Howard Room on the ground floor offers an elegant setting for cabaret-style formal private dining, whereas the West Lodge and Maitland Room provide a more intimate atmosphere for smaller dinners.

Homerton Conference Centre www.homertonconference.com

AJJ Recruitment B2B Cashflow Solutions Ltd C K Builders Ltd Carrot Coaching Courageous Success Ltd Derek Burton Eastern Angles Elms Cambridge

As part of Homerton College we have state of the art facilities at our disposal.

We own a dedicated conference centre comprising five meeting rooms for between 10–120 delegates along with three private dining rooms and 25 acres of outdoor space.

The free car park on site is a real bonus and the venue is located just a 12 minute walk from Cambridge Station.

Fire Safety Express Foster Property Maintenance Ltd Go Go Go Intensive Ltd Greys of Ely Information Security Systems Installations Ltd InXpress Peterborough Neva Cambridge Nicolas Tye Architects

Telemarketing Matters Ltd

Romsey Mill

www.telemarketingmatters.co.uk

Social Media Frontiers Ltd

Telemarketing Matters was founded in 2005 by Cambridge based entrepreneurs Ian Titchener and Jens Schindler.

Director Ian Titchener comments “Our team members become a vital part of our client’s sales processes. This philosophy ensures only the very highest quality leads and meetings are arranged for clients.”

Telemarketing Matters Ltd The Fenland Roaster The Stephen Perse Foundation Turquoise Tiger WYG Management Services Ltd XL Press Ltd

24 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

Foster Property Maintenance Ltd www.fpm-ltd.co.uk

Foster Property Maintenance Ltd (FPM) was founded over 35 years ago and provides property maintenance, renewal and refurbishment services to the affordable housing and public property sectors.

FPM’s success is built on the genuine passion of our team to deliver service excellence through collaborative partnerships with clients. PM sits alongside Foster Renewable Energies Ltd (FRE) – specialists in the sourcing of funding, design, supply and installation of renewable energy systems.

Headquarters of both companies are based at Foster Business Park, Wisbech.

From long-term projects through to small alterations, our ethos is to provide the highest possible levels of customer service.

FPM is the current holder of the Fenland Enterprise Business Awards ‘Business of the Year 2012’ and won the Sustainability Award at the EDP Business Awards at the end of the year.

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS |

Would you like to become a Chamber member?

Get in touch today and find out the many benefits. tel: 01223 237414 email: enquiries@cambscci.co.uk

B2B Cashflow Solutions Limited

Dale Carnegie Central England

www.b2bcashflowsolutions.co.uk

www.centralengland.dalecarnegie.co.uk

As a privately owned commercial finance brokerage, our function is to help UK businesses grow and invest by selecting the right funding partner on their behalf from our panel of 25 lenders.

As well as our direct client base, we work in partnership with our banking, accountancy and equipment supplier colleagues from across the East of England, to provide an alternative route to finance when required.

Dale Carnegie Training has evolved from one man’s belief in the power of self-improvement to a performancebased training company with offices worldwide. We focus on giving people in business the opportunity to sharpen their skills and improve their performance in order to build positive, steady, and profitable results.

Our training includes programmes that offer people the knowledge, skills and practices to add value to the business.

Romsey Mill

WYG Group

www.romseymill.org

www.wyg.com

Romsey Mill creates opportunities to develop confidence, skills and wellbeing with over 3,500 disadvantaged young people, children and families in Cambridgeshire.

We work with 10-25 year-olds who are facing many challenges, young parents under the age of 21, children and young people with autistic spectrum conditions and families with children under five.

Romsey Mill is a Christian charity with over 30 years’ experience.

WYG are an established, global project management and technical multi-disciplinary consultancy who have helped shape the world’s landscapes, societies and economies for more than 50 years.

Our 1,500 expert employees work across a broad range of private and public sectors. From offices in Huntingdon, WYG provide health and safety services.

Courageous Success www.courageoussuccess.com Created in 2003 by Liz Villani, Courageous Success is a people development company with a unique and powerful approach and over 10 years experience.

Our development programmes focus on boosting performance, self-confidence, leadership and management success to bring a step change to individual and team performance.

Fire Safety Express www.firesafetyexpress.co.uk

Our aim is to provide more than just a complete range of fire safety and protection products, it is our mission to provide a bespoke management service that can effectively remove much of the responsibility and indeed the hassle away from the business or owner.

This is a family run business based in Peterborough with Managing Director, Paul Fredericks having spent over 30 years in the Fire Service holding senior positions in fire safety and risk management disciplines.

SRL Technical Services Limited www.srltsl.com SRL is an established multi-disciplinary consultancy operating for over 45 years.

We offer a comprehensive service across all aspects of noise measurement, assessment and control, vibration, air quality, dust monitoring, ecology and BREEAM. Our primary sectors include housing, education, healthcare, leisure, court buildings, infrastructure, industrial and power.

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 25

| POLICY UPDATE

Policy UPDATE Keeping you informed, representing local business

Support young people and increase WHENEVER business people get together and talk about the importance of recruiting and retaining the right people they invariably comment that young people today lack basic employability skills.

By employability they mean the possession of attributes, skills and attitudes that everyone needs to be effective in the workplace. This includes ‘soft’ skills like reliability, integrity, motivation, initiative and team working; the reasons why so many young people lack these qualities and how to instil them is less clear.

Long gone are the days when every young person did a paper round; a regular part-time job; babysitting or other similar work.

Performing these jobs introduced us to a range of work environments and different individuals from outside the home and school. We had to turn up on time, speak politely to strangers and take responsibility for ourselves and others. Nowadays part-time jobs are very few and far between.

Also gone, is the statutory two weeks’ work experience offered to 15-16 year olds which, although much maligned, provided school leavers with a taste of the world of work even if it was in an industry or sector they were unlikely to enter. Observing others behaviour, being expected to turn up on time, understanding the need for H & S and the relevance of subjects taught in school to the world of work, all helped to prepare and inspire young people for employment.

These days, not only are schools accountable for their students’ academic success they are also charged with ensuring that young people receive impartial information, advice and guidance that will inspire and motivate them to achieve success at work.

Even if teachers are willing to help prepare their students for life after school many of them are out of their depth, having limited experience of the world of work outside of education.

Since becoming academies quite a number of the schools across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have joined the Chamber because they want to learn more about the local labour market and are keen to encourage enterprise and entrepreneurship.

skills

Many of you supported the skills events that took place in Peterborough, Fenland and Huntingdon. This year we are planning to run a similar event in Ely. If you would like to help your local school by providing work experience or would be willing to talk to young people about your career, please let me know as we want to support our school members and to help inspire the next generation. Email g.prangnell@cambscci.co.uk to find out how to get involved. n

Long gone are the days when every young person did a paper round

Young people can bring new ideas and energy to an established business

26 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

CHAMBER UPDATES |

Chamber Updates An overview of news from your Chamber

Under Pressure?

Worrying constantly is a symptom of stress – a condition that while many of us choose to accept as a ‘normal’ part of working life, can take a major toll on your health and wellbeing.

Stress can affect your appetite, cause you to smoke or drink more and lead to physical problems such as headaches and dizziness, breathlessness and muscle pain. And long term stress can cause a range of health complications including depression and insomnia, high blood pressure and heart disease.

Just this year, figures released by the Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) revealed that hospital admissions for stress had risen by seven per cent in just one year in England, soaring to 6,370 in May 2012 compared to 5,960 the year before.

Westfield Health’s Chamber Primary Health Plan, which is available to all members of Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce, offers employees a full confidential counselling service, which includes a 24 hour counselling and advice line, as well as up to six

face-to-face counselling sessions or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) sessions.

The Government’s ‘No Health Without Mental Health’ strategy emphasises the importance of talking therapies such as counselling and CBT in helping treat stress, anxiety and depression.

For more information about the Chamber Plan, visit www.westfieldhealth.com/ chamber or call 0845 602 1629, available 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday. n

With an increase in foreign trade this is a valuable service

Export Clinic Have you got a query about export? Margaret Chadwick answers your questions.

Q

We are exporting a consignment to Iraq by airfreight and our buyer is requesting that we have various documents processed via the Chamber of Commerce, including an insurance certificate. We are selling ex works, so how can we tackle this issue?

First Chamber Foreign Exchange Member Sign-up!

THE BCC has had its first member sign up to the Chamber Foreign Exchange scheme – from Cambridgeshire Chambers. The company is a freight forwarding operation and has agents based around the world. They make regular payments each month and the transaction was bought in USD and sold in GBP.

Margaret Chadwick

Fiona Tester, International Trade Officer at Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “We are extremely pleased that not only did our Chamber have the first enquiry but also the first member signed up to the new Foreign Exchange Service. It is essential to provide additional benefits as part of Chamber membership and with the increase in foreign trade this is a very valuable service to be able to offer our export customers.”

If you would like more information about the scheme or how to sign up then please contact Fiona Tester. n

A

All documents that are not directly for Government bodies require the following documents to be certified, legalised and FCO apostilled: Arab British Certificate of Origin, commercial invoice, transport document, insurance certificate, plus a certificate of conformity and /or preshipment inspection certificate issued by any recognised independent issuing authority (ie Bureau Veritas). As your consignment is ex works, you will have to ask your buyer to provide you with his insurance certificate, so you can submit this.

Iraq is a difficult country to arrange paperwork for; contact Fiona Tester at the Chamber on 01223 209803 for further advice. n

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 27

| SPECIAL REPORT

Special REPORT

The recent review from Lord Heseltine focuses on growth

Lord Heseltine says: ‘no stone unturned’ FORMER Conservative party deputy prime minister Lord Heseltine has urged the government to take bolder action to stimulate the economy, states a report from the BBC’s political correspondent Nick Robinson. In his news story he describes how the ‘No Stone Unturned’ review makes 89 recommendations to stimulate growth and help industry.

It appears the key to rebuilding a strong economy could lie in regional action. Lord Heseltine, who was head of DTI during the 1980s, suggests it is necessary to devolve power from London to the English regions.

He was particularly vocal about the role the Local Enterprise Partnerships should play in providing access to funding and stimulating

regional growth. He also put a strong case forward for the BCC network and highlighted the need to sharpen export knowledge.

He also advised Government should utilise Chambers of Commerce and award basic statutory functions to assist them in becoming “hubs for business support and engagement at local level”. Heseltine was also clear is his identification of the BCC as distinct from other business networks – with 140,000 members out of 4.8 million private sector companies. Chambers could work as delivery partners for Local Enterprise Partnerships, he noted, taking responsibility for coordinating delivery of support services in each partnership’s local economic plan. n

Lord Heseltine made 89 recommendations in his review

The key to rebuilding the economy could lie in regional action Grahame Nix, LEP Chair says: It is good to see that the Government are seeking to take forward a number of key recommendations within the Heseltine Review. In particular, the bringing together of funding for infrastructure, housing and skills to create a single local funding pot that LEPs and their partners can use to tackle the most pressing local issues.

This funding pot, coupled with additional potential Regional Growth Funding, could help to make a major difference to our area.

28 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

We welcome the Chancellor’s announcement in his Autumn Statement that further funds will be committed to supporting the strengthening of our country’s infrastructure, provision of much needed new housing and for skills development. These have all been identified as priorities for our LEP area, and we are eager to see what implications there could be for our area going forward.

The 1% cut in corporation tax for business from 2014, the increase of capital

allowance relief from £25,000 to £250,000 from next year and the extra £1 billion of investment into the Business Bank will also help further.

SPECIAL REPORT |

British Chambers of Commerce insight

JOHN BRIDGE Get the basics right

Chief Exec

On Lord Heseltine’s recommendation that Chambers of Commerce play an expanded role in business support and local growth, the British Chambers of Commerce is keen to push forward. “Lord Heseltine’s analysis of the state of the UK economy is compelling,” says John Longworth, Director General of the BCC. “Businesses will welcome his call for steady, long-term thinking to improve the UK’s economic performance. Yet Heseltine’s prescription for action focuses too much on institutions, rather than on the fundamental barriers to business growth.

Chambers can continue to play a central part in making local growth happen “Ministers should think carefully before committing to a restructuring of government, and focus first on the key constraints facing the real economy: the availability of growth finance, practical help for our exporters, our creaking physical infrastructure, and an education and training system that responds to business needs. Government can best support enterprise by collaborating with business to get the basics right.”

Longworth welcomes the fact that Lord Heseltine recognises Chambers of Commerce as local, resilient, independent, internationallyfocused and proactive. “We are pleased that he believes Chambers can continue to play a central part in making local growth happen,” he continues. “Lord Heseltine makes a range of recommendations that, in his view, would help bolster Chambers’ ability to serve local business. We will study these recommendations carefully and discuss their implications with Chamber members, government, and other business organisations in the months ahead.”

It was positive to hear the Chancellor make clear in his Autumn Statement that the Government welcomes Lord Heseltine’s recommendations in relation to localism and growth. He also gave a clear indication of the intention to move as swiftly as possible towards implementation.

One of the key areas will be asking Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) to lead the development of Strategic Plans for local growth. These will be multiyear plans bringing together all local stakeholders and include the co-ordination of existing public programmes.

In addition there will be a new role in Skills for LEPs in setting skills strategies for their local area and from this determining the priorities which will need to be used by local FE colleges and providers, as well as helping potential learners to choose wisely.

It is very clear that extensive consultation will take place with all relevant local partners and in particular, accredited Chambers of Commerce. We therefore look forward to rising to the challenge and being integrally involved in supporting growth and the development of all the local economies covered by our Chamber.

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 29

| AWARDS ROUND-UP

12 20

AWARDS ROUND-UP The end of 2012 was abuzz with awards ceremonies across the area, including the Ely Business Awards, Fenland Business Awards, Huntingdonshire Business Awards and a host of other exciting events Here is a selection of celebrated Chamber businesses that shone!

THE presentation of the 2012 East Cambridgeshire Business Awards took place at Ely Cathedral on Friday 9 November. Small Business of the Year went to LabourTech Recruitment, while new Chamber member Richard Grey (Greys of Ely) was a finalist in the Businessperson of the Year category. The company also won Website of the Year. n

Winners included Chamber members LabourTech Recruitment and Greys of Ely.

Photo: Ely Standard

EAST CAMBS BUSINESS AWARDS

FENLAND

CaptionProperty Foster to go here Maintenance (FPM) out in force

Jaqui, Louis and Melinda Fairfax from CUB

Second win for new member FPM at the EDP awards

Family-run businesses were leading the way at the end of 2012 with an impressive medal haul from a range of business awards.

Longstanding member CUB, based in March and run by the Fairfax family, picked up a Red Ribbon Award for its contribution to the community. From Wisbech, Foster Property Maintenance scooped three in a row after winning twice at the Fenland Enterprise Awards and the EDP Business awards. n

HUNTINGDONSHIRE Hunts Post Business Award winners included Flex-Able’s Richard Vanbergen and BrightVisions. n

Caption to go Cambridge Sensotec here win Small Business of the Year

BrightVisions won Website of the Year

30 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

Richard Vanbergen, Flex-Able Group, wins Business Person of the Year

New Business Award presented to XL Press Ltd

Photos: Casey Gutteridge

John Bridge presents the Judges Award to Bill Hensley, Huntingdon Community Radio

Luminus’ Chan Abraham hands over an award

CHAMBER UPDATES |

Business Support Give your business a boost with growth initiatives

Growth Accelerator scheme helps family team soar March based energy consultancy firm CUB, which helps businesses to manage their energy portfolio, has seen a sharp increase in sales after working with a business coach to address issues in the day-to-day running of the business.

As demand for knowledgeable advice and competitive rates increased, the senior management team saw an opportunity to scale

up faster and signed up for GrowthAccelerator.

Delivered by St John’s Innovation Centre for the GrowthAccelerator Consortium, the service helps England’s brightest growing businesses achieve their ambitions with rapid, sustainable growth.

It uncovers the issues holding companies back, defines the right growth plan and opens doors to business experts and networks.

Coaching via GrowthAccelerator has given the team at CUB the tools to grow in a strategic fashion

When CUB started out on GrowthAccelerator, the company was hampered by a lack of definition to the business proposition and the need to develop and strengthen the management team.

Following a successful application process, the team at St John’s matched CUB with Sharon Stevens – a professional business coach with over 25 years’ experience of working with some of the UK’s fastest-growing small businesses.

Louis Fairfax, Managing Director is unequivocal in his praise for the coaching: “The coaching we have received has revolutionised our business and the time we have committed to it has been repaid many times over. It is amazing how much has changed. There is a real appetite for success and growth which everyone is contributing to.

All the staff are re-energised, sales are up and there is a real buzz in the office.”

CUB is just one of over 50 companies across the region to benefit from GrowthAccelerator since it launched in May 2012.

For further information about GrowthAccelerator go to growthaccelerator.com or contact St John’s Innovation Centre on 01223 422378 or coaching@stjohns.co.uk n

Free support for South Cambs companies Small and medium-sized businesses in the South Cambridgeshire district postcode have access to free-of-charge business support and workshops to help fight the effects of the economic downturn. Delivered by Exemplas on behalf of the South Cambridgeshire District Council, the Business Support Service has been established to help businesses that have struggled financially as a result of the recession.

A comprehensive programme of free workshops has been developed to meet specific needs of SMEs; covering topics as varied as starting a business, planning a website and finding and keeping customers. Available to all SME businesses and individuals starting up in a South Cambridgeshire district postcode area, the workshops have already had a strong take-up from local businesses, with many impressed by the depth of content and expertise available.

“Supporting businesses is a key objective for the Council and this new drive is building on the successes we have already had,” Cllr Nick Wright, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, explains; “The workshops are already proving popular, so make sure that you sign up to benefit from these practical sessions.”

The Service is available until 29 March 2013, with the series of workshops running until 20 March 2013. For information on the service and workshops available, call 0844 346 0755 or visit cambridge-plus.com/content/business-support n

South Cambs District Council is prioritising business support

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 31

| CHAMBER EVENTS

CHAMBER EVENTS Please visit the Chamber website for full details of all future Chamber events www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

Your essential business calendar for the next month and a recent round-up Speed Networking Breakfast DATE Friday 18 January TIME 7.45-10.00am LOCATION Holiday Inn, Impington, Cambridge, CB24 9PH MEMBER PRICE £15.00 (plus VAT) NON-MEMBER PRICE £22.50 (plus VAT) CONTACT k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk or book online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

DATE Friday 8 February Sponsored by: TIME 7.45-10.00am LOCATION Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground, Peterborough, PE2 6XE MEMBER PRICE £15.00 (plus VAT) NON-MEMBER PRICE £22.50 (plus VAT) CONTACT k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk or book online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

Meet lots of business people in a Speed Networking session

Two Counties Business Exhibition In association with Forest Heath District Council & Suffolk Chamber of Commerce DATE Tuesday 5 March TIME 10.00am-4.00pm LOCATION Millennium Grandstand, Rowley Mile Racecourse, Newmarket, CB8 0TF MEMBER PRICE £150.00 (plus VAT) NON-MEMBER PRICE £210.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members can book a stand in 2012 and pay just £100.00 (plus VAT) CONTACT Karen Dawson on 01223 209808 or email k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk

32 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

Showcase your business at the Two Counties Exhibition in March

CHAMBER EVENTS |

Making an Exhibition of Yourself a Workshop on Delivering a Great Trade Show and Maximising the Outcome Promoted by the International Sector DATE Wednesday 6 February LOCATION Wyboston Lakes, St Neots

2013 Exhibition dates for your diary!

Tuesday 5 March 2 Counties Exhibition at Newmarket Racecourse

Friday 5 April – Thursday 11 April Ely Cathedral Business Group Celebration of Business Exhibition, Ely Cathedral

Thursday 18 April Huntingdonshire Business Exhibition, Wood Green Animal Shelter

Wednesday 16 October Business Focus, Peterborough Arena

Export Training Course Export: Procedures and Documentation

A face-to-face encounter at a trade show helps to develop relationships

THE internet may have transformed business marketing strategy over the last 10 years but, for many sectors, has done little to dent the importance of the Trade Show. The opportunity it affords to meet decision makers and buyers in your market, gather feedback and develop relationships from existing clients, and not least arrest the attention of potential customers who have not responded to other media, is unsurpassed.

However, exhibiting can be expensive and demanding on resource and staff, both leading up to and during the event itself. There needs to be results not only to cover the outlay but to feed the business with sales over the months to come. Too often the focus is on delivering and surviving the show and not on maximising the opportunity it presents.

Put on an outstanding presentation The Chambers’ International Sector is delivering a workshop on 6 February at Wyboston Lakes, which will encompass how to put on an outstanding presentation at minimum cost and with efficient use of resource, running the stand effectively, drawing the maximum from visitors and following up enquiries. International shows present different challenges and will be covered in detail.

Noel Harvey, Senior International Trade Adviser with UKTI, has developed this workshop and built an outstanding reputation for advising on successful shows. Aimed at all businesses planning or already exhibiting both home and overseas, this will interest and inform all levels of staff in sales, marketing and general management and inevitably lead to a better performance from your shows. n

DATE Tuesday 15 January TIME 9.00am-5.00pm LOCATION Chamber Offices, Enterprise House, The Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9ZR MEMBER PRICE £225.00 (plus VAT) NON-MEMBER PRICE £275.00 (plus VAT) CONTACT f.tester@cambscci.co.uk or book online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

Chamber Member Induction Mornings Peterborough DATE Tuesday 29 January TIME 9.30-11.30am LOCATION Chamber Offices, 6 The Forum, Minerva Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6FT Cambridge DATE Wednesday 30 January TIME 9.30-11.30am LOCATION Chamber Offices, Enterprise House, The Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9ZR PRICE Free to attend CONTACT Bren Coleman on 01223 209811 or email b.coleman@cambscci.co.uk

Informal Networking Evenings January 2013 Wed 9

Waterfront Bar, Wyboston Lakes

5.00-7.00pm

Mon 14

The Lamb Hotel, Ely

5.00-7.00pm

Wed 16

Ramada Hotel, Peterborough

5.00-7.00pm

Thurs 17

Holiday Inn, Impington, Cambridge

5.00-7.00pm

Tues 22

The Old Bridge Hotel, Huntingdon

5.00-7.00pm

Wed 30

Oliver Cromwell Hotel, March

5.00-7.00pm

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 33

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Sector Focus

Updates from Chamber Sector Groups

For any feedback, general information regarding the Sector Groups, or to contribute, please get in touch with Helen Bosett. tel: 01223 237414 email: h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk

BUSINESS WOMEN

Meet the Committee!

The first of a new monthly feature from the Business Women’s Sector... they want to be, whether this is in their personal or professional life. I specialise in the following areas: confidence building, career development, work/life balance and planning for retirement.

My company, Blue River Coaching also offers tailored coaching and training for organisations of all sizes in Customer Services Skills, Team Building and Project Management.

Linda Hayman of Blue River Coaching

Q A

What do you do in business?

I am a certified development coach with a long history working in large corporate organisations as a project manager. I help people to stand back and explore ways to become more of who

Q A

What are your top three tips for running or working in a business?

1. Be clear on your own personal values and build your business based on these. Mine are: Creativity, Growth, Integrity and Flexibility; 2. Regularly take time out to reflect on the bigger picture; a lot of time and energy can be wasted focusing on the wrong things; 3. Never stop learning. Invest in yourself because you are your future.

Q A

What do you do to unwind?

Q A

What’s your favourite book and why?

Q A

What value do you get from being a Chamber member?

I love playing the piano, photography, making jewellery and Skyping my family who live in the USA.

John Steinbeck’s ‘The Grapes of Wrath’.

It captures the courage of the human spirit to carry on in the face of tremendous challenge.

I really enjoy networking with other members. The various Sectors, such as the Women’s Group, offer a more intimate forum; while the larger Chamber events are great for meeting the wider business community. n

CONSTRUCTION

Green Deal with Ridgeons NEW member Ridgeons will be hosting an event at their Pampisford facility for the Construction Sector on Monday 18 February.

Speakers include Dave Jordan, Ridgeons Group sustainability manager, and procurement representatives from the Cambridgeshire County Council. Commencing at 4.30pm, this event will offer plenty of networking amongst like-minded people in the construction industry.

Further details will be announced in the next issue of Connected and within the Construction Sector page of the Chamber website. Save the date in your diary and hope to see you there. n

Dave Jordan of Ridgeons will be speaking at the event to be held at the Pampisford facility

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 35

| SECTOR FOCUS HR and Recruitment

Help shape the Spring Collection THE HR and Recruitment Sector has established an excellent format to keep members up to date with employment law. The feedback from delegates each time is superb!

The ‘Collection’ events in spring and autumn are structured in such as way that those that deal with HR in a small capacity or as a full-time role are able to keep up

to date ahead of the law changes, as well as have more in-depth and personalised discussions with the experts.

The Spring Collection 2013 will cover a range of topics of HR updates and HR issues.

The Sector is in the early planning stages so we are giving members the opportunity to help shape the programme. What HR issues or concerns do you have in the HR world?

Further details will be announced in future issues of Connected and on the Chamber website.

Could you present a topic on HR? Sponsorship of a table is available for £50.00 (plus VAT).

Interested to know more? Please contact Kelly Hewitt, k.hewitt@cambscci.co.uk n

The Autumn Collection event held in October

RTI, have you heard of it?

IF you’re an employer, how aware are you of the biggest change to the PAYE system since its introduction in 1944, namely Real Time Information (RTI)? This is the new way in which employers and pension providers will be legally required to supply HMRC with pay and deduction details each time a payment is made to employees, in real time. Employers will be required to make an electronic submission of information either on or before the employee is paid, whether weekly, fortnightly or monthly, rather than waiting until the year-end P35.

The vast majority of employers will be required to start submitting under RTI from April 2013, with the scheme being mandatory from October. Some employers have already started to file RTI under a pilot scheme and HMRC intends to notify all employers during February exactly when they will be required to commence RTI submissions.

HMRC’s own payroll software can be used if there are nine or fewer employees.

Alternatively software which is RTI enabled can be used. Ensure all information regarding employees matches that held by HMRC. n

Elaine Shaw of George Hay says get ready for RTI

COMMUNICATIONS

Effective communication key

Alison Taylor, MD of Conscious Communications

36 | CONNECTED JANUARY 2013

The Group’s committee is formed of professionals from all sectors of the industry, with skills in strategic planning, brand development, public and media relations, marketing, digital media and sales. Vice-Chair Alison Taylor, MD of Conscious Communications says, “It’s an honour to work alongside a team of such enthusiastic and energetic professionals, who are volunteering their time and expertise for the benefit of Chamber members. We have some exciting plans and I believe there will be

growing demand for the Group’s advice and counsel in the coming months.”

The Group’s manifesto will be published shortly and focus on sharing knowledge and expertise and the provision of support for members. Plans are afoot to stage an inaugural event in the form of a ‘Get to know the media’ workshop in spring 2013. Members can connect with the Sector Group via the Chamber’s LinkedIn group. Suggestions for future events are welcome, please contact Helen Bosett. n

SECTOR FOCUS | SOCIAL ENTERPRISE & CHARITY

What can the Social Enterprise and Charity Sector do for you?

THE Social Enterprise and Charity Sector was established 18 months ago to improve the environment that social enterprises and charities operate within. It has shown the benefits of CSR, introduced a speed networking event and advised how charities can best use social media.

Through its dedicated page on the Chambers’ website and CONNECTED it has featured regular

informative articles relating to the Sector.

At the last meeting it was felt that it should liaise regularly with its Sector members. What could your organisation offer? Are there common issues? Would regular networking be useful?

Please let Helen Bosett know if you want to join the Group before the next meeting on 5 February and please send any feedback you may have. n

Business and charity work well together

LEARNING & SKILLS

Enterprise Awards 2013 IF you have graduated within the last five years and now running your own business, it’s time for your hard work and dedication to be recognised.

Lloyds TSB has launched its 2013 Enterprise Awards which aims to celebrate innovation, drive and dedication. It will provide winners with national recognition, business support and a cash prize of up to £50,000 to invest in your business.

Find out more and how to enter the Awards at www.lloydstsb.com/enterpriseawards

Employers needed for business skills project HSEP (Huntingdonshire Secondary Education Partnership) is actively engaged in working with local employers to support local schools with business skills development. A pilot project is running at St Ivo School where eight Year 13 students work closely with local businesses to develop the skills required for employment.

HSEP is looking for employers to act as

business mentors and to offer extended work experience of up to four weeks with an offer of an interview at the end of the programme.

To develop the HSEP ‘Internship’ project and the ‘Increasing Your Employability’ local employers are needed. If you can support HSEP, contact Kim Cooke on 01480 459581 or kcooke@stpeters.cambs.sch.uk n

Students can be nurtured and developed via the HSEP projects

Closing date for entries is 31 January 2013. n

A wild path back into employment

Wildlife Ambassadors in the new Museum Garden

WILDLIFE charity Froglife has been running a three year project funded by Access to Nature. The Wildlife Ambassador project helps people across Peterborough who are not in employment, education or training (NEET).

Currently entering its final year, there have been 93 Ambassadors so far, teaching new skills and signposting to new opportunities.

“The project is open to anyone currently out of the loop,” explains Laura Brady. “Any age,

wherever they live in the city and whatever circumstances they face. Many of our referrals come from homeless shelters.”

In order to give the best support to this diverse group, Froglife staff have been trained by Mind on working with mental health issues. “The project is about more than trying to give people a foot in the door to conservation or employment,” adds Laura.

Visit www.froglife.org/ambassadors n

CONNECTED JANUARY 2013 | 37

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Building Better Futures Services

The Foster family of companies

Construction projects, alterations and remodeling Landlords compliance services New build social housing Planned improvement works Renewable energy systems Response repairs, maintenance and voids

Foster Property Maintenance (FPM) was founded in 1976 and provides property maintenance, renewal and refurbishment services to the affordable housing, public and commercial property sectors.

We have established successful partnerships in every part of our region and are a leading Constructionline, Exor and CHAS accredited contractor. Our trustworthy, open, and honest approach forms the foundation of our delivery ethos, working with clients to build strong relationships, ‘The Foster Way’.

Our success is built on the genuine passion of our team to deliver service excellence through collaborative partnerships with clients. We embrace and promote environmental initiatives, helping create sustainable futures throughout communities we serve.

FPM sits alongside Foster Renewable Energies (FRE) specialists in the sourcing of funding, design, supply and installation of renewable energy systems.

Headquarters of both companies are based at Foster Business Park, Wisbech, Cambs (Pictured).

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Sectors Housing associations and registered social landlords Local authorities Public authorities Commercial

About us We improve buildings but we work for people. Making sure people are happy has been at the heart of our business, since it was founded by the Foster family in 1976.

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