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SYSTEM OFFERS GLIMPSE INTO THE FUTURE OF HOME BUIDLING PAGE 28 CHAMBER OF THE YEAR 2013 Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Issue 22 November/December 2014

25 High Street Worcester WR1 2QL Telephone 01905 24026

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Dir ect ion

FIRSTWORD

WELCOME TO THE NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER EDITION OF BUSINESS DIRECTION

MPSE SYSTEM OFFERS GLI OF INTO THE FUTURE’S ING IDL BU ME HO PAGE 28

rce r of Comme ershire Chambe THE YEAR 2013 CHAMBER OFpublished by Herefordshire and Worcest

Issue 22 er 2014 November/Decemb

2014 has been a successful year for business in Herefordshire and Worcestershire

n Business Directio

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SUBSCRIPTIONS www.hwchamber.co.uk/view-our-business-magazine Tel: 0845 641 1641 Disclaimer: Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the publisher accepts no responsibility for omissions or errors within this publication. Editorial submissions are included at the discretion of the editor. The opinions expressed in articles and letters within this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber. All offers, promotions and competitions appearing in Business Direction are the sole responsibility of the advertiser/ promoting party and Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce does not accept any responsibility for any representations made within them.

The role of President for the Chamber of Commerce is important in terms of providing a voice for members, and representation at a number of events, including those held by the British Chambers of Commerce. Over the last two years Jim McBride has been president and has provided support and more, particularly during my 12 week absence earlier this year. He has stepped down from that position as of 1st October 2014 and I would like to thank him for the contribution that he has made to the Chamber.

First word

Chamber news

4-5

Business news

10-11

Business news

16-17

Chamber events

20-21

Chamber training

24-25

Big Interview

26-27

Cover story

28-29

Conference Worcestershire

Jim has been replaced by Stuart Speight from IE Developments. Stuart recently chaired the Construction Conference held at the Three Counties Showground as part of our Business Expo in September. I look forward to working with him during the next two years. For more information on the new President of the Chamber see the Chamber News pages (4-5).

Destination Worcestershire

Members services

Charity news

For many businesses, Autumn has been a positive period of growth and development. Our Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) over the last six months year has shown that the business community have sufficient confidence in the current financial position to invest in innovation, people and property.

Policy

On page 16 we have featured the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Community Foundations, which are part of a national network of Community Foundations comprised of 56 local charitable foundations. Read about the UK’s leading organisations in revitalising local communities through effective charitable giving.

Last word

International trade

38-40 43

New Members

44-45

Movers and Shakers

48-49 50

Our QES for quarter three had 350 companies providing information which helps local, regional and national politicians to make decisions based on fact not fiction. The more responses we get, the more influence we have within key organisations including the Treasury, the Bank of England, the Office for Budget Responsibility, the EU Commission and the IMF. As you will now be aware, we have been Chamber of the Year following the Chamber Awards held by the British Chambers of Commerce last year. This November sees the Chamber shortlisted for the British Chambers of Commerce Excellence in Membership Services Award.

Importantly, following our Chamber Business Awards held at the Bank House in July the winners were entered into the British Chambers of Commerce and six out of ten West Midlands winners were from Herefordshire and Worcestershire. This shows the quality of businesses in our area (See pages 4 - 5 for more information). Well done to you all. Enjoy the Christmas holidays and have a happy New Year. Mike Ashton, mikea@hwchamber.co.uk

Our Patrons are:

November/December 2014

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBERNEWS

L-R: Jim McBride, President, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Robin Walker MP, Louise Hewett, Managing Director, Hewett Recruitment, Nora Senior President, British Chambers of Commerce and Mike Ashton, CEO, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

BUSINESS EXPO A HUGE SUCCESS Over 800 visitors flocked to Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce‘s latest Business Expo, in assocation with Hewett Recruitment, at the Three Counties Showground on Thursday 18 September. A highlight of the local business calendar, the bi-annual Business Expo is one of the Chamber‘s flagship events, bringing together hundreds of local businesspeople to network, generate new contacts and conduct business. The Business Expo kicked off with a networking breakfast at which the President of the British Chambers of Commerce, Nora Senior, shared her business advice. It also included a Construction Conference with, important industry speakers, and the launch of the Chamber‘s Draft Business Manifesto ahead of the 2015 general election. The Great Chamber Bake Off was held as part of a series of events celebrating the Chamber winning the British Chambers of Commerce Chamber of the Year 2013 Award.

Attendees were asked to bring their homemade cakes to be judged and sold to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. The winners were CB Chartered Accountants, with Parkinson Wright and Herefordshire & Worcestershire Group Training Association coming in second and third respectively. £600 was raised on the day for Macmillan Cancer Support and the Chamber have raised a grand total of £1,000

thanks to donations made at two other coffee morning events at their offices in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Peter Rowland from Macmillan Cancer Support said: “I am extremely grateful to the Chamber for kicking off our World‘s Biggest Coffee Morning week. The effort they put in to running the Bake Off is very much appreciated, and I would like to take the opportunity to say ‘thank you‘ to all of the Chamber team on behalf of Macmillan Cancer Support.“ Louise Hewett, Managing Director of event sponsors, Hewett Recruitment, said: “The Chamber Business Expo was a great event and Hewett Recruitment were delighted to be main sponsors once again. There was a general good ‘vibe’ around the Expo, with new and familiar faces exchanging contacts, and certainly in our case, arranging meetings with potential clients.” To book your stand at the Chamber‘s next Business Expo on Wednesday 4 March 2015, call the Events team on 0845 641 1641 or email events@hwchamber.co.uk www.hwchamber.co.uk/expo

November/December 2014

CHAMBERNEWS

CHAMBER PRESIDENT STEPS DOWN

REGIONAL AWARDS SUCCESS FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES

Jim McBride has been President of the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce for the past two years. He is now stepping down from the role and we spoke to him about his time as President.

Following their success in the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards in July, five businesses have gone on to win in the West Midlands heats of the Chamber Awards 2014. All five businesses will now go forward to represent Herefordshire and Worcestershire in the national finals, which take place on Thursday 27th November at a prestigious ceremony at the Tower of London. One national winner will be awarded the accolade of Business of the Year and will walk away with a £10,000 cash prize.

BEST MEMORY AS A PRESIDENT My best memory as President was representing the Chamber at the awards dinner in London when we won the Chamber of the Year last year which I hadn’t expected. Going on stage, with Cassie Bray, made me proud to be part of the Chamber movement. With 57 chambers competing it shows what progress has been made over recent years under the leadership of Mike Ashton.

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU SEEN? The main positive changes have been our ability to focus on four key areas and take difficult decisions to ensure that these key areas are delivered. We have managed to

release the energy that is the Chamber. To drive anything forward you need energy. Every organisation needs change to go forward. The principle of changing Presidents every two years is correct as we will each bring our own personality to the job. Stuart has wealth of experience in the construction world especially associated with eco projects. He will make a fantastic president.

NEW CHAMBER PRESIDENT: STUART SPEIGHT Stuart Speight, Director of IE Developments, is the new President of Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce. We spoke to him about his plans for the next two years...

WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU SEE YOURSELF BRINGING TO THE TABLE AS PRESIDENT? Having a hands on approach within the local business community-being a Director of a local business myself, gives me the insights to know what our members need. Hopefully bringing my years of experience within the construction sector to improve education and training within this most important sector.

WHAT DO YOU FEEL THE CHAMBER OFFERS LOCAL BUSINESSES THAT NO OTHER ORGANISATION CAN? The Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber has a very pro-active team supported by very lively Area Councils that work for the best interests of the business communities. It also has strong links with local authorities and Government, and a willingness to help in all aspects of commerce. The range of services are always expanding and the

level of support is there for those wishing to avail themselves.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE CHANGE DURING YOUR TENURE? Personally, I would like to see Herefordshire playing a greater role in the Chamber, to lift it’s profile and see more local events for each sector, I know I share this goal with the CEO.

HOW HAS THE CHAMBER HELPED YOUR BUSINESS IE DEVELOPMENTS? Through networking events and support. The Chamber has opened important doors for us through it’s good relationships with many different institutions and businesses, saving us valuable time and heartache, getting us directly to the people we need to speak to.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

KINGSPAN INSULATION Manufacturers of innovative insulation solutions based in Leominster Manufacturer of the Year and the Sustainability Award

TITANIA LTD Worcester based security software development company Small Business of the Year Award

PULSAR PROCESS MEASUREMENT LTD Leaders in non-contacting ultrasonic level and flow measurement and control based in Malvern Excellence in Innovation Award

HANNAH HAFFIELD, PEPPERNECK LIMITED PR Specialist at web site design and marketing agency Young Person in Business Award

ASSOCIATED SPRING RAYMOND Leading supplier of springs and custom engineered components in Evesham Achievement in International Business Award Mike Ashton, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce CEO, said: “We are absolutely delighted that five Chamber members have won regional Chamber awards. They are all brilliant businesses and fully deserve the recognition these awards bring. We wish them all the best as they now proceed to the national finals.” www.chamberawards.co.uk

NEW HEREFORDSHIRE VICE PRESIDENT: LOUISE HOOKHAM Louise is very well known in both Herefordshire and Worcestershire in particular for her formation of the Hereford Curry Club. Her hobbies are horse racing, cooking and she is passionate about business. Louise joined the Harrisons Business Recovery and Insolvency Limited team when the practice purchased E Mary Grove and Co in 2005 and has recently become an owner of the businesses. Based in the Hereford and Worcester offices, Louise’s expertise and knowledge of all aspects of insolvency and business recovery is second to none, and today, Louise is a Director with Harrisons, specialising in corporate turnaround and recovery situations, corporate insolvency and Individual Voluntary Arrangements. Louise is very involved with the local business and professional community in the Hereford and Worcester area and considers her work assisting and implementing the rescue of businesses of high profile companies in the region as

one of her greatest achievements. Besides being an Associate Member of the Association of Business Recovery Professionals, she is also a Worcestershire Ambassador and sits on the Area Council for the Chamber of Commerce recently being elected as the Vice President for Herefordshire for the Chamber. Her remit with Harrisons also encompasses staff training and management as well as overseeing the practice’s marketing requirements. 05

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BUSINESSNEWS

SARAH WINS HEWETT PRIZE Sarah Glenister, who achieved a first class honours degree in Business Marketing and advertising has won the ‘Hewett Recruitment Best Undergraduate Student’ prize. Sarah completed her work placement at Lidl alongside her degree, where she gained a wealth of experience including HR and working as brand ambassador, promoting graduate opportunities to students on campus. The HR project she worked on, helped her to formulate her decision to look for a future career within human resources.

WANT A PROMOTION? THEN GET A COACH! Executive coaching has been the development trend sweeping the UK and US for the last 20 years, but now new research shows that the impact of coaching on performance is even greater than training or 360 degree feedback.

Rebecca J. Jones of the University of Worcester, examined 17 different studies of work place coaching. When compared to other types of more popular workplace development tools: coaching had a greater impact on performance. Work based or executive coaching adapts many principles of sports coaching and work psychology to help individuals improve their performance at work.

Findings reveal that coaching can produce positive effects on outcomes including positive attitudes such as motivation, improved work behaviours such as time management and bottom-line performance.

Louise Hewett said: “It was good to spend some time recently with Sarah and hear all about her hopes and vision for a future career within HR. She knows she can contact me directly for any support and advice, she is a very resourceful girl and a worthy winner of our prize. I’m sure she will do very well!” www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

Jones said: “These findings are really important for people and organisations as coaching has previously lacked the evidence to back up what people who have had coaching tell us – it really works! Perhaps most interestingly though is the fact that when we compare our findings to other studies that examined more common methods such as training and 360 degree feedback, coaching actually has a greater impact on performance”. For further information contact Rebecca Jones on 01905 857533 or Rebecca.jones@worc.ac.uk www.worcester.ac.uk

MALVERN’S PARTICLE SIZING PROVES CRITICAL FOR THE PRODUCTION OF GREENER SLAG CEMENTS

WHY LANDLORDS MUST PREPARE FOR NEW RULES

Zementwerk Berlin is relying on Malvern Instruments’ Insitec on-line particle sizing systems to efficiently manufacture high performance, environmentally friendly slag cements. The real-time data supplied by the on-line systems supports fully automated control of the finished grinding circuits that produce cements. Particle size data and precise control has proven crucial to the commercialization of newer cement grades.

Sarah Coyne from mfg Solicitors has issued the alert as a trial scheme is set to be brought in across Birmingham and the Black Country this December, with the rest of the country following suit next spring.

Property landlords across the two counties have been warned to prepare for new rules which will see them having to check passports and the immigration status of tenants – or risk being slapped with a £3,000 fine.

Mr Thomas Schuster, Lab Manager, Zementwerk Berlin, said: “Achieving fully automated, closed loop control of the grinding circuit has been enormously beneficial. This has had a major impact on plant throughput but it’s perhaps with slag cements that we see the biggest benefit. Here we have found the Insitec essential for the production of high quality products.”

material such as blast furnace slag produces cements with a lighter CO2 footprint. However, implementing this strategy, while at the same time maintaining cement performance, requires a sound understanding of how to optimize the particle size of each cement component.

Replacing a proportion of fresh cement with a waste

www.malvern.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Sarah said: “Landlords are not expected to act as immigration officers but the new laws will require them to be on their guard and not rent homes to people who have no legal right to be in the UK. Although the trial is focussing on Birmingham and the Black Country, landlords everywhere must get ready and begin putting their checks in place now.” The rules are being put in place by the Government as a ‘new line of attack’ against unscrupulous landlords. www.mfgsolicitors.com

FOCUSONREGENERATION

PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES DESPITE CONTINUED UNCERTAINTY IN THE TWO COUNTIES Planning issues have again figured heavily in the local and national press recently. It consistently arouses strong emotions amongst local communities and business alike, but for different reasons. Local communities often claim development will result in the destruction and desolation of rural areas by ‘rapacious developers’. Whereas business often become frustrated with the bureaucracy and time taken over planning matters. These attitudes have not been helped by the many conflicting messages from the Government throughout their term: beginning with the Open Source Planning Green Paper; then the Localism Act (November 2011) and National Planning Policy Framework (July 2011) and then the Planning Practice Guidance of this year. All have in some ways been contradictory and confusing, particularly for local communities and businesses. This has been further compounded by delays in plan-making, which should shape development in the longer term. Planning has always been a politically charged issue and some might argue that the protracted plan-making process has become a symbol of how local government politics manifests itself. These delays have resulted in planning applications made of the back of a lack of 5 year housing land supply (generally where there is no adopted development plan yet present) and the presumption in favour of sustainable development being applied. Indeed local taxpayers money is often used to pay costs where Councils are found to have acted unreasonably in refusing development proposals. In South Worcestershire: Malvern Hills District, Worcester City and Wychavon District Councils have recently gone out to formal consultation on additional sites to be included in the South Worcestershire Development Plan (SWDP). This followed the SWDP Inspector’s concerns over the level of housing being proposed to 2030 in the Plan Submitted in April 2013. The results of this will be examined at the next set of Hearings in the new year.In North Worcestershire, the situation is not much better. Whilst Wyre Forest has had an adopted Core Strategy

since December 2010, it was prepared in a pre-NPPF context. This has prompted them to begin work on a review of their plan, including the issue of a Call for Sites which ended on 30th September. Whilst Redditch and Bromsgrove Councils are working together on many planning issues, their development plans continue to be progressed separately. Both Councils’ plans were considered by an Inspector at a conjoined first stage examination, where Redditch’s Local Plan No. 4 was invited to proceed to the next stage of examination. However, in his conclusions into Bromsgrove’s Local Plan the inspector stated that more work needed to be done on their objectively assessed housing need. Irrespective of the inspector’s conclusions, however, neither Council can robustly demonstrate a five-year housing land supply. In Herefordshire, the Council has recently submitted their Core Strategy to the Secretary of State for examination (23rd September) to deliver a minimum of 16,500 new homes by 2031 with the focus of growth going to Hereford City (6,500 new homes).

Needless to say that Herefordshire also does not have a five-year supply of housing land. RCA Regeneration has considerable experience in advising landowners and developers on their planning proposals. For further information, please contact us on 01905 887686 or email info@rcaregeneration.co.uk.

The remaining growth will be split between the Market Towns (4,700 new homes) and sustainable rural settlements (5,300 new homes). Currently, however, there are outstanding objections to the development target, which some might argue should be higher.

November/December 2014

FOCUSONLEGAL

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

BUSINESSNEWS

BRING IN THE NEW YEAR AT SIXWAYS See the year out in style this New Year’s Eve as staff host the popular annual party at Sixways. On Wednesday 31 December, guests will be able to experience live music from The Magoos, one of the most diverse cover bands on the scene. The event will be a traditional New Year’s party with the price including a one-course meal. It will be an atmosphere not to miss with the local band and a DJ, and guests will be able to enjoy drinks offers throughout the evening to make sure the New Year starts with a bang.

WORCESTER LANDS TRIO OF MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE AWARDS Leading manufacturer of heating and hot water technologies, Worcester, Bosch Group, has been rewarded for its industry-renowned manufacturing excellence after claiming three coveted accolades at the 2014 Best Factory Awards. Worcester claimed the top prize in the ‘Best Supply Chain Management,’ ‘Environment and Energy Award’ and ‘Best Engineering Plant’ categories. Each of the three awards saw the leading manufacturer recognised for the quality-driven practices and commitment to innovation demonstrated at its

headquarters, where the Which? Best Buy Award winning Greenstar range of gas-fired condensing boilers is produced. Key to Worcester’s awards triumph was its unrivalled commitment to environmental policies, which have resulted in over 16,000 tonnes of CO2 being saved since 2007, and emissions levels reduced by 3,446 tonnes of CO2 per annum. This continued investment in sustainable practices is setting new standards for the heating industry and encouraging the most efficient supply chain management. www.worcester-bosch.co.uk

WRAGGE LAWRENCE GRAHAM & CO HELPS MERCIA WASTE MANAGEMENT GET GREEN LIGHT FOR ENERGY-FROM-WASTE PLANT Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co has helped it’s client Mercia Waste Management achieve financial closure on a complex deal to build an energy-from-waste facility in Worcestershire. The power station, a 15.5MW ‘EnviRecover’ plant, will process 200,000 tonnes of non-recyclable municipal waste annually, and is expected to generate enough electricity to power 20,000 homes in the region each year. A PFI deal, originally signed by Herefordshire District Council and Worcestershire County Council back in 1998, the project was complicated by difficulties in obtaining planning permission.

Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co Construction Partner Paul Green said: “This deal was more than fifteen years in the making. Negotiating the Energy Procure Construct (EPC) contract was particularly complex due to the unusual financing arrangement, which resulted in lengthy dialogue with multiple parties.” With construction underway, the plant is expected to achieve practical completion and begin generating electricity in 2017. www.wragge-law.com

The New Year’s Eve parties have been a sell-out for the last five years after reaching the 500 capacity and they are expecting the same this year. Book early to avoid disappointment and see in the year 2015 in style! www.warriors.co.uk

CB CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS LAUNCHES MOBILE APP CB Chartered Accountants is one of the first accountancy firms in Worcestershire to launch a free mobile App. The App, which can be downloaded free onto iPhones, iPad’s or Android phones, is packed full of news, income and mileage trackers and receipt managers as well as interactive Cloud Accounting capability! John Painter, Managing Partner at CB Chartered Accountants said: “We are a proactive firm and the App was been carefully designed in response to the growing use of smart phones and mobile devices used by our clients across Worcestershire. We wanted to develop a way to keep our clients up to date with the very latest news, views and tips from CB Chartered Accountants, as well as providing key accounting data, in real time, at the fingertips.” The App is easy to download by visiting either Google Play on android devices or the App store on Apple devices. Alternatively you can simply scan the QR code. www.cbcharteredaccountants.com

10% OFF CHAMBER WEBSITE ADVERTISING - QUOTE ‘BD10’ Prices start from just £50 per month Offer ends 1st January 2015 Contact: emilym@hwchamber.co.uk / 0845 614 1641 010

November/December 2014

BUSINESSNEWS

MORGAN MOTORS CELEBRATES 100 YEARS 2014 marks a significant milestone in Morgan history, for 100 years Morgan have been hand crafting classic sports cars on their current site on Pickersleigh Road in Malvern Link. To mark this occasion the gates to the factory were well and truly open as the 105 year old motor manufacturer welcomed 4000 people and 400 Morgans to celebrate in style. 100 years of motoring heritage was displayed on the famous main drive where each year of production at Pickersleigh Road was represented. Morgans from 1914 right through to 2014 sat alongside each other to create an unforgettable scene. For many people, however, the highlight of the day was not in the form of 4, or even 3 wheels. The Worcester Male Voice Choir provided a musical back drop of Land of Hope and Glory as the WW2 Dakota made 3 low flying passes over the factory. www.morgan-motor.co.uk

L to R Andy Wrightson,Kim Campbell, Ed Webb, Steve Chance, Harry Batchelor celebrate the win.

WEBBS CROWNED BEST DESTINATION GARDEN CENTRE IN THE MIDLANDS Delighted staff at Webbs, in Wychbold, are celebrating success after keeping their crown for being the Best Destination Garden Centre in the Midlands. The independent Worcestershire firm scooped the title after rigorous inspection by judges from The Garden Centre Association (GCA), the organisation representing the best garden retailers in Britain. As well as being named the top destination garden centre over £3m in the region, Webbs, Wychbold also came out first in the category for Best Plant Retailer; Indoor Lifestyle and Outdoor Living departments. They were runners up in areas of customer services, garden centre products retailer, restaurant and for creativity and innovation. Webbs also received 15 further Awards of Merit. Chairman Edward Webb said, “It’s a fantastic achievement all round to take the title with such tough competition in the region and I’m immensely proud of all the staff. We strive to be the best across all areas and it’s a pleasure to have our work recognised by the GCA. It also gives our visitors confidence that they will have a truly excellent experience when they come to Webbs.”

SEASONAL WORKERS AT HEREFORDSHIRE FARM RECIVE FIRST AID TRAINING FROM THE BRITISH RED CROSS Seasonal workers from Bulgaria took part in an enjoyable and educational evening recently with the British Red Cross, when casualty simulation volunteers made them up with life-like fake wounds and demonstrated how to treat them. The workers, who are living and working at S&A Produce’s Brierley Court Farm, near Leominster during the strawberry picking season, also enjoyed therapeutic care massages from another team of Red Cross volunteers during the fun first aid session. The employees were invited to attend the evening first aid training to learn how to look after cuts, bruises and other everyday injuries. They were also taught skills like chest compressions to use in the case of more serious health emergencies.

INSURANCE BROKER SETS THE STANDARD In August Sutcliffe & Co Insurance Brokers became the first company in the Insurance Industry to be awarded the Government’s new Cyber Essentials Certificate. The Cyber Essentials scheme was launched by the Government in June 2014 to encourage businesses to take more responsibility for their cyber security and the cyber hygiene of those they trade with. The standard requires businesses to demonstrate good levels of cyber security practice in 5 key areas: Secure configuration, boundary firewalls & internet gateways, access control and administrative privilege management, patch management and malware protection.

Red Cross community based first aid trainer Amanda Smith says: “This is the fourth year running we have offered S&A’s seasonal workers a free training session and we have really enjoyed working with the farm again.”

As insurance brokers, Sutcliffe & Co handle huge amounts of data, much of it sensitive, all of which is critical to their business. As specialists in the area of risk management they wanted their customers and suppliers to see that they are taking steps to protect this data and chose the Cyber Essentials certification as a way of doing this.

www.sagroup.co.uk

www.sutcliffeinsurance.co.uk

www.webbsdirect.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

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Nuffield Health Hereford Hospital Venns Lane, Hereford HR1 1DF

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* Not including private patient units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. Promise is valid for patients paying for themselves. ** Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or

November/December 2014

BUSINESSNEWS

UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER’S REDUNDANT BUILDING MOON MISSION GRANT SCHEME Between March and July 2015, SO WHY TAKE PART?

the people of Herefordshire and Worcestershire – young and old – will be joining forces to travel the distance to the moon and back - 477,714 miles - contributing through walking, cycling, wheeling, swimming – just about any physical activity! The key benefits of increasing physical activity are significant: n Increased energy levels n Improved concentration n Reduced risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease, obesity and cancer

n It’s a fun and focussed way to help your employees become more health aware and increase their physical activity n It’s a great free opportunity to help the community within Herefordshire and Worcestershire achieve a common goal n It can be linked to current or new fund raising activities

So take that one small step, register to take part, and help Herefordshire and Worcestershire take a giant leap forward in health and wellbeing www.worcester.ac.uk/moonmission

n Better quality of sleep n Lifts mood so helps mental wellbeing

CHILDREN HELP NAME NEW HOMES IN HEREFORD Local school children have helped choose a name for a new housing development in central Hereford. Leading housing and care provider Sanctuary Group went along to St Thomas Cantilupe C of E Primary School to ask Year 4 pupils for their assistance with selecting a name for the supported living accommodation under construction in Coningsby Street. The development, part of the wider regeneration taking place in Hereford city centre, is seeing Sanctuary build 10 one-bedroom apartments in a £1.6m scheme.

During the visit, children learnt more about the accommodation being built, looked at local history and voted for the name they liked best. Sophie Bell, Sanctuary’s Project Manager – Development (Midlands), said: The final name chosen for the scheme was Red Coat Close. The name was popular with the pupils as it links to the former Coningsby Hospital which was often referred to as Red Coat Hospital because of the uniform of scarlet coats residents would wear.” www.sanctuary-group.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Small businesses and start-ups across the Marches and Worcestershire are being encouraged to apply for a share of a £1million fund that breathes new life into redundant buildings across the region. Since its launch in 2012, the Marches Redundant Building Grant Scheme (RBG), which was extended to include Worcestershire in 2013, has awarded grants in excess of £1.5m. These grants have supported 47 separate projects from which over 300 jobs have, or will

be, created with a further 45 jobs being safeguarded. All projects funded by the current scheme need to be completed by June of next year and so applicants are being urged to enquire now in order to meet that timeframe. Capital grant support of between £3,000 and £100,000 is available to small businesses and start-ups to transform redundant buildings into a base for their enterprises. www.business-central.co.uk

We’re here to help your business grow Whether it’s free advice, support or help accessing the many grants and funds that are available, the nationally recognised and backed Growth Hub* for Worcestershire – Worcestershire.Business.Central – is here to help you and your business. Our team of Business Relationship Executives offer: Free and impartial advice Access to finance Support and guidance with fund applications Appointments at your workplace – we will come to you

GET IN TOUCH To arrange an appointment, contact us at info@business-central.co.uk or 0300 123 14 40 Please quote ref BD11 @WBCUpdates www.business-central.co.uk * part of the National Growth Network

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Rural services With leading specialists based in the region, Baker Tilly has the expertise to support farmers, landowners, equestrian and bloodstock businesses as well as other rural industries with all their accounting, taxation and business advisory needs. For more information please contact: Sharon Omer-Kaye T: +44 (0)1793 603300 M: +44 (0)7855 314990 sharon.omer-kaye@bakertilly.co.uk Lucie Hammond T: +44 (0)1793 603300 M: +44 (0)7809 629952 lucie.hammond@bakertilly.co.uk

www.bakertilly.co.uk Baker Tilly UK Audit LLP, Baker Tilly Tax and Advisory Services LLP, Baker Tilly Corporate Finance LLP, Baker Tilly Restructuring and Recovery LLP, Baker Tilly Risk Advisory Services LLP, Baker Tilly Creditor Services LLP and Baker Tilly Tax and Accounting Limited are not authorised under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 but we are able in certain circumstances to offer a limited range of investment services because we are members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. We can provide these investment services if they are an incidental part of the professional services we have been engaged to provide. Baker Tilly & Co Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to conduct a range of investment business activities. This communication is designed for the information of readers. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, information contained in this communication may not be comprehensive and recipients should not act upon it without seeking professional advice. ÂŠ 2014 Baker Tilly UK Group LLP, all rights reserved. 0429

ASKTHEEXPERTS

PROFESSIONAL LEGAL ADVICE WITH REAL LIFE UNDERSTANDING GABBS SOLICITORS IN HEREFORD, LEOMINSTER AND HAY ON WYE

JAMES LEE

STEPHANIE MONMARCHE

QUESTION

I am selling my home and friends have said the process is all about form filling and all solicitors are the same so I may as well choose the cheapest. Is this true?

The conveyancing process seems very slow, why is this and can anything be done to speed matters up?

ANSWER

A good solicitor plays a pivotal role in the selling process, liaising with you, your buyersâ€™ solicitors and the agents to ensure the sale proceeds as smoothly as possible. Complex legal issues arise with surprising frequency and sound, professional advice is essential to protect your interests. Important advice can be necessary as to what matters need to be disclosed to buyers and how your interests can be protected.

QUESTION I have heard that there is no point in contacting a solicitor until you have a buyer for your property is this true?

ANSWER It is usually wise to prepare some of the legal work in advance of a sale as this can help the conveyancing process go smoothly. Deeds can be checked, the usual Property Information Form can be completed and supplemental papers such as planning consents, building regulation consents and guarantees can be put in good order so that a comprehensive contract pack can be sent to the buyers solicitors at the outset. If this is not done a good solicitor will nevertheless ensure that matters are expedited by at least sending off a copy of the title and a plan to the buyer solicitors immediately a sale is agreed. With larger properties, perhaps with irregular boundaries it can often be helpful for a solicitor to visit the property if possible to discuss the deeds and the contract pack with the sellers

To some extent the process is only as quick as the slowest person in the chain but it is always good to know that your legal work is all in place and that you are ready. The key to expediting matters is to ensure that the parts of the process which take longest are started immediately. Usually this is the searches and any application for a mortgage that you have to make. Chasing the other parties in the chain at appropriate intervals can also be effective and a good solicitor will liaise closely with agents to assist this process. Sometimes delays are caused by legal issues in your chain and your solicitor will have a good understanding of these and can advise you as to how long they are realistically likely to take to resolve. Often delay is not what worries people but a lack of clarity about the reasons for delay.

QUESTION Apart from buying and selling a home are there are any other reasons why I may need a solicitor to deal with my house?

ANSWER There can be more to conveyancing than buying and selling your home. For example you may wish to purchase another house on a buy to let basis, or you may in your later years feel that equity release needs to be considered. Maybe you want to enter into a legal agreement with a neighbour perhaps for the sale of part of your garden or the purchase of part of theirs by you, or to grant them an easement over your land, or to enter into a planning agreement with your neighbour should the neighbours wish to develop their land. Many of these can raise complex legal issues. For example if you sold off part of your garden to a neighbour you may want to retain the right to share in any profit they may make should they get planning permission to develop that garden land in the future. Sometimes in order to obtain planning permission your neighbours may need a minor right over your property which can seem inconsequential but good advice can lead to a significant capital payment from your neighbours. It is always wise to seek professional advice in these circumstances.

Contact Gabbs Solicitors Property Department on

01432 353481, 01568 616333 or 01497 820312 or visit our website www.gabbs.biz to contact our conveyancing team.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

WORCESTERSHIRE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Whoever wins next May’s election it’s clear the days of big government are over with significant reductions in social welfare funding. Charities already provide a vital contribution, stepping in to fill the gap. Big charities have infrastructure to pull in donations, but smaller charities often struggle. This is where the Community Foundation helps; acting as “philanthropic banker”, using its influence and expertise. It is building a Worcestershire Endowment, currently benefiting from a 50p in the pound uplift from

government – turning, with gift aid, a personal donation of £1000 into £1750, delivering in perpetuity from the investment yield. The Foundation also acts as a conduit for national funds such as Comic Relief and European Social Fund. Without the Foundation these would not be accessible. Benefits are wide-ranging including: safe places for homeless youngsters to sleep, community activities for Scouts, supporting fuel costs for cancer sufferers and a paper rack for a community shop. www.worcscf.org.uk

HEREFORDSHIRE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Is your business fulfilling the CSR and Philanthropy expectations of your customers and employees? Many companies have the desire to roll out a philanthropy programme but can’t find quite the right way to go about it. This is where the Herefordshire Community Foundation can help. Founded in 2002, HCF is a charitable foundation that manages over £3.5m of philanthropic funds for a range of charitable trusts, organisations, families and private individuals. In 2014/15, it will channel over £250,000 per annum to worthy local causes and individuals, addressing the real and often unrecognised needs which exist within the community. HCF promotes local philanthropy by encouraging and motivating organisations and individuals to give (but not just money!). It distributes grants to address immediate requirements, as well as building endowments that will increase the level of funds in order to facilitate future, long term needs. If you would like to find out more about HCF please contact Dave Barclay on 01432 272550 or dave.barclay@herefordshire-cf.co.uk

A NEW LOOK FOR DRP AS THEY REBRAND The company is now heading into its 35th year and it has diversified from its early days, as originally when it was founded in 1980 DRP was predominantly a video production company. Now the business is a full-service creative communications agency which provides communication solutions to over 50 different clients. The last time the group rebranded was nearly 10

years ago at its 25th Anniversary and the company has decided to refresh its brand as it approached its 35TH anniversary in 2015. The rebrand will see the business dropping the group and being formally known as drp, a new website has been launched and produced by its digital division. www.drpgroup.com

www.herefordshirecommunityfoundation.org

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November/December 2014

BUSINESSNEWS

ATLANTIC INTERNATIONAL FREIGHT SERVICES SECURES 10,000TH BOOKING

SPELLER METCALFE ANNOUNCED AS ASSOCIATE MEMBER OF THE CONSIDERATE CONSTRUCTORS SCHEME West Midlands based contractor, Speller Metcalfe has become an Associate Member of the Considerate Constructors Scheme- a position which is offered to companies which have taken a pioneering approach to improving the industry’s image.

Six year anniversary coincides with 10,000th booking for local freight specialists. USA and Asia freight forwarding specialist Atlantic International Freight Services has two reasons to celebrate this month. October 2014 marks the company’s sixth anniversary, and just last week, staff at the Bromsgrove-based freight forwarder also handled their 10,000th booking. To commemorate this occasion, Kirsty Middleton, Operations Manager at Atlantic, presented a bottle of champagne to Kevin Orme, Supply Chain Coordinator at

Manitowoc Beverage Systems UK , who’s shipment was the 10,000th booking to be placed. Company Owner and Founder, David Snell, said: “Our success and continued growth is the result of our fantastic team here at Atlantic International. We have a very loyal customer base who trust us to deliver the highest levels of service possible in our industry.” www.atlanticintl.co.uk

Since 2000, Speller Metcalfe has registered 182 of its sites with the national initiative scheme to be monitored against a Code of Considerate Practice - designed to encourage best practice beyond statutory requirements. Contractors are being marked on their approach to issues of high priority within the industry including site appearance, environment, workforce welfare and health and safety in order to encourage the revitalisation of best practice within the construction industry. Considerate Constructors’ Associate Member, Speller Metcalfe has also been certified with a Silver Award by Investors in People for their high standards in management. www.spellermetcalfe.com

SEQUANI PRESENTED WITH TRAINING AWARD Sequani, the Ledbury-based contract research organisation (CRO), has been presented with an award for the quality of the company’s training. The accolade recognises Sequani’s sustained commitment and dedication to training for all its employees.

HME TECHNOLOGY WINS FIRST SAUDI ARABIA CONTRACT HME Technology, a leading manufacturer and installer of design and technology equipment to study engineering, has won its first contract in Saudi Arabia.

The package is for ‘The World Academy’ at King Abdullah Economic City near Jeddah, which is currently in the process of opening.

The deal is worth £140,000 to the Bromsgrove-based business, which specialises in supplying engineering equipment to schools and other educational establishments.

The advanced technology mixed with traditional machines will allow students to train with CNC machines including a milling machine for metals and a universal high spec router that can machine in wood, plastics and light aluminium. Therefore this exposes students to an extensive range of skills and disciplines for their chosen career paths.

And Sajid Javid, Conservative MP for Bromsgrove, The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport was there to hail the departure of the final consignment, as staff gathered round to watch the crate being loaded onto the lorry for the first stage of its long journey.

www.hme-tech.com

In particular the company was congratulated for its focus on tailoring training needs to meet specific strategy and objectives, supporting current leaders and leaders of the future by offering professional qualifications at many levels and a commitment to involving people in projects, symposia and conferences in order to build expertise and confidence. Sequani was also praised for its willingness to work in partnership with providers over time, the company’s approach to the importance of ongoing training and their development of graduates. It is the second time Sequani has won the award having also been given the accolade in 2012. The award was presented by the High Sheriff of Herefordshire, Major Peter Darling, at an awards presentation evening where individual certificates were also presented for the Institute of Leadership and Management qualifications. www.sequani.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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EVENTS WITH THE EDGE EXCELLENT DELIVERY,GREAT EVENTS

n Something for everyone; specialities private parties n Traditional home cooked Meals and Snacks n Beef and Lamb sourced from our own Farm

Why employ an event company to arrange your corporate events? It’s simple. Event management saves time and money leaving you free to get on with your job while we do ours. One client said “I’ve got loads of fee paying work, so it makes perfect sense to get professionals to arrange our event while I get on with my job. It’s a far more cost effective use of my time and you’ve come up with help and solutions I’d never have thought of“

Tel: 01981 510324

Email: info@blackmountainsfarmrestaurant.co.uk www.blackmountainsfarmrestaurant.co.uk Craswall, Hereford. HR2 0PH

@WhiteHaywood

If you’re arranging an event call us. We can help. We’ll do the hard work and you can just enjoy the fruits of our labours. Get in touch now: www.eventswiththeedge.co.uk or call 01384 374922

/whitehaywood

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November/December 2014

FOCUSONRECRUITMENT

FOCUS ON RECRUITMENT LOUISE HEWETT Hewett Recruitments growth strategy has seen considerable expansion of their team over the last six months. Louise explains “This is just the beginning of a carefully designed growth plan that has seen us attracting high quality specialist consultants with areas of expertise to meet the increasing demands of the market and our existing client base.” “One of the key, most important factors we considered in our growth plan was to ensure we maintain the high quality service our customers receive and expect. Our new consultants have been recruited not only for their skills and specialisms but we were keen to ensure they understood and related to our vision and values to enable them to deliver the kind of service that delights our customers day by day on an ongoing basis. Consultants delivering way beyond expectations is what we strive for.” Ben Mannion, Strategic Development Director comments - “We have a great team – with a very low turnover of staff and high standards of expertise amongst

our consultants. We have been delighted by the response to our own recruitment drive – we are always advising our clients on their recruitment strategies so it’s good to know we are getting it right for ourselves too! We are still open to applications from top quality recruiters - people love to work at Hewett’s - we always strive to be the best place to work in the industry locally.”

explains Louise. “It’s important that our environment feels good too and reflects our high standards. We will soon be bursting at the seams, so additional offices will be on the cards in the not to distant future!

Hewett’s are also investing in their infrastructure and technology to ensure consultants have the latest CRM system and IT facilities which will all be in place early in the new year.

www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

Offices are being revamped – “It’s a makeover that’s slightly overdue”

Tel: 01562 69090 Kidderminster Tel: 01905 613413 Worcester @HewettBiz louise@hewett-recruitment.co.uk 1 Bridge Street, Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY10 1BN 38 Foregate Street, Worcester WR1 1EE

HERE ARE SOME OF THE NEW FACES WHO HAVE RECENTLY JOINED HEWETT’S TALENTED TEAM.

WHO WILL BE NEXT?

? Steve Clarke Accounts Team

Ryan Wilcox IT & Techincal

Joshua Doran Logistics and Transport

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Alice Dale Temp Specialist

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CHAMBEREVENTS

SPEAKERS ANNOUNCED FOR HR FORUMS The HR Forum goes from strength to strength. Our speakers are carefully selected from a wide variety of local businesses and legal professionals providing you with important updates in legislation as well as advances in HR thinking designed to help you run your business legally and effectively.

The Chamber runs two regular Curry Club networking events – in Malvern at Anupam and in Hereford at Champagne Signature. Open to members and non-members alike, these events present an opportunity to catch up with local businesses in a relaxed and informal manner, making new contacts and developing existing relationships.

Louise Hewett, Managing Director of Hewett Recruitment, the HR Forum founder and sponsor, comments: “I am very pleased to continue to support the HR Forum and delighted that the new format is proving popular. I think it is absolutely crucial that HR professionals have the opportunity to share ideas and issues in this confidential and supportive forum whilst hearing from industry specialists who will offer qualified and impartial advice.”

Offering informal networking over a delicious curry, we pride ourselves on facilitating a relaxed environment and keeping it simple. All you will need to bring is yourself and plenty of business cards!

Hereford Curry Club in association with Harrisons Business Recovery and Insolvency Friday 21st November - 12.30-2.30pm

FORTHCOMING EVENTS:

All events run from 9.30am until 11.30am and are free for Chamber members and clients of Hewett Recruitment. To book on to forthcoming events, email the Chamber events team.

Malvern Curry Club in association with Sharpmonkeys Tuesday 11th November and Tuesday 9th December - 6.00pm-8.00pm

Champagne Signature, Pomona Place, Hereford HR4 0EF

TUESDAY 2ND DECEMBER - WORCESTER Our speakers are Michelle Chamberlain from Thursfields Solicitors and Elliott Silk from Sanlam

TUESDAY 20TH JANUARY - HEREFORD Our speakers are Sally Morris from mfg Solicitors and Veena Allison from Employment Law Specialist

WEDNESDAY 25TH FEBRUARY - REDDITCH Our speakers are Guy Salter from SME Solicitors and Julie-Ann Pamplin and Nicky Hawkins from Clearview Systems

TUESDAY 17TH MARCH - WORCESTER Our speakers are Sally Morris from mfg Solicitors and Sue Harris from Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust

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INFORMAL NETWORKING AT CHAMBER’S CURRY CLUBS

Anupam, 85 Church Street, Malvern WR14 2AE

£12.50+VAT Members and Non-members To register for updates for future events or book on to any of the above events, please email events@hwchamber.co.uk

£15.00+VAT Members and Non-members

SPEAKING AT EVENTS There are a variety of opportunities for members to speak at events, including breakfast networking, Women’s Business Forums, Business Expos, seminars and workshops amongst others.

The team wishes to maintain the high quality expected of speakers at Chamber of Commerce events. To register your interest in speaking at a future Chamber of Commerce event, please contact the events team on events@hwchamber.co.uk.

November/December 2014

CHAMBEREVENTS

NETWORKING CALENDAR NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2014 November 2014

December 2014

Women2Web Event Monday 10th November - 10.00am-12.00pm H&W Chamber of Commerce Office, Severn House, Prescott Drive, Worcester WR4 9NE FREE Event – Call 0300 123 1440 to book

Worcester HR Forum in association with Hewett Recruitment Tuesday 2nd December - 9.30am-11.30am Coomber Electronic Equipment Ltd, Brindley Road, Warndon, Worcester, WR4 9FB FREE EVENT for Chamber members and clients of Hewett Recruitment

Hereford Women’s Business Forum in association with Thorne Widgery Tuesday 11th November - 9.30am-11.30am Thorne Widgery, 2 Wyevale Business Park, Kings Acre, Hereford, Herefordshire HR4 7BS £15.00+VAT Members / £30.00+VAT Non-members Malvern Curry Club in association with Sharpmonkeys Tuesday 9th December - 6.00pm-8.00pm Anupam, 85 Church Street, Great Malvern WR14 2AE £15.00+VAT Members and Non-members Explore Export Event Wednesday 12th November - A week long event For more information please visit www.exportweek.ukti.gov.uk/full Worcester Networking Breakfast Thursday 13th November - 7.30am-9.30am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, County Ground, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ £15.00+VAT Members / £30.00+VAT Non-members Worcester City Christmas Lights VIP Networking Event Thursday 13th November - 4.00pm-6.00pm The Guildhall, Worcester High Street, Worcester WR1 2HB £10.00+VAT (Children may attend FREE of charge) Women2Web Event Wednesday 18th November - 10.30am-12.30pm The Hive, Sawmill Walk, The Butts, Worcester, WR1 3PB FREE Event – Call 0300 123 1440 to book Hereford Networking Breakfast Wednesday 19th November - 7.30am-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Burghill, HR4 7RW £15.00+VAT Members / £30.00+VAT Non-members Maximise your Membership Event in association with ISO Quality Services Ltd Wednesday 19th November - 9.30am-11.00am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Burghill, HR4 7RW FREE EVENT for Members Women’s Business Forum in association with Borwell Ltd Thursday 20th November - 9.30am-12.00pm The Event House, Hindlip Lane, Worcester WR3 8SB £15.00+VAT Members / £30.00+VAT Non-members

Malvern Networking Breakfast Thursday 4th December - 7.30am-9.30am Abbey Hotel, Abbey Road, Malvern, WR14 3ET £15.00+VAT Members / £30.00+VAT Non-members Malvern Curry Club in association with Sharpmonkeys Tuesday 9th December - 6.00pm-8.00pm Anupam, 85 Church Street, Great Malvern WR14 2AE £15.00+VAT Members and Non-members Pershore Networking Breakfast Wednesday 10th December - 7.30am-9.30am Civic Centre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore WR10 1PT £15.00+VAT Members / £30.00+VAT Non-members Skills Support for the Workplace - Hereford Wednesday 10th December - 8.30am-11.30am Pinnacle Lounge, Munstone House Country Hotel, Munstone, Hereford HR1 3AH FREE for Members and Non-Members Worcester Networking Breakfast Thursday 11th December - 7.30am-9.30am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, County Ground, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ £15.00+VAT Members / £30.00+VAT Non-members Bromsgrove Networking Lunch Friday 12th December - 12.30pm-14.30pm Venue TBC £17.50+VAT Members / £30.00+VAT Non Members Hereford Networking Breakfast Wednesday 17th December - 7.30am-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Burghill, HR4 7RW £15.00+VAT Members / £30.00+VAT Non-members Christmas Lunch Thursday 18th December - 12.30pm-2.30pm

Venue TBC £17.50+VAT Members / £30.00+VAT Non Members

SAVE THE DATE

Women2Web Event Thursday 20th November : 12.00pm-2.00pm H&W Chamber of Commerce Office, Severn House, Prescott Drive, Worcester WR4 9NE FREE Event – Call 0300 123 1440 to book

BUSINESS EXPO – SPRING 2015

Hereford Curry Club in association with Harrisons Business Recovery and Insolvency Friday 21st November - 12.30pm-2.30pm Champagne Signature, Pomona Place, Hereford HR4 0EF £12.50+VAT Members and Non-members

Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Worcestershire WR13 6NW

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Wednesday 4th March 2015 - 8.00am-3.00pm

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The humble office desk gives you a fantastic opportunity to promote your company and get your message seen day after day! Itâ€™s also a great way to fly the flag for British manufacturing. We have a brilliant range of British-made desktop essentials, from mugs and mouse mats to pads and clocks, all acting as a permanent reminder of your company to your customers.

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November/December 2014

HCA Business is the business services section of the College and exists to meet the training needs of local businesses Course available include: • • • • • • • •

Digital Photography Photoshop Indesign Illustrator AutoCad Web Design Final Cut Pro Marketing Workshops

Training can be offered as part of the short course programme, on a one to one basis or tailored to meet your company’s needs.

Helping Worcestershire businesses to start, grow and succeed Find out what we can do for your business

For more information please visit our website www.hca.ac.uk or contact us by email shortcourses@hca.ac.uk or telephone 01432 845302 Follow us on twitter @HCAbusiness Hereford College of Arts Folly Lane, Hereford HR1 1LT

www.hca.ac.uk

Free business support from Worcestershire County Council and partners

www.business-central.co.uk 0300 123 14 40

BD3

n Herefordshire based wood fired, handmade pizza using locally sourced ingredients. n Bespoke pizza event catering, team building. n We can set up our oven and stall in most areas catering for 20 to 200 guests. For more information contact Jacqui Barker on T: 01432 371344 | M: 07974159512 E: jacqui@jvpcuisine.co.uk www.pizzahereford.co.uk /pizzaalfrescohereford /JacquiB07 Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CHAMBERTRAINING

YOUR EMPLOYEES AND COLLEAGUES ARE YOUR GREATEST BUSINESS ASSET! As the economy continues to improve, businesses are taking the opportunity to maximise the effectiveness of their staff. Our training courses are buzzing with delegates wanting to up skill and become compliant and the feedback we’ve received has been great! Sell out courses during September and October were; ‘Assertiveness and Confidence at Work’ and ‘Writing Effective Marketing Copy’ as well as ‘Employment Law Update’ and ‘IOSH Managing Safely’. There is a general positive feeling amongst the people that we see here at the Chamber, and can only assume that it’s down to the atmosphere our trainers create and the relevant and inspiring course content that’s delivered (or could it be the updated buffet and refreshment facilities?) During November, we are running a number of courses, in fact, it could be a record month as it sees

the introduction of our new course - ‘Mentoring in the Workplace’. This is a half day course that has had a lot of interest leading up to its start date and we already have two requests for bespoke courses to be run at individual businesses locally. We are running a few courses during November from our Developing People series: The Role of the Team Leader is a course that generates many enquiries and is part of a short programme of courses intended for Team Leaders who want to develop their skills. It’s ideal for staff that have been promoted to a management role without any formal training and perfect for new managers who want to know how to set standards and improve their team’s performance. Finance Skills for Non Finance Managers is a practical and interactive training course designed for SME’s, small business owners or managers who have acquired responsibility for some of the financial tasks within their organisation, or more experienced managers who wish to refresh themselves of the basics. Whether you’re a new manager or an existing manager

wanting a refresher this workshop will be useful. Mentoring in the Workplace is ideally suited to those who need to establish and manage the mentoring relationship; to adopt a more ‘hands-off’ empowering style when developing others and make informed decisions about establishing and developing mentoring in your organisation. Managing Performance in the Team Effective teams are successful for many reasons, but there are a number of things that will be consistent to each of those teams. The expectations and goals are realistic and measurable and clear to all the team. Performance is assessed regularly and constructive feedback is used to help support change. Finally coaching and development are an integral part of the team’s progression, ensuring that the team remains a dynamic and exciting environment to work in.

NEW CHAMBER TRAINING COORDINATOR: SUZI BODDY Suzi has been working as the new Training Coordinator at the Chamber of Commerce since July this year and during that time has been reviewing the portfolio of courses that we offer and adding her ideas to our plans for future training requirements.

HOW HAVE YOU FOUND YOUR FIRST 3 MONTHS WITH THE CHAMBER? It’s been a whirlwind of learning systems, processes and personalities! But it’s also been great fun. I’ve been made to feel very welcome and am enjoying the inclusivity of The Chamber and it’s ethics.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AND HOPES FOR TRAINING WITHIN THE CHAMBER? I’ve been meeting with all of our trainers, organising bookings, gaining an overview of what we currently offer and have already added a couple of courses for Mentoring and Conflict Management. I am now working on a new HR course for smaller businesses who don’t have their own HR departments with a view to showing delegates what is available from our website and how to benefit from the information that we offer within the membership. I am also rapidly gaining a realisation of the importance of bespoke training for specific company needs which is something I’m keen to develop. Contact Suzi today to discuss your businesses training needs on 0845 641 1641 ext 203 or suzanneb@hwchamber.co.uk

WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND? I’ve been running my own business for the past 3 years making bridal wear and working as a freelance Training Coordinator for the BBC Academy. Before that, I worked for the BBC for 8 years as a Senior Training Coordinator, latterly with a specialism in organising high risk training for people travelling to hostile environments. 024

November/December 2014

CHAMBERBUSINESSTRAINING

If your business requires any type of training, coaching or consultancy then the Chamber Training Centre can help you. Please find below a list of courses for September to November 2014 Colour & Grey

NOVEMBER COURSES

DECEMBER COURSES

Advanced Microsoft Excel 2007 (Limited Spaces Available)

Managing Performance in the Team

07 November 2014 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-Members

02 December 2014 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-Members

Colour & White

IOSH Working Safely

PR & Marketing Series - Getting to Grips with Social Media

11 November 2014 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-Members

04 December 2014 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-Members

Role of the Team Leader

Fire Marshal Training

13 November 2014 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-Members

08 December 2014 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-Members

Intermediate Microsoft Excel (Limited Spaces Available)

Train the Trainer

18 November 2014 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-Members

09 December 2014 £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non-Members

Finance Skills for Managers and Team Leaders

Effective Time Management

19 November 2014 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-Members

11 December 2014 £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non-Members

Mentoring in the Workplace

Effective Presentation Skills

24 November 2014 £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non-Members

16 December 2014 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-Members

Managing Equality, Bullying & Harassment

26 November 2014 £180+VAT Members / £210+VAT Non-Members Creating a Customer Care Culture

27 November 2014 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non-Members

Bespoke Training Courses Courses take place at Severn House, Worcester and start at 9.30 am. If there is a course that you are interested in that isn’t listed please contact the Training Team on 0845 641 1641 To book for any of these courses visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/businesstraining or call the Training Team on 0845 641 1641 or email training@hwchamber.co.uk Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BIGINTERVIEW

KINGSPAN INSULATION: MAKING MANUFACTURING MORE SUSTAINABLE Kingspan Insulation’s Director, John Garbutt, has seen Kingspan’s growth and sustainability become increasingly intertwined. We talked to him about the businesses sustainable practices and how other manufacturers can benefit from following suit.

then to assess progress. An ongoing sustainability action plan is formed around the targets set in the Sustainability and Responsibility Report, which is produced using Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) G3 Sustainability Reporting guidelines.

Kingspan Insulation, are sector leaders in premium performance insulation boards, and have recently scooped two awards for Sustainability and Manufacturing at the West Midlands Chamber Awards 2014.

“We have also attained a whole host of standards such as BES 6001 and ISO 14001. We have worked hard at minimising transport impacts, and in 2008 we instigated the Kingspan Insulation Community Trust, which supports projects in our local communities. “

John said: “Sustainability has been at the core of our business activities for over a decade now, and time and again we have proven that it works, not just in the sense of securing our future, but also by fulfilling our corporate social responsibility, supporting our local communities, and doing what we can to help protect and conserve the environment. The result has been a stronger company that has continued to develop and grow.”

Kingspan’s products are frequently specified because of their A or A+ Green Guide to Specification rating from the BRE. This in turn helps buildings to achieve BREEAM certification, which is a hallmark of environmental performance. Many of their clients require evidence of responsible sourcing, and the BES 6001 accreditation provides assurance of this.

Kingspan Insulation have enshrined into their mantra a culture that holds sustainability in the highest regard. Based in Leominster, and employing approximately 450 people, Kingspan continues to flourish as they near to their fourth decade of trading, even in the face of market stagnation and government initiatives that have caused issues for many other manufacturers. “It is absolutely vital that companies consider the impact of their operations on the environment. If we behave irresponsibly, all in the name of short term gain, we run the risk of destroying our own future, let alone that of future generations. Businesses should be stewards of the triple bottom line, with a responsibility to manage the impact of their operations across all three elements – economic, societal and environmental. “We first undertook a sustainability review process in 2004, and have repeated the exercise annually since

Kingspan’s decision to follow a path of carbon reduction and sustainable practices has seen the business continue to grow year on year. An achievement that was reflected in being crowned with the Sustainability and Manufacturing awards at the West Midlands round of the Chamber of Commerce Awards 2014. John said: “ We were delighted to win the regional award for Manufacturing, but the Sustainability Award is a real validation that what we are doing is worthwhile. Beyond aiming to achieve a net zero energy status by 2016, we are putting in place the infrastructure that will enable us to generate as much energy on-site as possible, with any surplus fed into the national grid. We asked John what advice he would give to other businesses looking to operate in a more sustainable way. “Don’t treat it as a tick box exercise. You need to get the whole of your team on board and really build it into the

culture of the company, or it won’t truly work. It is also not a one off change; it requires constant evaluating, planning and development. Start with a benchmark and set clear targets. Be transparent.” The future at Kingspan looks bright, with new measures being implemented that have clear business and environmental benefits. “Kingspan has a commitment to achieve a target of “zero net imported energy” by 2018 - a challenging target for any manufacturing business, let alone one the size of Kingspan. Extensive work has been ongoing over a number of years to increase manufacturing efficiencies and reduce energy consumption, as well as improving the fabric of our buildings and introducing elements such as energy efficient lighting. “This year we have introduced two new anaerobic digestion (AD) plants to the north and west of our Pembridge site, which will be used to produce both electricity and heat via our combined heat and power (CHP) plant. The site already has a 625MWhr/annum PV (solar electricity) array supplying part of its electricity requirement “The parliamentary under secretary of state for DECC , Amber Rudd MP, recently opened the UK’s largest PV-integrated roof refurbishment project at our Selby site in North Yorkshire, and a 140GWhr/annum chicken manure fuelled biomass power plant is going through the planning process for installation at the site by 2018. We are well on track to hit our 2018 net zero target.” These initiatives will produce clean energy, reduce demand from the national grid, and keep costs and carbon emissions down. They will also make good use of waste products and provide long term, sustainable sources of energy to maintain the business, which in turn will help to secure jobs. The introduction of the AD plants also means that energy is directly sourced at a local level, boosting the local economy. www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk

We were delighted to win the regional award for Manufacturing, but the Sustainability Award is a real validation that what we are doing is worthwhile.

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November/December 2014

BIGINTERVIEW

JOHN GARBUTT Kingspan Insulationâ€™s Director

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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COVERFEATURE

IEâ€™s Cradley development

SYSTEM OFFERS GLIMPSE INTO THE FUTURE OF HOME BUIDLING In an age when energy waste is causing such concern, the Passivhaus standard for building construction is rapidly gathering popularity as a potential solution.

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Passivhaus places great emphasis on good comfort, reduced energy usage and provision of excellent natural daylight. It was developed by the Passivhaus Institute in Germany and is certified through an exacting quality assurance process. Two locally based companies - architectural practice, Architype Ltd, and energy consultant, Elemental

Solutions, have together pioneered its introduction into the UK with the first Passivhaus schools in 2011, followed by a series of further projects. The most recent is the new Herefordshire Archive and Records Office for Herefordshire Council, due for completion this year, which is the first Passivhaus archive building in the UK.

November/December 2014

COVERFEATURE They are working with a number of local companies on other Passivhaus projects. One is Thomas Vale Construction, which in 2011 was appointed to construct the first Passivhaus school and then in late 2013 was appointed to undertake a further Passivhaus school, the new Wilkinson Primary in Wolverhampton.

IE’s Cradley development

The challenge from the client, according to Environmental Manager Matt Wisdom, was to achieve Passivhaus at no extra cost than would be incurred in a more conventional building. Working with Architype Ltd, the team constructed a building with extremely low energy consumption and excellent air quality, enabling children to stay focused and concentrate throughout the day. In some schools, CO2 levels can frequently rise above legal limits which causes drowsiness, particularly in cold weather when windows are not opened sufficiently due to uncomfortable drafts. Passivhaus allows constant ventilation, thereby removing the problem. Matt said: “Passivhaus places great emphasis on good air flow. Sometimes, you go in a building which makes you feel muggy and gives you a headache. “That can be due to lack of fresh air and Passivhaus keeps a low level of fresh air circulating all the time. “The feedback from the school in Wolverhampton is that the children feel more alert.” Passivhaus buildings also achieve savings in heating energy of about 85% and total energy of 70% compared to buildings built to current UK building regulations, delivering significant reductions in running costs throughout the life of the building. The key to Passivhaus is that, instead of offsetting carbon emissions incurred in energy consumption by adding expensive renewable technologies, the buildings simply use less energy. Matt said: “We still construct buildings using more conventional methods but we are seeing a lot of interest in Passivhaus, particularly in the public sector where we do a lot of our work.” Also embracing the Passivhaus principles is Hereford-based IE Developments, which has won acclaim and awards for ground-breaking eco-developments such as the one at St. Katherine’s Field at Cradley, Herefordshire.

We still construct buildings using more conventional methods but we are seeing a lot of interest in Passivhaus, particularly in the public sector where we do a lot of our work.

IE Developments, which has taken an undertaking to embrace energy efficiency and sustainable architecture, sees Passivhaus as a way of furthering the approach and has implemented it through a series of partnerships with local companies. The company first partnered with local businesses including Architype who they met at a a Chamber of Commerce construction networking event. IE Developments also worked closely with other Chamber members Worcester Bosch, in developing the heating and renewable technologies used in the development, and Taylor Lane Timber Frame, who were involved in the creation of a new system of construction. Jonathan Hines, of Architype, said: “As a Herefordshire-based company specialising in sustainable energy efficient design, we were delighted when IE Developments approached Architype, with a view to us working together to take their next development to a higher level of sustainability. “By collaborating closely together, we were able to develop a highly energy efficient approach without any compromise to IE’s clearly defined approach to contemporary design and construction quality. “Achieving such a high standard of energy efficient is not just about good design. Higher standards of construction are required to achieve, for example, reduced thermal bridging and better air-tightness. “It was only through close collaboration between IE and Architype in the development of the details, and a number of technical workshops with other partners such as Taylor Lane, that these exacting construction standards were achieved.”

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Stuart Speight, of IE Developments, said: “The resources and skills required were all at our fingertips through local networking and research we were pleasantly surprised to find that Herefordshire and Worcestershire had such a wealth of quality businesses that made this project possible. “The main footnote here is that with determination and co-operation anything is possible. The result is quite extraordinary and the achievements of IE Developments and their team of partners in Hereford and Worcester have set a new benchmark in construction nationally. Roland Close, Planning Officer, Herefordshire Council, said “From my perspective this development at Cradley is an exemplar that should help in assisting the standard of new housing development in Herefordshire.” IE Developments says that its ‘HerefordHaus’ system has seen homeowners reporting significant reductions in energy costs and will form the basis of other developments. In response to frustration with the lack of energy efficient housing development, Jonathan Hines has established a new company, ArchiHaus, which has obtained planning approval for a project of 150 Passivhaus houses in Kingstone, Herefordshire, to be manufactured efficiently in a local house factory that ArchiHaus is establishing in Hereford. Jonathan Hines said,“Herefordshire is leading the UK’s adoption of Passivhaus, the world’s leading energy standard. A great demonstration of the creativity and innovation of local businesses’

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Improve your business performance with the Lean methodology In today’s competitive market and to become more efficient and effective at delivering profit, companies need to increase productivity, maximise growth and efficiencies, improve quality and stay ahead of their competitors. Applying Lean methodology has helped many companies to achieve and thrive in an ever changing market place. Do you know in advance that you have a problem, or only when it’s too late? Sometimes finding problems is the most difficult part as subjectivity can cloud your judgement. Other times, you may know there’s a problem but don’t know how to fix it. By applying Lean’s structured problem solving methodology with the support of visual management and standardisation you will not only identify problems in a timely manner but be able to identify and eliminate the root causes. Do you have waste in your organisation, but don’t know how to eliminate it? It’s true that at most, 20% of our activities are classed as adding value to the customer. By following the Lean approach you will be able to identify the waste in your system and put plans in place to eliminate it from the value stream. Are you struggling to maintain quality, whilst demand and productivity is increasing? Companies often focus too much on delivering a product or service, and less time on the quality of their offering. Customers will move to your competitor if they think that they are receiving a poor quality product or service from you. By applying Lean methodology, you will be able to identify issues, implement the improvement standards required to correct these and develop the measurement criteria needed to ensure adherence to standards for continuous improvement. Implementing activities and standards will ensure that you maintain and even increase your customer base. Are you looking to improve your product or service with a limited cost to the company? Most customers don’t want to pay any more for your product or service but their expectations for quality will always increase over time. Lean focuses on driving out waste or non-value adding activity in your processes or systems. The savings from the cost of this ‘waste’ can then be re-invested back into the company to improve on product or service. Your customers will be happy and your competitors worried. Do you feel that you are constantly firefighting and spending less time on improvement activities? Managers often find that they spend more time on firefighting and less time on driving improvements. Lean facilitates a company culture change, so that the focus is not only on improvement but also on how we behave as individuals. Adopting Lean starts at strategic level and is then disseminated through the organisation. Successful implementation is achieved through the development of people and clear and timely communications. By utilising Lean’s visual management and standardisation methodologies, your management and employees will focus more on pro-active continuous improvement activities and less on re-active firefighting. Hoople has developed a set of Lean methodologies to help companies focus on maximising profit and growth, improve their efficiencies and add value to their customer’s whilst engaging and empowering the workforce.

If you feel that your company could benefit from a Lean intervention, call Hoople on 01432 383678 to discuss your requirements. 030

For more information call 01432 383678 or visit www.hoopleltd.co.uk

November/December 2014

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

LOCAL BUSINESSMAN LAUNCHES â€˜BUSINESS DOCTORSâ€™ Local businessman, Simon Offord, has launched â€˜Business Doctorsâ€™ within Gloucestershire and Worcestershire, the UKâ€™s fastest growing support service for small and medium-sized business (SMEâ€™s). Simon, who is based in Stroud, has joined the Business Doctorsâ€™ team to provide support and strategic advice to owners and directors of SMEs within the region. Having previously developed his own business, form grass roots level to a successful and profitable company, Simon feels that he is well placed to offer support and advice based upon personal experience. â€˜My own career path has taught me about the highs and lows of running a company, and I am keen to support others to realise the potential of their businesses, across a broad range of sectorsâ€™.

Simon adds â€˜I am excited about working alongside the other Business Doctors within the South West. We have a huge range of experience between us and offer a comprehensive service, covering every aspect of business that an SME will needâ€™. Rod Davies, founder of Business Doctors, states; â€˜We are delighted to welcome Simon into the network of top class advisors in the South West. He is a great example of all our Business Doctors around the countryâ€™. Davies concludes; â€˜His commercial track record and experience are remarkable and he can give top class support to SMEâ€™s, helping them to grow and achieve their ambitionsâ€™. For more information please visit

www.businessdoctors.co.uk

Simon Offord (middle) launches Business Doctors in Gloucestershire and Worcestershire with founders Rod Davies (left) and Matt Levington (right).

DEDICATED TO HELPING SMALL & MEDIUM SIZED BUSINESSES ACHIEVE THEIR VISION

We donâ€™t just coach, we get on the pitch! Do you think your business could use a helping hand? Business Doctors is a business support network, dedicated to helping small and medium sized businesses achieve their vision. Drawing on extensive business skills and experience, Business Doctors SURYLGHV ÂśKDQGV RQÂˇ VXSSRUW WR EXVLQHVV

Contact Simon Offord on:

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T: 0845 4501874 E: simonofford@businessdoctors.co.uk W: http://www.businessdoctors.co.uk/doctors/gloucester

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

TOGETHER WE CAN CONQUER STROKE The Stroke Association is a locally based national charity working throughout Worcestershire, Herefordshire and across the West Midlands providing vital support and information to local people affected by stroke. Based at the Life after Stroke centre in Bromsgrove, we are keen to work with fellow Chamber members and local businesses to create long lasting partnerships that are mutually beneficial. We can support you with your Corporate Social Responsibility, promoting the well-being of your workforce and team building and your support will help us to raise awareness of stroke and the Stroke Association, raise much needed funds or you could even donate your time and skills to us. To find out more and to get involved contact Sophie James E-mail: sophie.james@stroke.org.uk or Tel: 01527 903 501 Follow us on Twitter @StrokeAssocWestMids

Sas Freeman

Stroke Association Ambassador Sas Freeman shares her experiences “I had a stroke in February 2010, at the age of 46 and went on to have a further stroke and a mini stroke. Before my stroke I had previously worked as a photographic model and on television. I appeared in films and as a double for Emma Thompson in Brideshead Revisited and was the face for Estee Lauder skin products on TV shopping channel QVC. Following my strokes, I was unable to move the

right side of my body, and lost my speech, as well as my senses of smell and taste. After my stroke I turned to art. I have now become an artist using my non-dominant hand following my strokes. I have sold oil paintings which hang in private homes in various parts of the world, and my work is also on display in several galleries in the UK including at the Life after Stroke centre in Bromsgrove. For my artwork to be amongst the other beautiful pieces of work created by stroke survivors is a real privilege. The Life After Stroke Centre is a place of calm, love, support and togetherness. Each time I step foot into the Centre I feel a sense of relief – knowing that I will be greeted by the wonderful staff and volunteers. The Stroke Association is a fantastic charity who offer advice, information and support for anyone worried about stroke and its impact and I really thank the Stroke Association for building such a special place which is cemented in the stroke survivor’s road to recovery. Since my stroke, I’ve made it my goal to make sure that I continue to live my life as I did before my stroke. It has been challenging, but I have also been determined to continue to do the things that made me feel good, like applying my make up or painting my nails. I want to let people across the West Midlands know that the condition doesn’t have to be incapacitating; and together we can most definitely conquer stroke.”

SANTA SCRAMBLE AND ELF TRAIL SUNDAY 14TH DECEMBER WYRE FOREST NR BEWDLEY DY14 9XQ Take on the Ultimate Christmas Challenge – face our Stroke Scrooges and tackle the obstacles around this challenging 5km route through the Wyre Forest while dressed in your Santa suit! You will need to climb over things, jump over things and crawl through mud. You can register individually or as a team – so this could be a perfect team building activity with colleagues or a fab alternative to a staff Christmas party! All participants receive a Santa Suit and fabulous festive goody bag on completion including a baby Christmas tree! Also a great day out for the family as there is a 1.5km Children’s Elf Trail, taking them on a magical trail through the Wyre Forest. See if you can find Rudolph and his friends, follow the map and give the secret password before meeting Santa in his beautiful forest grotto to receive a special festive gift. Starting and finishing by the lovely Forest Café these fantastic events are open to everyone and a great way to get in the Christmas spirit! Join us afterwards for a free mince pie and try a cup of mulled wine. More info and online booking: www.stroke.org.uk/ event/santa-scramble-obstacle-challenge-2014

I want to let people across the West Midlands know that the condition doesn’t have to be incapacitating; and together we can most definitely conquer stroke.

JOIN US AT SIXWAYS UPPER CHARITY LOUNGE FOR THIS EXCITING RUGBY FIXTURE OF WORCESTER WARRIORS VS. JERSEY. Whether you are a rugby fan or if you just fancy a fab Friday night out with your friends this will be a great evening with a brilliant atmosphere. Tickets £20 per person to include access to the Charity Lounge & Bar from 5:45p.m. with a chance to mingle and network, warming meal of home-made lasagne with mixed leaf salad and garlic bread (vegetarian option available), Match ticket with a seat in the North Stand to watch the game. More info and online booking: www.stroke.org.uk/event/rugby-sixways

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November/December 2014

Less Is More

Award Winning Tax Minimisation Ballard | Dale | Syree | Watson www. b a l l a rd s c a . co m Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CONFERENCEWORCESTERSHIRE www.conference-worcestershire.com

THREE COUNTIES SHOWGROUND Come to the Three Counties and see how we can work with you to make your event exceed your expectations. The Three Counties is a purpose built conference and exhibition centre nestled at the foot of the Malvern Hills, and is the perfect venue for both business and personal events. Bespoke packages are available in a unique and versatile space to suit your needs whether you have 10 or 1000 delegates. The Three Counties Centre is often described as a ‘blank canvas’, and it successfully accommodates anything from small and large conferences to fundraising balls, Asian weddings, trade shows, photo shoots, fashion shows and large vehicle exhibitions. The Three Counties Centre offers Severn Hall, the largest of the exhibitions halls, with 2000 sq metres of space. Three further rooms are available which are suited to smaller conferences (up to 200

delegates) or board room style meetings. www.threecounties.co.uk

IMPROVE ATTITUDES AND REDUCE STRESS WITH EFFECTIVE TEAM BUILDING It has been proven that team building activities are the most effective way to reduce stress, ensure group focus, improve attitudes and get your group to learn how to work together towards team goals. Gaining a sense of unity is one of the most powerful ways to create a solid and successful team. There needs to be trust amongst team members, beginning with learning to communicate effectively and appreciating teammate strengths. Worcestershire has some fantastic venues for team away days, for groups of all sizes. If your team is on the larger side, Marksman leisure in Hanbury, Worcestershire, can provide team building activities such as laser tag and

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clay pigeon shooting for groups of up to 100. The bespoke packages are tailor made according to your interests, group size, time available and budget - making Marksman Leisure a great choice for corporate days. Why not combine a lunch or dinner with the excitement of an outdoor event? Enjoy the fresh air and views of the 350 acre Deer Park at Hagley Hall. Utilise the outside space for adventurous teambuilding tasks, from duck herding to archery, quad biking to falconry. All corporate entertainment activities are tailor-made to meet your aims and budget. Other team building venues include; Farncombe Conference Centre near Broadway, which combines award winning facilities with absolute peace and quiet and Top Barn Activity Centre

which offers a variety of corporate activity packages.

list of venues:

www.conference-worcestershire.com

For more ideas for your next team building day, check out the website for a

November/December 2014

DESTINATIONWORCESTERSHIRE

WORCESTERSHIRE HOTELS NAMED TOP HOTELS IN THE UK

EATING OUT IN WORCESTERSHIRE AND BEYOND

Two hotels that are part of the Destination Worcestershire scheme have been named the best in the UK after winning Hotel of the Year and Small Hotel Group of the year at the AA Hospitality Awards 2014.

Worcestershire is home to many eating establishments whose prime aim is to impress diners with a great menu of excellent food and wines. The Eating Out in Worcestershire Guide advertises many of the establishments available, conveniently in one place.

Dormy House in Broadway scooped the top hotel award in England, becoming AA Hotel of the Year 2014-15 and Brockencote Hall, part of the Eden Hotel Collection walked away with Small Hotel Group of the year. The AA Awards are amongst the most prestigious national awards of their kind and draw on the unrivalled knowledge and expertise of the AA inspectorate and other industry professionals involved in the judging process.

Winners are selected in recognition of excellence and success within their award category, having shown a significant improvement within the preceding 12 to 18 months and proving their dedication to raising industry standards and enhancing both their guest and diner experiences. www.visitworcestershire.org/awards

MAGNA CARTA TRAILS 2015 In 2015 it will be 800 years since Magna Carta was agreed between King John and his barons, so enshrining the rule of law in English society and limiting authoritarian rule. The original charter was sealed by King John on 15th June 1215. Trail 6 of the official Magna Carta 800th Trails will take you from Oxford to Hereford via the city of Worcester, where King John himself is buried.

HEREFORD CATHEDRAL Two important Magna Carta items are housed in the New Library building of Hereford Cathedral together with a wealth of other fantastic treasures. The first is the finest surviving 1217 Magna Carta – the significant revision of the original 1215 charter issued by King John’s son Henry III. The second is the sole surviving copy of the ‘Kings Writ,’ issued by King John in the form of a letter to royal officials across England following his meeting with the barons at Runnymede. The document instructs recipients to ensure the terms of the charter are made known publicly, sworn to and kept. Period illuminations and documents from the cathedral’s historic Chained Library are on view and illustrate themes of the charter.

When King John came to Worcester he would have stayed in the cathedral priory. He had a special affection for Saint Wulfstan, one of the two great Anglo-Saxon saints whose shrines and tombs were at Worcester Cathedral. Just before his death on 18th October 1216, John managed to dictate a brief will, he commended his body to the monks of Worcester cathedral and his immortal soul to the two Worcester saints, Oswald and Wulfstan. His body was carried from Newark to Worcester and, sometime around 23 October, he was laid to rest.

Pick up your copy today for free at Worcester Tourist Information Centre located in Worcester Guildhall. Whether you want to enjoy michelin starred AA rosette award winning cusine or traditional pub fayre you will find it all within the county. It won‘t be a suprise that many venues serve locally sourced food and drink as Worcestershire is famed for producing an array of meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables as well as the world renowned Worcestershire Sauce. To help you experience all that Worcestershire has to offer, we‘ve created four trails around the county; Food and Drink Trail, Real Ale Trail, Afternoon Tea Trail and the Farm Shop Trail. All can be found on the website

www.visitworcestershire.org

The codicil of the Will still survives and is usually on display in the cathedral library along with other relics and artefacts of King John. Both Saint Wulfstan and Saint Oswald can be seen in miniature beside the head of John on his effigy on his tomb, which is the oldest royal effigy in England and said to be a likeness. There is a programme of Magna Carta related events happening at Worcester Cathedral in 2015, for full details of how to book visit

www.worcestercathedral.co.uk/Magna_Carta_and_ King_John.php

For further information and up to date events go to: www.magnacarta800th.com

WORCESTER CATHEDRAL Some of King John’s favourite hunting grounds were in Worcestershire. John first visited Worcester in October 1189, when meeting the Welsh nobility on behalf of his brother King Richard I. He returned again regularly, his last visit being on 16 August 1216, when he ordered the citizens of Worcester to make a payment to Walter de Beauchamp so that alms might be given to the poor.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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MEMBERSSERVICES

HOW RESOURCE EFFICIENT WORCESTERSHIRE CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS

DO YOU FEEL LOST PRICING UP YOUR OFFICE ESSENTIALS? Spire Communications is offering an ‘Essentials Package’, designed for Chamber Members, whether starting out in business or growing to the next level. Telephone systems, IT, broadband and mobile phones are paramount in today’s business world. It can be costly and very time-consuming relying on different providers for each of these communication services, especially for start-ups and small businesses moving into office space.

A business can literally lose everything it has saved on their computers in a blink of an eye and it’s better to be safe than to be sorry. There are many ways to bring about a data disaster, and there’s only one way to be prepared for any of them, and that is through backing up your files. A recent survey of 50,000 small businesses that had suffered major data loss showed that 43% of them instantly went out of business. 036

The programme is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) until June 2015 and the key aims of the programme are to: n Help businesses reduce energy and water, waste and raw materials costs.

The package deals with all three services in a competitive bundle, all from one local company based in Worcester.

n Increase business profitability.

If you feel lost pricing up your Office Essentials give Spire Communications a call on 0800 0210100 for a friendly chat.

n Share knowledge and help businesses become more environmentally aware.

www.spirecom.com

n Reduce CO2 emissions.

The programme involves three key pillars of support:

FREE RESOURCE EFFICIENCY ASSESSMENTS

recommendations from the assessment. For example, if your business applies for £15,000 the programme could provide £6,750 (45%).

RESOURCE EFFICIENCY FORUMS Set-up in Spring 2013 as a platform for the delivery of workshops and seminars held quarterly for businesses wanting to find out more about resource efficiency themes (e.g. energy efficiency, renewable energy, waste and water reduction). For further details and eligibility visit the Chamber website: www.hwchamber. co.uk/support/advice/environment/ resource-efficient-worcestershire

The equivalent of 12 hours free support of active consultancy advice is provided

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to SMEs including: the assessment; The Resource Efficient further research on assessment Worcestershire programme is a considerations; a follow-up report on partnership between Worcestershire the assessment with recommendations; County Council and Herefordshire and advice on applying for a grant and Worcestershire Chamber of through the programme to implement Commerce through Worcestershire. recommendations in the report. Business.Central to deliver a A GRANT FUND ‘resource efficiency programme’ for Businesses can apply for a grant Small to Medium Sized Enterprises worth up to £6, 750 (a 45% match funded grant) to help implement the (SMEs) in Worcestershire.

Today, you can safely and securely backup over the net. Online backups can be encrypted as you backup and are them held in a secure server room, continually being maintained. If you required a backup solution tailored for your business, email your details to peter@ezbackup.co.uk for a free quotation. www.ezbackup.com

FREE RESOURCE EFFICIENCY EVENT Building Sustainable Capacity in your business: Environmental Management Systems and behavioural change (Resource Efficient Worcestershire Forum event) Tuesday 9th December 2014 8.00am - 10.00am Yamazaki Mazak UK Ltd, Worcester, WR4 9NF Find out about the different types of Environmental Management Systems and hear from Mazak about how ISO 14001, the world’s more recognised environmental management

standard can help you to reduce your environmental impact as well as develop your business. Free event for Members and Non Members for eligible business to business SME’s

www.hwchamber.co.uk/support/ advice/environment/resourceefficient-worcestershire

If you have any questions about the eligibility criteria or the event contact James Bridges: jamesb@hwchamber.co.uk

November/December 2014

CHARITYNEWS

CHAMBER RAISES £1000 FOR MACMILLAN Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce have donated £1000 to Macmillan Cancer Support after running a number of events in order to raise money for the charity, which provides a constant source of support for people facing cancer in the two counties and across the UK. Over £600 was raised at the Chamber‘s latest Business Expo in September, attendees were encouraged to enter their culinary creations into the Great Chamber Bake Off, and the cakes were subsequently sold to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. Coffee mornings also took place at the Chamber‘s offices in Herefordshire and

Worcestershire as part of Macmillan‘s World‘s Biggest Coffee Morning campaign. In total, the two coffee mornings raised £400, taking the Chamber‘s grand total to £1000. Linda Smith, Head of International Trade said “The tradition of Macmillan’s Coffee Morning was started at the Chamber fifteen years ago by a colleague we lost to cancer in 2003. In her memory we’ve continued to keep the event in the company’s calendar – very much driven by the in house international trade team. I like to create a competition each year amongst the staff and, with the UK’s growing passion for baking, the talent is starting to show!”

OAKLAND FOUNDATION CHARITY INVITES GRANT APPLICATIONS The Oakland Foundation is inviting applications for funding from community groups, schools, charities and youth organisations from across the Redditch and Bromsgrove areas. Oakland Foundation trustee, Hayley Smith, said: “The Foundation wants to make a difference within the local community, by supporting our young people who are either experiencing financial hardship or disadvantage, and since the charity’s official launch last year, we have helped a number of locally

based youth organisations, sports clubs and school children; providing funding for things such as team sports kits and school music lessons.” Aimed specifically at reducing child poverty within the Redditch and Bromsgrove areas through their work in the areas of Health and Nutrition, Education and Sport, grant awards are given on merit and individual project need, and can be applied for throughout the year. www.oakland-foundation.com

SIXWAYS SLEEPOUT SET TO SUPPORT YOUTH HOMELESSNESS HAYWARD WRIGHT HOST SPEEDY CHARITY FUNDRAISER Businesses from across Worcestershire recently swapped suits for overalls and got behind the wheel in aid of a popular county charity.

endurance race which was won by Hewett Recruitment who reached over 100 laps.

Hayward Wright Chartered Accountants brought 64 participants from 16 local businesses together for their annual go-karting event at Grand Prix Karting in Birmingham all in aid of Sight Concern Worcestershire.

Hayward Wright’s Managing Director, Alistair Hayward-Wright, said: “There’s no doubt that this was one of the most popular charity events we’ve held and everyone was keen to see if they could be the next Lewis Hamilton. We didn’t uncover any future F1 stars but we did raise a lot of money for charity.”

£1,400 was raised through the 90-minute

www.haywardwright.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

A local charity which works with homeless young people across Worcestershire is urging the community to spend a night under the Sixways sky this autumn. St Basils is working with Worcester Warriors to support youth homelessness prevention services and is looking for people to take on a sponsored challenge to give up their beds for a night. The Worcester SleepOut, which takes place on Thursday 6 November, is part of a national End Youth Homelessness initiative where communities across England leave their beds for the night and raise sponsorship to sleep out in the open.

Money raised from the event will go towards St Basils youth homelessness prevention services to help young people with nowhere else to go - supporting them to independence and employment. Fundraising Officer and event organiser Anne Morton from St Basils, said: “The SleepOut is designed to help people think about those who don’t have a safe home and understand what young people might have to experience if there weren’t services such as ours to help them.” www.stbasils.org.uk/eyhsleepout / www.warriors.co.uk

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INTERNATIONALTRADE

LEADING EDGE TURBINES COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY CAN HELP WIN MORE BUSINESS INTERNATIONALLY As more and more companies are selling on the international market, the value placed on cultural awareness has become very important.

misunderstood by your target audience.

We know that communicating well makes all the difference in giving companies a competitive edge. To be successful in international business you need to minimise any misunderstanding about how you behave and what you say. Success overseas is all about being prepared.

n Make sure your written materials are translated professionally. At worst, technical manuals could have health and safety implications if inexpertly translated. n Keep sentences short and simple as they will translate better. n UK Trade & Investment can help you to source quality-assured translators from our database of language service providers.

TOP TIPS FOR LANGUAGE AND CULTURAL AWARENESS: n Spending time on relationship building is extremely important in many cultures. You may need to visit a potential client several times before a deal comes to fruition - never try to rush things; n Learn a couple of key phases - even if the other person speaks your language, they will appreciate the effort and you will stand out from your competitors; n Web users are four times more likely to purchase from a site that communicates in their own language, so consider translating your

n We offer free market specific language and culture seminars. n Be prepared - learn as much as you can about cultural norms. People won’t expect you to change your style completely but at least you will know what to expect and you can adapt your approach so you don’t offend. For further information about market specific language and cultural awareness issues please contact Gerti Willis, Language & Culture Adviser UKTI West Midlands on 0121 607 1942 or email

gerti.willis@mobile.ukti.gov.uk

n website to attract more international customers; n Avoid culture-bound clichés or literary references as the chances are these do not translate and would be

Or to find out if UKTI can help your business expand overseas contact: internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk 0845 641 1641

Leading Edge Turbines are manufactures of small wind turbines, capable of powering off-grid equipment and systems - you’ve probably seen them powering road signs on the outskirts of a village or on a dangerous corner. As the drive towards carbon neutrality and alternative forms of energy has increased, wind turbines are being used in ever expanding ways, particularly in areas where there is no feasible electricity supply – powering broadband repeater stations, CCTV cameras, LED street lights, equipment on buoys offshore or telemetry equipment for water companies are but a few ways in which wind turbines have been utilised. All of Leading Edge Turbines products are manufactured in their UK based factory where systems and procedures are quality assured under ISO9001, with customers valuing quality engineering, it gives them the reassurance that their investment will keep running through whatever temperamental weather conditions may be thrown at it. Support from UKTI has enabled Leading Edge Turbines to exhibit at major trade exhibitions overseas where they meet with potential customers keen to add “wind” to their portfolio of renewable products. The business is growing 40% year on year, showing not only the value of exports, but the global drive to become more energy efficient. Sarah Keefe, Marketing Manager at Leading Edge Turbines, said: “Finding new distribution relationships is an important strategy for us, from a strong base here in Europe to the Middle East, North America and the Far East, it is integral to our business growth. The support we have received in increasing our global portfolio has been invaluable.” www.leturbines.com

EXPORT DOCUMENTATION

Chamber Export Documentation Authentication prices frozen for 2014! Chamber Members receive a 50% discount. Website: www.hwchamber.co.uk/exportdocumentation

UKTI Herefordshire & Worcestershire 038

November/December 2014

INTERNATIONALTRADE

FAST TRACK TO EXPORT SUCCESS EXPORT WEEK BRINGS THE WORLD TO THE WEST MIDLANDS Firms across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are being urged to get on the fast track to success by joining UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) as it brings the world to the region for its sixth Export Week (10-14 November).

Partners supporting Export Week include UK Export Finance, ACCA, RBS, Birmingham City University, Staffordshire Council and the European Enterprise Network.

Organised by UKTI in conjunction with partners and business organisations, Export Week aims to encourage companies to take up the export challenge and highlight the wealth of support and knowledge available to help them grow.

Export Week (10-14 November) will feature a range of events across the region, including:

Previous Export Weeks have seen more than 17,000 companies across the UK attend events. UKTI’s flagship ExploreExport roadshow will be touring the country bringing a total of 130 UKTI Commercial Officers and British Chamber of Commerce representatives from 80 countries to share their expertise with local firms.

n Monday, 10 October - Overseas Business Opportunities Workshop, Birmingham Science Park, Faraday Wharf, Holt Street, Birmingham B7 4BB. Time: 09:00 – 16:00

The ExploreExport roadshow will be at the ICC, Birmingham on Wednesday, 12 November. The event offers local firms pre-bookable, one-to-one meetings with up to four of their chosen market specialists. Set to be the biggest of its kind in the country, the West Midlands ExploreExport event also offers firms a range of other opportunities, including: n UKTI adviser hub: drop-in clinic where firms can speak to local UKTI advisers. n Exhibition zone: visitors will be able to engage with up to 40 organisations who will be on hand to offer advice and support on a range of subjects including: access to finance; law and regulation; Intellectual Property; logistics; overcoming language and cultural differences; translation services; international marketing; and generating leads overseas. n Market lounge: opportunity for networking and informal talks with experts from some of the region’s biggest export markets. n Seminars: a programme of short seminars tackling the most common barriers to exporting, and offering solutions. Other events during Export Week include: a mid-sized business event; a women-led business event; a start-up event for young entrepreneurs; and an event focusing on the opportunities presented by the next powerhouses of Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey (MINT). All the events during Export Week are free, except the ExploreExport event which costs £50 plus VAT.

n Monday, 10 November - Taking on Brazil – Business workshop, Birmingham Science Park, Faraday Wharf, Holt Street, Birmingham B7 4BB. Time: 08:30-16:00

n Wednesday, 12 November - Explore Export, The ICC, Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EA. Time: 08:30 – 16:00 n Thursday, 13 November - Women-led business: Expand your horizons, IET Birmingham: Austin Court, 80 Cambridge Street, Birmingham, B1 2NP. Time: 15:00 - 19:30 n Friday, 14 November - Start-up global, Thinktank, Millennium Point, Curzon St, Birmingham, B4 7XG. Time: 09:30 – 15:30 n Friday, 14 November - Staffordshire Export Support, Drayton Manor Hotel, Drayton Manor Theme Park, Drayton Manor Drive, Tamworth B78 3TW.

n Tuesday, 11 November - Metnet (Marches Environmental Technologies Network) Conference 2014 - Ludlow Racecourse, nr Bromfield SY8 2BT, 09.30 – 15.30pm.

n Wednesday, 19 November – MINT (Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria and Turkey): The next powerhouses, The Ricoh Arena, Phoenix Way, Foleshill, Coventry CV6 6GE. Time: 09:30 – 14:30

NB only environmental companies – or businesses looking to diversify into these areas - based in the Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Telford and Wrekin and Shropshire areas can attend.

For more information about any of the events taking place during Export Week or to book a place, log onto the website at: www.exportweek.ukti.gov.uk

n Tuesday, 11 November - Web Optimisation & Social Media Marketing Workshop, De Vere Colmore Gate, 2-6 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2QD. Time: 09:00 – 16:00

To find out if UKTI can help your business expand overseas call: 0845 641 1641

n Tuesday, 11 November - Emerging Europe, Coventry (location tbc) Time: 08:30-11:00 (followed by networking).

Export Week Grow Your Business One week of seminars, workshops and market briefings to provide practical advice on doing business overseas. 10-14 November 2014 For a full list of events during the week visit www.exportweek.ukti.gov.uk

0845 641 1613 internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

039

INTERNATIONALTRADE

TRAINING COURSES WORCESTER – 2014/2015 To book your place contact Alison Avery on 0845 641 1507 or email alisona@hwchamber.co.uk Letters of Credit 4 November 2014 Mark Hayward M J Hayward Assoc Ltd Customs Compliance 6 November 2014 Sandra Strong Strong & Herd

NEW INTERNATIONAL TRADE ADVISOR: SALLY STEVENSON Sally has recently joined the International Trade team as a dedicated Medium Sized Business International Trade Adviser. Sally’s role is to work with the businesses in Herefordshire & Worcestershire who have a turnover of £25 million or more, to help them access the support they need to grow internationally and assist with the growth of their export business. Each company has very different and unique requirements, which means that the assistance and support they will receive is entirely relevant and tailored to their needs. Sally’s time working with companies is free, and can

enable them to have access to multiple resources including the UKTI global network of contacts, tailored events oversees and in the UK, as well as the High Value Opportunities Programme. Sally’s career to date has been in the Aerospace, Marine and Oil & Gas industries, predominantly with Rolls-Royce plc. Sally has held senior roles in Business & Programme Management, Aftermarket Sales & Support, Commercial, Sales & Marketing, Key Account Management and Purchasing. She has also led international teams and worked with global customers and suppliers, both in the public and private sector. To discuss any areas where Sally can help your business contact: sally.

Export Licensing 11 November 2014 Sandra Strong Strong & Herd Basics of Import Procedures 12 November 2014 Sandra Strong Strong & Herd

What’s new – Changes in International Trade 20 January 2015 Sandra Strong Strong & Herd Advanced Import Procedures 4 February 2015 Anthony Griffiths Strong & Herd Tariff Classification 5 February 2015 Anthony Griffiths Strong & Herd Basics of Export Documentation 19 March 2015 Anthony Griffiths Strong & Herd

Organising an International Distributor Meeting 26 November 2014 HALF DAY Keith Jones Link Me 2 Export

Advanced Export Documentation 24 March 2015 Anthony Griffiths Strong & Herd

Basics of Export Documentation 9 December 2014 Anthony Griffiths Strong & Herd

IPR (Inward Process Relief) 25 March 2015 Anthony Griffiths Strong & Herd

The Bribery Act 8 January 2015 Keith Jones Link Me 2 Export

stevenson@mobile.ukti.gov.uk

0845 641 1613 internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk 040

November/December 2014

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Resources For Retailers The RRP for the Axiski is £24.99, making it an affordable option both as a present or a stocking filler, the product is available in a range of fantastic fun colours - black, bright green, shocking pink, tangy orange and cosmic blue and will be sold from your local retailer so if you are a retailer and want to get in on the fun of Axiski please contact info@axiski.com Please visit our website www.axiski.com where you can see lots of great photos and videos of the Axiski in action as well as special features showing how the board is manufactured and just how strong and durable it really is. You might also want to follow us like more than 5000 other people currently do on Facebook.

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

WORKING WITH YOU TO ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS! Lawson Keys are a Worcestershire based Recruitment Company who have teamed up with A R Graham Consultancy Limited to offer a bespoke portfolio of Personal Development events, enabling relevant skills enhancement opportunities and an improvement in the retention of staff for their clients.

ILM ACCREDITED COURSES At Lawson Keys, we believe that effective ‘objective-focused’ communication is the difference between success and failure. We are dedicated to helping employees and clients become the very best that they can be. We offer ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) courses, including Train the Trainer, Presentation and Management Skills Training. Lawson Keys also design and deliver exceptional training courses, team building exercises and learning events for individuals and organisations, evaluating the outcomes to ensure that development provides real return on investment. Lawson Keys has your targets in our sights as we work with you to achieve your goals! Lawson Keys offers a team of Professional Training Consultants who have all experienced the ‘sharp end,’ consisting of Ex-Services Personnel, CEO and Director level, all of whom deliver exciting, inspiring and memorable learning events. Our outstanding team of professional trainers, are experts in event delivery and in motivating delegates towards being the best that they can be in all that they say and do. Our courses specialise in the provision of unique Communication Skills for Managers aimed at reducing the levels of grievances, and Effective Conflict Management, designed to improve the safety of lone workers and customer facing personnel. Courses are all certificated by A R Graham Consultancy Limited, and are in the ILM approval process. We offer Certificates, Awards and Diplomas in Leadership and Management, Learning and Development from an approved City & Guilds and ILM Centre.

PLEASE CONTACT: Andrew R Graham on +44 (0)1527 574090 or arg@lawsonkeys.co.uk for a confidential discussion about how we can help you. Lawson Keys Training & Development Services - in partnership with A R Graham Consultancy Limited

At Lawson Keys, we are dedicated to helping you become the very best that you can! ‘Attract, Retain, Develop’ 042

November/December 2014

POLICYNEWS Mike Ashton speaks at the opening of the Chamber’s Business Expo

SCOTLAND VOTES TO STAY IN THE UK On Thursday 18 September, Scotland made a historic decision to remain in the United Kingdom. In a much-heralded referendum on Scottish independence that attracted a voter turnout rate of 85%, the ‘No’ campaign won by a clear margin, claiming 55% of the vote. Despite the ‘No’ vote, significant constitutional change is still expected, as promised devolution, and the ramifications for the rest of the UK, are now discussed in greater detail.

CHAMBER LAUNCHES DRAFT BUSINESS MANIFESTO AS PREPARATION FOR 2015 ELECTION BEGINS The Chamber launched its draft Business Manifesto at their latest Business Expo on Thursday 18 September at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern, as preparation for the general election in May 2015 begins in earnest.

n Red-tape reduction

The 13-page document concisely details the policies that the Chamber desires the next government to implement regardless of political colour. The Manifesto concentrates on ‘The Fundamentals’, ‘Creating the Environment for Growth’ and ‘Next Generation Counties’, and covers issues from a local to a national level, from road developments in the two counties to Britain’s energy strategy for the next 50 years.

Jack Stephens, Policy & Public Relations Executive at Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, said: “I am delighted to launch our Business Manifesto, although I would like to stress that at this stage it is only a draft document intended to facilitate business engagement with the formulation of our final manifesto, which will be launched at our next Business Expo on Wednesday 4 March 2015.”

Other important business policy issues discussed include education and skills, business rates and taxation and business crime. All of the topics covered are listed below:

Mike Ashton, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce CEO, commented: “As the business lead for the two counties, we will work with our numerous local partners and utilise our contacts to ensure that our manifesto helps to shape the direction of business policy during the next government, regardless of who may be in power.”

n Education and skills n Infrastructure/Regeneration n Transport n Access to Finance n Business Rates and Taxation

n Energy n Digital infrastructure n Business crime

For more information and to receive a copy of the Chamber’s draft Business Manifesto, phone the Policy team on 0845 641 1641 or email

Commenting on the outcome of the Scottish Referendum, John Longworth, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “The companies I speak to are clear that this cannot simply be the first in a series of referenda. Business and investment prospects across the UK would be deeply hurt by a Quebec-style ‘neverendum’ – a lesson that politicians must heed. “Businesses want greater devolution of power to be accompanied by greater devolution of finance, so that Scotland, and the rest of the UK, take responsibility for their respective tax and spending decisions. “Any devolution deal for Scotland should trigger a new debate on local autonomy in England, where businesspeople in many areas want more freedom from Westminster and more influences over how their taxes are spent. Local businesses deserve a say in how a new, less centralised UK is governed in future. “Our United Kingdom now has the opportunity to define a future direction that stimulates growth and prosperity as never before – and for us together to make our way in the world, firmly on our own two feet.”

policy@hwchamber.co.uk.

CHAMBER ENGAGES IN PARTY CONFERENCE SEASON The end of September saw the return of the party conference season, with the two main parties expected to be battling it out in the general election next year, setting out their policy pledges across three day conferences. The Labour party conference was held in Manchester, with the Conservative conference held in Birmingham the following week.

The Chamber attended fringe events held by the British Chambers of Commerce, joining attendees that ranged from Nick De Bois, MP for Enfield North, Kenneth Clarke and John Holland-Kaye, CEO of Heathrow Airport, to discuss the how to increase the British exporting portfolio and how to grow British PLC in the post recession period.

to fight the corner of local businesses on a domestic stage, with such experienced political and business delegates in attendance was a thoroughly worthwhile experience. It also gave us a better understanding of how high a priority businesses are for both parties in the run-up to the election.”

Mike Ashton, Chief Executive of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Being able

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CHAMBER LEGAL EXPENSES INSURANCE

No matter how well you plan and manage your business you never know when you are going to face unexpected legal fees. Members are entitled to free Legal Expenses Insurance (terms and conditions apply). Call 0845 641 1641 www.hwchamber.co.uk.co.uk/legal-expenses-insurance

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November/December 2014

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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GJS DILLON TAKES ON FIRST CLASS GRADUATE Leading Midland independent property consultancy GJS Dillon has expanded its successful Worcestershire based team with the appointment of a new graduate surveyor.

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Hayley Miles joins GJS Dillon from Worcestershire County Council where she worked for six years in the asset management team, ensuring that the council’s 900-plus property assets were maintained and managed efficiently. She has also worked in the property and estates departments of Herefordshire County Council, North Somerset Council and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council. Hayley achieved a first-class honours degree in Real Estate from Birmingham City University, and is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. She was born and lives in Bromsgrove, and she knows the Worcestershire area extremely well and she is looking forward to working with Partners John Dillon and Bill Fellows John Dillon, Partner at GJS Dillon said, “The property market is seeing signs of an up-lift so Hayley will be a valuable asset to the firm as we capitalise on opportunities for growth. Hayley Miles Her experience in local authority property matters will also enhance our capabilities and benefit our clients.”

Worcester Office: 01905 28684 Bromsgrove Office: 01527 872525

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This year Wilden Industrial Estate celebrated its 50th anniversary, having been established in 1964 when the late Malcolm Lee recognised the development potential of the derelict former Wilden Iron Works of Richard Thomas and Baldwins Ltd. Wilden Works had a rich industrial past dating back to the early sixteenth century including a period in the ownership of the former British Prime Minister Sir Stanley Baldwin. business centres

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Today Wilden Industrial Estate is still owned by the Lee family and for the past 20 years it has been run by Malcolm’s son Kelvin who has invested in bringing the estate up to modern standards with all existing units being totally refurbished, new roads and car parks and several new units including a prestigious 21,000sq.ft factory for Polyplas Extrusions Ltd who originally moved to the estate in 1989.

The next move for your company

01527 517165 A wide range of successful tenants find Wilden Industrial Estate an ideal location businesscentres@redditchbc.gov.uk to operate. It is managed with a friendly and flexible approach to tenant’s www.redditchbc.gov.uk/businesscentres requirements and offers a good mix of new and refurbished industrial units ranging from 1,000 to 21,000sq.ft whileFOR being just over a mile from the A449 at Hoobrook OPEN BUSINESS Island, Kidderminster, it also benefits from good access to the West Midlands and the Motorway Network.

To Let Let To

• New & Refurbished Industrial Units

l & Refurbished Industrial Units •New Pleasant and Convenient Location l Pleasant

Wilden Industrial Estates Wilden lane, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 9JY enquiries@wildenestates.co.uk Wilden Industrial Estates Wilden lane, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 9JY www.wildenestates.co.uk enquiries@wildenestates.co.uk

www.wildenestates.co.uk Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

and Convenient Location

For enquiries please call the Estate Ofﬁce:

01299 822731 01299 822731

For enquiries please call the Estate Office:

047

MOVERSANDSHAKERS

MARK WILLIAMS, OAKLAND INTERNATIONAL KELLIE WOOLDRIDGE, ARRIVISTA LTD Award winning business training firm, Arrivista Ltd, are pleased to announce that they have appointed Kellie Wooldridge as their Business Development Executive after completing an apprenticeship to gain an NVQ in Business & Administration. Kellie said: “I am over the moon with my new position. I am amazed at how much I’ve learnt and achieved through meeting and working with and successful business people. I very much look forward to excelling in my new career at Arrivista.” Simon Williams, owner of Arrivista Ltd said: “At Arrivista we are always looking to recruit people with a great attitude. Kellie fits the bill perfectly.” www.businesscoachingwestmidlands.co.uk

STEVE THOMPSON, XITEK Xitek have strengthened their in-house design team by appointing Steve Thompson as Hardware Development Engineer. Steve joins the company bringing a wealth of electronics industry experience and practical design expertise. Steve is a natural complement to Software lead, Andrew Hawkes, whose skill in coding has driven the volume of R&D work undertaken by Xitek. Whilst currently experiencing a high demand for its R&D services, both from existing customers and new opportunities, Xitek is always interested in helping develop new ideas to prototype.

048

MARTIN BRAIN, HEREFORDSHIRE RECRUITMENT LAURA OWEN, CB CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Professional exam success at CB Chartered Accountants has demonstrated its continued commitment to nurturing and developing local talent as Accounts Senior, Laura Owen, has qualified to join the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. Laura is the latest in a long line of students who have qualified with training provided by the firm following Andrew Wright’s successful qualification in April. Laura has worked for the firm since leaving college in 2008, and is based in the Tewkesbury office. Having initially gained the AAT qualification Laura is now a Chartered Accountant. In her role she is responsible for preparing accounts and tax returns for individuals, partnerships and limited companies and also manages the firm’s payroll bureau. The firm’s Managing Partner, John Painter said ‘I am delighted for Laura and for the firm. It is recognition of Laura’s hard work, and, for the firm, it is another highly qualified individual to advise our clients and reflects our commitment to invest in our staff.’ www.cbcharteredaccountants.com

Martin Brain has joined Herefordshire Recruitment as Business Development Manager. Martin has a wealth of experience in the publishing industry. In his 30 year career , his numerous roles working for publishers across England and Wales has meant he has gained a wealth of experience in Sales and Management and Account handling at both Local and National levels. With experience in Marketing and developing online digital platforms, this wealth of experience and knowledge will ensure that he can help local companies with recruitment advice and solutions. Martin said: “I am delighted to be working for a growing business in a growing marketplace, and working alongside our Managing Director Stuart Blake who has a great knowledge of the local and national recruitment marketplace. We will continue to work with local companies offering cost effective recruitment solutions and value for money”

Midlands based Oakland International has announced the appointment of Mark Williams, who takes on the new role of General Manager for Business Support and Customer Service. Oakland International Managing Director, Dean Attwell, said: “Forming part of our sustained drive to deliver operational improvements across the business, Mark’s appointment is key and a great addition to our skilled and expanding leadership team, which will aid focus on development and operational disciplines as we progress and keep pace with the rapid changes that are taking place in our business and the market place around us.” His wealth of knowledge and industry experience from over 31 years of working within the retail arena as general manager of independent retailer, Harry Tuffins, prior to his last two years working for Mid-Counties Co-op, Mark takes on the day to day responsibility for Oakland’s operations administration office, customer service department, as well as the POD and business support team. www.oakland-international.com

www.herefordshirerecruitment.co.uk

BEKKI STEELE & EWAN STOVELL, STEELE & STOVELL DESIGN Steele & Stovell is run by Designers Bekki and Ewan. The pair studied Illustration in Cardiff and Graphic Design in London, and have a wealth of creative skills. With over 20 years of experience between them, they have been invited to paint at events across Europe, had their work displayed at Tate Modern, and presented a commissioned portrait of the Queen to the Duke of Edinburgh.

BEN ROTHERY, MFG SOLICITORS mfg Solicitors has bolstered its growing corporate and commercial property division with the appointment of newly-qualified Ben Rothery as assistant solicitor. Ben joins the 12-strong team after completing his training contract with the firm.

This expansion is supplemental to Xitek’s volume manufacturing and sub-assembly services.

They specialise in creating brands and identities, and aim to bring a fresh approach to design in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

The 26 year-old joined mfg in 2011 and worked in a variety of departments, building a good name with clients especially across the firm’s property and agricultural client base. He is based at mfg’s Adam House headquarters in Kidderminster.

www.xitek.co.uk

www.steeleandstovell.co.uk

www.mfgsolicitors.com

November/December 2014

MOVERSANDSHAKERS

CAT AINSWORTH, ST RICHARDS HOSPICE St Richard’s Hospice has welcomed an additional communications and engagement specialist to support the charitable organisation.

ROBBYN POLE, HALLMARKHULME Worcester’s oldest law firm HallmarkHulme has appointed a new legal assistant to deal with an increasing demand for professionally prepared wills and lasting powers of attorney. Robbyn Pole arrives at the Sansome Place-based practice following administration roles at HM Courts & Tribunals Service in Birmingham and the Citizens Advice Bureau. Miss Pole, who hails from Stourbridge, said: “An important aspect of my position at the CAB was building relationships

with people and gaining their trust. I’m now developing those skills further by helping HallmarkHulme’s existing and prospective clients, explaining often complex issues to people of all ages in a straightforward and reassuring way.” A law graduate from the University of Central England, Miss Pole added that she was also looking forward to learning from her experienced colleagues at the 224-year-old firm as her legal career progresses. www.hallmarkhulme.co.uk

Cat Ainsworth will provide additional support for Helen Griffee, who has been the hospice’s Communications Manager for the last ten years. She brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience in social marketing and change communications, with over ten years’ experience across the public sector. Having grown up in Malvern, and now living in Worcester, Cat has strong links with the local community and knows many families that have been supported by St Richard’s Hospice and comforted through their bereavement. Helen Griffee said: “We are delighted to welcome Cat to the team and are already benefitting from her experience of encouraging people to get involved. As we both work part-time, we will now be able to offer communications support across the working week.” www.strichards.org.uk

COLIN BANNISTER, QUALITAS INSURANCE BROKERS The Qualitas team is delighted to welcome Client Director, Colin Bannister, who recently joined after leaving his position as Client and Insurer Relationship Director with a national broking group. Malvern born and bred, Colin is well known in the area having looked after the insurance needs of clients here for over 30 years. Mike Hayward, Managing Director said: ‘’Insurance is an important requirement for every successful business. The market is complex and finding the right cover can take time. The Qualitas team believe there are no short-cuts to ensuring proper protection for our clients, which is why the expertise and professional standing of our team is of paramount importance.’’ www.qualitasinsurance.co.uk

RACHEL LYMAN, JOHN EVANS & NAOMI LABAUNE, RAPID RETAIL Rapid Retail and UK Kiosks, specialist suppliers of portable retail units and mobile kiosks, are making three key appointments at their offices in Worcestershire to support growth into new markets in the UK and Europe. Rachel Lyman has joined UK Kiosks as Sales Director and shareholder, John Evans has been appointed as Rapid Retail’s Financial Controller and Naomi Labaune has recently started as the group’s Business Development Intern. Rachel brings a wealth of experience to UK Kiosks, including managing and delivering major event projects. With 10 years’ experience in the public and private sectors, Rachel’s specialist areas

include sales and marketing, event management, client consultation and project and business development. John joins the Rapid Retail team after nearly four years running his own finance operation where he was Group Finance Director for various industries, including the football, construction and hotel and catering sectors.

SARAH COYNE, MFG SOLICITORS A respected litigation lawyer has returned to law firm mfg Solicitors following a 10-year career break.

Naomi, a student at the KEDGE Business School, based in Bordeaux, has just started her internship at the Rapid Retail/ UK Kiosks group. Originally from France, she will be assisting the Managing Director in developing the business, with a particular emphasis on the French market.

Land and property dispute expert Sarah Coyne, who held a number of leadership roles at the practice between 1990 and 2004, has re-joined mfg an assistant solicitor working closely with partner and head of the firm’s litigation division, Harjie Singh Bindra. She is based at the firm’s Bromsgrove office.

www.rapidretail.co.uk

www.mfgsolicitors.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Send your stories for Movers and Shakers to: businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk

049

LASTWORD

TECHNOLOGY - THE FOCUS OF THE NEXT BUSINESS DIRECTION For the Last Word, we spoke to Steve Bennett, Chief Executive of Gemporia, part of the Genuine Gemstone Company. Steve established the company ten years ago and since then has seen the company grow into a global phenomenon.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO COMPANIES WHO DO NOT HAVE A STRONG ONLINE PLATFORM?

The utilisation of multiple mediums of technology from a dedicated television channel, Gems TV, and a multiplicity of mobile apps - helped them to be crowned ‘The Best User of Technology’ at the Chamber Awards earlier this year. We asked Steve how his company utilises technology and how yours could benefit too.

It’s essential that you develop a strong online presence, competition is too fierce today to rely on bricks and mortar, retailers need to establish an online presence to develop brand awareness and appeal to a wider audience.

TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT HOW GEMPORIA UTILISES TECHNOLOGY? We understand that customers use many forms of technology to interact with brands which is why over the last year we have had a strong focus on online growth, including the launch of numerous apps. Our customers can now shop on TV, online and through our apps.

HOW HAS THE USE OF NEW AND INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES BENEFITED YOUR BUSINESS OVER THE PAST 12 MONTHS? We’ve seen a large increase in customers purchasing online, especially since launching the Gemporia app.

DO YOU SEE A FURTHER MOVE TOWARDS ONLINE SALES IN THE FUTURE? Retailers are always looking to improve their online and technology offering. We have to adapt to consumer trends and move with technology, we have lots of exciting developments planned for 2015.

DOES THE EFFECTIVE USE OF TECHNOLOGY ALLOW COMPANIES TO GIVE THEIR CUSTOMERS MORE THAN THE TRADITIONAL RETAIL EXPERIENCE? Absolutely, integrated systems and sophisticated CRM platforms allow us to offer a bespoke and personalised service to our customers. In order to maintain loyal customers, brands need to offer a genuine and personalised service so that the customers keep coming back.

HOW DO YOU SEE THE ADVENT OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES CHANGING THE FACE OF THE RETAIL SECTOR IN THE FUTURE? Retailers will continue to focus on online technologies and ways to allow customers to shop whenever and wherever they are. This will change the traditional retail landscape and open up opportunities to online brands, there’s never been a better time to focus on online growth. www.gemporia.com

Steve and Sarah Bennett

5 MINUTES WITH…PAUL ALEKNA In this edition we catch up with Paul Alekna, Managing Director and Co-founder of award-winning recruitment and training firm, eResponse.

TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS With five branches and over 70 employees across the West Midlands we deliver market-leading training programmes for businesses and individuals. We also provide an established workforce solutions service and place thousands of people into permanent or temporary jobs every year.

WHAT SECTORS DO YOU COVER? Since we started in 2003, we’ve grown to support the key sectors in our region including manufacturing, warehousing and logistics, business administration and call centre as well as healthcare. Through our ‘School to Skills’ programme we also work closely with firms to place young people into work and long-term careers.

WHAT ARE THE KEY TRAINING OR RECRUITMENT ISSUES THAT BUSINESSES SHOULD GRASP? Earlier this year I was talking in the media about the widening skills gap and how more than ever businesses are finding it tough to attract the best talent. For me that’s a key issue which can only be overcome by a strong recruitment strategy, knowing exactly what type of people are required in the long-term and also being able to identify any training needs for existing employees.

BEST THING ABOUT RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS? The people. We’ve worked really hard to build a first class team over the past 11 years and we’re surrounded by people who constantly want to deliver results for our customers and form a career for themselves. We’ve built a winning mentality that rubs off on everyone. To be recognised in the Sunday Times Fast Track 100 last year underlined how far we’ve come.

WE’D LOVE TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR TECHNOLOGY SUCCESS, PLEASE EMAIL STORIES TO BUSINESSDIRECTION@HWCHAMBER.CO.UK BEFORE NOVEMBER 24TH 2014. 050

AND THE MOST CHALLENGING PART? Finding great people at the pace the market demands. If only talent grew on trees! November/December 2014

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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