Business Direction 32

Direction

Business British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

WINNERS CELEBRATED AT CHAMBER AWARDS

MANUFACTURING LOOKS TO THE FUTURE

PAGE 36

PAGE 38

CHAMBER OF THE YEAR 2013 Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Issue 32 July/August 2016

Est 1985

Quality Counts

Your award winning team of Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors

web ballardsca.com call 01905 794504

Bu sin ess

Dir ect ion

FIRSTWORD

WELCOME TO THE JULY/ AUGUST EDITION OF BUSINESS DIRECTION Last month, the UK voted to leave the European Union in a historic referendum.

WINNERS D AT CELEBRATE ARDS CHAMBER AW British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

PAGE 36

URING MANUFACT LOOKS TO THE FUTURE PAGE 38

2013 Commerce Chamber of THE YEARshire & Worcestershire CHAMBER OF Hereford published by

Issue 32 2016 July/August

Business Direction

HWCHAMBER.CO.UK

Business Direction, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s full colour bi-monthly publication. Designed and produced by business people for business people. Distributed to 6,000 businesses including selected retail outlets across Herefordshire & Worcestershire.

EDITOR Rebekah Harris 01905 673 639 rebekahh@hwchamber.co.uk

EDITORIAL businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk 01905 673 600

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2385 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

ADVERTISING Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 887 3805 helen.gowland@distinctivegroup.co.uk

FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS www.hwchamber.co.uk/business-direction Tel: 01905 673 600 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 & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce does not accept any responsibility for any representations made within them.

The Chamber’s membership was split over the referendum, and we know that some readers will be pleased with the result and others will be disappointed. However, we now have more clarity about the direction for the future of UK businesses and must work together towards a model to take the nation forward.

The Chamber has seen many changing times and has continued to support businesses through a recession, through growth and through changing models of support. Our two counties are home to numerous world-class, competitive and innovative businesses and I am confident that we will weather the storm in the months to come.

This period has also been about celebrating success in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. On Thursday 9 June, we held our Annual Business Awards at the University of Worcester Arena, attended by 550 representatives of the local business community. 12 Awards were presented on the night, including the 2016 Business of the Year which was won by Kingspan Insulation. For more information see page 36.

Manufacturing is the theme for this edition of Business Direction. The two counties have a rich history of successful manufacturers, including companies such as Worcester, Bosch Group, Kingspan Insulation and Special Metals. This edition features an interview with one of Herefordshire’s big manufacturers, Cargill’s European Poultry Business (page 34), as well as a Cover Feature detailing two potentially significant skills developments for the two counties (page 38).

We are now in the middle of the sporting season.

The Chamber’s Golf society successfully hosted several charity events in Herefordshire and Worcestershire in June, and the Chamber also sponsored two races at Worcester Racecourse, an event which was enjoyed by 70 senior business people from across the two counties. Later on in the year, we look forward to the relaunch of Hereford Racecourse. Worcestershire County Cricket Club is reaching the end of an exciting T20 season and in July the Chamber will be entering a team for the Street Sixes tournament. We are also currently in the process of raising support to host a stage of the Women’s Cycling Tour of Britain – for more information please contact me.

All the best. Mike Ashton mikea@hwchamber.co.uk

First Word EU Referendum Reaction

3 4-5

Chamber News

6

Business News

10-11

Business News

13

Business News

16

Skills

18

Business News

20

Chamber Training

22-23

Chamber Events

24-25

Business News Big Interview

28 34-35

Chamber Awards 36-37 Cover Feature

38-39

Visit Herefordshire

44

Visit Worcestershire

45

Worcestershire Business Central 46 International Trade

52-53

Conference Worcestershire

58

Charity News

60

Members Services

64

Business News

65

New Members

66-67

Movers and Shakers

68-69

Last Word

70

34

36

Our Patrons are:

July/August 2016

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

03

POLICYNEWS

EU REFERENDUM REACTION After many months of anticipation and campaigning from both sides, it was announced on Friday 24 June that Britain had voted to leave the European Union. On what will be remembered as a historic day for the United Kingdom, the Leave campaign won the vote with a slim majority of 51.9%, coming top in nine out of twelve of the UK’s nations and regions.

n The West Midlands had the highest proportion of Leave voters out of the twelve regions.

LOCAL RESULTS FOR THE TWO COUNTIES

Leave

Remain

n 57% of voters in Worcestershire voted to leave compared to 59% in Herefordshire. n The result was in contrast to several pre-referendum polls conducted by the Chamber amongst local businesses where the majority voted to remain in the European Union. n The Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey, conducted in June 2016 before the referendum, asked 476 businesspeople if the UK should remain in or leave the European Union.

49.8% wanted to remain with only 26.2% expressing a wish to leave and 24% saying that they were unsure.

Amidst much uncertainty, businesses await further clarification from the Government about a clear timeline for the UK's exit from the European Union and answers to key business issues.

Dr Adam Marshall, Acting Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, commented: "In the wake of the electorate's historic decision to leave the European Union, the immediate priorities for UK business are market stability and political clarity.

Some businesspeople will be pleased with the result, and others resigned to it. Yet all companies will expect swift, decisive, and coordinated action from the government and the Bank of England to stabilise markets if trading conditions or the availability of capital change dramatically.

04

Herefordshire Results

Firms across the UK want an immediate and unambiguous statement from the Prime Minister on next steps, along with a clear timeline for the UK's exit from the European Union.

Business will also want to see a detailed plan to support the economy during the coming transition period - as confidence, investment, hiring and growth would all be deeply affected by a prolonged period of uncertainty. If ever there were a time to ditch the straight-jacket of fiscal rules for investment in a better business infrastructure, this is it.

Businesses need action to maintain economic stability, a timeline for exit, and answers to their many practical, real-world questions about doing business during and after this historic transition.

Firms want help to get Britain back to business at a time of great uncertainty.

The health of the economy must be the number one priority – not the Westminster political post-mortem.”

Worcestershire Results

Robin Walker, MP for Worcester, commented: “Businesses do not like uncertainty. The outcome of the referendum on our membership of the EU will therefore come as a disappointment to many Chamber members as it has to me.

However, we have a growing economy and a strong international trading network that means Britain has the opportunity to reach out to a wider world and many businesses will welcome the opportunity to reduce or rethink tape and harmful regulation. Following the Prime Minister's announcement that he will stand down in October, it is vital my party gets on and selects a strong new team to deliver stability to our economy and deliver for our local and national businesses. I will be judging candidates by their ability to hold the centre ground and work with business to support skills and investment.”

July/August 2016

POLICYNEWS Anthony Milne, Consultant at Milnet Ltd, Hereford, said: “To my surprise (and I don’t think I am alone), we have collectively decided to leave the EU! While it is interesting to examine and discuss how we got here and whether or not the result truly represents the county’s desires, the fact remains that we voted in the majority to leave. As the markets have shown, big business abhors uncertainty, but for smaller nimbler businesses the turbulence and changes that this decision will continue to create must spell opportunity. It seems to me that the very best advice I have heard over the last few days has been to ‘keep calm and carry on’”.

Chris Walklett, Tax Partner at Bishop Fleming in Worcester, said: “The UK’s decision to leave the EU will have implications for businesses, the economy and the tax system. However, it is important to remember that the UK economy is essentially strong, competitive and ready for business, and that we remain a member of the EU for at least the next two years.

Whilst there will be movements in exchange rates and the markets in the short term, they will eventually find their level. In the meantime, interest rates are likely to remain low.

That being the case, there is little need to make decisions in haste. As the political landscape becomes clearer, so too will the type of relationship we will have with the EU. That will help to shape what actions businesses should take in future.”

Bishop Fleming has a blog on the implications of Brexit which is constantly being added to; for more information visit www.bishopfleming.co.uk/brexit-briefingnote.

POLICY UPDATE Sign up today to receive the latest Policy news – email policy@hwchamber.co.uk

What are your main concerns about the Referendum result and what do you believe should be the Government’s priorities going forward? The British Chambers of Commerce is looking to answer questions from local businesses – get in touch on social media by using #askyourchamber

CHAMBER LEADS DELEGATION OF BUSINESSES TO BRUSSELS

Delegates from Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce outside the European Parliament

Staff and member businesses from Chambers across the West Midlands paid a visit to the European Parliament in Brussels from Monday 13 – Tuesday 14 June. The trip, which took place a mere ten days before the referendum, proved a valuable opportunity for delegates to find out more about the European Union and European Parliament and to explore funding and trade opportunities. A total of 20 delegates from Herefordshire & Worcestershire, Coventry & Warwickshire, Shropshire and Staffordshire Chambers participated in the visit.

The Herefordshire and Worcestershire membership was represented by Neil Schofield of Worcester, Bosch Group, Pascal Testeil of Southco, Andrea Borwell-Fox of borwell, Suzanne Lee of mfg Solicitors, Jim McBride of Lesk Engineering and John Painter of CB, Chartered Accountants. Members were joined by Chamber staff, Sophia Haywood, Policy & PR Executive, Cassie Bray, Director of Business Engagement and Mike Ashton, Chief Executive.

On Monday 13 June, the delegation attended a networking lunch and an afternoon of seminars hosted by the British Chambers of Commerce in Belgium. Delegates heard about the trade opportunities in Belgium and Luxembourg from Sabine Platteuw from UK Trade & Investment Benelux.

Sven De Cremer from SD Worx spoke about skills and employability in Belgium, and Robert Plummer, BUSINESSEUROPE, spoke about wider skills issues in Europe. Delegates also

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

heard from Pello Morras, European Account Director at Ignition, who gave a fantastic testimonial of a UK company successfully doing business in Belgium.

Anthea McIntyre, Conservative MEP for the West Midlands Region, later hosted a dinner in the Grand Place, Brussels, for the West Midlands delegates, who were joined by Kim Jørgsen, Danish Ambassador to the EU. Delegates from the region were able to have informal discussions with both and hear another European country’s take on the referendum.

On Tuesday 14 June, the delegation visited the European Parliament for a tour and an informative introduction to the EU. Delegates had the opportunity to explore the parliament and even step inside the parliamentary chamber. After a valuable and interesting discussion, our delegation enjoyed a networking lunch, again attended by Anthea McIntyre, as well as Dan Dalton MEP and Sion Simon MEP, before returning to the UK.

Representatives from Chambers across the West Midlands

05

CHAMBERNEWS

CHAMBER RAISE £4000 FOR ST RICHARD’S HOSPICE

BUSINESS LEADERS ENJOY LAND ROVER EXPERIENCE A group of twenty senior staff from leading companies in Herefordshire and Worcestershire enjoyed a Business Leaders event for Patron & Strategic members at Land Rover Experience in Eastnor. Set in the dramatic surroundings of the Malvern Hills by the charming Eastnor Castle, the day offered brilliant opportunities to network and enjoy a day of corporate team building.

The off-road course is spread over 5,000 acres of varied terrain with world-class instructors on hand to share tips and techniques so the course can be tackled with confidence. The vehicle-based corporate team challenges included navigating the latest Land Rovers models through off-road forest trails, tackling obstacle courses as a team and even driving through four feet of water!

On Friday 17 June, eight staff from the Chamber, Worcestershire Business Central and the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership braved the Worcestershire Way Walk for St Richard’s Hospice, joining others to walk a colossal 31 miles from Bewdley to Malvern.

Although it was definitely a physically challenging and exhausting experience, the team managed to raise £4000 to

Chamber staff present a cheque to St Richard’s Hospice

support the vital work of the hospice.

We and the Hospice are very grateful for the support we received and the generosity of the donations from local businesses. A big thank you to all that donated!

PRINCE’S TRUST STUDENTS ENJOY CAREERS DAY Students from The Prince’s Trust, a charity which helps young people aged 13 to 30 get into jobs, education and training, recently attended an event hosted by Worcester Bosch, organised by the Chamber and Heart of Worcestershire College.

The day was thoroughly enjoyed by all attendees from companies such as Worcester Bosch, Malvern Instruments, Vision Labs and Special Metals Wiggin to name but a few.

The day was definitely a day to remember. Students enjoyed a tour of the Worcester Bosch factory and heard from representatives about the varied opportunities available in business.

Attendees also took part in a production line activity, which taught them to work together and the importance of each individual to the overall success of a project.

For more information about Patron and Strategic events, please contact melanieg@hwchamber.co.uk.

The event was proposed by the Chamber in memory of a colleague who tragically passed away last year who was passionate

Students take part in a production line activity

about providing educational opportunities for young people.

It was hosted by Neil Schofield, Director of External Affairs and Carl Antzen, Managing Director of Worcester Bosch, and was supported by Mike Ashton, Chamber CEO and Dawn Hardman, Director of HR. Paul Neuchterlien, Development Co-ordinator at Heart of Worcestershire College also attended on the day. www.princes-trust.org.uk

KEITH WINS THE FANTASY LEAGUE Keith Ward, Finance Executive at the Chamber, has become the latest winner in the Chamber’s Fantasy League. He has been awarded the Jack Stephens trophy, named after a Chamber employee who sadly passed away last year.

Keith said: “It’s now over 12 months since we tragically lost our colleague and dear friend Jack Stephens at the very young age of 23 years. Jack was a wonderful human being with a big heart and a smile to match. He was passionate about many things, including

06

Manchester United and also fantasy football. He won the Chamber league for the 2014/15 season and, following his passing, Mike (CEO) suggested purchasing a trophy in Jack’s name.”

“I am delighted and proud to have won this trophy for the 2015-16 fantasy football season as it is a little reminder to us all of Jack’s life and time with us at the Chamber. I am especially pleased as I have a long standing relationship with Jack’s Grandparents, Dave and Di Stephens”.

Keith Ward, Finance Executive

July/August 2016

has it covered!

Basepoint has it covered!

...you can bring your dog to work with you at our ...you can bring your dog business centres? to work with you at our business centres?

ToLet Let To

Flexible Term,High High Quality Flexible Term, Quality Offices in Offices in Evesham Evesham

AVAILABLE NOW! AVAILABLE NOW! Basepoint Evesham

Basepoint Evesham

Smaller offices between 120

Smaller offices between 120 & 350 sq. ft. & 350 sq. ft.

LIMITED AVAILABILITY

Discover the benefits of running your business from Basepoint Evesham Discover the benefits ofBusiness runningCentre your business from

SOLIMITED ACT QUICKLY! AVAILABILITY

SO ACT QUICKLY!

Move your business to our modern Business Centre, with High Speed

Basepoint Evesham Business Centre Connectivity, Comfortable and Informal Break-Out Area, Serviced Meeting Room, Free Parking Friendly on-site Management flexible Move your business to our and modern Business Centre, withTeam.

HighOur Speed Licence Agreements offer businesses a stress free and risk free solution to Connectivity, Comfortable and Informal Break-Out Area, Serviced Meeting workspace rental with easy in easy out terms from as little as 2 weeks’ notice.

Room, Free Parking and Friendly on-site Management Team. Our flexible Licence Agreements offer businesses a stress free and risk free solution to Check out our website today and join our thriving business community. workspace rental with easy in easy out terms from as little as 2 weeks’ notice.

basepoint.co.uk

Evesham

01386 764764

helloevesham@basepoint.co.uk @Basepoint_eves Check out our website today and join our thriving business community.

Evesham

01386 764764

Basepoint Evesham | Crab Apple Way | Vale Park | Evesham | WR11 1GP

@Basepoint_eves basepoint.co.uk

helloevesham@basepoint.co.uk

Basepoint Evesham | Crab Apple Way | Vale Park | Evesham | WR11 1GP

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

BUSINESSES INVITED TO EVENING WITH CHANCELLOR GEORGE OSBORNE The Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Rt Hon George Osborne MP, will be in Worcester later this summer to address the business community from Herefordshire and Worcestershire and take part in a rare Q&A session.

while bringing public spending under control and protecting the NHS. The event, which costs £75 a ticket (discount for Chamber members), is a must for business leaders in the two counties who want an insight into the decisions made at the heart of Whitehall that impact upon everything from profit to workers’ pay.

The Conservative Chancellor, who has had to steer the country through the financial crisis, will be at Sixways Stadium on 8 September.

An Evening with George Osborne will offer guests the chance to ask the Chancellor about his long term economic plan, the steps he has taken to slash the enormous budget deficit he inherited from Labour, and what happens next for Britain following the pivotal referendum on EU membership.

From being elected as the youngest Conservative MP, Mr Osborne went on to serve as Chancellor during the first post-war Coalition Government.

He continued in the post following the Conservatives’ 2015 election victory, having had to grapple with public finances

that were in such a perilous state an outgoing Labour Treasury Minister left a note saying ‘there is no money’.

Since then he has worked with Prime Minister David Cameron to deliver a pledge to create two million private sector jobs, over two million apprenticeships, backing small firms with a cut in business rates, creating Enterprise Zones to encourage new investment and lifting the lowest earners out of income tax altogether - as well as introducing the new national living wage. All this took place

A VIP reception prior to the dinner will offer a select number of guests the chance to meet the Chancellor while some will have the opportunity join Mr Osborne’s table for dinner.

The main event will be a crucial opportunity not just to hear what the Chancellor has to say but for Mr Osborne to hear the views of the businesses of Herefordshire and Worcestershire, whose success is essential to keeping Britain moving in the right direction.

For tickets contact call 01684 573469 or email office@wwca.org.uk.

An Evening with Rt. Hon. George Osborne MP

Chancellor of the Exchequer 7pm - Thursday 8th September 2016 Sixways Stadium Worcester WR3 8ZE

Tickets £75 each

(discount for Chamber members)

Tel: 01684 573469

Email: office@wwca.org.uk

 08

Promoted by West Worcestershire Conservative Association 209a Worcester Road, Malvern WR14 1SP

July/August 2016

FOCUSONLEGAL

Routes to market – deciding the best road to take Stephen Wyer

Corporate Commercial

As a company’s turnover grows and the geographical reach of a business expands, what is the best way of servicing the growing client base, seeking out new customers, or establishing a foothold in new markets?

There are three main approaches: • Employ a dedicated sales force and incorporate further subsidiaries in other localities • Appoint agents to act on your behalf • Or, appoint distributors to sell your products Why appoint agents or distributors?

Sometimes it pays for a company to outsource its selling function as it can be a cheaper and quicker means of setting up a sales operation. There are also advantages of local knowledge and connections which your agent / distributor may have.

It is always worth being aware that some jurisdictions outside of the UK requires the appointment of local sales representatives.

What is the difference between an agent and a distributor?

An agent acts on behalf of a principal business, introducing customers, but is not a party to the contracts themselves.

A distributor, on the other hand, buys goods from the principal business directly – selling them onto the end customers.

On occasions it may be appropriate for a representative to act as both an agent and a distributor for the same principal business.

For example, they may act as an agent for the sale of expensive machinery, where often customers will prefer to contract direct with the manufacturer, but then act as a distributor for the sale of lowervalue spare parts or accessories.

It is important to be clear about the legal status of any representative and to weigh clearly the pros and cons of the alternatives available.

It is better to appoint an agent if: • You wish to retain control over the terms of any contract, particularly the price

•

•

You wish to restrict which customers the agent will approach Direct contact with the customer is important, for example, where the product is technical and extensive after-sale repair and servicing may be required

Often, an agency will be cheaper to operate as typically the commission earned is less than a distributor’s margin. The appointment of an agent, however, is subject to regulations requiring compensation to be paid in the event of termination of the agency relationship.

It is important, therefore, for any business to take appropriate advice at an early stage as to what route to market is appropriate and to document the relationship so all objectives are achieved and pitfalls are avoided.

For further information or advice, readers can contact Stephen Wyer at mfg Solicitors through stephen.wyer@mfgsolicitors.com or telephone 01562 516025.

Routes to market -

deciding the best road to take Your business is our business Contact

Stephen Wyer

on 01562

516025 or by email: stephen.wyer@mfgsolicitors.com

Tel: 0845 55 55 321

www.mfgsolicitors.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 22574_mfg Business Direction - Stephen Wyer.indd 1

@mfgsolicitors 09 10/06/2016 10:10

BUSINESSNEWS The Chamber Business Awards’ Sports themed Centrepieces

SIGNAGE COMPANY LEADS THE WAY Universal Display Limited, based in Worcester, has recently expanded its range of sign making machinery with the latest edition of a CNC router, making the company one of the largest and advanced sign makers in the area.

The new router delivers an unbeatable combination of versatility, productivity and ease. It can handle just about every sheet material including metal, wood and plastic and will speed up all areas of sign production, enabling the company to increase the team to 16.

The machine’s first project was creating the table centrepieces for the 2016 Chamber Business Awards. 56 unique and eye catching cyclists, runners, gymnasts and swimmers were created from clear acrylic to compliment the event’s sports theme.

Director Mike Lapac said: “Our USP is that we will always try and come up with a solution to help the client, and our in-house machine capabilities allow for the tightest deadlines. With so many distractions these days a sign, vehicle graphic or exhibition stand has to work harder to grab attention, and this is where we make a difference.” www.universaldisplaylimited.com

MFG SOLICITORS LAUNCH NEW ELDERLY CARE TEAM Patron mfg Solicitors has unveiled its new Elderly Care and Court of Protection Department which strengthens links with specialists across the firm in care, tax, contentious and non-contentious Court of Protection Matters.

Based at the firm’s Kidderminster headquarters, the seven-strong team is led by partner and respected care expert Tracy Ashby - with contentious Court of Protection specialists and partners Suzanne Lee and Robert Weston playing key roles in advising clients, supported by assistant solicitor Andrew Chandler.

mfg Solicitors’ new Elderly Care Team

Tax expert and partner Gary Priest and associate Amanda Piper also form a vital part of the new department together with Court of Protection Professional Deputy, Gill Browne.

across the firm we felt the time was right to launch the new department and bring all care and Court of Protection related advice into one team - making best use of our experience and expertise.”

Tracy Ashby said: “With so many experts

www.mfgsolicitors.com

CLUB AIMING TO "MANUFACTURE THE FUTURE" A unique collaboration involving industry, academia and local government partners is set to revolutionise manufacturing in our region through the creation of an industrial network known as the Manufacturing Club. The network is designed to support businesses in innovation, technology adoption and business improvement techniques and will provide West Midlands manufacturers with direct access to products and services to ensure that our

region remains in pole position when it comes to world class manufacturing in the UK. The Manufacturing Club is free to join and provides a range of business support options including technology showcasing workshops, Supply Chain development programmes including High Speed Rail (HS2) for Automotive & Aerospace, Lean Manufacturing Masterclasses and Business Improvement Techniques.

To find out more contact wmmc@businesssolutionscentres.co.uk or visit the website. www.wolverhamptonbsc.com/wmmc

HEREFORD TIMES WINS TOP AWARD The Hereford Times has scooped a top industry award for a campaign which raised £60,000 to fund a nurse for the Haven, a breast cancer support centre in Hereford.

an aim to raise £30,000 to fund an extra nurse for a year at The Haven, which supports women diagnosed with breast cancer with counselling, nutrition advice and complementary therapies.

The One in Eight campaign, which was named because one in eight women in Herefordshire can now expect to be affected by breast cancer at some point in their lives, was named Campaign of the Year at the Regional Press Awards during a glitzy awards ceremony in London.

The Times had such an amazing response that by October it had reached the target and decided to double it to £60,000 to fund a nurse for two years.

The campaign started in July 2015 with

010

Amazingly, readers and local businesses raised a total of £61,139.57 in 26 weeks.

The HT team – Rebecca Cain, who led the coverage, is holding the trophy

www.herefordtimes.com

July/August 2016

BUSINESSNEWS Richard Peplow and Karina Sena

PEPLOWS HONOURED WITH UNIQUE SCULPTURE A precious and unique sculpture can be seen by the public for the first time at a Worcester jewellers. The hand-crafted quartz macaw mounted on a tourmaline rock was a gift to Richard Peplow, of Peplow Jewellers in Worcester and Stourbridge.

Mr Peplow played an integral role for 40 years at the World Jewellery Confederation as a British delegate and has recently announced his retirement from the organisation.

Created by sculptor Karina Sena, whose family has been mining, sculpting and selling gemstones for nearly 50 years in their native Brazil, the piece was presented by the president of the CIBJO. Throughout his time with the federation, Mr Peplow was instrumental, joining the UN’s central platform for international sustainable development - the UN Economic and Social Council.

He said: “It’s been a great honour to serve for so many years and I’m incredibly moved to be given such a prestigious gift”.

Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt of Status Quo

LEGENDARY PAIR INTRODUCE NEW DRINKS RANGE Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt of Status Quo are delighted to announce another great double act!

They have teamed up with local Herefordshire cider producer Celtic Marches Beverages Ltd to make “Down Down” cider, which is now available nationally through the Spar chain. It has also been selected for Wetherspoon’s National Cider Festival which runs from Friday 8 July.

The band has been involved in the cider making right from the off, visiting the farm and even spending a day harvesting apples.

Francis Rossi said: “We know what we like. And we know what our fans like. And I think we can all agree that we like this!” Rick Parfitt added: “It’s no secret that over the years the band has enjoyed a drink or three.

Finally, we’re actually seeing a return on those wasted hours by creating something useful. We love it!” www.celticmarches.com

www.peplowjewellers.co.uk

ACCOUNTANT LAUNCHES NEW SOFTWARE Malvern based Accountant Karen Lowen of Turl & Co, has developed an innovative solution to help small businesses effectively manage their accounts and HMRC’s Digital Tax Account (DTA).

Sixways Stadium

SIXWAYS SET FOR MORE EVENTS THANKS TO ARTIFICIAL PITCH Warriors Chief Executive Jim O’Toole says the Sixways Club will be in a position to host more events at the stadium after their new Artificial Grass Pitch is installed this summer.

Sixways hosted Travis Pastrana’s Nitro Circus at the start of June, which saw thousands of people turn up to watch extreme motorsport stunts. O’Toole is now putting Sixways on the entertainments map as he looks to attract people from all across Worcestershire and the West Midlands.

He said: “Our new Artificial Grass Pitch gives us a great opportunity to host an array of events, which will appeal to people who have never even heard of the Club. The Nitro Circus event was the first of many and we’ll be able to host events such as music concerts, while offering the local community a top-class stadium to play important matches.” www.warriors.co.uk

BRONZE AWARDS FOR OAKLEAF Oakleaf Commercial Services is celebrating after being presented with two bronze awards at the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) National Site Awards.

Karen has been working on the development of dod-dle, a simple to use, cloud-based accountancy software, for over a year – and during this time has recruited the expertise of local PR and Marketing agency, Make More Noise. dod-dle will be officially launched on Thursday September 2016.

The company won a bronze award for the Amblecote Road project in Kidderminster and another for the Broadwaters development. Both sites are part of the company’s Garage Development Scheme, devised to produce additional housing in areas which are generally former garage sites, whilst also creating work and additional local employment.

www.dod-dle.co.uk

www.oakleafcs.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

REFURBISHMENT FOR NUFFIELD HEALTH HOSPITAL Nuffield Health Hereford Hospital is delighted to announce the complete refurbishment of their mammography area and the installation of Siemens Mammomat Inspiration equipment.

This will provide the hospital with a safe, relaxed, friendly space in which to see patients.

Nuffield Health offers a national breast screening service to asymptomatic women, led by Professional Head of Mammography, Sue Oliver. www.nuffieldhealth.com

011

FOCUSONRECRUITMENT

HEWETT RECRUITMENT LAUNCHES BESPOKE TRAINING SERVICE Once we have secured the right people for our organisations, we need to offer them the training and development they need to reach their full potential. Investing in our people, promotes greater job satisfaction, and satisfied employees are likely to stay longer and be more productive.

Today’s workers want to learn new skills and understand plans for progression within our businesses. Training is a retention tool instilling loyalty and commitment from good workers. If we let our people stagnate once they have mastered initial tasks, they may be more tempted to move on.

It’s important to share knowledge within a business too. If one person learns a special skill, encourage them to train others wherever possible, reinforcing their training and spreading the knowledge around, thus maximising on investment.

Hewett Recruitment have a network of long standing relationships with businesses developed over the last 36 years across the region. Laura Hewett explained, “Many of our clients are in growth mode and it can be challenging to identify exactly where to access the right training for their people. Hewett

Recruitment have developed a training provision through carefully selected training partners, some of which is fully funded and for other options we have been able to secure discounts for our clients.”

Laura continued “Our main concern was to ensure that those delivering the training to our customers had the ability to provide the same high standards our clients expect from us when we recruit for them.”

Hewett’s are able to facilitate a wide range of training such as fully funded English & Maths Functional Skills; online software training; Manual Handling/Fire Safety training; access to Apprenticeships, through to bespoke personal development and team building courses such as Leadership Styles, Presenting Skills, Lencioni’s The Five Behaviors of a Cohesive Team™ and DISC Behavior Profiling.

improving communication and enhancing the performance of individuals within the organisation. The company is happy to be able to facilitate these systems with our clients.

English & Maths Functional skills trainer David Loughton said, “It is great to be working with some of Hewett Recruitment’s key manufacturing clients.

The feedback I have received so far has shown that helping to improve the level of English in particular of operatives in a warehouse environment has genuinely improved productivity, retention and employee engagement. It’s so rewarding to be a part of that”.

Every business has different needs from the shop floor to the management team.

Our aim is to identify and facilitate good quality training to support our clients as they grow and develop.”

Hewett Recruitment have used the DISC and Lencioni programs for their own team who thoroughly enjoyed it and found that it builds even stronger relationships,

012

July/August 2016

BUSINESSNEWS

ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL FOR PCA PREDICT The founders of PCA Predict, Guy Mucklow and Jamie Turner and their colleagues are delighted to have been honoured with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation 2016 for their address validation service, Capture+.

The company won the award in recognition of how its search based method of retrieving address data has helped to transform its market.

It enables customers to more easily capture international addresses where the postcode or zip code may not exist.

Capture+ has been a huge commercial success, helping PCA Predict become one of the leading customer experience services in ecommerce with over 10,000 customers including Tesco, Trip Advisor, Oxfam and Dow Jones.

Guy Mucklow and Jamie Turner

Guy Mucklow said: “The Company is delighted to have been recognised through the Queen’s Award for Enterprise Innovation. We’re really looking forward

to the next few years as we launch a new range of predictive services.” www.pcapredict.com

UNIVERSITY LAUNCHES NEW DEGREE OLD FASHIONED OFFER IS BACK! If you’re one of the 95% of UK consumers who order products online, then you’ll be familiar with a new breed of offer leaflets from third party businesses, now one of the UK’s biggest sources of lead generation.

Perhaps the principal reason they work so well is that, not only do these offers get into the home, they also get straight into the hands of your consumer. That simply isn’t possible in any in other media.

Because most offers are redeemed online, it’s easy to gather vital marketing information, such as which offers and price points are working best.

While Amazon and other online businesses enjoy the increased revenue, there are also companies who will manage swap agreements – where businesses place offers into each other’s despatches and only pay commission when a customer converts.

With companies like The White Company, Hotel Chocolat and Ocado relying massively on this marketing method, monthly print runs are in the millions. The simple offer voucher has never been more important; no wonder it’s the first item on many marketing plans.

The University of Worcester has recently validated a new BA (Hons) Degree in Entrepreneurship, which is recruiting now for a September 2016 start. The degree is aimed at all budding entrepreneurs interested in gaining a qualification to support their Business Start-up ambitions, whilst working on their business idea to make their vision a reality. It is also likely that some “new and existing” entrepreneurs may be interested in attending certain modules on a part-time basis.

The new degree complements the University’s current support for new entrepreneurs, for example, the Worcesterpreneur monthly events (www.worcesterenterprise.org) to which all are invited. Businesses may be interested in sponsoring or supporting the University’s Entrepreneurship initiatives or in the Foundation Degree/ BA (Hons) in Leadership and Management available through the University of Worcester Business School. For more information, please contact Worcester Business School at wbs@worc.ac.uk. www.worcester.ac.uk

www.printstrategy.eu

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

CELEBRATION FOR HEREFORD FC Huge congratulations to all involved with Hereford FC on their magnificent achievement in an incredible, inaugural 2015/16 season. This Step 5 team have been averaging crowds of 2800, reaching over 4000 for home matches with a fantastic following at Wembley of nearly 20,000. Staff, Volunteers and fans have come out in force, pulling together to create this magical time.

The season had many highs - winning the MFL League, with 108 points and 138 goals scored, the MFL League Cup, Herefordshire Senior Cup and of course 2015/16 FA Vase Finalists played at Wembley in May. There has been a buzz around the County as the Club progressed through the FAVase rounds and the number of fans attending has increased match on match, giving rise to increased revenue opportunities across the City. The Club prides itself on fostering a community spirit by encouraging match days to become family days out, and its strategy of using local resources feeds back into the local economy. www.herefordfc.co.uk

013

SEM

FREI NEA R S

S SS R RR AAA I NI INN MMM E E S SSE

EEEEEE FFFRRR

FOCUSONFINANCE

TOMORROWDOES DOES COME ––ARE ARE YOU PREPARED? PREPARED? TOMORROW TOMORROW DOES COME COME – ARE YOU YOU PREPARED?

Future planning has attracted much media attention in recent months – mainly due to controversial Future planning has attracted muchGeorge media attention inMarch recent months – mainly due to controversial changes announced in Chancellor Budget, and a record-breaking Future planning has attracted much media Osborne’s attention in recent2016 months – mainly due to controversial changes announced in Chancellor George Osborne’s March 2016 Budget, and a record-breaking inheritance tax take recorded

by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) – but also due to a nationwide changes announced in Chancellor George Osborne’s March 2016 Budget, and a record-breaking inheritance tax take surrounding recorded by HMfinancial Revenue & Customs (HMRC) – but also due to a nationwide lack of awareness importance. inheritance tax take recorded byitsHM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) – but also due to a nationwide lack of awareness surrounding its financial importance. lack of awareness surrounding its financial importance.

In many ways, the press are acting in the In public’s many ways, press are acting the best the interests, as too few in people In many ways, the press are few acting in the public’s too people tend tobest takeinterests, the time as to structure their public’s best as too few people tend to take theinterests, time to structure personal and business financial their affairs to tend toand takebusiness the time financial to structure theirto personal affairs ensure the best possible outcome for personal and business ensure the best possible financial outcomeaffairs for to the future. theensure future.the best possible outcome for the future.

Nicklin LLP are reminding people to consider Nicklin LLP are reminding people to consider the importance of their future financial LLP are to consider theNicklin importance ofreminding their futurepeople financial health, and seek specialist advice in order the importance of their future financial health, seek aspecialist advice in order to putand in place solid plan-of-action well and seek specialist advice inwell order to health, put in place a solid plan-of-action in advance. to put in place a solid plan-of-action well in advance. in advance.

At Nicklin LLP, we can help to assess your At current Nicklin financial LLP, we can helpwith to assess position an eyeyour to your At Nicklin LLP, position we can help assess current with to anreviewing eye to your your futurefinancial plans. This can include your current financial position with an eye toyour your future plans.

This can include current business structure toreviewing ensure that it futurebusiness plans. This can include reviewing current to ensure that ityour is best suited tostructure your future intentions, current business structure to ensure that it is whether best suited to your these be a future family intentions, succession, is best suited to your future intentions, whether these bemanagement a family succession, business sale, buy-out or whethersale, these be a family succession, business management buy-outbusiness or even conversion to an investment business sale, management buy-out or even conversion to an investment business to support retirement. even conversion to an investment business to support retirement. to support retirement.

The plans for your business link directly The plans your business directly into yourfor personal financiallink affairs, in The plans for your business link directly into your personal financial affairs, in future, relation to providing for your family’s into your personal for financial family’s affairs, in relation to providing future, protecting your wealthyour from family risks such relation to providing for your family’s future, protecting your wealth from family risks such as divorce, financially safeguarding your your wealth from familyyour risks such asprotecting divorce, financially safeguarding as divorce, financially safeguarding your

children, and ensuring that, should the worst children, that, should the Tax worst happen,and yourensuring exposure to Inheritance children, andexposure ensuring to that, should the worst happen, your Inheritance has been carefully considered so thatTax you happen, your exposure to Inheritance Tax has considered so that canbeen plancarefully ahead for the tax liability youyou hasplan been carefully considered so you that you can ahead for the tax liability might face. can plan might face.ahead for the tax liability you might face.

Our future planning specialists can ensure Our planning specialists can ensure thatfuture you have a sensible and achievable Ouryou future planning specialists can ensure that a sensible and achievable strategyhave in place long before you retire to that youinhave a long sensible andyou achievable strategy place before retire to secure your legacy for your family. strategy in legacy place long before you retire to secure your for your family. secure your legacy for your family.

The press has recently reported that HMRC The press recently reported HMRC reeled in has a record-breaking £4.6that billion The press has recently reported that HMRC reeled in a record-breaking billion inheritance tax take for the£4.6 2015-16 tax reeled in atax record-breaking £4.6 billion inheritance take for thethan 2015-16 year – news which, more ever, tax inheritance tax take for the 2015-16 year – newsthe which, more than ever, tax highlights importance of consulting year – news which, more than ever, highlights thefinancial, importance of consulting experts for inheritance and future highlights the importance of consulting experts foradvice. financial, inheritance and future planning experts for financial, inheritance and future planning advice. planning advice.

Business owners can be severely affected Business can besuccession severely affected – failure owners to implement planning owners cansuccession be severelyplanning affected – Business failureontocan implement early cause several complications – failure to implement succession planning early on can cause several complications if a significant portion of their wealth – on can cause if early a significant portionseveral theircomplications wealth – and family’s source ofofincome after an if afamily’s significant portion of their after wealth and an– unexpectedsource death of – isincome tied up in their and family’sdeath source income after an unexpected – isof tied up in their business. Adequate planning can ensure unexpected death –planning is tied up in their business. can ensure that yourAdequate business will be preserved exactly business.

Adequate planning can ensure that theyour way business you want will it tobe be.preserved exactly that your business willbe. be preserved exactly the way you want it to the way you want it to be.

People and businesses are failing to People businesses are of failing realise and the holistic benefits earlyto Peoplethe and businesses areof failing to realise holistic early planning, which isbenefits why Nicklin LLP are realise thewhich holistic why benefits of early planning, Nicklin are hosting two freeisseminars on LLP strategies planning, which is why Nicklin LLP are hosting two free seminars onyou strategies and planning ideas, to show how to hosting two free seminars strategies and planning ideas, to showon you how secure a fool-proof financial future for to and planning ideas,financial to showfuture you how to secure a fool-proof both yourself and your business. for secure a fool-proof financial future both yourself and your business. for both yourself and your business.

The first will take place on 12 July at The first willSix take place on 12 July at Worcester Ways Stadium, Warriors The first will place on 12 July at Worcester Sixtake Ways Stadium, Warriors Way, Worcester, WR3 8ZE. Registration Worcester Six Ways Stadium, Warriors Way, Worcester, WR3 8ZE. Registration will take place between 7:30am-8:00am, Way, Worcester, WR3 8ZE. Registration will take place between 7:30am-8:00am, followed by presentations and an will take place between 7:30am-8:00am, followed by presentations and an invaluable Q&A session. followed by presentations invaluable Q&A session. and an invaluable Q&A session.

The second will take place on 13 July at The second place on 13 July Hagley Hall,will Halltake Dr, Stourbridge, Westat The second will take place on 13 West July at Hagley Hall,DY9 Hall Dr, Stourbridge, Midlands, 9LQ. Registration will Hagley Hall, Hall Dr, Registration Stourbridge,will West Midlands, 9LQ. take placeDY9 between 7:30am-8:00am, Midlands, DY9 9LQ.7:30am-8:00am, Registration will take place between again followed by presentations and a take place between 7:30am-8:00am, again followed by presentations and a Q&A session. againsession. followed by presentations and a Q&A Q&A session.

If you would like to reserve a place, Ifplease you would likeRosanna to reserve a place, contact Lloyd on If you would likeRosanna to reserve a place, please contact Lloyd on rosanna.lloyd@nicklins.co.uk, or please contact Rosanna Lloydoron rosanna.lloyd@nicklins.co.uk, visit nicklins.co.uk/news/events rosanna.lloyd@nicklins.co.uk, or visit nicklins.co.uk/news/events visit nicklins.co.uk/news/events

To find out how we can help you, please call us on 0121 550 9916 To Tofind findout outhow howwe wecan canhelp helpyou, you,please pleasecall callus us on on 0121 0121 550 550 9916 9916

www.nicklins.co.uk • info@nicklins.co.uk www.nicklins.co.uk • info@nicklins.co.uk

July/August 2016

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

Why choose us?

If you run a business you must have a commercial waste contract in place*…

Whether you run a childminding business from home, an office, shop or factory, your business will be creating waste and you will need an effective and hassle free service to deal with it.

LOCAL

FLEXIBLE

FOR YOU

Service available in both Bromsgrove & Redditch council areas

Wide choice of: n Bin size

n Free Duty of Care document

n Collection days

n Competitive Prices

n Frequency of collection

n Friendly and knowledgeable staff n local Contract Officer

Efficient Established Service

Don’t worry, we can help.

With 30 years experience of business waste collection, in choosing us you can be assured of a legal and effective way to deal with your waste.

Our collection service is run for local businesses like you.

We can advise you on your duty of care, container size and frequency of collection.

If you run a business you have a legal duty under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, to safely contain and dispose of your waste, this law also applies if you are running your business from your home.

*

g? lin yc ec ss r s e es xpr sin l to e st. u i n b ma tere d i r e r in ste all o you e r e C Int

Customer satisfaction

On a recent survey we had over 95% customer satisfaction for service delivery and value for money.

See our website for more details

Email businessrecycling@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk or call 01527 881188 to register your interest

www.bromsgrove.gov.uk

The UK’s No.1 Professional

PEOPLE AGENCY With the backup of a National Agency, the knowledge & service of a local agency

TEMPORARY STAFF

PERMANENT RECRUITMENT

TRAINING

24/7 SERVICE

QUALITY ASSURED SUPPLY

We are recruiting and supplying the following: Driving – Cat C, Cat C+E, 7.5 Tonne, Moffett, Vans, Cars, Fork Lift, ADR, HIAB, Multi-drop Managerial – Logistics Managers, Operations Co-ordinators, Depot Managers, Non-Driving – Mates, Warehouse Operatives, Pickers/Packers etc Office – Administrators, Finance, Clerical Technical – CNC, Operators, Welders, Assembly Fitters

ENTERPRISING WORCESTERSHIRE GROWTH BUSINESS WINNER 2015

Driver Hire Hereford

Driver Hire Worcester

01432 298700

01905 617000

Fir Tree Lane, Hereford HR2 6LA

hereford@driverhire.co.uk www.driverhire.co.uk/hereford

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

3 King Street, Worcester, WR1 2NX

worcester@driverhire.co.uk www.driverhire.co.uk/worcester

015

BUSINESSNEWS

WORCESTER’S FLOWER SPECTACULAR Worcester, Bosch Group got into the growing spirit with their support of the hugely popular RHS Malvern Spring Festival at the Three Counties Showground in May. Championing up-and-coming, talented gardeners from across the region, Worcester sponsored the stunning Festival Green area, which this year saw 12 spectacular show gardens on display.

Helping get youngsters enjoying gardening from an early age too, Worcester also invited pupils from its neighbouring Cranham Primary School to build their own creative show garden. This mini green-fingered delight took pride of place in front of the company’s display

HADO POLYTHENE LAUNCH ONLINE SHOP With 45 years in the packaging trade, Malvern based Hado Polythene has opened an online shop to serve both domestic and business customers with bags, sacks and packaging alongside their existing range of horticultural products.

Hado Polythene started trading in 1971 from a garage in Leigh Sinton before moving to Malvern where it has remained. Hado continues to enjoy excellent trade relationships with a number of high profile automotive companies, as well as supplying a diverse range of markets.

Jon Hale, Partner, said: “We recognise the need to offer our products across a number of sectors – and in a number of ways - and with this comes a knowledge of customer demands to supply the right product at the right price”.

Hado established the www. inthegardenshed.co.uk online store in 2013 selling Hadopots (polythene plant pots) and subsequently extended their range to include seeds, garden tools and sundries. www.hadopolythene.co.uk

Children and teachers from Cranham Primary School

vehicle, and was unveiled to visitors on the first day of the show.

Sue Pennington, Consumer Brand Manager at Worcester, said: “With such a fantastic array of gardens, plants and speakers at the 2016 Malvern Spring Festival, we were thrilled to once again be able to give our support to the RHS and The Three Counties.” www.worcester-bosch.co.uk

LAUNCH OF NEW AUTOMATED ANALYZER Malvern Instruments has launched the new Zetasizer AT, a robust, online, automated analyzer that uses dynamic light scattering (DLS) to automatically measure the size of nanoparticles in suspensions and emulsions.

The new analyzer provides timely and reliable data that enables tracking of processes in the sub-micron size range, such as emulsification, dispersion, milling and homogenization, while at the same time eliminating the delays and inefficiencies associated with manual analysis. The net result is improved process understanding, streamlined process development and improved product quality.

In many applications, particle size is a critical determinant of nanoparticle performance. When producing nanoparticles or droplets via size reduction, detecting the endpoint of a batch process or tracking stable conditions during continuous production in a timely manner is important. Suitable Process Analytical Technology (PAT) can help understand the dynamic behavior of the process, enabling reduction in the amount of testing during development and improving consistency of manufacturing operations.

Will Hanbury, Partner at Bishop Fleming

APPRENTICESHIP LEVY - A ROBIN HOOD TAX? A new Apprenticeship Levy starting in April 2017 will be a way of redistributing wealth from large employers to smaller ones, claims Bishop Fleming.

The levy will tax large companies and make this money available to smaller firms to recruit and train apprentices.

The result will be an opportunity for smaller, less wealthy firms to recruit key staff and train them up as future leaders.

The Apprenticeship Levy will impose a 0.5% tax on any firm with an annual payroll bill of over £3million. To ensure the levy is only targeted at larger employers, there will be a threshold of £15,000 before any payment has to be made.

Will Hanbury, Partner, said: “This is a win-win result for smaller employers who may have found it too costly to recruit new staff. Whilst larger employers can also draw on the pool, it will be the less well-off employers who do not pay the levy that will benefit most.” www.bishopfleming.co.uk

www.malvern.com

016

July/August 2016

FOCUSONLEARNINGANDDEVELOPMENT

Team Performance, Engagement and Leadership Your team getting the best for the business

No 'rah-rah' team-building, muddy fields or “shaming games” – just real world work situations and solid learning together in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

We build teams with Vision, Resilience, Self-Leadership l Inspiring great performance l Getting the best from clients and co-workers

Highly regarded by members of my team and has been instrumental in supporting us to progress challenging work initiatives from concept to final output

Supporting change for the better since 2002

Contact Liz Watkins-Young on 07968 837868 uk.linkedin.com/in/lizwatkinsyoung/ Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

017

SKILLS

OUTSTANDING OFSTED FOR HEREFORDSHIRE & WORCESTERSHIRE GROUP TRAINING A local training provider has been rated as “outstanding” in every aspect of its work

by Ofsted. Herefordshire & Worcestershire Group Training Association (HWGTA) is, according to inspectors, “one of the best providers of bespoke apprenticeships” and was awarded the highest praise possible from the national education inspectorate.

The local independent training provider, who specialise in Apprentice training, attained an “outstanding” rating in all areas that were inspected.

STUDENT BECOMES TRIATHLON CHAMPION Worcester Sixth Form College are delighted to congratulate Emily Burton on her tremendous success in securing the International Triathlon Union (ITU) World Championship under 18s title.

The latest round of the Championships took place in Australia’s Gold Coast and Emily took the title with a race to spare after picking up two further gold medals.

Emily, a first year student at the College, also finished first in the ITU under-23 World Series Triathlon and was entered into the GB Relay team, which claimed the top prize.

She also achieved the Olympic Games qualifying time, but unfortunately will not be selected to go to Rio de Janeiro as the Great Britain team has already been filled.

We wish Emily every success in the next stages of the Championships! www.wsfc.ac.uk

Current apprentices celebrating the 'Outstanding' judgement from Ofsted

Duane Sanger, Chief Executive, said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the outcome and delighted that the excellent partnerships and work of our learners, staff and employers has been recognised as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. HWGTA is one of only approximately 13% of post 16 education establishments in the country to achieve this judgement since 2005, and is the only provider of its type to currently hold an ‘outstanding’ outcome from Ofsted, under the new Inspection Framework.” www.hwgta.org

Weobley School holding Quality Badge

HEREFORD CATHEDRAL AWARDED BADGE The education team at Hereford Cathedral has once again been awarded the Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge.

Every year thousands of school children from schools around the county, diocese and further afield visit the cathedral to take part in workshops, trails and events.

These range from Tudor and Anglo Saxon days for primary school children, to conferences and discussion groups for GCSE and sixth form students.

“I am delighted that we have once again been awarded the Quality Badge,” said Sarah Arrowsmith, the Cathedral’s Head of Schools and Family Learning. “We have a team of dedicated volunteers, many of whom are retired teachers, who work hard to maintain the high standards of our school programmes. This award is a tribute to both them and the staff at the cathedral who make our work with schools such a vibrant part of the cathedral’s work.”

L-R Ambassadors’ Chair Vince Hopkins, Hayley Giles, Modus’ Guy Marson

WORCESTERSHIRE AMBASSADORS TAKE ON FIRST APPRENTICE The Worcestershire Ambassadors have engaged fully with the UK Apprenticeship Programme, “GET IN. GO FAR”, by leading the way with their first sponsored apprentice.

Helping develop and communicate Worcestershire Ambassadors' work across the county, Hayley Giles, aged 19 from Worcester, began her apprenticeship with Modus Creative in April this year.

Hayley’s future career has been kick-started by funding and support from The Worcestershire Ambassadors, an established group of 200 business professionals and individuals with a common passion for Worcestershire.

She will focus on building the digital and social media presence of the Worcestershire Ambassadors and other Modus clients. Modus Creative Director Guy Marson has recently become a Worcestershire Ambassador and Hayley will be fully trained as part of his team.

Vince Hopkins, Ambassadors’ Chair said: “We welcome Guy into the membership and are excited that Modus will be developing Hayley’s apprenticeship with us.” worcestershireambassadors.com

www.herefordcathedral.org

018

July/August 2016

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

Huw Ponting Huw HuwPonting Ponting Huw Ponting 01432 806 990 806 990 01432806 80601432 990 01432 990 hponting@novumlaw.com hponting@novumlaw.com hponting@novumlaw.com hponting@novumlaw.com

FIVEFIVE STEPS STEPS TO TO MAKING AAA SERIOUS A SERIOUS INJURY INJURY FIVE STEPS TOMAKING MAKING SERIOUS INJURY FIVE MAKING SERIOUS INJURY CLAIM CLAIM AFTER AFTER A A ROAD TRAFFIC TRAFFIC ACCIDENT ACCIDENT CLAIM AFTER AAROAD ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENT CLAIM AFTER ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENT Every year Every on Herefordshire’s year on Herefordshire’s roads, there roads, arethere areStep 3 – Medical Step 3 assessment – Medical assessment Every year on Herefordshire’s roads, there are Step 3 – Medical assessment Every on Herefordshire’s roads, are aroundyear 600 around personal 600 personal injury road injury traffic roadthere accidents traffic accidents Step 3 – Medical assessment Novum Law Novum has years Law of hasexperience years of experience working with working leading with leading around 600 personal injury road traffic 1 accidents 1 around 600 personal injury road traffic . accidents . which results which inresults around in800 around casualties 800 casualties Novum Law hasto years ofserious experience working with leading Novum Law has years ofassess experience working with leading medical experts medical experts assess to injuries. serious They injuries. can advise They can advise 1 1 which results in around 800 casualties . which results in around 800 casualties . medical experts to assess serious injuries. can advise what additional what additional medical medical treatment, careinjuries. and They support careThey and and support and medical experts to treatment, assess serious can advise Serious injuries Serious can injuries havecan a devastating have a devastating impact impactrehabilitation what additional medical treatment, care and and rehabilitation is required istorequired help us to puthelp an accurate us putsupport anvalue accurate on and value on what additional medical treatment, care and support Serious injuries can a atheir devastating rehabilitation is required to help us put valuevalue on on Serious injuries canhave have devastating impact on the lives on the of victims lives of and victims and families. theirimpact families. your claim.your claim. rehabilitation is required to help us an putaccurate an accurate on the lives of victims and their families. your claim.

Compensation Compensation helpcan provide help rehabilitation provide rehabilitation and andyour claim. on the lives ofcan victims and their families.

Compensation help provide and specialistspecialist carecan and support. support.

Hererehabilitation is aHere step-by-step is a step-by-step Compensation cancare helpand provide rehabilitation and specialist care to support.

Hereclaim: guide to guide making amaking serious ainjury serious injury claim: specialist careand and support.

Hereis isa astep-by-step step-by-step Step 4 – Accessing Step 4 – rehabilitation Accessing rehabilitation guide to making a serious injury claim: Step 4 – Accessing rehabilitation guide to making a serious injury claim: Step 4 – Accessing rehabilitation We have aWe strong havetrack a strong record track securing recordinterim securing payments interim payments during theduring thetrack compensation process toprocess help you toaccess helppayments you vital access vital We have acompensation strong record securing interim

We have atreatment strong track record interim payments Step 1 – Contact Step 1 experienced – Contact experienced and specialist and solicitors specialist solicitors rehabilitation rehabilitation treatment andprocess additional and additional careyou and support. care and during the compensation tosecuring help access vitalsupport. during the compensation process to help you access vital We work with We work rehabilitation with rehabilitation specialists, specialists, case managers, case managers, Step 1 – Contact experienced and specialist solicitors rehabilitation treatment and additional care and support.

Personal Personal claims injury canclaims be complex can and complex you need and an you need an physiotherapists Step 1 –injury Contact experienced and be specialist solicitors and to additional andtreatment care providers and specialists, care providers helpcase your tocare recovery helpand yoursupport. and recovery and Werehabilitation workphysiotherapists with rehabilitation managers, expert legal expert team legal behind team you.

Novum you.

Law Novum specialises Law specialises in inmake We work rehabilitation specialists, caserecovery managers, Personal injury claims can bebehind complex and you need an daily make lifewith easier. daily life easier. physiotherapists and care providers to help your and Personal injury claims can behave complex you accidents, need helpinglegal people helping who people have been who involved been inand involved serious in serious expert team behind you.

Novum Law specialises inan accidents, physiotherapists and care providers to help your recovery and make daily life easier. particularly particularly ifteam awho brain injury if abeen brain hasinvolved injury been sustained, has been sustained, and can help expert legal behind you.

Novum Law specialises inand can help helping people have in serious accidents, make daily life easier. you secure you maximum maximum financial financial compensation. helping people who have been involved in serious particularly if asecure brain injury hascompensation. been sustained, andaccidents, can help Step 5 –compensation Securing compensation particularly if a brainfinancial injury has been sustained, and can help Step 5 – Securing you secure maximum compensation. you secure maximum financial compensation.

Step 5 – Securing compensation We work hard We work to ensure hard compensation to ensure compensation is settled as is settled quickly as quickly Stepas5Novum – Securing compensation Step 2 – Information Step 2 – Information gathering gathering asWe possible. possible.

Law Novum hascompensation won Lawmillions has won of pounds of work hard to ensure ismillions settled as pounds quicklyof compensation compensation for clientsfor with clients life-changing with life-changing injuries. injuries.

Step – Information gathering as possible. has won millions ofispounds ofas quickly We work Novum hard toLaw ensure compensation settled Once 2 appointed, Once appointed, we will gather we will information gather information to supportto your support your SometimesSometimes things are things less straightforward are less straightforward but we willbut keep we will keep compensation for clients with life-changing injuries.

Step – Information gathering as possible.

Novum Law has won millions of pounds claim.2We claim. prefer We to meet prefer clients to meet in person clients –inatperson home,– in at home, inyou informed you throughout informed throughout as we resolve as we your resolve case.your case. of Once appointed, we will gather information to support your things for are clients less straightforward but weinjuries. will keep with life-changing hospital orhospital wherever or they wherever feel most they comfortable feel most comfortable - to find out - to findSometimes outcompensation claim.

We prefer to clients in person – atto home, in your Once wemeet willabout gather support informed throughout westraightforward resolve your case. things are as less but we will keep all theappointed, details all the about details the accident. theinformation Novum accident.

Law Novum never Law usesnever usesyouSometimes hospital or wherever they feel toor find claim. prefer to meet clients incomfortable person – at -home, inout the postyou informed throughout as we resolve your case. writtenWe questionnaires written questionnaires over themost telephone over the telephone or though the though post all the details about the accident.

Novum Law never uses For more information and a freeand no obligation a free no obligation chat, please chat, getplease get hospital wherever most to find out For more information and will or deal and with will your dealthey claim withfeel your in complete claimcomfortable in confidence. complete -confidence. written questionnaires over the telephone though theuses post in contact:inwww.novumlaw.com contact: www.novumlaw.com all the details about the accident.

NovumorLaw never For more information and a free no obligation chat, please get and will deal with your claim in complete confidence. written questionnaires over the telephone or though the post in contact: For morewww.novumlaw.com information and a free no obligation chat, please get and will deal with your claim in complete confidence. in contact: www.novumlaw.com

@novumlaw @novumlaw

1 1 https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/transport-and-highways/road-safety/ https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/transport-and-highways/road-safety/ roads-safety-accident-investigation-and-prevention roads-safety-accident-investigation-and-prevention

1

https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/transport-and-highways/road-safety/

BUSINESSNEWS

WORCESTER CREATIVES LAUNCH NEW PHOTOGRAPHY COMPANY Hamish Gill and James Greenoff from F8 Creates have launched Shoot.Rewind, a new photography company with a difference, providing timeless photos using a range of old style cameras.

Hamish said: “We are passionate about using film as opposed to digital because of the feel it offers and the one-off results that can be achieved. We use traditional cameras to capture the real core of a business and produce really special photos.

We are looking forward to working with artisan producers. James and I really enjoy telling the stories of those who have a passion for the things that they create, be that large things out of metal or cider out of fruit and everything in between.”

Brian Wilce, Wilce’s Cider and Hamish Gill, Shoot.Rewind

Since launching Shoot.Rewind, Hamish and James have already secured a year-long contract with Wilce’s Cider, a family artisan business with orchards in Ledbury. www.shootrewind.com

BUSINESS IN FOOD AWARD FIRST Worcestershire’s top award for healthier and locally sourced menus has for the first time been won by a company restaurant.

New Strategic member Phoenix Group in Wythall, which employs around 600 people, received a Gold Level Healthier Choices Food Award from Worcestershire Regulatory Services (WRS) for its on-site restaurant.

The restaurant’s commitment to a wide variety of healthier choices and use of local produce impressed WRS inspectors, who reported that the restaurant went “above and beyond” the requirements.

The awards recognise businesses with exceptional healthy and flexible menu options and are only open to businesses

Nigel Biggs with the Healthier Choices Food Award.

with the highest possible food hygiene rating.

Nigel Biggs, Catering Team Manager, said: “Staff wellbeing is at the heart of Phoenix’s corporate responsibility agenda so it is important that our onsite restaurant offers choice including a range of healthier meal options. This combined with our other wellbeing activities on site helps to keep staff fit and healthy at work.” www.thephoenixgroup.com

MADE HERE NOW PARTNERS WITH PEPPERNECK Midlands based marketing agency, Pepperneck, is delighted to announce that it has been appointed project director for leading manufacturing showcase Made Here Now. The project is the brainchild of former manufacturing editor of the Financial Times, Peter Marsh, and aims to promote all that’s great about the

020

CB, CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS LAUNCH NEW FIXED-FEE ACCOUNTING

UK’s manufacturing capabilities, whilst encouraging more young people to consider a future in the industry.

Pepperneck’s Managing Director Steve Adams said: “Pepperneck specialises in helping manufacturers to market themselves and their products both in the UK and globally. We know the sector, what works and how to get results for them.

Senior Manager Dan Jackson

CB, Chartered Accountants have launched innovative new fixed-fee accountancy packages, meaning that clients can now choose the level of service they need and be charged one monthly fixed price. There are a range of fixed fee services suitable for every budget and every type of business, from sole trader to larger Limited companies and Partnerships.

John Painter, Managing Partner, said: “Many of us like to budget for expenses by paying a regular monthly amount – it might be a monthly direct debit to spread the cost of utility bills or home insurance.

But it can also be a great way to spread the cost of business expenses such as accountancy services.”

“These new packages offer businesses cost certainty and a clear understanding of what accountancy, tax, and strategy services they are buying, plus the added benefit of being able to bolt-on additional services. This gives businesses the ultimate in flexibility, both in terms of the support they need and how those services are financed.” www.cbcharteredaccountants.com

“Made Here Now is a hugely exciting project for Pepperneck as it provides an opportunity for us to use this expertise to help increase the flow of talent into the manufacturing sector and thereby support its growth”. www.madeherenow.com www.pepperneck.com

July/August 2016

Professional IT Support Services for Herefordshire Businesses

2016 our 10th year providing IT services to Herefordshire.

OURSERVICES

IT SUPPORT

DISASTER RECOVERY

SECURITY

Professional IT support for small businesses with between 5 to 250 members of staff.

Fixed rate, all inclusive, UK based cloud backup and disaster recovery solutions.

A comprehensive range of network security services to protect your IT assets.

Herefordshire Chamber Members, claim your FREE 2 HOUR network security/disaster recovery audit

01544 327310 www.opsoftware.net /OPSoftwareLtd

/opsoftware

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

021

CHAMBERTRAINING

WHAT OUR MEMBERS SAY When we write articles for Business Direction, we often focus on our courses, on a particular series or on a trainer. The proof of the pudding is in the eating however and this month, we have decided to let the testimonials about our courses and trainers speak for themselves.

We are proud of the brilliant work our trainers do to impart their specialist knowledge and provide the best service possible, whether it is here at the Chamber or at any company we send them to in order to provide bespoke training. These are just some of the comments we have received.

Franchisee from Boots Opticians in Kidderminster about The Role of the Team Leader, Managing People in the Team and Managing Performance in the Team “When we promoted *** to Assistant Manager we looked around for training courses that would support both her personal development and her development within the business. The Chamber of Commerce training days have really delivered in both these areas.

We have seen her return with new ideas and confidence to implement changes in approach, which in turn are having a positive effect across our business”

Jane Brant, HR Administrator at Muller England Ltd about IOSH Managing Safely “I found my recent four day training course with the Chamber of Commerce very informative and very well presented. The trainer, Dawn Hardman, made the training interesting but also fun, assisted by playing games to assist with remembering facts and figures. The provision of DVD’s and visuals made the content easier to remember.

I would fully recommend the IOSH training course run by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.”

Martin VeaseyPartnership about Managing People in the Team

Rachael Hodgetts from SB Print Ltd about Introduction to Digital Marketing and PR

“Just want to say that I thought the training yesterday was BRILLIANT! I really enjoyed it and thought that Jon was probably one of the best trainers I’ve ever had. Kept me engaged and was very personable (but am I saying that because I am a red! - those who have attended Jon’s courses will know what I mean!)”

“Just a quick note to thank the Chamber of Commerce for putting on today’s introductory course free of charge. Ben was a great presenter, enthusiastic and engaging with a great approach to the subject and an inspiring aptitude for thinking ‘outside the box’...What I have learned today will be incredibly useful as we redevelop our website and I hope that we might be able to invest in the follow-up course on email marketing later in the year.”

Alison Holmes, Regional Director at RWB Global about Introduction to Digital Marketing and PR “The best presenter on this topic I have ever come across. His simple explanation and the interaction of this enormous subject was engaging. The most valuable part was Ben showed us how to use tools and techniques in a simple effective way to enhance Google searches etc. I would highly recommend this workshop to anyone who uses social media.”

022

July/August 2016

CHAMBERBUSINESSTRAINING

TRAINING CALENDAR MAY - JULY 2016 JULY & AUGUST COURSES Employment Law Update Wednesday 6 July - 10.00am-3.00pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members Finance Skills for Managers & Team Leaders Wednesday 6 July - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

SEPTEMBER COURSES

PRINCE2 FOUNDATION & PRACTITIONER COURSES

Language International Communication Thursday 8 September – 9.30am-12.30pm £100+VAT Members, £125+VAT Non-members The British Bribery Act Thursday 8 September – 9.30am-12.30pm £100+VAT Members, £125+VAT Non-members

Basic Import Documentation & Procedures Thursday 7 July - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members

We are delighted to announce the introduction of these accredited and much sought after courses.

Introduction to Digital Marketing and PR Thursday 8 September - 9.30am-1.30pm FREE to Members, £100+VAT Non-members

Managing Performance in the Team Monday 11 July - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Monday 26 – Friday 30 September – 9.30am-4.30pm

Google Analytics Tuesday 13 September - 9.30am-1.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members

Search Engine Optimisation Tuesday 12 July - 9.30am-1.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members Managing Agents & Distributors Tuesday 12 July - 9.30am - 4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members

Run by local but nationally renowned training company Quanta Training, we are offering the opportunity to gain this qualification for competitive rates, run by trainers with consistently high pass rates:

PRINCE2 FOUNDATION: Members £650+ exam fees of £116+VAT

Basic Export Documentation & Procedures Thursday 14 July - 9.30am - 4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members

Non-members £810+ exam fees of £116+VAT

Tariff Classification Thursday 14 July - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members

Members £440+ exam fees of £160+VAT

Advanced Microsoft Excel Friday 15 July - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members Effective Presentation Skills Friday 15 July - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members Seven Steps to Closing the Deal Tuesday 19 July - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members Email Marketing Thursday 21 July - 9.30am-1.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members Trading with the USA – Defence Imports & Exports Tuesday 16 August - 9.30am - 4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members

PRINCE2 PRACTITIONER:

Non-members £550+ exam fees of £160+VAT www.hwchamber.co.uk/training/ PRINCE2

Intermediate Microsoft Excel Tuesday 6 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members Emergency First Aid at Work Wednesday 7 September - 09.30am-4.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members

KEY: Chamber Business Training Courses Import and Export Training Courses

For more information and bookings contact us on 01905 673 611, training@hwchamber.co.uk. www.hwchamber.co.uk/training

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Mentoring in the Workplace Tuesday 13 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members AEO Awareness Tuesday 13 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members IOSH Working Safely Thursday 15 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members Advanced Import Documentation & Procedures Tuesday 20 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members Surviving a Customs Audit Wednesday 21 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members Internal Auditor Training Thursday 22 – Friday 23 September – 9.30am–1.30pm £280+VAT Members, £350+VAT Non-members Organising a Distributor Meeting Thursday 29 September – 9.30am-12.30pm £100+VAT Members, £125+VAT Non-members VAT on Exports Thursday 29 September - 10.30am -3.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members

023

CHAMBEREVENTS

TWO COUNTIES' BIGGEST BUSINESS EXHIBITION Chamber Business Expo sponsored by Hewett Recruitment #hwexpo Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce will be holding its Autumn Business Expo sponsored by Hewett Recruitment on Thursday 6 October from 9.30am-3pm at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern.

The exhibition is one of Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s biggest business events, attracting over 125 stands and over 800 visitors, making it a great place to: n n n n n n

Network Promote your company Find new suppliers Generate sales leads Increase your product and service profile Make new business contacts

The October Expo will include the following elements: Networking Breakfast sponsored by Worcestershire Business Central – The two counties’ biggest networking breakfast

with 270 people. The breakfast will feature a Keynote Speaker at 8.00am before the official opening of the exhibition at 9.30am – one free breakfast for each exhibitor!

visitors!) and we are pleased to be part of such a great Chamber with a wonderfully diverse range of members – from banks to masseurs to leisure clubs and manufacturers.

Networking Zone sponsored by SME Solicitors - The Networking Zone is a lively hub of activity at the Expo, where attendees can meet associates and do business.

Emma Chetwynd-Jarvis from Rock Power Connections - “The Business Expo gives us an ideal opportunity to raise our profile within the local business community. The networking breakfast has an amazing buzz which continues throughout the day. Not only have we made many new contacts; at each event we’ve walked away with some really good leads. The Expos are great for business!”

Health and Wellbeing Zone - This Zone will be filled with interactive stands, all demonstrating how important health and wellbeing in the workplace is.

Exporting Hub - The Exporting is GREAT truck is coming to the Expo, giving businesses the opportunity to meet face to face with International Trade Advisors to discover live exporting opportunities.

Free Tea and Coffee provided for all attendees, sponsored by Water Cooler World.

An exhibition stand (including one free breakfast) costs Members £275.00+VAT and Non-members £375.00+VAT. Places are available at the breakfast for £17.50+VAT for members and £22.50+VAT for non-members.

Clare John from Global Phones – “We’ve attended the last three Chamber Expo’s and have found them not only to be beneficial for winning new business, but also a fantastic opportunity to build awareness for our brand within the local business community. With such a great attendance we relish the chance the Expo provides for us to see so many clients face to face and it’s proved invaluable for our business growth.’

The Exporting is GREAT truck.

024

To find out more and to keep updated with the latest expo news, visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/expo, email events@hwchamber.co.uk or phone 01905 673 600.

SAVE THE DATE! Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Annual HR Conference Sponsored by Hewett Recruitment Thursday 17 November, 9.00am-3.00pm at The Bank House Hotel, Bransford, Worcester WR6 5JD Key note speakers confirmed – Kevin Green, Chief Executive of the REC, and Sally Morris, Partner and Head of Employment at mfg Solicitors.

Maria Burdett from Minster Micro Computers Ltd - “Minster always has a great sense of achievement after attending the Chamber Business Expo. There is, consistently, a great turn out (over 800

July/August 2016

CHAMBEREVENTS

NETWORKING CALENDAR JULY - SEPTEMBER 2016 JULY 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016

Malvern Networking Breakfast - QES Special Thursday 7 July - 7.30-9.30am Abbey Hotel, Abbey Road, Malvern WR14 3ET £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members

Worcester Networking Breakfast Thursday 1 September - 7.30-9.30am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, County Ground, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members

Malvern Curry Club in association with Sharpmonkeys Tuesday 12 July - 6.00-8.00pm Anupam Restaurant, 85 Church Street, Great Malvern WR14 2AE £20.00+VAT Members and Non-members Worcester Women’s Business Forum in association with borwell Ltd Thursday 14 July - 9.30am-12.00pm Grafton Manor, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B61 7HA £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Hereford Networking Breakfast Wednesday 20 July - 7.30-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Burghill, Hereford HR4 7RW £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Manufacturing Forum sponsored by University of Wolverhampton Friday 27 July – 8.00-11.00am Worcester Bosch, Cotswold Way, Worcester, WR4 9SW FREE and exclusive to manufacturers (Including breakfast)

AUGUST 2016 Redditch Golf Networking Breakfast Tuesday 2 August - 7.30-9.30am Abbey Hotel Golf & Country Club, Hither Green Lane, Dagnell End Road, Redditch Worcestershire B98 9BE £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Maximise your Membership Friday 19 August - 8.30-11.00am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, County Ground, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ FREE event for Chamber Members Ross-on-Wye Networking Brunch Tuesday 23 August - 9.30-11.30am Orles Barn, Wilton, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire HR9 6AE £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Worcester HR Forum in association with Hewett Recruitment Wednesday 24 August - 9.30-11.30am Chamber of Commerce, Severn House, Prescott Drive, Warndon Business Park, Worcester WR4 9NE FREE event for Chamber Members and clients of Hewett Recruitment

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Kidderminster Networking Lunch Wednesday 7 September - 12.30-2.30pm Hogarths Stone Manor, Stone, Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY10 4PJ £20.00+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Malvern Curry Club in association with Sharpmonkeys Tuesday 13 September - 6.00-8.00pm Anupam Restaurant, 85 Church Street, Great Malvern WR14 2AE £20.00+VAT Members and Non-members Auto-enrolment Seminar in association with Aviva and BCC Thursday 15 September - 8.00-9.45am Open Space Rooms, Upper Interfields, Malvern WR14 1UT

FREE event for Members and Non-Members Hereford Networking Breakfast Wednesday 21 September - 7.30-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Burghill, Hereford HR4 7RW £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Women’s Business Conference 2016 in association with borwell Ltd Friday 23 September - 9.30am-2.30pm The Abbey Hotel, Abbey Rd, Great Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 3ET £35.00+VAT Members and £50.00+VAT Non-members Hereford HR Forum in association with Hewett Recruitment Wednesday 28 September - 9.30-11.30am Hereford Business Solutions Centre - Building B, Units 1-4, Skylon Court, Rotherwas, Hereford, HR2 6JS FREE event for Chamber Members and clients of Hewett Recruitment Droitwich Wellbeing Networking Breakfast Thursday 29 September - 7.30-9.30am St Andrews Town Hotel, St Andrew’s Dr, Droitwich Spa, Droitwich, Worcestershire WR9 8AL £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members

To book your place on any of these events visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/events 025

FOCUSONDIGITALMARKETING

HELPING YOU MAKE SENSE OF THE TAXATION SYSTEM When it comes to the end of your trading year, you need someone who can help you make sense of all your figures and file your accounts accurately and on time for you.

That is where new Worcester company Integral Partnership can help. Established in January, it is run by experienced chartered accountant and chartered tax adviser Kaley Smith, who has worked with some of the industry’s big name businesses.

Her company is based in Worcester city centre and offers services including book-keeping, accounting and taxation advice to a range of clients in the area.

Integral’s specialities include offering advice on inheritance tax for individuals

026

Kaley Smith

and advising on capital allowances for businesses that have incurred expenditure on their commercial property.

Kaley said: “We work with a range of individuals and businesses and our job is to help them file their accounts and tax returns accurately and give them the advice that they need on navigating their way through the taxation and allowance systems.

“Filing returns and making sense of returns and taxation can be daunting but we help make sense of it all and take all the worry away for them.

“Our experience is that Worcester people like to purchase their services from Worcester businesses and we are finding all our services popular but some of our clients especially value the expertise we provide in inheritance tax and capital allowances.”

You can contact Kaley at Integral Partnership on kaleysmith@integralpartnership.com or 07947 168037 or 01905 349077.

July/August 2016

FINANCEMATTERS

CREATIVE DESIGN ON YOUR DOORSTEP WE ARE CREATIVE M USE >> An award winning creative agency, with expertise in all areas of design & photography through print and digital marketing. >> >> >> >>

Brochure Design Brand Development Catalogue Design Photography

>> >> >> >>

Logo Design Stationery Package Design Promotional Flyers

>> >> >> >>

Website Design Web Banners Email Marketing Social Media Design

Get in touch to see how we can help or pop in for a cuppa and a chat www.creativemouse.co.uk

01905 642 830

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

mail@creativemouse.co.uk 027

BUSINESSNEWS

TINY TUSKS REACHES THE TERRIBLE TWOS Sutton, the gorgeous baby African elephant at West Midland Safari Park, has turned two years old and has celebrated his birthday with some help from a local Beaver Scout Group.

Elephant keepers at the Park decided that there was only one birthday present Sutton would really appreciate - a birthday cake made up of mounds of his favourite food.

Head Keeper of Elephants, Andy Plumb said, “It’s been a real pleasure watching Sutton grow and progress over the last

L-R Chris Daniells, Dagmar Mackett and Peter Richards from drpvideo

DRPVIDEO WINS GOLD AT EVCOM SCREEN AWARDS The annual EVCOM Screen Awards identify excellence in visual corporate communication. This year, drpvideo won Gold in one of the top categories, and secured a further three awards for their film Pull Through. The company took home gold in the Marketing & PR category and bronze in Charity & Not-for-Profit.

In addition to this, the team were highly commended in the Health & Safety and Communication Effectiveness categories. drpvideo collaborated with West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) to produce Pull Through, which re-created the moment that drp construction technician, Ian Hough, suffered a cardiac arrest during the annual regatta, showing how the presence of a defibrillator on site saved his life. The film and its message formed the core of a wider PR and Marketing campaign by WMAS. And instantly made an impact, attracting coverage on several national press and media outlets. Pull Through can be viewed at https://youtu. be/VjXTzSQ-b2Y www.drpgroup.com

028

Sutton and his Mum Five

two years. He now weighs a whopping 790kg and is almost four feet tall to the shoulder. His tusks have started to grow and last week he lost his first ever tooth!

Melanie Williams, Beaver Scout Leader added, “KD9 Beaver Scouts were delighted to celebrate baby Sutton’s second birthday with him and present him with an enormous cake that they had decorated.

Sutton was born on 5th May 2014 and was the first baby elephant to be born at the Park. www.wmsp.co.uk

WIN FOR GOWLING OVER SUPPLY AGREEMENT Patron Member Gowling WLG and automotive manufacturing client TRW Lucas Varity Electric Steering Limited (TRW) have won a significant victory in the Court of Appeal in a $20 million breach of contract claim.

TRW was contracted to purchase motors from Globe, who argued that TRW had breached a long term exclusive supply agreement.

Gowling WLG advised TRW to appeal a negative first instance decision in Globe’s favour on the basis that the construction of the agreement was wrong. The Court of Appeal upheld TRW’s position.

This is a ground breaking decision, clarifying the law about when a written contract can be varied orally or by conduct of the parties, even if it specifically provides that it can only be varied by a written, signed variation.

Now, the common “no variation” clause no longer destroys an argument that the contract has been varied orally or by conduct. www.gowlingwlg.com

Ben Mannion, Hewetts and wife Geraldine.

Image credit Simon Fall-Taylor

HEWETTS CROWNED AS STRICTLY CHAMPIONS! Ben Mannion, Strategic Development Director of Hewett Recruitment and his lovely wife Geraldine recently danced their way to win the Strictly Worcestershire Title for 2016.

Despite numerous setbacks including Ben breaking his ankle, the couple gave a dramatic and impressive performance on the night to a rapturous applause.

Ben said: “When we signed up it was so we could spend more time together and learn a new skill, but what we have taken from the experience is a whole lot more. Winning on the night was a fantastic feeling, but the friends we have made while we learnt was already prize enough! A special thanks to Hewett’s who sponsored all our lessons and outfits and gave us such great support.”

Louise Hewett commented: “This was a wonderful event for a great cause. We were supporting them all the way – the whole team at Hewett Recruitment were thrilled when they won!” www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

July/August 2016

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

THINKING OF TAKING ON STAFF? It’s a big step, but one you’ll have to take if you really want to grow your business. So what do you need to do to be compliant with the law and also protect yourself in case things go wrong?

The employment contract you put in place is key here. The law requires you as a minimum to provide a “Statement of Terms and Conditions” which tells your staff what they’re entitled to in terms of pay, holidays, working hours etc. However, if you want to gain signed agreement to all terms and conditions consider using a full employment contract. You might for example want to stipulate rules round drug and alcohol testing or the right of search.

If you are employing sales people or need to protect your investment in products and services, post-employment clauses on Restrictions, Intellectual Property Rights and Confidentiality are important.

Zero hours? Despite the negative publicity around some of these options, all have their place and sensible use of them can help you grow your workforce in a controlled way. Use of part-timers may also be a good option for you – but make sure they are receiving equal treatment with fulltimers in terms of pay and benefits.

You’ll also be wondering what sort of contract to use – Permanent? Fixed term?

You’ll find lots of good free advice and documentation online but if your situation

is not completely straightforward, always seek advice from a professional.

Deirdre Myers FCIPD Practical HR support for business owners deirdre@mh-humanresources.co.uk

Outsourcing your Technical Documentation Operating under strict quality and configuration control and adhering to industry or customer standards, our suitably qualified and experienced team of experts, technical authors and illustrators can create, maintain and review all the publications that you need.

Creating new publications

Reformatting and digitising documents

For new equipment we create full sets of publications for

To convert your publications to the structure and format that your

training, operation, support and maintenance. We also create

customers require, we provide a complete, quality-assured

service bulletins, instructions and maintenance notices from

reformatting and digitising service. We can work

original source data.

from any digital format or legacy printed publications.

Reviewing and updating publications For as long as your equipment remains in service we can maintain all the necessary publications on your behalf. We review and update them to reflect changes in technology, procedures and any interim modifications.

Illustrating and designing Whenever diagrams and images are needed to provide clarity or show complex technical details, our experienced illustrators will create them to the highest standards. We regularly work from original drawings, collaborate with designers and work with the actual equipment.

To find out more please contact us on 01905 789006 or 0117 3707755. Email enquiries@aace.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

029

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

CRACKING THE CONSISTENCY CODE Everyone wants to know what the magic word or spell is to make your business a success. The honest answer is actually all about you and your commitment (and sometimes just a little bit of luck).

However, there is one golden (and simple) rule any business owner can use that will help drive their company to succeed, and might just bring some luck with it.

The rule I like to call Consistency.

What I mean by consistency is really very simple. You don’t have to be the best at something or provide a more premium, super-duper service compared to your competition. What you need to ensure is your service and your employees are always reliable and constantly delivering the same level of service, every single time, for every single client.

Look at it this way, we don’t go to Pizza Express because we know we are going to get the most authentic pizza outside of Italy, we go because it’s convenient, reliable, and we know exactly what we are going to get.

It’s this same thought process that you want your business to be known for.

You want it to be seen as the Pizza Express of your industry – the reliable, knowledgeable, go-to and really delicious service. OK so maybe “delicious” doesn’t apply in your industry, but for the sake of your business’ success and maximising profits – and your own sanity – being able to get consistent, predictable, reliable results from each and every one of your employees is a must.

030

Achieving consistency doesn’t take much but it does mean you have to be honest with yourself. You might have a sales team that seems to be getting some serious successes, but if you look closer, are these successes down to a couple of members of the team outshining the rest? Sure, you might be getting the results but will your prospects get the same quality and attention to detail regardless of who picks up the phone?

Imagine the seamless and wonderful opportunities available to you if everyone was singing from the same sales sheet.

Sounds like the dream doesn’t it? But it doesn’t take much for it to be a reality.

CONTROL YOUR WILD HORSES Just like the wild horses on the Great Plains, your sales team can be tamed, and this is all down to discipline. If you feel motivation is dipping in your team, the discipline card always comes in handy.

This isn’t about punishment, this is about addressing any negatives before they becoming problems. You’re all trying to meet a certain standard, so if you feeling this is slipping away, reassure the team, boost morale, and make sure any issues are dealt with quickly.

A WATCHED CLOCK NEVER MOVES Don’t forget that, for all the truth in the old adage that “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” that doesn’t mean the people building it weren’t pushing themselves to the breaking point. So have some patience with your team, appreciate what they are doing. and work out how you can make

life easier for them. It might be delegating more work or helping them with their organisational skills. Just have a little patience, set a time frame, and you’ll reap the rewards sooner than you think.

MAY THE FOCUS BE WITH YOU Make sure you staff remain on track every step of the way, don’t let them visit the dark side, and become distracted from not only the task at hand, but the overall goal of the business. That goes for you too. Remember the 20/80 rule, 20% of your tasks are responsible for 80% of your success. So that 20% is your golden ticket, if you struggle with consistency across your entire business, at least make sure that small percentage runs like a well-oiled machine.

When it comes to business we all want more results, more profit and more happy clients. I think the key to achieving this is consistency. It will create the reputation and identity you want, while also leading to some exciting and outstanding successes for you, your company, and your team.

If you have any questions about how OpenCRM can help you achieve consistency heaven, please get in touch.

I would love to hear from you. Find us at www.opencrm.co.uk or drop us a line at hello@opencrm.co.uk.

Graham Anderson, is the CEO and founder of OpenCRM, one of the UK’s leading customer relationship management systems

July/August 2016

FINANCEMATTERS

IS YOUR BUSINESS MORE INNOVATIVE THAN YOU THINK? You might associate innovation with high-tech companies or science laboratories, but your business is probably more innovative than you think – and you could even be financially rewarded for it, thanks to a government initiative rewarding companies for their research and development work.

Did you know that around 40% of all active companies in the UK generate some form of innovation, whether it’s a new product, service or business process?

Innovative companies are at the forefront of growing the economy, creating jobs and becoming more efficient, and the government is rewarding them in the form of research and development tax credits.

These tax credits allow innovative companies to claim tax relief on the money they spend innovating. The scheme is available to virtually any industry, and in order to be eligible all a company

has to do it prove that it has developed something new that has either enhanced the business or its processes.

There are significant sums of money to be reclaimed by businesses of all sizes and the average annual claim for an SME is over £46,000. However, most business owners are only vaguely aware of the scheme or mistakenly believe that it doesn’t apply to them.

In fact, recent HMRC figures show that only 1% of potentially eligible UK firms are currently claiming the relief available to them.

Another common misconception is that the tax credits are only available to companies developing something completely new from scratch. However, if a company is undertaking research and development to improve an existing product or process then they may still be eligible. For example, you may be exploring new cost effective materials which will perform to the same, or better technical specification as an already available product.

The research and development work doesn’t have to be successful either. As long as it aims to achieve a scientific or

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

technological advance, a claim may be possible.

At Ormerod Rutter we have developed a claims process which takes a minimal amount of your time and costs you nothing until your claim is successfully processed by HMRC. Our specialist team will identify qualifying expenditure within your company and will work with your team to compile your claim. This usually takes a day at most.

We have experience of identifying and processing claims across many sectors and with our technical expertise and range of experience, we pride ourselves on our 100% track record of successful claims.

Approximately 9,000 companies claim a total of £1bn R&D tax relief each year.

Make sure you’re not missing out. Contact us today for a free initial consultation to find out if you’re eligible.

Tel: 01905 777600 mail@ormerodrutter.co.uk www.ormerodrutter.co.uk @OrmerodRutter

031

FOCUSONDIGITALMARKETING

Tips for delivering an exceptional eCommerce experience

Download the full guide e-book here http://tiny.cc/ wsiecommerceguide

For these reasons, instead of focusing this guide on launching your digital shop, we’re going to give you the rundown on how to deliver an exceptional eCommerce customer experience.

Whether you have a new business idea or a 20-year-old company, the time is ripe to venture into the world of eCommerce. Trust us and seize the opportunity. Not in a year, not in a couple of months and not next week. The time to launch your eCommerce store is right now.

Consider that Amazon, the largest eCommerce seller in the world, accounted for 25% of all retail growth in the United States in 2015. As incredible as that number seems, it’ll only increase in the coming years. If you ’re in the business of selling products and services, an eCommerce shop should be part of your plans in 2016.

Now that we’ve convinced you to join the eCommerce fray - or even if you’re just looking to improve an existing store - it’s our responsibility to set you along the path to success.

Given the explosion of eCommerce, there’s no shortage of information on the subject. But when you’re delving into something new, it’s difficult to decide which resources to read first.

Stop the search: this guide is that resource. With eCommerce technology like Shopify, BigCommerce and Volusion, setting up an online store is easy. The difficult part is attracting customers, delivering a great experience and ultimately, converting visitors. In fact, because eCommerce technology is so advanced, businesses are now competing mainly on the strength of the experiences they provide their customers. The better the experience - from awareness all the way to postconversion - the more success a business will have.

Phone: 01905 758034 Email: simon.thompson@wsinetmarketing.co.uk www.wsiworld.com/simonthompson

At the end of the day, satisfied customers keep your business running. Too many eCommerce shops launch and then assume the money will come rolling in. It doesn’t and it won’t. That’s why you need these 5 Tips For Delivering An Exceptional eCommerce Experience.

1. Focus on the customer 2. Pay attention to abandoned cart rates 3. Make purchasing simple and easy 4. Optimise for mobile 5. Be transparent There’s a lot of noise out there when it comes to eCommerce; do this, fix that, use a certain platform or technology and the money will follow. It’s actually much simpler than that: if you focus on delivering an exceptional eCommerce customer experience, you’ll generate repeat business, create loyal brand advocates who make referrals, and then you’ll see an increase in your bottom line.

If you’re ever feeling lost, put yourself in your customer’s shoes and ask: Would I want this?

Does this make it easier for me to buy something? l Is this transparent? l l

We also encourage you to consult our handy little checklists as they’ll help cast a light on the right direction. Finally, we hope you learn from our 5 Tips for Delivering an Exceptional eCommerce Experience Guide.

GOOD LUCK AND HAPPY E-SELLING!

LEGALMATTERS

WHAT MAKES HEREFORDSHIRE GREAT This week I attended the Herefordshire Economic Forum.

It was an event which brought together business leaders to talk about what it is that makes Herefordshire great in a business context – and indeed what the challenges are to doing business successfully here.

It started very early in the morning and I was delighted to see over 100 people turn up. The lure of the bacon butty on offer perhaps but I think there’s more to it. People were energised to jump out of bed earlier than usual because this was an opportunity to come together with a group of people who share a passion for doing business in this County. A County known for its beautiful countryside, crisps

and cider but one which needs to be known for so much more.

It was great to hear from so many good businesses who have chosen to base themselves in Herefordshire and, like us, are thriving here. Having the opportunity to share business success within the County was invaluable. But I think we need to be doing that outside the county as well, promoting Herefordshire to the wider world.

When a group of people come together, their shared energy and passion can achieve so much. I work with a team of lawyers at Lanyon Bowdler who help clients to grow and protect their businesses. We love the work that we do – and that’s because we are working with great clients. Ultimately it’s all about teamwork and I would love to see the conversation that started at the economic forum continue and drive action that puts Herefordshire on the map as a business destination. After all, what could be better after a day in a job you love than a cold

glass of cider and a bag of delicious crisps at a country pub?

William Morse is an employment partner at Lanyon Bowdler in Hereford.

T: 01432 377152 E: william.morse@lblaw.co.uk

Transparently priced, practical advice and support delivered by legal specialists in Herefordshire Our specialist corporate, commercial property, dispute resolution and employment lawyers provide support to help you grow and protect your business, giving you a solid foundation to build upon

Incorporating Beaumonts Solicitors

01432 378379 www.lblaw.co.uk Supporting People, Businesses & Communities

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Broadway House, 32 - 35 Broad Street, Hereford HR4 9AR Beaumont House, Offa Street, Hereford HR1 2LH 38 High Street, Bromyard HR7 4AE Offices also in Shrewsbury | Ludlow | Oswestry | Telford

033

BIGINTERVIEW

KEY DECISIONS THAT DRIVE POULTRY SUPPLIER’S DEVELOPMENT Cargill’s European Poultry business is one of Herefordshire’s business success stories. Success, however, does not come without challenge.

Recruiting enough skilled workers, ensuring the export market grows and meeting customers’ demands are all important priorities for the poultry business.

Here, Mary Thompson, Managing Director of Cargill’s European Poultry business, talks about some of the challenges and opportunities.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT CARGILL Cargill is more than 150 years old and operates in more than 70 countries.

In Hereford, we are Cargill’s European poultry business; we have been based in Hereford for more than 50 years and we now employ more than 3,000 people in Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Shropshire and Staffordshire, as well as in France and Russia.

We supply high quality poultry products – whole fresh chicken and chicken portions, marinated, rotisserie, barbecue and breaded and battered chicken products – to supermarkets, food service restaurants and food manufacturers across the UK and Europe.

In the UK, we operate a fully integrated agricultural supply chain, which means that we buy in day-old chicks, we rear them to lay eggs, we hatch the eggs, then we partner with local farmers who rear the eggs into broilers. We bring the broilers to our factories in Hereford and

Gloucestershire, where we produce high quality products for retail and food service.

WHAT’S IT LIKE BEING PART OF THE LOCAL AND NATIONAL MANUFACTURING SECTOR? Locally, Herefordshire is a centre for both agriculture and food manufacturing – and it is a wonderful place to live – but it’s not seen generally seen as a “go to” destination for skilled professionals. We are taking a number of steps to attract talented young people to our business – we are entering the fourth year of a vibrant graduate recruitment programme, and within the next 18 months we hope to offer Trailblazer degree apprenticeships in certain areas.

Nationally, we have benefitted in the past 3-4 years from “bringing the outside in”, by engaging experts from other manufacturing industries to help us review and improve our process. For example, we now use robotic packaging technology for some of our fresh chicken products, and a recent project has seen us bringing “lean” manufacturing processes to our factories.

ONE OF THE ISSUES FACING THE SECTOR IS A SHORTAGE IN SKILLS – HOW ARE YOU RESPONDING TO THIS? On top of the investment above, we have a talent strategy in place, focusing on both attracting and retaining the right people.

As well as the graduate programme, we have just launched a new university competition, which challenges current students to solve a real-world food manufacturing problem.

We are also investing in training our employees and, in addition to the skills training that’s a requirement for all operatives, we are focusing on our first

We are very proud of our Herefordshire roots and we are here to stay: we are nearing the end of a £35 million investment programme, and the majority of that money has been focussed on our local operations.

034

and second-tier managers through bespoke leadership programmes, built around Cargill’s global programme structure. We are also looking to expand our apprenticeship schemes: we have been running a successful engineering apprenticeship programme for over 15 years and one of our current fourth-year apprentices, Will Skinner, is already standing out as a leader of the future. Will recently won the Herefordshire Community Champion award for Apprentice of the Year.

A LARGE PERCENTAGE OF FOOD AND DRINK EXPORTS GO TO THE EU – TELL US ABOUT YOUR ROLE AS VP FOR CARGILL EUROPE We are very proud of our Herefordshire roots and we are here to stay: we are nearing the end of a £35 million investment programme, and the majority of that money has been focussed on our local operations. In addition, we have partnered with local farmers to bring in millions more in investment. But we are also a proudly European company – we serve countries across the continent. We have been investing in our plants in France and Russia and we have an exceptionally busy trading arm based in the Netherlands.

Working in Europe is part of our corporate DNA and supplying European markets is a key part of our future strategies.

HOW IS CARGILL RESPONDING TO CHANGE IN THE SECTOR? Poultry is the fastest growing source of protein, and consumers are becoming increasingly aware and demanding; in terms of animal welfare, transparent supply chains and sustainability. The challenge is to produce food that is affordable and also safe, humanely reared and environmentally friendly. Cargill is in a great position to lead this conversation – sustainability is the new norm.

We can develop and share best practice and we can collaborate with suppliers and customers to get that balance right. We are always looking for ways to be more efficient – but at the same time we have, for example, introduced enrichment into all of our broiler sheds, over 75% of our farms are supplied using sustainable energy sources, and we are at – or close to – landfill free status for some of our factories.

July/August 2016

BIGINTERVIEW

Mary Thompson Managing Director of Cargill’s European Poultry Business

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

035

CHAMBERAWARDS

Sponsored By

Images credit F8 Creates

WINNERS CELEBRATED AT CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2016

Kingspan Insulation, Business of the Year and Excellence in Innovation

Cecil Duckworth, Outstanding Contribution to Business

Colin Jackson and Giles Cross, Sanlam

Businesses and individuals from across Herefordshire and Worcestershire were celebrated at the two counties’ biggest business Awards ceremony, the Chamber Business Awards, held on Thursday 9 June at the University of Worcester Arena.

With over 500 attendees, including local businesses, sponsors and MPs, the Awards ceremony was a spectacular event celebrating the success, innovation and hard work of businesses in the two counties. Hosted by Elliott Webb from BBC Hereford & Worcester Radio and sponsored by Sanlam, attendees enjoyed a prestigious drinks reception sponsored by

036

EBC Group and an excellent three course meal.

One major highlight of the evening was listening to keynote speaker Colin Jackson, Olympic Silver Medallist and World Record Holder, who captivated and entertained the audience by speaking about Go Dad Run, the Olympics and the highlights of his career.

The evening then moved on to the anticipated Awards ceremony. Eleven businesses received Awards and a special Award was presented to Cecil Duckworth for an Outstanding Contribution to Business. Kingspan Insulation won the Excellence in Innovation Award and went on to take the top award for Business of the Year.

Richard Burnley, Managing Director Insulation – Britain & Ireland, said: “I am delighted that our team’s hard work

and innovation has been recognised by winning the Excellence in Innovation Award. It was a further boost to be voted Business of the Year 2016 by the Chamber of Commerce. The trophies are pride of place in our reception area.”

“It’s always pleasing when the hard work of the people within your company is recognised by industry peers.”

Mike Ashton, Chief Executive of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, said: “What a brilliant evening celebrating the quality of businesses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. A special congratulations to Kingspan Insulation, this year’s overall Business of the Year”. £4000 was also raised for four local charities on the night: #jsyoucandoit, Go Dad Run, Megan Baker House and The Prince’s Trust.

July/August 2016

CHAMBERAWARDS

THE WINNERS OF THE CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2016 drp

Gemporia Ltd

Business of the Year sponsored by Sanlam Kingspan Insulation Best Use of Technology sponsored

by TechTeam Gemporia Ltd Commitment to People Development sponsored by University of Worcester Vision Labs Limited

Print Strategy Europe

Morgan Motor Company Manufacturing Ltd

Education and Business Partnership sponsored by West Midland Reserve and Cadet Association RGS Worcester Entrepreneur of the Year sponsored

by Handelsbanken Nigel Smith - Moongazing Hare Ltd/ The Fleece Inn/The Cardinal’s Hat Excellence in Customer Service sponsored by Orchard Valley Foods Limited Print Strategy Europe

Nigel Smith

Bee Lighting Ltd

Excellence in Innovation sponsored

by Central Technology Belt Kingspan Insulation Exporter of the Year sponsored by Malvern Instruments Waste Spectrum Environmental Limited High Growth Business of the Year sponsored by Hewett Recruitment drp

RGS Worcester

Solar Sentry

Manufacturer of the Year sponsored

by QinetiQ Morgan Motor Company Manufacturing Ltd Most Promising New Business sponsored by mfg Solicitors Solar Sentry Small Business of the Year sponsored by Worcestershire Business Central Bee Lighting Ltd

Vision Labs Limited

Waste Spectrum Environmental Limited

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

037

COVERFEATURE

MANUFACTURING LOOKS TO THE FUTURE These are exciting times in manufacturing in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Here, BD examines some of the initiatives under way to develop the sector.

INNOVATION THAT STARTS ON THE SHOPFLOOR One local company which is showing what can be achieved

by UK manufacturing is Apreco Ltd, based in Bromyard, which won the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Manufacturer of the Year Award in 2015, sponsored by the University of Wolverhampton.

According to Managing Director Mike Hodges, the award highlighted the talent, products and manufacturing capabilities that can be found in the UK. The company, which employs ten people, is a market leader in the design, manufacture and worldwide distribution of pressure relief vents, air pressure stabilisers and environmental monitoring Apreco Air Pressure Stabilisers are supplied to hospitals, operating

theatres, isolation rooms and pharmaceutical facilities. Apreco Pressure Relief Vents are used with gaseous fire suppression systems in rooms that are sensitive to liquids including data-centres, banks, archives, oil refineries and stairwells.

Mike said: “Winning the award was recognition for the guys on the shopfloor where ideas will often begin. They will be assembling a product and offer suggestions on how something might

work better. Some real gems of ideas come from the shopfloor. Innovation is an integral part of what we do and it runs throughout the company.

“We will also work with other manufacturers and customers to see what works best for them and we are always looking to bring through improved new products.”

CHAMBER’S MANUFACTURING FORUM GIVES SECTOR A VOICE The Chamber’s Manufacturing Forum, in association with the University of Wolverhampton, is a strategic group which aims to promote the interests of manufacturers in the two counties, as well as providing opportunities for manufacturers to meet and share ideas.

The forum aims to communicate the region’s manufacturing strengths and capability, to establish a single voice for the needs of manufacturing businesses and to encourage collaboration to capitalise on opportunities.

Meetings are held quarterly at manufacturing venues across Herefordshire and Worcestershire,

038

culture through people engagement.

Laura Hewett and Ben Mannion from Hewett Recruitment also gave an inspiring presentation with a similar theme; Building Talent for Growth.

Manufacturing businesses at April’s Manufacturing Forum

where attendees enjoy networking and presentations.

The most recent event was held in April at Vision Labs in Kidderminster. Attendees enjoyed an opening presentation from Adrian Tune and Lee Timbrell, General Manager and Operations Director at Vision Labs, which focussed on changing

Adrian said: ”It was a pleasure to be asked to host the Chamber’s Manufacturing Forum. It’s a real opportunity to benchmark some of our activities with the best business brains in the region, and to gain ideas or thoughts on where we can improve further. It’s difficult to overestimate the importance of Forums such as this and the extended opportunities they present.”

The next event will be held at Worcester, Bosch on Wednesday 27 July and is open to all Chamber members in the manufacturing sector. To book, please email melanieg@hwchamber.co.uk.

July/August 2016

COVERFEATURE

COLLEGE SEEKS TO CREATE THE WOW FACTOR Worcestershire’s plans for a new University Technical College (UTC) seeks to solve one of manufacturing’s biggest challenges by developing the next generation of skilled manufacturers.

UNIVERSITY WILL CHANGE THE CULTURE OF ENGINEERING TRAINING One institution promising to radically reshape the way we develop talent will be Hereford University’s NMiTE (New Model in Technology and Engineering), which is due to open in 2019.

its first intake in 2019, will focus on producing talent for the advanced manufacturing, defence, data/security, agri-engineering and sustainable and smart living technology sectors.

NMiTE, Britain’s first purpose-built university in more than 40 years, aims to change the way engineering is taught to undergraduates to provide employers with the leadership, employability and entrepreneurial skills they say they need.

Its three-year Masters in Engineering – one less year than current courses – aims not only to produce engineers who will be able to adapt to the workplace but also increase the skills of existing employees with degree and Higher Apprenticeship schemes.

The approach, successfully pioneered in America and elsewhere around the globe, teaches students not just engineering but everything from law to politics so that they have a rounded education.

Karen said: “This is a long-term project which will not just meet the needs of employers but also make Herefordshire attractive to companies seeking to set up here. In addition to the attractions of living and working in Herefordshire, the skilled workforce will already be here.”

Karen Usher, the Co-Project Leader, said: “This will be very different and will change the culture of how we teach engineers.

“Employers tell us that undergraduates come to them not only without the ability to apply what they learn from books to real projects but also that they lack employability skills.

“We will teach our students a wide range of subjects so that they can put their work into a wider context, which is what employers are telling us that they want.”

NMiTE, which will have 300 students studying at its city centre campus in

Local law firm Lanyon Bowdler has recently become a founding partner in the University. William Morse, Head of the Hereford office, said: “There are some fantastic opportunities in these sectors, which are a real growth area in the UK, and it’s vital that young people are given the right information so they understand what a career in engineering and manufacturing means in 2016. Through the NMiTE scheme we can show that we can create something world class in Hereford which will have an impact on the rest of the world.”

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

UTCs are government-funded colleges for 14-to-19 year olds that offer a different technical focus and specialism on science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). Worcestershire’s UTC team has worked in collaboration with many partners including Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Worcestershire LEP, Bosch Thermotechnology, Mazak, Malvern Instruments, QinetiQ, Morgan Cars, and Worcestershire County Council.

Employers take an active role in the education provided by UTCs by regularly mentoring students and providing opportunities for work experience in a wide range of areas. In turn, local businesses and higher education providers will benefit from well-rounded young people joining their organisations with the right skills and experience to fulfil their potential.

Students will spend a minimum of 40% of their time on applied technical learning, including working directly with industry and employers on live projects. The skills and knowledge gained through this feeds back into the curriculum and provides students with an all-round applied learning experience.

Leading the bid is Richard Soper, retired Chief Executive of Bosch Thermotechnology. He said: “Worcestershire has a growing business community in the advanced engineering and cybertech sectors and a new UTC in Worcestershire would help to develop the skills required for these businesses.

“By developing our future workforce’s knowledge of STEM subjects, we will help to give our businesses the ‘wow’ factor for young people, as the industry seeks to recruit the future engineers and project managers of tomorrow.

“A new University Technical College for Worcestershire will ensure the long-term development of skills for some of the county’s largest employers and provide younger generations with the experience needed for a successful career in STEM-based employment.”

039

MANUFACTURINGFEATURE

SUPPLYING THE BEST BRANDS IN THE INDUSTRY Allvalves Online Ltd are a Pershore based valve and actuation specialist operating since 2012. Supplying a wide range of products into a variety of industries including water, gas, oil, food and renewable energies.

Allvalves Online work with leading manufacturers around the world including some of the biggest names in the process industry. Allvalves has been built on solid foundations and has used the local Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber have twice acknowledged the growth and performance of the company, first

in 2014 where Allvalves were nominated for 3 business awards and were Highly Commended for Most Promising New Business and again this year were a finalist for 2 business awards.

Allvalves is now looking to expand its business into the US market later this year and plans to grow is partnership with both suppliers and customers around the world. Allvalves will be exhibiting at the world famous Valve World in Dusseldorf in December, having first exhibited in 2014 using the support of the Chamber for a grant.

Allvalves stocks a wide range of valves and offers next day service on most products shown on its globally used website www.allvalves.co.uk.

Tel: +44(0)1386 552369 Email: sales@allvalves.co.uk

Performance Skills Improvement

Looking to achieve increased value from your organisation?

You have survived the recession but how are you planning for growth?

In danger of losing key members of your team to the competition?

Shortage of skills limiting investment in technology/ automation?

Training and employee development as part of retention and motivation?

Efficient business processes exceeding customer expectations?

040

Connectivity: With connectivity being the buzz world of the decade it is easy to lose sight of the basics in driving company profitability through efficient use of resources: achieving sustainable gains in productivity, job satisfaction and employee recognition.

Personnel: A recent survey across manufacturing companies indicated that over three quarters had no personnel succession planning and over 90% did not see employee training as a key component of their business even though over a third planned to invest more in manufacturing technology.

Efficiency: We drive sustainable business improvement, develop people skills and lead project realisation through hands on, analytical alignment of objectives, critical system reviews

focused on results driven implementation; delivering improved customer performance.

Planning: We help you plan for the future growth of your organisation through critical review of the present: where you want to be in the future.

Contact us for a no obligation consultation Mike Gee on 07969 076010 mike@dmg-associates.com www.dmg-associates.com uk.linkedin.com/in/resourceefficiency

July/August 2016

MANUFACTURINGFEATURE

THE IMPORTANCE OF BRAND PERCEPTION When we mention ‘Brand Perception’ we are referring to the impact of a brand’s touch-points on a customer’s perception of the quality and value of the product or business.

A good example would be businesses within the retail, hospitality and food & beverage manufacturing sectors, where the quality of the packaging and bags supplied to the customer has a direct impact on the perception of the brand. We should never underestimate the impact of the ‘look and feel’ of the box or bag in which a product is supplied on the way we judge the product itself.

“You only have to look at the beautiful packaging supplied by some of the world’s leading brands to realise how high-quality packaging makes a lasting impression on customers and directly impacts how the brand is perceived. Poor quality packaging can seriously compromise the perceived value of the product, irrespective of how it compares to the competitors,” comments

Andrew Smith, MD of B Smith Packaging.

“At BSP we believe it is essential to help our customers create the right impression for their businesses or brands by producing high-quality, bespoke packaging and printed bags. Key to our success is our industry knowledge and experience, which ensures that we can offer innovative solutions whilst providing cost savings.”

Established over 50 years ago, B Smith Packaging is a family firm with a mission to provide excellent service and innovative, cost-effective packaging solutions. If you’d like to discuss how to leave a lasting impression on your customers, call Sarah on 01905 757124.

When perception is everything, high-quality packaging leaves a lasting impression.

BSP has a reputation for providing high-quality printed bags and bespoke packaging. With a wealth of industry knowledge, years of experience and contacts around the world, we provide our customers with excellent, innovative and cost-effective packaging solutions.

B Smith Packaging Ltd. Stanier Road, Warndon Worcester WR4 9FE

Call 01905 757 124 to discuss leaving a lasting impression on your customers.

WWW.BSmithpackaging.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

041

Ornua Ad.pdf

14/6/16

14:30:34

MANUFACTURINGFEATURE

Say hello to the food industry’s most exciting new ingredient.

Welcome to Ornua Ingredients UK C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Last year, the Irish Dairy Board re-branded as Ornua. At the start of this year, two of its most innovative subsidiaries – Meadow Cheese and The Cheese Warehouse – merged to become Ornua Ingredients UK. It’s a union that has created one of Europe’s most exciting new businesses. With an enviable track record for quality, customer service, NPD and always being one step ahead of consumer demand, Ornua Ingredients UK is set to deliver an ambitious new benchmark for dairy solutions to the worlds of both food service and food manufacturing. +44 (0) 1531 631 300 enquiries.ledbury@ornua.com ornuaingredientsuk.com

Hazel Park, Dymock Road, Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 2JQ

PROTECT ALL FOUR WHEELS FOR LESS THAN IT NORMALLY COSTS TO REFURBISH JUST ONE! n Protect your wheels from kerb damage n Suits 98% of wheel and tyre combinations Tyres can be changed with AlloyGators in place Suitable for run-fl at tyres n Protects tyre wall from damage For more information visit

www.alloygator.com or call us on 08450 707078

PROTECT ENHANCE CUSTOMISE

042

July/August 2016

TEAM BUILDING AT EAsTNor

Inspiring scenery, testing challenges and an environment where everyone is on an equal footing: it’s the Eastnor recipe for turning individuals into a true team.

To find out more just call us on 01531 638779, email eastnorevents@landroverexperience.com or visit www.eastnor.landroverexperience.co.uk QUOTE: CCMA16.

Land Rover Experience Eastnor. The Bothy, Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 1RL. 01531 638779. eastnorevents@landroverexperience.com. www.eastnor.landroverexperience.co.uk

VISITHEREFORDSHIRE

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS Eastnor Castle, the spectacular venue for the Tourism Awards for Excellence

TOURISM AWARDS RETURN TO HEREFORDSHIRE! It has been a few years since Herefordshire has held a dedicated awards ceremony to celebrate tourism businesses in the county. This year however, for the first time, Visit Herefordshire is joining forces with Visit Worcestershire to hold the Tourism Awards for Excellence, to celebrate the the two counties’ best accommodation providers, events and attractions.

Applications are now open for businesses in ten categories and can be downloaded from www. visitworcestershire.org/awards or www. visitherefordshire.co.uk/awards. All finalists will be invited to an exclusive ceremony on Tuesday 20 September

held in the Great Hall of the magnificent Eastnor Castle, where the dramatic 60-foot high ceiling will provide a stunning backdrop for over 100 guests.

The Winners, Highly Commended and Commended from each county will be announced at the ceremony.

As well as local recognition, finalists may also be entered in to the 2017 VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, providing the opportunity of national recognition.

The deadline for applications is Friday 22 July. If you know of an award winning business or are one yourself we would love you to enter!

WILTON COURT RESTAURANT WIN Wilton Court Restaurant with rooms, Ross-on-Wye, has once again been recognised as “Restaurant of the Year” in the “Forester Business Awards” 2016.

The award was presented to Head Chef Rachael Williams and Assistant Manager Stef Marshall at the awards Gala dinner, held at the Bells Hotel & Forest of Dean Golf and Bowls Club.

Owners Roger and Helen Wynn are absolutely delighted at Wilton Court’s hat trick of awards, which include maintaining their 5 Gold Stars and 2 Rosettes after their AA inspection. They have also recently been awarded a Gold Award from

044

L-R Steph Marshall, Helen Wynn and Rachael Williams

Visit Wales for 2016.

Helen said “It is the teamwork and all the hard work that everyone puts in that makes it happen. We are very proud”.

Queenswood Country Park was recently the venue for a very special celebration, marking the eightieth anniversary of the gifting of the site to the people of Herefordshire.

The highlight of the event was the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by Christopher James, Vice Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire. He was joined by representatives from the Leominster Girl Guides, who helped plant some of the original trees on the site in 1936.

Members of the public browsed the many stalls, watched chain saw carving and wood whittling, made nest boxes to take home and enjoyed guided walks led by the two site rangers. The WildPlay team from Herefordshire Wildlife Trust were also busy helping children make regal capes and wild flower crowns. www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

BREWERY LAUNCHES 1985 At the heart of Wye Valley Brewery’s business is its core range of traditionally brewed real ales: HPA, Butty Bach, Wye Valley Bitter, Golden Ale, Wholesome Stout and, most recently, The Hopfather. In addition to its much loved beer brands, an exciting departure for the brewery is the launch of their lager 1985. As with all Wye Valley Brewery products, 1985 is traditionally made using the finest ingredients, including locally grown Pilot hops, Wye Valley Brewery’s own ale yeast and Extra Pale Maris Otter barley.

1985 was officially launched on Thursday 9 June and will be available in a pub near you soon. www.wyevalleybrewery.co.uk

www.wiltoncourthotel.com

July/August 2016

VISITWORCESTERSHIRE

Witley Court, one of the venues visited by Creative England

The grand Flotilla in honour of HM The Queen’s birthday

THOUSANDS CELEBRATE THE QUEEN’S 90TH BIRTHDAY The River Severn in Worcester hosted the centre piece of a weekend of celebrations on Saturday 11 June, with dozens of boats joining a grand flotilla sailing from the South Quay. The event was officially opened by Olympic rower Zac Purchase MBE, who went to school in Worcester. The boats, ranging from canoes through to dragon boats and river cruisers, travelled towards the Diglis before returning to the North Quay near Worcester Rowing Club.

Spectators enjoyed music by local bands and artists who lined the river banks, creating a party atmosphere.

The Hive played host to musical performances by members of the Worcestershire Symphony Orchestra and Link Top Notes, as well as a recorder consort and a special celebratory film. Guests also enjoyed royal story time and some beautiful limited edition cakes.

Worcester Foodie 2015 Chef Richard Fox

ENJOY SOME TASTY TREATS AT WORCESTER FOODIE FESTIVAL The Worcester Foodie Festival returns from Friday 29 - Sunday 31 July, bigger and better than ever before. Guests can look forward to an extension of the festival with an additional day, and enjoying over 50 stalls offering delicious food and drink from local businesses and selected specialist producers. Throughout the festival, there will also be the chance to take part in food and drink matching sessions, cookery demonstrations and master class workshops by a variety of well-established chefs.

Live music, street entertainment, competitions, face painting and fun activities will make sure that there is something for all the family at this celebration of all things tasty. The event will be taking place throughout the city centre and admission is free. www.worcesterfoodiefestival.com

#OMGB - HOME OF AMAZING MOMENTS Visit Britain’s new national campaign aims to inspire more people to come and experience Britain’s culture and countryside, through starting a global social conversation. Using the hashtag #OMGB (Oh My Great Britain!), people are encouraged to share their amazing and unique British moments on social media. Your #OMGB moment is unique to you; it can be anything from enjoying the spectacular view from the top of the Malvern Hills, sharing Elgar’s inspiration

at Spetchley gardens or enjoying some locally prepared food at your favourite pub.

The campaign has two aims; encouraging UK residents to take holidays at home by inspiring them with stunning images of the fantastic experiences on offer and targeting visitors from Brazil, China, France, Germany and the USA through fresh storytelling. The campaign aims to raise awareness of the range of activities and experiences in Britain’s key cities whilst highlighting them as gateways to Britain’s idyllic countryside.

WORCESTERSHIRE IN THE SPOTLIGHT Creative England spent two days exploring the county with Visit Worcestershire in May to identify filming locations for feature films, dramas, TV series and commercials.

A not-for-profit organisation, Creative England is dedicated to the growth of the creative industries. It works with a wide range of partners and investors, from Google, Facebook and KPMG to local authorities, cultural bodies and universities, national government and the European Commission.

The organisation also manages and maintains a database of filming locations, from grand manor houses to commercial office blocks, rolling countryside to city back streets.

Creative England explored a number of destinations in and outside Worcester city centre, including Worcester’s Guildhall, the Commandery, several National Trust Properties, Witley Court, Severn Valley Railway and Malvern Priory.

Over 65 Worcestershire locations are already registered, if you would like to register your venue visit www. creativeengland.co.uk

http://en.omgb.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

045

WORCESTERSHIREBUSINESSCENTRAL

WHAT SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE FOR MY BUSINESS? The range of support for the Worcestershire business community is varied. Worcestershire Business Central, the Growth Hub for Worcestershire, signposts businesses to assistance and advice most relevant to their respective commercial needs.

Through the two case studies below we focus on just two of the many packages which have already benefitted numerous Worcestershire companies.

SUPPORT FOR NEW START UP When asked what advice she would give to anyone thinking of starting a small business, Elizabeth Bytheway of Severn Valley Training and Medical Services simply responds “DO IT!” Worcestershire Business Central signposted Elizabeth to Enterprising Worcestershire’s Business Start Up Support. Through accessing this scheme, which is delivered by Blue Orchid, Elizabeth was able to develop her business knowledge and skills.

As part of the programme she also received individual support from local Blue Orchid Business Adviser, Chris Bargman, who helped build her confidence and guide her through the

business planning process.

Elizabeth said “It’s important that this type of support is provided to give people the chance in life to set up a business on their own and to build on their confidence to do it. I would like to say thank you for the support I have received from Blue Orchid.”

Borough Council.

Since the launch of her business in January 2016, Severn Valley Training and Medical Services has delivered First Aid training to many local businesses including Hills Ford in Kidderminster and Malvern, as well as providing event medical cover for Kidderminster Harriers Football Club and Redditch

Enterprising Worcestershire is a programme of business support that is provided by Worcestershire County Council and part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

The programme provides free support to encourage new business start-ups and help young businesses grow and thrive.

The team from Severn Valley Training and Medical Services

SUPPORT FOR AN EXISTING BUSINESS Specialising in document and data comparison software, Malvern based DeltaXML has grown organically since its foundation in 2000. At the time of meeting with Worcestershire Business Central, the company was already contemplating a review of their marketing activity. When the service offered by "GetSet for Growth" was referenced, it seemed opportune.

GetSet For Growth provide funded and flexible programmes of marketing master classes and expert 1:1 advice tailored to the clients requirements.

Working with businesses in the county, it helps companies review and prioritise

046

their marketing activity in line with their business plan.

DeltaXML has a global Blue Chip client base. Working closely with GetSet for Growth, they developed a focussed and effective digital marketing strategy.

Clare McKee, Senior Marketing Advisor at GetSet for Growth, explains: “The internal management team at DeltaXML were keen to embrace digital marketing as a smart and efficient way to reach and acquire new clients.”

Robin La Fontaine, Managing Director, added: “Due to our growth, it is not unusual for us to have vacancies for

The team from DeltaXML

good software developers. At present however, we also have an additional requirement for a summer marketing intern to implement some of the recommendations. This position is a direct result of working with “GetSet for Growth”.

July/August 2016

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

TIME TO TALK ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH AT WORK There are 15.2 million reasons why we need to talk about mental health in the work place.

is why many companies are investing in wellbeing programmes to improve both physical and mental health at work.

This is the number of working days lost to stress, anxiety and depression each year.

Together they are the third most common reason for sickness absence. Studies have also shown that at any one time, one in six people in the workplace will be suffering from a recognised mental health condition.

So, if you haven’t yet had to deal with an employee with a mental health issue, the likelihood is you will in the future.

There are also legal reasons why employers need a greater awareness of mental health. Mental health conditions are recognised as disabilities within the scope of the Equality Act 2010. The Act makes it illegal for employers to treat employees with a mental health condition less favourably than other employees and requires them to make “reasonable adjustments” to accommodate an employee with such a disability. Employers also have a common law duty of care to prevent harm to employees and this extends to the impact of stress in the work place.

There is also a strong business case for promoting good mental health at work.

Employees that are well-motivated, feel good about the organisation and are not stressed, are more productive, have less time off and are less likely to leave. This

In getting to grips with the issue, one of the first challenges we face is that most people would rather have root-canal work than talk about their own or a colleague’s mental health. It’s simply too much of a taboo, too embarrassing and they don’t

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

have the skills to do it. So, some basic training for managers is a good starting point – they need some familiarity with the common conditions, to know the right way to talk to their staff about their mental health and how to support a staff member with a problem.

Enable Works offers Mental Health Awareness training courses for both managers and staff.

Simon Tandy is a Director at Evesham based Occupational Therapists, Enable Works T: 01386 839427 E: simon@enableworks.co.uk

047

VISIT

St George’s Park, School Street, St Georges, Telford, TF2 9LL

EMAIL

admin.stgeorges@rotherwood-group.co.uk

Part of the Rotherwood Group

a newMORE standard healthcare DISCOVER ABOUT OURinHOMES AND VALUES:

www.rotherwood-healthcare.co.uk

If you’d like to arrange a viewing or just need some advice - we’re here to help:

01 952 61 9 8 5 0

Individual rooms all with en-suite VISIT

24-hour care and nursing support

St George’s Park, School Street, St Georges, Telford, TF2 9LL

Reminiscence & sensory relaxation rooms EMAIL

admin.stgeorges@rotherwood-group.co.uk

A Person Centred Approach to care

D I S C O V E R M O R E A B O U T O U R H O M E S A N D VA L U E S :

www.rotherwood-healthcare.co.uk

Beauty, treatment & hair salon Dedicated dementia unit

Individual rooms all with en-suite 24-hour care and nursing support

In-house cinema

Reminiscence & sensory relaxation rooms A Person Centred Approach to care Beauty, treatment & hair salon Dedicated dementia unit In-house cinema

St George’s Park is proud to be recommended by St George’s Park is proud to be recommended by 048

July/August 2016

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

ST GEORGE’S PARK NURSING HOME HAS A BRAND NEW DEMENTIA SUITE It’s an exciting time for Rotherwood Healthcare (formerly Claridge Nursing Homes) who

Last year merged with business partners Fennell Financial to broaden their offering and define a new standard in healthcare.

The Group has already secured and refurbished St George’s Park in Telford which now has a state of the art Dementia Suite - aptly named the Acorn Suite after the brand’s oak leaf logo. The renovations bring the Telford home in line with the exemplary standards established in the Hereford homes: Lynhales Hall, Gwen Walford House and Hampton Grange -

which was recently awarded ‘number one nursing home in the West Midlands’ by carehome.co.uk.

The focus of the new Acorn Suite will be to offer a high quality clinical service that delivers the tried-and-tested Tom Kitwood model. Designed to focus on the person and emphasise individuality, this Person Centred Approach gives a greater quality of life to the resident without the use of psychotropic medication.

Richard Claridge, CEO of Rotherwood Group, had this to say: “We believe that improvements in wellbeing will not only benefit the resident but will also improve the interaction between the resident and their respective families and friends.”

The refurbishment to St George’s Oak Suite has also been extensive. The bedrooms, communal areas, dining rooms,

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

corridors and main reception have been meticulously redesigned to be compliant with CQC regulations but also maintain the home-like feel which has become a trademark of Rotherwood Group’s developments; who firmly believe that ‘A Person Centred Approach’ to care should permeate every decision made about the homes within their management.

Richard Claridge, also had this to say: “It’s really satisfying to see St George’s Park fully refurbished and offering such exceptional dementia care facilities. Our new look represents our commitment to define a new standard in healthcare as we operate outside of Herefordshire for the first time in our history. Now that St George’s Park has been revitalised I feel incredibly proud to see the golden Rotherwood oak leaves above the door.”

049

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

ARE YOU FIRST AID COMPLIANT? these courses we deliver regular Half Day Refresher courses to stop First Aid skill fade.

This statement doesn’t seem important, but it is!

n Business closure by the HSE (temporary or permanent)

Andrew Fay established Independent Medical Solutions in 2002 and with a team of trainers we deliver the Gold standards in First Aid training, we are a Registered Training Centre accredited by Qualsafe (the Ofqual official UK-recognised accreditation organisation).

n Prosecution - including in extreme cases prosecution for Corporate Manslaughter.

CHAMBER MEMBER OFFERS

Once the first aiders are in place, we usually find that companies are more aware of keeping there first aid kits up to date buying more advanced equipment such as Automated external defibrillators this in turn sends messages out to the workforce saying that they are worth investing in.

n 3% Discount for a QA Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work Requalification course (QCF)

Since the changes by the HSE in 2013, we are finding that more companies are unclear about how to complete their First Aid Needs assessment. It is the responsibility of the employer to get it right. Gone are the days of how many people employed to how many first aiders required.

One way to find out is to complete our calculator on the home page of our website www.imsfirstaid.com, this will inform you of how many and what type of first aiders you require for your company.

Failure to get this right and comply with these regulations could result in: n Insurance fraud n A hefty fine

n Litigation

Although you will never change the diehard office dinosaur in their views (it will never happen to me or I don’t want you touching me if I go.) If it does happen to them, they or their families are the first to complain if and when they recover.

As Independent Medical Solutions we offer a wide range of courses that can be delivered in-house at your convenience or we have regular open courses delivering either 1 day Basic Emergency First Aid at Work, 3 day Initial Full First Aid at Work and when you have completed

n 5% Discount for a QA Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work course (QCF)

n 3% Discount for a QA Level 2 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work course (QCF) Further information on our range of courses please contact me on Tel: 01527 457527 Info@imsfirstaid.com www.imsfirstaid.com

Independent Medical Solutions

Limited

THE SUPPORT YOU NEED TO SUCCEED Advanced manufacturers need specialist professional support to help them to thrive in a fiercely competitive market and Harrison Clark Rickerbys’ new advanced manufacturing team provides exactly that.

The recently-launched team, unique in the region, draws together legal experts to advise on everything from intellectual property (IP) protection and health and safety to tax.

050

Because innovation and technology lie at the sector’s heart, the firm’s IP expertise, including the ability to register patents, is invaluable. A new application or approach can give a business the competitive edge, so protecting IP is essential, particularly when looking to manufacture overseas or license technology abroad, which presents fresh challenges.

Health and safety responsibilities are onerous, and our regulatory specialists can guide businesses through the complexities.

We can also ensure that they receive the tax relief available through Patent Box or research and development.

for advanced manufacturers, including corporate, commercial, property, litigation, employment and insolvency, we can support advanced manufacturing business owners and directors personally too, with expertise in family law, wills and probate and residential conveyancing.

To find out how we can help you to succeed, contact Robert Capper, head of the advanced manufacturing sector team, at rcapper@hcrlaw.com.

As well a full range of business services

July/August 2016

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

LOOKING TO GET NOTICED? THEN YOU NEED BIG HELPING through creative ideas and memorable communications.

Are you looking to get your business noticed? Do you need striking branding that allows you to stand out from the rest of your competitors?

That might be a logo, a brochure or a website or it could be e-shots, in-store promotions, vehicle livery, billboards and radio adverts, anything to get you noticed.

Then Big Helping is for you, bringing as it does the dynamism of a London creative agency to Worcestershire without the London prices.

The team at Big Helping are hard-working, experienced and friendly, an approach that guarantees great service and value for money.

The agency, which specialises in creating eye-catching branding, was set up in London in 2010 by Tim and Georgina Worsley, who had extensive experience of working with big name companies.

Seeking to expand the business and looking to build their own house near where Tim was brought up, they moved to offices just off Worcester High Street in 2012.

It all starts with being creative. By using Big Helping you ensure a cohesive look, feel and message to everything you do to promote your business.

Big Helping, which employs five people and plans to move to larger premises off High Street, has worked with a range of big names, everyone from Virgin Media and fashion brand Quba & Co to the Football League and the Rugby League as well as a growing number of Worcestershire businesses.

It’s a fact - creative brands get noticed! So talk to Big Helping.

Tel: 01905 298 90 tim@bighelping.com bighelping.com

They approach each project with fresh eyes and help build brands

WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO HELP MAKE YOUR COMPANY INNOVATIVE? n Create networks – As Bill Joy once said, “Not all the smart people work for you.” While networking can be time consuming an uncomfortable for some people, building and sustaining an active network of people and organisations can bring numerous rewards.

Successful companies continually find ways to offer new or improved products, services and business process to their customers. How can your business find new ideas and technologies and turn them into assets to offer business growth?

The real voyage of innovation is not in seeking new horizons but seeing the horizon in a new light. n Open channels – The best leaders listen. Ensure you are listening to your customer’s feedback, your employee’s thoughts and keep up to date with what is happening in your field or industry.

An R&D department isn’t the only place a great idea can materialize from.

L – R Adrian Pargeter: Head of Technical & Marketing and Linzi Hobbs: Technical Processing Manager of Kingspan Insulation receiving the 2016 H&W CoC Excellence In Innovation award Sponsored by Central Technology Belt from CEO Alan White.

If you want to open channels, push boundaries and create networks, then Central Technology Belt offers its Technology Intersect service. Used by businesses both large and small, it focuses on making astute connections between innovators and can vastly accelerate the innovation process delivering successful innovation reliably and safely.

Contact Central Technology Belt on 01684 585276 or email info@centraltechnologybelt. com.

n Push boundaries – Being innovative often involves an element of risk. Be prepared to break with the norm and aim to question conventional wisdom that can restrict your thinking.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

051

INTERNATIONALTRADE

GALVANIZING FIRM STRENGTHENS GROWTH

Exports of branded food and non-alcoholic drinks grew by 0.9% to £4.63bn in 2015, representing the 15th year of consecutive growth.

A leading Hereford-based steel galvanizing firm is set to improve production and achieve a turnover of £5.5 million by the end of 2016 after investing in new machinery and updating its transport fleet.

While overall exports fell by £0.6bn to £12.3bn in 2015, the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) is expecting that to change in 2016, particularly with the pound weak against the euro and dollar.

Chocolate, salmon and cheese remain the top three export product categories, while exports of vegetables, both prepared and fresh, experienced the largest increase in overall growth, up £18m in 2015 to £336.3m.

Hereford Galvanizers Limited was founded in 1964 and specialises in the corrosion protection of steel products. The company primarily works with companies in the construction, agriculture and manufacturing sectors, but also completes smaller projects for many local sculptors and blacksmiths.

With support of a £140,000 asset finance facility from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, the company has invested in a new 10 metre long hot dip galvanising kettle. This will ensure that the company can maintain its high levels of customer service following a 25 per cent upturn in production over the past two years.

The funding was also used to buy a new 44 tonne Euro 6 lorry, which will increase the efficiency with which the firm transports products across the country.

David Watkins, Managing Director at Hereford Galvanizers, said: “Speed and efficiency is an essential part of the service we offer clients, and boosting our fleet has enabled us to ensure that we are providing the best possible service to our customers throughout Central England and South Wales.

UK EXPORTS OF BRANDED FOOD AND DRINKS GROW

Non-EU markets now buy 30.8% of the UK’s total branded food and non-alcoholic drink exports. The value of exports to non-EU markets was up 6.4% on 2014 figures, with double-digit growth seen in Saudi Arabia, Japan and Australia.

(L-R Clockwise) Lesley Williams – Lloyds Bank Asset Finance, David Watkins – Hereford Galvanizers (MD), David Williams – Lloyds Bank Relationship Manager and Michele Jackson – Hereford Galvanizers (FD).

David Williams, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Asset finance facilities are ideal for companies that are looking to expand, as it allows them to invest in new machinery quickly, without affecting day-to-day cash flow.

“We are dedicated to supporting small firms that are looking to capitalise on growth opportunities, and have pledged to increase lending to small businesses by £1 billion net by 2017.”

Exports to China grew by 9%, the first time that the world’s most populated nation entered the UK’s list of top 10 overseas trade partners.

Angela Coleshill, Director of Competitiveness at FDF, said: “What these statistics show is that there is a real appetite for British products across the globe, where our food and drink products are recognised for being high quality, safe and innovative. We need to make sure small and medium-sized food companies in particular are helped to compete in the fiercely competitive global marketplace.” www.fdf.org.uk/exports/ukexports.aspx

MASTERCLASS: EXPORT ESSENTIALS Businesses in the early stages of exporting are invited to a free master class event.

Tailored towards companies who are new to exporting, this workshop will cover the essential elements of exporting and help you develop the basis for your export strategy.

052

Date: Tuesday 30 August Time: 9.00am – 4.00pm Venue: Open Space Rooms - Upper Interfields Malvern, WR14 1JT Cost: Free This workshop has been designed to allow you to take a strategic view of

your company and help you focus on your objectives for doing business in new international markets. As well as providing you with a grounding in the fundamental principles of international trade, you will benefit from sharing in the planning process with other business

July/August 2016

INTERNATIONALTRADE

EXPORTERS CELEBRATE WITH QUEEN’S AWARDS recognised with the UK’s highest accolade for business success is a reflection on the whole business.”

It is the third time in five years that Bromsgrove-based Winsted Ltd, which designs, manufactures and delivers control room furniture solutions, has been awarded the accolade.

General Manager Terry Shough said: “Achieving this award again in such a short space of time confirms the company’s position as a leading supplier within our industry.”

Orchard Valley Foods’ Export Team

Three Worcestershire companies have been recognised in the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise for their exporting success: Winsted Ltd, Orchard Valley Foods, and Kudos Blends Ltd. Kudos Blends, of Cleobuey Mortimer, which specialises in technically driven bakery raising agents, was recognised for its growing international sales.

Director Dinnie Jordan said: “I never imagined we’d export our products when I set up Kudos Blends and it’s been a steep but enjoyable learning curve with invaluable support from UKTI.” Tenbury Wells based Orchard Valley Foods has celebrated year-on-year growth in its export of confections, decorations and inclusions and now trades with 30 overseas markets.

Chairman Mike Forrester said: “We are very proud of the team’s achievements and dedication to make Orchard Valley Foods a truly international supplier. To be

APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2017 AWARDS ARE NOW OPEN Businesses are now being encouraged to apply for the 2017 Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, widely recognised as the most prestigious business awards in the country.

For more information, visit www.gov.uk/ queens-awards-for-enterprise/overview.

Those looking to achieve overseas success should take advantage of the online resource www.exportingisgreat.gov.uk to register for webinars, twitter talks, access expert advice and apply for one of the nearly 2000 export opportunities currently available. Businesses are also encouraged to speak to a local International Trade Advisor, who can support and mentor you through the application process. To find out more, contact Alison Avery at alison.avery@ mobile.ukti.gov.uk or call 01905 673 623.

GETTING PAID FOR EXPORTS For any business, getting paid is a prime consideration. But what can you do to ensure that an overseas buyer pays you on time?

Before you enter into a transaction, it’s worth speaking to an International Trade Advisor, who will provide you with the background you need about the market you are entering.

It is worth doing a few checks to ensure that your buyer is creditworthy – make some checks and follow up any trade references, and ask yourself if you have a sufficiently secure method of payment. It’s also a good idea to see if credit insurance would be beneficial.

If English isn’t your client’s first language, a lack of communication might hinder the process. To help smooth the transaction, we recommend using a locally based agent or employee, who will ensure that any contact is clear and unambiguous.

Minimise any potential problems by drawing up a sales contract that ensures all parties are clear about their responsibilities when it comes to movement of goods and ultimate payment. Once shipped, it may be difficult for the exporter to recover goods in the event of non payment.

When negotiating payment terms, there are four key methods to consider: n Advance payment n Documentary letter of credit n Bills and / or documents for collection n Open account terms

leaders. You will be accompanied by UKTI advisors and have the chance to raise any current issues you face.

export finance and getting paid, international contracts and developing a strategic international trade plan.

The event will cover market research, market selection, product to service tailoring, routes to market, international communication, shipping documentation,

For more information and to book, visit www.uktimasterclasses.eventbrite.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

To find out more why not attend one of our master classes – www. uktimasterclasses.eventbrite.co.uk or contact your local International Trade Advisor at alison.avery@ mobile.ukti.gov.uk

053

OUTANDABOUT

PARTNERS FOR WILDLIFE Herefordshire Wildlife Trust are not only passionate about wildlife and the beautiful landscapes of Herefordshire but also about people.

We want to inspire others to engage more with the natural world around them and show how getting out into nature is good for people’s wellbeing too.

There are all sorts of ways that we can connect with people from chatting about what we do while out and about at events, running fantastic activities and workshops or producing an eye-catching leaflet that makes them stop and think. But sometimes we need a like-minded partner to help us to make it happen.

We know that our beautiful countryside and urban oases of green space – and the wildlife that lives there – are important to lots of businesses who put the environment at the heart of what they do. This year, we’ve teamed up with the

fantastic Wye Valley Brewery who have helped us create a wonderful Pollinator experience which we use to spread the word about these most important and fascinating of insects at events around the county. With a big top tent, giveaways, activities and factsheets, their support is helping us to inspire people to take direct action for wildlife across the county.

wildlife in their community or support our work across Herefordshire’s Living Landscapes the better! So if your business is wild about wildlife get in touch on 01432 356872 to discuss our partnership opportunities.

But the more people, young and old, that we can enthuse to take action for

Telephone 01432 370514 Email info@rural-concierge.co.uk www.rural-concierge.co.uk

Short Breaks

Local Days Out

Coach Holidays

Bespoke Holidays

Organised Day Trips

Looking for a short break or day trip?

Visit Rural Concierge in Hereford Butter Market to arrange the best trip for you!

054

July/August 2016

OUTANDABOUT

PLAN YOUR CELEBRATION – CHRISTMAS, COUNTRYSIDE, ATMOSPHERE AND CRAFT! Planning is vital in everything we do in business, so why do we leave staff Christmas parties and family functions until the last minute? Are we just too busy, and Christmas seems like miles away?

But be organised and you will be rewarded.

Jinney Ring Craft Centre in Hanbury is best known for handmade crafts, but over time has also become a special events venue. With a myriad of parties, (including corporate events) in the old barn or gardens; music festivals, charity days and weddings, the business offers a flexible approach to events. Christmas is however still a really important time for the business; unique gifts, Christmas wreaths and trees, and the site lit up like a fairy

tale, inviting parties of all shapes and sizes during the daytime and at night.

Our Jinney Ring Christmas provides fantastic homemade food within a range of options to meet your needs, offering traditional lunches, fine dining and buffets from the counter. For small businesses or family/friends groups there are open Party Nights throughout December, and for bigger groups a private party or dinner night can be truly accommodated in atmospheric surroundings (with a roaring log fire!)

So plan ahead and book your Christmas Party before 31st August and we will treat you to a free bottle of wine per table of ten!

Bookings now being taken. Full details and prices available at www.jinneyring.co.uk or you can call us on 01527 821272 to speak to our Christmas Events Team.

VINEYARD LAUNCHES SUMMER WINE TASTING TOURS Do you fancy a summer afternoon spent touring a vineyard and sampling some of the wines on offer but think that you will have to head to France and Italy to do it?

Then think again because a vineyard in the Frome Valley, near Bishops Frome, in Herefordshire has just launched a series of tours.

Frome Valley Vineyard, which stands on the banks of the River Frome at Paunton, occupies a south-facing slope surrounded by orchards, hop yards and rolling meadows from which it produces classically English still and sparkling wines.

Every vineyard has its own distinctive character shaped by the location, the soils and the climatic conditions and Frome Valley’s warm sheltered site and well-drained silty soil allows it to produce award-winning wines and fizzes.

The tours run until September, starting at 2pm and 4pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons; tours at other times can be arranged by request.

They start with an introduction by owner Jeanie Falconer, who will then take you through the demonstration vineyard and the main vineyard when visitors will learn about the grapes grown in our valley, the vineyard’s year and the specialist skills

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

required to produce a quality harvest.

Finally, it’s back to the winery to taste the range of award-winning wines and fizz currently available and the opportunity to buy a selection of what you like!

The tour finishes with a visit to the shop where visitors will be able to buy from a selection of the vineyard’s wines and award-winning fizzes.

What better way could there be to enjoy a lazy summer afternoon?

Tours cost £12 per person and if you wish to book a place, you can do so through the vineyard’s website at www.fromevalleyvineyard.co.uk or call on 07886 700976.

055

COMMERCIALPROPERTY THE MOST EXPERIENCED COMMERCIAL PROPERTY TEAM IN THE REGION

HELPING BUSINESSES THROUGH THE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY MAZE

GJS DILLON OPENS NEW DROITWICH OFFICE AS HEADQUARTERS

n

Worcestershire commercial property consultancy GJS Dillon Limited has opened a new office in Droitwich to act as its headquarters. The firm of Chartered Surveyors will retain its current offices in Bromsgrove and Worcester.

n

The new Droitwich office is an integral part of GJS Dillon’s growth plans as it approaches the end of its sixth year in business.

The new office at 7 Roman Way Business Park, Droitwich, will house the firm’s accounts, management and valuation teams and other central functions, and allow GJS Dillon to better serve the Droitwich, Wyre Forest, and Pershore/Evesham commercial property markets which are very strong at present.

“We have always offered a comprehensive commercial property service with unrivalled geographical coverage throughout Worcestershire and along the M5 and A38 corridors,” says John Dillon, Managing Director of GJS Dillon.

n n n n n n

Sales & Lettings Acquisitions Management Dilapidations Surveys Rent Reviews Investment Advice Valuations

John Dillon

Bill Fellows

Visit our website for a full list of available properties

www.gjsdillon.co.uk

Jonathan Mountford

Bromsgrove Office

Head Office

Worcester Office

13 New Road Bromsgrove B60 2JG

7 Roman Way Business Centre, Droitwich WR9 9AJ

9 Edgar Street Worcester WR1 2LR

01527 872525

01905 676169

01905 28684

To Let For enquiries please call

• New & Refurbished Industrial Units • Pleasant and Convenient Location

01384 569556 or 01299 822731

Wilden Industrial Estates Wilden lane, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 9JY

d Industrial Units enquiries@wildenestates.co.uk venient Location 056

wildenestates.co.uk

July/August 2016

advert for Chamber magazine June 2016_Layout 1 06/06/2016 15:38 Page 1

Fab Promotional Products that get your brand noticed YOUR PRINT D I S P L AY & PROMOTION SPECIALISTS

Enhance your marketing activity with some giveaways & business gifts from our huge range of items See www.sbprint.co.uk for details

or ask us for a catalogue & some FREE goodies!

BROOKES CATERING Brookes Catering is based in Norton, Worcester.

As a company we pride ourselves on meeting the needs of all individuals and helping to ensure that you receive the personal touch to any of your catering requirements whether these are personal or business. Brookes Catering is well established and has been trading for 15 years and has recently received once again a 5 star hygiene rating.

A new menu that has just be launched this month is: Assorted Filled Wraps

01886 812160 • rachael@sbprint.co.uk

Mini Cornish pasties

LOW COST, FLEXIBLE,

OFFICE AND WORKSHOP

SPACE IN REDDITCH.

Goats cheese and red onion tart

LOW COST, FLEXIBLE, Chic

ken tikka skewers with Mint OFFICE WORKSHOP yoghurtAND dip

SPACE IN REDDITCH. Savory cream cheese and Red onion marmalade scones Crisps

Brookes Catering offers catering for a lots of events such as:

REDDITCH business centres • Easy In Easy Out Terms

• Short Term Licences

• No Legal Fees

• Conference Rooms

• Wi-Fi

• Secretarial Services

• 24 Hour Access

• Free Parking

• Close to Motorway Links

• No Hidden Costs

• Electric Car Charging Point

01527 517165

info@nwedr.org.uk www.redditchbc.gov.uk/businesscentres

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

n Corporate buffets n Weddings n Dinners

n Canape Parties n Corporate event catering

REDDITCH business centres Within Brookes Catering we are currently undergoing a new look with our website. We are creating The a morenext accessible and user move forfriendly your company website with downloadable menus. Please keep an eye out for the new look on the website www.brookescatering.co.uk 01527 517165

businesscentres@redditchbc.gov.uk www.redditchbc.gov.uk/businesscentres

For more information, questions or quotes please OPENtoFOR BUSINESS do not hesitate contact us on either 01905 356282 or info@brookescatering.co.uk 057

CONFERENCEWORCESTERSHIRE

www.visitworcestershire.org/conference-meetings.aspx

A PREMIER VENUE FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS STRIKING VENUE WITH IDYLLIC VIEWS The striking Three Counties Centre, purpose built for conferences and exhibitions, opened only in 2011. It is a versatile venue that can host events attracting 2,000 people to tens of thousands, depending on what organisers require.

The space has been described as “a blank canvas�, an apt description for a venue which can be customised in a variety of ways. It can stage anything from small conferences to fundraising balls, trade shows, photo shoots, fashion shows and large vehicle exhibitions.

Severn Hall, the largest space on the ground floor, can accommodate exhibitions, business expos and large conferences. The Linden Suite, connected to Severn Hall, can be used as a breakout area or hired independently. Connected, in turn, to the Linden Suite is the Leadon Suite, suitable for board meetings or seminars.

For more information please contact Claire Amott, Venue Hire Co-Ordinator at claire@ threecounties.co.uk or 01684 584927. www.threecounties.co.uk

058

The Hawthorns, home of West Bromwich Albion Football Club, is a fantastic contemporary venue for any conferencing needs, whilst also being one of the most accessible venues in the country. The Hawthorns is located within a 10 minute drive from Birmingham City Centre and only two minutes from the extensive motorway network in the Midlands.

If you require a private meeting space for up to eight people or a larger space for up to 300 guests and anything in between, The Hawthorns is an ideal venue. The Hawthorns boasts a wide range of function rooms, designed with comfort, versatility and optimum performance in mind to ensure

The Millichip Suite

maximum client satisfaction. With over 300 complimentary car parking spaces, a diverse range of food and refreshment options and a dedicated team of event staff to look after all of your event needs, The Hawthorns really is a premier venue.

For more information please view our online brochure or call 0871 271 9820 to speak to a member of our team. www.wbaconferences.co.uk

ENDLESS OPPORTUNITIES AT SEVERN VALLEY RAILWAY The purpose built conference and meeting facilities at the Engine House Visitor Centre, Highley, offers event space for up to 200 delegates and allows for privacy and freedom to create the perfect delegate experience.

ensure delegates will feel relaxed as they take in the magnificent views and scenery along the way.

To find out more about what the Severn Valley Railway has to offer please contact the Central Conference Office on 01746 862387 or email sue.horsley@svrlive.co.uk. www.svr.co.uk

Whether looking for a flexible meeting space, an inspirational venue or a venue which provides the perfect balance of business and pleasure, the Severn Valley Railway can provide options that are seemingly endless.

The extensive selection of leisure activities, including footplate experiences, afternoon cream tea on board one of the luxurious Observation Saloons or a full dining experience on board one of our vintage dining carriages enjoying a three course silver service lunch will

July/August 2016

YOUR CAR AWAITS...

YOUR CAR AWAITS...

Happy Day Cars offer a first class VIP chauffeur service for every purpose and occasion for the whole of Hereford & Worcestershire. We offer a superb fleet of modern executive vehicles and smartly-presented chauffeurs who you will always find to be reliable, polite and punctual. The team exude enthusiasm to provide a high quality, stress-free service that is second to none, but also competitively priced.

A wide range of services are available including:

Our trained and experienced chauffeurs are chosen for their punctuality, Happy Day a firstknowledge class VIP chauffeur every purpose driving skillsCars andoffer extensive of the bestservice routes,forand it should and occasion for the whole of Hereford & Worcestershire.

We offer a superb go without saying that all our vehicles are air-conditioned, non-smoking fleet of modern executive vehicles and smartly-presented chauffeurs who and fully insured. you will always find to be reliable, polite and punctual. The team exude enthusiasm to provide a high quality, stress-free service that is second to none, but also competitively priced.

Airport meet & greet A wide range of services are available including: Theatre trips

Our trained and experienced chauffeurs are chosen for their punctuality, driving skills and extensive knowledge of the best routes, and it should Why notsaying givethatTim call toarediscuss yournon-smoking go without all ouravehicles air-conditioned, and fully insured. on 01905 409222 requirements

City transfers Sporting events Business events

City transfers Weddings & Birthdays Sporting events Business events Airport meet & greet Theatre trips www.happydaycars.co.uk Weddings & Birthdays

CHARITYNEWS

CURO’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATED TENFOLD Bromsgrove based Curo Chartered Accountants are currently celebrating their 10th year in business with 10 challenges in their “10 for 10” mission for charity.

Tiany Milnes with Holy Trinity School pupils enjoying the Race For Life Event.

KIDDERMINSTER STUDENTS RAISE £1600 FOR RACE FOR LIFE

Their first challenge started with Chris Townsend’s cycle across the Cotswolds for the NSPCC, with further activities completed such as the Higgs & Sons football tournament in aid of the Stroke Association, a “Memory Mile” swim for Alzheimer’s Society and a Sight Concern “Colour Run”. www.curoca.co.uk

Kidderminster school students not only reached their fundraising target of £750 for a Race for Life event, they smashed it, raising a whopping £1,633.

www.ely-memorial-fund.org.uk

www.holytrinity.co.uk

www.hopefamilycentre.org

Friends and colleagues gathered together for a triumphant Coffee and cake morning in aid of ELY Memorial, a charity which supports parents who have lost a child aged 17-25 in a car accident. Organised

by Kidwells House and Cartridge World, a fantastic £200 was raised.

There are many events coming up to support the charity, including a golf day in July and regular car boot sales.

She said: “It was a really fun day and I am over the moon that we managed to raise as much as we did. All of my classmates had a really great time.”

The Hope Family Centre in Bromyard, which supports children, families, individuals and the community, has been awarded nearly £70k to help develop and invest in the sustainability of the charity’s future. The Cabinet Office has awarded them a 12 month grant as part of the Local Sustainability Funding programme administered by the Big Lottery, which will be used to take the organisation forward by implementing skills analysis and management training programmes as well as securing and improving office communication systems and CRM.

ELY MEMORIAL COFFEE MORNING SUCCESS

As well as offering a one off payment of £2000 to assist with funeral costs, the charity works with a number of organisations to educate and inform about driver awareness and the importance of making a will.

Tiany Milnes, a Year 8 pupil at Holy Trinity, was inspired to set up the charity event after her grandmother, Sue Chance, survived two cancer battles.

HOPE FAMILY CENTRE AWARDED £70K

L-R: Diane Rogers from Kidwells Law, Angela Tyler from Ely Memorial Fund and Cathryn Basden from Cartridge World.

Peter James, Tom Newell, MD of Station Auto Service Limited and Louis Benton

CHARITY RECEIVES ALMOST £3000 Station Auto Service Limited, based in Hereford, kindly nominated the County Air Ambulance Trust UK’s HELP Appeal for a chance to receive a donation from the Ari Masterserve Foundation.

The cheque of £2885 was presented to Louis Benton of the County Air Ambulance Trust by Peter James, ARI UK Network Development Manager and Tom Newell, Managing Director of Station Auto Services Limited.

JMDA CREATE A STIR WITH 25TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS Worcestershire based award winning product design agency, JMDA, are pleased to be celebrating their 25th year in business. To mark the occasion, they have become Corporate Sponsors of Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby.

Wooden Spoon are one of the country’s largest funders of respite and medical treatment centres, sensory rooms, specialist playgrounds, sports activity areas and community based programmes. With a series of events, including a raft race, marathon, golf day and clay pigeon shoot, JMDA aim to donate a significant figure to the Worcestershire region. www.jmdadesign.com

www.stationautos.co.uk

060

July/August 2016

FOCUSONCHARITY

CAN YOU HEAR ME? HEARING LOSS is a hidden disabling condition and affects most people at some point in their lives: If not ‘you’ it will be a relative, friend, neighbour, work colleague.

If you know someone who needs help contact Deaf Direct.

?

Deaf Direct can help provide: Information, Advice and Advocacy: Interpreters, Lip Readers, Note Takers: Training in Deaf Awareness, British Sign Language (BSL), Lip Reading: Assistive Technology assessments and equipment: Outreach Support: Children/Young People Activity Breaks: Elderly People Support: Deaf/Hard of Hearing Social/Community Groups.

We are building a sustainable future for Deaf Direct in what are difficult economic circumstances and we would like to request your consideration of supporting Deaf Direct:

Deaf Direct is a registered charity and the only user led specialist voluntary organisation working with Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Deaf Blind people across Herefordshire, Worcestershire Oxfordshire and surrounding counties.

Make a Donation! Please see ‘MY DONATE’ on our website www.deafdirect.org.uk this can be Gift Aided. Donations large or small are much appreciated.

1 in 6 people suffer with hearing loss which means up to 95,000 people in Worcestershire and 31,000 people in Herefordshire.

Business Community Support: We can provide your workforce with Deaf Awareness training or Interpreters at events or for employees.

HOW CAN YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE? Please contact info@deafdirect.org.uk / training@deafdirect.org.uk or on 01905 746301

Make MakeaaDifference Difference ….. …..Volunteer!

Volunteer!

Volunteering not only changes the lives of the people we work with, but it can change yours too!

Volunteering not only changes the lives of the people we work with, but it can change yours too!

Reconnections

Reconnections

Reconnections aims to Reconnections aims to support lonely older support lonely older people across people across Worcestershire by Worcestershire by connecting them with connecting them with interests and activities interests and activities in their local area. We in their local area. We are are looking forfor people looking people whowho could spare a a could spare small amount of of time small amount time every week to to help every week help make a life lessless lonely. make a life lonely. @AgeUKHW @AgeUKHW

Home from Hospital

Home from Hospital

After a stay in Aftermany a stayolder in hospital hospital many people feel older peopleisolated feel vulnerable, vulnerable, isolated and unable to cope and unable to cope with day to day life. with day to day life.

We are looking for We are looking for people who can people who can support supportolder olderpeople people totoregain regaintheir their independence independenceand and improve improvetheir theirquality quality ofoflife. life.

Footcare Assistants Footcare Assistants

Our footcare service Our footcare service provides regular toe provides regular toe nail cutting to older nail cutting to older people who are people who are struggling to manage struggling to manage their own footcare. their own footcare.

We are looking for We are looking for people could people who who could provide this service in provide this service in people’s homes or at people’s homes or at clinics South of of clinics in in the the South Worcestershire.

Worcestershire.

Professional Support

Professional Support To help us identify

To help us identify older people who older people who need our services, we need our services, we also look for also look for individuals who can individuals who can offer skills and offer skills and experience in experience in supporting rolessuch such supporting roles as: photographers, as: photographers, digitalmedia mediaexperts, experts, digital marketers and data marketers and data inputters. inputters.

What we offer

What we offer 

Training

 Training  Personal  Personal Development Development  Expenses  Expenses  Events and Social  Events and Social Activities Activities  DBS checks  DBS checks  Flexible roles  Flexible roles  Office and  Office and community based community based roles roles And much more…  And much more…

Tofind findout out more, more, please To please contact contactus: us: Tel: 01905 740950Email: Email:volunteering@ageukhw.org.uk volunteering@ageukhw.org.uk Website: Tel: 01905 740950 Website:www.ageukhw.org.uk www.ageukhw.org.uk MalvernGate, Gate,Bromwich Bromwich Road, Malvern Road, Worcester.

Worcester.WR2 WR24BN 4BN Charity No: No: 1080545 Charity 1080545

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

061

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

01299 266610 info@affinityvehicleleasing.com

BRAND NEW CARS & VANS ON FINANCE FROM £89 PER MONTH

HUGE DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE

NO COST FOR YOUR ORGANISATION

NO DEPOSIT DEALS AVAILABLE

Recent popular models include...

Vauxhall Adam Slam 1.4

VW Polo 5 door GTi

Seat Leon 5 door Cupra

Most makes and models available - something to suit everyone.

Contact us to discuss current special offers or for quotes to suit your financial and motoring needs.

01299 266610

062

“

info@affinityvehicleleasing.com

“

Quote parameters can be varied to suit driving and finance needs. Images are for illustration only and other colours and models are available. Finance provided to suit credit history: credit issues need to be disclosed from the outset to ensure appropriate finance suppliers are used.

affinityvehicleleasing.com unique code Networking

We’re on our way thanks to Affinity

July/August 2016

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

ARE YOU SPENDING A FORTUNE KEEPING YOUR CAR OR VAN ON THE ROAD? can deliver a number of models from WOULD YOU LIKE TO DRIVE A DISCOUNTED BRAND NEW VEHICLE? stock. However if you would like a car or You may have never considered driving a brand new car or van and paying for it monthly, but with discounts of up to 50%, monthly prices starting at £89 and no deposit deals available, now is the time to contact Affinity Leasing.

HWCC MEMBERS BENEFIT Bewdley based Affinity Leasing offers brand new cars and light commercial vehicles on monthly finance with discounts of up to 50%. Supplied direct from the manufacturer, with full manufactures’ warranty, Chamber members are able to source new vehicles for personal or business use.

IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY If you need a new vehicle in a hurry, we

van with optional extras to suit you, the discounts are still available on factory orders.

NO DEPOSIT NEEDED Affinity Leasing Director, Michelle Howles explains “many monthly finance deals are advertised with large initial payments. The majority of our deals have no deposit at all, ideal if you are facing expensive repairs on your existing vehicle, it has failed an MOT or if it has just reached the end of the road!”

chose to have a straightforward lease and hand back (PCH), the option to buy at the end (PCP) or traditional hire purchase (HP). Companies can select from contract hire and hire purchase.

To discuss any aspects of this scheme or for quotes to suit your financial and motoring needs, with no obligation, call free on 01299 266610, email info@ affinityvehicleleasing.com or visit www. affinityvehicleleasing.com/members/ hereford-and-worcester-chamber-ofcommerce and log in with the unique code 'Networking'.

FULL MANUFACTURER WARRANTY INCLUDED Whether you have a personal or business deal, every vehicle is covered by the full manufacturer’s warranty. Individuals can

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

063

MEMBERSSERVICES

MAXIMISE YOUR MEMBERSHIP HR & LEGAL HELPLINE . NETWORKING EVENTS . DISCOUNTED TRAINING . ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY .

BUSINESS DIRECTION MAGAZINE . DISCOUNTED EXPORT DOCUMENTATION . MEMBER TO MEMBER OFFERS

UPCOMING MEMBERSHIP EVENTS Open Door – First Wednesday of each month from 5:30–7:30pm at Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Severn House, Prescott Drive, Worcester WR4 9NE. Meet the team for a chat about Chamber services and how they can support your business.

Maximise your Membership – Friday 19 August from 8:30–11am at Worcestershire Cricket Club, New Road, Worcester, WR2 4QQ. Hear from the Chamber membership team and Chief Executive about getting the most out of your membership and enjoy networking opportunities.

Book online at www.hwchamber. co.uk/events or contact your Account Manager

MEET THE TEAM

Chris Fox, Recruiter at RWB Global with Jo Till, Director at GTAccess and Alison Holmes, Regional Director of RWB Global at the Chamber’s March Expo

NETWORKING WORKS As newcomers to Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, RWB Global Recruitment attended a Maximise Your Membership event earlier this year.

Rachel Gent Business Development Manager rachelg@hwchamber.co.uk 01905 673 632

Sonia Meyrick Business Relationship Manager Worcestershire soiniam@hwchamber.co.uk 01905 673 640

Joanie Roberts Business Relationship Manager Herefordshire joanier@hwchamber.co.uk 01432 803 237

“We were very keen to meet other like-minded businesses in the area and find out how our membership could be used to its full potential”, commented Alison Holmes, Regional Director of RWB Global.

“We found great value in the speed networking where we had a two minute conversation with Jo Till from GTAccess Ltd.” Due to business growth, GTAccess were seeking to fill a specialised role from a very limited pool of qualified people. RWB Global quickly identified the right “person fit” in addition to the skills requirement and through headhunting found the successful candidate.

Robyn Rooney Business Development Executive Worcestershire robynr@hwchamber.co.uk 01905 673 641

Cornel Hrisca-Munn Business Development Executive Worcestershire cornelh@hwchamber.co.uk 01905 673 594

Rosie Boulanger Business Development Executive Herefordshire rosieb@hwchamber.co.uk 01432 803 238

COME AND SEE US AT MAXIMISE YOUR MEMBERSHIP AND OPEN DOOR

064

Jo Till, Director at GTAccess Ltd said: “Our chance meeting with RWB really did prove that networking does work. They understood the brief for the job role and found us our ideal candidate, with attention to detail on our company needs.” www.gtaccess.co.uk www.rwbglobal.com

July/August 2016

BUSINESSNEWS

What do I do when I am owed money?

There are various different types of debt, perhaps you are a landlord owed rent by a tenant, a business owed a sum for goods or services or an individual who provided a loan at a time of need.

STREET SIXES TOURNAMENT Worcestershire Cricket and partners are running the county’s first ever street sixes tournament on Tuesday 19 July. The tournament aims to bring corporates from across the county to take part in a fun and fast format which is aimed at all sexes and abilities, from complete beginners to past cricketers. From your CEO to your office cleaner, cricket aims to bring everyone together to build team spirit and play where there are “no ball games allowed”.

The competition aims to have fun and to raise funds to take cricket into disadvantaged communities. If you would like to enter a work team visit the website below. www.worcestershirestreetsixes.co.uk

LA ROCHE RESTORATION TAKE TO THE SCREENS Two of the La Roche Restoration team joined a few famous faces recently to help out on the popular BBC show DIY SOS. Raphael and Wayne spent four days working alongside many talented and dedicated volunteers as the show was filmed in Monmouth.

“It was a totally amazing experience and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any tradesperson, we were so lucky to be able to be involved in such a worthwhile project”, said La Roche Restoration Proprietor and Head of Operations Raphael La Roche. www.LaRoche-Restoration.co.uk

ERESPONSE TAKE DIPLOMA TO THE USA eResponse Crowd Safety has announced it is set to launch its Level 5 Diploma in Crowd Science and Risk Analysis into the United States market.

The qualification, which is designed for people who plan and manage the movement of people at large scale events and festivals, was launched by eResponse Crowd Safety in Australia last year. It has since seen over 300 people across the world achieving what is considered one of the industry’s top qualifications.

The three-day course will launch in September and will be delivered in a joint venture with American-based The Crowd Management Company. www.crowdsafetytraining.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

The starting point is to ensure that you keep accurate records, retain documents of how, why and when the debt came about, keep a note of any discussions with your Debtor concerning repayment, be aware of your Debtor’s personal circumstances i.e. is there a reason why they are not able pay.

You can then consider notifying your Debtor of what will happen when or if they fail to pay, usually reminders and statements of account are issued as a matter of course, it might be worthwhile writing a letter of claim or making a follow up call. Let your Debtor know if you are considering any legal action and throughout the recovery action keep your Debtor up to date with any additional arrears or monies due.

When contacting your Debtor, think about whether you would be prepared to offer a repayment plan and whether any alternative payment methods for instance debit/credit card or online payment through a secure website might expedite matters. An agreed payment plan should be realistic as to what your Debtor can afford but should at the same time result in the debt being paid to you.

If the Debtor does not engage with your efforts of recovery, question whether the Debtor can’t pay or won’t pay. The difference being is that the latter will require more robust action to prompt payment. In cases of rent arrears, landlords can proceed down the eviction route. Individuals and businesses may consider County Court Proceedings or insolvency action.

Should you be contemplating legal action, Kidwells offer a free initial consultation where we can advise on the likely costs and outcome for your specific debt.

For further information: Catherine Rolls - Litigation 01432 278 279 cr@kidwellssolicitors.co.uk www.kidwellssolicitors.co.uk 065

NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH BROMSGROVE

The Friday Beer Company

Persora Limited

NFU Mutual Bromsgrove

www.thefridaybeer.com

www.persora.com

TxtLocal Ltd

The Cabin (Worcester) LTD

01684 572 648

01386 556 161

01527 810 550

www.nfumutual.co.uk/branches/bromsgrove

DROITWICH Fairfield Labels Limited

01905 794 779

www.fairfieldgroup.com

PC Matthews Solutions Ltd T/A Steak Festival

01905 676 199

www.steak-festival.com

01244 752 299

01905 612 525

www.txtlocal.com

REDDITCH

The Dispute Resolution Lawyer (Ellis Hass & Co Solicitors)

DSL (UK) Ltd

www.ehsolicitors.co.uk

01527 543 672

07775 620 067

www.dsluk.net

OUT OF AREA

Force 3 Security Ltd

BCRS Business Loans Limited

www.force3security.co.uk

www.bcrs.org.uk

MPC Redditch Ltd

Hale Events Ltd

www.mpc-redditch.co.uk

www.hale-events.com

ROSS-ON-WYE

KR Electrical/Products Ltd

Optishade Ltd

www.kr-electrical-products.co.uk

01527 585 282

0345 313 8410

HEREFORD Iqarus Training Ltd

01432 355 964 www.iqarus.com

La Roche Restoration

07783 693 119

www.LaRoche-Restoration.co.uk

01527 623 61

01989 565 608

Like Radio

STOURPORT-ON-SEVERN

www.likeradiouk.com

Midland Accountancy Group

07973 720 554

01299 534 500 Moovit4u

01432 276 233 www.moovit4u.co.uk

WORCESTER Chroberka Contracting

01934 733 433

01451 821 236 MS Society

0208 438 0943 www.mssociety.org.uk

Roar Media Group Limited

07428 244 604

www.roarmedia.co.uk

The Royal Bank Of Scotland

01905 758 619

Royal Life Saving Society

www.rbs.co.uk

PA Services Worcester T/A Smart PA

www,rlss.org.uk

Toferris Consultants Limited

www.smart-pa.com

01432 357 264

0300 3230 096

01905 691 919

07450 446 161 www.toferris.co.uk

KIDDERMINSTER Rico Industrial Services Ltd

01584 811 716

www.ricoservices.co.uk

LEDBURY Eastnor Castle Estates Co

01531 636 321

www.clyonsproperty.co.uk

LEOMINSTER Mayglothling Waste Ltd

01544 230 364

www.mayglothlingwaste.co.uk

MHL Fabrications

07974 240 442 www.mhlfabrications.co.uk

MALVERN Ice Quest

01684 575 222 www.icequest.co.uk

066

July/August 2016

NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH Julie and Lucie from Julu Ltd

2Faced Dance, Dreaming in Code

INNOVATIVE AND ARTISTIC DANCE Hereford based 2Faced Dance Company produces innovative, accomplished and inspirational artistic performance and participation programmes alongside a captivating community dance programme.

Their work truly reflects the landscape in which they are based, allowing them to tell new and original stories, generate distinctive new work, whilst striving to stay relevant to their audiences.

The company tours extensively across the UK and internationally, aiming to work with cutting edge and culturally diverse designers, venues, organisations and people. They aim to support and mentor local artists whilst advocating on behalf of the wider dance sector and challenging and inspiring different sectors of society. In 2015, the company was nominated as Best Independent Company at the National Dance Awards.

Current and past productions and projects include RUN, Dreaming In Code, KAPOW, Two Old Men, Out of His Skin, 7.0, Still Breathing and more.

The company also runs extensive community and education programmes, reaching over 200 children each week.

Alastair Shortland, CEO of TextLocal

EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS FOR THE HOME

SMS – A MASSIVE OPPORTUNITY FOR BUSINESS

Julu Ltd was set up in 2010 by Julia Adams and Lucie Savidge to bring to the market place an idea Lucie had designed for her own home.

The Laundry Ladder, a simple yet effective wooden airer with an ingenious wall mounted design, was launched at the Flavours of Hereford in 2014.

In 2005, Alastair Shortland started Textlocal from his two bedroom house in Malvern. Since then, over 165,000 users have sent more than one billion SMS messages using Textlocal’s Messenger platform.

The girls have learnt a lot on this journey and have faced several challenges, including being told the Laundry Ladder would not be made in the UK. However, this only made them more determined. Finding manufacturers has been the most difficult part of the process; the need for a quality product at a price to work at retail and allow margins for the wholesale side of the business whilst remaining favourable for the end customer.

The Laundry Ladder is selling well in the UK and Julu continue to learn and grow their business looking to Europe and beyond. www.juluhome.co.uk

www.2faceddance.co.uk

SMS presents a massive opportunity for businesses, offering the chance to build relationships through instant communication. Whether it’s a restaurant or retailer boosting loyalty with special offers, a dentist delivering appointment reminders or a courier providing tracking information; the range of uses is vast.

The humble text message also offers dynamic features such as the ability to insert website links, attach files, forms or vouchers. In fact, 47% of businesses will have a mobile database in excess of 10,000 names by 2017, compared to 32% in 2013.

Textlocal has been listed as a Media Momentum Top 20 fastest growing digital agency for consecutive years, awarded a DMA Honours for innovation, as well as a place in the Deloitte Technology Fast 50 and Sunday Times Tech Track 100. www.txtlocal.com

STEAK FESTIVAL CREATIVE DIGITAL AGENCY Steak Festival are a digital agency providing Web design and development, based in Droitwich Spa. We’re proud members of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and joined when it became apparent that networking is essential to raise the profile of our business. With 1400+ members, the Chamber is the

perfect platform to achieve this.

Our talented team of developers and designers are passionate about delivering quality and affordable Websites, Web apps, Facebook and Twitter pages and HTML emails.

We produce some amazing ecommerce, brochure & intranet sites, graphic design and Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) for clients of all types & sizes. Specialising

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

in WordPress, Magento and .NET solutions, we strive to keep pace with changing technologies. We also work closely with other agencies and independent designers/developers.

Please get in touch if you need digital support, or come and see us for a great cup of Lavazza coffee at our Victoria Square offices! www.steak-festival.com

067

MOVERSANDSHAKERS Caroline & Martin

BIG HELPING ARRIVE IN WORCESTER Tim and George Worsley have moved their design, branding and advertising agency from London to Worcester.

After a 12 years stint in London designing for a multitude of exciting brands in sport, property and retail, Tim Creative Director and George - Managing Director, wanted to move out and set up their business and family life in Worcestershire.

This small, yet ambitious team build brands and create memorable communications by mixing hard work, value for money and plenty of experience. They are keen to get to know and get involved with local businesses. www.bighelping.com

CAROLINE SMALE, BISHOP FLEMING A Partner at one of the UK’s fastest growing Top 40 accountants, Bishop Fleming, has been re-elected to the Practice Committee of the profession’s national body.

Caroline Smale joined Bishop Fleming as a graduate trainee in 1988 and became the firm’s Compliance Director in 2005.

She was promoted to Technical and Training Partner in 2015.

Since June 2013 she has sat on the Practice Committee of the ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales).

Having been re-elected this year, her continuing role on the Practice Committee is to be a representative voice for practice within IPC. www.bishopfleming.co.uk

THREE NEW STARTERS AT BALLARD DALE SYREE WATSON Chartered Accountancy firm Ballard Dale Syree Watson in Droitwich has continued to grow with the appointment of three new members of staff across different departments.

Chartered Tax Advisor and Chartered Accountant Martin Adams joins as Senior Tax Manager whilst payroll specialist, Joanne Walker, joins from an International payroll bureau. Assistant Accountant, Caroline Garrard has joined the Management Accounting department providing management information and compliance services. The firm also welcomed two more members of staff onto its graduate programme in June.

HANNAH TAYLOR, MFG SOLICITORS Agriculture and Rural Affairs expert Hannah Taylor has joined Chamber patrons mfg Solicitors as an Assistant Solicitor. Working closely with Partners Iain Morrison and Susan Morrissy, Hannah is advising the firm’s farming and landowner clients on a variety of issues including planning-related applications, restrictive covenants and easement issues relating to farm properties. www.mfgsolicitors.com

www.ballardsca.com

RICHARD STEELE, BCRS BUSINESS LOANS

Carl, Dinar, Jonathan and James

NEW PROMOTIONS AT HARRISON CLARK RICKERBYS Talented lawyers are taking a step up the career ladder with promotions at Harrison Clark Rickerbys’ Worcester office.

James Lowe, a senior associate in the firm’s licensing and regulatory team, has been promoted to partner. Also taking the next step is Dina Parmar, who becomes a senior associate. Carl Robinson, who

068

works in the firm’s insolvency team, also moves up to associate.

A Midlands based business lender is increasing its support for local entrepreneurs by expanding across the region after lending £30 million to SME’s.

Jonathan Brew, Senior Partner, said: “We aim to nurture talent whenever possible, and promoting those who go the extra mile for their clients is part of that drive; it is always an extra pleasure to promote those who trained and qualified with us.”

The not-for-profit lender with over 14 years’ experience of providing loans to viable businesses across the Midlands has strengthened its business development team with the introduction of Richard Steele, who will support the funding needs of businesses in Birmingham, Leicestershire, Coventry and Warwickshire.

www.hcrlaw.com

www.bcrs.org.uk

ANDY HUTHWAITE, ARRANGEMY Worcester based business travel agency ArrangeMY is proud to announce and welcome Andy Huthwaite as its new Business Development Manager. Andy will join the existing Sales Department focusing on the acquisition of new business.

He joins the arrangeMY team with over 10 years of experience in the Hotel Sales industry. www.arrangemy.com

May/June 2016

MOVERSANDSHAKERS TOP TEAM AT WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL The Leader of Worcestershire County Council, Simon Geraghty, is confident he has a “top team” to improve Worcestershire and to respond to residents’ priorities.

Following Councillor John Campion’s election to become West Mercia’s new Police and Crime Commissioner, Councillor Geraghty has reshuffled his Cabinet.

JENNY CROXALL, FAIRFIELD PENSION TRUSTEES LIMITED Andrew Grierson

DRP TEAM IS GROWING EXPONENTIALLY drp has seen a dramatic growth to the team recently, with three new starters and one in-house promotion. Emily Johnson has joined drp as PR and Social Media Executive, Andrew Grierson as Project Manager, Samuel Kelly as Lead User Experience Designer, and Suzie Blundell has moved from Project Manager to Account Manager.

Fairfield Pension Trustees Limited (previously Hanover Independent Trustees Limited) is pleased to announce that Jenny Croxall, an experienced Pensions Actuary, has been appointed as an Associate.

Jenny joins a growing team to provide further support to clients with trust-based pension schemes.

Jenny has over 14 years of experience in pensions, managing pension schemes and acting as Scheme Actuary. www.fairfieldtrustees.co.uk

Dale Parmenter, Group CEO commented, “drp has seen a rapid growth across all areas of the business in the last two years, and we plan to sustain this growth during 2016.

PAUL STAFFORD, GORDON LUTTON SOLICITORS Gordon Lutton has appointed Consultant Solicitor Paul Stafford to its Dispute Resolution Department at the firm’s Worcester office.

Paul has over 30 years’ experience as a solicitor, handling a wide range of civil and commercial cases. He has a particular interest in insolvency disputes, shareholder and partnership disputes and financial misselling cases.

As an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) qualified mediator, Paul believes in resolving matters without litigation wherever possible.

www.worcestershire.gov.uk

www.gordonlutton.co.uk

www.drpgroup.com

HARRY DAVIES, BLUE SKY CORPORATE FINANCE

CATHERINE JOHNSON, NORTH BROMSGROVE HIGH SCHOOL

Worcestershire based accountancy services and corporate finance provider Blue Sky Corporate Finance has further strengthened its Accountancy Services team with the appointment of Harry Davies.

Catherine Johnson has recently joined North Bromsgrove High School (NBHS) as Business Partnership Manager. Catherine has a unique combination of 13 years sales, marketing and business development experience combined with 10 years teaching experience.

Councillor Andy Roberts joins the Cabinet as the Member with Responsibility for Transformation and Commissioning. Councillor Marc Bayliss takes over from John Campion as the Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Children and Families.

Councillor John Smith is the new Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Health and Well Being and Councillor Marcus Hart becomes Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Highways.

POLLY STRETTON, STRATEGIC PROFESSIONALS

“It is incredibly exciting that Catherine has joined us as we are further developing our links with business and industry and building on our Pre-Apprenticeship Engineering Programme with ADI Ltd” commented Dave Hadley-Pryce, Head Teacher at NBHS.

Strategic Professionals Limited continues to grow with the welcome addition of Polly Stretton (formally Robinson) as Quality Manager. Polly will oversee the standards of our training and learner experience.

As a Management Trainer, Verifier, Writer and former Quality Manager of a leading awarding body organisation, Polly will be a great addition to the team.

www.northbromsgrove.worcs.sch.uk

www.strategicprofessionals.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

HAINES WATTS INVESTS IN FUTURE TALENT

Harry will be responsible for supporting both existing and future Blue Sky clients in a bookkeeping capacity.

Haines Watts have applied a long term strategy to the problem of talent shortages in Hereford by investing in the training and development of three new employees who they hope will be their stars of the future.

As local ICAEW accredited Chartered Accountants, Blue Sky provide a wealth of knowledge that can benefit small and medium sized businesses. We offer a comprehensive one-to-one accountancy service with the aim to help our clients minimise costs and free up valuable time.

The accountancy firm recently welcomed Accounts Trainee, Jamie Adams, Tax Trainee, Jodie Hart and Apprentice Administrator, Oliver Deakin.

All have embraced their new roles with enthusiasm and are already making an important contribution to the success of the firm.

www.blueskycf.com

www.hwca.com

069

Dir ec tio n

Bu sin ess

LASTWORD

EXPORT – THE FOCUS OF THE NEXT BUSINESS DIRECTION In light of Exporting is GREAT week, taking place between Monday 7 and Friday 11 November, September’s theme will be Export. For the Last Word, we spoke to Worcester based Cytoplan, who share their experience of exporting and working with UK Trade & Investment.

WINNERS D AT CELEBRATE ARDS CHAMBER AW British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

PAGE 36

ING MANUFACTUR LOOKS TO THE FUTURE PAGE 38

rce r of Comme THE YEAR 2013 ershire Chambe CHAMBER OF d by Herefordshire & Worcest

Issue 32 2016 July/August

n publishe Business Directio

HOW HAVE UKTI SUPPORTED YOUR EXPORT JOURNEY? The Gateway programme has provided Cytoplan with a number of different opportunities by linking us with UKTI Digital Advice service, EMRS and various embassy and networking contacts. EMRS have helped us rationalise our approach to the different export markets, which has been key in managing limited resource in this area.

The digital advisors provided expertise needed to start on Amazon FBA and they have continued to support us to grow sales on this platform. The UKTI team based at Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce have been a fantastic resource for us in exploring our potential abroad and we continue to work with them as our growth continues.

HOW IMPORTANT IS EXPORT TO YOUR BUSINESS? Cytoplan despatch orders to an ever increasing number of countries throughout the world via our ecommerce platform; both to consumers and health practitioners. Overall, we export to 18 B2B customers in Germany, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Canaries, France, South Africa, Holland, Sweden, Denmark, Ireland, Hungary, Russia, China, Hong Kong, Greece, Cyprus and Romania.

WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK!

Export is a growing sales channel and one that we feel has fantastic opportunity for us to expand much further. The British and European quality standards in the global supplement market are world leading and this is recognised by a lot of current and potential business customers and partners.

WHAT ARE YOUR EXPORT AMBITIONS FOR 2016/17?

In 2016 Cytoplan are looking to increase our export business partners, and we are currently finalising new customers in the USA, Singapore, Poland and Slovenia. Through collaboration with a USA based research institution, we’ve secured a partnership to provide a range of supplements to prevent and treat Dementia. With current plans in the USA, the annual order value in 2017 is estimated to be £500k and to grow rapidly in 2018.

Overall, Export grew by 10% in 2015 and is set to grow by the same in 2016.

Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce has been producing Business Direction for many years, showcasing the latest news stories and achievements from businesses across the two counties and keeping members updated on Events, Training and Policy news.

We want to continue to ensure that the magazine remains a quality source of information for our membership and we would therefore greatly appreciate your feedback through completing a short survey. This information will help us to understand what is good about the publication and how it can be improved.

Please give us your feedback by visiting www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ Business-Direction before Sunday 31 July for the chance to win a free quarter page article in the September/ October edition of Business Direction or two tickets to Worcester Racecourse.

HEREFORDSHIRE & WORCESTERSHIRE CHAMBER GOLF SOCIETY In association with AMROS Golf and West Midlands Business Golf Society The next Charity Golf day is on Wednesday 21 September, sponsored by CB, Chartered Accountants.

Venue: The Vale Golf & Country Club Charity: Acorns Hospice For more information and to book visit www.amrosgolf.co.uk, email sales@amrosgolf.co.uk or phone Neil Bettridge on 07792 620355

We’d love to hear the latest news and achievements from your business - please email your stories to: businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk by Monday 1 August. For more information visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/business-direction

070

July/August 2016

5%

discount

Pilot Your Own StarChip Business

Our services are so well received in the local Villages, Care Homes, Weddings, Christening, Parties, Christmas Parties, Corporate Events, Festivals and many more.

StarChip Enterprise is searching the galaxy for applications from potential franchisees to set up and launch their StarChip Fish & Chip FranchiseStarChips serving their own quadrant of the Milky Way. Follow our Captain’s Log giving you all the information needed to become a successful business in the shortest possible time, safe in the knowledge you will have unrivalled

support and training - your success is also our success!

Contact us via our website or give us a call to receive a free no-obligation prospectus detailing:

Your earnings potential

Your capital outlay

What your business will be like

The support you will receive

TEL: 01386 570 470 MOB: 07854 494 204 info@starchchipenterprise.co.uk www.starchipenterprise.co.uk

When you book our van for your; weddings, christenings, parties anniversaries, Christmas parties and corporate events!

quote “CHAMBER”

Congratulations The Nationwide Caterers Association would like to congratulate Jeff on this fantastic achievement.

Bob Fox (Chairman) said, "We're very proud to see one of our members giving so much to the community and getting the recognition it deserves. Jeff has always run a tight ship and I'm not surprised that he's taken top spot after the drive he showed following the awards last year.

We're thrilled that he can now call himself the best "Mobile Fish & Chip Operator" in the UK. Well done Jeff!".

Legal advice, precision engineered for you and your business Specialist legal services for the advanced manufacturing sector

Contact Robert Capper Head of the Advanced Manufacturing Team

01905 744814 | rcapper@hcrlaw.com | www.hcrlaw.com Offices in: Birmingham | Cheltenham | Hereford | Thames Valley | Worcester | Wye Valley By appointment: London

Local

National

International

Harrison Clark Rickerbys Ltd is authorised and regulated by the SRA