Business Direction 39

Business Direction

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Issue 39 September/October 2017

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FIRSTWORD

SEPTEMBEROCTOBER 2017

ction Business Dire

The autumn looks to be a successful period for local businesses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, with the winners of the Tourism Awards for Excellence 2017 being announced in September. I am pleased to reveal that Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is a finalist in the 2017 World Chambers Competition as chosen by the ICC World Chambers Federation (WCF).

RS BILITYMATTE #SUSTAINA PAGE 45

Issue 39 tober 2017 September/Oc

BUSINESS DIRECTION Business Direction, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s full colour bi-monthly publication. Designed and produced by business people for business people. Distributed to 4,000 businesses.

EDITOR Lucy Allen 01905 673 639 lucya@hwchamber.co.uk

EDITORIAL & SUBSCRIPTIONS businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk 01905 673 639 www.hwchamber.co.uk/busines-direction

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 887 3810 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

ADVERTISING Distinctive Publishing Tel: 0845 884 2333 helen.flintoff@distinctivegroup.co.uk

FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss deangriss@btinternet.com 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 partnership with Worcestershire County Council Public Health, Community First, Sports Partnership Herefordshire & Worcestershire and Worcestershire Regulatory Services for Worcestershire Works Well project has allowed us to work with over 90 active companies, impacting over 25,000 employees, by encouraging and supporting lifestyle changes. We look forward to the awards ceremony that will be held in Sydney, Australia on Thursday 21 September 2017, and we will update you of our progress!

I would like to thank those who completed the Customer Satisfaction Survey. The survey was used to measure how both Members, and Non-members, feel about the services that the Chamber offers. We received positive feedback, particularly regarding our training courses and events. Notable comments from respondents included the Chamber being seen as a knowledgeable, proactive and friendly service to both Members and Non-members.

We look forward to using the feedback to continue to improve our Chamber services.

The Chamber, in association with Hewett Recruitment, has now launched the Salary & Skills Survey, which is set to be the largest bench-marking survey in the two counties. Businesses from across the region are encouraged to get involved in the anonymous and confidential study and by doing so, they will receive an exclusive copy of the report. Due to be published later this autumn, the report will provide businesses with invaluable insight, supporting them in their attempts to secure the best candidates and retain skilled staff.

Sustainability is often at the forefront of business’ minds.

Whether you are implementing new environmental policies, or reducing carbon emissions, energy efficiency measures do not need to be expensive. As part of the Business Energy Efficiency Programme (BEEP) Energy Efficiency Advisors are available to provide free energy assessments on your site. In this issue Liz Rushton, of BEEP, discusses the steps you can take to make your business more sustainable.

First Word

3

Chamber News

4

Business News

5-6

Business News

10

Policy

11

Skills

16

Business News

18

Business News

22

Business News

24

Chamber Training

28-29

Chamber Events

34-35

Big Interview

36-37

Cover Feature

38-39

International Trade

46-47

Visit Worcestershire

52

Visit Herefordshire

53

Worcestershire Business Central 56 Business News

58

Conference Worcestershire

61

Members Services

62

Charity News

64

New Members

66-67

Movers and Shakers

68-69

Last Word

70

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In this edition we also interview Oakland International with regard to their Queen’s Award for Sustainability, finding out just how important sustainability is for your business and the benefits and challenges of becoming more sustainable. We also speak to Swan Brewery, Open Space Rooms, Counterpoint Courses and Olpro.

Sharon sharons@hwchamber.co.uk

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Our Patrons are:

September/October 2017

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

03

CHAMBERNEWS

CHARITY CRICKET TOURNAMENT FOR DISADVANTAGED YOUNG PEOPLE Eight members made up the Chamber Crease Monkeys, who were one of 24 teams on the day playing matches in Angel Place and Broad Street. The event, sponsored by Worcester Ambassadors and Sanlam, was organised to raise money for the Worcestershire Cobham Cricket Trust.

The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce joined businesses from across Worcestershire to take part in the return of the Street Sixes on Monday 10 July.

Through Street Sixes, the Trust aims to help young people develop confidence, leadership and communications skills, as well as helping them to gain valuable experience for when they seek employment in later life.

The Chamber was delighted to take part in the glorious event and we look forward to hearing the total amount of money raised.

SHARON SMITH FOR TALKING NEWSPAPER Sharon Smith, Chief Executive of the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, was delighted to take part in the Talking Newspaper, offered on behalf of the charity Worcester News and Equipment Service for the Blind (WNESB), on Thursday 13 June.

Sharon was joined by a local team to read aloud and discuss the latest headlines in Worcestershire. The Talking Newspaper aims to provide people with information that is informed, up-to-date and covers a wide variety of topics, and is easily accessible to all. The Talking Newspaper was attended by a variety of figures in the two counties, including

the Bishop of Worcester, Robin Walker MP and Sir Nicholas Lechmere.

Local news has always been needed, especially for blind and visually impaired people. The first edition of the Worcester Talking Newspaper was recorded in 1978, and since then it has grown to a number of 100-400 listeners each week.

WNESB, a UK registered charity reliant upon donations, provides listeners with an audio weekly newspaper and a monthly magazine, providing a growing library service of over 3000 talking books. Anyone interested in the Talking Newspaper is invited to contact the charity on 01905 767766.

CHAMBER ANNOUNCED AS FINALISTS IN WORLDWIDE COMPETITION Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce that it has been selected as a finalist for the 2017 World Chamber Competition, as chosen by the ICC World Chambers Federation (WCF).

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Rosie Boulanger (Chamber), Andy Black (Visit Herefordshire) and Charlotte Thomas

NEW ADDRESS FOR HEREFORD OFFICE The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s Hereford office has now officially moved premises. The office is now located at Hereford Business Solutions Centre, Skylon Court, Coldnose Road, Rotherwas, Hereford HR2 6JS. The Chamber hopes that the change will allow it to be more accessible to the local business community, and allow it to work closely with the Marches Growth Hub and the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP). The Hereford office, and Visit Herefordshire, will be sharing the Solutions Centre with Members of the Chamber, including SlySpirit, Zomma Bookkeeping and Cabinco Structures.

SUMMER WEDDING FOR THE CHAMBER The Chamber would like to congratulate Rebekah McKinstry and husband Peter McKinstry on their recent marriage this July.

The Chamber was sad to see Rebekah leave at the end of June of this year, but we wish her all the best with her relocation and adjusting to life as Mrs McKinstry.

Abigail Robbins and Rebekah McKinstry outside the Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber of Commerce is a finalist for the Best Corporate Responsibility (CSR) Project, competing against Chambers from Brazil, Iran and India. The Chamber has been recognised for Worcestershire Works Well, a health and well-being plan that supports local businesses in workplace health promotion, raising awareness of particular health issues and supporting employees to make healthier lifestyle choices.

held in Australia’s Premier Convention Centre on Thursday 21 September. The four competition winners will be awarded a cash prize and global recognition from Chambers of Commerce and the business community.

The winners of all categories will be announced during the Congress Gala Dinner,

www.hwchamber.co.uk/news-opportunities/ chamber-news/finalists

September/October 2017

BUSINESSNEWS

ANJA POTZE WINS HEART OF GOLD AWARD Worcester-based Anja Potze has been named as the UK’s Best Community-Focused Small Business at the inaugural Small Awards 2017.

The fine jewellery business achieved the Heart of Gold Award, which recognises small businesses who contribute to their local community.

The judges commended Anja Potze for their work, stating: “Anja Potze delivers a huge breadth of activity over and above what is required of the business

and stands out as a tour de force in its community.

“Always looking for new ways to support, Anja herself is consistently looking for new ways to deliver her heart of gold.”

The Small Awards recognise the achievements of small businesses in ten categories across multiple sectors including; start-up businesses, family owned, high-street businesses and business-to-business companies. www.anjapotze.com

APEX ELECTRICAL MOVES TO NEW LOCATION

HEWETT’S “VALUES” RECOGNISED AT STAFF AWARDS

Apex Electrical is happy to announce that it is relocating to a bigger and brighter property.

Herefordshire-based Apex Electrical has expanded its team after a successful year for the electrical services company. A newly appointed qualified Electrical Engineer will cater for the domestic, industrial and commercial sectors of the business.

The business is now located at Unit 2, Burnside Court Leominster Enterprise Park, Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 0LX. With an aim to provide excellence and maintain a team of reliable engineers, Apex Electrical would like to thank customers for allowing the company the chance to expand and improve its services. www.apex-electrical.com

DOUBLE AWARD NOMINATION FOR GOUGH BAILEY WRIGHT Worcestershire-based marketing agency Gough Bailey Wright (GBW) has been shortlisted for two prestigious industry awards.

The agency has been shortlisted in The Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) PRide Awards. GBW is up for Best Media Relations for its on-going work with the UK’s leading walking and outdoor holiday specialist, HF Holidays, as well as a Property PR award for its public consultation and political engagement work for the Axis Square development in Birmingham city centre.

The awards will be decided at a glamorous black tie ceremony at The Vox, Resorts World in Birmingham on Friday 10 November 2017.

Hewett’s Annual Family Fun Day and Company Awards took place at the West Midlands Safari Park in July. The team and their families, of both Worcester and Kidderminster offices, enjoyed an entertaining day at Spring Grove House which included a delicious BBQ, games on the lawn and an opportunity to handle a selection of small animals.

The company’s Annual Awards presentation took place later in the afternoon. The award categories were based on the company’s core values: Passion, Innovation, Knowledge, Adaptability, Integrity and Excellence.

Laura Hewett, Commercial Director, commented: “The company awards are always a pleasure to put together. The team nominate each other and it is great to hear the positive comments they give to support their choices - it gives the winners a real boost to be recognised by their peers. This year we had a really even spread of nominations, with everyone receiving at least one nomination, which is testament to the strong team we have here at Hewett’s.” www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

Sue Bailey, Managing Director at GBW, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be shortlisted for these CIPR awards in recognition of the diverse range of work we do for our clients. The nominations are testament to the team’s hard work and we’re really looking forward to the ceremony later this year.” www.gough.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

DIGITAL TAX AMNESTY FOR BUSINESSES Andrew Browne

Top 40 accountants Bishop Fleming have welcomed the brakes being put on Making Tax Digital for business, after the government admitted it needed more time.

from MPs on the Treasury Select Committee calling for a delay of at least one or two years to avoid “putting businesses at risk”.

Andrew Browne, Head of Tax at Bishop Fleming welcomed the tax reporting amnesty and claimed it had been “doubtful in the extreme” that Making Tax Digital would have been ready by next year.

Mr. Browne remarked: “A time for reflection will result in much clearer and better thought through rules to allow for a smoother digital tax revolution and avoid the project becoming Making Tax Diabolical. Whether there will be full compulsory quarterly reporting this side of the next General Election in 2022 appears questionable.”

Earlier this year Bishop Fleming called for a delay in Making Tax Digital, as it appeared “too rushed” and “too unclear”. The firm endorsed a report

NEW CONTRACTOR FOR PUBLIC WORKS FRAMEWORK Speller Metcalfe has successfully been appointed to a new £6bn LHC construction framework, covering new build and refurbishment works for schools and community buildings.

Public sector procurement specialist LHC recently launched the Schools and Community Buildings framework which provides turn-key solutions for any type of building excluding residential.

The framework can be used by local authorities, social landlords and other public sector bodies.

Speller Metcalfe has successfully secured a place on two lots, which encompasses new build and refurbishment projects up to £4m across the Midlands and South West of England as identified by the framework.

Speller Metcalfe’s Group Managing Director, Des O’Neill said: “We are delighted to have secured a place on the LHC framework, with the opportunity of delivering projects within our key regions.

“We look forward to seeing what opportunities this framework will bring.” www.spellermetcalfe.com

www.bishopfleming.co.uk

DJD ARCHITECTS CELEBRATE 30TH ANNIVERSARY DJD Architects are celebrating 30 years in business and working with local communities.

Brian Davies and Michael Watts

SHOBDON VETERANS MEET BY NEW MEMORIAL Two very special guests met at Shobdon Food & Flying Festival this year, 74 years after serving at Shobdon Airfield’s No.5 Glider Training School.

Brian Davies was a Tug Pilot while Michael Watts trained as a Glider Pilot (both pictured).

Michael went on to take part in the D-Day operations and at Arnhem, whereas Brian returned with his wife to make Hereford their home after his retirement.

Shobdon War Memorial was built and dedicated in 2016 to honour all those who served and trained at the airfield The Food & Flying Festival welcomed over 150 visiting aircrafts and 6000 guests, who enjoyed cooking demonstrations, food stands, vintage aircrafts and vehicles and children’s entertainment.

Established by David Davis in 1987, DJD Architects are now a team of ten delivering architectural and building consultancy services to a wide variety of clients across the country from their Worcester office.

David Davis, Managing Director, said: “So far this year we have taken part in Sight Concern’s Blind Walk and a number of the team volunteered at the Wildgoose Rural Training Centre Open Day. We have collected for the Worcester food bank also sponsored the Worcester CAMRA Beer, Cider and Perry Festival which was a great opportunity to meet and greet with our clients, suppliers and team members.

We are fortunate to have a dedicated team who want to help move our business forward and I look forward to seeing what the future holds. I would like to thank my team and all of our clients who have helped grow DJD Architects in the last 30 years”. www.djdgroup.co.uk

Proceeds from the event are shared between the Aero Club, a not-for-profit organisation, and numerous local charities and good causes. www.shobdonairfield.co.uk

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September/October 2017

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BUSINESSNEWS

EBC GROUP COMPLETE LARGE SCALE IT PROJECT WITH MAINSTAY GROUP EBC Group are pleased to announce that they have completed a large scale IT project, which has seen Mainstay Group benefit from a new virtual environment and disaster recovery solution.

Graham Godber, Customer Service & IT Manager at Mainstay Group commented: “We contacted EBC Group to provide a quote for carrying out our core infrastructure upgrades to our IT environment. Right from the beginning I was very impressed with their level of knowledge and how professional their team was.”

increase speed dramatically, eliminate old tape backups and have implemented a full disaster recovery plan, which is actively monitored by EBC Group to ensure Mainstay is constantly available.” www.ebcgroup.co.uk.

Faisal Iqbal, Technical Director at EBC Group adds: “The project itself has been a huge success. We have been able to

WYEVALE NURSERIES SCOOPS SIX AWARDS AT HTA SHOW Staff at Wyevale Nurseries are celebrating after winning three silver awards and three bronze awards for six of its new plants at the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) National Plant Show.

CELEBRATING ARTS FUNDING FOR WORCESTERSHIRE The arts in Worcestershire have been boosted with funding from the Arts Council England.

The Arts Council has selected five organisations to receive four years of funding as part of the National Portfolio Programme.

Stephen Wilson, County Arts Officer, said: “This is fantastic news for the county and the people of Worcestershire. To have five National Portfolio Organisations working in the county is a great achievement.”

Collar and Tie (C&T), Dancefest, Live & Local, Meadow Arts and Vamos will all receive investment for the 2018-22 period.

C&T have been part of the Arts Council’s National Portfolio since its inception.

Paul Sutton, C&T’s Artistic Director said: “This is tremendous news. Arts Council England are our most valued partner, with whom we share values, aspirations and a commitment to excellence.

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Wyevale Nurseries in Hereford won silver awards for its Phormium ‘Blondie’, Morus ‘Mojo Berry’ and Alstroemeria ‘Little Miss Zoe’ and bronze awards for Edelweiss ‘Blossom of Snow’, Agapanthus ‘His Majesty’ and Hydrangea ‘L.A. Dreamin’.

Adam Dunnett, Sales & Marketing Director at Wyevale Nurseries, said: “We’re delighted to be coming away with six awards at the New Plant Awards. During the past six years, the awards have grown and are now seen as the place to find the next best-selling plant for retailers.

“The show is a great place for us to display our new plants for the industry to see and it’s fantastic that six of our new plants have been crowned with awards.”

ESTATE AGENCY CELEBRATES OVER 45 YEARS Andrew Grant is celebrating over 45 years in business. The company employs over 130 people in 14 regional offices, including a London office with headquarters in Worcester.

www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk Adam Dunnett, Wyevale Nurseries

The business has developed by selling town properties and those in the country – from cottages to castles.

“Their continued support will enable us to bring the arts to children and young people in new and innovative ways.”

Now operating throughout Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire and Warwickshire, Andrew Grant puts his success down to employing an enthusiastic and well-trained team as well as through hard work, persistence and integrity.

www.worcestershire.gov.uk

www.andrew-grant.co.uk

September/October 2017

POLICYNEWS

BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE BANK OF ENGLAND With inflation, interest rates and the impact of exchange rates at the forefront of businesses minds, the Chamber is delighted to invite local businesses to attend the Annual Bank of England Breakfast on Friday 29 September, 7.30–9.30am at The Courtyard, Hereford, to hear from Graeme Chaplin, the Bank of England Agent for the West Midlands and Oxfordshire.

NORTH WORCESTERSHIRE FIRMS DISCUSS BREXIT PRIORITIES WITH INTERNATIONAL TRADE MINISTER

Graeme will give his annual update on the Bank’s latest economic forecasts and explain their role in promoting stability in the UK financial sector post-Brexit.

Following the presentation there will be a Q&A session, however due to the confidential nature of this event it will be held under Chatham House rule.

10 CEO’s from North Worcestershire firms gathered during the summer at International Glazing Services (IGS) for a roundtable breakfast with Mark Garnier, the local MP for Wyre Forest and Minister for International Trade.

As well as hearing from the Agent, guests will also have the fantastic opportunity to network with senior business leaders from across the two counties over refreshments and delicious breakfast rolls.

Chamber Members of different sectors and sizes, attended the intimate roundtable discussion to deliberate barriers facing export growth, concerns around Brexit and what they would like to see the government prioritising as they head into EU negotiations.

During the lively discussion, firms

highlighted that their biggest barrier to export growth was uncertainty, followed by being squeezed from the impact of exchange rates and other upfront costs.

While the depreciation of sterling helped make UK exports more competitive, the cost of importing has rocketed and mostly means businesses aren’t benefiting.

When asked what the biggest priority going into negotiations should be, the consensus was that they wanted government to achieve what we already have in terms of our relationship with the EU, instead of new free-trade agreements with other countries.

THE TROUBLESOME TRIO WORRYING BUSINESS: TAX, SKILLS & EXCHANGE RATES The Quarterly Economic Survey results for Q2 shows the highest number of businesses expecting to increase their workforce since 2015. But skills remain a prevalent issue, and with more businesses recruiting than last year, there is going to be even more of a squeeze on the local labour market.

Out of the 55% who attempted to recruit in this quarter, over half of respondents experienced difficulties. Firms continue to struggle finding skilled manual/technical employees (45%), but difficulty in finding professional/managerial staff (42%) has also been on the rise over the last year.

Corporate Taxation also shot up as the biggest concern for local businesses; perhaps as a reaction to a number of financial changes taking place, such as

the Apprenticeship Levy and Immigration charge. In addition to these changes, businesses have also been concerned by the lack of focus on the economy during the general election campaigning earlier this year.

Exchange rates also remain a key concern and it is likely that consumer prices will continue to rise, as the increasing cost of importing raw materials due to the depreciation of sterling and other overheads get passed down the supply chain.

While we have seen a drop in the number of businesses expecting to raise prices, from 41% in Q1 2017 to 33% in Q2, we should not see this as moderating – instead we can infer from conversations with businesses that the prices have already been passed on.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Booking is essential and we urge delegates to book on early to avoid disappointment. Contact Sophia Haywood, Policy Manager on sophiah@hwchamber.co.uk to secure your space.

TAKE PART IN CHAMBER SKILLS & SALARY SURVEY Following exceptional demand from our members, in association with Hewett Recruitment, the Chamber invites businesses to take part in the Salary & Skills Survey 2017 which is set to be the largest salary benchmarking survey in the two counties.

By taking part businesses will receive access to an exclusive report, which will give minimum, maximum and average salaries for a variety of roles, as well as breakdowns on key sectors and geographical areas. This will provide invaluable insight for firms, supporting them in their attempts to secure the best candidates and retain skilled staff.

Contact Sophia Haywood, Policy Manager on sophiah@hwchamber.co.uk to take part. The deadline is Monday 18 September 2017.

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FOCUSONRECRUITMENT

HR PROFESSIONALS CONFERENCE 2017 In association with Hewett Recruitment

Thursday 23rd November 2017 9am-3pm—Bank House Hotel, Bransford, Worcester

The Hewett Recruitment and Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce HR Professionals Conference is back on Thursday 23rd November.

Tickets can now be purchased well in advance for this much anticipated conference which was a sell-out event last year.

The Conference will once again address the most pressing issues facing the HR and business community and is aimed at business owners, leaders and HR professionals who are interested in understanding more about the challenges surrounding HR, people and skills over the coming years.

An impressive line-up of speakers will be headlined by inspirational speaker Kevin Green, Chief Executive of the REC who is back by popular demand. A regular commentator on TV and radio, including the recently televised BBC2’s ‘Who’s the Boss’, Kevin is an authority on the

KEVIN GREEN Chief Executive of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation

UK labour market and always captivates his audience with his insights and knowledge on how employers can best prepare for the changing landscape in the future world of work.

Key note speaker People, the Driver of Business success This year Kevin’s interactive and dynamic presentation will challenge perceptions about what creates value into today’s economy. Kevin will highlight how this is the golden age for HR, but only if they get offensive!

insights into this latest piece of research with delegates.

As one of the leading employment law solicitors in the county Sally Morris, Partner & Head of Employment at mfg Solicitors will be sharing with delegates recent and impending changes to legislation affecting UK businesses as well as updates on recent case law with practical advice on steps for implementation to ensure HR and your organisation are working safely within the law.

HR Masterclass

Louise Hewett, MD of Hewett Recruitment and Director of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation who has recently joined the Future of Jobs Commission chaired

by Rt Hon Esther McVey will share her experience, and

Bernadette Pelster has nearly 20 years HR experience across both the public and private sector and is Chief People Officer for Open GI Ltd, a market leader in the insurance technology industry. Bernie is responsible for the delivery

LOUISE HEWETT

SALLY MORRIS

MD of Hewett Recruitment and Director of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation

Partner & Head of Employment at mfg Solicitors

of HR Transactional Services, Employee Relations, Reward, Learning and Development, Employee Engagement and Internal Communications across the Open GI group and has considerable experience in major system implementations, change management projects, large scale mergers and TUPE programmes.

Bernie will share her knowledge surrounding the importance of employee engagement to customer satisfaction and what we can do in HR to facilitate that. She will be talking about laying the foundations of transactional HR activities to declutter the working day to make room for more value adding activities, using HR technology to assist with this and with wider engagement.

BERNADETTE PELSTER Chief People Officer for Open GI Ltd

To download a booking form visit: www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk/ hr-conference2017 or contact Jo Watkins on: 01562 69090 Tickets priced at £37.50+VAT for Hewett Clients, CIPD & Chamber members, £50+VAT non-members (price includes lunch)

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September/October 2017

FOCUSONGROWTH Sponsored by Minster

FOCUSONSUSTAINABILITY

How Sustainable Is Your Business?

Cloud Technologies Cloud computing allows for a more efficient way of working by storing documents or data online. This helps businesses to eliminate storage waste as it allows them to scale their usage up or down saving them money by only having to pay for what they need. Not only helping with costs, storing in the cloud is much better for the environment as you are able to use smaller devices that require less power to work on and access your files, anytime, anywhere – increasing your mobility.

Using cloud technology also encourages collaborative working as you can share files with multiple people.

A Paperless Office If you're looking for a way to store your documents electronically or want to move towards a paperless office, the Document Management module might be the perfect addition to your Pegasus Opera 3 system. Document Management has five key functions – Capture (from scanned images or electronic files), indexing, retrieval, archive and reporting. This gives an effective way of organising and storing your documents so that you never lose paperwork again. The module makes paper waste reduce significantly and going green has never been simpler.

Cut The Cost Of Printing & Postage With Pegasus Opera 3, you are able to make the most of the 'Email Payslip' feature at no extra cost – not only saving your business money on printing and postage but also helping keep the office environment 'paperless'. The feature is easy to use and saves on admin time, allowing the user to run payroll much more efficiently by emailing payslips or P60's directly to an employee's inbox. This easy-to-use module can be a great asset to your businesses payroll, saving you valuable time whilst keeping your business sustainable.

Traditional Vs Modern Making simple changes to your main IT infrastructure can have a huge impact on the sustainability of your business. For example, swapping traditional PCs to laptops can save up to 80% of electricity alone. Modern laptops are optimised to ensure the battery lasts longer so they don't need the constant power source like a tower PC. Not only this but as they are a more 'mobile' device – they free up space in your office and allow your team to be more flexible. This can be useful if you’ve got a sales team on the road. Laptops are great for saving office space and the planet at the same time!

For more information on how you can keep your IT sustainable please call Minster on 01562 68211 or email info@minstermicro.co.uk Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

READY TO EXPORT, WITH THE RIGHT TEAM As the UK looks to new global markets beyond Brexit, the importance of understanding export opportunities is increasing.

As firms move away from a largely EU-focused strategy, advice on trading in other markets is invaluable.

Taking your company into international markets can be complex, but should not be daunting – Harrison Clark Rickerbys offers in-depth knowledge of international trading rules and our teams can offer insights in different specialised sectors. We can not only negotiate through the maze of regulations and requirements, but we also understand what international markets need and the impact of cultural variations.

We work with our own international network of law firms - chosen because they are as committed to client care as we are – but we also make sure that we keep our own knowledge up to date, maintaining contacts and creating new

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links in different markets to support clients’ exporting ambitions.

Exports are closely regulated, and once a new market has been researched and established, dealing efficiently with the necessary permissions and licenses is an early hurdle to overcome.

One of the fastest growing areas for export is the food and drink sector – guests at one of last year’s Three Counties Big Breakfasts heard about the successes of Westons Cider in countries such as Australia, for instance, and last year Worcestershire firm Kudos Blends won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade Category on the back of soaring international sales.

As we move away from the EU politically, so our trade does too and the figures prove it – according to the Food and Drink Federation, our trade last year with non-EU countries rose by more than our trade with EU nations (15.6 per cent, compared to a 10.4 per cent rise) and last year the EU’s share of our food and drink trade fell by 0.9 per cent, with a corresponding rise for non-EU countries, though the EU still has more than 71 per cent of the sector’s trade.

Nicolas Groffman, Head of International at Harrison Clark Rickerbys, said: “The UK is exporting more and more of its specialist food and drink products, from cheese and cider to highly technical ingredients and even edible insects. There is a wide variety of new markets across the world which are opening up to us, and we are ideally placed to help businesses to make successful links abroad.”

Taking products and services into new markets globally may mean creating joint ventures and partnerships; an understanding of the law in the countries involved is essential so that a foreign investment complements your UK business. Understanding customs requirements and having expert advice to handle problems from warehousing bonds to business terms are vital for successful overseas trade.

Harrison Clark Rickerbys offers a wealth of advice, information and expertise to help exporters achieve successful international deals.

Nicolas can be contacted on ngroffman@hcrlaw.com, on 01905 612001 or 01432 349670.

September/October 2017

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

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Control your alarm system from your mobile wherever you may be; set it and unset it and get notification should it be activated.

Increase your home security by adding a CCTV system that can be viewed on your mobile or PC. Two cameras and recorder installed from £650.00+VAT.* Call today to arrange for a free no obligation quotation and see how we can help you to protect your family and property. Order a CCTV system and an alarm system together and we will give you a £100 discount.* *Prices subject to satisfactory site survey

VALE FIRE AND SECURITY YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR FIRE CCTV INTRUDER ALARMS ACCESS CONTROL Vale Fire & Security Ltd. Unit 4 Brookend Farm, Brookend Lane, Kempsey, Worcs. WR5 3LF

be local. be national. be everywhere.

When you’re thinking of selling your business, we’re your local business broker with a large national presence Selling your business is one of the most important decisions you will make in your lifetime. So it’s vital to plan your exit as soon as you can and, when the time comes to sell, you need to employ the help of experienced business brokers.

Business Partnership has a national network of over 20 regional offices, with your local Regional Partner providing a personal, bespoke service, working with you and your advisors to ensure your business valuation is realistic and achievable.

Not only that, we will handle all aspects of your sale, from valuation through marketing to sale completion, dealing with all enquiries and attending key meetings, as appropriate.

Business Partnership is a well-respected and long-established business transfer agency and is a member of The Hereford & Worcester Chamber of Commerce.

For a no obligation, confidential meeting, please call John Hatt on 01684 591 372, 07768 255 797 or email hatt@business-partnership.com

be T: 0845 8842337 E: info@be-everywhere.co.uk www.be-everywhere.co.uk facebook.com/beworldwideltd

twitter.com/beworldwide

linkedin.com/company/be-everywhere

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

We value your business For more information visit our website: www.business-partnership.com

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SKILLS

A WORKING EDUCATION Kingspan Insulation has been helping students to prepare for the jump from education to full-time working life.

The company invited Year 9 students from Wigmore School to visit its Herefordshire production site as part of their work experience fortnight. During their time on site, they had a chance to learn about a range of roles in different departments including human resources, marketing, research & development and tapered roofing design.

Kingspan Research Chemist, Paul Sykes, also visited Wigmore School as part of

MAZAK WELCOMES AIB Wednesday 26 July saw Mazak open their doors for Apprentices in Business (AiB).

Over 20 apprentices attended the event at the manufacturing plant in Worcester.

Guests enjoyed a chance to network over a delicious buffet of food, before watching a presentation on the history of Mazak and enjoying an informative tour of the factory.

Alexander Raven-Gill, who attended the AiB event, said: “This is the first AiB event that I have come to. Mazak is such a big organisation so when I saw the opportunity to see it firsthand and meet other young people in business, I was already quite interested.

“I was really impressed with the whole event, and I am amazed that nearly everything we use in day-to-day life is made by a Mazak machine. I would recommend AiB to any apprentices or young people in business to attend one of the free events in the future.” www.hwchamber.co.uk/events/apprenticein-business/about-aib

its Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) day. He led Year 7 and 8 pupils in an experiment called the ‘cup test’ – where insulation is created right in front of the student’s eyes in an exothermic reaction – before looking at heat loss from buildings and how insulation works.

Kingspan staff have been carrying out mock interviews to further help students prepare for the first hurdle in the employment process. www.kingspan.com

GCSES IN ENGLAND ARE CHANGING – WHAT IS HAPPENING? Starting this summer with GCSEs English Language, English Literature and Mathematics, students will receive numbers instead of letters as grades.

All other GCSEs will be graded A* to G. GCSEs will be graded 1 - 9, with 9 being the highest grade. There are more grades in the new system than the previous one, which will allow employers to better differentiate between student attainments in each subject.

By 2020 all students taking GCSEs in England will receive only numbered grades. But before then, students will receive both letters and numbers in different subjects.

All businesses need to be familiar with the new system regardless of whether yours is a small family firm or a multinational with access to HR professional expertise, and regardless of sector. If you take on students doing work experience, apprentices or those wanting summer jobs this year, you’ll need to know they will have new grades.

HEREFORD COLLEGE OF ARTS AWARDED SILVER IN NEW TEACHING EXCELLENCE FRAMEWORK Hereford College of Arts (HCA) has received a prestigious endorsement for the quality of its teaching, with a Silver Award in the new Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) panel.

The award is a positive endorsement of the values at the core of the college’s educational approach. The TEF panel praised the innovative teaching practices and commitment to student experience found at many specialist Higher Education institutions, and links to employers and industry.

Abigail Appleton, Principal of Hereford College of Arts, said: “Excellence in teaching and ensuring tutors and technical demonstrators fully support students to explore and develop their creativity, is at the heart of what we do at HCA. We do everything we can to help our students enter the creative economy well-equipped with skills which are relevant, useful, and transformative. The silver TEF award illustrates that students at HCA greatly value their time here.” www.hca.ac.uk

To find out more please visit www.hwchamber.co.uk

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September/October 2017

LEGALMATTERS

BUSINESS IN HEREFORD Frankly, that cannot come soon enough because councils and developers need more clarity if they are to push ahead with the Government’s expressed desire to provide more homes here in Herefordshire.

Business in Hereford is in a really good place right now and that was emphasised at the recent Herefordshire Economic Forum where the mood was positive, optimistic and upbeat.

The event was well-attended with a lot of inspiring discussions about plans to develop the business profile of Herefordshire. One of the biggest developments in the area is of course the new university, so that was a hot topic of conversation at the forum.

There’s no doubt that the New Model in Technology & Engineering (NMiTE) university will be transformational for Hereford, so I was pleased to hear how some of the world’s leading urban planners are advising Herefordshire Tertiary Education Trust about how to maximise the benefits for the whole economy.

Although that objective will always be controversial with some, homelessness and the lack of affordable homes are affecting many people’s lives.

Talking of planning, I recently attended a ‘think tank’ meeting about the direction that planning is taking in the UK at the House of Commons.

The Government has made a statement of its intent to tackle the national housing shortage and rising prices and rents, by announcing its ambition to build one million homes in England by 2020.

This was a unique opportunity to engage with leading figures and stakeholders within the industry for a briefing on national planning issues.

It’s a big challenge, but developments such as the NMiTE project show what can be achieved if planners have the vision to embrace innovative projects.

It was an interesting discussion but also of some concern as the Government’s proposed planning reforms and anticipated changes to the NPPF (National Planning Policy Framework) are not now expected until much later in the year.

By David Brammer, head of planning at Lanyon Bowdler

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

Beaumont House, Offa Street, Hereford HR1 2LH 44 High Street, Bromyard HR7 4AE Offices also in Shrewsbury | Ludlow | Oswestry | Telford

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BUSINESSNEWS

BRUTON KNOWLES SECURES DOUBLE INSTRUCTION Commercial Property consultants Bruton Knowles have been instructed to dispose of 75,000 sq ft of industrial and warehousing space in Worcester and Malvern.

Acting on behalf of AMCO Services (International) Ltd, Bruton Knowles’ Worcester office has been appointed as joint letting agents with Knight Frank to re-let 16A Blackpole Trading Estate East.

In Malvern, ESP Ltd has instructed Bruton Knowles as sole agents to market Sentinel House, a modern 49,630 sq ft production and warehouse complex on Enigma Business Park. ESP Ltd is relocating to a new purpose-built facility on Blackmore Park.

Lance Turner, Head of Bruton Knowles’

Commercial Agency team in Worcester, said: “This is a significant double instruction for the Worcester office and demonstrates the level of recognition we have achieved in less than six months since the office opened.

“For businesses looking to relocate both properties provide excellent accommodation in established business locations. As such, we have already received a good level of interest. www.brutonknowles.co.uk

LOCAL HEALTH & SAFETY CONSULTANCY EXPORTS SERVICE TO IRELAND

BBR OPTOMETRIST SCOOPS BRITISH CONTACT LENS ASSOCIATION AWARD BBR Optometry is delighted to announce that Hereford-based optometrist Laura Reece has scooped a national award and been named Young UK Contact Lens Practitioner of the Year.

The accolade was announced at the British Contact Lens Association’s (BCLA) 40th annual conference held in Liverpool, acknowledging Laura’s clinical achievements and patient care.

Laura Reece said: “I feel humbled to have won this accolade but very pleased as well because I care passionately about contact lenses and the real difference they can make to the lives of so many of our patients.”

BBR Optometry has recently become one of the initial practices in the UK to offer revolutionary MiSight contact lenses used for myopia control, and this is another area where Laura is providing expert advice to patients. www.bbroptometry.co.uk

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Jabin Solutions Ltd are proud to be working with Etag Fixings, one of Ireland’s leading distributors in the construction industry.

Jabin Solutions Director Rachel Borrington says: “We are thrilled to offer Etag a health and safety service that looks at cost effective ways they can meet their legal obligations. We are working closely with their company to enable a safer work environment for their employees in a way that doesn’t interfere with, but rather improves on, productivity. They are keenly aware of their health, safety, quality and environmental responsibilities and the impact these have on their business”.

Etag Financial Controller, Gerard Gleeson, says of his experience of working with Jabin Solutions: “Etag were delighted to find Jabin Solutions who have provided us with a bespoke, easily implemented and personal service, specific to our needs”. www.jabinsolutions.co.uk

UTILITY HELPLINE WINS REGIONAL AWARD Hereford-based energy brokers Utility Helpline has been crowned the West Midlands Regional Consultancy of the Year, at the Energy Live News’ prestigious TELCA Awards Show in London.

The team picked up the prize and celebrated long into the night at a lively awards show that attracted more than 600 third-party intermediaries (TPIs), brokers, consultants and suppliers from across the UK. Utility Helpline’s Energy Manager, Richard Bonelle said: “We are delighted to have been recognised with this regional award, especially in a part of the country with so many excellent TPIs. We were also incredibly pleased to be shortlisted for the national Energy Consultancy of the Year award and although we missed out this year, I know that we will make an even stronger bid for 2018.” www.utilityhelpline.co.uk

September/October 2017

NEW TOYOTA C-HR DYNAMIC HYBRID

Anything but business as usual. £257+VAT per month* (Business users only)

£1,542 initial rental+VAT

17% BIK

FULLY MAINTAINED^

Motorline Toyota Stourbridge

Brettell Lane, Stourbridge, DY8 4BP

01384 849154 • www.motorline.co.uk/toyota

Find us on Facebook & Twitter

C-HR Dynamic 5 door Coupe FWD Hybrid 1.8 VVT-i Auto. Official Fuel Consumption Figures in mpg (1/100km): Urban 80.7 (3.5), Extra Urban 68.9 (4.1), Combined 72.4 (3.9). CO2 E missions 8 7g/km. A ll mpg and CO2 figures q uoted a resourced from official E U regulated laboratory test results. These are provided to allow comparisons between vehicles and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

Model shown is C-HR Hybrid Dynamic with Leather 5 door 1.8 VVT-i Auto at £29,080. Price excludes metallic paint at £545. Prices correct at time of going to print. *Business users only. Initial rental and VAT applies. Available on new leases of model shown when ordered and proposed for finance between 3rd July 2017 and 1st October 2017, registered and financed by 31st December 2017 through Toyota Financial Services on Toyota Contract Hire. Advertised rental is based on a 36 month maintained contract at 8,000 miles per annum with an initial rental of £1,542 +VAT. Excess mileage charges apply. Metallic or pearlescent paint are not included. You will not own the vehicle. Other finance offers are available but cannot be used in conjunction with this offer. Offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time.

Participating Toyota Centres. Toyota Centres are independent of Toyota Financial Services. Indemnities may be required. Finance subject to status to over 18s. Toyota Financial Services (UK) PLC. Registered Office: Great Burgh, Burgh Heath, Epsom, KT18 5UZ. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Terms and conditions apply. ^Maintained Contract Hire keeps your business moving. We include all routine servicing, replace worn tyres and give peace of mind with AA Roadside Assistance.

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

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September/October 2017

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

Taking the hassle out of managing family-friendly employment rights One of the regular services provided by Hassle Free HR Limited, a HR Consultancy which specialises in keeping their clients on the right side of employment law, is advice, guidance and hands-on support with the management of family-friendly employment rights.

Rewarding Innovation & Development R&D Tax Relief can generate lucrative tax savings but is often misunderstood and therefore 90% of eligible companies have not made a claim.

Family-friendly employment rights include the right to take maternity, adoption, paternity, ordinary parental and shared parental leave – often with the right to receive associated statutory pay.

“It is important to fully comply with family-friendly employment rights and manage employees, both prior to and following their leave, with dignity and respect”, explained Elaine Hedley, a Chartered Member of the CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development).

“Unfortunately, in our experience, employers can sometimes be frustrated or fearful of managing things in the right way, which can often result in a hands-off / dismissive approach, rather than a supportive, professional approach. Our role is to ensure our clients ‘get it right’, and we do this in a number of ways ….

Process

IMPROVEMENT?

n We ensure their family-friendly policies are continually

up-to-date and we provide them with all the necessary template letters, forms and flow-charts to assist them in managing these rights easily and correctly. n We provide specific advice and guidance, via our HR

Helpline, about any family-friendly related query that may arise. n We can accompany our clients and provide practical

hands-on support with any associated meetings. n And finally, we have been very busy this year with the

introduction of our new ‘HR Plus Maternity Management’ service, which also relates to Adoption and Shared Parental Leave management. Our clients simply refer their employee to us, and we manage the whole process from initial notification from the employee, to managing and reviewing their successful return to work. We manage all meetings, associated risk assessments, all correspondence, and we are constantly available for the employee and the client throughout the whole process. With this service, our clients can rest assured that everything is being managed correctly, with dignity and respect and best practice in mind!

Whilst this is still a new service, we have received very positive feedback from clients, who feel relief and comfort from knowing the process is being managed correctly” said Elaine.

Elaine invites any employer within the Hereford and Worcestershire business community, who may require support with a specific HR related matter, or who may be just too busy to manage it themselves, to get in touch.

To find out more, contact; Elaine Hedley at ehedley@hasslefreehr.co.uk or Kirsty Denslow at kdenslow@hasslefreehr.co.uk or call the main office on 02476 992 869.

Product IMPROVEMENT?

Service

IMPROVEMENT?

Activity in these areas can qualify for R&D Tax Relief.

Don’t be one of the 90% missing out call us to discuss your potential claim without obligation.

We offer a success based fee. If your claim is unsuccessful then you pay nothing….but that has never happened to us.

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

NEW LOCATION FOR GLIDEOLOGY Glideology, previously Photoglide, have taken on new premises in the heart of Malvern.

After three years in business the company has relaunched, moving its key focus to engineering. Using their fast prototyping ability and innovative approach, the team are dedicated to new product development and solving technical problems.

Glideology is a company which believes in building strong relationships with the local community, and values the support of the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Worcestershire Business Central.

Recent expansion of the team is also allowing the company to offer support services to assist customers throughout their journey.

Gavin Allen, Technical Expert at Glideology, said: “I have a real desire to

Professional Call Minders is pleased to announce the arrival of Bubble, their new trademark, logo and brand.

help anyone overcome the obstacles involved with bringing a technical product to market. Problem solving and trouble shooting are my forte and I love nothing more than the challenge of finding new ways of doing things!” www.glideology.co.uk

UK BUSINESS LEADERS LESS AWARE OF DIGITAL RISKS THAN EUROPEAN COUNTERPARTS UK business leaders identify far fewer risks affecting their business, when compared to Germany and France, according to research from Gowling WLG’s new Digital Risk Calculator. The free tool allows small and medium size businesses to better understand their digital risks and compare these to other businesses and industries.

Research informing the Gowling WLG Digital Risk Calculator was gathered from 1,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK, France and Germany.

Findings revealed an overly optimistic picture among UK business leaders, with UK respondents identifying far fewer

PROFESSIONAL CALL MINDERS UNVEIL NEW LOGO

digital risks as a threat to their business, when compared to the views of their European counterparts.

Respondents revealed that external cyber risks (69%) are thought to be the most concerning category of digital threat for businesses across all countries surveyed.

This risk is anticipated to grow even further, with 51% of respondents believing that it will increase within the next three years. www.gowlingwlg.com/digital-risk

Since the launch of the brand in June 2017, Bubble has been working her magic and is fast becoming a social media star for the Worcester-based telephone and telemarketing centre of excellence.

Clare Cross, Sales & Marketing Manager, said: “We have created a brand that describes what we do, is memorable and gives us an identity.

People seem to like Bubble and the new website is generating interest and enquiries.”

In a brand based world people often base buying decisions on how they feel about products and services. A brand isn’t just a logo, it has to represent who you are, what you do, and it should engage with people at an emotional level. Once there is a connection, things start to happen. www.professionalcallminders.co.uk

THE FUTURE OF FOREIGN INVESTMENT During recent years, foreign buyers have continued to add British businesses to their overseas collection of brands – spending £100bn in the process.

At mfg Solicitors, especially in the past year, it has seen significant investment by foreign clients into UK businesses with activity particularly noticeable in the healthcare and specialist construction sectors.

Prior to June 2016, much foreign investment was speculative with buyers being uncertain which way the Brexit

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referendum vote would sway. However, following the unexpected result, investment continued as Eurozone and non-Eurozone investors tried to make certain they had secured a foothold in all potential trade platform routes.

The future success is frequently determined by preparation. It is a fine balance and mfg Solicitors would urge anyone considering this line of investment to do so promptly, and to take guidance from experienced advisers. www.mfgsolicitors.com

September/October 2017

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

Keeping Your Business CLT Electrical & Data are NICEIC approved

FUNDING TOWARDS ENERGY SAVING MEASURES FOR WORCESTERSHIRE BUSINESSES

contractors and specialise in the commercial and industrial sectors designing and installing electrical systems for offices and factories. CLT take care of all your wired services from Lighting, Power, Fire and IT cabling.

Severn Wye Energy Agency is delighted to announce that funding is now available to assist 200 businesses in Worcestershire to install energy efficiency measures. The Worcestershire Target 2020 programme allows for free energy advice for any eligible small and medium sized businesses, as well as grants worth between £500 and £5,000 towards the cost of energy saving measures.

Powered & Connected

The funding has been supplied by the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership from the European Regional Development Fund.

If your business is looking for free impartial advice on how to save energy and money Severn Wye’s Worcestershire Target 2020 programme has the following support available: n Historical energy data analysis. n Onsite energy survey and reports. n Results of the survey presented to management. n Help to create an action plan broken down in to no cost, low cost and capital cost measures. n Staff energy awareness training. n Help to identify potential installers and quote comparison. n Up to 35% funding towards at least two energy saving measures. n Publicity through the programmes dedicated website and case studies.

W: www.cltelectricalanddata.co.uk E: info@cltelectricalanddata.co.uk T: 01527 835958 M: 07832113407

One Worcestershire business that has already taken advantage of this opportunity is The Smart Actuator Company, based in Malvern, who are a manufacturing firm. Following a free energy audit undertaken by a dedicated Severn Wye business energy advisor, potential energy savings of over £5,500 per year were identified in the Target 2020 energy report.

Severn Wye has now worked with Smart Act to implement an energy saving action plan to help achieve the projected savings. Already the company has installed an energy efficient condensing boiler and has sectioned off the previously open office, allowing the production area to be heated at a lower temperature. Ducting has also been used to move warm air from one area of the factory to the other, replacing the 12 inefficient portable electric heaters that were being used previously.

Find out if your business is eligible: Call – 01452 835060 Email – alexp@severnwye.org.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE TEAM SCOOPS PRIZE The Health and Social Care team at Harrison Clark Rickerbys is celebrating after being chosen as the Best Mid-Market Healthcare M&A Team by Acquisition International magazine.

Charlotte Thornton-Smith, who leads the team, said: “We are delighted to have won this award because it really reflects what an outstanding team we have here – it rewards not just one amazing deal, but a steady stream of excellent achievements over a prolonged period. It recognises the

depth of expertise we have in the team and the degree of flexibility and speed of turnaround that we have achieved.”

Harrison Clark Rickerbys also has a number of highly successful teams specialising in individual market sectors,

including education, health and social care, agricultural and rural affairs, defence, security and the forces, advanced manufacturing and construction. www.hcrlaw.com

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN COMMERCIAL CLEANING CHARITY SECURES SUPPORT FROM GLOBAL COMPANIES IN LONDON Children’s charity Mentor Link has been awarded support from the Garfield Weston Foundation which will provide mentoring from Pilotlight for one year.

The aim of the award is to provide the charity’s management team with the skills and knowledge of “Pilotlighters”.

CEO Andrea Maddocks said: “Thank you to the Garfield Weston Foundation for this award which is an exciting project for the charity as we firmly believe in the power of mentoring and the great benefits that it can bring to our management and staff team.”

The charity provides one to one mentoring to distressed children by safely and professionally recruiting volunteer mentors from the community to provide weekly listening support. The aim of the mentoring is to improve the children’s self–esteem and engagement in learning; it has a great record of successfully helping children and young people. www.mentorlink.org.uk

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DeepClean Hygiene Solutions Ltd is celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, expanding their Head Office in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire.

DeepClean Hygiene Solutions have been providing professional cleaning services throughout the UK since 1997.

Their expansion programme, which will see resources at their Head Office and cleaning teams expand, marks their anniversary perfectly with a recruitment campaign which is in full swing.

Tony Waghorn, Managing Director at DeepClean Hygiene Solutions Ltd said: “When I started the business all those years ago, the commercial cleaning industry was very different. Our strong ethos to deliver the highest level of kitchen deep cleaning services has set us apart in the industry and has been the main factor in the success in the business.”

“What better way to celebrate the company’s milestone of reaching 20 years than expanding the team, to further increase our cleaning capabilities.” www.deepclean-hygiene.co.uk

HASSLE FREE ACTIVITY GALLOP THROUGH LAUNCH DAY Hassle Free Activity enjoyed a successful launch of their event management company in late June 2017. Having teamed up with local activity centre Live the Adventure, the group began the day with an hour of horse riding.

‘Jockeys’ were of varying ability and the handlers made everyone feel very capable.

Lunch at the Fighting Cocks readied the group for their afternoon of ale tasting stopping at three of Worcestershire’s most historic pubs, before culminating in a brewery tour and mini golf at Unity Brew House.

Participants were shuttled around in the company’s private 16-seater van, allowing them to relax and socialise with other guests.

Joining the Chamber of Commerce will allow us to work with local firms to help them reward staff without the creation and management of the day swallowing precious business hours. www.hasslefreeactivity.co.uk.

September/October 2017

FOR SALE / TO LET HIGH SPECIFICATION MODERN INDUSTRIAL BUILDING WITH OFFICES 28,500 SQ FT

www.worcester6.co.uk

Liberty 45 Available To Let

Liberty 162 Available To Let

To J6 M5 Under Offer

To Worcester City Centre

Nick Hardie

Charles D’Auncey

nick.hardie@struttandparker.com 020 7318 5048 07827 315 851

charles.dauncey@harrislamb.com 0121 213 6002 07747 897 866

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

WORCESTERSHIRE PR COMPANY EXPANDS WITH TWO NEW RECRUITS education technology firm, e-Careers.

Worcestershire based PR and Marketing agency, Make More Noise, is excited to announce the expansion of its team with the appointment of new Account Executive, Melissa Stone, and new Administration Account Manager, Sian Dobson.

Melissa, 23, joined Make More Noise in July, having recently graduated with a 2:1 in Fashion Business and Promotion at Birmingham City University. Throughout her degree, she focused specifically on modules in Marketing and Graphic Design, and now brings a wealth of creativity to the team.

Conversely, Sian boasts over 17 years’ experience in general and financial administration and has now taken over the management of the agency’s administration offering, working hard to fulfil client requirements, whilst helping to grow this newer side of the business.

Melissa confirmed: “I extremely enjoyed my experience at university, and am delighted that I can now implement my skills into a real work place.”

2017 has been a particularly exciting year for the firm, with client numbers and turnover doubling during the past 12 months alone.

“I am really excited to be working at Make More Noise, the team have made me feel completely at ease and are exceptionally welcoming. In fact, I can wholeheartedly say that Make More Noise is the perfect agency to start my career in PR and Marketing.”

Founded by Hannah Haffield in October 2015, Make More Noise has established an excellent reputation for its PR and Marketing services, working with clients on both a local and national scale including prestigious Hotel and wedding venue, The Wood Norton and leading international

Hannah Haffield, Founder and Director of Make More Noise said: “I am delighted to welcome both Melissa and Sian to Make More Noise, and feel they will both be true assets to the team. They both bring an excellent skill-set to the table, from creativity and design right through to expert client management, which will really help in fulfilling existing client requirements, whilst we continue to work hard to secure new ones.”

In just under two years Make More Noise has grown from a start-up to a well-established PR and Marketing agency within Worcestershire, offering services in Public Relations, Marketing, Social Media Management, Graphic Design and Administration. www.makemorenoise.co.uk

TM

Because no one wins new business by just being cute... #quietasamouse bespoke pr marketing coounications social media management graphic design administration support www.makemorenoise.co.uk 026

heeo@makemorenoise.co.uk September/October 2017

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

CORPORATE DAYS WITH A DIFFERENCE AT LAND ROVER EXPERIENCE 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. Please QUOTE: BDSEPT17.

Land Rover Experience Eastnor. The Bothy, Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 1RL. 0333 733 3003. eastnor@landroverexperience.com. www.eastnor.landroverexperience.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CHAMBERTRAINING

www.hwchamber.co.uk/training

MAKING YOUR BUSINESS SUSTAINABLE

What is sustainability?

is a 100% match to the Health and Safety Executive’s ‘passport’ syllabus.

you can never get to grips with and John can share his expertise!

“A sustainable business is one that operates in an environmentally responsible way.”

Covering how to define and identify hazards and risk, improving safety performance and protecting our environment, this course offers all of the basics in a high impact interactive package. Completely jargon-free with clear scenarios drawn from genuine work situations to drive home practical points, this course is designed to be fun and interactive.

We’re excited to announce that our training courses are arriving in Hereford from October. With four courses already confirmed, we are hoping to grow the department from strength to strength. Our Emergency First Aid at Work course is taking place on 9 October shortly followed by an Intermediate Microsoft Excel 2016 course on 7 November. We then see an Introduction to Project Management in the new year, taking place on 16 January with an Introduction to Leading Change on 14 February. All courses are to take place at the Hereford Business Solutions Centre based at Skylon Park.

But how does this relate to staff, employees and employers?

The Chamber Training department has recently added a new introductory training course to the Personal Development series; An Introduction to Leading Change.

The course allows delegates to understand why now, more than ever, it is important to be able to effectively lead change.

Through the introductory course, delegates will discover the difficulties of change and how best to support employees during the adjustment period.

This course is particularly suited to a Manager with a responsibility for staff, a customer-facing employee and a lone-worker who finds themselves in client interactions.

Sustainability goes hand-in-hand with health and safety in the workplace, allowing leaders the opportunity to use their expertise to advance the way an organisation operates.

IOSH Working Safely Our one day interactive IOSH Working Safely course is suitable for delegates at any level and in any sector, who need grounding in the essentials of health and safety. It meets the government’s guidelines for introductory health and safety training, and

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IOSH Managing Safely If you require a course that’s more in depth, our four day IOSH Managing Safely course is designed to get delegates up to speed on the practical actions they need to take to handle health and safety in their teams. This course is suitable for managers and supervisors in any sector and any organisation. The highly innovative format and content engages and inspires delegates – critical to getting essential health and safety messages across.

“Dawn is a great trainer and I would definitely recommend others to attend this course” With the Expo fast approaching on Thursday 5 October, come and visit us on our training stand. Our IT trainer, John Legge of John P Legge Computer Services Ltd, will be joining us from 10.30am-12.30pm for some pre-bookable 15 minute drop-in appointments with hints and tips on Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Come along with any questions, or if there’s that one function

www.hwchamber.co.uk/training

Sustainability goes hand-inhand with health and safety in the workplace, allowing leaders the opportunity to use their expertise to advance the way an organisation operates.

September/October 2017

CHAMBERBUSINESSTRAINING

TRAINING CALENDAR SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2017 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER COURSES

OCTOBER COURSES

OCTOBER - NOVEMBER COURSES

INCOTERMS 2010

Direct Shipping

Successful Telesales

Thursday 7 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £250+VAT Members, £275+VAT Non-members

Tuesday 10 October - 9.30am-4.30pm £250+VAT Members, £275+VAT Non-members

Tuesday 24 October - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Advanced Import Documentation & Procedures

Managing People in the Team

IOSH Managing Safely

Monday 11 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £250+VAT Members, £275+VAT Non-members

Tuesday 10 October - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Tue 31 Oct - Fri 3 Nov - 9.30am-4.30pm £495+VAT Members, £595+VAT Non-members

Advanced Export Documentation & Procedures

Tariff Classification

Managing Performance in the Team

Tuesday 12 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £250+VAT Members, £275+VAT Non-members

Wednesday 11 October - 9.30am-4.30pm £250+VAT Members, £275+VAT Non-members

Wednesday 1 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

The Role of the Team Leader

Introduction to Digital Marketing & PR

Train the Trainer

Wednesday 13 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Thursday 12 October - 9.30am-1.30pm FREE for Members, £100+VAT Non-members

Tuesday 7 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Advanced Microsoft Excel

Intermediate Microsoft Excel

Letters of Credit

Thursday 14 September - 9.30am-4.00pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Thursday 12 October - 9.30am-4.00pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Wednesday 8 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members

Effective Presentation Skills

Appointing & Motivating Distributors and/or Agents

Emergency First Aid at Work

Tuesday 19 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Tuesday 17 October - 9.30am-4.30pm £225+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members

Wednesday 8 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members

Basic Export Documentation & Procedures

Email Marketing

Quality Manager Training

Thursday 21 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £250+VAT Members, £275+VAT Non-members

Tuesday 17 October - 9.30am-1.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members

Thursday 9 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £236+VAT Members, £295+VAT Non-members

Google Analytics

Excel Masterclass

Effective Time Management

Thursday 21 September - 9.30am-1.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members

Wednesday 18 October - 9.30am-4.00pm £200+VAT Members, £250+VAT Non-members

Friday 10 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT for Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Communicating for Success

Conducting Effective Team Appraisals

International Exhibition Skills

Wednesday 27 September - 9.30am-1.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Wednesday 18 October - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Tuesday 14 November - 9.30am-1.00pm £100+VAT Members, £125+VAT Non-members

Mentoring in the Workplace

AEO Awareness

Introduction to Digital Marketing & PR

Thursday 28 September - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Thursday 19 October - 9.30am-4.30pm £250+VAT Members, £275+VAT Non-members

Tuesday 14 November - 9.30am-1.30pm FREE for Members, £100+VAT Non-members

Writing Effective Marketing Copy

Fire Marshal Training

IOSH Working Safely

Tuesday 3 October - 9.30am-1.30pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members

Thursday 19 October - 10.00am-4.00pm £80+VAT Members, £100+VAT Non-members

Wednesday 15 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Employment Law Update

Introduction to Leading Change

International Trade Compliance Management

Wednesday 4 October - 10.00am-3.00pm £150+VAT Members, £188+VAT Non-members

Friday 20 October - 9.30am.1.30pm FREE for Members, £100+VAT Non-members

Thursday 16 November - 9.30am-4.30pm £250+VAT Members, £275+VAT Non-members

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

KEY: Chamber Business Training Courses Import and Export Training Courses

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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• • • • •

Advanced and Higher Apprenticeships Degree Level Apprenticeship Programmes Individual Learning Plans Qualifications Certifications

Website: wyreacademy.com Apply Online: itapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-vacancies Telephone: 0333 10 100 40 Email: enquiries@wyreacademy.com

September/October 2017

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

RESKILL, RETAIN AND REINVIGORATE YOUR STAFF There is a reason why Team GB won more medals than China at the 2016 Rio Olympics. It turns out that, if we invest into our elite athletes, we increase our medal winning chances. Similarly, the UK government are now investing up to 90% of match funding to train your staff.

We will help your employees to achieve the newly devised and employer-defined "National Occupational Standards". The trained workforce should become more productive - leading to more profits for the employer and a higher Gross Domestic Product for the nation.

n Software Engineering

TDM Wyre Academy deliver Tech and Digital Learning Solutions that are in-line with the latest industry led Standards. We deliver this learning at all levels up to and including the BSc (Hons) Degree so your staff, if they haven't already, could have a qualification that directly relates to their role. We can deliver these learning programmes for employed people of all ages.

Reskill staff with important occupational competencies, change behaviours and encourage innovation. Retain and motivate your most valued staff by paying for them to gain new qualifications and provide a new challenge in familiar surroundings.

Investing in training and development will demonstrate your commitment to your staff. Reinvigorate your staff - apprentices bring new ideas, new perspectives and fresh energy to the existing workforce.

Recruit talented new staff by offering them a pathway to a BSc Degree whilst they are earning a salary.

We offer our apprenticeships within 6 "Higher Education Academy Schools": n Tech/Network Engineering n Cyber Security

n Business / Data Analysis & Management n (Tech) Sales & (Digital) Marketing n Digital Learning & Education Apprenticeships funding not is restricted to the younger, job-seeking demographic.

Somebody pursuing a new apprenticeship standard should already be employed, can be of any age and can hold any (non-duplicate) prior qualification.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS TO THE EMPLOYER?

Do you feel schools do not prepare young people for work?

TDM will tailor each individual learning plan to serve the needs of: achieving the National Occupational Standards, meeting the requirements of the employer (with skills that are relevant to their business) and the learner’s personal development goals. This ensures that the training is employer-responsive and encourages long-term career commitment within the workforce.

If you would like to learn more about the process of taking on an apprentice please do not hesitate to contact us on 0333 101 0040 or email enquiries@tdm.co.uk

At Robert Owen Academy we don’t just focus on the academic, we teach our students real job skills using local business, utilising their knowledge and skills.

As we expand our provision, we are currently looking for new business to join our team; • To shape our curriculum provision

Do you find it difficult to recruit school leavers with suitable work skills?

• To identify the gaps left by current educational routes • To support our students in preparing for a life in work • To make a difference for our community

If you’d like to be involved in the education of our next generation of workers and entrepreneurs, then contact Robert Owen Academy now:-

Telephone: 01432 513120 | Email: info@roacademy.org | Website: www.roacademy.org Facebook: RobertOwenAcademy | Address: Robert Owen Academy, Blackfrairs St, Hereford, HR4 9HS

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

031

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

www.wcg.ac.uk

GROW YOUR OWN Horticulture / Landscape Operative Apprenticeship standard now available Attract new talent and skills

Increase productivity and performance

Upskill your current staff

Plan for the future of your business

Training an apprentice with us means: • Bespoke on and off the job training • Maximising funding opportunities • Getting the skills your business needs

Currently training

2500+ apprentices

Bromsgrove School have given three full time positions within the grounds department to young people starting as apprentices within the last three years. I feel this is a great endorsement of the apprentice scheme. We at present have a year one apprentice and will be employing one more in September.

- Richard Hare, Bromsgrove School

Working with

1100+

employers nationally We have

OUTSTANDING

success rates

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The training includes: PLANT IDENTIFICATION AND NOMENCLATURE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION HARD LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION HEALTH AND SAFETY AND MUCH MORE

Talk to our Work Based Learning Team today on 01386September/October 551 202 2017

R EG

ORNIENSIS VIG

IA SCHOLA

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

Independent day school for boys and girls aged 2 to 18

King’s Worcester (11 to 18)

King’s Hawford (2 to 11)

King’s St Alban’s (4 to 11)

Tel: 01905 721742

Tel: 01905 451292

Tel: 01905 354906

Open Mornings 9.30am - 12.30pm Senior School Open Morning 7th October

King’s Hawford Open Morning 4th November

Confidence in a changing world

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

King’s St Alban’s Open Morning 11th November

www.ksw.org.uk

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CHAMBEREVENTS

NEW NETWORKING! We are excited to announce the launch of two new and exciting events for September and October.

NETWORKING AFTERNOON TEA WITH STANBROOK ABBEY Thursday 28 September - 2.30-4.30pm Stanbrook Abbey, Jennet Tree Lane, Callow End, Worcester WR2 4TY Join us at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel for an opportunity to network with other local businesses and enjoy the beloved British tradition of classic cream tea in the Piano Lounge of our historic country house hotel. £10.00+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members

JOINT NETWORKING BREAKFAST WITH COVENTRY AND WARWICKSHIRE CHAMBER Tuesday 17 October - 8.30-10.30am Minerva Mill Innovation Centre, Station Road, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5ET Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, and Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, is joining forces to bring you our first ‘across the border’ networking event. This event allows you to build your network across the Midlands, create new connections and potential referral partners. £10.00+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members

HR PROFESSIONALS CONFERENCE IN ASSOCIATION WITH HEWETT RECRUITMENT

www.hwchamber.co.uk/events

AUTUMN BUSINESS EXPO IN ASSOCIATION WITH HEWETT RECRUITMENT Date: Thursday 5 October - Time: Breakfast 8.00-9.30am, Exhibition 9.30am-3.00pm Venue: Three Counties Showground, Malvern WR13 6NW The exhibition gives businesses a fantastic opportunity to network and gain key business contacts, as well as promoting their company and raising their profile within the community. With 120 exhibitors from various business sectors, don’t miss the chance to meet new suppliers, generate sales and increase awareness of the products and services that you offer.

Back by popular demand, The Food and Drink Producers Zone sponsored by mfg Solicitors, will be a main feature of the event. Local Food and Drink companies will be showcasing their products and proving free samples throughout the day.

Free Tea and Coffee kindly provided

by Water Cooler World, will be in the Networking Zone, sponsored by Simply Hosting, and located in the centre of the Main Hall. This Zone provides exhibitors and visitors with a place to sit and do more business together.

Our Keynote Speaker at the Networking Breakfast, sponsored by Worcestershire Business Central, will be from multinational computer technology company Dell inc.

Places will be booked on a first come first served basis.

The event, now in its fifth year, will be held on Thursday 23 November at the Bank House Hotel from 9.00am-3.00pm.

This event is not to be missed by anyone responsible for people and HR. The conference is open to all HR professionals, Directors and business owners across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

“BEST STAND COMPETITION”

We are pleased to announce our speakers for the day:

There is no theme and there are no rules, following the below anagram will be your guideline! The winning stand will win a free single stand at the Spring Business Expo (Thursday 8 March 2018):

Kevin Green, Chief Executive of the REC - “The Future of UK Recruitment” Sally Morris, Partner and Head of Employment at mfg Solicitors – “Employment Law, Keeping Ahead of the Game” Bernadette Bird, Chief People Officer for Open GI Ltd - “HR Masterclass” Louise Hewett, Managing Director of Hewett Recruitment and Director of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation will also share her experience, research and insights with attendees.

n Bright n Engaging n Stylish

Expo Sponsors:

n Tasty (In line with our Food and Drink Zone at this years Expo, please feel free to bring some tasty treats for our visitors on the day!)

Exhibition stands, including one free breakfast, start from £299.00+VAT for Chamber Members.

To download a booking form, please visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/expos

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September/October 2017

CHAMBEREVENTS

NETWORKING CALENDAR SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2017 CELEBRATE THE FESTIVE SEASON IN STYLE

Gather your friends or colleagues together for a Christmas party night at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel. Choose from a night in our Winter Wonderland hosted in our St Anne’s wing, or a Magical Christmas Party Night held in the historic Abbey. Both options allow you to celebrate with fellow guests or book the entire night for your own private party. Non-residents welcome.

Winter Wonderland, St Anne’s Wing

Magical Christmas Party Night commencing in the Callow Great Hall

Joiner party from £39.95 per person Friday and Saturdays £42.95 per person

Joiner party from £42.95 per person Fridays and Saturdays £45.95 per person

Weddings, celebrations, corporate events and dining

Intimate or extravagant, we have a choice of function rooms for every occasion. To include the Bistro and Clarence rooms, the wine cellar and bake house for the perfect family dinner or corporate showcase. To the Grand Thompson Dining Hall, Garden Pavilion and St Anne’s Hall with private Library Bar, ideal for banqueting events. Not to mention the Callow Great Hall that can transform any event in to a special event.

SEPTEMBER 2017

STANBROOK ABBEY NEW! Networking Afternoon Tea with Stanbrook Abbey Thursday 28 September - 2.30-4.30pm Stanbrook Abbey, Jennet Tree Lane, Callow End, Worcester WR2 4TY £10.00+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members To book call 01905 409303 or visit handpickedhotels.co.uk/stanbrookabbey/festive-season

CALLOW END, WORCESTER

Stanbrook Abbey Hotel Jennet Tree Lane, Callow End, Worcester WR2 4TY

Ross on Wye Networking Brunch Tuesday 12 September - 9.30 -11.30am Penyard House, Weston-under-Penyard, Herefordshire HR9 7YH £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members

Hereford Networking Breakfast Wednesday 20 September - 7.30-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf, Tillington Road, Burghill, Hereford HR4 7RW £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Chamber Golf Day sponsored

by CB Chartered Accountants Wednesday 20 September - 12.00pm Shotgun start The Vale Golf Club, Hill Furze Road, Bishampton, Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 2LZ Individual tickets - £70+VAT Members and £75+VAT Non-members Team of 4 - £275+VAT Members and £300+VAT Non-members To book please contact www.amrosgolf.co.uk or email sales@amrosgolf.co.uk Sustainability Forum in association with the Business Energy Efficiency Programme (BEEP) Thursday 21 September - 8.00-11.00am Oakland International Ltd., Seafield Lane, Beoley, Redditch, Worcestershire B98 9DB FREE to Members and Non-members Women’s Business Conference 2017 in association with borwell Ltd Friday 22 September - 9.30am-2.30pm The Abbey Hotel, Abbey Road, Great Malvern WR14 3ET £37.50+VAT Members and £50.00+VAT Non- members Hereford HR Forum in association with Hewett Recruitment Tuesday 26 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 Kidderminster Networking Lunch Wednesday 27 September - 12.30-2.30pm Hogarths Stone Manor Hotel, Chaddesley Corbett, Kidderminster DY10 4PJ £20.00+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Apprentices in Business sponsored

by Worcestershire County Council Wednesday 27 September - 5.30-7.00pm Alexanders, New Street, Worcester WR1 2DL FREE to Members and Non-members

Annual Bank of England Breakfast Friday 29 September - 7.30-9.00am The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR FREE for Members and £17.50+VAT Non-members

OCTOBER 2017 Expo Networking Breakfast sponsored

by Worcestershire Business Central Thursday 5 October - 8.00 - 9.30am Three Counties Showground, Malvern WR13 6NW £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Redditch HR Forum in association with Hewett Recruitment Wednesday 11 October - 9.30-11.30am Abbey Hotel Golf Club and Spa Resort, Hither Green Lane, Dagnell End Road, Redditch B98 9BE FREE event for Chamber Members and clients of Hewett Recruitment Malvern Networking Breakfast Tuesday 12 October - 7.30-9.30am The Abbey, Abbey Road, Great Malvern, Worc estershire WR14 3ET £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Ledbury Networking Lunch Monday 16 October - 12.30-2.30pm Venue – TBC £20.00+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members NEW! Joint Networking Breakfast with Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber Tuesday 17 October - 8.30-10.30am Minerva Mill Innovation Centre, Station Road, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5ET £10.00+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Worcester Networking Breakfast Thursday 19 October - 7.30-9.30am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ £17.50+VAT Members and £35.00+VAT Non-members Maximise Your Membership Event Friday 27 October - 8.30-11.00am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ FREE to Chamber Members

To book your place on any of these events visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/events, email events@hwchamber.co.uk or phone 01905 673 600.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

035

BIGINTERVIEW

LOOKING AT THE BIG SUSTAINABILITY PICTURE Dean Attwell may be the Chief Executive of a rapidly-growing company employing three hundred people and trading all over Europe but he has never lost sight of his responsibility to the world in which he lives.

Indeed, doing all he can to protect the environment and to support those less fortunate than himself has been the cornerstone of his approach to business for almost two decades.

Dean is Co-founder of Oakland International, the Redditch company which he and his wife launched 19 years ago and which specialises in food distribution, handling more than one million cases per week.

Operating facilities in the UK and Ireland with an overseas partner in Spain, the business provides brokerage, contract packing, storage, picking and food distribution for the retail, convenience, discount, wholesale and food service markets, much of the product chilled or frozen.

A second-generation farmer who initially specialised in egg productions, Dean freely admits that in the early days of Oakland’s life he and his wife did not have a formal business plan.

He said: “We created the business because the farm had closed and egg production was not proving viable but in those early days we were a very small company with just two people. In fact, I took a second driving job to help make ends meet.

“We would store and distribute anything, from bikes to Christmas gifts, but gradually it became clear that we were good at handling chilled products so we focused more on that.”

It was a successful strategy and in the years that followed, Oakland grew to distribute all over the UK and Europe with depots in Spain, the UK and Ireland and customers in 18 countries.

036

radiators, recycles everything it can, sends remarkably little waste to landfill and operates a system whereby its goods travel on vehicles that were on journeys anyway but have spare capacity.

For Dean, the approach is not just a question of principle, there is a solid business case as well.

He said: “It all started about twelve years ago when I went to a Chamber of Commerce meeting where they had been talking about the decommissioning of nuclear power stations and how Vladimir Putin was threatening power supplies to the UK. “Like most people, I had been used to the thought that you flicked a switch and there was electricity but it got us thinking about how we needed to be more sustainable. ”Sustainability is not just about doing ‘the right thing’. There is a real benefit to the business as well. We have reduced our costs significantly as a result of what we have done and in an industry which has price pressures that is important.”

However, the commitment to sustainability does not stop at the environment. The company has a strong connection with its local community and Dean is particularly proud of the Oakland Foundation, launched in 2013 as the company’s charitable arm and officially opened by HRH Princess Anne.

The Foundation was formed after statistics showed that three wards in Redditch featured in a list of the ten most deprived in Worcestershire with two more just outside the top ten.

The charity supports underprivileged children in the Redditch and Bromsgrove areas by donating money and volunteers.

Indeed, Oakland International encourages its employees to volunteer for the charity in company time.

Throughout the growth, though, there has been a strong belief that however large the company becomes it should always respect the environment.

So successful has the approach been that Oakland International has been confirmed as a finalist in the Corporate Social Responsibility Award category of The Logistics Awards, which will be held in London on Thursday 21 September, and was also the recipient of two Queens Awards for International Trade and Sustainable Development.

For example, the business uses solar panels to generate electricity at its premises, has installed LED lighting, fitted energy-efficiency

Dean said: “Sustainability is about helping the community and, like most people, I was taken aback when I heard that there

was child poverty in the area. We have helped more than 600 people so far and we really are making a difference.

“I felt that businesses could help. One of the ways they can help tackle poverty is through taking people on and providing them with career development.

“Being involved does not just help people in need. There are benefits for companies as well. Our experience is that being involved in the Oakland Foundation engages employees and engaged employees are happier and more productive.”

As to the future of his business, he remains confident, diversifying into areas including helping companies to develop their branding and handling ‘distress loads’ compromised by anything from migrants sneaking into vehicles to incorrect temperature.

For Dean, the biggest challenge surrounds the atmosphere created by Brexit, though.

He said: “The thing about Brexit is that it will happen and businesses are very good at adapting to changing circumstances.

Yes, there will be challenges relating to things like exchange rates but business will adapt.

“The real problem is the uncertainty, no clear direction/leadership, and all the shenanigans surrounding the politicians really is not helping at what is a turbulent time.”

Sustainability is not just about doing ‘the right thing’. There is a real benefit to the business as well. We have reduced our costs significantly as a result of what we have done and in an industry which has price pressures that is important.

September/October 2017

BIGINTERVIEW

Dean Attwell Chief Executive, Oakland International

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

037

COVERFEATURE

GRANT HELPS ADDRESS ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES Outdoor products company Olpro Ltd, which is based in Little Witley in Worcestershire, has placed the environment at the heart of what it does, supported by a BEEP grant.

BREWERY PUTS SUSTAINABILITY CENTRE STAGE The Leominster-based Swan Brewery is the ideal example of a business that has made the environment a key part of its day to day operations.

Founded by husband and wife team Jimmy Swan and Gill Bullock in September 2015, the business started brewing in March 2016 and has been named Green Business of the Year 2017 by the Society of Independent Brewer.

Jimmy said: “We have made a decision to keep green choices and sustainability constantly on our agenda. As the business grows, we will already have set in place environmentally-conscious ways of working that staff and stakeholders can embrace.

“We want to explore what being green and sustainability mean, in addition to the well understood aspects of energy reduction and minimising waste. We widen the definition to include the viability and sustainability of communities where people live and in which businesses operate.”

Measures include: * Their brewery equipment is second hand, reflecting the couple’s devotion to ‘pre-loved’ items and is housed in energy-efficient premises n The sacks which contain the malt when it arrives on site have been donated to the charity People in Motion to transport their supplies of clothes, children’s toys and camping equipment to displaced people

038

n The pallets are used by a local start up business converting them into furniture * Spent hops used in the brewing process have been donated to community groups such as Leominster Allotment Association.

Gill said: “We have also been active in local business groups. This reinforces the point that sustainability is much more than energy use reduction or minimising waste; it’s about creating sustainable communities and business networks such as Women in Business in Leominster, the Leominster Business Group and, of course, the Chamber of Commerce.

“Working co-operatively with other businesses has resulted in the brewing and badging of Balance Ale exclusively for the Balance Inn in Luston. Such independently owned and run pubs benefit from an ale offering that is not available elsewhere; it is part of what gives them a point of difference and keeps them at the heart of their community.”

Reducing transportation is a big theme as well; the hops the team brew with are mainly from Herefordshire and Worcestershire, reducing transportation, and the brewery limits its direct deliveries to a 30-mile radius.

Wholesaling is mainly through one business based in Leominster, which reduces fuel consumption as the deliveries of Swan Brewery cask ales are co-ordinated with other deliveries the wholesaler is making.

Managing Director Daniel Walton said: “We moved to a new warehouse this year and the new building had very old heating and lighting in place. As well as the cost of moving, the higher rates and rent we now had very high costs for electricity and as an outdoor leisure company were using more energy than we should have been.

“Putting in new, energy efficient, heaters, lighting and insulation would cost us £7,000 which we couldn’t have afforded outright as part of the move but the grant paid us 40% of that once installed.

“The entire process was simple and has given us something that has financially helped the business straightaway without having to wait.

It meant we had financial benefits straight away but also ensured we were fulfilling our environmental responsibilities, which as an outdoor leisure company is important to us.”

The Business Energy Efficiency Programme is part-financed by the England European Regional Development Fund Programme as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.

Worcestershire County Council along with its partners Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Shropshire Chamber of Commerce, Herefordshire Council, Telford & Wrekin Council and the Worcestershire Districts Councils were awarded £1.45 million funding from the Department for Communities and Local Government’s European Regional Development Fund to help small and medium-sized businesses.

September/October 2017

COVERFEATURE

WHY IT PAYS TO BE GREEN Sustainability has gone from something of a gimmick to an integral part of modern business, benefiting not just the environment but also the bottom line. Business Direction talked to several businesses which have taken the idea to heart and changed themselves for the better as a result.

GETTING THE SUPPLY CHAIN RIGHT

Among the businesses contacted are those who have received grant funding from the Business Energy Efficiency Programme (BEEP), a free business support programme part funded by the European Union Regional Development Fund and delivered in collaboration with eleven local partners, including the Worcestershire County Council and the Chamber.

One of the ways that companies can help the environment is ensure they have a sustainable supply chain, according to Steve Mallaband, of Counterpoint, a Worcester consultancy and training business dedicated to driving excellence in procurement and commercial negotiation.

Free energy assessments and grants of up to £20 000 are available to help small to medium sized enterprises in Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Telford & Wrekin lower their energy bills and reduce their carbon emissions.

As part of this it provides expert advice in how to ensure a sustainable approach throughout the supply chain and Steve said: “Sustainability should be a way of business life. Simply put it can be viewed as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. If we respect sustainability’s three pillars of environmental, social and economic development then all will be well. In business, as in life, we need to look after our environment and our people, and make sure we manage our money responsibly.

In association with BEEP, the Chamber runs a Sustainability Forum, the next of which will be held on 21 September at Oakland International from 8–11am and the subsequent on 29 November at Morgan Motors.

The forum is designed to showcase sustainable business practices and encourage others to follow suit.

(Ros and Steve) working with African clients in Rwanda: This was a training course in Strategic Procurement Management and covered sustainable issues. We worked with a couple of delegates in particular on local and sustainable production for food supplements for children and nursing mothers.

“Even if you think your organisation acts sustainably, have you checked down your supply chain: who makes the cans behind

the food, who makes the steel behind the cans and who makes the iron behind the steel? You’d be surprised how long even the simplest supply chain can be.

“There are six simple steps you can take: map your supply chain; communicate what you expect in terms of sustainability; baseline your suppliers’ performance and encourage them to baseline their suppliers’ too; guide your suppliers and point them at where to go for support; drive performance improvement; and work collaboratively with others – it’s often too big a challenge for you alone.”

You can find out more about BEEP at www.business-central.co.uk/beep and book on the Sustainability Forum by contacting the Chamber events team.

FUNDING STRENGTHENS COMPANY’S GREEN CREDENTIALS An excellent example of a business reaping the rewards of an environmentally-friendly approach is Open Space Rooms, based in Malvern.

The business is among the companies that have received funding from BEEP, with the money helping to improve its buildings and to add to their environmental ISO rating.

Open Space Rooms provides meeting rooms and the first BEEP grant was for its existing facility in Malvern and funded

work including a change from strip lights to LEDs panels and replacement windows which are more energy efficient.

A second grant funded work at the organisation’s new serviced offices, Open Space Business Centre on Blackmore Park Road, Malvern. The grant included LED lighting and an intelligent thermostat system which responds to day, time and outside conditions to optimise climate control and energy efficiency.

Space co-ordinator Dr Sarah Stewart said:

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

“The measures we have taken allow us not just be more environmentally-friendly but also to reduce our heating and lighting costs, which we can pass on to our residents.

“We have already installed solar panels and achieved ISO 1400:2015 and the grants have allowed us to continue improving our energy efficiency. We want our residents to operate in the best surroundings possible and the changes we have made help to both minimise our effect on the environment and to keep our spaces affordable.”

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

OPTIMISM GROWS IN THE WORLD OF CONFERENCES AND EXHIBITIONS Like the rest of the economy, the conferences and exhibitions industry has been through challenging times but the signs are that the sector is thriving.

That was underlined by a report compiled by the Events Industry Forum and the Business Visits & Events Partnership, which suggested the future could be bright for the industry.

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One of the key factors, according to industry experts, is a good location, somewhere that is easy to reach and attractive for delegates.

When assessing the venue, other factors come into play as well. Can it cope with the numbers expected to attend, has it got a good meeting room, will it provide equipment like projectors and Internet access, are the staff friendly and flexible in helping you meet your needs?

originating the event.

Linked to the conferences and exhibitions market is the need to offer corporate hospitality as part of the package and many conference and events organisers are integrating such attractions into their events.

More and more companies are realising that the sector needs to offer as much value as possible and that is leading to a growing sense of innovation.

It highlighted opportunities for growth in the UK Events Industry, which it suggested can grow from its existing ÂŁ42.2 billion to ÂŁ48.4 billion by 2020.

The good venues are the ones that can tailor themselves to providing the exact needs of the event organisers and are prepared to be flexible. Their staff are expert and able to bring often complex events together in a skilful way.

One of the things that makes an exhibition successful is a sense that something is happening so it is useful to have staged areas for demonstrations and performances, or for companies to show their products at work.

Recent economic figures pointing to an upturn in business confidence will drive that even more, experts believe.

Another approach for conference originators is to bring in a specialist company to do the legwork.

So as business recovers, what are you looking for if you are trying to organise a conference or exhibition and need to select a venue?

The staff at these outsource companies will have encountered just about every problem presented by the process and take all the worry away from the company

Such activities, with the interest they attract, makes an exhibition feel like it is alive. All good exhibitions have a touch of theatre about them.

September/October 2017

BUSINESS DIRECTION OFFER: 50% off standard room hire charges if you confirm a booking for a new meeting at the Bank House Hotel during October or November to take place between 15th October 2017 & 28th February 2018.

Please quote 'Business Direction' when making your booking.

Meeting Spaces For When You Mean Business...

• 7 Meeting Spaces for 2 - 500 delegates • Natural Daylight & Air Conditioning • Flexible 12 & 24 hour Delegate Pricing • Dedicated Conference Coordinator • AV Equipment

• • • • •

62 Bedrooms & Penthouse Suite Spa and 18 Hole Golf Course 145 acre site ideal for Team Building Free Superfast Wi-fi Free Onsite Parking (400 spaces)

www.bankhouseworcester.com Bank House Hotel, Spa & Golf Club, Bransford, Worcester, WR6 5JD T: 01886 833 551 E: sales@bankhouseworcester.com

Malvern

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

The Abbey

Meetings & Events in

The Abbey is a stunning historic building set in the town centre of Great Malvern, at the foot of the picturesque Malvern Hills.

Featuring large purpose built conference spaces that are perfect for hosting a variety of functions; from small meetings and training days to large conferences and exhibitions.

The Abbey combines four star facilities with warm ambience and excellent service. The friendly and experienced team ensure all events run smoothly, with all the finer details taken care of. Nothing is too much trouble for the dedicated staff.

Great Malvern | Worcestershire

• 7 event suites with natural daylight • Private functions and dinners for up to 250 guests • Private bar and sprung dance floor • Civil ceremony license • Landscaped gardens • 103 individually decorated bedrooms • Priory View Restaurant and Lounge Bar • Free parking • Free WiFi throughout the hotel • Dedicated Meetings and Events Coordinators

The Abbey Abbey Road, Great Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 3ET t 01684 877912 f 01684 897898 e abbey@sarova.com w sarova.com

LOW CARBON MEETINGS l l l l

BIRTHDAY OFFER To celebrate 11 years of welcoming guests through our doors, we’re offering FREE AFTERNOON TEA & CAKE for all bookings held in November & December.

Conferences | Meetings | Functions ... a stylish venue in the heart of the country!

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Biomass Heating Solar Electricity Air-con from solar Free electric car charging point Business Meetings Training Seminars Free Wi-Fi Value for Money Exclusive Hire Farmhouse Catering Ample free Parking Idyllic Rural Setting

Just put offer code: FATC11 on the booking form to receive the offer. We look forward to welcoming you!

/TheStables ConferenceCentre @thestablesvenue

Lower House Farm, Canon Frome, Nr. Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 2TG

e-mail: enquiries@thestablesconferencecentre.co.uk www.thestablesconferencecentre.co.uk 01531 670730 042

September/October 2017

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

Conferences & Events Our dedicated Events Team will help you plan your party or conference, accommodating up to 200 delegates.

Golf Days at Wharton Park

To find out more call

01299 405222

From only

ÂŁ19.95 per golfer!*

www.whartonpark.co.uk

Conferences & Events

Our dedicated Events Team will help you plan your party or conference, accommodating up to 200 delegates.

Wharton Park Golf & Country Club, Longbank, Bewdley, Worcs, DY12 2QW

*Terms and conditions apply. Based on 2017 package prices.

CALL 01299 405222 TO FIND OUT MORE

Hotel & Restaurant

WWW.WHARTONPARK.CO.UK

Wharton is Park Golf & Country Club, house Longbank, Bewdley, Grafton Manor a thriving country hotel that Worcs, DY12 2QW

places the emphasis on experience. We like to think of it as a haven of tranquility for our guests in a busy world. *Terms and conditions apply. Offer valid until 31/10/17. Based on 2017 package prices.

A venue steeped in history, where the original character, charm and features have been carefully preserved.

Situated on the outskirts of Bromsgrove and ideally positioned to take advantage of nearby transport links, Grafton offers all visitors the comfort and seclusion in the hear of rural Worcestershire. Think quiet country setting, think splendour and think relaxation, as you spend an evening in one of our luxurious en suite bedrooms. Above all, think historical grandeur enriched with all the amenities required to keep you in modern comfort.

For any enquires please do get in touch with us!

We aspire to greatness and ensuring every single guest

01527 579007 office@graftonmanorhotel.co.uk

leaves Grafton with a host of treasured memories.

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Redwood Search are an independent organisation, who prides themselves on finding the right employees for small to medium sized businesses. We have the ability to tailor make our service to each individual clients requirements.

We work for a very broad range of industry sectors and understand that every company has different needs.

Redwood Search provides a range of customised recruitment solutions both locally and nationally with a personal touch.

Rather than a traditional one size fits all approach, our business ethos is to listen, understand and design services to individual clients needs. This includes learning the brand and the culture to maintain an effective business partnership. We believe it’s our friendly and professional service, along with our success rate in placing the right people, which keeps candidates and clients coming back to us time and time again - Recruitment as it should be!

Start hiring with us.

Arlene Gray

Michelle McGovern

Emma Foulds

Abi Cooper

Jenna Lamb

Edward Jukes

01905 27747 jobs@redwoodsearch.co.uk

www.redwoodsearch.co.uk

Recruitment as it should be!

September/October 2017

#SUSTAINABILITYMATTERS

SUSTAINABILITY MATTERS AT DRP Events), and has recently passed their annual audits for both.

Today’s leading venues, agencies and businesses are taking carbon-free steps in the right direction by implementing industry standards like ISO 14001 and ISO 20121 into the way in which they run their businesses and events.

With businesses and their events often having a significant impact on resources, society and the environment, it is essential to have systems in place to reduce or prevent any detrimental effects. drp has attained the ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) and the ISO 20121 (Sustainability Management within

Consider sustainability and your environmental impact from the offset. At the very beginning, persuade a client to incorporate it into their objectives and pre-planning of their upcoming project or event. It’s not just about recycling; it’s about all the factors that have an effect, such as travel (carbon footprint), electricity and also food waste. www.drpgroup.com

MAKE ENERGY EFFICIENCY AFFORDABLE TO YOU Energy efficiency measures do not need to be expensive, and there are a number of grant funding opportunities on offer to reduce the payback period of projects to just a couple of years. Below are five key areas for your business to focus on to achieve energy savings with little or no investment: 1. OUT OF HOUR’S ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION - A simple walk around of the premises at the end of the day, switching off any non-essential equipment can help to minimise this use. Half-hourly data can also be used to highlight usage on non-operational days – check how much electricity your business used on Christmas day for example.

2. BEHAVIOURAL CHANGE - Ensuring all members of staff are involved with energy reduction and instilling a culture where employees are encouraged to save energy is vital to successfully reducing use.

3. HEATING CONTROLS – Heating in the workplace can be a controversial subject, however, ideally offices should be kept at a steady 19-21°C and employees encouraged to dress accordingly. Productivity has been proven to decrease at higher temperatures and energy is wasted.

4. PLUG IN ELECTRIC HEATERS – Whilst this may be an unpopular measure, the use of plug-in electric heaters should be eliminated, however, if there is an abundance of these on your site, they probably indicate a problem with your

main heating system. Take measures to solve these heating issues (such as draught proofing) and remove plug-in heaters.

5. COMPRESSED AIR – Compressed air use should be minimised where possible, leaks should be routinely identified, the operating pressure should be reduced if possible and air intake should be cool.

As part of the Business Energy Efficiency Programme (BEEP) Energy Efficiency Advisors are available to provide free energy assessments on your site. To see if your business could benefit from BEEP, please contact Worcestershire Business Central on 01905 677 888.

The Business Energy Efficiency Programme is part-financed by the England European Regional Development Fund Programme as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.

Worcestershire County Council along with its partners the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, Shropshire Chamber of Commerce, Herefordshire Council, Telford & Wrekin Council and the Worcestershire Districts Councils were awarded £1.45 million funding from the Department for Communities and Local Government’s European Regional Development Fund to help small and medium-sized businesses.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

MALVERN PANALYTICAL INVESTS IN A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE Malvern Panalytical is undertaking a major remodelling of its site at Enigma Business Park, Malvern. The project, which is due to complete in February 2018, sees the installation of modern, high efficiency mechanical and electrical systems which will significantly reduce the company’s carbon footprint. Energy efficient LED lighting, with motion sensors, as well as lighting that adjusts to daylight, will significantly reduce energy consumption, while a brand new heating and cooling system will improve the working environment for the site’s 300 staff, as well as reducing energy use and maintenance requirements.

Malvern Panalytical is taking the opportunity to modernise its working environments with a focus on collaborative work spaces. The new layout will in particular support the combined work of development, manufacturing, engineering and production teams for more effective new product development. IT and systems upgrades will also facilitate collaboration with customers and colleagues at other sites around the world. www.malvern.com.

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INTERNATIONALTRADE

OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE YOUR PRODUCTS IN BULGARIA

MIDLANDS ENGINE CYBER TO RETURN TO MARYLAND

The INTERFOOD & DRINK is taking place on 8-11 November 2017 in Sophia, Bulgaria. The exhibition is taking place for the 8th consecutive year, and is the largest exhibition in the food and drink sector in Bulgaria. The event is set to welcome more than 21,000 visitors and 400 exhibitors this year.

The Midlands Engine Cyber initiative will be hosting a return trade delegation to Baltimore, Maryland, to exhibit at the Cyber Maryland Conference in October, and businesses are being invited join the delegation.

The event is suitable for companies dealing with food, drink, food additives, machines, technologies, storage equipment, packaging, etc. The Department for International Trade is

DEPARTMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL TRADE TAKING TWO TRADE MISSIONS TO SAN FRANCISCO AND NEW YORK The Department for International Trade is taking two trade missions to San Francisco and New York later this year. The missions will showcase leading UK Al capability to an audience of US enterprises from several vertical industries.

MISSION DATES: n San Francisco: 27-28 September 2017 n New York: 5-6 December 2017 Applicant companies can indicate interest in either or both of the missions. If you are interested in participating in the New York mission, the deadline for applying is Friday 8 September.

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offering businesses the opportunity to help showcase and promote products in Bulgaria for free.

For further details, please contact rozalina.ayrakova@fco.gov.uk

INTERNATIONAL TRADE SUMMIT Join us at the British Chambers of Commerce International Trade Summit on Thursday 12 October 2017, at the Vox Conference Centre, Birmingham.

The International Trade Summit allows visitors the chance to gain practical advice, new contacts and resources you need to take your exporting journey to the next level. The event will offer interactive breakout sessions, and will allow for guests to hear from experienced business leaders. In previous years, the Summit has heard from the likes of Sarah Wood (Co-Founder and CEO of Unruly) and Lord Deighton (Chairman of Heathrow).

There is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to get involved by sponsoring the event.

Sponsorship will allow direct engagement with 500 exporting businesses, providing the opportunity to demonstrate expertise and thought leadership through interactive breakout sessions. The sponsorship will allow for branding opportunities throughout the event, and to be associated with an organisation that is a voice of British business.

Over the last year, Midlands Engine Cyber have successfully delivered an outward mission to Maryland, hosted an inward delegation and signed the Memorandum of Understanding between the two regions. The trade mission will take place between 9-13 of October 2017, and is designed to further showcase and sell the region’s cyber innovation and technological capabilities, as well as encourage new businesses to benefit from the increasing opportunities of this high-growth market by developing UK/US relationships.

Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and the Marches LEP, in partnership with Department for International Trade and Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, are developing a programme over the next three years to create sustainability and add both trade and inward investment value for the region.

The International Trade Summit will allow businesses to explore trade opportunities in new markets through the Global Business Network, made up of over 25 international Chambers. To find out more, please visit www.bit.ly/tradesummit17

September/October 2017

INTERNATIONALTRADE

INTERNATIONAL TRADE BRINGS NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR PYON PRODUCTS The last year has been a period of substantial growth for Hereford-based Pyon Products, a solution company for youngstock management. Lucy Allen spoke with Alan Dickson, Partner at Pyon Products, to discuss how the Department for International Trade has assisted in taking their products to the other side of the world.

Pyon Products have been using the Department for International Trade for the last 18 months, engaging with Alison Avery International Trade Advisor at the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

Though they had been importing on an occasional basis, Alan Dickson said that the interest in importing and exporting began when Pyon Products began getting online users from Southern Ireland and Iceland accessing their website. Pyon Products had interest from further Scandinavian countries, and in fact found two distributors; with one originating from Denmark. It was this interest that got the ball rolling.

To Alan’s admission, some of their product range has limited potential in the warmer months of the year. Although there are some 11,000 UK dairy farms in the UK, countries like New Zealand and Australia have opposite lambing and calving months which would spread production over the year and generate a year round income for Pyon Products.

Zealand for this reason, but were unsure of the process and who to contact due to the vast distance between the countries. The Department for International Trade began researching into potential markets that Pyon Products could tap into; providing information regarding cattle, sheep, language and climate and how easy the process would be to export.

In June 2017, Alison flagged up some funding which would enable Pyon Products to attend an exhibition in New Zealand, being part of the UK stand the British Pavilion. The Department for International Trade helped Alan to market his company at the exhibition, which he used as an opportunity to look for new business opportunities in New Zealand.

Since attending the exhibition, Pyon Products have now sold their first pallet in New Zealand. The event has allowed for Alan to meet potential working partners, with a meeting booked to discuss opportunities and products with a business in Australia. The Department for International Trade helped Pyon Products to build on the gap in the market that Alan, and his wife Gill, helped to identify.

To find out how the Department of International Trade could benefit your business, please visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/global-trade-hub. www.pyonproducts.com

Alan stated that Pyon Products had always looked to export to countries like New

To find out more about exporting, and to access support to help you sell abroad, visit www.great.gov.uk. To contact the local International Trade team for Herefordshire and Worcestershire, call 01905 673 600. Alternatively, drop in to the Hereford Business Solutions Centre between 10.00am-2.00pm every Wednesday to talk to an Advisor – contact alison.avery@mobile.trade.gov.uk.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

DIT TAKES ORGANIC APPROACH TO NETWORKING The Department for International Trade is delighted to host an Organic and Free-From networking and showcase event at the Ambassador’s Residence during the NatExpo tradeshow in Paris. The event will take place on Monday 23 October 2017 at the British Ambassador’s Residence.

NatExpo has become France’s leading trade event for the organic sector, with over 12,000 visitors in 2015. Demand is high and sales of organic and free-from food and drink products grew by 13% in 2015.

To find out more, please visit www.natexpo.com

BOOST YOUR SKILLS! Don’t miss the opportunity to access vital exporting information at our upcoming Masterclasses: Financing Export Tuesday 26 September 9.30am-4.30pm Hereford Business Solutions Centre Business Culture in USA Thursday 28 September 9.00am-1.00pm KPMG, Birmingham To view the full calendar and to book your free place for one of these events, visit www.bit.ly/dit-masterclasses-autumn

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BUSINESSNEWS

Back to School Plan ahead this term with bespoke wall planners, calendars, diaries and much more from

Pace Print and Design Ltd WORCESTER’S PREMIER PRINTER

Unit 13 Buckholt Business Centre Buckholt Drive Worcester WR4 9ND 048

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September/October 2017

BUSINESSNEWS

Mailbox or inbox

which side of the fence are you?

DIGITAL marketing is everywhere. But, with inboxes flooded and junk overflowing, those who stuck with the traditional methods of direct mail are the ones reaping the benefits.

“We live in a digital world,” – that’s what they keep telling us. “We live in a digital world and that’s all that matters.”

But does it? Did all that came before it count for nothing? Did we just imagine the success of traditional methods of marketing?

The answer, resoundingly, is ‘No!’ When it comes to putting offers and promotions in front of an audience, a responsive audience, then the evidence is that direct mail is by some distance the most effective tool at hand. While emails sit idly in inboxes, ignored by users wearied by the sheer relentless volume of messages sent at random to all, firms who use targeted direct mail know they are placing their offer precisely before a large percentage of potential customers.

A touchstone of quality

There are some who contend that we have been changed forever by digital media. Really? If so, why do so many hugely successful industries persist with print?

The answer is because it offers a touchstone of quality. A well-produced, beautifully presented leaflet, catalogue, postcard or brochure, correlates directly in the mind of the customer with the quality of goods or services a company is offering. Those who use the system in a nuanced and targeted manner are actually now being seen by customers.

Safety over security

Think also of the ease with which direct marketing allows engagement. Noone is being asked to click on an email (that in all likelihood has landed in their junk box anyway). No-one is being asked to trust in attachments, to put phishing fears to one side, to risk their online integrity. No-one feels as if they are dealing with the anonymous, the distant, the potentially exploitative.

There is zero chance of compromise.

It’s a myth that direct mail isn’t cost-effective compared to digital marketing.

The latter still requires the cost of design and software. The difference is that direct marketing exists, it is tangible, present, and in front of potential customers. It is not subject to the whims of email firewalls or Internet algorithms as to whether it will make it to the client’s eyeline.

Pace Print and Design Ltd WORCESTER’S PREMIER PRINTER

Unit 13 Buckholt Business Centre Buckholt Drive Worcester WR4 9ND Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Tangible and quantifiable

The success of direct mail is more measurable than you might think. Marking order coupons, for instance, with a specific serial number, allows a company to assess reach, profitability and efficiency of an individual campaign.

Importantly, it allows them also to test the water. If one mail-out is successful, the door is open to increase its scope next time around.

Direct mail also panders to natural inquisitiveness. We are an interested people who have become dismissive and disinterested to email bombardment.

Return on investment

Royal Mail Group research suggests that young people aged 25-34 prefer direct marketing to email marketing. Social media, meanwhile, comes second to direct mail when it comes to return on investment.

Direct mail also has a higher response rate than its email rival and attracts repeat business.

Perhaps we shouldn’t be too surprised by these statistics. We are, after all, talking human nature here. We enjoy the aesthetic of good design, the same as we enjoy being approached on a personable basis, and treated as if we are more than just another email recipient, one of millions, a mere source of revenue.

Customers deserve better, and those who have kept faith with direct marketing know as much. The Internet is a portal. Print is a portal to success, offering connectivity and trustworthiness.

Strength comes from the doormat up.

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Is digital all we have?

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

HOSPITAL UNVEILS MRI SCANNER WITH BUILT-IN PICTURE SHOW! Pictured at the opening ceremony. Standing back (L-R) Simon Milner (Hospital Director), Michelle Poulson (Imaging Manager), Julie Wild (Matron), Dr Gavin Nicol (Consultant Anaesthetist), Dr Umesh Udeshi (Consultant Radiologist); Seated (L-R) Mr Nadim Aslam (Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon), Miss Rachel Bright-Thomas (Consultant Breast Surgeon), Mr Michael Trevett (Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon); Standing (front of scanner) Helen Lippitt (MRI Lead), Cecille Masong (Senior Radiographer)

A new MRI Scanner that allows nervous patients to watch DVDs while they are being scanned has been unveiled at Spire South Bank Hospital in Worcester.

The Philips Ingenia 1.5T has the very latest in image technology, producing clearer images even when body movement is taken into account.

Unveiling the scanner at an event attended by various surgeons, physiotherapists and osteopaths, Consultant Radiologist Dr Umesh Udeshi described it as a major boost for healthcare services in the region.

He said: “Motion can be a major challenge when taking a scan – in many areas of the body there is nothing you can do to prevent natural movement – but this scanner can actually produce ‘motion-corrected’ images with high resolution which means we can get excellent result quickly.”

But - aside from science and technology – the scanner is going to be welcomed by those worried about the ‘claustrophobic’ nature of lying in the tube during scanning.

“We have a variety of short films or they can actually bring a DVD of their choice – it just helps them to relax and have a more enjoyable experience.”

“People who are a little nervous can, thanks to the use of specially-placed mirrors - actually watch a film while their scan is taking place,” said Imaging Manager Michelle Poulson.

Hospital Director Simon Milner added: “The entire scanner project has cost around £1.5m - money well spent, as it means an impressive improvement of our imaging capabilities which is good news for patients and consultants alike.”

Need a scan?

The new Philips MRI scanner at Spire • Shorter examination times • • A unique patient experience with reduced noise and elevated comfort during the examination • Flexible appointments available To make an appointment or for further information please call:

01905 362223 050

www.spiresouthbank.com September/October 2017

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

EXCELLENCE IN PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Thursfields Solicitors has won the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Excellence in Professional Services Award 2017.

Alison Avery of the Chamber of Commerce highlighted that Thursfields ”stood out due to the breadth and depth of service offering they have to their customers and it was clear that they are committed to delivering that excellence in professional services”.

Thursfields Managing Director Nick O’Hara said: “This is a remarkable achievement that reflects on the efforts of our entire team and we are very pleased to have won”.

Commercial Director Michelle Chamberlain said: “Our vision is to be known as one of the best legal firms across Worcestershire and the wider West Midlands. We have a strong reputation in Herefordshire and Worcestershire leading to much repeat business from clients and other professionals, such as accountancy firms”.

Thursfields has also recently launched a new agricultural and rural business department led by new arrival Sarah Denney-Richards, who has joined as a Director.

Ms Chamberlain said: “We have the entrepreneurial passion of a start-up business which when combined with the quality reputation of our long established practice is a winning formula. Always striving to deliver excellence in our service is key to what we do.”

of the Year Award (5-15 Partners) at the Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards 2016, Trainee of the Year and Paralegal of the Year at the Worcester Law Society Awards 2016 and Birmingham Young Professional of the Year in the Legal category 2017.

The company is LEXCEL accredited (legal industry standard) and carries a Silver Investors in People award.

Thursfields is a full-service law firm with around 140 staff with offices in Worcester, Kidderminster, Stourport-on Severn, Halesowen, Sedgley, Birmingham and Solihull.

Other recent awards won by the Thursfields’ team include the Law Firm

For all your legal requirements contact your award winning, local team Residential Property Wills & Estates Family Law Employment Law Dispute Resolution Care Services

Personal Injury Claims Commercial Property Corporate & Commercial Insolvency & Debt Recovery Agriculture Charity

Kidderminster | Worcester | Stourport | Halesowen | Sedgley | Solihull | Birmingham Integrity & Expertise

www.thursfields.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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VISITWORCESTERSHIRE

www.visitworcestershire.org

TOURISM AWARDS FINALISTS Best Touring, Camping and Holiday Park Sponsored by Olpro

Canvas & Clover Rosebud Meadow Hopleys Family Camping Best Conference Venue Sponsored by Worcestershire Business Central

Bank House Hotel, Spa & Golf Eckington Manor Stanbrook Abbey Best Self Catering Sponsored by AA Quality Assessment Scheme

Hop Pickers Rural Retreats The Durrance Belford Cottage Best Guest Accommodation Sponsored by Rural Concierge

Eckington Manor The Cardinal’s Hat The Dell House Best Hotel

ELGAR’S BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM REOPENING

Bodenham Arboretum Severn Valley Railway The Malvern Spa

The National Trust has taken on a five year lease of The Elgar Birthplace Museum and will reopen on Friday September 1 with a refreshed and extended offer.

Reopening under the cottage’s original name ‘The Firs’, this special place in Lower Broadheath has transformed unused office space into a new Tea Room and exhibition space.

Best Eating Out

Working closely with the extensive

Sponsored by Events With the Edge

Brockencote Hall The Malvern Spa The Bank House Hotel, Spa & Golf Best Visitor Attraction Sponsored by Glide Media

collection, our volunteers in the cottage will tell the story of Edward Elgar, from his family to the plethora of hobbies he enjoyed that inspired his music. To support the National Trust in keeping this gem in the Worcestershire countryside open come visit from Friday 1 September, we are looking forward to welcoming one and all.

To keep up to date on the ongoing works visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-firs

Sponsored by Hale Events

Feli’s Bar & Restaurant Eckington Manor The Cotford Hotel Best Food Producer Sponsored by mfg Solicitors

Churchfield’s Farm Ice Cream Croome Cuisine Clives Fruit Farm

CYBER Q NOW OPEN IN WORCESTER Select your challenge from a choice of three individually themed rooms. From a deranged Doctor’s laboratory to a string of crimes that have taken place on the East End, each game is designed to bring a new level to escape rooms in the UK.

Best Drink Producer Sponsored by Worcestershire Ambassadors

Pershore College Fruit Juice Oldfields Cider Clives Fruit Farm Best Festivals & Events (Commercial) Sponsored by SimpliWifi

Worcester Beer Festival RHS Malvern Spring Festival Upton Blues Festival Best Festival and Events (Community) Sponsored by JNIT Consultancy Limited

Droitwich Spa Food & Drink Festival Broadway Arts Festival Worcester Music Festival With thanks to overall sponsor Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership

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Cyber Q Escape Rooms is a thrilling, fun and interactive activity for players of all ages. All you have to do is enter the game, solve the puzzle and escape the room. Do you dare to take on the challenge?

In your group of 2-6 players, you have a total of 60 minutes to escape the room.

Be prepared to solve mind-challenging logic problems, search for secretly hidden objects and figure out passwords in order to solve the clues to escape the room.

The extraordinary experience requires you to work with your team in a way that is unique to conventional games. Perfect for friends, family and even team-building – what are you waiting for? Can you escape the room? www.cyberq.co.uk

September/October 2017

VISITHEREFORDSHIRE

www.visitherefordshire.co.uk

TOURISM AWARDS FINALISTS Best Touring, Camping and Holiday Park Sponsored by Olpro

Poston Mill Park Discover Parks Babes in the Woods Best Conference Venue Sponsored by Worcestershire Business

Central The Courtyard Centre for Arts The Cider Museum Best Self Catering Sponsored by AA Quality Assessment Scheme

Cruckbarn The Lodges at the Baiting House Best Guest Accommodation Sponsored by Rural Concierge

Temple Bar Inn Buzzard House Westbrook Court b&b Best Hotel Sponsored by Events With the Edge

Colwall Park Hotel Castle House Hotel Best Visitor Attraction Sponsored by Glide Media

Whitney Bridge The Cider Museum Wynnes of Dunmore Best Eating Out Sponsored by Hale Events

HEREFORDSHIRE LORE WINS NATIONAL LOTTERY SUPPORT FOR RIVER WYE PROJECT A Group dedicated to recording Herefordshire’s heritage has received £27,600 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for an exciting new oral history project, River Voices: Stories from the Wye.

publishing and archiving people’s memories since 1989. Its archive of work, represented by hundreds of hours of voice recordings and pages of written transcriptions, largely undertaken by volunteers, is unsurpassed.

The project offers an opportunity for visitors to explore the living history of this stretch of water that slices through the county, and learn new skills too. The production of a book, website, three newsletters, school learning package, and oral history training in addition to reminiscence workshops and an exhibition, will ensure a wide-ranging audience for this human history of the River Wye in Herefordshire.

If you are interested in getting involved or would like to learn more, please get in touch with project manager Marsha O’Mahony riverwyevoices@gmail.com or 07989 733870

Temple Bar Inn Mandy Moo’s Cafe Riverside at Aymestrey

Herefordshire Lore has been collecting,

Best Food Producer

OUT OF NATURE

Sponsored by mfg Solicitors

Myrtle’s Kitchen Peter Cooks Bread Woodthorpe Preserves Best Drink Producer Sponsored by Worcestershire Ambassadors

Gun Dog Gin JUS Once Upon a Tree Best Festivals & Events (Commercial) Sponsored by SimpliWifi

Borderlines Film Festival Eastnor Chilli Festival Best Festival and Events (Community) Sponsored by JNIT Consultancy Limited

Kington Walking Festival Ledbury Poetry Festival Hereford River Carnival With thanks to overall sponsor Pear Communications

From 1-22 October, the gardens at Newport House on the Welsh borders open to the public as “Out Of Nature” presents its 3rd sculpture show.

Out of Nature, 2013

With over 40 artists and 300 pieces from all over the UK, Out Of Nature is one of the largest sculpture shows in the country in scale and in quality of artists represented.

It was created in 2013 to celebrate the link with nature, and to invite guests to be awed by the beauty of autumn colours in the formal gardens of Newport House, resonating with the magic of sculptures of all sizes, shapes and materials.

Central to the show is The Cart Shed, a charity that supports people with mental health problems through coppicing and green wood craft. The Cart Shed will be present throughout the show with staff and volunteers happy to demonstrate

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

activities and share its experiences. All profits from the show are donated to The Cart Shed. www.outofnature.org.uk

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

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

MARCHES BUILDING INVESTMENT GRANT

DO YOU NEED MORE BUILDING SPACE? WILL YOU BE CREATING NEW JOBS?

If yes, then grant support of up to £100k may be available The Marches Building Investment Grant is a scheme part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund. Its aim is to help small to medium sized enterprises, who supply products and services to other businesses, to expand and grow. If your business is constrained by your current premises and workspace you may be eligible to receive grant support.

Subject to job creation, grants of up to 45% of eligible project costs and a maximum of £100k may be available to renovate, extend or reconfigure premises in the Marches area (Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin).

The grant is unable to fund core farming operations, residential development, purchase of buildings and businesses involved in the retail sale of goods and services to the general public.

To find out if your company is eligible to apply, and to discuss your proposal further, please contact the programme team on 01432 260662 or email mbig@herefordshire.gov.uk

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September/October 2017

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

Small business websites £20 per month + £99 setup cost

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Visit our website for more information: www.crystalthought.co.uk/small-business Need a bigger website?

We have packages to suit all budgets.

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A BSI Kitemark™ repair is all about the detail Including the ones you don’t see.

CARSMETIX PERSHORE BSI KITEMARK APPROVED Accident Repair Specialists

BS10125: 2014+A1:2016 A British Standard Kitemark repair looks good on the outside whilst protecting you on the inside.

At our Pershore based workshops, we take care of everything from the smallest of scratches to major accident damage.

Being an approved BSI Kitemark repairer, means we have to meet strict standards recognised industry wide for all parts of the repair process, from the methods, materials and parts we use, to making sure our staff have the correct training.

Carsmetix offer best in class, retail, trade, insurance and fleet repairs:

 Skilled repairs using approved equipment and materials.

 Real expertise through highly trained technicians and latest repair methods.

 We only use parts which are appropriate for safe repairs.

 Quality Repair methods maintained through strict

independent unannounced inspections from BSI.

We’ll restore the appearance of your vehicle and more importantly repair those critical safety features you can’t see that can protect you and your passengers in the event of any future Incidents The BSI Kitemark is adopted by the most forward thinking repairers committed to carrying out work only to the highest standards. It’s recognised by many automotive manufacturers and major insurance companies too.

www.carsmetix.com 01386 552803 Opposite Pershore Railway Station

Our vehicle services Include: Retail & Insurance Trade Commercial Paint Protection Systems Alloy Wheels

WORCESTERSHIREBUSINESSCENTRAL

www.business-central.co.uk

HOW TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS Whether you plan to sell more to existing customers, expand your sales channels or enter new markets, here are just a few of the ways in which you can grow your business:

Increase Your Workforce

FUNDING BOOST FOR APPLIED PRINCIPLES Worcestershire Business Central continues to support Worcestershire businesses to grow with the acquisition of funding for Worcester based, Applied Principles.

Applied Principles was established in 2005 and is a Canon Solutions provider partner, with customers ranging from SMEs to multi-national manufacturers. The company has a customer centric approach to software and believes that customers should be in full control of their own processes and data.

JJ Kotze, Managing Director and Owner, first met Kevin Aisbett from Worcestershire Business Central in February 2017. Looking at the business’ development plans, Kevin recommended various programmes to support the business including the Proof of Concept fund, which supports SMEs to investigate, advance, commercialise and protect early stage innovative business ideas through a partnership with Central Technology Belt (CTB).

Through collaboration with Jane Holmes, Business Manager at CTB, the company applied for the fund and successfully received a £30,000 grant to develop

Seamcor, a cloud based paperless Process and Compliance Management System.

The system allows customers to capture compliance information on mobile devices, allowing a variety of information to be collected in real-time. This includes images, quality checks, risk assessments, health and safety audits, and signatures from process owners.

JJ Kotze, Owner and Managing Director at Applied Principles, said: “The Proof of Concept funding was a significant milestone for Applied Principles which has allowed us to start development on a project which wouldn’t otherwise have been possible” Commenting on the support received from Worcestershire Business Central, JJ said: “Kevin was very proactive at following up our enquiry and informing us about programmes available to support our business development. We will be more active in working with him in future as we look at further opportunities for our business.”

Kevin Aisbitt, Business Engagement Manager at Worcestershire Business Central, said “It is paramount that we support local businesses to grow, so it is always fantastic news to hear a business has received funding towards developments of future projects.”

To find out how Worcestershire Business Central can support your business, contact the team on 01905 677 888 or email info@ business-central.co.uk.

To find out more about how Worcestershire Business Central can support your business, visit www.business-central.co.uk or contact the team today: info@ business-central.co.uk, 01905 677 888.

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From recruiting new employees to hiring apprentices and up-skilling existing staff, we can guide you to the resources available in Worcestershire to help grow your team.

Become Resource Efficient With a growing business often comes increased overheads but by using resources efficiently you can actually save money as you grow.

Access International Markets If the marketplace exists for your products or services overseas, then international expansion may be the next logical step.

Expand UK Operations If you are looking for a central, cost-effective location to expand your business in the UK, Worcestershire may provide everything you are looking for.

Access Potential New Markets If you have an innovative business idea but want to investigate how you can take this forward.

SAVE THE DATE! Worcestershire Business Central is delighted to announce the launch of its First Annual Conference.

The event will be held on Wednesday 8 November at an exclusive venue, which will be announced soon.

To pre-book your place or to find out more, please contact 01905 677888

September/October 2017

BUSINESSNEWS

RIMILIA ANNOUNCE NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH FRENCH COMPANY FI SOFTWARE Rimilia, the leading financial software provider, has announced a new partnership with French company Fi Software to provide cutting edge AR automation solutions and serve the rapidly growing French market.

Fi Software, based in Paris, will serve the entire French market and is spearheaded

by Co-founders Stéphane Hilliere and Raphaël Viette. Stéphane and Raphaël both have extensive and valuable

Team Fortis enjoying success at the HANA awards ceremony with Assistant Accountant Mike LeRoy, centre, holding the certificate

FORTIS LIVING CELEBRATES AWARDS SUCCESS One of Worcestershire’s leading housing associations is celebrating after being shortlisted in two categories at the UK’s top social housing finance awards.

Fortis Living attended the Housing Association National Accountancy (HANA) Awards earlier this month where it received the accolades. The event welcomed more than 400 social housing finance professionals to celebrate the sector’s finance achievements.

Fortis was highly commended in the Best Innovation in Financial Technology/Software category as well as being shortlisted in the Treasury Team of the Year category.

Andy Howarth, Executive Director of Finance at Fortis Living said: “This is the first time we have entered the HANA awards and with 64 entries, competition was certainly stiff! We are therefore delighted to have reached such a level in the categories we entered; it is testimony to our finance team’s hard work and confirms that we are performing with the very best in the sector to the benefit of our tenants.” www.fortisliving.com

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experience in providing business software solutions and are excited about further bringing cutting edge Rimilia solutions to French organisations.

Phil Coombs, Senior Project Manager at Rimilia commented “We are delighted to be working with Fi Software and extending our ever-growing global presence in to the French market. The Rimilia product suite fits well with established French finance processes, delivering world-class benefits

to global and French-owned organisations.

Working with the Fi team so far has been a pleasure and it’s clear that their core values are aligned with Rimilia’s. I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together over the next few years.” www.rimilia.com

SOUTH WEST HEALTH AND SAFETY FIRM SIGNS ARMED FORCES COVENANT SSG Training and Consultancy have become the most recent organisation to adopt the Armed Forces Covenant in the South West, one of only 1,300 businesses across the UK to have done so already.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise from the nation, ensuring that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

SSG’s covenant will cover the whole of the South West region. The company will endeavour to provide support in the employment of veterans young and old and service spouses and partners.

Mark Salmon, Managing Director of SSG, said, “We are very proud to have signed the Armed Forces Covenant.

We have several ex-Armed Forces members as well as team members who continue to serve with the Reserves and want to continue to help the Armed Forces in any way we can.” www.ssg.co.uk

DRINKS RECEPTION TO MARK NEW DEAL Two newly merged Worcester recruitment firms have held a drinks reception to mark a deal which will see them providing more specialist staff to firms across the county.

Workforce Recruitment announced the merger with fellow Worcester business Peach Recruitment in July with Peach’s staff moving from their Pierpoint Street branch into Workforce’s Foregate Street recruitment centre.

The event, held at Boleros Bar & Kitchen, saw over 40 guests from the local business community treated to drinks and a tapas-style buffet which followed short speeches by Workforce CEO Paul Alekna and Sarah Mayo-Evans, Founder of Peach Recruitment.

Paul Alekna, said: “The merger with Peach Recruitment has been extremely smooth and the drinks reception was another opportunity for us to thank the staff and celebrate the future.”

Sarah Mayo-Evans added: “It was important for us to thank staff and a variety of businesses from across Worcestershire for their ongoing support following our merger. We are going from strength to strength as part of the Workforce team.” www.eresponsegroup.co.uk

September/October 2017

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

LOW CARBON OPPORTUNITIES PROGRAMME The Low Carbon Opportunities Programme offers funding and support to install renewable energy systems, or to develop new low carbon products, to small and medium sized enterprises in Worcestershire.

One of our aims is to increase the use of renewables by Worcestershire businesses. By supporting businesses to install renewable energy systems, the programme helps reduce expenditure on energy bills, lower carbon footprints, overcome energy constraints and reduce reliance on the grid.

Grants of up to £100,000 (45% of the total project costs) are available, which can help fund sizeable renewable energy installations. Local businesses are now applying to install solar PV and renewable heating systems. The programme can fund all types of renewables and also other low carbon technologies. Free support from specialist advisors is available to help businesses work out

Solar PV panels on Worcestershire business Autotechnik Systems Ltd - Photo: Chris Sutor of All Eco Energy

their best options and the savings they could benefit from, with a detailed recommendations report provided.

In addition, the programme aims to help those in the county who are developing the next generation of low carbon technologies. A grant from the programme could help businesses with patent costs, prototype development, testing and accreditation, market research – the list goes on! Again, there is specialist support available to help establish what a grant could be used for, before the business submits an application for up to 45% funding towards their projects.

Look out on Twitter @sustainableworc for events which will provide opportunities to find out more about the programme, renewables or our network of clean tech innovators.

The Low Carbon Opportunities Programme is receiving up to £1,194,824 of funding from the European Regional Development Fund, with further support from Worcestershire County Council and the Worcestershire District Councils.

Interested in benefiting from the programme? Call Worcestershire Business Central on 01905 677888.

For more information, visit www.business-central.co.uk/locop

Gateway to a lower carbon future for your business Could you install renewable energy at your business?

Free support and grants of up to 45% of project costs available

Are you developing a product or technology which will save energy or carbon?

Call Worcestershire Business Central on 01905 677888 to apply

part of the government-supported growth hub network

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

ACCOUNTANCY ADDITIONS Droitwich based chartered accountants, Ballard Dale Syree Watson LLP have made a number of promotions over the past month including appointing Ben Allman as a partner with the firm. This appointment takes the number of partners at the firm to seven. It now employs approximately sixty professional staff and has another partner joining later in the year from global accountancy business Ernst & Young.

Mr Allman joined the firm in May 2015 from a large regional accountancy practice in the South East of England. He comes from a farming background, originally growing up on the family farm in Warwickshire before moving to Herefordshire where the family bred pedigree Hereford Cattle.

The newly appointed partner is a qualified chartered accountant and chartered tax advisor and will work with a number of corporates and owner managed businesses across the region.

“When I moved back to the area, there was only ever one firm that I wanted to join and that was Ballards. My primary focus is delivering a tailored, personal service

Bill Ballard (L) & Ben Allman (R)

alongside really valuable business advice” Mr Allman commented. “I have always known of the firm’s strong tax offering and know how important that is to our clients.” The firm was also joined by tax partner, Phil Waller in recent months who has joined from international firm, Mazars.

Mr Waller will head up the tax planning department Top Flight Tax alongside tax partner, Liz Peters.

Business Development Director Steven Jones said “We knew when we first met with Ben that he shared the firm’s values of client focus and delivering a quality service. His standards are very high when it comes to ensuring client satisfaction and he is very much in tune with new technology which is entering into our sector. It’s a great appointment for the firm and for our clients.”

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September/October 2017

CONFERENCEWORCESTERSHIRE

www.conference-worcestershire.com

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS AT ST. ANDREWS St. Andrews Town Hotel offers Party Nights, Christmas Day lunches, New Year’s Eve fun and the chance for festive dining away from your hectic December schedule.

St. Andrews’ Party Nights are filled with great food, great atmosphere and the great company of your family, friends or colleagues. Enjoy a delicious three course meal and dance the night away.

Alongside Party Nights you can also join us on Christmas Day for a sumptuous five course meal or celebrate New Years in style

by enjoying a choice of either a gala dinner, or a lavish buffet before welcoming in 2018.

Christmas would not be the same without that all important visit to see Father Christmas. Treat your family to a mouth-watering Sunday roast at one

of their Santa Sundays as you wait in anticipation for Santa Claus to arrive handing out gifts to the children, of course.

Bookings can be made by calling 01905 779677 or emailing events@ st-andrewshotel.com

CELEBRATE THE FESTIVE SEASON AT THE ABBEY

CHRISTMAS AT THE JINNEY RING CRAFT CENTRE

Celebrate the festive season at The Abbey’s popular Christmas party nights.

This year, there are a range of fabulous themed join-a-party nights to choose from, featuring a festive rodeo bull, fancy dress prizes, photo booths, delicious cuisine and more. With dates available throughout December, The Abbey is the perfect venue for groups of all sizes to celebrate the Christmas period in style.

The Jinney Ring Craft Centre in Hanbury is best known for its real life handmade crafts, where the artisans welcome you into their fascinating workshops to find inspiring, handmade and unusual gifts for all. At Christmas a warm welcome awaits you in the farmhouse restaurant with its cosy log fire and fantastic homemade food with a range dining options.

Private Parties are also available in The Abbey’s impressive event suites; enjoy a delicious three course meal with up to 250 guests in the Elgar Suite, or 70 guests in the Shaw Suite. Smaller event spaces are available for more intimate private dinners and parties.

If dancing the night away is not to your taste, delicious Christmas lunches served in the restaurant are also available throughout December.

To find out more about Christmas events at The Abbey, contact the events team on 01684 879222 or email abbey@sarova.com

HAVE A BANK HOUSE CHRISTMAS If you’re looking for the ideal venue to celebrate the festive season this year, look no further than the Bank House Hotel, Spa and Golf Club. The Bank House’s Christmas Party Nights take place throughout December and are guaranteed to get you into the festive spirit. With a three course party menu that encompasses all that Christmas has to offer - from Spiced Pumpkin Soup, to Scottish Salmon, and Roast Turkey to Christmas Pudding, we can guarantee that your festive taste buds will be more than satisfied at Bank House this Christmas.

Once dinner is over, our resident DJ will take over and have you dancing the night away with your friends and colleagues– you’ll have such a great night you won’t want to go home, and that is why we have special overnight accommodation rates for our Christmas Party guests which even include use of the luxury spa.

New at Jinney Ring this year will be a private dining area for Christmas lunch parties of up to 60 guests. A daytime visit combines perfectly with a visit to the craft centre, filled with Christmas spirit at every turn, to explore the craft studios including a glass blower, chocolatier and jeweller.

For evenings, small businesses or groups can celebrate at our Party Nights throughout December including three course festive menu and disco. Large groups can also be accommodated with private hire of the restaurant. www.jinneyring.co.uk

www.bankhouseworcester.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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MEMBERSSERVICES

THE CHAMBER LEGAL ADVICE LINE PROVIDED BY COMPOSITE LEGAL EXPENSES, IS A KEY BENEFIT AND INCLUDED AS PART OF YOUR CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP. As a Member of the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, you can use the service as if it’s your own in-house legal team, HR department or accountant, calling as often as your like, with no time limit per call.

The Chamber Legal Advice Line at a glance:

AGATA MCCRINDLE, FOUNDER OF THE LINGUIST, SHARES HER EXPERIENCE OF USING THE LEGAL ADVICE SERVICE Agata said: “Recently, I had a client with three overdue invoices.

Throughout the last six months I have emailed and telephoned the client regularly requesting payment to no effect. I run a small business, The Linguist, and this has had an effect on my cash flow.

“I contacted my Account Manager, Melanie Eastwood, at the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, who immediately responded and provided me with a telephone number for free legal advice that is available to Chamber Members. I contacted the number early on Monday morning when the service was relatively busy. However, I

requested a call back from a Lawyer and received a return telephone call at 1.00pm on the same day as agreed with the call taker.

“The Lawyer provided me with a general explanation of law in relation to my specific issues and directed me to their website where I could download a template of a “Letter Before Action”. I then contacted the client and explained to them that I had received legal advice from the Chamber and that I would issue a Letter Before Action unless the payment was received by the end of the week.

“Two days later the client personally delivered a cheque covering all outstanding invoices.”

HAVE YOU BENEFITTED FROM USING THE MEMBERS’ SERVICES? Membership with the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce enables you to access a wide range of support services.

If you have benefitted from one or more of these services, we would love to hear from you and feature a case study about your experience on our website and in the next issue of Business Direction.

To find out more, please contact your Account Manager at the Chamber or call 01905 673 600.

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n Receive advice to any legal, human resource, health & safety, tax or VAT matter n The service operates on a 24/7 basis – if your enquiry is urgent, it will be escalated to a qualified advisor even outside of normal office hours n Calls are logged so that follow-up calls relating to the same subject can be seamlessly picked up by any member of the Advice Team n All Advice Line calls are recorded and securely stored in the event of a query being raised at some point in the future n Call as often as you need to, with no time limit per call

Speak to qualified experts: n Legal advice provided by LLB qualified personnel n Employment Law and HR advice provided by CIPD qualified consultants n Health & Safety advice provided by IOSH qualified consultants n Tax and VAT advice provided by professionally qualified personnel including former HMRC employed specialists This service is available FREE to Members, please login to find out how to access the service or contact the Membership team on 01905 673 611

September/October 2017

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

IS YOUR OFFICE UP FOR A BIT OF ROLE PLAY? Once every three months or so, the team at OpenCRM will get together for a quick roll play session. No, not Dungeons & Dragons.

We all come together to practice our various disaster recovery plans, from minor service outages to accidental power loss to office break ins. It is a great way to make sure that, if the worst happens, your team are ready for it.

I can’t recommend it enough.

Ready for Disaster?

I’m going to assume that you have your disaster recovery plans written out and in an easily accessible place that all your employees know about. This could be in a hand book stored centrally, an in-house wiki or FAQ module, or even in a shared file on the business server.

And that’s great, these procedures should be written down in a format that is easy to follow and will guide your team through all the necessary steps.

But nothing beats practice.

If your service were to suddenly go down and you had annoyed and/or angry customers overwhelming your reception team with calls, would everyone in your office know how to receive those calls?

Would they know what to say? Would they be able to say it with confidence?

A roll playing session won’t make your technical team customer service experts, but it will mean that they will have experience picking up the phone and transferring a call at least once. They will also have a little bit of practice using your preferred script to pacify that angry caller.

And that means that, if something ever did happen, they are ready to step in and shoulder some of the burden.

Preparation Prevents Poor Performance Setting up one of these roll play sessions is easy, I know there are people out there who will come in and run these for you, but before you go that far, you should probably try it out yourself first.

First things first, you need some scenarios.

I find that starting from your disaster recovery plan is easiest. Remember these don’t have to be compelling stories, just a prompt to make sure people understand which disaster recovery response is required.

For example, we used the old “You show up first at the office on Monday morning to find evidence of a break in. What do you do?” at our session. This is a good one because you can make sure every single person in your office knows what to do in the case of a burglary and remind them that they have an individual responsibility to know what to do in these situations.

Another one of our scenarios was an undefined system failure at one of our third party supplies. This gave people the chance to practice (and remember) the role each department and individual has to play in an emergency.

To make things a bit more fun, you could always split your office into two groups, with one side playing the customers in one scenario while the other group has to respond, and then flip it for the next scenario. This way, you can simulate the actual phone calls people can expect in these situations.

These kinds of direct role playing activities can get a bit silly and that’s ok, as long as the overall plan stays on track and in motion.

a team building exercise, but at the heart these practice sessions are the best way to ensure that you respond correctly to a business disaster.

All businesses should have disaster recovery and business continuity plans, it’s just common sense.

But too many companies write up these plans, distribute them to their employees, and think that the job is done.

It isn’t.

You have to make sure that everyone understands why these plans exist, when to implement them, and what their individual role is in that response. And for my money, spending an hour running through a few scenarios will be a more effective way of ticking all those boxes.

To talk to a member of the OpenCRM team about how CRM software can benefit your brand, just call 01748 473000 or visit the website: www.opencrm.co.uk

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

Best Business Practice This kind of role playing seems like it is just a bit of fun, and it can end up as a bit of

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CHARITYNEWS

WORCESTER STANDS TALL WITH ST RICHARD’S HOSPICE A major company has announced its support of an exciting new art event set to take Worcester by storm in summer 2018.

Worcester, Bosch Group is the latest sponsor to reveal its involvement with Worcester Stands Tall, a project which will see at least 25 decorated giraffe sculptures form an eye-catching art trail through the city’s streets.

Sue Pennington, Consumer Brand Manager at Worcester, Bosch Group, said: “We have a large group of employees in Worcestershire who have experienced the great work carried out by St Richard’s – whether it be through a friend or loved one who has received care, or even as a patient themselves.”

“We also have an interest in the arts and environment so the opportunity to sponsor a giraffe and also to donate a smaller version to a local school was one we were particularly keen to take up.” www.worcesterstandstall.co.uk

THINK PINK WITH WORCESTERSHIRE BREAST UNIT HAVEN This October Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven is asking you to join them in going pink to raise funds that will directly go towards the women and men of Worcestershire with breast care needs.

In Worcestershire alone, over 600 people are diagnosed each year with breast cancer, with one in three women in the county needing to see a breast specialist at some point in their life.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a worldwide annual campaign to raise awareness and funds to help research, fund and provide the best facilities possible for those with breast cancer.

Join Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven

The opening ceremony is scheduled for Thursday 7 September at 11.00am. The garden marks the adoption of a unique and pioneering approach to help homeless people.

GIVING BACK TO CELEBRATE 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS To mark 20 years providing communications solutions to businesses across the region, Global Phones has started on a year-long bid to raise funds for an amazing local charity, Spectrum Days.

this October to think pink and do what you can to help those individuals and families affected by this disease.

Contact Alexandra.craigie@nhs.ne

OPENING OF NEW GARDEN AT ST PAUL’S HOSTEL Andrea Borwell-Fox, Director of Borwell Limited and President of the Chamber’s Board, has been invited to open the new garden at St Paul’s Hostel. The new therapeutic garden, created by residents, staff and volunteers, is a project that marks the beginning of a new era for the charity.

Craig Robinson from Global Phones

significant transformation to celebrate being founded 40 years ago. As part of the Worcestershire Fusion Consortium, St Paul’s have gained funding from Big Lottery Fund’s Building Better Opportunities Fund, and are providing support to help disadvantaged individuals.

St Paul’s Hostel joined the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce in 2016, and is increasingly engaging with the business community to identify job incentives and training opportunities. www.stpaulshostel.co.uk

Spectrum Days is a small charity that provides support for people with profound disabilities across the region.

Craig Robinson from Global Phones got the ball rolling, and his legs running, by taking part in the Brockhampton Mud Run in April. The fundraising efforts have continued as the team hosted a raffle with a twist at the Droitwich Food Festival in June - raising awareness, and money, for the charity.

All the team donned their sportwear to raise funds at the recent Rotary Spots Day, even roping in fellow local business Fresh Nous to complete the team.

Global Phones are keen to thank everyone who’s donated and sponsored us through their various events. www.global-phones.co.uk/ourcharity-partnership

The charity has been undergoing a

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September/October 2017

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH

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It is widely reported that consumers spend on average two minutes longer watching videos than looking at any other marketing media.

REVIVE HOME SMART REPAIR LTD

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Revive Home Smart Repair Ltd is a surface repair company that has recently relocated to Worcestershire.

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Zest Virtual Solutions help small

www.zestvirtualsolutions.co.uk

VERMILION CONSULTING Vermilion can help you create successful change in your company. With years of experience, Vermilion bring innovative practices that dramatically increase your chances of success, using ideas from agile, lean start-up, change management, organisational development and behavioural psychology.

Gina Bradbury, Founder of Vermilion Consulting, spent many years as a Senior Executive in the Media industry, before setting up her consultancy and training company in 2001. Now based in Garway Hill, Gina helps organisations of all sizes develop products and services that delight their customers, help them to grow their profits and supports a people centric and feedback driven approach to change.

Gina says: "We want to work with more local and regional businesses and are keen to meet anyone interested in exploring how we might be able to help them and their companies." www.vermilionconsulting.com Gina Bradbury, Founder of Vermilion Consulting

Repairs can be carried out on surfaces including – wood, marble, granite, uPVC, ceramics, laminates and glass. By using specialist skills and techniques, our Revive Technicians use a vast array of fillers, hardeners, polishes and colours to mend surfaces that have suffered damage such as scratches, dents, chips, gouges or staining.

Repairing, rather than replacing these work surfaces, does not only save time and money on costly replacements, but reduces the amount of waste going into landfill.

FLEXSPACE Flexspace, in the Hereford Enterprise Zone, offers versatile spaces that you can adapt to your business’ needs, by providing essential business infrastructure with affordable rates and flexible terms.

Whether you need office facilities, a workshop or co-working offices, at Flexspace there is always a great value option for those in need of a professional business space.

Tenants can make the most of fully serviced offices, meeting rooms, a manned reception, free parking and even an on-site Bistro. With superfast fibre optic broadband, a thriving business community and great transport links you can be assured your business will be well connected and supported.

Being members of the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce will help Flexspace connect with other local businesses and grow their network. www.flexspace.co.uk

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Revive work alongside building contractors, maintenance companies, retailers, lettings/estate agents, insurance companies and private homeowners providing repairs to hard surfaces that have been damaged.

www.revivesurfacerepair.com

MARMALADE SOUP Marmalade Soup is an award winning Worcester based multi-disciplinary agency with a world wide reputation. We believe that compelling communication demands an element of surprise; whether it’s for diamond jewellery, hospitality, or cultural and educational institutions.

Our core principle of bringing communication to life through sharply focused ideas has allowed us to tackle any creative challenge, across all forms of media, irrespective of scale or complexity.

Our services include design and brand, website and digital design, strategic social media management, PR and communications and strategic marketing.

Over the years we’ve delivered projects we are truly proud of and we have a reputation for pushing the boundaries. We experiment for good reason; to serve our clients’ best interests. That’s why we’re prepared to dangle our feet in a pool of piranhas. Toes grow back, and great work lasts for all time. www.marmaladesoup.co.uk

September/October 2017

NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH BROMSGROVE

REDDITCH

1st Point communications

Macol Consulting

Urban Gifts

01527 503160

Bespoke Business Mobile Solutions www.1st-point.co.uk

Retail & Distribution www.urbangifts.co.uk

TaxAssist Accountants

DROITWICH

STOURBRIDGE

Spiderzone Limited

Accountants www.taxassist.co.uk/worcester

The Bell & Cross

01527 306247 Water Consultancy www.macolconsulting.com

01905 793801 Marketing Agency www.spiderzone.co.uk

Sleep Create Repeat

01905 570575 Website Development www.sleepcreaterepeat.co.uk

01562 730319 Bespoke Restaurant & Public House

TENBURY WELLS Gresko BOHDI

07817996747

HALLOW

Japanese Street Food www.gresko-bohdi.co.uk

Zest Virtual Solutions

WORCESTER

01905 672744 Business Support www.zestvirtualsolutions.co.uk

Browns At The Quay

HOLT HEATH

Restaurant www.brownsworcester.co.uk

RJ Country Homes

New Hope Lodge

01299 827228 Real Estate www.rjcountryhomes.co.uk

01905 25800

01905 620686 Children’s Charity www.newhopeworcester.co.uk

KIDDERMINSTER

The Sandbag Times LTD

MM Claims Consultancy Ltd

01562 914693

Sandbag Times Veterans Magazine www.sandbagtimes.co.uk

Claims Consultancy www.mmclaimsconsultancy.co.uk

Green Lighting Ltd

Thin Blue Line Security Consultants Ltd

07901 578108

01905 610200

07516438286

Lighting Designer and Manufacturer www.greenlighting.co.uk

Security & Security Training www.thinbluelinesecurity.co.uk

CleeCo

Tutisonline CIC

01562 824121

07713399744 Communication Consultancy and Training www.cleeco.co.uk

01905 745613

01905 382020

Street

01905 888420 Premium Home & Garden Gifts www.street.design

Revive Home Surface Repair Ltd

07800646493 Interior Reconditioning Surface Specialists www.revivesurfacerepair.com

OUT OF AREA J K Agriculture International LTD

07464138262 Agricultural Diagnostics www.jkagrilimited.com

UK Business Buddy

0800 0461804 Merchant Services & Business Funding www.ukbusinessbuddy.com

BRI Wealth Management

01676 523550 Financial Planning www.brigroup.co.uk

Flow Drive Energy Ltd

01562 741866 Bespoke Fire & Safety Equipment www.flowdriveenergyltd.co.uk

CSG

0800 011660 Waste Management www.csg.co.uk

Aerial Photography www.tutisonline.co.uk

MALVERN Red-Penguin Solutions Ltd

01684 311422 Business Signage www.red-penguin.co.uk

Bank Street Business Centre

01684 214890 Serviced Offices www.bankstreetbusinesscentre.co.uk

PERSHORE 1st Call 24/7

01386 556643 Plumbing and Heating, Property Refurbishment and Maintenance www.1stcall24-7.co.uk

Allens Hill Limited

01386 555616 Equine Competition www.allenshill.co.uk

The Vehicle Network Limited

01386 576232 Car Leasing Broker www.thevehiclenetwork.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

067

MOVERSANDSHAKERS

BALLARD DALE SYREE WATSON LLP APPOINTS NEW TAX PARTNER Ballard Dale Syree Watson LLP is delighted to announce the appointment of Phil Waller FCA CTA as Tax Partner. Phil will work alongside a number of other tax professionals in the firm’s newly named tax department “Top Flight Tax”.

Phil covers all aspects of personal and corporate tax planning with a particular interest in Research & Development tax relief and Fiscal Share Valuations. Phil is the latest hire into the tax department this year which has included experienced staff and graduates from Plymouth and Oxford University. www.ballardsca.com

BISHOP FLEMING APPOINTS NEW CORPORATE FINANCE PARTNER Bishop Fleming has promoted its Director of Corporate Finance, Charles Davey, to Corporate Finance Partner.

Charles Davey has been instrumental in the completion of a number of major deals for clients, including business sales, family transitions, acquisitions and fund-raisings, working with a wide range of businesses and funders across the region.

Commenting on his new role, Charles said: "It has been a privilege to be part of such a strong corporate finance team within a fast-growing and well-respected firm. As a partner, I am really looking forward to enhancing Bishop Fleming's corporate finance function and to supporting businesses across the region."

Blaise White

HAINES WATTS WELCOMES GRADUATES Haines Watts, in Hereford, recently recruited two graduates to support its rapidly expanding R&D tax team.

Katy Brandwood studied Mathematics & Accounting at the University of Wales before joining the team, whilst Matthew Ager graduated from Downing College Cambridge with a Masters in Materials Science. Both have been able to apply their academic experience to their work on R&D tax credit claims for a diverse client base, and are already valuable members of the team. www.hwca.com

NEW EMPLOYEES AT HEREFORDSHIRE FAMILY CENTRE The HOPE Family Centre has welcomed new members of staff following a successful recruitment drive, signifying the ongoing success of the Centre.

Blaise White, Natasha Stewart and Sally Price join The HOPE Family Centre, which has provided services for Herefordshire and Worcestershire residents since 1999.

Sarah Eardley, Chief Executive Officer of The HOPE Family Centre said: “We are delighted with our new recruits, all of whom will add strength and experience to our charity and our ethos.” www.hopefamilycentre.org

www.bishopfleming.co.uk

OPTOMETRIST ELECTED VICE-PRESIDENT Herefordshire-based optometrist Nick Rumney has been elected Vice-President of the European Academy of Optometry and Optics (EAOO) – a role he will serve until May 2019.

Nick, a founding member of the EAOO who was named an Academy Fellow in 2015, was among two nominated for the position which involved a rigorous election process with members voting for their preferred choice.

068

DRP ADDS FOUR MORE DIGITAL EXPERTS TO THEIR TEAM Creative agency drp has added four professionals to their drpdigital team. Paul Tunnicliffe has joined as Digital Project Manager, Jodie Watson as Front-End Developer, as well as Jamie Stansfield and Dean Quinney as new Developers.

Nick said: “I feel very humbled to have been elected Vice-President especially as there was such strong competition which really pays testament to how much the Academy has grown since first being launched in 2009.”

Ben Wallace, Director of drpdigital, commented, “It’s fantastic to see our team growing, especially the drpdigital team, where we have seen six new starters and two in-house promotions this year alone. I look forward to seeing our division grow further as we take on more projects for our extensive mix of clients.”

www.bbroptometry.co.uk

www.drpgroup.com

DUOMO APPOINT NEW SALES & MARKETING ASSISTANT Duomo (UK) Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Beth Collett as Sales and Marketing Assistant. Beth has recently graduated from the University of Gloucestershire with a degree in Events Management. Her course involved a 12 month industrial placement with Worcester, Bosch Group, one of Duomo’s valued customers.

QUALITY SERVICES ATTRACT QUALITY PROFESSIONAL ISO Quality Service Limited is delighted to announce the appointment of Stacey Humm to the role of Marketing and Strategic Alliance Manager within their busy Worcester office.

Beth will be responsible for website management, SEO, email and social media marketing, events and exhibitions. Speaking of her new role, Beth said: “I am excited to be joining Duomo at a stage of exciting growth within the company”.

Commenting on her appointment Stacey says “I am thrilled to be joining the team at ISO. Having known about the company for some time, I have always been impressed by their professionalism and their service offering. I am looking forward to supporting their business growth locally, nationally and their exciting international growth plans.

www.duomo.co.uk

www.isoqsltd.com

September/October 2017

MOVERSANDSHAKERS

SSG WELCOMES NEW FACES TO THE TEAM

KAMAZOY CONFIRM NEW APPOINTMENT Kamazoy Virtual IT Department have confirmed the appointment of Jennifer Woodfield to the position of Office Manager based at their County House offices in Worcester.

Commenting on her appointment, she said: “The Kamazoy team instantly grabbed my attention. Their drive, knowledge and the determination portrayed by their directors, Daniel and Ollie, is inspiring, which is exactly what I look for in a business, as it is these qualities which naturally reflect positivity on the whole team.” www.virtual-it-dept.co.uk

QUATTRO DISPLAY LTD APPOINT NEW DESIGNER Following the move to their new headquarters in Redditch, Quattro Display Ltd are delighted to announce that Gareth Jones has joined their team as Exhibition Stand Designer. Gareth brings creativity and knowledge, gained from working within the events industry, to his new role at Quattro.

Quattro Display design, manufacture and install custom built exhibition stands at locations throughout the UK and worldwide. www.quattrodisplay.com

SSG Training and Consultancy are pleased to announce the appointment of three new team members to their expanding Operations Team.

SSG welcomes Jon Bass and Mark Fuge, both in the role of Consultant and Trainer, and Mike Loomes who will be supporting the growth of our Membership Team.

Mark Salmon, Managing Director of SSG, said: ”We are delighted to welcome Mark, John and Mike to the team.

All three bring exceptional knowledge and experience which will enable us to continue to strengthen current and future relationships we have with our Clients. It is an exciting time for SSG as we continue to expand the business.”

WASTE EFFICIENCY WELCOME NEW OPERATIONS MANAGER Waste Efficiency has recruited a new operations manager to join their expanding team based in Worcester.

Ben Russell has just joined the team and will work as Operations Manager to oversee the operations function for the company.

Ben said about joining the company: “I wanted to join a forward thinking and fast growing company and to work as part of a close team. The Operations Manager role at Waste Efficiency is ideal for me and I look forward to my future with the company.” www.wasteefficiency.co.uk

www.ssg.co.uk

SAM PEDLEY, MFG SOLICITORS MFG Solicitors have promoted commercial litigation specialist Sam Pedley to the position of Partner after joining as a Trainee in 2007.

An expert in commercial dispute resolution, insolvency, intellectual property and contractual disputes, Mr Pedley will continue to work closely with Partner Tom Esler and take on a wider strategic management role within the firm.

ROBERT HARDY JOINS OAKLAND TEAM Robert Hardy has joined Oakland International to help create Oakland Invicta, a new company specialising in maintaining European supply chain integrity.

Tom Esler said: “Sam has made an enormous contribution to the success of the firm from the very first day he arrived as a trainee. Quite rightly he is seen as one of the region’s stars of tomorrow.”

Robert added; “I am delighted to have joined Oakland, one of the warmest and most progressive companies I have come across. I am confident that our partnership will bring the solution and the problem closer together so that our clients can expect import goods to arrive in the same condition they were despatched without risk or exposure.”

www.mfgsolicitors.com

www.oakland-international.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

TUFNOL COMPOSITES APPOINTS NEW PRODUCTION MANAGER

THE COURTYARD APPOINT OLLE GROVE

Tufnol Composites has announced the appointment of Tim Rowson as its new Production Manager.

The Courtyard, in Hereford, is delighted to welcome Olle Grove to the Communications team in the new role of Community Relationships Manager.

Commenting on his appointment, Tim said: “I am excited to be joining the team at Tufnol and to working in the UK composites market. While I have extensive experience in general manufacturing, this role offers a range of new challenges for me as well as the opportunity to develop my knowledge of this particular specialist sector of industry.”

As well as working with community groups across Herefordshire, Olle will be heading up The Business Club at the arts centre. With a passion for the performing arts, Olle is looking forward to building on existing relationships within the community and seeking new opportunities to work with local businesses.

www.tufnol.com

www.courtyard.org.uk

069

LASTWORD

F8CREATES WHAT MAKES A WEBSITE WORK? A website needs to load and function correctly. But for it to really work, a website needs to lead its visitors to complete a predefined goal as effortlessly as possible.

With this in mind, your first job when defining how a website should work is to establish what the goal is. A website’s goal can vary greatly, but common goals include the sale of a product, converting a visitor into a customer, informing them about a topic, or simply encouraging them to pick up the phone. There can, of course, be multiple goals, but they should be well defined if a website is going to be successful.

Here at F8, we encourage our clients to

think about their websites critically. If you’re selling a product or service, you should regard your website as your top salesman, generating leads and closing sales. Your website should be your best adviser!

A commonly made mistake is focusing all your efforts on the homepage and not enough on the other pages.

Think about it - website users will arrive at your site from all sorts of starting points, e.g.

Google, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and etc.

The majority of users coming from Twitter, for example, are not going to be landing on your homepage at all, they are more likely to land on the latest engaging piece of blog content that you’ve just shared, a freshly published case study, or a new product or service.

With this in mind, can you see why it’s important to focus on all pages as if they’re the main landing page?

SEEING YOUR WEBSITE THROUGH YOUR VISITOR’S EYES A useful exercise is to put yourself in the mindset of one of your visitors and try to see it through their eyes. Once a visitor lands on your site, they need the following questions answered as quickly as possible: n What is this page all about? n Why am I here? n What do I do next?

All of this happens within a very short amount of time...

To view the full article, please visit the Chamber blog at www.bit.ly/ f8creates www.f8creates.com

DIGITAL FOR DECEMBER The Chamber is excited to reveal that we have teamed up with Areca Design to bring Business Direction to life in the November/December edition. A number of articles will come to life before your eyes, with a brand new interactive aspect of the magazine. To be a part of this exciting announcement, make sure to download the Areca Design AR app, available on Android and Apple, and keep an eye out for the interactive articles in the next issue.

HAVE YOUR SAY The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is always looking for ways to improve Business Direction for our Members. Keep an eye out for our Business Direction 2017 survey over the next few weeks, or visit www.bit.ly/BDsurvey17 to complete the survey.

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September/October 2017

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