Business Direction 49

Business Direction

BREXIT WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR BUSINESS Page 32-33

Issue 44 49 July/August May/June 2019 2018

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49 Issue 44 2018 2019 gust May/June July/Au

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.

The deadline for the "Employment & Skills" edition is the 29th May.

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

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

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, 3rd Floor, Tru Knit House, 9-11 Carliol Square, Newcastle, NE1 6UF www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

ADVERTISING Helen Flintoff Business Development Manager, Distinctive Group 0191 5805990 helen.flintoff@distinctivegroup.co.uk

FEATURE EDITORS Ellen Rossiter ellen.rossiter@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

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.

FACING BREXIT HEAD-ON AND TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR SUCCESS

First Word

In last year’s edition of Business Direction magazine, we looked at Brexit two years down the road following the UK’s decision to leave the European Union in June 2016 – hopeful that it would be a year of firm Brexit decisions.

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Chamber News

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Business News

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Policy

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Business News

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Skills

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Despite negotiations and delays still taking place in 2019, local companies have continued to be resilient despite the changing business conditions.

Whilst some businesses have benefitted from new opportunities, reports from this year’s first Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) found that key indicators of UK economic health have already weakened considerably in the first few months of the year.

Business News

The QES is the largest private sector survey of business sentiment, and the leading indicator of UK GDP growth. The report for quarter 1 was based on feedback from over 7,000 businesses across the UK, and the results show that the lack of clarity over the UK’s future relationship with the EU is now having an impact on investment intentions.

At the time of publication, it had recently been announced that the UK and the EU have agreed an extension to Brexit until Thursday 31 October 2019.

Whilst the extension has been agreed, the Prime Minister has said the UK will still aim to leave the EU as soon as possible. As such, the extension could be terminated and the UK could leave the EU earlier if a withdrawal agreement has been ratified by MPs.

Movers and Shakers

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Business News

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New Member Profiles

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The Chamber will continue to work closely with local partnerships to support concerns that the local business community has raised by lobbying at both local and national government.

Charity News

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Business News

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Earlier this year, the Chamber’s Policy team were pleased to invite 18 businesses to a House of Commons lunch with Nigel Huddleston MP as host, and Worcester Bosch as our sponsor.

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Chamber Training

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Chamber Events

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Feature

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Big Interview

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Chamber Awards

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Visit Worcestershire

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Chamber Talks

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Worcestershire Business Central 46

International Trade

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New Members

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Members Services

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Last Word

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We were delighted that both Rachel Maclean MP and Robin Walker MP joined the discussion to share their thoughts and hear from the local companies regarding the skills challenges they face.

Attending Ministers were encouraged by businesses to avoid allowing Brexit to detract from driving the skills agenda locally and nationally. To ensure the labour market is supplied with a current and future workforce with appropriate skills, government cannot afford to allow the national skills shortage to fade into the background.

Whilst we await the next steps of the UK’s transition from leaving the EU, I want to reassure our Members that the Chamber will continue to inform you when updates are released, and work with local businesses to provide support to ensure the two counties remain a great place to do business.

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Best wishes, Sharon sharons@hwchamber.co.uk

The 2019 finalists

Our Patrons are:

May/June 2019

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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CHAMBERNEWS

BUSINESS LEADERS’ INVITATION TO THE SHARD Guests were joined by delegates from Chamber Patrons, RSM, Staffordshire County Council, Staffordshire University, M&M Group, Michelin and South Staffordshire College and Chamber staff to hear from a range of key economic speakers, including:

The current state of the economy, Brexit, British business and the challenges we are currently facing were explored at length. Speakers discussed the economic landscape and the opportunities which are likely to arise in the next financial year.

Carl Arntzen, Managing Director, BOSCH

Delegates were also invited to attend the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Annual Conference for 2019. The Annual Conference, attended by over 800 delegates from across the country, focused on three key themes: Innovation – Fuelling an economy fit for the future; Infrastructure – Delivering a network that drives growth and People – Building a sustainable workforce for tomorrow.

Louise Bennett OBE, CEO, Coventry Warwickshire Chamber On Thursday 28 March, 60 business leaders from across the West Midlands joined Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce for a luxurious dinner at The Shard, London.

Mark Berrisford-Smith, Economist, HSBC Rob Hattrell, President & Managing Director, E-Bay Abhinay Muthoo, Economist, University of Warwick

BUGLE BREAKFAST SEES PLEDGES MADE TO THE ARMED FORCES More than 60 guests attended the Bugle Breakfast at Hereford Army Reserve Centre on Tuesday 12 March, organised

by West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association (West Midland RFCA), Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and 2 Platoon, A Company 6 RIFLES. The Chamber and The Royal National College for the Blind put pen to paper and signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant in front of the many businesses in attendance.

As well as enjoying a buffet breakfast prepared by the local RIFLES Chefs, the event featured speeches from Lucy Proctor, The Royal National College for the Blind, Colonel Richard Maybery, West Midland RFCA, and Major Olly Bevan, Officer Commanding of 2 Platoon 6 RIFLES. To find out more about the Armed Forces Covenant and how you can support your local Armed Forces, please contact Philip Sinclair on wm-reed2@rfca.mod.uk

HUNDREDS ATTEND CHAMBER BUSINESS EXPO

CHAMBER RETAINS TIMES TOP 100 ACCOLADE Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is pleased to reveal that it has once again been selected as one of The Sunday Times Top 100 Best Not-for-Profit Organisations to Work for 2019.

The Times Top 100 rewards businesses that have exceptional investment in their employees, and the Chamber team is overjoyed to retain this recognition in its second year of application.

The local Chamber of Commerce is the only accredited Chamber in the UK to feature on the illustrious list for 2019.

The award follows a successful twelve months for Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, having been named a finalist in the British Chambers of Commerce Business Awards for Chamber of the Year 2018 and retaining its Gold status through the Investors in People accreditation.

Speaking of the recognition, Chief Executive Sharon Smith said: “I am delighted that the Chamber has been recognised on a national scale, as it highlights how hard-working the team is in supporting the local business communities across the two counties.”

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The Chamber of Commerce would like to thank everyone who attended the Spring Business Expo on Thursday 7 March, in association with Hewett Recruitment.

It was fantastic to welcome so many new businesses who exhibited on the day and the Chamber hopes that guests took advantage of the tasty Food and Drink Producers’ Zone sponsored by mfg Solicitors, and enjoyed the entertainment on offer at all 120 stands.

Over 200 guests arrived ready for the morning’s Networking Breakfast, where they enjoyed a delicious breakfast before hearing from Sharon Smith, CEO at the Chamber, Ben Mannion, Director at Hewett Recruitment and Professor Elena Rodriguez-Flacon, CEO of NMiTE. Delegates also took advantage of the free “Beyond Brexit – A World of New Opportunities” seminar, which provided attendees with insight into the challenges and opportunities that Brexit may bring.

Stand bookings are now being taken for the Autumn Business Expo on Thursday 10 October. For more information and to book your stand, please contact our Events team on events@hwchamber.co.uk

The Mayor of Worcester, Jabba Riaz, was one of 600 guests to attend the Expo

May/June 2019

CHAMBERNEWS

CHAMBER OFFICE TRANSFORMATION, WITH THE HELP OF MEMBERS Staff at H&W Chamber were delighted to be welcomed back to their HQ in Prescott Drive for the unveiling of the newly refurbished office in March this year.

We would like to thank Studio Fourteen for their support during the project and also extend this thanks to Green Lighting who helped house colleagues off-site during the work, in meeting rooms next to the popular Office Canteen.

The refreshed and vibrant office is open plan, allowing all departments in the Chamber to work more closely together to support our Members and increase productivity.

Sarah Mason-Parker, Sales & Marketing Manager at Green Lighting, commented: “It was an absolute pleasure to house 20 of the Chamber’s staff at The Office Canteen during their refurb. As well as utilising our large meeting room as office space, the team regularly met with visitors in our main canteen and smaller meeting room, creating a great atmosphere and buzz to our venue. We soon got used to

their familiar smiling faces and miss them already, please come visit us again soon!”

Dominic Hayes, Director at Studio Fourteen Interiors, said: “Studio Fourteen Interiors was delighted to have secured the design and fit out of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s office, meeting space and reception area.

“Working alongside the Chamber’s team, we arrived at the brief and subsequently delivered a bespoke office design to create an open plan working space, including electrical, data, decoration, floor coverings, storage wall and feature furniture - tailored to allow best possible use of the space and a pleasant modern working environment for all of the team.

“The phased approach to work allowed the perfect blend of business continuity and quick progress on-site, delivering a fresh new office environment. A project we thoroughly enjoyed and proud to have delivered!”

The Chamber would like to thank both Members for their hard work and patience.

Local companies accepting their certificates at last year's bi-annual event

LOCAL BUSINESSES ACCREDITED THROUGH WORCESTERSHIRE WORKS WELL Following Worcestershire being named a Time to Change Hub now just over twelve months ago, it is fantastic to see so many local businesses continuing to make health and wellbeing a priority for employees.

Worcestershire Works Well, a globally recognised health and wellbeing accreditation scheme, was delighted to congratulate all the newly credited businesses at an exclusive meeting in March. Worcester Bosch (Level 2), Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust (Level 2) and Monosol (Level 1) will all receive their official certificates at Worcestershire Works Well's bi-annual event on Tuesday 14 May. Worcestershire Works Well supports businesses to improve the health and wellbeing of employees, with improved levels showing repeatedly to improve profitability and productivity of business. To find out more information and to get involved, please contact Dawn Hardman on DawnH@hwchamber.co.uk.

Before

After

www.worcestershireworkswell.co.uk

REVAMPED EVENT HELPS MEMBERS MAXIMISE THEIR MEMBERSHIP Earlier this year, the Chamber’s popular Maximise Your Membership event underwent a transformation based on Member feedback.

in their growth in the two counties.

The free morning session takes place in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, inviting both new and loyal Members to come along and gain a refresher of all services included within their Chamber membership.

to network with other guests and speak to staff members one-on-one.

Delegates now have the opportunity to listen to a shorter presentation from all departments and affiliated commercial service representatives, before being able

The revamped event hopes to encourage more attendees than ever before, providing the opportunity to engage with all Chamber services to support businesses

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

We were delighted to welcome over 50 delegates to our last Maximise Your Membership event at Hereford Racecourse. Attendees commented on the friendly and inspiring atmosphere, and enjoyed having the chance to meet and greet the people who work to support their businesses.

Our next Maximise Your Membership event will take place on Friday 14 June held at Sixways Stadium. To find out more information, please contact our Membership team on 01905 673 600.

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BUSINESSNEWS

BRINSOP COURT NAMED AS ONE OF THE TOP 100 WEDDING VENUES – WORLDWIDE! Herefordshire’s Brinsop Court is proud to announce that wedding publication, Condé Nast Brides' magazine, sister publication to Vogue, Tatler and GQ, has voted the super-luxe estate as one of its Top 100 Wedding Venues worldwide, with only a small selection located within the UK! Owned by the Churchward family, Brinsop Court, a 12th century elegant private estate nestled within 800 acres of breath-taking Herefordshire countryside, offers a truly unique wedding experience. Many guests, including well known public figures, have

all enjoyed the most enchanting and unforgettable experience at Brinsop Court.

Comfort coupled with luxury is the key to its success.

Pat Churchward, Owner said: “We are thrilled to be given this wonderful endorsement. We always aim to provide a marvellous experience for any couple, their family and friends against the backdrop of what Herefordshire does best: stunning views!” www.brinsopcourt.com

AWARD-WINNING UMBRELLA PAYROLL SERVICES

BE WARY OF PROPERTY GIFTS OR LAND A HEFTY TAX BILL

Mortimer Childe, a Worcester based accountancy and contractor payroll company, is celebrating its successful application to achieve accredited status with the Freelancer and Contractor Services Association (FCSA). Recognised as the highest level of operational compliance in the contractor payroll sector, Mortimer Childe is the only company in the region to be awarded accredited status with FCSA.

Gary Priest, a partner and tax expert at mfg Solicitors, has been talking widely in the media over recent months about the need for parents to be careful when gifting property to their children.

Head of Client Services, Sam Pelster, said: “We are delighted that our contractor payroll services are recognised as meeting the highest standards in the industry. It’s a fantastic way to show recruitment companies that our umbrella payroll services are fully compliant and can add real value to their contractor staffing business.”

Sam added: “Our FCSA accreditation gives us is a great platform to support recruitment businesses around the region who want to receive the best possible service from a reputable, fully compliant umbrella payroll provider.” www.mortimerchilde.co.uk

RESPECTED LOCAL MEDAL DESIGNER SELCRAFT EXPORTS FOR RWANDAN MEMORIAL Malvern-based creative design and production company Selcraft is flattered to have been asked to undertake a commission for a special medal – the Steven Krulis Champion of Humanity Award – for the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Rwanda.

The Kigali Genocide Memorial is the final resting place for more than 250,000 victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. It honours the memory of the more than one million Rwandans killed in 1994 through education and peace-building.

Carl Huxley, Director at Selcraft, commented: “We’re flattered to have been asked to design the medals for this historic memorial, the final resting place for more than 250,000 Tutsi people. It’s a great honour to have our work recognised on an international stage that will stand in pride of place to support the memory of those who lost their lives. Selcraft’s pieces recognise the endeavours and achievements of individuals, groups and organisations around the World.”

Gary issued the alert after becoming concerned that many parents in the two counties didn’t have all the correct documentation in place to protect financial gifts from tax liability – including holiday homes.

He said: “The key thing is to make sure that it’s accurately and professionally documented that the property in question is intended as a gift for the child or children.

Ticking all the correct boxes can not only protect the family from any disputes, but also unexpected demands from HMRC.” Readers looking for advice on this issue can contact Gary Priest at mfg Solicitors through gary.priest@mfgsolicitors.com www.mfgsolicitors.com

www.selcraft.com

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May/June 2019

Your local, award winning legal experts

PROMOTION AGREEMENTS – ARE THEY A GOOD OPTION FOR LANDOWNERS? With rising housing demand, landowners are in a strong position to realise the development potential of their land. Promotion Agreements are just one of the ways in which landowners can work with land “Promoters” to achieve this.

HOW DOES IT WORK? The Promoter will agree to draw up and submit an application for planning permission and once that is obtained, to market and sell the land on the open market. Sale terms and how the proceeds will be distributed will also be agreed. This means you avoid the time, risk and expense of obtaining the planning yourself and finding a buyer. The value of your land is determined by its actual market value and not an estimated future figure.

Katie Williams

WILL I GET ANY MONEY UP FRONT? Usually, as the parties would agree a “Promotion Fee” payable to the landowner when the agreement is signed. The amount is a point of negotiation and may be based on the expected development value of the land. This fee is usually non-refundable, even if planning is not achieved. However, if planning is obtained and the land is sold, the Promoter can recover this fee as an “expense” from the gross sale proceeds before the profit is distributed.

CAN I STILL USE MY LAND? Yes you can. The “Promotion Period” during which the Promoter must obtain planning,

may be a few years or it may be much longer depending on the circumstances.

During this time, you should still be able to use the land but the Promoter will normally impose, for example, restrictions on your use so as to avoid anyone else being given rights over the land that could hinder development.

HOW MUCH PROFIT WILL I MAKE? This would depend entirely on the sale price achieved at the end of the process.

The Promotion Agreement will set out how the sale proceeds are distributed. This will

normally start with the Promoter recovering all of its costs for the planning application, marketing and sale costs. You should also be given the amount equivalent to the market value of your land before planning was granted. The remaining profit is then distributed in agreed percentages between the landowner and the Promoter. Both you as landowner, and the Promoter therefore have a common interest in keeping costs low and achieving the highest sale price possible.

More Questions? Please contact Katie Williams at kwilliams@thursfields.co.uk

Worcester 01905 730450 | Kidderminster 01562 820575 Stourport 01299 827517 | Halesowen | Sedgley | Solihull | Birmingham

www.thursfields.co.uk

FOCUSONTECHNOLOGY

THE BATTLE FOR BANDWIDTH It’s the last thing you need in your day. Watching that tiny icon circle over and over again, as you frustratingly wait for a page to load, email to send or file to open.

At some point, we have all been victim to slow Internet speeds.

It’s no secret that digital transformation in the workplace has increased significantly over recent years, with many business services, processes and data now accessed online. But what happens if you’re not able to access this information quickly? Chances are clients will become increasingly impatient, a backlog of work will quickly mount and your processes will become as slow as your Internet speeds.

As your business grows, so does your Internet demand. Whilst some SME’s still adequately operate on shared Internet connections, anyone looking to grow their business may find they are inhibited by its inability to accommodate a growing workforce. Quite simply, the more users and devices that are connected, the more your bandwidth will be stretched, which could cause a multitude of problems further down the line.

Anyone looking to move away from the limited capabilities of shared Internet connections may consider investing in a Dedicated Internet Access (DIA), which is simply Internet access and bandwidth that is dedicated to a business, and divided among a network’s users- all of which have a portion of bandwidth dedicated to them.

Unlike shared Internet connections that see speeds fluctuate throughout the day, a DIA guarantees reliable bandwidth, bringing with it a host of benefits including; synchronous upload and download speeds, quicker response times and the ability to expand into cloud based applications, including VoIP, video and remote desktop environments.

For businesses, a Dedicated Internet Access may also be referred to as a Leased Line, which are often delivered as a fully Managed Internet Access (MIA) that provides a host of benefits for businesses looking to make the most of their connections, from increased reliability to better customer support and security. It also provides a Service Level Agreement (SLA) giving a guaranteed customer promise.

An MIA will be overseen by a chosen provider, who will be monitoring your

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Buffering

services 24/7, ensuring your connection is running smoothly, and that any unexpected faults are dealt with quickly before you even notice your connection is down! At it’s most basic, a MIA will take over all technical aspects of your Internet connections, removing the headache of maintaining and up keeping such a vital service for your business.

By choosing an MIA, you will only need to deal with one provider, who oversees all stages of your contract, from cabling to launch, and all the on-going support needed to ensure your connection is the best it can be. A provider will also offer additional add-ons such as optional firewall, anti-virus and security services, backup connections and even high performing Wi-Fi. Additionally high performing Internet connections will open your business to the possibilities of new technologies, such as VoIP and hosted telephony.

Most importantly, an MIA gives business the scalability and flexibility to adjust services as a business grows. Whether you have a steady increase in growth, or have busy seasonal needs, an MIA can provide a variety of options, giving full control of bandwidth and the power to fine tune business networks to suit.

For regional charity Midlands Air Ambulance, investing in their connectivity was vital to the on-going success of the charity. For an organisation that relies entirely on donations and public support, previous entry-level connectivity was not scalable, creating poor user experiences and bottlenecks in business efficiencies.

With a number of remote sites, separate and disparate phone systems were making for costly communications between offices.

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity have since benefitted from company wide inter-office communications, thanks to a fully managed and monitored WAN. All phone numbers have now been consolidated into SIP calls, and they have also received a new-hosted telephony environment. Additionally they have also benefitted from enterprise level firewalling, routers and switches, which now accommodates new circuits and fibre across all sites.

For Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, outsourcing to EBC Group has enabled the organisation to make considerable savings across their connectivity, which has allowed them to re-invest the money saved into patient care.

Here at EBC Group, we understand that getting the correct connectivity can make a huge difference to your business. We deliver a robust, reliable and secure choice of Internet connections, and as a Point of Presence (PoP) we are able to aggregate major UK carriers such as BT and Virgin on our privately owned network, connecting you with a partner who can deliver the best value service to meet your needs.

For anyone interested in finding out more about connectivity, register for our free Technology Forum on Thursday 16th May held at Worcestershire County Cricket Club. To register or for more information contact marketing@ebcgroup.co.uk or 0121 585 4400, or visit ebcgroup.co.uk/events.

May/June 2019

Incentivising your employees Clare Lang, partner and member of the Corporate team at mfg Solicitors, discusses why incentivising employees makes sense for businesses here in the two counties and the different routes some may wish to take.

The most valuable asset of a business is more often than not its workforce.

Growing and ambitious businesses constantly look to recruit highly skilled individuals, or have certain key managers or teams that are crucial to their success.

But how can they attract and retain them?

The answer often lies in incentive packages which allow employers to recruit and hold on to skilled workers, inspire loyalty, reward performance and increase motivation. There is also no getting away from the fact that a strong and motivated leadership team will be exceptionally attractive to a potential buyer.

Bonuses are the most common incentive and may be contractual and calculated according to a specified formula.

They can also be discretionary, with the employer deciding the amount and any qualifying conditions.

Another route are Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) share option schemes which give employees the right to buy company shares at a future date. If the share price is at least equivalent to their market value on grant of the option, the employee should not bear income tax or National Insurance. When the employees buy the shares, the employer can claim a corporation tax deduction. EMI schemes have become increasingly popular in recent years for those reasons.

Lastly, Employee Share Ownership Trusts (ESOTs), set up to purchase and hold shares on behalf of the workforce, have recently been granted a variety of tax advantages with a view to encouraging employee ownership. This is another positive move many companies across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are gaining an interest in. There is no capital gains tax on the sale of a controlling interest in a company to an ESOT, while there is also exemption from income tax on employee bonuses of up to ÂŁ3,600 per year.

Clare Lang Partner

Overall, incentive schemes are hugely important to businesses but finding the right route is vital. Some prefer a simple solution, while for others it makes more sense to take professional legal advice.

If readers would like any further information on implementing incentive schemes, please contact Clare through 01562 820181 or clare.lang@mfgsolicitors.com

For all Corporate needs

Contact us now

01562 820181 mfgsolicitors.com

@mfgsolicitors

The Future of Engineering Education One of our key goals is to revolutionise engineering learning in the UK and better prepare work-ready, creative, problem-solving engineers. We feel the best way to achieve that is to work closely with employers and other organisations to ensure our curriculum reflects the needs of industry - and evolves to continue to do so.

As a partner, you could help in a variety of ways by supporting our students, help shape the curriculum, support the learning environment, host placements and visits, contribute to our common interest groups or even access services from NMiTE to support your business.

Support the Curriculum Support the curriculum by providing exper�se and knowledge (in technical or professional skills) either at your workplace or at NMiTE. Provide real-world challenges to develop into project ‘Sprints’.

Support the Learning Environment Support our Students Become, or recommend someone, who may be interested in joining NMiTE’s Mentoring Scheme.

Support NMiTE student(s) with a scholarship.

Sponsor a Community Based Challenge.

Sponsor one of our student colleges.

Host student and academic staff visits to your site.

Ingenuity Studio – Inspire the next generation of engineers

Work with NMiTE as a Degree Appren�ceship Partner.

Common Interest Groups Join NMiTE’s professional Community of Prac�ce and/or Thought Leadership groups.

Help with the selec�on process during student recruitment.

Join our Partnership Advisory Panel.

Join our Member Advisory Council.

Support learning by providing access to prac�cal resources (e.g. materials tes�ng equipment, 3D printers) at your workplace on an ad hoc basis.

Become an Associate Member of NMiTE Faculty with the secondment of employee(s) to deliver �metabled elements of the curriculum.

Student Placements & Visits Engage one or more students for a 22-week industry-based placement in Year 3.

Support NMiTE with a dona�on of products and/or equipment specifically for use in the delivery of the curriculum.

Become an Ingenuity Ambassador.

Suppor�ng brilliant educators – a�ract brightest and best talent.

Support a specialist Ingenuity Facilitator.

Help us build our learning environments.

Sponsor the current and/or future Studios.

Support the Studio with a dona�on of products and/or equipment.

NMiTE Supporting Your Business

EduTech – work with NMiTE Ingenuity Studio staff to develop and build educa�onal resources and programmes.

Access NMiTE’s CPD courses to develop your workforce.

Access our Academic Team’s exper�se on a consultancy basis to support appropriate challenges you may have in the workplace.

For details and to register interest visit: NMiTE.ac.uk @NewModelEng

@NMiTEintheMaking

NMiTE-in-the-Making

POLICYNEWS

BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE QUARTERLY ECONOMIC REPORT Q1 2019: BUSINESS HITS THE BRAKES The results from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) for Q1 demonstrate that Brexit uncertainty has finally taken its toll on British business.

After consulting 7,000 businesses, which represent over 1 million employees in the UK, the largest private sector survey of business sentiment and leading indicator of UK GDP growth has produced some damning statistics.

KEY POINTS:

The balance of firms reporting improved cashflow turned negative for the first time since 2012

Services firms reporting a rise in export sales is at its lowest level since 2009

Businesses across the two counties have repeatedly warned local and national government that perpetuating uncertainty will only harm British business. Despite demonstrating admirable resilience during the final quarters of 2018, the findings from the British Chambers of Commerce Q1 report bring into sharp relief the warnings from businesses in the past few months; persistent uncertainty has begun to bite, forcing businesses to slam on the breaks. The investment freeze during Q4 of 2018 should have been a sufficient early warning sign to politicians that businesses

Investment intentions in both manufacturing and services are at their lowest level for 8 years

were starting to falter. As uncertainty has prevailed, this investment pause has evolved into a more serious malaise across almost all indicators during Q1 of 2019. Business confidence in profitability and turnover also deteriorated sharply in the quarter, whilst investment intentions in both the manufacturing and services sectors have dramatically declined.

Government should not be surprised that this report has demonstrated some of the weakest figures in nearly a decade.

Without providing answers to the practical questions which effect day to day

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

The % of manufacturers attempting to recruit fell to the weakest level since Q1 2012. Of those, 79% reported recruitment difficulties, close to record highs

operations, businesses will continue to be forced to hold off on investment and recruitment, to the detriment of growth.

Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce will use this report in the coming weeks to convey to MPs and Ministers the absolute necessity for certainty and clarity to prevent a sharp slowdown in the real economy across the UK. To request a copy of the local report, please contact our Policy team on Policy@hwchamber.co.uk or 01905 673 600.

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FOCUSONRECRUITMENT

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF TALENT ACROSS HEREFORDSHIRE & WORCESTERSHIRE Away from the national noise… many miles from the din surrounding Brexit and the various potential scenarios we have laid out in front of us, there is something rather special going on in our 2 counties.

In fact, it is not just one thing…it is lots of things, a whole host of initiatives aimed at making Herefordshire and Worcestershire even better places to build businesses and careers. Whilst it is easy to get sucked into the malaise that seems to envelop our politicians, there are plenty of positives to be had when we look at the local region.

In March, the Chateau Impney was the location of the annual Worcestershire Skills Show. This was the biggest and best yet, with over 4,000 young people from over 40 schools and colleges given the opportunity to meet and mingle with over 120 businesses. There was a keen focus on STEM, with businesses including Worcester Bosch, Mazak, and Open GI providing “have a go” activities, whilst SME’s from all sectors across Worcestershire took the opportunity to build links with schools and engage with the young people who will be their employees of tomorrow.

The Skills Show is one of the showpiece programmes of the Future Skills Programme, which also delivers the Enterprise Advisor Network, Careers Hub and Apprenticeship meeting in Worcestershire. These initiatives are all

focused on improving the level and quality of careers guidance in all educational establishments across the whole county, with business engagement and participation the key. Hewett Recruitment was proud to become the first ‘Cornerstone Employer’ in Worcestershire, announced at the WLEP Conference in November, and Ben Mannion’s work as Chair of the Future Skills Board ensures

Hewett Recruitment was proud to become the first ‘Cornerstone Employer’ in Worcestershire, announced at the WLEP Conference in November, and Ben Mannion’s work as Chair of the Future Skills Board ensures we will continue to help drive the skills and careers agenda locally.

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we will continue to help drive the skills and careers agenda locally.

Meanwhile, over the border in Herefordshire, March also saw NMiTE’s ‘The Next Phase’ event take place. The ‘New Model in Technology & Engineering’ – or as many people will know it, Hereford University – will open the doors to its ‘Pioneer Cohort’ in September of this year. The event – sponsored by Hewett Recruitment – gave attendees the chance to learn more about all the work that has been done so far to get the University off the ground. This included hearing from the ‘Design Cohort’ that have spent the last 12 months shaping the look and feel of the University and the Masters in Integrated Engineering that it will deliver, as well as having a tour of some of the facilities that are in development. www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

May/June 2019

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Give our R&D specialists a call to discuss a potential claim. There is no charge for exploring a claim with us so you have nothing to lose but potentially a lot to gain.

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If you have invested in these areas or undertaken other activity to improve products, services or processes you could be eligible for tax relief.

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web // ballardsllp.com tel // 01905 794504 A HELPING HAND FOR BUSINESS STARTUPS Being a startup is a challenge al It is always a challenge star�ng your own business and the first year is probably the toughest challenge of them all. That’s why Q6IT have created ‘Business Essen�als’ - a package designed specifically for new businesses who are within their first two years of trading. Crea�ng a professional online presence along with a secure email facility is pr essen�al in today’s compe��ve market. Portraying a professional image will give your poten�al customers the confidence to work with you, so having an effec�ve website is key – it is your shop window to the market.

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BUSINESSNEWS

WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY CRICKETERS HAND OVER £1,000 BOOST FOR FORT ROYAL COMMUNITY PRIMARY Players and staff from Worcestershire County Cricket Club have handed over £1,000 to buy a seat for Fort Royal Community school’s minibus.

but great visit today at Fort Royal Community school who are doing great things for children in the Worcestershire community”

The money will pay for a seat on the new wheelchair-accessible minibus, named Bertie by pupils.

The players and staff heard that Bertie the minibus was donated by the Lord’s Taverners, the UK’s leading disability sports charity and was made possible by fundraising efforts of their supporters of the charity as well as the schools own fundraising efforts.

The minibus will be used to take pupils, who have physical and learning disabilities, to sporting and recreational activities.

Worcestershire County Cricketer, Joe Leach, said of the visit: “A humbling

www.wccc.co.uk

XEROX NAMES EBC GROUP AS WINNERS EBC Group is delighted to announce that it has won the award for Document Technology Gold Partner of the Year at the 2019 UK Xerox Channel Conference for outstanding performance and development of its Xerox product and solutions.

Held at the Celtic Manor Resort, the award recognises EBC Group’s achievements in delivering in excess of £1 million orders across SMB’s, public sector and national accounts, and their commitment to providing quality Managed Print Solutions.

Richard Lane, Group Managing Director of EBC Group, adds: ‘‘We are absolutely thrilled to have received the award for Gold Partner of the Year. The award is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our Managed Print Service division, who alongside our other IT services and Multi-cloud offering consistently find new and better ways to deliver our Solutions. We look forward to working with Xerox on a number of very large managed IT and Print Services opportunities in 2019’’.

For more information, please see www.ebcgroup.co.uk.

FITZJOHN SKIN CARE WINS BEST LUXURY SKINCARE BRAND PRIMROSE HOSPICE’S NEW WEBSITE NOW IN FULL BLOOM Spring is in the air and the new Primrose Hospice website is now in full bloom with a fresh new look and easier navigation.

Primrose Hospice appointed Bromsgrove firm Gough Bailey Wright to create the new simple to use site which would allow patients, their families and fundraisers to find clear information quickly.

David Burrell, CEO at Primrose Hospice, commented: “We have designed the site so that patients, their families and our community can easily find out about our service, how to access them and also to be kept up to date with our exciting calendar of events.”

Michelle Wright, Company Director at Gough Bailey Wright, said: “Working together with such a well-respected, local hospice is something we are extremely proud of here at GBW, and we are delighted to have won the opportunity to design and develop Primrose Hospice’s brand new website.”

Fitzjohn Skin Care is delighted to announce that it have won Best Luxury Skincare Brand 2019 at the prestigious, Eluxe Magazine Sustainable Luxury Awards.

Chere Di Boscio of Eluxe said: “So many brands are worthy, based on their aesthetics, values, and production processes. We asked the judges (who include some of the greatest minds in eco fashion) to keep all of these things in mind, as well as to remember that we are, above all, a luxury publication.”

Fitzjohn Skin Care’s Founder, Ethel Fitzjohn, said: “I created Fitzjohn Skin Care so that women wouldn’t have to choose between good-for-you, ethically sourced ingredients and a bit of luxury, so I’m thrilled the judges agreed with this. As a small, luxury beauty brand, it is exciting to see your brand hold its own alongside larger brands.” www.fitzjohnskincare.com.

Primrose Hospice is interested to hear feedback on the website. Take a look at primrosehospice.org and email catherinep@primrosehospice.org with your thoughts.

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May/June 2019

Xero Cloud accounting – helping your business to soar More and more businesses are making the switch to cloud-based digital accounting.

If your business has not yet done so – and you’re not alone – there are a number of reasons why now might be the time to take a closer look.

What exactly is cloud accounting?

Things have moved on since the days of traditional spreadsheets such as Excel or accounting software that was installed onto a computer hard-drive. With cloud-based accounting there is no software to install or update and it’s not at risk from technical glitches or malware.

Instead, all the data is held digitally and securely on a remote server. You send you data into “the cloud,” where it is processed and returned to you almost instantaneously.

Why Xero cloud-accounting?

Xero is the UK’s leading accounting software provider – so it’s tried and trusted.

At Hereford and Ludlow based Thorne Widgery, our award-winning team have been working with businesses to help them migrate their records to Xero.

We also provide training although the system is really intuitive and many of our clients say that Xero is far simpler to use than their previous accounting system.

What are the Benefits of Xero for my Business?

• Create real-time financial reports - all the information you need is to hand • Set up automated bank feeds for effortless bank reconciliation • Easily create invoices, record expenses and track cash flow online • Not specific to your office computer - easy access to your accounts on your desktop, smart phone or tablet • Corresponding paperwork electronically stored with transactions e.g. a HP agreement with a purchase

• Multi-user access makes it easy to collaborate online with your team and accountant • Everything is online, so there’s nothing to install and everything is backed up automatically • Upfront business costs are reduced – version upgrades, maintenance, system administration costs and server failures are no longer issues - they are managed by the cloud service provider • Xero is Making Tax Digital-ready – helping VAT registered businesses comply with HMRC’s new VAT reporting rules Dealing with a drawer full of receipts – now there’s an easier way!

Are you someone who stuffs their business receipts into a drawer to ‘deal with later’? If so you’ll know that it can be a nightmare trying to sort out expenses and reconcile your books.

Now, there’s a much easier way.

Receipt Bank is just one of the many add-ons to Xero but we think it’s worth a mention because it’s ideal for keeping track of receipts, especially when working away from the office.

By taking away the need for manual data entry, receipt bank extracts the key information from your bills, receipts and invoices. It then publishes the data straight onto your accountancy software.

Here’s what one of our clients has to say about Xero…

“TW introduced me to digital accounting.

I know a lot of farmers are reticent about online accounting but for our business it’s been fantastic and I’m a huge fan of the Xero software package.

“It certainly beats the old version of Sage that Dad used back in the day, when he did the books. I’ve found Xero really easy to use and because I do all my own VAT returns, it also means I’m ready for HMRC’s new Making Tax Digital rules.

“I use my iPad or an app on my phone to instantly download any notifications and I

can see instantly, in real time, all financial transactions relating to the business.

“TW helped me initially with some training but to be honest the software is so intuitive that it’s now second nature. I’m even able to run payroll and PAYE options myself and I like the fact that, as my accountants, TW can access the files and get to work with sorting out my accounts remotely.”

Charlie Manning – J Manning & Son, Potato Growers and Distributors, Hereford As one of the region’s primary partners for Xero, Thorne Widgery not only help businesses transition to digital accounting, but also provide unique insights and tools that will add significant value to your business by enhancing your decision-making ability.

To find out more get in touch with the team at Thorne Widgery today.

To find out more get in touch with us on 01432 276393 or email us at info@thornewidgery.co.uk Hereford 2 Wyevale Business Park, King’s Acre, Hereford, HR4 7BS Ludlow 5 Parkway, Off Corve Street, Ludlow, SY8 2PG

Brexit is making it harder to deal with the UK Many Dutch firms are concerned about how Brexit will continue to affect them, and some are finding it harder to trade with UK companies, as revealed in feedback from an event we held recently in the Netherlands.

Our Brexit seminar in Middelburg brought together more than 60 business leaders from the Netherlands. They either had existing business ties with the UK, or were contemplating expansion into the UK or cooperation with British partners.

In partnership with Dutch firm Adriaanse van der Weel, HCR’s international team explored how Dutch businesses are interpreting our progress with Brexit, what they feel its impact is likely to be on their businesses, and how they are preparing for what may come. We also gave advice on how Dutch companies can best take advantage of opportunities, learn from experience and reduce risk.

Half of the businesses at the seminar, which included food producers, construction firms and professional services firms, have ties with the UK in some form. Less than half of the delegates (42%) said Brexit is making it more difficult to deal with the UK, but these concerns are becoming increasingly real.

Concern over the consequences of a no-deal Brexit was expressed by 69% of those at the seminar. However, many have already taken action to prepare.

Frederic Mussche, Sales Manager at Scheldebouw, part of Permasteelisa Group, said: “In our field of business, the UK will remain a strong market. In our programmes we do and can allow for delays at customs/borders; we discuss and agree this now with our clients to build in sufficient leeway to try and absorb this.

“Nevertheless we are expanding our focus to other markets within Europe to be less dependent on the UK, in case it slows down. Brexit also provides business opportunities for us as some companies relocate [from the UK] to other parts of Europe and require new office and residential buildings for their employees.”

Scheldebouw is a multi-national manufacturing company that provides cladding solutions for iconic and skylinechanging buildings and constructions.

Nicolas Groffman, head of international at Harrison Clark Rickerbys, said: “There is opportunity from Brexit. For many years UK businesses have focused on the markets in front of their noses and while the EU is a very important market for the UK, so is the rest of the world.”

So while the world is potentially feeling ‘bigger’ there are still markets close by, and the Netherlands is definitely open to business with the UK. Jaap IJdema, partner at Adriaanse van der Weel, said: “There is a strong sense that businesses in the Netherlands still very much want to do business with the UK. It’s important to find opportunities to strengthen relationships and work collaboratively to find solutions to any of the challenges that arise from Brexit. We await the outcome of the ‘deal’ with interest.”

Has the European opinion of the UK changed? 56% of the business people at the seminar say their perception of the UK is more negative because of how Brexit has been handled, but 39% say their perception is unchanged.

Overall, there is real concern about Brexit, but pragmatic business leaders are planning ahead to mitigate the possible effects. Many want to continue their links with the UK; some want to copy the successes of UK companies that have benefitted from Brexit; all await developments with interest.

TOP TIPS FOR DEALING WITH UNCERTAINTY Uncertainty is part of business life – risk management and preparedness are priorities for successful companies around the world, not just in Brexitfocused Britain.

“Make a plan!” is Neill Ricketts’ number one tip for businesses in the run-up to Brexit - the executive chairman and CEO of advanced manufacturing company Versarien plc said: “It sounds obvious but it’s critical.

“We’ve carried out extensive scenario planning at Versarien, ensuring that whatever happens or doesn’t happen in the months ahead, we have a number of viable options that will ensure the continuity of our business. One of these scenarios involves moving the technical team from our current base in Gloucestershire over to Spain. The more uncertainty there is in business, the greater the need to plan.”

Simon Jones, director of Seating Direct Ltd, agrees: “Don’t ignore the uncertain. Just like you would regularly review and plan within your usual business cycle, do the same to plan for the major event that is Brexit.

“Using a simple risk management tool such as ISO 9001 can be really effective. Its framework can help you understand risk around your suppliers, customers, stock, lead times, cash flow and forecast. Open your mind to change and uncertainty becomes opportunity.”

FOR DEALING WITH UNCERTAINTY

How a data breach will hit your brand Data breaches can be very bad news for a brand – any loss of customer data, especially financial information, feels much more invasive and personal than a consumer difficulty, as one global company discovered last year.

The company had already had major IT problems in 2017, but last year hackers stole customers’ details, including three-digit CVV security codes, via a method called ‘skimming’ which trawls for financial information.

They issued prompt and widespread apologies, but may still be hit by a massive fine – under GDPR a company can be fined up to four per cent of turnover – and that would be in addition to any compensation customers who had suffered from resulting fraud might claim.

Swift action, with clear communication and a clear plan of action to deal with the breach, can help to fight the fire and restore customers’ faith, but it does take time to repair the damage to a brand’s reputation.

I will be looking at how to minimise the risk to your brand if you find you have had a data breach, at the GDPR event on May 14 at Hilton Puckrup Hall, Tewkesbury – come and join us for some practical advice, top tips and a chance to pick the experts’ brains on your GDPR business challenges.

Talk to Robert Capper, Partner, Head of Commercial Team and Sectors

GDPR ONE YEAR ON – WHERE ARE WE NOW? 14th May 2019 Hilton Puckrup, Tewkesbury GL20 6EL Starts at 8.30 for 9am, and closes at 12.30 with bookable one-to-one slots with our GDPR experts afterwards.

James Ashe, Managing partner, Alias

We’re asking business leaders about their GDPR journey, and to share their top tips for being compliant. Take part in our survey today. www.hcrlaw.com/gdpr-survey

T: +44 1905 744 814 M: +44 7909 970 323 E: rcapper@hcrlaw.com

SKILLS

OVER 5,000 YOUNG PEOPLE ATTEND WORCESTERSHIRE’S LARGEST EVER SKILLS EVENT A total of 46 schools and colleges attended the event on Wednesday 13 March, with over 110 of the county’s most exciting businesses and education providers in attendance. The event was divided into six key ‘zones’ that grouped together like-minded businesses from different industry sectors including science, technology, engineering and maths, tourism & leisure, professional services and creative industries.

The Worcestershire Skills Show provided

over 5,000 young people with a wide variety of exciting activity-based stands.

From augmented reality and virtual reality headsets, to 3D printers and towers built out of marshmallow, the Skills Show once again brought the world of work to life in an interactive way that everyone could enjoy.

Gary Woodman, Chief Executive for Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “I would like to pass on our thanks to all of the businesses

and education providers who attended the event. Collectively, we can all take great pride in knowing that the event has likely inspired young people to have the confidence and ambition to achieve any of their goals in life.” www.skills4worcestershire.co.uk

UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER RANKED 1ST IN UK FOR QUALITY EDUCATION LOCAL CHARITY WINS TOP AWARD FOR SCHOOLS MENTORING SERVICE Local children’s charity Mentor Link has received the National Mentoring Award for Schools at a glittering ceremony in London.

The awards are a national celebration to honor ‘Mentoring Excellence’ and give public recognition to individuals and organisations that mentor across all walks of life. Hundreds of mentors from all over the UK entered the awards and were honored for their outstanding achievements in a red-carpet awards ceremony on Friday 1 March.

The event marked a significant point in history where for the first time the UK's mentors and mentoring organisation’s were honored. The awards were hosted by three times BAFTA winner and the UK's top impressionist Rory Bremner and founder and CEO of the National Mentoring Awards, Chelsey Baker at the Jumeirah Carlton Hotel in London. www.mentorlink.org.uk

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The University of Worcester is number one in the UK and 26th globally for Quality Education, according to Times Higher Education in the 2019 rankings. Worcester has also been crowned number one in the UK, and joint 4th globally, for Gender Equality in the rankings.

Over 500 universities from 80 countries were meticulously and independently assessed by the THE and Worcester was ranked 33rd overall.

Factors assessed include: promoting good health and wellbeing; quality education; gender equality and economic growth; reducing inequalities; building sustainable cities and communities; and achieving responsible consumption and production.

Professor David Green CBE, the University’s Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to learn that our work is so highly valued across so many categories.

The University of Worcester has long been committed to combining a highly inclusive approach with educational excellence. So we are particularly delighted to be ranked number one in the UK and 26th globally for Quality Education and number one in the UK and joint 4th globally for Gender Equality.” www.worcester.ac.uk

OAKLAND INTERNATIONAL TO SPONSOR TRYANGLE AWARDS Oakland International was delighted to join other sponsors in congratulating this year’s winners of the young people’s Tryangle Awards.

Celebrating the amazing volunteering efforts and achievements of young people in Worcestershire, the awards honour those who despite health, disability or social problems overcome adversity to ‘get the job done’ at home, school, college or within their community.

Supporting young people in the community is a prime focus for Oakland who six-years ago launched their own children’s charity, Oakland Foundation, through projects based around Health and Nutrition, Education and Sport.

Oakland Distribution Manager, Luke Attwell, who presented the Bravery Award category, commented: “It was an honour to join fellow award sponsors and celebrate the many amazing personal achievements of these young people. Their dedication and perseverance are an inspiration to us all. I wish every award winner my sincere congratulations.” www.oakland-international.com

May/June 2019

BUSINESSNEWS

HEREFORDSHIRE PHOTOGRAPHER OPENS ONLINE SHOP FOR EXPORTING DOUBLE CELEBRATION FOR EVESHAM DESIGN AGENCY Not only is Areca Design celebrating 10 years of providing successful marketing support for businesses and community groups, but the agency has also been awarded the title of Midlands Digital Communications Business 2019.

Managing Director, Mick Hurst, was presented with the winner’s trophy at the prestigious Athena Conference Venue in Leicester on Friday 8 March. The packed out, black-tie event had representatives from businesses throughout the Midlands, covering a huge region from as far afield as Herefordshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Birmingham. The event brought together 100’s of professionals from all over the Midlands who entered the competition to find the best in regional business.

Paul Ligas Photography, a professional commercial photographer based in Ledbury, Herefordshire, has opened an online shop selling exhibition-quality prints of some of his fine art photographs taken on digital cameras going back almost two decades.

The online print shop will deliver to the UK and world-wide, allowing Paul Ligas Photography to become an exporter for the first time. Paul says, “I’m excited to join the ranks of exporting businesses in the West Midlands.”

Available prints aren’t limited to what’s currently in the shop. Paul has said: “I encourage people to let me know when they see an image in my fine art gallery online that they would like a print made from.

Custom orders are most welcome.”

Using a Worcestershire-based fine art giclée printing service, the prints will last a century or more. www.paulligas.com

Mick commented: “Over the last 10 years we have worked with some very prestigious national organisations and well known tourist destinations throughout the UK, along with supporting many local businesses and start-ups. The next 10 years looks even more exciting, as we help develop innovative and engaging technologies to educate and entertain.”

TALKING DIGITAL Hereford Business Solutions Centre, brought to you by the University of Wolverhampton, provides businesses across the Marches with a variety of support programmes. Recently businesses in Herefordshire have been improving their digital capabilities through the Connect 2 Grow project.

The Connect 2 Grow project aims to raise digital awareness and increase the levels of digital skills within businesses by offering advice in: Web design management, e-commerce and social media Cyber Crime and Cyber security Drone technologies CAD and BIM services Local access to live streamed workshops and/or events Designed for SMEs trading in the Marches, the project will allow companies to benchmark their current proficiency in the digital arena through a Digital Review and Skills Analysis. They could benefit from a minimum of 12 hours of specialist support including access to free workshops and 1 to 1 advice.

For further information and to check the eligibility criteria visit: www.businesssolutionscentres.co.uk/ connect2grow

www.arecadesign.co.uk

HEWETT PARTNERS TO LAUNCH FIRST FLEXIBLE JOBS INDEX steps to take away and begin to embed flexibility into hiring strategies. Feedback was extremely positive, with high engagement from delegates who found the session hugely enlightening and were excited to begin implementing the wide range of ideas discussed.

Hewett Recruitment, in partnership with Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership and Timewise, has recently launched Worcestershire’s first ever Flexible Jobs Index at the ‘Flexible Working Workshop’. The well-attended session provided employers with practical

Louise Hewett explained: “This flexibility study fits nicely into the wider context of our practical recommendations to employers and policy makers that can be found in the Future of Jobs Report - which talks about future proofing and re-imagining hiring procedures and developing forward

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

looking workforce planning, reflecting changing demographics, technology, talent shortages and changing employee expectations. We are potentially missing a whole tranche of skilled people. It's time to get creative about how we design jobs - some of the best talent prefer to work flexibly.”

For anyone who missed the workshop, and is interested in hearing more about Worcestershire’s Flexible Jobs Index findings can contact Louise Hewett. Email: louise@hewett-recruitment.co.uk. www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

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per month^

Available to test drive now at Motorline Toyota Hereford.

Motorline Toyota Hereford Ross Road, Callow, Hereford HR2 8BT 01432 623 618 www.motorline.co.uk/toyota Model shown is Corolla Hybrid Design 1.8 VVT-i Auto. Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (1/100km): combined 55.4 (5.1) – 62.7 (4.5). Combined CO2 83g/km. Figures are provided for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results. Fuel consumption and CO2 produced varies significantly depending on a number of factors, including the accessories fitted (post-registration), driving style, conditions, speed and vehicle load. All models and grades are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which replaces the New European Driving Cycle test procedure (NEDC). All CO2 figures quoted are NEDC equivalent. This means the CO2 figures are based on the new WLTP test procedure but calculated (using a standard European calculation method) to allow comparison with the NEDC test procedure and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. All mpg figures quoted are full WLTP figures. More information can be found by visiting: www.vehicle-certification-agency.gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp Model shown is Corolla Hybrid Design 1.8 VVT-i Auto £26,625 including optional Pearlescent paint at £795. Prices correct at time of being published. 5 year/100,000 mile manufacturer warranty. Terms and conditions apply. *0% APR Representative only available on new retail orders of Corolla between 1st April 2019 and 30th June 2019 and registered and financed through Toyota Financial Services by 30th September 2019 on a 42 month AccessToyota (PCP) plan with 0%-35% deposit. ^Payment shown is based on a 42 month AccessToyota (PCP) contract with £6,796 customer deposit and Guaranteed Future Value/Optional Final Payment. Toyota Financial Services is a trading name of Toyota Financial Services (UK) PLC; registered office Great Burgh, Burgh Heath, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5UZ. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Indemnities may be required. Finance subject to status to over 18s. Other finance offers are available but cannot be used in conjunction with this offer. Offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time. 8,000 miles per annum, excess miles over contracted charged at 8p per mile. Toyota Centres are independent of Toyota Financial Services. Participating Toyota Centres. Affordable finance through AccessToyota (PCP). Terms and conditions apply.

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May/June 2019

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

YOU GIVE YOUR CAR A HEALTH CHECK EVERY YEAR, WHY NOT YOUR BUSINESS? Dave Thompson says “Cashflow is King, and we need to help our clients understand the difference between Profit and Cashflow. One can have good profits, yet a decreasing bank balance and our unique Business Health Check will help you to understand the difference.”

At SME Finance Directors Ltd, we take great pleasure in “Switching the Light on in your Business” so YOU, the Directors and Owners can see clearly where you are heading!

We will carry out a Business Health Check following our own unique KPI checklist and mark your business according to its efficiency in each area. We will then provide you with a unique report, summarising your business strengths and weaknesses. The idea is to help focus your attention on those areas that require action, and celebrate those areas that you are winning in.

As a result of the report, you may decide to work together with your key personnel, to bring about change, improved efficiency, save tax, and improve cashflow!

We can help in this process, providing

A Financial Health Check on your business is the quick and simple way to understand exactly where your business sits today. It will show you how to make small changes that have a BIG impact on your cashflow and profitability.

Dave Thompson

guidance in a number of professional ways, which may include introducing a number of key Business Tools, to help you on your journey.

So many businesses rely on their accountant to give them historical information about how they’ve performed.

But this never creates a true and live picture of what is going on right NOW.

All to increase your profits, ease your cashflow headaches and help you ‘turn the light on’ in your business – giving you back the control you need, to plan your future with confidence.

To have an exploratory conversation and book YOUR Health Check, call 0800 3047 802 or email enquiry@smefinancedirectors.co.uk today!

Partnering with Defence Do you employ anyone from the Military community? This includes Service Leavers, Veterans, Reservists, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers or Military spouses/partners. Then you could be eligible for a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) award.

The ERS is a three tiered scheme which encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards. These awards publicly recognise employers’ efforts to pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community, whilst aligning their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.

When speaking about the 2018 Gold ERS winners, Minister for Defence People and Veterans Tobias Ellwood said: “The breadth and diversity of this year’s winners shows how business support for the armed forces continues to flourish. Their commitment is a testament to the fantastic contribution our serving personnel, veterans and their families can make to any organisation.

“We all have a role to play in ensuring that the armed forces community is not disadvantaged by service, and each of these employers is a setting an example as meaningful advocates for those protecting the nation.”

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

If you are a business operating within Herefordshire or Worcestershire, and would like more information on how you can get involved with supporting the Armed Forces, please contact our engagement team on wm-reed2@rfca.mod.uk

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CHAMBERTRAINING

www.hwchamber.co.uk/training

HAVE YOU BOOKED ONTO OUR HR, LEGISLATION AND REGULATION TRAINING COURSES? This course series will train your staff in essential skills, including Health & Safety and Management processes, as well as refreshing your knowledge and keeping you up to date on the ever changing legal work environment. Comprising of 12 courses, we have something to suit all aspects of the business and staff from all sectors.

Your responsibility to staff and customers is an important consideration and not one that can be taken lightly, or without sound knowledge to back it up, in order to justify with facts the decisions that you make. Our courses are, as always, interactive and engaging and we teach and discuss with our delegates a practical and reasonable approach.

To be a successful manager in the modern, high-pressured world, you have to maintain both your personal skills and technical knowledge when dealing with people issues.

This series is aimed at employees who wish to gain clear guidance about how to deal with employment issues, both from a legislative perspective, and just as importantly, from an interpersonal skills perspective.

Too often, staff implement the right decisions in the workplace but the wrong way, causing avoidable conflict, cost and absenteeism.

Many of these courses are counted as points for CIPD CPD accreditations.

COURSES WITHIN THIS SERIES ARE: Emergency First Aid at Work – Suitable for low risk employers in meeting their legal obligations for minimum first aid in the workplace.

Employment Law Update – An overview covering developments in employment law and future changes, this workshop’s topics vary on each course depending on which subjects are current.

Environmental Manager Training – Become more aware of your environmental responsibilities, including legal and regulatory accountabilities. Learn to manage and control associated risks.

Fire Marshal Training – A general fire safety and awareness course for staff who have additional responsibilities for fire safety in the workplace.

HR for the Non HR Manager – Aimed at front-line managers who have recently acquired responsibility for HR issues within their team or organisation.

Internal Auditor Training – Suitable for those undertaking Internal Audits, new Quality Managers and anyone wanting to refresh their knowledge.

IOSH Managing Occupational Health & Wellbeing – Providing advice and tools for managers to help create a health and productive place of work.

IOSH Managing Safely (4 day) – Designed to get you up to speed on the practical actions needed to handle Health & Safety in your teams. An IOSH accredited course.

IOSH Working Safely – A grounding in the essentials of Health & Safety. An IOSH certificated course.

Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering – Suitable for attendees working in either a catering or retail environment, who handle, prepares or serves food in the catering industry or wider field.

Mental Health First Aid (1 day) – An internationally recognised training course designed to teach people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health and provide help on a first aid basis.

Quality Manager Training – An introduction for anyone involved in the development, implementation and management of ISO9001.

For more information regarding any of these courses or to request an electronic copy of our training calendar, please email training@hwchamber.co.uk.

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May/June 2019

CHAMBERBUSINESSTRAINING

TRAINING CALENDAR MAY - JUNE 2019 MAY COURSES Creating Customer Care Culture Thursday 2 May - 9.30am-4.30pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members IOSH Working Safely Wednesday 8 May - 9.30am-4.30pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members An Introduction to Digital Marketing & PR Thursday 9 May - 9.30am-1.30pm FREE for Members / £110+VAT Non-members Google Analytics Tuesday 14 May - 9.30am-1.30pm £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non-members Advanced Microsoft Excel Tuesday 14 May - 9.30am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members HR for the Non HR Manager Wednesday 15 May - 9.30am-4.30pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members

MAY/JUNE COURSES

Conducting Effective Team Appraisals Thursday 23 May - 9.30am-4.30pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members

Introduction Microsoft Excel Tuesday 28 May - 9.30am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Search Engine Optimisation Tuesday 28 May - 9.30am-1.30pm £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non-members Emergency First Aid at Work Thursday 30 May - 9.30am-4.30pm £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non-members An Introduction to Digital Marketing & PR Tuesday 4 June - 9.30am-1.30pm FREE for Members / £110+VAT Non-members Managing People in the Team Wednesday 5 June - 9.30am-4.30pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members

JUNE COURSES Intermediate Microsoft Excel Thursday 13 June - 9.30am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Managing Performance in the Team Monday 17 June - 9.30am-4.30pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Employment Law Update Tuesday 18 June - 10.00am-3.00pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Communicating for Success Wednesday 19 June - 9.30am-4.30pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Email Marketing Thursday 20 June - 9.30am-1.30pm £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non-members Introduction to Project Management Monday 24 June - 9.30am-4.30pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members

Finance Skills for Non Finance Managers Wednesday 15 May - 9.30am-4.30pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members

Fire Marshal Training Thursday 6 June - 10.00am-4.00pm £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non-members

Assertiveness & Confidence at Work Thursday 16 May - 9.30am-4.30pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members

Effective Professional Proofreading Tuesday 11 June - 9.30am-1.30pm £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non-members

Introduction to Microsoft Excel Wednesday 26 June - 9.30am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members

7 Steps to Closing the Deal Wednesday 22 May - 9.30am-4.30pm £160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members

Mental Health First Aid Thursday 13 June - 9.30am-4.00pm £200+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non-members

Effective Use of Social Media Wednesday 27 June - 9.30am-1.30pm £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non-members

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

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

An Introduction to Digital Marketing & PR Tuesday 25 June - 9.30am-1.30pm FREE for Members / £110+VAT Non-members

Emergency First Aid at Work Friday 28 June - 9.30am-4.30pm £90+VAT Members £110+VAT Non-members

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CHAMBEREVENTS

www.hwchamber.co.uk/events

BOOK YOUR STAND AT THE AUTUMN BUSINESS EXPO

CHAMBER CONNECTS Experiential events Can you escape?

Wednesday 15 May - 2.30-4.00pm Malvern Escape Rooms, Spring Lane North WR14 1BU At this new experiential networking event, you will be divided into teams of 6 and enter a themed room full of clues, riddles, locks and puzzles.

To complete and escape the room in 60 minutes you must work together in your group, use good communication skills and listen carefully! You can enter as a team of 6 or as an individual. £20.00+VAT Members £35.00+VAT Non-members

Afternoon Tea

Friday 31 May - 2.00-3.30pm

The next Business Expo will take place on Thursday 10 October at the Malvern Three Counties Showground.

The Chamber is delighted to reveal that the key note speaker for the business breakfast will be Lord Digby Jones, who will be discussing the current economical climate.

In association with For businesses who are interested in exhibiting, a single stand (2x2m) can be booked for Thursday 10 October only at the Member rate of £299.00+VAT, or a double Expo booking will allow a company to book for 10 October 2019 and 12 March 2020 for a discounted rate of £275.00+VAT per single stand.

For any booking enquiries, please contact events@hwchamber.co.uk.

Stan Brook Abbey, Jennet Tree Lane, Callow End WR2 4TY Join the Chamber at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel for an opportunity to relax and network with other local businesses, enjoy the beloved British tradition of classic afternoon and soak in the ambience of the Piano Lounge in the historic country house hotel. £20.00+VAT Members £35.00+VAT Non-members

Summer Business BBQ

Friday 21 June - 2.00-3.30pm

SAVE THE DATE FOR WOMEN’S BUSINESS CONFERENCE Sponsored by Browns at The Quay, 24 South Quay, Worcester WR1 2JJ

Join business professionals from across the two counties for our annual Women’s’ Business Conference in association with Bishop Fleming.

Hear from our inspiring speakers, benefit from plenty of networking opportunities throughout the day and enjoy a delicious two course lunch.

This Summer Networking BBQ is the perfect occasion to make some new contacts and develop existing business relationships in a relaxed and informal environment. With exclusive use of the terrace and riverside area, enjoy a free drink on arrival and delicious BBQ food.

Friday 27 September - 9.30am-14.30pm The Abbey Hotel, Abbey Road, Great Malvern WR14 3ET

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£37.50+VAT Members £50.00+VAT Non-members

£20.00+VAT Members £35.00+VAT Non-members

May/June 2019

CHAMBEREVENTS

NETWORKING CALENDAR MAY - JUNE 2019 MAY

JUNE

Hereford HR Forum in association with Hewett Recruitment Wednesday 8 May - 9.30-11.30am Hereford Business Solutions Cente, Coldnose Road, Hereford HR2 6JL FREE for Members & £35.00+VAT Non-members

Redditch HR Forum in association with Hewett Recruitment Wednesday 12 June - 9.30-11.30am Abbey Hotel Golf & Spa, Hither Green Ln, Redditch B98 9BE FREE for Members & £35.00+VAT Non-members

Hereford Queens Awards Event Wednesday 8 May - 5.00-6.30pm St Michaels Hospice, Bartestree, Hereford HR1 4HA FREE for Members & Non-members

Can you escape?

Wednesday 15 May - 2.30-4.00pm Malvern Escape Rooms, Spring Lane North, Malvern WR14 1BU £20.00+VAT Members & £35.00+VAT Non-members

Worcester Queens Awards Event 2019 Thursday 13 June - 4.30-6.30pm drpg, Ikon Estate, 212, Droitwich Rd, Hartlebury DY10 4EU FREE for Members & Non-members

Maximise your Membership Friday 14 June - 8.30-11.00am Sixways Stadium, Warriors Way, Worcester WR3 8ZE FREE for Members

Technology Growth Forum in association with EBC Group Thursday 16 May 2019 - 8:30-11:00am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ FREE for Members & Non-members

Business Leaders Summer Dinner 2019 Wednesday 5 June - 6.30-10.30pm Old Castle, Old Castle Farm, Evendine Lane, Colwall WR13 6DT Exclusively for our Patron and Strategic Members

Thursday Connections in association with Harrison Clark Rickerbys Thursday 16 May - 5.30-7.00pm Cellar Door, 25 Widemarsh St, Hereford HR4 9EA FREE for Members & £10.00+VAT Non-members

Herefordshire Networking Breakfast Thursday 20 June - 7.30-9.30am All Saints Cafe, High Street, Hereford HR4 9AA FREE for Members & £20.00+VAT Non-members

Hereford Women's Business Forum in association with Hereford Racecourse Tuesday 21 May - 9.30-11.30am Hereford Racecourse, Roman Rd, Hereford HR4 9QU FREE for Members & £20.00+VAT Non-members

Leadership Development Series 3 in association with 3WH Wednesday 22 May - 8.30-11.00am Bankhouse Hotel, Bransford, Worcester WR6 5JD £59.00+VAT Members & £79.00+VAT Non-members

Afternoon Tea with Stanbrook Abbey Friday 31 May - 2.00-3.30pm Stanbrook Abbey Hotel, Jennet Tree Lane, Callow End, Worcester WR2 4TY £20.00+VAT Members & £35.00+VAT Non-members

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Business Networking BBQ Friday 21 June - 2.00-3.30pm Browns at the Quay, 24 Quay St, Worcester WR1 2JJ £20.00+VAT Members & £35.00+VAT Non-members

TYRO Events – Young Professionals Network Tuesday 25 June - 4.30-6.00pm The Brick Room, New St, Worcester WR1 2DL FREE for Members & Non-members

Worcester Womens Business Forum in association with Bishop Fleming Thursday 27 June - 9.30-11.30am Barton Court, Colwall, Malvern WR13 6HN FREE for Members & £20.00+VAT Non-members

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

To Let

New and Refurbished Industrial Units Pleasant and Convenient Location For enquiries please call

01384 569556 or 01299 822731 Wilden Industrial Estates Wilden lane, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 9JY

enquiries@wildenestates.co.uk

www.wildenestates.co.uk

Why bring Mindfulness and Compassion into business?

Getting the most out of employees in terms of productivity, creativity and excellence depends on only one thing – relationships. The key lies in knowing that these relationships are built on a high degree of trust. This can be cultivated amongst people within and across an organisation.

“I believe that the best way to develop a high-performance business for the long haul is to develop a caring, high-trust, relationship-centric culture. These cultures nurture a sense of purpose, of connection, and of compassion, where the business results we can measure are not the first priority of the enterprise, but rather a consequence enjoyed when leaders and teams practice the primary goal of building a caring community every day,” writes Scott Kriens, Chairman of the Board of Directors and ex-CEO of Juniper Networks.

Benefits of Mindfulness in the workplace include: n Reduced stress and illness related absenteeism

n Reduced workplace conflict

n Reduced staff turnover

n Confidence around change

n Stronger teams and leaders

n Greater resilience (Chaskalson, 2011).

n Improved productivity

Malvern mindfulness can offer bespoke mindfulness training programmes to build resilience for your workforce in this ever changing and challenging workplace environment, based on evidence based structured courses. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

About us: Jean Nash, RMN(Retired), BSc (Hons), PG (Dip) CMRP. Accredited by the UK Network for Mindfulness-Based Teacher Training Organisations.

Sonia Eastwood - RMN (retired), Trained MSC teacher (CMSC in San Diego) References: Chaskalson, M; (2011) The Mindful Workplace.

Health and Safety Executive www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/causdis/stress/

malvernmindfulness@gmail.com or malvernmindfulness.co.uk

You can make a difference

West Mercia Women’s Aid assists women and children affected by domestic abuse. Demand for services continues to grow, despite major reductions in funding from statutory and local authority organisations.

As a local charity, every penny donated to West Mercia Women’s Aid will help fund their wide range of services, including a 24hr Helpline, refuge, group programmes, and support for children and young people.

If you would like to make a donation or fundaise on behalf of WMWA, please contact our Fundraising Team. fundraising@wmwa.org.uk @WestMerciaWomensAid @WMWomensAid 07870 916688

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Registered Charity #1078496

May/June 2019

LEGALMATTERS

WHY DO I NEED A LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY? insurance renewals, potentially affecting the day-to-day running of the business severely.

Tristan Lewis, Associate Solicitor at Lanyon Bowdler, explains the importance of Lasting Powers of Attorney for business owners.

You can choose whoever you wish to be your attorney, provided they are over 18 but it’s important to think carefully about who you appoint. It needs to be someone you trust to make these important decisions for you and is capable of carrying them out.

Problems affecting mental capacity can happen at any time and it’s important to have a plan in place to ensure business and personal affairs are looked after in accordance with your wishes should the need arise.

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) can cover one or both of these areas and means someone can step in to deal with your affairs in the short or long term if you are suddenly and without warning struck down by something like a stroke, brain injury, Alzheimer’s, dementia or Parkinson’s.

There may be other occasions where an LPA will be of benefit - a short term illness or injury where you may be physically incapable of attending an appointment or are abroad on holiday or business.

Tristan Lewis

Many people think a business colleague or spouse will automatically be able to take over should you suddenly become incapable of administering your affairs, but that isn’t the case and if you haven’t appointed an attorney, the disruption to a business may be substantial.

It may not be possible to access bank accounts to pay wages or authorise

Your attorney must be reliable and have the skills to fulfill the role. You can choose more than one attorney if you wish.

Taking out an LPA is something many people don’t think about or leave until it may be too late and are overtaken by events. But by planning your affairs while still able, you will have the peace of mind of knowing that everything is in good hands should the worst happen.

For more advice, call the team at Lanyon Bowdler on 0800 652 3371 or visit www.lblaw.co.uk

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

Incorporating Beaumonts Solicitors

01432 378379 www.lblaw.co.uk Our People, Your Team

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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FEATURE

Carl Arntzen

TRANSFORMING OUR HOMES Few businesses can lay claim to having invented a product used by 70% of UK households and fewer still have shaped our country’s bylaws – but such is the case with Worcester Bosch.

Founded by Cecil Duckworth in 1962, his pioneering research and development work led to the pioneering the combi-boiler in the 1970s – precluding the need for a separate hot water tank.

At the time, connecting a boiler straight into the cold water supply was prohibited, so in those early days, Worcester had to apply for a relaxation of the bylaws in order to carry out an installation.

Once the restriction was lifted, the concept took off, as combi-boilers proved more efficient, producing hot water as you needed it. Today combi-boilers are found in the vast majority of homes up and down the country.

The business became a part of the Bosch Group in a phased acquisition between 1992 to 1996 in the lead up to Cecil’s retirement, for he would only sell to a business committed to investing in the company long term - Bosch definitely fitted the bill.

Another step-change occurred in 2004 when the government changed the regulations to make condensing boilers

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the minimum standard. Worcester Bosch was well-prepared for the change, which cemented their position as the industry-leader.

“When you buy a Worcester Bosch boiler, you purchase far more than the appliance in a box, you purchase all of the after sales support too. We have a really good customer support infrastructure in place,” explains CEO Carl Arntzen.

So it’s no wonder that today, Worcester Bosch remains the UK’s market leader in domestic boilers, receiving a Royal Warrant for supplying boilers to Her Majesty The Queen’s Sandringham Estate and coveted Which? Best Buy awards for nine years running.

These awards are “really hard earned accolades and the ultimate measure of customer satisfaction,” Carl observes, “which show the business is driven by the voice of our customers.”

Initially encountering the business as a work experience student, Carl joined the company after graduating from his Mechanical Engineering degree and he’s been with the group ever since. Appointed Managing Director of Worcester Bosch in 2008, he became CEO in 2011.

Employing 1,200 people in Worcester, 300 people in Clay Cross, Derbyshire, in addition to their sales and after sales support engineers and staff, they directly employ around 2,000 people in the UK. Today their products include the gas and oil fired boilers for which they are most

well-known, together with solar water heating systems, multi-fuel stoves and more besides.

Whilst just launched is a new range of boilers which aim to be aesthetically pleasing as well as functional – so you’ll no longer need to hide your boiler in a cupboard.

“We generate sales in the UK of around £500 million a year which represents 95% of our business, so clearly the focus of our business is in the UK. As a part of the worldwide Bosch Group, however, we retain our links with Europe and around the globe.

“Given the uncertainties of the next few months, we’ve built contingency plans into our operations, as have many companies, holding higher levels of inventory to cushion against any impact. The lack of clarity in the short term is causing anxiety to businesses and their customers.

“Moving forward, our focus is on decarbonisation. We’re exploring how best to heat our homes in a low carbon way, for which there’s likely to be a combination of solutions, one of which may be Hydrogen which doesn’t give off carbon emissions.

“We’re also always looking to inspire the next generation, by running 12 month internships, apprenticeships and advanced apprenticeships. Ensuring we develop employees with the engineering, digital and additional skills required across the business.”

May/June 2019

FEATURE

HARNESSING AGRICULTURAL OPPORTUNITIES The uncertainty of recent months may have left you feeling that now is not the best time to establish a seasonal labour recruitment firm, but Jan-Willem Naerebout would beg to differ. For earlier this year, he founded AGRI-HR. “There is a high demand for temporary seasonal agricultural workers in the region, with so much produce like soft fruit and asparagus being grown in Herefordshire,” explains Jan-Willem Naerebout.

“I’ve been involved in recruiting seasonal labour for the UK market for many years now. Latterly, I worked for a large strawberry grower for 11 years as Operations Director and my remit included recruiting agricultural workers, so I understand my client’s needs well.

“Typically, the seasonal jobs available include farm-related husbandry, plant husbandry, the harvesting of soft fruit and other crops such as asparagus and potatoes, as well as the associated packing.

“There is an increasing shortage of seasonal labour in the UK, creating a demand which represents an opportunity as well as a challenge. Customers are crying out for workers.

We facilitate the process whereby we place workers on their farms.

“By utilising a web-based direct recruitment model, I take a different approach to many recruiters as I work directly with employers and their prospective employees, there is no one else involved in the chain.

“I don’t use any other recruitment companies to fill our vacancies. As a result, the business is highly transparent which is good for employers and employees alike – it is a simple model but it works and people seem to like it.

“We raise awareness of the opportunities available via traditional media such as newspaper adverts and billboards, as well as via the internet and social media too.

“What marks us out from other recruiters are the recruitment events we hold in Bulgaria and Romania, where we meet prospective employees in person and they have direct access to my team of recruiters who speak their language.

“We help applicants with a lot of the practicalities of their application too, carry out all necessary background checks including eligibility to work in the UK and they can take advantage of our organised travel arrangements too.

“The demographics of people taking up this seasonal work has changed considerably in recent years, where once it was 18-24 years old students taking part as part of the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Scheme, now the average age is 35-40 years.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Jan-Willem Naerebout

“Given that much cropping work is now semi-automated, it’s not as physically backbreaking as was once the case and so the work is appealing to people of a wider age range.

“The challenge for us is that the weak pound means that working in the UK is not as attractive as was once the case.

Wages don’t translate into such high earnings at home, yet the change to the living wage is helping with this to some extent and many employees earn bonuses too, which top up their earnings further.

“In addition, the ongoing uncertainty over Brexit is a concern.

People are unsure of their ongoing freedom to travel, how long they’ll be allowed to remain in the UK and whether they’ll be covered by the European Health scheme. We’ve noticed a corresponding increase in the cost of travel insurance due to uncertainty over the latter, for example.

“Yet working in the UK remains attractive for a number of reasons, in addition to the increase in the living wage, the working and living conditions are good and the UK is at the forefront of health and safety.

“Farmers continue to need seasonal help to harvest their crops and I already have a number of clients in Herefordshire on whose behalf I’m working very hard.

“My immediate focus is on growing the business, but in the future, I may look at diversifying into other sectors such as hospitality too.” www.agri-hr.com

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BIGINTERVIEW

BREXIT – WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR BUSINESS However you voted in the referendum, the recent negotiations may have left you feeling perplexed and wondering what it means for your business.

At our Chamber’s International Business Conference, accountants Bishop Fleming addressed these concerns, providing insights into the likely impact of Brexit.

A leading accountancy firm, Bishop Fleming won the Chamber’s ‘Excellence in Professional Services Award 2018’ and they are ranked in the UK’s top 30 accountancy firms, with a reputation for taking a joined-up collaborative approach to helping their clients.

In addition, they’ve been recognised as the 9th best company to work for in the Midlands and on a national scale they’ve been placed in The Sunday Times Top 100 Best Companies to Work For - for the fourth year in a row.

2019 marks their centenary year.

With the ongoing negotiations and the uncertainty of the next few months, we felt it only right to address Brexit in Business Direction and who better to advise us than Bishop Fleming?

Wendy Andrews VAT Director

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In this issue, we speak to Chris Walklett, Tax Partner, and Wendy Andrews, VAT Director, of this leading accountancy firm about the possible implications of Brexit for your business.

“At the moment, we are looking at a couple of different outcomes,” explains Wendy. “During the current extension to Article 50, or if the current deal is agreed, nothing changes very much during the extension period or transitional period which is included in the current Withdrawal Agreement.

“However, a no-deal scenario is still possible, as is a future trading relationship in which the UK is outside the EU customs union and single market, and both of these have implications for businesses. For those that import goods from outside of the EU, things will remain much the same. However, if you import goods from the EU, you are likely to see a significant change.”

IMPORTING GOODS FROM THE EU “At the moment, there are no customs barriers and no documentation required for ‘acquisitions’ from the EU. You can drive straight over the border without any attention from customs, you won’t have to pay import duties, as goods produced in the EU are ‘in free circulation’. It is this which is likely to change.

“Some temporary tariffs have been put in place in the event of a no-deal exit from the EU, which can be checked on the government website.

“Ultimately, we don’t know exactly what the duties will be on a long term basis, but there are a few items for which the duties are likely to be quite high, such as cars and some food items.

“Increased duty costs and additional inspections will be encountered too – which in turn will lead to delays at the ports. Dover is already a busy port, and longer queues are likely to build up as a result.

“Businesses will need to factor these increased delays into their operations as they may affect their supply chain or have an adverse effect on goods with a perishable shelf life, for example.

“In terms of VAT, postponed accounting will be introduced for import VAT for all goods arriving in the UK, from the EU and the rest of the world.

“This means that VAT registered businesses will not need to pay import

May/June 2019

BIGINTERVIEW VAT in cash at or soon after importation, but will be able to account for it on their VAT returns.”

EXPORTING GOODS TO THE EU “When it comes to exporting goods to the EU, most of the same issues will come into play, including increased documentation and longer delays,” explains Wendy. “It will become more complicated to send goods from the UK to the EU. “In a no-deal situation, or outside the EU customs union and single market, the UK will revert to being a ‘third country’ under EU law, potentially with no trade deal or other trading arrangements in place with the EU. Goods arriving in the EU will be treated as third country imports and may be subject to import VAT and duty as applicable.

“All UK businesses which trade in goods with the EU will need to take steps to address the compliance and logistics issues which a no-deal will cause. There are also direct tax implications for UK businesses with subsidiaries or affiliates in the other EU27 states.

“In addition, there are specific regulatory issues applying to certain industries and sectors (such as pharmaceuticals, fisheries and food) which may need detailed consideration and action.

“If you currently bring goods into the UK from outside the EU and then distribute them to EU member states, you may need to consider importing the goods for EU customers into the EU directly rather than bringing them into the UK first.”

FREE MOVEMENT OF EU CITIZENS “Another issue to consider is people’s ability to move freely between the UK and the EU, as this is very much up in the air.

“EU citizens coming to the UK after Brexit will have to apply for Temporary Leave to Remain if they wish to visit, live or study for longer than three months,” explains Wendy, “meaning businesses and workers will be affected.”

“Citizens receiving Temporary Leave to Remain will be able to stay for a further 3 years, however, EU citizens wishing to stay for longer than 3 years, will need to make a further application under the new skills-based future immigration system, which begins from 2021.”

DEVELOPING AN EXPORT STRATEGY

uncertainties of Brexit, the export market presents a huge opportunity.

“My advice to businesses is not to let the current situation dissuade them from working up a strategy. There is a huge amount of help available from the Chamber to enterprise hubs, banks, accountants and solicitors. Businesses must ensure they are receiving informed, professional advice, rather than basing decisions on speculation in the media.

“Businesses should think through the practical implications of Brexit and take steps to prepare themselves, like talking to their banks about ‘letters of credit’ or to their solicitor about agreements they’ve entered into. Looking at your supply chain is important too, the goods you have in transit, the amount of stock you hold and your cash flow.

“What’s an even greater concern, is how many companies have no business plan at all. Now is the time for businesses to be reflecting on their business plan, to be thinking about succession and the business support services they use like banking, legal and accountancy.

“Current uncertainties go beyond Brexit, including a possible change of government and a potential recession, but there is a lot we can do to help businesses control the impact of these uncertainties.

“Despite these uncertainties, the export market continues to offer huge potential for business growth and I want to see more businesses benefit from this opportunity.”

“What concerns me most,” adds Chris, “Is that so many businesses have no export strategy. Few SME’s plan to export over the next five years, yet despite the

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Chris Walklett Tax Partner

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CONSTRUCTIONFOCUS

PROMOTING THE INTERESTS OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY Herefordshire and Worcestershire Constructing Excellence Club (HAWCE) has been established for 10 years now and seeks to promote the interests of the industry in the two counties and to update members on important developments in the construction world, both locally and nationally.

During that period we have typically put on at least 6 events each year, ranging from seminars, debates, site visits (including to the dramatic ‘Hive’ Building, photographed above) and our popular summer barbecue.

The use of technology in the Construction Sector is becoming increasingly important. Therefore, we have had a particular focus on Building Information Modelling (‘BIM’), holding at least 4 events on this over the last few years, and are fortunate to have on our committee a number of people experienced in BIM, including Jason Whittall of ONE Creative

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Environments and Fiona Moore of Cirrus Consulting.

In the same vein, we have had a number of events on off-site manufacturing. This has the potential to speed up the construction process, improve quality and to save time and cost. It may also help to mitigate, in part, the acute skills shortage the industry is facing.

Health and safety and care of the environment is also crucial. We provide regular updates on health and safety issues and last year had a presentation from a fire officer on lessons to be learnt from the Grenfell Tower tragedy. With regard to the environment, we have had talks on how to protect fauna and flora, both from the perspectives of an ecologist and a main contractor. Later this year the Environment Agency will update us on flood alleviation schemes, which is a particularly hot topic in flood prone Worcester!

The HAWCE committee and membership is diverse with major contractors such as Bouygues and Speller Metcalfe represented, but also local SMEs and a number of architects, engineers, quantity

surveyors and project managers too. My ‘day’ job is advising on the legal aspects of construction projects, but in order to give something back to the industry, I and the other committee members give up their time voluntarily to assist with HAWCE. I have been privileged to chair HAWCE for nearly 10 years now and would like to give thanks to the committee members.

Forthcoming events for this year include a talk on the City Masterplan for Worcester and a site visit in conjunction with the CIOB to a new cyber security centre being built near Hereford.

Andrew James Head of Construction and Engineering Harrison Clark Rickerbys Solicitors Chairman, HAWCE

May/June 2019

STEEL FRAMED AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS

JOHN RUCK CONSTRUCTION LTD Longmead Elms Green Leominster Herefordshire HR6 0NS 01568 617 950 www.johnruck.co.uk

At John Ruck Construction we have operated for over 40 years and this means we have fully experienced personnel who are able to offer a full advice service during the early stages of your project when you are deciding upon what will help to make your project work for you.

With our own CAD software and technicians, drawings can be sent direct to our drill line within our purpose built workshop with fully accredited CE facilities that ensure that your steelwork is engineered with precision.

When it arrives on site the project will be expertly managed by our project managers operating in accordance with CDM regulations. They will ensure our accredited fitters safely construct the project.

Let us help you take the strain out of your expansion – call us today on 01568 617950 or e-mail at enquiries@johnruck.co.uk.

A GAME-CHANGING LOCATION OVERVIEW

JCT 6 M5

• Build to suit units available in a managed, landscaped setting.

• Outline planning consent granted for 1.5m sq ft of employment accommodation.

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• Detailed planning consent granted for a 42,356 sq ft standalone office unit.

STRATEGICALLY PLACED • Fronting J6 of the M5 with excellent transport connections.

• Direct access to the motorway network for M5, M42 and M50.

• Access to skilled labour force.

• Key occupiers in the area include Bosch, Yamazaki Mazak, Southco Fasteners and RWE Npower’s regional office.

STOFORD • Established (1996), respected and trusted developer.

• Specialising in occupier led pre-let commercial property.

• Innovative approach to developing ensuring a quality product delivered on time and within budget.

• Trusted to develop for some of the UK’s largest institutions and occupiers such as Standard Life, Axa, LaSalle, BlackRock, TPG, The Range, Co-Op and Admiral.

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www.worcestersix.co.uk

Charles D’Auncey charles.dauncey@harrislamb.com

CONSTRUCTIONFOCUS

OAKLEAF COMMERCIAL SERVICES PROVE THAT “SMALL CAN BE BEAUTIFUL” WHEN IT COMES TO BUILDING NEW HOMES Oakleaf Commercial Services, the building and maintenance contractor for Kidderminster based, The Community Housing Group, has developed a cost effective and efficient solution to help the Group to meet their target of almost 300 new homes by 2021.

They utilise plots of land such as former and disused garage sites which are generally in the centre of residential areas and have restricted access. This makes them less attractive to larger building contractors but ideal for small developments of between 2 – 6 new homes.

By creating a skilled development team, Oakleaf Commercial Services is able to deliver a comprehensive range of construction services including the manufacture and installation of PVC-u and timber windows and doors from their Kidderminster factory.

They adhere to the Considerate Constructor Scheme for all development sites which is a code of practice designed to minimising the impact of construction on the general public, their workforce and the environment. They have also received special awards for three of their construction sites and as well as a member of staff receiving the West of England Regional Site Manager Award for the LABC (Local Authority Building Control) Warranty.

Ian Hancock, Managing Director of Oakleaf Commercial Services commented: “This approach to neighbourhood regeneration is a win-win solution. Local people have access to new, affordable homes and sites which are uneconomical to maintain and prone to vandalism are given a new lease of life.”

The team recently delivered 3 new family homes on a disused site in Kidderminster and worked with The Community Housing Group to install a range of smart technology to enable the new residents to interact with their landlord digitally.

Oakleaf Commercial Services is passionate about supporting the communities they

Ian Hancock, Ray Brookes, Yvonne Miller and Vicki Tomlinson join local resident, Sam Davies as she cuts the ribbon on the site of her new Shared Ownership home

work within. They actively seek to employ local people and use local suppliers as much as possible. They also participate in the Group’s successful apprenticeship programme and this has enabled them to provide training and employment opportunities as well as aiding their succession planning in an industry where there is a real skills shortage.

Ray Brookes, Group Chief Executive responded: “Oakleaf Commercial Services has played a crucial role in the development of our part buy, part rent Shared Ownership programme and a recently completed project in Bewdley saw a row of hard-to-let maisonettes, transformed into modern, family homes.

We were especially pleased when Sam Davies, a resident who had moved away from the home she grew up in to find affordable housing, was able to return to the area as a first-time home owner.”

Sam Davies said: “I’ve lived on Wribbenhall my whole life, so I’m thrilled that I can stay in the area near my family.” She then continued to say: “My son is so excited about finally having his own bedroom and this new home has enabled me to give my children somewhere nice to grow up with all the space they need and for us to move forward with our lives”

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Oakleaf Commercial Service continue to look at new and innovative ways of working more efficiently with technology to track and manage fleet vehicles and improved stock control of materials held on vans.

They design sustainable, affordable homes which come with a range of energy efficiency features to enable affordable living as well as reducing the impact on the environment. Their latest project involves looking at modular construction homes which are built in a factory and delivered to site for installation. This reduces build time and ensures guaranteed quality standards on every home.

“We’re proud to be shaping the future of homes within the Wyre Forest” said Ian Hancock, “and look forward to the ongoing transformation of the district in partnership with The Community Housing Group” For more information about the services provided by Oakleaf Commercial Services, visit their website www.oakleafcs.com.

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CONSTRUCTIONFOCUS

LOCAL MANUFACTURING COMPANY Ce GROUP ARE LOOKING TO EXPAND! The Ce Movable Wall Group are in the final stages of signing a 10-year deal on a larger manufacturing plant, nearly doubling the size of the current unit to cope with an increasing order book.

Since the formation of Ce Solutions Ltd in 2004 we have become one of the UK’s leading suppliers of movable walls and sliding partitions, in 2016 Ce(UK) Manufacturing was formed. The requirement was simple - to design our own bespoke, modern & sleek movable wall system to bring to market whilst boasting a wholly UK manufactured product.

The majority of movable walls in the UK are imported, as such have extended lead times, are at the mercy of the Euro/Pound and dare we mention the word “Br***t”!, sourcing all our components from UK suppliers we have “kept it British.”

With our manufacturing plant based in the heart of Worcester we have quickly become an established front runner in the UK movable wall manufacture sector,

employing 7 new staff in the past 12 months alone to assist our rapid growth.

Ce lay claim to an already impressive array of prestigious projects and satisfied customers, whilst we continue to enhance our reputation at the forefront of our industry.

It is vital to understand the elements of each component and how panels are formed to showcase a secure fixed wall once on site. We welcome client visits and will advise from the outset on any design and layout proposals.

The Ce Group are now able to be competitive with a quality product built and designed in the UK. With over 30 years’ experience and in-house technical department you can have total confidence we will have a solution for all your requirements. www.cesolutions.co.uk

MARSHALL STRUCTURES

Marshall Structures Limited Structural Engineers | Party Wall Surveyors | Clerk of Works Professional and impartial advice for Home Owners, Architects, Estate Agents, and Builders. n Structural Advice for Extensions and New Buildings n Structural Engineers’ Reports n Party Wall Notices and Awards n Clerks of Works Inspections Call now for independent guidance, for new or existing properties.

Follow our Facebook and Twitter pages T: 01905 621662 E: admin@marshallstructures.co.uk www.marshallstructures.co.uk Unit 18a | Top Barn Business Centre | Holt | Worcestershire | WR6 6NH

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Marshall Structures is now a well-established and growing Structural Engineering business. We operate from our base in Worcestershire and we are able to offer our services over the whole country. The practice was established by Paul Marshall who has nearly 30 years’ experience. When Paul set up the business, he brought with him the ethos of working closely with clients and communicating effectively, together with providing a friendly and tailored service. This ethos has helped Marshall Structures become the trusted and respected business it is today.

We provide professional services for many structures and building types from state of the art to historic buildings, our projects range from small domestic ones to major projects.

Building, structural and subsidence investigation, foundation design, engineering advice and design are just some of the important professional services we provide.

We regularly advise and act as Party Wall Surveyors as defined by the Party Wall Act. We may advise upon owners’ rights and obligations, prepare schedules of conditions, serve notices, make appointments and prepare and serve Party Wall Awards in accordance with the Act. We are glad to discuss projects and give unbiased advice on whether a party wall surveyor is required.

We have considerable experience of offsite construction; both timber frame and lightweight steel frame modular construction.

The civil engineering design for roads and drainage can also be carried out by the practice.

We continue to grow steadily and now employ 2 engineers in addition to Paul plus an Office Manager and a Clerical Assistant.

May/June 2019

A family of schools each of which has its origins in Malvern College Malvern College Hong Kong

Malvern College Qingdao

Malvern College Egypt

Malvern College Chengdu

enquiries@malverncollege.org.uk • www.malverncollegeinternational.org

CHAMBERAWARDS

Sponsored by

CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 THE LIST OF FINALISTS REVEALED the finalists, runner-ups and award winners.

The Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all businesses that entered this year’s awards – with the high level of applications making the 2019 awards the toughest yet.

We are looking forward to welcoming guests to the Chamber Business Awards ceremony on Thursday 4 July, at the Worcester Arena.

Taking place in now just a few weeks time, the Greatest Showman-themed event will welcome over 600 guests to congratulate

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The lavish evening ceremony will celebrate the successes of firms in Herefordshire and Worcestershire from all sectors and sizes, and we are pleased to announce that the event will be hosted by Celia Delaney.

Guests will be greeted with a fizzy welcome drink and are invited to make use of DRPG’s lively drinks bar whilst networking with other guests, and making use of the entertaining photo booth.

After congratulating the winners and having your company’s photograph taken, attendees are invited the to popular Awards After Party sponsored by TechTeam, at a city centre location to be revealed soon.

Tickets for the awards ceremony are priced at £99.00+VAT for Members and £119.00+VAT for Non-members, with larger bookings available at an additional cost. All tickets include a reception drink, delicious three-course dinner, access to the After Party and more surprises to be revealed on the evening.

To find out more information and to book your ticket now, please contact the Events team on events@hwchamber.co.uk.

May/June 2019

CHAMBERAWARDS

THIS YEAR’S CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS FINALISTS After receiving a fantastic 130+ applications from across the two counties, we are pleased to announce the 2019’s finalist as: Best Use of Technology sponsored by TechTeam Areca Design Ltd Level Peaks Associates Material Solutions Senecto Ltd

Exporter of the Year sponsored by Malvern Panalytical Allteko Limited Allvalves Online Limited Level Peaks Associates Shires Equestrian

Most Promising New Business sponsored by mfg Solicitors LLP AV Actuators Ltd Bright & Beautiful Joshua Roberts Recruitment Ltd Redwood Search Studio Fourteen Interiors Limited

Employer of the Year sponsored by University of Worcester DRPG Focus Ecology Level Peaks Associates Pinstone Communications Ltd Rotherwood Group

Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace sponsored by Proton Partners International Bishop Fleming Malvern Hills and Wychavon District Councils Sanctuary Group Yamazaki Mazak UK Ltd

Small Business of the Year sponsored by Orchard Valley Foods Dawleys GreenLighting Ltd Chloros Environmental Ltd Indra Renewable Technologies Ltd Level Peaks Associates Rock Power Connections Ltd

Excellence in Customer Service sponsored by Handelsbanken Central Roofing and Building Services Ltd Environmental Management Solutions Kingspan Insulation OLPRO Spire South Bank Hospital Think Rethink Ltd

High Growth Business of the Year sponsored by Hewett Recruitment DRPG Level Peaks Associates Malvern Panalytical Limited OLPRO Simple Design Works Limited

NEW – E-Commerce Business of the Year sponsored by Air Products Allvalves Online Limited Gemporia OLPRO

Excellence in Innovation sponsored by Malvern Hills Science Park Indra Renewable Technologies Ltd Level Peaks Associates Malvern Panalytical Limited Rotherwood Group

Manufacturer of the Year sponsored by QinetiQ Heller Machine Tools Kingspan Limited Synthotec Limited Witley Jones Furniture

NEW – Family Business of the Year sponsored by Harrison Clark Rickerbys AA Salt Services Ltd arrangeMY Green Cow Kitchens Paul Rabbette Ltd Shires Equestrian

Excellence in Professional Services Award sponsored by Worcestershire County Council 3WH Ballards LLP Environmental Management Solutions Focus Ecology ISO Quality Services Ltd

Micro Business of the Year sponsored by Worcestershire Business Central Brightest Bulb Brinsop Court Focus Ecology Rentmyhouse.co.uk Ltd Surf Tech IT Ltd

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

We would like to thank everyone who entered this year’s awards, with judges commenting on the high quality of applications from all businesses.

Judging for the Chamber Business Awards 2019 is now taking place, with winners being announced at the evening awards ceremony in July.

In addition to the fourteen categories, we will also announce the Business of the Year Award sponsored by FOLK2FOLK, which will crown the winner of winners for 2019.

Good luck to all and we look forward to seeing you at the event!

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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VISITWORCESTERSHIRE

75TH ANNIVERSARY OF D-DAY LANDINGS unprecedented level of international cooperation. Indeed, without the special relationship forged between the United States and the United Kingdom, triumph over Nazi Germany would have been impossible.

King George VI’s Granddaughter, Princess Anne tours in 2015

The largest seaborne invasion in history, D-Day, was also the pinnacle of the special wartime relationship between the USA and England. To commemorate the 75th anniversary in 2019, Visit Worcestershire is encouraging visitors to climb aboard the Royal Carriage at Severn Valley Railway.

June 6, 1944 was the start of the largest naval, air and land operation the world has ever seen. Referred to by the codename ‘Operation Overlord’, the D-Day invasion enabled the United States, United Kingdom and their allies to land vast numbers of troops in Normandy, leading to the Allied victory in Europe.

Operation Overlord required many months of planning and an

On the evening of June 5, King George VI boarded his private armoured train carriage and travelled to Portsmouth.

Prime Minister Winston Churchill and General Eisenhower joined him in his personal carriage to give a full briefing of the finalised plans. With the King satisfied with the Operation Overlord plans, he was whisked back to London under the cover of darkness.

US Tour Operators are now packaging Worcestershire as part of a ‘United Allies and D-Day’ visit to England and Europe, to explore the significant locations where US Troops were based, fought and recuperated - thanks to work by Visit Worcestershire and supported by VisitBritain/VisitEngland through the Discover England Fund.

Did you know? Perdiswell was the world's first municipal aerodrome, and during WWII, film star Clarke Gable crashed on the airfield after a short trip from RAF Defford near Pershore. www.svr.co.uk

US PRESIDENTS VISIT TO WORCESTER CITY Worcester is home to the first and final battle in the English Civil Warn (1642-51), which led to the county sparking the curiosity of Thomas Jefferson. In 1786 along with his colleague John Adams, they visited Fort Royal Hill to see the site where ‘liberty was fought for and won.’

John Adams spoke to the crowd gathering to welcome the US Visitors, stating “All England should come in Pilgrimage to this Hill, once a year.”

The Commandery is a wonderful attraction that features as part of the United Allies and D-Day itinerary. Visitors can discover the human stories as well as the political ones behind the Civil Wars, leading up to the final battle in Worcester. Find out how the wars shaped England’s politics and the concepts of liberty and democracy

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following from the demise of King Charles II. Just two years after Jefferson’s visit, the experience helped draft the US Constitution. www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk/ museums/the-commandery

NEW ART DECO BISTRO LEADS THE WAY IN FOREGATE STREET Centenary Lounge opened a stunning new bistro café close to Foregate Street Station.

The 1930’s Art Deco themed, GWR inspired café and restaurant hopes to attract commuters, shoppers and visitors to the City of Worcester; whilst also supporting suppliers of some of the best food and drink produced in the surrounding area.

The five-storey, Georgian, Grade II Listed premises at No. 31 The Cross, dates back to about 1730 and a careful, challenging and extensive refurbishment has taken three years to complete. The ‘labour of love’ for new owner Aasia Baig, has recaptured the experience and ambience of a First-Class period railway buffet from the golden age of travel.

The menu looks first to local producers for inspiration, offering a full complement of breakfast choices from 8am, light lunches, luxury afternoon teas and later dining; as well as quick snacks, hot chocolates, chilled wines and cocktails. www.centenarylounge.com

May/June 2019

CHAMBERTALKS

CHAMBER TALKS

Daniel Walton

Helen Astill

Alison Holmes

Managing Director at OLPRO

Managing Director at Cherington HR

Managing Director at Peritia Group

“Times are hard for businesses.

There is uncertainty out there where our customers are living in a world full of choice – most of it on sale.

“How do you plan for business as (un)usual?

“Networking wins you more business . . . right?

Whether you voted for or against our departure from the EU, it seems that most people would agree that the government’s inability to manage the Brexit situation has caused chaos for businesses around the country, many of whom have adopted a “paralysis by analysis” stance and have not planned for any eventuality as they struggled to know what to do.

There is a continuous debate as to whether networking does actually win you more business. Some people swear by it and others believe it’s a waste of time. Which camp are you in?

That’s why it’s the perfect time for all businesses to have a social conscious.

Supporting a charity or doing work in your community is not only good for that charity and your local community, it’s good for you and your business.

Being involved in a local charity or encouraging your staff to be means experiencing a different work environment and leaning new skills which can be transferred to your workplace.

Supporting one of the many worthwhile charities across our two counties produces a huge feel good factor. Feeling good is definitely good for you and it’s good for your staff. Whether it be volunteer days, sponsored events, training across two businesses or social events, being involved and ‘doing your bit’ is immensely beneficial to your wellbeing.

It may even help with staff retention.

Having a clear social conscious within a business is something many of your large competitors won’t have. When people are looking to make a purchase and they’re weighing you up and your competitor, and you are visibly supporting your community, there will be only one winner.”

The problem is that as human beings, we can generally only take uncertainty for a short while – and for most of us this situation has gone on far too long: like us, our employees are stressed and anxious. They are worried about job security, levels of income and their future prospects. So, we need to stop waiting and move forwards. If we don’t do this, we are in danger of employees going off sick with conditions like stress, anxiety and depression. That will put more pressure on their colleagues and damage productivity further.

Communicate with your staff – tell them what you are doing to look after them and the business. If you don’t, they will assume the worst and you may lose your best employees.” www.cheringtonhr.com

www.olproshop.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Networking is more a marathon than a sprint and should be treated as part of your sales strategy. The ultimate goal is to build trusted relationships within your business community to achieve more sales. However, it is crucial to be authentic and not to hard-sell.

Research the event you are attending.

Ask the hosts to make introductions if you don’t know anyone. Listen to what others have to say and don’t just aim to sell to as many people as you can. Ensure your elevator pitch tells a 60 second transformation story – our brains remember a story rather than a “list of services”. Give free information if you feel that person would benefit from it. Ensure you follow-up every conversation you had that day. Make authentic connections within your network and slowly but surely referrals will come back your way. Grab yourself a speaking slot – a great way to demonstrate you are the “expert” in your community.

Networking can be your best friend if you nurture relationships from a place of honesty and integrity. Have fun with it, you just never know where it will lead you.” www.peritialtd.co.uk

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ADVERTORIALFEATURE

GROW YOUR LAND BASED BUSINESS WITH APPRENTICESHIPS AT PERSHORE COLLEGE with many more vacancies than there are people to fill them. What is more, the agricultural and food production industry uses some of the most advanced engineering in the world so is always on the lookout for fresh talent.

Pershore College, part of the multi-site college group WCG, is a national centre for horticulture situated on a 60-hectare site near Evesham. At the heart of which is a new ÂŁ6 million Agri-Tech Centre, combining state-of-the-art equipment, research laboratory and teaching facilities.

As well as offering a range of specialist courses in horticulture, agri-tech and animal care for school leavers and higher education, Pershore College delivers a wide range of apprenticeship programmes.

Every year it trains some 300+ apprentices who are working with more than 100 employers in the Worcestershire area.

Last November the apprenticeship team was proud to be awarded Training Provider of the Year at the Worcestershire Apprentice Awards. The award was given in recognition for its work in the delivery of a range of land-based apprenticeships in horticulture, landscaping, arboriculture and agriculture.

Current apprenticeship pathways include Arboriculture, Crop Technician (horticultural and agricultural crops), Golf

Greenkeeping, Sports Turf Operative, Animal Welfare, Vet Nursing, and Equine.

The college has now established itself as a centre for land-based service engineering apprenticeships which until 2017 had operated from Evesham College. Work as a land-based service engineer involves maintaining a range of machinery, plant and equipment in the agricultural, forestry and horticultural industries.

Last summer, two land-based engineering apprentices from Pershore were individually awarded a prestigious Medal for Excellence by the educational organisation City and Guilds. The awards celebrate exceptional talent among learners who have achieved great results by not only producing exceptional work, but by going above and beyond what is expected to achieve their goals.

If you are an employer and looking for an apprentice, you can find out more information at wcg.ac.uk/hireanapprentice.

Alternatively, you can call 0300 456 0046 or email employers@wcg.ac.uk to speak to the employer services team.

The industry sector is currently experiencing a shortage in qualified engineers along with an aging workforce, so job opportunities are excellent

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www.electro-comm.co.uk/events

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0300 456 0046

01905 788020

May/June 2019

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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WORCESTERSHIREBUSINESSCENTRAL

www.business-central.co.uk

YOUR JOURNEY TO BUSINESS SUCCESS Inspiring Growth – Journey to Success is a dynamic business support campaign created by Worcestershire Business Central to support the Growth of SMEs in Worcestershire that have strong ambitions, an entrepreneurial spirit, and are looking to maximise their opportunities inside and out of the county.

The aim of the events is to provide companies with information on key issues to consider at each various stages of the growth of a business, which is directly linked to the number of employees in a company. In Worcestershire, 80% of SMEs employ between 1-10 people, but SMEs of any size should consider four key pillars of Strategy, People, Execution of Strategy and Cash during the “Journey to Success”.

At the events the audience will be introduced to the ‘Journey’ in partnership with Bizsmart, hear from the business who is going through their own ‘Journey’ and speakers who will cover the “Four Pillars” in more detail. Companies will then discuss, debate and take actions away to then implement into their company.

In parallel to the “Inspiring Growth – Journey to Success” events, companies will be able have the opportunity to discuss issues in much more depth with peers at planned “Scale-up – Club” events being organised by BizSmart in partnership with Worcestershire Business Central.

Companies can attend all of the planned “Inspiring Growth – Journey to Success” events and the planned “Scale-up Club” events or dip in and out of both. We really want companies to take something away

046

and work to implement actions into the business and then report back on progress at a “Finale” event that will be held once both activity streams have come to end before the end of the calendar year.

At the “finale” event, all companies who are present will be asked to feedback on their progress to actions, what this has meant to the business, and what it could mean in the future. The Peer Group will nominate which company has made the most progress. The company chosen will then receive a FREE video case mapping the history of its Journey.

For all companies who attend the “Inspiring Growth – Journey to Success” events and the “Scale-up – Club” events will be able to have a listing on the Inspiring Growth Directory on the Worcestershire Business website. That will not only highlight those businesses who are looking to grow in the County, but will be an invaluable tool to share business skills that can be shared, and may be required from peers in the local area.

If you have any questions, or looking for further business support, please don’t hesitate to contact our team on 01905 677888 or email info@business-central.co.uk

Upcoming Roundtables: Welcoming expert speakers delivering specific tactical knowledge and skills relating to the pillars of the MOT checklist.

Inspiring Growth – Journey to Success Roundtable (Kidderminster) Thursday 9 May - 9.00am-1.00pm Gainsborough House Hotel, Kidderminster, DY11 6BS Inspiring Growth – Journey to Success Roundtable (Malvern) Thursday 1 August - 9.00am-1.00pm Malvern Council, Malvern, WR14 3AF Inspiring Growth – Journey to Success Roundtable (Pershore) Monday 2 September- 9.00am-1.00pm Wychavon District Council, Pershore, WR10 1PT To book your place on any of these events, please visit www.bit.ly/ InspiringGrowth.

May/June 2019

All your business needs.

All in one place.

CONTACT OUR TEAM TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN SUPPORT YOUR BUSINESS TO GROW 01905 677888 www.business-central.co.uk info@business-central.co.uk @WBCUpdates

MOVERSANDSHAKERS

Nicola Hope (R) with St. Hon Sajid Javid (L) at the 5th annual Bromsgrove jobs fair

SKILLS ENGAGEMENT MANAGER APPOINTED AT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Nicky Hope joined the Chamber at the end of 2018 to support businesses that are struggling to recruit appropriately skilled staff and raise the profile of ‘Inspiring Worcestershire’, and the ‘Creating our Future Workforce’ campaign. The national skills shortage is consistently raised as a significant concern for businesses across the two counties, and Nicky will work collaboratively with our partners to improve the links between education and business to provide work ready young people for the future, attract and retain appropriately skilled workers across the region

TALENTED CHEF SWITCHES CAREERS TO BECOME AN ACCOUNTANT AT THORNE WIDGERY Hereford’s innovative accountancy firm, Thorne Widgery, has recruited Aaron King as its latest trainee.

Aaron joins the practice having initially pursued a career as a professional pastry chef at The Temple Bar Inn, a 2AA Rosette restaurant in Ewyas Harold.

Having previously studied Mathematics, Business Studies and Computing at Hereford Sixth Form College, the change in direction is an exciting departure for him and he will now undergo training towards the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualification. www.thornewidgery.co.uk

V8MEDIA WELCOMES NEW APPRENTICE Herefordshire-based web design and tech company V8Media is pleased to welcome new apprentice, Jack Smalley to the team on a Technical Sales apprenticeship.

Jack's role will see him work across both the sales and marketing department, supporting the team on both new and existing projects and providing support to clients.

Managing Director, Claire Wozencroft, said: "I'm delighted that Jack has joined the V8 team. As a company, we are dedicated to supporting new talent and are excited to work with Jack as he develops his career at V8 Media". www.v8media.co.uk

You can contact Nicky on Nicolah2@hwchamber.co.uk.

NEW ADDITION FOR SIMPLE DESIGN WORKS Product design consultancy, Simple Design Works, has appointed Ruth Parry as Head of Marketing.

Ruth has over 20 years marketing and project management experience. She will be helping with the next stage of business growth by bringing order and process to day to day operations so that the creative team can focus on turning concepts and ideas into reality. She’ll also be helping clients with their marketing aspirations as well as deliver internal marketing projects.

The company is growing rapidly with the team almost doubling in size over the last 12 months. www.simpledesignworks.co.uk

www.hwchamber.co.uk

PROPERTY AGENCY MAKES TWO PROMOTIONS AT WORCESTER OFFICE

EBC EXPANDS ITS GROWING SALES TEAM EBC Group is delighted to welcome Ben Morris to its growing sales team. Ben joins EBC Group as a Pre-Sales IT Specialist, having worked in the IT industry for over 9 years.

Ben comments: “I am delighted to have been given a fantastic opportunity to progress my career with EBC Group. I am looking forward to helping new and existing clients to improve their workplace technology.” www.ebcgroup.co.uk

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A leading property firm has made two promotions at its Worcester office as the company sees a record number of employees advance in the business.

Fisher German has promoted Maxine Clarke from property and accounts manager to senior property management surveyor and Joanne Millward from residential lettings manager to senior residential lettings manager.

The firm has made 30 promotions at its 15 offices at the same time across all areas of the business – a record for the company.

EMILY JOINS WYEVALE NURSERIES AS HR MANAGER Emily Wright has joined one of the UK’s leading commercial nurseries as its HR Manager.

In her role at Wyevale Nurseries, which is based in Hereford, Emily will manage and develop successful HR strategies that help the company to achieve its goals.

Emily, who previously worked as an Engagement Manager for the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) group, said: “I am thrilled to have joined the team at Wyevale Nurseries.”

HAINES WATTS WELCOMES NEW ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT Joe Hammond has recently joined the Accounts team at Haines Watts Hereford. Joe is training in all elements of accounting practice with particular emphasis on supporting the firm’s growing number of clients operating cloud accounting systems. www.hwca.com

www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk

www.fishergerman.co.uk

May/June 2019

BUSINESSNEWS

ISRAELI BUSINESSES VISIT WORCESTERSHIRE Over 10 representatives from Israeli cyber technology businesses met with some of Cyber Valley’s most recognised and innovative companies as part of a three day trade mission, which took place on 20-22 March. The delegation began with a visit to the Malvern Hills Science Park where representatives from BetaDen, Midlands Cyber and the Invest in Worcestershire team discussed the unique investment opportunities that the county boasts for cyber businesses.

Linda Smith, Chief Executive of BetaDen, said of the mission: “This is a great example of the connections that the county has built with ambitious clusters around the globe and we will continue to strengthen these relationships with the purpose of boosting inward investment and export opportunities.”

Stuart Emmerson, Inward Investment Manager, said: “Companies around the world are recognising Worcestershire as the capital of connectivity, with a growing reputation at the forefront of technological innovation.”

For further information on investing in Worcestershire, phone 01905 676658 or email enquiries@investinworcestershire.com

LAUNCH OF WEIGH SOL LTD’S NEW WEBSITE To coincide with its 10-year anniversary, Redditch-based Weigh Sol launched its brand new website in early September 2018.

The site has been completely updated and revamped. It illustrates both how the company has grown and matured since it was formed (from the offshoots of the former well-known, and another, Redditch weighing company Nova Weigh Ltd) and where it now stands as one of the UK’s premier industrial weighing businesses.

One of the main aims of the new website is to try to clearly get over the message to the viewer Weigh Sol’s key unique selling point – particularly the very niche “Process Weighing world” that it most regularly works in with the company’s unique combination of a highest-quality product portfolio, bespoke applications engineering expertise, top-notch onsite engineering capability and personal customer support.

SURFING THE CREST OF THE WAVE Despite the climate of uncertainty brought about by Brexit, local IT support company Surf Tech IT are riding high.

In the four years since founder, Matthew Parsons, set up the Worcester based IT solutions and support company have expanded, taking on a bigger team in larger premises and have worked with The Magic Tractor to refresh the brand.

Surf Tech is surrounded by world famous brands in their partner relationships with the likes of Microsoft, Dell and McAfee and they recognised the need for their brand to reflect their growing status.

Matthew says: “As our business grows our brand identity has evolved and we’re excited to be able to show this in our new style.”

On top of building the business and looking after this ever-growing client base Matthew has been busy as a keen advocate for business in Worcestershire, recently becoming a Worcestershire Ambassador.

Matthew and the team are ready to bring on the rest of 2019, whatever it may hold. www.surftech.com

Weigh Sol remains very ambitious and is now excellently positioned for the next stage of its development. www.weighsol.com

SPECTRA GROUP WELCOMES HEREFORDSHIRE BUSINESSES TO SIGN ARMED FORCES COVENANT Spectra Group (UK) Ltd hosted an official signing of the Armed Forces Covenant at their Herefordshire HQ on Wednesday 3 April.

With ambitions to achieve Gold Armed Forces Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) status, the event formed part of Spectra’s commitment to mentoring other organisations to sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC) and aspire to achieve recognition in their own rights.

Brigadier Richard Carter, Commander 11 Signal & West Midland Brigade, attended on behalf of the MOD and countersigned

the Covenants of C4I, Kinetic 6, RWB Global and XReach.

Phil Sinclair, Regional Employer Engagement Director for West Midland Reserves Forces and Cadets Association (RFCA) commented: “On behalf of the Ministry of Defence and West Midland RFCA I can’t thank Spectra Group enough with their very evident support for the Armed Forces community and leading by example by bringing C4I, Kinetic 6, RWB Global and XReach Limited to the AFC family.” www.spectra-group.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

049

ADVERTORIALFEATURE

WHY WE ALL NEED TO BE AWARE OF THE CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP It’s easy to think your customers are happy, after all, they’ve not come out and said that they aren’t. But how do you know for sure?

Let me give you an example.

You go to a restaurant and everything is fine…not great, but not terrible, just adequate. The wait staff asked if everything was ok and you said that it was, mainly because there wasn’t any one thing you didn’t like, it was more a combination.

Or maybe you just didn’t want to cause a scene.

Either way, you don’t say anything. And then because it wasn’t a very big deal, you don’t review them online (positive or negative) or make any comments on social media. You never go back, maybe tell a few close friends and leave it at that.

As far as the restaurant is concerned, you were a contented customer who just didn’t tip very well. But they don’t get your repeat business. Or any recommendations.

Now of course Customer Relationship Management is much more than just monitoring the levels of complaints and negative feedback. Most people won’t say that they are unhappy – unless they’re REALLY unhappy - but they won’t stay as your customers.

SO HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT THEY’RE THINKING?

Well, to be honest, most customers will tell you how they are feeling if you approach them in the right way.

Think back to the waiter or waitress at that restaurant, let’s say you knew personally or maybe they used to work at your regular coffee shop. Either way, when they asked how you were doing, you might have answered more honestly. And they could have acted to improve your evening.

By having a ‘real’ customer relationship, you are more likely to get an honest appraisal of your product or service. That’s why it’s so important to develop a strong bond between you and your customers.

Now of course different types of businesses will need different approaches to building their relationships.

Some have a very larger number of customers who will need easy communication channels that allow them to access large numbers of customer feedback in an appropriate way, building a

050

customer community creating these touch points. Think Amazon or Apple.

Others are dealing with a less ‘vanilla’ implementation of their product or service and this will necessarily lead to a more customised conversation. Think about hiring someone to install your new kitchen, you want to get to know them a little bit more than the person ringing you up at the hardware store.

The point is that whatever your market and whoever your customer, a business needs a relationship management strategy.

Not something built ‘on the hoof’ that just fits the work pattern or personality of your sales team. Your business needs real, in-depth analysis of who, how, and why you should be communicating to deliver best value for your customer. Because this in turn strengthens the ties between you and your client.

Good customer relationships are built on value, which has a two way benefit.

Your customer wants to feel respected and know that their business is loved by you and all your team. You want to know that your customer is getting the appropriate value from your product or service and in turn will remain loyal and act as an advocate for your business with their peers.

HOW BEST TO DO THIS?

Being totally honest you can use a Rolodex, spreadsheet of your interactions, or a dedicated Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system.

CRM system is going to offer you a wider range of features that have been written specifically for this task, but go with whatever works for your team.

But please please please, do find a way to record the information you will need to track and therefore improve your relationship with your customers.

It’s certainly worth taking a little time to assess your requirements, desired results, and options for meeting both.

From my experience, there are a few things you need to keep in mind: 1 How much data are you going to be collecting?

2 What do you need that data to tell you?

3 Who should have access to what?

4 What about outside the sales team?

There’s also GDPR to consider when you’re collecting personal data.

This is where a more dedicated system can come into their own, with a framework to start in and guidance as you expand.

Most CRM systems will save you much more time than their cost, ROI is generally recognised as at least 8 times the spend and in a lot of cases it’s a lot (lot) higher.

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

They all offer a level of management that will help you track how the relationship is progressing. Obviously a dedicated

May/June 2019

Find your perfect Mercedes-Benz today.

Visit us to take a test drive or call us on 01905 412 554 Mercedes-Benz of Worcester Hindlip Lane, Blackpole, Worcester, WR3 8SB 01905 412 554 Lookers.co.uk/Mercedes-Benz Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the Mercedes-Benz range: urban 14.2(19.9)-62.8(4.5), extra urban 25.9(10.9)-72.4(3.9), combined 19.9(14.2)-68.9(4.1). CO2 emissions 325-108 g/km. The indicated values were determined according to the prescribed measurement method. These are the “NEDC CO2 values� according to Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). For more information on these values and how they have been calculated please see http://www.mercedesbenz.co.uk/WLTP Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions, chosen optional extras and other non-technical factors.

INTERNATIONALTRADE

SMARTER - BETTER These are the words of advice from Tim Hiscock, Export Development & International Trade Advisor at Strong & Herd LLP*.

The outcome and conclusion of EU exit will require changes in international trade processes and systems and the need to create, maintain and grow overseas business relationships.

The ongoing message for businesses after Brexit “is that international trading will be more challenging. We have no influence over this, but how a business reacts will make the difference”.

As advised by Tim, “Exporters need to work smarter, find ways to be better at what they do and actively seek out new opportunities”.

International Trade Services at H&W Chamber has designed a calendar of

Tuesday 21 May 2019

Wednesday 22 May 2019

Export Distribution & Sales Channels – selecting and building the right international route to market

Export Development – Reaching new markets

For Managers and decision makers, choosing the correct international representative is one of the biggest single success factors in developing an overseas market. This course will guide delegates in making the right choice, how to manage and motivate the overseas partner, and create a commercial arrangement that works for both parties to realise the full business potential of the chosen international market.

Launching Soon!

Two practical one day workshops

How to Complete IMPORT Customs Entries How to Complete EXPORT Customs Entries Please contact us to register your interest email internationaltrade@ hwchamber.co.uk Thursday 18 July 2019

Break into new markets profitably by identifying and understanding critical international success factors for your export development.

Achieve success by learning how to gather and evaluate market information to support your international development activities effectively.

training courses, half and full days, to address these opportunities and challenges and to give Herefordshire and Worcestershire businesses a head start. Delivered by Strong & Herd LLP, and other trainers of merit, the revised training schedule includes new and older International Trade courses suitable for the changeable and unpredictable International Trade environment we now find ourselves in.

ARE YOU CONSIDERING EXPANDING INTERNATIONALLY? For those businesses that are not yet importing or exporting but are considering it or have just started, the Chamber’s International Trade team have introduced two new courses:

The Beginners Guide to IMPORT and The Beginners Guide to EXPORT. Thursday 23 May 2019

Pricing for Exports – Avoid the pitfalls and win more business Sales and Marketing professionals need to understand real product and service costs, including those associated with exporting. Learn how to evaluate international marketing conditions and competitors to make effective strategic pricing decisions to ensure international commercial objectives are met and robust financial returns for your exports are delivered .

Both are half day courses, taking place at the Chamber in Worcester, and have been designed for individuals and businesses who have no prior or little knowledge of international trade (import and/or export). They will provide you with the information to support you in your next international trade steps.

If you would like a visit from a member of the International Trade Team to discuss any of the above, please contact Fayeh@hwchamber.co.uk or if you would like more information please email: internationaltrade@ hwchamber.co.uk

*Strong & Herd LLP are well respected consultants and trainers in all areas of International Trade. They work closely with H&W Chamber of Commerce and have alliances with The Institute of Export & International Trade (IOE), The International Chamber Of Commerce (ICC), The British Exporters Association (BEXA), Croner (Wolters Kluwer), HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and others ensures approved content.

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May/June 2019

INTERNATIONALTRADE

Faye Hemming (L) with Maria Harrison (R)

A WINDOW INTO INTERNATIONAL TRADE SERVICES Faye Hemming is the Commercial International Trade Manager here at H&W Chamber. She is committed and passionate about the quality and breath of international trade services delivered by the team. Over a coffee-chat, I asked Faye to explain and elaborate.

Faye: From an International Trade perspective Brexit has put a spotlight on the nature and challenges of the import and export processes which we would normally take for granted. Terms such as customs tariffs, supply chains, letters of credit – for examples, are receiving national media coverage. It could all appear intimidating, but once one begins to learn more, it really isn’t.

Maria: Earlier we mentioned the three new exporting courses, created and delivered

by Tim Hiscock. What would you say to businesses thinking about exporting but haven’t yet got the confidence or knowledge?

Faye: No, DIT is independent of the Chamber but the services offered by the two international teams based at the Chamber complement one another and the two teams work closely together to support companies.

Faye: Well firstly, come and talk to us.

We can explain the international trade training courses and services available here at H&W Chamber and demonstrate how straightforward export and import documentation applications are. I would encourage decision-makers to attend our two new half-day courses (mentioned earlier) which are presented in plain English and easy to understand. If you are too keen to wait unit July, we can deliver a bespoke course for your company, either hosted here at the Chamber or at your business premises.

Maria: The Chamber’s International Trade Services facilitates a translation service.

What differentiates this from others advertised?

Maria: The UK government’s Department for International Trade (DIT) has a team based at H&W Chamber, are you part of the same team?

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Faye: It is a unique translation and interpreter service. A thorough checking process is used, the document is translated, proofed and reverse translated by two separate translators and, if required, certified - this is our difference.

Please call me to explain it fully.

If you would like more information email: internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk or direct to Faye, Fayeh@hwchamber.co.uk

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NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH ALVECHURCH

The Green Dragon Hotel Group Ltd

Lexicon Europe Ltd

Hotel & Conference Venue

The Christmas Decorators

X-Calibre Training & Consultancy Ltd

Design & Installation of Interior & Exterior Festive Lighting & Christmas Decorations www.thechristmasdecorators.co.uk

01527 585428

Security Project Management www.lexiconeurope.com

01432 272506

01432 354195 Training & Consultancy

BRADLEY GREEN Linden Solutions Ltd

01527 358020

IT Services www.lindensolutions.co.uk

BROMSGROVE De Martino Cafe & Catering

07468 916064

KIDDERMINSTER Brightside Training & Consultancy

07903 049741 Training & Consultancy www.brightsidetraining.co.uk

LEDBURY Beckley Interiors Ltd

Hoiti-Toyti

07399 402826

Retailer of Children's Toys www.hoiti-toyti.co.uk

Interior Design www.beckleyinteriors.co.uk

Release Your Potential Ltd

MALVERN

Coaching, Mentoring & Consultancy www.rypotential.co.uk

GEOMEX LIMITED

01527 837990

REDDITCH 21st Century Print Limited

0845 3893860

Printers www.21stcenturyprint.com/index.php

Crop Surveillance Limited

01886 832 810

Professional Training Services, Systems & Solutions www.crops.uk.com

Industrial Response First Aid Training Ltd

07561 427071

FTACC First Aid Trauma & Casualty Care www.industrial-response.co.uk

ROSS ON WYE EOB Distribution Ltd

01989 566949

We Spray Anything Ltd

Structural Engineers www.geomex.co.uk

Spray Painting www.wesprayanything.com

Heartstart Malvern

Wiltshire Farmfoods Worcester

Life Saving Training & Installing Public Access Defibrillators (Voluntary) www.heartstartmalvern.org.uk

Quality Managerment Systems Support www.monowuk.co.uk

Lamex Agrifoods Ltd

01989 548088

01527 877129

07852 965561

Frozen Food Distribution www.wiltshirefarmfoods.co.uk

EVESHAM Butterfly Wings of Freedom Limited

07725 729784

07540 271399

01684 580 330 Global Procurement & Logistical Excellence to Manufacturers www.lamexfoods.eu

Holistic Therapy, Life Coach & Teacher www.butterflywingsoffreedom.simplesite.com

Mary T Marsh FCA

Modest Marketing

07980 663868

Chartered Accountant www.mtmarsh.co.uk

Social Media Marketing & Training www.modestmarketing.co.uk

Payara Services Ltd

07941 674936

02077 540481

HEREFORD

IT & Software Support www.payara.fish

Aequa Consulting Ltd

07432 195752

Management Consultancy

PERSHORE

Hereford 4 X 4 lTD

A V Actuators Limited

01432 351452

Garage (Motor Industry) www.hereford4x4.co.uk

Ian Phillipson - Business Ghost Writer

01432 761480

Business Ghostwriter www.businessghostwriter.co.uk

Longtown Outdoor Learning Centre

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01905 814026

01386 793988

Catering, Food & Drink Café

01527 879966

POWICK

01386 556 847 Actuator Sales www.avactuators.co.uk

Paul Rabbette Ltd

01386 710100 Surveying www.rabbette.co.uk

01873 860225

Stara Foods (UK) Ltd

Outdoor Learning for Groups & Schools (with Accommodation) www.longtownoutdoorlearning.co.uk

Food Trading www.starafoods.com

01386 258032

Manufacture & Distribution of the ACCOR Cosmetic Corrector

Monow Limited

07977 132520

Review Biz

Fully Validated Review Services for Businesses www.reviewbiz.net

STOURPORT The Online Pen Company

01299 826744

Online/Ecommerce Retail www.theonlinepencompany.com

TENBURY WELLS H2O IQ

07984 687562 Manufacturer & Distribution of Water Industry Parts www.h20iq.co.uk

WORCESTER Airband Community Internet Ltd

01905 676121

Internet Service Provider www.airband.co.uk

Avant Healthcare Services

01905 930700

Care Provider www.avanthealth.co.uk

KDY Trans Limited

07400 068210

Couriers www.kdytranslimited.com

May/June 2019

NEWPEOPLETODOBUSINESSWITH Keystones Cocktail Club

Waste Spectrum Incineration System Ltd

Firth Construction Ltd

High Class Cocktail, Venue & Event Deliverer www.keystonescocktailclub.co.uk

Manufacturing Incinerators www.wastespectrum.com

Building www.firthconstruction.co.uk

Macula Media Ltd

YAZOR

Foxtrot International Vetting Ltd

Publishers, Media & Local Newspaper stpetersvoice.co.uk

Lilia Rose Floral Design Ltd

07379 216772

Data for Legal & Recruitment Sectors www.foxtrotvetting.co.uk

Bespoke Floral Designs & Networking venue www.lrfloraldesign.co.uk

Oopsy Daisies Ltd

01905 731437

07719 106676 / 01905 358 342

Mini Couriers

01905 362100

07444 18 38 34 Mini Car Courier Service www.minicouriers.co.uk

Severn Cleaning Ltd

01905 612081

Commercial Kitchen Cleaning www.severnclean.co.uk

Triweld Ltd

01905 700911 Commercial Roofing & Renovation www.triweld.co.uk

07815 020661

03301 136353

01384 572212

OUT OF AREA Body Awareness Therapies

01594 781294

Equine Facilitation & Wellbeing & Coaching www.bodyawarenesstherapies.co.uk

CafĂŠ & Retail Goods www.oopsydaisies.co.uk

Pillow Property

07789 127817 Property Management www.pillowpartners.co.uk

Close Brothers Asset Finance

02038 169136 Finance (Asset)

www.closeasset.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

055

CONFERENCES&EVENTS

Business at Brockencote Hall

Set your conference or meeting a world away from the office in the tranquil surroundings of Brockencote Hall. Set in 70 acres of beautiful parkland, complete with a scenic lake and in the distance, a gentle glimpse of the famed Malvern Hills.

We can provide conferencing facilities and events for up to 22 delegates in our private meeting rooms and venues or you can really impress your clients or colleagues by taking exclusive use of the whole house and estate.

CONFERENCE SUMMER OFFER: Valid on all booking held between 1st April & 8th September 2019 Day delegate rates £45.00 per person 24 hour rates £179.00 per person Please quote: ‘CONFERENCE SUMMER OFFER’ when booking Minimum numbers of 10

Call 01562 777876 and speak with our conference team for further details and to book.

Why Not? Book Private Dining and receive one of the following complimentary - Straberries & cream or a glass of Pimm’s/Beer

BROCKENCOTE HALL HOTEL CHADDESLEY CORBETT WORCESTERSHIRE DY10 4PY CALL 01562 777 876 | EMAIL EVENTS@BROCKENCOTEHALL.COM | ONLINE WWW.BROCKENCOTEHALL.COM

Business Direction H&W (49):Shooting 4 Fun Marksman Leisure 07-04-19 -BHH.indd 1

05/04/2019 13:53

HIT THE MARK!

TEAMBUILDING DAYS & CORPORATE ACTIVITY EVENTS

TOTALLY MOBILE!

Available at our Oaklands Centre in Hanbury, Worcestershire - or we can come to you.

Experience Worcester’s rich porcelain heritage in a beautifully refurbished setting where 250 years of design and innovation are elegantly re-presented.

We provide a special and unique venue for meetings, events and celebrations; professional presentation facilities are available, and bespoke catering and experience packages can be tailored to your requirements.

Museum of Royal Worcester, Severn Street, Worcester WR1 2ND T: 01905 21247 www.museumofroyalworcester.org Open Monday to Saturday 10 am – 5 pm, Sunday 10 am – 4 pm ‘Royal Worcester’ and the C51 crown device are registered by and used under kind permission from Portmeirion Group UK Ltd to whom all rights are reserved.

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For more information call Mark: 01527

575141

mark@marksmanleisure.co.uk

www.shooting4fun.co.uk May/June 2019

CONFERENCES&EVENTS

ELIM CONFERENCE CENTRE – A MEMORABLE EVENT IN A SPECTACULAR SETTING Whether you are looking for a versatile venue to hold your next conference or an idyllic spot to retreat, the Elim Conference Centre provides accommodation and meeting space for the perfect guest experience.

Nestled in the heart of the Malvern Hills it is located a short drive from the M5, providing easy access across the Midlands region.

The Centre offers fully equipped meeting rooms, private informal coffee lounges and even a theatre which can accommodate up to 240 guests. Bedrooms are en-suite, beautifully decorated and many offer

THE

GRANARY

stunning views across the Worcestershire countryside.

Outside there are 30 acres of beautiful grounds to explore, ideal for team building and group exercises. A tennis court and large outdoor heated swimming pool also form part of this beautiful site.

quote please contact our dedicated conference team. e: ecc.enquiries@elimhq.net t: 01684 588967

If you would like to discover more about our competitive rates or request a tailored

Š ˆ � � ˆ � ‡ †‡ � � � ˆ ‡ � � ­ ‰

CONFERENCE & RESTAURANT

We have a range of rooms and facilities available to suit from:

2 to 200 people | 3 Conference Rooms all with natural daylight and air conditioning 18 En-suite Bedrooms | LED Projector Screen and Flipchart included Restaurant & Bar | Garden and Terrace | Plus Large Free Car Park

„ ‚ … � � � � ‚‚‚ �   ­

   � � � �   ­ € ‚ ƒ

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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NEWMEMBERPROFILES

LILIA ROSE FLORAL DESIGN is an exciting new business that not only provides floral design services for weddings and events, but master class workshops full of fun and all-you-can-eat inspiration for networking opportunities with a difference.

We offer an informal and relaxed style of business networking, whilst providing scrumptious refreshments as you form relationships with like-minded individuals that’ll spark creativity and propel your businesses progress.

With a passion for beauty, colour and a creative flare rarely seen - Lilia Rose Floral Design is a jewel tucked away in the Herefordshire countryside.

Nestled just eight-miles North West of Hereford, Lilia Rose Floral Design

Founded by Nicki West, originally from the South Coast of England, Nicki and her team have a professional sense of design which guarantees luxury bouquets that are lush, extraordinary and unique - exceeding expectations every time. www.lrfloraldesign.co.uk

SME FINANCE DIRECTORS Dave Thompson, Managing Director of SME Finance Directors Ltd, has spent over 25 years in Practice and Industry working with a huge variety of commercial businesses across the UK. “My clients were all experiencing similar problems such as poor financial reporting, cashflow challenges and paying too much tax!” Dave said, “I’m driven by helping business owners to overcome their financial pain points and help them move their businesses forward, by introducing strategic business tools which will help them increase profitability, strengthen

cashflow and improve tax efficiency.”

He continues “It’s great when my clients have that ‘lightbulb moment’ and realise that they can now see more clearly as they drive their businesses forward”.

Jim Gillespie, CGR Ltd comments: “Dave has helped us build a business plan incorporating monthly management accounts, daily cashflow forecasting and saved us thousands utilising strategic tax planning methods.”

SME Finance Directors are offering a free business health-check for all Chamber Members – email for more information: dave@smefinancedirectors.co.uk www.smefinancedirectors.co.uk

AVANT HEALTHCARE SERVICES LTD Avant Healthcare Services Ltd was created to provide quality, sustainable care services. Its foundations are based on an enviable combination of experience and knowledge gained from an owner who has sustainable success in the care sector.

Our team in Worcester feel passionately that when crisis strikes, both patient and carer need help and support in equal measure. We have experienced the heartache and challenges that are real in people’s lives and want to bring quality care to others. We make a difference in the lives of others every day by drawing on

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our experience and helping people create a support network which will ensure that they are never alone.

From our own experience within the care industry, we understand that different people have different requirements in their lives. This is where we can help with a service that seeks to fully understand the individual and make a positive difference.

NEVA CONSULTANTS Who are we? Hawkins Fleet Management Ltd was established in 1972 by Bryan Hawkins and passed to his eldest son Guy Hawkins who now runs the business with his wife, Catherine and Wibble. Wibble Hawkins is one of our valued team members striving to provide the purrrfect vehicle solutions to every one of our customers.

What do we do? Today, we trade nationally as Neva Consultants, part of the larger Neva Group, providing high quality contract hire, vehicle finance and fleet management consultancy services, daily hire and short-term leasing.

Discover our latest offers: catherine.hawkins@neva-consultants. com or visit our website www. neva-consultants.com for all your vehicle solutions.

DE MARTINO CAFÉ De Martino Café is a small family business run by mother and son. The Café has been running for one and half years providing the local community in Bromsgrove with quality coffee and a friendly environment where people can come together. They have a variety of products varying from the traditional English breakfast to the international bubble waffles, crêpes and gelato ice-creams.

With the successful work of the business, they are expanding its activities creating De Martino Catering. They have many of the items you are familiar with, such as sandwich platters to new items that you may not have experienced before.

They enjoy an active engagement with regulars and participate in multiple charitable causes ranging from the raising of donations to providing cakes for events. demartinocatering@outlook.com

www.avanthealth.co.uk/worcester

May/June 2019

CHARITYNEWS

CHAMBER’S ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE SUPPORTS HEREFORD CHARITY TO RAISE OVER £400 As with many employers across the two counties, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce commits to a Corporate Social Responsibility policy that supports sound ethical, environmental and community business behaviours. One facet of this policy is the Chamber’s commitment to permitting all employees to one paid day per year to take part in a charitable activity of their choice.

Employees interpret this in different ways – by volunteering time, by organising fundraising events or by offering their skills and services for that cause. In March, Account Executive Sarah Grout hosted

LOCAL CHARITY’S MASQUERADE BALL RAISES OVER £23,000 Worcestershire-based charity, The Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust, is delighted to announce that its Ladybird Masquerade Ball in March raised a fantastic £23,739.

Hosted at the Chateau Impney in Droitwich, the event was held to help raise the funds to allow the charity to continue to support the children and families affected by childhood cancer.

The charity was set up in honour of Grace Kelly, a four-year old girl who passed away after her battle with cancer. Grace’s family wanted to turn their tragedy into something positive to help families going through similar circumstances.

Commenting on the event, Sam Holdaway, planning committee member, said: “I would like to personally thank everyone who helped spread the word, donated prizes, bought raffle tickets, handed out flyers and attended the Ball!

“We could not have done it without the support of the people to help such a fantastic charity.” www.gracekellyladybird.co.uk

a ‘Big Tea Cosy’ event in aid of Chamber Member ‘Hereford Breast Cancer Haven’.

Speaking of the event, Sarah said: “My many thanks to all those, many of whom have become friends through business, who supported the event and who donated so generously. We raised a phenomenal £402.20. I know also, for a fact, that several of the businesses represented that day went away thinking about how they could improve on their own CSR approaches, and I am most grateful to the Chamber for their consideration to our charity community”. www.breastcancerhaven.org.uk/hereford

LOVING LATER LIFE TEAM RAISE FUNDS FOR LOCAL CHARITY Fortis Living’s Loving Later Life team have donated £144.00 to the Hereford office of The Alzheimers Society, following a series of successful events.

The team – which is made up of Alison Knowles, Community Engagement Assistant and Fiona Petts, Social Activities Assistant from Fortis Living – organised a singing group called Sounds Familiar to attend a number of parties in Droitwich, Worcester, Ledbury and Malvern.

Sounds Familiar was set up by a group of friends in Ledbury who like to sing. Currently there are 15 members; they sing at local nursing homes and care homes, encouraging their audiences to join in.

Emma Butler, Community Fundraiser at The Alzheimers Society, said: “We are so grateful to Fortis Living and Sounds Familiar for the funds raised for our care. With help and support like this we are able to confront this health and social care challenge, for which there is no known cure.”

To find out about The Loving Later Life over 55s activities and trips please visit www.fortisliving/55.

ABRAXAS RAISES £866.69 WITH GREEN INITIATIVE FOR MIDLANDS AIR AMBULANCE CHARITY Back in 2018, Abraxas Catering Equipment Ltd pledged to donate all money obtained through its scrap metal and redundant equipment recycling scheme to the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity who was the company’s chosen charity for the year.

In line with its corporate responsibility and as part of obligations under the WEE directive, waste transfer registration and to ensure compliant recycling, scrap is taken to a registered recycling centre local to the company’s headquarters in Kidderminster.

Abraxas is delighted to announce that the green #ScrapforCash initiative has raised £866.69 for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, and along with the charity abseil, world cup sweep stake and #NationalHotChocolateDay donations, the company has raised £1,518.19 in the last 12 months.

Mike Nixon, Sales Manager at Abraxas, said: “Supporting the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity in 2018 has been great fun and such a worthwhile thing to do, we have chosen to continue supporting them as our 2019 charity of the year with some great fundraising ideas planned.” www.abraxascatering.co.uk

www.fortisliving.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BUSINESSNEWS

WHY BUSINESS DISPUTES CAN PROVE COSTLY AND TIME CONSUMING Sometimes it is inevitable in business that disputes arise. We would all prefer to resolve them quickly, preserve relations and avoid costly litigation fees. But sometimes that just doesn’t work.

At mfg Solicitors we understand that trying to resolve disputes can be stressful and a waste of valuable resource – especially when time could be better spent on running your business.

MBA 2019 – CONTRIBUTION TO MIDLANDS BUSINESS AWARD Mike Ashton, ex-Chief Executive at Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and General Manager for Rutherford Diagnostics & Rutherford Innovations, was recently presented with a winning award at the Midland Business Awards 2019.

Mike was awarded the ‘Contribution to Midlands Business’ accolade, after a lengthy career dedicated to supporting businesses in the region.

Speaking of the award, Mike commented: “I’m really happy to have received this recognition after 10 years of working with businesses in

Worcestershire, Herefordshire and the West Midlands.

“It has been a pleasure to support Harj (Harjinder Sandher, Managing Director at Midlands Business Awards) in helping to establish these impressive awards.

“It was also fantastic to share the celebration with Mick Hurst, from Areca Design, as we have worked together for a long time.

“It’s great to see businesses in the West Midlands still performing on the big stage – and I look forward to seeing them continue to grow and flourish.” www.midlandsbusinessawards.com

EMS ANNOUNCE NEW WORCESTER OFFICE Environmental Management Solutions is excited to announce the opening of a new office in Worcester City Centre.

EMS was originally formed in 2003 as a broad-spectrum environmental consultancy. Specialising in Asbestos Surveys and Asbestos Management, EMS has broadened capabilities to include Geotechnical Services and most recently Legionella Management Services.

Jamie Perkins-Best, Owner and Director of EMS, describes the expansion of EMS’s capabilities in Worcester as an exciting development. Jamie is originally from Worcester and has always had aspirations to further the company’s scope within his home city.

Jamie added: “Having a Worcester office will help us support the client

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Our dedicated Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution team help to take this type of stress away for hundreds of business owners by offering practical commercial solutions which resolve disputes quickly, including negotiation and mediation.

So you know where you stand, we will give you an initial cap on fees to allow you to budget for such matters. That allows us to review the papers, any contracts, and provide initial advice before drafting the necessary correspondence. The matter can then be categorised and a costs estimate provided so that you can always budget.

If and when court action becomes inevitable we will proactively litigate on your behalf.

It is a little known fact that the small claims limit is now £10,000 and there is a no costs rule in the small claims court which means that even if you are successful, you would not be able to recover your legal costs from the other party.

At mfg Solicitors we try to ensure that our fees remain as cost effective as possible.

We provide a fixed fee for dealing with small claims, right up to the stage where a barrister is brought in to attend a final hearing. Everything is up front and nothing is hidden.

If you would like to speak to us regards any issues you may have within your business, please contact Rebecca Rogers on 01562 516059 or email rebecca.rogers@ mfgsolicitors.com. www.mfgsolicitors.com

base we already have in Worcester and the West Midlands and hopefully it will also help us attract some new clients!”

EMS’s new office base is in County House, St Mary’s Street, close to the City Centre. The team are looking forward to welcoming further clients throughout Worcestershire and surrounding areas. www.ems-asbestos.co.uk

May/June 2019

MEMBERSSERVICES

GROWTH FORUM In association with EBC Group The Growth Forum is aimed at owners, directors and senior managers at high growth businesses.

Established to provide a platform to share best practice and practical advice on a range of topics including; innovation, export, skills and access to funding and help overcome barriers to growth.

The forum includes presentations from a range of inspiring experts who will share their knowledge and guidance for implementing growth strategies helping companies develop their competitive edge.

The forum covers a range of topics identified by businesses to be critical to their current and future success and covers a range of business functions including Finance, Sales, Marketing and IT.

DRIVING GROWTH FOR SMES Designed for SMEs with potential and aspirations to grow

Support with overcoming barriers to growth

Practical advice on innovation, export, skills and access to funding

Inspiring experts sharing knowledge and best practice

Practical guidance for implementing growth strategies

Helping companies develop their competitive edge

Our speakers are selected from a wide variety of businesses in the two counties and beyond. Our upcoming events include:

TECHNOLOGY GROWTH FORUM

FINANCIAL GROWTH FORUM

Thursday 16 May 8.30-11.00am

Thursday 7 November 8.30-11.00am Location and speakers to be revealed soon

EBC Suite, Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road, Worcester WR2 4QQ Delegates will hear from speakers from Dell and Xerox. In collaboration with EBC Group, WCCC are offering a free to attend day of cricket which starts at 11.00am. Places still available!

"THEIR MAXIMISE YOUR MEMBERSHIP EVENTS ARE A GREAT INTRODUCTION TO NETWORKING" “When I first started my company back in 2012, it was just me and a laptop, so having the support of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce was a big factor in getting the business off the ground. Their ‘Maximise Your Membership’ events are a great introduction to networking, and for a web designer there is the direct benefit of being introduced to lots of people who are just starting a business and are in need of a new website! Being a Member is a great way to demonstrate that we were serious about our commitment to business success, particularly in the early days.

The Chamber team have always been helpful and proactive, and are very approachable with new ideas. I get regular calls from Sam (Holdaway), even if it’s just to say “Hi” and check that everything’s well with our membership. For any business person wanting to establish or grow a company in the local area, I strongly recommend joining the H&W Chamber of Commerce.” Ray Gillespie, Director at Worcester Web Studio www.worcesterwebstudio.com

Email HayleyG@hwchamber.co.uk to secure your place now.

Ray Gillespie with Lucy Allen, Chamber, and Ruby Edwards, You Do Better

INNOVATIVE TECH ACCELERATOR BETDADEN SHORTLISTING FOR COHORT 2.0 BetaDen is now shortlisting for Cohort 2.0, a unique programme dedicated to entrepreneurs and technology businesses in developing new concepts and product solutions co-located with the region’s 5G Testbed project team.

ten-week recruitment campaign from Monday 4 March, offering up to ten places to techpreneurs, SMEs or scale-ups, for intensive support to help design and build their idea and prepare it for market launch or be positioned for investment.

This is the second cohort to be launched

by BetaDen – with Cohort 1.0 going live as a nine-month programme in October last year. Cohort 2.0 launched with a

The unique package Cohort 2.0 members were offered included their own office space at the BetaDen Hub at Malvern Hills Science Park as part of the three-day

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

per week programme, and access to a comprehensive range of support including industry-leading technologists, events and workshops and marketing funding.

Shortlisting for businesses is now taking place, with the final cohort to be announced soon. To find out more information, please contact the team on 01905 672700. www.Beta-Den.com

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LASTWORD

SKYLON PARK ENTERS MOST EXCITING CHAPTER YET

How the renovated Shell Store will look

city a magnet for high-tech defence and security sector firms from this country and overseas.

Hereford Enterprise Zone is entering the most exciting chapter in its history as two ambitious projects get under way, its chairman says.

Andrew Manning Cox says Skylon Park is moving into a hugely significant period as work begins on the redevelopment of the historic Shell Store, closely followed by the £9m Centre for Cyber Security.

The £7.3million redevelopment of the Shell Store will transform the building into a flagship business incubation and innovation centre.

“It will bring a new set of specialist facilities and services to catalyse, accelerate and reinforce the importance of cyber security to the area. And it will also provide the opportunity to showcase the region on a national and international stage to attract further inward investment and partnership activity.

Work is now under way to transform the Shell Store

transformation of the Shell Store to bring it back into life will provide exactly that.”

Mr Manning Cox said the scheme would generate more than 460 jobs over the next

Meanwhile, work will start imminently on the Centre for Cyber Security – a joint venture between Herefordshire Council and the University of Wolverhampton – which will create 190 high-value jobs when it opens.

12 years and play a vital part in the long-term economic prosperity of the area.

Mr Manning Cox said: “There is no doubt the new centre will firmly cement Skylon

“There is a proven demand for high-quality start-up and grow-on space and the

Park’s reputation as a leading centre of excellence in this field and make the

“Together, these two schemes are the biggest investments yet in Skylon Park and are the result of hard work, collaboration and vision from all the partners concerned.

They mark the start of a hugely exciting period for the Zone as we continue to build our reputation for innovation and success.”

Construction work is also under way on Centenary Park – a range of high quality offices and industrial units for sale or rent – with a number of other land sales also close to reaching fruition, he added.

The next edition of Business Direction will focus on employment and skills, putting a spotlight on the national skills shortage and exploring how businesses are tackling the issue head on – and how companies are keeping their employees.

The deadline for this issue will be Wednesday 29 May. Please ensure to upload any editorial to Business Direction online at www.hwchamber.co.uk/business-direction-online or alternatively by emailing BusinessDirection@hwchamber.co.uk.

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May/June 2019

L AST YEAR WE REVIEWED OVER 500 CONTRACTS WORTH IN TOTAL MORE THAN £250M TO OUR CLIENTS People come to us to ensure their contracts both protect them and support their business growth.

Robert Capper, Partner, Head of Commercial Team and Sectors

Talk to us: 01905 612 001 Website: www.hcrlaw.com Harrison Clark Rickerbys Ltd is authorised and regulated by the SRA

GROW YOUR BUSINESS Employ an apprentice Attract new talent and skills

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Contact our work based learning team to discuss your needs:

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