Business Edge 28

Inside | 04 welcome | 05 business matters| 12 the expert | 22 cover feature | 26 chamber benefits | 38 new members

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

the magazine for sussex chamber of commerce members

Bridging the Gap Between Education and Work Page 22

Sussex Chamber of Commerce

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contents 3

Sussex Chamber of Commerce

this month

Sussex Chamber of Commerce currently represents over 1,000 member businesses.

Membership of Sussex Chamber of Commerce offers access to invaluable business advice, money saving benefits, networking opportunities and provides a voice for businesses at a local, regional and national level. Business Edge is delivered free of charge to all Sussex Chamber of Commerce members as well as key business decision makers across the county.

It has a circulation of 4,000 copies per issue.

regulars

07 Mind the Gap: STEM skills’ shortage

7

Bronagh Liddicoat CEng MICE, Tomorrow’s Engineers Employer Support Manager (South East).

22 Bridging the Gap

Between Education and Work with the Sussex Chamber of Commerce

The Sussex Chamber of Commerce has launched a new membership scheme aimed schools, colleges and universities, under the name of Young Chamber.

Business Edge is a Sussex Chamber of Commerce publication.

If you have any stories you would like to tell us about or any comments please drop us an email at enquiries@ sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk

SUSSEX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

33 Could your business support a vital Sussex charity?

Unit 4, Victoria Business Centre, 43 Victoria Road, Burgess Hill RH15 9LR

PRODUCTION & DESIGN

Guild Care have been caring in our community for more than 80 years.

22

Distinctive Publishing Unit 6b, Floor B, Millburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2384 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

Inside | 04 welcome | 05 business matters| 12 the expert | 22 cover feature | 26 chamber benefits | 38 new members

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

ADVERTISING John Neilson, Business Development Manager, Distinctive Publishing Unit 6b, Floor B, Millburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2343 Email: john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk

the magazine for sussex chamber of commerce members

Bridging the Gap Between Education and Work

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4 welcome

Looking to the future Over the next few months, children across the country will be choosing their options in schools in terms of what they will study for their GCSE’s.

Ana Christie CEO at Sussex Chamber of Commerce

Many students do not know what they wish to study or what they wish to do later on in life. But do they know what careers are available or what skills they need or what they need to study? Some will find this extremely challenging. So how can we help?

Sussex Chamber is proud to have just launched Young Chamber. This will bring together young people with local businesses, to provide real meaningful understanding about business, jobs, careers and the exciting range of potential opportunities that exist for all young people, of all abilities, once they leave education. It helps to develop a young person’s understanding of the range of employability skills that employers look for in their future employees. Please see our feature in this magazine for further details.

The Chamber is also appealing to members to get involved in 4 “Your Future Careers Fairs” planned between January and March.

Your Future Careers Fairs is a Government-funded national project to deliver 250 events through accredited Chambers of Commerce, attracting over

november/december 2015 business edge

70,000 young people across England. The aim is to deliver Careers Fairs that inspire, enthuse and motivate young people to consider employment options available to them, to think about their future career progression and make the most of their remaining time in education.

Businesses will be able to provide careers information, have tables with “have a go” activities, “get involved workshops” and information on apprenticeships. Sussex Chamber is proud to working in association with the University of Brighton, STEM Sussex, Tomorrow’s Engineers and Big Bang (Hastings, Brighton and Burgess Hill) on these events. If you would like to sponsor any of the events or get involved please contact me.

I look forward to working with business members to improve communication, team work, resilience, as well as provide better careers advice and engagement in schools.

Kind regards Ana Christie, Chief Executive, Sussex Chamber of Commerce www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk

business matters 5

Varilight Receives The Queen’s Award For Enterprise Horsham-based electrical wiring accessory and dimmer switch manufacturer Doyle & Tratt Products Ltd, better known by its brand name VARILIGHT, has been named winner of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, the UK’s highest accolade for business success, for the second time.

The Queen’s Award was awarded to VARILIGHT in the category of Continuous Innovation in recognition of its success in bringing innovation to the wiring accessory market and, in particular, for its technological development in designing dimmer switches for LED lighting.

Chairman, Tony Doyle, and lead technician, Tim Harris had the honour of attending a special reception at Buckingham Palace at the invitation of Her Majesty the Queen. The official presentation of the award itself will be made by the Lord Lieutenant at Doyle & Tratt’s head office in Faygate during December.

VARILIGHT’s LED dimmer technology has brought significant growth to its business over the past two years, a trend that looks set to continue with the rapidly growing uptake in LED lighting from lighting designers, and increasingly householders.

As the UK’s leading manufacturer of dimmer switches, Varilight were the first to react to the requirement for a dimmer switch to control LED lighting. The company undertook a complete redesign of the traditional dimmer switch to create its V-Pro series, which is equipped with features to optimise the dimming performance of LED lighting. For example, an adjustable minimum brightness setting enables the

user to define the best dimming range for any given LED lighting load, eliminating flicker and exploiting the full dimming capability of individual LED light bulbs.

VARILIGHT’s new V-Com series builds on the company’s success by addressing the increasing need to control larger LED lighting loads.

This accolade is the latest in a string of awards for VARILIGHT who, as pioneers in lighting and dimming technologies, have been lighting up the electrical industry for over forty years. During this time, there has been a constant need to re-evaluate the dimmer switch as new lighting technology has emerged; especially the recent generations of energy-saving light sources which have come to dominate the market.

Varilight has led the way in lighting control with a series of technical innovations.

Doyle & Tratt’s VARILIGHT brand is synonymous with quality, choice, value and innovation not only in technology but also in leading the market in on-trend decorative finishes across a comprehensive range of wiring accessories.

“We are delighted to have been recognised for this most prestigious of awards,” says company chairman, Tony Doyle. “The V-Pro LED dimmer has become our flagship product and raised the profile of the VARILIGHT brand, bringing with it increased interest in our entire range of decorative dimmers, switches and sockets.

With a new European range and other export initiatives, we are well-positioned to build on our success in the UK as we introduce our world class LED dimmer switches to international markets.”

november/december 2015 business edge

6 advertorial

Earning a Master’s 12,000 miles away via distance learning A New Zealander who has gone to great lengths to learn has earned a Master’s in leadership from the University of Portsmouth.

Delwyn Neill, 42, studied for her MSc Leadership and Management from home in Wellington, 12,000 miles away from Portsmouth via distance learning.

She attended her graduation accompanied by her husband, sons and parents and said she hopes seeing a graduation ceremony might inspire her sons to one day study as hard as their mother.

She said: “One of my primary motivations for completing this degree was to show my two boys the importance of studying hard. I hope that they will always remember coming to England to see Mummy graduating and maybe even be inspired to study for a degree themselves one day. They are only seven and four years old so I’m trying not to plan their futures too much just yet!

“My parents are two of my greatest supporters and they travelled over to the UK for this graduation too.”

Delwyn is a psychologist at the Institute for Leader Development, a team focused on leader development in New Zealand’s air force, army and navy, and was inspired to study at the University of Portsmouth because of its strong links with military leadership training.

The University has the contract to train Britain’s RAF personnel in leadership.

She said: “Conducting the research for my degree via correspondence meant I had to be very self-sufficient although my tutor was always only an email away and was very helpful.

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He was the one who first made contact with the University of Portsmouth when he went on a benchmarking trip to the UK to compare what we were doing with leader development to the UK military.”

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As the only psychologist on the leadership team within New Zealand’s military, she is responsible for developing and leading selfawareness training and for ensuring that what is taught is based on sound research.

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business matters 7

Mind the Gap: STEM skills’ shortage Bronagh Liddicoat CEng MICE, Tomorrow’s Engineers Employer Support Manager (South East).

As a nation, Britain is still great at engineering and the industry makes a significant contribution to the economy.

At £1.17 trillion, engineering accounts for a quarter (24.9%) of overall UK turnover and continues to grow (latest figures put annual growth at 6.7%). In fact, turnover is 9% higher than at the start of the recession.

However, in the tradition of the ‘good news, bad news’ jokes, this strong showing doesn’t mean we can be complacent about the future of engineering. Even with 5.4m people employed in the industry, we still need more engineers. The projection is that employers will need 1.82 million more people with engineering skills by 2022, with almost 292,000 of them needed in the South East.

At the current rate of supply, we’re facing a nationwide shortfall of 55,000 each year.

Research by the Centre for Economics and Business Research shows that in 2014, the engineering sector contributed an estimated £455.6 billion (27.1%) of the total UK GDP. It also shows that filling the demand for new engineering jobs will generate an additional £27 billion per year from 2022 to the UK economy. To give you an idea of what such a large figure means, that’s equivalent to building 1,800 schools or 110 hospitals. It is clear that there is much to gain, but there is also much to do.

The number of students in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) is increasing but too slowly. If we are to meet the needs of the industry, we need to double the number of engineering apprentices and graduates entering the industry. We’ll also need to see a doubling of the number of young people studying GCSE physics as part of triple science, and a growth in the number of students studying physics A level (or equivalent) to equal that of maths. This must be particularly focused on increasing the take-up and progression by girls, particularly post GCSE. More needs to be done to inform and inspire young people and their parents about the high value placed on STEM skills and the huge range of STEM careers available.

How do you get the message through that continuing with science and maths means you keep your options open? How do you inspire, inform and advise young people?

We are all inspired by different things at different times and often it’s hard to put our finger on what it was that made the spark ignite. However we do know that when young people can see the real life application of the subjects they study at school and when they hear from real people talking about what they do in real jobs, they get excited about what the future might hold for them.

That’s why I believe in programmes like Tomorrow’s Engineers which coordinates and delivers targeted employer outreach in schools with events like the Big Bang Near Me programme, which offers a series of events that bring STEM subjects to life in exciting and unexpected ways.

Companies of all sizes across the UK spend time in schools promoting engineering to young people. Tomorrow’s Engineers seeks to coordinate this outreach activity to boost overall coverage and impact, and to engage and inspire more teenagers to continue with science and maths and consider an engineering career. Research shows this coordinated approach triples the impact of such outreach and with £27 billion at stake we need to do everything we can to ensure the talent pipeline.

It’s this coordinated local activity that has national impact and the programme, which the South East has been a part of since its pilot stage, has ambitions to reach 1 million young people annually within five years.

Atkins was the first company in the region to join the drive to boost engineering skills and since then many others, from Gatwick Airport and Ricardo to Doosan Babcock and Photek, have also committed to work together to inspire the next generation.

In working together to widen the talent pool by bringing people into the industry from all backgrounds and via all routes we will create a more level playing field when it comes to recruitment and give employers

the chance to bring in the brightest and best talent.

I am proud to say that, through STEM Sussex at the University of Brighton, we have managed the delivery of the Big Bang Fair South East for four years now. This is now a major event in the local calendar and this year nearly 7500 young people and their teachers spent the day being inspired by the wonderful range of hands-on activities, workshops and shows on offer, and taking part in the National Science and Engineering Competition. Employers across the region set the STEM curricula in context at further ‘little’ Big Bang events hosted by schools, colleges and other organisations.

At its heart, the Big Bang events open students’ eyes to careers and futures and highlighting the exciting possibilities that exist for young people with STEM. It’s about the contribution they, with the right motivation, can make to the UK economy and to society in general. From meeting inspiring engineers and scientists from SE employers, and through receiving dedicated careers advice, young people leave the event with a fresh, new perspective on where their school subjects can lead them and a more positive view of careers in STEM. The Big Bang Fair South East is one of a series of regional events linked to the award-winning national Fair, which takes place in March each year.

But the Big Bang is not just about a great day out (though, certainly there is lots of fun to be had). It’s an opportunity to showcase where STEM can lead you and while we want all visitors to enjoy themselves, we want the experience to educate and inform. Visitors to the Big Bang South East are 63% more likely to know what engineers do compared to the general population, which shows the power of such interventions.

One message that comes through strongly at Big Bang events is that STEM is for everyone, whatever their background or gender and so it’s pleasing to see that the girls attending the event at the South of England Showground this year were 73% more likely to believe a career in engineering is desirable.

There is the good news again. As more employers, both in the South East and across the UK, join the Tomorrow’s Engineers programme, we will improve the reach, diversity and impact of schools outreach.

Through these activities and events like the Big Bang we will show more young people and their teachers, the range of careers, the different routes into them and the skills they need to have a successful STEM career. There is still a way to go, but there’s no doubt that the rewards will be great. november/december 2015 business edge

8 business matters

David Sheppard

Guevara to help Sussex women find their voice Digital startup to sponsor charity’s new choir RISE up singing Digital startup Guevara today announces its support for Sussex based charity RISE. The company, which pledges a new ‘social’ approach to insurance, will sponsor the charity’s new choir, RISE up singing.

RISE offers practical help to people affected by domestic abuse in the form of advice, refuge space and education. Each year the charity helps over 1,800 women in Sussex and their families to recover and rebuild their lives.

The new choir will be drawn from RISE’s network of service users, staff, volunteers and the charity’s loyal supporters.

The sponsorship is part of Guevara’s ongoing commitment to supporting tight-knit community groups in Brighton.

Guevara co-founder Rich Philip said: “RISE does such brilliant work in the local community, working tirelessly to provide refuge space for those most in need.

“Collaboration is what we’re all about, our entire business model is based on communities working together to share both risk and reward. So we jumped at the chance to help a charity that does such amazing work in Brighton.” added Rich.

RISE up singing musical director, Kirsty Martin, said: “Singing raises endorphins, builds and bonds community, is good for physical, mental and emotional health. It’s brilliant to receive this support from Guevara, their sponsorship will really help get RISE up signing off the ground.”

For more information on fundraising for RISE, or to make a donation to the charity, please visit the website www.riseuk. org.uk. For more information about Guevara’s new disruptive insurance model - which launched in Brighton this summer visit the Guevara website www.heyguevara.com

november/december 2015 business edge

Chairman of Sussex Chamber of Commerce

Skills and Capability This is a popular time of year for business awards on a local, regional and national level.

Whilst some people are sceptical about the frequency and value of such awards I have no such concerns seeing them as a great opportunity to motivate employees, impress clients and suppliers and make a firm statement of intent to the outside world. This year the Sussex Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the Small Business section of the Sussex Business Awards and it has been my privilege to judge the category and somehow come up with a winner. This is not such an easy task when there are 30 fantastic entrants from many business sectors and all parts of Sussex representing the most dynamic, focussed and professional companies one could imagine.

The winner will be announced at a gala dinner at the Grand Hotel in Brighton on the 3rd December but bearing in mind that the theme running through this Business Edge is around skills and capability, I wanted to comment on a common theme which came up with many of the award entrants that I personally visited. It became clear to me that one of the major hinderances to their growth potential was being able to find the right people with the right skills who are able to be flexible and fit in to the way each of these companies operate. The main business issue is no longer about finance and funding but more about the preparedness (of particularly our young people) to seamlessly enter the world of work with the necessary skills and aptitude where the burden of “work conditioning” does not fall immediately on the head of the employer.

This is a topic which is being pursued by us through the British Chamber of Commerce directly into Government and has resulted in the demand for work placements for school leavers, the bringing of schools and businesses together through the Young Chamber initiative and the setting up of 4 Your Future Career Fairs throughout Sussex from January to March next year as part of a nationwide skills funding programme to inform students about the careers available to them. We are intent on making sure that these actions form an integrated approach to skills development alongside those initiatives being put forward by our local authorities in order that we can ensure companies from small to large, have the access to the skills and capability they need to maximise their potential.

David Sheppard Chairman, Sussex Chamber of Commerce

business matters 9

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www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk | Tel: 0844 www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk 375 95 50 | @SussexChamber | Tel: 0844 375 95 50 | @SussexChamber Unit 4 Victoria Business Centre, 43 Victoria Road, Unit Burgess 4 Victoria Hill, West Business Sussex, Centre, RH15 43 9LR Victoria Road, Burgess Hill, West Sussex, RH15 9LR

Noise pollution

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focus on

A satisfied customer is the best business strategy It’s great to take a step back and assess where your business is succeeding but what’s more important is to recognise where it maybe failing. Ever feel like your marketing is working and the customers are constantly coming through the doors but you aren’t really gaining any new buyers?

Perhaps you’re pulling in the buyers but have yet to see any return customers or recommendations? It’s probably time to evaluate the communication going on in your business.

Michael Lebouef asserted that “A satisfied customer is the best business strategy” and he certainly wasn’t wrong. You can have the best brand and the best product in the world but a lacking service will be sure to see your business slowly perish. It’s time to ensure your customers are getting the best experience possible when they come to you. No need to lay out a plate of chocolate or a red carpet, all that’s necessary is that key element - great communication throughout.

Competition - If your competition provides a better experience with a similar product then there is no question that your competitor will see the customer again and you won’t.

Response time - Whether you’re an online company, an office based

november/december 2015 business edge

business or a local corner shop, if your customer is looking for some information, a speedy, friendly response is crucial.

Building a rapport - Make an effort to create a rapport between you and your customer - be interested and listen in what they have to say and make the experience enjoyable. Take the initiative to ask questions and make an effort to remember what they’ve said. Next time they visit you can pick up where you left off and the customer will become loyal – people buy from people.

Tone - Not everyone has a naturally energetic, engaging or captivating. Make sure your customer can understand you. I’m talking diction and vocabulary.

Mumbling and slurring is an absolute no-go, be clear and project your words. This is especially important if you’re in a business which involves a lot of over the phone contact - without body language you must make your voice as approachable as possible.

Don’t alienate your customers - This comes under vocabulary. You may be the most knowledgeable, charismatic car dealer in the country but if you start rambling on about the engines alternator to the eighteen year old looking to buy her first Ford KA, then you’re preaching to the wrong audience. Keep things simple and stick with the ‘listen and respond technique’ rather than an information overload.

Every customer should feel like the number one priority - We all like to feel special sometimes, don’t we? Well that really does go for most people. If a customer is paying for a service or is at least interested in doing so then the least we can do is make them feel super important and listened to. Offer them help, be prepared to go the extra mile, be happy to be serving them – even if you are having a bad day. Customers will respond and are more likely to return.

By Lorraine Nugent at Media Word Waves

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Disregarding low probability events - it is crucial to think not just about the likelihood of an event occurring, but also its potential impact Oversimplifying the issue - may lead to decision makers missing important information or failing to consider all the potential consequences A focus on the ‘what’ rather than the ‘how’ - setting goals (SMART) can have unintended consequences when shortcuts to achieve the goal can result in potentially serious issues The thin end of the wedge - people are less likely to notice unethical behaviour if it develops over time, where misconduct is not actioned, and it becomes part of the culture Overvaluing outcome - an unethical decision is more likely to be ignored if it results in a good outcome, but does this fit with organisational values The power of language - Clarity is important in making decisions, using euphemisms or softened characterisations can lead to a misinterpretation of the issue For tips on how to avoid these pitfalls download the full paper from www.roffeypark.com Roffey Park offers a range of leadership and management development programmes, full details are available on the website, or call us to discuss your individual needs on 01293 854059.

november/december 2015 business edge

11

12 the expert

Manufacturing in Sussex: The Hidden Heartbeat of the County In a proud county thriving thanks to entrepreneurial excellence and brave innovation, those people working in the manufacturing sector can hold their heads up high as a driving force behind the drive to grow our regional economic prosperity.

As things stand, the UK is the 11th largest manufacturing nation in the world.

Manufacturing makes up 11% of UK GVA and 54% of UK exports and directly employs 2.6 million people.

The UK ranks second globally in aerospace manufacturing and the UKbased car industry had its best year in new car sales in many years.

In fact, manufacturing contributes £6.7tr to the global economy. UK manufacturing is strong and growing in strength.

Sussex, whilst not considered a natural hot bed of manufacturing, is at the forefront of aviation, medical device

manufacturing but also new sectors including innovations to develop new clean ways of developing electricity from rubbish.

Then there’s food tech; defence sectors as well as those in high end professional audio. The list goes on.

Innovation and Optimism in Sussex This year’s Fourth annual MHA Manufacturing and Engineering Survey revealed a county manufacturing sector typified by optimism and innovation.

54% predicted growth in excess of 10% for 2015 with a level of confidence above the national norm. In terms of innovation,

ACCORDING TO THE WTO, 80% OF WORLD TRADE AMONG REGIONS IS MERCHANDISE TRADE — THAT IS, ONLY 20% OF WORLD TRADE IS IN SERVICES. november/december 2015 business edge

the expert 13

around 80% of businesses in the region undertake some R&D, with 26% of them investing between 1%-2% of turnover and 22% investing 3%-4%.

Our world has changed, but the crucial role of manufacturing has not.

We’ve all heard the predictions that our post industrial age will see the global economy dominated by services. But rumours of the manufacturing sector’s demise are greatly exaggerated.

Even though about two-thirds of most economies are composed of service industries, these service industries are dependent on manufactured goods for their operation and for their own technological progress.

Why is a strong manufacturing sector is so important? A country can’t trade services for most of its goods. According to the WTO, 80% of world trade among regions is merchandise trade — that is, only 20% of world trade is in services.

And a pure post industrial economy, trading service and not goods, would risk leaving our currency worth very little.

The Hidden Value of Manufacturing Most people fail to recognise the services provided to manufacturers which would have once been considered part of manufacturing, such as catering, cleaning, building services, security etc, are now allocated into different areas of the economy.

However, those contributions are directly reliant on manufacturing for continued business and should actually be considered as a part of manufacturing’s GDP input.

At Elekta, based in Crawley, the large supply chain impacts directly on the regional economy and brings local suppliers together with those in other countries to build market-leading cancer treatment systems.

Like other manufacturers, its supply chain secures jobs in many roles that are skilled, including engineer, scientists making a strong contribution to the region.

And beyond direct supply, “The multiplier effect.” reveals that the wages from manufacturing employees are respent in other parts of the economy, with some suggesting that manufacturing adds so much value to the economy with one manufacturing job supporting up to three jobs in other parts of the economy.

Brett North, Elekta Limited

The UK productivity puzzle Recent statistics prove that France could take Fridays off and still be more productive than the UK. Although the UK economy is one of the fastest growing in Europe recent statistics on the world productivity league show that in the UK we produce on average 30% less per hour than workers in Germany, the US and France, we even produce 10% less than the average Italian. By Thursday lunchtime the other countries have produced as much as it takes us to produce by Friday afternoon when we knock off work. This is the UK productivity puzzle, relatively strong growth with relatively low productivity. Up until the world economic crisis the efficiency of the UK workers tended to increase around 2-2.5% a year. Had that continued at that trend productivity would have been 15% higher than it was before the recession. As it happens productivity is slightly less than it was in 2007.

It would appear, however, that you do not have to dig too deep to unravel this puzzle. Improvements in productivity generally follow from greater investment in capital, training, processes and technology. Our level of investment in the UK has plummeted as we have tried to help reduce investment by using lower cost labour. As one Politician put it “We’ve seen the rise of a low-wage, low-skilled economy and insecure work as productivity has stagnated”. Over the past 10 years manufacturing labour costs

have increased by only 16% in the UK in contrast to 52% in France and 54% in Italy. The proportion of UK GDP devoted to Gross Investment last year was 14%.

This is one of the lowest ratios in the entire world out of a survey representing 154 countries. The UK was ranked at 142 – equal with El Salvador. By comparison the world average is just under 24%. In China the ratio is just over 46%.

At Time 24 we are a Contract Manufacturer having provided the Wiring and Electronics on over 8000 Rail Carriages and provided manufacturing for Aircraft Simulators, Radiotherapy Machines, Military Equipment, Oil Platform Control Equipment and Air Traffic Control Equipment. We are constantly looking at ways to improve our productivity either by investing in more Automation or by working at Lean Manufacturing principles to improve our efficiency. There is no puzzle about why productivity is static in the UK. It is simply because we are not investing in the Plant and Equipment which can deliver it.

A Control Cabinet manufactured by Time 24 that will be used within the Bloodhound Automotive project. A car designed to travel at 1000mph and beat the world land speed record.

David Shore is MD of Time 24 and Chairman of the Sussex Chamber of Commerce Sussex Manufacturing Forum.

november/december 2015 business edge

14 advertorial

Ballard Chalmers celebrates 10 years This December, East Grinstead based Microsoft enterprise software development company Ballard Chalmers is celebrating its landmark 10 year anniversary. 2005 was a notable year: the Live 8 concerts took place, YouTube was founded, Hurricane Katrina and the 7/7 London bombings; all this was just a decade ago.

Prior to 2005, company founders Geoff Ballard and Andrew Chalmers had both been managing their own successful IT consultancies in enterprise software development and had noteworthy achievements in their own right. Having worked together on several projects, they recognised that the sum of the parts was potentially greater than the whole and Ballard Chalmers was born on 5th December 2005.

Of the partnership Managing Director Andrew Chalmers said, “One of the drivers has been complementary experience of Geoff and myself. With more than 25 years in IT consultancy Geoff is the technical expert, while my background is in business management.”

He continued, “This has certainly proven a successful formula. Though the period 2005-15 included the financial crisis and the ‘great recession’ for fully half of the time we’ve been in business, we’ve grown more than three times the size of the combined two original companies.”

A quiet business success story of the local area, today Ballard Chalmers is recognised as one of the UK’s leading Microsoft Gold Partner consultancies dedicated to custom enterprise software

Let’s go to Mars... ...What’s to stop us? There’s nothing in the way, nothing at all... Actually really, really nothing….

So we just don’t want to have a breakdown on the way, right? We’ll have to take a trustworthy vehicle. Who can we trust to build it? Who’s got the skills? Anyone round here? …And that’s where we pop in! No, we can’t build your vehicle, but here at the Brighton Science Festival we build the brains that can, by attracting the parents, who drag their kids, who fire up their imaginations when they see the workshops and entertainments we lay on.

We need more inspirers, and where else to go but the brilliant businesses round here! How many of you would like to share your interest with young folk? How many can pass on your talents? The next generation need all the skills they can get, whether to start a new colony on Mars or to mend a puncture closer to home.

Contact me, richard@brightonscience.com. You can help in a thousand ways. And your company can be celebrated in our publicity.

A lot of the volunteers at the next Festival are science students and graduates who were first attracted to the subject at Bright Sparks ten years ago. Now they’re giving something back. Or rather, they’re paying something forward, because it’s the future that benefits.

So we catch them while they’re young.

It’s the most impressionable time of their life.

And to give them the right impression we will give them the time of their life!

Brighton Science Festival is through February 2016 www.BrightonScience.com november/december 2015 business edge

development, incorporating Microsoft .NET development, SQL Server, SharePoint Server and BizTalk Server, and working with long-term clients such as Transport for London. Over the last ten years, local clients include the likes of BAA, CAA, Colas, Tokyo Electron, Virgin Atlantic and many more.

For more details call 01342 410223 or visit www.ballardchalmers.com.

advertorial 15

Range of customers benefit from unique approach to dealing with damaged buildings With an ever changing climate, it is reassuring to know Cornerstone are a leading expert in the field of dealing with property damage aligned to flooding, damp, mould and condensation.

Cornerstone deliver property restoration services to a range of clients looking for a considered approach to affected structures with each process backed-up with logical, transparent assessments aligned to individual customer requirements and designed to minimise the impact on occupational activity and business continuity.

With over three decades of experience in structural damage mitigation, the services are called upon throughout the year from dealing with instances of flooding, to damp investigations for UK wide building warranty providers and, predominantly during the winter periods, Social Housing landlords.

Property drying techniques encompass an assessment of the building construction and its utilisation allowing for considered drying to be deployed whilst the affected location remains operational. It is not uncommon for false walls and floors to be erected to uphold business continuity whilst restoration is underway.

Not all damp in structures is caused by building faults typically, plumbing leaks and water ingress etc. Everyday occupational activities can also introduce high levels of moisture into a property and when conditions allow, can cause condensation to develop on surfaces. The control of

atmospheric moisture production and surface temperatures can often resolve a condensation issue therefore the correct diagnosis is critical. Adopting a host of analytical processes including the use of metering equipment, thermal imagery, salts analysis and quantitative moisture content in the structure, serves to ascertain the root cause of a problem allowing clients to resolve the issue in a cost effective manner.

To aid the investigation of reported outbreaks of condensation and mould, the deployment of remote monitoring devices is used to capture pre-defined atmospheric data via the GPRS system. The tamper-proof unit allows for the accurate assessment of conditions within occupied or unoccupied buildings over a given time to assist the determination of root cause to a reported problem.

Each unique service is upheld with a transparent reporting protocol enlightening the client with key decision making regarding the necessary processes and serves to instil confidence when dealing with incidents that can disrupt everyday lives and businesses.

It is fair to say Cornerstone have had a number of clients enquire about learning more of the issues surrounding causation of damp, condensation and mould and to that end, offer CPD accredited training in a variety of related subjects aimed at empowering clients with ways to tackle their instances of building defects or tenancy related issues.

For more information please visit us at www.cornerstone-ltd.co.uk or contact David Bly on 02392 009270.

november/december 2015 business edge

16 business matters

Membership Checklist Each issue we will now write a small list of things to do now that you are a member of the Chamber of Commerce.

This month’s topic is all about the login area on the website.

We would like to remind our members in order to maximise their membership please could you all register online and update your profile.

The Business Directory You will find this on our website, you are able to edit certain sections of your entry.

In order to do this you will need to login. If you have never done this before you will need to register first. Once you have registered please allow up to 72 hours for your registration to go live, you will then be able to login in with your password.

Company name This information is driven by our CRM database, if the information displayed is incorrect please contact us and we will amend your details.

Business description In this section you can type your own text. n Bronze: 20 words n Silver: 50 words n Gold: 100 words + hyperlink to your website n Premier: 250 words + hyperlink to your website + logo

Member to Member Offers Another section you can edit yourself to offer special discounts to other members of the chamber.

A Perfect Payroll for your Business Our Business is helping your Business, accurately & on-time Fully compliant, RTI Submissions and Auto Enrolment Admin

T: 01273 831133

| E: info@jgr.biz

november/december 2015 business edge

| www.jgr.biz

JGR Bureau Service

fine print

business matters 17

The British Chambers of Commerce regional awards have been announced!

Leading Teams - 10 Challenges; 10 Solutions Elisabet Vinberg Hearn and Mandy Flint – FT Publ,ishing Working as a team is something almost every one of us will have to do at some point in our careers, but all too often there are roadblocks - ranging from lack of communication to clashing personalities - that get in the way of the many benefits of teamwork.

Crucially, it falls to leaders to get things back on track and create an environment and atmosphere where positive results can be achieved, so help is at hand from an insightful new book, Leading Teams which highlights the ten most common obstacles teams face, and provides simple, effective strategies to enable leaders to overcome them.

The authors, Elisabet Vinberg Hearn and Mandy Flint, are leadership consultants who work with top brands like MasterCard, American Express, Virgin Atlantic, H&M and IKEA to help them increase employee engagement, transform organisational culture and improve efficiency.

The book draws on their experience of working with more than 200 team, revealing insights that are applicable to businesses of all sizes.

People are, of course, the most important aspect in any team, so as well as outlining problems and solutions; Leading Teams focuses on the human element to look at behaviours of teams and leaders and the impact issues might have on their thoughts and feelings. The very simple solutions are designed to work with teams to create a positive change in team dynamics that will have a ripple effect throughout an organisation.

Leading Teams is structured in a way that makes it very easy to approach, simple to understand and practical to implement. By addressing specific challenges in each chapter, it provides a “go-to” resource that business owners and managers can refer to when faced with one of the issues that have been shown to come up time and again.

Leading Teams - 10 Challenges; 10 Solutions by Elisabet Vinberg Hearn and Mandy Flint is published by FT Publishing, priced £14.99.

For further information visit www.leadingteamsbook.com

The Sussex Chamber of Commerce is extremely pleased to congratulate 2 regional winners who are both members of the Chamber.

Creative Pod Ltd has been awarded South regional Business in the Community Award for 2015.

Neva Consultants Plc has been awarded South regional Best Use of Technology to Improve Business Performance award for 2015.

Having won the South regional awards, both companies will now go forward to represent the South region in the national finals. A list of the winners are available on the Chamber Awards website (www.chamberawards.co.uk) and National winners will be announced at the Gala Awards Dinner on Thursday 26th November at the Brewery, London. Bookings are now being taken via www.chamberawards.co.uk.

Nora Senior, President of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said: “The Chamber Awards are the perfect opportunity to take stock of the outstanding performances of UK businesses over the past year – something made all the more impressive by the continuing global economic headwinds they are facing.

“The creativity and determination that has been shown by each year’s entrants never ceases to impress us, and is a source of encouragement knowing that our economy is being driven by such hard-working and talented professionals.

“It’s important that we recognise and celebrate these businesses, and ensure that we can provide the support and assistance they need to help them realise their growth ambitions, as well as sharing their experiences with their peers to help us to continue to develop a balanced and prosperous economy.”

Congratulations to both Creative Pod Ltd and Neva Consultants Plc!

november/december 2015 business edge

18 feature: finance

Is your company one of the 75% that could be claiming cash back from the Government?

If you are looking for financing to support your business growth ambitions, perhaps the first place you should look is within your company! Read on to find out more.

Since 2000, the UK Government have put in place a suite of Tax Reliefs for companies that are performing Research & Development. The schemes are being developed all the time and backed through successive governments to incentivise and support the UK to becoming the ‘Innovation Nation’.

Despite this, Research & Development Tax Relief is still woefully under-claimed meaning companies are missing out on £000’s they could be pouring back into further projects and business development. The eligibility

criteria are far more wide reaching than most companies and accountants believe.

Some good news from HMRC recently showed a rise in the number of companies claiming through the Tax Relief schemes and the average value of a claim for an SME company was £50,000. Imagine what that could do for your company?

If you have never submitted a claim, then you could be in position to retrospectively claim for the last two accounting periods which could provide your company with a vital injection of cash.

If you think that your company might have been involved in a Research & Development Project particularly if you operate in the following sectors (not an exhaustive list): Agriculture; App development; Architects; Banking; Brewing; Clinical Research; Communications & Media; Construction; Cosmetics; Defence; Electronics; Engineering; Environmental

Reduce your tax Entrepreneurs relief is just one of the tax reliefs that needs consideration when planning to sell your business.

We provide a complete range of tax services to help you minimise your tax.

Call Paul Knight for a FREE consultation on 01323 412277 www.honeybarrett.co.uk

Helping you get from where you are now to where you want to be...

Registered to carry out audit work in the UK and Ireland and regulated for a range of investment business activities by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

november/december 2015 business edge

Honey Barrett quarter page.indd 1

Simon Bulteel

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT TAX RELIEF SPECIALISTS

BEAT THE DECEMBER 31ST DEADLINE

Our services include: Accountancy and Audit BACS Payroll Bureau Bookkeeping Business Planning Company Secretarial Management Accounts Personal Tax PRISM – KPI Reports R&D Tax Relief Tax Planning Trusts and Estates 10 Steps to Success System

53 Gildredge Road Eastbourne East Sussex BN21 4SF

Management; Food Processing; Information Technology; Manufacturing; Motorsport; Pharmaceuticals; Product Design; Software development; Testing; Training and Transport Pick up the phone or email a specialist R&D Tax Professional today to discuss your company’s potential to claim.

Simon Bulteel (FCCA) is a qualified accountant specialising in Research and Development Tax Relief, he is Managing Director of Cooden Tax Consulting and works with Honey Barrett Chartered Accountants to offer their current and potential clients access to R&D Tax Relief expertise.

(For December 31st 2013 year ends)

Contact us now to validate your potential claim

Call us on: 01424 225 345

email us on: info@coodentaxconsulting.co.uk @coodenconsults www.coodentaxconsulting.co.uk Office 10 Charter House 43 St Leonards Road Bexhill on Sea East Sussex TN40 1JA

CoodenConsultingquarterpageR.indd 1 16/10/2015 09:55

28/10/2015 12:12

feature: finance 19

Auto enrolment, what it means for you and how we can help All change for dividend income The Summer Budget 2015 announced an overhaul of the taxation of dividends received by individuals.

The current dividend tax credit that was designed to prevent the double taxation of company profits will be consigned to the fiscal dustbin on 6 April 2016. A tax-free dividend allowance of £5,000 will be introduced, together with special tax rates relating to taxable dividend income as shown in the table below.

Taxable dividend income (after personal allowance & £5,000 allowance)

New tax rate

Old tax rate

Up to £32,000

7.5%

Nil

Between £32,000 and £150,000

32.5%

25.0%

Above £150,000

38.1%

30.6%

The tax efficient remuneration strategy for many ownermanaged companies has involved the extraction of dividends for many years. If the dividends fell into the individuals basic rate tax band they had no additional personal tax liability, from 6 April 2016 this will change and the majority of individuals will see an increase in their tax bills.

With the Chancellor announcing the Autumn Statement on 25th November 2015 we cannot rule out further changes.

Those individuals in receipt of dividend income, both from their companies or investment portfolios, should be reviewing their affairs in advance of 6 April 2016 to ensure they remain as tax efficient as possible. If you have any questions on how the new rules impact you, please contact me on 01403 786788 or tomb@hsc.uk.net

Auto Enrolment has been introduced by the Government to help people save for later life but with it comes a number of mandatory obligations that will be imposed on employers of all sizes. All employers will be legally required to automatically enrol certain members of staff into a Qualifying Workplace Pension Scheme and make minimum contributions to it.

The point at which your Automatic Enrolment duties start is called your “Staging Date” and The Pensions Regulator will write to you to confirm your staging date.

Approximately 45,000 businesses per month will be staging from January 2016 and it is expected this will create a capacity crunch which will leave you struggling to find an adviser and a scheme.

The Financial Management Centre are suggesting businesses plan well in advance of their staging date to make sure they are fully prepared. There are over 30 mandatory pension duties which are time consuming, complex to manage and expensive to run.

Managing the process is continuous as employees have to be reassessed at every pay period and failure to comply will be costly as the Pensions Regulator can issue penalty notices for persistent and deliberate non-compliance starting with a fixed penalty of £400 for not complying with statutory notices.

We have a low cost solution which has been designed to help employers meet their needs in advance of their staging date allowing them to continue running their business without any stress or panic of finding a suitable pension scheme. Our Auto Enrolment solution manages the whole process for you, ensures that you remain compliant and avoid the onerous administration and costly fines. If you have any questions or have received a letter from the Pensions Regulator and you are not sure what to do please contact us.

With such high numbers of businesses set to stage over the next 18 months or so we do suggest that you act as soon as you can and make sure you beat the rush. If as predicted demand outstrips supply then leaving it until nearer your staging date might be a bad decision, which could make this even more stressful and costly for you.

Call us now on 0800 470 4820 email info@tfmcentre.co.uk www.tfmcentre.co.uk

november/december 2015 business edge

20 advertorial

Planning to move? Sort out your IT as your first priority!

Are you planning to relocate your business soon? Then you should put IT at the top of your checklist.

All too often IT is way down the list for many companies that are planning to move. Failure to plan IT well in advance disrupts business operations and results in disgruntled customers.

Some companies overlook the need for extra space to house servers and other IT equipment. Others don’t check whether there’s access to external cabling for network connections.

Check network connections

There are a wealth of vacant offices where the lease is being offered at a very reasonable price but there’s always a good reason why it’s so cheap. It could be that there’s no immediate access to cabling to connect leased lines.

Such an elementary problem can be avoided if your IT consultant is involved in the search and assessment of new premises.

Ideally, this should be six months ahead of the move.

Gary Jowett from Computer & Network Consultants in Shoreham-By-Sea says: “A big issue can be obtaining a landlord’s consent for any changes you need to the new premises. Some easily agree alterations while others require lengthy negotiation and

charge a large fee. You could find a landlord won’t budge at all on the changes you need.

This is why it’s necessary to check well in advance to avoid any major problems.”

Moving to bigger premises should be a positive step for expanding companies but it can have a negative impact if IT isn’t made a priority.

That’s why ambitious companies in London and across the South East always put IT at the top of their checklist. They know it will help them hit the ground running when they move in to their new home. This will help give them competitive advantage over their rivals.

THEY CALL IT INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, WE THINK IT’S ALL ABOUT PEOPLE. We’ve been living and breathing technology for over nineteen years but what we really care about is our people and our customers.

Extensive, up to the minute knowledge allows us to help our clients achieve productive and reliable systems that power their thriving businesses. We believe the advisory relationship we build with our clients supports their success.

We would love to talk to you about your technology and offer a Free IT Health check with no obligations to use our services.

— 0845 0700 585 — sales@cnc-ltd.co.uk — www.cnc-ltd.co.uk

november/december 2015 business edge

Gary and Graham—our directors

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22 cover feature

Bridging the Gap Between Education and Work with the Sussex Chamber of Commerce The Sussex Chamber of Commerce has launched a new membership scheme aimed schools, colleges and universities, under the name of Young Chamber. Its purpose is to help bridge the gap between businesses and the education sector and give young people contacts within the business community, allowing them to gain valuable skills, knowledge and experience to complement their academic qualifications.

As part of Young Chamber, members will be able to take advantage of the many connections that the Sussex Chamber has in the local business community.

Members benefit from careers networking events, strategic links with local businesses, talks from local employers, work inspiration experiences, workshops on ‘work readiness’ and access to local business intelligence.

Students are able to gain insight into the world of work, and get the chance to learn about the different careers they could have, as well as

the routes that they can take to get there. Furthermore they will learn about what skills that they need to pursue a successful career once they leave education.

As a school or college, Young Chamber helps to meet Ofsted (or relevant school inspectorate) requirements around provision of careers advice, preparation of pupils for employment, and engagement with employers.

The Young Chamber scheme is available throughout the whole of Sussex and reflects Sussex Chamber of Commerce’s beliefs of supporting

IT IS SO IMPORTANT TO PREPARE YOUNG PEOPLE AND HELP THEM GAIN THE SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE THAT BUSINESSES ARE LOOKING FOR, THIS IS WHY YOUNG CHAMBER IS SUCH AN IMPORTANT AND EXCITING OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. november/december 2015 business edge

and promoting business and commerce in Sussex.

Research shows there is a growing gap between education and work.

Young Chamber stands to make sure more can be done to better prepare young people for the world of work.

Sussex Chamber of Commerce will be addressing key areas that businesses are looking for such as, improving communication, team work, resilience, as well as better careers advice and engagement with business in schools.

Ana Christie, Chief Executive of Sussex Chamber of Commerce said: “It is so important to prepare young people and help them gain the skills and experience that businesses are looking for, this is why Young Chamber is such an important and exciting opportunity for young people. It will allow them to learn new skills and make invaluable contacts within the business community in Sussex. It is also an important opportunity for schools, colleges and universities as they are able to support and improve their student’s transition to work.”

A great start for young people Research shows there is a growing gap between education and work. Sussex Chamber believes young people need contact with the business community to gain valuable skills, knowledge and experience to complement their academic qualifications.

The Sussex Chamber recognises that schools, colleges and their staff also need asisstance and support which is why we have created Young Chamber, a membership scheme designed specifically for schools, colleges and universities.

Education Membership £149.00 Access to the full suite of Chamber Support Services provided by the British

ACCEssInG loCAl busInEss IntEllIGEnCE

Chambers of Commerce ■

Access to free HR and Legal Advice

■

Access to networking events

■ ■

Access to local business intelligence Opportunities for promotion through Chamber publications

Young Chamber Membership £449.00 Includes everything from Education Membership and all the benefits from the Sussex Chamber Gold Membership. Please contact Sussex Chamber for more information.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

dEvEloPInG skIlls for thE workforCE

Business talk with a local employer Company tours Promoting your events to local businesses Access to workshops 15% off training

Young Chamber Premier Membership £1,500.00 Includes everything from Young Chamber Membership.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Work inspiration experiences - workplace visits and workshop style activities Access to MP and Policy Events Access to sector specific forums for teachers Careers “speed networking” activites with local employers One free place at the national Young Chamber education summit

Pay As Go Non member schools, colleges and universities have the option to access a range of bespoke services, whereas members will receive an automatic discount.

InsPIrInG thE nExt GEnErAtIon of tAlEnt

■ ■ ■

A business talk from a local employer Mock interview for 50 students CV writing and job application workshop

■ ■ ■

A visit to a local business for 20 students A sector specific workshop for 25 students Employability support

■ ■

An in-school careers event for one year group Careers fair

■ ■

Apprenticeship signposting “How to days”

Please visit www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk/young-chamber/ for further information or call 01444 259 259 Sussex Chamber of Commerce 01444 259 259 www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk info@sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk

24 inspirational leaders

Looking to the future with Southern Water What’s your background?

I’ve worked at Southern Water for the last three years, having previously worked for both Thames Water and Royal Mail.

I’m incredibly proud to work for Southern Water. We work hard to ensure that 4.6million people across the South East are provided with high quality, sustainable and affordable water and wastewater service.

How does Southern Water connect to other businesses and organisations?

I work closely with a range of key organisations across the water sector - including the Drinking Water Inspectorate, the Environment Agency, Natural England and key local stakeholders such as MP’s and Local Authorities.

We recently collaborated with the University of Southampton to hold a House of Commons Reception

november/december 2015 business edge

on Water Efficiency. The former Water Minister Richard Benyon praised Southern water for its “Bravery and leadership” in our Universal Metering Programme which means customers will only pay for what they use. At the same meeting the Consumer Council for Water Chairman Alan Lovell said he “thoroughly commended” Southern Water’s approach to metering and communicating the changes to our customers.

We work very closely with local businesses and organisations. As a large local employer, we pride ourselves on supporting the community in which we live and work. It’s so important that we give more than just a basic service - Southern Water is committed to leaving a positive, lasting legacy.

Our Stakeholder Engagement team work across the region to ensure we are building good partnerships and relationships with

Southern Water Director of Strategy Simon Oates locally elected officials, businesses and community organisations.

How does Southern Water help businesses?

Working with businesses is a really important part of our work - as companies that are water efficient can save water, energy and money on metered bills and help protect water in our environment.

In some cases business awareness of water-related risks and opportunities are currently limited, but there are a number of simple water-saving measures that can be introduced to help businesses and their employees become more water efficient.

Southern water can also advise on longer-term investment in water-saving measures, which can be off-set by savings on bills in as little as a year or two.

How does Southern Water make a difference to local communities?

We support local community activities through sponsorships and donations as well as our charity programme. In the last 12 months we have raised nearly £150,000 to help worthwhile causes in the South East and our employees have put in a record 609 volunteer days taking part in environmental tasks such clearing scrub on the South Downs and working with local children’s charities and hospices.

In early October, Southern Water held an Oktoberfest-themed race day at Fontwell Park, which raised more than 28 thousand pounds for two local charities the Rainbow Centre and the Rockinghorse children’s charity.

One of the initiatives I’m really proud of is our ‘Learn to Swim’ programme. Our region covers more than 700 miles of coastline, so helping children to learn to swim is a really important, life-saving skill.

inspirational leaders 25

This is the 24th year of Southern Water’s award-winning ‘Learn to Swim’ programme - which in the past year alone has helped to teach 25,000 children to swim.

We are lucky enough to have former Olympic gold medallist Duncan Goodhew MBE as our scheme ambassador, and we are so grateful to him for being involved in an initiative that helps to build children’s confidence and change lives.

[Olympic gold medallist Duncan Goodhew MBE at the Learn to Swim achievers award on Saturday 24th October 2015.]

Learn to Swim’ now runs at 85 pools and clubs across the South East, and I am proud to say that a number of our staff also volunteer as co-ordinators.

This year Southern Water’s positive impact on local communities was recognised in a national survey. We achieved 98 per cent in the annual Business in the Community (BITC) survey, which measures corporate responsibility performance.

We came out joint top - putting us ahead of other utilities that took part and giving us a higher ranking than other big names like Marks and Spencer.

The index is an independent measure of corporate responsibility used by many leading companies.

Those entering must complete a survey of more than 1,000 questions covering all business activities across themes including community, environment and workplace.

and accountants to customer service advisors, sewerage operatives and project managers.

We also play an active part in STEM days to help graduates of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths build a career in the water industry and we pride ourselves on offering a progressive environment for personal and professional development.

Operational performance so far this year is also outstanding and we are continuing to drive improvements; for example the 63 million pound redevelopment of the Woolston Waste Treatment Works in Southampton which will ensure the areas waste water services are secure for future generations.

What does the future hold for the Water Industry?

What does Southern Water do to encourage the next generation of talent?

We provide the best quality drinking water in the country and amongst the best in Europe. I am very proud that Southern Water achieved a rating for 99.97 per cent for the quality of its drinking water against the Drinking Water Inspectorate’s measures. Our

Southern Water is investing more than £1.8 billion over five years the equivalent of £1,000 per property to ensure continuing high quality water and wastewater services to 4.6 million people across South East England.

For the fourth year running we have beaten our leakage target in 2014-15, achieving 82 million litres saved per day against a target of 88 million Our wastewater treatment works achieved their best performance for 15 years with 99 per cent compliance on environmental standards. Our water supply network delivered 99.97 per cent compliance against the Drinking Water Inspectorate’s measures, up from the previous year We’ve also made strong improvements in pollution and flooding, with a ten per cent fall in the number of pollution incidents which follows a reduction of 22 per cent in 2013.

We won the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents gold award for the 16th consecutive year as well as a RoSPA Order of Distinction.

Southern Water is the first water company to win this twice We’re also leading the industry on health and safety, tackling leakage and achieving excellent performance in wastewater treatment compliance and water quality

It’s vital that Southern water plays a big part in nurturing the next generation. We employ people in more than 500 different roles across the company from engineers, scientists

Like many businesses there are big challenges ahead. The Water Act 2014 means businesses will be able to change their water supplier from April 2017. It will also open up the water and sewage market to competition which means Southern water will be changing the way it operates to make sure we’re looking after our customers.

Customer Satisfaction is a key area of focus throughout the next 5 years. Southern Water has already spent £13 million to upgrade its billing system which will help customers to manage their accounts online. In a recent survey, more than 90 percent of our customers said that they were satisfied with their water supply service from Southern Water and more than 80 per cent felt their water and sewage bills were affordable but we need to keep striving to improve.

What are you most proud of working for Southern Water?

How Southern water is investing for the future:

november/december 2015 business edge

26 chamber benefits

Membership Benefits As a member you can gain access to a number of our business support services. The British Chambers of Commerce has negotiated these services with leading organisations to help save you money.

Chamber Foreign Exchange

Chamber Health and Safety

Help your business save money and manage foreign exchange risk. Chamber Foreign Exchange, in partnership with Moneycorp, offers competitive exchange rates, free online currency accounts, reduced transfer fees and fast, online transactions. Add practical advice and a free foreign exchange health check of your FX requirements to see your business capitalise on currency fluctuations and save money on every transaction.

Not sure about your Health & Safety policy? Can you afford not to know? Get advice and support.

Chamber Healthcare

Receive up to 61% on the cost of breakdown cover.

Help to reduce sickness absence and improve staff motivation with a choice of two great schemes.

The Chamber Business Healthcare Plan, offers private medical insurance for your employees. Get 10% cashback annually or 50% off your chamber membership fees for 3 years. Pay as little as £1.10 per employee per week with the cash plan scheme Chamber Primary Health Plan.

Chamber Credit Insurance

Chamber HR The Chamber HR service provides businesses with access to professional HR advice and documentation.

Chamber Legal Expenses Safeguard your business against the unexpected costs of professional legal services and get legal cover of up to £670,000 as well as access to a 24/7 helpline.

Chamber Roadside Assistance

A new service to protect businesses trading in the UK and internationally from the risks of late payment and insolvency, Chamber Credit Insurance has been developed exclusively for Chamber members of all sizes. Help better manage trade risks and gain access to market knowledge to help your business grow securely and strategically in new and existing markets. Exclusive special offers apply.

To find out more about the Chamber Service please call one of the team on 01444 259 259.

Training Courses Using Documentary Letters of Credit, Drafts & Bills Date: Monday 9th November : 09:30 - 16:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill The use of Letters of Credit has increased significantly by UK exporters and importers because of the global economic situation, political insecurity in some markets and the withdrawal of credit insurance cover. The course will examine LC process in detail and offer guidance on how to create a workable credit. No previous knowledge or experience is necessary and it will be suitable for experienced personnel who require an update on the latest rules.

Persuading & Influencing with Impact Date: Tuesday 10th November : 09:30 - 16:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill Take your communication skills to the next level and examine how to persuade and influence those around you to achieve your aims and build excellent long term relationships. During the course you

contact

will think about your colleagues, suppliers, clients and friends and how to “speak their language” to enhance your standing with them.

The course is very practical enabling you to try out a variety of techniques to help you with networking, public speaking and getting your point across well in meeting.

Modern Consultative Selling Date: Tuesday 17th November : 09:30 - 16:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill To be really effective in b2b sales you need to build genuine strong relationships with customers and find ways to spot opportunities and meet their needs for repeat business and referrals. This course is aimed at Business Development, Account Management and more experienced Sales professionals who work over the phone, email and visit customers face to face. It examines modern sales practises in a world of instant information overload.

For additional information on any of the above member benefits, please visit our website www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk or call 01444 259 259

november/december 2015 business edge

chamber benefits 27

Training Courses continued Classification of Goods Using Commodity & Tariff Codes Date: Thursday 19th November : 09:30 - 12:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill The correct classification of goods using commodity and tariff codes is fundamental for customs compliance, establishing correct duty rates, origin of goods, intrastat, export control and many other customs procedures. Increasingly security procedures at ports of exit/entry are being linked to commodity and tariff codings. The course will have live access to The Tariff, enabling the trainer to demonstrate the methodology.

HR in 2 Days - Days 1 & 2 Date: Day 1:Thursday 26th November : 09:30 - 16:30 Day 2: Thursday 3rd December : 09:30 - 16:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill This course tackles some of the most important and difficult aspects of HR head on. This is a highly focused, cost & time effective way to ensure those responsible for key areas of employee relations and developing your business understand the basic ways to stay within the law, effectively deal with problems as they arise and help you to improve the overall performance of your business.

The value of a legally compliant, highly effective and commercially focused HR element cannot be overstated.

Developing Your Management & Leadership Skills Date: Wednesday 2nd December : 09:30 - 16:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill This course builds on the topics covered in People and Team Management to give a more complete overview of people management best practice. However it can also be a stand-alone course as new topics are covered which are more advanced and involved for experienced managers. Subjects covered include: Modern Leadership Best Practise, Team Building, Effective Delegation, Encouraging learning and knowledge, Recognising and resolving destructive conflict and action planning.

Exporting - Understanding the Paperwork Date: Monday 7th December : 09:30 - 16:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill Designed for more experienced exporters, those who require a refresher course or updating in the latest procedures or those who have attended the Introduction to Export Procedures course.

It will be assumed delegates have a basic knowledge of exporting procedures. The content will be relevant to field and office based sales staff, purchasing staff, shipping and despatch personnel, accounts and finance staff, customer services, freight forwarders.

Introduction to Supervision & Team Leadership Date: Tuesday 8th December : 09:30 - 16:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill

contact

The biggest challenges a manager can face are when they first transition into a supervisory or team leadership role. First line management requires a very different mind-set to any operational role and requires a very different skill set. This course will support supervisors, both new and experienced, to focus on how to successfully lead their teams. Subjects covered include: Handling difficult situations assertively and Motivating your staff to do their best.

Telesales: Profit not Pain Date: Thursday 14th January : 09:30 - 16:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill This course will teach you how to plan, research and undertake proactive sales and prospecting without falling into the negative sales stereotypes which haunt so many of us. After the course not only will you enjoy your job more, you’ll make a lot more money for your company.

An Introduction to Export Procedures Date: Monday 18th January : 09:30 - 16:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill This course is suitable for those new to the problems of exporting and for experienced exporters who need to update their knowledge.

No prior knowledge of exporting is assumed. The content will be relevant to field and office based sales staff, purchasing staff, shipping and dispatch personnel, accounts and finance staff, customer services, freight forwarders.

People and Team Management Date: Tuesday 26th January : 09:30 - 16:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill This course is designed for managers who would like a solid grounding in people management best practice. The day lays the foundations for strong manager/staff relationships, ensuring that they know how to focus on doing their people management job well and can deal with more difficult feedback situations. Some delegates attend the Essentials of Supervision & Team Leadership first but this course can be taken as a standalone intensive management course.

Time Management & Personal Effectiveness Date: Wednesday 27th January : 09:30 - 16:30 Venue: The Kings Church, Burgess Hill This course is all about investing some time and energy up front so that you find ways to stay in control and become as effective at work as you can be. This is critical to both managers and operational staff alike so that we can all achieve our goals and feel comfortable with our choices at work. Subjects covered include: Three key principles of time management; Planning and goal setting; Dealing with “time bandits” and Being assertive and negotiating over resources.

For additional information on any of the above member benefits, please visit our website www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk or call 01444 259 259 november/december 2015 business edge

28 feature: food and drink

Quality the watchword as food and drink market grows Ask the man or woman in the street to name the UK’s biggest manufacturing sector and they may come up with something around plastics or maybe automotives.

In fact, food and drink is the largest manufacturing sector in the UK with a turnover of £76 billion, according to Government figures.

There are more than 8,000 companies in the industry, which between them employ 400,000 people.

In addition, the industry invests in research and development, which results in 10,000 new products being introduced to the market every year.

For many of them, the focus on specialities is driving impressive growth driven by changes in shopping trends. More and more customers have become increasingly conscious about what they eat due to growing awareness in health and general well-being.

As a result, companies large and small are looking to develop products which are healthier and whose provenance can be easily traced by the shopper.

Also important is the growing focus on the distance that food travels with the result that more food and drink is sold locally, reducing the miles that it is transported.

The rapid growth in the food and drink industry, including increasing export opportunities with UK products in demand abroad, means that UK manufacturers distribute more than 6.3 billion cases of products each year.

Our consultants could have We know there’s an appetite for intelligent and ethical recruitment in the Food and Drinks industry.

What’s more, we know just how to satisfy it.

Contact us: 0845 2600 737 | food@blue-spark.org.uk www.blue-spark.org.uk 34/36 The Broadway, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 3AL Calls cost 7ppm plus your phone company’s Access Charge

november/december 2015 business edge

We offer expertise in the following areas: Product Innovation Process Development Commercial & Marketing Technical & Quality Operations

feature: food and drink 29

Supporting Sussex Cheeses The Cheese Man loves to promote local cheeses, and with over 10 Cheese producers in Sussex / Surrey area, enables them to give their customers a vast range of local cheeses.

As well as local cheeses, there is always a vast selection of British & Continental cheeses to choose from.

But it’s not just cheese they can supply!

They also carry a range of Gourmet products, which complements our cheeses.

The range includes, Olives, Olive Oil, Charcuterie & Cured Meats, Local Chutneys & Locally produced Pies & Quiches.

Now in their 20th Year of trading, the company now employs 15 staff, from their original commercial unit (although they have also added a further 4 units next door). This has enabled them to continue to supply a high standard of service and quality products, to their customers in the Sussex / Surrey area.

They supply a wide range of businesses, from Restaurants, Hotels, Delicatessens, Sandwich shops and outside caterers.

With 7 refrigerated van sales vehicles cover the area, this gives their customers the chance to choose cheeses directly from van when they arrive at the customer’s premises.

For further information please contact us Tel 01273 412444 www.thecheeseman.co.uk enquiries@thecheeseman.co.uk @CheeseManSussex The Cheese Man

Willetts Farm Diary Ice Cream Willetts Farm Dairy Ice Cream is a high quality Ice Cream made from awardwinning milk produced on Willetts Farm in East Sussex, with sixteen natural flavours and no artificial colourings. We add only natural ingredients sourced locally, when we can, making sure we are careful about what ingredients we add, putting in only the best. We also make four flavours of Sorbet too - all with the same traditional and delicious light taste.

Robin, Audrey and Kevin Ashby, Willetts Farm, Blackham, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 9TU

Tel: (01892) 740747 or (01892) 740320 Email: info@willettsfarm.co.uk

www.willettsfarm.co.uk november/december 2015 business edge

30 business matters

28th January 2016 Hastings

28th January 2016

11thHastings february 2016 28th January 2016 Worthing Hastings 11th february 2016 Worthing

8th March 2016 Burgess Hill

8th March 2016 Burgess Hill 2016 21st March

8th March 2016 Brighton

Burgess 21st MarchHill 2016 Brighton

Are you aged 14 – 24? This inspirational and interactive Careers Fair will 11th february 2016 21st March 2016 helpAre you discover opportunities available to let youCareers map your you aged 14the – 24?

This inspirational and interactive Fair future. will Worthing Brighton help you discover the opportunities available to let you map your future.

Yourfuturecareersfairs.co.uk 01444 259259 Careers Fair will Are you aged 14 – 24? This inspirational| and interactive Yourfuturecareersfairs.co.uk | 01444 259259 help you discover the opportunities available to let you map your future.

Yourfuturecareersfairs.co.uk | 01444 259259 ®

november/december 2015 business edge ®

feature: conferencing 31

Gardens and Grounds of Herstmonceux Castle Herstmonceux is renowned for its magnificent moated castle, set in beautiful parkland and superb Elizabethan gardens and parkland. Built originally as a country home in the mid-15th century, Herstmonceux Castle embodies the history of medieval England and the romance of renaissance Europe.

The castle provides excellent facilities for conferences, weddings and functions. The combination of sophisticated atmosphere and personalised service make Herstmonceux Castle ideal for business or academic conferences.

The estate’s relaxed atmosphere, away from day to day business pressure, provides participants with an exceptional environment for learning and personal growth, this combined with excellent working conditions, modern AV equipment and a friendly, efficient service make the Castle one of the most popular conference locations in the area.

Meeting and events have never been more enjoyable At our brand new conference centre at The View Hotel Eastbourne, delegates can choose from 8 meeting rooms, seating between 2 and 150 people in a variety of layouts.

In addition there is a state of the art function room which can be adapted to accommodate a wide variety of group sizes from 10 to 80 in theatre, banquet or cabaret style.

Our room hire includes; • Complimentary wi-fi • Most up to date facilities • Dedicated event staff

• Abundance of natural daylight • £1 parking vouchers for 24hrs • Gatwick is only 45 minutes away

Get in touch for details: 01323 433900 Or email: events@theviewhoteleastbourne.com www.eastbournemeetingvenue.com

T: 01323-833816 W: www.herstmonceux-castle.com Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 1RN

This award winning modern four-star hotel features stylish accommoda6on, excellent mee6ng, conference, training and banque6ng facili6es, on-site parking as well as Park &Fly packages, nning modern four-star hotel features stylish This award winning modern four-star hotel features stylish accommodation, excellent on, excellent mee6ng, conference, training and in the heart of Crawley and only a few minutes from Gatwick Airport

meeting, conference, training and acili6es, on-site parking as well as Park &Fly packages, f Crawley and only a few minutes from Gatwick Airport • 432 bedrooms banqueting facilities, on-site parking as well as Park &Fly packages,

in the heart of Crawley and only a few minutes from Gatwick Airport

ms all with natural daylight

• 12 mee6ng rooms all with natural daylight

• Licensed for Civil Ceremonies • 432 bedrooms • 12 meeting rooms all with natural daylight y 270 theatre style • Largest capacity 270 theatre style • Licensed for Civil Ceremonies nly town centre restaurant awarded with 1 RoseNe • Largest capacity 270 theatre style • ‘the grill’, the only town centre restaurant awarded with 1 RoseNe access to Crawley main line Sta6on • ‘the grill’, the only town centre restaurant awarded with 1 Rosette • Direct plaPorm access to Crawley main line Sta6on ound parking for 240 cars with excellent connec6vity links to • Direct platorm access to Crawley main line Station • Secure underground parking for 240 cars with excellent connectivity links to M23/ M35 • Secure underground parking for 240 cars with excellent connec6vity links to A23 and M35 ym, steam room & sauna

il Ceremonies

• HealthM23/A23 and M35 Club – gym, steam room & sauna

ck/Crawley | Southgate Avenue | Southgate | Crawley | West Sussex | 6LW Tel: +44 (0)1293 530 000 | gatwick@arorahotels.com | www.gatwick.arorahotels.com

• Health Club – gym, steam room & sauna

Arora Hotel Gatwick/Crawley | Southgate Avenue | Southgate | Crawley | West Sussex | Arora Hotel Gatwick/Crawley | Southgate Avenue | Southgate | Crawley | West Sussex | RH10 6LW Tel: +44 (0)1293 530 000 | gatwick@arorahotels.com | RH10 6LW Tel: +44 (0)1293 530 000 | gatwick@arorahotels.com | www.gatwick.arorahotels.com www.gatwick.arorahotels.com

november/december 2015 business edge

Characterful, family-run pubs with great food

The Cock Old Uckfield Road (A26), near Ringmer, BN8 5RX Food served 7 days a week, lunchtime and evening and all day Sunday • • • • • • •

Large Garden and Sun Terrace Log Fire in Winter Roasts served all day Sunday Open all day on Bank Holidays Vegetarian Menu always available (5 choices) Real Ales including Harveys and other locally source Micro Breweries Home Cooked Food – Something for every taste, diet and budget

tel: 01273 812040 www.cockpub.co.uk

The Highlands Inn Eastbourne Road, Ridgewood, Uckfield, TN22 5SP Food served 7 days a week, lunchtime and evening and all day Sunday until 6.30pm • Sports Bar showing all BT and Sky Sports fixtures with special Sports Bar Menu • Formal Restaurant area with seating for 120 covers and separate Restaurant Bar Area • Real Ales including Harveys and other locally source Micro Breweries • Extensive selection of wines by the glass • Large Sun Trap Garden with al fresco Dining tel: 01825 762989 www.highlandsinn.co.uk

www.ridleyinns.co.uk november/december 2015 business edge

business matters 33

Could your business support a vital Sussex charity?

Guild Care have been caring in our community for more than 80 years.

In the charity’s early days, they set up Worthing’s first Citizens Advice Bureau and opened a soup kitchen. By the 1990s, they were helping young people find employment during the recession at a muchneeded youth hostel.

Today, Guild Care support older people living alone, unpaid carers, people with dementia and children with special needs and disabilities.

Without the support of local businesses and community fundraising, Guild Care’s services would struggle to survive, leaving many of Sussex’s most vulnerable residents at risk.

As a member of Sussex Chamber of Commerce, there are so many ways that you can get involved. It’s a great way to fulfil your corporate social responsibility objectives, and strengthen your association with a much-loved charity.

You will benefit from coverage with Guild Care’s media partners, including the Worthing Herald and Splash FM, and organised team building opportunities such as volunteering and fundraising.

From dress down days and adventure challenges, to team events - the choices are endless. Guild Care are proud to be partners of the Worthing Half Marathon, with a donation made from every entrance fee. An easy way to get fit and raise funds for a good cause.

To find out more about how you can get involved, please contact Katie Banister on 01903 528 613 or email katie.banister@guildcare.org

november/december 2015 business edge

34 feature: innovation and entrepenurship

S R U E EPREN

!

D E T N A W

ENTR

Whatever you love to do, Basepoint can help you do it!

As a business owner, it’s your passion and commitment that drives your business. Basepoint Business Centres share this enthusiasm and are committed to helping businesses by offering first-class workspaces alongside services that support you in making your business a success.

How we can help: • Flexible workspace from offices to workshops • Local phone number & mail collection • Meeting rooms and breakout areas • Telephone call answering service* With 31 Centres throughout the Midlands, Wales and South of England, locate your nearest centre at basepoint.co.uk to find out how we can help you support your business. *For full terms & conditions please contact your local centre.

Crawley

Haywards Heath

Newhaven

Shoreham

01293 817721

01444 849250

01273 615090

01273 467585

basepoint.co.uk

november/december 2015 business edge

feature: innovation and entrepreneurship 35

Basepoint Supports Global Entrepreneurship Week We’re delighted to announce that Basepoint Business Centres Ltd has partnered with Global Entrepreneurship Week to bring a number of exciting events to Sussex to promote and support local entrepreneurs.

Global Entrepreneurship Week is the world’s largest celebration of innovators and job creators who launch start-ups that

bring ideas to life, drive economic growth and expand human welfare.

Our schedule of events kicks off with a Regional Networking Hub to be held at the Crawley Business Centre. Running from 12:00 – 14:00 on Wednesday 18th November, the event is free to attend and includes a light lunch.

This unique event will be attended by the DIAL (Drop In Action Learning) Project from Brighton University who have helped over 250 entrepreneurs collaborate, skill share and gain advice from their peers in the past year.

Tino Da Silva from Business Radio will also be broadcasting live from the event giving attendees the opportunity to be

interviewed about their businesses. To conclude day one, we have an incredible surprise guest speaker, along with the Young Start-Up Talent Awards… This really is one you don’t want to miss!

On Thursday 19th November, from 4.30pm – 6pm, we’re partnering with Acumen Business Law & Wired Sussex to host the Acumen Business Academy. As well as offering networking & nibbles, this session of the Acumen Business Academy will have two experts discussing two of the most important issues facing business owners in this digital era.

More events are being planned for the week so keep an eye on www.basepoint. co.uk for more updates.

november/december 2015 business edge

Thinking about your business is a big part of ours.

PUT OUR TAILORED INSIGHTS TO WORK FOR YOU To make confident decisions about the future, an entrepreneurial, growing business needs a different kind of adviser. One who starts by understanding where you want to go and then brings the ideas and insights of an experienced global team to help get you there.

rsmuk.com

The UK group of companies and LLPs trading as RSM is a member of the RSM network. RSM is the trading name used by the members of the RSM network. Each member of the RSM network is an independent accounting and consulting firm each of which practises in its own right. The RSM network is not itself a separate legal entity of any description in any jurisdiction.

The RSM network is administered by RSM International Limited, a company registered in England and Wales (company number 4040598) whose registered office is at 11 Old Jewry, London EC2R 8DU. The brand and 2015 trademark RSM and other intellectual property rights used by members of the network are owned by RSM International Association, an association governed by november/december business edge article 60 et seq of the Civil Code of Switzerland whose seat is in Zug.

business matters 37

Vent-Axia Shares Benefits of Reshoring with Sussex Businesses Crawley-based Vent-Axia, the leading UK ventilation manufacturer, has shared its experiences of reshoring its manufacturing from China at the latest Sussex Chamber of Commerce Manufacturing Forum. At the event, hosted by the company, other Sussex manufacturers heard how reshoring had created new jobs; resulted in investment in the local community and boosted the company’s competitive advantage.

Vent-Axia completed the reshoring of the balance of its domestic fan manufacturing, from China back to the UK, in January 2013 with the launch of three new production lines at its Crawley site. The culmination of a two-year project, the new assembly lines doubled the company’s on-site manufacturing of its residential unitary fans. The company invested over £350k in tooling for the new production lines, as well as investing in building works to incorporate the new manufacturing.

Speaking at the event Jenny Smith, Vent-Axia Marketing Manager and Graham Morrison, Vent-Axia Group Inventory Controller explained why the company decided to bring manufacturing back to the UK and how this decision had enhanced product innovation and improved customer responsiveness.

“Since completing reshoring we are able to produce our products more quickly in the UK to meet demand, significantly reducing the lead time required compared to when products were manufactured in China. We can also now produce shorter runs of specific bespoke products to meet customer needs, therefore making us more competitive and responsive in the marketplace,” said Jenny Smith.

As well as hearing about Vent-Axia’s reshoring initiative, delegates at the event were also able to tour the facilities and see for themselves how moving manufacturing back to Crawley has benefitted the company.

David Shore, Chairman of the Manufacturing Forum at Sussex Chamber of Commerce said: “We were delighted to hear at the Manufacturing Forum how Vent-Axia has returned manufacturing to the UK and invested in Sussex. It is very valuable for other Sussex manufacturers to witness the benefits that this initiative has brought to Vent-Axia and the wider community. Reshoring not only makes good sense for Sussex but also good business sense as Vent-Axia has shown.”

At the event Vent-Axia explained that another benefit of moving manufacturing back to the UK is the company no longer needs to hold high levels of stock in its warehouse to anticipate demand. This stock reduction has reduced Vent-Axia’s working capital by approximately £250k.

As well as investing in the local economy Vent-Axia’s commitment to British manufacturing has seen the company further investing in UK logistics which has helped lower the embodied

energy of products by reducing carbon emissions.

On the environmental front the UK location has reduced the embodied energy in Vent-Axia’s products by lowering transport emissions. Up to 15 Tonnes of CO2 emissions is avoided each year since reshoring due to the reduction in international shipping.

Headquartered in Crawley, West Sussex and with almost 80 years as an influential industry leader, Vent-Axia continues to set the standard in controlling the flow of fresh air, its temperature, humidity and cleanliness. Each year the company supplies air management solutions for over half a million installations across the residential, commercial and industrial sectors in the UK and around the World.

Jenny Smith

november/december 2015 business edge

38 new members

Welcome to Sussex Chamber of Commerce Membership of Sussex Chamber of Commerce can help you increase profits, get the best from your people and find new clients. Also, it saves you money, gets your voice heard and puts you in contact with even more businesses.

Autowise Tyre & Autocentres Ltd 51 Victoria Road, Victoria Road Industrial Estate, Burgess Hill, West Sussex RH15 9LH 01444 242495 www.autowise.co.uk Azur at The Marina Pavilion Marina Pavilion, St. Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex TN38 0BU 0845 8121066 Best Solution Consultancy Ltd Brockfield, Durfold Wood, Plaistow, Billingshurst West Sussex RH14 0PL 01483 200993 www.best-solution.co.uk

Creative Leasing Ltd 17 Withypitts East, Turners Hill, West Sussex RH16 4PL

07946 284256 www.businesspulse.org.uk

01892 710727 www.creativeleasing.co.uk

CfBT Education Trust 1580 Parkway, Solent Business Park, Whiteley Fareham, Hampshire PO15 7AG

Delta Tooling (Horsham) Ltd 3 Prime Buildings, Daux Road, Billingshurst, West Sussex RH14 9SJ

01329 559170 www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

01403 780468 www.deltatooling.co.uk

Channel Graphic Communication Ltd 45 Graham Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN11 1TL

Digital Davidson 9 Beech Hurst Close, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 4AE

01903 250025 www.channelgraphic.com

Business Image Limited Cable Point, Manor Gate, Manor Royal, Crawley, West Sussex RH10 9SX 01293 605525

contact

Business Pulse 1st Floor, Carfax, 7-8 Stirling Buildings, Horsham West Sussex RH12 1DR

Cornerstone Management Services Ltd 20a Picton House, Hussar Court, Waterlooville, Hampshire PO7 7SQ 0844 846 0955 www.cornerstone-ltd.co.uk/services-floodrestoration/

07990 970 194 www.digitaldavidson.co.uk Enigma Health & Safety Ltd 1-9 Barton Road, Betchley, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK2 3HU 01908 299202

SUSSEX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 01444 259 259 www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk

november/december 2015 business edge

new members 39 Foundry Press Ltd Unit A, Foundry Lane, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 5PX

Juno Wealth Management 1B Stairbridge Court, Stairbridge Lane, Bolney, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH17 5PA

People at Work 38 Robertson Road, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 5NJ

01403 216120 www.foundry-press.co.uk

01444 237820 www.junowealth.co.uk

07788 269409

GCS Engineering Ltd Unit 2, Monks Gate Garage, Brighton Road, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 6JD

K B A Commercial Property Consultants c/o The Beehive City Place, Beehive Ring Road, Crawley, West Sussex RH6 0PA

01403 891060 www.gcsengineering.com Guevara 3A Auction Rooms, 28 Gloucester Steet, Brighton BN1 4EP 07887 871007 www.guevara.co.uk Harwoods of Gatwick Manor Road, Crawley, West Sussex RH10 9PY 08442 478950 www.harwoods.crawley.jaguar.co.uk Independent Heating & Cooling Unit 10 Apex Park, Diplocks Way, Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 3JU 01323 449000 www.hotice.co.uk Inspired You Bailey House, Bartelott Road, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1DQ 07740 643841 www.inspiredyou.co.uk Jing Advanced Massage & Training 28/29 Bond Street, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1RD 01273 628942 www.jingmassage.com

1293422202 www.kba-property.co.uk Lenmark Construction Antrim House, High Street, Handcross, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH17 6BN +44(0)1444220145 www.nugentgroup.co.uk Let’s Do Business Ltd Summerfields Business Centre, Bohemia Road, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 1EX 01424 205500 www.letsdobusinessgroup.co.uk Lyon HR 26 Beaconfield Villas, Brighton, East Susse BN1 6HD 07887840209 www.lyonhr.co.uk NABS - Peterhouse Peterhouse, Church St, Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex TN40 2HF 01424 730809 www.nabs.org PDP Electrical Services Ltd Unit 3, 55 Victoria Road, Burgess Hill, West Sussex RH15 9LH

Phoenix Engineering 2009 Ltd Unit 15 Blatchford Road, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 5QR 01403 269005 www.phoenixengineering2009.co.uk Preview Visual Communications Group 24 Victoria Way, Burgess Hill, West Sussex RH15 9NF 01444 810186 www.previewgroup.co.uk Sussex Mediation Alliance Alphacom House, 8a Oakhill Road, Horsham West Sussex RH13 5SB 01403 258900 www.westsussexmediation.org.uk Sylmasta Ltd Unit 1 Dales Yard, Lewes Road, Scaynes Hill, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH17 7PG 01444 831459 www.sylmasta.com Weald Technology Ltd 7 Olives Meadow, Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 1QY 01825 761890 www.weald-tech.co.uk Whitehawk FC The Enclosed Ground, East Brighton Park Wilson Avenue, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 5TS 01273601244

+44(0)1444 480444 www.pdpelectrical.co.uk

november/december 2015 business edge

40 diary

SUSSEX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NETWORKING EVENTS UKTI 1-2-1 Digital Adviser Clinics Date: Tuesday 10th November : 08:30 - 16:55 Venue: Sussex Chamber of Commerce, Burgess Hill Book a 45 minute one-to-one advisory meeting with UK Trade & Investment (UKTI)’s e-Exporting Digital Advisers to discover if you are making the most of your online presence to boost your international e-Commerce sales.

Export Week - Business Networking Breakfast Gateway to Egypt – Bilateral Trade & Investment Date: Wednesday 11th November : 08:00 10:30 Venue: Shoreham Airport, Shoreham-by-Sea Taher El Sherif from the Egyptian British Chamber of Commerce will provide an insight into Egypt’s economic background, most recent political developments and how this affects business with Egypt.

Additionally, he will provide some information on the Chamber and how we can assist businesses interested in Egypt.

Contact

PRIZE DRAW! - Launch of new BMW 7 Series – Evening Reception Date: Wednesday 18th November : 17:30 - 19:30 Venue: Chandlers Garage Ltd, Brighton

Business Networking Lunch Date: Tuesday 24th November : 12:00 - 14:30 Venue: The View Hotel, Eastbourne Come and join us for our Business Networking Lunch over a delightful 2 course meal with a refreshing drink on arrival.

Sussex Construction Forum Date: Wednesday 25th November : 08:00 10:30 Venue: Seaford Head Golf Club, Seaford Dianne Bowles, joint MD of Delta Green Environmental Design will present on the HQM, the new national quality mark from BRE designed to give people confidence that the new homes they are choosing to buy or rent are well designed, well built, and cost effective to run. Chris Tomlinson, the Rampion Development Manager from E.on, will be presenting an update on the construction of the Rampion Offshore Wind Farm.

Gala Dinner (PREMIER MEMBERS ONLY) Date: Friday 27th November : 18:30 - 23:55 Venue: Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club, East Grinstead Exclusive to our Premier Members - we are pleased to announce this year’s exciting guest speaker at the Premier Member Gala Dinner will be Gerald Ratner, CEO of Gerald Online.

After over 30 years in the jewellery business, Gerald Ratner is one of the most well-known and successful retailers of his generation. He is currently CEO of the UK’s largest online jewellery retail business Gerald Online.

Manufacturing Forum Date: Tuesday 8th December : 08:00 - 10:30 Venue: B & W Loudspeakers, Worthing Come and join us at our Manufacturing Forum - more details to follow.

If you would like to book a place onto any of the above events or would like information on membership, please visit our website www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk or call 01444 259 259

november/december 2015 business edge

diary 41

Business Networking Breakfast - Wills for Business People Date: Wednesday 9th December : 08:00 - 10:30 Venue: Felbridge Hotel, East Grinstead Join our guest speaker will be Fiona Dodd, Partner specialising in probate and inheritance tax law at Mayo Wynne Baxter.

Fiona will give an overview of legal and inheritance tax matters in relation to Wills, with specific emphasis on the particular issues for business people - looking at partnerships, sole traders and limited companies. Fiona will also cover what businesses need to do in the event of the death of a key individual.

Business & Education Summit Date: Thursday 10th December : 09:00 17:00 Venue: The BT Centre, London The British Chambers of Commerce is committed to ‘bridging the gap’ between business and education, increasing

collaboration between the business community and education providers – and improving young people’s transition from schools, colleges and universities into the workplace.

Festive Christmas Lunch Date: Tuesday 15th December : 12:00 - 14:30 Venue: Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa, Cuckfield We are getting into the festive spirit and would like to invite you to come along and join us at our Festive Christmas Lunch.

Business Women in Sussex Afternoon Tea & Spa Date: Tuesday 12th January : 14:30 - 19:00 Venue: Felbridge Hotel, East Grinstead

Business Networking Breakfast Date: Thursday 14th January : 08:00 - 10:30 Venue: Chichester Yacht Club, Chichester

Grow Your Connections Date: Wednesday 20th January : 08:00 10:00 Venue: Barnsgate Manor, Uckfield

Please look at our website to review the full list of exciting events

For all bookings and enquiries, please contact us in the following ways: Tel: 0844 37 595 50 | events@ sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk www.sussexchamberofcommerce. co.uk/events

Opportunity to sponsor a series of Events We are proud to offer you a wonderful opportunity to sponsor a series of events. These packages can be discussed separately with the Chamber.

Please give us a call on 01444 259 259 for more information november/december 2015 business edge

42 five minutes with...

business news

Phil Karn

Operations Director Bio Productions Ltd Inc Stapro 1. What was your first job and what was the pay packet?

My first job was mixing chemicals for a wedding photographers in Essex. If my memory serves me well, I earned approximately £60 per week.

2. What do you always carry with you to work?

A Swiss army knife – it lives on my keys. Whilst being a very handy tool in itself, it also means I rarely lose my keys.

3. What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

I would say the same as with most businesses. We are finding that suppliers are offering poorer quality products at cheaper prices. The problem with this is that the poorer products rarely do the job they are meant to and can lead to higher costs in the end.

4. If you were Prime Minister, what one thing would you change to help business?

In all honesty – nothing. From speaking to other people at networking events there seems to be a really positive feeling about things at the moment. We ourselves have noticed that sales are creeping up so why change what seems to be working?

5. What can you see from your office window?

Currently, a big green curtainsided lorry. The lorry is delivering 28 pallets of raw materials for us to turn into urinal blocks.

6. If you could do another job what would it be?

I wouldn’t change my job. It has taken me 30 years to find a job that I really enjoy and at the moment there is nothing I would rather do.

7. As a business person, what are your three main qualities?

Problem solving, the ability to remain calm and a sense of humour for when it all goes wrong.

8. What was your biggest mistake in business?

I have been fortunate (touch wood!); although I have not been in business for a long period of time, I can say at this moment that no real mistakes have been made. However, by the time these words make the magazine this may have changed!

9. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

You are never too old, nor too young to start your own business.

The right time for you is when you feel that you want to do it and have the determination to do your best.

10. Who do you admire most in business?

This is an easy one for me. I have followed this person from the start of his company to what his business is now - a brand leader.

This person started by filling tiny bottles of shaving oil at his kitchen table and progressed to having his products in the main supermarkets and chemists. Mr Will King founded King of Shaves and proves that determination can make you successful.

Be part of largest independent business survey in the UK, Q4 The Quarterly Economic Survey is the largest independent business survey in the UK and a significant economic indicator.

Top 5 reasons why you should take part in the biggest business survey of its kind: 1. It’s a leading indicator - often picking up big changes in the economy long before other surveys or official statistics.

2. The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee uses the QES as one of its key benchmarks when setting interest rates.

3. HM Treasury and the independent Office for Budget Responsibility use the QES to put together their forecasts for the UK’s economic performance.

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May I ask if you could spare two minutes to complete this online. We will ensure that the top line results of the survey will be shared with everyone who participates.

Please visit www.britishchambers.org.uk/qes to start the survey.

This survey closes at 5pm on 30th November 2015.

Results from Q3 can be seen www.economicsurvey.org.uk/ Many thanks for your participation. november/december 2015 business edge

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