Business Direction #5

Direction

Business

Networking and collaboration How to guarantee success in the daunting world of networking - page 24 Big Interview: Brendan Barber, General Secretary of the TUC- page 22/23 ÂŁ2.00 where sold

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce BD05.indd 1

January/February 2012 Issue 5 21/12/11 09:37:59

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Dir ect ion

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Contents d Networking an n collaboratio antee success How to guar world of in the daunting e 24 pag networking -

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First word

27 Destination Worcestershire

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Chamber news

37 Education

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Chamber news

39 Training

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Business news

40 Chamber events

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2012 January/February

Issue 5

hwchamber.co.uK Business Direction, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s 60 page, full colour bi-monthly publication. Designed and produced by business people for business people. Distributed to 6,000 businesses including selected retail outlets and Tesco stores across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

ediTor Kelly Betts 0845 641 1641 ext 213

kellyb@hwchamber.co.uk

ediTorial

15 Business news

44 Business news

16 International trade

47 Member benefits and solutions

19 Training planner

50 Business news

21 Policy

53 New members

22 Big Interview: Brendan Barber

55 Business news

24 Cover story: Networking

56 Business news

26 Conference Worcestershire

58 Movers and shakers

22 24

First word

businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk 0845 641 1641 ext 213

producTion & design Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2385 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

adVerTising Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2336 helen.gowland@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

FeaTure ediTors John Dean & Francis Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

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

WELCOME TO OUR FIRST ISSUE FOR 2012 Looking back at 2011, there have been some great business achievements in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, I would like to reflect on those for a moment. H Weston & Sons and Malvern Instruments who won first and second place, at the national BCC awards, for Excellence in People Development and Achievement in International Trade. Herefordshire and Worcestershire were well represented at the awards as three other companies also got through to the finals after winning the West Midlands awards. The other finalists were Magic Whiteboard, Viezu and Worcester, Bosch. On the same evening, the Chamber also had an excellent finish to the year winning the Worcestershire Ambassador Awards in the category for Workplace and People Development.

In this edition we are focussing on networking and collaboration, important to any business seeking to grow. As a Chamber we organise over 200 events per year ranging from breakfast networking events across the two counties to much larger events such as the two expos, the Chamber awards and international events such as the eXport factor. Planning is underway on our next 12 month programme of events, with some exciting new additions. Preparation is underway for the Herefordshire Expo which will be held at the Hereford Leisure Centre on Wednesday 21 March. For more information see page 42. Businesses can view and book Chamber events online.

Collaboration is also important to the Chamber; we work with many partners such as Herefordshire and Worcestershire County Councils, and the 6 District Councils in Worcestershire. We also have very strong links with a range of stakeholders who work with us to provide businesses with support, including VisitEngland as part of the developments of Visit Worcestershire, universities, colleges and the National Apprenticeship Service.

At the end of last year we also launched our new website. We have had some excellent feedback and I would like to thank all of our internal staff who have contributed to it and importantly thank Nexus Creative who designed and created the site.

I hope you enjoy this edition and I look forward to meeting you at one of our many networking opportunities over the next couple of months. mikea@hwchamber.co.uk

Our Patrons are:

November/December 2011 Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Chamber News HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WIN CSR AWARD Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce have been awarded the Worcestershire Ambassador’s Corporate Social Responsibility Award 2011 for Workplace and People.

The Ambassadors announced the winners at a glittering ceremony on Thursday 24 November at the Sixway’s Stadium. The awards are in their second year and have been designed to celebrate and reward the success of Worcestershire businesses for their ongoing commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility. The Workplace and People category was judged on workplace initiatives, employee support and companies that go beyond the legal minimum requirement.

Phil Dutton, Chairman of Worcestershire Ambassadors said: “Being able to recognise and applaud these champions of our community, many of whom have too often gone unrecognised is very important. CSR is vital for the future of our community, and Worcestershire businesses showed that they understand and value everything about CSR.”

LEDBURY BUSINESS WINS TOP BUSINESS AWARD Family-owned H Weston and Sons Ltd have picked up the Award for Excellence in People Development at the Chamber Awards hosted by the British Chambers of Commerce, which were created to celebrate the UK’s most successful businesses.

Westons were praised by judges for its introduction of the Westons Academy to help develop its staff.

The firm recognises the need to ‘grow its own’ people to ensure it has the necessary skill set to take the business on into the future.

Malvern Instruments also came second in the category of Achievement in International Business. Other finalists included; Magic Whiteboard, Viezu and Worcester, Bosch Group.

Mike Ashton, Chief Executive of Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce said: “After winning both the local and regional awards this national recognition highlights the quality of businesses we have in our two counties. This is a real achievement for all the businesses that reached the final they should be really proud of their achievement.”

TWO COUNTIES FEATURE HEAVILY ON THE LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY ROUTE Over twenty communities in Herefordshire and Worcestershire have been chosen to play host to the Olympic Torch Relay.

Communities that the torch will visit include; Ledbury, Bartestree, Lugwardine, Hereford, Leominster Ross-on-Wye, Far Forest, Callow Hill, Bewdley, Kidderminster, Droitwich Spa, Fernhill Heath, Worcester, Powick, Malvern, Malvern Wells, Redditch, Ashwood Bank, Evesham, Wickhamford and Broadway which have been announced by the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) through which the Olympic Flame will be carried by Torchbearers during the London 2012

Olympic Torch Relay which is presented by Coca-Cola, Lloyds TSB and Samsung.

LOCOG has worked closely with representatives from a number of sectors in Herefordshire and Worcestershire to devise the route. David Moorcroft, West Midlands for 2012 Chair said: “What fantastic news for the residents of Herefordshire and Worcestershire. We encourage communities to start thinking now about how they will celebrate as the Olympic Torch Relay, a once in a lifetime experience for many of us, signals the approach of the London 2012 Olympic Games.”

The Torch Relay is a unique occasion and local residents and businesses are encouraged to join in the celebrations. Further information will appear in the next edition of Business Direction with suggestions of how businesses can join in.

DO YOU WANT FUNDING FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

Details of a range of funding opportunities and grants available to businesses can be found at www.hwchamber.co.uk/funding-finder.aspx 04

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Business News

NEW STRATEGIC MEMBER: STANFORD MARSH GROUP Stanford Marsh Group are delighted to have become a strategic member of the Chamber following their sponsorship of the Chamber’s Manufacturing Forum.

The Warndon based company has been in business since 1965 and has over the years expanded their operations across the UK with offices in Bristol, Derby, Swansea and more recently Belfast and Scotland.

Specialising in wide format printing equipment and consumables the business has expanded its operations to include Cadpsec, an AutoDesk CAD vendor and training centre along with a more broad approach to their customers general office needs.

NEW STRATEGIC MEMBER OF HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND DESTINATION WORCESTERSHIRE: ELIM CONFERENCE CENTRE Elim Conference Centre is ideally located in the picturesque Malvern Hills. With its unspoilt beauty and stunning scenery, the site is perfect for residential or day conferences, training events, short breaks and holiday weeks.

The centre has been refurbished to a high standard and offers fully equipped conference/meeting rooms, a private informal coffee lounge and a 240 seat theatre.

All bedrooms are en suite, beautifully decorated and welcome you with a selection of tea/coffee and biscuits. Linen, towels and complimentary toiletries are provided and free internet access and twenty channel television is also available.

www.stanfordmarsh.co.uk

Throughout the year the centre can accommodate up to 41 residential guests and between mid June and late September this rises to a maximum occupancy of 130.

Elim Conference Centre offers excellent dining facilities and provides great food catering for many tastes. Fine dining and banqueting options are available for group events.

Outside there are thirty acres of stunning grounds to explore, ideal for team building, group exercises and summer events. Extensive woodlands, sports pitches, a hard court and heated outdoor swimming pool also form part of this beautiful site.

Bed and breakfast prices are from as little as £33 pppn, and conference day delegate rates are from £20 pp.

Email Ecc.enquiries@elimhq.net or call 01684 588967 www.elim.org.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Originally only concentrating on Drawing Office environments, the company formed a commercial office division offering photocopiers and general stationery needs ten years ago. Chamber members can benefit from increased discounts on office supplies by registering on the Stanford Marsh online stationery store or for photocopiers by contacting the company directly on info@stanfordmarsh.co.uk

The business direction themes FOR 2012 are: March/April Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing May/June

Accessing Funding and Finance

July/August Sport and Leisure Sept/Oct

Human Resources

Nov/Dec

Business Growth

If you have any press releases or articles please send them to businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk

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Whether you need a single desk or a complete office Script provides the solution Vale Office Interiors Limited Unit 4 Vale Link, Millennium Way,Vale Business Park, Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 1GL T: 01386 442244 E: sales@valeofficeinteriors.co.uk www.valeofficeinteriors.co.uk Office Furniture Space Planning and Design

www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk St Michael’s Hospice would like to invite businesses and individuals to engage with them in their special gift campaign for the re-development of their buildings and environment. This necessary project will ensure the ability of the Hospice to continue to respond to the future needs of people in Herefordshire and immediate surrounding counties.

The public appeal for funds will not start until sufficient funds have been raised from major donations, trust and grants, so that the ask from our already highly supportive community feels realistic and achievable. A significant amount has already been designated or promised through these sources and your help is needed to progress us through the next stages.

As a business or individual, there are bespoke opportunities to fund parts of the new and refurbished buildings and landscape, in part or as a whole, or for you to act as ambassadors on our behalf to secure funding for these.

Recognition of sponsorship and donations is possible through the naming of specific sites, which include areas for Inpatient care, Day Care and Inreach services, therapies, education, support of children, bereavement, catering or the carefully landscaped environment.

This project will produce a cutting edge, energy efficient and environmentally friendly environment which reects with extraordinary sensitivity, the special services that we deliver to our communities. It will also help to ensure the delivery and sustainability of services into the future.

Above all, your contribution could make a significant and real difference to the lives of people living with progressive life-limiting conditions and to their families and carers.

If you would like to be part of this worthwhile and meaningful journey, please contact Nicky West, Chief Executive or Ruth Denison, Head of Fundraising on 01432 851000 or rdenison@st-michaels-hospice.org.uk

Registered Charity Number 511179. 01432 851000. www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk 06

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Business News GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT – UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER With unemployment figures on the rise and more graduates leaving university without a job the University of Worcester continues its campaign to help boost graduate employment in the region. With their flagship Salaried Graduate Internship Scheme in its third year they are currently looking to match more graduates than in previous years with employers across the West Midlands. They have a pool of graduates waiting to be matched with employers, including business, marketing, digital design and IT graduates. The university will help you with an initial shortlist, then its up to you to interview and select your own employee. They also offer the Work Based Learning qualification (which is optional) which you can use as an opportunity for your employee to work on a project set by you under the guidance and support of the University.

So, are you eligible for the scheme: •Are you based in West Midlands?

•Are you an SME with less than 250 employees?

If you answered yes to the above and are interested in taking on a graduate and injecting some fresh new talent into your workplace, then get in touch Laura Lewis, Graduate Internship & Employment Co-ordinator, Laura.lewis@worc.ac.uk 01905 855354

MIDLANDS TO GAIN 1,078 HOMES AS PART OF £125 MILLION DEAL The construction industry in Herefordshire and Worcestershire is set for a boost following the announcement of a four-year agreement between Sanctuary Group and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

Thanks to support of nearly £29 million from the HCA, Sanctuary will invest £125 million in the Midlands, constructing over 1,000 affordable homes and creating numerous job and training opportunities. This forms part of a wider investment from the HCA of almost

£90 million nationally, which will expand Sanctuary’s housing development programme by £500 million and see the construction of more than 3,600 homes across England over the next four years.

Sanctuary will use the HCA’s considerable cash injection to deliver a range of rented and shared ownership accommodation to meet locally identified needs and priorities, including extra care apartments, supported schemes, rural housing and large family homes. www.sanctuary-housing.co.uk

www.worcester.ac.uk

WORCESTER ACCOUNTANTS JOIN M5 LEADERS Rabjohns has completed its merger with Bishop Fleming to create a spread of offices up the M5 corridor from Cornwall to the Midlands.

Rabjohns LLP’s 26 staff has now joined the growing Bishop Fleming network to become Bishop Fleming Rabjohns. This move adds Worcester to Bishop Fleming’s existing offices in Bristol, Cardiff and throughout the South West.

capital market fundraising, and corporate finance. It also provides access to one of the country’s largest business recovery teams, and to Bishop Fleming Independent Financial Advisers.” www.bishopflemingrabjohns.co.uk

Explaining the move, Rabjohns’ Ian Smith, said: “Our decision to join Bishop Fleming is a natural progression of the close working relationship between our two firms over the last decade. We have both shared active membership of the Kreston International network of independent accountancy firms over many years, and Rabjohns already used the Bishop Fleming payroll services for many of our clients.

The merger provides Rabjohns’ clients with the specialist skills and services of the enlarged firm, including expertise in high level VAT, international tax,

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Left to right: Bishop Fleming’s Managing Partner, Matthew Lee, with former Rabjohns’ partners, David Cornelius and Ian Smith.

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Business News

WHAT AN OPPORTUNITY, AND WHAT A SUCCESS!

REGIONAL ACCOUNTANTS OFFER SUPPORT IN FACE OF ADVERSITY With improvement in the UK economy looking unlikely in early 2012, Crowther Beard LLP is advising businesses to put preparations in place to ensure their companies retain stability and offers advice on how to recognise and take advantage of any opportunities that do arise.

The Opportunity China conference held in Worcester on Wednesday 2 November gave Worcestershire businesses the chance to learn and understand more about trading with China.

Six steps to survival and success: What’s more, its attendance by Mr Zhao Lei, First Secretary of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China demonstrated the Chinese’s strong commitment to developing its links with Worcestershire.

The conference was organised by the Worcestershire Ambassadors, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, the Worcestershire Chinese Association and Worcestershire County Council and was held at the King’s School, Worcester. Keynote speakers, including Mr Lei, covered practical topics which were geared to assisting local businesses with developing trade with China. Mark Garnier MP officially opened the conference. Speakers included link-global (language teaching experts) who even taught the delegates a few introductory words of Mandarin.

• When making difficult decisions show some tenacity and never give up!

Phil Dutton (Worcestershire Ambassadors) with Mr Zhao Lei First Secretary of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China and Mark Garnier MP

Link-global is offering interested parties a week’s free tuition in Mandarin.

To find out more email ceo@link-global.com quoting ‘Opportunity China.’ www.worcestershireambassadors.com

CLEAN TEAM HELP NURSERY GAIN ‘OUTSTANDING’ STATUS A cleaning company in Malvern has shown how having professionally cleaned and maintained facilities can bring business success.

• Review your business model and be prepared to revise it if necessary.

• Being able and willing to adapt to the changes in the market place.

• Awareness and energy are also very important.

• Make use of a coach or mentor as a sounding board.

• Harness and exploit the opportunities that social media offers. Ignore it at your peril!

Underpinning the six steps to survival and success is the necessity to segment your target market precisely. A sustained contact strategy, strong sales process and superb service delivery will then result in client advocacy (in the form of recommendations and referrals) that in turn will result in you meeting your business objectives. www.crowtherbeard.com

Tulip Cleaning is the contract cleaners for Little Oaks Day Nursery, which is also located in the town.

Following a recent and unanticipated OFSTED inspection, the nursery was delighted to be given an ‘outstanding’ rating – the highest possible standard that can be awarded.

Tulip Cleaning Director, Melanie Baker said: “Our aim is to meet our client’s needs and their customer’s expectations. No parent would leave their child at an unhygienic nursery and at Little Oaks they stipulate a very high standard of cleanliness which we maintain.

“Little Oak’s OFSTED award sets them apart from their competitors and shows the business case for employing a well-renowned, professional cleaning company.” www.tulipmalvern.co.uk

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Crowther Beard Managing Member, John Painter.

January/February 2012

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HRH THE DUKE OF KENT PRESENTS QUEEN’S AWARD TO MALVERN INSTRUMENTS On 27 October 2011, HRH The Duke of Kent visited Malvern Instruments to present the company with the 2011 Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the category of International Trade.

During a tour of the Malvern Instruments’ facility the Royal Party were briefed about the company, its history and future plans. They also met staff and saw examples of products and operations. This included a demonstration of the new award-winning Mastersizer 3000 particle size analyzer. His Royal Highness then made a formal presentation of the Queen’s Award to Paul Walker, Managing Director of Malvern Instruments.

Managing Director, Paul Walker commented: “It is a great pleasure to receive this award, it really is a tribute to the talent and dedication of Malvern teams throughout the world that even in challenging economic times we continue to grow our business both in our established and in emerging markets.”

HRH The Duke of Kent presents the 2011 Queen’s Award for Enterprise to Paul Walker (left), Managing Director of Malvern Instruments

HARRISON CLARK LAUNCHES EXPERT EMPLOYMENT AND HR TEAM County businesses needing sound legal advice on areas of often complex employment law can now take advantage of a new, specialist team at one of the leading solicitor firms in the Midlands.

Harrison Clark has introduced a new team of experts specialising in employment and human resources law.

The 13-strong team, headed by specialist employment law barrister, Jennifer Jones, is one of the largest specialist employment and HR teams in the Midlands and acts for employers of all sizes, nationwide. With expertise in advising employers across a range of sectors including public and private health and social care, education, local Government, manufacturing, logistics, construction and retail, across all contentious and non-contentious legal topics, the new department expands Harrison Clark’s growing Business Services Department, offering even more specialist legal advice for businesses across the country. www.harrison-clark.co.uk

www.materials-talks.com

OAKLAND INTERNATIONAL WINS BEST LOGISTICS AT CHECKOUT NATIONAL FMCG AWARDS Oakland International recently won the award for Best Logistics at this year’s Checkout National FMCG Awards 2011.

The awards, held in association with the Irish Daily Mail, are designed to recognise best practice in sales, marketing, sponsorship and advertising and examined areas such as new product development, best-in–class merchandising and sales support, as well as innovation in advertising, marketing and sponsorship by both retailers and suppliers.

Oakland International are relishing their win in Ireland against a strong field of competitors. Oakland International Ireland secured the title Best Logistics Provider/ Third Party Distributor and were chosen by a panel of judges that included some of Ireland’s best retailers.

Oakland International Ireland’s General Manager Richard Hill stated: “We are absolutely delighted and thrilled to be acknowledged in this way. Winning the Best Logistics Award is testament to all the hard work and dedication our team continues to put in to this business and the levels of service that we are able to deliver.”

David Vaz of Associated Newspapers congratulates General Manager Richard Hill of Oakland International

www.oakland-international.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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The new Employment Team

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Opportunity Knocks………………Can’t See the Wood for the Trees?

‘In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.’ ALBERT EINSTEIN At Inside Out we guide people through a powerful learning experience that will improve every aspect of your business. By developing people your business will grow and prosper.

Pat Gwynne, Director of Inside Out, Ludlow, understands that in this current climate most companies are fighting the same battles: • Resources stretched too thinly

People are the greatest asset of any business and yet very few companies will develop the person within.

• Employees unmotivated • Sales decreasing • Lack of focus • Struggling to survive in a weakening economy Inside Out is a professional leadership and development company, dedicated to helping businesses and individuals succeed regardless of the economy or circumstances. More knowledge, more skills and more information is not necessarily the answer.

• Leap out of the ordinary and change the way you think • Unlock potential, talents and abilities – currently lying dormant within • Deal with the root cause of results, not just the symptoms

Staff that are fully engaged and enjoy what they do, can accelerate a company from surviving to thriving and beyond. Pat Gwynne has the experience, knowledge and resources to make this happen for you, regardless of how large or small your business.

Pat can show you how to take the knowledge your people have already gathered and put it to work – increasing productivity, efficiency, morale, collaboration, turnover, profit, focus, creativity, innovation……

“When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”

Contact Pat for an open discussion. Take control of your circumstances and stop your circumstances from controlling you. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Pat Gwynne, Director of Inside Out

If you wait it could be too late……

0845 3930 295 pat@begininsideout.com

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Then contact me Phil Brown Tel: 01886 821302 • Mob: 07769 614021 Email: phil@philbrownconsultancy.co.uk

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Opportunity Knocks The past few years have been some of the more challenging to the UK economy that we have witnessed. In tough times, it is important to make the most out of every opportunity that presents itself. Furthermore, those who really succeed in torrid conditions are those who make opportunities for themselves.

Ballard Dale Syree Watson LLP, one of Worcestershire leading firms of Chartered Accountants, has had an enviable year of success.

There has been a real desire, from the agribusiness side of the firm’s portfolio, for regular technical based seminars. This was an opportunity to share our expertise with the sector and to support a sector in which the firm has deep seeded roots.

We have seen many companies looking to move away from the ‘Big 4’ accountancy firms, seeking the same technical expertise but at a more competitive rate. The firm has taken this opportunity and engaged with an unusually high number of new audit clients this year.

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Left to right - James Syree, Bill Ballard, Jeremy Syree (Partners BDSW), Douglas Dale (Consultant BDSW)

With the retirement of Douglas Dale, Partner at Ballards, the firm took the opportunity to promote James Syree (ICAEW Accountant of the Year 2011) to Partner. Mr Syree has a strong history of success in both the SME and OMB sectors. Mr Dale continues to be a consultant to the firm.

If you would to explore new opportunities or even to make the most out of your existing ones, please feel free to contact us for an informal chat.

+44 1905 794 504 www.ballardsca.com Oakmoore Court, Kingswood Road, Hampton Lovett, Droitwich, Worcs, WR9 0QH

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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                    

Business News

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OUTLOOK 2012: FOCUS ON FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT Nationally business confidence has remained at levels similar to those in 2010 according to the Baker Tilly Outlook 2012 survey.

Across the West Midlands, however, 61% of respondents were positive about the outlook for their own business with 73% expecting to maintain or increase sales. Over half also anticipate that operating profit (59%) and headcount (54%) will be sustained or increased.

The key strategies that businesses stated as their focus for the year ahead are risk and financial management and cost cutting. Over 75% of businesses in the West Midlands have yet to introduce risk management procedures and as a result improving internal processes and systems is a top priority for 2012, particularly managing credit control and implementing and monitoring more stringent risk registers.

possible. In managing both their risk and financial exposure they are mitigating against the possible impact of failing suppliers or customers.”

This year’s survey also revealed a sense of satisfaction with regards to current sources of finance with over 75% of companies questioned believing their main bank had met all or most of their business needs.

However, when it comes to raising finance there are only a handful of companies looking to do so, with half planning to go down the traditional route rather than exploring other alternatives such as asset based lending or private equity funding. www.bakertilly.co.uk

Commenting on the findings, Kate Reid, Managing Partner for Baker Tilly in Hereford said: “Businesses across the West Midlands have spent many months streamlining their businesses to ensure they are operationally efficient and carrying as little debt as

The judges named the firm the winner from a shortlist comprising Freshfields, Herbert Smith, Rosenblatt Solicitors, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom and Taylor Wessing.

The award recognised the Antitrust team’s involvement in the Office of Fair Trading’s biggest-ever UK competition case, concerning ‘cover pricing’ in the construction industry.

TRUST EXPANDING TO HELP NEIGHBOURING COMMUNITIES Last November marked the fifth anniversary of the Kingspan Insulation Community Trust’s formation. Since then, the Trust has given thousands of pounds to help organisations within the Parishes of Shobdon, Pembridge, Kingsland and Sherburn-in-Elmet (N Yorks). This money has helped to promote the Trust’s four main aims: physical recreation for young people; ecology; bio-diversity and road safety.

Kingspan are delighted with the variety of ways in which the money has been used to improve the local quality of life. This has included everything from supporting the Arrowvale Environment Group, purchasing equipment for youth sport, to the creation of wildlife areas. From 2012, projects within the catchment areas of Wigmore High School, Lady Hawkins’ School, Earl Mortimer College and Tenbury High School will be able to apply for funding.

Kate Reid

WRAGGE & CO NAMED LITIGATION AND REGULATORY TEAM OF THE YEAR Wragge & Co has been crowned ‘Litigation and Regulatory Team of the Year’ at the 2011 British Legal Awards.

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The changes will mean that the Trust remains a strong supporter of, and contributor towards, local projects, and the Trustees are looking forward to seeing a whole range of fresh and exciting applications for funding this year. www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk

Organised by Legal Week, the British Legal Awards celebrate the achievements of firms, teams and individuals in the legal profession. The Litigation and Regulatory Team of the Year category was judged on evidence of legal expertise and innovation, project management skills, team working and client satisfaction. www.wragge.com Trustees of the Kingspan Insulation Community Trust pour over a map of the local area and discuss the extension of the Trust.

                     

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 January/February 2012

21/12/11 09:39:23

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TOWN PLANNING CONSULTANTS Here to help you gain success; Planning Negotiations l Planning Applications l Planning Appeals l Local Development Framework Representations l Solutions to Enforcement Actions Malcolm Scott consultants are a professional company dedicated to giving clients, experienced service in all development planning matters. The Company has been established over 25 years and has carried out a wide range of projects throughout the UK, and internationally.

Planning is undergoing considerable change and there is an opportunity to be involved and influence this change. The Localism Act has recently gained Royal Assent, and The Government is also preparing a National Planning Policy Framework, which aims to simplify the planning system. The much hailed presumption in favour of sustainable development is at the heart of this document and Malcolm Scott Consultants are keen to help promote development which accords with, and utilises the Government’s position.

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10/10/2011 14:30:56

At the sub regional level Malvern Hills District Council, Wychavon District Council and Worcester City Council are preparing the South Worcestershire Development Plan which will shape the region up until 2030. Herefordshire Council has re-consulted on its Core Strategy and other authorities in the area are at varying stages of plan preparation. These are exciting time with regards planning the future of our area, and we are always willing to discuss projects which improve our surroundings.

We offer a full range of planning services including: Site masterplanning; Undertaking site assessments, including planning and feasibility appraisals; Pre-application advice; Submitting and negotiating applications and related consents; Preparing, submitting and handling planning appeals and appearing at inquiries; Making development plan representations; Planning-related research; Retail Impact Assessments; Acting as Expert Witnesses; Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments; Dealing with Enforcement Proceedings; Certificates of Lawfulness; Advising on all planning matters;

If you have plans for future development or require assistance with planning matters, we would be pleased to discuss them with you. For further information please call Paul Barton 01905 726 353 or visit www.malcolmscottcons.co.uk

Tel: 01905 726 353 inmail@malcolmscottcons.co.uk www.malcolmscottcons.co.uk 013

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January/February 2012

21/12/11 09:39:34

Business News

HEWETT RECRUITMENT’S COMMUNITY PROJECTS Hewett Recruitment were delighted to sponsor the Worcestershire Ambassadors CSR Workplace and Staff Award 2011. Many congratulations to the winners - Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

Stallard March & Edwards’ Practice Manager Dawn Hobbs and Managing Partner Ian Stirzaker.

IT INVESTMENT SUPPORTS GROWTH Stallard March & Edwards Solicitors has made a six figure investment in a new IT infrastructure which went live recently.

The new infrastructure includes a new computer system throughout the firm together with new servers and new practice management software.

The investment comes as a result of the merger at the beginning of 2011, which saw Stallard March & Edwards become one of Worcestershire’s largest legal firms, with the need for this larger, enhanced IT infrastructure.

Ian Stirzaker, Managing Partner at Stallard March & Edwards comments: “It is intended that the new system will further improve our overall responsiveness and speed of document production. It will also open up other methods of continually improving the way in which we provide our services. It is an exciting and positive indication of the growth and future growth of Stallard March & Edwards.” www.smesolicitors.co.uk

CHARLEY BOORMAN – LIVE AT ARTRIX, BROMSGROVE

The Worcestershire Community Foundation launched the 100 Club at Bishops Palace on Thursday 17 November.

Louise Hewett, Director and Trustee said: “Our list of members is growing, we’ve made a great start with local businesses such as English Mutual, Malvern Instruments, BOSCH and Community Housing Group signing up to pledge £1000 plus per year for 3 years to go directly to fund worthy projects in the Worcestershire area.

For more information contact

louise@hewett-recruitment.co.uk

Charley Boorman regaled a sell-out crowd at Bromsgrove’s Artrix Arts Centre with tales of his Hollywood upbringing and worldwide travel escapades on his current live tour.

The actor, writer and motorcyclist chatted about growing up as the son of acclaimed director, John Boorman, including appearing in the Oscar-winning film “Deliverance” at the age of 5 and being stopped by the Los Angeles police with Lee Marvin clinging to the roof of the family car.

Charley went on to talk about his motorcycle adventures with Ewan McGregor and other travels, including some previously unseen video footage and some classic scenes including the guitar-andKalashnikov-toting Igor and the dubious delights of Mongolian testicle soup.

The evening was rounded off by a lively question and answer session with the audience. www.artrix.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

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21/12/11 09:39:37

International Trade

EXPRESS IS BEST Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce are urging all exporters to utilise the express service for their European Community Certificates of Origin.

The e-z cert website enables exporters to obtain certified export documents online. The advantages of processing documents in this manner are that it allows your documents to be certified and printed within a day, saving you time, money and resources.

As of 4 January 2012 there will be a supplementary charge of £1 for every standard European Community Certificate of Origin printed by the Chamber of Commerce to cover the printing and postage costs. The additional charge will not be incurred for EUR1, ATR or Arab-British Certificate of Origin documents due to specific country guidelines.

BOOST FOR EXPORT COMPANIES FROM AUTUMN STATEMENT and identify the appropriate trade fairs.

In the Autumn Statement, the Chancellor of Exchequer announced an additional £45 million funding for UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) over the next three years which will come into effect from early 2012.

The funding will enable UKTI to help more companies to trade overseas and grow globally. There are plans to have an increased number of trade advisors, and an extension on export support programmes from small firms to medium-sized firms.

More businesses will be able to access programmes such as Passport to Export, which is designed to get firms new to export to start selling overseas. The programme allocates a trade advisor to a company who links into UKTI’s network in around 100 countries to help identify the appropriate markets, find the right people to talk to within these markets, set up meetings

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Funds will also be used for Gateway to Global Growth, a programme for experienced exporters that can encourage them to expand to high growth markets such as those in Asia, Africa and Latin America.

The expansion of these programmes will enable many more medium-sized businesses to access this support.

There is also the option to produce electronic certification of other original documentation.

There are two options available to the users:

opTion 1 print an electronic certification stamped pdf copy of the original document.

opTion 2 print the electronic certification stamp directly onto your original document.

For further assistance on the express service and printing your original documents please refer to the e-zcert online tutorial or contact Sandy Wright email:sandyw@hwchamber.co.uk or Lucy Walters email: lucyw@hwchamber.co.uk for assistance.

Eric Brown, Director of the UKTI International Trade team at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is great news and a real boost for the International Trade Service supplied to assist our local companies to trade internationally.

This will build on the work we have completed over a number of years and help us to reach out to even more companies.”

If you would like support making your export dreams a reality please contact the UKTI Team on 0845 641 1641 or email

internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk

January/February 2012

21/12/11 09:39:39

2012 - More Development in Central Europe Bratislava and Brno!

Following the Export Factor Event in October, the Chamber’s International Trade Team have continued developing opportunities in new Central European markets. The Chamber’s advisors travelled to Bratislava in Slovakia and Brno in the Czech Republic in December to meet with leading business organisations. International trade opportunities and how trading and networking can be created and improved for our local exporting businesses were the key topics for discussion.

Brno Chamber have a very active trade agenda - the area’s reputation and strength in the engineering and automotive sectors could create new technology development and collaboration for our West Midlands companies. Bratislava and other industrial centres in Slovakia have a developing interest in education and training, security products and services plus high value luxury good, all opportunities the Chamber is looking to explore in 2012.

Access to both of these markets is easy from the UK with good low cost air options plus adding to the territory with short rail links to Vienna and Budapest - making the central European market stronger and more attractive for UK exporters to gain even greater sales volumes.

The International Trade Team at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is hoping to take a trade visit to the markets in 2012 - if you’d like to discuss options for your company and how the Chamber could support you please call Linda Smith or Paul Thompson for more information 0845 641 1613 or email pault@hwchamber.co.uk

WEST MIDLANDS SMALL FIRMS URGED TO ‘EXPORT FOR GROWTH’ Competition launched to find region’s best new export

develop their pitch presentation and time with a UKTI International Trade Adviser.

Innovative small firms across the West Midlands are being encouraged to show they’ve got what it takes to ‘export for growth’ by entering a new competition run

by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI).

To find out more about the Export for Growth Prize and download an entry form, visit www.ukti.gov.uk/exportingforgrowthprize

The new ‘Exporting for Growth’ prize was officially launched by the Prime Minister and Lord Green, Minister for Trade and Investment. The competition aims to encourage more small businesses to take their products to overseas markets by offering a comprehensive package of support to the company with the best export idea. The winner will receive UKTI support worth £5000 and three grants for overseas travel to their target markets, plus expert business knowledge and insight from sponsor companies.

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the West Midlands have until Friday 13 January to submit their entry. Shortlisted companies will then be invited to present their big export idea to a live audience of business leaders and a judging panel who will then select the winning idea.

Bratislava in Slovakia

There will also be prizes for the second and third placed ideas, and all shortlisted companies will have access to professional mentoring support to

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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The Youth Sports Association is focused on benefitting the community by providing affordable football camps during the school holidays that enables parents to keep their children active whilst also developing their child’s passion for the game of football. This includes the opportunity for children to attend professional football matches.

The Youth Sports Association recognises the importance of working in the local community. This will be achieved by partnering with local football teams to operate football festivals as well as donating a percentage of camp income back to local clubs to help them maintain the excellent work that they carry out for the local community.

Providing opportunities for those with a passion for football to get involved and gain work experience is a key feature of our community coach scheme as well as the community young leader program, The Youth Sports Association will focus on developing grassroots football coaches to benefit the local community.

Telephone 01905 330040 info@youthsportsassociation.com www.youthsportsassociation.com January/February 2012

21/12/11 10:09:23

Training

training planner January Courses

March Courses

Effective Time Management Tuesday 10 January ......................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members

The Role of the Team Leader Monday 5 March.............................................. £150 Members / £188 Non Members

Book a place on one of the on-line marketing courses and receive 10% off any other course in this series

Dealing with Difficult People Tuesday 6 March . ............................................ £150 Members / £188 Non Members

Getting to Grips with Social Media (Introduction Session) Wednesday 11 January .................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members

IOSH Managing Safely (four day managers course) Tuesday 6 – Friday 9 March ............................. £495 Members / £595 Non Members

Introduction to Microsoft Excel (2007) Friday 13 January . ........................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members

Microsoft Word - Essential Skills for Office Staff Monday 12 March ........................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members

Internet Marketing - Creating Sales and Leads on-line (2 day course) Day one: Wednesday 18 January Day two: Wednesday 1 February ..................... £249 Members / £299 Non Members

Managing Performance in the Team Tuesday 13 March ........................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members

Intermediate Microsoft Excel (2007) Friday 20 January . ........................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members Sales & Account Management Monday 23 January ......................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members The Role of the Team Leader Wednesday 25 January.................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members

February Courses

PowerPoint for Presentations (2007) Friday 16 March . ............................................. £150 Members / £188 Non Members Train the Trainer Monday 19 March............................................ £150 Members / £188 Non Members Closing the deal Tuesday 20 March............................................. £150 Members / £188 Non Members Presentation Skills Wednesday 21 March ...................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members Getting the Most from Social media (Intermediate Session) Wednesday 28 March TBC................................ £150 Members / £188 Non Members

Internet Marketing - Creating Sales and Leads on-line (2 day course) Day one: Wednesday 18 January Day two: Wednesday 1 February ..................... £249 Members / £299 Non Members

Chartered Management Institute Courses (CMI)

Assertiveness and Confidence at Work Wednesday 8 February .................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members

Level 3 Qualification in First Line Management

CIEH Introduction to Health and Safety Thursday 9 February.......................................... £100 Members / £125 Non Members

Certificate ....................................................... £449 Members /£499 Non Members.

Diploma ........................................£1,349.10 Members / £1,499.00 Non Members

Internal Quality Auditor Training - ISO 9001 Standard Thursday 9 February ........................................ £150 Members / £188 Non Members

Level 5 Qualification in Management and Leadership

Advanced Microsoft Excel (2007) Friday 10 February ........................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members

Certificate ....................................................... £539 Members /£599 Non Members.

Diploma .........................................................£2,024.10 /£2,249.00 Non Members

Managing People in the Team Tuesday 14 February ........................................ £150 Members / £188 Non Members

Level 7 Qualification in Strategic Management and Leadership Cancelled Diploma only ................................ £2,924.10 Members / £3,249.00 Non members

Managing Appraisals in the Team Monday 27 February . ...................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members

Courses are running on a rolling basis now! Join at anytime

Courses are running on a rolling basis now! Join at anytime

Telesales Techniques Tuesday 28 February ........................................ £150 Members / £188 Non Members Finance Skills for Managers February 2012................................................... £150 Members / £188 Non Members

For ALL your training and development needs please contact Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Training: (T) 0845 641 1641 (E) training@hwchamber.co.uk (W) www.hwchamber.co.uk Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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21/12/11 09:39:48

ADVERTORIAL

WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL - OPEN FOR BUSINESS As part of its commitment to be ‘Open for Business’ Worcestershire County Council offers the following services to help businesses in the county: Finditinworcestershire acts as a match making service for Worcestershire businesses. If you are looking to buy something then let other Worcestershire businesses know by putting it on the Finditinworcestershire website. It then alerts those people who have registered in that sector, meaning you don’t have to go hunting for the best quotes.

Likewise you could be the recipient of an opportunity; dozens of public and private sector contracts and opportunities are listed on the website.

The Worcestershire Property Search provides a confidential, impartial and free service helping businesses find premises in the county through a current and comprehensive database of all employment land, industrial and commercial premises in Worcestershire.

Businesses moving into – or within – the county can search the database themselves online, or ask staff to manage their enquiry directly.

Finance Worcestershire is a free-to-search database of grants, loans, venture capital and other finance options to enable businesses to find out what financial assistance they could be entitled to. Search results are tailored to the individual company’s situation based on size, location, sector and need. All businesses – from sole traders to large corporations – can search the site.

For more information see:

Find it at www.worcestershirepropertysearch.co.uk

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For more information see ww.finditinworcestershire.com

For further business support information see www.worcestershire.gov.uk/business

The Aspen House Appeal To develop, enable and improve opportunities in all areas of life for people with a learning disability,their families and carers

Company No: 2720295 Registered Charity No: 1024904

Aspen House is a special development to enable truly independent living in Herefordshire for people who have combined learning and physical disabilities Aspire Living, a leading local charity, has set itself the fundraising target of £500,000 for the development of Aspen House. This exciting project will provide Herefordshire with 6 stateof-the-art flats, which will be home for up to 12 individuals to live independently with the support of assistive technologies.

Aspen House is a much needed development to meet a severe shortage of suitable accommodation for people with learning and physical disabilities. It needs your support. If you would like to contribute to this great local charity and such a significant local need - be it as individual, business, or organisation, please contact us on the details below.

For more information and to donate to the Aspen House Appeal please contact: Aspire Head Office Tel: 01432 269406, or email mail@aspirechoices.com Cheques made payable to Aspire Living Ltd Donate online at thebiggive.org.uk search Aspire Aspen House Registered office: Suite 4, Penn House, 9/10 Broad Street, Hereford, HR4 9AP Visit our website for all our services - www.aspirehereford.org.uk Find us on Facebook - search Aspire Living Ltd 020

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January/February 2012

21/12/11 09:39:53

Policy EMPLOYMENT LAW REFORMS Vince Cable, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, has announced a series of employment law reforms for consultation. The Business Secretary described the package of reforms as looking to bring ‘a culture that establishes dialogue rather than confrontation as the norm between employers and employees’.

There are over a dozen reforms for consultation, which include: • Compensated no fault dismissal for micro firms with less than 10 employees • Measures to slim down and simplify existing dismissals processes • Overhaul of employment tribunals, with introduction of fees for employees looking to claim • Reduction in the 90-day consultation period for collective redundancies The package will retain key protections for employees, but also fundamentally improve the way employers take people on and manage disputes, giving greater flexibility and confidence to recruit.

It is likely that a process of mediation between the two parties will become a vital part of employee relations.

The announcement follows the Red Tape Challenge, an initiative launched by the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills in April 2011. Of the 159 employment regulations examined, 70 regulations (over 40%) are to be merged, simplified or scrapped.

Commenting on the reforms, Mike Ashton, Chief Executive of Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce said: “Employment regulations often create uncertainty for businesses and act as real barriers to confidence, growth and job creation.

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce has long called for a reduction in red tape and a shake up of the employment tribunal system, so we welcome the government’s reform proposals which respond directly to business concerns.”

Chancellor George Osborne

AUTUMN STATEMENT In November, Chancellor George Osborne delivered the government’s Autumn Statement, outlining the coalition strategy to deliver economic growth.

The signature policy was a postponement in fuel duty, with the 3p rise to be deferred until August 2012, and a credit easing programme of £40bn to underwrite low-interest loans to small and medium-sized firms. The Chancellor also unveiled a £1bn business finance partnership to raise money for medium sized businesses, a £1bn “youth contract” fund to subsidise 6 month work placements for over 400,000 young unemployed workers, and £5bn new infrastructure spending over the next 3 years.

The Chancellor’s announcements followed the Chamber’s own Autumn Statement paper. Submitted two weeks before the announcement, the Chamber submission called for a cut to fuel duty, a deregulation programme from Westminster and increased infrastructure spending.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Following the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, Gary Woodman, Head of Policy and Education said: “The Chamber is especially pleased to hear of the postponement in raising fuel duty until August 2012.

This will provide some much needed relief for our transport, distribution and rural based businesses, and there was a danger that our rural areas could have been forgotten today”.

“The Chamber is also pleased to see the increases to revenue streams for small and medium-sized businesses. There is real clout behind these schemes, and the Chamber will be working to ensure our businesses get full and fair access as details are announced in the coming months”.

The Statement also had some encouraging news for the support for businesses looking to trade internationally. With £45m of export support to be made available, UKTI has indicated that this will be invested in 150 new international trade advisors across England. www.hwchamber.co.uk

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Big Interview

Strikes that are driven by a sense of injustice It is a long time since the UK economy has experienced such turmoil with many people predicting another winter of discontent.

One of the major issues is the effect of dramatic Government public sector spending cutbacks and reforms which have led to widespread strike action.

Such action has attracted a lot of criticism with some politicians and employers criticising strikes as unhelpful when times are so hard.

So how does the man at the heart of the debate, Brendan Barber, the TUC General Secretary, justify the action that has been taken?

He believes that recent strikes were an inevitable result of the failure of Government and unions to reach agreement over issues like public sector pensions, which would see members paying more into their schemes.

The General Secretary believes that there could be much more turmoil to come, saying: “We talked for months and the Government didn’t move. It took the day of action even to get them to start to move.

“But there are still unanswered questions. Of course, we want to negotiate a fair settlement, and we’re working hard to get there.

“Unions are committed to trying to reach a settlement.

Nurses, teachers, dinner ladies and civil servants want to deliver services and don’t want to lose another day’s pay. But it’s a difficult climate and we will have to see how the talks progress over the coming weeks.

“The public sector as a whole is being hard hit by the cocktail of cuts, reforms and changes to terms and conditions.

“For instance, the NHS is undergoing a massive, top-down, disruptive reorganisation that no-one was led to expect before the election, and the tightest financial settlement for a generation, with tens of thousands of jobs being cut. In local government,

where many of the lowest paid people in the public sector work, pay has been frozen for three years whilst the cost of living has rocketed.”

And he does not believe that the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement helped, saying: “None of the Chancellor’s post-election assumptions have turned out to be true.

Growth has stalled, the Eurozone has crashed, the structural deficit is bigger than previously thought and unemployment continues to rise as the private sector fails to take up the public sector slack.

“The Chancellor’s stubborn determination to stick to his plan A despite the evidence that it is not working and won’t work in the future means that we are locked into permanent austerity.

“Of course, there were some welcome moves in the statement as the Chancellor tries to reinvent infrastructure spending, youth employment and regional assistance programmes. But the catch is that they are being paid for by freezing tax credits, holding back public sector pay and increasing public sector job losses to 710,000 by 2017. Those with the broadest backs who caused the crash have escaped once again.

“Cutting employment rights will not create a single extra job, but they will make employees feel more insecure and even less likely to spend.

“His refusal to back a Robin Hood tax and make nurses pay instead speaks volumes about his values.

Public servants are no longer being asked to make a temporary sacrifice, but accept a permanent deep cut in their living standards that will add up to over 16 per cent by 2015 when you include pay and pension contributions.

“It is no wonder that the Government has alienated its entire workforce who are coming together in unprecedented unity tomorrow to take a stand against such unfair treatment.”

And, like many people, he struggles to feel confident about the future of the economy, saying: “The Office for Budget Responsibility think we’ll grow by just 0.7% next year, which would be a pretty bad result and that’s assuming no more bad news from Europe.

Real wages look set to be squeezed further and

unemployment is likely to rise, so it will feel very tough for most people. The Government should recognise that we have serious demand problem and a cost of living crisis and take action to address this – things like a big boost in infrastructure spending, temporarily cutting VAT or reversing the public sector wage freeze.”

Although the Government’s response to recent events has been to condemn strikes, arguing that they can only harm the economy at such a difficult time, Brendan believes the protests were driven by a deep sense of injustice that is unlikely to go away.

He said: “Two in three private sector staff get no employer help with a pension. But cutting a nurses pension will do nothing to give a shop assistant a decent pension - we need decent pensions for all, not a race to the bottom. Private sector workers have every right to be angry, but this anger should be directed at their employers and successive governments who allowed private sector pensions to collapse.

“They should also be angry that two-thirds of the £30 billion of tax relief on pension contributions goes to higher rate taxpayers.”

The Chamber is an apolitical organisation that is committed to representing the views of all business organisations. If you have any views regarding this article please contact the Policy Team on policy@hwchamber.co.uk

We talked for months and the Government didn’t move. It took the day of action even to get them to start to move. But there are still unanswered questions. Of course, we want to negotiate a fair settlement, and we’re working hard to get there.

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January/February 2012

21/12/11 09:40:01

It is no wonder that the Government has alienated its entire workforce who are coming together in unprecedented unity tomorrow to take a stand against such unfair treatment.

Brendan Barber General Secretary TUC

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Cover Feature

How to guarantee success in the daunting world of networking

Networking, it’s one of those words that either instils dread or offers the prospect of great opportunity.

The reaction depends on the kind of person you are.

If you are the kind of person who interacts easily with people then networking does indeed offer a world of opportunity. There are many successful businesses who never advertise but gain all their work from word-of-mouth, much of it starting from chance meetings at networking events. The old saying that first impressions count can prove true for businesses.

However, many business people regard networking with dread, partly because they find it difficult to initiate conversations. Such people view the prospect of ‘working the room’ daunting and struggle to come to terms with the whole process of introducing themselves

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to strangers. The result? They end up with a pocket full of business cards they did not want and a sinking feeling that they wasted a couple of hours of their life.

The benefits of networking and building relationships with people outside your customer base are

But done well, networking can be a remarkably powerful tool for business people so, to help ease the process, here are some handy hints.

In increasingly competitive markets, business owners need to use all the resources at their disposal to stay a step ahead of their competitors and create new opportunities for their businesses. Networking is key to business growth and can significantly enhance the reputation of a business, and most importantly, open the door to new opportunities.

The connections you make as a representative of your business can contribute significantly to the overall development of both your business and brand.

Networking is a great way of finding out about what’s happening in the marketplace including any issues that might affect your business, potential sales leads, as well as business insights from your peers.

January/February 2012

21/12/11 09:40:06

FEATURE considerable. Competitors, suppliers, local trade bodies, business support services, experts and possible business mentors, all have the potential to benefit your business.

The right contacts can make all the difference when it comes to winning contracts and making decisions for improving or growing your business.

In order to network successfully it is important to find a way that is best for you to build a rapport- think about interesting facts that could help potential contacts and remember that networking can help to develop many aspects of you and your business, not just your sales and marketing activities. Don’t be scared to share ideas and experiences with your competitors too; you can never underestimate how beneficial it might be and the potential it has to lead to joint business opportunities.

Invest time in networking, either online or face-to-face, and make it a planned activity; it will be more effective and increase your chances of finding new opportunities.

For other practical sources of support, including tips on networking, Business Link has launched two new online services aimed at budding entrepreneurs and people looking to grow and develop their business.

The Start-Up Service provides potential entrepreneurs with tools that can help them with the initial stages of setting up a business– from helping people to work out whether they can work for themselves, so suggesting different ways of funding a business idea, and helping budding entrepreneurs’ research target markets and develop a business plan.

The Growth and Improvement Service offers businesses access to a set of online tools, which includes informative videos, case studies of real businesses, information about local business events, and the chance to network and share ideas with other business owners. Business Link’s improved Events Finder can also put you in touch with local networking, training, and peer support opportunities.

MORE BENEFITS OF NETWORKING AND TOP TIPS: • Talk and share with others to improve in-house knowledge and find low-cost solutions to problems • Improve business by learning from others’ experiences • Get support from other people through both good and bad times • Find out how someone else solved a particular business challenge • Learn how to avoid common pitfalls or making the same mistakes.

when, where and how To neTworK: • Join local business forums, Chambers of Commerce and trade and professional associations • Get involved in debates, breakfast groups and discussions – you can find many of these in the ‘Events’ listings on the Business Link website: www.events.businesslink.gov.uk

• Set up your own blog • Contact the Sector Skills Council for the business sector you operate in – they can help you make connections and suggest networking opportunities • Attend trade fairs in your line of business or marketplace • Get in touch with your local training institution who can help you make connections in the local community • Consider whether leadership and management training could help you

Networking is key to business growth and can significantly enhance the reputation of a business, and most importantly, open the door to new opportunities.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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21/12/11 09:40:09

Conference Worcestershire

www.conference-worcestershire.org

JOIN THE BUZZ AT THE HIVE Worcestershire’s landmark new library and history centre, The Hive, is set to open in summer 2012 bringing a range of exciting new facilities and services to the region.

The Hive will be the first fully integrated public and university library in Europe. Situated in a convenient central location in Worcester, with picturesque surroundings, The Hive makes an ideal place to meet, research and learn.

STANBROOK ABBEY OPENS FOR BUSINESS Stanbrook Abbey is an imposing and impressive former monastery nestled in 21 acres of Worcestershire countryside. Currently undergoing extensive refurbishment and renovation and due to open in March 2012, Stanbrook Abbey will provide an ideal location for all types of conferences and events.

Stanbrook Abbey provides a venue with a difference to host a premium product launch, a team-building weekend for your staff, an executive brain-storming session away from the day-to-day grind of the office, or an off-site board meeting.

If you are planning a corporate function and are looking for a venue that is totally different, something that will inspire and invigorate, then Stanbrook Abbey is the perfect choice.

With Phase one completed in the Spring, the property will eventually boast 52 bedrooms, a restaurant, 4 x large function rooms, syndicate rooms, full spa and fitness facilities, tennis courts and a swimming pool all set in 22 acres of landscaped grounds. These facilities offer you the option to hold superb events in not only a historic and inspiring setting, but one which is supremely luxurious.

Stanbrook Abbey is part of Amazing Retreats, a collection of iconic and spectacular venues.

For more information please visit

The Hive has much to offer everyone who walks through its doors with a range of spaces available within the five storeys, catering for all needs.

Multi-functional rooms will be available making The Hive a great place to host a meeting, whether it is a weekly society meeting, an occasional discussion forum or a larger corporate event. Rooms will be available to book for regular or occasional use.

The business centre will help established businesses, and those looking to set up a new business, linking with Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and the University of Worcester Business School. Business information will include access to market research, together with business publications, databases, advice, and networking opportunities.

EYES WIDE OPEN Cotswold Conference Centre near Broadway is a great place to network, train and team-build. Its buildings nestle in the 370-acre Farncombe Estate with woods, lakes, fields – and some strategically located teambuilding exercises.

Branded as Eye Openers, these lively additions are used by conference organisers and trainers to make the most of any meeting or training day.

Eye Openers help to break the ice, beat boredom, build teams and develop leaders. Delegates gain experience in problem-solving, tactical thinking and self-understanding. New facilities for 2012 include a £3.5 million building of a 32 bedroom facility.

For more information please visit

www.conference-worcestershire.org

Built in partnership between Worcestershire County Council and the University of Worcester, The Hive will play an important role in the regeneration of Worcester’s City Centre, and together with the University’s new City Campus, situated next door, will bring new jobs and economic benefit to the region.

A variety of exciting pre-opening events will be taking place from January until the official opening, so join the buzz.

For more information please visit

www.conference-worcestershire.org

www.conference-worcestershire.org

MARKSMAN LEISURE LTD VERSUS SHOOTING4FUN LTD Marksman Leisure Ltd have taken the initiative to split the company in two in order to cater for the demand more effectively for the business and leisure markets.

In 2012 Marksman Leisure Ltd will cater directly with the corporate sector and the new company Shooting4Fun Ltd will deal with the private and individual customers. Although the products are similar for both companies the customers are very different and require different priorities and services.

For more information please visit

www.conference-worcestershire.org

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January/February 2012

21/12/11 09:40:15

Destination Worcestershire

TOURISM 2012 & BEYOND event

Louise Stewart from VisitEngland with the Morgan Aero8

Destination Worcestershire have received some great feedback from the event held at the new Three Counties Centre at The Showground in Malvern on Wednesday 16 November 2012. The event was the first of its kind since the Destination Worcestershire Partnership moved to Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce in April 2011.

keep the membership costs as low as possible whilst offering many benefits.

Guest speaker Louise Stewart from VisitEngland arrived in style in a Morgan Aero8 and spoke about tourism from a national perspective and Georgia Smith; Head of VisitWorcester provided an insight into the Olympic Torch Relay which will be in the county in May and July 2012.

For more information about the membership scheme please contact the Destination Worcestershire team on 0845 641 1540 or by email

Exhibitors were on hand to answer any questions regarding the discounts available on products and services to Destination Worcestershire members including leaflet distribution, design and print and merchant services.

Destination Worcestershire Membership Rates Pay Just One Fee Businesses with multiple natures in one location will only need to pay one fee for their membership which will include multiple website entries where applicable.

If your business has multiple sites across the county please contact one of the Destination Worcestershire team to discuss your situation.

tourism@visitworcestershire.org

Simon Tipple, Destination Worcestershire Manager introduced the brand new Destination Worcestershire membership and outlined the Partnership’s vision for 2012. Ben Tagg from NVG then explained the opportunities for businesses via the brand new tourism website for Worcestershire due to go live at the end of January 2012.

Business Category

Price of Membership

VAT

Total

Small Businesses

£120.00

£24

£144

Medium Businesses

£250.00

£50

£300

Large Businesses

£450.00

£90

£540

Destination Worcestershire are looking to work with as many businesses as possible in order to make a strong tourism offer to both national and international audiences. The Partnership have endeavoured to

Support Businesses

£60.00

£12

£72

Strategic DW Member

£1,200.00

£240

£1440

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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21/12/11 09:40:24

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21/12/11 09:40:24

How do you like your porridge?

Not too hot. Not too cold. But just right, yes? Just like Goldilocks.

Much the same story with your marketing and PR partner. You don’t want a big bear that’ll forget who you are as it chases the next huge blue-chip account. By the same token, you don’t want a baby bear that’s still finding its feet. Erm, paws.

We’re right in the middle.

A full service agency that combines creative, PR and digital to deliver outstanding results.

You’ll find value for money and a down-to-earth no fuss approach too. That’s why our clients stay with us.

It’s why we continue to grow, win new business and win awards, even in these tough times.

More milk? Or how about some cream?

gough.co.uk

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21/12/11 09:40:28

ADVERTORIAL

STRATEGIC MARKETING – THE PROOF IS IN THE PUDDING In the current economic climate, and with the increasingly competitive nature of each and every profitable industry in the UK, supporting your business with a well planned marketing strategy has never been more important.

Combined with social changes that have dispersed audiences to a variety of different media, the emphasis on reaching the right people with your marketing messages, at a time when they are open to consume and act upon them, has increased significantly.

Businesses should therefore be seeking more tailored and targeted campaigns in an effort to maximise the reach and impact of their marketing efforts, increasing the potential for a successful return on investment.

Unfortunately, marketing is often one of the first areas that you may look to cut back on when budgets are tight, but it is this aspect of business support that becomes even more important during difficult times.

Reducing your marketing communications to save money will allow your competitors the opportunity to step up their own efforts and take your share of the ‘voice’, which in most cases means your share of the market!

Regularly promoting your products and services; communicating and interacting with your existing and potential customers; increasing the recognition and reputation of your brand – these are key to driving sales, and the only ways to ensure you continue to be considered amongst your competitors.

We offer the full suite of marketing communication services, including creative design and advertising; public relations; media planning and buying; digital marketing, web design and social media - you name it, we do it.

Agency owners Sue Bailey (L) and Michelle Wright celebrate their second Gold CIPR PRide Award at this year’s ceremony with host Kriss Akabusi

A strategic mix of effective marketing communications is therefore a crucial element of business support, especially if finances are tight.

A strong internal communications team or external marketing agency should be able to take whatever budget is available and make it work as hard as possible, with measurable results.

At Gough Bailey Wright we pride ourselves on working closely with our clients to help them achieve their business objectives through sound strategic planning and the effective implementation of sustained marketing campaigns.

We’ve invested considerably in staff training, recognised and acted upon the changing media landscape, and can offer the very latest social media marketing services. We currently manage a number of Facebook, Twitter, You Tube and Flickr accounts for a range of clients.

We’ll get to know your business like it’s our own, building a profile of you and your customers, and finding the most effective methods to maximise reach, impact and returns on investment, all on a pre-determined budget.

We’re also members of the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA), fully committed to upholding the industry’s legal, regulatory and ethical standards, one of only a handful of regional agencies to fit their strict criteria.

We offer the full suite of marketing communication services, including creative design and advertising; public relations; media planning and buying; digital marketing, web design and social media - you name it, we do it.

Hiring us means access to a team of experts who can use one or all of a broad range of existing and emerging mediums to communicate your marketing messages, resulting in, well...sales, votes, donations, members, awareness, confidence, clicks, opinions, feedback, you name it!

We’ll bring together the right selection for you, making sure the campaign suits your objectives, works harder for the money and yields a profitable ROI. This year is our third in a run of award wins, a reflection of the successes we have for our clients. Our portfolio is broad and varied, local and national, with companies hiring us for individual disciplines, fully integrated campaigns and as their retained agency.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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We operate from a single building just south of Birmingham, where we have our own in-house PR, creative and digital departments, meaning you can discuss your creative campaign, see the latest proofs and make any amendments at the same meeting, without your coffee going cold.

To find out if we’re just right for you, call Michelle Wright on 01527 579555 or visit www.gough.co.uk

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gZZkZhYZh^\c#Xd#j`

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CONTACT Claire Wozencroft Info@v8media.co.uk 01432 268175 www.v8media.co.uk

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MAKE THE WEB WORK FOR YOUR BUSINESS V8MEDIA ARE A FRIENDLY HEREFORDSHIRE WEB DESIGN AGENCY, COMMITTED TO HELPING YOUR BUSINESS REACH ITS FULL POTENTIAL ONLINE. FREE REVIEW / AUDIT OF YOUR CURRENT WEBSITE AND ONLINE MARKETING AVAILABLE.

January/February 2012

21/12/11 09:40:33

Outsourcing companies seek to take advantage of opportunities In turbulent times such as these, many businesses find themselves unable to sustain high numbers of employees. However, very often, despite the need to control costs, the work that those people would have done still needs to be carried out.

That is where business support companies come into their own because they can offer the required assistance in areas including financial services, design services, marketing, HR and training.

The advantages of outsourcing for SMEs are many, including the fact that such support companies are often prepared to negotiate advantageous terms and conditions, perhaps based on a job-by-job basis or a fixed price project cost.

That means that, rather than employing a full-time member of staff, a SME can sign a deal that is specifically tailored to its need and can work out more cost-effective.

And even though the company is not employing a full-time member of staff itself, it is still supporting the economy and jobs within other companies. Indeed, done properly such arrangements can help both parties grow.

Another big advantage is that SMEs can pick and choose the kind of services they require. For instance, they may already have a selection of specialist skills in-house and require additional support on only a few elements of a project. Going out of house to specialist companies allows them to bring in those skills as and when required.

Many SMEs are, however, tempted to provide everything themselves in-house and sometimes it can work. However, very often a small business does not have the in-depth specialism in all the

disciplines it requires and battling on in-house can turn out to be a false economy.

Take HR, for example. Workplace legislation changes at such a rapid rate, a SME needs specialist support to ensure it does not fall foul of employment law. Very often it can be the issues which they never even considered that can cause problems if left unaddressed. That is where a specialist HR company comes into the picture.

Take marketing as another example.

Companies can try to do the work themselves but it often makes sense to bring in professionals who can write compelling copy, source professional images, communicate with the media and harness the power of social marketing platforms.

Good marketing experts realise that the companies who fare best in this hothouse of creativity are those who think outside the box. Very often, SME staff working hard to keep their businesses on track simply do not have the time to do that in every field of their operation.

Outsourcing also provides a boost to the local economy, creating and preserving jobs. That is because companies working in the business support services field can see that current difficult economic times can actually provide opportunity.

For instance, companies providing such services are benefiting from an increase in outsourcing as local and central government slash budgets in areas including back-office work, HR and marketing.

Not only has that led to more work being outsourced to the private sector but we are also seeing former council employees setting up their own businesses to offer their expertise to a whole new range of clients.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Image of last years Worcestershire Banquet and Ball

THE VERY BEST OF WORCESTERSHIRE SHOWCASED AT ANNUAL SOCIAL HIGHLIGHT EVENT Following the huge success of the inaugural Worcestershire Banquet and Ball, it has been decided by joint organisers Grazzla Arts and Entertainment and Worcester Warriors to hold the event annually.

The Worcestershire Banquet and Ball 2012 will take place on Friday 30 March at the Sixways Stadium. It will have the theme of ‘The Very Best of Worcestershire’ so guests can expect the very best in entertainment that the county can offer, along with a fine culinary experience, with all food sourced locally.

The aim of the Banquet and Ball is to raise money for charity, and this year the beneficiary will be the Worcestershire Breast Care Unit.

Tickets are £85 each and a table of 10 costs £850. Tickets can be purchased directly from Worcester Warriors on 01905 454183. The event is supported

by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Destination Worcestershire and is sponsored by, amongst others, Lloyds TSB. For enquiries, please contact Grant Simmonds at Grazzla Arts and Entertainment grant@grazzla.co.uk

Wyemark are making a lasting impression Most people are familiar with lasers and their everyday uses but less obvious is their versatility when it comes to engraving and how this can benefit almost any business.

forever. Acrylic, glass, wood, stone, paper, textiles, leather… The list goes on and yet one machine cuts or engraves it all. Which means we can offer an endless list of solutions for signage, gifts, awards, marking and much, much more. If you can think of an idea, the chances are we have an answer.’

For one company, Hereford-based Wyemark Ltd, specialising in lasers has enabled them to offer a unique service to other businesses.

But, for Wyemark, the key is to be more than just another supplier. As design and marketing specialists, they provide an additional business resource, helping clients identify the best solutions and develop effective, creative designs.

As Diane Mills of Wyemark explains, ‘Listing everything we can do takes

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21/12/11 09:40:36

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Bespoke courses customised for your organisation’s needs In today’s competitive marketplace, your staff need the right skills. Make the most of your staff by increasing their skills and efficiency – gaining their loyalty.

Approved Examination

For more information, a one-to-one consultation or free training needs analysis Call Jazz or David on 01905 20443 or visit: www.pitman-training.com/worcester 

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F

or 35 years Impact has offered a full commercial print and design service, originating and producing everything from simple business cards and stationery, brochures and manuals through to complex point-of-sale items. For us, excellence begins with a solid understanding of our customers’ objectives; only with that understanding can we produce something that is truly effective in selling your product or service. Our design studio is at the heart of our business. It is staffed by a talented and enthusiastic team of designers who pride themselves on a personal approach, working hard to maintain lasting and successful partnerships with our customers.

Rooted in

print

At Impact Print we aim to achieve the highest industry standards regarding the environment. We print using vegetable based inks on FSC registered stock which is from guaranteed sustainable sources. We recycle all waste paper and aluminium plates and have recently installed 186m2/2000 sq ft of solar panels.

Our carbon footprint is further offset by planting trees; so far we have planted more than 1,000 and continue to plant each year.

Telephone or email to find out how we can help your business

Tel: 01432 356965 sales@impactprint.co.uk

www.impactprint.co.uk Impact House, Coldnose Road, Rotherwas Industrial Estate, Hereford HR2 6JL

Martin Parry, Director

PROFESSIONAL • FAST • FUN Programmes • Catalogues • Brochures Folders • Calendars • Display Stands

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Flyers • Posters • POS Books • Magazines • Reports

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the BUSINESS unit

Helping you to grow your business through Apprenticeships.

Let our highly experienced team help you to recruit an apprentice to breathe new life into your business.

We can offer apprenticeship training for Accountancy, Administration, Construction, Customer Service, Children and Young Peoples Workforce, Hairdressing, Health and Social Care, Team Leading and Management.

The Business Unit at Kidderminster College can help your business by interviewing and selecting potential apprentices to suit the exact needs of your business. We can also offer apprenticeships or workplace training to your existing employees.

Speak to one of our workplace learning co-ordinators now on

01562 826501

or email bdu@kidderminster.ac.uk

WE’RE WAITING TO HELP YOU! The Business Unit, Kidderminster College, Market Street, Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY10 1AB. T: 01562 826501/2 E: bdu@kidderminster.ac.uk www.kidderminster.ac.uk

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Education ASPIRING ACCOUNTANTS FROM THE CHASE SCHOOL The Chase School from Malvern, Worcestershire has won the Herefordshire and Worcestershire heat of the BASE national business game competition held by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).

Students from The Chase beat off competition from 13 local schools to secure their place in the national final of BASE (Business Accounting and Skills Education) the national business game competition from ICAEW, which takes place in Birmingham on 28 June 2012.

Celebrating the success of the UK’s apprentices The annual celebration of apprenticeships will take place between Monday February 6 and Friday February 10.

National Apprenticeship Week, which is organised and coordinated by the National Apprenticeship Service, celebrates the talents and skills of apprentices from across the country.

The week sees apprentices, employers, providers and wider stakeholders showcasing the value that apprentices bring to organisations they work for.

It follows the success of Apprenticeship Week 2011 when more than 500 events took place. Activities this year are planned to be even bigger and better as the number of employers employing apprentices increases and more people consider this vocational route to attain their career aspirations.

Aimed at 16-18 year olds BASE links schools, students and employers together in a bid to, not only to increase awareness of the career, but to develop desirable skills in the future workforce.

thousands of apprenticeships up to degree equivalent, enabling employers, colleges and universities to deliver the advanced skills most critical for growth.

A total of £18.7m from the Higher Apprenticeship Fund will support the development of 19,000 new Higher Apprenticeships in sectors including construction, advanced engineering, insurance and financial services.

About 250 employers, including Leyland Trucks, Unilever, TNT, and Burberry will benefit from world class, nationally accredited technical training delivered in the workplace.

Mr Cable said: “Investing in skills is central to our drive to boost business and productivity and make the UK more competitive.” * More information on National Apprenticeships Week can be found at www.apprenticeships.org.uk

The main purpose of the Week is to engage employers with apprenticeship programmes by highlighting the advantages of employing and supporting apprentices in the workplace.

Michelle Hammett, Manager, Ballard Dale Syree Watson, James Kerry, Chloe Reeley, Toby Edwards, Isobel Taylor, George Aston, John Palmer, The Chase

Assuming the role of ICAEW Chartered Accountants, the students had just two hours to analyse, discuss and decide on the next steps of a fictional organisation before presenting their ideas to a panel of businesses professionals.

Sponsored by local firms an exhibition zone gave students the chance to research the career options available to them as a chartered accountant and talk to trainee or qualified ACAs with support from Baker Tilley, Ballard Dale Syree Watson, Crowe, Clarke Whitehill, AAT and ICAEW. www.chase.worcs.sch.uk

The event, which has been a success for the past four years, will also demonstrate the wide range of apprenticeships available, the high standard of skills apprentices achieve and the progression routes available.

It happens as interest grows in the concept; research suggests that a record growth in apprenticeships numbers, with some 440,000 people starting an apprenticeship in 2010/11.

Business Secretary Vince Cable recently announced details of how Government funding will support

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Celia Adams, BASE organiser, with Hereford VIth team

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Herefordshire College of Technology (HCT) is one of the largest training providers in Herefordshire and Worcestershire and is one of the highest performing colleges in respect of success rates in the West Midlands. We have been delivering apprenticeships for over 20 years and work with approximately 400 employers, with a view to raising skill levels and promoting apprenticeship frameworks through the provision of quality work-based learning.

New Approach to Management and Business Administration Apprenticeships at HCT The traditional model of attending college on day release while undertaking an apprenticeship does not always fit the needs of a modern business. In response, HCT has launched management and business administration apprenticeships where the essential skills of an apprenticeship can be learned in our state-of-the-art facilities via evening attendance, rather than taking time out from the workplace during the day.

IT & Computing (Level 2 and 3)

Subjects covered include: Computer systems Installing hardware and software Website design and development Programming How long is the apprenticeship?

Level 2 is 1 year; Level 3 is 2 years What next? Higher level employment and management training at NVQ Level 4 or 5 Progress to HNC/D or foundation degree level study or university

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Engineering (Level 2 and 3)

Subjects covered include: Engineering workshop practices Engineering maths and science Computer aided design Electrical and electronic principles How long is the apprenticeship?

One to 2 years for Level 2; 3 to 4 years for Level 3 What next? Higher level employment and management training at NVQ Level 4 or 5 HNC/D level study or university

Top and Cider Fruit Production (Level 2)

Subjects covered include: Planting, preparation and maintenance of top fruit Tree pests and diseases Tractor driving Orchard management How long is the apprenticeship?

One to 2 years What next? Higher level employment and further training leading to farm management roles

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Training

NOW TRAINING CAN BE BOOKED ONLINE! The launch of the chamber’s new website (www.hwchamber.co.uk) brings some advantages for people wishing to attend courses hosted by the Chamber. Finding the course you want to attend, booking and paying has never been easier. Just follow these simple steps:

T

• Register yourself on the new chamber website if you haven't already (you will then receive a password by automated email) • Search in the ‘Business Training’ section and find the course you want to book • Click 'Book onto this event' • Now you can either continue shopping to add more items to your basket or just go to the checkout and proceed to our secure payment page.

That's all you need to do, it couldn't be easier!!

If you can't find the course that you want to attend give the Training Department a call on 0845 641 1641.

TRAINING NEEDS ANALYSIS - GETTING IT RIGHT In today’s economic climate, it is even more important for businesses to be assured of gaining the maximum value from any investment made in training and development.

The identification of training needs is an important first starting point to ensure that relevant training is provided to the right people at the right time in support of the business need. A Training Needs Analysis (TNA) is an important first step.

In conjunction with your business plan, identify the key and critical skills (and levels) the organisation needs in order to survive and grow. Once this is understood, the next stage is to look at what skills (and levels) your current workforce has, which will identify those critical skills gaps within your organisation. The identification of those skills gaps will be the basis of where training activity should be focussed - ensuring that investment in both time and cost will add value to your organisation.

Whilst business requirements are obviously essential, it is also important to understand individual needs and aspirations within your workforce. This encourages engagement, motivation and retention. This may be achieved through one-to-one meetings (an appraisal meeting for example) which gives both manager and employee the opportunity to talk about training needs in a structured way. A framework which may be helpful would be: • Determine the knowledge and skills required in current role.

• Any additional or enhanced knowledge and skills required to support and/or develop current role.

GENERAL COURSE INFORMATION All courses take place at our Worcester office situated on Warndon Business Park. Our one day courses are charged at the following rates unless specified otherwise.

Members:....................... £150+VAT Non Members................ £188+VAT Strategic Members... £131.60+VAT Patron Members...............£94+VAT

• Additional knowledge and skills required to support career the chosen career progression of the individual and progress within the business.

Once information is gained and priorities have been established, you can be assured that subsequent investment is aligned both to the needs of the business and to the benefit of individuals. You have the basis of your training plan!

If you would like support in producing a training needs analysis contact the Chamber on 0845 641 1641.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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For any training enquiries email us at training@hwchamber.co.uk or call 0845 641 1641 (option 2 for training)

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Chamber events

Start to Grow forum Tuesday 7 February 2012, 4pm to 6pm Holland House, Main Street, Cropthorne, Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 3NB Theme - Turning little into big Companies that have been trading for less than two years are being encouraged to attend Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s Start to Grow event supported by Hayward Wright.

The theme for this event is turning little into big and attendees will hear from Emma Heathcote-James who

founded The Little Soap Company and Helen Coldicott from Coldicott Freelance Training. Emma founded her company three and a half years ago and since then has experienced impressive growth that now sees her products in well known shops including Waitrose, National Trust but she has also managed to maintain the ‘little’ and local ethos. Helen will be looking at Facebook, how popular it is today in business, what demographic are using it and how it can be used to grow your business.

For more information please contact the Events Team on 0845 641 1641 or email events@hwchamber.co.uk

WOMEN’S BUSINESS FORUM The last Women’s Business forum was held at Temple Laugherne House, ‘A beautiful 12th century former Templar Preceptory set in 27 acres of countryside, the stunning house has stood in the grounds for 1000 years and has been transformed into a luxury romantic country house venue.

We took a trip through the working lives of four fabulous women: Sarah Taylor - A graduate Student just starting out, Helen King - A career girl who’s just about to become

a Mum, Sharon Chance - A strong, career orientated women Ann Banks - A high flying retiree who’s not going

to stop!

We also had a chance to browse a number of stands selling beautiful Christmas gifts these included,

Lillylicious,Made From the Heart, Emarald Healing, Eden Aromatics and Flora Design Studio.

All the ladies received a wonderful gift, sponsored

by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber and Lillylicious.

The next Women’s Business Forum is on Wednesday 25 January 2012, at New College Bromsgrove, Archers Restaurant, where there will be a fantastic Scottish themed three course meal to celebrate Burns day, cooked by the students of the college. The speaker is from Girls Out Loud who are champions and campaigners for teenage girls who run a mentoring programme called ‘Big Sister’.

Contact events@hwchamber.co.uk to book your place.

Green Biz Showcase!

Monday 2 April The Courtyard Theatre Edgar Street, Hereford HR1 9JR Stand Hire - £95.00+VAT (Ground floor) Tickets £75.00+VAT (First floor) Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Herefordshire Greenlinks are hosting Herefordshire’s Question Time with Vince Cable: How can Government support local green business?

Your chance to put your questions, issues, and good

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ideas to the Business Secretary - for a better, greener, prosperous future in this County!

Short presentations from local business and government will also be shared, with their secrets of success even in these economically ‘interesting times’ - showing how wealth, wellbeing, jobs and environment are all connected, if you do it right!

There will also be a number of green businesses exhibiting.

To book visit www.hwchamber.co.uk or email events@hwchamber.co.uk

Networking Breakfast Droitwich Breakfast Wednesday 22 February 7.30-9.30am St Andrews Town Hotel, St Andrews Drive, Droitwich, WR9 8AL £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

Hereford Breakfast Wednesday 11 January Tuesday 7 February 7.30-9.30am Burghill Vale Golf Course, Tillington Road, Burghill, Hereford, HR4 7RW £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

Ledbury Breakfast Tuesday 24 January 7.30-9.30am Alexander Park Resort, Pixley, Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 2RW £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

Leominster Breakfast Tuesday 28 February 7.30-9.30am The Grove Golf & Bowl, Ford Bridge, Leominster HR6 OLE £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

Malvern Breakfast Thursday 2 February 7.30-9.30am Abbey Hotel, Abbey Road, Malvern, WR14 3ET £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

Pershore Breakfast Wednesday 8 February 7.30-9.30am Pershore Civic Centre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore WR10 1PT £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

Redditch Breakfast Friday 17 February 7.30-9.30am South Crest Manor Hotel, Redditch B97 4JS £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

Worcester Breakfast Thursday 26 January Thursday 16 February 7.30-9.30am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, County Ground, New Road, Worcester, WR2 4QQ £15.00+VAT Members £30.00+VAT Non-members

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Hewett Recruitment & Chamber HR Forum HR Professionals at organisations throughout Worcestershire & Herefordshire are enjoying the benefits of the Hewett Recruitment/Chamber of Commerce HR Forum.

Tuesday 14 February

Now in its fifth year these informative events happen approximately ten times a year and are open to HR professionals from businesses with 10+ employees.

Topics are driven by the delegates and the Forum provides a unique opportunity for HR Professionals across the two counties to network with like-minded individuals and share knowledge and experiences on issues that face all HR departments today.

Legal topic: Gordon Lutton Solicitors - Bribery Act

Tuesday 31 January 2012 Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road, Worcester, WR2 4QQ

Alexander Park Resort, Ledbury HR8 2RW 11.30am -2.00pm HR Topic: Roger Wythe Learning Connection – Strengths’ – the route to high energy, high performing workplaces.

Delegates may also like to join the LinkedIn group for H&W HR Professionals - the online platform for local HR professionals to keep you informed, exchange information and best practice without having to leave your desk. http://linkd.in/eGAGj7 To book your places contact the events team:

events@hwchamber.co.uk

11.30am – 2pm Steven Conway from Harrison Clark is joining us for the legal half hour and will be providing guidance on ‘Snow and Bad Weather Policies’ – very relevant as we enter the winter months. Simon Williams from Arrivista Business Coaching will facilitate a discussion “So if it’s not the money, what does motivate people?” and present to the delegates the 6 key steps to developing a successful team.

POWERED GROWTH FORUM The Powered Growth Forum is a series of events aimed at supporting businesses that are aged between two and ten years of trading and who are looking to develop and grow.

Led by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Arrivista Business Coaching, the event provides the opportunity to listen to inspirational speakers on focussed topics and discuss issues that affect all growing businesses.

Future Dates Thursday 22 March Time Mastery Thursday 3 May Team Development Thursday 5 July Financial Mastery To book your free place click here or for more information call the Chamber Team on 0845 641 1641 or email events@hwchamber.co.uk

Manufacturing Forum Tuesday 1 February, 8am-11am

HEREFORDSHIRE BUSINESS EXPO After a very successful Worcestershire Expo in October the Chamber are now busy planning an equally big event in Herefordshire. Having consulted with various Hereford companies the format for the day has been revamped the format for the day, we have also returned to a more central location of Hereford Leisure Centre.

Wednesday 21 March 2012

Networking Breakfast: 8.30am- 9.30am £15.00+VAT Members & Non-Members.

Networking lunch: 1.30pm- 2.30pm £20.00+VAT Members & Non-Members

9.30am - 3.00pm Hereford Leisure Centre, Holmer Road, HR4 9UD.

A panel discussion from Herefordshire Business Experts and a Q&A session will also be incorporated.

Stand Hire:

Phil has accomplished more than most in his fast-moving life. His vast experience in a variety of sectors has resulted in him being recognised as an authority of sales psychology and negotiation, for increasing corporate turnover and profitability, and business development.

£150.00+VAT for Members, £200+VAT for Non Members.

Stand size: 2m x 2m, includes 1 free networking breakfast.

Keynote speaker:Phil Jones

Various Sponsorship Opportunities available, should you require further information, contact events@hwchamber.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Theme - Manufacturing in a low carbon economy with rising utility costs.

Thorlux lighting, Merse Road, North Moons Moat, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 9HH Due to the threat of climate change, the UK needs to cut emissions, maintain secure energy supplies, and maximise economic opportunities. Making this transition means moving the UK to a low carbon economy, becoming more resource efficient, and seizing market opportunities to supply and lead the low carbon industries of the future. Hear from two of Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s key manufacturers on their approach to life in a low carbon economy.

Whilst most of the key legislations around the low carbon agenda come from Brussels, Tom Nolan from the British Chambers of Commerce will also update businesses on the policy landscape in the low carbon economy for the future.

This Forum is exclusive to Chamber members who are manufacturing businesses. There is no charge to be part of the Manufacturing Forum or to attend future meetings. Complimentary breakfast rolls and refreshments will be served.

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21/12/11 09:41:27

Commercial Property

Looking for new, or bigger premises?

Thinking of relocating your business?

Search our online database of commercial land and properties in Worcestershire for free.

Lord Cobham and Maynard Burton

LAW FIRM UNVEIL NEW KIDDERMINSTER HEADQUARTERS The new headquarters of Wyre Forest law firm MFG Solicitors has been officially opened.

Adam House, the iconic red-brick building on Kidderminster’s Birmingham Road, was opened at a ceremony recently by VIP guest Lord Cobham and Chairman of MFG, Maynard Burton. They were joined by 260 guests from across the Midlands.

Lord Cobham, the 12th Viscount Cobham was given a guided tour of the refurbished offices by the firm’s partners after unveiling a commemorative plaque marking the official opening.

Hundreds of premises from dozens of estate agents are listed – from office space to industrial units, retail, land, investment properties, garages, hotels and restaurants.

Free, impartial, confidential service.

(A partnership project from Worcestershire County Council and District Councils)

Tel. 0845 641 1445 www.worcestershirepropertysearch.co.uk

Around 70 of MFG’s partners and staff are now based at the 1928-built, three-story building having moved in earlier this summer. It provides 14,000 square feet of office accommodation. www.mfgsolicitors.co.uk

Industrial Units To Let Cobnash Industrial Estate Kingsland, Herefordshire Workspace units from 938 to 2,017 sq ft www.pxpwestmidlands.co.uk/ cobnashindustrialestate

Old Forge Industrial Estate Peterchurch, Herefordshire Workspace units from 988 to 2,020 sq ft www.pxpwestmidlands.co.uk/ oldforgeindustrialestate

Long Meadow Industrial Estate Ewyas Harold, Herefordshire Workspace units 1,390 to 6,240 sq ft www.pxpwestmidlands.co.uk/ longmeadowindustrialestate In association with:

0845 054 0466

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January/February 2012

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Commercial Property

sponsored by

MUCKLOW SECURES SIGNIFICANT LETTING AT APEX PARK, WORCESTER Jelf Clarke Roxburgh has signed a deal on 13,187 sq ft (1,225 sq m) of office space at Mucklow’s Apex Park in Worcester.

The company which provides businesses and individuals with advice on insurance, employee benefits, healthcare and financial planning, is taking the whole of Apex 1, a self-contained office building with 50 car parking spaces, on a 15 year lease with no break.

“We felt that now was the right time to take additional space within larger premises to accommodate our growth and development plans. We have invested in a number of properties across our office network and Apex Park was the perfect choice for our Midlands operation.

Current tenants at Apex Park include Nexus Housing Association, NDC Consultants and Ludlow Thompson, with GVA and Harris Lamb acting as joint agents on the scheme. www.apexpark.co.uk

Mike Latham, Regional Managing Director, Jelf Insurance Brokers, said: Mike Latham, Regional Managing Director, Jelf Clarke Roxburgh, and Justin Parker, Managing Director, Mucklow.

W03$ESTE3SHI3E W0 W 3$EST STE3SHI3E HE3EF03DSHI3E HEE3E 3DSHI3E SH301SHI3E SH301S SH SHI3E SH WIDE3 .IDLANDS W .IDL NDS 3EGI0N 3EGI0N (We’re pretty big on it)

IN THE W03$ESTE3SHI3E, HE3EF03DSHI3E, SH301SHI3E AND WIDE3 .IDLANDS 3EGI0N Commercial property services from Halls.

Our commercial team has many years of experience in the West Midlands market and in our various fields of expertise; providing a forward thinking, personal and professional service designed to achieve the best results for our clients...

S"-&4 "/% -&55*/(4 t "$26*4*5*0/4 t */7&45.&/54 %&7&-01.&/5 -"/% t 7"-6"5*0/4 t -"/%-03% "/% 5&/"/5 1301&35: ."/"(&.&/5 t #64*/&44 3"5&4 For more information contact: Rob Champion or Charlotte Fullard or visit www.hallscommercial.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Business News

HOME-START WYRE FOREST Home-Start Wyre Forest is a local charity where families who are experiencing difficulties and live in the Wyre Forest area can access free, confidential support.

Volunteers, who have all been parents themselves and have undergone a Preparation Course with Home-Start, offer weekly home-visiting support to families who have at least one child under five years of age.

Megan Baker House staff with the new company car.

BIG LOTTERY GRANT FOR MEGAN BAKER HOUSE Megan Baker House, recently secured a BIG lottery grant for £362,000 (the additional £90,000 to deliver the project has been provided by a major grant giving body).

The grant will enable them to take their vital services further afield, enabling more children and adults to become as independent as possible. Over the next three years, Megan Baker House staff will provide services to more schools within Herefordshire and Worcestershire and the surrounding counties and set up three centres for adults with Parkinson’s disease.

Overall they will provide help for approx. 90 children and adults who, through conductive education will look forward to a more optimistic future of independent living.

The project known as Project REACH OUT also includes the purchase of two vehicles to enable the conductors (qualified staff who provide conductive education sessions) to get around the counties. The first vehicle was recently delivered from ongoing supporter Bengry’s motors, Leominster, a blue fiesta whilst Sign-rite in Leominster kindly donated their sign writing services.

They provide emotional and practical help and friendship, which can be a lifeline to parents facing additional pressures to family life. The Scheme supports around 400 children in 200 families each year in the district, through a team of 91 volunteers, 4 staff and 7 directors.

Home-Start is the UK’s leading Family Support Organisation and has over 340 schemes around the UK. The Wyre Forest Scheme celebrates its 17th birthday next year. www.homestartwyreforest.org.uk

www.meganbakerhouse.org.uk

BISHOP AND DEAN WELCOME LEGACY10 The Bishop and the Dean of Hereford welcomed the launch of new legacy campaign Legacy10, the charity set up to help promote the tax incentive announced in the last Budget and which comes into effect from April 2012. The campaign encourages each of us to leave at least 10% of our estate to charity, which will then benefit from inheritance tax relief, which will be introduced next April.

7% include a charitable bequest. One of the aims of the campaign is to get those who say they would consider including such a gift, to do so,” said the Bishop.

“While as many as 75% of people support a charity during their lifetime and 45% of us leave a Will, only

www.legacy10.com

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Legacy10 has already attracted number of high profile business supporters including Sir Richard Branson, Richard Reed (co-founder of Innocent) and Michael Bishop, former Chairman of BMI.

January/February 2012

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Member benefits and solutions

MEMBER SERVICE: ORCHARD HEALTHCARE PLAN serVices proVided by The whca To The corporaTe member: beneFiTs To The employee • No waiting time for new employees

LOOKING AFTER YOUR EMPLOYEES Chamber members already have access to a business specific cash health plan provided by Westfield Health. However, as champions of keeping business local, we also understand the needs of members to have the option to choose a local supplier. Having listened to member feedback, we are now pleased to introduce you to a local cash health plan provider.

A cash health plan gives employers the option of increasing their employee benefits package without breaking the bank. It provides employees with cash back on their healthcare purchases (up to set limits) and shows them that you care for their welfare.

Call the Chamber membership team on 0845 641 1641 today to discuss our healthcare options and we will provide you with contact details for both WHCA and Westfield Health.

• Claims dealt with by WHCA direct with the employees • Telephone helpline • Greater Value Benefit than £1.07 in their pay packet • No examination required An Orchard Healthcare Plan is the simple and affordable way to ease the burden of employee’s day-to-day healthcare costs from just £1.07 per week.

• Immediate cover

Worcester based company WHCA has been providing benefits to major local companies for their employee’s healthcare, by bridging the gap between Private Medical Insurance and the NHS at an affordable cost since 1921.

• Early return to work reducing absenteeism

There are four Orchard Healthcare Plans to choose from, each one providing different levels of cover, including a Family Plan that will cover a partner and children too.

• No medical requirement for membership

And don’t forget…with every Orchard Healthcare Plan you also get a FREE Personal Accident Plan which will pay up to £10,000 if you or your employees are involved in an accident – how’s that for complete peace of mind?

• Employee or Company paid

beneFiTs To The employer • Staff feeling of well being • Encouragement for good health practice to employees • Employee benefit at low cost • Immediate cover • Claims dealt with direct with the member • No Admin Charges For more information please contact the Chamber Team on 0845 641 1641.

CHAMBER MEMBERS GET PREFERENTIAL CARD PROCESSING RATES Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce members enjoy preferential rates for credit and debit card processing from First Data Merchant Solutions.

First Data Merchant Solutions is an independent expert in the payments business dedicated to driving customer success by making transactions secure, fast and easy for merchants and by providing effective business advice and support. Delivering payments processing and support services to thousands of merchants from various sectors across the UK, First Data Merchant Solutions is part of First Data Corporation, an independent global leader in the payments industry.

With UK Debit Card spend surpassing cash in 2010 and cheque guarantee now abolished; the ability to accept card payments has never been more important for companies looking to grow their business in today’s market. Through competitive pricing, outstanding service and a wide range of cutting edge products, First Data Merchant Solutions provide the ideal platform to do this for businesses, whether they are looking to accept cards for the first time or considering the benefits of moving providers.

Enjoy the highest standards of card transaction and processing services, backed up with first class support from the specialist teams at First Data Merchant Solutions.

For more information please contact our membership team on 0845 641 1641.

Pro-Clean have been members of the Chamber for just two months, in that time we have managed to secure over £1700’s worth of new business which is a direct result of being a Chamber member. Thank you alan dodKin Owner of Pro-Clean

Merchant Solutions are provided by FDR Limited, trading as First Data Merchant Solutions, as agents for Bank of Scotland plc, the registering member under the Relevant Card Schemes.

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 

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Collaboration

BUILDING SUCCESSFUL COLLABORATIONS Successful collaborators take time to get to know each other and develop mutual respect. They create a safe space to establish this. They establish and then continuously refresh their shared understanding of mutual purpose and work for each other’s success.

SOCIAL NETWORKING As social networking becomes the everyday norm in the 21st Century employers are being forced to ‘face up’ to ‘Facebook’ and other such social media sites.

Just as networking in the typical business sense can be truly valuable to the bottom line, social networking can offer significant benefits to employers provided it is used appropriately.

build collaboraTion in Two easy sTeps 1. People work better together when they feel respected. We can show those we recognise as colleagues, customers, partners and stakeholders that we also respect them by clearly treating them decently, by being fair in our dealings.

www.threshold.uk.com

COLLABORATION: A FOUR STEP APPROACH

But social networking will not always be seen by employers in a favourable light, particularly when employees are found to have made derisive comments about their employer. The challenge that will become increasingly widespread for HR professionals and strategic operators alike, is how best to manage this massively evolving medium.

worKing For each oTher’s success muTual purpose: Align around shared agendas

Recent tribunal cases have shown that dismissing an employee for comments made about their employer on social network sites will not necessarily be upheld as a reasonable response. Employers are urged to have a clear policy, most probably within their wider IT policy, on acceptable and unacceptable use of social networking sites.

respecT: Appreciate and acknowledge differing perspectives

recogniTion:

For further advice or guidance on how to manage the use of social networking in your organisation ask to speak to a HRiA Consultant who can be contacted via the Chamber on 0845 641 1641 .

Increase awareness of the distinctive nature of one’s own perspective

BUILDING LONG TERM RELATIONSHIPS Depending on the type of person you are networking can be fun or it can be traumatic but what is it for: n To eat yet another lot of nibbles or breakfast or lunch? n To increase your list of contacts who you never see again until the next event?

Or is it to generate a select group of people who support one another and: n Create & maintain a steady flow of new client activity? n Help replace the peaks and troughs in your business?

2. Mutual purpose can be discovered when we take time and space to form & storm into a group. When we can see that success calls for mutual back scratching, we declare our interests and constraints to the group, and so get all of everyone’s agenda on the table. Then we can envision the possible, and buy into a vision that acknowledges the constraints of the agendas in the group.

www.black-elk.co.uk

Fears – ‘Why nots’

Benefits – ‘Whys’

n Integrity

n Revenue

n Control

n Loyalty

n Quality of advice

n Referrals

n Consistency

n Additional Knowledge / Resource

n Time

n Protects your client bases

• Why nots are more powerful than the benefits • The aim is to create relationships that will last a long time • It is a process not just one meeting n Meeting 1

n Do we match?

n Interview 1

n Fact finding: are we sure we match?

n Interview 2

n You show & tell: they check match

n Interview 3

n They show & tell: you check match

n Become a long term relationship?

n Interview 4

n Agree how to work together

If it is the latter then you will need to address the Fears as well as the Benefits

n Implementation

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

BD05.indd 47

n Regular meetings & reviews The fears are addressed and the benefits will accrue

047

21/12/11 09:41:57

Cartwright

BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS IN THE MIDDLE EAST & NORTH AFRICA

BY camec

THE CARTWRIGHT ASSOCIATES MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA BUSINESS CLUB There are attractive business development opportunities for many companies, whatever their size, in the Middle East & North Africa and greater Arabia including Turkey, Egypt and North Africa plus Cyprus and Greece. your poTenTial problems Your problems do not just start with a lack of local knowledge and the prohibitive costs involved in... n Establishing a base in these areas n Establishing communication in different languages n Understanding how businesses operate n Identifying relevant needs n Relating the relevant advantages of your products or services n Tailor-making presentations n Gaining the confidence of people from a different culture

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n Developing relationships where different codes of behaviour exist n Having to make frequent visits n Winning new business It has been estimated that costs of setting up your own base in the Gulf States could be up to £250,000. But CAMEC can offer you an attractive solution to gaining access to this market. You will be able to overcome the problems of cost, culture and language whilst gaining new business. Your solution lies with us and membership of CAMEC – the Cartwright Middle East & North Africa Club

how camec can help your business n The founding directors Anthony Langley and Geoff Morris are both businessmen and bankers. n They have more than fifty years experience in the business and financial services sector with such institutions as Citigroup, American Express, and the Standard Chartered Bank and other leading businesses.

n Their experience also includes a number of high profile local institutions in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the Levant and North Africa, Pakistan, Greece, Nigeria, Hong Kong, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

Members of the CAMEC Team are located in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Algeria and the United Kingdom. CAMEC can also provide you with representation in the United States and the West Indies n They also have a wealth of experience in business, banking and financial services covering software development, project implementation, Islamic financing, collections/revenue management plus marketing, public affairs, public relations and sales management and business development n We are able to call on the services of a pool of advisers in all spheres of Islamic and conventional banking.

January/February 2012

21/12/11 09:41:59

ADVERTORIAL

your business soluTions

your business club membership

You can embrace an attractive solution to gain access to this market, to overcome the problems of cost, culture and language in gaining new business...

You can gain the following help CAMEC:

n Gain an in-depth knowledge of your markets.�

n Market Research and Marketing Research for your business�

n Gain introductions to key Influencers and Decision Makers at all levels.�

n You will be able to reap the benefits of this unique concept which is our direct response to the needs of our existing clients.� n You will also benefit from our network of highly qualified colleagues throughout the region and the UK and these advisors are available at short notice on a project by project basis. n You will gain from our considerable experience of marketing and selling B2B and B2C and to National and Local Government plus military, security and intelligence advisors and we have agricultural, field sports, machinery, vehicle and food production advisors in our team. n You will gain the benefit of our extensive knowledge of business development, marketing and selling in the region to banks, insurance, companies, large corporations and a wide range of government and quasi-government bodies.� n You will be able to overcome the Cultural, language and religious situations which can often create a barrier people who do not understand these issues. We are experienced in overcoming these hurdles.� n You will be able to meet us in the United Kingdom or in the Gulf States. Members of our team live and work in the Gulf States as well as in the United Kingdom.

n Business and Marketing Plans n Sales Plans and their implementation n Qualification of potential prospects� n Initial meetings with prospects to determine their level of interest

n Save a considerable amount of money and time by delegating the initial stages to our Team.

n Briefing you on progress n Preparing Power Point Presentations n Identifying the relevant advantages of your products and services� n Presentations to Prospects� n Translation services� n Web site design and hosting� n An virtual or actual office with full support of reception, meeting rooms, telephone, facsimile, conference calls� n Cost-effective hotel and transport arrangements

your acTion Please study our web site -

www.cartwrightassociatesltd.com

and then call to arrange an initial meeting in the West Midlands or further afield:

geoFFrey morris, Director - 00 (0) 7960977694 or gmorris@cartwrightassociatesltd.com

Tony langley, Director - 00 (0) 7339954559 alangley@cartwrightassociatesltd.com

bob purVis your camec business club adVanTages You gain significant advantages for a very reasonable investment………………..

CAMEC’s UK based Marketing & Public Relations Adviser on 07891197390 bobpurvisalpha@aol.com

n Gain cost-effective access to the markets in Arabia at a relatively small investment.�

whaT one oF our Founder members says abouT camec…

Open testimonial from Phil Derry, CEO of TrackaPhone Limited

We believe that CAMEC is a brilliant concept which will help all sizes of UK business to win new business in the Middle East and in North Africa - without the huge costs involved in setting up our own export department or having a presence in the Middle East. We have decided to become a Founder Member of CAMEC phil derry, CEO, TrackaPhone Limited,

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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n Receive advice as to how your products and services should be tailored to meet the needs of this unique market.�

TrackaPhone Limited is a provider of Global Location Based applications and services.

These include applications such as: • Lone Worker Protection • Mobile Resource Management • Vehicle Tracking • Asset Tracking and Protection • Staff Monitoring TrackaPhone has customers in local and central government, police, NHS, emergency services, retail, finance, logistics, transport, manufacturing and media.

049

21/12/11 09:41:59

Business News

TRUST TRIALLING ELECTRONIC PRESCRIBING SYSTEM Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust will be the first Trust in the country trialling a new Electronic Prescribing and Medicines Administrations (EPMA) system to help improve patient safety across Worcestershire.

By replacing the paper based systems and processes that are currently used to prescribe medicines, the EPMA system will greatly enhance patient care and improve efficiency across the Trust.

Ultimately the EPMA system will be used across all departments in the Trust and is aimed to be piloted in a number of clinical areas by November 2012. www.worcsacute.nhs.uk

The Trust has signed up with Oasis Medical Solutions to create an electronic patient record. The integrated system, named Oasis OneView, also includes the implementation of an electronic prescribing system from NoemaLife. The Trust has been running an Oasis Patient Administration System for more than five years, and will use it as a foundation to integrate new and existing clinical systems across the Trust.

dr sTeVe graysTone, Director of Patient Safety

LOUISE HOOKHAM, HARRISONS BUSINESS RECOVERY AND INSOLVENCY LIMITED

louise hooKham Harrisons Business Recovery Louise Hookham has recently become appointed Board Member at Harrisons Business Recovery and Insolvency Limited.

Louise joined Harrisons in 2005 when they took over ‘Mary Grove & Co.’ where she learnt her trade. Since then, because of her hard work and determination she has been promoted ‘through the ranks’ having developed the Worcester office from nothing. She is the first non licensed insolvency practitioner to achieve this position.

Louise is also an Area Council Member for Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, a Worcestershire Ambassador and an Associate Member of the Association of Business Recovery Professionals.

REMOVAL AND RECYCLING OF WEEE Surplex UK Limited of Malvern is a small family run business, formed in 2004 by husband and wife team Mark and Hazel Willis, specialising in the removal and recycling of WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment).

The regulations governing the way in which companies can dispose of waste electrical equipment are very strict and improper disposal can result in heavy fines. Surplex are licensed by the Environment Agency enabling them to transport, store, disassemble and broker waste, in addition they also provide the client with a full Asset Report, Waste Consignment Note, Disposal Certificate and Data/Media Destruction Certificate post collection. There is no charge for this service, the company funds its recycling activities through the reclamation of metals, printed circuit boards, cable and the re-distribution of usable components - recycling through reuse. Surplex are the company to call for your WEEE recycling requirements and problems offering not only free advice but also a fast, efficient and friendly service, you’ll get a warm reception from everyone at Surplex, including Henry the office dog! www.surplex.co.uk

www.harrisons.uk.com

ROBOCAP Over 35,000 men are diagnosed with Prostate Cancer every year in England and Wales, 800+ of these are in the Three Shires of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Prostate cancer is the commonest cancer in men.

There are different forms of treatment for Prostate cancer, the most up to date and advanced being ‘Robotic Assisted Surgery’. This state-of-the-art form of keyhole surgery offers surgeons superior 3D High Definition imaging and magnification, enhanced dexterity, greater precision and ergonomic comfort for 050

BD05.indd 50

the optimal performance of minimally invasive surgery.

This means less pain after the operation with minimal blood loss, quicker recovery after surgery and reduced incidence of complications.

Local charity Robocap, are launching an appeal in Herefordshire to raise money for new machines to be used in Herefordshire and Worcestershire and are looking for local support. www.robocap.org.uk

January/February 2012

21/12/11 09:42:04

HEWETT RECRUITMENT STAYS LOCAL FOR MARKETING EXPERTISE Nexus Creative has been appointed as strategic marketing partner for recruitment specialists Hewett Recruitment.

Nexus Creative has secured the Hewett Recruitment account and will become the organisation’s official marketing supplier, responsible for the development and delivery of Hewett Recruitment’s marketing strategy.

Colin Foxall, Nexus Creative’s Commercial Director explains: “We are delighted to have been appointed

by Hewett Recruitment and look forward to rolling out the new marketing strategy, helping the company

to achieve its aim of further growth on a national scale. Nexus Creative will be responsible for raising the awareness of Hewett Recruitment through an integrated communications campaign that is expected to include: a brand review and creative development; new collateral, signage and exhibition material, and the development of a new online strategy incorporating a range of tactical projects, from a new intranet site to targeted email communications.

Louise Hewett, Managing Director of Hewett Recruitment said: “We are excited to be working with Nexus and anticipate that the new partnership will help us further increase our profile across the county and beyond.” www.nexuscl.com

EVENPRODUCTS LTD CHANGES HANDS AFTER 35 YEARS Bob Rowlands and Geoff Godber have been leading Evesham-based Evenproducts for thirty years, but all that changed recently, when incumbent Managing Director Steve Robertshaw took the reigns in a successful management buy-out, with the backing of the company’s bankers, Lloyds TSB, through its commercial finance arm, IFD. The management buy-out was also supported by a seasoned mergers and acquisitions team which included the Managing Partner of H.L. Barnes & Sons, David Buxton, together with Alison Scott, a senior associate partner in Harrison Clark’s corporate team, and Peter Hartley, a specialist business advisor who has also joined the board of Evenproducts and its parent company Powershare Ltd., as a non-executive director. Cox and Hodgett of Evesham acted for the vendors.

Over 50% of the company’s products are exported to several continents, via its NGO partners including Oxfam and Unicef. These water storage and sanitation units are a key component in providing emergency aid-relief and life-support to communities caught in humanitarian conflicts and environmental disasters. www.evenproducts.com

Ben Mannion, Worcester Branch Manager and Senior Consultant, Hewett Recruitment (far right) celebrates the new marketing partnership with Colin Foxall, Commercial Director, Nexus Creative (second from right) and other members of the Hewett team.

VICTORIAN MANSION ADDED TO LUXURY HOTEL COLLECTION Eden Hotel Collection, the group of award-winning luxury country house hotels and restaurants privately owned

by Sir Peter Rigby, has announced that they have taken ownership of Brockencote Hall Hotel, a Victorian country estate in Worcestershire.

The hotel, set in 70 acres of grounds near to the Malvern Hills, will add to the four-strong private portfolio of luxury hotels and restaurants that make up the Eden Hotel Collection. Already in the fold are Michelin starred Mallory Court in Leamington Spa, Buckland Tout-Saints in Devon, The Kings Hotel in Chipping Campden and the celebrated

Arden Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon, opened in partnership with The Royal Shakespeare Company in 2010.

Group Managing Director Mark Chambers commented: “We have been looking for opportunities to add to the Eden Hotel Collection for sometime but wanted to ensure we selected a property that would complement our collection. Our four existing hotels have their own unique style and characteristics and we know that Brockencote Hall will be the perfect fit”. www.edenhotelcollection.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Managing Director Steve Robertshawa

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21/12/11 09:42:08

UK Re-Generation

Successful networking and collaboration requires a clear vision, good communications and commitment through to delivery. Developing the individual, where needed to make the difference, empowering management to support the team and facilitating the company to be greater than the sum of the parts.

Raw Materials & Power • Coal (automated mining): carbon converters to oil/gas • Nuclear Fusion + personal micro fusion generators

Infrastructure (Customer Owned) • Housing • Transport • Power

Manufacturing • Geographically integrated supply chains • Micro-manufacturing centres + Apprenticeships • Tax breaks, location incentives + private local sourcing

Services

R&D Education (Customer Owned) • Universities • Colleges • Apprentice hubs • Quality Standards

• IT – programming, new technologies (mobile/internet) • Contact Centre – micro centres (200+ seats) • Tax breaks, location incentives + private local sourcing

1.5m Jobs Sabaki is a method of repositioning, it allows one to move from a position of vulnerability to one of control.

The UK is gripped in a recession but working through the Sabaki concepts and given the right: management, support, resources an economic up turn could be achieved within two years. These proven concepts will provide a fundamental shift that is robust enough to model and

Sabaki Model

duplicate. Both the working concepts and the ‘planted’ modules will significantly reduce unemployment through: job creation, new partnerships and consortiums. Initially providing a reduction in the lower to medium skill levels of unemployment, however the skill sets for a national turn round are cross-disciplined requiring the full hierarchy of jobs.

SUPPORTING BUSINESS IN THE MALVERNS

Unit costs need to be balanced with overall costs with best practice alignment between commercial and government objectives. An unemployed person becomes employed and the dynamics change from a cost to greater contribution to the community, the company and the country.

Energy costs are set to rise by factors, natural resources can be extracted employing existing and focused innovative research and engineering (next generation exportable technology) providing the foundation for a higher level in national independence which will be realised with a higher standard of living being enjoyed.

The Sabaki Model demonstrates how this could be achieved: Development of modular projects forming part of an integrated nation solution for sustainable economic growth. Synergy UN ltd is a consultancy that is able to think outside of the box and delivery a strategic change via effective consortiums. synergyun.com

Synergy UN ltd

©

The Malverns – Be Inspired

In a challenging economic climate it’s increasingly important for local authorities to get to know and understand its businesses and in particular their concerns and aspirations for the future.

Malvern Hills District Council has set up the Listening to Business programme to talk directly to key businesses, large and small, from a variety of sectors that have a stake in the future economy of the District. If you have a business in the Malvern Hills District and would like the opportunity for your ideas and views to influence the Council’s strategy and approach to economic development, then contact the Economic Development Team on 01684 862151 or ecodev@malvernhills.gov.uk and we would be delighted to come and visit your business.

Malvern Hills businesses can also keep up to date with the latest information on business support, grants, contract opportunities and much more via the regular Malvern Hills Business e-Bulletin service run by the Economic Development Team.

To sign up to receive the e-bulletin, scan the QR code or log on to www.malvernhills.gov.uk/business where you will also information on business support in the area.

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The Malverns are an inspirational place to do business and whether you are a start-up, an established business or a new business to the area Malvern Hills District Council can support your growth.

The Council offers a wide range of services and advice to businesses. For more information visit our website at www.malvernhills.gov.uk/business or call one of the Economic Development Team on 01684 862151

January/February 2012

21/12/11 09:58:24

New Members ALMELEY WOOTEN Abstract Corporate Image Ltd 01544 340246 www.abstractci.co.uk

BEWDLEY Vacuum and Crane Limited 01299 400152 www.vacuumandcrane.co.uk

BISHOPS FROME Rolt Marketing Ltd 01885 490345 www.rolt.co.uk

BROADWAY Cotswold Conference Centre 0845 230 8580

www.cotswoldconferencecentre.com

Central Profiles Laser Cutting Limited 01562 744788 www.central-profiles.co.uk

Stargold Limited 01562 741603

www.stargold.co.uk/

Stone Manor Hotel 01562 777555

www.stonemanor.co.uk

LEOMINSTER Glendower Business Services 01568 615520 www.glendowerservices.co.uk

Robert Magee & Associates 01568 610930 www.robertmagee.org

MALVERN Asiri Foods 01684 572310

ROSS-ON-WYE The Leadership Cafe 01600 890149

www.pneu-technology.co.uk

Walford Timber Ltd 01989 563614

www.solutions-hr.co.uk

www.theleadershipcafe.co.uk

www.walfordtimber.co.uk/

STOURPORT ON SEVERN Cinderella’s Secret 07977 574647

www.cinderellassecret.co.uk

STUDLEY Recovery Training Group 01527 908755

www.recovery-first-aid.co.uk

TENBURY WELLS

www.asirifoods.co.uk

SNA Manufacting Ltd 01584 819777

GenetInks 0845 0341502

BCR Associates 0844 8809836

www.genetinks.com

www.bcrassociates.co.uk

WORCESTER

BURGHILL

Colwall Park Hotel 01684 540000

BROMSGROVE

Investors In Learning Ltd 01432 769354

www.investorsinlearning.com

DROITWICH DMG Associates 01905 391814 Professional Valet Services 07767 012013

www.professionalvaletservices.co.uk

EVESHAM

www.colwall.com

EIL Ltd 01684 562 577 www.eiluk.org

Nepeta Consulting Ltd 07825 987114 www.nepeta.co.uk

RGB Consulting 07793 359 319

www.rgbconsulting.co.uk

The Smart Actuator Company Ltd 01684 565709

Evesham Vale Growers Ltd 01386 830967

www.smartact.co.uk

www.valegrowers.com

PERSHORE

HEREFORD

Quality Solictors Thomson & Bancks LLP 01386 562000

Henry James Advisory Services Limited 01544 327001

www.qualitysolicitors.com

www.henry-james.org

REDDITCH

Play Night Club 01432 270009

Byretech Ltd 01527 522522

www.playclubs.co.uk

KIDDERMINSTER Alex Sharp Photography 01299 250797 www.alexsharp.co.uk

www.byretech.com

Pneu-Technology Ltd. 01905 338996

www.snamanufacturing.co.uk

Coldicott Freelance Training 01905 23902

www.coldicottfreelancetraining.com

Solutions HR Limited 01905 360802

Sports Partnership Herefordshire & Worcestershire 01905 355537 www.morethansport.com

The Greedy Pig Forever t/a Greedy Pig Cafe 01905 27720 www.the-greedy-pig.co.uk/

Totallis Limited 07766 555 789 www.totallis.co.uk

Zebra Architects Limited 01905 749560 www.zebraarchitects.co.uk

OUT OF AREA Leonard Curtis Business Solutions Group Birmingham 0121 200 2111 www.lcbsg.com

Design Religion 01905 360956

Sinclair Marketing Birmingham 0121 445 6455

F8 Creates 01905 355655

The Entrepreneurs Circle Cheltenham 01242 677301

www.designreligion.co.uk

www.f8creates.com

www.changepotential.co.uk

Hartley Resource Development 01905 381990 Jovian Productions Ltd 01584 881106

DNS Planning Limited Gloucester 01452 413726

www.jovianproductions.co.uk

Laughter Boost 07968 173314

www.dns-planning.co.uk

Sharenergy Ludlow 01584 875881

www.laughterboost.co.uk

www.sharenergy.coop

Leaf Accounting 01905 619691

OpenSure Milton Keynes 0208 798 0971

www.leafaccounts.com

3NT Limited 01905 780485

www.opensure.net

www.3ntlimited.com

PGT Inca 01905 26937

www.incatool.co.uk

Sign Gear Systems Ltd 01527 547521 www.signgear.co.uk/

Tag Engineering Services 01527 66724

www.tag-engineering.com/

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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21/12/11 09:42:19

7Y Technology

Staying connected and supported

When a company’s IT fails, significant amounts of time and money can be lost trying to fix the problem. And, if emails or data are lost it could be a disaster!

PC’s Laptops, servers, mobiles and now tablets such as iPad are vital in today’s business world. Keeping these operating smoothly are paramount to meeting the expectations of customers and suppliers.

Clients of 7Y Technology know if they have an IT challenge,

one quick call, text or email will ensure their business is operating smoothly, safely and efficiently again in no time.

Providing a rapid response service, 7Y Technology supports clients by phone, email or in person. As a result clients stay connected, important data is kept safe and sound, and they can focus on their business.

Visit 7ytechology.co.uk or call Gary Watts on 07977 141796 for more information.

n

Installing new servers

n

Data transfer and security

n

Accounts and database management systems

n

Email for pc, laptop and mobiles

Concentrate on your business, not your IT. www.7ytechnology.co.uk 07977 141796 BD05.indd 54

21/12/11 09:42:24

Policy News

EUROPEAN LEGISLATION - UPDATE Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce have been working with British Chambers of Commerce, and have secured a review of the draft Ergonomics Directive.

The Directive could require businesses to pay for eye tests and glasses for all staff using tills, Blackberrys and smart phones at a potential cost of 4 billion across the EU of which 90% would be borne by SMEs. The draft Directive will now be a candidate for exemptions and a light touch regime and, as a result, show burdens on business dramatically reduced.

The Chamber were represented at a Better Regulation event in the European Parliament in Brussels which called

for a moratorium on new employment rules and the introduction of a jobs test (where all new rules affecting job creation would be halted) to operate in tandem, therefore reducing the impact on businesses. A series of meetings with other business organisations to develop a common business position on the proposed Common European Sales Law and the introduction of Alternative Dispute Resolution for all consumer disputes across the EU. In October, 2012 the Chamber will be working with West Midlands Chambers colleagues to organise a business visit to the European Parliament of Enterprises 2012, to which we hope to take a strong Herefordshire and Worcestershire delegation. If you are interested in the EU, and wish to be involved with the Chamber delegation, please contact Gary Woodman at

policy@hwchamber.co.uk

GROWING PLACES FUND The Department of Communities and Local Government has announced its Growing Places initiative, a £500m infrastructure development fund designed to kick start the economy in the regions.

delivered. The fund will offer loans to developers to be paid back after developments have been sold off, working to “unlock much-needed local infrastructure and get the homes we need built”.

will be local enterprise partnerships, made up of the people and businesses who know their local areas best, who will decide where this cash boost will be spent,” continued Mr Pickles. “I now want to see these partnerships coming together and finding innovative ways to unlock local sites and help get Britain building again.”

Speaking in November, the Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said the £500 million Growing Places Fund will primarily be used to cover the up-front capital costs that are preventing projects from being

The speech outlined that the initiative will be delivered by the new Local Enterprise Partnerships taking structure across England, becoming the first major tranche of funding to be administered by the new structures. “It

The Marches LEP has been allocated £5.4m, whilst Worcestershire LEP has been handed £3.6m to deliver the project, and funds are expected to be delivered before the end of January 2012. For updates please check the

news feed of the website:

www.hwchamber.co.uk

FILLING THE GAP IN BUSINESS SUPPORT Balancing Business, a Worcestershire based business providing business support, has won the contract to run the Worcestershire County Council Enterprise Programme. This will enable individuals who are thinking of going self-employed or setting up their own business, to access a wide range of business development events and

individually tailored business support, across the county. The support is available to anyone looking at starting up a business within Worcestershire.

This initiative came in response to the gap in business start-up support resulting from the closure of Business Link West Midlands. The programme

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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is fully funded by Worcestershire County Council and therefore FREE to all participants. The programme will be launched in December with workshops and individual support being delivered in locations across the County.

Participation on the Worcestershire County Council Enterprise Programme is one of the criteria required for anyone

looking to applying for a local business start-up grant.

Anyone interested in joining the programme is asked to call 07894 413776 or 07785 245790 or email

info@balancingbusiness.co.uk www.balancingbusiness.co.uk

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21/12/11 09:42:33

Business News

THE PRINCE’S TRUST – BATTING FOR WORCESTERSHIRE Established by Prince Charles in 1976, The Prince’s Trust is a respected youth charity that helps change the lives of young people across the UK. The Trust relies on each of their regional committees to help drive the charity’s fundraising programme through a variety of events. Here in Worcestershire there are tremendous efforts going in each and every day.

Within the county, a group of active business leaders are co-ordinating fundraising events which help ensure thousands of the county’s 13-30 year-olds have access to practical and financial support to develop skills such as confidence and motivation.

Their mission is to help under 30’s believe in themselves and make a real contribution to society.

Get involved The committee is regularly on the lookout for local businesses to sponsor or attend the many events which take place each year. To help, a useful calendar of events for 2012 will be published in the New Year and will be distributed widely across the county.

If you would like to help change young lives across the county, then it’s simple to get involved. For a chat about what contribution you can make, or if you’d like to make the Prince’s Trust your firm’s ‘Charity of Choice’ for 2012, please contact Viv Hudson, Area Chairman of the Trust via viv.hudson@hotelshopuk.com

or telephone 01905 792811.

The Prince’s Trust committee responsible for activities and events across the county are:

This can only be achieved through fundraising and support from the county’s business community.

• Viv Hudson (Chair) hotelshopUK

Just some of the Prince’s Trust fundraising highlights from the past 12 months here in Worcestershire include:

• Mike Ashton Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

• A sell-out Question of Sport evening which featured rugby star Pat Sanderson and former Aston Villa front man, Dion Dublin. The event raised £12,000 and due to overwhelming demand, will be held again in January 2012 • The annual Golf Day held at Blackwell Golf Club which raised in excess of £10,000 teams from firms across Worcestershire took part • The first ever Prince’s Trust Clay Pigeon Shoot which involved a whole host of beginners and experts. The event raised over £8,000 • The event, which was attended by over 100 people and included a celebrity panel headed up by former Worcester Warriors captain Pat Sanderson, raised over £5,000

• Neil Bettridge Amros Promotional Products • Guy Marson Modus Creative • Danielle Oliver Nat West • Paul Tivey Pinfield Accountants • Michelle Chamberlain Thursfield Solicitors • Garry Smith Century 2000

GREAT LITTLE BREAKS LAUNCHES...AND DELIGHTS HotelshopUK, one of the country’s leading providers of hotel accommodation for leisure and business travel, established over 12 years ago - has just launched Great Little Breaks, an exciting and novel brand that enables individuals to book short breaks in the UK complete with activities and treats for a whole range of stimulating and/or relaxing getaways.

And there’s just one eye-catching little price that includes everything...accommodation, attractions, activities and oodles of added value.

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Great Little Breaks is the brainchild of Vivienne Hudson, Founder of hotelshopUK. She comments: “There’s nothing quite as pleasing as added value on a short break. A complimentary three-course dinner and a glass of champagne on your first night; a cream tea on arrival and finding a bottle of wine and a bunch of freshly-picked flowers in your room; free tickets to Alton Towers thrown in on a family break. Such satisfaction can only be surpassed by the knowledge that you’re also enjoying up to 70% off your room rate!”

Who is Bindle?

Find out who Bindle is at a new bar and restaurant recently opened at a well known Sidbury site.

Formerly The Glasshouse and now under the new ownership of local entrepreneur Victoria Hamilton-Jones, the launch of Bindles brings a new, exciting bar and restaurant to Worcester. Daytime and evening menus specialising in fresh, high quality food made from locally sourced ingredients, a stylish, lively and friendly bar, plus a full refurbishment and popular location mean the opening of Bindles offers everything for a great night out.

Bindles has an upstairs conference room which is available for business meetings and events. www.bindles.co.uk Richard Wheatley, Head Chef, Victoria Hamilton-Jones, Owner and Rebecca Hill, Restaurant Manager.

20% INTRODUCTORY DISCOUNT FOR MEMBERS SOMERVILLE HOUSE Somerville House have just completed an upgrade on all their facilities. The house which is AA 5 star, combines contemporary style, guest accommodation with excellent service and is very popular with local companies to accommodate visiting professionals, executives and consultants. n The 12 high specification bedrooms have desks and good WiFi internet access. n Small meeting rooms for up to 10 are available, for presentations or informal discussions.

Please contact Somerville House for a brochure and a 20% introductory Discount Voucher. www.somervillehouse.net

www.greatlittlebreaks.com

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MAKING IT OFFICIAL Handelsbanken celebrated with the local professional community the official opening of its Worcester branch and new offices with an event themed in honour of its Swedish roots.

Some 100 guests enjoyed a Smorgasbord (Swedish buffet) and drinks hosted by Phil Dutton, Branch Manager of Handelsbanken Worcester, and his team.

To officially unveil the new office which is 2100 square feet at Wildwood Drive, Worcester, a celebratory ribbon was cut by Derek and Gill Fradgley, Handelsbanken’s first customers in Worcester. www.handelsbanken.co.uk/worcester

Handelsbanken Branch Manager Phil Dutton with customers Gill and Derek Fradgley who cut the ribbon to officially open the branch

NEW MEMBER, NEW DIRECTOR, NEW SERVICES, NEW WEBSITE Worcester IT Service business First Solution Technologies have a lot to shout about!

They have just appointed a new Director, Nigel Church, to grow the business as it moves into its tenth year.

Nigel said: “With the advent of Cloud Computing SMEs can now access Enterprise level IT & Communication

Services giving competitive edge at affordable pricing, which represents a real opportunity for growth” First Solution Technologies have also just launched a new website to market its services. “As part of this launch we are offering a very attractive Referral Scheme for any leads that turn into new business” www.firstsolution.co.uk

WILLIAMS AND MAINSTAY TURN RECRUITMENT STRATEGY ON IT’S HEAD Property Management Company Mainstay is on a mission to continue its rapid growth over the next five years. The executive team have placed customer service firmly at the heart of Mainstay’s strategy and know that if they are to be successful, they need to be hiring great people who support the strategy and have the right skills and values.

In an effort to reduce the risk of making costly recruitment errors, Mainstay has engaged with Midlands-based firm Williams - the people experts.

Williams have worked with Mainstay to develop a bespoke, efficient recruitment process that allows the management team to identify and assess the key behaviours they are looking for.

The process has already proved to be a great success and great people are being recruited into the organisation.

Paul Crook, Mainstay’s Managing Director:”The people experts gave us the tools we needed to really get under the skin of the people we were interviewing.

Some of their techniques were innovative and we were initially sceptical but, having gone through the process several times, the value is clear and now we wouldn’t recruit any other way.” www.thepeopleexperts.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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Movers and Shakers JAMES HAYES, MFG SOLICITORS LLP

LOUISE HOWARD, LANYON BOWDLER’S

James joins mfg after more than a decade as corporate partner with FBC Manby Bowdler in Wolverhampton where he earned a reputation for advising on complex transactions and cross border deals.

Hereford residents can now benefit from expert personal injury advice on their doorsteps following the restructure of Lanyon Bowdler’s personal injury team.

Personal injury solicitor Louise Howard is now available at the firm’s Hereford to provide legal expertise and advice to the local and surrounding communities.

Louise was admitted in September having completed her training contract through Lanyon Bowdler’s nationally recognised Trainee Solicitor Scheme.

After more than 20 years in corporate practice, James can boast a prominent reputation across Worcestershire and the Black Country for his technical expertise advising on mergers and acquisitions, corporate restructures and a broad spectrum of national and international commercial trading matters. www.mfgsolicitors.com

ENGLISH MUTUAL ANNOUNCE NEW APPOINTMENT

Abstract Corporate Image Ltd

The Directors of The English Mutual Group are delighted to announce the appointment of Lauren Billington as their new Head of External Relations.

Abstract Corporate Image Ltd recently relocated to Armeley, Herefordshire.

Abstract provides sign, exhibition and marketing solutions to small and medium sized business, ensuring they use a consistent image that matches their current market position - cost effectively. Recent projects include branding and signing a new retail outlet; a 24 sq/m exhibition stand in Dusseldorf; and signwriting a fleet of vehicles.

From the beginning of January 2012, Lauren (formerly the Fundraising Director at Leukaemia Care) will take over the organisation of not only English Mutual’s extensive programme of events across the country and the running of the Group’s charitable trust, The Wealth of Happiness Foundation, but will also be fully involved in the company’s brand development and engagement programme.

Louise previously achieved a degree in English Literature at the University of Leeds in 2004. She then attended the University of Wolverhampton completing her Common Professional Examination in 2008 and Legal Practice Course in 2009.

www.lblaw.co.uk

JO WRIGHT, CONCEPT ADVERTISING AND PR Jo Wright has been appointed as the new Managing Director of Concept Advertising and PR, tasked with the management and continued expansion of the Worcester based agency. She succeeds founding member, Bob Wooding who becomes Chairman of the board. www.conceptad.co.uk

www.abstractci.co.uk

www.englishmutual.com

DAVID BAYLISS, PARKINSON WRIGHT Parkinson Wright has strengthened its Commercial department with the appointment of solicitor, David Bayliss. David brings more than 9 years experience and several commercial clients to the firm, and intends to concentrate on his specialist commercial sectors including IT services, financial and leisure.

He will advise on a range of matters including the sale, purchase and setting up of businesses, terms of trade, commercial contracts, franchise and distribution agreements, employment contracts and employment procedures.

David is also an experienced property

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THREE KEY NEW LAWYERS, STALLARD MARCH & EDWARDS SOLICITORS Stallard March & Edwards Solicitors has announced the appointment of three key new lawyers.

lawyer and can advise upon matters including commercial leases, sale and purchase of freehold and leasehold commercial property and financing arrangements secured on property. www.parkinsonwright.co.uk

Susan Morrissy and Jack Smith have all joined the growing property department of the Worcestershire firm of solicitors which is located across three Worcester city centre offices.

Each comes with particular specialism’s in property. Susan has over 20 years’ experience in both commercial and residential property, and Jack will specialise in residential conveyancing following city experience in London.

Third new appointment Sarah Astbury who brings her experience of both commercial property and corporate work to the successful corporate and business services department www.smesolicitors.co.uk

January/February 2012

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Phil gave a superb presentation to the Holidaysplease Sales Team covering the key areas which lead to Sales Success. The team went away from Phil's session filled with enthusiasm ready to implement the new tools and techniques they had learned. The first full trading day after Phil's presentation the team sold double the amount of holidays than the norm! That's not a bad result is it!!

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