InBusiness Autumn 2013

INBUSINESS AU T U M N 2 0 1 3

P R O U D

T O

B E

PRICELESS

I N D E P E N D E N T

WA L E S ’ P R E M I E R I N D E P E N D E N T M A G A Z I N E F O R P E O P L E I N B U S I N E S S

THE HOT SEAT UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH KEVIN GREEN HILARY DEVEY, THE INTROBIZ SHOW, PLUS RETAIL THERAPY

BUSINESS PROFILES, FINANCE, HUMAN RESOURCES

THERE’S MORE ONLINE WWW . INBUSINESSMAG . CO . UK

DESIGN, MARKETING, MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING PLUS

INBUSINESS WA L E S ’ P R E M I E R I N D E P E N D E N T MAGAZINE FOR PEOPLE IN BUSINESS

Editor & Creative Director MARK ROBERTS mark@inbusinessmag.co.uk ❧ Group Managing Editor JENNIFER HOBBS-ROBERTS jennifer@inbusinessmag.co.uk ❧ Studio PA U L S E S S I O N S studio@goodlifepublishing.co.uk ❧ www.inbusinessmag.co.uk ❧ 0845 130 6452 © Copyright InBusiness 2013. All rights reserved.

Nothing in this magazine (including adverts) may be reproduced in any shape or form (in whole or part) without the express written permission of the publishers. We take breach of copyright and theft of intellectual property extremely seriously and will sue at the drop of a croissant. You have been warned (nicely); ignorance is no excuse.

Passionate about Wales We are independent. We live in Wales.

We are not a large publishing group pretending to be home grown. InBusiness magazine is written, designed and produced in Wales for the people of Wales.

Our philosophy We are committed to quality. This quote by William Foster pretty much sums up our thinking.

“Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.”

WELCOME There are some businesses you probably shouldn’t start in a recession - one being a publishing company where your income is dependent on the one thing that businesses are quick to cut when cash isn’t flowing - advertising.

But here we are - a warm welcome to InBusiness.

After one of the hottest summers on record, that warmth that we all love appears to not only have seeped into our bones, but also the Welsh economy. No-one dares mention green shoots these days but the truth is there are a few.

Wales is a fantastic country. We have so much to offer. We’re talented, creative, ingenious, resourceful, clever and hardworking. We don’t make enough of ourselves - especially in business.

INBUSINESS AU T U M N 2 0 1 3

P R O U D

T O

B E

PRICELESS

I N D E P E N D E N T

WA L E S ’ P R E M I E R I N D E P E N D E N T M A G A Z I N E F O R P E O P L E I N B U S I N E S S

Subscriptions To guarantee your copy of InBusiness magazine, please send a cheque for £20 (for four issues) made payable to InBusiness.

Visit www.inbusinessmag.co.uk for special subscriber discounts and special offers.

Missed the last issue?

We hold a small number of each issue in stock so if you do need a pristine copy, please telephone us or email mark@inbusinessmag.co.uk.

Hopefully we’ll have the issue you want (but we cannot guarantee it). Each back issue costs £5 including postage and packing.

Our vision for InBusiness is simply to inspire. We think we’ve produced a magazine that business people (or those starting out) will want to read. All too often business magazines seem to be full or regurgitated press releases and not enough about real business - the highs, the lows, the good, bad, and yes, the ugly.

In future issues we hope to bring you stories that will inspire you, and information that will make your business life just that little bit easier. If you’re looking for big economic statements, you won’t find them here.

We’ll be showcasing businesses of all shapes and sizes from across all sectors.

So, whether you’re a sole trader or a successful blue-chip company working in Wales, we’d love to know how you’re doing, and we’d love to share that with the thousands of others across the Principality.

Important you read this We have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in InBusiness or on www.inbusinessmag.co.uk is correct and accurate. However, we accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions and can offer no compensation should we get it wrong.

Please note that the opinions, thoughts, views or ideas expressed in articles contained in In Business are strictly those of the authors.

Caveat emptor All advertisers have supplied their own copy (and in some cases artwork), and therefore In Business cannot accept any responsibility for disputes between advertisers and their customers.

Caveat emptor - let the buyer beware.

Wales has all the ingredients to become a truly great economic nation in its own right - we just have to believe in ourselves, and encourage those that have the ideas and are prepared to take the risks.

THE HOT SEAT

We hope you like our first issue as much as we’ve enjoyed producing it and, we’re proud to say, InBusiness has been written, designed and printed right here in Wales.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH KEVIN GREEN HILARY DEVEY, THE INTROBIZ SHOW, PLUS RETAIL THERAPY

BUSINESS PROFILES, FINANCE, HUMAN RESOURCES

THERE’S MORE ONLINE WWW . INBUSINESSMAG . CO . UK

DESIGN, MARKETING, MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING PLUS

In 2007, our compact and bijou publishing company launched Vale Life magazine. Since then we’ve published three more high quality magazines (four if you include InBusiness) and, we have to say, we’ve loved every minute.

Yes it’s free!

InBusiness is distributed free through a wide variety of outlets across Wales and is given away free of charge on the understanding that we are happy for it to be lent, passed around, given to friends and generally read until it falls apart.

At which point, you can recycle it and we’d be delighted if you did.

We’ve new magazine titles on the cards and some diversification in other areas is also planned so, as they say, the future looks bright.

Green is good The pulp used in the production of the paper InBusiness is printed on is sourced from sustainably managed Scandinavian tree farms and utilises elementary chlorine-free bleaching.

If you’d like to promote your business in our ‘Life’style titles or InBusiness, please contact Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts on 07766 106701 or email jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

❧ 3 ❧

Mark Roberts Editor mark@inbusinessmag.co.uk

VALE LIFE S U MMER 2 01 3

P R O U D

T H E VA L E

OF

T O

B E

P R I CEL ES S

I N D E P E N D E N T

G L A M O R G A N ’S P R E M I E R L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

FLOWER POWER

WHERE TO SHOP, WHERE TO EAT AND WHAT TO DO IN THE VALE OF GLAMORGAN THIS SUMMER

RESTAURANT REVIEWS, WHAT’S ON, BUSINESS, SHOPPING

THERE’S MORE ONLINE WWW . VALELIFE . CO . UK

PLUS A RT , M USIC , S TYLE , HEALTH, HOMES AND MUCH MORE

CONTENTS Welcome to the launch issue of InBusiness, Wales’ premier independent magazine for people in business

46 57

12

45 24

42

IN BUSINESS IS WRITTEN, DESIGNED AND PRODUCED IN SOUTH WALES AND IS PROUD TO BE INDEPENDENT

❧ 0845 130 6452

❧ COVER IMAGE

38

KEVIN GREEN PHOTOGRAPHED BY SIAN OWEN WWW . SIAN - OWEN . CO . UK

❧ 4 ❧

IN THIS ISSUE 6 8 MORE INBUSINESS NEWS - PR , MARKETING , ADVERTISING , TELECOMS AND CANDLES ! 10 TO THE POINTE - CARDIFF ’ S MOST PRESTIGIOUS WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT 12 FULLY FUNCTIONAL - CHRIS TEAGUE OPENS THE DOORS TO THE WENVOE ARMS 14 HOUSE STYLE - OWEN AND PHILIPPA GALE TALK ABOUT THEIR QUIRKY HOTEL 16 COOL CUSTOMER - KEN RATTENBURY TELLS US WHY HE LOVES HAWKES IN CARDIFF 20 AJUDA - DAWN EVANS TALKS ABOUT HER RAPIDLY EXPANDING TRAINING BUSINESS 21 THE SKIN SPECIALISTS - CYFOES OWNER , ANDREA EVANS , FILLS US IN 22 PASTURES GREEN - WALES ’ MOST SUCCESSFUL LANDLORD TAKES TIME OUT 24 WISH UPON A STAR - JEWELLER , MATT MULLOOLY , SAYS NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE 26 BUILDING REPUTATION - ANDREW HODGSON TALKS ABOUT ROGUE BUILDING FIRMS 28 QUEEN B - JENNIFER HOBBS - ROBERTS TALKS STYLE WITH PENARTH ’ S THE QUEEN B 32 GREAT SCOTT - CHEF SPIRO BORG AND THE ROYAL HOTEL ’ S SCOTT BANQUET 34 HIGH STREET BLUES - WHAT ’ S REALLY WRONG WITH WALES ’ HIGH STREETS ?

36 INTROBIZ BUSINESS SHOW - THE NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK PUT ON A SHOW 38 CREATIVE COOKING - BARNEY HIBBERT REOPENS THE GALLERY TO MUCH ACCLAIM 40 CROSSWAYS HOUSE - YOUR CHANCE TO OWN A SPECIAL PROPERTY IN THE VALE 42 THE MALDRON SPIRIT - BEST WESTERN ’ S £25 M FLAGSHIP CARDIFF HOTEL 45 SERVICED V LEASED - JAMES MASON CHAMPIONS THE SERVICED OFFICE 46 PEOPLE WHO NEED PEOPLE - SALLY HALL AND LIZ LEWIS TALK RECRUITMENT 48 DRAWING ON EXPERIENCE - RA ARCHITECTS IS RIDING HIGH 49 MOVING STORY - MASONS IS ONE OF WALES ’ OLDEST BUSINESSES 50 CWC IMAGERY - MORE THAN EVER , IMAGERY SELLS . IS YOURS UP TO SCRATCH ?

52 EFFECTIVE HRM - HR IS A MINEFIELD . YOU NEED AN EFFECTIVE TEAM 57 CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE - GARETH JENKINS HAS MUCH TO SMILE ABOUT 58 HANDS ON EXPERIENCE – HEALER ANNE RODGERS ON FORTY YEARS IN BUSINESS 60 INBUSINESS SOCIAL LIFE – MOVERS AND SHAKERS DOING WHAT THEY DO BEST 62 THE LAST WORD – GARDENER , ROB HODGE , PUTS HIS TOOLS DOWN 66 INBUSINESS NEWS I AM WOMAN

16

49

-

-

VUELING , MEDIA ANGEL AND STUDIO TRI

WE TALK TO FOUNDER AND MD , CHERYL BASS

IN BUSINESS WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER RECENT MONTHS . OUR CONTRIBUTORS , OUR FAMILIES , OUR FRIENDS ( INCLUDING ALL THE NEW ONES WE HAVE MADE ) AND OUR ADVERTISERS - WITHOUT THEM IN BUSINESS WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE . WE HOPE YOU LIKE WHAT WE ’ VE PRODUCED AND WE ’ LL TRY TO MAKE EACH ISSUE EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST AND IF YOU HAVE A STORY THAT YOU ’ D LIKE TO SHARE , PLEASE GET IN TOUCH . IN BUSINESS IS REGISTERED AT THE BRITISH LIBRARY AS A MAGAZINE . FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW . INBUSINESSMAG . CO . UK

❧ 5 ❧

INBUSINESS NEWS CARDIFF AIRPORT

New winter services from Vueling Leading Spanish airline Vueling, has launched new winter services from Cardiff Airport following a positive response from Welsh passengers.

Passengers can also access over fifty destinations in Europe and North-Africa, with full baggage through check-in from Cardiff Airport to final destination utilising Vueling’s Barcelona hub.

We put our heads above the Parapet and invest in our own self-promotion.

If we’re not advertising, why should our clients entrust us with their hardearned advertising budgets?

During summer 2013 Vueling is operating flights to Alicante, Barcelona, Malaga and Palma Majorca from Cardiff.

Flights to Alicante and Malaga operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Wednesday flights to Malaga are also available during August and September.

Studio Tri recently applied for planning permission to wrap an entire building in Cardiff with a 60ft” creative. Yes, we need to stand out from the crowd, sure, but we also believe in showing clients what we can do when we’re not using somebody else’s money.

Flights to Barcelona are on Fridays and Sundays offering connections to cruises departing from Barcelona. Direct flights from Cardiff to Palma Majorca are on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

S O U T H WA L E S

More Angels to help with your marketing The Media Angel, one of south Wales’ leading marketing agencies, dealing with various clients across both the public and private sectors including travel, healthcare, tourist attractions and local Councils, celebrates its fifth year of trading by taking on a new account manager, Katie Lucas.

Does your advertising agency advertise?

PR companies give themselves credits. Event planners throw huge parties. So what about Advertising Agencies? As the Media Director for Studio Tri, I am constantly searching for that perfect platform to reach our target market.

Tickets are available now via www.vueling.com, travel agents, Vueling’s iPhone app, mobile portal m.vueling.com, and call centre (UK number) 0906 754 7541.

The additional flights to Malaga and Alicante will operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays, extending the summer schedule. Flights start at €39,99.

Account manager Katie Lucas

S O U T H WA L E S

Palma

Katie has a degree in business studies and marketing and has worked in various marketing, advertising, events and sales roles in south Wales including marketing and events at Cardiff Metropolitan’s Students Union, a local marketing agency and, more recently, as marketing and sales executive for one of the UK’s leading training providers, Pitman Training.

Alison Debono, MD of The Media Angel says, “I took a long time making sure I chose the right person to join The Media Angel and I’m confident Katie is that person. I'm looking forward to welcoming Katie on board. She’s going to be a great asset to the company in not only helping to support existing clients but also to bring new clients on board. The future is exciting for The Media Angels!”

The Media Angel offices are at Avon House in Penarth, ideally located for Cardiff, The Vale of Glamorgan and the M4 corridor.

The Media Angel Avon House Penarth 029 2070 7967 M: 07793 355 305 alison@themediaangel.co.uk Twitter @TheMediaAngel

❧ 6 ❧

So when your company is next considering using an agency, look at their portfolio of clients, their shiny awards, find out about their history, sure, but don’t forget to ask them to show you how they go about advertising themselves. There should be a plethora of choice. After all, that’s what they do! Matt Jones, Studio Tri Studio Tri 5 The Balcony, Castle Arcade Cardiff CF10 1BY 029 2037 3321 info@studiotri.co.uk www.studiotri.co.uk Follow on Facebook and Twitter

❧ 7 ❧

Women are now more than ever looking to start up or develop a business as their major source of income, but seem to be blocked, challenged or lack the confidence to really take their business where it, or they, deserve to be. In Business hears from Cheryl Bass, founder and MD of one of the most successful networking organisations in the UK, aimed solely at women.

I AM WOMAN You might be surprised to know: ■ Women control or influence 81% of all business purchases ■ Women majority own 620, 00 of UK businesses ■ Women control 12 trillion dollars of the world’s 18.4 trillion dollar spend on consumer products ■ Women are natural social networkers and that the fastest growing market is not China or India, its women!

I believe that women are the hidden secret in business.

From 2005-2011, companies with female board members outperformed those without women on the board on share price and return on equity.

A recent Davies report cited evidence that companies with women on the board had a 42% higher return on sales, 66% higher return on invested capital and a 53% higher return on equity.

Supporting talented women in business has developed from ‘the right thing to do’ into ‘the most rational thing to do’.

Bearing all this in mind, this is compounded by the fact that women refer ten times more business than men - wow! So if women actively support women in business, just imagine the results we can start seeing in the businesses that women are working in, launching or developing?

I AM WOMAN was founded just over two years ago in Cardiff, but now has Business Clubs for women popping up right across the UK. It offers aspiring women in business an annual Membership of £395 which provides them with a whole host of benefits to get ahead of their competition. As a Member you are invited to ten monthly meetings in your area, but you can also travel to Business Clubs right across the UK using your one Membership, allowing women to grow their business quickly with a minimum investment.

“I AM WOMAN meetings are fun, highly motivational, a place to make new friends and new business contacts.”

I AM WOMAN meetings are fun, highly motivational, a place to make new friends and new business contacts.

Every meeting starts at 6.30pm with a cocktail and canapé networking reception, where women can rub toes with ‘like- minded’ women in business looking to do business with women.

At 7pm there are introductions and speed networking. Each month the Business Clubs follow a programme called Aspire.

Aspire is a development programme that focusses upon developing the entrepreneurial talent of women based on award winning innovative research that feeds into the female learning style and development cycle.

This unique programme is accredited

by The Institute of Leadership and Management. This offers our members free student ILM Membership as part of their I AM WOMAN Membership which releases another whole host of added benefits.

In-between meetings there are free I AM WOMAN Worksop’s, free coaching, free online challenges, free discussion forums, free online Directory. It’s that holistic bubble, holistic community feeling when you step into I AM WOMAN. It’s what I would have wanted for me when I setup in business for the first time over twenty two years ago.

❧ 8 ❧

Our I AM WOMAN Members have given us such amazing feedback, here are some of the things they have said about us ■ My turnover increased by 65% after joining I AM WOMAN Tracey Jenkins, Introbiz Ltd ■ The training is always relevant to by

business

I think the key attribute women get when they come to I AM WOMAN is the confidence it releases in themselves. We see women suddenly coming into their own, standing tall and pitching for business, developing in all senses of the word and just elevate themselves to the next level in business, whatever that next level is in their world.

Marianne Pettifor, Frogmore Consulting ■ I AM WOMAN coaching got our

business a grant of £100k Margaret Carter, Patchwork Traditional Foods ■ I love the fact that our business got

signposted to some great free schemes that will really help us take our business forward far faster than we had originally planned Emma Cooksley Lewis, C2it Commercial Collections Ltd.

I AM WOMAN offers an experience like no other and once sampled, will be the platform and place women will want to do business in and with in the future.

But don’t just take my word for it, step into one of our events throughout the UK. Our next Cardiff event will be a showcase like no other. Held on Tuesday September 24th 2013 in The Mercure Holland House Hotel on Newport Road.

“Our next Cardiff event will be on Tuesday September 24th 2013.”

The Mercure are Cardiff I AM WOMAN Headline Sponsors for 2013/2014 and are launching their new banqueting facilities at this event.

Lynn Frankes, a highly successful businesswoman, broadcaster and author who recently appeared in ‘I’m A Celebrity Get me Out Of Here’ and was the character the renowned series Absolutely Fabulous was developed from, will be speaking upon ‘Embracing and Releasing The Celebrity in You’.

Marianne Pettifor will be speaking on ‘How To Build A Celebrity Brand’ and Margaret Carter will be speaking on ‘Selling A Celebrity Brand’. Tickets for Members £15 and Visitors £20, which includes your entrance into the toe rubbing cocktail and canapé networking reception where you can meet some absolutely fabulous women looking to do business with women just like you.

I AM WOMAN 029 2035 1533 info@iamwoman.biz www.iamwoman.biz

❧ 9 ❧

SEREN7

Helping your business to shine PR, marketing and event management agency, Seren7 ltd has fast become renowned for their fresh and innovative approach to their craft, all thanks to their hard work, dedication and creative flair.

PR Director, Shakira Obaid said, “As a company we have developed and grown faster than anticipated. We’re honoured to offer strategic communications solutions to a number of high profile regional and national brands. For us it’s of paramount importance that we build relationships with the companies we work with, trust and integrity is key in our industry.

Seren7 Director, Shakira Obaid

We believe that the success of our communication campaigns is testament to the close relationships we build with our clients and our willingness to think outside the box.”

In case you’re wondering, Seren is the welsh translation for star, just add the lucky number 7 = Seren7. Inject the star quality - If you’re looking to professionally publicise your business in the press, require an event to showcase your offering, need to generate social media content or require effective marketing collateral look no further than Seren7.

Seren7 02920 373409 www.seren7.co.uk enquiries@seren7.co.uk

S O U T H WA L E S

Tri is the magic number When three advertising geeks left their jobs to start up their very own agency in 2011, little did they realise that within the first year, they would go from working out of their attics, to collecting prestigious awards alongside some of the biggest companies in Wales.

Tucked away in Castle Arcade, Studio Tri is currently working with The Millennium Stadium, Peters Pies, The WRU, BBI Healthcare, Note Machine and the BBC on projects across the UK. Studio Tri 5 the Balcony, Castle Arcade Cardiff CF10 1BY 029 2037 3321 info@studiotri.co.uk www.studiotri.co.uk Follow on Facebook and Twitter

Now in their third year, Studio Tri has a real office, based in Cardiff City Centre.

“It was freezing in that attic in the winter,” said Media Director of Studio Tri, Matt Jones.

S O U T H WA L E S

Helping small businesses to succeed Small businesses cannot afford to cut marketing spend in difficult trading conditions. Marketing advisor Gaynor Thomas advocates making time to explore new opportunities, making full use of digital marketing and being positive.

“But we knew that we had the experience, creativity and passion to make something from nothing.

Things have changed a little.

Having made her mark in selling the city of Bath and its attractions, launching luxury hotels and restaurants, she then turned to high profile events such as music festivals in Bath and Brecon. Gaynor is now back in the Vale helping small businesses get their share of the market.

We’re a fully functioning Advertising Agency with a dedicated team working on media planning and buying, SEO, design and creative.

There are more staff, larger budgets and bigger challenges, sure, but our philosophy of producing work that we’re truly proud of remains firmly embedded in our roots.”

07885 369054 www.gaynorthomas.com

❧ 10 ❧

PENARTH

Bridgecall offers free telecoms consultancy With over 35 years of commercial experience in the office technologies industry, Managing Director Ian Norton is committed to providing independent advice to the commercial community without obligation, or commitment, and completely free of charge and, having tried it, we can vouch for his service.

WA L E S

Cardiff candle-maker seeks quality outlets Gauci, the Cardiff based organic candle company is looking for quality outlets across Wales to sell its range of organic candles.

Owner, Spiro Gauci, has created a ready-to-sell display cabinet that can be painted to match the decor of the shop.

Gauci candles have quite a following in Cardiff and Spiro wants the rest of Wales to enjoy his candles too.

So next time you’re about to order some big brand candles that aren’t manufactured in Wales (or the UK for that matter), perhaps you’ll think twice and give Spiro a call.

158 Whitchurch Road, Heath Cardiff CF14 3NA Call Spiro on 07866 750848 www.gaucicandles.co.uk

Bridgecall is an independent telecommunications consultancy, offering free advice to help businesses reduce their costs, upgrade their current technologies and plan for the implementation of future technologies.

Ian Norton says, “Bridgecall prides itself on supplying a trusted service.

We have a 100% success rate in reducing operating costs, you can be sure your company will be in safe hands.”

CARDIFF

Bridgecall’s expertise in improving business telephone networks, updating mobile packages to a more suitable contract, cost reduction on call charges and line rental, and technical advice on broadband for increased speed and reduced contention services may be just what your company needs. As they say, every little helps.

Bridgecall Ltd 2 Chandlers Way, Penarth Marina Vale of Glamorgan CF64 1SP 029 2070 3651 or 07917 855856 ian@bridgecall.co.uk www.bridgecall.co.uk

Hands on approach works wonders As a designer, software such as Photoshop and Illustrator gives me a huge choice of drawing and painting tools to work with.

Sometimes, however, it’s good to go a little old school. Experimentation with traditional methods such as screen printing, sketching and letterpress is a great way to provide clients with a refreshing, unique piece of work.

Don’t get me wrong, the computer is an incredibly valuable tool for design, but time away from the monitor is just as important to my workflow. A lot of my ideas start with a sketch pad. It’s fairly basic, but a great way to get the juices flowing. I still get a kick out of seeing a rough early sketch on a piece of scrap paper; develop into a crisp, completed piece of work.

Plus, the added bonus of using a ‘hands-on’ approach means that if the machines ever do decide to rise against us, I know I could create a ‘Join the revolution’ poster with a trusty pencil!

Pesky machines. Steve Lewis, Studio Tri Studio Tri 5 the Balcony Castle Arcade Cardiff CF10 1BY 029 2037 3321 info@studiotri.co.uk www.studiotri.co.uk Follow on Facebook and Twitter

❧ 11 ❧

Lydia Seymour

The Cardiff Pointe development has to be one of the most exciting developments in South Wales for a decade. With plans for over 600 residential properties bordering the Cardiff Sports Village and views across the bay and Penarth Marina, Cardiff Pointe will no doubt be one of the city’s most sought after locations.

TO THE POINTE InBusiness met with Lydia Seymour at the marketing suite to find out more about this exciting project.

What type of housing is being built?

There is a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments and four and five bedroom houses being built within this first phase. All are contemporary new designs from Cardiff-based architects Scott Brownrigg.

Who do you think the properties will appeal to?

There is a diverse range of homes so there is something for everyone.

Prices range from £175,000 for the two bedroom Caravel apartment right through to £750,000 for the impressive five/six bedroom spacious water-fronted Brigantine executive family home.

Will there be any social housing involved in the project?

The development will bring many social benefits to the area including the provision of significant off-site affordable and split-tenure property.

Who will be marketing the properties?

The launch of Cardiff Pointe and initial sales are being handled by a select team that includes agents Allen & Harris (part of the Sequence Group nationwide). The on-site Marketing Suite is open Thursday to Monday, 10am until 5pm.

The developer has invested in higher specification fixtures and fittings, can you tell us more about this?

To quote from the brochure, “Great care and attention to detail has been taken in ensuring the new homes at Cardiff Pointe are finished to the highest possible standards of specification and designed exclusively

by Figurehead Homes and Scott Brownrigg.”

German Rational kitchens designed

by Cardiff based Spacefittingfurniture, contemporary bathrooms designed by Porcelanosa, energy-efficient windows plus hi-tech security mean that buyers will enjoy a level of finish and design to match the stunning location.

How many homes and being built and what type?

Phases one and two feature 98 homes Plots 1 to 99 (there’s no number 13!).

There is a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments and four and five bedroom houses being built within this first phase. All are beautiful new designs from Scott Brownrigg architects.

What facilities will be on site and when are these planned?

There are already a range of incredible facilities on site, including the worldclass Cardiff International White Water Rafting Centre, the international pool with its fantastic fitness suite, Cardiff Ice Arena, Cardiff Bay Yacht Club plus food and retail shopping, restaurants and pubs right on the doorstep.

In future, these facilities will be complemented by two Olympicstandard ice pads, the snow dome, retail, restaurants and leisure facilities and a six-star hotel.

Have any been sold so far?

Interest in the properties has been excellent - a stunning waterfront Barque five bedroom home was reserved within an hour of launching Cardiff Pointe.

We’ve had considerable interest in the full range of available properties already.

What impact do you think this development mean to Cardiff and specifically Cardiff Bay? What benefits will it bring?

Cardiff Pointe is helping to create a new destination in Cardiff - one that underlines Cardiff's status as a worldclass city and reinforces the importance of Cardiff Bay as an integral part of that. ❧ 12 ❧

“Cardiff Pointe is helping to create a new destination in Cardiff - one that underlines Cardiff's status as a world-class city.”

The on-site Marketing Suite is open from Thursday to Monday from 10am to 5pm.

For more information please contact Allen & Harris on 0845 340 3927 www.cardiffpointe.co.uk

❧ 13 ❧

As the nation tightens their belts, more people are making use of the small function rooms that pubs offer to host birthday parties, Christenings and even wedding receptions. Whereas once they might have booked a large function room for 200 guests in a hotel, now many people are favouring smaller, more intimate venues which have a more personal feel and comfortable atmosphere.

FULLY FUNCTIONAL We chat to Chris Teague, Landlord of The Wenvoe Arms, Wenvoe to find out why more and more people are using pubs for events and business meetings.

Why are people hiring your function room Chris?

I think it used to be the norm that people booked hotels for their events and possibly budget hotels were the usual resting place for those staying away on business. I think they’ve now realised that they can hold a special event or business meeting somewhere where they might feel more comfortable, where they can enjoy a pint and good home cooked food. Dare I say it, some hotel function rooms can lack a little soul but a local pub, which is at the heart of a village, can be full of character, characters and atmosphere.

What events do you cater for?

We cater for all types of events such as birthdays, business meetings, christenings, funerals, weddings and anniversaries.

It might not be the obvious choice for a business meeting but we are seeing more and more of these being booked so we’re obviously given them what they want. We have everything a company might need to put on a team building or business meeting. We also have three outside areas, The Lounge Terrace, The Courtyard and The Beer Garden for spill out areas or for those needing a sneaky intake of nicotine.

You’re building a good reputation for your food, that’s obviously important to you.

Yes, a pub dies or survives on the quality of its food and drink, that’s why we’ve invested in a good quality chef who uses only the best local produce.

We’ve also worked hard on sourcing top quality wines and beers, including World beers and lagers, cask ales and guest ales. We have gained a Cask Marque accreditation for the quality of our beers. We also serve Gwynt y Ddraig Welsh cider and Budvar in bottles.

Can you provide testimonials of happy customers?

We find that TripAdvisor is a great source of testimonials for us.

“Always a warm welcome from landlords and staff alike not forgetting Patrick (owner’s son) Food is tasty and variable with specials on the Specials Board - fantastic music events laid on indoors and outside on the lovely decking area - what can you say - there is something for everyone - it has become our local and we love it.

Keep up the good works guys!

Also a great place to have a party, wedding or a general get together nothing is too much trouble for them.

The pub is back to life just what the village ordered.” Suebb15, Cardiff “This is my local pub and I am so pleased that is within walking distance of my home. The Brains bitter is always excellent and each week there is usually a couple of guest beers often from a craft brewery.

The staff under the supervision of the landlord Chris Teague are friendly and attentive. I have had lunch here and the pub have also catered for a church function. Both were excellent. I will be back!” Gary S, Cardiff How can I book?

It’s simple, either email us at contact@wenvoearms.co.uk or call us on 029 2059 1129 and ask for our events manager Jamie.

The Wenvoe Arms 18 Old Port Road, Wenvoe CF5 6AN 029 2059 1129 The.wenvoe.arms@gmail.com www.wenvoearms.co.uk Like on Facebook, follow on Twitter Sky Sports available

❧ 14 ❧

WE GET BY WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM OUR FRIENDS THE NEW CROMBIE RANGE NOW AVAILABLE AT HAWKES

37-39 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1AF 029 2037 3780 www.hawkesessentials.com

It’s a different ballgame moving from a leisure retail and catering business to taking on a fourteen bedroomed country house hotel in Pembrokeshire.

We spoke to the proprietors Owen and Philippa Gale to find out what drove them (and still drives them) to take on this huge project and how they make the work/life balance fit.

HOUSE STYLE How long ago did you take over Hammet House?

We took it over in October 2011, so coming up to two years now.

How did you fund the project?

We were fortunate to be coming out of two successful ventures and knew we were ready to embark on a bigger and more ambitious project, so we rolled every penny from the sale of our previous businesses towards funding the start up of Hammet House. Of course with a project of this size, this was only a portion of the funding needed, so we also approached a number of banks for business loans.

What did you both do before your venture into Hammet House?

We were running two leisure and tourism sector businesses in Pembrokeshire; a leisure retail business and a catering business. This background has been really useful in our new roles as hoteliers, giving us a firm grounding in customer service, dealing with the public and the food and beverage aspects of the business.

“When running a hotel, no two days are the same.”

We were also both familiar with the ins and outs of running your own business and the commitment and dedication that that requires.

The hotel side of the business was totally new to us and, as with any new venture, we thought we were prepared and knowledgeable on the subject – but quickly found the hotel game was far more complicated and demanding than we imagined!

Before moving back to Pembrokeshire, Owen worked in London as a forensic scientist having trained in Pathology at Bristol and Philippa studied English Literature in London. We both felt the strong tug of Pembrokeshrie calling us home after a few years in the big city and, as many of us do, followed the urge to head back West.

What have you learnt in your first two years?

The learning process is daily. When running a hotel, no two days are the same and there are constantly surprises and new situations to deal with. We’ve learnt that planning is key. In this industry details need to be planned twelve months in advance, so you have to have systems in place to be able to do this. You then also need to have the ability to respond to changes at the last minute. We’ve learnt that you need a rock solid team around you to succeed.

We’ve spent a long time building our current team of superstars, who are a crucial asset to Hammet House. With fourteen bedrooms, bar, restaurant and event space for up to 200 guests and seven acres of grounds to manage, we rely heavily on our team.

We’ve also learnt that to create something unique and special, you have to stick to your vision through some tough times. When we bought this business it was a long standing and very traditional, but tired typical country house hotel. We’ve shaken things up radically and created something totally new, which certainly ruffled a few feathers in the local area and met with initial disapproval. It was challenging to stick to our guns through the first winter here – it was very quiet and a significant percentage of the visitors we did have coming to us were repeat guests from the old business, whose only feedback was how much they hated all the renovation work we had carried out.

It was really difficult, worrying and disheartening at times, but thankfully we have come through the other side now and are steadily building a legion of clients and fans who ‘get’ what we are doing and love us for it. This is reflected in our occupancy levels creeping higher season on season, REVPAR increasing, our fine dining restaurant regularly being fully booked on Fridays and Saturdays, and a healthy glut of wedding bookings coming in from now to 2015.

❧ 16 ❧

What would have done differently?

This is a question we ask ourselves regularly and, even though we have had to struggle through some real challenges, so far we have always concluded that what we have done so far has probably been the right path to take.

We faced some difficult issues at initial takeover of the business, as staff that was in place under the previous owners of the hotel was resistant to change.

Transfer of Undertakings is always going to involve a degree or wrangling, which is something we didn’t anticipate.

How did you find the funding process? Was your bank helpful?

Securing funding for this project was a momentous struggle. We approached eight banks for our loan and the story was the same nearly every time – an initial meeting which would be positive and encouraging, followed by a week or so wait whilst the relationship manager took the proposal to head office and then a big ‘No’ from head office. This was so frustrating as we knew we had a rock solid business plan, had found the perfect venue and had plenty of experience in running successful businesses.

Banks simply won’t lend if they can find any reason not to. Happily, we eventually found support from Barclays and a relationship manager that could see sense.

Knowing that you have two young children, how do you manage the work/life balance?

With incredible difficulty! I’m sure the dilemma is familiar to any business owner; you are never totally ‘off’ work.

This is exacerbated when you live on site as we do and, when the business is of a twenty four hour a day nature, as a hotel is. We make time for family time when the business is quieter, which is midweek and off-season. Living on site has pros and cons – you are always ‘at work’ in a sense, but it also allows us the flexibility to nip away from the coalface when time allows and have family time together throughout the day – something which wouldn’t be possible living off site. As the business grows, we are expanding our team of staff. We’ve gone from having two chefs, one part time cleaner and two receptionists to having a team of over twenty staff. As things grow, we hope to be able to delegate more and more and increase our management team to allow us a little more free time. ❧ 18 ❧

What has been your proudest moment to-date?

I think every time we drive through the gates and down the driveway and approach the house, we both feel immensely proud. We both thought that this place was really special when we first saw it and it had so much potential, but needed so much care. To see the house and grounds flourishing inside and out and to have created a business that is sustaining so many jobs in the local area and bringing pleasure to so many clients is really rewarding.

It was also lovely to be given official recognition at the Pembrokeshire Tourism awards 2013, we had a management night out to attend the ceremony and picked up three golds and one silver award, which I believe is unprecedented, so we were really thrilled and proud to be so honoured.

If you could three tips for someone starting out a similar venture, what would they be?

Spend a long time planning your budget. Go through every element of the business and budget for what you think will need doing. If you are starting a hotel, double your budget. If you are taking over an old country house hotel – you can probably triple or quadruple it! Even after this, keep a healthy contingency fund – old buildings are expensive.Don’t be afraid to stick to your vision. If you have a clear idea of what you want to create and your vision is backed up by a good business plan and based on valid research, then you probably are on the right track. Just because some people don’t understand what you are trying to do, or haven’t seen it before, doesn’t mean it won’t work. In fact it probably means you’ve seen a gap in the market and are poised to take advantage.

“I think every time we drive through the gates and down the driveway and approach the house, we both feel immensely proud.”

Surround yourself with good people to help you. Be ruthless in cutting out those who don’t ascribe to your vision.

You will need a supportive team full of people who are going to help you make it work, share your whole vision with them and they will be eager to help you get there.

What are your aspirations for the future?

We have many plans for further development here at Hammet House, in the short term over this Winter we have a significant amount of further bedroom renovations and improvements planned.

Over the next three years, we hope to renovate our currently disused outdoor pool area to create a luxury spa with three treatment rooms and an outdoor hot pool. ❧ 19 ❧

In the longer term, we plan to open venue two in Pembrokeshire. We both grew up in the south of the county, so our hearts will probably draw us in that direction for Hammet House sister venture. Although finding the right venue could draw us anywhere – we would be looking to do something to complement Hammet House, so something a little different but in the same industry, perhaps a barn-style event space, unique accommodation….any suggestions?

Hammet House Llechryd, Cardigan Pembrokeshire SA43 2QA 01239 682 382 mail@hammethouse.co.uk Follow Hammet House on Facebook Follow Hammet House on Twitter

It was whilst at Hawkes’ refurbishment party this summer that we met Ken Rattenbury and his wife Jacky. Ken and son Jake have been customers of Hawkes for several years. So, what’s so great about shopping at Hawkes we wonder? We’ll let Ken explain why.

COOL CUSTOMER

Owner Russell Scott-Lawson

What do you buy from Hawkes?

It would be easier to say what don’t I buy?! I have several suits, eight to ten pairs of jeans, twenty shirts, a number of jumpers and at least ten to fifteen pairs of shoes. There’s nothing there that I haven’t bought at some point.

Ken Rattenbury and wife Jacky

How do you feel wearing Hawkes?

I always feel good. I know how special the shirts are and I’ve never seen anyone else wearing them. My son Jake is a racing driver with the MTech racing team and, as a result, we regularly follow him all over the world at the major circuits. Wherever we go, we get positive comments such as “WOW, your suits are amazing” and “They must cost thousands!”

What business are you in Ken? I run a cold store and transport company in Cardiff docks. We store all types of food for the large stores such as Marks and Spencer, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons. We blast freeze food on site and store up to 9,000 pallets which we then distribute to different sites around south Wales and the UK.

If I’ve had to go out and my wife hasn’t been able to put my clothes out for me, people laugh because the outfit I’ve put together is all mis-matched. They think we’ve had words! What I like best is that they make you feel special straight away and are able to home in on the kind of clothes that make you think – yes, that’s me.

Can you tell us how you heard about Hawkes?

I’ve several friends who have shopped at Hawkes for many years and it was they who recommended the clothing there. I literally went in one day, got talking to Russell and then got hooked.

I’ve been going there ever since.

Who has assisted you in the shop?

I’ve always dealt with Russell. To give you an example of how good he is, I went to a society wedding recently.

The wedding was on a Friday and I telephoned Russell and said that I needed something to wear. He told me to come in. That was on the Wednesday. I went to the wedding looking and feeling like a million dollars.

What keeps you coming back?

Definitely the quality and style of clothing.

What do you think about the shopping experience?

My experience was one of complete shock at just how quickly they could pick up on the style of clothes I would wear and then put clothing together for me. I’m colour blind so I’ve always found clothes shopping difficult.

He also dressed my son Jake. We had a number of positive comments from quite a few of the guests. As Russell knows that I can be very busy, he will bring clothes and accessories to my house if I have an event to go to.

He knows all of my sizes and my style so I know I’m in safe hands. Where else would you get a shopping experience like that? ❧ 20 ❧

Jake and I need to look good because of our professions. Jake has to stand up on stage and give interviews. Everyone comments on how professional he looks. I feel that clothes do most of the talking, not only in work but outside of business. We regularly entertain at home and I feel it’s important to look good then as well.

Do you think the clothes represented good value for money?

Most definitely. You get what you pay for. We could go to London to shop but why do that when you can get all you need and more at Hawkes?

Would you recommend Hawkes to others?

I’ve recommended a lot of people and I know they have gone in and bought from there and want to carry on buying.

Will you continue to shop there?

Yes, yes and yes!

Hawkes 37-39 Morgan Arcade Cardiff CF10 1AF 029 2037 3780 www.hawkesessentials.com Follow on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube

Ajuda provides companies with affordable health and safety courses such as first aid training, manual handling, food hygiene, fire safety and many more related courses throughout Wales and the rest of the UK. We spoke to business owner, Dawn Evans.

AJUDA

Why did you set up Ajuda?

About eight years ago, my daughter choked on a sweet whilst we were at a local playgroup. Luckily, I was trained in first aid and applied the choking protocol that I had learnt. However, most of the other mums that day approached me and said that if it was their child that was choking, they wouldn’t know what to do, so I offered to teach them. Then I was asked to teach local nurseries, colleges, schools and then the training not only expanded into local business and local authorities but the subjects that I offered grew too.

Why the name Ajuda?

Ajuda is Spanish (Catalan for ‘help’) that is what Ajuda is about. We help people to save lives. I want one word that described what I was trying to achieve and out popped Ajuda!

When was the company established?

I set up as a freelance trainer in 2006, and formed Ajuda as a Limited company in 2009.

Dawn Evans

What does Ajuda offer?

Ajuda offers a full range of Health and Safety related courses. These can all be found at www.ajuda.org.uk

How has the business developed?

I started offering first aid training six years ago and now Ajuda offers thirty different health and safety related subjects. Our exam papers are offered in fourteen different languages and we have a bilingual tutor, so can offer first aid and food hygiene courses through the medium of Welsh.

Who are your customers?

We work with anyone who requires first aid/health and safety training either for their families or workplace. Our customers range from parents wanting to learn skills, to large corporate blue chip companies. Our clients include local authorities, a number of charities, SME’s, community groups, care homes, schools, sport clubs - a very diverse client base.

I am in a position where I am able to help others. Last year Ajuda teamed up with Cardiff Met University to offer work placements to their students, and we’ve done this again this year. We have also worked closely with local charities such as Ty Hafan, Shaw Trust, The Princes trust and Cancer Research UK. Last year we were awarded our Investors in People award which was a great achievement for me and my team.

What areas do you cover?

We started in Wales, but now cover the whole of the UK. We have one international client, and recently had a few enquiries from the Middle East.

Where do you see the company in five years time?

I want people to recognise the brand ‘Ajuda’ and relate it to good quality training. I would like to ensure that the educational needs of companies and individuals are met through gaining good quality training. Training raises awareness and prevents accidents in the workplace and home. I have a passion for helping others and would love to set up a social enterprise helping children learn first aid as they are our future.

How many people do you employ?

There are four of us in the office (contracted) and I employ around thirty freelance professional trainers.

Ajuda Head Office Units 1&2 Jasmine Enterprise Centre Cowbridge Road West, Ely Cardiff CF5 5BQ 029 2057 6883 Ajuda Regional Office Bryn Banad School Room Ruthin LL15 2RD 07854 278767 info@ajuda.org.uk www.ajuda.org.uk Follow on Facebook and Twitter

❧ 21 ❧

With an abundance of businesses offering chemical peels, dermal fillers and more, how do you know who to trust? With qualified professionals with 25 years experience in the NHS, Cyfoes should be your first port of call. We chat to one of the owners, Andrea Evans RN to find out more...

THE SKIN SPECIALISTS Where do your clients come from?

We have clients who travel from Swansea, Cardiff and The Vale and residents of RCT Why did you choose Talbot Green?

Talbot Green offers our clients easy access. We are five minutes from the M4 with easy access from the Valleys.

We’re on the main street but not street level allowing our clients subtlety and confidentiality.

We have free parking within walking distance of the clinic. And, most importantly as we do not have city overheads, we can reflect this in the cost of treatments.

Andrea and Bethan

When did you start the business?

We started practising in January 2012 from my home, then moved in to premises in September 2012 to expand our treatments and product base.

Why did you choose the name Cyfoes?

We are a young fresh company who are enthusiastic and full of ideas, plus we are all Welsh speaking and realise the importance of encouraging its use in this time, we wanted something that encapsulated who we are so with Cyfoes meaning Contemproary, we thought this was a good reflection of us.

What’s your background?

I qualified as a nurse in 2002 and have worked within the NHS since. Since suffering with personal skin related issues I have recognised the importance of honest advice and trustworthy information. Our goal at Cyfoes is to ensure that all of our clients receive appropriate and valid advice.

What is your business philosophy?

We are honest, welcoming and confidential and our services are open to both men and women with treatments administered by qualified professionals.

What treatments do you offer?

The treatments we offer are: Facials, Chemical Peels, treatments with Botulinum Toxin A, Dermal Fillers, Fractional Co2 Laser, and VPL. These address problems such as frown lines, crows feet, wrinkles, unsightly scarring, blemished skin, skin tags warts and moles, dull and ageing skin, stretch marks and excessive or unwanted hair.

Which brands do you use and why?

Bocouture, like Botox, is a injectable type of Botulinum Toxin A and is used to treat fine lines and wrinkles.

Bocouture was developed in the UK in 2008 and was licensed for cosmetic use in July 2010. It is used to treat all fine lines and wrinkles that are associated with aging due to facial muscle movements. Bocouture is fast becoming the treatment of choice for many patients that have previously had botox.

Belotero is a unique dermal filler approved by European regulators (CE mark) and the FDA that seamlessly integrates with your skin and adapts to your facial contours, therefore plumps and adds volume to your face. Find out how Belotero softens and smoothes lines and wrinkles so discreetly like no other filler.

Long-lasting fillers can be used for correcting wrinkles, enhancing facial contours, or rebuilding facial volume loss due to atrophy and aging.

“Our services are open to both men and women with treatments administered by qualified professionals.

Our goal at Cyfoes is to ensure that all of our clients receive appropriate and valid advice.” ❧ 22 ❧

Andrea Evans

Radiesse® is a safe dermal filler that does more than just fill in lines and wrinkles – it volumizes and helps create collagen. It is also the longest lasting filler that we have used, lasting a year or more in many areas.

All constituents of the range are naturally occurring in the skin and have been scientifically proven to have an effect of the ageing process. The Agera products are also used to treat specific skin conditions or complaints.

What if you suspect a mark or mole to be more ominous?

If we believe more intervention is needed than we can provide, we can refer the client to specialists that we work with on a daily basis.

Bert’s Bees, a company with a Welsh person as part of its heritage. This company strives to produce products that are naturally sourced and packaged.

Honey has fabulous healing properties and this brand has some lovely, yet affordable, products which we have reviewed and have been more than pleased with the results.

Murad was launched in 1989 and was one of the first ever Dr Brands to be created and that heritage is one that has stood the test of time.

What makes Cyfoes Healthcare stand out from other clinics?

We are friendly, approachable, honest, professional and interested in people and building relationships. We are local people setting up a great facility within our locality. We are a small clinic at present but with lots of personality and character both in the clinic and staff.

Agera rx: The Agera range has been developed after more than a decade of research into the ageing process of skin, leading to the production of the Medical Formula which penetrates the top layer of the skin into the layers below, and then targets the cells responsible for the production of collagen and elastin and for hydrating the skin.

Dr Howard Murad is still a practising dermatologist and pharmacist. This means when you purchase Murad you are getting the best pharmaceutical grade ingredients combined with the latest skincare technology.

Dr Murad believes in optimum skin health - that whatever your skincare problems and whatever your age genetic and environmental skincare conditions can be treated. With Murad it really is possible to get great skin at any age. ❧ 23 ❧

Cyfoes Healthcare First Floor 35-37 Talbot Road, Talbot Green Rhonda Cynon Taff CF72 8AD 01443 223352 info@cyfoeshealthcare.com www.cyfoeshealthcare.com

How does a dairy farmer become one of Wales’ most respected residential property landlords, a motivational speaker and business coach?

We chat to Kevin Green on how he made it to...

PASTURES GREEN Please describe what you do...

I am one of the UK’s largest residential property landlords and a multi-business owner. I am also involved in business coaching under my own brand of Kevin Green Wealth (KGW). I am in demand as a business and motivational speaker.

I take pride in being a social entrepreneur, helping others succeed in business and life. I spend time helping selected charities and helping to develop the young entrepreneurs of tomorrow.

Can you tell us what your first experience of business was?

Picking mushrooms from farmers’ fields, exchanging the mushrooms for sweets at a local shop, then selling the sweets in the schoolyard. It was an early lesson in finding a market to make money.

Why the switch from dairy farmer?

During my Nuffield agricultural scholarship world tour, I became enthused with property. The people I met and interviewed were either directly or indirectly involved in residential and commercial property investment. I could see how other people made it work.

Being something of a self-confessed control freak, owning and controlling such a business excited me. I did not like being in primary production as a dairy farmer and wished to become involved in ‘middle man’ business At what point in your career did you think ‘I’m a success’?

When my residual income matched my basic expenses per month. I knew at that time I had the choice of never having to work again.

Who do you think is an inspiration in business and why?

Virgin boss Richard Branson. He has a humanistic approach, with a focus on fun. He has a passion for life and loves creating win/win businesses.

What frustrates you?

People who do not carry out tasks and work on the time and date they said they would. I suppose that I expect everybody to be like me and deliver the goods on time and in a satisfactory manner. The cows on the dairy farm used to listen, people often don’t!

How do you achieve a successful work/life balance?

By placing my children first when planning my time. It’s quite easy for me being divorced as they are with me every other week. I work harder at business the week they are not with me but I am always there for them when it’s a kids week. It’s one of the joys of not having a proper job! Family and friends come first. Proper delegation of tasks and a great team around me helps me maximise quality life time.

What’s the one thing you don’t leave the house without?

A digital voice recorder. “Trust everyone but tie up your camels!”

Is philanthropy important to you?

Hugely important. I have reaped some rich rewards through hard work and effort. My financial support of the Make A Wish Foundation UK (of which I am an ambassador) is hugely important to me.

We have choices in life, some of the kids I meet who are suffering from lifethreatening illness don’t have the same choices. It’s my pleasure to help them and their families where I can.

My biggest measurement of my success is in my ability to help and empower others to achieve their wishes.

What advice would Kevin Green now give to Kevin Green aged 20?

Follow your heart, not your head!

What has your success in business given you?

Security for my family and a huge sense of achievement. I will be sitting in my rocking chair at the end of my life knowing I have given my best effort to all I wished for.

Where would you like to be in ten years’ time?

Not on a beach in the Cayman Islands, for certain. I tried that one and became bored very quickly. I don’t see myself retiring. I enjoy what I do. I will be facing death with four wheels spinning and smoke coming off my tyres, shouting, ‘yahoo!’

Describe yourself in three words...

Friendly, fair, funny.

Please give us your five tips for business.

■ Identify what you are really passionate about.

■ Make sure the idea is commercially sensible.

■ Learn more about that sector than anyone else.

■ Serve your customers better than any competition.

■ Always plan, monitor and hold yourself accountable.

Kevin Green - Wealth Coach To book Kevin Green please contact 01554 833330 wealth@mooving.org www.kevingreen.co.uk Follow Kevin Green on Facebook and Twitter

❧ 24 ❧

“My biggest measurement of my success is in my ability to help and empower others to achieve their wishes.�

Sian Owen Photography info@sian-owen.co.uk www.sian-owen.co.uk 07587 049949

Matthew Mullooly owns Northern Star, a bespoke jeweller in Penarth. The business specialises in creating bespoke hand-made engagement rings and wedding bands. Here Matthew talks us through the design process.

WISH UPON A STAR When designing a new ring, how do you start?

We can create a truly unique piece but first we need to understand what a customer is looking for. Some bring in drawings, doodles and magazine cuttings but most ask us to come up with a design. However it begins, we guide them through the whole process.

How do you select the stones?

We take pride in giving clients the information they need so they can select the right stone. This is based on the four Cs - Colour, Clarity, Cut and Carat. Many people think diamonds are colourless but truly colourless diamonds are extremely rare. The colour scale extends from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Most diamonds used in jewellery are nearly colourless with tints of yellow or brown and the popular colour range used is from D to H.

As diamonds form under tremendous heat and pressure, it is extremely rare to find a diamond that lacks any internal or external characteristics. These characteristics are a by-product of its formation and help gemologists separate natural diamonds from synthetics and identify individual stones.

All being equal, the less ‘inclusions’ the greater the life and sparkle of a diamond and the more value it has. The top clarity range of diamonds are scaled as FI (flawless internally), VVS1 and VVS2 which is ‘very very slightly included’.

VS1 and VS2 are ‘very slightly included’ SI1 and SI2 ‘slightly included’ and I1 to I3 which is ‘included’.

Why is the cut so important?

The cut of a diamond determines the shape but affects the brilliance, fire and life of a diamond.

The brilliance refers to the overall light reflected from the stone. The fire is the dispersion of rainbow colour flares emitted from a diamond and the life is the flashes of light you see when the diamond, light or observer moves.

So the final choice of stone for an engagement ring can depend on size, clarity, colour and the complexity of the cut?

Yes. Determining the four Cs of the diamond affects the price. A smaller stone with a higher colour and quality can be more expensive than a larger stone with a lesser colour and quality.

The choice is yours and we can show you a selection of stones enabling you to hand-pick your favourite.

Once the stone has been chosen the design work can begin. CAD images will be produced enabling you to see the design which can be modified to until you’re completely satisfied. Some clients prefer to see a wax model of the ring before it is sent away to be cast in their chosen metal.

What about wedding bands, can they be designed to match?

From producing the CAD design of the engagement ring we will have the exact measurements needed to produce the perfect, complementing wedding band.

We can design a custom fit band to sit perfectly next to your engagement ring and we can also add an eternity ring at a later date to complete the set.

Why do customers come to Northern Star?

We are expert designers and makers and help to guide them through the process. Northern Star can source any gemstone that your heart desires and we believe that nothing is impossible we will do whatever it takes to realise a customer’s dream.

““We take pride in giving clients the information they need so they can select the right stone.

This is based on the four Cs - Colour, Clarity, Cut and Carat.” ❧ 26 ❧

Northern Star Bespoke Jewellery 8 Windsor Arcade Penarth CF64 1JA 029 2070 9707 www.northernstarjewellery.co.uk

“We believe that nothing is impossible - we will do whatever it takes to realise a customer’s dream.”

❧ 27 ❧

If business has been hard hit over the last five years, the building sector has been particularly affected, not only by the drop-off in orders but also by rogue builders infiltrating the market.

We talk to Andrew Hodgson of Cardiff based T&C Property Group about how the industry has changed and how customers can avoid being taken in by rogue building firms.

BUILDING REPUTATION Andrew established the business in 1999. We caught up with Andrew at his office in Dinas Powys.

What services do you offer and what do you think sets your company apart?

The T&C Property Group has been involved with property consultation and building for almost fifteen years.

During that time we have gained a vast knowledge of the marketplace as a whole and our companies within the Group reflect that knowledge gained.

We specialise in property maintenance, extension, renovation, refurbishment, new build, interior design and project management. These works cover the residential marketplace and the commercial, retail and office sectors.

The T&C Property Group offers a full range of building services - from project conception through to completion.

Clients can utilise all, or some, of our services including initial site survey, design consultation, dealing with planning applications and building regulations and the provision of architectural and structural drawings to list but a few. Each project is individually managed throughout the entire building process to ensure the client’s individual needs are met and that a successful project is delivered on time and within budget.

What geographical areas do you cover?

We have operated primarily within the south Wales area but have recently been involved with projects in Cheshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Hampshire. We are also currently looking at projects in the South West and London areas. Many of these works have been for Wales-based companies, architects and individuals who are either expanding their businesses or have property interests outside Wales.

â?§ 28 â?§

To facilitate our expansion along the M4 Corridor we have recently set up an office in Aztec West at the M4/M5 intersection and are looking to have a presence in the Greater London area by the end of 2013.

Why would a client choose T&C Property Group?

Any company is only as good as the personnel working within it. Having consistently won both local and national building awards, we believe that our team know what is required to deliver a high quality product, and service, at a competitive price. We run a very lean operation and think we offer exceptional value if you compare directly on a like-for-like basis.

Do you find that price is all that matters to people?

As with most sectors the building and construction industry is very competitive and there are many businesses offering similar services.

What changes are taking place within your business and why?

We have developed the business and, due to the diversity of the services on offer, we have found that prospective customers are often unaware of what we can do.

What do you feel about the industry as a whole at the moment?

As with many different sectors of business, the building industry is suffering due to the on-going flatness in trading and lack of finance available.

Many local and national construction related businesses have, unfortunately, ceased trading and this has meant that, particularly in the local residential extension/renovation and maintenance sectors, a new wave of ‘builders’ are flooding the market offering to carry out work at unrealistic and unsustainable prices, and without guarantees. The knock-on effect of this is that genuine companies offering sound building skills have suffered as they are unable to compete because the playing field simply isn’t level.

We are currently rebranding the business so that all elements of the business are brought under one umbrella so clients understand exactly what we can do. They can then either cherry pick services or use us as a onestop-shop.

Does that get you down?

It does in some respects but I hope that by educating the end user, whether it be a client who needs a small extension to their home, or a major property developer, that cheapest is not always the best choice.

I’d like to think that our experiences over the past fifteen years have enabled us to provide a bespoke service that can fulfil the client’s exact requirements and be at a competitive cost. I know I stress the importance of like-for-like pricing but it’s the only way a customer can be sure they’re getting value for money.

At what price point do you operate?

We will look at projects of all sizes from £15k up to £1.5 to £2m.

“I’d like to think that our experiences over the past fifteen years have enabled us to provide a bespoke service that can fulfil the client’s exact requirements and be at a competitive cost.

Like-for-like pricing is the only way a customer can be sure they’re getting value for money.” ❧ 30 ❧

I’m certainly hopeful that good practice and an ethical, honest approach will stop some of the horror stories that are often covered in the media.

So what should people consider before choosing a contractor?

The main criteria before placing an order or signing a contract is that the quotes/prices given are on an exact likefor-like basis. It then enables an informed decision to be made before undertaking the works.

I hear all-too-often of projects being quoted for at a price which is unrealistic and that will be practically impossible to fulfil. It’s usually late in the project where the unscrupulous contractor starts charging for extras and, because of the vagueness of the initial specification, the customer has no choice but to agree if they want their contract completed. By individuals and companies following a sensible approach to their projects I believe that the building industry and the T&C Property Group can, and will, offer quality work at a competitive price.

Where do you see Town and Counties in five years time?

I’d like to think that we have a stable and profitable business. We have positioned our business well geographically - covering most of the southern areas of the UK. It would also be good to think that we will have been involved in the construction of some ‘significant’ developments both residential and commercial. I’d like to think we are making a difference.

What three tips would you give to somebody starting out in business?

■ Identify your target market ■ Be flexible in your approach to an ever changing business climate ■ Keep up to speed with your industry standards.

If you had to live by one rule, what would that be?

To try and help individuals by treating them fairly and openly - hopefully they will do the same back. ❧ 31 ❧

T&C Property Group Sophia House 28 Cathedral Road, Cardiff CF11 9LJ 029 2066 0205 townandcounties@btinternet.com www.tandcgroup.org.uk T&C Property Group encompasses ■ Allery Homes ■ AJF Properties ■ Town & Counties Construction ■ Town & Counties Facilities & Maintenance

It’s the age old problem. How does one dress for work? We can all remember the days of Dallas and Dynasty (well I can!) when power suits and shoulder pads were de rigueur but what does the working girl wear in 2013?

TOP PICKS FOR LOOKING GOOD Make easy work of your 9 to 5 with these handy hints and tips.

■ Make the statement dress your

go to option The dress really is a no brainer and the shops are awash with them again this season. With only one item to think about, it makes choosing what to wear really easy. Throw on a fitted leather jacket in one of this season's hues and you're good to go.

■ Go for bold

Gone are the days when all you wore under your suit was a boring white blouse. With block colours still a big trend this season, brighten up your look with a brightly coloured blouse. go for one with a bit of stretch so that you feel comfortable all day long.

■ Work the midi

Teetering around in four inch heels in the office is never a good look. embrace the midi or kitten heel this season. You’ll be far more comfortable and you’ll look more sophisticated.

■ Which skirt length

A pencil skirt works well for most shapes but especially if you’re curvy. be careful though even you’re over a certain age as skirt lengths matter here. To be safe, keep the hemline on the knee.

■ Don’t go overboard on

accessories Remember you’re in the office – not at the disco. Keep accessories to a minimum. Less is more is more office appropriate.

■ From day to evening

Add a bit of sparkle in the way of earrings, a clutch or shoes (not all three) and this will take you from the office to the bar.

The Queen B 8 Washington Buildings Stanwell Road, Penarth CF64 2AD 029 2071 1100 www.thequeenb.co.uk Twitter @QueenB_Boutique Like on Facebook

Clothes, shoes and accessories available from The Queen B

❧ 32 ❧

Captain Scott himself may well have been full of praise for chef Spiro Borg, for it is Spiro, as featured on BBC’s The One show, who every year recreates the banquet enjoyed by Scott at Cardiff’s Royal Hotel, before leaving for the Antarctic in 1910.

GREAT SCOTT! There are more strings to Spiro’s bow as he celebrates the 30th anniversary of founding one of Wales’ largest independent caterers, Spiros Fine Dining Caterers.

From corporate functions to weddings, children’s parties at Hamleys toy shop, to fine dining dinner parties at client’s homes, Spiros cater for it all.

How has the catering business fared during these tough economic times?

Post 2008 was a definite downturn for corporate catering, and office based catering such as boardroom lunches and training buffets dipped, but we came through it stronger because of our diversity. Our wedding business has grown dramatically despite recession, as has our Chef at Home service. The wedding sector has been immune to the economic downturn; people will always get married and will always strive for the best possible big day they can.

We have also moved into Film & TV catering division which is growing from strength to strength for us. Business catering has also bounced back hugely, which I think is a barometer of a rosier economic outlook.

You have recently been awarded the catering contract for Cardiff Blues, how did that feel?

It’s a huge honour for us, the Blues are a sporting institution famed all over the world. We have catered for the squad for a number of years which is fascinating from a sports nutrition point of view.

Winning this new contract will see us catering for all match days as well a nonmatch days including all hospitality suites. Cardiff Arms Park has a fantastic heritage in the game and outside of sporting occasions we will be catering for meetings, conferences, special events and even weddings at the stadium. We are very excited to be bringing Spiros brand of cuisine to The Blues.

❧ 34 ❧

How widely do you operate?

Throughout South Wales and into South West England. We are preferred caterers at many magnificent wedding venues, including Pencoed House Estate, Canada Lodge on the outskirts of Cardiff and Dyffryn Springs and Cottrell Park Golf Resort in the Vale of Glamorgan.

These are typical of a new breed of bespoke wedding venue which offer people something different, and couples really are looking for something different these days. They have invested in providing the best facilities and a wonderful wedding day experience, and I am pleased to say that we are kept very busy as a result!

Our film & TV location catering services also takes us far and wide of course. We are fully mobile and can produce our cuisine even when no kitchen facilities are available at all in the most remote of rural locations.

What is the secret of longevity in business?

Over and above the must-haves of consistent and attentive customer service and professionalism, I would say you have to be versatile and innovative, anticipate trends and consumer tastes in cuisine, even before they happen. We offer many avenues for customers to engage with us, from our own banqueting and conference centre at St Peter’s Hall in Cardiff, to offices and catering venues throughout the region.

We also work in close partnership with our catering venues, bringing our experience and innovation to support them; it really is a case of two brands coming together and supporting each other and we are thrilled to be working with the Blues Hospitality team.

How do you think the world of catering changed over the last thirty years?

Trends in cuisine have expanded dramatically. The impact of TV chefs and the arrival and the expansion of multi-cultural restaurants and ingredients mean that people now have a much wider diet and diverse taste for cuisine than ever before; as caterers we reflect that throughout our menus.

Expansion is certainly on the cards; we are currently working on many market opportunities, most of which will come to fruition over the next two years, they are quite big and will surprise the market I am sure, which I like! Apart from that, we will continue to invest in providing absolutely the best possible service we can to our clients.

What future developments do you have in store?

Now that would be giving away our secrets! In general we always like to stay ahead of trends and when we move into a new market sector, we ensure we invest fully with no half measures so we really create a fantastic well rounded-service.

“You have to be versatile and innovative, anticipate trends and consumer tastes in cuisine, even before they happen. We offer many avenues for customers to engage with us, from our own banqueting and conference centre at St Peter’s Hall in Cardiff, to offices and catering venues throughout the region.” ❧ 35 ❧

For more information visit: www.spiros.co.uk

Wales’ high streets are in decline. The blue lights are circling and the sirens are wailing. Some say it’s terminal. Why? Well, the reasons make unwelcome reading if you happen to have a shop on one.

HIGH STREET BLUES The high street (any street in Wales with shops counts here) is not having the easiest of times and the reasons why, depending on who you’re talking to, are varied. From greedy out-of-touch councils charging too much for rates, to greedy landlords who don’t particularly give a monkey whether businesses make a profit as long as they’re getting theirs. Everyone has someone to blame.

G R E E DY C O U N C I L S

Can it really be their fault? Well, when you look at what councils actually provide for their rates, there may be a strong argument for taking them to task.

Something that councils rarely consider when increasing business rates is that a bustling town centre is actually good for the community. It’s good for morale. It creates an environment where people are encouraged to socialise - something we really need as human beings, promotes social responsibility and positive interaction. Town centres and busy high streets are good for us councils could, and should, be investing more by reducing costs to small businesses not increasing them.

G R E E DY L A N D L O R D S

CHARIT Y SHOPS

Hard to defend but landlords are in business too. However, not all are complete blood sucking vampires.

There’s a particular landlord I know in Cowbridge and she’s passionate about the kinds of businesses she lets to. Even though she could rent some of her properties quite easily to charity shops or nationals, she resists the urge because she understands that each shop in Cowbridge matters to the others. The sum of the whole can be greater than the parts - it’s about balance. Not all landlords have such vision.

Please don’t misunderstand me, I support charities, they do great work, but... when I see a charity spending £70k on a refit I’m asking myself where’s that money coming from? I don’t doubt that a certain kind of customer appreciates charity shops but surely their number can be limited. Why not have out-of-town charity villages?

Councils could then offer charities more competitive rates. Combine this with a recycling facility and we’re into interesting territory.

THE CHAIN GANG

National chains have destroyed our high streets. There I said it, and I’m not alone. There is nothing more demoralising (actually there is) than seeing the same old names in every town and city. The truth is cloned high streets erode a town’s personality and it’s the difference in towns and cities that makes us all want to jump in our cars and visit them. Chains, with deep pockets, push up rents and price out the independent retailers we really want to see. The only things on the high street that makes my heart sink more are...

❧ 36 ❧

The bottom line is the over-saturation of charity shops is becoming an issue. Let’s be honest, if you’ve got cheaper rent (yes some do), cheaper rates (or none at all!) and volunteer staff, it’s not hard to make a success of it.

More and more I’m seeing obviously new stock being sold in charity shops which is not fair - there has to be a level playing field. Charity shops should be run on the recycle and reuse ethos. So perhaps there could be some legislation that ensures charity shops can’t sell new items and that their rent and rates is assessed fairly.

R E TA I L T H E R A P Y

10 things the High Street can do now THE INTERNET

C O O P E R AT I O N

Recent surveys suggest that in five years time, a fifth of all shopping will be done online and while this might be uncomfortable news for high street retailers, any jobs that are being lost are, more or less, being replaced by the various supporting trades; technology, distribution, call centres etc. And even though I hear horror stories of people pulling out mobile phones in shops so they can search and price-match online later, I think the high street can benefit from the online shopping trend and there are definitely ways the high street can beat online at its own game.

Go back twenty years - high streets had vibrant and vocal chambers of trade.

They worked together for the betterment of the community. They communicated. They promoted each other. They understood that when they cooperated, they were stronger. On my travels, I see towns where a handful of traders are enthusiastic promoters and campaigners - they’re creative and driven but, all too often, are leeched off by other lazy business owners who are quite content to sit back and reap the benefits. Invariably, the good ones run out of energy, their poor hearts broken by lack of support and what starts out enthusiastically fizzles to nothing.

PA R K I N G

That old chestnut I hear you groan.

Over-pedestrianised town centres or simply not enough spaces, the reasons are complex and no matter how many ‘gurus’ are thrown at the problem, it’s not going away. It’s a widely held opinion that Newport has suffered because cars simply can’t access the centre anymore. The days where shoppers would drive in, nip into the shops and zip away are long gone perhaps Newport might benefit from a rethink in that area. Councils could stop charging for parking and see that the small amount of revenue they lose might be offset by the benefits.

Barry’s High Street in the Vale Of Glamorgan, and Narberth in Pembrokeshire have similar problems.

In both towns business owners I chatted to blamed other businesses for taking up spaces which effectively blocks potential customers using the limited spaces. A popular target was estate agents, with a single estate agent on one street being accused of taking up six to eight spaces all day. Bottom line – businesses and their staff have to park too but if businesses work together and discuss the issues they could come up with solutions. All of this brings me, rather neatly, to...

OWNERS

I have watched many independent retailers close this year for no other reasons than laziness or incompetence.

Recently a shop closed near where I live - everyone was saying how sad it was and offered their opinion on why it had closed. The truth is, the building hadn’t had a lick of paint in five years, its awning was dirty, the owner hardly advertised, it didn’t have any social media presence (even though it was the perfect business to capitalise on that) and its price point was out of touch with the local market. The harsh reality was that the owner had run out of ideas and was exhausted but, at its core, it was a great business and could have been a success. Sometimes, retailers need to stop making excuses, hold a hand up and ask for help. It is out there.

“Sometimes, retailers need to stop making excuses, hold a hand up and ask for help.

It is out there.” ❧ 37 ❧

■ Campaign and lobby councils to cap,

reduce or freeze rates.

■ Start a traders club. Stuffy committee

driven ones are tedious. Make them social - once a month at a different venue. Get to know each other but don’t be protectionist – invite other businesses from further afield to draw inspiration from and gain insight into what works elsewhere.

■ Fight to remove parking restrictions.

Get rid of double yellow lines. Create short stay parking zones.

■ Refer, network - market each other.

Use your fellow traders to promote you. Visit other towns see what they’re doing.

■ Utilise local expertise. Sometimes the best advice can come from talented individuals, right under your nose.

■ Ensure your street is spotlessly clean and free of litter - don’t rely on the council to do that.

■ Return to sign-writing and attractive branding. Get rid of nasty, cheap plastic signage. Create the right image.

■ Talk to customers. Ask them what they like and what they don’t. In my experience they’re more than happy to offer opinion.

■ Cross-market. When you promote your own shop, remind the customer that there’s a great coffee shop nearby or a smart boutique or deli up the road. The more reasons you give a shopper to visit, the chances are they’ll keep coming back.

■ Promote, promote, promote. You have to market your business - by word of mouth, through advertising, online, on social media. Every little thing you do matters.

Most of all...

Smile. Shoppers want a good experience. They’re paying for it. They want to believe that they matter (and they do), so it’s important to be friendly, appreciative and engaging. It’s not called customer service for nothing.

“I am looking forward to having the opportunity to stand in front of Welsh business people and sharing my own experiences with them.�

Hilary Devey

Introbiz, one of south Wales’ biggest business networks is happy to announce that its Introbiz Business Show 2013 is sold out and is set for success.

INTROBIZ BUSINESS SHOW Entrepreneur Kevin Green with Introbiz’s Tracey Jenkins and Paul Smolinski

Stands are now completely sold out for the return of the Introbiz Business Show to Cardiff City Stadium on Thursday 26th September 2013.

Daniel may well inspire more young people to start their own businesses, given that his entrepreneurial attitude made him a millionaire before the age of twenty five.

The Introbiz Business Show is free to attend, and will be followed by a private event for business VIPs to mingle with the show’s celebrity speakers. Dragon’s Den star Hilary Devey has been announced as the key note speaker at this year’s Introbiz Business Show.

Ms Devey said, “I am a keen supporter of British entrepreneurs and I am looking forward to having the opportunity to stand in front of Welsh business people and sharing my own experiences with them.”

Introbiz Director Paul Smolinski said, “Ms Devey is an outstanding example of the sort of business success that can be achieved in this country and we are thrilled to welcome her to the Introbiz Business Show.

The Introbiz Business Show will also feature an address from Welsh entrepreneur and self-made millionaire Kevin Green, and a speech from best-selling author and entrepreneur Daniel Priestley. As an ambassador for Entrepreneurship Academy Wales, Kevin hopes to encourage young people to shine in the workplace and take more interest in business.

I’m also extremely pleased to announce that Kevin Green and Daniel Priestley will be speaking to our members and guests, given that 19 to 24 year old entrepreneurs are one of the fastest growing business markets in South Wales.”

This is the second business show for Introbiz and, with stands sold out three months in advance, looks set to be even more successful than last year’s event.

Paul said, “We were overwhelmed with the success of the Introbiz Business Show 2012 and have sold out our exhibition stands for this year’s event. ❧ 39 ❧

I’m sure any businesses that attend will see real benefits to being part of the Introbiz Business Show.”

Introbiz was founded in 2009 by Tracey Smolinski and with more than 175 members is now one of South Wales’ biggest business networks.

To book to attend the show and the breakfast, book through eventbrite.

Free Entry www.eventbrite.co.uk/event/ 5365345894/eorg# Networking Breakfast www.introbizbusinessexhibitionnetworking breakfast.eventbrite.co.uk Introbiz 029 2029 1002 07581 564371 / 07920 772707 info@introbiz.co.uk www.introbiz.co.uk Follow on Facebook and Twitter @introbiz @paulintrobiz @CardiffBizShow

Barney Hibbert has reopened The Gallery restaurant in Barry after a sabbatical - which is a neat way of saying he went walkabout in the Cotswolds, learned about beer production and set up a rather large restaurant in Cardiff Bay...

CREATIVE COOKING!

Barney’s an enigma. The Gallery is an enigma! It shouldn’t be where it is. Barry has never been known as the culinary centre of the Vale so when, several years ago, The Gallery opened to much acclaim, eyebrows were raised. Those same eyebrows were raised even higher when, out of the blue, it closed.

Barney originally wanted to be an architect but sitting in front of a computer was not for him so he became a chef instead. I press him about the closure.

He’s considered and candid in his response, “I always say if you’re not enjoying the process, what’s the point?

Sometimes small is beautiful and business direction can never be guided by a committee. We were doing well! It was a family decision to close and it was correct at the time.” He adds, with a smile, “Anyway, I’m older, uglier and ready to go again!”

The one thing that shines through is his passion for local produce and local suppliers. His face lights up when he talks about The Gallery’s homemade cooking, the rustic style, the local ingredients. Yes there are the pretty, playful dishes, but nothing too indulgent and everything is cooked with the greatest integrity.

“We are also the only restaurant in Cardiff and the Vale in The Sustainable Restaurant Association,” he exclaims with much pride.

He’s even offering Riverside Market Garden vegetable boxes for collection every Friday.Talking about sustainability I ask if Barry, or the Vale for that matter, can sustain The Gallery. “I hope to have a full, neighbourhood eatery that the locals can be proud of.

Community is incredibly important to us,” he says. ❧ 40 ❧

Time will tell, but this is a restaurant that deserves to do well. I’d eaten at The Gallery first time round and it was superb. Now, if it’s possible, it’s even better. There’s a maturity to the kitchen and the cooking which has enhanced what was already very good.

I like The Gallery’s friendliness. It’s relaxed, informal - you can pop in for a beer, a coffee or cocktail. Front of house is ably managed by Ben and Kinga who have the same calming, quiet confidence.

No drama, no pretence, just great service and really good food - it’s everything you want from a restaurant.

As they say on television, you’ve got to eat here.

There will be charity dinners happening regularly. There’ll be drinks, canapes, then a four course dinner by Welsh Michelin starred chef James Sommerin plus a special auction. Please follow us on Twitter to find out when the first of these will be.

“No drama, no pretence, just great service and really good food - it’s everything you want from a restaurant. As they say on television, you’ve got to eat here.”

TOP TIPS

Three tips for starting out in business...

■ The measure of success is not always

financial.

■ Your market place may dictate to you

but don’t lower your standards. Being mediocre is not a long term strategy.

■ The service industry is subjective.

Your style will not be for everyone.

The Gallery 2 Broad Street, Barry 01446 735300 Twitter @TheGalleryBarry www.the-gallery-restaurant.co.uk Open Thurs 5pm onwards. Fri and Sat 12pm onwards (restaurant 12pm 2.30pm and 6pm - 9.30pm). Sunday 12pm - 4pm. Available for private hire all other times. Open Christmas and New Year’s Eve – call for details.

❧ 41 ❧

When Mandy and John Davies first laid eyes on Crossways House, they knew it was where they wanted to live with their family. We chat to Mandy about why they have now decided it’s time to move on to another phase in their lives.

CROSSWAYS HOUSE We still rent out apartments for holiday lets, which is a trouble-free and pleasant way of creating a reliable income source, utilising the space that Crossways House provides and even making new friends and contacts along the way.

Does the house have a history?

It dates back to the seventeenth century. There have been many restorations in its long life so we are not exactly sure of what happened when. What we do know is that it has been in private hands most of its existence, except between the 1930s and 60s when it was a children's orthopaedic hospital and that a major restoration took place lasting four years and completed in 1921.

How long have you lived at the property?

We bought Crossways House fourteen years ago when, having lived in the southeast and overseas for many years, we returned home to South Wales with our sons.

What attracted you to it?

It was a sunny day and this fascinating, historic house was crying out for attention. We had not been looking for a property of this size, but we fell in love with it on sight. We had restored and renovated houses before and were excited at the prospect of bringing this lovely building back to life.

When did you start up your business?

Almost immediately, the house needed money spending on it; windows, roof work, bathrooms... a long, long list so an added income was going to be very helpful for a while. Within two weeks we were hosting our first guests.

What does Crossways House offer?

This is a beautiful and tranquil spot and the house has fantastic features and a rich history. Anyone buying Crossways House has masses of options, whether they just want a large, private and elegant family home or wish to run a business here.

❧ 42 ❧

What have you enjoyed most about living at Crossways House?

Its beauty, its sense of calm and its fantastic location close to Cowbridge (we are just 1 mile from the High Street) and just 12 miles from Cardiff.

The Vale is a stunning area. Where else could you have a rural, peaceful environment, near to a spectacular coastline, within a short trip of the mountains of the Brecon National Park whilst enjoying the facility of a vibrant and modern capital city right on your doorstep? Perfect. The house and grounds are extensive, we have over six acres of private grounds, which makes it a very peaceful place to be.

“This is a beautiful and tranquil spot and the house has fantastic features and a rich history.”

Why have you decided to sell?

We have been living here for over fourteen years - the longest we have spent anywhere, and we need to look at other opportunities and experiences whilst we can. We can’t imagine living anywhere else and will sorely miss this lovely place, but life moves on.

What are your plans for the future?

Travel and maybe some other restoration projects in time.

What is the asking price?

It’s on the market for £1,550,000 Who are the agents?

Watts and Morgan of Cowbridge.

To find out more contact Rhys Gould on 01446 776944.

To arrange a view or for more information, please contact Watts and Morgan 55 High St, Cowbridge CF71 7EA 01446 773 500 or 01446 775 757 cowbridge@wattsandmorgan.co.uk www.wattsandmorgan.co.uk

❧ 43 ❧

INTROBIZ PRESENTS

0 & "). & ‡ V*' ‡ QU." - *. ' , QOPR

CELEBRITY CHARITY

RED CARPET EVENT

IN AID OF THE STROKE ASSOCIATION SPONSORED BY ASSET ASSURED

With Hilary Devey CBE, Kevin Green and Daniel Priestley: The Charity fundraising 5 star evening and Red Carpet Event is going to be the social event of the year in South Wales 2013 The Charity Dinner is being hosted by Introbiz and Hilary Devey, patron of the Stroke Association and all funds raised through the event will go to the Stroke Association.

Our Celebrity Fundraising Dinner is on the evening of September 26th 2013, the evening of our Introbiz Business Show.

With entertainment for the evening from Jaz Ellington, runner up from BBC1’s “The Voice�

2012.

Then be prepared to dance the night away to the Incredible “SuperBand� that is Session 21. This band is made up of the finest talent the music industry has to offer.

EVENT DETAILS Č— Champagne Reception Č— 5 Course Dinner Č— 350 Attending / 35 tables of 10 Č— VIP Champagne Area Č— Jaz Ellington with live band Session 21 Č— Many VIP guests including UK Entrepreneurs, Welsh Celebrities and Sports Stars including victorious British Lions and Football Association of Wales

Č— Charity Fundraising Event for the Stroke Association Č— Fantastic Prizes for Charity Auction

Prices start from

Č— Silent Auction including Signed Sports Memoribillia, Hotel Stays, Weekend Breaks / Villa Stays, Fine Dining, Golf Days and so much more.

(1/2 a bottle of wine each on table)

Č— Golden Chair Seat for Special Prize Č— Goodie Bags for everyone

ÂŁ90

STANDARD TABLE TICKETS Č— ( -. Ç’ 3#$ $/*-. Č? ÂŁ90 +vat per person Č— *) ( -. Č? ÂŁ100 +vat per person Č— ' *! ǔǓ Č™ ( -. Ç’ 3#$ $/*-.Čš Č? ÂŁ900+vat Č— ' *! ǔǓ Č™ *) ( -.Čš Č? ÂŁ1,000 +vat

*, '# , . & .# % .- (1/2 bottle of wine each on table) Č— ( -. Ç’ 3#$ $/*-. Č? ÂŁ110 + vat per person Č— *) ( -. Č? ÂŁ120 +vat per person Č— ' *! ǔǓ Č™ ( -. Ç’ 3#$ $/*-.Čš Č? ÂŁ1,000 +vat Č— ' *! ǔǓ Č™ *) ( -.Čš Č? ÂŁ1,100 +vat

VIP TABLE TICKETS (1/2 bottle of wine each on table) Č— ( -. Ç’ 3#$ $/*-. Č? ÂŁ130 +vat per person Č— *) ( -. Č? ÂŁ140 +vat per person Č— ' *! ǔǓ Č™ ( -. Ç’ 3#$ $/*-.Čš Č? ÂŁ1,200 +vat Č— ' *! ǔǓ Č™ *) ( -.Čš Č? ÂŁ1,300 +vat

Č—

WWW.INTROBIZ.CO.UK

Č—

Ç˝ INFO@INTROBIZ.CO.UK Č— PAUL 07920 772707 Č— TRACEY 07581 564371

â?§ 44 â?§

One of Wales’ leading hotels is fast becoming renowned for its creative corporate packages and willingness to host innovative events…

THE MALDRON ‘SPIRIT’

(Celebrity chefs) Jamie Roberts, Simon Jones, Nathan Cleverly

The stylish, Best Western Plus Maldron Hotel, Cardiff recently hosted a networking exhibition, Business, Beauty and Bubbles, offering women the opportunity to mix business and beauty in one location.

In its inaugural year, the hotel invited Wales’ leading health, beauty and lifestyle brands including luxury beauty destination Belle Toujours, department store giant, John Lewis, milliner Robyn Coles and non-cosmetic surgery specialists, Visify to exhibit their products and services. Guests were treated to complimentary treatments and advice.

Simon Daniel, Salon Director at Belle Toujours said, “It was a great event, as it provided us with the opportunity to raise awareness of our brand to a female corporate audience.

For me there’s no greater marketing tool than face-to-face networking.”

Nail Technician, Zoe Thomas of Belle Toujours, with guest

“The £25m hotel is the largest in Cardiff and boasts state-of-the-art meetings, events, and conference facilities..

Dr Shahid Akhtar founder of Visify Aesthetics said, “It was great to meet so many likeminded motivated woman, there’s a whole host of networking opportunities for men usually centred on golf! So I think events like this are great as they encourage woman to put themselves out there more.”

Situated at the heart of Cardiff, The Best Western Plus Maldron Hotel Cardiff is the first hotel in the Dalata Hotel Group portfolio based in the UK. Occupying the former Central Hotel site, the modern 216 bedroom, £25m hotel is the largest in Cardiff and boasts state-ofthe-art meetings, events, and conference facilities.

Helen Groom, The Best Western Plus Maldron Hotel Cardiff’s marketing manager says, “We wanted to offer women the opportunity to take a break from their daily lives whether in work or at home. Female empowerment is important and the exhibition was to inspire women to feel more confident in their own skin. We can’t wait to make it bigger and better in 2014!” ❧ 45 ❧

Dr Shah of Visify, undertaking a live demonstration

Back in September 2012 The Best Western Plus Maldron Hotel Cardiff hosted, Celebrity Kitchen, a glitzy event in aid of Ty Hafan where three of Wales’ most prolific sportsman, international rugby player, Jamie Roberts, world Heavy light-weight champion boxer, Nathan Cleverly, and cricket legend, Simon Jones, were tasked to cook a three course culinary masterpiece for over 100 guests under the supervision of the hotel’s expert chef’s. Celebrity Kitchen 2013 will take place in October.

To book a meeting, conference or overnight accommodation contact 029 2066 8866 or email info.cardiff@maldronhotels.com Christmas party packages are now available.

“Flexibility means being in the office, even when you’re out.”

SERVICED V LEASED Businesses are operating in some of the most challenging economic conditions and for office based businesses, saving every penny on overheads can mean the difference between survival and failure.

InBusiness talks to serviced office champion, James Mason, Centre Manager at The Business Centre in Barry.

James, how would you describe The Business Centre?

Quite simply, we’re providers of flexible serviced office space and shared office suites. We provide conference and meeting room hire, call answering facilities and business support services.

In what ways can a serviced facility be an advantage over leasing?

A serviced office can give you back time and time is money. You’ll have one invoice for your rent, rates, water, heat, light, phone, broadband and cleaning of public areas - that’s at least 60 bits of paperwork you won’t need to process annually. If there’s ever an issue with any of those, there’s just one number to call so you don’t have to deal with multiple companies. Also, the time taken to deal with any issues is minimal as you know who to talk to.

There’s no receptionist’s wages to pay for either. No buildings insurance or maintenance costs. All these things add up so when companies do a real cost analysis, they’re often surprised by how much they can save.

Do you think that companies are concerned about appearing to operate out of serviced facilities?

Perhaps ten years ago, someone running a company from this kind of facility might be seen as fly-by-night, but not these days.

A lot of clients say customers believe that businesses based here are more cost conscious so customers think they are not funding flash offices. All our offices are maintained to the highest standards and are constantly looked after. That can be hard to do for companies when cash flow is tight as it’s put to the bottom of the list. That’s all taken care of here.

Is location important?

We’re based in Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, a ten minute drive from junction 33 of the M4. We have plenty of free parking for staff and visitors, and that can be a real bonus - free parking alone creates massive savings for staff and our clients customers.

Just how competitive are you?

Commercial office space has become extremely competitive over the past 24 months with serviced office and leased commercial space becoming vacant.

We understand the need for flexibility and keeping prices competitive in this tough climate. I believe customers can only plan for the future when they have stable overheads. They need to believe they aren’t paying over the odds but they also want flexibility. The Business Centre can accommodate the growth and contractions that businesses can experience when expanding. Long term leases, solicitors and legal fees are non-existent in this environment.

THE BUSINESS CENTRE

Main benefits of serviced office v leased ■ No capital outlay - A holding deposit

and the first month’s rental is all that is needed to setup an office suite.

■ Easy in/out access - Setup an office suite within 48 hours and leave with one month notice of cancellation.

■ Short term agreement - Minimum of three months agreement provides extra flexibility.

■ Ongoing support - A monthly rental includes professional personnel (IT/telecoms engineers, receptionists, cleaners, handymen).

■ Single monthly invoice - Includes all your rent, utility bills, business rates etc. Ensuring you know where you stand each month.

■ Flexibility - Upgrade or downsize the amount of office space as required.

For more information on flexible, serviced offices at The Business Centre, contact James Mason, Centre Manager.

The Business Centre (Cardiff) Ltd Cardiff House Cardiff Road, Barry Vale of Glamorgan CF63 2AW 0800 6349920 enquiries@thebusinesscentreonline.co.uk www.thebusinesscentreonline.co.uk Twitter @BusinessCBarry

❧ 47 ❧

When Sally Hall and Liz Lewis worked at a competitor recruitment agency, who knew that eleven years on they would have a successful recruitment company based in Cardiff. We chat to Sally about how St David Recruitment Services has grown and where they see themselves in the market place.

PEOPLE WHO NEED PEOPLE How long has the company been established?

St David Recruitment Services was established in September 2002 and has developed and retained a strong position within the market since then.

Myself and Liz met whilst employed within a competitor recruitment consultancy, and formed a partnership which continues to grow from strength to strength.

Why did you choose the name ?

We wanted to emphasise the fact we are a Welsh company, originating from Wales and therefore familiar with local businesses.

How many people do you employ?

We currently employ five recruitment consultants who each specialise in different business sectors and concentrate on resourcing permanent and temporary candidates. The Consultants are supported by myself and Liz who both take an active role in all aspects of search and selection, as well as account management and business development. The business is further supported by a branch administrator, an in-house accountant and an administrative assistant.

What does St David Recruitment Services offer?

We work on a one to one basis with our clients, we tailor our services to meet individual business needs, providing high calibre staff with the skills required, who will also complement the existing teams.

We organise all components of the recruitment process; advertising vacancies across a broad spectrum of on-line jobs boards, proactively sourcing candidates via CV search functions, conducting thorough pre-screening of all applicants, including interviewing, checking eligibility to work and implementing specific pre-employment tests, as well as arranging interviews and preparing our candidates to perform at their best.

For the candidates, we offer a free and professional service where we take the time to fully understand their recruitment needs. Our highly experienced consultants ensure they understand the individual requirements of each candidate; what they are looking for and how we can assist them in their search for employment. We provide guidance and support in relation to CV writing, make suggestions with regards to suitable vacancies, ensure that our candidates are fully prepared prior to attending an interview, and providing informative and constructive feedback.

Who are your customers?

Our customers are made up of the businesses who provide us with the vacancies, and the candidates whom we place into these roles. We are predominantly a commercial recruitment consultancy, providing a service to businesses and candidates within this sector; business support, sales and marketing, legal, finance and insurance, IT and technical. ❧ 48 ❧

What geographical areas do you cover?

We provide a service to businesses and candidates across all of South Wales.

With offices in both Cardiff and Bridgend, we are ideally situated to meet with prospective candidates in either of our Branches.

How has the business developed?

2012 saw the launch of our Bridgend branch, and a tentative move into the Industrial sector. Moving away from our comfort zone, we are now able to confidently provide staff in the following areas: ■ Manufacturing & Production ■ Warehouse & Distribution ■ Freight & Logistics ■ Transport ■ Labour Operatives ■ Drivers ■ Quality Control ■ Health & Safety St David Recruitment Services 790 Newport Road Cardiff CF3 4FH 029 2079 7920 Bridgend Office: Suite 2, 9c Ewenny Road Bridgend CF31 3HW 01656 710904 www.stdavid-education.co.uk Follow on Facebook and Twitter

RA Architects is riding high at the moment - high enough for a move to larger offices and to hire two more staff. We talk to owner Richard Andrews.

DRAWING ON EXPERIENCE When was your practice established?

We opened our doors on December 5th 2012.

What is your background and qualifications?

Twenty years in Architecture, BTEC Construction ONC, BA Hons, BArch DIP, RIBA. We’re Revit (software) friendly and we’re big on 3D Sketch Up/AutoCAD/Photoshop.

What services do you offer?

Essentially we guide people through planning applications, advise on building regulations and manage projects from start to finish. We have experience with party wall notices and we’re particularly interested in sustainable building and architectural design in conservation areas. We provide 3D visuals.

Who are your customers?

Currently, we’re working on domestic and office extensions. We work with rugby clubs, social clubs, restaurants, pubs (retrofitting), events centres and domestic new builds.

Also in the pipeline we’ll be working with some social housing providers and a conceptual design for a rugby club.

We’re working on a variety of projects some exciting opportunities. It’s certainly never dull.

What do you feel sets you apart from others in your industry?

With what we do you have to be enthusiastic about all forms of design.

Being able to improve someone’s quality of life or enhancing an existing office can bring an enormous amount of satisfaction so I’ll go that extra mile to make it work.

RA Architects adopt a down to earth approach which helps break the ice at the outset. I think it’s a mixture of taking the time to understand the customer’s requirements and then presenting clear 3D solutions that sets us apart. 3D imagery can be used for a variety of purposes; as part of a planning application or to bringing a project to life for a wider audience.

Creativity is the key that makes ideas different but an eye towards practicality can fuse the both to create an exciting outcome.

What is your geographical reach?

Wales and the UK mostly, but we’re not afraid to work further afield if the expenses top and tail. We’re currently working in Guilford and have worked on a house extension in Camberley.

What’s your dream project?

I’m lucky enough to be working on my dream project at present. We are at the planning stages of a large events building called the Earth Centre. It will be part subterranean and will be an amazing space to celebrate weddings of all cultures, intimate musical concerts, trade shows and other special occasions.

INBUSINESS

What customers say about Richard “Richard explained everything clearly, and was very professional in his approach. The drawings provided gave a clear 3D visual of what the finished build would look like, and what would be detailed.”

Steve Verrinder, Pilton Vale, Newport

We’re currently cutting another 3D model for this and there are some great sustainable features in the make-up.

It’ll have a Sedum roof and laser holographic back lighting. It’s quite a pioneering project.

Who would you like to work with?

Anyone who wants to make a real difference to their home, and property developers with a passion for new creative, sustainable buildings.

What advice can you offer potential customers?

Get us involved as early as possible pre-planning. It’s at this stage that significant cost and time savings can be made. There’s nothing more frustrating than watching clients waste money. ❧ 49 ❧

Richard Andrews Architects The Old Chapel, Hereford Street Newport NP19 8DT 01633 744144 07786 372549 www.ra-architects.co.uk Facebook /richardandrewsarchitects Twitter @RAarchitectsLtd

From humble roots, Masons Moving Group has grown into a highly respected international company transporting customers’ most treasured belongings around the globe. We asked Gordon Mason, Masons Managing Director to give us an insight into the company’s formula for success.

MOVING STORY When was Masons established?

The company started in 1905 when Sidney Mason, my great grandfather, set up shop on Main Street in Cadoxton.

The company originally dealt in secondhand furniture and all the deliveries were made with a horse and cart.

Sidney’s business developed by moving furniture and eventually he passed on the business to his son Eric (one of nine children!). Sidney and his wife Alice lived above the shop and Eric worked with his dad until the age of eighteen.

World War II broke out and Eric trained as a fighter pilot and was stationed in Burma until 1947. When he returned, he married Esme after wooing her in the first Mason removal van, an old army van bought in 1948.

The business grew under Eric until, in 1955, there were three shops in Barry – Main Street, High Street and one on the corner of Thompson Street and Merthyr Street. Esme worked alongside Eric until his death in 1982 and after over fifty years, she still takes an interest in the business which is now run by my brothers Brett, Richard and myself.

“We’re an international company now with a reputation for excellence and reliability.”

The company has had its ups and downs since then but we’re hard workers and believe you don’t get something for nothing in this life.

We’ve changed beyond all recognition since those humble beginnings. We’re an international company now with a reputation for excellence and reliability and I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved as a family.

What was your first job at Masons?

I joined the company when I left school at fifteen. My first job was a driver’s mate and van boy. There were no concessions for the bosses’ son.

My dad made us start at the bottom and work our way up.

How has the business changed over the years?

You can’t stand still in business.

Over the decades we’ve expanded as opportunities have arisen. Overseas removals is a good example… corporate relocations and people searching for of a better quality lifestyle by buying second homes abroad has created a good market for us.

Besides the actual moving of property, we provide containerized storage and warehousing. This is a growing part of our business and the storage side of thing alone has expanded to over 100,000 sq ft and it’s all watched over by state of the art cctv systems, so don’t get any ideas.

What do you like about the business?

The challenges that come with every day. The diversity of group operations means we might have a complicated house move one day and be planning a conference the next.

Who inspires you and why?

My late father because of his strong work ethic.

What do the other members of the family do in the business?

Richard and Brett are Director’s, Esme still takes an interest and my son James is training to be a manager at our new venture, The Business Centre.

You’re called Masons. Are any of you actually Masons?

Yes, I am a Freemason, but that doesn’t mean that everything I do is free!

Has the recent downturn in the economy affected your business?

Although the housing market has affected the removal business, alternative contracts have been secured in the distribution field to maintain our turnover. Additionally, our new venture The Business Centre has experienced an increase in enquiries as businesses do not want to commit to a long term traditional lease preferring to take advantage of the flexibility of ‘easy in, easy out’ tenancy agreements with no capital expenditure or legal fees.

What are your plans for the future?

To maintain our high standards across the group and to expand The Business Centre model in the South Wales area.

Above, Esme Mason with son, Gordon and an ex army truck in 1961. Left, Masons head office at Thompson Street in 1955.

Opposite, Jim Mason and a shop assistant outside Main Street shop in Cadoxton, 1920.

Photographs courtesty of Masons Moving Group, Barry.

Reproduced by kind permission of Gordon Mason.

❧ 50 ❧

“The company has had its ups and downs... but we’re hard workers and we believe that you don’t get something for nothing in this life.” Gordon Mason Eating out, where do you suggest?

Casa Paco, good food, reasonable prices.

What is your favourite meal?

Tomato soup, steak and chips and jam rolly polly with custard.

Favourite drink?

Chablis and Carling Premier.

What do you do to relax?

Read Dean Koontz or Stephen King.

Do you have a pet hate?

Litter…grrrrr.

Favourite music and why?

Pink Floyd, Metallica and Rush.

Do you have a claim to fame?

Becoming a Worshipful Master of my lodge…

I wish more people would take more notice of…

The difficulties that are sometimes experienced by employers.

A phrase I use far too often…

Not another holiday!!!

I’m very good at…

Getting the most out of people.

Gordon Mason’s top business tips ■ Take the right business when

presented and always look for new opportunities ■ Value your staff and make sure

they know it I’m very bad at…

Giving compliments under pressure.

■ Maintain a sense of humour

My ideal night out would be…

A good meal with a nice bottle of chilled white wine does the trick.

■ Know your competitors and

What drives you?

My children.

■ Always follow your gut instinct

In moments of weakness I… Go for a stroll to clear my head.

Any unfulfilled ambition?

No regrets but I’m always looking for new opportunities.

The best age to be is…

50 and I’m looking forward to it.

The most memorable thing that has happened to me was…

The birth of my children.Family means everything to me.

In a nutshell my philosophy is…

Life is something that happens to you when you’re making other plans so you might as well enjoy it. ❧ 51 ❧

understand why they’re your competitors

Masons Moving Group Limited Storage House Priority Enterprise Park Cardiff Road, Barry CF63 2BG 01446 733330 enquiries@masonsmovingroup.co.uk www.masonsmovingroup.co.uk

What defines commercial photography? Well, it’s a lot of things - products, buildings, fashion, food and more. However, most people in this industry have a good grounding in most styles and then specialise into one type of shoot.

CWC IMAGERY We shoot most things, like other commercial photographers, from basic multiple product shots to complex shiny items which need good colour definition and shaping to make them real and interesting.

One area we excel in is the shooting of jewellery, it’s complex to light effectively and needs a highly tuned set up to get right, from showing diamond facets to bold colours and rounded or sharp edges. Getting the image right isn’t everything though, it also requires a speedy turnaround at the right price.

Commercial projects can cost anywhere from £800 a day to several thousand pounds, depending on the use of models, makeup, location, lighting rigs, assistants, stylists, etc.

It’s worth noting that usually, the actual images aren’t included in that price, the cost is for shooting only, once the images have been proofed, then after selection, the images are provided with copyright to be used in certain contexts and further costs are involved in this.

“Facilities include a small local studio in Cardiff, an office in Cwmbran and a massive studio space off Penarth Road.”

Our facilities include a small local studio in Cardiff, an office in Cwmbran and a massive studio space off Penarth Road.

If necessary we can accommodate vehicular access and have space to build sets should that be required rather than a location shoot. To set us aside from all the other commercial photographers out there, we have designed our own light modifiers, these allow us to do a very quick set up and provide a light quality with unrivalled control and use in difficult places.

So if you look at your website or advertising images and think, “Those could be so much better,” give us a call.

❧ 52 ❧

CWC Imagery 0845 071 5056 www.cwcimagery.com

The Esplanade range Designed by internationally renowned Sergei Tchoban Available at Thomas Gardiner Bathrooms and Interiors 029 2067 9815 www.thomas-gardiner.com

0 2 9 2 0 6 7 9 815

www.thomas-gardiner.com

❧ 56 ❧

EFFECTIVE HRM What difference has it made to your business?

The HR Toolkit makes the management of standard HR administrative functions, such as absences, much more efficient saving us time to get on with the task of running our business. The training and support has really enhanced our business as it has prompted management to think about the people and team that work around them in a different way. The training has assisted us to develop our staff’s soft skills around managing a team.

It goes without saying that the management of your employees is central to the success of your business, to productivity, to profitability and to your bottom line. Effective HRM will ensure that your policies and procedures are up to date and that your business is compliant in terms of employment law - but that is just the tip of the iceburg as one very satisfied customer, Leanne Owen FCCA of HSJ Accountants can testify.

How did you hear about Effective HRM? Emma came highly recommended by a business contact and has looked after all aspects of employment law and HR advice for the practice since2007.

We have also been using their cloud based HR Toolkit, which means that we have changed the way we manage all staff holidays, absences, personnel records and training records. The EffectiveHRM team provide us with ad hoc support and advice in all HR and employment related matters. They also provide management training for the partners and the management team. This means that we’e not just compliant with employment law, but also get the most from our staff in terms of motivation and job satisfaction. We have learned that developing our staff translates to a more productive work force.

Why did you choose them?

We needed straight talking and commercially sound advice, delivered in language that we understood and this is what Emma and her team give us. It is important to us as a business that a company we deal with has the same style and approach that we have in dealing with us and also in dealing with our clients.

Did you have a specific requirement?

We did have some specific issues to address when we first sought the help of Effective HRM. We had taken over a few practices and employee numbers had grown in a relatively short space of time. Obviously there was a sudden increase in staff numbers, all from different practices adapting to a change in ownership and culture. We didn’t really have a formal HR function at that point because of the sudden growth.

Effective HRM have integrated seamlessly into our business.

What services did they offer you?

Effective HRM are our outsourced HR department. They cover all aspects of the HR function for us. Most recently we redesigned our appraisal system to ensure that it suited the needs of our business; we did this with their assistance.

Are you pleased with their services?

The service surpassed our expectations.

Effective HRM completely took away the headache and uncertainty of the issues we were facing and dealt with them for us, allowing us to concentrate on what we are good at, servicing our clients’ accountancy needs. ❧ 57 ❧

With some guidance from Emma and her team we are also running a three month trial of flexible working start and finish times for everyone in the practice. We are hoping that this will not only assist our staff and their obligations outside of work, but also mean that we are able to provide improved client service delivery. This came about after a training workshop that Cath James from EffectiveHRM ran with the managers and it got us thinking about alternative ways to improve efficiencies at work.

Would you be happy to recommend them to others?

We regularly recommend Effective HRM to other contacts and clients if they need HR support. It is very important to us that we know our clients are being looked after. When we introduce EffectiveHRM we are confident that they will be looked after and confident that they are in safe hands.

EffectiveHRM EffectiveHRM Headquarters JR House, Main Avenue Treforest Industrial Estate Pontypridd CF37 5UR 0844 873 2297 enquiries@effective-hrm.co.uk www.effective-hrm.co.uk Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @EffectiveHRM

Open any woman’s magazine and you can’t fail to notice adverts for cosmetic dentistry - the before and after pictures remind us that however bad our teeth, the Hollywood smile is attainable. One company stands out as the absolute leader in this field and that is The Parade Specialist Dental Centre.

Gareth Jenkins

CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

We spoke to Gareth Jenkins, Specialist in Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics Implant Surgeon on why he believes that the practice can boast this impressive title.

I have lectured both nationally and internationally, and I was honoured in Washington DC at an international conference for my contribution to aesthetic dentistry.

We also offer free consultations for denture retaining, implants and Invisalign. Our home teeth whitening kits are currently only £195, a saving of £100. We also offer interest free credit.

What are your qualifications Gareth?

BDS (Wales); MScD (Wales); FDS, RCS (ED). I am a specialist in Restorative Dentistry and a Prosthodontics Implant Surgeon. After qualifying in 1970 at Cardiff Dental School and obtaining a Fellowship in Dental surgery in Edinburgh, I opened The Parade Specialist Dental Centre in 1975, while continuing to teach on a part-time basis at The Dental School, where I obtained my Master of Dental Science. I have over thirty five years experience in advanced restorative treatments, such as implants and precision attachments and, during my career, have placed over 6,000 dental implants.

What do you believe makes The Parade stand out from the crowd?

Without doubt, it has to be the quality of dentistry we can offer. We are the only fully private; multi-specialist practice in Wales, where we have four GDC registered accredited Specialists in Restorative Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Periodontics, Endodontics and Orthodontics.

How can one become a patient?

We accept general dentists’ referrals and welcome new patients to our practice.

Our practice is truly unique and one that can offer the complete range of dental treatments for the whole family.

I am a past President of The British Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry and of the Association of Dental Implantology as well as being a Fellow and Diplomat of The International Congress of Implantology. I am also a past Chairman of the south Wales and south west of England Private Practitioners Group.

I’ve written many published articles and a book on Advanced Restorative Dentistry.

We continually invest in technology and our staff. We have up-to-date digital x-rays, a CT scanner which allows us to have highly detailed 3D images of bone and supporting tissues for perfect diagnosis and careful surgical planning and an endodontic microscope.

Our hygienist services are second to none thanks to latest Periowave technology.

Does all of this expertise and technology mean high prices?

We are mindful of the current economic climate and do our best to offer competitive prices. ❧ 58 ❧

The Parade Specialist Dental Centre 23 The Parade, Roath Cardiff CF24 3AB 029 2048 1486 info@paradedental.com www.paradedental.com Opening hours Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm Follow on Facebook

GET YOUR

Party Shoes ON FOR CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS 2013 From Terrific Tribute Acts, Essential Parties and the popular John Oliver Big Band Night, to a Swing Night, Winter Wonderland Break, Family Sunday Lunch Party and Glamorous Gala Dinners; you can be assured of sumptuous cuisine and sparkling entertainment which ever you choose.

Private Parties

Tribute Party Acts

Swing Night

Essential Parties

John Oliver Big Band Night

Family Sunday Lunch Party

PRICES FROM

£39

per person

Tel: 01443 665803 | www.vale-hotel.com/christmas Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY

“I have helped people get well from quite hopeless conditions. I work a lot with high-powered corporate customers. Many are just regular everyday people.” ❧ 60 ❧

Anne Rodgers from Penarth has been in business off and on for over 40 years but not always as a healer. In Business magazine takes a leap of faith to find out more.

HANDS ON EXPERIENCE Some are directors of companies, some are bankers, doctors, even consultants I see a lot of people with high pressure and stressful jobs.

Jacqui Simmons, Thornhill – one of Anne’s very satisfied customers

Would you say there’s an element of counselling to what you do?

Yes, we’re emotional and physical beings so while I’m healing the physical, I’m also working at an emotional and spiritual level.

Do you have to believe in a religion to visit you?

Religion is the choice of the individual.

What I do isn't about religion. It's about healing people and passing on positive energy.

Have you always been a healer?

I became a healer about eighteen years ago. I was lying in bed one night and it was as if the ceiling had been removed and the room was filled with light and spectacular colours. I was quite unnerved at the time but then I heard a voice and it assured me that everything was going to be fine.

Had anything ever happened to you like this before?

Not at all. You should have been there it really was an experience.

What did you do before you became a healer?

I ran my own hair salon. I did quite well - had fantastic, loyal customers we were always busy. I suppose because of that, I have always been good with people. You have to be a good listener working in a salon. But, after ‘the gift was given’, quite a few odd (but good) things started to happen which led me to eventually become a full time healer. From then on, I was on a path to healing. It has sustained me for all this time so I must be doing something right.

Do people have a problem with you charging for what you do?

I’ve never had people complain. I do some work for free because I know that not everyone can afford it. It’s my work, it’s what I do.

What do you charge?

I charge £40 for a one hour session.

Does a client have to undress?

No. Just be comfortable, All I ask is that they remove their shoes.

Do you touch them?

Sometimes, yes. However, I will only place my hands appropriately and will always ask if they are happy for me to do so.

What will I experience?

Everyone is different. Some people feel warmth, some feel cold. Some move a little - some move a lot! It’s quite safe.

Some get emotional. Some experience vivid colours when they close their eyes. I will always do my best to explain what they are seeing and feeling, and why.

What type of clients do you see?

I see men, women and children (although always accompanied). I work with many high profile business people and sports people. You might be surprised who I heal. It’s all strictly confidential.

What can you help with?

I have helped people get well from quite hopeless conditions. I often work with high-powered corporate customers. Many are just regular everyday people. ❧ 61 ❧

Where do you see yourself in the next few years?

I’m looking at opening a surgery in London - perhaps on Harley Street where I could work perhaps one day a week. Also, I may be spending time in Spain from time to time as my daughter and her family have just moved there.

There may be an opportunity to do something there. Who knows, I’m keeping my options open.

“It’s quite safe. Some people get emotional.

Some experience vivid colours when they close their eyes. I will always do my best to explain what they are seeing and feeling, and why.”

Anne Rodgers For an appointment, please phone 029 2035 0118 or 07846 781183 www.annerodgershealer.co.uk

INBUSINESS CARDIFF

Hawkes’ revamp celebrations Hawkes has been twenty years in the making according to owner Russell Scott-Lawson.

The completion of phase two, the ground floor, after the major works undertaken to completely revamp downstairs over nine months ago, was cause for a fitting celebration.

Hawkes 37-39 Morgan Arcade Cardiff CF10 1AF 029 2037 3780 www.hawkesessentials.com Follow on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube

❧ 62 ❧

SOCIAL LIFE CARDIFF

Introbiz causes a buzz at Le Monde One of many great networking events at Le Monde, Cardiff by Introbiz, one of south Wales’ leading business networking companies.

The venue, the participants, the vibe - all made for a great networking event.

For more information, please contact Introbiz on: 029 2029 1002 07581 564371/07920 772707 or visit www.introbiz.co.uk

❧ 63 ❧

INBUSINESS DINAS POWYS

The Huntsman Twenty glorious years Hot sunshine and blue skies greeted us, as did our hosts with a welcoming glass of champagne as Hilary and Peter Rice of The Huntsman celebrated twenty years in business.

Guests were already sat in the garden enjoying a glass of Pimms, soaking up the rays all here to celebrate with their friends and fellow frequenters of the restaurant.

The Huntsman At the rear of The Star pub Dinas Powys 029 2051 4900

â?§ 64 â?§

SOCIAL LIFE CARDIFF

Business and beauty at The Maldron Hotel The Best Western Plus Maldron Hotel, Cardiff hosted a free event, Business, beauty and Bubbles recently, offering women the opportunity to mix business and beauty in one location.

Wales’ leading health, beauty and lifestyle brands including luxury beauty destination Belle Toujours and John Lewis, exhibited their products/services and offering complimentary treatments. info.cardiff@maldronhotels.com Christmas party packages are now available.

❧ 65 ❧

THE LAST WORD It’s hard enough being in business when you’re a sole trader but what happens when you’re sick or sustain an injury which prevents you from working for a time? We chat to gardener Rob Hodge.

Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Robert Hodge, my business is called Rob Hodge Horticulture and I try to specialize in the restoration and maintenance of period gardens. I say ‘try’ because my work covers everything from the small terrace court yard garden to the country house mansion. The period garden, whether overgrown or not are truly the jewel in the crown.

How long have you been in business?

This year is the tenth Anniversary of Rob Hodge Horticulture but my 40th year as a professional gardener.

These ten years have gradually grown stronger, the weeks and months busier and the gardens more select.

How many people are involved in the business?

For most of the ten years it’s just been me, with the occasional help from my wife Lyn and our three children. Most recently I’ve had people on work experience which has been a great help. My wife and I do the book keeping and the rest is left to a very efficient accountant.

What areas do you cover?

We cover a large area, from Bristol in the east to Bridgend in the West. Most of our work is through the Usk Valley into Cardiff and around the Vale of Glamorgan. I normally gauge it on an hour’s drive to reach my destination, more than that can run into a twelve hour day, which is only practical in the summer months and can be exhausting.

How did you receive your injury?

I had a fall back in March, causing me to tear a tendon in my right shoulder. I’ve always known the dangers of slipping on decking more than most being a gardener you could say.

All the same, down I went on the same afternoon that Wales finished off the 2013 Six Nations Championship win by extensively beating England at Cardiff.

That win did little to ease the pain but it was a good win! Six months on I’ve seen doctors, physios and consultants.

I’ve had scans and diagnosis’ that have revealed two tears in a tendon that I can’t pronounce, with the only option to have it repaired or lose the mobility in my right arm.

What is the position now?

My operation is due in September and depending on what the surgeon finds up ten weeks of physiotherapy for a full recovery. It will be like starting my recovery period all over again and going back in time six months, but this time with a positive outcome.

I have lost count of the sleepless nights, the after effects of painkillers and not being allowed to drink any alcohol!

After the first two weeks of the initial injury, I started physiotherapy but for some reason this only caused more pain and started to aggravate the situation.

It wasn’t until I had a scan that the injuries were fully known.

I gradually taught myself to become left handed but at the same time making sure that I kept as much mobility as possible in my right arm. After the operation, physiotherapy will put me back to where I was pre March – fingers crossed.

Business as usual then?

Since March I have had six months of preparation, I have gone through the obligatory cancelled appointments that we come to expect with the NHS and my diary has taken on a language that only I can decipher due to the countless alterations.

Through all of this time I have managed to work nearly every day, all my customers, old or new, have supported me and my family and friends have always been behind me. It has been business as usual since March and it will be right the way through until I am fully recovered at the end of December. One way or another, the work has always got done and new work keeps coming in.

When do you think you’ll be back at the helm and able to work?

I should be fully fit by the New Year but as far as managing my business goes I will always be at the helm except for that short period when I’m under the knife. It’s got to be upwards and onwards - us self employed have very few options if we value our business, but I am looking forward to the box set of Jeremy Kyle!

Will you be able to still offer a gardening/landscaping service?

As us self employed people know, bad weather and sickness no longer exist so I am hoping to give myself two weeks of doing nothing at all, after that my wife will become my driver and my new apprentice will embark on the busiest time of his life. I have recently had to start a new employee so that he can stand in for me – under my guidance of course.

Once I am fit enough to become a comfortable passenger I can manage and supervise on a day to day basis.

Looking into the job market has been a bit of an eye opener for me, the biggest shock that I have found is that the practical side of horticulture has become a dying art; I am going to do something about that in the not too distant future, watch this space. ❧ 66 ❧

Rob Hodge Horticulture 01633 744075 www.robhodgehorticulture.co.uk

Subject to terms, conditions and availability. Valid for travel 19 August – 31 October 2013. USA flights via Dublin and fares are on an each way basis to be booked as a return trip and to include a Saturday night stay. Limited availability over peak travel periods, holiday periods and sporting events.

❧ 67 ❧

passion passion is bespoke bespoke catering catering for for conferences, confferences, “ Our eevents, vents, lo location cation catering, catering, your your business business buffets bufffets or or our Chef Chef at H ome se rvice. W ve tto o mak our Home service.

Wee lo love makee yyour o ccasion truly truly me morable. occasion memorable.

”

St P Peters eters H Hall, all, St Peters Peters Street, Street, Cardiff Cardifff CF24 3BA Tel: T el: 029 2049 4425 • www.spiros.co.uk www.spiros.co.uk • info@spiros.co.uk inffo@spir o@sp o os.co.uk Find us o on nF Facebook acebook @SPIROSCATERERS @SP IROSCA AT TE TERERS