Kirklees Business News

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees

Town ‘scouts’ for enterprising team

H U D D E R S F I E L D To w n h a s engaged a team of scouts – to track down talented businesses.

Rather than running the rule over promising footballers, the club’s newly-installed Enterprise Scouts will be spreading the word about a new venture, the Huddersfield Town Enterprise Academy.

The academy has been launched in the run-up to the 2010-11 season to provide a focal point for businesses across Yorkshire to come together, exchange ideas and learn new skills regarding business practice and networking.

A series of five events are planned throughout the course of the season.

The first will be held over lunchtime in October at the Galpharm Stadium when a panel of three Huddersfield Town club partners will answer ques-

tions on subjects as diverse as finance, marketing and human resources.

The Enterprise Academy is free of charge to business representatives and is open to all businesses.

The club has recruited its band of Enterprise Scouts – local business people who share Town’s ambitions for the club and the business community and are willing to volunteer their support – to help spread the word.

The club’s commercial website – www.htafccommercial.com – will also carry information on the Enterprise Academy and Town have created a LinkedIn group which will allow everyone to discuss upcoming events and topics online.

Town commercial director Sean Jarvis, who is the man behind the concept, said: “The aim of the Huddersfield

Town Enterprise Academy is to get new businesses involved with Huddersfield Town – ones from totally different walks of life.

“The club has a growing reputation as a ‘hub’ for businesses in the Yorkshire area and the creation of the Enterprise Academy is further evidence that there is much more to Huddersfield Town than what goes on out on the pitch on a Saturday afternoon.

“The virtual networking sector is booming at the moment and this venture, along with the creation of our LinkedIn group, is the next step for us.

“I encourage everyone who can to come down to our first event in October – it will be a beneficial meeting for us all.”

enced significant or critical financial problems – between them owing more than £65.5bn to creditors, suppliers and service providers.

The fall in distress in Yorkshire was not as marked as the rest of the country, which showed a fall of 31% for the same period the previous year, but remained at historically high levels.

The sectors worst-hit in Yorkshire remain construction, where 16% have s i g n i f i c a n t p r o b l e m s ; b u s iness-to-business services (16%) and property services (9%) – all of which

show a less marked recovery than other sectors.

However, there were positive signs for the region with some improvement in manufacturing.

David Wilson, of Begbies Traynor in West Yorkshire, said: “Although these figures suggest that the economy is steadying, there remains a high degree of uncertainty.

“Many businesses in the region are likely to be affected by cuts in public spending and this could prove another blow for the struggling construction industry.

Viking raiders A MAJOR tourist attraction is saving energy with help from a Brighouse consultancy.

York’s popular Jorvik Viking Centre linked up with Orchard Energy to reduce its energy costs in the competitive leisure market.

The centre spends between £80,000 and £90,000 a year on electricity alone – making energy one of its biggest overheads.

● Full story - Page 5

■ TEAM TALK: Sean Jarvis, commercial director at Town

Fewer Yorkshire firms facing financial distress THE number of Yorkshire companies in distress has fallen by almost 20%, according to a report by a leading insolvency firm.

But business rescue, recovery and restructuring specialist Begbies Traynor said the UK economy remained fragile with 9,534 companies in the region experiencing “significant” financial distress in the second quarter of 2010.

The firm’s latest Red Flag update, which monitors the warning signs of companies in distress, said more than 127,500 businesses in the UK experi-

INSIDE

“Capital investment remains sluggish and this lack of confidence is compounded by the turmoil in the Greek economy and its possible knock-on effect on the Euro zone as a whole, which could cause further market unrest and sterling depreciation.”

Colleague Julian Pitts said: “Looking forward, the Bank of England expects availability and demand to continue rising slowly among SMEs, but anticipates further contraction in demand from large companies in the second half of the year.”

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Rugs and kisses!

A FIRM making “eco-friendly” barrier mats has won a hat-trick of awards.

Hug Rug, based at Clayton West, picked up three trophies at the Garden Industry Manufacturers Awards – including one for export achievement.

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

national

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Extra toppings are good for takeaway PIZZA firm Domino’s said strong sales driven by demand from fans of the World Cup and ITV show Britain’s Got Talent helped half-year profits jump 28%.

The group, which has a branch in St John’s Road, Huddersfield, posted like-for-like sales growth of 13.7% in the 26 weeks to June 27, leading to better-than-expected pre-tax profits of £17.5 million.

Domino’s, which was further helped by offers such as its Two for Tuesday promotion, also maintained expansion plans with the opening of 19 new stores during the period, bringing its UK and Ireland total to 627.

The company holds the master franchise to own, operate and fran-

chise Domino’s Pizza stores in the UK and Ireland. The first UK store opened in Luton in 1985 and the first Irish store opened in 1991.

The group plugged its best-selling Pepperoni Passion pizza on ITV1 before England’s clashes with the USA and Algeria – encouraging viewers to order a pizza before kick off for delivery at half-time – as well as running adverts on radio station TalkSport and online promotions through Facebook.

It has just completed its third year of sponsorship of Britain’s Got Talent and has also benefited from faster delivery times as well as favourable comparisons with weaker trading last year.

Chief executive Chris Moore said:

“It is easy to try and attribute our success to one thing – be it the weather, or Britain’s Got Talent, or the World Cup – but the underlying trend shows a more compelling picture.”

Domino’s, which remains on track to open 55 new stores this year, warned of much tougher sales comparisons in the second half of 2010.

Customers are also logging on in growing numbers to order takeaways, the firm added. Internet pizza sales are up more than 60% on a year earlier at £56.9 million and now account for almost 33% of delivered sales.

The firm’s new, bigger base for manufacturing ingredients opened at Milton Keynes last month.

MARKS & Spencer will take its turn in the executive pay spotlight when the retail chain holds its annual shareholder meeting tomorrow.

Following a clash with investors at last year’s AGM, the high street retailer is on another collision course amid concerns over packages for new boss Mark Bolland and outgoing chief Sir Stuart Rose.

More than a fifth of shareholders who voted last year failed to back Sir Stuart’s re-election to the board over his controversial dual role as executive chairman against City best practice.

■ ALL BOXED UP: Domino’s Pizza has had strong sales

Building firm sees new hopes

New jobs on way at TNT

CONSTRUCTION group Kier cheered signs of revival in commercial building markets.

The company flagged up annual profits at the top end of market hopes.

The Bedfordshire-based firm said it had secured high volumes of work.

And a spokesman added that previously mothballed private commercial projects were being resurrected as funding becomes available.

The upbeat comments, which lifted shares 4%, are welcome after gloom in the sector last week as the Government took the axe to the Building Schools for the Future

A MAJOR rival to Royal Mail in the UK postal market announced plans to expand its workforce by a fifth and bolster its regional presence.

TNT Post, which currently handles 280 million items a month, is also planning to invest £3 million in sorting and processing technology.

It expects to have more than 1,000 employees in the UK following the recruitment drive.

The new staff will include new client managers and operational staff.

The business has a network of five regional offices and will extend this to cover a new hub in Northern Ireland

(BSF) project.

Kier is braced for further cuts but said its exposure to the BSF project – which included more than 20 school projects across Kirklees – was not “material”.

The firm said its building business was focused on more “non-discretionary” areas such as power and utilities, while it also hopes for a boost from the recently approved Crossrail cross-London rail link.

Kier also hopes to grow revenues in overseas markets as it establishes itself in markets including Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, and Hong Kong.

Sparks at Marks?

in the autumn.

It is also looking for a central distribution hub to boost efficiency and increase its capacity.

The Dutch-owned firm has won business from high-profile customers including Centrica and BT since entering the UK market six years ago.

The global transportation and distribution business is a vast industry which is estimated to be worth over US$3,500 billion.

TNT serves more than 200 countries and employs around 160,000 people.

Housing optimism PROPERTY professionals are predicting further house price falls following a surge in the number of homes being put up for sale, research indicated today.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) said that in June 4% more of its members expected prices to fall during the coming months than those who thought they would rise.

The pessimism, which contrasts with the previous month when surveyors were still predicting further price rises, comes as the supply of homes for sale continues to increase.

SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £28.39 +0.04 Gannett 958.72 -29.29 Hess Corp £35.32 -0.12 Microsoft 1639.81 +23.97 Motors Liquidation 49.93 Wal-Mart Stores £33.30 +0.39 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE Avon Rbbr 1091/2 BAE Systems 321 -3/4 Rolls-Royce Gp 586 +31/2 AIM Brady Plc 60 Dawson Intl 2 -1/2 Man Brnze 303/4 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 1303/8 +1/4 BANKS Barclays 300 -1/2 HSBC 6323/8 +51/4 Lloyds Banking Gp 621/4 +1/2 Ryl Scotland 445/8 +3/8 Stan Chart 1727 +81/2 BEVERAGES Diageo 1099 +11 SABMiller 19441/2 +211/2 CHEMICALS Croda 1084 -7 Elementis 98 68 +3/4 Johnsn Mat 1560 +2 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS Balfour Beatty 2461/4 +1/2 Costain 2023/4 +51/2 ELECTRICITY Drax Grp 3835/8 -91/2

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

profile

Andy spreads the text message

TECHNOLOGY interests Andy Earnshaw – but it has to serve a purpose.

As business development manager for text messaging services firm SMiLeS and a member of the Institute of Marketing’s technology interest group, you’d expect nothing less.

But it’s not the latest gadgets and gizmos that matter – only how they can help businesses do things better.

“I have an interest and excitement about technology,” says Andy. “But there has to be a purpose. I don’t like technology for technology’s sake. My job is about understanding the technology, but it is more about understanding the customer and knowing where the technology can help them.”

From its light and airy offices overlooking the Colne Valley, SMiLeS has built up an enviable client list providing business text messaging services – putting its customers in finally set up his own touch with their customers company, Systems to send targeted, relevant Connect, selling computer information. cabling. He moved into Says Andy: “Figures consultancy six years later, show that while working for businesses on consumer-to-consumer text short and long-term messaging is still rising contracts – moving slightly, increasingly into helping business-to-business text start-ups and young messaging is rising quite companies in the steeply. Businesses are technology field. realising that it is a great He became a Business way to get their message Link-registered approved across – and that message supplier of consultancy will be read. services and worked with “It is the abuse of emails ambitious companies on that has given text products and services using messaging the opportunity leading-edge technology of to grow and become the the time – such as bluetooth real channel for sending and touch-screen. ‘must-read’ Since August last year, he communications. We have has been business to make sure text development manager for messaging is not abused the way emails have been – Golcar-based SMiLeS. As well as helping to build up so that you cannot find the the company, he has been important message for all able to generate links with the spam.” worthy causes in the town.

Marketing seemed an “I am passionate about unlikely career destination Huddersfield and proud of after Andy set out from Penistone Grammar School my Yorkshire roots,” says Andy. “My father was to enter the world of work. involved in the textile Andy, who was brought industry, which was the up in Shepley, took a basis of Huddersfield’s foundation course in wealth. accountancy at “I see that mantle being Huddersfield Polytechnic taken up by the emerging and was articled to town media industries. We have centre accountancy firm this richness of ideas and Wheawill & Sudworth before leaving for a job as a enterprise in Huddersfield.

“There is also a strong quotations clerk with an ethos about giving to local electrical wholesaler in causes. SMiLeS has Leeds. relationships with the Laura “I applied for a job as a ‘rep’ selling electrical products, but I didn’t know anything about it really.

Instead, they offered me the job of quotations clerk, saying: ‘You're obviously good with numbers because you worked for an accountant’.” However, within a year of joining Thorn Lighting, Andy was out on the road selling.

He ended up working in Huddersfield for a company called Caselco, which had premises near the old Town ground at Leeds Road, before being headhunted about five years later by two ■ MARKET FORCE: American-owned Andrew Earnshaw says he companies in quick has a passion for technology succession.

– and his hometown

Crane Trust, Kirkwood Hospice, West Yorkshire Forget Me Not Trust and the Hollybank Trust. We use our expertise and technology to help people make donations by text.”

Andy detects a similar willingness for local firms to work together, saying: “We are very good at networking – whether we realise it or not. People in Huddersfield and Kirklees have a strong desire to work with each other.

“I don’t think there many products or services you cannot get in Kirklees.”

Andy is a strong supporter of initiatives such as the Kirklees Business Conference and the involvement of major organisations such as Huddersfield University and Huddersfield Town in bringing business people together.

As for SMiLeS, Andy aims to see it spread its wings and become a strong player not only in West Yorkshire but further afield. “We have the resources to help businesses send hundreds of thousands of text messages a year,” he says.

“We are focusing on organisations such as sports clubs and health and fitness clubs where they have members who want to keep up to date; schools and educational institutions; software developers and franchisors, who need to send information to franchisees.

“I understand communications and I have also run a business, so I know where good communication can bring benefits and where costs can be saved.”

Andy also believes in supporting the marketing industry.

He gained his marketing qualifications back in 1994 and became a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

He set up a Huddersfield-Halifax group and was asked to sit on the Mid Yorkshire branch committee before becoming

During his two-year tenure, Andy helped organise Creativity, Commerce and You – a showcase for some of Huddersfield’s most creative businesses and individuals who took to the “catwalk” at the Odeon Cinema alongside the Galpharm Stadium.

The event included a motivational talk by James Sommerville, director of award-winning design agency Attik, which was founded in the town and featured companies including Paxman Coolers, Creative North, Steel Dreams and ID-Wall.

They were joined by video specialist Virtual Huddersfield, insulating paint supplier Thermilate, fashion designers Toni Waller and Jamie Nelson, jewellery designers Frances Brown and Maria Lau, artist Gemma Nelson and women’s footwear designer Romilly Jane.

Andy now sits on the institute’s regional board for Yorkshire and Humber and attends its annual north of England meetings.

One of his proudest professional moments was to receive the Alan Brownley Award from the CIM in recognition of his achievements.

The award is in honour of Alan Brownley, of the CIM’s South Yorkshire branch, who died in June, 2007.

Andrew was in competition with 10 other CIM members from around the UK for the prize.

Andy, who lives in Fenay Bridge, finds himself working long hours so enjoys “chilling out, eating in with friends and listening to music” when he has time to unwind. He is also a keen follower of both Town and the Giants.

But work matters are never far away. “I am passionate about the idea of continual professional improvement,” he says. “I keep in touch with what’s happening in marketing and communications so that I can give best advice to my

Page 3 Andy Earnshaw Role: Business development manager Age: 54 Family: Soon to be married to Lucy Holidays: Portugal and Spain Car: Mercedes CLK First job: Accountancy clerk Best thing about job: Meeting so many interesting people and seeing so many kinds of business Worst thing about job: There are only 24 hours in the day. That’s just not enough time!

Business tip: If you are going to do something, do it right

SMiLeS employers and clients.

“And I’m always trying to work out what the ‘next big thing’ is going to be.”

No, technology doesn’t stand still.

HENRYK ZIENTEK

Work: Business communications Site: Golcar Employees: 10 Phone: 01484 465160 Email: andy@smiles sms.com Web: www.smilessms.com

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KIRKLEES BUSIN

Making a splash with new product

MARKETING expert Darryl Gould is making a splash with his latest assignment.

The Holmfirth man dubbed Yorkshire’s “business inspector” is working with client Splashblade to develop marketing opportunities for its award-winning product.

Splashblade is a device which can be fitted in minutes and prevents water escaping past shower curtains and onto the bathroom floor.

The product was among the winners at this year’s Committed to Construction Awards.

A powder coated white, matt or chrome finished aluminium or quality plastic profile with a stainless steel insert is attached to the wall adjacent to the shower head by industrial grab adhesive tape.

The Splashblade installation is finished in minutes with a silicon bead to give a quick, clean and permanent solution. All that remains to be done is to attach the four specially-designed Splashblade magnets to the shower curtain and water escape is prevented.

Now Darryl, partner at DPA Marketing, is helping Gary Daly, owner of Sheffield-based Splashblade, to capitalise on the product’s potential.

Gary said he was delighted to gain recognition from his peers in the construction industry.

The trophy win came after Splashblade was shortlisted in the FX International Design Awards at the end of last year.

Said Darryl: “Splashblade is now making a splash with social housing businesses, hotels, private hospitals and bathroom suppliers across the country.

“And its also recently featured on the Radio 2

■ CURTAIN CALL: Splashblade fitted in the Beauchief Hotel in Sheffield with manager Joanne Wolstenholme and Gary Daly, of Splashblade Products Ltd

Drivetime innovative products section as well as being in line for a possible ‘Dragon’s Den’ appearance.”

Darryl’s “business inspector” tag came from the 2008 Business Enterprise Awards run by

Consultancy plugs into old connections A MARKETING and PR consultancy in Huddersfield has renewed old connections.

Lindley-based point2pr, headed

by Jenny Clayon (pictured, right) has been appointed by Energy Saving International to promote its eco-friendly products in the UK. The Leeds-based company previously worked with point2pr when its innovative Savasocket product was in its initial development stage. The tie-up helped ESI win a coveted Grand Design award.

Following significant investment from a Hong Kong entrepreneur, production of Savasocket is in full swing – and ESI is ramping up its promotional activity to communicate the benefits of the product to consumers.

Savasocket is an environmentally-friendly, energy-saving, surge-protected, multi-socket for the home and billed as one of the easiest ways to save energy and CO2.

The multi plug adaptor only uses 0.19 watts in stand-by mode, cutting electricity bills.

James Dunne, managing director of ESI, said: “Jenny did a great job of helping us at the early development stage of the product, so it made perfect sense to call on her services again now that we are ready for full roll-out.”

qualifications awarding body IAB. He said: “That’s exactly what I do and am doing for Gary – I am ‘inspecting’ all aspects of his business and helping him develop sales, leads and contacts on an ongoing, part-time basis.”

Agency on the superhighway

A TRAFFIC and highways engineering consultancy has invested more than £50,000 to install a new computer system to guard against breakdown, fraud and fire.

Sanderson Associates, based at Grange Moor has introduced the system to take full advantage of the opportunities presented as the country moves out of recession.

Managing director Alison France (pictured, right) said: “We decided it was time to replace the company’s existing servers and IT system.

“Our new system comprises three physical servers and a new data storage unit.

“Two of the physical servers are located on-site along with the data storage unit, the third physical server is located off-site and is utilised as a full back up system.”

Said Alison: “Thousands of emails are received by the company every day, so the recording of inbound and outbound information as well as work undertaken is critical for us to continue moving forward positively.”

The company has also introduced a new time-recording system, CoreTime from Sage, which has been incorporated into the company’s own system and relates to each scheme or development proposal Sanderson Associates are working on.

Asian trade routes still a good option KIRKLEES firms have been urged to consider Far East markets as a way to boost business.

A report by HSBC Commercial Banking said companies should engage with the “new world order” as the Far East grows in importance.

The report, “Looking East: The changing face of world business” says that “thinking businesses” in the UK can proposer by factoring Asia into their strategic thinking – addressing how to capitalise on its diverse consumer base, skilled workforce and advances in research and development.

The research reveals that many UK companies already doing business internationally are recognising the potential – and are significantly more likely to see the East as a market with an increasingly highly skilled workforce than their non-international counterparts.

International traders are twice as likely to view Asia as being a hub for increasingly sophisticated innovation methods.

Mark Vines (pictured), HSBC regional commercial director for Yorkshire, said: “The UK is no longer looking at when ‘West meets East’ but at how the East will redefine the West and the way we do business.

“By understanding this fundamental and fast-paced change, British businesses can ensure they are in a position to respond swiftly and effectively; and it is the thinking business that acts now.

“There is still a high volume of UK firms that just perceive the East as a traditional ‘'low cost’ production and labour destination, but there needs to be a shift change in attitude as Asia and the Middle East become the brightest prospects on the global landscape.

“There is also a massive opportunity for British exporters.

Asia is largely positive about British brands and the consumer market is growing rapidly, giving UK businesses a platform to increase their trade.”

Mr Vines said: “At HSBC, we are seeing export balances up by 45% compared to this time last year, which is hugely encouraging and demonstrates where some of the real opportunities for business growth lie.

“We will continue to help businesses with the financial tools to take advantage of the opportunities in the East through our unrivalled on-the-ground presence, knowledge and local expertise.”

NESS NEWS

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Big energy bills – they’re history A MAJOR tourist attraction is focusing on saving energy – with help from a Brighouse consultancy.

The popular Jorvik Viking Centre in York linked up with Orchard Energy to reduce its energy costs.

The centre spends between £80,000 and £90,000 a year on electricity alone – making energy one of the centre’s biggest overheads.

Finance director Peter Nicholson said: “We’re a charity and our main objective is to offer people a good value day out and maintain a strong educational focus.

“We’ve just unveiled our £1m Jorvik 3 project and we’re keen to improve parts of the ride area – but we are operating in an increasingly competitive market and need to keep costs low wherever possible.”

York Archaeological Trust, which owns Jorvik Viking Centre, operates eight sites in York and attracts 400,000 visitors every year to its Viking attraction in the centre of the city.

Orchard carried out a detailed survey of the energy use at all its sites to demonstrate the most efficient tariffs, contracts and suppliers for the organisation as a whole.

Gareth Henderson, Orchard managing director, said: “Orchard specialises in dealing with charities and trusts and we understand the intricate decision-making process involved in these organisations.

“By providing detailed information and market intelligence as clearly and simply as possible the board of trustees can see at once how they can make savings.”

Orchard also manages energy supplies for Harewood, Eureka Children’s Museum, the Devonshire Estate, Ripley Castle, York Castle and Castle Howard.

“For tourist attractions, venues and

TWO Huddersfield organisations have found a good way to spend the odd hour.

The Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and town centre law firm Eaton Smith are running free breakfast seminars this summer under the title 60 Very Useful Minutes.

A seminar covering e-commerce and the law, takes place from 8.30am on Thursday, July 22.

Debt collection and commercial debt solutions provide the focus for another free seminar on Thursday, August 26.

Registered Charity No. 512987

Corporate Christmas Cards 2010 Produced from two paintings by D.R. Gawthorpe B.W.S. F.I.G.A.

“Santa’s been!” and “Heard It’s Christmas” Cards can be individually printed with company details, logo and with a standard or personalised verse ■ DANE GAIN: Gareth Henderson (centre), managing director of Orchard Energy, and Amar Hussain, Orchard’s associate director, enjoy the Jorvik experience with "Viking" Zoe Durrant-Walker

museums cutting costs isn’t as straightforward as it is with other businesses because lighting and heating are necessary to create the right ambience,” said Mr Henderson.

Orchard is also helping many of these organisations prepare for the Government’s Carbon Reduction Commitment to avoid

fines for non compliance.

Orchard’s national clients include Barratts, Priceless, Kone Plc and British Rail Residuary.

Other business wins include Seabrook, Huddersfield textile finisher WT Johnson and Flamingo Land.

Food firms get chance to tempt Asda’s tastebuds FOOD and drink producers in Kirklees have been urged to rise to a supermarket challenge.

Leeds-based Asda is calling for local suppliers who would like to see their products on the shelves to step forward with their wares.

Asda already stocks goods from local suppliers, including Yummy Yorkshire Ice Cream, Longley Farm dairy products and Andrew Jones pies.

The company, which has stores at Bradford Road, Brackenhall, has won awards for its work with local suppliers. Asda guides suppliers through the accreditation process to find the best ways of working for both parties.

It also works hard to help with transport arrangements and cut down the amount of miles food products travel to stores.

Chris Beaumont, general store

Excellent timing

For further details please contact Marie Peacock at Kirkwood Hospice on: 01484 557911 Email: mariep@kirkwoodhospice.co.uk Please support Kirkwood Hospice this Christmas

APPRENTICES ARE NOT JUST A TV GIMMICK… An apprentice from Kirklees College gives your business: • A high quality employee • Professional, efficient and effective support • Reduced staff turnover • Increased productivity • Skilled employees that are needed for the future of the business

manager for Asda Huddersfield, said: “Asda has invested a great deal of time and money into listening to our customers’ wants and needs when it comes to local produce. We’re keen to find suppliers in and around Huddersfield with local products that our customers will really support.

“By ensuring products are locally relevant, we hope our suppliers can develop their relationship with us in a

way that suits them, helping cut costs and keep local produce at a competitive price in line with Asda’s every day low prices philosophy.”

Interested suppliers can provide a name, contact number and product information to the customer service desk at the Asda store at Longhill Road, off Bradford Road, Huddersfield or find out more at http://asdasupplier.com

To find out how easy it is to take on an Apprentice in Business Administration, Customer Service, Team Leading, Management or Sales and Telesales please contact Employer Engagement on 01484 437988, Reference Number BPS/APP710 Kirklees College, School of Business and Professional Studies, New North Road, Huddersfield, HD1 5NN, www.kirkleescollege.ac.uk PROVIDING WORK FORCE TRAINING FOR BUSINESSES FOR OVER 43 YEARS For more information about the benefits to employers of hiring an apprentice please visit: http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Midpoint provides extra room for supermarket chain Morrisons an office you can’t refuse!

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SUPERMARKET firm Morrisons has taken up extra space in its home city of Bradford.

Acting for Keyland Developments Ltd, property agents DTZ and Jones Lang LaSalle have jointly negotiated a letting to Morrisons at Aquarius House, Midpoint, Thorbury, near Bradford.

Morrisons, which has stores at Waterloo and Meltham in Huddersfield, is taking a new lease on nearly 11,000sq ft on confidential terms.

This follows on from the recent letting of 14,000sq. ft at the same site to Univar Europe.

Phillip Dawson, associate director at DTZ, said: “Following the recent letting to Univar Europe, Morrisons occupation of the building will only leave 7,000sq ft remaining.”

James Smithies, development consultant at Keyland Developments Ltd, said: “Following completion of the Aagrah banqueting suite on-site and the recent lettings at both Aquarius House and its sister building, the Courtyard, Midpoint is fast becoming a hive of activity on the Leeds-Bradford corridor.”

property

Page 6

■ DELIGHTED: Chris Harrop, group marketing director of Marshalls plc, said the latest award was recognition of the hard work and dedication of the company’s employees

Marshall’s practices pay off in top awards PAVING supplier Marshalls has won a national award for its responsible business practices.

The Birkby-based company was hailed as a National Example of Excellence for Sustainable Marketing and Innovation.

The award was presented at an event in London attended by the Prince of Wales.

Marshalls’ success follows the company receiving an accolade from Business in the Community’s Awards for Excellence.

Cadbury chief executive, who was chairman of judges in the National Example award, said: “Marshalls is a true example of a company which has innovated to ensure sustainability runs through its whole business, providing products that really address the sustainability needs of its customers.”

Chris Harrop, group marketing director at Marshalls, who led the team to the awards success, said: “This award reflects on the hard work that everyone at Marshalls has done to embed sustainability into our business.

“By using our expertise in the whole marketing mix, we’ve moved from a corporate triple bottom-line of economic, environmental and social responsibility to ensure that our products also provide economic, environ(Artist’s impression) mental and social benefits to our customers.

“It’s been really important to us to avoid ‘greenwash’ and have independent proof for what we say. I really am very proud to lead such a high performing team.”

Marshalls chief executive Graham Holden, who has been named by BITC as the Prince’s Ambassador for Yorkshire and Humber, said: “We are delighted to receive this award. This recognition is a real testament to the hard work and dedication of the team at Marshalls.

“For years, our approach to sustainability and corporate responsibility has been at the forefront of our industry and we take our responsibility to our customers and communities seriously.”

The Awards for Excellence reward businesses who demonstrate the positive impact they have had on society and also the business benefits created by ensuring that being responsible is integral to their business model.

Marshalls was recognised for its marketing approach, sustainability and commitment to bringing products to consumers that have a positive impact on the environment and society.

FOR SALE – NEW INSTRUCTION Land at Kester Road Batley, WF17 8AA

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FOR SALE

Braemar & Northfield House Snelsins Road, Cleckheaton

1 Substantial detached period office buildings 1 276.67m2 & 399.4m2 (2,978 sq ft & 4,299 sq ft) 1 Potential redevelopment opportunity on site of 0.7 Acres Guide Price: On Application

Focus on asbestos safety BUILDING companies in Kirklees have been urged to take up free asbestos awareness training.

Halifax-based Boss Training, which specialises in providing work at height and safety training, is offering the free courses in Leeds.

Health and Safety Executive figures show that asbestos is still the single biggest cause of work-related deaths in the UK – with 20 tradesmen a week dying from asbestos-related diseases through past exposure to asbestos fibres.

Boss Training is aiming to encourage more people to attend this essential course at its Leeds training centre by offering a free place to every one in three group bookings.

The half-day course, which includes written and oral presentations, focuses on providing attendees with comprehensive information about the properties and types of asbestos; the uses and likely occurrences of asbestos; how to avoid the

risk of being exposed to asbestos, as well as procedures to take in an emergency, where asbestos has been found.

Andrew Murphy, managing director of Boss Training, said: “Because the use of brown and blue asbestos was only banned in 1985 and white asbestos as late as 1999, there are still many buildings which were built prior to those dates where asbestos can be found.

“Exposure is therefore still a real risk when workers disturb the fabric of buildings. As a result, we felt it was important to encourage as many people as possible to attend the course by introducing this special promotional offer which coincides with the re-launch of our national asbestos awareness service.”

“Even if you are carrying out renovation work on your own home, there could be an element of risk involved in being exposed to asbestos.”

Contact Boss Training on 0845 680 0495.

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

property

Page 7

Vinery project’s fruitful outcome

GEORGIAN buildings on the fringe of Huddersfield town centre are providing a focal point for budding businesses.

Developer Brunswick Estates is realising a 10-year ambition to restore properties in Highfields to their former glory – while providing a unique home for new and growing enterprises.

The company has already converted Claremont Hall into 10 high-specification apartments and turned neighbouring Bents House into desirable office accommodation.

Now it has turned a derelict vinery and overgrown garden in the grounds of Bents House to create The Vinery Hair Salon while a coach house has been extended to provide a base for expanding holiday homes specialist Villa Parade, which is moving from Bents House .

Alan Whyke, senior partner at Brunswick Estates, said the aim now was to attract a business which would complement the hair salon – such as health and beauty or holistic therapy – to occupy Bents Houses.

Following the decline of the market for apartments, Claremont Hall is set for a slight change of emphasis – and is being marketed as an “apart-hotel”.

Mr Whyke said: “We are seeking partners to take up space and bring employment to an area of Huddersfield that has been somewhat neglected.

“Historic houses and listed buildings are our speciality. In this case, we have taken a series of buildings that were run down and rejuvenated them. We have had tremendous help from Kirklees planning officers and strong support from our bankers at Yorkshire Bank.

“Now we are close to realising the dream and looking forward to this part of town becoming a hive of activity.”

Local companies have also been used to supply building materials and fittings and to handle branding, publicity and events management.

Bents House and its associated buildings date back to the early 1800s. The

Registrations on increase in Yorkshire HOUSE building levels have risen in Yorkshire, according to industry figures.

Statistics from the National House Building Council showed there were 2,577 new homes registered in the region between March and May. That compares with just 1,000 for the same period in 2009.

Nationally, there were 32,352 new registrations during the quarter – 68% up on the tally of 19,286 for the same time last year.

Registrations for May alone totalled 10,870, which was 56% up on the 6,953 in the same month last year.

NHBC figures for the three months to May showed there were 20,877 private sector registrations compared with 11,062 last year. Public sector registrations totalled 11,475 against 8,224 before.

Contact Mark Hanson or Philip Deakin

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■ NEW STYLE: Alan Whyke (right), of Brunswick Estates, with Gavin Blagbrough, of The Vinery Hair Salon, outside the restored building

Vinery used to grow grapes which attracted visitors from miles around while part of the building was later used as a studio by renowned local artist Trevor Stubley.

Restoring the complex took about two years and cost about £250,000. A further £80,000 has been spent fitting out the hair salon for owner Gavin Blagborough. The stylish salon now has 16 “workstations” as well as a colour bar area and has capacity for up to 12 stylists.

Gavin has five staff at present, including Jon Earnshaw, who has worked for Vidal Sasoon, but is looking to recruit more staff as it attracts more clients.

Gavin, who has previously worked as a self-employed hairdresser in other salons, said: “We talked about coming here while Brumswick were still doing the refurbishment and late last year we decided to go ahead with it.

“We don’t have the footfall of a town centre salon, but a lot of clients like the exclusivity. It is in a nice setting with fountains and gardens and you don’t feel like you are in a goldfish bowl.”

The Vinery has already hosted a number of functions for networking groups BNI and Forward Ladies. More than 400 people are expected to an official opening of the facilities on Thursday, August 12.

18,400 sq ft High bay engineering works Two full length 10 tonne Donati cranes Service yard and car parking www.hanson-cs.co.uk

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Daniel Feiman

Huddersfield University A LEADING management expert in the USA has been appointed visiting professor by the Business School at Huddersfield University.

Daniel Feiman (pictured) heads the Build it Backwards consultancy in California and has worked with leading companies including Hilton Hotels, Mattel and Credit Suisse as well as delivering lectures and conducting seminars on management and financial issues around the world.

Mr Feiman, who has also held an academic post at the University of California in Los Angeles, will be involved in both teaching and research at Huddersfield.

He will deliver lectures to business students and hold seminars on financial matters and global business issues.

He will also help to develop the expertise of staff and will take part in business research at the university – with books and articles in prestige journals the likely outcome.

Mr Feiman was educated at universities in California and has 30 years experience in management consultancy and training.

His appointment at Huddersfield was on the recommendation of Prof Andrew Ball, pro-vice chancellor with responsibility for research and enterprise.

Said Mr Feiman: “This is a great opportunity to work with a world-class university to blend academic theory with practical aspects of the business world.”

Chris Cowton, dean of the Business School, said Mr Feiman brought a wealth of international experience and a strong reputation as an effective communicator. He said: “We are about to move into a state-of-the-art £17m building, but a business school is not just about bricks and mortar; it is about people and Daniel is a very welcome addition to our team as we continue to develop the reach and scope of our activities.”

Movers and shakers

Page 8

Three trophies in their grasp!

A COMPANY making “eco-friendly” barrier mats has won a hat-trick of awards.

Hug Rug, based at Clayton West, picked up three trophies at the Garden Industry Manufacturers Awards.

T h e aw a r d s w e r e fo r g a r d e n retail-related product, the environmental award and the export achievement award.

Hug Rug produces the only UK-manufactured, eco-friendly range of barrier mats alongside organic, bamboo bathmats and Snugs pet beds.

Liz Mosley, sales and marketing director, said: “We are delighted to win these awards and the associated recognition for our brand, product and company.

“In the face of increasingly difficult trading conditions, we realised we couldn’t compete on price.

“Therefore, we created a unique, desirable brand which recognises growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products.”

The Hug Rug concept was launched at GLEE in 2008 when it won the home and gift award and created massive retailer demand.

Later this year, the company is extending its product portfolio with the launch of a new super-absorbent mat and Big Hug, a range of eco-friendly bean bags.

■ BIG HUG: Receiving the export award from Stuart Kitchen (centre), of award sponsor Gardenex, and ceremony host Joe Swift (right) are (from left) Hug Rug’s Charles, Liz, Nia and Adrian Mosley

The Hug Rug brand was created as a diversification product for Phoenox Textiles – a fourth generation family textile mill business.

With trade embargoes lifted, cheap products flooded the UK market – resulting in the demise of every UK manufacturer of barrier mats with the exception of

Christmas is coming!

SUMMER’S still here – but Christmas is well and truly in the thoughts of staff and supporters at Kirkwood Hospice.

Now they are hoping business people across Kirklees will get into the festive spirit early – by signing up to buy their corporate Christmas cards to send to contacts. Last year, sales of these cards raised £20,000 for the hospice at Dalton.

Renowned local artist Richard Gawthorpe – a hospice supporter for many years – has donated two Sadeh Lok Housing Group Ltd stunning paintings. The paintings of APPOINTMENT OF GROUP CHAIR AND 3 BOARD MEMBERS Trafford House “Santa’s Been!” and “Heard It’s 11 Halifax Road Huddersfield Christmas” have been reproduced to HD3 3AN “Sadeh Lok is an innovative, forward looking and proactive provide two beautiful cards.

T 01484 435 715 social enterprise that always puts the customer first.

Barclays Private Members Club in F 01484 432 645 E enquiry@sadehlok.co.uk They provide a high quality service and the staff are very Ravensthorpe have sponsored the cards once again – ensuring that all positive, enthusiastic and committed”.

Customer Service Excellence Assessor – February 2010. the money from the sale of these cards goes directly to patient care at Sadeh Lok Housing was established in As part of our Board you will be the hospice.

1988 as a leading Black and Minority responsible for governance and All cards can be personalised with Ethnic (BME) Housing Association. leadership, guiding the strategy and Today the Sadeh Lok Housing Group direction of the Group and ensuring a company’s logo, address and their has a national footprint and provides effective management and delivery own seasonal message. services which compliment housing in of the organisation. Roles are Hospice spokeswoman Jane a number of key areas. remunerated but you may wish to Dutton said: “The cards provide local volunteer your time and recover After years of dedicated service one of our businesses with the opportunity to founder members, the current Group Chair is expenses only. send seasonal greetings to their to step down at the end of his current term. Could it be you?

Therefore we are looking for a strong robust If you are interested in joining our customers while showing their leader to take the Group forward. vibrant, inspiring organisation and support for Kirkwood Hospice. can commit to a minimum of six In addition to the position of Group Chair “Many local companies have evening meetings, plus other we are also looking to recruit new Group employees or clients whose families commitments, please contact Juliet Board Members to refresh our pool of skills have had first hand experience of our Scott on 01484 477130 or email as we look to plan for the future. services. By choosing our Christmas juliets@sadehlok.co.uk for further If you’d welcome a challenging, fulfilling information. cards, they can help to support the role and have the passion to make a real Closing date for applications: vital work of the hospice.” difference we’d like to hear from you.

Friday 6th August 2010 Contact Marie Peacock in fundraising on 01484 557911 or by email at Sadeh Lok is an equal opportunities organisation and will welcome applications from all sectors of the community including our residents. mariep@kirkwoodhospice.co.uk

Phoenox. Hug Rug was first exported to the USA in September last year following sales on two shopping channels – one of which sold out within 12 minutes of going on air!

The brand has now helped to secure a family business and its 65 staff.

Ashley’s brush with London

it’s time to get on board

■ PICTURE PERFECT: Artist Ashley Jackson (right) with Walker Morris on Ashely’s beloved Yorkshire moors HOLMFIRTH artist Ashley Jackson is the subject of a landmark exhibition in London – thanks to a tie-up with national law firm Walker Morris.

The exhibition, The Power and the Passion, is a collection of Ashley’s dramatic works featuring the Yorkshire moors. It will open in October at the Mall Galleries, near Buckingham Palace, before moving to Yorkshire’s Temple Newsam later in the month for a run through to May, 2011.

The exhibition will bring 35 of the water colourist’s favourite paintings of the wild countryside into the heart of the capital – encouraging Londoners and overseas visitors to consider the region as a tourist destination and its place at the heart of the UK.

This year will see Ashley celebrate his 70th birthday and mark more than 50 years as a professional artist.

Walker Morris has been sponsoring the arts for more than 20 years – and has been associated with Ashley for 15 years through his role as judge in the firm’s annual children’s calendar painting competition.

Walker Morris managing partner Ian Gilbert said: “It is important that support for the arts be maintained and we are delighted to make our contribution through this latest sponsorship.”

Said Ashley: “I am delighted to be continuing my long term association with the firm through their sponsorship of this landmark exhibition.”