Kirklees Business News Sept 21 2010 by Huddersfield

FTSE 100

HEATHER JACKSON Breaking into the boardroom

+94.09 5602.54

Full inter view - Page 3

SIMON KAYE Return to lending? Full stor y - Page 5

An EXAMINER publication

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees

Transport bosses take a direct line

TRANSPORT chiefs in Yorkshire are urging MPs of all parties to back calls for a direct high-speed rail link to Yorkshire. Bus and rail bodies Metro, covering West Yorkshire, and South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive are set to lobby delegates to the Liberal Democrat, Labour and Conservative conferences in a bid to win support. Independent research suggests that a “Y-shaped” network travelling from London to Birmingham and splitting with one “arm” going to Yorkshire could provide £1.5bn to £3bn of productivity benefits to the regional economy as well as transport benefits of about £29bn. It argues that linking the Leeds City Region – which includes Kirklees – with the Sheffield City Region and the three centres of Derby, Nottingham and Leicester as part of a national high speed rail network would connect an area of 6.7m people and 3m jobs.

■ SIGNALS: Clr Chris Greaves, chairman of West Yorkshire Metro

Onward connections to the Tees Valley and Tyne and Wear City Regions would provide access to a

further 2.2m people and 900,000 jobs. The call by Metro and SYPTE echoes demands from the Huddersfield-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce for a “Y-shaped” network rather than a high-speed rail route running to Manchester before linking into Leeds. The last Labour Government recommended in March a “Y-shaped” network. However, in June the government asked for an alternative “Reverse S” shaped route to be considered – providing access to Leeds by a less direct route via Manchester, but excluding the East Midlands and South Yorkshire. “High speed rail has the potential to transform the shape of the national economy,” said Metro chairman Clr Chris Greaves. “To do so it must access the areas with the most significant centres of population and employ-

ment. “We also agree that high-speed rail should serve city centre stations – this will maximise the economic benefits due to the proximity of high value jobs. “City centres are already public transport hubs and therefore would help spread the benefits of high speed rail more widely across the city regions. “They would also act as a focus for regeneration and development. Metro said the latest research also highlighted the need to make improvements to existing rail routes in the short-medium term. It said: “Delivery of high speed rail to the north will be a long-term project, but existing proposals to upgrade and electrify the Midland Main Line, East Coast Main Line, trans-Pennine and Leeds-Sheffield links can deliver substantial benefits, in some cases at modest costs.

Coach routes contract is just the ticket A COACH company in Huddersfield has landed a five-year contract with transport giant National Express. Milnsbridge-based E.Stott & Sons Ltd will operate on two routes for National Express’ scheduled express coach services. The two routes awarded are the Sheffield to Blackpool and Leeds to Blackpool which operate 362 days a year. The contract required the purchase of two new Volvo coaches to National

Express’ specification – costing nearly £500,000. They include passenger comforts such as full leather seating, air conditioning, wheelchair access and CCTV. Commenting on the contract, director Carl Stott, said: “We have worked for National Express for about five years now and we are one of a select group of preferred operators. “We are delighted that National Express gave us the opportunity to

tender for this service as it fits in well with our operations.” Alastair Coxon, head of contracts at National Express said: “We work with local businesses across the UK to ensure we can provide the UK’s largest and most comprehensive network of scheduled coach services. “The dedication of the people at local businesses such as E Stott & Sons helps us to deliver brilliant service for our customers.”

■ FARE DEAL: Driver James Pemberton and one of the coaches

INSIDE On the shortlist A DEWSBURY firm has been shortlisted for an award recognising the UK’s most innovative and forward-thinking businesses. TC Bathrooms, based at Bretton Park and one of the biggest employers in Kirklees, is one of five firms in Yorkshire and the north-east to be shortlisted as regional finalists in an initiative run by HSBC.

● Full story - Page 4

The most trusted news brand in the business

examiner.co.uk

2 1 , S e p t e m b e r, 2 0 1 0

Travel plans SECRETARIES who book flights and train tickets for their bosses have been given a big thank-you. Staff at Sellers Travel in Huddersfield staged a lunchtime party for about 40 secretaries and PAs from local organisations.

● Full story - Page 8

'+624536#84 *#7&0 (#+;0# !+)$,2%+- 1# %0+ 3(,./.%('& !+)$,2%.(* "$%0('.%#

-)9"9 !), ,,,

///:%5&$/3%20&/6#.%#:%+:12

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

national

Page 2

Regional airport is UK’s top performer City, Exeter, Aberdeen and London Gatwick as well as the continued growth of tour operator capacity with both Thomas Cook and Thomsons. In addition, LBA continues to invest in its airport infrastructure ahead of its planned £28m development of its passenger terminal. The figures came as regional airline Flybe said it will continue its expansion into continental Europe after becoming one of only three major European airlines to report profits throughout the recession. The privately-owned carrier, which recently signed a codesharing agreement with Air France, said it is looking at potential acquisitions of regional airlines in Europe after weathering the economic storm. Flybe, which is also in flight share

A REPORT has rated Leeds-Bradford International Airport as the fastest-growing top 15 airport in the UK. Figures from the Civil Aviation Authority, reveal an 11% year-on-year growth in passenger numbers at the airport in July when LBA handled 352,175 passengers compared with 318,549 passengers during the same month in 2009. The strong performance has been delivered following a series of major achievements during the 2010 – including Ryanair opening its 34th base at the airport with two aircraft and 21 routes as well as Jet 2’s expansion to introduce new services this year with more planned for 2011. The airport also saw strong demand for its domestic schedule, including Flybe services to Southampton, Belfast

■ HIGH FLIER: Flybe has pledged to continue expanding into Europe

talks with Scandinavian airline Finnair, said it had placed an order to buy up to 140 new aircraft, which would replace some of its current 68-strong fleet. The Exeter-based carrier posted pre-tax profits of £6.8m in the year to March 31 – down from £12.8m the previous financial year – after turnover slipped to £570.5m from £572.4m.

Flybe flew 7.2m passengers in the financial year, slightly down on 7.3m the year before. It is now the biggest carrier of UK domestic passengers – flying 207 routes in 13 countries. The airline’s £11.9m training academy business will open this year in Exeter. Tony Hallwood, LBA’s commercial and aviation director, said the record passenger numbers recognised the strength of business and leisure demand across the airport’s large and growing catchment area. He said: “LBA is very pleased to be one of the UK's fastest growing airports and bucking the national trend. Our growth to 76 destinations in 2010 and continued expansion by our airline partners means that we can look forward to 2011 with confidence.”

BAE buys US intelligence firm

Positive trend for region

DEFENCE giant BAE Systems has announced a multi-million pound deal to buy part of an American intelligence business in a move that will see former CIA and FBI workers join the company. The group will buy three divisions of L-1 Identity Solutions, which all deal with security issues such as counter-terrorism, identity theft and money laundering, for £189.3m. T h e t h re e a r m s – S p e c Ta l , Advanced Concepts and McClendon – all work alongside the intelligence sector in the USA, providing consultancy, IT and engineering services to the industry.

PRIVATE sector employers in Yorkshire are focusing on short-term or part-time hiring as they work to build-up their order books, says a senior economist. Patrick Bowes, chair economist for regional development agency Yorkshire Forward, was commenting on figures from the Office for National Statistics showing the number of people employed in Yorkshire and Humber rose by 9,000 in the last quarter. Employment stood at 2,415,000 in the three months to July – increasing the employment rate slightly from

SpecTal – which has former staff from the FBI and CIA on its team, as well as former members of the US Army – offers training services to Government defence staff. The acquisition, which will see more than 1,000 staff join BAE Systems, comes as the company prepares itself for looming Government cuts to the UK defence budget. Earlier this month, it announced plans to axe nearly 1,000 jobs in the UK following changes to the defence programme announced last year. The US accounts for half of its business, whereas the UK represents 20%.

69.25 to 69.3%. The latest figures are also an increase on this time last year, with an extra 24,000 people in employment in the region. Mr Bowes said: “Broadly, the underlying trend remains positive – with the employment rate rising marginally in the three months to July and the total of those unemployed falling by over 12,000.” He said: “What is clear is that most private sector employers are focusing on short-term or part-time hiring to fuel employment growth. This trend supports the view that private sector order books are still recovering.”

Bank chief bows out LLOYDS Banking Group boss Eric Daniels is to retire from the bank in a year’s time, bank has revealed. Mr Daniels, who came under fire following the bank’s troubled rescue of HBOS at the height of the financial crisis, will step down after leading the group as chief executive since June, 2003. Lloyds, which is 41% owned by the taxpayer, said it will launch a search internally and externally for his successor. Lloyds did not give a date for his departure, but said he aimed to leave in a year’s time. Mr Daniels, 59, will continue in the post until a replacement is appointed, it added. The American’s planned departure will mark a clean sweep at the top of the UK’s major banks since the sector meltdown in 2008. Barclays said earlier this month that investment banking head Bob Diamond would take over from John Varley as chief executive next year, while HSBC said that its executive chairman Stephen Green was leaving to join the Government as trade minister. Royal Bank of Scotland’s former chief Sir Fred Goodwin quit soon after the bank’s mammoth State bail-out. Lloyds chairman Sir Win Bischoff paid tribute to Mr Daniels’ “disciplined and vigorous leadership”.

SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £26.92 +0.35 Gannett 856.83 +8.99 Hess Corp £35.65 +0.34 Microsoft 1617.32 -2.57 Motors Liquidation 48.17 Wal-Mart Stores £34.16 +0.11 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE Avon Rbbr 1371/2 +5 BAE Systems 3333/4 +45/8 Rolls-Royce Gp 591 +8 AIM 1 Brady Plc 65 /2 Dawson Intl 2 -1/2 Man Brnze 351/2 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 1683/8 +73/8 BANKS Barclays 3133/8 +83/4 HSBC 6795/8 +67/8 3 Lloyds Banking Gp 77 /8 +21/8 Ryl Scotland 49 +11/8 Stan Chart 1898 -2 BEVERAGES Diageo 1092 +22 SABMiller £201/8 +3/8 CHEMICALS Croda 1426 +3 Elementis 98 967/8 +17/8 Johnsn Mat 1782 +9 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS 7 Balfour Beatty 266 /8 +1/4 Costain 219 +6 ELECTRICITY Drax Grp 3997/8 +57/8 3

Scottish & Sthrn 1151 +23 Energy ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Laird 1407/8 -31/4 EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS Alliance Trust 3325/8 +43/8 FIXED LINE TELECOM SERVICES BT Grp 1421/8 +31/4 Cable & Wireless 611/8 +1/8 Comm Cable & Wireless 771/4 -11/8 Wwide 3 Colt Group 122 /4 +61/4 KCOM 48 +1/2 1 Talktalk Telecom 138 /2 +21/4 FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS Morrison W 3061/4 +71/2 Sainsbury 3941/8 +83/4 1 Tesco 437 /2 +87/8 FOOD PRODUCERS AB Food 1075 +25 Nth Foods 461/4 -1/2 Tate Lyle 4711/2 +83/4 Unilever 1803 +53 Uniq 9 GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES Centrica 341 -1/4 National Grid 5541/2 +3 Pennon Grp 5971/2 +71/2 Severn 1374 +12 1 United Utils 583 /2 +121/2 GENERAL FINANCIAL 3i Group 2831/2 +4 ICAP 4391/8 +63/8 London StockExch 693 +17 +21/8 Man Group 2271/4 1

Schroders 1404 +1 Schroders NV 1146 +1 GENERAL INDUSTRIALS Cooksn Grp 501 +51/4 REXAM 3133/4 +111/4 Smiths Grp 1220 +5 GENERAL RETAILERS 1 Ashley L 16 /4 +3/4 Carphone Whse 241 +13/4 Dixons Retail 241/4 +1/4 Home Retail 2141/8 +21/4 3 Inchcape 293 /4 +43/4 Kingfisher 2291/4 +45/8 M&S 3821/4 +73/4 1 Mothercare 542 /2 +1/2 Next £22 +3/8 WH Smith 446 +105/8 HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Smith Nph 5721/2 +13 HOUSEHOLD GOODS Aga Rangemaster 993/4 +13/4 Barrat Dev 1033/4 +15/8 3 Persimmon 403 /4 +41/2 Reckitt Benckiser £35 +1 Taylor Wimpey 293/8 +1/8 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING Charter 660 +21/2 IMI 747 +4 INDUSTRIAL METALS Ferrexpo 304 -101/8 INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION BBA Aviation 1965/8 +25/8 Forth Ports 1295 +34 LIFE INSURANCE Aviva 4231/2 +113/8 5

1381/2 +33/4 626 +14 -4 2431/4 +41/8 2271/2 MEDIA BSkyB 708 Chrysalis 101 +2 D Mail Tst 5091/2 +14 3 ITV 57 /4 +1 Johnston Press 151/4 +3/4 Pearson 1022 +13 Reed Elsevier 552 +17 STV Group 923/4 Trinity Mirror 1213/4 +3/4 Utd Business 6361/2 +41/2 1 UTV 128 /2 +61/4 WPP 729 +171/2 Yell Group 161/2 -1/8 MINING Anglo American £251/2 +1/4 Antofagasta 1189 +24 BHP Billiton 1980 +40 +13 Eurasian Natural 9141/2 Res Fresnillo 1181 +13 Kazakhmys 1402 +14 Lonmin 1690 +31 Rio Tinto £36 +1/2 VEDANTA £211/2 +1/8 RESOURCES Xstrata 1191 +24 MOBILE TELECOM SERVICES Inmarsat 712 +61/2 Vodafone Group 164 +33/4 NONLIFE INSURANCE Admiral Grp 1674 +6 RSA Insurance Gp 1311/4 +21/2

Old Mutual Prudential Resolution Standard Life

Local shares Carclo Chapelthorpe Marshalls National Grid Weir Gp

169 24 108 5541/2 1434

+31/2 +4 +3 +5

FTSE closed at

5602.54 Up 94.09 BG 1114 +311/2 BP 4113/8 +81/4 Cairn Energy 4263/4 -15/8 Royal Dutch Shell A 1903 +391/2 Royal Dutch Shell B 1852 +41 +7/8 Total £325/8 Tullow Oil 1279 +18 OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES AMEC 961 +18 Petrofac 1407 +12 Wood Group 3905/8 +21/2 PERSONAL GOODS Burberry 942 +121/2 PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY Astrazeneca £331/2 +1/8 Axis-Shield 278 -9 GlaxoSmithK XD 16

REAL ESTATE Brit Land 4761/8 Captl Shop Cent 3691/4 DTZ Hldgs 46 Hamrsn 3951/4 Land Secs 634 SEGRO 2691/4 SOFTWARE ETC SERVICES Autonomy Corp 1857 Dimension Data 1193/4 Invensys 2873/4 Logica 1253/4 Misys 2921/4 Sage Group 2591/4 SUPPORT SERVICES Bunzl 7621/2 Capita 775 Davis Service 3953/4 Group De La Rue 6741/2 Electrocomp 2301/8 Experian 6711/2 G4S 252 Hays 1125/8 Homeserve 4717/8 Menzies J 450 Rentokil 1043/8 Smiths News 101 Wolseley 1469 IT HARDWARE ARM Hldgs 3953/4 Psion 99 Spirent Comms 1391/2 TOBACCO Br Am Tob £24 Imperial Tobacco 1918 LEISURE & HOTELS 1

+71/4 +93/8 -1 +121/2 +131/2 +51/2 +24 +1/4 +17/8 +31/4 -1/4 +41/8 +141/2 +9 +47/8 -101/2 +7 +81/2 +13/4 -3 -131/4 +20 +1/4 +46 +51/8 +1 +15/8 +1/2 +4 1

Carnival Compass Grp easyJet Enterprise Inns FirstGroup Go-Ahead Greene King Intercontl Htls Ladbrokes Mitchells & Butlers Natl Express PartyGaming Rank Org Stagecoach Group TUI Travel Whitbread

£247/8 544 3853/4 941/2 350 1162 4293/8 1133 1433/4 2967/8 240 2941/8 120 1861/2 2201/2 1613

+11/8 +10 +33/4 +5/8 +13/4 +2 +33/4 +11 -1/2 +21/2 +7/8 -17/8 +11/2 +21/4 -11/4 +13

FTSE 100

INDEX 5602.54

+94.09

FTSE 250

INDEX 10548.19

+107.21

TOURIST RATES Tourists going abroad can expect the following rates for sterling: Australia...................... 1.57 dollars Bangladesh................. 102.82 taka Brazil.............................. 2.41 reals Canada....................... 1.54 dollars China ............................. 9.39 yuan Czech Republic ...... 27.10 korunas Denmark....................... 8.47 krone Euro............................... 1.14 euro Hong Kong................ 11.54 dollars Hungary................... 301.50 forints India.......................... 62.95 rupees Japan........................... 127.71 yen Mexico ....................... 17.83 pesos New Zealand .............. 2.00 dollars Norway ......................... 9.08 krone Pakistan.................. 126.46 rupees Philippines ................. 59.18 pesos South Africa................. 10.40 rand South Korea.............. 1584.00 won Sri Lanka ................ 166.19 rupees Sweden....................... 10.54 krona Switzerland.................. 1.51 francs Taiwan ...................... 43.28 dollars Turkey....................... 2.22 new lira USA ............................ 1.50 dollars

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS BRITAIN needs more women in the boardrooms, says Heather Jackson. But positive discrimination or legislation to create quotas is not the way to achieve it, insists the Holmfirth-based head of strategic marketing firm Believe Corporate Relations. The case for more women in positions of real power has been well-made, says Heather. Part of the reason it hasn’t happened already is down to a combination of factors – not least women failing to seek out the opportunities that already exist. “Corporate organisations have gone a long way to get women to the top,” says Heather. “Sir Stuart Rose caused an upset when he said women have never had so many opportunities, but he’s right, we haven’t. “The message to women is that if you want it and you have the skills, there’s nothing to hold you back now. We have got past the time when women had to act like a man to get to the top. The qualities a woman can bring are well-respected and recognised.” And she insists: “Never before has it been so essential to get women to the top – not on the grounds of positive discrimination, but for genuine business benefits. “Women make up 50% of the workforce and 80% of the people who buy products and services. Give a women an issue or a problem and she will deliver a solution. Women bring a different approach to the board – the best being their ability to leave their egos at the door!” Heather says she is no feminist and that women are not “blameless” if they have largely failed to break into the boardroom. “It doesn’t matter that Andy Hornby is chief executive of Boots Alliance when one of its biggest product areas is women’s make-up,” says Heather. “Equally, it shouldn’t matter than a woman is in charge of a firm involved in heavy engineering. It is all about having the skills to do the job. “Harriet Harman said that if Lehmann Sisters had been running the banks, the credit crisis would not have happened. That’s absolutely wrong. Perhaps, if Lehmann Brothers & Sisters had worked together, we would not have had a banking crisis.” If men dominate the corporate corridors of power, it’s because they have had generation after generation to develop themselves as leaders, says Heather. Women have had maybe two generations – and as a result have a lot of ground to make up. Heather’s doing more than her bit to help remedy that. In the space of nine months, she has organised the Women’s Business Forum, which will debate

profile

Room at the top for talent under-representation of women in the boardroom at a day-long conference on Thursday at Harewood House, near Leeds. Heather has attracted 500 of the UK’s top women business executives from as far afield as London, Birmingham, Manchester, Scotland, Ireland and the Isle of Man to hear a battery of high-powered speakers, including Andy Hornby; Kate Bostock, chief executive and executive director of clothing for Marks & Spencer; and Asda chief financial officer Judith McKenna. Heather was moved to organise the event following several reports last year which showed that companies improved their bottom line by having women on their boards – but that Yorkshire companies had 16% fewer women on boards than the average for the UK. She was also impressed by a speech in which Bank of England governor Mervyn King warned that firms would have to look within to find the creativity and talent needed to succeed after the recession. “These things started to gel in my mind,” says Heather. “If we are going to optimise the talent we possess, we need women to get into the senior hierarchy.

■ CAMPAIGNER: Heather Jackson says firms want women to go for top jobs

That’s why I decided to bring together the Women’s Business Forum.” Heather had already set up The Two Percent Club to attract the top 2% of businesswomen in Yorkshire to meet to discuss issues affecting them. “There were a lot of cynics when we set up the club in 2008 that women would not want a women-only group,” Heather recalls. “Fourteen months on, we have 90 members who are all chief executives, chairmen or managing directors and we have the respect of the women themselves and outside organisations. We have been recognised as a catalyst for change.” Heather explains: ““Company bosses I met said they wanted to see women at the top of their organisations, but did not believe that women wanted to get there. Women were saying they would go for the top if they got more guidance and support.” While people talk about the “glass ceiling” and the “sticky floor” stopping women from climbing the corporate ladder, Heather says the problem is more complicated than that. “Women do not go out looking for non-executive positions,” says Heather. “On average, a man will have six attempts at getting a non-exec position while women will wait to be asked. Women need to be self-assertive, which can only come from self-confidence and self-belief. “I don’t believe in positive discrimination. This is about getting skilled women onto the boards and encouraging more organisations to get women onto their boards. “In the case of Boots Alliance, 80% of its employees are female and 80% of its customers are female. Women make up almost 40% of its senior management. The company has taken this up as a

Page 3 Heather Jackson Role: Chief executive Age: 41 Family: Partner Steve and children Meg, 14, Sam, 12 and stepchildren Ethan 14, and Elliot, 11 Holidays: Las Cabos in Mexico Car: Mini Cooper S Best thing about job: No barriers. Worst thing about job: No barriers! When I have an idea or concept I have to deliver! Business tip: Politeness opens many doors

business issue. It wants to understand its customers – and the effect on its business has been significant.” Heather acknowledges a debt to her father, artist Ashley Jackson, in the development of her own business acumen. Heather was born in Barnsley, but has lived in Holmfirth since she was two. She attended Holmfirth High School before studying retail marketing at Newcastle Polytechnic. Her first job was as business manager with a company in New Zealand, but for 13 years, she was business manager for her father before setting up Believe Corporate Relations. Heather says she benefited from Ashley’s no-nonsense approach. “It was an unusual business, but it was a vibrant and exciting business,” she says.”We set up a television company and my father went on the speaker circuit. He is

an artist with a flair for business. “But the family genes became too strong for me and at 32 I set up my own business. I had to go and do it for myself.” Commenting on the forthcoming forum, she says: “It has been an exhilarating journey. I never thought I would get so far in such a short space of time – from ideas jotted down on an A4 sheet of paper to having 500 delegates and world-calibre speakers at an event that one chief executive described as being of national significance.” Heather relaxes by spending time with partner Steve, children Megan and Sam and step-children Ethan and Elliot. She also enjoys running, saying: “I’ve run the Three Peaks and marathons. I love to get my trainers on and hit the moors.”

HENRYK ZIENTEK

Women’s Business Forum/The Two Percent Club/Believe Corporate Relations Work: Strategic marketing Site: Holmfirth Employees: 4 Phone: 0845 6048183 Email: info@the womensbusiness forum.co.uk Website: www.the womensbusiness forum.co.uk

local

Page 4

KIRKLEES BUSIN

Bathrooms firm aims to clean up!

A DEWSBURY firm has been shortlisted for an award recognising the UK’s most innovative and forward-thinking businesses. TC Bathrooms, based at a 200,000sq ft distribution centre and head office at Bretton Park, was founded in 1998 with a single outlet – but has expanded to become one of the biggest employers in Kirklees. The company designs, manufactures and supplies bathrooms, bathroom fixtures and fittings – ranging from towel warmers to taps and cast iron baths and steam cabinets. TC Bathrooms is one of five companies across Yorkshire and the north-east to be shortlisted as regional finalists in an initiative run by banking giant HSBC. The announcement brings them one step closer to the prize of up to £5m in lending and a financial reward of up to £100,000. Finalists across the UK have been invited to attend an international Thought Exchange visit to one the

worlds’ most dynamic areas of economic growth – China, the Americas or Europe. TC Bathrooms and the other regional finalists attended a Thought Exchange visit to Mexico. The trip allows the companies to meet like-minded business thinkers, enjoy networking opportunities and as well as consider business development opportunities in the Americas. Mark Vines, HSBC regional commercial director, said: “The five businesses that have been chosen as finalists are truly innovative, driven by strong management teams and with a real understanding of the need to invest and look to the future to get ahead. “We’re always encouraging our customers to look at potential opportunities overseas, particularly when the domestic market proves more challenging. The Thought Exchange trips will give each of these businesses a unique insight into the challenges and opportunities for

■ SKY HIGH: TC Bathrooms’ premises (main building) at Dewsbury

British businesses in the Americas, as well as provide a forum for discussion on how businesses Yorkshire and the North East can continue to be successful now and in the future.” The presentation will be judged by HSBC’s panel of experts and two

winners in Yorkshire and the north-east will receive a reward of up to £100,000 each. Finally, regional winners from across the UK will attend a gala event in Hong Kong, where the overall Business Thinking 2010 winner will be announced.

Mounting uncertainty HE tone of stock markets T has improved over the past couple of months with

762-2)6-4 0/1+4%3* 9-2!62! 1$%/ 81& , )-25( *%% - "-8 #1/"-/'. ?3E'9$97 8&AEA>&E" :7=B"9D( C=% E79 9!:97&9A>&A5 &A C=%7 B%(&A9(() #9 >EA 39":2 6E"" %( A=# 8=7 E >=A(%"'E'&=A 0.+-- ,+4++4 ###2B95B&9(!'7ECA=72>=D *!+$)!" ,#%&('# ,* 6"E79 1=E;) /E"&8E!) /@ -/<

,'$)00:3A0 .3'7 -*<:'7 <A@ ,<>*'+ 2<A<0*4*A'# /**@ 7*:" 8)' @%A&' '73A= +%) ;<A <>>%$@ 3'# 5*' 13:8+ 8* +%)$ -*<:'7 ! ,<>*'+ 2<A<0*$ >$%4 %A:+ (?96 < 4%A'7 $8J2K&8C@ K$JM 9&8&'@9@8G %@&:G% &8B J&(@G+

/< 5A? )A?A4< =;,- %<A.FI A?H JAL<F= 5;?FA5F ,* F;HA= ;? "N600 D7 #7 07 ;<)AE. I<A.FIA?H*AL<F=!>E.O=.FH35;3,1

global shares 10% above their July lows as measured by the Morgan Stanley World Index in US dollar terms. However, with “super sovereign” government bond yields (Germany, USA, Switzerland) falling over the same period, the two markets appear to be sending contradictory signals – equities saying that the world (and corporate profits) will muddle through, bonds arguing that a much less benign outcome is in store. This is an unstable situation, with either bond or equity investors due for a rude awakening if the balance of evidence favouring one or other view becomes incontrovertible. The crux of the debate between bond investors and equity “bulls” is whether or not the global economy (or rather the de-leveraging developed world) will make a successful transition to sustainable (employment-led) growth, or whether it will slip back into “double-dip” recession. Bulls suggest that this is just a heartbeat away, as they believe that excellent corporate profits and forgiving monetary policy conditions will soon force corporate managements to increase investment spending. Those who continue to buy

CITY TALK Simon Kaye

government bonds, however, are primarily concerned that consumer finances are too weak to bear the weight of fiscal retrenchment in 2011 in much of the developed world. Our view is that equity markets are more “right” than bond markets at this point. We have resisted becoming disheartened by the waning momentum implied by economic data so far for three reasons. Firstly, because coincident data suggests a dull growth outlook, not a disastrous one. Secondly, because we expect that the receding of concerns surrounding European credit markets will encourage deferred capital expenditures programmes to be resumed. As long as sovereign debt problems do not resurface, employment growth should quickly follow, providing a positive force to set against the impending increases in fiscal drag. The final reason is because we believe recapitalised banks are regaining their appetite to lend money to those who need it.

We are encouraged in the view that there is indeed substantial pent-up desire in the corporate sector to commit to greater investment spending by the increase in takeover activity seen in recent weeks. We view this as a s i g n t h a t t h e i nv e s t m e n t purse-strings are already being loosened – since public market transactions can be seen as a decision to increase capacity by buying it “ready-made” rather than building it for oneself. Although this is a reasonably up-beat assessment of the outlook, from an investment perspective it leaves us in an awkward position. We much prefer equities to government bonds, but we think earnings risk is high even in a “muddle through” growth environment, so we cannot say that equities are dramatically undervalued on a stand-alone basis. At the same time, the risks in the transition to sustainable growth have not gone away, so there is still some value in an “insurance policy” against disaster (bonds).

Simon Kaye is divisional director at Rensburg Sheppards Investment Management

Industry gets to have its say

FOOD and drink manufacturers in Yorkshire are being invited to have their say on shaping a new training programme aimed at getting more young people working in the industry. Improve, the food and drink sector skills council, has secured government backing to develop a Food and Drink Sector Routeway Training Programme in a bid to tackle the shortage of school-leavers opting for a career in food and drink. The programme will be funded through the government’s Young Person’s Guarantee, a scheme run by the Department for Work and Pensions which guarantees training and employment opportunities to 18 to 24-year-olds who have been unemployed for six months or more. Improve is now inviting employers to come forward to join a steering group which will oversee the development of the programme to ensure it is relevant to the needs of the industry. Justine Fosh (pictured), director of skills solutions for York-based Improve and the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink Manufacturing, said: “Food and drink is one industry where there are still plenty of employment opportunities, especially for young people. “The industry needs more young people coming into it because its workforce is ageing. “We are anticipating a high demand for new recruits to replace those who retire or otherwise leave the industry over the coming years – something in the region 17,000 job places in Yorkshire and Humberside alone by 2017.” Got to www.improve-skills.co.uk

Back to school

IT’S back to school for Julie! The head of Shepley-based human resources consultancy JCS HR has secured a four-year contract as a preferred supplier of HR services to schools in Barnsley, on behalf of Barnsley Council. Despite a large number of submissions being made, only four companies were awarded preferred supplier status. JCS has experience in both the public and private sectors, giving schools the benefit of an independent external perspective, but with full and sound knowledge of public sector challenges and constraints. Julie has worked in HR for 25 years and provides services across all industry sectors.

NESS NEWS

r d

local

It’s treble top for Waxman A COMPANY which has grown from providing synthetic fibres to solar panels is gearing up for the next stage of its story. The Elland-based Waxman Group has developed interests in textiles, ceramics and the energy sector since it was founded more than 50 years ago. Now the three divisions are forecasting further significant growth. Albert Waxman founded A Waxman (Fibres) Ltd in 1958, setting himself up as a synthetic fibre merchant. In 1966, he acquired Grove Mills at Elland from his father-in-law Mr A Sobol, a wool trader and processor. Son Richard Waxman joined the firm in 1976 and after a few years set up Waxman International which took over the sales of Kanecaron – a synthetic fibre produced by Kaneka Corporation of Japan. The main market for Kanecaron at that time was for imitation fur coats and rugs. The relationship with Kaneka grew and, as new fibres were developed for flame retardant end uses, so Waxman Fibres was set up to spearhead its growth into new overseas markets. Waxman Fibres now has a team of specialist sales/technicians, who work with partners throughout Europe and as far afield as India and China to develop fabrics and garments for the expanding workwear market. To avoid relying purely on the fibre business, Richard founded Waxman Ceramics in 1981 and – based on a Japanese contact – started importing mosaics as this was fundamentally the key product manufactured in Japan. As the mosaic business grew, Waxman began sourcing from other countries – becoming the largest importer and distributor of mosaic in the UK.

Time to check out those fire hazards RISKY BUSINESS Mark Dalton

IRE damage costs are at F their highest since records began – and busi-

nesses are being warned to be on the alert. Statistics from the Association of British Insurers show there was a 20% rise in fire claims between the first half of 2007 and the first half of 2009 – with arson a main contributor to the increased costs incurred. More than 40% of all fires in industry and commerce are now started deliberately and insurers are seeing an increasing number of arson claims crossing their desks. One of the common causes of arson is through waste stored outside property in wheelie bins or on pallets. Unoccupied and unfinished properties are also at increased

risk of arson. Where an attack occurs, the building should be re-secured and repaired and then regularly inspected as – once a property begins to deteriorate – an escalation in the frequency and size of incidents can be expected. For occupied buildings, strict security checks should be put in place before the premises are closed at the end of the working day. It is also important to maintain the efficiency of – or upgrade – the sprinkler systems, since 99% of fires are controlled in buildings protected by sprinklers. For more information and advice, contact Mark Dalton on 01422 358 525 or email mark at mark.dalton@wilbyltd.co.uk

Mark Dalton is associate director at Wilby Ltd

■ MY GENERATION: Albert Waxman (left) founder of the Elland-based Waxman Group, with son Richard (centre) and grandson Sam, who have carried on growing the business

Said Richard: “For some reason, we remain attracted to and perhaps somewhat obsessed by mosaics.” Even though Waxman expanded into larger format tiles some years back, mosaics still hold a special and very significant place in Waxman’s product range where continued investment in new stock items continues. Another branch of the group was added after Waxman imported an electrical under-floor heating system. That prompted Richard and Joe Pape, deputy managing director of Waxman Ceramics and Waxman

Energy, to visit a solar trade fair in Germany. Now Waxman Energy – incorporated in 2005 – is making headway in the solar energy sector. Richard’s son Sam, who initially joined Waxman International, was promoted to the position of director at Waxman Energy in June this year. Said Richard: “We now feel it is time to consolidate and to focus on the three separate divisions – fibre, tiles and solar – where, moving forward, we can see significant growth potential.”

Appetite for acquisitions MOST senior executives at UK-based food and beverage producers expect merger and acquisition activity in their sector to increase in the next 12 months, according to a new report. Findings from business advisers Grant Thornton suggests that the sector has recovered quickly from the recession. One in five respondents to its latest survey said they were planning to broker a merger or acquisition during the next 12

Page 5

months. By mid-August, only 13 merger and acquisition transactions with a total value of £113m had been recorded involving food and beverage targets. The deal value was low compared to 2009. Last year, the sector accounted for 27 deals with a total value of £14.3bn. However, the 2009 result was inflated by Kraft's £13.7bn controversial takeover of Cadbury.

Ian Marwood, corporate finance partner for Grant Thornton in West Yorkshire, said the sector had faced particular problems over the past few years. “Food and beverage producers had to digest sharp increases in input prices in 2007 and 2008, leaving the survivors in good shape to bear the recession.” he said. “Most producers are already targeting growth, while 43% of our respondents are still cutting costs.”

Going for more growth A NEW business support company has been formed to help firms across Kirklees. The two shareholders of Y&H IDB Ltd – the company contracted to Yorkshire Forward to deliver the Business Link contract across Yorkshire and the Humber – have set up Enterprise Growth Solutions Ltd. The new company has been formed by the shareholders, Reed in Partnership and Exemplas Holdings, as their future vehicle for the delivery of services to businesses and individuals. These services, designed to

support economic recovery and growth, include supporting job creation and sustainability, driving increased business competitiveness and promoting higher levels of entrepreneurship. The new company will aim to work with Local Enterprise Partnerships and Growth Hubs – which will be created through the shake-up following the decision to scrap regional development agency Yorkshire Forward. It means staff employed by Y&H IDB Ltd to deliver the Business Link Yorkshire service can continue.

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Buyer found for Birstall pub A FORMER pub has been bought by a community group. The Hare & Hounds at Birstall has been sold to the Kirklees Community Partnership through the Leeds Office of business agents Christie + Co, acting on behalf of a national corporate client. The detached property stands alongside Birstall’s Fieldhead Estate.

The former pub includes a public bar, a games area and a lounge bar together with four-bedroom owner’s accommodation. There is also a car park, a single garage, an enclosed rear yard and a grassed area. The Hare & Hounds was sold for an undisclosed figure off an asking price of £210,000 for the freehold.

-+/-5+)& 3#1#25351) #251)* !/1*(,)#1) #6'.*/+ %

)+#4#,2#+ 3.,,* ,556* +/#6 0(665+*4.5,6 06" $&& %

)"&%.$ +$&*-,.#'! ($#,- )# *("*)'+-&#$) 1.%(, 2))+$ 0&.+, !#++)%$/*)'+ $B-C. @> :: #B; :A */=) 5>@33.1 2C C= ::>@5,.1 2C &8!?/8 .-C8 90-!0 "8B82-C. 2/=) ""53 *(),%(',)04 (;8#++6 .-C?#C8; 2=/ ',A> =B # )#-B /=#; +=!#C-=B4 %8/). #<#-+#"+8 =B #77+-!#C-=B4 "()%1/%-

61#+ $)4'2! 0/*,+& 1.()*+$'( +!%'% %$$"++

".',&%,)2 7//+2&%() !" 1+&#.-+% +!%'% &&$!+,

property

Page 6

Agency gears up for awards A LETTINGS agent with offices in Huddersfield is hoping for success – after being shortlisted in a prestigious property awards scheme. Belvoir Lettings, which a branch at John William Street, is one of six companies to be shortlisted in the national lettings agency of the year category of The Negotiator Awards 2010. The scheme, run by property journal the Negotiator, is recognised as the leading nationwide estate agency awards scheme in the UK and aims to recognise and reward excellence and best practice throughout the industry. The winners will be announced at a ceremony to be held on November 10 at the Hilton Hotel in London’s Park Lane when the host will be comedian Fred MacAulay. Belvoir managing director Dorian Gonsalves said: “This is an extremely important awards scheme and merely to be short listed for the final is in

itself recognition of the high standards maintained by the 140 plus nationwide network of Belvoir franchisees.” Clare Bettelley, editor of The Negotiator, said: “The Negotiator Awards were designed to identify, reward and celebrate industry excellence and promote best practice, so we’re delighted to, once again, be able to organise and host a ceremony that continues to do just that. “We’ve had a terrific response this year, so Belvoir Lettings has done

brilliantly to get short listed, particularly when up against such an extensive list of outstanding firms in its field. “Agents continue to face a challenging market, but this doesn’t seem to be enough to hold back their talent, entrepreneurship and creativity.” The nomination for Belvoir Lettings follows hot on the heels of the company receiving a Gold award in the Best Lettings Agency of the Year Awards scheme run by The Times and Sunday Times.

To LeT

The Old Presbytery

New North Road, Lindley Huddersfield

1 194m2 (2,092 sq ft) 1 External garden areas 1 Suitable for a variety of medical, day nursery, commercial & educational uses STTP

Rental: on Application. Joint Agent: Hanson

FoR SALe/To LeT Old Field House Lane off Leeds Road, Huddersfield

1 Modern single storey industrial unit 1 Up to 1,464m2 (15,760 sq ft) 1 Plus two-storey ofﬁces totalling 1,100m2 (11,840 sq ft) 1 Total GIA: 2,564m2 27,600 sq ft (For Sale) 1 Generous sized 1.15 acre secure yard

Further Details: on Application

To LeT

Unit H3

Lowfields Business Park, elland

1 Modern detached unit, two-storey ofﬁce accomm. 1 2,081m2 (22,400 sq ft) – (6.5m eaves) 1 Secure concrete-surfaced service yard with palisade fencing 1 21 car parking spaces

Rental: on Application

FoR SALe/To LeT

Stoneleigh & The Coach House 39 & 41 Halifax Road, Brighouse

1 107.88 – 647.24m2 (1,161 – 6,967 sq ft) 1 Two period detached ofﬁce buildings 1 Open-plan/private ofﬁces, w/cs, kitchen facilities 1 Good private car parking provision, private gated entrances

Price/Rental: on Application

■ TOP SHOW: Richard Pogson (right), of Lockwood Windows, receives the TOP 100 award from award founder Don Waterworth, of the MWCIA

Firm is installed at the top A WINDOWS company in Huddersfield has received a major industry award. Lockwood Windows, based at Lockwood Scar, has gained TOP 100 status from the Master Window and Conservatory Installers Association. The independent organisation was set up to provide the public with a registered list of approved installers who can be

trusted to provide products, service and after-sales care to the highest professional standards. Lockwood WIndows has been manufacturing for 13 years and has more than 20 years experience in the UPVC window and conservatory industry. As well as being a TOP 100 registered company, the firm is also registered with

FENSA to give customers complete assurance of the company’s standards. Don Waterworth, founder of the TOP 100 Register, said: “The TOP 100 Register seeks out the best in the industry. I have yet to inspect any work which surpasses the standards set by Lockwood Windows. Every element is of the highest professional standard.”

property

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Rixonway helps build homes fit for heroes VIEWERS will see how two of the UK’s leading companies in the social housing sector have joined forces to support injured soldiers returning from Afghanistan. Dewsbury-based Rixonway Kitchens and Kier Building Maintenance have teamed up to show their support by donating and installing an adapted kitchen for two soliders – Tyler Christopher and John Le Galloudec – who both face mobility problems following injuries sustained in duty. The project has been filmed for the programme, Ty Pennington’s Homes for the Brave, which will be screened on UKTV tonight. The concept for the programme was developed to support British soldiers who have returned from the front line and have a home that needs to be redesigned to fit in with a new way of life. John was shot in the spine and has had to learn to walk again, while Tyler lost both his legs in a bomb blast in Afghanistan.

Kier Building Maintenance, a subsidiary of the Kier Group, provided a team from its south regional division to install the kitchen, which was donated by Rixonway and included a complete electrical rewire to ensure all equipment and fittings were installed to specification. Before the installation, Rixonway sent designer Andy Gritt to visit the home in Wiltshire for a detailed consultation – allowing the soldiers to discuss their requirements and a full design to be created. Rixonway operations director Nick Greenall said: “Rixonway was delighted to get involved with this project for Homes for the Brave. “Our new accessible kitchens range is designed for less abled tenants. We understand how important it is to offer residents the opportunity to stay in their own homes by providing small adaptations that make their lives so much easier without any compromise on the options available to other residents.”

Hire firm leads safety lesson A TOOL and equipment hire firm in Huddersfield has teamed up with safety officials for a campaign to reduce the number of accidents caused by dangerous ladders. Speedy, which has a depot at Bradford Road, Fartown, is offering to trade in old or damaged ladders in part-exchange for safer equipment as part of the campaign run with the Health and Safety Executive. Speedy is offering up to a 50% discount of new ladders in exchange for unsuitable ladders which it will recycle. The pledge is part of the UK-wide Ladder Exchange designed to reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by faulty equipment. Speedy, which is taking part in the scheme for the fourth consecutive year, will also offer free online and leaflet guides on how to work safely at height and product selection. Reducing the number of site-based accidents is a key commitment of Speedy’s award winning Safety From the Ground Up initiative. Safety From the Ground Up is an industry-wide educational campaign it

former transport yard

395m2 (4,250ft2) Site Area 0.13 Hectares (0.33 Acres) ■ Vacant possession ■ Suitable for refurbishment for alternative occupational residential uses or possible complete redevelopment, subject to planning consent

● 296.46sqm (3191sqft) LANE 4 RANGE Halifax, HX3 6DL ● Secure YardPREMISES HOSTEL FORMER

395m2 (4,250ft2) ● 0.13 2 Roller Shutter Doors Acres) (0.33 Hectares Site Area ■ Vacant possession ● Vehicle Inspection for Pit ■ Suitable for refurbishment alternative occupational residential Close complete proximity to the M1 and possible uses or ● redevelopment, subject to planning consent M62 motorway

prominent site with offices

LEEDS ROAD, HUDDERSFIELD, HD1 6DD To Let £15,000 p/a

4 RANGE LANE Halifax, HX3 6DL FORMER HOSTEL PREMISES

LANEyds 4 RANGE ● 632sq Halifax, HX3 6DL position profile PREMISES ● High FORMER HOSTEL

395m2 (4,250ft2) of Huddersfield ● 0.13 Outskirts Site Area Hectares (0.33 Acres) ■ Vacant possession town centre for for refurbishment ■ Suitable alternative occupational residential possible uses or ● Good complete access to M62 redevelopment, subject to planning ● consent Close vicinity to retail park

industrial unit

4 RANGE LANE Halifax, HX3 6DL FORMER HOSTEL PREMISES

OWLER INGS, HUDDERSFIELD, HD6 1EJ To Let £16,000 p/a

● 318.56sqm (3,429sqft) LANE 4 RANGE Halifax, HX3 6DL FORMER PREMISES ● 2 HOSTEL Loading doors

395m2 (4,250ft2) Site Area 0.13 Hectares (0.33 Acres) of Brighouse town ● Outskirts possession ■ Vacant ■ Suitable for refurbishment for residential occupational alternative centre uses or possible complete redevelopment, subject to planning ● consent Office accommodation

first launched in 2005. The business is also a member of the Ladder Association. Speedy’s part-exchange programme runs until the end of the year across more than a third of its nationwide network of specialist depots. Mark Turnbull, safety, health, environment and quality director at Speedy, said: “Despite the huge strides that have been made over the last five years in reducing accident rates on construction sites, working at height remains the most dangerous activity. “Many incidents are caused by ageing and faulty equipment, which makes the ladder exchange such an important scheme. “We continually invest in new access equipment to ensure we offer the safest and most advanced products to our customers and work closely with the HSE, major contractors, manufacturers and trade bodies to drive innovation and promote new legislation.” For further infor mation visit www.hse.gov..uk/falls/ladderexchange, call Speedy on 0845 601 5129 or visit www.speedyhire.com/height/pg

high quality offices

Liley Lane, Upper Hopton, WF14 8EE To Let May Sell £18,000 Per Annum

4 RANGE LANE Halifax, HX3 6DL FORMER HOSTEL PREMISES

Page 7

4 RANGE LANE Halifax, HX3 6DL FORMER HOSTEL PREMISES

restaurant premises

4 RANGE LANE Halifax, HX3 6DL ELLAND, SOUTHGATE, HOSTEL PREMISES FORMER

To Let £10,500 p/a

395m2 (4,250ft2) Site Area 0.13 Hectares (0.33 Acres) RESTARAUNT ● FORMER ■ Vacant possession (1,282sqft) ● 119.09sqm for refurbishment for ■ Suitable occupational residential alternative value £7,900 ● Rateable or possible complete uses ● Close to public car parking redevelopment, subject to use, subject to planning other for ● Available planning consent ● FORMER RESTARAUNT

trade counter unit

4 RANGE LANE Halifax, HX3 6DL

COLNE ROAD, HUDDERSFIELD, HD1 3ER FORMER HOSTEL PREMISES

To Let £165 p/w

395m2 (4,250ft2) Site Area 0.13 Hectares (0.33 Acres) ● Includes 2 Mezzanine Levels 46.64m² (502ft²) ■ Vacant possession ■ Suitable Counter for refurbishment for ● Trade alternative occupational residential ● Secure Sitepossible complete uses or subject to redevelopment, ● Prominent location planning consent

■ STEP ONE: Speedy has launched its Safety From the Ground Up initiative

CONCEPT HOUSE, COWLERSLEY, HD7 5TQ To Let £22,500 p/a

● 290.96 LANEsqmt (3132sqft) 4 RANGE Halifax, HX3 6DL ● High specification offices PREMISES HOSTEL FORMER

395m2 (4,250ft2) ● 0.13 GoodHectares car parking (0.33 Acres) Site Area ■ Vacant possession ● Pleasant Working environment ■ Suitable for refurbishment for alternative occupational residential Will split possible complete uses or ● redevelopment, subject to planning ● consent May sell

offices

4 RANGE LANE Halifax, HX3 6DL

HUDDERSFIELD, HALL CHAMBERS, CLOTH PREMISESHD1 2EG HOSTEL FORMER

To Let

395m2 (4,250ft2) Site Area 0.13 Hectares (0.33 Acres) Quality ● Good ■ Vacant possession for refurbishment for ■ Suitable ● Open Plan alternative occupational residential ● Self contained or possible complete uses redevelopment, subject to ● INCENTIVES AVAILABLE planning consent ● 98.62 - 198.53sqm (1,061 - 2,037sqft)

characterful office building

4 RANGE LANE Halifax, HX3 6DL

GREENHEAD ROAD, PREMISES HUDDERSFIELD, FORMER HOSTEL

To Let £19,500 p/a

395m2 (4,250ft2) Site Area 0.13 Hectares (0.33 Acres) ● Accessible location ■ Vacant possession for refurbishment for ■ Suitable car parking ● On-Site alternative occupational residential ● Excellent system complete possible uses orsecurity to subject redevelopment, ● Perimeter of Huddersfield town centre planning consent ● 227.4sqm (2,446sqft)

T. 01484 530361 www.bramleys.com

■ industrial LAND ■ offices OFFICES INDUSTRIAL ■ retail INVESTMENT ■ investment RETAIL ■ land

KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS

Gavin Howarth

The Howarth Partnership A FIRM specialising in human resources and employment law is keeping it in the family with its latest appointment. Gavin Howarth (second right) has joined The Howarth Partnership Ltd, based at Cleckheaton, where he joins his father Andy (right), who is managing director, and mother Helen (left), who is finance director. Completing the team is business development director Tracey Hopkins (also pictured). Gavin, a former pupil of Heckmondwike Grammar School, read law at Leeds University before studying at the city’s BPP law school. He was offered a training contract with Hammonds Solicitors in Leeds, but after successfully qualifying as a solicitor chose to join the family business. Said Gavin: “The idea behind me coming into the family business is to work alongside my dad and the other members of the team in growing and developing the organisation. “My dad has built up a great relationship with clients – particularly in Huddersfield where he worked for many years as an operational detective and has a real soft spot for the town.” Tracey joined the business from school and recently graduated from Huddersfield University as a member of the Chartered Institute of Personal Development.

Vikki McCrindle

Approach PR

Movers and shakers

Page 8

Balance going over the books

EVERYONE’S heard of accountants checking the books – but not every accountancy firm can claim to have written one! Holmfirth-based accountancy firm Balance has published a book, called Stress Proof Your Business and Your Life – to help Yorkshire’s entrepreneurs achieve their own balance. Pa r t n e r A s h l e y B a r rowc l o u g h explained: “Owning and running a business can be incredibly stressful. “Cashflow challenges, difficult customers, financial uncertainty, long working hours, everybody wanting a piece of you personally, deadlines, bad debts, increased competition, and the state of the economy can all take their toll. “And that’s before all the other causes of stress that have little or nothing to do with your business.” Mr Barrowclough said the book aimed to help business leaders stress proof the business “stuff ” so they earn more, work less and have fewer hassles; stress proof the money “stuff ” so they are richer; and stress proof the personal “stuff ” so they enjoy life more. He added: “We have worked hard to make it practical and quick to read, without being touchy-feely or ‘soft’.”

■ STRESS TEST: Ashley Barrowclough, of Holmfith-based accountancy firm Balance, with the stress-busting book

Ashley is offering a free book to the first five Kirklees Business News readers to

contact him at Balance Accountants on 01484 685413.

Travel firm says thank-you

A SPEN Valley businesswoman has expanded her award-winning public relations consultancy. Approach PR, founded by Gomersal woman Suzanne Johns, has appointed Vikki McCrindle, 29, to the team as senior account executive. She will work on three accounts – Halo furniture, Heat Electric and In-toto. Ms McCrindle (pictured) brings vast PR and event management experience to her new role, having worked for a successful Manchester-based PR consultancy for six years across a variety of sectors. Approach specialises in media relations, event and campaign management and internal communications.

61$&'($+.*1 "'(21%) #(81$!+(B" 8A7A?" Y27$6 YUL SL<1A5" )9<"756& )>AL<5<"6& 5L2656 A7$ S"76<U7 Y27$6P B" )A7 >"9S .U2 <7 A99 A6S")56 UY .U2L Y<7A7)<A9 S9A77<7?& 0>"5>"L <5M6 .U2L <71"658"756& S"76<U7 UL ?"7"LA9 Y<7A7)<A9 8A55"L6P B" AL" )U88<55"$ 5U SLU1<$<7? ><?> N2A9<5. <7$"S"7$"75 SLUY"66<U7A9 A$1<)" 0<5> 5>" A<8 UY >"9S<7? U2L )9<"756 5U A)><"1" 5>"<L Y<7A7)<A9 U+;")5<1"6P

Seek out more sales

■ FOOD GROUP: Sellers Travel owner Steven Manning (right) with staff and guests at the secretaries' lunch

MANUFACTURERS will get advice on boosting sales at an event next week. Nick Bramley, managing director of NBA4Business, will speak at a meeting of the Calderdale and Kirklees Manufacturing Alliance on Wednesday, September 29 at the Briar Court Hotel, Birchencliffe. He will illustrate the winning techniques to help firms target the right customers or the right contacts and explain strategies to reduce the time spent “prospecting” for new customers. The free event gets under way at 5.30pm and runs to about 8pm. Email enquiries@ckma.co.uk or call 01422 240018.

SECRETARIES who book flights and train tickets for their bosses have been given a big thank-you. Staff at Sellers Travel in Huddersfield staged a two-hour lunchtime party for about 40 secretaries and PAs from local businesses and organisations, including Huddersfield University. The event, which included a raffle for £250 of holiday vouchers, was attended by representatives of business packages and holidays operator Travel 2 – along with airlines

KLM, Emirates and Delta Airlines. The guests also sampled food fro around the world, including Italian, Greek and Japanese dishes and met Stephen Manning, of Waterfront Insurance, who acquired Sellers Travel in February this year. Anne Hoyle, of Sellers Travel, said: “We sent out about 50 invitations and we have had a great response. It is a chance for us to give something back to the secretaries of local businesses who do the work making bookings on behalf of their organisations.

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