Business Intelligence Nov Dec 22

Growing your business, building our economy

HEAD OFFICE

Hull & East Yorkshire (Head Office) 34/38 Beverley Road, Hull HU3 1YE T: 01482 324976

NORTHERN LINCOLNSHIRE OFFICE

Port Offices, Cleethorpe Road, Grimsby North East Lincolnshire DN31 3LL T: 01472 342981

WEBSITE www.hull-humber-chamber.co.uk

EMAIL

To help us deal with your message more quickly, please select the most appropriate address from below:

GENERAL: info@hull-humber-chamber.co.uk

International Trade: itc@hull-humberchamber.co.uk

PRESS RELEASES: press@hull-humber-chamber.co.uk

WEBSITE COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS webmaster@hull-humber-chamber.co.uk

PUBLISHED BY:

Kemps Publishing Ltd

Unit 8, The Courtyard, 707 Warwick Road, Solihull, B91 3DA T: 0121 765 4144

W: www.kempspublishing.co.uk

MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Blake

DESIGNER: Lloyd Hollingworth

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES

T: 0121 765 4144

E: jon.jones@kempspublishing.co.uk

PRINTERS

Buxton Press W: www.buxtonpress.com

DISCLAIMER

Business Intelligence is produced on behalf of the Chamber by Kemps Publishing Ltd and is distributed to members and leading businesses without charge. The Chamber and the publisher are committed to achieving the highest quality standards. While every care has been taken to ensure that the information it contains is accurate, neither the Chamber nor the publisher can acce pt any responsibility for any omission or inaccuracies that might arise. Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Chamber or the publisher. This publication (or any part thereof) may not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or electronic format without prior written permission of Kemps Publishing Ltd.

PRIVACY NOTICE

Kemps Publishing Ltd process personal information for certain legitimate interest purposes, which includes the following: To provide postal copies of this publication to chamber members and Kemps' customers; and to offer marketing and promotional opportunities within this publication to Chamber members and prospects. Whenever we process data for these purposes, we always ensure we treat your Personal Data rights in high regard. If you wish to, you can visit www.kempspublishing.co.uk to view our full Privacy Notice and to learn more about our legitimate interests and your rights in this regard.

President’s Message

It is that time again for the President to give the latest quarterly update on his activities in the past few months. July and August are often slower months for business activities with local councils in recess and national Government similarly, at least in Parliament, but this year has been frenetic particularly when you consider we have also had two changes of Prime Minister, with Rishi Sunak now in the top job, and two new Cabinets!

Indeed, the Chamber took a table at Martin Vickers’ 10th Anniversary celebration of him being elected to Parliament as MP for Cleethorpes. The guest of honour was Jacob Reece-Mogg who gave a witty and heartfelt appreciation of the work Martin does for his Constituents.

Martin kindly arranged for the Chamber to have a private meeting with Jacob, where we had the opportunity to tell the Minister for Brexit Opportunities (then Business Secretary) about the views of business in the Humber.

It was that evening that Boris Johnson’s premiership began to unravel over the conduct of one of the Government whips, which would catapult the country into three months of turmoil whilst two new PMs were selected.

The HEY Devo deal which was agreed in principle at a House of Commons dinner with council leaders and MPs I attended in February, went into abeyance whilst all of the above was happening. These delays are extremely frustrating but at least announcements were made by Government about LSIP and Carbon Net Zero initiatives on the Humber.

The Chamber is front and centre on the LSIP initiative and this is particularly exciting so congratulations to Ian and his team for the hard work in securing our role going forward.

The Chancellor’s ‘mini budget’ announced the setting up of new Investment Zones and we are lead to believe, that a joint proposal to have one or possibly two areas in Hull & East Riding of Yorkshire, was on the agenda before Michael Gove’s return to Rishi Sunak’s new Government.

These were likely to take within them the proposals for Freeports and we look forward to new announcements of exactly what it will all mean for the area.

Finally we were delighted to host a Network Lunch with Shevaun Haviland, Director General of The British Chambers of Commerce, who made her second visit to the Humber in short succession. She gave an insight into these conversations and how the BCC is helping shape Government Policy.

So in short, it has been a quarter where a lot has happened but also it feels like absolutely nothing has also!!

Mike Whitehead

President, Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Patrons

As a not-for-profit organisation, the Chamber is very grateful to our Patrons, who support us in our aim to help our Members develop their businesses.

• KCOM

• Arco: Experts in Safety

• Streets Chartered Accountants

• Associated British Ports

• SPS Group of Companies

• On Loan Recruitment Ltd

• Clugston Group Ltd

• Wilkin Chapman LLP Solicitors

• University of Hull

• My Group

• Andrew Jackson

• Forest Pines Hotel and Golf Resort

• Orsted

• ASM Global • Ellgia

• Alan Boswell Insurance Brokers

• AA Global Language Services Ltd

• Kevin Greene Photography

• Drax

• Equinor New Energy Ltd

Big Interview

Backing business and serving as a force for good

As expected, she’s up to speed on the big –dare I say burning? – issue of the day, armed with her official response to the action on energy costs. Her message is it’s a start but it’s not enough, and in her speech later the DG would put the Chancellor on notice that BCC will be going back for more.

But beyond that Shevaun wasn’t saying much, wasn’t spilling the beans on any earth-shattering policies or opinions, but was making it clear that the visit to Hull and Humber was all about fact-finding. Much the same as her previous trip to the region for the Chamber’s Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards in May.

“We are a canary in a coal mine,” she said.

“This is why networking is so powerful for us because we hear what’s going on from the ground, so early, and we need to listen to that.”

The Chamber arranged access for members to the Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, in April and will no doubt put the Chancellor in the hot seat should the opportunity arise. But Shevaun, while not quite having them on speed dial, has far more frequent communications with both and uses her visits to the regions to demonstrate that the Chamber network has its finger on the pulse.

evidence based and that’s so strong it’s gold dust!”

Shevaun stepped into the DG role in May 2021 after five years with the government. Before that a private sector career specialising in digital development included senior roles with Disney, and then running her own consultancy.

She said: “I took the government role because I have a huge passion around business as a force for good. Worked in the cabinet office on social policy development and joined two months before the referendum.

“The great thing was that the experience in government, working for three Prime Ministers in five years, stood me in good stead for this role, and I can certainly say it hasn’t been a quiet year and a bit!”

The BCC team is small, with 25 people in Westminster compared to 250 at the CBI. But the powers-that-be value the input and influence of a body which represents 53 Chambers in the UK and more than 70 internationally.

Some might treat the Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) as a distraction from the day job when it arrives in the inbox but Shevaun is absolutely clear on its importance: this is your chance to have your say.

She said: “The QES is the biggest private sector survey in the country and it is the voice of British business. The Chancellor uses it, as does the Governor of the Bank of England. Then you add the case studies and stories we can present from actual businesses on the ground –when you talk to the government you have to be

LEFT: Shevaun talking to Chamber members after the lunch

MAIN PICTURE: Shevaun Haviland with Chamber Chief Executive Dr Ian Kelly discussing the BCC, the economy, policy and the skills agenda

TOP RIGHT: Chamber President Mike Whitehead with Shevaun Haviland and Dr Kelly

A private interview with Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), before her speech at a members’ lunch.

‘The QES is the biggest private sector survey in the country and it is the voice of British business’

The BCC knows that because it played a key part in the introduction of flexible furlough, and in April it was the only business organisation invited to the trade talks between the UK and the US in Aberdeen.

The day before our meeting Shevaun was on a call with the Prime Minister’s special adviser who looks after SMEs, and she sees the Chancellor every week. So when Shevaun says the BCC will push for an extension of the energy support package at the three-month review stage, you know that’s exactly what will happen.

She said: “As an organisation we are apolitical and where I am constantly working with my team is to strike a balance between holding the government to account and ensuring we are having the right conversations.

“We have public conversations with the government but we are also constantly feeding in evidence and information through special advisers, telling the government what businesses need because we hear that directly from our network. The media is another vehicle for us to get our message across.”

Another priority is the need to tackle skills shortages, where the BCC is concerned by Bank of England figures which show half a million people left the workforce because of Brexit or Covid and didn’t come back. In addition the talent pool was reduced by 250,000 people taking early retirement and a similar number of young people who decide to stay in education.

Shevaun said: “In theory you would expect to get some loosening up of young people coming into the workforce, but nobody knows if those who retired early will come back to pay their energy bills and even if they do it still leaves a gap of half a million.”

The BCC is lobbying government to “turn on the taps” at the borders in an attempt to fill vacancies in the sectors identified as most in need on the shortage occupations list. Longer term the focus is on skills, which is one of the BCC’s four pillars.

Shevaun said: “It was the number one priority before the energy crisis. Nearly 70 per cent of businesses are facing skills shortages and the lack of workers is a huge drag on the economy – I haven’t met an hotelier who is able to deliver a full service.”

Other pillars are trade generally, because that’s where everything else leads, and net zero: “We know that before the energy crisis very few businesses even had people who knew how to measure the carbon footprint, never mind do something about it.”

And then there’s the levelling up pillar, with the BCC eager to activate its extensive, experienced network.

Shevaun said: “When Michael Gove launched the White Paper it was about building local economic conditions that allow the UK to be the best place to start and grow a business.

“I reminded him that Chambers have been doing levelling up for 250 years. The network exists to support and connect businesses, share best practice and provide practical support to help you grow your business, so there’s no need to reinvent the wheel.”

‘Nearly 70 per cent of businesses are facing skills shortages and the lack of workers is a huge drag on the economy’

Chamber Policy

Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce is the collective ‘voice’ of business across the Humber region representing the views and interests of our Members at local, regional and national levels.

Chamber LSIP facing tight trends in labour market

The Office for National Statistics latest data reveals the employment rate continues to rise, while at the same time similar Government data from the ONS is also showing a rise in economically inactive people, now at 2.46 million nationally, or about 27% of the inactive population.

These twin features of the labour market are likely to complicate the work of the newly established Local Skills Improvement Partnership (LSIP) which Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce has now been awarded the contract to manage in Hull and the East Riding.

The Chamber is shortly to meet with college principals in the area to discuss how the partnership will work along with Hull and East Riding council portfolio holders responsible for this adult skills agenda.

The LSIPs, funded by the Department for Education, aim to put the voice of local employers at the heart of the learning and skills system to build a stronger, more dynamic partnership between employers and further education providers. It is hoped this will allow provision to be more responsive to the energy needs in particular of the Humber alongside those of employers generally in the Hull and East Yorkshire labour market.

Commenting on the ONS figures, Hannah Crookes, the Chamber’s LSIP Manager for Hull and East Riding, said: “With both employment levels being higher than at any period since 1974 and a post Covid affected problem with long-term illness, the discussions we are likely to have with the colleges will be complicated by these national trends which sit alongside Government ambitions for the Chamber to support labour market chan ges in the Energy Estuary.”

The Chamber has appointed Hannah Crookes to work with Chamber Chief Executive Dr Ian Kelly, board member Sir Nic Dakin and others on this key partnership agenda.

Chamber to lead local skills improvement plan

The Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce has been chosen to lead the development and delivery of the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for the Hull and East Yorkshire region.

Skills shortages are regularly highlighted by Humber businesses in economic surveys as a key recruitment issue, and LSIPs, funded by the Department for Education, aim to put the voice of local employers at the heart of the learning and skills system to build a stronger, more dynamic partnership between employers and further education providers. It is hoped this will allow provision to be more responsive to the skills needs of employers in the Hull and East Yorkshire labour market.

The Chamber’s LSIP Manager Hannah Crookes said: “LSIPs are an exciting opportunity for the Chamber to bring together employers, training providers and other key stakeholders to set out the key priorities and changes needed in Hull and East Yorkshire to help ensure post-16 technical education and training is more closely aligned to local employer and labour market needs.

“We will be looking at a collaborative approach as we move forward to develop a successful LSIP for our area.”

Chamber Chief Executive Dr Ian Kelly said: “Hannah has worked particularly closely with our Board member Sir Nic Dakin and me to ensure strong stakeholder dialogue and engagement as part of our LSIP proposals for Hull and East Yorkshire as well as in

Lincolnshire too, where the Chamber also represents business. We look forward to driving this important agenda with our partners to ensure the Humber delivers on the skills needs of the Energy Estuary.”

The Chamber is one of 32 Accredited Chambers of Commerce which will lead LSIPs across the country, supported by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Hannah Crookes – exciting opportunity to bring employers, training providers and other stakeholders together

Devolution agenda up for discussion

The President of Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce, Mike Whitehead, met with the Chair of the Lincolnshire LEP, Pat Doody, along with local members in North East Lincolnshire recently to discuss the Government’s devolution agenda over the area.

Lincolnshire is one of the largest LEP areas in the UK with an interest in food and agriculture in particular, but its involvement in the “golden triangle” between Grimsby, Scunthorpe and Lincoln, ensures that its Energy Estuary role on the South Bank of the Humber makes it vital to the current national interest for energy security as well as a longer term carbon zero agenda.

Members discussed the business issues facing the South Bank in the current business environment and how policymakers can work with business to achieve success.

The leaders discussed how Liz Truss’s new Government agenda for industrial zones would merge to adopt the Freeport proposals for the Humber previously put forward by Rishi Sunak. now that Dehenna Davidson MP, the new Under Secretary for Levelling Up had indicated that the Levelling Up legislation recently passed meant that

initiatives like Opportunities Humber were likely to stay relevant. Read more on Pages 8 and 9.

Cllr Philip Jackson, Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council was also at the meeting

highlighting how the local regeneration agenda in Grimsby was being protected by the purchase of Freshney Place to secure the strategic direction of Grimsby Town and its Town Deal Levelling Up proposals.

Pioneering business woman to lead the BCC

Entrepreneur and business leader Baroness Martha Lane-Fox CBE has been elected the new President of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Baroness Lane-Fox was elected by representatives of the accredited Chamber Network at the BCC’s Annual General Meeting, on 12th October. She took up the role, which is unremunerated, with immediate effect. Baroness Lane-Fox will be succeeding Baroness Ruby McGregor-Smith CBE as President, whose two-year term came to an end in accordance with the BCC Articles of Association.

As President, Baroness Lane-Fox will work alongside BCC Chair Sarah Howard MBE and Director General Shevaun Haviland to represent the interests of Chamber business communities and trade in a crucial period for the UK.

Baroness Lane-Fox co-founded Europe’s largest travel and leisure website, lastminute.com in 1998. She is a passionate internet activist and was a Digital Champion for the UK from 2009-2013, helping to create the Government Digital Service. She is a director of Twitter and chair of WeTransfer, and she co-founded and chairs LuckyVoice, which has revolutionised the karaoke industry. She is the Chancellor of the Open University and was also made a crossbench peer in the House of Lords in 2013.

Welcoming Baroness Lane-Fox to the BCC, Chair Sarah Howard MBE said: “Martha brings with her all the qualities that will make her an excellent President. She is creative, insightful, and has a wealth of knowledge that will be invaluable to our Chamber network. She was one of the very first pioneers of the dotcom boom for businesses and has continued to pursue the internet and technology as a force for good throughout her inspiring and impactful career.

“I also wish to thank Ruby for her service to the BCC. She has represented the BCC with energy and dedication during challenging times for UK businesses.”

The new BCC President, Baroness Lane-Fox said: “I am very excited to be joining the BCC family and look forward to meeting with Chambers. Having founded and run my own businesses, I know first-hand the challenges firms are up against right now. Chambers provide invaluable support to ensure they can expand, invest and trade, and I look forward to helping British businesses thrive.”

‘Having founded and run my own businesses, I know firsthand the challenges firms are up against right now’

New BCC President Martha Lane-Fox CBE

Chamber President Mike Whitehead with (from left) The Chair of the Chamber’s North East Lincolnshire Council Irene Keal, Pat Doody and Neville Reyner

Chamber

H&S, tax and VAT

The Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce has invested in its membership offer and has recently launched four important new services to support Humber businesses which are now included as part of the Chamber package.

Chamber HR, Chamber H&S, Chamber Legal and Chamber Tax are all now available to members and are free to use as often as they like.

Chamber members also have access to a huge library of around 800 downloadable documents and templates covering employment, health and safety, tax and legal matters.

All the new services can be accessed by one phone number which gives members immediate advice and support via five advice lines – HR, H&S, Legal, Tax and VAT

These new services represent a major investment by the Chamber in its membership offer. The services are part of a national scheme provided by Quest with 45,000 UK Chamber of Commerce users.

David Hooper, The Chamber’s External Affairs Director, said: “Businesses are facing challenging times at the moment and these new services offer excellent support to all businesses, whatever size they may be. I believe these new services will protect our members, help them stay compliant, particularly with issues around Covid-19 like HR and H&S requirements, and give them peace of mind.

“Our new services are employer focused, so the HR line for example, can help businesses deal with redundancy procedures, appraisals or disciplinary procedures and comes with access to experienced advisors for handholding support when they need it, or provide access to documents which are regularly updated to reflect the latest rules and regulations.

“The Health and Safety package offers unlimited advice and access to documents like H&S policies, risk assessment templates and the offer of free One2One reviews. Chamber Legal provides unlimited access to experienced

legal advisors and a library of documents, while Chamber Tax provides access to tax and VAT advisors who can be a great help at tax return time!”

Chamber Chief Executive Dr Ian Kelly said: “We are delighted to be able to include these excellent new benefits as part of our membership package. They provide expert advice and support on many key aspects of running a business and I would encourage our members to make good use of these new, premium services.”

Members only can call 01455 852037 for immediate support and assistance.

For more information, contact the Hull and East Yorkshire office: 01482 324976 or email j.harrison@hull-humberchamber.co.uk, or the Northern Lincolnshire Office: 01472 342981 or email a.tate@hull-humber-chamber.co.uk

With interest rates at a 30-year high, inflation predicted to climb still further before it peaks, supply chain issues and a cost of living crisis hitting consumer confidence, the Quarter 3 figures clearly reflect the trepidation felt by Humber businesses of a tough winter to come.

Research by the Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce highlighted a drop in business confidence across all sectors, with concerns about rising interest rates and inflation again proving to be a major worry with still no end in sight to the economic turmoil.

Domestic Sales were down 13 points to a balance figure of -8, while Domestic Orders dropped even further, down by 37 points to a balance figure of -40.

The export sector was also down this quarter with Export Sales dropping a further 25 points into negative territory to -50, while Export Orders dropped a further 17 points to a low balance figure of -67. One of the few bright spots in Quarter 3 was a slight rise in

the Employment figure, which was up 11 points on the previous quarter, reflecting the summer trading period, however expected employment for the next few months was down 13 points on the last quarter to a balance figure of 5.

More firms reported concerns around Cashflow, with the balance figure dropping a further 14 points on last quarter to -23.

expecting to see a rise in profits. Only 36 per cent of respondents said they had tried to recruit staff in the last three months, but of those who had, most were trying to fill permanent positions within their businesses.

The Chamber’s External Affairs Director, David Hooper, said: “Business confidence has taken a nosedive in the last quarter, with rising interest rates, inflation and energy prices piling on the pressure.

Turnover expectations also fell back noticeably, dropping 33 points and into negative territory with a balance figure of31, indicating that businesses are expecting a slowdown continuing slowdown in trade as we head into the autumn.

Similarly, Profit Expectation was also in the doldrums in Quarter 3, with fewer firms

“However, it should be noted that this survey was carried out before the Government’s mini-budget, but its effect is unlikely to fundamentally change business sentiment. Most sectors have been under considerable pressure in the last three months, and the survey shows there is little optimism for any improvement, with turnover and profit expectations both well down on the previous quarter. Hopefully the energy cap for businesses will help a bit, but inflation is still a major concern as firms attempt to plan for what still looks like a challenging future.”

‘Business confidence has taken a nosedive in the last quarter’

A prosperous future on the cards for Goole

The new Deputy Leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Cllr Anne Handley, joined the Chamber at its recent Goole Members meeting in October to highlight the local opportunities for Goole and its Town Deal win of £25-million from the Government. This is despite the wider backdrop of economic difficulties many businesses face in the area due to the crisis caused by the Ukraine war and financial instability following the mini budget.

Members felt Cllr Handley offered a refreshing new vision of the future which was greatly welcomed by local companies after a period of turbulence on ERYC where the previous council Deputy Leader Mike Stathers had left the Conservative Group citing disharmony and discord.

Cllr Handley, who has an excellent local reputation as a Town Councillor in Goole and is a support worker in local food banks, indicated she would be working closely with current Leader Cllr Jonathan Owen to take advantage of the Government’s new devolution agenda which provides a further opportunity for Government cash to be won following York and North Yorkshire’s recent successful bid. This leaves only ERYC and Hull without a devolution deal across Yorkshire and the Humber.

Members felt if the new ERYC leadership team could deliver additional Government resources and generate a new open, positive approach to working with business in Goole the town had a great

future which business could look forward to. Chair of the Goole Town Deal, Joseph Richardson, who chaired the meeting, noted that he had known Anne for many years and this was an excellent time for Goole to deliver on its “full potential”.

MOU set to boost trade links between Chamber and Turkey

The Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce has agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the British Chamber of Commerce in Turkey (BCCT), which is hoped will boost trade between the two areas.

Chairman Chris Gaunt OBE, of the BCCT, met with Dr Ian Kelly in Hull and enjoyed a fascinating discussion around the complexities of political and economic issues currently facing the two long-standing trading partners.

Chris highlighted how his Istanbul-based organisation came into being after the Crimean War in 1887 when the Turkish Chamber was set up to develop trade links with the UK.

Hull & Humber Chamber board member Kirk Akdemir, who runs AA Global Language Services from its Hull headquarters, hails from Turkey and visits Istanbul regularly. He is keen t o see trade between the two countries expand.

Kirk said: “As someone who operates both in Turkey as well as the UK, I know how important Turkey presently is in the region and following next year's elections I believe it will become an even bigger player both commercially and politically. It is encouraging to see BCCT and Hull & Humber Chamber making contact to strengthen relationships which I think will be extremely beneficial not only in current times but in the years to come.”

Chris explained how the BCCT had always worked closely with UK diplomats who

understood what the Chamber did out there, but changes to key British Government personnel meant that continuity could sometimes be difficult. He said: “It is critical to use the special long term relationships with the Chambers network to boost international trade and encourage exports further at this critical time in the world economy.”

Chris exchanged views on how Hull’s football

club might develop having recently been bought by Turkish businessman Acun llicali, who is very well known in Turkey and has various links to Turkish President Recep Erdogan. Chris also noted there would be an election in Turkey next year, which may be quite closely contested, as the opposition to the Government had recently become much stronger, especially in Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir.

Cllr Anne Handley (right) pictured with Chamber Chief Executive Dr Ian Kelly

Chris Gaunt (left) with Dr Ian Kelly following their discussions on a MOU

Emerging energy: Phillips 66 transition to lower carbon technologies

Electric Vehicle (EV) Battery Coke Phillips 66 is a global supplier in the electric vehicle manufacturing chain and is committed to supporting the development of a UK-based EV supply chain. The current production of battery anode coke is equivalent to placing 1.3 million EVs on the road every year.

Humber Refinery is the only European facility producing battery anode coke, which forms a critical component for batteries in EVs and consumer electronics.

Good Energy – Investing in the Community

The Phillips 66 Limited Humber

Refinery is one of the most complex refineries in Europe and its vast range of products includes not only fuel – it produces some 14 million litres a day – but commodities that are used in everything from electric vehicles to toiletries. Approximately 15% of UK demand for fuels used for transport, heating and power come from the Humber Refinery in North Lincolnshire.

As well as keeping the UK moving today, Phillips 66 is leading the UK in developing the low carbon technologies for tomorrow.

Phillips 66 has a long-term commitment to building a thriving, lower-carbon business platform, by leveraging existing capabilities and advancing investments in new energy technologies.

In 2021, they launched their Emerging Energy organisation, a multidisciplinary team that concentrates on four key areas: renewable fuels, batteries, carbon capture and hydrogen.

The Phillips 66 Limited Humber Refinery is involved in a number of projects across the four key areas. Highlighted below are examples of how the Humber Refinery is transitioning to be the Refinery of the Future and how they are supporting the UK Government ambition to reach net zero.

Gigastack

Phillips 66 Limited is part of the Gigastack consortium. This project will produce lowercarbon hydrogen using renewable power supplied from an offshore wind farm. This hydrogen will be used in the refinery’s boilers to reduce existing natural gas consumption.

Phillips 66 believes the UK has the potential to be a global leader in low-carbon hydrogen production, with exciting applications in

transportation fuels, home heating, power storage and decarbonising industrial processes that require energy inputs at levels electrification cannot achieve.

Humber Zero

The Humber Refinery is part of the Immingham Industrial Cluster, which is the largest GHG-emitting industrial cluster in the U.K. Phillips 66 Limited is a major player in Humber Zero, a regional carbon capture and storage project capable of removing eight million metric tonnes of CO2 per year by 2030.

Phillips 66 Limited and the VPI Immingham LLP CHP facility are investing a total of £12.5 million to advance the Humber Zero project. Innovate UK Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund is matching that investment.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) The Phillips 66 Limited Humber is the first refinery in the UK to produce sustainable aviation fuel at scale. It is a member of the Departmentfor Transport’s Jet Zero Council Delivery Group and support government plans for a future SAF mandate and a business model for investing in advanced waste-to-jetfuel projects.

In 2022, it made its first delivery of SAF to British Airways as part of a multiyear supply agreement. The SAF is produced from processing sustainable waste feedstock at the Humber Refinery and delivered to British Airways through existing pipeline infrastructure that supplies several UK airports, including London Heathrow. In recognition of this achievement, Humber Refinery received the 2022 Humber Renewables Award for Green Innovation.

Phillips 66 prides itself in its community outreach and employee volunteer programme supporting schools and communities across the region. The values of safety, honour and commitment define how Phillips 66 works together supporting each other, helping to strengthen the communities where employees live and work and demonstrate values through actions.

This year the Phillips 66 Limited Humber Refinery as part of its charity giving donated 20 defibrillators, two of which have already saved a life, as well as carried out community litter picks, supported over 50 charities and organisations and supported two key decarbonisation careers and skills fairs.

Mark Wade, Humber Refinery HR Manager, said: “Our education outreach is core to what we do. In many cases working to break down barriers, raise aspirations and inspire students to pursue careers in STEM subjects. We are humbled by the work of our employee teams who regularly give back to the community through supporting apprentices, visiting schools, supporting work experience and engaging in our Education programs both on site or in the community.”

Donated - £600,000 to local charities

Employee hours volunteered - 4,747 - 593 days

For more details, go to www.phillips66.com/uk

The Refinery Early Career Network team litter picking at Mayflower Wood

Key issues on the table at conference

Chamber President Mike Whitehead attended the Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham, holding discussions on Levelling Up, Devolution, the East Midlands Engine and the Humber.

AParty Conference, whatever the political colour, brings together all manner of interested stakeholders to discuss current and future policy, along with the many and varied issues of the day.

While the main conference halls host the big speeches reported in the evening news bulletins, it’s often the smaller, fringe events which are more relevant to local politics.

At one fringe session hosted by Katy Balls from The Spectator, in association with Drax, the panel looked at “What Levelling Up Really Means”.

The panellists included Dehenna Davison MP, a former Hull University student who knows the city well and who has now become the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities in Government. She was joined by Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, Tony Danker from the CBI and Dhara Vyas, a director of Energy UK.

During the debate, Dehenna Davison insisted there would be no rowing back on the White Paper by Michael Gove. Ben Houchen, the Mayor of Teesside, commended Simon Clarke for his commitment to the Levelling Up agenda and said he felt sure this programme would proceed apace.

Dehenna, who lived in Hull for many years before becoming the MP for Bishop Auckland, said any area that wants a devolution deal can have one by 2030 and she was talking to several councils about that.

Dhara Vyas said she believed the Humber region was integral to clean energy and would

provide 50% of the UK’s energy needs in due course.

Ben Houchen added that if the Conservatives didn’t deliver on Levelling Up it would cost them the next election.

Attention then turned to Scunthorpe’s British Steel plant, with questions being asked about its future against the backdrop of rising energy prices. Katy Balls asked the panel what would happen to the town if the steelworks was to close.

Ben Houchen explained how disastrous it was when the Teeside steelworks closed, but it had now become a centre for clean energy. He promised support packages would be put in place if the worst happened, but Jingye were looking at hydrogen production and other green technologies.

Hull & Humber Chamber President Mike Whitehead asked the panel if the Humber was held back because of its lack of political consensus. Ben Houchen said the Humber shouldn’t be penalised because it doesn’t have an elected mayor.

Houchen added: “The best thing for Teeside was us getting a devolution deal when the Humber didn’t. The Humber is very fragmented and that is working strongly against its progress.

“The Humber is too disparate as an economy for it to say it wants “x”. The Government wants to get things done and the Humber needs to get its act together if it wants to be at the table”.

Dehenna Davison added that the Government needed to do everything it could to encourage Devolution and talks were going on around that agenda.

Tony Danker said they were working with Zero Carbon Humber precisely because they don’t have an elected Mayor in the Humber and they want to see that agenda progress.

CAPTIONS

1. Pictured at the fringe discussion on Levelling Up are (from left) Dehenna Davison, Tony Danker, Katy Balls, Ben Houchen and Dhara Vyas

2. Chamber President Mike Whitehead (left) pictured with Cleethorpes MP Martin Vickers at the Conservative Party Conference, where they briefly discussed LEPs, Devolution, the Energy Estuary and the new Government

3. On the Ineos stand, Richard Longden was pleased to show Mike Whitehead their hydrogen powered Hyundai. Richard explained how the car can be refuelled in around five minutes, has a range of more than 400 miles, and is working reliably in trials

4. A hydrogen powered bus featured interactive exhibits explaining how hydrogen is produced, stored and used, and how it will become more relevant to our lives in the future. The green StreetDeck Hydroliner is the world’s first hydrogen double deck bus made by Wrightbus. The StreetDeck Hydroliner is equipped with a Hydrogen Fuel Cell power train and its battery pack (inset) can store up to 48KWh that allows the bus to travel up to 280 miles

5. Mike pictured with The Rt Hon Nadhim Zahawi on the East Midlands Engine stand. A map (inset) showed its territory including North and North East Lincolnshire which prompted a discussion about overlaps and the future shape of LEPs and economic areas with its representative, Rachel Shaw

Member News

The latest news, success stories and updates from members of Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce.

Designs revealed for Grimsby’s regenerated Freshney Place

As people are asked for their views on a redesigned Freshney Place, the owner of the Parkway Entertainment Group has spoken about the new cinema that will open within the development.

Richard Parkes is excited about the Grimsby venture, explaining how it will complement the company’s successful complex in Cleethorpes. As revealed earlier this summer, Parkway will be the anchor leisure tenant when the redevelopment of the western end of Freshney Place takes place.

“Our Cleethorpes cinema is the biggest independent cinema in the country, and is a real fun, family-focused seaside style offer.

“What we’re planning for Grimsby is very different and we’re sure there’s an audience for a different choice and style,” said Richard, whose family business was founded by his parents and is now run by himself, his brother and their ‘amazing team’.

Three weeks of public consultation have been held ahead of plans being finalised for the Freshney Place Market Hall and Leisure Development.

Meanwhile, at a recent North East Lincolnshire Council meeting Cabinet members formally approved the scheme’s next stage – with actions supported to prepare for a full planning submission.

The Cabinet report highlighted again the need for the town centre to diversify and lessen its reliance on retail so it can survive and thrive.

The council, which now owns Freshney Place, has won significant grant monies for the transformation of its western end with the new cinema, more leisure opportunities, and a new Market Hall. A Levelling Up Fund Bid has been submitted to central government to

support the scheme, however pre-secured monies from the Future High Streets Fund could be used if necessary.

Council Leader Cllr Philip Jackson said: “We have a unique opportunity here to offer Grimsby Town Centre a new future and that is what we are driving to achieve. People need a good, healthy, and vibrant town centre, which offers day and evening attractions.

“If you look at this project alongside other schemes planned, including the business use of St James’ House, the Horizon OnSide Youth Zone project and new housing in the Alexandra Dock and Garth Lane areas, there is wholescale change planned. We are determined to do our best to create a better environment and future for all – especially our young people in order that they see opportunity here and want t o stay and achieve.”

The development manager for the project is Queensberry, a market-leader in urban regeneration schemes. The company’s Senior Development Manager Mike Norris said: “We are looking forward to engaging with residents and businesses during the consultation period. Each time we do these, we learn something new and it’s important we develop a scheme that is right for Grimsby that reflects the town’s personality. We will work closely with the council and the community to restore civic pride and deliver a sustainable long term future for the town.”

An artist’s impression of how Grimsby’s town centre may look

Vision for the future - helping the town centre survive and thrive

Circus skills for kids - and big kids!

The Late Night Circus and Aba Daba Circus present fun-filled classes for adults and children of all abilities.

Hull has gained its very own circus school thanks to the hard work, determination and passion of a local teacher and performer.

The Late Night Circus is the brainchild of Danielle Clements, who has been teaching circus skills, pole dancing and aerial movement to adults and children for many years. Having opened in early September, the new venue has created a dedicated space for circus training classes from foundation level upwards.

Danielle said: “The Late Night Circus is a place for professionals and amateurs alike. We host a range of classes for adults that focus on different levels of ability and experience, making it accessible to all.”

The Late Night Circus is located on the first floor of 3 Dansom Lane South, just off the junction of Holderness Road and Witham in East Hull. Once a boarding school, the historic building has been thoroughly converted to make it fit for purpose. Danielle and her team are now offering vibrant and energetic classes to students and visitors from across Hull and East Yorkshire.

Originally from Mansfield, Danielle moved to Hull 13 years ago to study a degree and soon made the city her new home. Since then, she founded multidisciplinary entertainment company Aba Daba Circus as a platform for

teaching children and young people circus skills from a beginner level. The new venue provides a long-term home for the organisation, as well as new adult classes through The Late Night Circus.

“I always wanted to open a skill sharing space,” said Danielle. “There were no floorbased circus classes for adults in Hull, so I decided the only solution was to launch them myself. They proved very popular, especially after the lockdown, and in many ways they became like a support group that provided a

Charity joins in partnership with leading events facility

One of the region’s leading charities has joined forces with a destination for top quality events.

The Manor Rooms on The Drewton Estate near South Cave will involve the Daisy Appeal in its events programme from the start of 2023, raising its profile and much-needed funds from activities including tribute acts, afternoon teas, summer barbecue discos and themed balls.

Carl Richardson, Senior Team Leader at The Manor Rooms, said: “We became aware of the fantastic work which the Daisy Appeal does to support people across the region by raising funds to improve research into cancer, heart disease and dementia. We felt we could help by connecting the charity to the people who come here, and we are exploring various ways to make that happen.”

Mike Igoe, who works on developing the Daisy Appeal’s corporate profile, was struck by the quality and potential of The Drewton Estate when he stayed in one of the cottages.

He said: “It’s an outstanding property and I was particularly interested in the purpose-built function rooms with great food and fabulous views – and that all adds up to a perfect venue.

“The partnership will enable us to work together for the benefit of the charity and the business. We will assist with promoting the events which they hold in the wonderful Manor Rooms and with raising awareness of the rest of the facilities at the site.

“The team at The Manor Rooms will support our fundraising activities with the events and that in turn will raise the Daisy Appeal’s profile among the people who organise and attend the events.”

much-needed social experience. Circus is for everyone and I want to bring it to everyone. This space has been a long time coming and I’m now welcoming people from all walks of life through its doors.”

To find out more about adult circus classes, please visit www.thelatenightcircus.co.uk

Meanwhile, details on classes for children and teenagers can be found at www.abadabacircus.co.uk

Visit: daisyappeal.org

Visit: www.themanorrooms.co.uk

Claire Levy, Fundraiser for the Daisy Appeal, said: “Drewton’s Farm Shop and The Manor Rooms are renowned for the quality of food, service and events and we are so grateful for their support.”

‘Circus is for everyone and I want to bring it to everyone’

Claire Levy and Carl Richardson in the function suite at The Manor Rooms at Drewton’s

Pupils enjoying some circus skills training

Business park upgrade leads the way in regeneration

A business site bought as part of a move to boost trade and jobs has regenerated an area of East Hull by welcoming 20 new tenants in 16 months with further investment planned by the owners.

The former Chamberlain Business Park has been rebranded as Base Business Space by owners Allenby Commercial, who bought the sprawling site in December 2020 to address a shortage of quality, efficient and useable business space.

After carrying out a programme of urgent initial works, Allenby Commercial began taking new tenants in April 2021. An influx of small firms ranging from sole traders to some employing as many as eight people has breathed new life into the location with business owners working in sectors including logistics, flooring, offshore safety equipment, car valeting and detailing and dance and fitness.

With around 25 jobs created by the new tenants, the total number of businesses at Base has climbed to 65 with more than 200 employees.

Dale Gooderham, Asset Manager at Allenby Commercial, said: “The rising cost of building is proving a challenge in developing units for SMEs and that’s why Base offered such a unique opportunity in a convenient location. We set about repurposing the existing units, bringing them into use to suit the 21st century market place.

“We will continue investing. The priority has always been the inside of the buildings because people want to be in there and working, but we’re also tidying up the exteriors.

“The work has created some easy access units and we have sub-divided some of the larger areas to create more efficient space for small businesses.”

New Member in the Spotlight

more about their business.

Name: Nick Forth Job Title: Branch Manager

Name of the business: Norman Walker

What does your business do?

We are compressed air specialists working with a wide range of customers across many industries including food manufacturers, pharmaceutical firms and waste and water facilities, to name a few.

Customers trust us to help them avoid production or service downtime and to show them where they can make cost savings while maintaining efficiency. We supply, install and maintain compressors, vacuum pumps, nitrogen generators, chillers, HVAC equipment, pneumatics, pipework, ducting, and assembly tools.

Where is it based?

Located just off the A63 at Melton East Industrial Estate.

Where does it operate?

Predominantly the Hull & Humber region, but our services stretch up into North Yorkshire and down into Lincolnshire.

How long has it been going?

The business was started in 1930.

What makes it unique?

I think what people turn to Norman Walker for is our wealth of knowledge across all aspects of compressed air. We have engineers that have been with the business over 30 years, what they don’t know about compressors isn’t worth knowing!

What do you hope to gain from your Chamber membership?

For me and the team it’s about being an active part of the business community, engaging and connecting with like-minded businesses to drive growth and success in the region.

What do you enjoy most about working in our region?

I just love this area, the place and the people. It’s where I’m from (Barmby on the Marsh, Nr

Howden if anyone knows it?) and I would feel out of place anywhere else.

What was your first job?

My first job from leaving school was as an Education Maintenance Allowance Coordinator at York College. At the time it was a fulfilling role as it meant I was helping those on low incomes to continue studying, but it wasn’t the career for me. I knew I wanted to work in engineering and so working there bought me enough time to find the apprenticeship route I wanted to follow.

What do you never go to work without?

My rucksack. It has everything I may need during the day whether on site or in the office; a tape measure, my laptop, compressed air book and maybe even a pack of Haribo!

What one change would help your business the most?

Setting on an apprentice. This last year we have been working with local colleges to find the right fit. In our industry you have to work hard on succession planning. Being a compressed air engineer isn’t high on dream career lists of young people leaving school, but it can be a rewarding and interesting job for life.

What’s the best way for people to contact you?

Either call me on 07535 258297 or email nick.forth@normanwalker.co.com

Business Intelligence introduces a new Chamber member to learn

Dave Simpson, of Simpson Valeting and Detailing in his workshop at Base

The HullBID Awards are back in action!

The annual HullBID Awards are back with some new categories, a simple application procedure and the usual guarantee of a tough competition rewarded with peer recognition and a fantastic night out.

Businesses are being urged to get their applications in as soon as possible, and by Friday 9 December at the latest, for their chance to line up at the awards ceremony at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel on Friday 27 January.

To enter, all businesses have to do is complete the application form with details of their chosen category, the business name and contact details and the reasons why they should win a HullBID Award. You can enter as many categories as you like but must complete a separate form for each application.

All the entries will be scrutinised by a panel of independent judges and the finalists will be revealed in mid-December.

HullBID Executive Director Kathryn Shillito

said: “The 2022 HullBID Awards are still fresh in the memory after such an exhilarating presentation night which really highlighted the appetite among city centre businesses to show what they can do.

“Our awards are unique. It’s the only competition which focuses on the hard work and amazing achievements of businesses in the city centre, and we want to make this edition bigger and better than ever.

Remembering the man who made things happen

Malcolm Scott, who died recently after a short illness, was the man who tried to buy the Humber Bridge. The man who admitted he didn’t know a great deal about music when he built a recording studio. The man who had no background in hospitality when he opened a café and arts venue.

But all of those ventures made a difference because, above all, Malcolm Scott was a man who made things happen.

If Mal sensed what he considered to be unnecessary hesitation when boldness was required, he was never shy to urge people to take a punt. Ask the government, who he challenged over the Humber Bridge debt. Ask the people behind UK City of Culture, who he persuaded, quietly and politely, to recognise local talent.

His bid for the Humber Bridge 2013 was a key factor in reducing the tolls. Fruit Trade Music recording studio was a cultural pioneer when it opened in Humber Street the same year. Kardomah 94, which opened in 2014, was the pint-sized, independent arts hub the city centre had been longing for.

Mal was all about business as the founder of Scotts Chartered Surveyors, the panHumber commercial property agency which he founded in 1990 and handed over to his colleagues 10 years ago.

The Awards categories are:

• Eco-Friendly Award

• Welcoming Premises Award

• Outstanding Employee or Team Award

• Innovative Marketing Award,

• Customer Service Excellence Award

• Contribution to the Community Award

• Entrepreneurial Spirit Award

• Best Health and Wellbeing Award

• Best in Food and Drink Award

• Outstanding Contribution Award

In addition, the judges will announce the recipient of a Special Recognition Award.

“We want to see as many of our members as possible taking part to show the strength of the city centre business community and get 2023 off to a terrific start.”

To find out more and to enter please visit: www.hullbidevents.co.uk/bidawards

In a highly competitive sector, Mal stood out for his professionalism and his personality. The brand had impact, with its striking black and white logo, but he was never too precious about it, instead harnessing it to have a bit of fun.

Contacts across the regional business community could look forward to receiving a series of festive gifts emblazoned with an alternative take on the Scotts logo.

Giveaways included Scottch whisky miniatures, Scoffs Christmas pudding, Snotts tissues and, in 1999, the ingenious Swatts, designed to protect us all from the dreaded millennium bug.

Mal’s desire to help others in business led to him becoming a key figure in the Chamber, where he served as President from 2007 until 2008. His commitment to improving the city centre saw him play an influential role in establishing HullBID. In 2016 Mal was the first winner of the lifetime achievement category at the HullBID awards.

‘Mal’s desire to help others in business led to him becoming a key figure in the Chamber’

The winners at the 2022 HullBID Awards

Malcolm pictured with some of his personalised festive gifts he’d send to businesses

Pictured discussing the HullBID are Malcolm, Ian Kelly, Mike Killoran and Ken Baldwin, all key figures behind the launch of HullBID Picture courtesy: Hull Daily Mail

The Chamber out and about

Highlighting the good work being done in the local community.

The Chamber was pleased to be invited to the launch of a new community business at St Hugh's Church Centre.

Becky Cook - a hired chef mentor for many organisations and businesses teaching adults and children how to cook - has opened up a new caféwhich will be serving food to the public and helping the community, serving home made cooked breakfasts and healthy options to home cooked dinners, puddings and af ternoon tea boxes. Becky will also be catering for weddings, parties and more! So please bear her in mind for your business’s catering needs. Having done justice to the launch buffet Chamber can heartily recommend!

Pictured from L-R are Becky Cook of Cook by Name, Father Chris Hewitt, newly inaugurated Vicar of St James and St Hugh’s Churches and Mary Vickers, Community Food Co-ordinator.

The

A great selection of cakes baked by staff and a very good cause. Pictured from L-R are Emily Shaw and Michelle Capp of Handelsbanken, Anne Tate HHCC.

Chamber also attended the Grimsby Handelsbanken’s Coffee Morning in support of MacMillan Cancer Support.

Sports hub unveils major improvements

A regional sport and hospitality hub that began as a village rugby club has unveiled the latest phase of a major improvement programme worth almost £500,000.

The investment by Hull Ionians RUFC over the last six years has helped to provide floodlights, an all-weather cricket wicket and refurbishments to changing rooms, with the enhanced facilities driving increased activity in rugby, rounders and cricket.

Hospitality facilities at the club’s home at Brantingham Park, Elloughton, have also been upgraded with improvements to the bar, kitchen and toilets. The latest project has brought weather-proof cladding for the roof of the main function hall, and a renovated and extended patio which includes an accessible area for watching matches.

‘It’s a community hub which benefits not just this village but also surrounding villages’

But visitors to the launch event were reminded that Ionians was founded in 1926 as a village rugby club. They didn’t even have a clubhouse until 1963, but the merger with Hull & East Riding in 1989 provided a platform for growth. The re-branded Hull Ionians sold off a large part of their site in 1995 and ploughed

the proceeds into the development of Brantingham Park. Further improvements followed over the years and a key contributor was East Riding of Yorkshire Council, which was represented at the launch by Councillor Claire Holmes, portfolio holder for planning, infrastructure and housing.

Councillor Holmes said: “The contributions to this came from commuted sums which are made available from developments in our area and I wanted to attend this celebration because it’s really rewarding to see the good

that comes to the community from development, and to see the effect that it has on people. It’s a community hub which benefits not just this village but also surrounding villages. And it’s not just rugby, it’s multi-sport, multi ages and brings the community together.”

Stephen Townend, Chair of Hull Ionians, thanked East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Elloughton-cum-Brough Town Council which supported the club’s funding applications, and other funding bodies including the Rugby Football Union, the England and Wales Cricket Board and Sport England.

He said: “We will continue to try and improve our facilities to ensure that, as a community club, rugby and other sports will be available to everybody.”

Pat Wilson, president of the club, added: “The onset of Covid restrictions in March 2020 meant there were no sports and no income streams and this continued for the next 14 months but we still had bills to pay.

“With the generosity of our membership and funding from the various organisations we were all relieved that we had overcome the pandemic financially and I’m delighted and proud that we are in good stead going forward. We are passionate about maintaining standards and we are always looking at ways to i mprove.”

On the newly refurbished terrace at Brantingham Park are (from left) Hull Ionians president Pat Wilson, ERYC councillors Claire Holmes, Richard Meredith and Pat Smith, and Hull Ionians chair Stephen Townend

Nordic House heritage on full display

An organisation which has been serving the spiritual needs of seafarers and the wider community in Hull for more than 150 years is to take the opportunity of the Heritage Open Days events to celebrate its history and to set out its plans as a venue for community, cultural and business events.

Leaders of the Danish Church will use the occasion to launch Nordic House. Activities being explored include hosting gigs, plays and exhibitions, adding to the current list of community and cultural events as well as workshops and fitness classes.

‘The current property is nearly 70 years old but still has a modern design and fee’

Nordic House also aims to make its mark in the regional business community through the networks of Peter Aarosin, a Dane who has worked in shipping and logistics in the Humber for 40 years and whose career includes spells as chair of the Bondholders and as a board member with the Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce.

Peter said: “Since the first Danish Church was consecrated in Hull in 1871 its buildings and community have become an integral part of the city. However as the frequency of church services has reduced in recent years we have looked into other ways of opening up the building. The current property is nearly 70 years old but still has a modern design and feel and offers a wide range of opportunities. I will

be promoting it to my business contacts for meetings and other corporate events and we are talking to various arts and culture professionals to find out what they could do with it.”

Nordic House already welcomes a variety of cultural and community organisations and the Manager, Charlotte Theill, is confident the programme will expand as awareness increases.

Social media star moves business to historic building

A star of social media has moved into one of Hull’s oldest buildings dating back nearly 300 years with a business that is making a global impact in one of the newest and fastest moving sectors.

Poppy Mead, a social media influencer with more than 750,000 followers on TikTok, has set up her new studio at Danish Buildings and Bayles House in High Street, Hull.

Born in Huddersfield, Poppy also has around 290,000 followers on Instagram and 80,000 on You Tube.

Only recently turned 20, she sees the move to the Old Town of Hull as the ideal inspiration as she works with boyfriend Kris Taylor to expand their activities into podcasts, clothing and property.

Poppy said: “Before we moved in here I worked from home but it was too easy to put Netflix on and not get any work done. Here I am in a much better environment.

“I love the Old Town area and this place helps us get out of the house and separate work from home. It also gives us the space we need to do the podcast.”

Georgia Allenby, Design and Marketing Manager at Allenby Commercial, said: “Since we bought Danish Buildings and Bayles House in 2017 we’ve welcomed all sorts of high-tech, on-trend businesses but podcasting is a first for us!

“We’ve got architects, filmmakers, marketing agencies and more but to now have a social media influencer with so many followers across various platforms shows how the world of business is constantly changing.

“Parts of the building date back to the 17th century and it’s incredible to think of all the different ways the building has been used between now and then.”

Poppy made her big social media breakthrough when she was just 17.

Charlotte is also working now to plan the Scandinavian Christmas market which has been a highlight of the Nordic House calendar since the 1970s and which this year will take place on Saturday 26 November.

Charlotte said: “The Christmas market attracts a big crowd of local people and some of them have been coming for years. For them it’s not really Christmas until they have been to the market.”

Peter Aarosin and Charlotte Theill outside Nordic House in Osborne Street, Hull

Poppy Mead at Danish Buildings in the Old Town of Hull

Flexible office sector sees return of events

Aleading figure in the flexible space sector said trends locally and nationally are towards a return to physical office space and in-person business events.

Freya Cross, Head of Business and Corporate at The Deep and national Chair of FlexSA – the Flexible Space Association – said businesses are keeping the virtual option in reserve but the priority is to bring people back to working together in the same building.

Freya added that the appetite is increasing for social and networking gatherings, citing the Chamber and HullBID as organisations which are organising events to offer audiences with decision-makers.

Addressing the FlexSA AGM in September Freya said the organisation had led the way in resuming major events including its rescheduled 2021 conference and exhibition and its annual awards, which used technology to connect four regional celebrations instead of holding a single gala dinner.

She added that FlexSA continues to hold some online events but is returning to more in-person activities, notably with the

workspace tours which see flexible space operators visiting other sites in their region.

Freya said: “In our region we started the workspace tours before the pandemic, with the operators of various sites in and around Hull hosting sessions as an opportunity for benchmarking, best practice and getting to know the offer in your geographical location.

Local and national organisers of a festival that celebrates the people and properties at the heart of the UK’s history and heritage have cheered the success of the latest event - and the part played by Hull and the East Riding.

The 2022 Heritage Open Days programme in Hull and East Yorkshire was launched at

“Between

house dozens of companies employing hundreds of people and although we are competitors in one sense we are still colleagues when it comes to promoting our sector and raising standards.”

Freya added that The Deep Business Centre is experiencing an uplift in occupancy and enquiries, with some clients moving away from working from home.

She said: “They have found it doesn’t work for their businesses. Their people are more productive when they are in the same office

bouncing off each other. The same applies across the wid er business community. People get a buzz from spending time with their colleagues and peers whether it’s celebrating shared success at the HullBID Awards or attending briefings organised by the Chamber.”

Rollits takes part in Heritage Open Day

an event attended by representatives of businesses, local authorities and other organisations which supported the programme in a number of ways including sponsorship and opening their premises to the public.

Leading law firm Rollits LLP hosted the opening event at its offices in Citadel House,

High Street, which are less than 20 years old but are home to a firm dating back more than 180 years.

Over the Heritage Open Days weekend, the firm also presented an exhibition of its own history with a timeline wall which was originally commissioned for its 175th anniversary and was on display again together with various artefacts including historic ledgers, documents and official stamps.

Pat Coyle, Director of Marketing and Client Relations at Rollits said the move to Citadel House coincided with the firm’s 175year milestone in 2016 and continued the firm’s commitment to the Old Town of Hull.

Pat said: “We have supported Heritage Open Days for many years. Sometimes we present talks about the history of the firm and this year the organisers asked if we would also host some guest speakers and we were happy to do that.

“The festival has grown and grown over the years but we have plenty of space and it has been nice to welcome people to our office and give people an opportunity to see some of the artefacts we have here and explore some of our history. We get the timeline out for Heritage Open Days every year and for other special occasions.”

‘People are more productive when they are in the same office bouncing off each other’

us we

Freya Cross, Head of Business and Corporate at The Deep and national Chair of FlexSA

Pat Coyle, Director of Marketing and Client Relations at Rollits, with the firm’s history timeline

Chamber Patrons

Becoming a Patron represents a valuable contribution towards enabling us to provide a wide range of services for our smaller Member companies, as well as raising the profile of your own business.

Andrew Jackson among top law firms

Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP announces that the research findings of the Legal 500, one of the UK’s leading independent guides to the legal profession, has once again recognised Andrew Jackson as being among the leading firms.

In Legal 500’s 2023 guide, published 29 September 2022, Andrew Jackson is highly recommended by clients and peers across numerous practice areas, whilst several lawyers are recognised as being leaders in their field of practice.

Highlights:

• 41 lawyers recommended across numerous practice areas, with eight partners recognised as "Leading Individuals”market leaders with exceptional, widespread recognition and endorsement from clients and peers

• Andrew Jackson’s partner and head of private client services, Richard Hoare, being recognised in the “Hall of Fame”, having been consistently ranked as a leading individual for several years

• Six top tier practice area rankings, underlining Andrew Jackson’s position as a leading firm

• Continued recognition for Andrew Jackson’s shipping & transport practice in the nationally recognised London section of the Legal 500.

The 2023 guide quotes one client as saying that Andrew Jackson’s “team members have excellent judgement. They run rings round the opposition by focusing upon the core issues with an incredible attention to detail not matched by other firms”. Another client notes that “there is a tremendous depth of experience in the practice. Difficult issues are explained clearly and concisely”.

Mark Pearson-Kendall, Managing Partner of Andrew Jackson, said: “Once again, I am absolutely delighted to read the excellent feedback and recommendations we have received in the latest edition of the Legal 500. The guide’s rankings and recommendations are based on independent research among our clients and peers, so to receive such favourable feedback about their experiences of our firm is a fantastic endorsement.

“I am incredibly proud of the whole team for their hard work and commitment to the delivery of exceptional legal services to our clients.”

The full rankings and feedback can be accessed at www.legal500.com

Marketing firm to drive Hull City growth

The off-field team at Hull City are bidding to build on the club’s success following this year’s takeover by bringing a specialist local company to drive digital sales and profile.

The club says the partnership with digital performance marketing business 43 Clicks North will aim to increase revenue from memberships, merchandise and match-day ticket sales.

Mike Ellis, Managing Director of 43 Clicks North, said the deal strengthens the company’s expanding activities in the world of sport and will also support his efforts to develop Hull’s pool of digital talent.

Jamie Thomas, Hull City’s Marketing Manager, said the club has started the new season

brightly on and off the pitch under Acun Ilicali, the Turkish media and entertainment entrepreneur, who bought the club in January.

Sales of memberships have climbed to 12,500 from 8,500 last season and average attendance for the first three home games is more than 17,000 compared with 12,000 last season.

Jamie said: “We have seen a huge surge in interest for memberships and match-day tickets since the end of last season and we want to push that further.

“The membership campaign will run for most of the remainder of this calendar year and if we need extra support to sell tickets for certain matches we can do that. Our membership subscription model is only

operated by one other club in the EFL but 43 Clicks North have experience of it from their work in other sports. That’s why we

chose them, along with the fact that we always try to maintain good relationships with our local community.”

Mark Pearson-Kendall managing partner of Andrew Jackson

Jamie Thomas, Hull City Marketing Manager, and Mike Ellis, Managing Director of 43 Clicks North

Popular Viking Festival was no Grim affair for local families

More than 22,000 people visited Grimsby town centre to enjoy the town’s first Viking Festival according to official footfall figures. The night sky lit up as Grim the Viking, the legendary Norse merchant, sailed up the River Haven in his two longships kickstarting a packed weekend featuring reenactment camps, battles, expert talks, parades, entertainment and markets.

Grim the Viking’s legendary tale was brought to life in front of a crowd of thousands who lined the waterfront outside the Fishing Heritage Centre where a beacon was lit before Grim was warmly welcomed ashore from his longships the Valhalla and Heron, as part of the event which was supported by The

National Lottery Heritage Fund. Families enjoyed dancing to a traditional Ceilidh band in Riverhead Squ are, took part in traditional crafts and enjoyed local artisan food and drink in the lively market square.

Julia Thompson, Chair of VESR CIC, said: “We’re delighted this first event went so well and I hope everyone who came along enjoyed meeting Grim and his Vikings. It was great to see the town centre, Minster Square and People’s Park packed with families and visitors all having fun and finding out about the Vikings.”

Feedback from the public was overwhelmingly positive with many already looking ahead to the return of the festival in 2023. Visitor comments included calling Grim FalFest “the best I’ve ever seen in our town”

while a second said “the event made me proud to be from Grimsby”. A third said “it was a really great event, please come back. It was really interesting and educational but fun at the same time”.

Hannah Thompson, Business Manager at Heritage Lincolnshire, said: “On behalf of Heritage Lincolnshire, it has been incredible to see the impact that this event has made on Grimsby and the way everyone young and old enjoyed reconnecting with the history of their town. We are so proud to have been a part of that and we hope that journey continues on the lead up to the 2023 event.”

Organisers thanked everyone involved including local traders who took a chance on the first event and reported bumper sales over the weekend. Local businesses who created

FOCUS ON: Grim FalFest

Focus on: Grim FalFest Viking Festival

special products from Riverhead Coffee’s Viking biscuits, Curious Cat’s cocktail, Docks Beer’s Grim Brew and a stunning silver bracelet by Silver Boo Jewellery.

Students from the Grimsby Institute gave performances of Scandinavian inspired songs to entertain the audience and volunteer ambassadors from the local community joined event stewards handing out free goody bags to children by local arts organisation Our Big Picture.

Opportunities are now open for sponsors, traders and volunteers who would like to be involved in the 2023 event. Anyone wanting to take part can register their interest by emailing info@grimfalfest.com

Details of next year’s event will be released in due course.

Mayor of NELC Cllr Ian Lindley with Mayoress Mrs Helen Lindley, talk to Julia Thompson, VESR Chair and Event Organiser, Emma Coleman, VESR Heritage Lead, and Jonathan Goolden, Icelandic Consul, at the VIP Launch of the Festival held at the Fishing Heritage Centre

Spotlight Features

In this issue we take a look at the Logistics, Freight & Transportation and Creative Industries sectors.

Digital trade documents: what you need to know

The acceptance of electronic versions of key trade documents as having legal effect under English Law has moved a step closer, says Shipping and International Trade Lawyer John Habergham (pictured) of Myton Law.

With implications for this region’s forwarders, warehouse operators, insurers, brokers and just about all businesses involved in logistics, ‘The Electronic Trade Documents Bill’ submitted to Parliament by the Law Commission earlier this year heralds the most substantial change in international trade law for decades.

Though the Bill has not passed into legislation yet (as at October 2022), it is expected to do so. Bearing in mind how much trade passes through the Humber Estuary, the Bill is significant for many businesses based here and they need to be prepared.

The law has lagged behind technology. Despite business moving inexorably from paper to digital for several decades, international trade still generates billions of paper documents, because, at present, in English Law (and that of most other jurisdictions) only paper documents can be ‘possessed’.

When passed, this Bill will recognise as legally valid most trade documents, including bills of exchange, bills of lading, warehouse receipts, ships delivery orders, marine insurance policies and cargo insurance certificates, in digital as well as paper form.

Certainly, the technology to use electronic trade documents is already available. Indeed, the use of electronic documents increased during the Covid crisis, though, under current law, their legitimacy is open to question.

Some large logistics businesses have adopted ‘distributed ledger technology’. Seven digital platforms are recognised by the International Group of P&I Clubs and FIATA introduced a paperless bill of lading system in May. However, the Law Commission proposals are technology neutral because technology continues to develop at a pace. So, the Bill does not stipulate specific digital platforms.

The international legal picture

The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law’s ‘Model Law on Electronic Transferrable Records’ (MLETR) introduced in 2017 aimed to drive forward the harmonisation of laws internationally and promote worldwide acceptance of electronic documents.

International trade organisations are also pushing the digital agenda.

If this Bill becomes law here then, the Law Commission points out, ‘it sets an important precedent across all 54 Commonwealth countries and all contracts that use English law’. We will not be the first. Electronic trade documents are already reco gnised in the US and Singapore.

Meeting legal criteria

The Bill says that an electronic trade document should be capable of being possessed. To be ‘possessed’ certain criteria should be met, criteria that replicate salient features of paper trade documents. These features are outlined in the Bill and logistics businesses will need to understand them to ensure their electronic documents are valid.

Challenges and benefits

Some in the logistics industry have concerns about digital security - staying ahead of hackers will be crucial.

Other aspects of how this will work will need to be worked through in practice. For example, how is legal jurisdiction relating to documents that are moved around electronically to be established? How might a lien be exercised?

However, clearly, managing trade documents digitally will save time/delays, increase productivity, provide greater supply chain visibility and save money. Up to £224bn in efficiency savings could be made by 2024, according to the International Chamber of Commerce.

Legal issues arising out of goods being released without a bill of lading, because the physical paperwork has not kept pace with the movement of the goods, will be no more.

So, any initial ambiguities resulting from the proposed changes will surely be outweighed by the advantages of working digitally.

‘Despite business moving inexorably from paper to digital for several decades, international trade still generates billions of paper documents’

or shine,

we keep sailing Come rain

By Richard Turner, Sales Manager, Finnlines UK Ltd

In uncertain times we all look for the same things – stability, endurance and reliability, and the ability to keep up with the times. That is certainly something Finnlines can proudly stand by, as we look forward to 2023 and celebrating our 50th year calling to the Port of Hull, home of our UK base.

In 1973 the sailings began from Helsinki called to Hull, then under the name of Finhumber Ferries, and the vessel MV Orion carried dairy products and Timber into Hull (the latter being something that to this day Finnlines still bring into the region). The second vessel that operated along this service was MV Sirius; both named in honour of their forbears on the very first sailings operated by the Finland Steamship Company in 1883.

Later on the company, then in co-ownership with the United Baltic Cooperation, agreed to the name change Finnanglia Ferries. During the 1980s it became Finncarriers, before finally in 1990 it became the Finnlines name that we maintain today. However as markets evolve so does the cargo, and today we carry everything from containers lifted by crane and roll on roll off cargo such as large plant machinery, tractors, cars and trailers (including driver accompanied trucks), to static cargo such as steel and project cargo, along with people and even at times pets!

Finnlines have operated on the route from Hull to Helsinki for 50 years, calling to the Queen Elizabeth Dock every week, come rain, sun and of course, when returning to Helsinki, a lot of ice and snow. Having the very best vessels, they can cope with the weather and keep your cargo safely onboard.

Today Finnlines still keeps to its roots in believing to offer the best service to Finland and beyond while adapting new technology into our vessels, making them cleaner, safer and more reliable.

Within our fleet we have recently introduced our first hybrids, Finneco I, Finneco II and Finneco III, all showcasing the latest technology. With scrubber systems fitted to all of our fleet, designed to make them as clean as possible, Finnlines is committed to operating a sustainable service, reaching and exceeding industry standards well ahead of the requirement.

Finnlines also offer more routes than ever before, such as calls to Bilbao and Paldiski, with operations linking all of Europe, including major ports such as Antwerp, Lubeck, Aarhus and our very newest route which is Rosslare – Zeebrugge.

As part of the Grimaldi family, we can also coordinate with sister ships to give reach to far further destinations such as the USA via ACL, and South America and Africa along with southern Europe on the Grimaldi fleet.

‘Finnlines is committed to operating a sustainable service, reaching and exceeding industry standards well ahead of the requirement’

Clarksons Port Services continues to invest in its customs clearance division to meet increasing demand

Clarksons Port Services (CPS) customs hub continues its investment drive to meet increasing client needs as the landscape of import and export movements continues to evolve due to ever changing customs regulations.

For businesses moving goods in or out of GB, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, the EU and the rest of the world, CPS guides the client step by step through the process advising at each point of any changes due to Brexit and the implementation of the NI Protocol.

Chris Ewings, Customs Clearance Manager at Clarksons Port Services, said: “Many businesses come to us as they don’t quite know where customs sits within their business, the responsibility often falls to the finance teams, so our expertise puts us in the best position to support businesses through the processes which apply to them.”

“Every member of the CPS team offers indepth knowledge and is continually updating our customers on any changes of worldwide rules and regulations.

“Whether you are a large multinational company, a small business or an individual, a customs declaration is required for all goods imported into the UK customs territory across international borders.

“CPS offers a truly stress-free service whatever a business’s requirements are. None of our customers have to worry about whether they are doing something correctly or following every process because we take care of it all.”

Graham Cross, Business Development Manager for Customs & Freight, added that

CPS is now offering a consultancy service to allow both existing and potential clients the opportunity to check that they are compliant and paying the correct levels of duty. Graham is based on the Humber, which is the UK’s largest trading estuary and the gateway to our EU partners, and is delighted that their customs expertise is assisting so many of their Humber based clients and reducing their costs in many cases.

Clarksons Port Services (CPS) is dedicated to supporting marine and port operations and is a trusted partner, with over 50 years’ experience and a proven record. CPS provides a 24/7/365 integrated service from our 19

office locations around the UK & Ireland.

Clarksons Port Services deliver solutions for Port Agency, Freight Forwarding, Project Logistics, Offshore Supply, Voyage Agency Services, Crew Change, Bunkering, Warehousing & Storage, Customs Clearance, Tooling & Supplies and Safety & Survival.

For more information on customs clearance and for a free consultation, visit the CPS website Clarksons.com call +44 (0) 07435 946179 or email graham.cross@clarksons.com

Graham Cross

A culture

of creativity

Creative thinking is vital to any business. A genius idea for a new product or service can help increase revenue and reputation, streamline operations, and boost employee motivation, especially if staff feel they have the support to share their ideas and innovations. But how can employers foster a culture of creativity in the workplace? Business Intelligence shares its top tips.

A diverse team

Just because something works the same way it always has, doesn’t mean there isn’t room for improvement. To improve, you need creative thinking – and here diversity is the key.

People from the same background are more likely to think and work the same, which can result in stale ideas, repetitive suggestions and out-dated methods of problem solving that can’t keep up with the modern world. However, a talent pool drawn from a diverse background can offer fresh ideas and new ways of approaching certain tasks and problems, as well as introducing different learning and management styles.

New ideas

An open-minded employer is more likely to be approached with new ideas. Alternately, an employer who isn’t open to experimentation is likely to be left behind – and lose their brightest thinkers to employers

who want to hear what they have to say. So it’s important to create an environment that welcomes experimentation and innovation.

Invite your staff to share their ideas – for example, you could hold a weekly suggestion meeting – and give team leaders the flexibility to implement new ways of working while monitoring their progress. Even if not every idea goes as planned, the trial-and-error method could still provide valuable insight and offer solutions for future problems.

Criticism that’s constructive

Constructive criticism is a very important part of the creative process, because ultimately it will allow your staff to reflect on their ideas and improve them.

If something isn’t working, don’t shut down the idea with a firm ‘no’, because this may deter them from ever suggesting something new again. Instead, give your staff the opportunity to reflect and improve.

This in turn can also hone their critical thinking skills, making them better employees in the long run.

Energise

Creativity can’t flourish in stressful conditions. Stress and burnout are becoming increasingly common in the workplace, which, as well as impacting job performance, can also have a serious affect on an employee’s mental and physical health.

Make sure that staff are taking regular breaks and create a breakout space in the workplace where staff can relax away from their workspaces. Plants, artwork and water features can all contribute to a more soothing work environment. A relaxing break can boost creativity and give staff the energy needed to resume working on an important project.

Collaboration

Bringing different teams together can have a positive impact on creativity, because different teams have different strengths and different ways of solving problems.

Sometimes, it’s impossible to see the woods for the trees – maybe your product testing team can’t overcome a hurdle, for example, and a collaborative session with outsiders might be just the thing they need to get the creative juices flowing again. Perhaps your staff from finance can offer an analytical solution, or maybe your marketing team can lend their communication skills to the problem.

Opportunities to trade personal insight and ideas are also great ways to get your staff bonding, creating a happier workforce.

‘Perhaps your staff from finance can offer an analytical solution, or maybe your marketing team can lend their communication skills to the problem’

Sector Focus

The latest news from the International Trade, Legal & Finance, The Arts, Skills & Training, Manufacturing and Motoring industries.

Train your way to a career in trading

The Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce is offering funded training through its new Skills Bootcamps for people who want to go places with their careers in international trade.

Whether you are looking for a change of direction, or are looking to progress in your current workplace, the Chamber’s Skills Bootcamp in Import and Export procedures could give you your passport to a range of new and exciting opportunities.

The Skills Bootcamps focus on import and export procedures, documentation and compliance and are delivered by an expert team of international trade specialists giving learners the opportunity to build up sectorspecific skills and support towards advancing their career.

Our dedicated training programme will help learners develop the knowledge and skills required to successfully work in an import and/or export related role as well as gain the nationally recognised BCC Foundation Award in International Trade.

You will benefit from weekly sessions with a

What you will learn:

• Understanding Export

• Export Documentation

• Import Procedures (including Customs Warehousing, Inward Processing, Outward Processing, Temporary Admission)

• Customs Compliance, Documentation and Procedures

• Incoterms

• Understanding Commodity Codes

• Preference Rules of Origin

• Methods of Payment and Letters of Credit

• Customs Declarations, including CDS

• Export Controls and Licensing

Brand new look for language business

A language services business has marked its 30th anniversary with the launch of a new look, designed by the people charged with leading the company into the next 30 years.

The new brand at AA Global Language Services reaffirms the company’s commitment to quality and service and is also designed to demonstrate its more modern approach and its character.

Chantelle Akdemir, AA Global’s Business Development Manager said: “As a company we are aware that to be dynamic in business we need to go through certain changes. We have had the current logo for more than 10 years now and we decided it was time for something more up to

date which shows a bit more of the AA Global personality.”

Kirk Akdemir, CEO of AA Global, founded the business in Worcester in 1992 and opened the Hull office with an initial team of two in 2011. It now employs about 30 staff plus an international network of 15,000 translators and interpreters working in more than 500 languages.

Kirk said: “We’ve invested in bringing in more people and in supporting them with improved technology and we want to reflect our more modern approach with a bright, new look which is vibrant yet still stands for our traditional values.

“Key to that is understanding the generational changes facing

dedicated mentor plus high quality teaching from experienced tutors – and much more.

Learners will need to dedicate time to include 60 guided learning hours over 16 weeks.

Delegates can apply to join our Skills Bootcamp if you if they are age 19 or over, live in England, are employed, selfemployed, have recently become unemployed or are returning to work after a break.

Employers can send existing employees to the Skills Bootcamps but will be required to contribute up to 30% of the cost of training. Existing employees may need time to study and attend classes depending on their working hours and status and the flexibility of the course.

To apply, contact Lorraine Holt for further information and an application form. Email: l.holt@hull-humberchamber.co.uk

the business. It’s not about me having started AA Global but about the next generation taking it into the next 30 years.”

Chantelle and the company’s Director of Operations, Andrei Sparling, led the project.

Andrei said: “In recent years the company has developed a young team which is introducing new ideas and initiatives to meet the evolving needs of an expanding business. The new look is part of that process.”

Pictured reviewing the new brand are (from left) Chantelle Akdemir, Kirk Akdemir and Andrei Sparling

Estelle joins the Wilkin Chapman team

Local government specialist

Estelle Culligan has been appointed by Wilkin Chapman as partner in the regulatory and public sector department, further strengthening the team led by partner Jonathan Goolden.

Estelle will be involved in local, regional, and national work for the department, but also building a presence for the firm in the south east, where she is based.

With more than 18 years’ experience working in-house for local authorities, guiding councils on various legislative and governance issues, Estelle brings a wealth of valuable in-depth knowledge and a great understanding of the concerns and challenges faced by councils.

Estelle said: “I’m looking forward to working with the department which already offers a fantastic array of services in the local government sector. My many years’ experience means that I understand and have firsthand experience of the unique challenges faced by councillors and officers. This will allow me to advise on the full range of local government issues.

“I have been aware of Jonathan and Wilkin Chapman’s reputation and am absolutely thrilled and delighted to be joining such a great team.”

Jonathan Goolden, Partner at Wilkin Chapman, said: “Estelle is

highly respected in the industry, so we’re really excited to welcome her to the team. She’s going to be a great asset to our department, not only increasing the skill of the team, but the capacity and reach of what we already do.

“Local government is an intensely regulated sector where imaginative and politically aware solutions are often required.

Estelle is able to think flexibly and propose pragmatic outcomes to her clients.”

Rollits LLP secures Legal 500 ranking

A leading law firm has underlined the value and versatility of its work for clients across the Yorkshire and Humber region with recognition for the excellence of its people and services in the latest edition of the profession’s most prestigious directory.

Rollits LLP has again demonstrated the depth and breadth of its knowledge and expertise by securing rankings in the 2023 edition of the UK Legal 500 for several areas of its work. A number of the firm’s practitioners also received individual recognition.

The Legal 500 has been ranking the best lawyers and law firms for more than 30 years, measuring against criteria which include technical ability available for the most complex and innovative work, individuals with the contacts at – and credibility with – the top clients, and indepth capability.

The research also takes into account the prestige of a firm’s clients, evidence of clear investment for the future in a particular practice area and a strong commitment to IT

and the use of IT to improve client services.

In Hull and East Yorkshire, Rollits earned a tier one ranking in the categories of Corporate and Commercial, Employment and Commercial Property.

The directory recognise John Flanagan in Corporate and Commercial and Chris Crystal in Commercial Property as leading individuals. James Peel is referenced in the directory as a Next Generation Partner.

In Corporate and Commercial the report highlights the role of Rollits in some major

deals. Testimonials from clients praise the flexibility, agility and knowledge of the “friendly, helpful, very engaging and supportive team with broad experience that can cover every eventuality.”

Chris Crystal is recognised for his leadership of the Commercial Property team and for his expertise in secured lending. Clients praised the department’s technical understanding and local knowledge.

The Commercial Litigation team is praised for its “considerable track record in a variety of contentious matters spanning shareholder and partnership disputes, sale of goods and product liability cases, business protection matters and commercial contract disputes.”

The Legal 500 enthuses about the “outstanding” Employment team which is recognised as “modern and progressive”.

‘The Legal 500 enthuses about the “outstanding” Employment team’

Partner Jonathan Goolden welcomes a thrilled Estelle Culligan to the local government team

Pictured (left to right) are John Flanagan, James Peel and Chris Crystal

Latest cohort of apprentices welcomed

Leading engineering business Spencer Group has continued to grow its workforce by taking on 14 more talented apprentices from Ron Dearing University Technical College (UTC).

Spencer Group, which is one of Ron Dearing UTC’s Founding Partners, has employed 42 apprentices from Hull’s employer-led school in just three years.

The relationship between the school and one of Hull’s leading businesses has created a productive pipeline of fresh talent for the engineering industry as well as opening up exciting and rewarding opportunities for dozens of young people.

Former Ron Dearing UTC students now make up a significant proportion of the company’s workforce of more than 300 directly-employed staff.

The latest entry-level roles include nine Engineering Apprentices, one Mechanical Apprentice, one Electrical Apprentice, two Marketing Apprentices and one Scheduling Apprentice.

Charlie Spencer OBE, Executive Chairman and founder of Spencer Group, said: “I’m delighted we’ve been able to take on so many apprentices from Ron Dearing again this year.

“As a growing business, it’s essential we bring in and develop young talent and that’s exactly what we’re doing with these exceptional young apprentices.

“They’ve had an outstanding experience at Ron Dearing, which has prepared them for the world of work with its employer-led model of education, and now they’ll learn from excellent mentors at Spencer Group during the next stage of their development.

“It’s very exciting for them – and for us.” Spencer Group, which has its headquarters at Humber Quays on Hull Marina, is a privately-owned, multi-disciplinary engineering business delivering innovative engineering and construction solutions across

the UK in the rail, bridges, transport, infrastructure, materials handling, energy and industrial sectors.

The business employed 14 apprentices from Ron Dearing UTC three years ago, followed by a further five two years ago and nine last year, with many more planned for future intakes.

Yvonne Moir, HR Director at Spencer Group, said: “We’re very excited to welcome 14 new apprentices and we’re so impressed with them already.

“Our previous apprentices have proven to be of a really high standard and we have no doubt the latest intake will also become valuable additions to Spencer Group.

“We became involved with the UTC at the beginning because we wanted access to a pipeline of talented young people who would develop their careers with us. Those hopes have come to fruition and our original apprentices are now excelling in permanent roles.

“There’s no doubt that the education and employability skills instilled in students from the moment they join Ron Dearing UTC help them to hit the ground running with us as work-ready employees.”

Every apprentice who secures a permanent position with Spencer Group is offered the chance to further their studies to degree level and possibly complete a master’s degree.

Sarah Pashley, Principal of Ofsted “Outstanding”-rated Ron Dearing UTC, said: “It’s fantastic to see another 14 of our students embarking on such brilliant apprenticeships with Spencer Group.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of our Founding and Employer Partners who continue to offer these exciting career opportunities.”

‘As a growing business, it’s essential we bring in and develop young talent’

Pictured (from left) are new Spencer Group apprentices Ellen White, Ryan Harrison, Luke Blackwood and Declan Longley

Charlie Spencer OBE, Executive Chairman and founder of Spencer Group, with Yvonne Moir, HR Director at Spencer Group, left, and Sarah Pashley, Principal of Ron Dearing UTC, right, and the 14 new Spencer Group apprentices

Trainee accountant passes final exams

Forrester Boyd Chartered Accountants are delighted to celebrate another success through its trainee accountant programme.

Ben Godbold has passed the final exams of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and can now celebrate being afully qualified chartered certified accountant, adding more valuable members to the growing team at Forrester Boyd’s Louth office.

Ben joined Forrester Boyd in 2017 following studying at King Edward VI Grammar School in Louth. Throughout his training Ben has been working very closely with the Agriculture and the Academy sector teams. Speaking about his experience Ben said: “I work as part of the academies team and carry out audit services for single academy trusts and large multi academy trusts. I prepare the financial statements, forecast returns, assist with day to day bookkeeping, reconciliations and undertake internal reviews and external audits.

“I also prepare accounts for sole traders, partnerships, limited companies, charities, personal and company tax returns and VAT returns.”

Ben is looking forward to continuing to learn and progress within the firm. He likes to be seen as approachable, knowledgeable and helpful.

Philip George, Partner responsible for HR, said: “I am delighted to see Ben rewarded for his hard work qualifying as a Chartered Certified Accountant. The training programme is intense with a lot of study and exams to contend with on top of the usual day-to-day work. Ben should be very proud of this fantastic achievement. Forrester Boyd prides itself on delivering an exceptional training programme for our students to provide them with all the skills and experience they need to become a proficient Chartered Certified Accountant.

“This is yet another example of the success in our strategy in recruiting and developing home grown talent. This, combined with excellent accounting tuition, allows Forrester Boyd to continue to recruit, develop and retain top quality accounting staff.”

Forrester Boyd is one of the leading independent chartered accountancy practices in Lincolnshire, with over 150 staff based at offices at Grimsby, Louth, Scunthorpe, Skegness, Beverley and Hull.

Ben Godbold (left) is congratulated by Philip George

Paneltex delivers first electric home delivery van for ASDA

The first fully electric home delivery vehicle in supermarket ASDA’s fleet has gone into service, continuing the company’s journey toward a future as green as their branding.

The vehicle, based on a Maxus Deliver 9 chassis cab, makes an exciting addition to the 342-vehicle bio-gas HGV fleet and thousands of Paneltex-built vans ASDA has operated for their delivery services since their first Paneltex vehicle, built over 20 years ago.

“It’s amazing to look at where we started –when we started Paneltex in 1991 and ASDA launched their Grocery Home Shopping in 1997, I would never have dreamed that we could be looking at producing a pure battery electric fleet together on such a large scale,” said Chris Berridge, Managing Director of Paneltex.

“At Paneltex, we’ve always been interested in electrification and emissions reduction. Each electric vehicle we’ve produced has taken the industry a step closer to zero-emission cold chains. I’m really very pleased that we’re at the forefront of that movement toward greener options.”

In addition to its fully electric operation and GAH refrigeration system, the van boasts a 111-tote capacity across ambient, refrigerated, and frozen zones, a central locking system, and both front and rear parking sensor/reverse aid systems. Operating out of Watford from

the end of July, it is to be joined in ASDA’s fleet by five more Maxus builds and a Ford eTransit, which has been completed and will be going into service shortly.

“These Maxus and Ford vehicles are fully electric, producing zero emissions – great for inner-city urban deliveries,” said Sean Clifton, Senior Manager National Fleets at ASDA.

“Electric vans need more efficient insulation and door systems, as well as a very robust

fridge system. It takes lots of innovation and joined up thinking to integrate a body system onto two different electric chassis cabs in a way that incorporates powering all the required electrics and the fridge without interfering with the Ford and Maxus electrical systems.

“It’s an exciting step in our relationship with ASDA”, said Paneltex Key Account Manager Phil Dixon, who is responsible for managing the company’s relationship with ASDA. ‘We’ve built thousands of vehicles for them over the years. With these electric vans delivering ASDA orders – first in Watford, then nationwide – we hope there will be many thousands more for us to build together in the future.”

About Paneltex Ltd.

Formed in Kingston upon Hull in 1991 as a manufacturer of insulated panels for cold storage, Paneltex is a world-leading temperature-controlled vehicle body builder and converter. Thirty years later, Paneltex produces hundreds of vehicle bodies, vehicle body kits, and portable cold stores a week out of six specialised factories across the UK.

For more information, please contact Sam Berridge on +44 (0)1482

787236 or media@paneltex.co.uk

The first of the vans which is as green as the supermarket's branding

Motoring

Life can’t be all about work! Chamber Motoring reviews some of the latest offerings on the market.

A luxury car with none of the fuss

Lexus RX 450h Premium with Panoramic Roof

Packed with techno-phobe friendly kit, the Lexus RX 450h is a superb all-rounder, but as David Hooper discovers, it’s also a great travelling companion and even comes with a CD player!

Many people of a certain age who have achieved considerable success in their business careers and appreciate a luxury car, may not want to be burdened with much of the space age technology that we find in the high end new cars of today.

The Lexus RX 450h could, therefore, be the car for them. It is still packed with more technology than you can shake a stick at, and no doubt has more computing power than the lunar lander did had back in the ’60s, but with this particular car, the technology is not quite so daunting to master as in many of its competitors.

For example, sitting in the middle of the dashboard you will still find an analogue clock, and while most dashboards these days are fully digital, the Lexus RX 450h has two traditional dials dominating the view in front of the driver, which could tip the balance for many company executives who aren’t completely au fait with all the latest technology, and those who still value a good old fashioned CD player. Remember them?

That said, the Lexus has everything you could possibly need and it’s literally packed with technology. It’s a lovely car to drive and the styling is quite radical in comparison to some of the jelly mould shapes we are familiar with these days.

Inside you have a large screen sitting on top of the dashboard which controls many of the car’s functions. It is a touchscreen but you can also control it via a

touchpad on the centre console, just behind the gearstick.

The luxuriously large leather seats can be set to heat your bottom, or cool it, depending on the outside temperature, and there is a plethora of USB and 12V sockets, a heated steering wheel, automatic headlights and a lovely panoramic roof in the example we tested.

LEFT: The interior is a luxurious as they come, but less technically daunting than some of its rivals

MAIN PICTURE: This posh Lexus cuts quite a dash with its attractively sleek and distinctive styling

In association with

The vital statistics

RIGHT: If you've never seen a 3.5-litre V6 petrol hybrid engine before, then behold...a silky-smooth work of art

You also get cruise control which includes a radar system to maintain a safe distance between you and the car in front, with the Lexus accelerating or decelerating depending upon the prevailing traffic conditions. The Lane keep Assist also works nicely, keeping you in the centre of your lane even if your concentration lapses momentarily.

The Lexus RX 450h is a full hybrid which means there is no messing about with plug in charging cables to get your electricity. The car charges its own battery as you drive and switches seamlessly between its 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and the electric battery power. Toyota is a master of the hybrid system having built them for many years now and with the improved battery range you can travel a considerable distance on battery power alone, particularly in the city traffic, and especially if there is a slight downhill gradient...

The performance of the RX 450h is impressive with its top speed of 124mph and a 0 to 62 time of 7.7 seconds, although the CO2 emissions are a fairly high 179g/km.

Economy during my test of over 500 miles averaged around 35 miles per gallon which is in line with the latest WLTP testing criteria. It may not be the most economical of vehicles, but it is a pleasure to drive, it runs almost silently on the motorway and has an impressive turn of speed when required, although the CVT gearbox has never been one of my favourite transmissions.

Despite the space taken up by the battery, Lexus has still provided a proper spare wheel instead of resorting to a can of gunk and a tire inflator – it is a space saver wheel, but I would much rather have that on a rainy Sunday night in the middle of nowhere, than the alternative which many manufacturers supply these days.

At £59,315 the Premium example tested here is still a lot of money, but competitively priced amongst its peers and to help pass the time during a long journey you can turn up the superb Mark Levinson hi-fi system which comes with 15 speakers, surround sound, DAB and a DVD player! You can also use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with your smart phone and there is wireless smart phone charging, so you really have everything you could possibly want.

The Lexus RX 450h is a very competent all-rounder, it’s quite a big car but it is an absolute pleasure to drive and to live with.

Smart SUV styling and plenty of space

Suzuki S-Cross Motion

Suzuki’s

This Suzuki S-Cross is an all-new model from the Japanese manufacturer, which I have to say, I was quite taken with. Built in Hungary, its smart SUV looks and clean styling combined with a surprisingly spacious interior and large versatile boot, good equipment levels and a very reasonable price, especially in the current market, makes the SCross an attractive proposition in my book.

The model I tested was the manual version although buyers do have the option of an automatic should they prefer. Our test car was finished in Sphere Blue, which looked lovely in the sunshine. Buyers have a choice of five other metallic colours (for £550) or a solid white colour which doesn’t carry a premium.

An automatic gearbox can be ordered for those who prefer the gears to be changed for them, with both gearbox options being mated to Suzuki’s 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine featuring Suzuki’s

clever Boosterjet technology which provides a nice spread of torque, peaking at 235Nm and available from 2,000rpm.

A four wheel drive model is also offered if you want to get a bit more adventurous and opt for the ALLGRIP Select four system which is available on the Ultra mod el.

Helped by its mild hybrid drivetrain, fuel economy is good too, with steady drivers able to expect a combined figure of 53.2mpg according to the WLTP regulations, with relatively low CO2 emissions figure of 120g/km, which means your road tax will currently cost £170 in the first year and £145 after that.

While it may not win many traffic light sprints with a 062mph time of 9.5 seconds, the SCross makes perfectly acceptable progress once on the move, and with a potential top speed of 121mph on tap, it’s certainly no slouch, and can cruise comfortably at motorway speeds.

Dynamically, the S-Cross is a perfectly pleasant travelling companion which steers and stops

competently. The steering is nice and light for manoeuvring, but still accurate at higher speeds, while the damping set up gives good body control through the corners without being harsh in any way.

Inside, the cabin is pleasantly spacious and airy and comes with plenty of equipment and toys. Standard across the range is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keyless entry and start, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats and parking sensors fore and aft.

The Ultra specification adds leather upholstery, on-board navigation and a panoramic sunroof, as well as the ALLGRIP system, and still comes in just

The vital statistics

MODEL: Suzuki S-Cross Motion

ENGINE: 1373cc, 129PS four-cylinder petrol engine, driving front wheels through 6speed manual gearbox.

PERFORMANCE: Top speed 121 mph. 0-62mph in 9.5 secs.

ECONOMY: City: 47.3mpg. Country: 60.7mpg. Combined: 53.2mpg.

CO2 EMISSIONS: 120g/km.

INSURANCE: Group 22.

PRICE: £25,549 as tested WARRANTY: 5 years/100,000 miles WEBSITE: www.cars.suzuki.co.uk

• All data correct at time of publication.

below £30,000! There is plenty of safety kit too, with automated braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, traffic sign recognition and adaptive cruise control standard on all models.

The boot offers plenty of space, and features a split floor, so you can hide things under the “false” floor if you want to, or lower the tray to use the full height for anything bulkier. The S-Cross, with its smart SUV styling, is a good allrounder which comes with Suzuki’s five-year, 100,000 mile warranty, so it’s unlikely to give you any trouble, and with sensible pricing, makes it a compelling contender on anyone’s potential new car list.

S-Cross Motion is an all-new model, and David Hooper says this smart SUV is well equipped and represents great value for money.

All-in-all, the S-Cross is an attractive proposition

New Members

Braun and Company Ltd

Barton upon Humber 01652 632273

Clarity Comms Media Snaith 07398 178428 Public Relations & Media Consultancy

Daifuku Logan Ltd Hull 01482 785600

Ground Source Heat Pump Association (GSHPA) London 0330 2234 302 Trade Association

North

Roclad Systems Ltd Hull 01482 629891 Industrial Roofing & Cladding

The Business Culture Hull Hull 07590 643337

UTM Enterprises Ltd Grimsby 07919 107930

Wyke Sixth Form College Hull 01482 346347

Further/Education

Yesss Electrical Hull Hull 01482 971558

To find out about Chamber Membership visit www.hull-humberchamber.co.uk/memberships or call Janice Harrison on (01482) 324976, or Anne Tate or Marilyn Waud on (01472) 342981.

Ongo continues to lead the way as a champion of diversity

Ongo has again achieved ‘Leaders in Diversity’ accreditation for the fourth year, following results of in depth assessment carried out in June.

The accreditation is awarded by the National Centre for Diversity who were founded in 2005 and work with organisations of all types, to help embed good practices around fairness, respect, equality, diversity, inclusion and engagement (FREDIE).

Ongo were congratulated on the culture they’ve embedded throughout the organisation and willingness to learn and continuously improve at all levels.

colleagues from all levels, our amazing customers who help to make real, lasting difference, and of course all members of our community.

“This accreditation is something we will display with pride as we continue to work towards our goals of a fair and equal society.”

In May this year Ongo were also announced as 33rd in The National Centre for Diversity ‘Top 100 Most Inclusive Workplaces’ list. Leading their approach is an EDI steering group, made up of colleagues and customers who discuss important issues, break down barriers, create action plans and hold Ongo to account for making change happen.

Key improvement areas from this assessment featured training for colleagues and incorporating further measures into procurement processes. These will be included in an action plan, monitored by the EDI steering group.

Karen Cowan, Head of Corporate and Governance at Ongo, and equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) lead, said: “We are all delighted to have retained Leaders in Diversity. It means so much to us all that we are part of change and driving EDI forward.

“None of what we have achieved would be possible without the fantastic work of

Ongo also publish a roadmap of where they are in terms of EDI and where improvements can be made to promote engagement and transparency, along with a statement from their Board.

To find out more about Ongo and their EDI commitments, follow them on social media or head to their website: www.ongo.co.uk/edi

‘This accreditation is something we will display with pride as we continue to work towards our goals of a fair and equal society’

Celebrating Ongo's accreditation - something they will display with pride as they continue to work towards their goals of a fair and equal society

HullBID

Exploring the work the Hull Business Improvement District is doing in the local community.

Dino day a roaring success

Adinosaur extravaganza attracted thousands of people to Hull city centre for a great day out at a family festival of fun and frights. Dino Day, which was organised by HullBID and presented by street entertainment specialists Bigfoot Events, brought caveman capers and prehistoric peril to a packed Queen Victoria Square.

Huge crowds circled the fountain and turned it into an impromptu stage for attractions which included a T Rex, a velociraptor, comedy cavemen, a giant dinosaur egg and two cute petting baby dinosaurs with puppeteers.

‘Crowds come out to see dinosaurs because they like stories and they like to be a bit scared’

Also taking part was Steve Plater, Co-owner of Hull’s own Dinostar museum in Humber Street. Steve presented a mini display of some of the more portable fossils from the museum and attracted families who queued across Queen Victoria Square to visit his stall, with many then heading to the museum.

He said: “It’s been incredible really. People have been telling me they haven’t seen so many people here for years. Crowds come out to see dinosaurs because they like stories and they like to be a bit scared. It’s fun but it’s not dangerous.

“I’ve heard from my colleagues that after people have been here they have gone over to the Dinostar museum to see what else we have. It’s terrific that HullBID brought this to the city. It’s their doing and they are a great organisation which helps businesses in so many ways.”

Other businesses also welcomed crowds of people who jumped on Dino Day as an

opportunity for a family day out. Food and beverage outlets were particularly busy with queues at restaurants, cafes and take-aways, and non-food businesses across the city centre also saw an increase in trade.

Sally Waters, Retail Manager at the Emmaus store in Whitefriargate, said: “It’s fantastic. There’s families out, all enjoying the really lovely atmosphere. Any event that brings in this sort of footfall is fantastic for businesses.

“HullBID is phenomenal. They always have events on and they let us know regularly when things are happening. A lot of the businesses work together and support the HullBID events so that we can improve business.”

Kathryn Shillito, HullBID Executive Director, said there is much more to come with a steampunk festival in October and an exciting programme of events for 2023.

She said: “We organised Dino Day because children love dinosaurs! What we’ve seen is the city centre packed with people who have come in to enjoy free, family-friendly entertainment.

“In this climate it’s about providing a popular event, cost-free for parents, but ultimately we want to see the shops doing a good trade. We are delighted with the response and we are working on developing more initiatives that will have a wider scope.”

The Dino Day activities organised by HullBID with Bigfoot Events, with their T Rex on the loose in Queen Victoria Square

A raptor roaming through the crowds outside Hull City Hall