SBT

JULY 2017 ISSUE 414

FREE

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

THE GENERAL ELECTION 2017:

WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR BUSINESS? FOLLOWING ON FROM LAST MONTHâ€™S GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS, SBT EXPLORES THE EFFECTS OF A HUNG PARLIAMENT ON BUSINESS IN THE UK

FIGHTING CYBERCRIME SBT OUTLINES THE IMPORTANCE OF CYBER SECURITY AND EXPLORES THE METHODS TO TAKE TO ENSURE A SECURE AND STABLE BUSINESS

TEST DRIVE

WE GOT BEHIND THE WHEELS OF THE ALFA

ROMEO GIULIETTA AND THE VOLVO V60 D5 TWIN ENGINE

LIFE AT HASTINGS

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF HASTINGS DIRECT

AS ONE OF THE BIGGEST EMPLOYERS IN THE SOUTH EAST, HASTINGS DIRECT IS A SUCCESSFUL, NATIONAL COMPANY LOCATED IN THE QUIET SEASIDE TOWN OF BEXHILLON-SEA. THIS ISSUE OF SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES MARKS THEIR 20TH ANNIVERSARY SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

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SBTWelcome MEET THE TEAM

Lee Mansfield, Managing Director/ Publisher

Clare Fermor, Operations Director

Jess Saunders, Editor

Welcome to our July issue – we’re now in the second half of 2017 and the business world is still moving at full speed. Events have taken over the business calendar in recent months, and while, in this issue we take a look back at the return of Sussex Cricket to Eastbourne (taking place back in May), and the latest events from Network My Club, we look forward to the Brighton Business Expo, set to take place in October this year. Meanwhile, our cover feature this month focuses on Hastings Direct, who outline their success over 20 years of operating.

Jon Dawson, Sales

Amy Watson, Production Manager

Linda Grace, Subscriptions Manager

Tom Alexander, Web Designer/ Developer

CONTRIBUTORS

Peter Bradshaw, National Accounts Director, Selectapension

Seb Royle, Founder, PLATF9RM

Greg Mahon, Regional Director, Rathbones Chichester

Ian Smallwood, Head of Business Services, Business East Sussex

Elsewhere in our July issue, we take a look at the recent General Election results and the effects this might have on the UK and Sussex-based businesses, hearing from company representatives along the way. Also, along with the recent heatwave we’ve experienced, our Education section focuses on the legalities surrounding working and learning environments in such extreme conditions. While our health and wellbeing section surrounds the importance of first aid in the workplace. Alongside all of this, we provide you with our regular Ask the Expert columns and Made in Sussex, this month featuring Hoogly Tea. Also, for July’s motoring reviews, Sussex Business Times got behind the wheels of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta and the Vovlo V60 D5 Twin Engine, putting both motors through their paces and reporting back on our findings. Of course, also included in this issue are our usual hotel and lunch reviews, focusing this time on The Boship (Lions) Farm Hotel and Edendum, plus your usual local, national, motoring and Chamber news sections. Enjoy your July read!

Jess Saunders, Editor

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 3

SBTContents

Issue 414

SBT

JULY 2017 ISSUE 414

FREE

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

THE GENERAL ELECTION 2017:

WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR BUSINESS? FOLLOWING ON FROM LAST MONTH’S GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS, SBT EXPLORE THE EFFECTS OF A HUNG PARLIAMENT ON BUSINESS IN THE UK

FIGHTING CYBERCRIME SBT OUTLINES THE IMPORTANCE OF CYBER SECURITY AND EXPLORES THE METHODS TO TAKE TO ENSURE A SECURE AND STABLE BUSINESS

TEST DRIVE

WE GOT BEHIND THE WHEELS OF THE ALFA

ROMEO GIULIETTA AND THE VOLVO V60 D5 TWIN ENGINE

LIFE AT HASTINGS

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF HASTINGS DIRECT

Cover: Hastings Direct

Managing Director/Publisher: Lee Mansfield lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 007 Operations Director: Clare Fermor clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 007 Sales: Jon Dawson jon@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 007 Barry Koster barry@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 007 Editorial: Jess Saunders jess@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 019 Production Manager: Amy Watson amy@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 018 Web Designer/Developer: Tom Alexander Subscriptions: Linda Grace linda@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 015 Accounts: Anne Greenwood anne@lifemediagroup.co.uk 01323 819 007 Published by Life Media Group, Unit1, Swan Barn Business Centre, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, BN27 2BY Printed by Gemini Print A1, Dolphin Way, Shoreham-by-Sea, BN43 6NZ 01273 464884 www.gemini-print.co.uk

All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Sussex Business Times Magazine do not necessarily represent the view of Life Media Group LTD. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publishers of Sussex Business Times Magazine assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from the participation in any offers, competitions or advertisement contained within Sussex Business Times Magazine. All prices featured in Sussex Business Times Magazine are correct at the time of going to press.

4 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

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News

View the latest local and national business headlines.

Spending it

Look stylish in the office this summer with SBT’s top picks of shoes, accessories and clothing.

Irwin Mitchell: The Changing Face of Manufacturing

The fourth industrial revolution – Industry 4.0 – is here. Britain can be at the forefront of it just as it was for the first.

The General Election 2017

SBT explores the effects of the result of a Hung Parliament on business in the UK. We hear from Sheen Stickland Chartered Accountants, as well as other Sussex-based companies.

Education: Can’t Take the Heat? Get out of the Classroom Hot summers bring uncertainty around the maximum temperatures in which pupils and teachers should be expected to work. Here, we outline the legalities surrounding this issue as we prepare for a sizzling few months.

Fighting Cybercrime

SBT outlines the importance of cyber security and explores the methods to take to ensure a secure and stable business.

Health & Wellbeing

For July’s Health and Wellbeing section, SBT takes a look at the importance surrounding first aid training in the workplace and the practicalities employers should consider surrounding this.

Cover Feature: Hastings Direct

As one of the biggest employers in the South East, Hastings Direct is a successful, national company located in the quiet seaside town of Bexhill-on-Sea. This issue of Sussex Business Times marks their 20th anniversary.

Tried and Tested in Sussex

SBT took to Brighton for lunch at Edendum, whilst Editor, Jess Saunders enjoyed an overnight stay at the very local Boship Farm Hotel.

Chamber News

Sussex Business Times has partnered with Chichester Chamber of Commerce again this month, providing insight on what to expect from the community in upcoming months.

Motoring

For this month’s motoring review, Sussex Business Times got behind the wheels of Alfa Romeo’s Giulietta model and one of Volvo’s newest models – the V60 Twin Engine.

Ask the Experts

Local Sussex business experts advise on relevant issues.

Made in Sussex

This month’s home-grown hero is Hoogly Tea.

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SBTLocal News Local Company Pegasus Unveils New Brand Identiy as it Celebrates a Year as Part of Ashfield

Pegasus has unveiled a new brand identity, signalling its successful integration with the global business, a year on from acquisition. Conceived by Pegasus’s in-house creative services team, the new look now lives across its internal and external channels. The new brand is just one part of the Brighton agency’s continuous evolution. Fixed on its course to inspire healthy decisions through creative integrated communications, Pegasus has built a team of 110 people working with a ‘health first, sector second’ approach. The agency’s capability now spans research & insights, strategic planning, media & influencer relations, creative services, digital & social marketing and corporate services. Managing Director, Simon Hackett commented: “Its strength is in its simplicity, and our compelling mission of ‘inspiring healthy decisions’ remains at its heart. It uses strong graphic devices alongside striking campaign imagery to bring to life our personality and creativity, all backed by the strength and experience of Ashfield.”

Entrepreneurial Students Pitch their Ideas to Local Business Leaders in Dragons’ Den Style Event

Students at Central Sussex College were given the opportunity recently to pitch their own new business plans to a panel of local business leaders at the College’s Dragons’ Den event. Following the format of the popular BBC TV programme, selected students developed fully-scoped business plans to present to experienced business leaders for their feedback, questions and investment. The ten finalists presented their new business ideas to the judges in

front of fellow students and staff in the College’s Corporate Suite. Vice Principal, Dean Wynter, opened the event saying: “I’m delighted to see so many people here today. The Dragons’ Den event gets bigger every year, and this year we have more finalists than ever. The college has always recognised the importance of enterprise, employment and entrepreneurship. It is wonderful to see so many future business leaders here today to pitch to our Dragons.”

Local Charity Wins the Vote and £7,300 at National Insurance Conference Specialist insurers, Ecclesiastical and Ansvar, had three charity initiatives running at the British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA) conference in Manchester earlier this month. During the two days of the conference, brokers were asked to put a coin into ‘bins’ on the exhibition stand to determine the share that three charities would receive of a £10,000 pot. The most popular choice was Children with Cancer Fund (CWCF), which Ansvar

have supported since the beginning of 2016. The Polegate charity received 73% of the vote and have received a cheque for £7,300. Clare Brooks at Children with Cancer Fund, said: “We’re so pleased that the brokers at BIBA were so keen to support the work of our charity. With this donation, we can take children and their families to a Christmas pantomime, throw a party for them and build friendships and support networks so the children and their families realise they are not alone.”

Business Owners Facing Court Judgements for Ignoring Workplace Pension Notices Warns Local Tax Specialist Local business owners could face County Court Judgements if they fail to act on workplace pension schemes, a local tax specialist has warned. Mark Jury, who runs TaxAssist Accountants in Crowborough, said: “In the first quarter of this year, over 17,000 fines and other sanctions have been issued to small businesses who did not meet their staging date for the new auto-enrolment pensions. One small business, which cited work pressures as a reason for not complying with the

6 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

new regulations, was given a £40,000 fine, plus court costs. “Businesses that have ignored penalty notices are now receiving County Court Judgements, which could seriously affect their credit rating and ability to borrow money in the future. The Pensions Regulator has also said that it intends to publish details of those companies.

“Any employer who fails to comply, could face a £400 fixed penalty escalating to daily fines set at a minimum of £50 per day, £500 per day if they have over five employees, reaching a maximum of £10,000 per day if they have 500 or more employees, with the possibility of civil penalties and court action.”

SBTLocal News Nicholas Mercer Wins Chairman’s Awards for Leadership in Corporate Responsbility Nicholas Mercer, Commercial Director of Eurostar International, is celebrating after winning ‘Chairman’s Award for Leadership in Corporate Responsibility’ at the Institute of Director’s Director of the Year Awards for London and South East 2017. He commented: “It is a great honour to have won this IOD Director of the Year Award. Celebrating great leadership is becoming even more important in the ever-changing world we are having to navigate our way through. The IOD plays a key role in influencing government about the importance of business, as well as

helping us as Directors to develop our skills and to network with likeminded peers.” The awards, hosted by television Presenter Declan Curry, celebrate the exemplary leaders who are doing great work across London and the South East of England, rewarding individuals who display professionalism, diligence and creativity to inspire employees. Alan Fitzwater, Director of Regional Engagement at the IoD said of the awards: “The award finalists represent the best of business across the South East, with SME’s, International businesses and start-ups all wellrepresented.”

Hospice Jumps for Joy with Help from the Driftwood Bexhill

The Driftwood Bexhill, Sussex’s designer boutique guesthouse, presented a cheque for £720 to St Michaels Hospice, Hastings.

The Driftwood is situated by the beach and the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill. Located at 40 Sackville Road, it was bought by Sussex residents, Seng Loy and Li Hunt in 2016, and with the help of London interior designer, Mark Standing, it has evolved from a derelict four-story Victorian building into The Driftwood Bexhill - that opened its doors in March 2017. Seng Loy and Li Hunt raised the money with an online auction of a brand new luxurious Hypnos kingsized bed, with a mattress and designer headboard. Laura Sully, Community Fundraiser at St Michael’s Hospice, said she was thrilled to accept the cheque on behalf of St Micheal’s Hospice. She said: “A massive thank you to The Driftwood Bexhill for coming up with such a novel idea to raise money for us. It is gratefully received and will make a big difference to the hospice,” she said.

Burgess Hill Company Shows No Signs of Slowing Down

One of Burgess Hill’s most established companies, Art D’Signs, celebrated four decades in business last month. Established in June 1977, the organisation has since become one of the most successful sign-writing and production companies in Sussex. Yet despite its long history in Burgess Hill, it shows no signs of ageing. Graham Harriott and Steve Wick, who run Art D’Signs from their workshop in the Victoria Business Park, recently won ‘Wrap of the Year 2016’ at the British Sign Awards for sign-wrapping a car for Gatwick Diamond Business, and the company remains the first port-of-call for car enthusiasts in the local area. Sally Brown, Office and Event Manager at Gatwick Diamond Business, congratulated the organisation on its success: “We really enjoyed working with Art D’Signs – forty years is no mean feat, and we wish them every success moving forward.” Graham, who has been with Art D’Signs almost since its inception, said: “It makes me feel old looking back on four decades of memories. We’ve had some interesting jobs during that time - wrapping a Mini Cooper for the Millennium Time Vault, sign-writing the side of an aeroplane or hanging off the side of a car ferry to apply graphics to the bow, it’s definitely been memorable!”

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 7

HD A4

SBTNational News Cybercrime Seen as Biggest Threat to Financial Institutions

Banking and investment management professionals think that the biggest threat of financial crime now stems from cyberspace, according to new research. A survey of nearly 200 senior professionals working in retail banks, investment banks and asset management firms, conducted by information provider LexisNexis Risk Solutions, shows that 44% currently perceive so-called evolving criminal methodologies, like cyber crime, to be the single biggest financial crime risk for their businesses. A total of 41% say that such methodologies will represent the biggest risk over the coming 12 months, but 92% said that they are concerned that their organisation’s legacy technology is “a barrier to fighting financial crime over the next one to two years”. And a staggering 87% said that their business isn’t able to enhance their technology fast enough to counter evolving criminal methods. In addition to this, three in four UK businesses have reported a digital skills shortage among their employees, according to a separate BCC report, despite 84% of firms admitting that digital and IT skills are more important to their enterprise now than two years ago.

UK Retirement Could To Hit 80 as £53bn Shopping OnAge Mobile Top Pensions By 2024 Deficit Sets Off Time Bomb The UK has been told to prepare for a workforce of 80-year-olds as the world’s leading economies struggle to deal with a £54 trillion pensions time bomb. The amount could balloon to an astonishing £334 trillion by 2050 unless policymakers take urgent action, the World Economic Forum has warned. An ageing population, falling birth rates and poor access to pension products were the main sources of the widening gap between what people are saving and the amount they would have to put away to adequately fund their retirement, the WEF said. The

projection is based on the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) recommendation that people should have retirement income of around 70% of their salary. “Policymakers do need to be thinking now about how to integrate 75- and even 80-year-olds in the workplace,” Michael Drexler, head of financial and infrastructure systems for the WEF told The Financial Times. The WEF said life expectancy has risen rapidly since the 1950s, increasing by two years every decade on average. Babies born now can expect to live longer than 100 years.

Salaries on the Rise as Companies Compete for the Best Candidates Select Appointments is recommending that employers seriously consider increasing salaries if they want to attract the right candidates for jobs. According to a recent survey of employers by the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) 42% of companies looking to hire have been forced increase the salary on offer to attract the right candidate. The survey also revealed 22% of employers plan to increase permanent headcount in the short and medium term. 19% of employers plan to increase temporary agency headcount in the medium term, and 12 per cent plan to do so in the short term.

Suzie McCafferty, Managing Director of Select Appointments, commented: “As we see from the latest survey by REC candidates are still in very high demand, and if employers want the right people they are going to have to pay for them. We expect this to be a continuing trend for the foreseeable future, as many companies are working flat out with no spare capacity, so candidates are in a very favourable position currently.”

Almost 40% of Alternative Lender Growth Street’s Investors are Millennials Alternative lender Growth Street has revealed that 37.4% of its investors are under the age of 35, contradicting public figures who have chastised millennials for not thinking about saving and investment. Last year, the FT asserted that “20-somethings feel financially doomed so do not save”. However, the simple digital interfaces and investing products offered by alternative lenders like Growth Street are aimed at giving younger people

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more investment flexibility than ever before. Growth Street CEO Greg Carter commented: “Millennials have traditionally been underserved by conventional investment products. In the past, investment products have targeted older individuals with higher disposable incomes,

but Growth Street is turning this convention on its head. “We’re delighted to see that almost 40% of our investors are under 35. Growth Street’s values are aligned with millennials’ financial philosophy: that investment products should be accessible, fair and simple.”

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Summer Essentials Look stylish in the office with SBT’s top picks of shoes, accessories and clothing

Shoes

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CHANEL WOMEN’S SUNGLASSES

BONETTI BROWN £79 www.jonesbootmaker.com

£370 www.visionexpress.com

DUNE LONDON COURTNEE £75 www.dunelondon.com

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TOM FORD SUNGLASSES £230 www.visionexpress.com

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LINEA TESSA PRINTED SHIRT DRESS £69 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

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POLO RALPH LAUREN SLIM-FIT CHECKED SHIRT £85 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

GREY SLIM FIT CHECK SUIT £80 www.burton.co.uk

WAREHOUSE STRIPE SHIRT £60 Littlewoods.com

STONE LINEN HERRINGBONE TROUSERS £20 tuclothing.sainsburys.co.uk

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 11

Irwin Mitchell

The Changing Face of Manufacturing The fourth industrial revolution – Industry 4.0 – is here. Britain can be at the forefront of it just as it was for the first

It is easy to be pessimistic, especially in times of change, Irwin but what is not so Mitchell easy is looking at opportunities for growth, development and innovation in a landscape still dominated by talk of rising production costs, reduced access to international markets and the threat of impending tariffs. That is precisely what UK manufacturers continue to do, however, confounding any fears that Brexit might have caused manufacturing to hit the buffers. The UK Manufacturing PMI remains comfortably above the 50 mark, the level which would indicate stagnation in manufacturers’ investment intentions; the index’s recent upward trend to 56.7 evidences a clear intention amongst the UK’s manufacturers to invest and expand their operations to take advantage of

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the increase in demand both at home and abroad. Employment figures are encouraging, as are order books – at the end of 2016 backlogs of work increased for the first time since February 2014. On an annualised basis, manufacturing output is up by over 20% year-on-year. On the other hand, Brexit and domestic political turmoil continue to present an uncertain future and the impact of President Trump’s administration’s protectionist policies are yet to be felt on this side of the Atlantic. Rising energy costs remain an issue for small and large companies in the UK, as does the skills shortage in STEM subjects. Private enterprise may be able to ride out the storm but it will take Government intervention to properly address the systemic challenges to the sector; the recent Industrial strategy may be the starting gun for just such an intervention. There has been turbulence this year; the Society of Motor Manufacturers &

Traders reported slower investment following several years of strong growth – despite Nissan’s commitment to two new plants in the North East. Some see this development as the bellwether for the sector as a whole as it slowly recognises the reality of a harsher post-Brexit trading environment. Perhaps the glowing growth figures belie an impending downturn of which the SMMT’s announcement is a portent. In truth, it remains too early to tell. There are a number of challenges to the status quo for UK plc. But the changing face of manufacturing is as much, if not more, about what companies are doing to force change in the sector as it is about what companies are doing to react to existential threats. Industry 4.0 – the trend toward automation and use of data – represents just such a shift and it is one being embraced by companies and government alike. Investment in R&D is up but it still

Irwin Mitchell

lags behind other OECD countries. Project is a fantastic vision of the future The Government has pledged to with its commitment to developing a invest an extra £4.7 billion in research closed-loop supply chain. Many more are and innovation in the next four years likely to follow suit. in an effort to replicate and build on The sector’s future will be shaped more the breakthroughs achieved in recent by people than by products or processes. years by the likes of the High Value Many would argue that this is where the Manufacturing Catapult centres. The sector’s greatest challenge lies, in shaking capability of these world-class centres of off its long established reputation as the technological and process innovation is dirty underbelly of UK plc and presenting an example for how Industry 4.0 should it as a beacon of advancement and be embraced; achievement. Only the Government’s by attracting the “Whilst it might be too all-party group on brightest minds to early to talk of an I, Industry 4.0 would the sector can it do well to follow the Robot-like future where continue to thrive lead of Rotherham’s in a world where bots are masters of Advanced the vast majority of their own destiny, the Manufacturing tomorrow’s STEM speed at which industry graduates – by Research Centre and is embracing the others. some margin – will However, emanate from opportunities afforded innovation cannot the Far East. The by automation is be driven only by UK will inevitably notable” Government or find itself playing academia; it is the catch-up in an input, investment and enthusiasm of effort to deliver better training and skills private enterprise that funds the vast but it shouldn’t prove to be too late, majority of the UK’s manufacturing R&D especially given a strong domestic either in collaboration with the likes of skills base. Perhaps adopting a regular the Catapult centres or through their review structure for skills, similar to the own in-house programs. Notably, of start-of-parliament defence and public Forbes’ list of the world’s most innovative spending reviews would help focus the companies, six are UK-based with four Government’s efforts - and investment. of them - SABMiller, Smith & Nephew, The uncertainty around Brexit Reckitt Benckiser and ARM Group - flying should invite reserved judgment – and the flag for the UK’s manufacturing sector. commentary – for later. Nothing is Even away from the PLCs, innovation is known of what form our post-Brexit no less noteworthy; Islabikes’ Imagine trading landscape will take and, whilst

Brexit will undoubtedly be a key part of what constitutes the changing face of manufacturing, it is only part of the puzzle for the sector. Automation will have an increasingly significant role in shaping the workforce of the future, and the extent to which automation jeopardises the human role in the manufacturing process will depend not only on the speed of technological development but the attitude of policymakers. Whilst it might be too early to talk of an I, Robot-like future where bots are masters of their own destiny, the speed at which industry is embracing the opportunities afforded by automation is notable. With increased productivity, better development of skills and access to international markets, the sector should prosper. And driving all of that will be the UK’s continued innovation and investment toward a changed face of manufacturing – leading the way on the fourth industrial revolution just as we did on the first.

Dorrien Peters, Head of Manufacturing T: 0114 274 4947 E: dorrien.peters@irwinmitchell.com

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 13

Spectrum

Spectrum Success Built on ‘Incredibly Talented’ Team The 21-strong Spectrum team outside their offices in Battle

A financial services business in Battle is riding high following a massive increase in business over the last four years. Here, Sussex Business Times gets the low down

From their modern office complex in the heart of 1066 Spectrum country, Spectrum Independent Financial Advice has tripled in size in just four years, with 21 people now working with large businesses, entrepreneurs, families and individuals. Terry Weston, Managing Director of Spectrum Independent Financial Advice, is absolutely delighted that his vision for the company is being realised. He said: “When I opened the Battle office my overriding objective was to create and develop a fresh approach to financial advice that would not only resonate with our long standing professional contacts, businesses and high net worth clients, but also with people on

14 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

more modest incomes looking to move house, efficiently invest savings or start a pension. “I think that objective has been achieved, not just by securing the outcomes our clients want, but also by investing our time in the added value elements of the relationship, such as great service at all times and also being unflinchingly transparent with people.” One of the areas within Spectrum that has seen consistently strong activity in recent years is the Auto Enrolment department. Auto Enrolment is the government initiative to give all employees access to a workplace pension. Geoff Fillery, Corporate Services Director, said: “We work with around 100 SMEs throughout Sussex, Kent and London. As well as advising the employer we make an extra effort to provide ‘jargon

free’ information to employees and members, many of whom are now being enrolled into a pension for the very first time. “We also work closely with a number of payroll agencies that can provide the required Auto Enrolment process, but not the softer employee communications, which many of our schemes have benefited from.” Spectrum has seen growth across the business, not least in pension enquiries. Ever since the previous Chancellor, now Evening Standard Editor, George Osborne, fired the starting gun on historic freedoms in how you can put money in and take money out of a pension pot, the team has been busy helping clients make the most of the new opportunities. Graham Peters, Director, said: “In addition to advice on the seismic

Spectrum

changes in pension arrangements, we are also helping investors, often private businesses, with commercial property purchases using pensions.” Another complex and critically important area of advice that has rocketed in demand in recent times is later life care. The subject is always very topical, especially after politicians during the election campaign pitched into how care fees will be financed in the future. The furore followed a sudden U-turn in the Conservative manifesto. Jeremy Over, Director of Later Life Services at Spectrum, and one of a very small number of fully accredited Society of Later Life Advisers, also said: “Typically, clients are looking to understand the care system and what is provided and by whom. The majority have to fund their own care and need advice in protecting as many of their assets as possible, whilst still covering their fees.

Terry Weston, Managing Director of Spectrum Independent Financial Advice

Geoff Fillery, Corporate Services Director, Spectrum Independent Financial Advice

Graham Peters, Director, Spectrum Independent Financial Advice

Jeremy Over, Director of Later Life Services, Spectrum Independent Financial Advice

“In addition to surges in re-mortgages and house purchases, we have received unprecedented enquiries for bridging finance, commercial mortgages, secured loans, and equity release for the elderly” “The recent political statements regarding social care have worried people and complicated an already complex area. Most politicians don’t appear to have any idea of the care system and how people struggle to meet the costs.” The Spectrum property finance experts are also reporting a substantial increase in activity. Steve Opie, Director, said: “In addition to surges in re-mortgages and house purchases, we have received unprecedented enquiries for bridging finance, commercial mortgages, secured loans, and equity release for the elderly.” Terry added: “One of the most rewarding aspects of our success is the number of rising stars we’ve recruited. They make me feel a little old, but the young people working for us have got great careers ahead of them because they are incredibly talented, and that’s also good news for all our clients.”

Steve Opie, Director, Spectrum Independent Financial Advice

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

STUNNING APARTMENT FOR SALE THREE BEDROOM AND DOUBLE BATHROOM APARTMENT FOR SALE IN THE TRADITIONAL VILLAGE OF LA UNION, LOCATED NEAR THE REGION OF MURCIA, SPAIN

On offer here is a beautiful three bedroom apartment situated in the unique village of LA Union. Located close to La Manga and the port town of Cartagena, this large apartment (which features two bathrooms and a fully fitted kitchen, including fridge freezer, washing machine, cooker, hob and a range of new units) is in a prime location. With a picturesque view of the nearby mountains and annual maintenance fees of just €640 per year, you really couldn’t ask for more! 16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

€65,000

Image: La Manga

• Three double bedrooms, two with fitted wardrobes • Two fully-tiled bathrooms • Underground garage space (electric doors) • Interior store room • Large lounge with accommodating balcony • Utility room with fitted washing machine and sink • Fully-fitted kitchen including all appliances • Wooden floors throughout • Lifts to all building floors www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT GIOVANNI DE CLEMENTE ON 07702 499645

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On offer here is a beautiful three bedroom apartment situated in the unique village of LA Union. Located close to La Manga and the port town of Cartagena, situated on the second floor of the small select block, this large family property has never before been lived in and sits in immaculate condition. The apartment has been reduced to attract easy purchase of a relocating family or a consortium of golfers, and of course, being in close proximity to the La Manga Campo de Golf as well as other polaris resorts is an added bonus!

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General Election 2017

Following on from last month’s General Election results, Sussex Business Times explore the effects of the result of a Hung Parliament on business in the UK. We hear from Sheen Stickland Chartered Accountants, as well as other Sussexbased companies, to get feedback on their thoughts

The General Election 2017:

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What Does it Mean for Business in the UK?

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As we all know – after all, it’s all we’ve heard about Focus for the last few months – the United Kingdom General Election 2017 took place on June 8th. Each of the 650 constituencies elected one Member of Parliament to the House of Commons. Although an Election had not been due until 7th May 2020, current Prime Minister, Theresa May called for a Snap Election, leading to much controversy amongst many sectors, and boy did we hear about it! So how did Britain vote in the Election? Following on from the results of the Election being released, YouGov interviewed over 50,000 British adults to gather information on how the country voted; one of the largest surveys ever undertaken into British voting behaviour. Their results showed that amongst first time voters (those aged 18 and 19), the Labour party was 47 percentage points ahead, while amongst those over the age of 70, the Conservatives has a lead of 50 percentage points. Of course, figures in between showed a steady correlation, with the Tories becoming more popular as we go up the age scale. Alongside age, education has become one of the key electoral demographic dividing lines. Amongst those with low educational qualifications (defined as GCSE or equivalent or below) the Conservatives beat Labour by 22%. However, amongst those with high level educational qualifications (defined as degree-level or above), Labour led by 17 percentage points. Part of this relationship is down to age – the expansion of education means

that, on average, the young have more qualifications than the old, although the Conservatives still have a “graduate problem” even after accounting for this. There was only a small gender gap between men and women, with women being equally split between Labour and the Conservatives, and men slightly more likely to have backed the Tories. With regards to employment status, Labour was in fact ahead amongst those in work; 4 points ahead amongst those working part-time and 6 points ahead amongst those working full time, showing how the Conservatives are increasingly relying on the retired vote. Of course, we could go on in explaining the votes made by different groups and demographics, but now that it’s all over and done with, the element at the top of everyone’s minds is the result – a Hung Parliament. But what does this mean? For those who need some clarification on what a Hung Parliament actually is, it’s when a General Election results in no single political party winning an overall majority in the House of Commons. In our situation, the Conservatives failed to acquire enough seats to be victorious in winning the majority, losing 32 seats in total. As a result of this, it was unclear as to whether or not Theresa May would remain as the UK’s Prime Minister, however the Prime Minister only has to resign if it is clear that they cannot command a majority of the House of Commons on votes of confidence or supply. We all know May is a very determined lady, and she has since ensured that she will remain as PM, much to the annoyance of some people. And what does this result mean for Brexit? Because of the resulting Hung Parliament, Britain’s exit from the EU has been plunged into further uncertainty – a feeling that’s been in the air since the vote to leave in June last year. If the Conservatives form a minority government, Theresa May could start negotiations but she might have to water down her plans if she wanted to get any Brexit-related legislation through the House of Commons, where she will need the support of other parties. This is Sussex Business Times after all, and what we’re really interested to know is how the results of this year’s General Election will affect UK businesses, big and small…

Creative Commons - UK Home Office: Theresa May, Prime minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland ©

General Election 2017

James Pitman, Managing Director, Higher Education UK & Europe, Study Group: “We’re look forward to working collaboratively with the new government to create a visa regime for international students that is robust, clear and free from abuse. “Despite government threats, there have been no further damaging restrictions this year aimed towards international students. The Conservatives did however include a pledge in their manifesto to “toughen the visa requirements for students”. We hope that the new government will base any new policies on accurate data, and work with the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the sector to establish the true number of student overstayers. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), part of the Home Office, has acknowledged that students are essentially ‘one in, one out’, and

“Because of the resulting Hung Parliament, Britain’s exit from the EU has been plunged into further uncertainty – a feeling that’s been in the air since the vote to leave in June last year”

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General Election 2017

David Jinks, Head of Consumer Research, ParcelHero: “While many businesses will be dismayed by the uncertainty caused by a hung parliament, the international parcel broker ParcelHero says the result could in fact be remarkably good news for exporters and international freight transport companies. “May will now form an alliance with the DUP in order for the Conservatives to remain in office; but there will be an increased need for consensus with other parties - and both the Labour Party and Lib-Dems are in favour of a softer Brexit. “Our industry had been looking at a likely scenario of a Brexit deal that involved the UK leaving the Single Market; inevitably leading to new tariffs

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Creative Commons - Chatham House, London: Jeremy Corbyn, Leader of the Labour Party, UK ©

hopefully this will be reflected in future policy. “A hostile regulatory environment over the last 7 years has already damaged the UK’s reputation abroad, but it’s not too late for a new government to make some small changes to ensure we maintain our position as a global study destination. “International education arguably has the greatest post Brexit opportunity for growth of any sector and we would like to see the government engaging with the sector to drive a national strategy to grow international student numbers, because like tourists the benefits are substantial for the whole of the UK.”

“In further good news for exporters the result has again weakened the pound; which makes UK products increasingly affordable overseas. It’s an ill wind that blows nobody any go” and Customs delays. However, Labour and the Conservatives oppose leaving the Single Market. That means the odds are that we will now get a Brexit deal that is considerably softer-boiled than it would have been, in order for it to pass the promised vote for MPs at the end of the negotiations.

‘In further good news for exporters the result has again weakened the pound; which makes UK products increasingly affordable overseas. It’s an ill wind that blows nobody any good!” David Maslen, Director, Maslen Estate Agents: “There have been several factors that have impacted the property market over the past few weeks - the triggering of article 50, two May bank holidays and, of course, the election and the uncertain outcome. While there are still plenty of people looking to buy, as demand in Brighton and Hove continues to outweigh supply, buyers are more cautious and are not paying the prices they were a few months ago. As a result, property prices have dropped slightly. “We need to get a stable government and clear Brexit negotiations underway as quickly as possible to re-strengthen the property market. The government should also life the additional stamp duty incurred for second homes and investment purchases to encourage more people to invest in property.” Of course, times change incredibly quickly within the world of politics, and things might well be very different by the time you read this; that’s the only thing we can really be certain of! What will happen in the forthcoming years, who knows?

General Election 2017

Jack Bedell-Pearce, Managing Director, 4D Data Centres: “If there is one thing most economists can agree on, it’s that businesses abhor uncertainty. By all accounts then, the recent hung parliament result on 8th June signalled more bad news for British business. But in the weeks that have followed, the market reaction has been much less subdued than expected. “Both the UK economy and migration of skilled workers from the EU are slowing, which is having a dampening effect on business. However, British business is surprisingly adaptable and it seems to be investing in things that will boost productivity in the long term, such as IT infrastructure. Anecdotally, we have seen a significant increase in interest over the past couple of months of local Sussex businesses wanting to improve their IT infrastructure by moving their servers into our Gatwick data centre or increasing their broadband connections.”

Here, Sussex Business Times heard from Sheen Stickland Chartered Accountants who explain themselves their own view on the result of this year’s General Election and what it means for business in the UK… “Theresa May’s aim in calling a snap election was to increase the Conservative party majority and strengthen her hand in the Brexit negotiations. The surprise result has meant that not only is the UK political landscape thrown into uncertainty, but on a wider scale it calls the outcome of the Brexit negotiations into question. In consequence, business leaders are facing a significant challenge. The CBI business lobby group called this a “serious moment for the UK economy.” Brexit is top of the list of priorities for many, with the Institute of Directors demanding a focus away from political rhetoric and towards productive Brexit talks. The manufacturing organisation the EEF felt that it was time for a “careful rethink” of the planned negotiation strategy. “Experts believe this result means that a hard Brexit is less likely, but the outcome is far from clear and all predictions should be taken with a pinch of salt. This, in addition to a weakened government means that business owners are facing a period of sustained uncertainty. Even

if parliament pulls together to deliver successful Brexit negotiations, another General Election may be on the cards sooner rather than later which will lead to even more uncertainty on top of the short-term result of fluctuating currency. “It may be harder to predict the future without a clear manifesto or statement of intent, but this doesn’t mean that business leaders are entirely at the mercy of the political landscape. The prospect of a softer Brexit could be a positive sign for companies that trade internationally. The fluctuating value of the pound does present a challenge, but the right foreign exchange strategy can mitigate the risk in this area to an extent. This approach – essentially proceeding with caution – can apply to most areas of business. Growth is still possible in uncertain times but what is clear is that companies need to develop a robust financial plan in order to remain on a firm footing through times of unprecedented change. “Even businesses that do not operate in Europe will be watching parliament closely. Promised developments such as improved infrastructure and connectivity are a priority and may get lost in the

clamour to successfully deliver Brexit. On a more positive note, the government will be more reliant on a range of disparate voices; the lack of a strong majority means that the government will be more reliant on external support and will not be as able to push through unpopular measures. This means SME owners do have the chance to exert more influence on certain issues. Plans such as the Making Tax Digital initiative may face delays due to the political uncertainty, but it is likely that the changes are inevitable in the long term. It’s important for business owners to continue to look to the future and, where possible, plan for anticipated changes in both the political and regulatory environment. Such uncertainty does present a challenge for business owners, but as in all periods of change, this may also be an opportunity. For more information and advice, contact Sheen Stickland on enquiries@sheen-stickland.co.uk or visit www.sheen-stickland.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

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The UK has endured some scorching temperatures over the last few weeks and hot summers bring uncertainty around the maximum temperatures in which pupils and teachers should be expected to work. Here, we outline the legalities surrounding this issue as we prepare for a sizzling few months While it’s common for people in the UK to complain about Education the lack of hot and sunny weather, it’s clear to see roles have reversed in recent months, and as temperatures have hit 34 degrees in some parts of the country, one question has been at the top of the minds of many teachers and students; what are the legalities surrounding education and work in such high temperatures? While there is no concrete law for minimum or maximum temperatures, there are talks of this following on from June’s heatwave, but until – and if – such laws are put into place, it’s important for educators and employers to know what steps and methods can and should be taken to ensure classroom and working environments are reasonable in which to work… According to the NUT (National Union of Teachers), the Health and Safety at

Work Act 1974 requires employers to ensure the health, safety and welfare of their staff and others present in the workplace, thereby providing protection against excessive working temperatures. Of course, in this section of Sussex Business Times, we’re not just speaking of employees and workers, but of pupils too, but given that they undergo similar, extreme weather conditions, they should too be given exactly the same treatment and privileges – if you should call them that – if not more. Children, especially younger children, are likely to suffer more in in extreme heat and may not know exactly how to protect themselves from the risks it poses. Regulation 7 of the Workplace Regulations 1992 also states that employers must ensure that temperatures in workplaces should be ‘reasonable’, although as mentioned earlier, it does not specify a maximum reasonable temperature. So what is a ‘reasonable’ working temperature?

“Children, especially younger children, are likely to suffer more in in extreme heat and may not know exactly how to protect themselves from the risks it poses” It’s common knowledge that incredibly high temperatures can affect the ability of both teachers and students – and any workers for that matter – and concentration levels are often at a low, meaning work is completed inefficiently and to a lower standard. With regards to teachers in particular, those who experience tiredness and loss of concentration due to overheating can also become a danger, with the ability to easily put themselves or others at risk. During these hot conditions, the body’s blood temperature rises and in addition to a loss in productivity, heatwaves can also

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Can’t Take the Heat? Get Out of the Classroom!

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cause a variety of illnesses and physical discomfort, ranging from dizziness, fainting, heat cramps and in some cases, even fits. When temperatures rise higher than ‘too high’ the risk of heat stroke and collapsing is heightened, and when blood temperatures rise above 41 degrees Celsius, delirium and confusion can easily occur. Despite the lack of legalities in this sector of UK law, the World Health Organisation has recommended that 24 degrees Celsius is the maximum temperature for comfortable indoor working, with anything over 26 degrees Celsius being deemed unacceptable. Meanwhile, the TUC has called for a maximum temperature of 30 degrees. Of course, while a large amount of readers will agree with these claims, there are some who will challenge the need for this, stating that in the world of full-time employment, for those who want to keep a steady income, work is crucial. For those completing strenuous work, or for those in an office without air conditioning, employment continues on a daily basis, and so the question remains: would incorporating a maximum temperature for school working be beneficial in fully preparing students for a life of full-time employment? Either way, precautions should be taken, one of which would be to ensure all rooms in the building have a properly designed and installed air conditioning system. A properly maintained air conditioning system is a very effective

24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

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Education

way of reducing temperatures, although these systems are, more often than not, very expensive and aren’t particularly environmentally friendly. Also, in some buildings this method isn’t possible, either because of the age of the building or because of planning restrictions. Alternatively, redesigning the work or education area and adding the installation of fans is another avenue to go down. Often simply moving people away from windows or reducing the rise in heat by installing reflective blinds to windows is another effective way of being precautious.

Equally, the installation of water coolers will provide students with unlimited access to hydration throughout the day – an incredibly vital element of staying healthy during the summer period. A large amount of schools and colleges will only allow students to drink outside a classroom or during given breaks, and so being more lenient by allowing students to drink bottled or cups of water during lesson will add to the list of successful methods to take. If there’s one thing that school bodies are strict on with regards to their students and employees, it’s dress codes. Teachers are of course, expected to dress in a smart attire, and uniforms are compulsory for students. While some schools have a more casual uniform for their pupils – black trousers and polo tops – some enforce blazers and long sleeved shirts. Permitting a more laid back dress code for both teachers and students will allow them to keep cooler in such high temperatures. Even if it’s against school policy, it’s definitely something that should be considered! The list could go on – sensible timetabling, starting and finishing school times, appropriate changes to school lunch menus – and each and every school body should ensure that at least some of these changes are enforced to ensure a productive and generally more ecthical educational environment as we head for an extremely hot summer in the UK.

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Fighting Cybercrime

Fighting Cybercrime Cybercrime has hit the business news headlines numerous times in the last few months, and following on from this, Sussex Business Times outlines the importance of cyber security and explores the methods to take to ensure a secure and stable business

their employees. According to an article that appeared in Computer Weekly, almost half of the UK’s firms lack advanced cyber defenses, despite the high – and growing – level of concern surrounding cyber attacks and the costs associated with this. Managing malware alone costs around £7.5 billion, while data theft incidents cost £6.2 billion, and so it’s clear to see that the costs surround this issue are especially high. Managing Director at UKi, Graham Johnson commented: “Cybersecurity breaches are now happening regularly on an international scale and thus hacking into autonomous vessel or vehicle technologies is a very real threat. The transport industry needs to stay one step ahead of the cyberterrorists. With many of the world’s leading experts in shipping and automotive autonomous technology speaking and presenting papers at our conferences, solutions can be found, discussed and debated.” Up until recently, it has generally been rare that IT news hits the headlines, but you can’t

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have missed the news about the Ransomware attacks that happened across the globe in recent months, one of which exploited a flaw in Microsoft software, leading to cyber-attacks on 200,000 computers across the world. Victims of the attack

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Insight

Cybercrime is a huge and growing issue in today’s business world, and it’s becoming more and more of a concern for business owners and

included 48 NHS Trusts in England as well as Germany’s rail network, Deutcsche Bahn, and the global FedEx network. The spread was limited in part by 22-year-old Marcus Hutchins, a researcher who ended up being an accidental hero as his tracking the spread of the virus helped to prevent it. There are concerns that systems remain vulnerable, and it’s important to keep this type of security top of mind when managing IT. Results of a new RSM survey has revealed that 40% of organisations admit they have been a victim of cybercrime, with over a quarter saying they have been hit in the past 12 months. Worryingly, despite the high level of incidents, one in five firms that have suffered breaches have since done

Fighting Cybercrime

attempt with malicious content, the business ramifications could have been catastrophic.” Industry Analyst, Digital Transformation at Frost & Sullivan, Vijay Michalik also commented: “While the attack was stopped in its tracks as a kill-switch was found and activated by a cybersecurity researcher known as MalwareTech, it is highly likely that a new strain will appear without this flaw. The kill-switch doesn’t decrypt the files that are already compromised, and it doesn’t appear that the encryption has its own exploitable flaw.” We also spoke to JSPC Computer Services who provides you with everything you need to know surrounding the nature of these attacks, and the methods to take to ensure a minimised risk…

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What is Ransonware? Ransonware is the name for a specific attack, which prevents access to files and demands a payment – essentially a ransom – for their return. Often the demands start small and if they are ignored, increase over time or threaten the destruction or sharing of valuable or sensitive files.

“Employees are your strongest and most visible brand ambassadors, and to endorse what your brand stands for, they should understand and reflect your brand values”

nothing to protect themselves against future attacks. The survey also pointed to significant complacency with respect to data held with third parties. More than 60% of respondents said they outsourced data hosting or handling to a third party, but over half of said they were not aware of the third party’s cybersecurity policies. “The events of the last few days have shown just how disruptive a cyber-attack can be and how important effective defenses are,” said Steve Snaith, a technology risk assurance partner at RSM. “However, our recent ethical hacking exercise has revealed some startling weaknesses in the defenses of sizeable middle market companies that you would expect to be better prepared to withstand an attack. If we had been carrying out a genuine hacking

How can you prevent attacks? The extent of the spread of this attack demonstrates that you can’t entirely prevent attacks. A determined hacker will at some point find a loophole in security and exploit it. However, there are measures to limit the likelihood of an attack and the impact if it does occur. An audit of current security precautions is the first place to start. This includes not only looking at whether firewalls and virus trackers are up to date and effective, but also looking at practices that may be making a network vulnerable. This includes considering how data is stored and shared across an organisation. In many cases, staff training is as important as the technology. Incorporate cyber-attacks into your disaster recovery strategy This latest threat may have been stopped for the most part, but in time, it is likely that another threat will arise from socalled “black hat” hackers. This is why it’s important that alongside protective measures to prevent an attack, to also prepare for the worst. A disaster recovery plan should include details of how to

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Fighting Cybercrime

prevent the spread across the network, backup storage and data encryption. JSPC Computer Services track the trends in cyber security to help clients protect themselves. Not all of them hit the headlines as this high profile ransomware attack has done because often they can be stopped before they do too much damage. To avoid becoming a victim of ransomware or other malware, contact JSPC Computer Services a call to audit your current set up and advise how you can protect yourself. Companies are also encouraged to protect themselves against some of the recognisable, common cyberattack methods, some of which include: • Insider attacks: Employees downloading sensitive or confidential data and selling it on. • Phishing: Multiple individuals are targeted by a single scam. A blanket email is sent in the hope that some will reply with sensitive information, transfer funds or open rogue links or attachments.

• Whaling: A small group of individuals with significant data access are targeted. A hacker poses as a senior company official and requests personal information, bank detail changes or a large funds transfer. • System vulnerability exploitation: Weaknesses in system controls, for example not patching systems with the latest security updates and uncontrolled use of open source software, can lead to consequential loss. Of course, it’s not just UK businesses that are affected by cyber attacks – many aspects of life in the UK are exposed to potential cyberterrorists and attacks, especially in a day and age where the majority of day to day tasks are completed with the help of technologies. An example of this is voting in the General Election. The most clear threat to online voting is the prospect of a cyber attack. If malicious actors were able to hack into the voting system, they might be able to manipulate the result. The threat of this has grown in recent years. Russian

hackers are said to have interfered in last year’s US election by stealing information from US Democrats. Being able to target the voting system itself would be a much bigger prize. Cyber attacks might not even have to be successful to undermine online voting; even the suggestion that the system could be targeted could damage trust in the result of an online election. After all, we might not know if something did go wrong. Voting on paper almost guarantees anonymity, as there is no record of who completed each slip, whereas this might not be the case online. In theory, every vote would have a digital trail linking it back to the voter themselves. This list could go on, but the bottom line here is that, while cybercrime has always been an issue, it’s becoming a growing concern and all the while technologies and softwares are innovating, the importance of making sure your business is secure from attacks of this kind should be very high on the list of priorities for business leaders.

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Employee Benefits That Protect Businesses And Their Staff

Employers have a duty of care to their staff. They have Advertorial to make provision for pensions now, but other employee benefits are available that can boost morale and help attract and retain the right calibre of staff – factors that are essential to business growth. Many companies provide life insurance for their staff. The sum assured is usually between one and four times salary. This is relatively inexpensive and has been coming down in price in recent years as people live longer. Increasingly companies are now looking to insure employees’ income when they are unable to work on a long-term basis. There are serious implications in dismissing somebody that is ill. The real cost of an employee

being absent is much higher than many companies realise and Income Protection Insurance can address this. Some insurers are now offering a service, free of charge, which can be used to show the actual cost of an employee becoming ill based on an employer’s details and staff policies, often the cost of Income Protection is less than this. Stress in the workplace is a serious problem and can result in employees taking action against an employer. An inexpensive way of protecting the employer and providing a valuable service to staff is to provide an Employee Assistance Programme. These are often included free within some Income Protection and Group Life Insurance policies, but an EAP can be bought separately for as little as £12 per annum per person. These plans usually include telephone counselling and perhaps a limited session of face-to-

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Health & Wellbeing

The Importance of First Aid in the Workplace As an employer, you are responsible for Health & making sure that all Wellbeing of your employees (and any visitors whom might visit or pass through your workplace) receive immediate attention if they are injured or are taken unwell within their place of work. Accidents and illnesses can occur at any time, and take place all too often in the UK on a daily basis. According to YouGov, in 2015/2016, more than 40 workers were killed as a result of a workplace accident, a fall from a height being responsible for 26% of these, being struck by a moving vehicle responsible for 19% and 10% of these were due to workers being struck by a moving object – the most common form of fatal accidents, accounting for just over half of all workplace fatalities. In addition to this, an estimated 621,000 workers sustained a non-fatal injury at work during the years of 2015 and 2016. 200,000 of which led to over 3 days absence from work, while 152,000 led to over 7 days absence. Being injured handling, lifting or carrying (20%), slipping or tripping (19%), and being hit by a moving object (10%) were the most common kind of non-fatal accidents in the workplace, accounting for around half of all non-fatal injuries. There were 72,702 non-fatal injuries to employees reported by employers – a shocking statistic when considering the amount of workplace accidents to occur within these years. Of course, it’s not just accidents of this kind that employers

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For July’s Health and Wellbeing section, Sussex Business Times takes a look at the importance surrounding first aid training in the workplace and the practicalities employers should consider surround this

need to be weary of – illnesses can occur at any given time. For employers, one of the first and most important responsibilities to be seen to before any other factor of owning or running a business is to make appropriate first-aid arrangements for the workplace. While the Health and Safety Regulations Act 1981 requires all

employers to provide “adequate” and appropriate” equipment, facilities and personnel to ensure their employees receive immediate attention when in an emergency situation, the extent of this is determined by nature of the workforce and workplace. In doing this, you should consider the circumstances of your workplace, workforce and the health and

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Health & Wellbeing

safety risks that may be present to help you decide what arrangements you need to put in place. Of course, all workplaces are different, sometimes even opposite, and so first aid practicalities will be very different. For example, those employing people in an office environment will have priorities in different areas than those employing staff on a building site. Some small, low-risk workplaces need to have only a first-aid box and a person appointed to take charge of first-aid arrangements such as calling the emergency services and stocking the first-aid box. The appointed person does not need specific first-aid training, however if your workplace has more substantial health and safety risks then you are more likely to need someone specifically trained in first aid. So, what determines a suitable appointed person? Any employer should appoint someone to take charge of first-aid arrangements as the the minimum requirement. Even in a small, low-hazard business where first-aiders are not considered necessary, there is always the possibility that an accident or sudden illness may occur. It is therefore important that there is always someone available to take charge of these arrangements. The role of this

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appointed person includes looking after first-aid equipment and facilities and calling the emergency services when required. They can also provide emergency cover where a first-aider is absent due to unforeseen circumstances. An appointed person does not need firstaid training, although of course having someone professionally trained in first aid is a bonus for any business. Equally, there is no mandatory list of items to put in a first-aid box – it all depends on what you assess your needs to be. As a guide, where work activities involve low-level hazards, a minimum stock of first-aid items would include the following: • A leaflet giving general guidance on first aid • Individually wrapped sterile plasters (of different sizes), appropriate to the type of work • Sterile eye pads • Individually wrapped triangular bandages • Safety pins • Large, individually wrapped, sterile, unmedicated wound dressings • Medium-sized, individually wrapped, sterile, unmedicated wound dressings • Disposable gloves

Health and safety at work doesn’t necessarily stop once your employees have left the workplace environment – as long as they are overseeing tasks you as an employer have set for them, you still have a duty of care and not seeing this through could be viewed as negligence as your part in legal terms. In assessing your first aid needs as an employer, you should consider a number of other things, including the nature and size of your workforce, the work patterns of your staff, holidays or absences and who will play the appointed first aider in this instance, as well as your company or organisation’s history of accidents in the workplace. You as the employer may also need to consider the needs of employee travelling and the risks that could possibly arise, the distribution of your workforce, the remoteness of work environments or sites from medical services and whether or not your employees work on or in shared sites or environments. So Sussex Business Times is calling all employers and businesses in Sussex to ensure that the importance of first aid is among one of the first elements of owning a business to be considered. Keeping your workforce safe whilst avoiding a damaged reputation couldn’t come easier!

Go to work with a smile At last a customer service job youâ€™ll enjoy

Our colleagues are at the heart of our business. Find out more at:

www.hastings-careers.com @HDCareers

/HastingsDirectCareers

HastingsDirect

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The Right Direction As one of the biggest employers in the South East, Hastings Direct is a successful, national company located in the quiet seaside town of Bexhill-on-Sea. This issue of Sussex Business Times marks their 20th anniversary Celebrating 20 years since the first policy was sold, Hastings Cover Direct has much to be Feature proud of over the past two decades; from being listed on the London Stock Exchange to raising over £1,000,000 for charitable causes, the general insurance provider looks forward to continued success for many years to come. Today, Hastings Direct employs over 2,700 colleagues across its five sites in Bexhill, Leicester, Newmarket, London and Gibraltar. The head office at Conquest House in Bexhill encompasses many different business areas including Claims, Underwriting and Retail as well as HR, Digital & Marketing and Finance. However, when Hastings Direct first opened its doors only a handful of people were employed occupying just the first two floors of Conquest House. Samantha Turner joined Hastings Direct over 20 years ago and was one

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of the company’s first Sales Agents. Throughout the years, Sam’s career has progressed across many different departments including Sales, Customer Service, Complaints and Claims. She has been a Quality Assessor for the past six years. “When I joined Hastings Direct I was part of the first team to take calls and I remember how nervous we all were waiting in anticipation for the first live call to come in! I have lots of fond memories over the years - not only has Hastings Direct given me a great career and friends but it is also where I met my husband and was able to take two maternity leaves to have our daughters. One of my daughters recently completed her work experience at Hastings Direct.” Today, many colleagues live locally in the Bexhill, Hastings and Eastbourne area; however colleagues also travel daily from Essex, London and Kent to work for the successful company. Others have moved back to the Bexhill area and have found the flexibility that Hastings

“I have lot of fond memories over the years - not only has Hastings Direct given me a great career and friends but it is also where I met my husband and was able to take two maternity leaves to have our daughters” - Samantha Turner, Quality Assessor at Hastings Direct

Cover Feature: Hastings Direct

Samantha Turner

Direct can offer means they can achieve the perfect work/life balance. Natalie Sadlier, PR Manager, recently moved back to the coast with her young family after a successful career at ITV in London. “I grew up in Bexhill and when I moved back to the town two years ago, Hastings Direct not only gave me the chance to continue my career in Public Relations, but I was also able to fulfil the job during hours that fitted around my children and school times – something I am unsure any other local employer could offer.” Dee Flower joined Hastings Direct eight years ago after a ten year career in recruitment in London. “Before joining Hastings Direct I had never worked in a contact centre, but found that I loved it! My career at Hastings Direct has been varied – I moved from the contact centre to the Quality department, then to Retail as an Academy Team Leader. I now work within Recruitment to help the team bring the best people into the contact centre as well as supporting and coaching Team Leaders with their interview skills.” Putting colleagues at the centre of what they do, Hastings Direct demonstrates a commitment to its colleagues with year round recognition schemes, annual awards evenings, long service rewards and Christmas parties. Hastings Direct also offers great career options and development opportunities. Jon Hermon joined the company in 2001 for a short term summer job as a

Dee Flower

Jon Hermon

Sales Agent before going to university; however Jon’s summer turned into a long term career at Hastings Direct and 16 years later, Jon is the company’s Financial Controller. “I’m really proud of the way my career has grown at Hastings Direct and the support I have received. Five years after joining, I qualified as an accountant and had the opportunity to be involved in many of the large corporate transactions over the years, including setting up Advantage Insurance (part of the Hastings Group). I was also involved in

the management buyout in 2009 and various debt and equity transactions since then.” Supporting charities and the local community is at the heart of life at Hastings Direct and a key part of the company’s culture. Over the years Hastings Direct has given over £1,000,000 in community support, donated to over 200 charitable causes, as well as offering support to many local charities and good causes. The company also supports local education through regular employability workshops and their education programme ‘Be the Change’ - which sees Hastings Direct colleagues become mentors to year 9 students at Bexhill Academy. Marking their 20 year anniversary serves to highlight the key role Hastings Direct continues to play in the local and wider community. From offering a wide variety of job and career roles and flexible shift opportunities, to supporting local charities with fundraising and practical help, through to working closely with local school and colleges to provide guidance and advice for their students’ futures, Hastings Direct looks forward to the next 20 years of successes and achievements. Hastings Direct has many exciting career opportunities and roles. To find out more and to hear about the latest open days, visit www.hastings-careers.com

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LinkedIn Business Building

How do you Use LinkedIn for Business Building?

Naomi Johnson, founder of TheProfile.Company and the author of ‘What to Put on Your LinkedIn Profile’, works with companies to translate their brand message into engaging and professional LinkedIn profiles. Here, she explains some of the steps to take that create the ‘know, like and trust’ factor needed to facilitate introductions and bring in sales

If you’re like most people, you’re probably either using Insight LinkedIn really well or curious whether anyone actually gets real business results through it. As an Expert LinkedIn Profile Writer and Strategist, I want to use this article to help dispel some of the myths around LinkedIn and set you on the right path… Start with your outcome: Everyone is time sensitive, but never more so when we’re in a serviced based business where

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time literally is money. Thus, you need to make sure that all of your activities are focused on achieving your outcome: to win new sales. To win new sales, we need to book sales appointments with our ideal clients. When approaching LinkedIn, ask the question “what can I do today to get an ideal prospect on the phone?” Ramp up the ROI on networking: Connect with everyone you meet at a networking event. You’ve given your 60 second pitch, you’ve listened to theirs. Whether you see yourself doing business with this person or not, you came to

“Whether you see yourself doing business with this person or not, you came to the event to meet them and build your network. Once you’re connected, you can stay front of mind even if you can’t attend regularly”

LinkedIn Business Building

the event to meet them and build your network. Once you’re connected, you can stay front of mind even if you can’t attend regularly. For example, one day at a networking event, I began retelling a story to a person I’d only met once four months ago at another networking event. Not only did he remember me from this brief meeting but he jumped in and finished my story for me. How? He saw my post about it on LinkedIn the day before I told him the story. Don’t get forgotten because you can only attend sporadically. Get known.

Connect: Whether you’ve met a person once or have known them a lifetime, they form a valuable part of your network and LinkedIn gives you the ability to hold them all in one place like a bank account that earns interest. When I launched my business, I won a new contract because I replied to a new invitation to connect and asked how I could help. Our only mutual connect (and thus only way he could have learned about me) was a person who I’d met briefly a year before who’d liked a status update that same day. Connect with everyone you meet including people from all areas of your life. You never know when a mutual connection will pay off. Your profile is 24/7: Your activity can only really pay off if you make sense. If your profile doesn’t match the messaging of your marketing materials or what you’d tell a prospect in person, you’re missing a trick. The reason why my status update made an impact on my new client was because I pitched my business,

Adobe Stock ©

Word-of-mouth supercharged: People buy people. LinkedIn doesn’t replace offline networking and relationship building, but your profile will allow you to stay front of mind and present a clear business pitch that gives your network something to refer prospects to. If matched with a ‘Call to Action’ and sales funnel, you’ll quickly be booking sales appointments.

not my CV. Write for your prospect and consider their buying journey. They aren’t here to hire you for a job, so don’t write for a recruiter. Consider: what do they need to know in order to be interested in what I have to offer? What problem do I solve? How do I work with people? How should a prospect approach me? Become a trusted advisor: When you stand for something, you stand out. Let people know the problem you solve in the marketplace so when someone mentions it, your name comes up. Use the Experience section to map out your journey, your unique perspective and how you became an expert. Demonstrate your knowledge by freely sharing insights and content that people will talk about, because if you don’t, someone else online will. Remember, the real money is the implementation that the

right clients will pay for. The quality of your free content will win you the sales appointments you need with people ready and willing to listen to you. Build rapport: Use the summary to build rapport with your prospect. Speak in the first person and use phrases like ‘I believe…’, ‘In my experience…’, ‘I’ve seen it first hand’. Your website is the face of your company, but your profile is YOU. Never sell. You wouldn’t do this in a first meeting. Respect the normal ebbs and flows of relationship building and craft your profile to match. When you have these things in place, you’ll begin to get results from LinkedIn. If you’re curious how your LinkedIn profile matches up, I invite you to book a 30-minute LinkedIn Profile Review with me. Just connect with me on LinkedIn at uk.linkedin. com/in/naomijohnsonuk. Alternatively, our website www.TheProfile.Company is packed with helpful content to get you started.

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Legal

Keeping Above the Law this Summer

Associate Solicitor at Coffin Mew, Tabytha Cunningham, explains the ways in which employers can ensure they stay on the right side of the law with seasonal employees For employers in the leisure, hospitality and tourism sectors, the Legal approach of summer brings with it the need for a temporary increase in the workforce to cope with the busy period. Meeting seasonal demand is both a practical challenge and a risk area for employers. Options for employers dealing with seasonal demand and our top tips are set out below. Fixed term contracts: Fixed-term contracts are contracts of employment to cover a fixed period or task, for example the summer period only. These can be useful to meet seasonal demand, providing certainty and helping to manage expectations on both sides with a clear end date. Top tips: • Remember that fixed term employees are legally entitled to the receive the same contractual benefits and facilities as permanent staff • Include notice provisions in fixed-term contracts in case the employment needs to be terminated early (for example, due to poor performance). Agency workers: Using an employment agency to recruit and supply seasonal workers can significantly reduce the administrative burden of finding and contracting appropriate staff. However, as well as considering the agency costs, employers should be mindful that agency workers are legally entitled to access the same collective facilities and job vacancies as permanent employees from day one, and to the same basic working and employment conditions (including pay) after twelve weeks. Top tip: • Speak with the employment agency

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Existing workforce: For some employers, the extra labour required may simply be covered by the existing workforce, through increasing overtime and offering weekend and evening shifts. Employers may wish to offer increased overtime rates to incentivise current employees to help out with the demand. Top tips: • Include overtime clauses in employees contracts where required. • Remember your obligations relating to working time, particularly in relation to rest periods and the 48-hour limit on working time per week. Other issues to consider Whatever arrangements are put in place, employers should also generally consider: about how they monitor compliance and propose to manage the additional obligations which apply after twelve weeks Zero hours contracts: Zero hour contracts are exactly as the name suggests – there is no obligation on the company to offer, or the individual to accept, any work. These contracts can offer great flexibility to both sides and allow employers to deal with fluctuating demand week to week. Zero-hours contracts have been increasingly criticised by the media and MPs for allegedly allowing organisations to get around employment legislation. Employers should be wary of arguments that individuals on zero-hours contracts may be entitled to employment rights as set out below. Top tip: • Zero hours contracts should be carefully worded to minimise the risk that the individuals are seen as employees and ensure they are compliant.

• Employment Status: Most seasonal workers will be classed as ‘workers’ rather than ‘employees’ and therefore have more limited rights. For example, although workers are entitled to the National Minimum Wage and holiday pay, they are not protected from being unfairly dismissed. Employers should watch out, however, for regular patterns and factors that may point towards employment. • Pension rights: Seasonal workers may be entitled to be automatically enrolled in a qualifying pension scheme, provided they meet the applicable criteria. Employers should therefore seek pension advice before engaging seasonal workers. • Holiday Pay: When engaging seasonal workers, there may be a temptation to roll up holiday pay, by including it in their hourly rate. However, this practice is now unlawful. Individuals should instead be able to take holiday when requested or receive a payment in lieu of the untaken annual leave when their engagement comes to an end.

At Handelsbanken relationship banking still lives up to its name. You only ever deal with people you know by name and decisions are made locally by us at the branch. Our simple aim is to provide the best possible service to our customers. Simon Briggs - Branch Manager, Crawley Tel: 01293 525895 Email: sibr01@handelsbanken.co.uk Chris Mizen - Corporate Manager, Eastbourne Tel: 01323 736074 Email: chmi03@handelsbanken.co.uk

handelsbanken.co.uk

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Silverback Studios

Brand Consistency Creates Stronger Brands Your brand is the personality of your business. Like people, brands have their own image, tone of voice and behaviour. Brand consistency is crucial to creating a successful brand. Cue Silverback Studios! Branding is more than just using a logo consistently. It’s about Advertorial making sure that all of the communications in print and online have the same message and have the same ‘look and feel’. If you are creating a new brand then a good starting point is to define an effective strategy – be clear about your brand values, what your brand stands for and who you are talking to. Once you have a firm brand proposition, you can start to build a visual style – for example, a logo, colour palette, font family, imagery and tone of voice, all based on your brand proposition. By building a strong brand image, you will help the consumer recognise your brand and help it stand out from your competitors. If it is used inconsistently, then it is possible Whilst your visual look may change over that the consumer could become confused time, your core proposition will remain and even mistake one brand for another, unchanged. The brand will evolve, the giving the other company the credit. So a products you offer may change but what distinctive, consistent brand is essential. you stand for will stay the same. Of course brand consistency goes further than just how your brand looks. It’s crucial that you can live up to your brand values. How many times have you bought into a brand only to be let down by awful customer service? It’s important also that the brand is delivered consistently internally. Your staff are your biggest asset and also advocates of your brand and the products you sell. If they feel good about the company they are more likely to recommend it. Virgin is Malcolm Gilbertson an example of a company that is known to Founder & Creative Director Silverback Studios look after its people; they believe that you can create a great place to work by taking “Many clients come to us care of your employees. asking for a new logo but Internal comms play a vital role in engaging and educating your people – we encourage them to companies are now seeing the benefits of think about their brand as looking after the wellbeing of staff, which a whole; to consider how contributes to the success of their brand. the brand will engage with Brand consistency creates recognition, both consumers and staff, clarity and purpose for the consumer, which in turn, creates brand loyalty. to get the best results.”

A bit about Silverback Studios As a full service design agency we pride ourselves on being able to cater to all your brand’s requirements; from brand strategy, naming and logo design to guidelines, print, website design and digital media. Our clients’ aspirations always come first, so we listen to what you need, bring fresh thinking to your brand and help you get the best results.

P S

St • • • • • • • • • • • •

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“EXTREMELY COMPETITIVE OPTION FOR DEVELOPING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS”

M L I F / Y H P A R G O T PHO S E C I V R E S D N A O I STUD Studio and services include: • Unbeatable rates • Private/dry hire or full creative team available • Corporate films on location or studio based • Editing suite will full Adobe Creative Cloud • Complete team on hand to assist • Production team on site • Comprehensive kit list • Make up/changing area for styling • Free Wifi • Lounge area with refreshment facilities & fridge • Male/female toilets • Studio and equipment rental or full creative team available

SHOOTING PORTRAITS, FAMILIES, PETS, PRODUCTS LARGE AND SMALL, OR FOR PRIVATE RENTAL

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 141 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

Contact the team at Life Studios to discuss your requirements or simply to enquire about hourly or day rates for professional hire: 01323 819007 or email contact@lifemediagroup.co.uk

Business Presentations:

Get to the Point! Here, Paul Carroll from Toastmasters International explains the ways in which you can ensure you get straight to the point during those all important business presentations, and knowing when to expand It is very easy to talk too much when giving a presentation. Insight The expert presenter will know lots of facts, figures and anecdotes, but as a business presentation is being given for a purpose, so you must get to the point as soon as possible. This takes some discipline, since we’re fond of padding with details that seem important to us. It is also true that on some occasions we need to provide greater depth of information. Here are some tips on getting to the point and knowing when to expand.

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Getting the balance right Know your audience. If you’re dealing with a long-time client, you should already know what you need to know about them and their level of knowledge of your topic. If it’s a new client, you’ll have to learn. However, if you’re addressing a large group the means might not seem obvious. Get to the venue as early as possible and mingle. Talk to the organisers and hat up those who arrive early. If you know people already you can get information (or confirmation) from them about what they’re expecting to get out of your presentation. Use straightforward active language When people are trying to avoid taking

responsibility you’ll hear the passive voice. “Mistakes were made” rather than “I was wrong.” But when you need action you must use active language. If you say “This should be done” there’s a question about the doer. “You need to do this” is unambiguous. Make a conscious choice to use a metaphor. Metaphors explain the abstract in terms of the concrete and the new in terms of the familiar. l once attended a talk on the spread of disease, the rapid evolution of germs and how they work. My question was why some germs are devastating but harder to catch while others are mild but easier to catch. The speaker was

Adobe Stock ©

Business Presentations

“By keeping your presentation clear and to the point, you have the room to expand on points when you are asked” a biologist, I’m not. When she said, “nature is a ruthless economist” it made the point clear to me immediately. Germs are tiny and have limited energy and so must evolve and develop one capacity or another in order to reproduce. Since I was working in finance, the metaphor of nature being an economist seeking to make efficient decisions made sense to me. Know what message you want to get across so you can cut extraneous detail. When you present to your customers you need to give them enough information to help them understand your message. Too much at once risks overwhelming or confusing them rather than what you want to do: to inform, to get interest and to persuade. A key element in your task in getting to the point is deciding which details to leave out. In a speaking workshop l asked an accountant to give me an example of a personal accounting achievement. He

said he saved his own building $40,000 on a $250,000 renovation job, but before he told me about this, he spoke at length about the characters of various builders, how some tenants wanted one kind of garden entrance and some wanted another, how these groups had fought over wallpaper patterns! I asked him to rewrite this example and, as he came to each tangent, to ask himself, “how important is this background-detail? Is this detail about the garden entrance necessary for the audience to understand how I saved 16% on this contract?” The details had all felt important to him but most of them didn’t add to our understanding of where he made his savings. Having cut most of the particulars, when the accountant presented his example again, the point was clear to an audience of nonaccountants. This had been the goal he set himself. When does a detail cease to be extraneous? When someone asks you to expand on a point The opening of a presentation will have an outline so that the audience knows where you’re heading. Even in the body of the talk, leaving out extraneous detail is important for clarity. That’s a judgement call for the presenter. Ask yourself: is this

fact necessary for understanding what follows? But when someone asks you a question, the question as it’s put to you should indicate which details are necessary for your answer. This allows you to tailor your response whilst achieving maximum impact with your answer. Knowing your audience means anticipating some lines of questioning. For instance, let’s assume you’re a food producer selling a seasonal line to retailers. In giving your presentation, one of the things you might say is “all our ingredients are ethically sourced”. Your audience of retailers should already have an idea of what that means, so you won’t need to go into depth, but someone may want clarification or confirmation and ask, “could you expand on that point?” This question doesn’t indicate which details your customer wants to hear but you can clarify it. Do you mean ‘how do we choose suppliers’? or ‘how do we guarantee that the goods meet certain standards?’ If the answer is the latter… “We get certification from Fair Trade International that the producers of ingredients farmed in the developing world received fair payment. We get certification from the Soil Association that the ingredients are organically grown and processed. We get certification from the Marine Stewardship Council that all our fish, like smoked salmon, is ‘line caught.’” In the main body of your talk you probably couldn’t go into detail on every product you sell but since someone asked about ethical sourcing you had the details to back up your point. No further details are required unless you get follow up questions. In summary, the required skill set is: 1. Knowing your material 2. Knowing your audiences 3. Paying attention to what’s being asked in questions and clarifying when necessary 4. Deciding which details are appropriate. By keeping your presentation clear and to the point, you have the room to expand on points when you are asked – rather than swamping your presentation with unnecessary detail.

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Working Lunch:

Edendum

Address: Edendum 69 East St, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 1HQ 01273 733800

Regular readers of Sussex Business Times will recognise our latest review venue from this time last year. With various changes to the menu and the décor, owners, Lorenza and Diego welcomed us back to enjoy the tastes of authentic Italian cuisine in a bistro-style environment Just over a year ago, I went to Edendum for Lunch the first time and was thoroughly impressed Review with the uniqueness of the menu, the welcoming nature of the staff and the sophistication of the interior. Luckily, I wasn’t disappointed this time around either. It was a lovely day and my guest and myself were greeted at the door and shown to our table. We chose 2 seats at the back, making use of the cushioned bench running along the back wall. The only down side to this – and potentially to the venue as a whole – is that there’s a slight lack of natural light. The room expands vertically, away from

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the sunshine (on that day) on East Street, which is a slight shame when you want to make the most of any good weather we’re lucky enough to experience in England. However, upon speaking to the staff, I was reassured that during the height of the summer months, tables were put outside with the doors opened out to create more of an open-air space. I asked, as usual, what dishes were recommended and was given a choice of 2 or 3 starters and 2 or 3 mains. My guest and I decided to indulge in the Gnocco Fritto Misto platter, and we were encouraged to also try the Gamberoni prawn dish. I had thoroughly enjoyed the Gnocco Gritto Misto platter previously and, remembering this, was very pleased to have it again. On second taste, I think

it was even better, with the deep-fried octopus, squid and king prawns in a pizza dough strips (although they’re more tomato sauce. The tagliatelle itself was like cubes), cooked ham, salami and perfectly al dente but also soft and light. range of cheeses complementing each The small portion size was also ideal, other perfectly. Each especially after the ham and each cheese fairly large starter “I cannot fault had its own distinct platter which, despite Edendum on flavour, acting as the sharing with my guest main events in an ideal would probably have traditional Italian platter of choice. filled me up on its taste, it’s food The Gamberoni own for the rest of the consisted of marinated quality, quantity and afternoon. king prawns, served We were also flavour, the décor with Roma broccoli, recommended the and service” pickled beetroots and Prosciutto crudo saffron mayonnaise. Fontina e fichi pizza, I was oblivious to the extras, but the with mozzarella cheese, fontina cheese, marinated king prawns themselves were figs and parma ham, as this was very tasty indeed. something that no other Italian restaurant For main course, I was recommended offered. However, neither of us were the Tagliatelle al Golfo di Napoli. This quite brave enough, so my guest went was a seafood pasta with mussels, mini for the Prosciutto e funghi San Marzano,

with mozzarella cheese, cooked ham, mushrooms and extra-virgin olive oil. It’s always nice to be served a pizza that’s clearly been made with care – apparently the dough was light and tasty, with flavoursome toppings. Although neither of us had much room for dessert at all, we pushed through and had the Tiramisu (because it was too good last time not to have again) and one I hadn’t tried before, the Gelato Caldo. This was vanilla ice cream served in a deep fried, almond ball crust with berry foam. It was extremely sweet but delicious, and a very novel idea. Even better than I could remember, we wolfed down our dessert and afterwards, couldn’t move a muscle; full to the brim, I left Edendum satisfied to the maximum. I’m always very surprised at how quiet it is in Edendum – I would have expected on a sunny day, in the south lanes, for there to be tables of customers. Nevertheless, ours was the only table filled before one more was taken up just as we were leaving. So, although a slightly sparse atmosphere, I cannot fault Edendum on traditional Italian taste, its food quality, quantity and flavour, the décor and service. It also would make an ideal place to take a client for a meeting, with plenty of sharing options, light lunch choices, or heavier meals. With a family run feel but the style of a well-established bistro, Edendum is a great pick.

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Hotel Review:

The Boship (Lions) Farm Hotel For this month’s hotel review, Sussex Business Times enjoyed an overnight stay at the very local Boship Farm Hotel, getting a taste for all it has to offer it’s guests The Boship (Lions) Farm Hotel is the most recent property added Review to the Lions Group portfolio, all of which are now owned by Mr Sheikh Abid Gulzar, who has over the last few years made quite the reputation for himself since moving to Eastbourne from London, with an aim of innovating and improving the town and its surrounding areas. With its 17 acres of beautiful countryside land, the hotel is home to a variety of wildlife and creatures. Located 9 miles away from Eastbourne itself, the hotel is just a 10 minute drive from Hailsham’s high street, Herstmonceux Castle and Science Centre. The Hotel is an original 1690’s country house that now boasts more than 40 en suite bedrooms with 4 function rooms. The Boship (Lions) Farm Hotel would make the perfect venue for a family weekend away, a romantic couple’s break or a picturesque wedding. All the staff at the hotel are completely committed to caring for their guests and ensuring each and every one gets the maximum

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out of their stay – something SBT got to experience first hand. The owner of the hotel himself – a busy man at that – made himself available to me for a quick chat, explaining his aims and responsibilities with regards to his hotels in Eastbourne and how he ensures everything is run smoothly and to the highest of standards. He employs only the best staff in the hospitality sector, all of whom were attentive, polite and on hand to cater to our every need. Of course, the hotel itself sports many different features and facilities. Outside sits a refreshing outdoor heated

swimming pool, which is open from May through to September. While it had closed by the time I arrived, I can only imagine how relaxing a swim would have been. Beside it is a fullsized tennis court, offering guests a friendly match in the sun, or equally as nice – guests can unwind on the pier overlooking the scenic lake that surrounds the hotel. In addition to this, outside the front of the building you will find a children’s playground, along with a huge amount of free parking for the residents of the hotel. The Tudor Bar is located on the ground floor in the main building of the hotel – open until 11pm for both residents and non-residents – surrounded by unique, original décor and an open log fire. The reception desk is open 24 hours a day, which allowed us to go out and explore the nearby surroundings once we’d settled into our room. The hotel has 4 function rooms available – The Tudor Lounge, Sussex Room, Willow Room and Oak Room – and caters to functions of all kinds, whether you are looking for a private room to conduct interviews or huge

Tried & Tested in Sussex

room hire for a large wedding. I was given a tour of each of these function rooms (all of different sizes and boasting different themes) and having attended an event at the Boship (Lions) Farm Hotel once before, I can vouch and say that it would make a suitable venue for events and occasions of all kinds. The hotel also has its own restaurant, serving food daily to both residents of the hotel and walk-in guests. There is an extensive wine list, as well as draught beer and a variety of spirits, all served in a relaxed but classy environment. With a menu designed to compliment the choice of available beverages, it’s clear to see that everything is thoroughly thought through. Carvery is served on Sundays from midday until 3pm, while the kitchen staff are responsible for ensuring a regularly updated menu, relevant to the seasons and taking on board customers’ requests and recommendations. Upon arrival I was taken aback by the overpowering exterior – the main building towers over you as you enter the spacious car park, overlooking a garden filled with colourful flowers and rustic seating. I was welcomed in with a huge smile by two members of the front of house staff. Both were incredibly friendly and made us feel at home straight away. We were given the key to our room with no complications, to which we soon made our way. When walking through the main hotel building to our room, I noticed that it’s very misleading from the outside – it’s a lot bigger and more spacious than you’d expect it to be, and each room boasts a refreshingly plain design, decorated with antique accessories and

lighting. Our room in particular was not in the main building, but outside, where I also noticed that each en suite came in hand with its own parking space – ours sat right outside of our door! The room itself was just what you’d expect; immaculate with fresh sheets and clean towels sat on the bottom of our bed with shampoo, soap and shower gel. On the dresser sat a kettle, selection of teabags and coffees, sugars and milk, and the room also came in hand with certain electrical appliances. The en suite bathroom was also spotless and of course, I had to try out the shower during my stay. While the bed was relatively hard, I had a sound night’s sleep and made my way to the restaurant the following morning for breakfast. Mr Gulzar had

mentioned during our chat the previous day that all of the hotel’s ingredients are sourced locally, and after spotting the breakfast buffet on my way through to our table, I could hardly wait. On offer were sausages, bacon, mushrooms, grilled tomatoes, hash browns, fried toast, beans and egg – scrambled and fried. Down the other side of the buffet sat cereals, fruit, tea, coffee and fresh juice – there isn’t much else you could have wanted. Each of the tables was nicely presented, laid up with cutlery and napkins and the perfect level of background music circulated the room. The only critique I really have in this area is of the room itself – slightly too big for the amount of tables within it. The tables felt very far away from each other and gave off a slight representation of a school canteen. Of course, the breakfast itself was delicious, only making me regretful of not trying the restaurant’s menu the night before! All in all, the Boship (Lions) Farm Hotel is a beautiful and professionally-run venue, perfect for overnight business stays, family getaways, meetings, casual meals or special occasions. Staff with impeccable manners and service, a wonderfully clean room and lots to do and see on site made for a lovely stay. Four stars from SBT, and we will be sure to return soon! Address: The Boship (Lions) Farm Hotel, Lower Dicker, Hailsham BN27 4AT Telephone: 01323 844826 Web: www.lionhotels.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 47

NEWS

Fishbourne Roman Palace Charity Quiz Night

Sussex Business Times has partnered with Chichester Chamber of Commerce again this month, providing insight on what to expect from the community in upcoming months

There has been so much going on over the last few months that we’re giving a snapshot of recent news and forthcoming events…

Julie Kapsalis

Institute of Economic Development

48 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Board appoints Julie Kapsalis, Chair of Chichester Chamber of Commerce and Industry Firstly, huge congratulations to Julie Kapsalis, Chairman of our Chamber who has been co-opted to the Institute of Economic Development Board. This will initially be for a year and Julie is delighted to have this opportunity to help shape the national stage – this is alongside her role at the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership and she is also Vice Chair at Chichester College. Julie brings a wealth of experience with her to the role, having previously been a Director of Business

programme at the South-East England Development Agency, where she also advised on Women’s Enterprise. Fishbourne Roman Palace Charity Quiz Night Once again, our members were busy having fun and raising funds at our resoundingly successful Quiz night – this time for Fishbourne Roman Palace. Chichester Park Hotel kindly provided the venue with delicious nibbles and a bar on tap, and our fabulous Quiz Master, Chris Coopey from MHA Carpenter Box whipped up enthusiasm and

www.chichestercci.org.uk

Chamber News

Dates for your diary

Join Chichester Chamber of Commerce & Industry From just £99

10 July – Networking Chamber Monthly Meeting

Membership benefits include: • Events and networking • Policy and public affairs • Workshops and training • Business advice and services • New business opportunities

12 July – The Chichester Business Breakfast in conjunction with Chichester College 2 August - Speed Networking with our neighbours! In conjunction with Worthing & Adur, Brighton & Hove, Bognor Regis and Sussex Chambers of Commerce

as part of a vibrant, forward thinking team who are excited to be taking the Chamber forward in the coming months.

Julie Harrison

Appointment of new Chief Executive Officers to our Chamber We also have news of our own to share with you - Julie Harrison and Sue Garman have been appointed as the new CEO’s of Chichester Chamber of Commerce and Industry in a shared role. Some of you may remember Julie, as the previous Business Development Director of the Chamber. After a break of nearly 3 years we are delighted and honoured to welcome Julie back as she brings a wealth of experience and an excellent understanding of our local business needs and challenges. As part of a job share, having acted as Interim Business Development Director for a few months, Sue is also delighted to be appointed to work alongside Julie

Join Us:

Sue Garman

competitiveness between teams to raise the grand total of £804.04! This was proudly presented at our May members meeting by our Vice-Chair, Shelagh Legrave. The money is going towards the re-design of the Roman garden, and members can see for themselves on July 10th what a difference the funds have made. If you are not currently a CCCI member but would like to come along as a guest you would be very welcome, just visit our website at www.chichestercci. org.uk to book your place. Please also keep your fingers crossed for sunshine!

The team is completed by Gayle Dixon who works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that everything happens smoothly!

Tel: 01243 531765 Email: admin@chichestercci.org.uk www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Test Drive For this month’s motoring review, Sussex Business Times got behind the wheels of Alfa Romeo’s Giulietta model and one of Volvo’s newest models – the V60 Twin Engine. Here, we share our thoughts…

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Italian brand, Alfa Romeo has been Alfa manufacturing top class motors since Romeo its origin as A.L.F.A in Milan in 1910, and this month Sussex Business Times jumped at the chance to review the brand’s Giulietta model. Of course as with any motor, speaking of the look of the car is subjective and people will have their own taste. Personally to SBT, the look of this Alfa model was as nice as expected, not including the front aspect though. To us here at the SBT Towers, the huge grille on the front of the car isn’t the most attractive and doesn’t seem to fit with the rest of the vehicle – everything else design-wise looks great! Although we didn’t completely love the look of the car straight away, it’s definitely one that grows on you. Now onto the interior… The inside of this particular Alfa Romeo model offers the utmost comfort – it’s probably one of the most comfortable motors we’ve reviewed in the more recent months and definitely more so than last month’s

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

review of the Peugeot 3008 and Nissan X-Trail. The dashboard is equally as lovely, minus the fake carbon by the windscreen. While all inside looks high-class at first glance, we found it incredibly hard to locate and use a large amount of the controls. During the week we had to test drive this motor, we couldn’t once establish how

to adjust the interior mirror. All of the car’s control features seemed to be well hidden, and while this might be a good thing for many drivers, we found it to be a slight nuisance. The car’s interior came hand in hand with many top-of-the-range features, including parking sensors. This is a great addition to any motor and so

Motoring

we were slightly confused as to why there was the option to turn these off. Either way, it didn’t affect the car in any form, but points like these make us wonder whether Alfa Romeo really thought through every aspect when manufacturing this model. Cabin space isn’t a strength with the Giulietta. It provides enough front head room for those in the front seats and leg room is okay, but taller drivers may feel their hair brushing the headlining and the footwell is cramped. Equally, despite being one of the longest cars in its class the Giulietta provides less rear leg room than many of its rivals. However, for those businessmen and women looking solely for a comfortable drive from A to B, it offers everything you could need. The only other negative was that of the foot pedals. While metal pedals might be nicer to look at, they can pose a slight threat when the weather isn’t so great as they tend to become slippery. Additionally, the Giulietta’s pedals are all at different heights, which means it’s more difficult than it should be to move from one to another, while the clutch is very close to the centre console, so you can’t rest your left foot alongside. The Giulietta has a wide range of engines, and even the least powerful ones gives decent performance. Petrol fans can choose from 1.4s with either 118, 148 or 168bhp, or a 237bhp 1.7 that’s fast enough to frighten all but the hottest hatches. The driveline on this car is pretty much perfect, although when in eco mode, it’s very slightly sluggish. However, the effects of driving in sports mode make up for this; it’s a completely different car, very fast on acceleration and good at handling. The gearbox is incredibly smooth and flows freely through all of the gears, while Overall, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is quite a car, and with a comfortable drive and unmistakable design, you get pretty much exactly what you would expect for its price. Disregarding the small ‘problems’ (subjective to the opinion of Sussex Business Times, of course), it’s worth every single penny!

Volvo V60 D5 Twin Engine

SBT was also able to get hands on with the Volvo V60 Volvo Twin Engine this month, and what a car it is! The Volvo V60 D5 occupies a small niche in the UK, as while the standard V60 rivals models such as the Audi A4 Avant and Mercedes C-Class Estate, there’s not much that directly takes on this diesel plug-in hybrid. The Volvo V60 boasts a nice interior. While that might sound like a pretty bland word to use, it suits the car perfectly – nice is what it is! The dashboard is clean and simple, with the buttons and dials appearing in the simplest of forms, which I think makes the vehicle as a whole all the

more endearing. The dashboard comes in hand with screened parking sensors, offering the slick exterior of the car some form of protection. As mentioned earlier, the buttons are as simple as can be, and this along with a few other minute features in the car would suggest that it’s aimed at an older demographic. While there’s plenty of up-to-date kit, including sat-nav, adaptive cruise control, auto high beams, DAB radio and autodimming mirrors, the cabin itself feels very dated. With regards to the drive of the vehicle, it’s quite difficult to get going unless you’re someone who’s been taught how to start by pushing on the brake pedal first. Despite this, the Volvo V60 Twin Engine is very economical on fuel with thanks to

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

Motoring

its hybrid system. At the same time, the steering on this motor is lovely – incredibly light – but with the weight of a (nearly) two tonne car, it’s a bit dull to drive. The steering also has inconsistent weighting - feeling heavy around the centre and then lighter as you put more lock on. There’s plenty of grip in the corners but the strange steering and hefty kerb weight mean the V60 isn’t exactly fun to drive. The car’s brakes are powerful but don’t seem to give you a great feel for the car, but with the weight it’s pulling back, this isn’t a surprise. Comfort though, is at the maximum with this model. The seats and headrests are extremely comfortable, making it the perfect vehicle for those long corporate journeys. The only element that would argue this is space. There’s not a great deal of boot space due to the battery taking up most of it, but the cockpit of the car contrasts hugely with this, offering the perfect level of space and comfort. This Volvo model is simply a lovely simple car to drive. Despite the fact that it’s aimed at an older target audience,

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

“If you’re after a reliable car that promises to be great on fuel with plenty of power behind it, then the Volvo V60 is the car for you” it makes for a good looking, slick and smooth drive. If you’re after a reliable car that promises to be great on fuel with plenty of power behind it, then the Volvo V60 is the car for you. It comes with only two main downfalls: the weight and size of the boot. While it’s not really a car for the typical businessman and it more suits an older demographic, here at SBT we would say that it’s perfect for anyone looking for a reliable, reasonably priced and slick-looking vehicle, regardless of the age demographic they fit into! It’s everything you would expect and more from Volvo, and in this month’s battle of the engines, the Volvo wins hands down.

“In comparison to the Peugeot, this Nissan model sports a 1.7 litre engine and leaves you with a huge amount of grunt – you really can feel the power of the vehicle when you put your foot down. Additionally, the fuel consumption is outstanding, which is unusual for a car with petrol transmission”

Spice Garden Exquisite Indian Cuisine

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“Winner - Curry House Of The Year 2016” 36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

T: 01323 722121 | W: www.spice-garden.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 53

E: info@spice-garden.co.uk

SBTMotoring News Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Leads the Way with Standard Autonomous Emergency Braking Volkswagen is to become the first commercial vehicle brand to fit all its vans with autonomous emergency braking systems, meaning all customers ordering a new Caddy, Transporter or Crafter van from 1 June will be guaranteed safety as standard. Not only does autonomous emergency braking have the potential to reduce the number and severity of accidents, it has also been proven to cut third party injury insurance claims by 45%. For van drivers and fleet

Vauxhall Offers Grand Deal to Young Drivers

Vauxhall is helping young drivers (aged 18-24) cover the initial cost of getting on the road, with a £1,000 (including VAT) insurance contribution when they buy a Corsa Limited Edition. Young drivers can combine the insurance contribution with one of Vauxhall’s great finance offers, helping to make the cost of motoring more affordable. With a variety of competitive offers to choose from, including Personal Contract Payment plans, the Corsa is a fantastic option to get young drivers on the road. “We are all aware of the high insurance premiums faced by young drivers, so to help young drivers get on the road Vauxhall has introduced a £1,000 insurance contribution programme,” said Leon Caruso, Vauxhall’s Retail Sales Director. “The Corsa Limited Edition is a great choice as a first or second car, with dynamic design features and superb connectivity, all backed up by excellent safety equipment.”

54 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

operators, this means lower costs as well as less downtime thanks to fewer crashes and therefore drivers and vans kept on the road – and working – for longer. In addition, vehicles fitted with autonomous braking systems have an average insurance premium reduction of 10% compared to those that don’t. Head of Marketing,

Sarah Cox, said: “Producing safe, reliable vans has been at the heart of our brand for over 60 years. But technology is advancing at a pace and we’re continually seeing more and better ways to keep drivers safe on the road.”

Nissan Motor GB Appoints New Aftersales Director Nissan Motor (GB) Limited has announced the appointment of Chris Marsh as UK Aftersales Director, with responsibility for developing Nissan’s aftersales performance in the UK, effective 1st June 2017. Chris has held a variety of senior marketing, sales operations and dealer network development roles at Nissan and with a strong aftersales background, he brings a wealth of industry experience and knowledge to the role. Chris said: “Nissan has seen significant and consistent growth in

sales and vehicle parc over the last five years which presents a huge aftermarket opportunity for the network. I look forward to developing this further and driving dealer profitability, whilst also ensuring we provide the highest level of service to our customers.” Alex Smith, Managing Director of Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd, also added: “Chris is a highly experienced member of the senior team. I’m delighted that he will be heading up the aftersales team to drive quality, strengthen operations and increase revenues.”

Growing Construction Sector Needs Fast Access to Vehicles As the UK construction sector grew by 1.8% in the first quarter, Europcar UK is highlighting the sector’s need for specialist vehicles at short notice. Specialist Vehicle Director at Europcar, Stuart Russell said: “The UK construction sector has seen continued growth year on year. But keeping up demand with the right equipment – including vehicles – is a challenge. Added to which, the sector doesn’t necessarily want to make long-term financial commitments. Europcar has, therefore, focused on creating a commercial fleet that includes the

specialist vehicles needed by the construction sector, from bespoke vans with special racking, tow bars and tool boxes. We have a wide selection of vehicles available across our UK network, which are ready to rent at just four hours’ notice.” With van and specialist vehicle hire available for as little as three days or as long as three years, businesses don’t have to worry about being locked into long-term agreements. And they can increase and decrease their fleet with no penalties, removing financial risk and helping firms respond to fluctuating demand.

@blanchhousebrighton @blanchhousebrighton @blanchhousebrighton @blanchhouse @blanchhouse @blanchhouse

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17 Atlingworth Atlingworth Street, Street, Brighton, Brighton, East East Sussex, Sussex, BN2 BN2 1PL 1PL 17 01273 603504 603504 01273 info@blanchhouse.co.uk || www.blanchhouse.co.uk www.blanchhouse.co.uk info@blanchhouse.co.uk

17 Atlingworth Atlingworth Street, Street, Brighton, Brighton, East East Sussex, Sussex, BN2 BN2 1PL 1PL 17 17 Atlingworth Atlingworth Street, Street, Brighton, Brighton, East East Sussex, Sussex, BN2 BN2 1PL 1PL 17 Atlingworth Street, Brighton, East Sussex, BN2 1PL 17 @blanchhousebrighton @blanchhousebrighton www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33355 @blanchhousebrighton @blanchhousebrighton @blanchhousebrighton www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk @blanchhousebrighton 01273 603504 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 01273 603504 603504 01273 603504 01273 603504 01273 @blanchhouse @blanchhouse www.blanchhouse.co.uk @blanchhouse @blanchhouse @blanchhouse info@blanchhouse.co.uk www.blanchhouse.co.uk @blanchhouse ||| www.blanchhouse.co.uk info@blanchhouse.co.uk |info@blanchhouse.co.uk www.blanchhouse.co.uk info@blanchhouse.co.uk |info@blanchhouse.co.uk www.blanchhouse.co.uk

SBT

ASK THE

SBT Ask the Experts is sponsored by

EXPERTS

WE ASK THE EXPERTS TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS YOU NEED

EXPERT

Greg Mahon, Regional Director, Rathbones Chichester As wealth managers, we are interested in disruptive technology because it gives us an indication of what sector will be the next to take off and achieve the best investment returns for our clients. Should we, for example, be investing in industries that are leading personalised medicine, alternative energy sources, or companies that are developing robots for the workplace?

What is disruptive technology? Technology is considered to be truly disruptive when it causes a seismic shift in consumer behaviour. This can only happen when something new is widely adopted. Think what the introduction of the iPod did to sales of CDs – not to mention its impact on the wider music industry – pretty much overnight. Or what happened to the car industry when Ford introduced the T3.

EXPERT

My business needs investment to reach the next level. What are my options, other than a bank loan? If you are after investment in your business, you’re not alone. According to the National Office of Statistics business investment was estimated to have increased by 0.6%, to

info@checkaprofessional.com 56 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

Why should I be thinking about disruptive technology? Perhaps the most obvious connection to business is the impact technology will have on the costs of goods and services. Increased efficiency and availability of products and services – thanks to new technologies – should reduce costs across a whole range of industries. But it will also have an impact on the demands consumers make on companies. For example, is

your business equipped to dispatch and deliver goods the same day to meet consumer demand? Does it have the capacity to take alternative payment methods i.e. Apple Pay or Altcoin, a new currency which is championing investment in local economies and businesses as it is only accepted within specific regions? Businesses that can react quickly and embrace a constantly changing technology landscape are best placed to capitalise on the opportunity – that’s why it’s so important to keep track of the latest developments, even if they feel a world away at the moment. You can see the full report on disruptive technology and its opportunities for investors here rathbones.com/sussex. Or for more information please contact: greg,mahon@rathbones.com

Ian Smallwood, Head of Business Services, Business East Sussex £43.8 billion between Quarter 4 2016 and Quarter 1 2017. What’s more, the statistics show that it was due to an increase in investment in machinery and equipment, and intellectual property products (IPP), particularly software data. Here at Business East Sussex we help businesses grow via securing government-backed or public funding – plus we help with fundamental business advice. On offer at the minute is the South East Business Boost, which is being provided by the European Development Fund. Your business could receive funding of £1,000 to £10,000. The grant can fund up to 30% of the eligible cost related to increasing sales, improving productivity and increasing profitability.

To be eligible for a grant, businesses must: • Be considered small or medium enterprises (i.e. employ fewer than 250 people, and have an annual turnover not exceeding €50 million or a balance sheet not exceeding €43 million); • Spend the full value of the SEBB grant on a project taking place within the SELEP region (East Sussex, Essex, Thurrock, Southend-on-Sea, Kent or Medway); • Secure 70% of the costs of the project in cash from private sector sources before the SEBB grant agreement is concluded. Contact the BES Growth Hub team today on 0844 4152260 or email fred. thomas@businesseastsussex.org.uk

0808 901 9042

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ASK THE

SBT Ask the Experts is sponsored by

EXPERTS

WE ASK THE EXPERTS TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS YOU NEED

EXPERT

Peter Bradshaw, National Accounts Director, Selectapension As we don’t know what future governments will decide about the state pension age or payments, having your own pension to top up your income in retirement is a good idea.

Why is it important to save for your pension sooner rather than later? There are significant benefits to be had from saving early on in your working life: you are likely to accrue more money over time than if you started at a later date and there are tax benefits as well – in effect free money all put into your pot. It also creates a regular saving habit.

EXPERT

How does the workspace environment influence happiness and productivity? At PLATF9RM we believe a good working environment is a physical and social

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How can I make pension planning less scary? Since 2015 people have been given the freedom to do what they want with their pension pots. However, with more responsibility, comes uncertainty and many are confused about choosing the option that is right for them. But pension planning does not have to be a daunting process. Planning tools are available on the market which can help map out exactly how much you need to save to reach your retirement goal. Pension Monster, www.pensionmonster. com, the new free online retirement tool, provides consumers the guidance they need to take an informed view of their

retirement options ahead of seeking financial advice. Where can I go for guidance and support for my pension? We would always recommend individuals seek advice from a professional financial adviser before buying any retirement product. They will take the time to understand your particular circumstances and help you implement your plan appropriately. Tools such as Pension Monster are an ideal way for anyone, regardless of the stage in their working life, to research their options and to start the planning process before seeking professional advice. It is important that consumers are made aware that these services are available and free, and can help people feel more in control over their future. www.pensionmonster.com

Seb Royle, Founder, PLATF9RM collaboration. The physical aspect is about the quality of the workspace and the level of design, from an aesthetic as well as practical perspective. The social is about helping people connect because meetings breed creativity. When both are carefully balanced you create the perfect melting pot. We work with an interior designer to create bespoke spaces for our members. We’re about style and function - it’s no use having a beautifully designed space if, ultimately, people aren’t comfortable working in it. Humans are social animals and, for a flexible members workspace, the communal side of the environment is key. In the main space we have long desks and, though people are obviously there to work, the vibe is upbeat and chatty in these areas.

Water has been linked with productivity, and we have filtered water, citrus water and ice available. In addition, there are teas and coffees from local producers; they’re constantly replenished for members, and we’re not shy in buying some cakes of an afternoon. (They never last long, nor do the beers we put out at 4pm on a Friday!) It’s important to provide opportunities for workspace members to connect outside of their normal working day. We do this through monthly Socials and regular training events. Humans are creative and social creatures and work best with others. At PLATF9RM we’re really just providing a space that gives people the chance to harness that creativity in the way that suits them best.

0808 901 9042 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 57

Events In Sussex

Brighton Business Expo 2017

Partners for West Sussex 58 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk Expo:

over 20 stands have been sold to local businesses, and just some of these exhibitors will include Worldpay, Acumen Business Law, Basepoint Centres Ltd, Catax, C Brewer & Sons Ltd and Coast to Capital. Of course, not all exhibitor stands have yet been filled and the ever-growing exhibitor list will see more confirmations in due course, so keep your eyes peeled! “B2B expos are great for getting your name out there and are a great place to strike up new relationships with other businesses and potential clients. People that approach you at expos usually have an interest in your product/service so getting quality leads is a great benefit,” said Basepoint’s Amanda Jones. She continued: “Brighton has a lot of great businesses and networking events so it’s important to make yourself known to get the benefit of being in a vibrant and exciting business community. Marketing Manager at C Brewer & Sons, Lloyd Meheux also commented:

Basepoint’s Amanda Jones

Taking place at Brighton Racecourse Sussex on 5th October 2017 at 10:00am until Events 4:00pm, this free-toattend business show will provide you with a hive of creativity and activity from both the seminar programme, featuring highpaced speed networking, inspirational keynote speakers, as well as from a variety of exhibitors showcasing the very best of local and regional businesses. Just like with the West Sussex Business Expo, Brighton Business Expo will provide exhibitors and visitors with a vast array of business advice and speed networking opportunities, ensuring you get the absolute most out of the day. The Brighton Business Expo is set to attract an audience of more than 300-400 visitors of businesses looking to forge new relationships with local suppliers and be inspired by free seminars and workshops. B2B’s expos attract a wide range of exhibitors, from accountants to website designers and legal specialists to support organisations; but they all have one thing in common – they’re exhibiting to showcase their latest products and business services that will either allow you to work more efficiently or to help you grow your enterprise. Speaking after last year’s Brighton Business Expo, Mike Monk said: “The first Brighton Business Expo was received very well. We had some great feedback from exhibitors and visitors alike, saying how the event met their expectations and had a great feel about it.” Taking this into consideration and after witnessing the buzz at May’s expo at Fontwell Park Racecourse, there’s no doubt that Brighton Business Expo will continue along these lines of success! So far – and months in advance –

Marketing Manager at C Brewer & Sons, Lloyd Meheux

After highlighting the success of the West Sussex Business Expo in last month’s issue, here we further introduce B2B’s second Sussex-based business event of 2017 – the Brighton Business Expo

CMY

“The Brighton Expo for us, is a great way to network with other local businesses, share knowledge and hopefully pick up a few sale leads – everyone needs paint in some form! Having two branches in Brighton plus one in Hove means that this is an important area for us and the large number of businesses in Brighton makes the exhibition a worthwhile visit.” Of course, stand packages are still available, offering exhibitors to choose whichever one works best for them and best represents their business. These include Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum packages, all of which provide businesses with a range of different sized stands and additional promotions. Book your free visitor ticket today or secure your exhibition space from as little as £395. To enquire about exhibiting, please call 01273 286133 or visit www.b2bexpos.co.uk/ brighton

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2017 In aid of

Sussex Business Times - Issue 414

Sussex Business Times - Issue 414 - July 2017

Sussex Business Times - Issue 414

Published on Jun 29, 2017

Sussex Business Times - Issue 414 - July 2017

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