SBT
DECEMBER 2017 ISSUE 418
FREE
SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES
ROCKINGHORSE
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS 2017 HAS SEEN ROCKINGHORSE CELEBRATE THEIR 50TH YEAR OF OPERATION. HERE IN YOUR SPECIAL CHRISTMAS CHARITY EDITION AND AHEAD OF THE NEW YEAR, SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES TAKES A LOOK AT ROCKINGHORSE, ITS ACHIEVEMENTS OVER THE YEARS AND ITS MAIN SUPPORTERS SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975
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SBTWelcome MEET THE TEAM
Sam Thomas, Managing Director/ Publisher
Tom Alexander, Web Designer/ Developer
Jess Saunders, Editor/Production
Clare Fermor, Accounts
CONTRIBUTORS
Steve Opie, Director of Finance, Spectrum Independent Financial Advice
Hicham Rhioui, Director, Falcon Energy
Robert Desbruslais, Director, Desbruslais Chartered Surveyors
James Dempster, Managing Director, Cobb Digital
John Merrigan, Senior Advisor, Nestor Advisors
Paula Joyce, Tax Manager, Sheen Stickland Accountants
Welcome to our very last issue of 2017! We have a great pleasure this month in welcoming our New Managing Director/ Publisher Sam Thomas to SBT. Sam has come on board to launch the Business Group Sussex early in the New year. The new business-to-business platform is the evolution of the magazine in all of its context, news, reviews, sector focus and interviews (to name a few). Along with the integration of traditional editorial content, the site also hosts a number of powerful, industry-leading and valuable web-based facilities. We are aiming create a credible business community supported by the Sussex business community, for the Sussex business community, which encourages engagement in key business issues and delivers content with Integrity that educates, informs and inspires. Watch this space. Our cover feature this month focuses on that of Rockinghorse Children’s charity. After a hugely successful 50th year, we feedback on the charity’s best moments and hear from some of their top supporters, including that of Domestic & General, The Grand Hotel Brighton, Search Seven and Mayo Wynne Baxter. Elsewhere in our December issue, John Merrigan once again graces our pages and we look into the best telecoms packages for SMEs. Meanwhile, our Finance section looks back at November’s Autumn Budget, as our Health section delves deep into the causes, symptoms and effects of a stroke. Alongside all of this, we provide you with our regular Ask the Expert columns and Made in Sussex feature, this month featuring Redwing Roofing. Also, for December’s motoring reviews, Sussex Business Times got behind the wheels of the Fiat 500X and the Volkswagen Arteon, putting both motors through their paces and reporting back on our findings. Of course, also included in this issue are our lunch review, this month focusing on Ghyll Manor Hotel & Restaurant in Horsham, plus your usual local, national, motoring and Chamber news sections. Enjoy your December read. Have a great Christmas from all of us at SBT and we look forward to bringing you the very best content in the New Year!
Sam Thomas, Managing Director
www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 3
SBTContents
Issue 418
SBT
DECEMBER 2017 ISSUE 418
FREE
SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES
ROCKINGHORSE
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS
ROCKINGHORSE HAVE CELEBRATES THEIR 50TH YEAR OF OPERATION THIS YEAR. HERE IN YOUR DECEMBER ISSUE AND AHEAD OF THE NEW YEAR, SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES TAKES A LOOK AT ROCKINGHORSE, ITS ACHIEVEMENTS OVER THE YEARS AND ITS MAIN SUPPORTERS SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975
Cover: Rockinghorse Children’s Charity
Managing Director/Publisher Sam Thomas sam@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 01323 819 012 Editorial/Production: Jess Saunders jess@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 01323 819 018 Web Designer/Developer: Tom Alexander Accounts: Clare Fermor accounts@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 01323 819 016 Published by The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Unit 1s 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 The Business Group Sussex 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.
Copyright The Business Group Sussex Ltd. 2017 ©
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News
View the latest local and national business headlines.
Spending it
With 2018 just around the corner, we bring you some of the best products for your New Year.
Finance
Sussex Business Times gives you a rundown of the budget announcements made by Philip Hammond, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, at this year’s Autumn Statement.
John Merrigan
Senior Advisor at Nestor Advisors returns to our pages this month to highlight practical actions to reflect upon to improve your business governance and long-term success.
Transforming Daily Life with Artificial Intelligence
We delve deep into the meaning of Artificial Intelligence and explore the many ways in which it impacts day-to-day life.
Celebrating 10 Years of Electric
This year saw Electric celebrate their 10th year in business. SBT’s Managing Director, Sam Thomas caught up with founder, Mark Woolley to talk about the phenomenal brand that is Electric.
Sussex Business Awards 2017
Thursday 30th November saw the Sussex Business Awards take The Grand Hotel in Brighton by storm. Here, SBT gives you a run down of this year’s well-deservinng winners
Cover Feature: Rockinghorse Children’s Charity
It’s been quite a year for Rockinghorse and here in our final issue of 2017, we take a look back at the charity’s successes and achievements from the year just passed, hearing of some of its supporters along the way.
Tried and Tested in Sussex
For this month’s lunch review, Sussex Business Times enjoyed a lunchtime bite at Ghyll Manor Hotel & Restaurant in Horsham. Here, we feed back on our thoughts…
Chamber News
For this month’s Chamber News section, Sussex Business Times has partnered with the Sussex Chamber of Commerce.
A yo an w bu
Motoring
For this month’s motoring reviews, Sussex Business Times got behind the wheels of the Fiat 500X and the Volkswagen Arteon.
Ask the Experts
Local Sussex business experts advise on relevant issues.
O
U
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Made in Sussex
This month’s home-grown hero is Redwing Roofing.
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SBTLocal News £15,000 Freefall from 15,000ft
Crawley-based Grant Thornton trainee accountant, Sam Littler, invested his £300 recognition award in a 15,000ft skydive this month and has raised over £1,500 for SANE. Earlier this year, Sam prepared and delivered an innovative presentation to his old school to inspire pupils to take the time to consider their career options. In recognition of the excellent feedback received from both pupils and parents, his company, leading financial services firm Grant Thornton UK LLP, awarded him a bonus worth £300. Ellen Walsh, Practice Leader at Grant Thornton’s Crawley office said: “We are very proud of Sam’s achievement both in free fall and throughout his studies and client work. Apprenticeships with Grant Thornton are a win win – not only do we attract people of Sam’s calibre straight from school but we offer them a fantastic experiential training programme to equip them for roles in GT or the wider industry.”
Coffin Mew Hires Top Insolvency and Restructuring Specialist Coffin Mew has appointed Alexander Wood as Partner in its growing Insolvency Restructuring team to further enhance its specialist insolvency offering. With 15 years’ experience in corporate and financial restructuring, Alexander joins Coffin Mew from London office of Michelmores and will advise clients on complex transactions including contentious matters within the UK and internationally. Alexander brings a wealth of sector experience having worked with clients across a wide range of industries including renewable energy, financial services, healthcare, property, leisure, farming, retail, manufacturing and
pharmaceuticals. Miles Brown, CEO of Coffin Mew, comments: “We are delighted to have appointed such a high-profile partner. We have recently received an increase in enquiries regarding insolvency and restructuring and Alex’s expertise will therefore be in high demand. His skill set will be a valuable addition to the current team.”
Top Tier Accolades for DMH Stallard Chambers and Partners has bestowed a series of accolades on Top 100 legal firm, DMH Stallard. In its highly regarded annual guide for 2018, DMH Stallard’s position as the leading mid-market firm in the south east has been reflected with numerous Senior Partners being recognised. Richard Pollins, Managing Partner at DMH Stallard, said: “We’ve been fortunate to receive a number of awards and industry recognition in recent times and while I’m always delighted most for how this reflects on the exceptional work of my colleagues, our determination to continually ‘raise
the bar’ remains undimmed.“ Heidi Copland, Robert Worthing, Gwen Godfrey and Jonathan Grant all achieved an individual ‘Band 1’ ranking and another 26 individuals achieved Band rankings within their practice area. Practice areas with ‘Tier 1’ rankings include private client, family and matrimonial, banking and finance, planning, corporate, environment and intellectual property. Richard added: “An organisation is only as strong as the people within it. We have a team of nearly 350 and each one has played a part in the success of DMH Stallard.”
Sussex Property Professionals Debate New Development of 600 New Homes One of the biggest proposed residential and commercial property schemes on the Sussex coast in decades was scrutinised at the latest meeting of the Sussex Property Alliance (SPA) held at Brighton City Airport, a regular forum where property professionals within the local Sussex area gather, exchange ideas and build relationships. Discussed was the new proposed plans for New Monks Farm development in Lancing; which would create 600 homes, a school, a 28-hectare country park and a 35,000
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sqm flagship IKEA store. There are also plans to build 25,000 sqm of employment space at Brighton City Airport. James Appleton, Head of Planning and Development at Adur and Worthing Councils, said: “The New Monks Farm application will likely be determined in the first few months of next year. Aside from the numerous environmental, heritage and highways objections to be considered, overall scheme viability is a key issue and the applicants claim that the delivery of the development was heavily reliant upon the proposed IKEA store had to be tested.”
SBTLocal News Local Manufacturers Focus on ‘Industry 4.0’
Charity’s Sporting Lunch is a Winner Bob Wilson OBE was the special guest speaker at a sporting lunch held in aid of Sussex children’s charity, Rockinghorse last month. Supported by headline sponsors Mayo Wynne Baxter Solicitors, the afternoon fundraiser welcomed over 240 guests from businesses in the MidSussex Gatwick Diamond area, who were treated to a three-course lunch, followed by an entertaining talk from Bob Wilson himself. Guests took part in a number of fundraising games, including ‘heads and tails’, a raffle and an exclusive charity auction featuring a number of rare and collectable sporting items. The event raised £16,500 for Rockinghorse,
who are celebrating their 50th anniversary. Rockinghorse is donating £50,000 to Chalkhill towards their ongoing activities programme for young people who are cared for at the unit. The charity has funded the scheme throughout 2015 and 2016, and it has proved to greatly complement the clinical work of Chalkhill, as well as their education programme. Rockinghorse is donating £50,000 to Chalkhill towards their ongoing activities programme for young people who are cared for at the unit For any further information please visit www.rockinghorse.org.uk
Local Man Braves Volcanos to Raise £3,000 for Hospice Justin White, of local law firm, Coffin Mew, has raised £3,000 for St Wilfrid’s Hospice after scaling three of Iceland’s largest volcanos in a gruelling four-day team challenge. This included the still active Eyjafjallajökull, which was the cause of 2010’s disruptive ash cloud. “The weather kept changing from one extreme to the other, it was brutal,” Justin says. “One minute we’d be trying to see through the blinding sun then suddenly a storm or blizzard would hit, and we’d be clinging onto the side of a volcano for dear life! Temperatures went down to minus 25 degrees and I ran out of water at one point, I return to England a broken man!” Despite the hardships, Justin
completed the expedition successfully and topped the team leader board in terms of funds raised for charity. He was one of just a handful of people to reach the summit of one of the largest volcanos, Eyjafjallajökull after a 13-hour hike across a glacier, something he found immensely satisfying.
Sussex manufacturers will need to focus on upskilling and digitisation to reap the benefits of ‘Industry 4.0’ – the so-called fourth industrial revolution. The latest meeting of METALL (the Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Alliance), a forum for south coast and Gatwick diamond businesses in the sector, heard that while robotics, 3D printing and artificial intelligence offered potential for productivity gains, there were structural barriers to overcome. Speaking at the event, Philippa Oldham, Head of Manufacturing and Transport for the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), said nine in 10 manufacturers were aware of developments in robotics, but that industry’s skills gap remained a significant challenge. Sussex manufacturers will need to focus on upskilling and digitisation to reap the benefits of ‘Industry 4.0’ – the so-called fourth industrial revolution. The latest meeting of METALL, a forum for south coast and Gatwick diamond businesses in the sector, heard that while robotics, 3D printing and artificial intelligence offered potential for productivity gains, there were structural barriers to overcome. Philippa Oldham, Head of Manufacturing and Transport for the IMechE, said nine in 10 manufacturers were aware of developments in robotics, but that industry’s skills gap remained a significant challenge
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SBTNational News Is the Cost of Running a Car Creating a ‘Car Borrowing’ Generation?
The soaring cost of running a car appears to be leading more drivers to become car borrowers and sharers, rather than car owners, according to pay-as-you-go insurer, Cuvva. In the last year, the average UK insurance premium has risen by 14.6% - five times faster than inflation - while car prices rose significantly earlier this year as a result of currency devaluation associated with Brexit, and petrol prices also reached a four-month high in September. The combination of these factors is likely to be leading to a reduced demand for new cars. Indeed, the number of new car registrations has fallen for seven consecutive months, with the latest figures showing a 12.2% slump in sales in October. These spiralling costs also appear to be influencing people’s driving habits, with a rise in those borrowing and sharing vehicles, rather than owning them outright. This is evident in the sheer growth of carpooling networks and platforms, and in the fact that over the last six months, the number of people taking out shortterm insurance with Cuvva has risen by 177%.
UK Businesses areMobile Stifling Employees’ Creativity Shopping On To Top £53bn and Innovation By 2024 Leading financial trading affiliate firm Investoo Group is pleased to announce a £7.5 million (7,500,000 GBP) credit line that will fund further acquisitions in the trading industry, as well as expansion into new areas within finance. Chairman David Merry described the credit line as both an opportunity for growth and an indication of the company’s success since launching in 2016. “We have developed an enviable portfolio of valuable sites in a short amount of time, and this funding will allow us to continue our
remarkable growth trajectory.” CEO Adam Grunwerg highlighted that the £7.5 million credit line will drive the firm’s diversification strategy, “We’re expanding into new niches where we will focus on individuals taking the best investment decisions possible. We’re especially excited about this credit line because it will allow us to do what we do best – deliver sites that educate and inform, giving consumers the power to invest with confidence.” Further information can be found at http://www.investoogroup.com/
Golden Houses Developments & Monika Slowikowska Pick Up Two Prestigious Awards An innovative UK construction business specialising in high-end residential projects and multi-unit developments, delivered at a fair price, has won two prestigious prizes at this year’s London Construction Awards After being shortlisted for the awards earlier this year, Golden Houses Developments attended the exclusive awards gala dinner on Wednesday 25 October at The Royal Garden Hotel, where they picked up the awards.
Golden Houses Developments won the London Build Excellence Award, while the firm’s founder and director Monika Slowikowska won the Women in Construction Award. Monika Slowikowska said: “I’m absolutely delighted to win not one, but two respected awards. The London Construction Awards are the leading and most prestigious construction awards in London and there was tough competition from other industry leaders.
Survey Shows that Charity Workers are Paid as Much as 32% Less than Other Sectors An annual salary survey carried out by expert HR, reward and health and safety consultancy Croner and champions of the voluntary sector NCVO has found that UK charity workers are paid as much as 32% below other sectors nationally, and up to 50% below other sectors in London. Other key findings from the survey found that on average executive pay is 30% below other sectors and the cheapest places to employ charity staff
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are in the West Midlands and Scotland, all of which pay between 10% to 12% below the national median. Although in the 12 months from April 2016 to April 2017, the average increase in basic salary was substantially better than in the public sector, charity workers in support roles were among those who received the lowest increase: just 0.1%. According to Croner Reward benchmarking expert Clare Parkinson,
the biggest disparity is in salaries pay.
SBTNational News First Time Buyers Underestimate the Financial Burden of Home Buying
Overseas and Postgraduate Students Driving UK Student Accommodation Construction Sector While the 2017 intake of university students should be settling into their term-time residences, demand for student accommodation with increased amenities is continuing to grow across the country fuelled by overseas and postgraduate students, says an expert in the field. Property and cost consultancy, Thomas & Adamson, has seen a marked increase in revenue this year from the student accommodation sector in line with expected growth in the sector, according to partner and student accommodation
specialist at Thomas & Adamson, BrianDonaldson: “Over the course of the year we have seen a ten per cent increase in student accommodation projects going to site, which confirmed our projections. In addition, we are finding the number of clients looking at student accommodation as the catalyst for development of their existing sites is also continuing. This is borne out by recent studies suggesting around ten per cent of all commercial property investment is directed through student accommodation.”
Amelia Bishop Consulting Launches to get Businesses Brexit Ready Brexit has brought worrying times for the economy in Britain, and there is uncertainty on how it will affect the country, which is why Amelia Bishop Consulting is launching to help businesses become Brexit ready. After it was recently reported that Swindon is predicted to be the fourth area hardest hit economically by Brexit in the UK*, Amelia Bishop Consulting, a Swindon based firm who works with businesses nationally, is urging businesses to get in touch for specialised Brexit consultancy and services. With a wealth of experience spanning multiple sectors of the corporate world and setting up businesses in the fashion, automotive and finance industries, Amelia uses her considerable expertise to assist UK businesses in negotiating the complexities of dealing with Brexit. Her wealth of knowledge has expanded to advising businesses all over the UK and
with Brexit on the immediate horizon, she feels that time is of the essence to get businesses ready for the huge financial change.
According to the latest research from Aldermore’s Q3 2017 First Time Buyer Index, there is a real lack of understanding around the house buying process and the associated costs amongst those looking to buy their first home. The biggest expense when buying a home is saving for the deposit and this remains the number one obstacle for over one in three (34%) first time buyers. However, the latest research shows prospective buyers are falling short in their estimations of how much they need for their first deposit, aiming to save an average of £34,3972. In fact the average deposit needed is £49,639 according to the ONS – meaning many first time buyers will be faced with a huge deposit deficit of 31% equating to £15,388. When examining this trend across the regions, this disparity is particularly evident in London. First time buyers looking to buy in the capital are aiming to save an average of £48,000 when in fact official figures show the average deposit is more than double at £123,000 which would leave them £75,000 short.
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Shape Up!
As we fast approach 2018, New Year’s resolutions cross the minds of most people. Here are some of the best prioducts for your New Year health kick
WHYTE SUSSEX
ACTIVI-T BAND
The Whyte Sussex blends road bike speed and performance with cross bike versatility to create a superb mudguard-compatible drop bar road bike with disc brakes. Whether you’re commuting longer distances, winter training or entering summer sportives, the Whyte road disc range offers Cyclo Cross levels of durability with pure road speed. £850. www.edinburghbicycle.com
The Activi-T Band is worn on the wrist and supports its users to help them accomplish their fitness goals. Connected to the Wellness Coach application, users can directly monitor their progress synchronise their data and share their results on the move. £49. www.terraillon.com
SUPER JUICING BOX Super Man, Super Ted, Super Mario, Super You. We’ve got superbly superior fruit and veg selection ready for juicing. So before you don your cape, pop the fruit through your juicer and drink up. You should get up to 12 glasses out of this box. £16.50. www.abelandcole.co.uk
SPEED DEMON SOCKS Built for speed, these super lightweight and highly breathable socks are mapped with T2 technology, a knitted loop within a loop, which offers an additional level of impact protection and cushioning on pressure points such as the ball of the foot, lace up area and Achilles to ensure comfort and cool feet all day long. Ideal for marathons, road running and gym. £12.99. www.bridgedale.com
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COCOTOP CocoTop which is perfect for those people looking to ‘get fit in the new year’. Rather than consuming unhealthy snacks during your working day, CocoTop is a delicious, healthy ‘on the go’ snack option. Ideal for people looking to get fit in the New Year and make some healthy changes to their eating habits. Available in two different flavours - savoury and sweet. £2.49. www.tiana-coconut.com
COMMERCIAL 2950 The Commercial 2950 incorporates new and exciting features to enhance your exercise experience. An adjustable tablet holder allows you to change your tablet-viewing angle, and a WhisperQuiet™ durable design reduces the noise of each step on the tread deck. £2,999. www.nordictrack.co.uk
FLIPBELT REFLECTIVE The innovative large-pocket tubular design allows you to easily and securely carry large phones, keys, IDs, cards, cash, small medical devices and more without a backpack, running pouch or running armband. FlipBelt fits securely around your waist without riding up or bouncing. £32. ww.flipbelt.co.uk
THERMODYNAMIC RUNNING LEGGINGS These technical leggings take thermal to a new level with colour pop panelling. Constructed in thermal fabric that holds in just the right amount of warmth, while helping to enhance breathability when you sweat. Reflective trim keeps you visible outdoors and they’re styled with neon brights to match the colour pop panels. A handy back zip pocket fits up to an iPhone 7 and the thermal fabric is comfortable and temperatureregulating. £90. www.sweatybetty.com
FUNKIER WATERPROOF CYCLING RAIN JACKET
AVANCA D1 WIRELESS SPORTS HEADSET
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100% nylon waterproof, full waterproof zipper, raglan long sleeve and one rear pocket with flap. Also features a reflective piping, an armpit air opening with zipper (mesh fabric), rear air opening (mesh fabric, plus an extra rear folded bottom panel. £49.99. www.merlincycles.com The Avanca D1 Sports Headset is a must have for all runners, bikers and frequent gym visitors. Connect these wireless and flexible headphones to a smartphone, MP3-player or other Bluetooth device and listen to music or audio coaching during your work out. The stylish in-ear earbuds are carefully designed make sure they never fall out of your ears and to maximise the sound output. The headset comes with 3 different sizes of earbuds, so you can make it fit exactly to your needs. ou will maintain 100% percent freedom of movement and will not be bothered by a headset that slips of your head all the time. You will maintain 100% percent freedom of movement. £40.60. www.amazon.co.uk
L’EQUIP 215 XL JUICER With the same clean, fresh looks that have already won design accolades for other L’Equip juicers, the XL brings style and function into perfect harmony in your kitchen. The patented pulp ejection system eliminates the problem of clogging suffered by other juicers and allows you to make a large batch of nutrient-rich juice, without stopping for intermittent cleaning. £119. www.ukjuicers.com www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 11
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Just visit brewers.co.uk to find your local store FOR FURNITURE & GORGEOUS ACCESSORIES BREWERSHOME.CO.UK 12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk
Fable Linwood
The Autumn Statement 2017 Here in your final issue of 2017, Sussex Business Times gives you a rundown of the budget announcements made by Philip Hammond, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, at this year’s Autumn Statement On Wednesday 22nd November, the second budget of Finance 2017 – the Autumn Budget – took place as Philip Hammond, the Chancellor of the Exchequer yet again made the latest budget announcements for the UK economy. Of course, Sussex Business Times covers both budget announcements every year, so let’s jump straight into what statements were made this time around... One of the main points made in relation to business in the UK was that of the rise in employment over the past year, driven by full time workers, while unemployment is also at its lowest rate since 1975. In 2017 growth has remained solid, but slowed slightly at the start of the year. The UK economy is forecast to grow by 1.5% in 2017. It will then grow at a slightly slower rate in the next three years, before
picking up in 2021 and 2022. Also, the National Living Wage for those aged 25 and over will increase from £7.50 per hour to £7.83 per hour from April 2018, and over 2 million people are expected to benefit. For a full-time worker, it represents a pay rise of over £600 a year. The National Minimum Wage will also increase; £7.38 per hour for 21-24 year olds, £5.90 per hour for 18-20 year olds, £4.20 per hour for 16 and 17 year olds, and £3.70 per hour for apprentices. Transport is always a hot topic within the Chancellor of Exchqeuer’s yearly budget announcements, and this time around, it’s been said that £1.7 billion will go towards improving transport in English cities. Half will be given to Combined Authorities with Mayors, and the rest allocated by a competition. An extra £337 million will go towards a fleet of new trains on the Tyne & Wear Metro and an extra £6 million will go towards the Midlands Connect motorway and rail projects.
In addition to this, transport links along the Cambridge-Milton Keynes-Oxford corridor will be improved by completing the rail link between Oxford and Bedford, and Aylesbury and Milton Keynes, and setting up a new East West Rail Company to speed up work on the rail link between Bedford and Cambridge. £5 million will be spent with an aim to help develop plans for Cambridge South Station building the Expressway road between Oxford and Cambridge - two major location points for the UK’s business world. Also, in 2018, fuel duty will remain frozen for the eighth year in a row, saving drivers £160 a year on average, and the government have plans to work with the rail industry on a new railcard which will be introduced from spring 2018. The UK will also set out rules so that self-driving cars can be tested without a safety operator, while an extra £100 million will go towards helping people buy battery electric cars. The government will also
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Finance
make sure all new homes are built with the right cables for electric car charge points. £3.5 billion will be invested in upgrading NHS buildings and improving care music to the ears of many people in the UK. Meanwhile, £2.8 billion will go towards improving A&E performance, reducing waiting times for patients, and treating more people this winter. Education-wise, it has been announced that schools will get £600 for every extra pupil who takes A level or Core maths and a reasonable £27 million will help improve how maths is taught in 3,000 schools - a key life skill. £49 million will go towards helping students resitting GCSE maths and £350,000 of extra funding a year will be given to every specialist maths school that is set up across the country. The number of fully-qualified computer science teachers will also rise from 4,000 to 12,000. £34 million will go towards teaching construction skills like bricklaying and plastering. £30 million will go towards digital courses using AI. This funding is provided in advance of launching a National Retraining Scheme that will help people get new skills. It will be overseen by the government, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI). They will decide on other areas of the economy where new skills and training courses are needed. So what did businesses have to say about this year’s Autumn Budget? Jonathan Sherman, Solicitor, Coffin Mew: “This was very much the budget for tech, start-ups, and scale-ups. However, the development of new technologies, such as autonomous cars and AI, is very much at the mercy of our legal and regulatory systems. Already there are issues with how fast these kinds of ideas can advance while there are questions about insurance and liability. While producing an environment for greater investment in future technologies is a start, the law needs to adapt to allow our nation to lead the way. “There is talk of making a friendlier regulatory environment but with the fast pace of change, this needs to happen sooner rather than
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later. Hopefully Philip Hammond and the government recognise this and the ideas in the budget are a start of greater things to come.” Caroline Wood, Director of the Coastal West Sussex Partnership Board: “While growth forecasts are down across the UK, on first viewing, there are measures which, on paper, will support the economic development of the West Sussex area in the coming years. “The pledge to embark on the biggest housebuilding scheme since the 1970s will boost all sectors, upskilling construction workers as well as providing affordable places for thousands of people to live. But this needs to be balanced along the coast with providing space for business so those same people can work. “We also welcome the pledge to improve the teaching of computer science and maths which will go a long way to providing the skilled workforce for our world-leading STEM industries which are developing so rapidly across our area.” Mike Taylor, Managing Director at Business Performance and Leadership Consultancy Accelerating Experience: “Injecting more capital into the National Productivity Investment Fund is a positive sign of the government’s commitment to solving Britain’s productivity crisis. Improving business investment is an important ingredient to productivity gains, but we also need to see skills developed in the right part of businesses. Yes we need an improvement in worker skills to boost output, but we also need to address the current paucity of true leadership in many businesses. Alison Sampson, Senior VAT Adviser at Knill James: “The VAT
registration threshold is to remain at the current level of £85,000, and the deregistration threshold at £83,000 for two years from April 2018. This comes as a pleasant surprise for smaller businesses, as there was a possibility of the VAT threshold being significantly reduced. “The Office of Tax Simplification had previously concluded that the current VAT threshold (the highest within OECD countries) distorts competition and poses a disincentive to business growth, so there was some concern that the UK VAT threshold might be significantly reduced. Beware though, as there is to be a consultation to establish whether there should be any changes to the threshold or the way that the UK implements VAT registration after April 2020. “This measure may well be specifically aimed at keeping the number of businesses required to file VAT data through the Making Tax Digital regime to a minimum when it is first introduced in April 2019, while the new system is rolled out and teething problems corrected.”
Finance
SBT also caught up with Paula Joyce, Tax Manager at Sheen Stickland Chartered Accountants, to get their view on this year’s Autumn Budget...
S
mall businesses seemed to take a back seat in this budget with minimal changes being announced and so the key point to take away is that for many it will be “business as usual.” The key emphasis of the budget speech was the “technical revolution” that is upon us and encouraging the UK to embrace changes that will “transform our living standards for generations to come.” The government announced £500 million of investment into a range of initiatives from artificial intelligence to full fibre broadband and 5G, however there was some comfort in that driverless cars will not be taking over UK roads just yet, much to Jeremy Clarkson’s satisfaction. Cars remained in focus, with further research and development into how, and where electric vehicles can be charged and the speech provided welcome confirmation that electric cars charged at work will not be a taxable benefit in kind. It was also announced that from April 2018 diesel cars not meeting the latest standards will be paying more vehicle tax and the benefit in kind diesel supplement will increase from 3% to 4% with the maximum percentage being 37%. Philip Hammond noted that “white van man (or woman)” will be safe from this increase, however given the inherent complications in confirming whether a vehicle is a car or van it will be interesting to see how this differential is noted in the legislation. Many of us will remember the increased interest in double cab pickups becoming the stable family vehicle! For corporate bodies the most significant change is the removal of relief on corporate gains for inflation. Corporate indexation allowance will
be frozen from 1 January 2018 and accordingly no relief for inflation will be available for companies disposing of capital assets accruing after this date. There will be some changes to venture capital trusts and enterprise investment schemes, with a heavier focus on investments where the capital is genuinely at risk, rather than being protected. Tax-motivated investments, where the tax relief provides all or most of the return for an investor with limited risk to the original investment, will no longer be eligible. In addition the “staircase tax” was addressed by legislating retrospectively to counteract the loss of business rate relief as a result of the previous changes made to valuation principles. As usual the government have introduced several provisions to counter both tax avoidance and tax evasion. Personal service companies – IR35 – are again in the Chancellor’s sights, and with early indications that public sector compliance is increasing an obvious next step would be to extend the reforms to the private sector. Further consultations are to be published in 2018. The Chancellor decided against attacking pension tax reliefs – leaving the annual allowance unchanged and actually increasing the lifetime allowance next tax year from £1 million to £1.03 million in line with inflation. There were some anticipated increases to both the personal allowance and higher rate threshold in line with previous manifesto commitments, with an increase to the National Living Wage from £7.50 to £7.83, and for those of us lucky enough to be under 30 a new railcard will be introduced in Spring 2018 to provide a welcome discount to the younger rail commuter. The government has also chosen to
delay the abolition of Class 2 NICs by a year until 6 April 2019. Class 4 will remain at 9% and will not be subject to the increases previously announced. Sheen Stickland work closely with small business clients to advise them on how they can best manage the impact these changes may have on their business through the review of their business strategies, ensuring solid management of their cash flow is in place and providing advice and guidance on tax planning opportunities. If you have any questions about how any aspects of your tax and financial planning may be affected by the Budget, please contact Paula Joyce directly at pjoyce@sheen-stickland. co.uk and for further details on all aspects of the changes announced in the Autumn budget, please visit www.sheen-stickland.co.uk
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Adobe Stock Š
SMEs: Choosing the Right Telecoms Package Dave Millet has over 35 years’ experience in the Telecoms industry and has worked in European Director roles for several global companies. Here in your December issue and ahead of the New Year, he explains the ways in which you can ensure the best telecoms package for your small business Most businesses in the UK employ fewer than 10 people – Insight generally meaning that the owner has all the challenges of growing the business, managing people and dealing with suppliers. So, it is not surprising that some tasks are dealt with quickly, including sorting out the telecoms package for the business. Unfortunately, there are many traps for the unwary. So as a guide, outlined here in these pages are some simple things to watch out for before you sign on the dotted line. One of the easiest and most essential things to check is if the potential supplier has signed up
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to the Ombudsman scheme. It gives free binding arbitration in the event of a dispute. A list of members can be found at www.ombudsman-services. org memberlists/communications/. If the company you are considering is not a member, you have to ask why not? Watch out for being lured by eye grabbing lowest price promise especially for line rentals. What you usually find is that the savings here are more than offset by higher call charges. Or, even more sneakily, there are hidden charges such as minimum call charges, call set up fees and call durations being rounded up to the nearest minute. All of which inflate the overall bill. There is quite a bit of protection for small businesses but many are not aware of it and suppliers rely on that
ignorance. For example, auto renewal of phone contracts for small businesses was banned several years ago yet many suppliers still try to get away with it. Also watch out for price rises post the start of the contract. As a small business you should be given notice on any price rise and given the option to cancel within 30 days. However, many suppliers hide the notification in bills or on their website. So, the only way to be sure is to check the bill regularly against the contract and insist on an additional contract clause that should you spot a price rise at any time you have the right to cancel. Many small businesses sign long term deals to avoid upfront payments – but this can be a false economy. Who knows where the business will be in five or seven years time? As always, something that appears to be free at the time can have long term cost consequences. Another common mistake for small businesses is think, “I will just use my mobile number.” Plenty of research has shown that most consumers and businesses trust companies with only
a mobile number far less than those that appear to have a landline number. The appear bit is important as it is now very easy and cost effective to have a landline as an app on your mobile. This can help your company appear bigger than it really is, as well as helping business owners separate their work and personal lives. Some businesses keen to save more money are tempted to use residential services. There is a simple answer to this – don’t. Whilst you may save a few pounds on monthly rentals, what you are losing is priority if there is a fault. How much revenue would you lose in a day if a potential customer cannot contact you? It is a similar story with broadband; the best advice is don’t just buy on price. Whilst many people view it as a commodity – in reality there are great variations in contention ratios, network capacity, quality of ‘free’ routers and customer service. Again, it is important to ask what is the cost of a day’s lost internet? For example, we know of a pub that used wifi card machines and chose to go down the residential route
because it would save money (a £10 a month saving) but the pub suffered a fault at 4pm on a Friday. It wasn’t fixed until late on Monday meaning they lost almost £6,000 in missed takings over the weekend as it was cash only. Obviously review sites can act as a guide but, be aware, not all are as independent as they seem. For example, Trust Pilot are owned by same company that owns Verastar (previously Unicom). They were fined £200,000 by Ofcom for miss-selling. And there are regular instances where people who have left negative feedback on Trustpilot find that it has disappeared later on. Remember, communicating with customers, partners and suppliers is key for all small businesses. So, ensuring you have the right solution for your business at the right price, without any nasty surprises, is certainly worthy of management time. www.equinoxcomms.co.uk Twitter: @equinoxcomms LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/ dave-millett/2/17b/a94
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John Merrigan
A Christmas Carol: Lessons for Good Corporate Governance As a New Year 2018 approaches, John Merrigan, Senior Advisor at Nestor Advisors returns to our pages this month to highlight practical actions to reflect upon to improve your business governance and long-term success. As we approach the end of 2017 and John looking forward to Merrigan 2018, I am reminded of the lessons we can reflect on from the wonderful book: “A Christmas Carol�, by Charles Dickens. Dickens takes us through a journey to understand how the central character Ebenezer Scrooge became what he is, and how he understood the need for change to bring meaning and purpose to his future life. So it is with corporate governance for your business. The secret of success is to make a realistic assessment of where you are today, and then make real changes to determine the future course of the business. In this review, I want to talk about some choices businesses should consider in 2018 in three specific aspects of good corporate governance: Risk Management, People Management and Key Contract Reviews.
pressures we all face. Consider the current and future uncertainties facing your business: Brexit, changing consumer habits, and new technology to mention but a few. These trends challenge all business owners and their boards to understand the impact on the company plans, and to take the necessary steps to protect shareholder value. With this proactive approach to risk comes peace of mind, knowing that major events that can impact your business are on the radar, and steps to mitigate them are well defined.
GOOD RISK MANAGEMENT
Frame the Risk and Define Mitigation Actions Describe the risks under each heading, define the potential impact on the
Stepping back to review the critical internal and external risks in the business is often neglected because of the daily
List the Primary Risks My advice is to start off simply and build on this as the needs of the business change. I suggest assessing business risk under the following headings: Operations and Safety, Competition, Laws & Regulations, Human Resources & Succession Planning, Intellectual Property & Trademarks, IT Systems, Working Capital Management, and finally Legal Structures of the company.
business and accordingly rank the risks by relative importance. Start to develop mitigation strategies (perhaps involving outside assistance or expertise) and allocate ownership of the actions to the management team. Draft the Risk Register & Review Regularly Bring this together in a single document, the Risk Register, which should be reviewed monthly by senior management and at all board meetings as a set agenda item. Formats and detail of the Risk Register will vary but all should contain these core elements: Category: Define which category of risk applies. Description: Describe the risk clearly and its impact on the business. Mitigation: Define a realistic mitigation strategy to manage the risk. Priority: Assign a priority. Owner/when: Defne who in the business is accountable and the action date.
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John Merrigan
Building this process will bring sharper focus on the key corporate governance gaps in the business. The ability to show a prospective investor, bank or supplier that you have focused on risk management is proof of strong governance and gives them confidence to lend or partner with you in 2018.
MANAGE & RETAIN KEY PEOPLE Retaining key employees and putting in place processes to do this is at the very heart of good corporate governance. Typically, many organisations have an over-reliance on a relatively small number of key employees for their success. They are usually trusted, reliable and aligned to the vision of the owners as a result of years of dedicated service. They often have a key skillset, connections and vital experience. And, most likely in recent years, they have shown loyalty and personal sacrifice through difficult times. As you and the board set the plans for the business for the New Year, they too will be setting their personal goals and aspirations. So, here are some suggestions to consider to retain and motivate your key people:
Share the Vision Owners and senior managers must share
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their vision of the business for the next 3 years with key staff. You cannot expect people to follow you if you do not tell them where you are going. Write down the final vision on 1-2 pages, and share the relevant elements with the key staff as appropriate. Define Accountability Sit with your key staff and work together to define their job description and / or update the older draft to make sure it properly reflects reality. Unless this is done, key staff will be frustrated and unclear what you expect of them. Agree and jointly sign off. Assess Market Rates The cost of living will likely increase as will the family pressures on your employees. A proactive salary increase now, may prove to be a wiser course than a larger reactive increase when the key employee comes to you with a competitor offer letter. Implement a Performance Management System (PMS) Based on the company vision, job description and the business plan, put in place a fit for purpose PMS. At its simplest, this comprises writing 5-10
company and personal objectives for the next 12 months, and a formal progress review at least twice in the year. Be Visible To Key Staff Make a commitment to spend extra time with your key staff and to listen to them in the New Year. Expand conversations to sincerely understand more about their personal challenges. Often, you can do a lot without a lot of cost, and this connection makes a huge long-term impact.
KEY CONTRACTS ANNUAL REVIEW
Management is accountable to ensure that the terms and conditions of the contracts and agreements in any business are up to date to reflect the reality of operations. The distractions associated with unwanted contractual and legal disputes are draining not only from the time wasted but also in terms of unplanned costs and potential damage to company reputation and stakeholder relationships. The systematic review of contracts in the business will ultimately save you time and money, keeping you focused on building a sustainable enterprise.
John Merrigan
Client / Customer Contracts Often, client (those who buy services) and customer (those who buy products) contracts have not been updated on company documents to reflect changes in the business for the New Year. Basic contract elements must be accurate, including any new payment terms, bank details, company information, delivery terms / conditions and the like. The gaps in this critical information can give rise to delays in payments, disputes and loss of business. Supplier Agreements It is a vital task to ensure that discounts, payment terms, service levels and other long-term arrangements can be assessed, formalised, and critical gaps addressed. The resulting proactive discussions to negotiate the best possible terms will ensure continuity of business and help to keep your input costs under control. Employment Contracts Frequently, the terms of employment contracts, especially pertaining to longstanding key staff, do not reflect changes that have occurred in their terms and conditions. Critical terms such as job titles, salary and benefit conditions, annual leave, sickness policy, pension provision, termination and probation among others should be actively updated to reflect the current legal requirements. Insurance Contracts Ensure that insurance contracts provide adequate and up to date cover to protect key risks in your business. This includes buildings and contents, third party liability, professional indemnity, vehicle cover, health insurance cover and other specific risks that may apply. The levels of cover you currently have in place may not reflect the actual operations which may affect the validity of cover. Office & Factory Contracts The terms and conditions associated with office and factory rentals / leases are critical for the continuation of all business. In the context of the significant changes in the market rates and regulations, long-standing lease contracts should be proactively reviewed to ensure that the contract provisions are favourable and protect you over the term duration. Document Safe Keeping & Storage Ensure that all the above documents are kept safely in secure storage so they can
be easily accessed and produced when required. Start to compile a register of key business documents and regularly review it so it is up-to-date. Build the action list arising from the contracts review, using this simple approach: • Validity: Make a note of the renewal/ expiry dates in 2018. • Accuracy: Check the key information and conditions are correct. • Relevance: Check the contract terms are relevant and reflect the business needs. • Accountability: Clearly identify who is tasked to take the action and set milestones. • Professional Legal Advice: Seek advice on the major contract changes that may arise.
PARTING THOUGHTS
“A Christmas Carol” gives us valuable lessons on how we need to change to be successful, based on a thoughtful assessment of where we are now. It is a timely and timeless reminder about key choices we face as we move into an exciting 2018 and beyond. Unless you as business owner make those future choices, the choices may be made for you - a scary prospect, perhaps just like being visited by a ghost. There is real opportunity to stand apart and succeed in the market, for those who take these governance challenges, carefully and with real commitment. For further information, please contact John Merrigan at jmerrigan@nestoradvisors.com
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Artificial Intelligence
Transforming Daily Life with Artificial Intelligence Rohit Talwar, Steve Wells, April Koury, Alexandra Whittington, and Maria Romero are futurists with Fast Future, which specialises in studying and advising on the impacts of emerging change. Here, they delve deep into the meaning of Artificial Intelligence and explore the many ways in which it impacts day-to-day (and more speficially) business life
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a hot topic; Technol- a combination of breathless ogy excitement and near-paralysing fear are driving the debate with countless – often illinformed - predictions about how the technology which will revamp our future lives. At its core, AI is a type software or hardware that learns; the technology is being applied to learn our habits, our likes and our relationship patterns. Just as Netflix uses an algorithm to suggest films you might watch, a similar “Lifestyle AI” could help choose your
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wardrobe, your next meal, your job, even your romantic partner. The capabilities of AI tools and the range of applications are growing exponentially. Indeed, by 2020 AI could be present in some form in everything we do, and by 2030, AI is likely to have infiltrated our lives in much the same way as smartphones, the internet and global travel are now taken for granted. So, how might AI change our day-today existence? Managing our mental health From workplace stress to full breakdowns and a range of other conditions – people are struggling to cope with the pressures of modern life. To address this, AI tools on
our phones and computers could monitor everything from our speech patterns and keyboard strokes to an array of medical indicators captured through body worn devices and implanted sensors. From early detection of possible issues to providing background guidance during stressful calls and conversations – AI could help manage our mental health. Anticipating your ‘party sick’ Fridays Some companies are exploring the idea of monitoring employees’ social media activities to determine if they may be partying a little too hard tonight and thus likely to call in “sick” tomorrow. Knowing in advance would allow for cover to be arranged. Employers might even offer
Technology
and feedback about one’s daily progress against officially defined or personally set physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual development goals. The absence of such goals or tracking information might indicate antisocial tendencies. The gathering of data to improve one’s performance in every area would be viewed as a must-do, otherwise, what’s the point of collecting it – or indeed – what’s the point of living in an organised society? The end of solitude The days when someone could take a few days off the grid and disconnect from everything may be coming to an end. For AI to really know its user, the blanket of visible and hidden data collecting sensors that enshroud us must be on and working everywhere and around-the-clock. While you could be physically alone, your digital footprint could reveal your whereabouts in a microsecond. Privacy issues may arise if terms and conditions are not properly established, and security systems will remain vulnerable to hacking. You may still be ‘allowed’ to voluntarily turn off your AI, but that alone would be a red flag that might trigger further and more in-depth scrutiny of your behaviours.
staff “party days” – where they can accrue extra hours which can then be used to sleep it off the morning after a big night without it affecting their pay or employment records. The entire set of activities described above could all be conducted by AI with no human intervention. Making good decisions Our AI could become a sort of conscience, reminding us of right and wrong at every turn. This could work on both the individual level (“should I lie on this job application?”), and at an organisational scale (“should we rip off this customer?”). Not only might AI be deployed as a form of monitoring or ‘truth
detecting’ technology that sets off alarms at the source of any mistruth, but data could also become so ubiquitous and verifiable that it won’t pay to lie. Crimes of all kinds could become much more difficult to commit. Indeed, law enforcement could eventually get bored and look for something else to do – possibly investing the time in strengthening community engagement. Mandatory personal growth The ability of AI to help us understand ourselves and learn could lead to lives filled with learning. The “unexamined life” could become obsolete - it may one day be legally impossible to avoid the constant “big brother” data gathering
Legal dispute resolution Many current cases could be directed away from the courts to be resolved by AI judges. For example, in divorce cases, employment tribunals, industrial injury and many customer-supplier disputes, judges today are largely applying standard formulae to determine settlements. With AI, a much larger volume of precedents could be considered in a fraction of a second to find the cases that best resemble the current one. Hence greater consistency could be achieved in the resolution of similar disputes. In more severe cases such as robbery, murder or violent crimes, data could be collected and analysed from the IoT array of sensors built into everyday objects such as furniture, clothing and electronic appliances. If the TV room surveillance camera, the sensors in the sofa and your mobile phone AI all say you committed the crime, then AI might be able to resolve the case faster and more cheaply than a traditional court room. A jury might still be involved but
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Technology
the AI would be providing them with more consistent, up-to-date and precise guidance than any human could ever hope to achieve. Community building Communities may be better organised since AI could monitor and analyse the ‘health’ of the community – covering everything from environmental indicators through to levels of crime, engagement in public spaces and discussions on web boards and social media. Community planners could harness the intelligence of AI for optimal planning, ensuring that public works and services are available where and when residents need them. For example, AI mapping might help planners identify and predict faster that an area with a rapidly growing population will soon lack sufficient access to schools, health facilities, libraries, and even a fresh food markets. Community managers might send mobile classrooms, GPs, libraries, and fresh food trucks to those areas, or help reorganise the community to selfprovision some of the missing essentials. Environmental monitoring Environmental conditions may improve by using AI and sensors connected through the Internet of Things (IoT) to help monitor the local and even global environment. Sensors may constantly feed AI software that records and analyses the latest local environmental data on factors such as air and water quality. Based on AI predictions and recommendations, commuters may be redirected to public transport or to use reduced emission roads on certain days. In addition, trees and greenery might be planted in specific areas to reduce soil erosion and decrease potential flooding, while entire cities may be redesigned to lessen overall environmental impact on the planet. Education revolution Artificial intelligence could replace the technical information delivery role
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currently undertaken by teachers. Each student could be specifically monitored by AI on a range of subjects designed to prepare the student for the future world of work. No longer will all students work to the same or similar curriculum through all 11 years of primary and secondary education. Instead they would have a carefully planned and constantly monitored, evolving and personalised programme. This would be designed to stretch and develop each student with the skills he/she needs for the expected types of jobs or further education landscape they might encounter at 16
years of age. Students will still need someone in the classroom, but maybe the human “teacher” is responsible for helping advise on research strategies and problem-solving approaches, encouraging group working and collaboration, nurturing individuals, providing emotional support, and helping the students develop the social skills required to enable each to play a full role in the emerging world – served by the machines - thus ensuring every individual a very human future. www.fastfuture.com
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Electric
Celebrating 10 Years of Electric
This year saw Electric celebrate their 10th year in business. SBT’s Managing Director, Sam Thomas caught up with founder, Mark Woolley to talk about the phenomenal brand that is Electric
Mark Woolley is a multi-award winning Sussex hair stylist, founder, Business international creative Awards Director and the sole driving force behind the exclusive and innovative British brand, Electric. Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2017, the Electric brand encompasses six bespoke salons in key cities throughout the UK, a professional award winning product range, the Electric Studio and the Electric Education Academy. One of the most respected figures within the hairdressing industry, Mark’s work regularly appears in leading publications across the globe. He is frequently used as an expert on celebrity hair trends on television and within top monthly glossy magazines, drawing on his 25 years’ experience to create stunning, inspirational looks. Regularly in-demand across the globe for his creativity and entrepreneurial expertise, Mark shares his time between the UK, USA, Europe and the Far East promoting his hair knowledge and professional hair product range. Mark is also a founding member of L’Oréal Portfolio of Artistic Hairdressers and is active within the Fellowship for British Hairdressing.
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His passion for art, music, and fashion made his journey into the beauty industry inevitable. His dedication to elevating the image of hairdressing, both publicly and within the fashion industry, has been his fuel for innovating, collaborating and developing talent. This ultimately led to the creation of the Electric salons, Electric Studio, Electric Education and eventually the Electric Professional product range
that is now also available in independent hair salons across the globe. The Electric brand is a portfolio of the Electric Studio, Electric Education Academy, and Electric Professional product range all driven by a collective of bespoke salons situated in key cities across the UK and an award winning Artistic Team. The Electric brand continues to grow,
Electric absorbing Mark’s down-to-earth nature and accessible style, as well as reflecting his energy, drive and vision, making it one of the most happening brands within the hairdressing industry current day. With beautiful salons in London’s fashionable Marylebone, Brighton, Oxford, Liverpool, Edinburgh and Reading, Electric focuses on delivering a total experience that blends outstanding cuts and gorgeous colour with seamless customer excellence. As well as offering customers around the country an incredble service not found in many other salons, Electric’s high-end products are available in hand-picked UK salons and abroad via leading distributors. Electric Formulas are unique in that they are a bespoke range of products, requested by clients and designed by hairdressers. It is also the only independently owned and produced in Britain. Drawing on two decades of experience in the industry and years of intense research and development, Electric are very proud of the Electric Professional Products range, which is now available in over 8 countries worldwide. ACHIEVEMENTS Over its decade of operation, Electric has won numerous (and well-deserved) awards for its services and products, including Best Education and Training at the British Hairdressing Business Awards, Best Salon and Best Business Thinker at the Creative Head Award, Best Professional Haircare Shampoo and Best Travel Product at the Hair Awards and FAME Team Winner at the Fellowship For British Hairdressing Awards. Electric has also earned accolades such as Hair Magazine’s Salon Stylist of the Year, Creative Director of the Year and Business Director of the Year at the British Hairdressing Business Awards, as well as becoming a finalist for Most Wanted at the Awards for Innovation and the Creative Head Awards’ IT List. THE FUTURE OF ELECTRIC Of course, coming this far means that Mark only has plans to continue expanding, innovating and moving forwards. The Electric team is definitely growing, and with friends in different countries around the world, at the heart of it, it’s all of these people that make it all happen. After all, teamwork makes the dream work! To celebrate the brand’s 10th year in
business, the Electric team threw a party in Falmer Court; what is soon to be their new premises. The Medieval barn (the second largest thatched roof in the UK) will soon be Electric’s head offices, where the products will be made and what will also become a fully functional event space, photo studio and product lab. Such a large amount of space will also allow the building of a generous amount of accommodation and offer teaching courses. Over the coming months, what this will become is essentially a global destination for Electric. Of course, a huge congratulations goes to Mark Woolley and the Electric team, and we’ll look forward to bringing you their latest news in issues to come. For any further information on Electric, please visit their website: www.electric-hair.com
“Electric is all about people. It will always be about people. Those people have got to be creative, ambitious… And we’ve got to build an energy around them.” – Mark Woolley
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Sussex Business Awards
Sussex Business Awards Thursday 30th November saw the Sussex Business Awards take The Grand Hotel in Brighton by storm. Here, SBT gives you a run down of this year’s well-deservinng winners
Around four hundred of the Sussex county’s leading Business business people, Awards including the Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, Mayor of Brighton & Hove and Kemptown MP Lloyd Russell-Moyle, gathered to celebrate business excellence across the region, with 17 awards presented by comedian, Ian Moore. The winners were drawn from 40 finalists representing 17 Sussex towns – from Albourne to Uckfield and Worthing. The Awards were presented at The Grand Brighton on Thursday 30 November.
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The big winner on the night was Bluebird Tea Co. which took home awards for Best Employer (sponsored by Midnight) and Customer Service (sponsored by Checkatrade.com). The husband and wife team behind the enterprise, Mike Turner & Krisi Smith, were named Sussex Businessperson of the year (sponsored by HARE.digital). Frontier Pitts, a finalist in last year’s International Business (sponsored by HSBC) was this year named the outright winner. The ultimate accolade of Sussex Company of the Year (sponsored by Mazars) was awarded to Rinkit Ltd, finalists for International Business and Entrepreneur of the Year awards which was won by its Commercial Director
2017
Richard Goss. Rinkit Ltd is an online retailer selling home and garden products across the UK and Europe. Mike Herd, Executive Director of the Sussex Innovation centre and Chairman of the judges commented: “This year was a record year! With the amount of entries received, the judging process proved a difficult task. The exceptional quality of the entries really shined through, and many worthy winners were chosen. This year’s sponsors include Checkatrade.com, Coffin Mew, Gemini Print, HARE.Digital, HSBC, Legal & General, Mazars, Midnight Communications, Sussex Chamber of Commerce, Sussex Innovation Centre, The Goodall Foundation, University of
Sussex Business Awards
Sussex, Vantage Professional Risks, Platinum Business Magazine, The Argus, Title Sussex and Heart FM. The winners of the Sussex Business Awards 2017 are as follows... The Award for Innovation in Business, sponsored by Sussex Innovation Centre: QED (Sustainable Urban Developments). The Responsible Business Award, sponsored by The Goodhall Foundation: SJM Electrical Services. The Award for Healthiest Workplace, sponsored by Legal & General: Haybury FINALIST: The Float Spa. The Best Place to Entertain Your Clients Award, sponsored by Title Sussex: Hotel Du Vin Brighton. The Award for Best Employer, sponsored by Midnight Communications: Bluebird Tea Co. The Award for the Most Promising New Business, sponsored by Coffin Mew: ViiSana Ltd. The Sussex Graduate of the Year Award, sponsored by University of Sussex: Ella Grant, Advice Cloud.
The Award for the Best Customer Service, sponsored by Checkatrade. com: Bluebird Tea Co. The Award for Professional Services, sponsored by Vantage Professional Risks: Juno Wealth Management. The Award for the Most Sustainable Business, sponsored by Gemini Print: The Big Lemon CIC. The Award for Leisure & Tourism Sponsored by Heart FM: Bluebell Railway plc. The Entrepreneur of the Year, sponsored by Platinum Business Magazine: Richard Goss, Rinkit Ltd The International Business of the Year
Award, sponsored by HSBC: Frontier Pitts Ltd. The Small Business of the Year, sponsored by Sussex Chamber of Commerce: Magenta Associates. The Sussex Businessperson of the Year, sponsored by HARE.digital: Mike Turner & Krisi Smith, Bluebird Tea Co. The Greatest Contribution to Sussex Charity Award, sponsored by The Argus: Starr Trust. The Sussex Company of the Year Award, sponsored by Mazars: Rinkit Ltd. For further information please email sussex@midnight.co.uk.
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A Year of Success for Rockinghorse! It’s been quite a year for Rockinghorse and here in our final issue of 2017, we take a look back at the charity’s successes and achievements from the year just passed, hearing of some of its supporters along the way
GOLDEN GOAL ACHIEVED AT ANNIVERSARY BALL We smashed through our £500,000 target last month thanks to Charity funds raised at our 50th Anniversary Ball. Held at The Grand Hotel in Brighton, our Golden Jubilee gala event played host to over 400 supporters who helped celebrate our milestone year. We launched our anniversary appeal ‘Sussex Giving for Sussex Children’ last October with the aim to raise half a million pounds. £115,000 was raised at the Ball, of which every penny will be going towards the appeal. Our goal total was reached thanks to a very generous additional donation by local businessman, Michael Blencowe, on behalf of the Blencowe family, who presented Rockinghorse with a cheque for £45,000 on the night. This has enabled them to reach their £500,000 target two months before the end of the year! The Ball was compered by Danny Pike from BBC Sussex, with guests enjoying a sumptuous three-course dinner plus
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a cheese course provided by La Cave á Fromage. Entertainment was provided by ‘singing waiters’ Opera on the Run, who surprised guests with their humorous and energetic performance. It was a rush to the dance floor as headline act The Fab Beatles – the UK’s number one Beatles tribute band – took to the stage to perform the bands greatest hits. The event was sponsored by DMH Stallard and the firm marked their own
celebrations on the night as Managing Partner, Richard Pollins, also turned 50 this year. Co-sponsors were Cardens, City Cabs Brighton, The Grand Brighton and Rivervale. Our charity auction proved a hit with many exclusive prizes available for generous bidders – including a money-
can-buy ‘Forever in Fiction’ auction lot kindly donated by award-winning author Peter James. He was present on the night and spoke about the opportunity he had offered for a lucky bidder to have a character with their name in a future Roy Grace novel. The Brighton and Hove Bus Company created a ‘mini’ Rockinghorse bus which they had donated for auction – a replica of the full-scale special edition bus, currently on the roads of Brighton, Hove and Sussex, kindly gifted to us by the bus company – which has generously been donated to the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital. Ryan Heal, Chief Executive of Rockinghorse Children’s Charity said: “I feel a huge sense of pride stood before you this evening as Chief Executive of this wonderful cause. Rockinghorse means so much to me, and I know I am not alone. I have always positioned myself as a Rockinghorse supporter who happens to be the CEO. My own family could look and feel very different today without the work of the charity; providing life-saving medical equipment, resource, counselling, respite, research and allround support for the children in our community that need our help the most.
ROYAL PATRON FOR ROCKINGHORSE
Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra has been appointed Royal Patron of Rockinghorse. The news came as part of a visit by the Princess in July to the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital (the Alex) in Brighton, which was opened by Her Royal Highness in 2007. In celebration of our 50th anniversary,
the Princess made a special trip to Sussex to visit the children’s hospital, meeting with staff, young patients and their parents. The commemorative visit marks not only 50 years of Rockinghorse as the hospital’s official fundraising arm, but 10 years of the ‘new’ Alex. The announcement completes a unique double for the Princess – who is The Queen’s cousin – having been the original children’s hospital Patron since 1954. Rockinghorse is now one of the only Sussex-based charities to hold Royal Patronage. Her Royal Highness takes over patronage of Rockinghorse from Lady Mary Herries – the Princess’ Lady-in-Waiting for over 50 years – who sadly passed away in April. Lady
Mary was our one and only Patron in half a century, having duly accepted the invitation from Dr Trevor Mann back in 1967 upon formation of Rockinghorse. At the Royal reception, the Princess unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark her visit (pictured above). Ryan Heal, Chief Executive of Rockinghorse, presented Princess Alexandra with a specially commissioned diamond and gold Rockinghorse brooch, handmade by Brighton jewellers Posh Totty Designs, which she announced she will treasure. Mr Heal said: “We were honoured to be awarded the visit by Princess Alexandra at such a prominent time in both the charity’s and hospital’s history. It has been a truly momentous occasion and I thank all of our supporters.”
ROCKINGHORSE PROJECTS The Royal Alexandra Childrens Hospital We’re providing funding for an Asthma Clinical Trial to support children who suffer from the disease. The study is expected to benefit thousands of children in Sussex every year who suffer from Asthma. Asthma is the most common chronic disease in children and affects around one-million youngsters in the UK. Children with the disease can suffer from school absences and need regular hospital admissions, so this trial will aim to improve asthma control in young patients. Tudor House Providing short breaks for young people who have severe learning disabilities and complex needs, Tudor House in Brighton has welcomed the addition of a garden log cabin. We’ve been raising funds to provide the care home with much needed
additional leisure space for its residents to enjoy. The cabin benefits from additional sensory and soft play equipment that is being used as a quiet and safe space away from the busier environment in the main house. Chailey Heritage Foundation, The D.R.E.A.M. Centre We’ve pledged £50,000 towards a purpose built all-weather indoor activity centreat Chailey Heritage in Lewes called The D.R.E.A.M. Centre. They have launched an appeal to raise £2.6million pounds to build a modern and vibrant indoor activity space where children and young people with disabilities and health needs can participate in a mixture of arts and physical activities.
A MESSAGE FROM CHIEF EXECUTIVE, RYAN HEAL “It’s hard to imagine it has been a year since we launched our 50th anniversary appeal. Giving ourselves a target of £500,000, we set about our fundraising efforts to make our partner beneficiaries dreams become a reality. “Since our appeal began YOU have helped us raise our half a million pounds target! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to each and every one of you who have contributed to this hugely collective effort.
“Our remaining 50th anniversary projects are underway at various stages of development and will reach their own completion dates across 2018. We look forward to sharing more of that good news with you in due course. “Finally, in thanking each of our supporters from across Sussex, I would like to publicly thank the Rockinghorse team for their dedication and commitment
throughout the year in fundraising, marketing, administering and delivery this memorable appeal.”
For any further information, please visit www.rockinghorse.org.uk
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Domestic & General Staff Raise Thousands 900 Staff at Domestic & General’s Brighton contact centre have thrown their support behind Rockinghorse, raising almost £8,500. The Brighton team chose to support us as their Charity of the Year for 2016/2017, organising a variety of fundraising events to raise £8,453. Staff took part in Paddle Round the Pier, Santa Dash, summer fundraising fetes, and a host of other activities to raise funds. Our Chief Executive, Ryan Heal, and Head of Fundraising, Analiese Doctrove, recently joined team members from Domestic & General at their office in Queens Square for an official cheque presentation (pictured above). Jenny Hillyer, HR Director of Business Partnering and chair of the charity committee, said: “We at Domestic & General are proud to support the
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communities in which we operate. In the context of our current business transformation, charity partnerships are a win for all – they contribute to worthy causes whilst developing our employees, who in turn make for better customer advocates and more engaged citizens. It’s great to see the team in Brighton celebrate another successful year of fundraising as we head into the third year of partnership with Rockinghorse” During the two-year charity partnership, staff at Domestic & General have raised over £15,000 for Rockinghorse, as well as donating many hours of time to volunteer at fundraising events and the centres we support, including the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton Analiese Doctrove, Head of Fundraising at Rockinghorse, said: “We are extremely grateful for the continued support from
staff at Domestic & General’s Brighton office, and are delighted at the amount raised for the second year of our charity partnership. Our thanks to the entire team who are all helping us make a huge difference to the lives of sick children in Sussex.” ABOUT DOMESTIC & GENERAL Domestic & General are experts in providing specialist warranties, with over 16 million people in 14 countries trusting them to help with their breakdown. At their core is a determination to take the worry out of appliance, boiler and electronic problems, specialising in protection plans, where customers pay a set price each month for approved repairs from expert engineers. www.domesticandgeneral.com
MailServe Delivers During Fundraising Challenge MailServe have made it their mission to raise as much money as possible for our 50th anniversary appeal, and have proudly presented us with a cheque for £8,597.50. The franking machine specialists, based in Haywards Heath, organised a charity golf day as well as a weekend of adrenaline-fuelled fun in the Adrenaline Rush Xtreme charity challenge. The Mailserve Charity Golf Day saw 51 golfers take part in the event held at Mid Sussex Golf Club on a sunny July day. The teams played 18 holes of golf and battled it out on the fairway to score points and be crowned winners. Participants enjoyed a well-deserved post-round pint and awards presentation, including a raffle with a host of fab golfing-themed prizes up for grabs. Just as the team from MailServe recovered from their golfing sunburn, there was no time to take it easy as they prepared for the Adrenaline Rush Xtreme! The brainchild of MailServe Managing Director, Carl Turner, the challenge was not one for the faint-hearted. Co-sponsored by Yelo Architects and Rivervale, the event saw eight brave participants who travelled from Sussex to Chepstow in Wales and across to Salisbury in Wiltshire, to experience a
giant swing and huge zip wire, as well as a 400-foot bungee jump AND to top it off, a skydive! Carl Turner, Managing Director at MailServe, said: “I’m absolutely blown away by the success of our recent events for Rockinghorse. Both our charity golf day and Adrenaline Rush Xtreme challenge raised so much more money than I could have expected. I am astounded by the generosity of everyone who participated and sponsored us along the way. I know that Rockinghorse make such a difference to the lives of the children they support, and I’m honoured to be part of that. A special mention to Isla from MailServe for all her hard work in helping to execute the event and make it such a success.” As well as the £8400 raised by MailServe, the company’s Golf Day also raised an additional £2000!
believe that what they do can make a big difference to this area of your business, with an ethos of striving every day to offer a friendly, small business feel with the security of an established company. Supplying products from the two main market leaders in the industry means they offer their customers competitive rates and honest, independent advice on the right machine for them. They are always just a phone call or an email away from the answer to any question about our products and services. For any further information, please visit www.mailserveltd.co.uk
ABOUT MAILSERVE MailServe do franking machines, and while it may not seem the most exciting subject, they treat it as if we were selling a semiprecious stone! They boast an impassioned team, who
Contact: support@psydro.com www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk Business sign up: www.psydro.com/business-verification
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Psydro
Brighton Medieval Banquet Raises Thousands Sussex solicitors, Mayo Wynne Baxter took a medieval approach to fundraising, by organising The Brighton Medieval Banquet in celebration of our 50th anniversary. The Grand Hotel in Brighton was transformed into a castle banqueting hall for the night back in March. Guests were sat at long banqueting tables complete with plentiful food and drink served from medieval themed tableware in front of a celebrity King and his Queen on their thrones the guests were treated to a variety of medieval entertainment. The Knights of Herstmonceux greeted guests and offered tankards of ale and goblets of wine at the evening’s drinks reception, which led to the arrival of the celebrity King – children’s TV presenter Sid Sloane – asking guests to “taketh thy seats”, whilst medieval band Portcullis performed and a magician made his way around the room. Guests were then asked to all rise for ‘King Sid’
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as he introduced the running of the night’s entertainment and fundraising activities, including a medieval game of ‘heads and tails’, salt and pepper tributes plus a charity auction and raffle, raising almost £25,000 for Rockinghorse. Whilst starters were being served the first surprise of the night took place when there was an attempt on the King’s life. Sword fighting with men in armour ensued and the King was saved. This was then followed by a game of heads and tails, with a medieval play taking place as guests enjoyed their main courses. The second surprise of the night came from a medieval duel involving King Sid and Mayo Wynne Baxter’s Chairman Dean Orgill, who had been secretly trained in the use of swords and shields by Riddle of Steel’s, Mark Gilbert. A charity raffle and auction also took place, consisting of prizes donated by a
host of local businesses and a special lot by best-selling author Peter James who donated the chance to be a character in a future Roy Grace novel. ABOUT MAYO WYNNE BAXTER Mayo Wynne Baxter is an award winning law firm employing over 230 people across ten locations in Sussex. Renowned for exceptional service and their tremendous support for Sussex charities, Mayo Wynne Baxter is one of the leading firms of solicitors in the South East. They are a main sponsor of Brighton & Hove Albion FC and have been serving the people of Sussex for 150 years. They have specialist legal advisors in almost every area of law that affect private individuals and businesses. For further information, please visit the Mayo Wynne Baxter website at www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk
50 Songs for 50 Years Success Local businessman and long term Rockinghorse supporter raised over a staggering £5,000 at the #50songsfor50years gig night on Friday 23 June to support our Golden Jubilee appeal. Noel Preston, Managing Partner of Preston Insurance Brokers, set himself the ultimate challenge of playing drums drums on all 50 songs on the night, supported by band members from The Suits, No Way Out and Planet Trousza. The audience consisted of friends, family members, local businesses and avid music fans who enjoyed an evening of well-known songs at the Brighthelm Centre in Brighton. Each song was kindly sponsored by a local business or individual, many of who attended on the evening and also dug deep to give generously in the raffle. Noel said: “The support for our #50songsfor50years gig was awesome. From those that sponsored bands to the many that sponsored songs. The people who paid to come to the event, bought raffle tickets, donated raffle prizes and made random donations. To the amazing musicians that made it happen and the hidden gem that is the BrightHelm Centre, what a top venue to have a gig! Thank you, thank you, thank you, your collective outstanding generosity has exceeded our target for such a
worthwhile charity and we are extremely grateful.” Liz McCluskey, Schools and Community Fundraising Manager, expressed her thanks to Noel and said: “Noel organised a fantastic evening and completed his own challenge playing drums on all 50 songs on the evening. We are so very grateful to Noel, the sponsors and individuals who attended on the evening for their generosity, which really will make a difference to the lives of sick children in Sussex.” The funds raised on the evening will be donated to our Golden Jubilee appeal; Sussex Giving for Sussex Children. We aim to raise £500,000 in 2017 which will be split between 10 children’s centres and paediatric services in Sussex. ABOUT PRESTON INSURANCE BROKERS Preston Insurance Brokers are a professional, reliable and efficient insurance
broker based in Brighton, specialising in the provision of personally arranged insurance for businesses. They have an experienced team of experts with a wealth of knowledge in helping all types and size of business in and around Sussex and across the UK. They are straight forward to deal with, avoiding unnecessary insurance and corporate jargon. When in contact with anyone at Preston Insurance Brokers, you will be dealing with human beings who believe in what they do, not scripted sales people. We will ask you what you want, inform you of the options, make suggestions based on our experience and deliver to your expectations. We’ll explain to you what you are buying and why, explaining the important details in ways you will understand. For more information, please visit www.prestoninsurancebrokers.co.uk
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Pier Recruitment: ‘Santa Stop Here’ Pier Recruitment have created a festive Christmas single, raising funds to support our work, and we know you’re going to love it! Last year, the team visited the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital (the Alex) in Brighton where they found out more about our work as the Alex’s official fundraising arm, and in January of this year, they set about fundraising for Rockinghorse. Pier Recruitment Director, Katie Gibson, explains: “When the Pier Recruitment team and I visited the Alex, we witnessed the fantastic work of the charity first hand. It’s also where we heard the sentence that soon became the epicentre of our 2017 fundraising project; ‘sometimes children worry that Santa won’t know where they are when he visits, so simple things like writing a small note at the end of their Christmas list to explain they are in hospital, really helps.’”
Having written the song, they tasked themselves the challenge of pitching the fundraising idea and song to local businesses in Brighton and Hove to join them in singing on the track. They were overjoyed that the following companies have joined them, they are; The Focus Group, Posh Totty Designs, ZST Architects, MercedesBenz of Brighton, Quality Care Insurance Services, Domestic & General, Cobb Digital, Holiday Taxis, Neilson Holidays, and accompanied by children from Bird Studios and BRICTT. In September, they went to North Brighton Studios to record vocals for the track. Soren Pople from Huge Digital Marketing created the video, while Mike Sandeman from North Brighton Recording helped produce the song. The 9 companies donated £4,600 to take part. So far, Pier Recruitment has raised £7,000 with £10,000 as their target. QA Apprenticeships, Natural World Safaris, Purple Armadillo Pubs and Harper Stone Properties sponsored the song to get it the point it is now.
On Wednesday 22 November, Pier Recruitment held an official launch party for the Christmas single ‘Santa Stop Here’ at the Grand Hotel in Brighton. The event was a great success with over 200 people from local businesses coming together for the launch, helping to raise an initial £1,285 through a charity raffle held on the evening. ABOUT PIER RECRUITMENT Founded in 2012, Pier Recruitment is a bespoke recruitment agency designed to bring service back in to the industry – something which has sadly been neglected in recent years! Their commitment is to make sure that they help grow your team by retaining employees as well as recruiting new ones. They offer a much wider service than other agencies do; this will enable us to become the only recruitment partner you will ever need. For any further informtion on Pier Recruitment, please visit www.pierrecruitment.co.uk
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Search Seven: £6,300 for the Trevor Mann Baby Unit The annual ‘S7 Ted’s Trophy’ charity event, organised by Search Seven, a local search marketing agency, hosted a charity football match at Brighton & Hove Albion’s Amex Stadium on May 23rd. As a result, over £6,000 was raised for the Trevor Mann Baby Unit, a specialist unit for the care of premature and sick newborn babies, situated within the Royal Sussex County Hospital. The crowd, reported to be over 300 people, and a record attendance for a play on the pitch event, watched a Search Seven select XI take on a Trevor Mann Baby Unit team. The match ended in a 3-2 win for the Search Seven side in a closely contested match. The event was arranged to highlight the work of the TMBU and in particular, to express thanks for the incredible dedication that the whole unit showed to help Ted Macdonald, who turned five in October. TMBU helped Ted fight his way back from almost not surviving, or from suffering long-term brain damage, to living the full life that he does today. Ted is the Godson of Search Seven founder, Gavin Willis, who said after the game “I am completely overwhelmed by the support we have received for this event. It has been fantastic, and I am astounded by the amount we have raised tonight!” Ryan Heal, CEO at Rockinghorse, said
“Money raised from the S7 Teds Trophy charity match will be going towards the reconfiguration of the Trevor Mann Baby Unit, Brighton. The reconfiguration at the unit will enable a better working practice for the staff and further monitoring and observation of the young patients. This would not be possible without the support of incredible generous people such as Gavin and his team at Search Seven. Search Seven have donated just over £15,000 to the TMBU as part of their charity model initiative in the past few years, through other events including a charity golf day, quiz nights, half marathons and another charity football match back in 2014.
at the Sussex Business Awards earlier this month, for Responsible Business in Sussex and Best Professional Service in Sussex. They also were acknowledged as a ‘one to watch’ so lookout for them in 2018 as they look to grow the team and plan to host more events to further support the TMBU’ For any further information, please visit www.searchseven.co.uk
ABOUT SEARCH SEVEN Situated in Brighton & Hove just a stone’s throw from the beach, Search Seven was founded in 2011, with a determination to provide a highly effective digital marketing service that would lead to real, measurable and above all phenomenal successes for their clients. In setting up Search Seven, the team wanted to use the agency as a vehicle to make a difference, leading to their pledge to donate 7% of their profits to charities and local community projects each year. With years of success under their belt, Search Seven became double finalists
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Rivervale Golf Day Raises Hundreds for Rockinghorse Leading Brighton motor group, Rivervale, organised a charity golf day earlier this year (Friday 28 July) in aid of Rockinghorse Children’s Charity. Held at Mid Sussex Golf Club in Ditchling, East Sussex, participants played 18 holes of golf and competed for a host of great prizes, including a brand new Ford Fiesta for any player managing to hit a hole in one. Those taking part in the charity event included former football player turned manager, Teddy Sheringham MBE. The event raised £535 through the sale of raffle tickets and mulligans, for our 50th year appeal; Sussex Giving for Sussex Children. Through the appeal, we aim to raise £500,000 worth of funding to be split between 10 children’s centres and paediatric services across Sussex. Those benefiting include The Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton, of which we are the official fundraising arm. In another attempt raise money for the children’s charity, Bud Johnston,
Marketing Manager at Rivervale in Portslade, underwent the chop all in the name of charity, having decided to snip off his 6-year-old locks. Bud was driven by his own personal experience to raise vital funds. Explaining his motivation behind the challenge, he said: “My son was admitted to hospital for emergency surgery at just two weeks old. The Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital was outstanding and I wanted to do my part to show my appreciation. “In respect of the time these doctors dedicate their lives to help others, I decided to part with my beloved locks. It takes on average six years of training and studying AFTER university graduation for doctors to qualify, which is the same amount of time I’d been growing my dreadlocks. I am pleased to say Jazari is now fully recovered, happy and healthy.” Bud took to Facebook live on Tuesday 6 June once he’d hit his
£1,500 target, so that those who had donated could watch him go under the chop. Rockinghorse Chief Executive Ryan Heal, and Head of Fundraising, Analiese Doctrove, were delighted to meet with Bud at the Alex for an official cheque presentation, and to thank Bud for his fantastic fundraising efforts. ABOUT RIVERVALE Established in June 2001, Rivervale are part of the Rivervale Cars Group based in Brighton, Sussex. They specialise in car leasing, van leasing and minibus leasing. Unlike the majority of their lease competitors, Rivervale are fully approved franchisees of the UK’s four biggest independent leasing companies (LEX Autolease Ltd, Leaseplan UK Ltd, Alphabet and Arval UK Ltd). They are also registered members of the BVRLA (British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association). Rivervale pride themselves on their commitment and service to all of their customers - from individuals seeking a car or van, to large companies requiring a fleet of vehicles. For any further infomation, please visit their website: www. rivervalecars.com
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A Rocking Bus for Rockinghorse Brighton & Hove Buses have dedicated a bus to Rockinghorse Children’s Chairty as part of their Charity of the Year partnership. The bus, which marks their Golden Jubilee anniversary this year, pays homage to Rockinghorse founder, Dr Trevor Mann, and bears his name on the front. Dr Trevor Mann founded our charity in 1967 having recognised that there was a real need for additional resources in Sussex to improve health care for sick children and babies. Brighton & Hove Buses and Metrobus have chosen Rockinghorse as their Charity of the Year and launched the bus in October 2016. Bodyshop engineers at Brighton & Hove Buses have created a mini Rockinghorse bus as a tribute for the charity’s 50th anniversary, which was auctioned at their Anniversary Ball on Saturday 7 October. The design – a replica of the full-scale special edition bus, currently on the roads of Brighton, Hove and Sussex – was created by Nathan Enticknapp and Steve Boreham who had previous form having built mini-buses that doubled as mobile book shelves for Mile Oak School. It was their supervisor, Frank Clasen, who thought it would be great to create a mini version of it and Nathan and Steve agreed. They worked on the concept in their own time for a few hours over a
few weeks and used the same designs as the real Rockinghorse bus on which they also worked. Frank said: “Steve and Nathan are really talented: they can turn their hand to anything. They wanted it to be put to its best use for the Rockinghorse charity to raise money for sick children.” The mini version is dedicated to Dr Trevor Mann – the same as the fullscale Rockinghorse bus – and even has the same seat covers. It has two seats, a steering wheel (complete with squeaky toy!) a dash board and its own registration – Horse 1. Engineer Nathan Enticknapp had personal motivation to create the rocking bus; his son Matthias was treated on the Trevor Mann Baby Unit when he was born due to breathing complications. The children’s Rockinghorse ‘mini’ bus raised £4,300 on the night which has been kindly match-funded by the Brighton & Hove Buses. Managing Director, Martin Harris, said: “So many
people’s lives have been touched by the children’s hospital and the fantastic work that Rockinghorse do. We’re all really pleased to have aided such a great cause.” Rockinghorse Chief Executive, Ryan Heal, added: “The ‘mini’ Rockinghorse bus is remarkable! What a wonderful idea – we are so grateful to Nathan and Steve for creating it. Not only does it look great, but it has also enabled us to raise £4,300 for our Sussex Giving for Sussex Children appeal – which the Brighton & Hove Bus Company have very generously match-funded.” ABOUT BRIGHTON & HOVE BUSES Brighton & Hove Buses is more than a great bus service. It’s a part of the lifeblood of the towns and cities in which we operate. The service connects communities and help businesses to thrive. They do it responsibly and sustainably - doing the right thing by the communities that they serve.
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Brighton Chefs’ Table Raises Over £30,000 for Rockinghorse The Grand Brighton hosted the inaugural Brighton Chefs’ Table on Thursday 19th October in support of Sussex charity, Rockinghorse, raising an incredible £32,290 for the charity. Over £18,000 was raised alone from the evening’s auction, with diners bidding to win an exclusive dinner party experience, enjoying food cooked and served in their own home by each of the chefs. Held in conjunction with media partner Restaurants Brighton, the event saw seven of Brighton’s best chefs serving up some of their finest dishes for an exclusive pop up dining experience like no other. General Manager at The Grand Brighton, Andrew Mosley opened the evening by announcing to excited guests which restaurant’s cuisine they would be enjoying, prepared by the following chefs and their teams: Alan White (GB1 Restaurant), Steven Edwards (etch.), Michael Bremner (64 Degrees), Alun Sperring (The Chilli Pickle), Dan Kenny (The Set), Mauro Loffredo (Hotel du Vin & Bistro) and Andy Vitez (The Restaurant at Drakes). This event promised to be a food lover’s dream and did not fail to deliver, with diners experiencing food theatre from The Chilli Pickle who carved a whole leg of lamb at the table, a
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tantalising Wagyu beef dish from The Set and GB1’s signature sea bass with suckling pig chorizo, all giving a taste of the unique gastronomic experiences Brighton has to offer. Judging by the clean plates after dinner, no-one was left disappointed! Andrew Mosley, General Manager at The Grand Brighton, said: “We couldn’t be happier with the outcome of the event. It was wonderful to see some of Brighton’s finest chefs come together in support of such a great cause. We are extremely appreciative of the seven chefs who have been hugely generous by funding the menus and their teams on the night. I must also give thanks to my own team, who have worked incredibly hard behind the scenes to make this event come to fruition. Rockinghorse is very dear to The Grand Brighton as our nominated charity and on a personal level very dear to me as a trustee on the board. The thousands of pounds raised on the night will without doubt make a huge difference to the charity.” Ryan Heal, Chief Executive of Rockinghorse comments; “It has been a wonderful evening of gastronomic delights and we are so grateful to have been beneficiary of this truly brilliant event. Thank you to the event organisers
and to Andrew Mosley and all his team at The Grand Brighton for the usual firstclass hosting and hospitality. And finally, to the stars of the show – the magnificent seven!” Brighton Chefs’ Table was just one of the many creative fundraising events and initiatives organised by the hotel throughout 2017, helping them to raise funds of over £55,000 for the charity. Andrew Mosley, general manager comments, “we set ourselves a healthy target and I cannot thank my team enough for pulling together to not only achieve it but exceed our fundraising goal. This year, we were always of the mindset that, the more we raise the bigger the impact we can make. We are all delighted at the result and know it will go some way to making a real difference to those supported by Rockinghorse.”
Thank you from Rockinghorse to all of our Supporters!
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Sussex Innovation Centre
Demystifying Innovation The Sussex Innovation Centre recently celebrated 21 years of helping innovative businesses in Sussex make their ideas happen. But what do we mean when we talk about innovation? Executive Director Mike Herd discusses some of the criteria that the Centre looks at when assessing companies, and explains how – and why – any business should put innovation at the core of its strategy Three Criteria Our guiding Sussex principle at Sussex Innovation Innovation is that Centre we will always listen to someone’s idea. A lot of the people who come to us are subject matter experts, but don’t have any experience running a business. That’s the reason that so many start-ups fail, and it’s the biggest value we bring as an organisation. So when a specialist in a particular field comes to speak to us, we take it as read that they probably know what
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they’re talking about. If we start from the perspective that a founder can do what they say they’ll do, the questions then become: is there a market for it, and do they have the ambition to do it? If the answer to both of those questions is yes, we can do the rest to help you build a business. Most start-ups fail because the founder only understands what the business delivers, rather than how it runs. Our purpose is to fill that gap and help entrepreneurs build those management skills. That’s our three criteria for membership in a nutshell – potential, ambition, and innovation. Innovation is just as
important to us, but it’s perhaps trickier to pin down than the other two. What does ‘innovation’ mean? The definition of innovating is “making changes in something established, especially by introducing new methods, ideas, or products.” Despite this definition, people often imagine that our innovative businesses must all revolve around ‘tech’ - apps, software or platforms. These are undoubtedly one way for a business to innovate, as examples such as Filmstro show (see next page). However, the problem is the expectation
Sussex Innovation Centre
The Wide World of Innovation: Five Diverse Examples from the Sussex Innovation Centre Destiny Pharma’s breakthrough drug XF-73, currently in clinical trials, will one day be used to prevent the spread of infections including the MRSA ‘superbug’. When they floated on London’s AIM market this year, they were the biggest UK biotech float of the year, raising £15.3m to help tackle drug-resistant infections that kill tens of thousands each year. Emteq are developing a hardware and software package that can understand human emotion by reading facial expressions in real time. Their sensors can be concealed within a pair of
this narrow view of ‘innovation’, and particularly ‘tech’ creates. Many accelerators now work to the timescales of developing an app – but a drug development company like Destiny Pharma can take years to get to market. Meanwhile, investors’ expectations are distorted by ‘platform model’ businesses like AirBnB, Uber or Just Eat, which can be hugely profitable at scale compared to other revenue models. While the rewards can be great, these kinds of businesses are inherently risky because they depend on monopolising the way customers access a particular good or service. There can only ever be room for a handful of them in any industry. Fifteen or twenty years ago, the perception of innovation was similarly bound up with engineering. In the 90s,
glasses or a VR headset, and will enable the next generation of human-computer interaction in both real and virtual worlds. Filmstro make it easy for filmmakers and content producers to enhance their work with an appropriate, affordable soundtrack. Their adaptive music software enables creators to adjust the depth, momentum and power of a score in time to the action on-screen. They’ve secured industry partnerships with the BBC, Adobe and Vimeo. Mindlab International apply the latest
neuroscience principles to the world of market research. Instead of depending on unreliable, self-reported feedback from focus groups, their clients get insight into the real, physiological responses of subjects as they drive a car, listen to a song or eat a bar of chocolate. One Research are helping to increase participation in clinical research trials. They have developed a unique, patientcentric method of recruiting and assessing patients, enabling researchers to bypass many of the challenges associated with traditional recruitment.
people expected all our members to be inventors building product innovations. While that perception has faded, we have a handful of tenants – such as VR/ AR company Emteq – building hardware now, just as we did back then. However, we see innovation in anything which solves a problem in a new way, whether that be adjusting an existing financial model, applying principles from an unexpected field to a traditional business model (Mindlab International), or finding the value in a new approach to a traditional relationship (One Research).
don’t just work with start-up and scale-up stage businesses, either. We’re keen to work with established businesses who recognise a need to innovate in traditional industries that are facing change. Technology is constantly advancing, but the world is advancing along with it, from the social attitudes and psychology of individuals, to global challenges of healthcare and the environment. Businesses survive and thrive by recognising these changes and embracing them as opportunities.
Be More Innovative We’re always looking for new ways to innovate. That doesn’t mean we are always looking for companies who already have an innovative idea, and we
If you’d like your business to innovate more but don’t know where to start, give us a call on 01273 704 400, or tell us about your challenges at http:// www.sinc.co.uk/contact-us
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Health & Wellbeing
Health and Wellbeing: Seeing the Signs of a Stroke Stroke is one of the biggest killers in the UK. For this month’s Health and Wellbeing section, Sussex Business Times turns its focus to the different kinds of stroke and why they are caused. We outline the symptoms to look out for, risk factors and the treatments to follow a medical incident of this kind Stroke is the third leading cause of Health & death in the UK Wellbeing each year and is the leading cause of disability. More than 150,000 people have a stroke every year in the UK but according to The Stroke Association, up to 10,000 of these could be prevented if more people were aware of the symptoms and sought out emergency treatment…. There are two types of strokes, ischaemic and haemorrhagic, both of which are caused by different factors but essentially, result in the same outcome. According to stroke.org, ischaemic strokes are caused by a blockage cutting off the blood supply to the brain. The blockage can be caused by a blood clot forming in an artery leading to the brain or within one of the small vessels deep inside the brain. Haemorrhagic strokes, on the other hand, are caused when a blood vessel bursts within or on the surface of the brain. Because the blood leaks out into the brain tissue at high pressure, the damage caused can be greater than the damage caused by strokes due to a clot. Approximately 85% of all strokes are ischaemic and 15% haemorrhagic, although haemorrhagic strokes are generally more severe and
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are associated with a considerably higher risk of mortality within three months and beyond, when compared to ischaemic strokes. Strokes occur approximately 152,000 times a year in the UK; that is one every three minutes 27 seconds. First-time incidence of stroke occurs almost 17 million times a year worldwide; one every two seconds. There are over 1.2 million stroke survivors in the UK and three in ten stroke survivors will go on to have a recurrent stroke or TIA. One in eight strokes are fatal within the first 30 days, and one in 4 are fatal within a year. Stroke is the fourth single largest cause of death in the UK and second in the world. By the age of 75, one in five women and one in six men will have a stroke. Stroke kills twice as many women as breast cancer and more men than prostate and testicular cancer combined in a year, and is one of the largest causes of disability; half of all stroke survivors have a disability.
Over a third of stroke survivors in the UK are dependent on others, of those, one in five are cared for by family and/ or friends. For every cancer patient living in the UK, £241 is spent each year on medical research, compared with just £48 a year for every stroke patient. Incidence rates in the UK vary depending on the country or region being researched. It can range from 115 per 100,000 population to 150 per 100,000 population depending on the study. Additional statistics show that stroke incidence rates fell 19% from 1990 to 2010 in the UK. Men are at a 25% higher risk of having a
“Stroke is the fourth single largest cause of death in the UK and second in the world. By the age of 75, one in five women and one in six men will have a stroke.”
Health & Wellbeing
stroke and at a younger age compared to women, however, as women live longer there are more total incidences of strokes in women. The greatest risk of recurrent stroke is in the first 30 days. Every two seconds someone in the world will have a stroke for the first time. There were almost 17 million incidences of first-time stroke worldwide in 2010. “Where’s the relevance to the business demographic?” you might ask. Most people believe that strokes only occur during later life, which for the most part, is true. However, the number of people having strokes aged 20 to 64 increased by 25% from 1990 to 2010 worldwide, and around 1 in 150 strokes in the UK occur in people under 20 years old. There is no set cause of strokes and while every case is different, there are a number of risk factors that can cause people to become more susceptible to such an incident. These include:
High blood pressure: High blood pressure is a contributing factor to 54% of strokes in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.120/80 is generally accepted as normal and 140/90 as high. However, blood pressure naturally increases with age and your GP can check if your blood pressure is within normal range. Diabetes: Diabetes almost doubles your risk of stroke and is a contributing factor to 20% of strokes in the UK. High cholesterol: There is ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol. Too much ‘bad’ cholesterol causes the fatty substance to build up on the artery walls. The use of statins in individuals with a high risk of cardiovascular events reduces the risk of stroke by 25%. Smoking and alcohol use: Regular consumption of large amounts of alcohol greatly increases your risk of ischaemic stroke. 20% of the UK population are active smokers and smoking singlehandedly doubles your risk of stroke.
As with any such illness or incident, it’s crucial that the symptoms of a stroke are recognisable and understood by all, as survival rates drop significantly over time. The signs and symptoms of a stroke vary from person to person, but usually begin suddenly, and as different parts of the brain control different parts of the body, symptoms will depend on the part of the brain affected and the extent of the damage. However, the main stroke symptoms can be remembered with the word FAST: Face: The face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have drooped. Arms: The person with suspected stroke may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in one arm. Speech: Their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to
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Health & Wellbeing ischemic or hemorrhagic. If you’ve had an ischaemic stroke, a combination of medications to treat the condition and prevent it happening again is usually recommended. Ischaemic strokes can often be treated using injections of Of course, there are treatments for those a medication called alteplase, which suffering from a stroke, although it’s dissolves blood clots and restores harder to reverse the effects of a stroke blood flow to the brain, however a small the longer it takes for the victim to receive proportion of treatment. England severe ischaemic Health Secretary, Jeremy Hunt says a The number of people strokes can be treated by major challenge is having strokes aged an emergency getting all parts of 20 to 64 increased by procedure known the country to meet the performance 25% from 1990 to 2010 as thrombectomy, removes levels of the best. worldwide, and around which blood clots and For example, if all 1 in 150 strokes in the helps restore blood patients suffering flow to the brain. from a mini stroke UK occur in people Meanwhile, most (transient ischaemic under 20 years old. people will be attack or TIA) were offered a regular treated as rapidly dose of aspirin. as those treated As well as being a painkiller, aspirin is an in the top 25% of hospitals, 540 strokes would be avoided each year, which in turn antiplatelet, which reduces the chances of another clot forming. Some people would save the NHS £4.5m a year. So may be offered an anticoagulant to help what are the treatments for a stroke? reduce their risk of developing further Treatment depends on whether it is talk at all despite appearing to be awake. Time: It’s time to dial 999 immediately if you notice any of these signs or symptoms.
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blood clots in the future. If the victim has suffered from this kind of stoke due to high cholesterol, they will more often than not be advised to take a medicine known as a statin. Statins reduce the level of cholesterol in your blood by blocking a chemical in the liver that produces cholesterol. As with ischaemic strokes, people who have had a haemorrhagic stroke will also be offered medication to lower their blood pressure and prevent further stroke. Occasionally, emergency surgery may be needed to remove any blood from the brain and repair any burst blood vessels. This is usually done using a surgical procedure known as a craniotomy, which entails a section of the skull to be cut away to allow the surgeon access to the cause of the bleeding. Of course, treatment doesn’t stop there, and a large amount of victims of a stroke will continue to undergo rehabilitation for weeks – or months – afterwards. As one of the UK’s biggest killers, there is a huge amount of information out there, so there really is no reason to be unaware of such medical incidents!
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Working Lunch:
Ghyll Manor Hotel & Restaurant
For this month’s review and following on from its appearance in our Hotel Review section a few months back, Sussex Business Times enjoyed a lunchtime bite at Ghyll Manor Hotel & Restaurant. Here, we feed back on our dining experience Ghyll Manor Hotel and Restaurant Lunch is situated in the typically English West Review Sussex countryside. The black and white timbered manor house dates back to the 17th Century, whilst a beautiful lake provides a perfect backdrop for those special wedding photographs and romantic walks. Behind the Tudor beamed exterior, 29 individually designed bedrooms of varying shapes and sizes await, offering an effortless blend of charming period features and modern facilities. Of course, because of its outstanding appearance and features, Ghyll Manor
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is one of the most popular wedding venues in Sussex, and all of Ghyll Manor’s weddings come with high quality as standard with a personal service and a promise never to host more than one wedding on the same day. Ghyll Manor is also just 40 miles from London, making travel to weddings convenient for guests from the capital and further afield. Wedding guests also have the opportunity to make the most of the time in the country with an overnight stay, as selected wedding packages include preferential rates on Ghyll Manor’s rooms. Couples can tie the knot in Ghyll Manor’s Hunsdon Hall, Terrace Room or Conservatory and hold a sparkling reception for 100 guests, with everything
Lunch Review from breakfast to the DJ included in the price. What more could you possibly ask for? Of course, our visit was for a completely different matter, and following on from our overnight stay - which featured in the hotel review section of our October issue - the food and dining experience was our main focus this time around. We were welcomed in by a member of the front of house staff and offered the choice of being seated straight away in the dining area or whether we would like to enjoy a pre-meal drink first. After being stunned by the hotel’s grand exterior, touring the grounds with a refreshing bevarage before eating sounded perfect. My guest and I were each served small glasses of Sauvignon Blanc and rested next to the roaring fire afer a brief look around. It was the perfect start to what was going to be a wonderful afternoon. Ghyll Manor’s interior very much agrees with the exterior - very traditional but not too dated. Consistency is nice. The lounge area to the right of the entrance boasts a piano and impressive liog fire, while the dining area to the left sports tables of different sizes, alll laid up with wine glasses and cutlery. Of course, being this close to Christmas meant that the decorations were out - not too overbearing but enough to get you in the festive mood!
We were shown to the resaurant area by Peter - an incredibly friendly man who made us feel completely at home - and were able to choose our own table. Of course this was helped along by the fact that there was no one else dining that day, but what would you expect on a Friday afternoon during the run up to Christmas? We were each served a glass of lemon
water and a slice of sundried tomato bread before our food orders were taken. Of course, having a detailed look at the menu before we were seated meant that there was no hesitation when ordering! I opted for the chicken and leek terrine to start and the ribeye steak served with chunky chips, tomato and mushroom, while my guest chose the salmon for her starting course, followed by the pork
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Lunch Review belly and vegetables. After such a great review of the hotel itself and facilities a few issues back, it’s safe to say we could hardly wait. Our starting courses came out very quickly, and it’s clear that efficiency is key at Ghyll Manor. Both starters were small but well-balanced portions, presented to perfection and tasting even nicer. Meanwhile, the restaurant itself held the perfect temperature on such a chilly afternoon and the background music (played at a suitable volume) really added to the overall ambiance. Our mains followed relatively quickly after, although there was a welcome pause before they reached our table. The steak (which I asked to be cooked medium) was delicious, although maybe slightly overdone, while the chips were beautifully fluffy on the insde and crisp on the outside. The pork belly was cooked to perfection and came in hand with gravy and apple sauce. One point I’d like to make is that we didn’t once have to ask for anything - the service from Peter was impeccable. Of course, service with
a smile goes a long way, and the fact that he took the time to chat to us in between courses made us feel even more welcome. It’s elements like this that can make or break a dining experience, so hats off to him! Such a high standard of starting and main courses meant that we couldn’t resist trying one of the desserts. While there was a varied selection, I was drawn to the blackberry parfait while my guest opted for the chocolate torte and raspberry sorbet. The parfait was easily one of the nicest desserts I’ve ever had the pleasure of trying, presented beautifully with honeycomb and edible flowers, while the chocolate torte looked just as good - the perfect texture and complemented well by the element of raspberry. While the portion sizes weren’t huge, they were generous enough and we left the restaurant both impressed and satisfied with the incredibly high quality of the food itself and the manner in which it was presented to us. The chef, Ryan even made an appearance after we’d
eaten to ensure everything went down well, which was hugely appreciated. We took the time after our meal to further explore the grounds and grew even more amazed. The courtyard boasts tables and chairs for the warmer months and features an impressive water fountain, while scenic views can be seen further afield. Acres of land and a lake surround Ghyll Manor, further demonstrating that you can’t quite find another wedding venue like it. Overall, our dining experience at Ghyll Manor completely exceeded our expectations. With incredible food presented to a high quality, flawless service and beautiful surroundings, you couldn’t really ask for much more. 5 stars from Sussex business Times!
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Address: Ghyll Manor Hotel & Restaurant High Street Rusper Horsham RH12 4PX
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Accolade for TECO Building Products at 2017 Chamber Business Awards
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This month, Sussex Business Times has partnered with Sussex Chamber of Commerce who, here in these pages, provide you with the latest news
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others to follow in their footsteps.” Rhonda Backwell, Director of TECO said: “I couldn’t be prouder of TECO, this is testament not only to our commitment as a company but the commitment and enthusiasm of everyone here to develop as individuals, work together as a team and embrace change”. Ana Christie, Chief Executive of Sussex Chamber of Commerce said: “Recognising and rewarding excellence in British business, the Chamber Awards is one of the UK’s most contested and prestigious business award programmes. Each year, organisations of all sizes and from all sectors compete for the coveted titles. It is fantastic news, that one of our Chamber members, TECO, has received the South regional award for Commitment to People Development. I wish them all the very best of luck in the finals in November.” For more information please viisit the Chamber’s website.
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c Ana Christie, Chief Executive
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ECO Building Products, a manufacturer of Builders and Carpenters Metalwork from Sussex, has been crowned one of the winners in the Commitment to People Development heats of the Chamber Business Awards 2017. Now in their 14th year, the Awards are a highlight of the business calendar, recognising the key role that local businesses play in driving the UK economy. The Commitment to People Development winner, TECO will now go forward to represent the Southern region in the national finals, which take place in London in November. Francis Martin, President of the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Businesses are the backbone and driving force of the UK economy. Even in the face of uncertain times, they continue to show their resilience and strength – creating opportunities for employment, investment and growth. “Our judges are always impressed by the high standard of submissions, and the calibre of entries this year was no different. The finalists in the Chamber Business Awards represent the best of this country’s entrepreneurial spirit, creativity and hard-work. “The Chamber Business Awards are the perfect opportunity for us to celebrate our business communities’ achievements, to take stock of the outstanding performances of UK businesses over the past year, and to encourage and inspire
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52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk
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Test Drive For this month’s motoring reviews, Sussex Business Times got behind the wheels of the Fiat 500X and Volkswagen Arteon. Here, we report back on our findings…
Fiat 500X Fiat Automobiles is one of Italy’s Fiat largest car manufacturers 500X and was formed in January 2007 when Fiat reorganised its automobile business, and traces its history back to 1899 when the first Fiat automobile was produced. Since then, it has become one of the world’s largest car manufacturers, creating some of the most popular models in today’s society. Here in this issue though, we turn our focus to the Fiat 500X. Of course, as the name hints, this motor’s exterior reminisces that of the incredibly popular Fiat 500, with traditionally rounded front and rear ends and striking alloy wheels. The only difference really is that of the size. The 500X differs slightly from your regular hatchback crossover SUV with a quirky and eccentric design – perfect for those who require space with the need for a unique-looking car. Speaking of the car’s interior, the first point we have to make is that
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of comfort. The seats in particular are incredibly comfortable, and with a huge amount of space inside (this Fiat model is deceptively large, although so are regular Fiat 500s), already making it the perfect motor for longer business journeys or family trips away. It has all the controls you could possibly need, all of which are incredibly simple to use too. Saying that, it would’ve been beneficial to have the radio controls on the steering wheel, as most people know playing around with certain elements like this can be distracting whilst driving, but I suppose this is just one of the things that separates
the 500X from your modern day car. Another point we have to make surrounds that of the handbrake. While that might sound a bit ridiculous (isn’t a handbrake pretty self-explanatory?), we found the shift from your usual handbrake to an electric handbrake quite confusing! Technology is also a plus with the Fiat 500X, boasting a 5-inch touchscreen display, steering wheel commands, Bluetooth® with audio streaming, eco:Drive™ function and Uconnect™ infotainment system. It really does offer all the technology you need for perfect travelling.
Motoring
All models get USB, 12V and auxiliary inputs that are positioned in a dish that’s ideal for storing your phone, pop trim and you also get Bluetooth handsfree and audio streaming, a multifunction steering wheel, and six speakers. A ninespeaker Beats sound system is expensive but available across the range. The drive that comes along with this vehicle is equally as impressive as its appearance. It’s smooth over bumps and handles speed round corners perfectly. It has plenty of grip, and you can place it precisely in corners, even though the steering is a bit vague. Still, it’s light and easy for tight parking manoeuvres, so overall the 500X is easy and pleasant to drive in any everyday situation. The engine revs smoothly and stays hushed unless you really wring it out towards the red line, while wind and tyre noise are kept to a distant, easily ignored background hum. There’s also a slight vibration through the pedals and steering wheel in the diesel, although both get a light clutch pedal and slick, if long-throw, gearshift. After going through the gears, we were surprised as to how powerful the car is for such an underwhelming sized engine! We did feel, however, that the turbo was too big for the engine, especially when trying to pull away in second gear - the 500X definitely struggled. Either way, once we got it going, this car had fantastic power. Speaking of the sport mode in particular, there isn’t a huge amount of difference, but this Fiat model still has so much to offer. The Brake Control system signals danger if its radar and video sensors perceive too high a speed difference between the 500X and the vehicle in front of it, such as a potential collision risk. If the driver fails to act, the system automatically activates the brakes to avoid a collision or at least limit the impact. So to sum up, the Fiat 500X is one heck of a car, fantastic for its value. Of course there are a few minor faults that can be pointed out, but we are yet to find a car without any. Driving this motor completely switched our premature opinions and we can really vouch for Fiat on this one!
Volkswagen Arteon
For those who might’ve been VW living under a rock, Volkswagen Arteon is a German car manufacturer, founded back in 1937 who since this date, has continued to produce some of the UK’s most loved cars and vans. Of course, being such a renowned manufacturer means that we’ve had numerous Volkswagen models grace our pages before, but this time around we turn our focus to the Arteon… The Volkswagen Arteon is a four door fastback, and a direct successor of the Volkswagen CC, unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year. Speaking of the car’s interior alone, it’s quite impressive. Put simply, it’s a beautifully crafted car – executive, good looking and aesthetically pleasing with the sharp lines and big alloys.
Moving on to the Arteon’s interior one of the, if not the most important element of a car when considering practicality and comfort - we remained impressed. The Volkswagen Arteon boasts everything you would expect and more from a car of this value. The heads up display is a great touch and the plentiful touch screen infotainment system – featuring Apple play, which essentially turns your AV unit into an iPad – works brilliantly. A lot of the time, having such a technologically advanced motor can almost be a downfall – there’s a lot more that could possibly go wrong. However, it’s clear to see that VW have used the very best technology around. As the exterior suggests, the Arteon is incredibly spacious, boot included, making for an all round comfortable driving experience. The Arteon also offers ample rear leg room, but, as with all of these four-door coupés, the sloping
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Motoring
roofline takes its toll on rear head room. Also with this car comes electric adjustment for the driver’s seat backrest recline and four-way lumbar adjustment, and manual adjustment for everything else, including height. The seats themselves are quite flat and wide, but give good support and should keep you twinge-free on a long trip. It’s without a doubt one of the more attractive Volkswagen models we’ve had the pleasure of driving, but will the driving experience match up? With regards to the driving experience that comes along with this motor, the only thing really lacking is that of girth from the engine, and we did feel as tough it was slightly underpowered for such a large engine. When comparing to what we can only assume is its current rival – the Audi A7 – you realise why there is such a drop in price! The Arteon’s steering is well weighted and precise – if not as feelsome as the Jaguar XE’s or the best-set-up BMW 4 Series’. As standard, you get variable steering, which is calmer at high speeds for
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better stability but quicker around town for less arm twirling – a real boon when parking in tight spots. Sharper potholes hit at speed are the only things that catch it out and cause it to thump. The standard suspension is similarly compliant at speed but more unsettled in town, especially when paired with larger wheels.
OTR Price Engine capacity Transmission 0-62mph Max speed
Taking everything into consideration, the Arteon is a great car – among the very best VW models we’ve had the pleasure of testing. Volkswagen have really made a good effort to compete with this one and will do well with such a great price tag for such a top-ofthe-range car. Well done with this one, Volkswagen!
Fiat 500X
Volkswagen Arteon
£15,430 1.6L 5-speed manual 11.5 seconds 112mph
£39,955 2L Automatic 7-speed 6.5 seconds 152mph
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SBTMotoring News Aston Martin CEO Trades Business Suit for Race Suit Dr Andy Palmer traded his business suit for his race suit last month as he took on the challenge of competing in a 24-hour motor race. The Aston Martin President and CEO raced in the Hankook 24 Hours of CoTA (Circuit of the Americas) in Austin, Texas on 1112 November. Naturally Palmer’s car of choice was the Aston Martin Vantage GT8, the very same car that won its class at the Nürburgring 24 hours earlier this year. He shared driving duties with Paul
Range Rover Velar Cruises onto the Europcar UK Selection Fleet
Europcar UK is giving UK motorists more driving choice as it adds the Range Rover Velar to its Selection prestige vehicle fleet. Marking the addition of this premium motoring experience from Range Rover for leisure and business travellers, Europcar will be featuring the Velar in the Activation Zone at World Travel Market (6th-8th November) as well as running a competition to win a 3 day getaway featuring the Range Rover Velar and a 2 night stay in one of a selection of UK Mercure hotels, including breakfast. The Range Rover Velar offers Europcar customers cutting edge design, with the classic floating roof and distinctive styling. The interior features a ‘sports command driving position’, as well as high definition touchscreens and stateof-the-art displays for the ultimate, contemporary driving experience. Ideal for travellers who want added comfort inside and performance on the road, the Range Rover Velar includes innovations such as Electronic Air Suspension.
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Hollywood, John “The Voice of Le Mans” Hindhaugh and Peter Cate. As a keen amateur racer, Palmer has competed in Aston Martin Owners Club races this year at Snetterton, Brands Hatch, Rockingham and Silverstone, but the 24 Hours of CoTA marks his return to 24-hour racing. He does of course have some highly-qualified mentors in Darren Turner and Jonny Adam who, along with Daniel Serra, won the 24 hours of Le Mans for Aston Martin this summer.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Support GB Electrical’s Services to Armed Forces GB Electrical, a renowned family owned business specialising in electrical installation and repair work, has taken delivery of 38 Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The mix of Crafter, Caddy and Transporter vans will support GB Electrical’s contract win with CarillionAmey which works together with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to maintain Service family accommodation for the Armed Forces. The contract has recently been revised to include additional areas in the UK. The new bespoke fleet of vans have been kitted out with racking to maximise internal space and will be used by the engineering team
to transport equipment and install charging points nationwide. The size and reliability of the vans will support the team at GB Electrical to carry out their contract with CarillionAmey effectively and assist in the repair and maintenance of over 4,900 homes for Service families.
Portfolio Cars Orders 30 Jaguar XF Sportbrakes for VIP Heathrow Travel Jaguar has delivered a fleet of 30 allnew XF Sportbrake models to Portfolio Cars, a subsidiary of the We Know Group. The luxurious and spacious models will be used by Portfolio as a superior transport service for its VIP customers around Heathrow Airport. Jaguar Land Rover UK MD, Jeremy Hicks, said: “We’re thrilled that our longstanding relationship with Portfolio Cars has continued with this order of 30 XF
Sportbrake models. With low running costs and a spacious, luxurious cabin – not to mention the sports car-inspired styling – our line-up of cars is ticking every box for business customers.” Peter Buchanan, Portfolio Cars Chairman, said: “This is the next step in our excellent partnership with Jaguar Land Rover, and we look forward to building our fleet further with them in the future.”
Here are some of the organisations we are in partnership with in 2017
For Outstanding Quality & Service
01273 464 884 info@gemini-print.co.uk www.gemini-print.co.uk Gemini Print, Unit A1, Dolphin Way Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex BN43 6NZ
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SBT
ASK THE
EXPERTS
WE ASK THE EXPERTS TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS YOU NEED
EXPERT
What should I do about the mortgage on our office building following the recent rise in interest rates?
EXPERT
New homes and commercial properties must comply to Part L Building Regulations and be tested and certified to meet the air tightness standard. This process has energy saving and cost benefits for developers, homeowners and companies, as well as bringing down the overall CO2 emissions of the UK; which
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Steve Opie, Director of Finance, Spectrum Independent Financial Advice The Bank of England announced a rise to the exchange rate from 0.25% to 0.50% at the beginning of November – the first we’ve seen in 10 years. While some might argue that this small increase was only reversing the “emergency” decrease in August 2016 to stabilise sterling in the wake of the Brexit vote, the likelihood is that from now on, the only way is up. So after a decade of ultra-low interest rates, it could be a wise move to prepare for a gradual rise by reviewing your current mortgage. If you are on a fixed rate already then there’s less urgency, although it’s always a good idea to review your terms and have a look around to see if you can get a better deal. If you are on a variable rate, then now is an ideal time to consider a fixed rate mortgage. While you may end up fixing on a slightly higher rate than you are
currently paying, you would have peace of mind knowing exactly what you need to budget for each month. Lending is still a very competitive market, so there are plenty of good deals to be had. However don’t leave it too long, as once lenders start to pass the rate rise down to the consumer, there could be a general rise in mortgage rates across the board, particularly if the Bank of England makes a second increase in the coming months. You may want to seek advice from an independent financial adviser who specialises in commercial mortgages. They will help you to find a deal that best suits your business and support you through the application process. To get in touch with Steve, please call 0800 195 1066 or email steve@specifa.co.uk. For more information visit www.specifa.co.uk
Hicham Rhioui, Director, Falcon Energy the UK Government aims to reduce. Once a property is built, it can be air pressure tested by using an industry standard on-site fan that gradually increases and decreases pressure to discover air leakage paths and undesired air flows. Once detected, cracks and gaps in a building can be fixed to remove leaks and drafts, resulting in reduced CO2 emissions. The testing process fully traces air flow and leaks and is a technical process undertaken by trained engineers. It results in a calculated leakage rate and air flow differential, as well as a range of environmental readings. Once weaknesses in air flow are resolved, heating for a property becomes more efficient and will use less energy as none is unnecessary lost. For homeowners and businesses,
this reduces energy bills in the short and long term, and makes them more environmentally friendly. This is prudent for businesses as the public are increasingly aware of commercial ethics and being responsible consumers Financial and environmental benefits Landlords, homeowners and businesses can all potentially reduce potentially harmful CO2 emissions and save on energy bills with air tightness testing, should uncontrolled air flow be suspected. If you are building new homes, certification is required and it’s best to use the skills of a fully qualified team under the IATS, such as Falcon Energy, whose team are highly skilled in carrying out thorough testing throughout Sussex. https://www.falconenergy.co.uk/
SBT
ASK THE
EXPERTS
WE ASK THE EXPERTS TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS YOU NEED
EXPERT
James Dempster, Managing Director, Cobb Digital What is GDPR? And what does it mean for my business? The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a document that sets out the new data privacy laws and applies to all EU citizens. Whatever sector you work in, you will have to evaluate how you collect, store and use your customer’s personal data. The new rulings are being introduced to increase consumer control and re-build trust between customers and businesses. It’s a win for businesses in the long-run as your customers will be more engaged than ever before. Will businesses need to change how they currently collect data? Keeping it short and sweet, yes! The main change is that every submission of data must be freely given, specific, informed and unambiguous – no-more pre-ticked boxes for starters. You’ll also need to review your existing database as you’ll
EXPERT Buying a commercial property: What type of building survey do I need and why? While domestic surveys are a big part of our job, we also work extensively in the commercial sector, where transactions are often complex and a significant investment for your business. If you are buying business premises, commissioning a building survey is vital. It helps identify construction defects which may be expensive to rectify, and can create cost efficient schedules for future maintenance. If you are leasing a property, you
have to keep a record of consent within each entry. This might mean you need to change your data management software and as a guideline, we’d recommend recording when you’ve collected consent, the mechanism used and what they agreed to when their data was recorded. You’ll need to provide some of this information up front, in clear, plain English and the rest needs to be explained clearly in your privacy policy. Will businesses need to update their privacy policy? Most definitely and you need to make sure it’s crystal clear. You need to ensure you remove any technical or confusing jargon, name any third parties you use and explicitly detail how it benefits you and the customer. Ultimately, you need to move to a more ethical way of collecting data and ensure that your records are kept up-todate and accurate at all times.
Robert Desbruslais, Director, Desbruslais Chartered Surveyors will be responsible for the repairs either directly, or indirectly where a freeholder simply passes on the cost of repairs. So a pre-contract inspection by a surveyor is just as vital in this circumstance. A survey can help to identify health and safety issues, reducing the risk of accidents and associated lawsuits, which can be financially and reputationally devastating. Tailored to the needs of individual businesses, there are three main types of commercial property survey: Building survey: A detailed inspection and report on the condition of a building or buildings, which identifies construction defects and future maintenance requirements. This is important because commercial properties are often constructed from
materials such as steel and reinforced concrete frames, or claddings rarely found in domestic buildings. The repair liabilities often rest with tenants. Schedule of Condition: This records the condition of a building at a certain point in time through photographs and detailed descriptions. If you are leasing a commercial property this can limit your liability for repairs and maintenance because you may not have to return the property to a standard higher than described in the report, potentially saving thousands of pounds. Schedule of Dilapidations: Often commissioned by commercial property owners, these review a tenant’s repairing obligations during and at the end of the lease and help agree a dilapidations settlement without resorting to legal action.
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Money Matters
A Year of Success with Network My Club
2017 has been a busy year for Network My Club, not just at their growing business clubs in Sussex at Brighton & Hove Albion FC and Fontwell Park Racecourse, but also in Hampshire and London. They return to our pages again in this issue to give us the update on the year that’s passed The Network Albion Business Club – Brighton News & Hove Albion’s official business networking group, run and managed by Network My Club – went from strength to strength in 2017 with over 350 different businesses from Sussex, London and afar attending the monthly events at the Amex Stadium. As well as the networking, the group have also been spoilt with inspiring and motivating speakers throughout 2017, having been joined by Guardian journalist and sports writer Nick Szczepanik, the UK’s youngest CEO,
Brandon Relph, and Brighton & Hove Albion’s CEO, Paul Barber, among many others. The event in May was a particular highlight following confirmation Brighton & Hove Albion were promoted to the Premier League, with guests treated to a champagne reception at the Amex. All Network Albion Business Club members can now proudly say that they are part of a Premier League business club! Network My Club also run business clubs in Hampshire and London, at Portsmouth Football Club, and the Kia Oval, home of Surrey County Cricket Club. The Network Pompey Business Club – Network My Club’s longest running group – has also seen growth
with over 200 businesses attending events at Fratton Park throughout 2017! Launched in January 2017, the Network Oval Business Club welcomes businesses from in and around London throughout the year, along with exclusive member benefits, with guests from other Network My Club groups also taking the opportunity to extend their network into London. Of course following on from the success of this past year, Network My Club has exciting plans for 2018, with expected continued growth of existing groups and the launch of new groups across the South and in London. Watch this space!
Learn more about Network My Club at www.networkmyclub.co.uk
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Network My Club
“I’ve found the business club to be an excellent way to meet like-minded professionals and those are often in senior positions.” - Engage Healthcare
“Network My Club make you feel very welcome and allow you the time to actually network! They take a keen interest in your business and try to help any way they can, which I find very refreshing.” - Best Vehicle Leasing
“The structure Network My Club have created really is the future of networking.” - Detect Fire & Security “In today’s fast-paced business environment, I was struck by the time and care the Network My Club team dedicated to getting to know our business and objectives.” - Hero IT Support
www.networkmyclub.co.uk or contact them on 01903 898025
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Networking in Sussex
SBT
Society
Batcheller Monkhouse celebrate expansion of Rural Professional Department in Haywards Heath
Batcheller Monkhouse, estate agents and chartered surveyors, recently celebrated the opening of their new Rural Professional Department in Haywards Heath with local business contacts, clients and friends who joined them to mark the occasion at a party in their newly refurbished offices. During the evening a raffle raised funds for the Rocking Horse Appeal Special Baby Care Unit at the Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath. The Rural Professional team in Haywards Heath is led by Partners David Blake and Chris Tipping working alongside the teams in Pulborough and Tunbridge Wells. David Blake commented: “The firm already has strong roots in the area after the incorporation of the long-established Haywards Heath firm of Bannisters into the partnership, so I am delighted to further expand the Rural Professional Team offering a comprehensive service to all our land based clients alongside the sales and lettings services we already offer. With specialists in agriculture, planning and development, valuations, estate management and rural consultancy we are well placed to serve the Mid Sussex area�. Batcheller Monkhouse has a strong regional presence with offices in Battle, Haywards Heath, Pulborough and Tunbridge Wells together with an associated London office. The highly experienced Partner-led teams ensure a wealth of local knowledge and expertise is available for all your property and land enquires.
Suzanne Bowman and Chris Tipping
Batcheller Monkhouse Haywards Heath Office
www.rockinghorse.org.uk.
Batcheller Monkhouse Haywards Heath team
Photography by Graham Franks 64 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk
SBT
Society
SO Legal Celebrates New Office Opening at Gars Chinese Restaurant in Brighton
Fast growing, dynamic and technology-driven law firm, SO Legal Solicitors, has continued its impressive growth over the past 12 months, celebrating the launch of the most recent addition to their Sussex offices – Brighton. Over 70 business people and key decision-makers from across the city gathered at Gars Chinese Restaurant in October to celebrate the launch. The efficient team have provided legal services to individuals and businesses across the UK since their Eastbourne office opening back in January 2016. “We have been serving clients in Brighton and Hove from the outset, so opening a base in the city was always the next step on our journey”, says Director and co-founder, Hamed Ovaisi. “We are delighted with how far and fast we have grown over the past year. This move is a crucial chapter in our growth plans”, continues Hamed. SO Legal, Commercial, Property, Private Client Solicitors specialise in all aspects of Property law (commercial & residential conveyancing), Commercial and Business law, Construction and Development, Employment, Litigation, Private Client Services, Wills, and Probate and Estate Planning. For more information visit www.solegal.co.uk
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Made in Sussex
Made in Sussex:
Redwing Roofing
For this month’s Made in Sussex, Sussex Business Times takes a look at the success story that is Redwing Roofing, hearing of their journey from start to finish and outlining all they have to offer the Sussex community Redwing Roofing has been serving Brand the roofing needs Focus of the South East since April 2013, from its company headquarters in Crowborough. Founded by Director, Jason McCarthy following his departure from a national roofing contractor, Redwing started out working on small domestic projects for private customers and local building firms. Jason subsequently invited ex-colleague Daniel Burgan to join forces as Co-Director, between them combining over 50 years experience and countless qualifications. Both Directors have a vision to apply their knowledge and expertise to provide both private customers and building contractors with an exemplary roofing service. Since winning its first large contract for McCulloch Homes in late 2013, the company has grown from strength to strength. Starting out with just two tilers, Redwing now employs over 30 staff including highly qualified tradesmen, an apprentice and a health and safety consultant to ensure that Redwing adheres to the strict guidelines in the industry. Redwing Roofing offers its customers a wealth of quality roof installations including traditional slate, tiling and lead work combined with modern single ply and liquid flat roofing systems to ensure a bespoke service to suit the customers individual roofing needs. Both Jason and Daniel oversee the day-today running of the company and pride themselves on customer satisfaction, ensuring all jobs are completed to the highest of standards. Company Director, Jason said: “No matter how large or small the job, we take pride in our work, consistently delivering a quality service. Customer satisfaction is of paramount
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importance and as both Daniel and I sit on various technical committees including the Institute of Roofing, we are often ahead of the curve with British Standard changes and able to implement these to the benefit of our customers, so they know they are getting it right first time.” He added: “We also have a full spectrum of roofing knowledge enabling us to ensure the correct application to many of the complex projects we are often involved in.” It is this customer focus that has seen Redwing Roofing double in size year on year and the company now works with high profile developers including Taylor Wimpey and Cala Homes. As Jason says: “Thanks to the confidence and relationships we have with our customers, we have grown exponentially and been able to further invest in the business, most recently purchasing new premises and redeveloping the website
to better serve our customers. Despite the current challenging economic environment, we will continue to strive for further expansion, maintaining our reputation in the industry and providing a competitive, quality roofing service to our customers in Sussex, Surrey and Kent.” Following its selection as a finalist in the UK Roofing Awards this year, Redwing Roofing has most recently been appointed to undertake the roof tiling works at Redrow Homes new development at Penlands Farm in Haywards Heath. The first phase of the development consists of 118 new build dwellings and work commences later this year. For more information on Redwing Roofing and its services please visit www.redwingroofing.co.uk or call 01892 610593.
IF YOU WANT TO PLAY SMALL SIDED FOOTBALL WITH OTHER BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONALS THEN JOIN FIRMBALLS 5-ASIDE LEAGUES IN YOUR AREA. We have leagues all over Sussex in Brighton, Worthing, Eastbourne, Crawley, Hastings, Tunbridge Wells and many other venues. 5-A-SIDE FOOTBALL LEAGUES EXCLUSIVELY FOR BUSINESSES TEAM BUILDING - NETWORKING - MARKETING - FITNESS THE UK’S PREMIER SMALL SIDED FOOTBALL LEAGUE IS EXCLUSIVELY FOR BUSINESSES, CORPORATE AND PROFESSIONALS. Specifically aimed at businesses, your firm can now play competitive football where team building, marketing and networking are the goals of the day.
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