SBT Issue 434

SBT

ISSUE 434

FREE

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

SBT TRAVEL RED7: CHRISTMAS CITY BREAKS

NETWORKING & EVENTS THE BOUNDARY CLUB COBB BUSINESS LUNCH CLUB

FEATURES YBRIGHTON - WHY NOT?

IN A FIERCELY COMPETITIVE MARKETPLACE, RED7 HAS MAINTAINED ITS HOLD ON A SECTOR IT PIONEERED. WE MEET MANAGING DIRECTOR SARAH CHAPMAN WHO TALKS ABOUT EXPANSION PLANS, WHAT STILL SETS THE COMPANY APART AND THE PASSIONATE PEOPLE WHO MAKE GROUP TRAVEL TRULY GREAT.

SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

With three matchday restaurants to choose from, all offer premium seating and an unrivalled atmosphere in the build-up to the match.

Hospitality packages at the Amex include:

F O U R - M AT C H H O S P I TA L I T Y PAC K AG E B R I G H TO N & H OV E A L B I O N ’ S WO R L D - C L ASS A M E R I C A N E X P R E S S C O M M U N I T Y S TA D I U M I S T H E P E R F E C T V E N U E T O WAT C H P R E M I E R L E AG U E F O OT B A L L .

• Premium seating

• Three-course meal

• Inclusive drinks

• Tea and coffee at half-time and full time

• A drink and snacks on arrival

• Matchday programme

UPCOMING FIXTURES:

V ALBION v NORWICH Saturday 2 November

V ALBION v LEICESTER Saturday 23 November

V A L B I O N v W O LV E S Saturday 7 December

V ALBION v SHEFFIELD UTD Saturday 21 December

To view all Albion’s upcoming fixtures visit BrightonAndHoveAlbion.com

For more information on hospitality at the Amex, please call the hospitality team on 01273 878 278 or email hospitality@brightonandhovealbion.com *Includes 1 x category A+ or A, 1 x category B, 2 x category C. Category A/A+: Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur. Category B: Aston Villa, Everton, Leicester City, Newcastle United, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Category C: AFC Bournemouth, Burnley, Crystal Palace, Norwich City, Sheffield United, Watford.

SBTWelcome Meet the team

Sam Thomas, Managing Director/ Publisher

Greg Carroll, Partner

Lee Mansfield Partner

James Morrison, Production

Belinda Bennett, Editor/ Head of Social Media

Stephen Lawrence Photographer Snap it Now

Contributors

Jon Saunders General Manager, Pryzm

James Dempster, Cobb Digital

Katie Gibson Director, Pier Recruitment

Welcome to another busy edition of the Sussex Business Times.

We are delighted to this month feature Sarah Chapman, Managing Director of Red7, in our cover feature. Sarah was the first person founder Ian Lucas employed and she has played a major role in the development of the business. Group travel is a growing market and Sarah explains what Red7 has planned. She also highlights the importance of the business’s great people.

It has been a hectic few weeks for events. With a plethora of charity lunches, fundraising days and more, Brighton Expo topped it off with a spectacular day of networking at Brighton Racecourse.

SBT is delighted to feature YBrighton, the business bringing more corporate visitors to the Sussex coast. We discover exactly what it does and what sets it apart.

There are a few themes going on in the magazine this month - we’ve gone frighteningly fabulous for Halloween in our Spending It feature and Christmas gets more than a mention for festive city breaks.

Our reviews focus on restaurant Flamenco and the South Lodge Hotel, but you will also meet my Uncle George as we cook up a storm on Channel 4’s Cooking Up A Fortune.

Creating the right work environment is a popular topic, so we have gone all arty to discover what makes a great impression.

We have got features for property investors and those considering buying the assets of a business.

With stories from The Float Spa, more free advice in Ask The Experts and a Made in Sussex feature on Caremark, there is plenty in this issue to keep you informed and entertained.

Sam Thomas, Managing Director

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 3

Issue 434

SBT

ISSUE 434

FREE

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

SBT TRAVEL RED7: CHRISTMAS CITY BREAKS

NETWORKING & EVENTS THE BOUNDARY CLUB COBB BUSINESS LUNCH CLUB

FEATURES YBRIGHTON - WHY NOT?

IN A FIERCELY COMPETITIVE MARKETPLACE, RED7 HAS MAINTAINED ITS HOLD ON A SECTOR IT PIONEERED. WE MEET MANAGING DIRECTOR SARAH CHAPMAN WHO TALKS ABOUT EXPANSION PLANS, WHAT STILL SETS THE COMPANY APART AND THE PASSIONATE PEOPLE WHO MAKE GROUP TRAVEL TRULY GREAT.

SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

Cover 434 Red 7 Managing Director/Publisher Sam Thomas sam@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 01323 819 012 Production James Morrison Web Designer/Developer Tom Alexander Accounts Clare Fermor accounts@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 01323 819 016 Published by The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Unit 1a Swan Barn Business Centre, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, BN27 2BY Printed by L&S Printing Limited Hazelwood Close Worthing BN14 8NP 01903 821005 www.ls-printing.com

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. 2019 ©

4 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

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Local News

A round-up of business stories from across Sussex.

National News

What businesses can learn from the collapse of Thomas Cook and other national business news.

Spending It

We’ve got some Frightfully Fabulous ideas for Halloween.

Finance

Tax considerations for property investors.

Legal

The key considerations when buying the assets of a business.

Business

The Float Spa talks about Mindful Networking.

Q&A with YBrighton

We discover the creative genius behind the brand bringing more corporate visitors to Brighton.

Charity

We hear from Rockinghorse Children’s Charity and find out more about is recent golf day.

Best of British

Sporting star Rob Andrew was the guest speaker at this fund-raising lunch event.

Cover Story: Brighton Born and Bred

We meet Sarah Chapman, Managing Director of Red7.

Travel

Christmas city breaks.

Lifestyle

Cooking Up A Fortune with Dasaki.

Restaurant Review Dining at Flamenco.

Made in Sussex

We find out more about Caremark.

SBTLocal News Splashing Time at Charity Watersports Challenge were: IEP Financial, Seico Mortgages, Crunch Accounting, Healy’s, Brightview Lofts, Clearline, Enterprise, Fundraising Auctions, Hilton Brighton Metropole, Studio Gobo, Pryzm, and the Treatment Rooms.

Two Brighton-based charities joined forces for a fantastic fundraising day at Hove Lagoon, with Sussex businesses making a splash!

The Starr Trust and Rockinghorse children’s charity hosted the Starr Water Wars Challenge on Sunday September 1st which saw participants battle it out on the water in a bid to be crowned 2019 champions.

18 teams of four went head-to-head in a number of thrilling challenges, including giant paddle boarding, kayaking, tug-of-war, volleyball and the finale – a paddle boarding relay race!

Over £6000 was raised to support the important work of both these children’s charities. The Starr Trust supports

MHA Carpenter Box Wins Prestigious British Accountancy Award

young people aged 10-18 to fulfil their potential in Art, Sport and Education and Rockinghorse is the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton.

Rosie Molloy, Fundraising Manager at The Starr Trust, said “We are so grateful to all the businesses that put in teams, especially Beales and Airsprung who were our headline sponsors for the fourth year running. Everyone had a brilliant time, and the gorgeous sunshine, delicious bbq courtesy of Steyning Butchers and Barfields Butchers with the marquee donated by ABC Structures all helped to make the day a huge success.”

Hosted by BBC Radio Sussex presenter Guy Lloyd alongside DJ Immon, over 100 spectators enjoyed the September sunshine whilst cheering on their teams made up of local businesses. West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service were crowned the winners, with 2nd place going to Brighton City Electrical and Gardner & Scardifield coming in 3rd. The Hairy Dog Brewery beer tent was a welcome addition this year alongside the delicious bbq and Candyland Sweetshop.

Terrina Barnes, Corporate Fundraising Manager at Rockinghorse, said, “We are delighted with the support received at the 2019 Starr Water Wars. It was great to see so many teams take part in the event at Hove Lagoon and raise a fantastic amount of money for our two charities – thank you so much! On behalf of Rockinghorse, I’d like to give a special mention to Green People as shirt sponsors again this year, and to Darren Baker from DPI Photography who very kindly came along to take the official photos.”

Other businesses that participated

Photo courtesey of Darren Baker

Sussex-based chartered accountancy firm MHA Carpenter Box has won a major industry accolade at the British Accountancy Awards at a glittering ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London.

portal to support clients as they transition to this new way of working.

The practice, which has offices in Worthing, Gatwick and Brighton, received the Mid-Tier Innovation of the Year award (£3m and £25m turnover) for the success of its cloud accounting operations and the value delivered to clients.

MHA Carpenter Box has invested significantly in its cloud accounting team and is an acknowledged leader in this growing area of business, conducting systems reviews and enabling clients to take advantage of a wide range of value adding software services. The firm has also developed its own dedicated client

6 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

MHA Carpenter Box Managing Partner, Alan Edwards, commented: “We are thrilled to win such a prestigious award and it is very satisfying to be recognised by our peers for the value we have created for our clients.

“I would particularly like to thank Nathan Keeley, Partner and Head of Cloud Accounting at the firm, for his leadership and innovation in developing such a comprehensive and successful cloudbased service for our client base.” www.carpenterbox.com Image – Managing Partner Alan Edwards holding the award with other members of the MHA

Carpenter Box team and comedian Sean Locke on the right-hand side.

SBTLocal News Sussex Businessperson of the Year joins EMC Award-winning business growth and corporate finance firm EMC has recruited the current Sussex Businessperson of the Year, Carl Fillery, to head its team in East Sussex.

In addition to being CEO of Boundless, Carl also held Executive and NonExecutive Chairmanships with two FCA regulated companies.

He led the transformation of the previously loss-making traditional mutual organisation into a fully commercialised and diversified business, turning it into one of the leading membership associations in the UK.

EMC CEO Nik Askaroff said: “We have known Carl for some time both through business and our mutual support for Sussex County Cricket. The work he has done in turning around the fortunes of the 90-tear-old CSMA has been absolutely outstanding – something recognised by the judges at last November’s Sussex Business Awards.

“We are thrilled that Carl is now joining us, bringing years of experience and expertise in business development, acquisitions, project delivery, interim leadership and crisis turnaround to support business owners across the region.”

Boundless now offers more than 230,000 Civil Service and public sector employees and their families exclusive benefits including discounts on a range of leisure, financial services and products. Members also have access to a number of special interest groups as well as a range of events throughout the UK.

Carl, who is a Chartered Director and a Fellow of the Institute of Directors, added: “EMC has been on my radar for a little while. They enjoy an unrivalled reputation locally and I am really looking forward to working with their team of top professionals across all the main business disciplines – finance, sales, marketing, production, strategic IT, HR,

EMC is the South East’s leading independent business growth and corporate finance firm with offices in Hove, Eastbourne, Epsom, Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells and London. Find out more at www.emcltd.co.uk or call 01273 945984.

“Whilst the headwinds of political and economic uncertainty have been a consistent feature of the UK economy over the past year, mid-market firms have continued to prove their resilience.

It ranks the next 250-biggest companies by sales, provided they meet certain growth and profitability criteria. The 250 companies grew combined sales by 16% to £63.4bn, operating profits by 22% to £6.0bn and employees by 11% to 373,000.

Carl, who will work out of EMC’s Eastbourne office, joins from Boundless, formerly CSMA, where he has been Group CEO since 2014.

logistics and business development – to help business owners achieve their goals.”

Albion enter Grant Thornton Top Track 250 Brighton and Hove Albion have been included in The Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top Track 250.

Published this weekend, the 15th annual league table ranks Britain’s private mid-market growth companies with the biggest sales, and places Albion 206th in the standings.

Albion chief executive and deputy chairman Paul Barber said, “This inclusion is another proud moment for the club, and underlines our continued progress in all areas.

“It is the result of our chairman’s strategic, long-term vision, and the ongoing professionalism and hard work of all our staff, to bring that to fruition. It also further demonstrates our significant contribution to the local economy.”

Jim Rogers, partner at Grant Thornton UK LLP, the title sponsor of the league table, praised the companies for their performance.

“They’ve demonstrated their adaptability to uncertain times and found opportunities for growth, both at home and abroad.”

The Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top Track 250 complements the Top Track 100, published in July, which features Britain’s private companies with the biggest sales.

The full league table is published on Sunday as a 10-page supplement within the business section of The Sunday Times on 6th October, both in print and in the digital edition, and on www.fasttrack.co.uk.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 7

SBTNational News What big businesses can learn from the collapse of Thomas Cook accommodation.

This is a second lesson for businesses stay on top of trends in your industry.

It is understood the firm had asked the Government for a bailout exceeding ÂŁ200m. However, officials have said the Government took the view that the cash would not have sustained the business in the long-run.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps was quoted as saying repatriation would have come at some point.

As 155,000 British tourists were being repatriated following the collapse of Thomas Cook, many businesses were asking themselves if more could have been done to save the iconic travel firm.

One lesson top bosses can take from the demise is that you can’t rely on the Government to bail you out - even if UK citizens are dotted around the world with no tour operator to bring them home.

Thomas Cook ceased trading with immediate effect early on September 23. The news followed a weekend of fraught efforts to save the worldwide

Conference season pledges to business It is that time of year when political parties make pledges at their annual conferences. For businesses, it has been a mixed bag so far.

The Liberal Democrats have vowed to scrap Brexit. That means they will revoke Article 50 if they win the next election.

Staged in Bournemouth, the conference debated a wide range

8 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

brand from going into forced administration.

The failure put 9,000 jobs in the UK at risk and saw the Civil Aviation Authority launch the biggest peacetime repatriation operation on record.

Founded in 1841, the Thomas Cook brand was synonymous with package holidays. Experts say, while still respected among loyal customers, it failed to grasp how holiday trends have changed. Its offer largely overlooked the fact that many travellers now like to book their own flights and / or

of issues impacting businesses including the future of town centres, race and equality, unpaid internships, and pollution.

In Brighton, the Labour Party was talking about a four-day working week, more electric vehicle charging points, Brexit, failing bosses and bonuses, transport, and measures to break the stigma of menopause for women in the workplace.

The Conservative Party Conference, taking place in Manchester, is expected to put the flesh on the bones of spending pledges made by Boris Johnson.

The Civil Aviation Authority chartered 45 jets to bring stranded holidaymakers home. On the day the firm was known to have collapsed, a total of 16,000 were due to come back.

Add to that the additional thousands booked to go on holiday with Thomas Cook in the future and you will get a sense of the scale of the fallout.

The company apologised to its customers. Those seeking a refund on booked holidays are being told to visit a website for further information about the claims process and those with holiday vouchers have been told they are worthless.

SBTNational News Impact of absenteeism assessed in survey Over two-fifths (43%) of businesses have had employees absent from work for more than four weeks due to ill health in the last two years, according to new research by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and Unum.

The BCC is calling for any additional statutory payment to be reimbursed or off-set to reflect the extent to which firms are already struggling with the cumulative cost of employment.

The overriding impacts of staff absences are operational (88%) and on staff morale (76%) according to the results of the survey of over 1,000 businesses of all sizes and across all sectors. The business-to-consumer sector, which includes retail, catering, and hotels, was more likely to report impacts with 93% of firms reporting operational impacts and 85% affecting staff morale.

Respondents also reported financial (44%) and reputational (36%) impacts from staff absences.

Most businesses recognise the importance of supporting employee health and wellbeing, with 62% offering benefits such as access to wellbeing support, private medical insurance, occupational support services and healthy lifestyle benefits such as gym membership and cycle to work schemes.

The survey found that 41% of businesses believe that providing financial protection benefits, such

as income protection insurance and critical illness cover, could or does help them to attract and retain employees.

This rises to 52% for larger companies with more than 50 employees.

The government is currently consulting on proposals to prevent health-related job loss, which will require businesses to take a more proactive role.

Jane Gratton, Head of People Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “People are the most important asset of any business and a healthy and happy workforce lends itself to increased morale and productivity. Many firms already take proactive steps to support the physical and mental wellbeing of staff and, when they have the capacity and resources, will offer a range of information, services and benefits.

“Maintaining employees’ health and resilience is always the best option, but when people are absent though ill health it is in everyone’s best interests that they are supported back into work as quickly as possible. But managing sickness absenteeism can be difficult and expensive for businesses, especially smaller firms who don’t have access to specialist in-house HR services.

“Employers need access to good quality, affordable services to help them understand how to support their people in the best way, together with clear, upto-date information and guidance on everyone’s rights and responsibilities.”

Suspension of parliament ruled unlawful

Parliament was unlawful.

There could be no doubt that we are living in momentous times when 11 Supreme Court judges unanimously ruled Boris Johnson’s move to prorogue

Mr Johnson said he disagreed with the ruling, but MPs headed back to the Commons the following day.

CBI supports investment in technology The CBI has responded to a House of Commons BEIS Select Committee report on automation and the future of work.

Felicity Burch, CBI Digital and Innovation Director, said: “The evidence is clear - when companies invest in technology, higher productivity and better living standards follow.

“Supporting companies to invest in robotics has rightly been recognised in the select committee’s report. All eyes will now be turning to the Government’s R&D roadmap this Autumn – a once-in-a-generation opportunity to change the game for UK innovation.

“The Government’s R&D roadmap should set out long-term plans in three areas: backing business-led initiatives to drive up innovation investment; increasing financial support focussing on the development stage of R&D; and demonstrating to the world that the UK is a great place to innovate and invest in technology.”

The judges, who delivered a damning verdict on the five-week suspension, agreed the effect on the fundamentals of democracy was ‘extreme’.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 9

Frightfully Fabulous October presents a number of opportunities to boost your business, but it is also a time to let your hair down and have some fun. This is a great month to run promotions or fundraise for charity - and, of course, indulge yourself in a few spooky treats at the same time. Whether you are immersed in Autumn or looking forward to a good ol’ fancy dress Halloween party, we’ve got some frightful ideas to help you plan the perfect month.

Autumn Skincare Keep your skin looking and feeling good as the weather turns colder.

This cruelty-free Facial Oil is by The Green People and contains jojoba, lavender, sweet almond, rose, avocado, sunflower and lemon.

£19.

50

www.greenpeople.co.uk

Keep your customers happy at Halloween with a promotional gift that won’t offend or scare people. This wonderful wizard bug has bespoke branding and is a cost-effective way to get into the Halloween spirit without putting the frighteners on customers. Perfect for target markets of all ages.

Wrap Up This vintage trench coat is ideal for autumn months. It will keep you warm and dry - and looking professional.

Perfect for work, it is available in beige and green. www.lightinthebox.com

Wacky Wizardry

£0.31

£33

www.promo-brand.co.uk

Good For Your Garden Moving away from the spooky to practical, this folding garden incinerator is perfect for getting rid of leaves and other organic debris that make the garden look untidy at this time of year. www.greenfingers.com

£39.

99

for Her

Crazy Costumes The top Halloween costume for women this year has to be the Day of the Dead Senorita. However, be warned, stocks are already low. You can snap up the dress, headdress and leggings for anything between £23 and £35. In addition, to complete the look, you will need a good set of face paints or a ready-made Day of the Dead mask.

The latter retails at anything between

£4.99 and £9.99. Try Amazon or eBay for these products or, better still, a local fancy dress store. Avoid the lowerpriced sellers online, if you do not want to receive a last-minute email saying the item is not longer in stock or that new stock is due and may not arrive in time.

Alternatives include zombied-up filminspired costumes, like the Plant Villain or Evil Fairy Queen.

£19.

99

Spooky Sussex There is plenty going on to keep you entertained in Sussex over Halloween. Choose from days or nights out. The Sea Life park at Brighton is turning into the Ascarium - if you fancy treating the kids! If you really want to immerse yourself in ghostly goings on, get down to the The George Payne in Hove for spooky cocktails, a Rocky Horror extravaganza and slime sessions. Alternatively, the Old Market is staging a Halloween Ball with prizes for the best fancy dress.

£18.

99

£23 Evil Fairy Queen

www.partydelights.co.uk

Day of the Dead Senorita www.amazon.co.uk

Plant Villain

www.partydelights.co.uk

for Him

Crazy Costumes Go voodoo for October 31. Anything that smacks of Mexican or the Day of the Dead theme will turn heads and keep you on trend for Halloween.

This Voodoo Dude costume is a good buy - it includes a jacket with attached waistcoat, top hat and mask. Not for you?

www.ebay.co.uk

£31.

99

£49.

99

Voodoo Dude

www.visitbrighton.com

Deluxe Grand Heritage Beetlejuice

Good alternatives include Count Bloodthirst and the Deluxe Grand Heritage Beetlejuice.

www.fancydress.com

Various prices

Count Bloodthirst

www.fancydress com

£94.

95

Tax considerations for property investors Finance

Rachel Pearce, a Tax Director at MHA Carpenter Box, looks at some important tax considerations for property investment businesses.

Tax relief for mortgage/loan interest for residential Buy-to-Let investors Many landlords have already started to feel the pinch following the restriction on mortgage interest deductions on rental income. The amount of interest eligible for tax relief at the higher and additional rates (40% and 45%) is restricted as follows: • 50% of the interest paid in 2018/19 • 25% of the interest paid in 2019/20 The remaining interest will be eligible only for income tax relief at the basic rate (20%). From 6 April 2020, higher or additional rate taxpayers will only be able to claim relief on any Residential Buy-toLet (RBTL) interest at the basic rate.

advice is to look at the whole picture to make sure you’re aware of all of the knock-on effects that might happen as this mortgage interest/loan tax relief reduces.

Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings (ATED) can apply when a residential property with a value of at least £500,000 is held in an ‘envelope’. Broadly, an envelope includes a limited company, an LLP with a corporate partner or a collective investment scheme.

For any properties owned at 6 April 2019, unless the ‘envelope’ is a charity, a return will need to be filed by 30 April 2019 and any tax paid and/or reliefs claimed. In the case of a mid-year acquisition, a separate return must be filed within 30 days of purchase. These deadlines are easy to miss so make sure they are diarised if they apply.

Penalties will be charged in the deadline is missed.

Other things to consider

Structure and Buildings Allowances

Unfortunately, the way this restriction operates means that a taxpayer’s total income will no longer include a deduction for the restricted interest.

This might further affect a taxpayer’s position if this increase means the taxable income consequently exceeds certain other thresholds – for instance, it could reduce the availability of Child Benefit, the personal allowance or the pension savings annual allowance. Our

It was announced in the 2018 Budget that a new tax relief will be available for businesses (including property rental businesses) that incur capital expenditure on the construction or improvement of non-residential buildings and structures. The relief known as Structure and Buildings Allowances (SBA) will apply at an annual rate of 2% on a straight-line basis once the property has been

12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Rachel Pearce

brought into use.

The guidance issued in the 2018 Budget states that the relief will generally not be given for construction projects which began before 29 October 2018 and, in contrast to the tax relief which applies for fixtures in buildings (which will continue unchanged), there will be no balancing allowance or charge when the property is transferred (the new owner will claim the remaining relief) and the relief will reduce the base cost of the property for capital gains purposes.

How we can help Property Tax can be extremely complex, but our specialist tax advisers can guide you through the world of property investment. We provide all the support you need to get the certainty you require on all property related matters.

For more information get in touch with our friendly team of tax and business advisers by contacting Rachel on 01903 234094 visiting our website: www.carpenterbox.com

Having tomorrow’s conversations, today

Our thinking starts with you With our relationship led service, we look to understand the opportunities and challenges faced by your business. Our focus is always on client service, with open and honest relationships.

Switching to MHA Carpenter Box is easier than you think: we make it hassle-free from start to finish. Get in touch today for a free and informal consultation.

Call: 01903 234094 • Email: info@carpenterbox.com

www.carpenterbox.com

Now, for tomorrow

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 13

Legal

Buying the Assets of a Business - Key Considerations When purchasing a business, it is important to decide at Legal the outset whether you are buying the shares in the company that runs the business in question or if you are buying the assets of that business. This is something which you should discuss with an Accountant, however, if you decide, following advice, that you are going to acquire the assets in the business then you should consider the following;

What assets are you buying?

When you agree a purchase price for the assets of a business it is important to be clear from the outset what you are buying. This seems like an obvious statement but many people often believe they will acquire certain assets which the seller then excludes from the sale once documentation is drafted.

The assets of a business (amongst other things) can include; • Goodwill

• Equipment

• Stock in Trade (in some instances stock will be valued at completion and the price of the same will be payable in addition to the agreed purchase price).

• Property

How will income of the business be divided between the Buyer and Seller?

The standard position is that any amounts received on or before completion so far as they relate to a service to be provided after completion belong to the buyer and seller must pay the buyer such sums. Any amounts which are paid after completion for services received before completion belong to the seller and the buyer will need to pay such sums to the seller.

In essence a line is drawn at close of business on the day of completion.

Any payments made or received before that line is drawn are for the seller, after that time everything belongs to the buyer.

You should therefore consider if the nature of the business is such that this standard position should be altered and that the ‘Business Sale and Purchase Agreement’ properly deals with this.

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the same.

Are there any employees of the business?

It is extremely important that you ascertain at the outset whether you will be acquiring any employees of the business when purchasing its assets.

If any employees are transferring with the business the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 (TUPE) will apply and you should seek the advice of a Employment Law Solicitor to ensure that the correct steps are taken in accordance with TUPE (Mayo Wynne Baxter have a specialist Employment Team who can assist).

Are there any business contracts which will continue post completion of the purchase?

This question is often answered as part of the due diligence process which you should instruct your solicitor to undertake for you before you commit yourself to the purchase of a business.

A business contract would be described as any or all contracts, arrangements, licences and other commitments relating to the business entered into before completion which remain to be performed by any party to them in whole or in part.

It goes without saying that you should be aware of any business contract which remains to be performed as this will be your responsibility and a potential liability for you following completion.

Are there any tax implications associated with the purchase?

This is something which should be discussed with your Accountant however some tax considerations include; • Whether the seller is VAT registered and whether the transaction will be treated as a ‘Transfer of a Going Concern’ (a TOGC).

• Whether the seller has opted to tax the property (if they hold a freehold interest) or whether the landlord of the property has opted to tax it (if the seller has a leasehold interest) as VAT will then be payable on any payments due under the lease.

• Whether Stamp Duty Land Tax is payable on either the acquisition of the freehold of the property or any lease of

Restricting the Seller In order to protect the assets which you are purchasing you may need to restrict the seller’s actions moving forward i.e. to restrict the seller from:• Carrying on the same business as is being sold within a given time frame of completion and within a certain area e.g. within 2 years following completion in Brighton and Hove • Seeking the custom of any client or customer of the business within a certain period of time from completion • Engaging or employing any employees of the business.

• Using the business name or any other domain name, design, logo or trademark of the business.

If you do not restrict the seller you could in theory find yourself in a situation where the seller sets up an identical business next door to the business which you have just bought and this would, of course, have an impact on the performance of your new business.

Next Steps A properly drafted ‘Business Sale and Purchase Agreement’ will cover all of the points highlighted above and you should ensure that you instruct a solicitor to undertake a full review of the business including the title to any property which will be occupied (whether that be freehold of leasehold) before committing yourself to the purchase of a business (this process is known as ‘due diligence’). Your solicitor can then advise you on any potential liabilities and ensure that suitable warranties are included within the ‘Business Sale and Purchase Agreement’ to safeguard you moving forward.

By Melissa Johnson Associate Solicitor / Commercial Property

If you are looking to purchase a business (by way of shares or assets), please contact the specialist Commercial Team at Mayo Wynne Baxter, who will be happy to assist you. 0800 84 94 101

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• Receive a corporate gift for each guest • Your name in the programme and up on the big screens

WIN

• Receive four places at the end-of-season Players’ Awards Evening, with private drinks reception with the first team players

Photo by Paul Hazlewood

• Trip to the American Express Elite Football Performance Centre to watch training, meet the head coach and players

Enter now at www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk/spottheball

ALL OF THIS www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

The Float Spa Mindful Networking Networking aficionado Camille credits Business Pierson her dedication to networking for the rapid expansion and success of her business, The Float Spa. She attends around 10 to 12 networking events a month so has a lot of insight into what people do right and wrong at these sorts of events. She has combined this knowledge with the ideas around mindfulness she embraces to come up with a set of tips to help new and experienced networkers to network mindfully and get the most out of it.

Give It a Try For novice networkers, Camille recommends that you give every type of networking a try as they vary hugely between formal structured meetings and more informal social ones. Keep an open mind and just see which type suits your personality.

Have a Purpose Both new and serial networkers benefit from having a purpose and a focus when they attend networking events.

It’s very easy to fall into chit chat with people you know or explaining everything your business does to everyone. Camille finds it much more useful to have an objective and/or a

16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

focus for each networking event such as, she may want to connect with a hotelier to offer her services to their guests or she might have a focus to promote a new service she is offering.

See Who’s Going With this focus in mind, it’s helpful to see the list of attendees before the event so you can pick out the people you would most like to talk to. If you are new to networking and the thought of approaching people cold is nerve wracking, speak to the organisers and see if they can organise an introduction for you.

Don’t Oversell Once you’re at the networking event, it’s important not to oversell what you’re offering. People who immediately jump into their sales spiel after shaking your hand can be off putting so it’s a good idea to hold back and try to get to know the people you meet instead.

Mingle To allow you to meet the most people, don’t sit down too soon or you could end up speaking to a limited number of people who may not be the people you wanted to speak to. Camille finds it better to mingle for as long as possible and recommends that new networkers shouldn’t be afraid to approach groups of people standing together but should

just politely introduce themselves and ask if the group mind them joining.

The Person Behind the Brand The best networking relationships are the ones where you find a common ground with the people you meet. Even if you end up talking to people who you would initially assume couldn’t do much for you business wise, your or their circumstances can change so they are now helpful to your business or they know people who would be.

Follow Up A mistake novice networkers make is to attend networking events, collect lots of business cards and do nothing with them. If you have done as Camille advises and spoken to a wide range of people about a wide range of things, you should have plenty of material to strike up a connection with whether that’s on LinkedIn or through an email.

To get yourself in a relaxed frame of mind ready to make a roaring success of your networking, try floatation therapy, massages, yoga classes or infrared sauna sessions at The Float Spa.

See www.thefloatspa.co.uk for details and booking or call 01273 933 680.

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www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 17

YBrighton - Why not?

YBrighton is the go-to brand for unforgettable experiences in Brighton. Serving corporate clients, it delivers engaging events as well as incentive and reward programmes. Here, we discover how a professional, creative approach has helped the agency bring more business to the Sussex coast.

Cosmopolitan, bohemian, eclectic…

Call Brighton what Q&A you like, there is one thing everyone agrees on - there is no where else quite like it. It is creative, inclusive, inspiring, relaxed, and so much more The city by the sea has been a destination for corporate events for decades; all drawn to the South East metropolis by its stunning scenery, world-class venues and, increasingly, for experiences.

Showcasing how Brighton can engage and motivate is YBrighton, the event management agency driving more corporates to the Sussex coast. Its offer is geared to bring out the best in people and equip brands with incentives and rewards that pack a powerful punch.

It isn’t surprising that it uses the phrase ‘Fresh air, fresh thinking’ to sell

18 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Brighton. It neatly sums up what anyone using YBrighton’s wide-ranging services can expect.

parties. YBrighton is also a recognised leader in the field of bespoke incentive programmes.

Part of Yellow Fish, YBrighton has been praised by partner VisitBrighton for its engaging incentive programmes - not just on its doorstep but around the globe.

With more than five decades of experience between us, our team knows the industry inside out. We are all passionate about delivering creative, exciting events that really inspire and engage.

It was founded by Brightonian Maria Valentine, who wanted to share her passion for Brighton with the corporate world while providing unforgettable experiences designed to incentivise.

To learn more about what YBrighton does we spoke to Sue Wright, the company’s Brighton guru who has lived in the city for over 30 years.

What does YBrighton offer?

Our team of experts creates memorable corporate events. We tailor experiences to individual client needs, so that can be anything from a conference or product launch to team-building days for delegates and private dinner

While we are truly passionate about what Brighton has to offer, our reward and incentive programmes are delivered worldwide.

Our local venues include everything from fabulous historic buildings to boats.

Increasingly, we help clients source the very best production services for corporate events. Bespoke stage sets, hire equipment, rigging and camera crews… That is just a brief outline of the solutions on offer.

YBrighton also provides entertainment

Q&A

for events and, of course, we can take care of transport needs - traditional to quirky.

How do you work with clients?

We work very closely with clients to ensure YBrighton delivers the very best experiences. In fact, we consider ourselves an extension of our customers’ teams. It makes the whole process hassle-free for them and ensures we precisely meet all of their needs.

What about conferences?

We turn conferences into motivational platforms. As well as incentivising delegates with creative, fun experiences, we take care of branding.

In addition, we help our clients get their messaging right - to ensure delegates are fully engaged and take away the right cues from an event. That is really important because not getting the right messages across can reduce the value of an event to both the business and delegates. It is all about being spot on when it comes to meeting objectives.

Tell us more about entertainment?

Nobody can deny, Brighton is a real

draw for the artistically talented.

We have a plethora of world-class entertainers on our doorstep. We tap into that talent pool to deliver the very best entertainment at any corporate event.

of accommodation they want - from country retreats to boutique hotels.

What about team experiences?

What makes Brighton so attractive to corporates?

YBrighton does things differently. We create events designed to bring out the best in people and excite them.

It is about originality and having fun.

To be honest, our events reflect the personality of Brighton with a bespoke twist.

Some of our clients only have a short time in the city, so we can create experiences that last as little as an hour.

Others can last full days or nights.

It is all about understanding individual needs and getting the balance between team building and fun just right.

And places to stay?

We do all the legwork. Delegates simply send us the brief and we find them the accommodation they are looking for.

Apart from its setting and personality, it is ideally located. In fact, it is just 50 minutes away from the centre of London and 30 minutes from Gatwick.

It boasts great transport links and is an easy city to get around once you are here.

Planning a corporate event in Brighton? Talk to YBrighton.

Email: hello@ybrighton.co.uk Telephone: 01273 223504 Website: ybrighton.co.uk

We offer a completely free venue finding service. With the widest range of accommodation at great prices, we make attending an event in Brighton really straightforward. As well as traditional conference hotels, we can find delegates whatever type

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

A hole in one for children’s charity Rockinghorse held its charity golf day at Mid Sussex Golf Club last month (Wednesday 4 September) and raised almost £6,500.

Sponsored by FRP Advisory and in partnership with Charity Sussex Business Times, the golf day was attended by 17 teams from businesses across Sussex.

Teams of four players paid £250 to enter, which included breakfast and a two-course lunch at the club in Ditchling. Despite a rainy start to the day, the sun shone as golfers took to the 18-hole course which is set within the beautiful Mid Sussex countryside.

Each hole was sponsored by a different business and Rockinghorse also raised funds through a raffle, offering a host of fantastic prizes which were kindly donated to the charity. Professional golfer, Toby Graves, also made an appearance in support of Rockinghorse and donated a one-to-one golfing experience, which went for £200.

It was all to play for as golfers stood the chance of winning a number of prizes during the round. They included;

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nearest the pin, nearest the line, longest drive and winning team. There was also a top prize of a brand-new car – on offer to anyone that hit a hole in one on the course – courtesy of Hendy Ford in Horsham.

“Rockinghorse aims to improve the lives of poorly babies, children and young people in Sussex” Golf day sponsors, FRP Advisory, were crowned as the winning team. Chris Stevens, Partner at FRP Advisory, said, “We were delighted to be able to sponsor the inaugural Rockinghorse Charity Golf Day. It was an absolute pleasure to support such a fantastic local charity and we were over the moon to win!”

Stella Buckingham, Events Fundraising Manager at Rockinghorse, added, “We are so pleased with the support received for our very first golf day which raised an incredible £6,400!

Huge thanks to Mike and the team at Mid Sussex Golf Club for helping to make the day such a success – we’re already looking forward to our next one in 2020.”

Rockinghorse aims to improve the lives of poorly babies, children and young people in Sussex. The charity raises funds for life-saving and cutting-edge medical equipment as well as items to ensure that children are treated in an environment better suited to their needs.

Best known as the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton, the charity also supports neonatal units, respite centres and paediatric services across the county.

To find out more, visit www.rockinghorse.org.uk.

Rudolph The Red Nosed Rockinghorse invites you to…

A Festive Networking Bash

Join us for a spectacular Christmas networking celebration in the Mayo Wynne Baxter Lounge at the Amex Stadium in Brighton.

Tickets £55 each or tables of 10 £500 To include a welcome drink, 3 course meal & entertainment.

Pre order wine at a reduced price.

Tuesday 3rd December 2019 from 6:30pm

Charity Raffle and 12 Days of Christmas Prize Draw

To book, please contact Becky on 07966 763767 or email becky@thenetworkexposuregroup.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

Best of British Sporting star Rob Andrew is special guest speaker at Best of British event in Eastbourne.

Charity

The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne welcomed 200 guests to the Best of British sporting lunch last month (Friday 13 September).

Raising funds for Rockinghorse children’s charity, the event played host to special guest speaker, Rob Andrew MBE. Supported by headline sponsor, Rix & Kay Solicitors LLP, plus co-sponsor, FirmBalls, and media sponsor, Platinum Publishing Group, guests enjoyed a three-course lunch before hearing from Mr Andrew.

Now Chief Executive of Sussex County Cricket Club, Rob Andrew began his sporting career playing rugby. He rose to fame as one of England’s Rugby Union stars back in the 1980’s and continued in his role as fly-half at various clubs, until 1999.

Since then, Rob has enjoyed a brief career in first-class cricket and in January 2017, was appointed Chief Executive of Sussex County Cricket Club, who are based in Hove.

With a varied sporting career to reflect on, Rob recalled tales from both his

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rugby and cricket era’s, and discussed his move into management, enjoying his time in charge of the Sussex Sharks.

The Best of British sporting lunch raised £13,300 for Rockinghorse. Funds were raised through a raffle and auction held during the afternoon.

Best known as the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton, Rockinghorse also supports children’s wards at local hospitals across Sussex, as well as neonatal units, paediatric services and respite centres in the county.

From funds raised at the Best of British sporting lunch, Rockinghorse has pledged to support Hazel Court School in Eastbourne. Hazel Court is a special school for children and young people aged 11-19 years old who have severe disabilities and complex needs.

The school is currently fundraising for a brand new state-of-the-art sensory room to further improve the facilities for its students. Rockinghorse is delighted to be able to support the project thanks to funds raised at Best of British Eastbourne.

Ryan Heal is Chief Executive of Rockinghorse and organiser of the Best

of British events. He says, “Supporting Hazel Court means that we are able to bring the school a step closer to making their sensory room dreams a reality.

“Therapy support staff will be able to use the brand-new sensory room for assessment development and to implement therapeutic programmes, helping to improve physical and sensory processing.

“We are so proud to be able make a direct impact on the staff and students at the school and my sincere thanks goes to everyone who so very generously donated to the project during the afternoon.”

The Best of British sporting lunch will return to the Hilton London Gatwick Airport Hotel on Friday 8 November with special guest, cricket legend, David Gower OBE. Tables of 10 are available now for £750. To book, email info@bestofbritish.org.uk.

To find out more about Rockinghorse and the work they do to support babies, children and young people in Sussex, visit www.rockinghorse.org.uk.

Charity

Charity team up to Bright-on children’s lives across Sussex Charity

Rockinghorse children’s charity has announced its partnership with Phileas Fogg’s World of Adventures in Brighton.

Based in Hollingbury, the top family attraction is marking its first-year anniversary by pledging to support Rockinghorse. The charity is best known as the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital (the Alex) in Brighton.

As part of the partnership, a donation from every ticket sold for any of the attractions on offer at Phileas Fogg’s will be gifted to Rockinghorse. In addition, a donation from the total cost of all corporate bookings and Christmas parties with also be given to the charity.

Rockinghorse aims to make life better for sick and disadvantaged babies, children and young people in Brighton and across Sussex. The charity raises money for life-saving and cutting-edge medical equipment, as well as funding equipment and services to ensure that children are treated in an environment better suited to their needs.

Launched in September 2018, Phileas Fogg’s World of Adventures is Brighton’s immersive team game attraction. Visitors can experience skill, mystery and mental games in 16 amazingly authentic 1900’s sets. The attraction also plays host to the Jack the Ripper Walk of Terror.

Phileas Fogg’s Directors, Graham and Debbie Owen, were joined by their Ambassador, Jack “The Lad” Hayes, for a visit to the Alex this week (Tuesday 10 September).

They were joined by Rockinghorse CEO, Ryan Heal, the charity’s Corporate

Left to Right: Amy Farmer, Jack “The Lad” Hayes, Graham Owen, Debbie Owen, Ryan Heal and Terrina Barnes

Fundraising Manager, Terrina Barnes, and Amy Farmer, the Alex’s Play Team Manager. During the visit, they were shown first-hand how the funds that they raise during the partnership, will have a direct impact on poorly youngsters in Sussex.

Debbie Owen, Phileas Fogg’s Managing Director, says, “We love the work that Rockinghorse children’s charity do.

It has such a positive impact on the children and their families, so we are really proud to know that we will be supporting them as they continue to deliver this amazing service across Brighton and Sussex.”

Jack “The Lad” Hayes, Ambassador for Phileas Fogg’s, adds, “During my years a host of the Heart FM Breakfast Show, I had the pleasure of working with and helping Rockinghorse on many occasions. They, along with the fabulous team at the Royal Alex, do just the most amazing work.

“To be able to introduce them to Debbie and Graham at Phileas Fogg’s – a venue I am so passionate about – and help them build a relationship

and partnership moving forward, is a tremendous feeling. I am very excited to see what this partnership brings to both amazing parties.”

Ryan Heal, Rockinghorse Chief Executive, added, “We are extremely grateful to Graham, Debbie, Jack and the Phileas Fogg’s team for choosing to support our charity. We are really excited to partner with such a fantastic attraction in our city and we look forward to a longstanding partnership together.”

Rockinghorse also supports children’s wards in hospitals across Sussex, as well as neonatal units, respite centres and paediatric services in the county. To find out more, visit www.rockinghorse.org.uk.

Phileas Fogg’s was awarded Tourist Attraction of the Year at the recent Brighton & Hove Business Awards.

The attraction is hosting special events at Halloween and Christmas, catering for individuals, families and corporate parties. To book or find out more, visit www.phileasfoggsworldofadventures. co.uk.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

Crazy Golf Competition

Teams compete in Coole Bevis’ Crazy Golf Competition for children’s charity.

Charity

Competitors putted for points during a crazy golf event which raised over £2,500 for Rockinghorse children’s charity.

Organised by Coole Bevis Solicitors, the competition was held on Thursday 19 September at Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf, which is based on Madeira Drive in Brighton.

25 teams from local businesses took part in the fundraiser. Players enjoyed 18 fun-filled holes across both the Caveman and Treetop outdoor courses during a stunning September sunset on the seafront. Money was raised from entry fees and a charity raffle throughout the evening.

Rebecca Turnbull-Simpson, Partner at Coole Bevis LLP and organiser of the Crazy Golf Competition for Rockinghorse, said, “What a great

24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

success the event was! Huge thanks to Craig and the team at Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf in Brighton for so very generously allowing us use of the course.

“It was a fantastic turnout and we are so grateful to all the local businesses that entered teams into the event. Well done to our overall winners Harper Stone Properties Limited who went home with the first Coole Bevis Crazy Golf Competition trophy. We hope to do it all again next year!”.

Terrina Barnes, Corporate Fundraising Manager at Rockinghorse, added, “On behalf of the charity, I’d like to express our sincere thanks to Rebecca and the team at Coole Bevis for organising such a great event which was enjoyed by the local corporate market.

“We are over the moon that their Crazy Golf Competition raised £2,580 towards our ongoing projects at the paediatric services and children’s centres we

support in Sussex. A special mention to our friends at Domino’s Pizza for supplying everyone with some muchneeded post-golf pizzas!”

Rockinghorse supports sick and disadvantaged babies, children and young people in Sussex. The charity raises funds for live-saving and cuttingedge medical equipment, as well as funding items and additional services for parents and carers.

Rockinghorse is best known as the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton and a vital support of the neighbouring Trevor Mann Baby Unit.

To find out more about its work, visit www.rockinghorse.org.uk.

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The Great People Who Make Group Travel Fun Red7 is an award-winning group travel expert. It is expanding its market share with an evolving offer that is always ahead of the curve. But, behind the rising sales figures, is a dedicated team of professionals who are credited with the brand’s unwavering success. We meet one of them - Managing Director Sarah Chapman.

Independent, successful and growing - Red7 is the Cover Feature group travel agency based in Brighton but taking people all over the place. Founded by entrepreneur Ian Lucas in 1996, it is the go-to travel specialist for stag, hen,

26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

The business is currently focussing on continued growth, but is keen to never lose sight of what makes it special - its people.

Director Sarah Chapman. She was Ian’s first employee and has now been with the business for over two decades. She took a short break to grow her family of three kids with husband, Warren, who was once one of Red7’s top sales people.

In this feature, we meet Managing

Having worked in operations, finance,

group and sport breaks. It operates across the UK, Europe and USA.

products and product development, she is uniquely placed to lead the business forward as Ian diverts his attention elsewhere.

Sarah says: “We don’t take ourselves too seriously, but we’re a focussed and energetic brand looking forward to decades of continued success!”

Sarah stepped back into the business in 2018 and took on the ‘top job’ in February 2019.

We asked Sarah to tell us more about the business.

Meanwhile, Ian has relocated to Marbella to grow that side of the business ‘in resort’ as well as nurturing his other business interests, which include a media company and a pub!

Sarah juggles a demanding role with looking after a young family, working both from Red7’s North Laine office and from home, with a solid management team empowered to ‘get on with things’.

Good leadership has ensured Red7 is a nimble and efficient travel business with a global reach, taking an ever creative approach to marketing a niche product which is, essentially, selling fun.

Who are your customers?

Picture it: your best mate is engaged, how exciting. Problem is, he / she has invited you to be their Best Man or Chief Bridesmaid. What an honour, you can’t possibly say no. But, how many people have had to organise a group holiday for 10, 20 or even 30 strangers working on a budget?

Our customers are people who have been handed this challenge and don’t know where to start. We take the hassle out of organising a group holiday.

We have an online platform for group members to manage their own booking and we give our customers monthly instalment payment plans to help them budget.

When you think about growing or new markets, where do you see Red7 going?

Group travel is at our core, we’ll never move away from that; hens, stags, milestone birthdays, sports tours, even divorce parties (yes, they’re a thing!).

What we’re always look to do is stay ahead of the competition, we’re agile and experienced enough to spot, create and exploit trends.

We were the first agency to create professionally organised stag dos and hen weekends. We were the first to ride the TOWIE wave - our Essex and Marbella weekends went through the roof.

We had established such tight supplier relationships in Essex that almost all of the group travel capacity in Essex was committed to Red7.

We’re growing our ‘healthy hens’ options (yoga by day, party at night) and sports travel has legs.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

Cover Feature and, in larger destinations like Marbella and Portugal, it has Red7 Resort Managers to ensure everything runs smoothly.

“Our buying power means that, very often, a trip booked through us is cheaper than ‘doing it yourself’, and we have the destination knowledge and expertise to create the perfect itineraries - our guests can even make dinner reservations and pre-pay for everything,” said Sarah.

“We make group travel (which is a bit of a headache for most people) really easy! We have tried-and-tested all the activities we sell, and our sales team regularly travel across the UK and Europe experiencing first hand the holidays they sell.

“We have recently branched out into youth and adult football tournaments, which is growing rapidly.”

The business was groundbreaking when it launched, what sets it apart today?

going on the road to see the product, especially the warmer, party destinations!

Our people. We have true travel experts. Our sales team is second to none in group travel. That experience gives us an unbeatable edge over our competitors.

The sales floor is the heart of the business - we have music playing all day. There’s a real buzz, and we’re blessed with a large sun trap balcony where you’ll often find us partying after a busy sales day.

We also have very long, strong direct relationships with our suppliers - that’s not something you can create overnight.

It gives us a strong trading foundation in the key destinations and the competitive edge we need to continue growing, even after two decades!

Group holidays are becoming more popular. What types of groups can you help?

We help anyone and everyone basically, if you’re a group of six or more travelling in UK or Europe (and, in 2020, areas of the USA) Red7 can assist.

What is the company culture at Red7?

It’s a fun company - we’re selling fun after all.

We really are just one big, happy team; everyone is focussed on creating the best holiday and making sure it’s delivered perfectly.

We’re all creative-types. We love

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It’s always been important that Red7 is a ‘nice place to work’. Our staff get breakfast and lunch free every day, and we try to send everyone on fam trips at least twice a year.

What do you, as MD of Red7, love about the business?

Again, without sounding repetitive, the people! They’re such a lovely bunch of people, and they work really hard to make the company a success.

People who’ve left stay in touch, and sometimes come back, and for the long-timers Red7 is now part of their DNA! Personally, I’ve enjoyed a career of over two decades with this company so I must love it!

Ahead of the curve Red7 keeps ahead of the curve. Sarah says that is important.

It has great relationships with suppliers

Working around obstacles Red7 has survived recessions, disasters (9/11 was a very tricky time for tourism) and mainstream travel businesses moving into its niche market. But, with the demand for professionally organised group travel in a healthy state, it is confident that sustained growth is realistic and achievable.

“We started out selling mostly stags in the UK, now we are mostly stags overseas - almost 40 per cent of our business is overseas stags. One of the main impacts on this shift to overseas (60 per cent of all travel is to overseas destinations) is that the lead time is much longer - we’re taking bookings for 2021 and 2022 now,” Sarah explained.

“Partly, this is because we offer interestfree monthly payment plans, so a luxury villa hen party in Marbella is within reach. Almost 50 per cent of our sales are for travel over one year in the future.

“Another benefit of the instalment plan is that the unaffordable becomes affordable - booked 12 to 18 months in advance, a top-notch stag do abroad could cost less than £20 per month.

Average spends Sarah says the average spend has increased significantly over time . “Ten years ago an average stag party was worth £190 per person, now it’s £218,

hen parties. The idea came to founder and CEO, Ian Lucas, after a really awful stag do in London. Nowhere would accept a group of ‘stags’ – the group ended up drinking cans of beer, walking and round Covent Garden.

“We have tried-andtested all the activities we sell, and our sales team regularly travel across the UK and Europe” When he got back home, Ian approached local bars, clubs and restaurants in need of business and started to put together pre-packaged hen and stag parties.

and hens have increased from £127 per person to £182,” she said.

“This is driven by the increase in overseas holidays. It’s worth noting that often a couple with have FOUR holidays between them - two stags and two hens. One big one, typically abroad, and a smaller one more local to home, with a meal, night out and one-night hotel stay.

“We’ve also seen a big push towards villas and party houses, which means that now the entertainment comes to you (topless cocktail waiter, your own private pool party with DJ and BBQ chef).

Back to the beginning Red7’s roots date back to the late 1990s. It was the first company in the UK to market pre-arranged stag and

Sarah says: “He ensured the groups were welcomed into restaurants and bars and treated the same as any other client.

“When the first budget airlines launched, we branched out into organising overseas hens and stags and we have helped over a million clients organise their pre-wedding celebrations.

“The early challenge was to persuade a bank that Red7 was a real business.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 29

Cover Feature

Often, Ian was told ‘there’s a reason no one else is doing this…’ The next challenge was to find a hotel, a nightclub and a restaurant that would accept groups of guys. In those days, it was simply not acceptable.

labelled’ Red7 packages and paid a commission. It helped the company gain traction and operate across the whole of the UK. Many of these affiliates did so well they are now independent competitors keeping Red7 on its toes!”

“With an established and loyal sales team - 50 per cent have been with the firm for two years or more - the business is seeing a decrease in the cost per enquiry, despite heavy competition.

“The third challenge was to get door staff at nightclubs to welcome groups of guys (and girls), rather than challenge them.

“With great products, great people and a commitment to delivering group travel customers really want, Red7 is, quite rightly, at the very top of its game”

“With a surge of proposals around Christmas, New Year and St Valentine’s Day, we rely on GoogleAds to drive enquiries in quieter, shoulder months.

Marketing and SEO

With great products, great people and a commitment to delivering group travel customers really want, Red7 is, quite rightly, at the very top of its game.

“Fast forward 23 years and now door staff are hosts and most hospitality businesses accept (and need) groups.

Groups are good business – so we broke down a lot of barriers.

“Very quickly, we were bringing so many hen parties to Brighton that we hired the Old Market and put on our own male strip shows - complete with fish and chip suppers from bankers!”

In those pioneering days, Red7 established a massive network of small, local businesses operating in the same field.

Sarah says: “These affiliates ‘white

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Unlike many businesses founded in the 1990s, Red7 understood very early on the importance of Google rankings and effective PPC marketing.

Sarah points out: “We invest heavily in SEO to maintain our high organic rankings on over 200 keywords, as well as heavy investment in GoogleAds to generate valuable sales leads with high buying-intention.

“Using GoogleAds tactically to smooth out our trading year is important as it means our full time permanent sales team are kept busy all year round, which means it’s easier to retain them.”

Find out more: Website: www.redsevenleisure.co.uk Telephone: 01273 872200 Twitter: @Red7Leisure Instagram: red7leisure

SBT TRAVEL

CHRISTMAS CITY BREAKS MEET THE TEAM PAUL WILLIAMS

SBT TRAVEL SPONSORED BY BRIGHTON TRAVEL EXPERTS - RED7

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31

Christmas break

Need an alternative way to celebrate Christmas with your hard working team this year? Want to take friends and family on a short City break?

Just love Christmas and can’t get enough of the festive period?

Discover the best European Christmas Markets with Red7.

Travel

With some amazing winter airline deals, you can grab some cheap flights from Gatwick, Luton or Stansted.

The history of Christmas markets goes back to the late middle ages in the German-speaking part of Europe. The Christmas markets of Bautzen were first held in 1384. Dresden’s Striezelmarkt was first held in 1434. Frankfurt’s market was first mentioned in 1393, Munich’s in 1310, and Augsburg’s in 1498. In Austria, Vienna’s “December market” can be considered a forerunner of Christmas markets and dates back to 1298.

In many towns in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, Advent is usually ushered in with the opening of the Christmas market or “Weihnachtsmarkt” Traditionally held in the town square,

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the market has food, drink and seasonal items from open-air stalls accompanied by traditional singing and dancing.

So, if you’re in need of a pre-Christmas getaway with your friends and family, or you want to whisk the team away for a Staff Christmas Party to remember, there is no better way to spend a chilly winter weekend than strolling through one of Europe’s magical Christmas markets. From Berlin and Hamburg in Germany to the stunning lights of Prague and Krakow , you’ll discover winter wonderlands fit for Santa himself.

Enjoy the scent of cinnamon swirling through the air as you discover warm eats and delicious festive treats that will put you in the festive spirit in no time.

Prague is possibly never more beautiful than when it’s dusted with snow!

Shop in the rows of Christmas stalls for those perfect stocking fillers, try a

selection of Christmassy drinks and spend quality time in cosy restaurants lit up with the magic of winter. And, after a day of shopping, eating, drinking and selfie-taking, hit the localbars and clubs where having fun is mandatory!

We’ve picked our favourite European Christmas Markets.

Berlin, Germany

A Berlin short break group holiday is truly unique – there is no other place like it with art, sport and live performances

Travel on every corner. Berlin has a lot to offer for shopaholics, lovers of luxury, foodies, cyclists, and sports fans. Let yourself be inspired. Be sure to visit the popular food markets in Berlin’s market halls and try out street foods from all over the world.

And no Berlin visit is complete without a taste of local cuisine.

The City comes alive with the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas with some of the best Christmas Markets.

It’s slap in the middle of Europe, with a reputation for being a destination for both drinkers, adventurers, and clubbers. Drinkers can have their fill on a beer hall or brewery tour , sampling Berlin’s finest on the way.

Enjoy the Christmas Markets of Berlin, from just £116.26 per person – add flights from just £97.98 pp.

Learn more about Berlin www.redsevenleisure.co.uk/groupweekends/berlin/

Bratislava Castle dominates the city skyline and if there is just one sight you see, it should be this one. On a nice day you could take a couple of beers with you and enjoy them from the ramparts as they offer great views across the city. The Slovaks produce several varieties of beer which is worth sampling, solely for cultural research purposes, obviously. For the spirit drinkers, Slovakia is the proud producer of Slivovica; it has been claimed that it is Europe’s answer to tequila...well, when in Rome.

When it comes to food Slovakia will not be beaten; they have maintained their strong agricultural heritage which allows their restaurants to use a wide range of the freshest ingredients.

Traditional food is largely made up of goulashes, stews and soup - the perfect way to warm up after a long day in exploring the City.

The capital of Slovakia revolves around two core squares; Hlavne namestie, the main square, and Hviezdoslavovo namestie. Around these lies the unusually small historic centre and here you can find a high concentration of restaurants, bars and clubs.

What makes many of the Christmas markets really enticing and outstanding in Budapest is that there is a real focus on trying to preserve authentic Hungarian folk art and traditions.

Hamburg

Budapest

Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava is an exciting and unusual City, not just at Christmas time. With eccentric activities like armoured tank rides, mud wrestling and bridge swinging, you can really let yourself go wild! Visit during November and December and you’ll enjoy some of Eastern Europe’s most magical Christmas Markets, where the City comes alive with the sights and smells of Christmas.

At Christmas, Budapest has two main markets. The most beautiful, oldest and internationally acclaimed Budapest Christmas fair is the Christmas Market on Vorosmarty Square in the heart of the city. The Christmas market on St Stephen’s Square is right in front of the beautiful St Stephen’s Basilica, one of the biggest churches in Hungary.

Entering via the giant Advent gate, you will find yourself among a hundred handcrafts stalls and a skating rink set up on St Istvan Square.

A classy location with many names from the ‘Pearl of the Danube’ to the ‘City of Spas’ to even the ‘Paris of East Budapest’, Budapest has a huge reputation as a fantastic spot for every kind of celebration from weekends relaxing in the world-famous baths and spas, to a night out on their infamous club scene, complete with more than a little naughty late night madness. From shooting to stripping, Budapest brings its unique character to your party for an experience you’ll be talking about for years after.

Budapest is split down the middle by the Danube River. On one side is the energetic, vibrant Pest which is packed full of things to do and people to see and on the other is Buda, must hillier and more rural but a great place for enjoying a few outdoor pursuits or passing through as you head off out on an activity.

Hamburg’s appeal can be narrowed down to one simple calling card: Welcome to one of the coolest cities on earth. Germany’s second largest city is situated on the beautiful Elbe and Alstar rivers, and serves up a fantastic assortment of gardens, theatres, restaurants and bars.

Some of the ‘nicest’ Christmas Markets, the Grand Town Hall is the backdrop to stalls and food concessions with the very best German craftship you’ll find anywhere in the country. Hamburg is located on the beautiful Elbe and Alstar rivers and is home to one of the largest harbours in Europe. As well as enjoying the harbour tour or a walk along the riverside, there are stunning gardens, historical buildings and great restaurants to sample the local cuisine. Hamburg is also known for its wide choice in musicals rivalling the likes of London and New York having put on “Cats” and “ Phantom of the Opera ” in the past.

By night, Hamburg is full to bursting with classy cocktail bars, dance-

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Travel all-night clubs and neighbourhood bars and pubs that both reflect each neighbourhood’s identity and define it.

Could this be the perfect office party destination!? Why not find out with a Christmas party to remember!

Prague, Czech Republic

Meet the Team…

Krakow

Krakow may be Poland’s second city but it’s the best group destination in all of Poland! Large thriving bars and clubs serving floods of beer and other less “cultural” venues showing performances that any red-blooded male would love, are what make Krakow such a great place.

The city also benefits for having some of the best activities around - with a selection of adventurous pursuits and amazing winter markets.

The Vistula River splits Krakow; the northern bank is home to the Old Town which is the heart of Krakow. Despite first appearances, the city was not in fact designed for one epically large bar crawl, although the Old Town area down to the historic Kazimierz district does seem to be a particularly good area if you were to do one.

The appeal of Krakow is not the sheer volume of venues, but their proximity to one another, making it an ideal destination for your group holiday destination. If you’re looking to test yourselves, head to the area between ulica Szeroka (street) and plac Nowy (square) where there’s a high concentration of pubs and bars.

The seasons also provide an interesting aspect to the nightlife.

During the colder months, everyone moves into underground cellars across the city to party.

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Easy and cheap to get to, and inexpensive when you’re there, Prague is a very popular City break destination, especially at Winter when the City couldn’t be more beautiful.

Prague is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Czech Republic with its classic historical feel.

Prague in the day time is a beautiful sight to behold with its classic historical appearance and wonderful countryside.

Czechs are mightily proud of their beer, so chances are you’ll want to try a pint or two (or three!). The heart of the drinking district in Prague is based around the Old Town and Wenceslas Square, as are the Christmas Market stalls and concessions.

Enjoy the Christmas Markets of Prague – three nights, guided Christmas Markets experience, River Cruise, night club and airport transfers from just £211.33 per person – add flights from just £118.98pp.

Learn more about Prague https://www.redsevenleisure.co.uk/ group-weekends/prague/ So, enjoy the best European Christmas Markets this November and December with Red7.

Call the Group Travel Expert, Red7, today on 01273 872200 or make an online enquiry.

Paul Williams Product Manager

Paul joined Red7 in 2017 as a member of the Sales team and moved across to Product in 2018.

He is responsible for managing all Red7’s supplier relationships.

That’s a lot of destinations and activities!

His favourite place to visit is Berlin in the spring, the German Capital is quieter than the peak summer months but still warm and buzzy; or Barcelona in the Summer - he loves the hustle and bustle of Spain’s second biggest city and epsecially the port area with it’s many bars and seafood restaurants.

The best thing about working for Red7 is creating a new holiday package and seeing it brought to life by the sales team and delivered in to the customer - and of course visiting every destination now and then to check it’s still fun!

KEVIN KEEGAN FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER

THE GRAND HOTEL, BRIGHTON

HOSTED BY PAUL BOARDMAN

Guests are welcome to arrive from 12pm and your three course lunch will be served at 1pm.

The afternoon will include stories from football legend, Kevin Keegan, Heads and Tails, Charity Auction and Raffle.

All proceeds raised will go towards changing lives through cricket by supporting the Sussex Cricket Foundation and Matthew Hobden Trust.

£80 PER PERSON

£750 TABLE OF 10 Secure your place by visiting

www.sussexcricket.co.uk IN AID OF www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

The Potting Room Sanderson

Gatsby Albany Opulence

Salvia DESIGNERS GUILD

Blue’s Blue PAINT LIBRARY

Fable Linwood

Mister David LITTLE GREENE

GREAT CHOICE, BR ANDS & ALWAYS GREAT SERVICE & ADVICE

Just visit brewers.co.uk to find your local store 38FOR www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk FURNITURE & GORGEOUS 36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

ACCESSORIES BREWERSHOME.CO.UK

SBT LIFESTYLE

FOOD

DASAKI COOKS UP A STORM

WINE OF THE MONTH

SPONSORED BY LEVELS BOTTLE SHOP

SBT Wine Club Join today

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

COURTESY OF VLOGGERS, CHIZZY AND KATH

RESTAURANT REVIEW FLAMENCO

HOTEL REVIEW

SOUTH LODGE HOTEL

SPONSORED BY LEVELS WINE SHOP AND TASTING ROOMS EASTBOURNE’S PREMIER WINE SHOP AND TASTING ROOM. WE HAVE A UNIQUE AND VARIED RANGE OF WINES, BEER AND SPIRITS FROM ACROSS THE UK AND THE WORLD

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 37

LEWES TOWN HALL FISHER STREET LEWES BN7 2QS TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE OR ON DOOR @£7.50 OR EARLY BIRD @£5

www.brightonartfair.co.uk

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Cooking Up A Fortune

SBT’s very own Managing Director Cooks Up A Storm On National Television

Check out what our very own MD Sam Thomas has been Food up to this month.

He teamed up with his uncle George to cook up a storm on a new Channel 4 television show.

He swapped his office for an apron to indulge in his passion for Greek Cypriot food.

Sam and Uncle George formed team Dasaki to bring family recipes, handed down by word of mouth through generations, to the masses on Cooking Up A Fortune. Hosted by Dominic Cools-Lartigue, the tea-time show aired for the first time on Monday. It saw three teams of two battle it out to earn the most profit by selling their dishes to paying customers.

The inspiration for Dasaki’s food is rooted in history. Village recipes travelled with the family, being handed

down from generation to generation.

Sam said: “None of them were ever written on paper. They were learned by observing our parents and grandparents as they cooked for the family. Cooking Up A Fortune has been a fantastic way to share these recipes with other families and food lovers.”

In the first episode of the show, Sam, 40 , and Uncle George, 60 , impressed diners with their vegetable moussaka.

On day two, they introduced foodies to their take on slow cooked lamb Kleftico and Fasoulaki Yahni. At the end of the first two episodes, Dasaki brought in a profit of more than £400 but were overtaken for first place by Dorset Gourmet. The difference was just £23.

“It was a great experience - my food dream come true,” said Sam, who is the managing director of networking organisation FirmBalls as well as SBT. “We were knocked out of the show but feel really humbled by all the support

we have received. In fact, we are determined to keep the spirit of Dasaki alive with a cookbook. It is something I have promised my mum we will do.

“As well as putting our family recipes down on paper, we are sharing cooking demonstrations on YouTube every Friday. It is all about doing our family recipes justice and keeping them alive for future generations.”

All the Dasaki recipes featured on Cooking Up A Fortune can be viewed at www.dasaki.co.uk

Scan to visit

You can see Sam and Uncle George cooking up a storm in their own kitchen on their YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/ channel/UCwaGy6bm_ ZM4EQBqQNTwpxw

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WINE OF THE MONTH Sponsored by Levels Bottle Shop We haven’t held back for the month of October and have chosen two real indie gems

White Wine Johann Donabaum, Grüner Veltliner 2018, Wachau, Austria.

Price £19.50 Johann Donabaum produces classically styled Riesling and Gruner Veltliner in Spitz and St. Michael in the western stretches of the Wachau. After graduating from Oenology school in Krems, Johann worked at F.X. Pichler until 1996. He started to take over the winemaking at his family estate at the tender age of 19 and has been making some quality wines ever since, winning multiple winemaking awards along the way. This “Gruner” is a fabulous, restrained wine with apple and lime characters combined with white pepper, cardamom and spicy minerality. Balanced and refreshing it is perfect on it’s own or to accompany asian cuisine, a real winner this one!

Red Wine Familia Zucchardi, Bonarda ‘Cara Sur’ 2017, Maipo, Mendoza, Argentina.

Price £30.00 Familia Zuccardi is a family company founded in 1963 by Engineer Alberto Zuccardi. Zuccardi wines expresses the essence of the soils and the extreme climate conditions and altitude in which the vineyards are planted. Fourty five years after the starting point of this path, there are now three generations joined by a passion for wine.

This Tinto is actually 100% Bonarda grown at 1,500 metres above sea level at the Maggio Estate vineyard in Calingasta where the vines are more than 50 years old.

One of Sebastian Zuccardi’s projects Cara Sur means South Face and refers to the treacherous mountainscape that overlooks the vineyards. Full bodied, rich, hearty and rustic, tis red matches perfectly with grilled red meats ‘Gaucho’ style!

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for you to enjoy! These are ‘real wine lovers wines’ both with a great story, steeped in tradition but with a youthful modern twist in both. These are both wines that ‘tightened our jocks’ as soon as we tried them and we’re certain you will be just as excited about them as we are! Drink less but drink better!

Recipe of the Month

BANGERS & MASH… WITH A GOURMET TWIST Serves - 2 .............................................................

Difficulty level - Easy

Chizzy and Kath are respected Instagram food vloggers who have been in collaboration for just over a year. They are passionate for their love of food.

The following recipie featured on Channel 4’s ‘Cooking Up a Fortune’. 100% pork patty stacked on creamy mash, crushed peas with caramelised onions and onion gravy.

Ingredients • Pork sausage meat - x 400g .............................................................

• Salt .............................................................

• Pepper .............................................................

• Albert Bartlett Rooster potatoes / Maris Piper or King Edward - x 500g .............................................................

• Semi skimmed milk .............................................................

• Double cream .............................................................

• Vegetable oil for frying .............................................................

• Frozen garden peas - x 150g .............................................................

• Vegetable stock cube .............................................................

• Olive Oil .............................................................

• Ready made liquid onion gravy ...........................................................

• Red onions finely sliced - x 4 .............................................................

• Soft brown sugar - x 3 tbsp .............................................................

• Balsamic vinegar - x 1tbsp

Method - Pork Patty In a bowl combine sausage meat and seasoning and shape in to patties using a 3.5 inch cookie cutter, shallow fry on griddle pan or large non-stick frying pan for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked.

Method - Caramelised Onions Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a frying pan over low heat, add sliced onions with a generous pinch of salt and cook slowly for 15-20 minutes, stir to prevent sticking and burning until they are soft and a golden caramel colour. Add sugar and balsamic, keep on a low heat for a further 5 minutes until the sugar has dissolved and the vinegar reduced to a sticky mix.

To assemble use the cookie cutter to stack the crushed peas, creamy mash, pork patty and top with the caramelised onions and onion gravy.

Method - Creamy Mash Peel and boil potatoes, drain, mash and combine a splash of milk, double cream and seasoning to taste.

Method - Crushed Peas Cook peas as per instructions in 500ml of vegetable stock, drain, season add a dash of olive oil and crush lightly with a fork.

Method - Onion Gravy Ready made liquid onion gravy, heat as per instructions.

This month’s recipe is brought to you

by Instagram food Vloggers, Chizzy and Kath @chizzy_sussex_ food_vlogger and @ mrskathsymes_food_ vlogger

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Restaurant Review:

Flamenco This month sees us a few miles further Restaurant down the coast in the town of Eastbourne Review where we were recommended to visit Flamenco, a tapas restaurant located close to the theatres and entertainment hub and not far from Eastbourne’s lovely Sea Front.

Persuaded to visit this restaurant by a good friend of SBT we suggested he should select the choices and what an amazingly wise decision it was.

Flamenco was opened in 2004 by the current Chef/Owner Peter PriserJones - PJ for short - after spending a considerable amount of time living and absorbing the Spanish lifestyle in both Barcelona and in arguably the

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spiritual home of tapas, San Sebastian.

Believing that there would be a market for a Tapas experience in his hometown of Eastbourne, PJ returned home and initially with a business partner, Flamenco was opened. However, PJ’s developing vision and skills led to him taking sole ownership and direction of the restaurant shortly afterwards.

Determined to make Flamenco as authentically Spanish as possible outside of Spain, the whole Tapas Style is immediately noticeable the moment you walk into the place which has the buzz of any number of San Sebastian Tapas bars. All the produce is fresh and delivered daily by up to five specialist artisan Spanish Food companies each with their own product specialities which ensures the high-quality produce

from which Flamenco produces their food.

“All the produce is fresh and delivered daily by up to five specialist artisan Spanish Food companies each with their own product specialities” With incredibly attentive and predominantly Spanish front of house staff who have no problem if you want to practice your pre-holiday Spanish or like our dinner guest’s 10 year old daughter does, proudly order her dinner in the Spanish she has learnt at school makes the experience family friendly and adding to the Spanish feel. You

Restaurant review

won’t get to see PJ; he is frantically working the kitchen to produce some mind-blowing dishes which are all prepared and cooked to order.

So, with three hungry Fellas around the table our friend placed the order and what an order. We asked for all the food to be served together so we could happily mix and match and the food arrived in a clever selection of dishes designed to keep the hot food, just that, hot, throughout the whole meal.

“The lamb was so tender you could cut it with a postcard.”

It would be impossible to describe in detail the quality behind all the dishes, but a few standout offerings just have to be mentioned. The Lamb Skewers were marinated in a selection of herbs but with dominant Rosemary and were cooked to perfection. The lamb was so tender you could cut it with a postcard.

The prawns wrapped in smoked pancetta gave a superbly subtle combination of sea and woodland flavours sealed in with garlic butter and the three times cooked belly of pork?

What great crackling!!

We ordered a salad of Anchovies which were so subtle in flavour and not highly salted and which had a really refreshing impact on the palate just in time for the luscious thick dark rich sauce which accompanied the beef stew and although not intended to go together on the menu, a little remaining sauce turned out to be a wonderful accompaniment to the Spanish Black Pudding. To top things off, the chicken cooked with honey and apricots and the best potato bravas with yet another homemade tomato sauce, was delicious. We chose an excellent very well priced Escena Rioja which we discovered was supplied by our old friends at Bouquet Ltd to accompany our banquet.

What else can you expect from Flamenco? Well, look out for their Spanish music night events with high quality authentic Spanish Performers and if you are heading to the theatre then pre-theatre specials start from 5.30. Tapas is an ideal way to start your theatre evening as you can order as little or as much as you like to make sure you don’t miss that vital “Curtains Up”.

Flamenco’s popularity is ensured and secured and if you haven’t heard of it that’s because they have no need to advertise. There are so many repeat customers and you have to book!! We counted at least 10 drop in customers who had to be asked to book for another night due to Flamenco being fully booked, but with the latest take away delivery service just becoming established, then at least those who didn’t get to eat in the restaurant would have had the chance to eat Flamenco’s food within a short while of getting home. Not all is lost then!!

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Hotel Review: South Lodge Hotel This month I have really lucked Hotel out. I have found our readers what Review may be the best recommendation by far. I was asked to cover a review for the South Lodge Hotel in Horsham and this is an absolute game-changer.

I moonlight as a busy solicitor on the side, so attending these reviews is always a treat and a good chance for me to de-stress. I can honestly say I have not come across a hotel yet which has changed my mood and perspective overnight. I arrived in the middle of an extremely stressful week with a far reaching hope that South Lodge would deliver on its highly regarded reputation.

It is safe to say that it over delivered.

The equivalent of a week in Spain, the hotel gave me a genuine chance to shut off from the world and left me thoroughly relaxed and re-invigorated.

I arrived late on a wet dark Monday, the journey from the station being only 10

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minutes in a taxi. The entire estate is impressive, pulling up to the hotel under the impressive reception carriage area reminds me of Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park and it is immediately obvious that this is a different level of luxury.

The reception area was huge and noticeably warm and cosy. I chatted with the friendly receptionist who told me she had just started the fire, making me want to just sink into a chair and read for eternity.

I was taken to my room, a suite no less, named Rackham Banks. Many of the rooms and suites are Sussex landmarks and it really contributes to the old style feel of the building. The hotel itself has literally breath-taking views of the South Downs and there are many activities to enjoy. There are bikes available to borrow, you could walk in the 93 acres of forest or play a game of croquet, weather depending.

There were so many options I was slightly overwhelmed and opted to head straight to my room to unwind.

My suite was huge and the most luxurious one I have ever had the pleasure of staying in. Every single possible need was catered for, and the attention to detail was most impressive.

Clearly the focus is on comfortable opulence. I chose to have a refreshing waterfall shower and make use of the sumptuous toiletries provided in the bathroom, which I have to say was bigger than my own at home. I made my choice of the many teas and coffees provided in the room and made myself a fresh espresso from the machine.

After a quick change I headed to dinner where I was booked into the Camellia Restaurant, one of a number of fantastic rooms which oozed lavishness. A true 5 star experience, the guests dressed well and the waiters and waitresses provided a perfect service in exceedingly polite terms. It certainly made me sit up, enjoy the surroundings and soak in the “posh� atmosphere. This is not casual laid back dining, although the serving staff did have a knack of making me, as a lone diner, feel completely at ease without the usual unnecessary chit-chat

which I have grown to hate. Perhaps they picked up on it, but it certainly was appreciated by me that they left me in peace to enjoy a delicious meal.

The food was immense. I had the beef fillet for main course. To call it just “beef fillet” is a slight insult. To give it the true credit – a fillet of beef, braised brisket with black garlic, caramelised onion rosti, carrot with bone marrow crumb, served with a cabernet sauvignon jus. To my delight, though they sought my approval first, it is served medium-rare. It was fantastic and I had no need to order any additional sides. I paired this with a small glass of Malbec and the two married together perfectly. I enjoyed every single mouth-watering bite. So much so I was unable to manage dessert, though the steamed sponge pudding with strawberry jam, vanilla & almond custard sounded amazing.

Writing this review the following day leaves me the classic feeling of regretting that decision.

I headed back to the room and could not resist but indulge in the deep bubble bath. With a built in TV, and adjustable mood lighting the bathroom was a real haven and my stressful day seemed to fade into history. I spent a little time considering the breakfast menu and then collapsed into the magnificent, massive bed. The luxury clean sheets were simply heavenly and I drifted off into the best night’s sleep I have had in a very long time.

I woke late, opened the curtains to what I think might be a view to rival some of the best in Sussex. I was very lucky

to have the sun shining and enjoyed a quick coffee before my breakfast was delivered. It arrived, along with a very polite waiter, on a perfectly set table and still – and this is unusual for a hotel breakfast – piping hot. I had Eggs Benedict which was cooked to perfection. By this time, feeling thoroughly spoilt and unusually having a day off, I gathered myself up and headed to the Spa. The website will of course give full details of all the facilities but I can tell you this as a now seasoned hotel reviewer – this is by far the best spa hotel I have ever been to. As if the hotel facilities were not enough, the Spa far exceeded my expectations and was a true source of relaxation.

There is a state of the art gym which unsurprisingly did not interest me on this occasion, and various swimming pools which are simply divine. Both set with the backdrop of the South Downs, there is an indoor pool with floor to ceiling windows which is wide and warm, surrounded by huge padded loungers and magazines. The outdoor hydrotherapy pool was certainly the part I enjoyed most, it being a quiet sunny morning, with a chill in the air, I was able to relax and enjoy this warm, steamy, tranquil endless pool whilst admiring the countryside surroundings.

There is also a wild swimming pool, a thermal suite and treatment rooms. The Ridgeview Beauty Bar and Botanica, the Mediterranean inspired restaurant make for an altogether heavenly environment, perfect for a most calming break. I enjoyed a massage from the lovely magic handed Hina, which was,

and I do not say this lightly, by far the best massage I have ever had. I intend to return for this treat alone. I got to chill out in the purpose built relaxation rooms which have interesting private colour changing pods.

“I arrived short tempered, tired and hungry. Less than 24 hours later I left with a complete change of spirit” I genuinely did not want to leave this hotel and spa. I would positively encourage any of our readers who can see a busy work week looming in their diary to think ahead and consider booking a night or two to relax in this magnificent hotel. Every single experience, from the staff to the room, from the bed to the spa, is designed with luxury in mind. I have never yet stayed in a hotel which has had quite so much of an impact on my health and well-being in such a short space of time.

I arrived short tempered, tired and hungry. Less than 24 hours later I left with a complete change of spirit and felt positive and enthusiastic about getting stuck into the week ahead. I repeat - this hotel is a total game-changer. I cannot speak more highly of it. I would thoroughly recommend it for a trusted, reliable investment in transforming a tired, over-worked brain into a positive, invigorated soul in the quickest time period possible. I urge you to consider a night’s stay. My best review yet and thoroughly deserved.

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Brighton Racecourse Brighton Racecourse is much more than just a racing venue, Venue we’re busy working on different events all year round. With the racing season coming to an end on the 17th October, we’re looking forward to focusing on welcoming corporate events, meetings and a host of other uses for our diverse venue spaces.

Our racecourse was established in 1783, and with our buildings built for the thousands of people that attend our race days, we have plenty of space to accommodate a wide variety of functions. We have a total of 18 different spaces that can be used for all kinds of events, allowing maximum flexibility to customise each event.

Our most spacious area is Premier Hall, which can accommodate up to 1000 people, perfect for larger than life celebrations! It has both a café and bar which are available for use, as it’s on the ground floor it’s easily accessible for all.

We also have smaller function rooms for more intimate events, such as business meetings, taking advantage of hospitality suites that have beautiful views overlooking the racecourse and across the South coast. Step in the footsteps of famous horse racing

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legends, in the Owners and Trainers facility, which can be transformed into a large and unique event space, with racing memorabilia from Brighton’s rich history. It’s an incredibly versatile space with room for up to 100 people.

In addition to our wonderful indoor facilities, we are lucky enough to have plenty of incredible green space setting us aside for most other event venues in Brighton. Those who attend your event won’t be tasked with searching the city for a parking space, as we can accommodate up to 1000 cars, and we’re easily accessible on public transport thanks to our great location.

We’re within walking distance from Brighton station, and there’s also a range of buses that will drop you right by our door, making journeys to Brighton Racecourse hassle free. The outdoor space is also great for a range of events, from charity obstacle courses to team building days which have proved to be very successful over the years.

We offer a variety of catering options for all our events, with delicious meals prepared by our team of chefs.

Whatever the event, we aim to make it run as smoothly as possible, and our experienced events management team will make everything from the planning to the execution a pleasure.

We’re particularly excited about our magnificent shared Christmas parties which we’re hosting this winter – which are sure to get everyone in the festive spirit! Whether it’s for an office night out, or to celebrate with friends and family, Jingle and Mingle at the perfect Christmassy evening.

“We’re particularly excited about our magnificent shared Christmas parties which we’re hosting this winter” We offer a welcome drink upon arrival, before choosing a meal from our delicious 3 course carvery buffet. After enjoying some great food dance the night away with music provided by a professional DJ. The room will be beautifully decorated in the spirit of the festive season, giving the ultimate Christmas vibes, and all for only £39!

Chat to our dedicated events team today on 01273 603580 to find out more, and arrange to come and explore all the possibilities our Winning location has to offer just a few furlongs from the city of Brighton!

BRIGHTON RACECOURSE invites you to

THIS CHRISTMAS Themed room arrival glass of prosecco Christmas carvery DJ and disco entertainment Fun Christmas festivities

£39 per person

Call us on 01273 603 580 to book your table or email events@brighton-racecourse.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 47

SBTMotoring News Third generation plug-in technology from Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its GLE 350 de 4MATIC. It has a battery with a capacity of 31.2 kWh and boasts a state-of-the-art four-cylinder diesel engine.

The GLC 300 e 4MATIC uses the thirdgeneration plug-in technology.

A special rear end design and a modified rear axle create space for the large battery. There is no step in the luggage compartment, the capacity of which is still generous at up to 1915 litres.

The proportion of electric driving is not only increased by the long range, but also by rapid recharging en route.

To this end, the SUV has a combined charging socket for alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging.

It is located in the left side wall, symmetrical with the fuel flap on the right side of the vehicle. At

corresponding DC charging stations, the battery can be charged in approx.

20 minutes (10-80 percent state of charge (SoC)) or in approx. 30 minutes (10-100 percent SoC).

As the largest member of the EQ Power family, the GLE 350 de 4MATIC benefits in particular from cutting-edge technology. This includes the high potential made possible by recuperation at all four wheels, with a maximum recuperation torque of 1800 Nm. Trailer Manoeuvring Assist makes manoeuvring with a trailer easy even for the inexperienced. It controls the steering angle of the towing vehicle

The future is green, Hyundai survey reveals

And while one-upmanship was traditionally confined to competitions over who has the flashiest gadgets or the tidiest front garden, things are taking a shift towards being green.

When it comes to car buying, a vehicle’s green credentials are four

48 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Modern luxury both on and off the road: this is the design message of the new GLE, already communicated by its proportions with a long wheelbase, short overhangs and large, flush-fitted wheels.

The GLE is described as ‘supremely quiet and smooth-running’.

Mercedes-Benz says; “Its quiet, vibration-free running is currently bestin-class. And it even betters this in electric mode.”

range anxiety (both 46 per cent) were other concerns.

Hyundai commissioned OnePoll to carry out the research to highlight its range of eco-friendly vehicles.

Eco-conscious Brits are now ‘Keeping up with the Greens’ by trying to outdo their friends and neighbours in the environmental stakes.

Research by Hyundai has revealed more than two-thirds (70 per cent) of UK adults view man-made climate change and ocean pollution as the biggest threat to humanity.

automatically.

times as important as its acceleration and top speed.

Nearly 60 percent would consider owning an electric or hybrid vehicle instead of a petrol or diesel to cut down on their carbon emissions.

However, cost (58 per cent) was the biggest concern for Brits considering an eco-friendly car, followed by a worry there aren’t enough charging points (54 per cent).

The time it takes to charge a car and

It is the only car company in the UK that sells battery electric models, hybrids, plug-in hybrids and hydrogen fuel cell cars.

The firm has just added the new zero-emission IONIQ Electric family saloon to the range, which starts from £29,450, has a range of up to 194 miles, and is also available in hybrid and plugin hybrid powertrains.

It also has the new Kona Hybrid crossover priced from £22,495, which joins the zero-emission Kona Electric offering a range of up to 279 miles.

SBT NETWORKING & EVENTS

BOUNDARY CLUB COBB BUSINESS LUCH NETWORK MY CLUB

SBT NETWORKING & EVENTS IS SPONSORED BY THE NETWORK EXPOSURE GROUP - INSPIRED BY TWO VERY WELL- CONNECTED SUSSEX BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS, NETWORK EXPOSURE GROUP IS PASSIONATE ABOUT UTILISING OUR OWN PERSONAL NETWORK AS WELL AS CREATING NEW CONNECTIONS TO HELP GROW YOUR BUSINESS. www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 49

Networking

Rain doesn’t stop play at the Boundary Club.

At September’s Boundary Club on Monday 20th, Networking provided a great start to the week. Once again a packed Cows Corner were entertained by, of course the one and only Tony Cottey and guest speaker the humorous Double European Cup Winning Captain, John McGovern.

His stories of his career and especially working under the legend that was Brian Clough, for which he did a great impression, was thoroughly entertaining.

Despite the weather preventing some cricket, we did manage to see some County Championship action between Sussex and Worcestershire. Also the weather and the fact it was a Monday did not deter the members from having a few drinks and networking late into the afternoon. As a seasoned Networker, the boundary club continues to be one of the best events in the county and urge our readers to attend and look into a 2020 membership, you will not be disappointed.

To request information relating to the Boundary Club contact theboundaryclub@sussexcricket. co.uk

John McGovern

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Cobb Business Lunch Club

A buoyant business economy in Brighton Guests at last month’s Cobb Business Lunch Club Networking heard from the club’s co-founder and CEO of EMC, Nik Askaroff, who delivered an economic round-up to the group.

Discussions focussed around how businesses are doing in this cloudy, and uncertain economy, with many painting a positive picture of how their businesses are performing across a wide variety of sectors.

More than 80% of the Directors and CEOs around the room had grown their business in terms of staff numbers and

nearly 90% had given staff a pay rise over the last year.

Some challenges were discussed referencing the current property market but overall, the consensus was that business in Brighton is in a positive situation, is resilient against uncertain times and will continue to grow and drive the local economy.

The lunch was held at Hotel du Vin where members of the lunch club also heard about Spear Brighton – a new programme in Brighton that supports 16 to 24-year-olds from disadvantaged backgrounds not in education, employment or training.

James Hyde, Centre Manager at Spear

Brighton spoke about the coaching that’s offered to help individuals overcome barriers, the practical training that’s available and the year of support that’s given to each candidate to help them find a job and succeed in work.

Many businesses around the room offered their services to support the charity and collectively, the lunch club raised £170 for the charity.

For more information about the Cobb Business Lunch Club, including information about becoming a member, please visit www.cobbbusinessclub.com.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

“Having explored a lot of local networking events, Network My Club stands head and shoulders above the vast majority: a highly professional team, great monthly events with consistently excellent speakers, a senior level membership base from an eclectic range of sectors, and concrete opportunities for new business - there’s no question that membership pays for itself, and more” David Green (Shoot Me Now)

“Had a great networking experience since joining the club with Bagboard. Been able to meet connections across different industries in a friendly atmosphere. Guest speakers provide a varied and interesting perspective. And the Network My Club team have been a great help, and extremely pro-active in creating a valuable experience.

Would highly recommend!”

Shosh Shetty (Bagboard)

“TXM Technology recently joined Network My Club in early 2019 and it is one of the best things I have done this year. We have been introduced to the right KPI of various businesses and as a consequence made some great relationships. If you are looking for a quick list of referrals, Network My Club is not for you. They have a different/better idea on what networking should be. It takes time to build strong relationships, which I am doing and enjoying it at the same time. Rome was not built in a day.”

Richard Johnson (TXM Technology)

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Welcome to New Age Business Networking!

Network My Club uses iconic sporting venues to bring together progressive, forward thinking, professional businesses to form a network in an environment where they can thrive...

Friday 1st November, 12.00pm-2.30pm Hampshire Cricket The Ageas Bowl, Southampton Thursday 7th November, 8.00am-10.30am Brighton & Hove Albion FC The Amex Stadium, Brighton Thursday 14th November, 12.00pm-2.30pm Portsmouth FC Fratton Park, Portsmouth Wednesday 20th November, 12.00pm-2.30pm Reading Football Club Madejski Stadium, Reading Friday 22nd November, 12.00pm-2.30pm Twickenham Stadium London Thursday 28th November, 12.00pm-onwards Surrey Cricket The Kia Oval, London

Official Business Club Partners:

01903 898025 | www.networkmyclub.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 53

Arty Business

It not just about pay, how businesses show their staff they are valued and the environment they create for them can sink or save a company.

In a competitive market companies now having Business are to seriously think about creating a productive, ‘enriched’ atmosphere in the workplace. But how do you make employees feel loved and encourage productivity? Some firms lay on fresh breakfasts and free coffee to employees, others provide beanbags and table football!

We believe that the design of the workplace, of both the public face and the back office can give a business the edge over competitors, helping to attract the best staff and fostering a productive and creative atmosphere.

Obviously there is the efficient design of the space; should the workplace be open plan to encourage interaction and

54 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

sharing of ideas or more divided so workers can concentrate? But should a business be investing in Art? Surely that’s just a luxury and low down the list?

We would argue that getting art on the walls or sculpture in the lobby is an immediate signifier of what sort of workspace it is. If your corridors are decorated with old faded Monet posters your workers may wonder quite how valued they are and quite how creative and confident the business really is. If however you take time to place original and interesting works of art in the office then the team may well feel more respected.

Art helps to create a feeling of what you wish the business to be. For example, traditionally solicitors and barristers have decorated their

offices like gentlemen clubs, brown furniture, oil paintings of the founders or country scenes, leather bound books, the art and furniture conveyed substance, tradition and dependability.

Or perhaps on the other hand now it might convey a plodding company stuck in old ways of doing things?

The same company wanting to convey a different message could be transformed with a thoughtful makeover - large screen prints perhaps or interesting abstract paintings on light walls, midcentury vintage desks and well designed chairs. The makeover wouldn’t just be for visitors, the changes would naturally affect the atmosphere for the staff. The change alone would make the team feel valued and impressed that the boss is investing in their environment. But the substance of the changes, will help nudge an

Horse Whisperer by Amanda Averillo

environment and attitude that could help to make the business a success.

New contemporary art work may serve a dual purpose - to convey a modern impression to visitors but may also encourage original and fresh thinking in employees. Abstract works can be calming and foster a serious but innovative atmosphere. Contemporary screen prints could make the company seem young and energetic but perhaps also encourage employees towards more risk taking and creative solutions.

There is serious research to back up the idea that an interesting or ‘enriched’ work environment actually can boost productivity, lower stress and increase wellbeing A recent article by Kirstie Brewer in the Guardian referenced research conducted over 12 years by a group led by psychologist Dr Craid Wright at the University of Exeter. “If you enrich a space people feel much happier and work better; a very good way of doing this is by using art.”

Many firms have instinctively realised the truth of this for years. Deutsche Bank for example has a collection of 60,000 artworks across 900 office and Canary Wharf has one of the largest collections of public art in the UK.

Melon and bottles by Simone Riley

Buying original art need not be crazy expensive - original prints (etchings / woodcuts / screen prints) can be bought for under £100 up to £1000, or decent paintings from £400. Visiting the degree shows gives you a chance to buy a bargain from a potential Turner Prize winner at the start of their career!

Galleries will be more than happy to help too of course and prices may not be fixed in stone especially if multiple purchases are made. Buying direct from artists at certain art fairs or studio events can be a great way of learning more about the work direct from the artist and many artists are happy to accept payment in instalments.

Giving employees a brief and a budget and sending a delegation round an art fair is a great and fun way to get workers involved in the design of their own spaces. Workers may well spend more time in their workspace than even their own living room. so it’s important for them to get the right atmosphere.

You may take the opportunity to discuss with employees what that atmosphere should be, calm, exciting, stimulating, fun, serious, contemporary, hygge!?

Of course art can also be a good investment. That might require a different approach, perhaps either

buying a lot of work from emerging artists in the hope that some of them will become the big names of tomorrow or buying from established artists who have a good track record. But personally I think art is to be seen and so the quality of the work, and the enjoyment we will get from the work should be the priority as that piece of art will be seen every day.

To sum up, what impression and effect are you wanting to convey by the art you have in the workplace? What do your workers want - do they want to get involved? Are you wanting to start a collection as both an addition to the workplace and an investment and what’s your budget?

Excludive ticket offer for SBT readers. Use code Busi19 for discounted price of £5 per ticket Usual price £7.50

Come along to Brighton Art Fair at Lewes and chat to the organisers of the show and meet the 60+ artists exhibiting. The show runs from November 30-Dec 1 at the Lewes Town Hall. www.brightonartfair.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 55

Brighton Expo hits the spot This year’s Brighton Expo was a huge Business success, attracting positive comments from both exhibitors and visitors. Here, organiser Mike Monk explains how the biggest free B2B networking event in Brighton played out.

With Brexit an ever-present worry for many businesses, it was hard to gauge just how many would put their hands in their pockets and book a stand for this year’s Brighton Expo.

As it happened, even the most momentous times in modern history couldn’t keep them away.

With more than 90 exhibitors and a diverse seminar programme, the event,

56 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

staged at Brighton Racecourse on October 3, proved a huge draw.

“It was tremendous to see so many people enjoying the day and getting so much out of it,” said Mike.

“I was thrilled that Castle Water agreed to be the headline sponsor for a second consecutive year and delighted to receive the support of so many other partners, including Brighton Chamber & Sussex Chamber of Commerce”.

Brighton Expo is part of the B2B Expos stable of events.

What a day!

The day started with a networking breakfast, hosted by Network My Club.

The packed event proved a fitting start

to the day and was followed by the launch of this year’s live Twitter feed, which attracted retweets from a wide range of local organisations, including the Edward Street Quarter.

Doors to the expo opened at 10am and Deputy Mayor of Brighton performed a brief opening ceremony.

Keynote speaker Sally Gunnell OBE not only gave an inspirational speech, she had a stand at the event to promote the work she does as a brand ambassador.

Pre-event publicity for her talk attracted people from far and wide and many of the visitors attended further free seminars during the day.

The other keynote speakers were: marketing specialist Emma Pearce and

Business

Kerry Watkins of Social Brighton.

The best exhibitors

Lester Pratt, of Pratt Digital, had the daunting task of starting the day’s seminar programme with a talk entitled ‘There’s no such thing as a silly question’. Other speakers were Anna Golawski, a leading mental health consultant, Kristina Pereckaite, who heads up the NatWest Accelerator in Brighton, Sandra Murphy, who spoke about ‘Success made simple - 10 Steps for business growth’, and Alison Kuhn, a specialist in sustainable behavioural change and change management.

This year’s stands represented a broad church of the local business community. Visitors were able to meet representatives from digital marketing agencies and local hotels to wealth management specialists and even sports clubs.

In between the speeches, Brighton Chamber hosted a ‘slo-mo’ networking event, which those who attended later raved about.

Mike says he was grateful to James Wright, of JHW PR, who supplied a PA system for some of the expo events.

The print partner for the event was Custard Print. And the media partner was SBT and The Argus.

The number of competitions on stands were a testament to exhibitors’ drive to attract the attention of even the most casual of visitors.

Winner of the expo’s Best Stand competition went to Hotel Du Vin/ Malmaison.

“I was really pleased for the exhibitors,” said Mike. “The weather in the run-up to the day was pretty poor but, right on cue, visitors arrived and filled the venue. There really was a tremendous atmosphere and it was great to see people spending time at our networking wall and taking a break in the networking cafe.

“One of the really good things about Brighton Expo is that it is staged at such a great venue. As well as being easy to get to, Brighton Racecourse offers free parking and all the facilities business visitors expect.”

Brighton Expo generated more than 13,000 tweet impressions on the day and the buzz continued the following day as well.

As exhibitors follow up leads, Mike is now preparing the groundwork for his next big event - West Sussex Expo, traditionally staged at Fontwell Park Racecourse, Fontwell, Chichester.

The date for 2020 is May 21st…

If anyone missed being part of Brighton Expo and doesn’t want to wait a year to get involved, West Sussex Expo takes place next May. For further information, call Mike on 01273 286133 or his Mobile 07885 490266 or visit www.b2bexpos.co.uk/ event/west-sussex-expo

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 57

Chamber News

Sussex Chamber of Commerce Two companies win the Southern Regional 2019 Chamber Business Awards The Chamber Business Awards are Chamber a great opportunity to celebrate the best News of British business.

Across the country, there are firms of all sizes and sectors thriving and showing their innovation and adaptability, even in the midst of turbulent times. 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 businesses communities continue to generate prosperity and opportunity so it’s only right that we support and shout about the fantastic things they are doing.

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 others to follow in their footsteps.

Each year the calibre of applicants impresses our judges, and this pool of entrants was no different. All our finalists should be proud of their success in reaching this stage and we wish them the very best of luck.

58 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

The Family Business of the Year winner: Grommets Ltd

The Customer Commitment Award winner: Extech Cloud

Grommets Ltd, a rubber compression moulding business from Henfield in West Sussex has been crowned one of the winners in the Southern Region heats of the Chamber Business Awards 2019. Now in their 16th year, the Awards are a highlight of the business calendar, recognising the key role that local businesses play in driving the UK economy.

Extech Cloud, an IT Support and Cloud technology company, with its headquarters based in Burgess Hill in Mid Sussex, has been crowned one of the winners in the Southern Region heats of the Chamber Business Awards 2019. Now in their 16th year, the Awards are a highlight of the business calendar, recognising the key role that local businesses play in driving the UK economy.

Grommets Ltd are a third-generation family business manufacturing rubber and PVC stockists of products including grommets (open, blind, semi-blind, cable and sleeved); bushes; washers; plugs; ferrules; bungs; discs; feet and cord rings. The business exports worldwide to a wide range of industries including renewable energy; automotive; rail and electronic.

Grommets Ltd strapline is “whatever your gap we can fill it!”

Joanne Boorsma, Managing Director of Grommets Ltd said: “I am delighted that we have been recognised for building a successful family business by winning this prestigious award. None of this could have been achieved without the support of my family and our fabulous, loyal workforce. My father would be proud to know of the continued success and legacy of the business he founded in 1995”.

Andrew Hookway, Managing Director at Extech Cloud, said: “Extech Cloud are delighted to have won the award for Customer Commitment. Every single day we strive to provide the highest level of service to our clients, who rely on us to provide a solid operational platform so they can be successful in their businesses. Providing IT and Cloud services means we are business-critical, and we are humbled to win this award for excellent customer service.”

The 2019 Chamber Business Awards culminate in a Gala Dinner that takes place on Thursday 28th November 2019 at Tobacco Dock in London.

The awards are proudly supported by Facebook, Bibby Financial Services, DHL Express, Stagecoach, London Stock Exchange, Dell, Indeed, RADA in Business and Quest. sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk

These FREE practical workshops are a part of a series of Sussex Chamber events to help ALL businesses prepare for Brexit Join us to learn and leave the event with information and advice: • • • • • •

Brexit checklist to help you plan Cross border trade, documentation Impact to supply chains & your customers Changes to people, workforce & immigration How to treat personal data, e-commerce Changes to regulations, contracts, legal, tax & VAT

REGISTER NOW TO SECURE YOUR FREE PLACE! Call us on 01444 259259 or visit www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 59

SBT

ASK THE

EXPERTS

WE ASK THE EXPERTS TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS YOU NEED

EXPERT

Katie Gibson | Director, Pier Recruitment can be. I visualise a certain person for a role and I know my clients do too.

Age is included as we think ‘this job would suit a young person’ or ‘this job would suit a graduate’. This can lead to age discrimination even at the job specification stage as people often put exactly that. It certainly happens at the interview stage when the person sitting in front of you doesn’t match the image you had in your mind.

What is Age Discrimination in Recruitment?

People think age discrimination is something done deliberately like ‘we don’t want older candidates for this role’ which, although it does happen, is not how it most often occurs. Instead, it happens unintentionally or for cynical reasons.

Unconscious Bias We don’t like to admit that we’re all subject to unconscious bias. I know

Cost Saving More cynically, people recruit younger people because they think they can pay them less. This is something that really annoys me, as it’s unfair and undervalues young people.

Experience Arbitrary years of experience is another pet annoyance of mine. Who’s to say that someone who has 10 years of experience is going to be better than someone with two years’ experience?

It also constitutes age discrimination because it means people below a certain age can’t apply.

Avoiding Age Discrimination A starting place would be to always write skills-based job description. Think in terms of what people can and can’t do, rather than who they are. Have set interview questions to ensure you ask everyone the same questions and don’t get drawn into age related questions. Challenge your reasons for including some specifications such as education and ask yourself ‘are these really needed for the role or is it to fit the image of the candidate I have in my mind?’ Keep an open mind and avoid stereotypical assumptions.

For more information about age related discrimination, look out for this month’s blog at www.pierrecruitment.co.uk

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EXPERT

Is the Night time economy dead?

Hell, no!

It’s a tough place for any late night operator in the present climate but that doesn’t mean it’s all doom and gloom because, if you think outside the box and are innovative, you can succeed in a reducing market. A very influential man told me once that…

‘when one door closes….you must open another’ - Steve Richards, Ex CEO Novus Leisure

And how true this is. There is no getting around that the city centre is not the

EXPERT

Jon Saunders | General Manager, Pryzm place it once was and is going through turmoil at the moment - in both the daytime and the night due to many things such as negative news, city centre costs and parking prices to mention a few.

work with partners to make this happen.

But I totally disagree that it is dead, and totally believe we are showing that this is not the case. The biggest element of change within the industry is people want and demand more for their money.

Hence, the biggest growth area in the leisure industry is events and putting a show on for the public.

Vitally important to growing any business, and this goes for our late night industry. When you partner up with an agency or company that has different skills yet the same outlook on what you’re trying to get from the project, you can get some really impactful results. We showed this on the weekend by partnering with Brighton University and Husky events to bring Sigma to the city centre. It was an amazing night and something we will be concentrating on going forward.

Challenging the norm is the way forward and there IS a lot more to come from this industry.

I love this industry - and love where it is going!

#DroptheMic

I’ve been in the industry for over 20 years and it’s changed dramatically throughout that time. The event industry has now taken over and will continue to be the biggest growth sector in the market. So, here at Pryzm, we have had to put on the best events we can in the city by using all the space we have to offer and sweating all areas.

From live music to comedy nights and Bingo Lingo, we are putting on some exciting events and will continue to

If there are less people out on the street, we need to create more to bring more in.

How important are partnerships and collaborations?

James Dempster | Cobb Digital agency. Depending on how you outline your challenges within a proposal and how an agency has sold its services in, you’re going to work with a whole team of professionals rather than one or two in-house employees.

An extension of your in-house team I know for certain that my team see themselves as an extension of their clients’ teams as we work hard to maintain strong, collaborative relationships.

Industry knowledge and insight

Disclaimer - as an agency owner I’m probably not impartial!

There are plenty of misconceptions people have around hiring a digital marketing agency and whilst, yes, obviously I’m here to tell you why they’re not true, I also want to illustrate just what it is that you’re getting when you’re considering reaching out to an agency.

A whole team of experts an email, call or meeting away As with any problem, there are usually several different ways to approach a challenge, and this is exactly what you get when you decide to instruct an

Hand-in-hand with having your own dedicated professionals on side, you can guarantee a diverse team with far-reaching experience and adaptable natures.

Scrumming, brainstorming and planning There are processes within digital agencies that you just don’t get inhouse, usually down to time constraints, internal structures and general capacity.

Agency teams have the luxury of dedicated planning time for their clients and can use this in different ways, such as creative brainstorming sessions and sprint plans, plus regular check-in time for results, potential issues and progress updates.

Access to a suite of specialist tools Making the decision to spend company money on tools you’re unfamiliar with is a daunting one, particularly if your teams don’t hold the specialist knowledge to get the most out of them.

It can also be costly, for what might turn out to have limited use within your team.

Hiring an agency means having access to a whole range of specialist resources, such as email service providers, SEO tools and social listening platforms.

What’s more, you don’t need to worry about learning to use them all at once, as your agency colleagues can manage this day-to-day and might even provide upskilling training when the time is right.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 61

Made in Sussex: Caremark Think of a thriving franchise operation and your first thought Brand might be McDonalds focus or Costa Coffee. But franchises come in many shapes and sizes, and rapidly rising up the ranks of the brightest and best is home care franchisor Caremark.

With its headquarters in Worthing, Caremark is one of Sussex’s largest employers, boasting a nationwide network of over 120 franchises, and recently listed seventh in Elite Franchise’s Top 100 List, beating bigger and longer-established brands such as Subway and Papa Johns.

Managing Director David Glover knows a thing or two about franchising, having played a pivotal role in launching Subway in the UK, with the first ever franchise opening in Brighton in 1995, followed by senior roles at other leading franchise brands.

Now, however, all his energies are channelled into a business of a very different kind, one that enriches people’s lives every day, helping clients to remain in the comfort of their own homes for longer and enjoy an enhanced quality of life.

“Franchising is the perfect model for the social care sector”, says David.

“Franchisees are emotionally and financially invested in achieving the

62 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

mark of excellent care – and it’s clear to see the fruits of their efforts in high quality care provision, innovative service delivery and enhanced staff retention.”

With an ageing population, social care undoubtedly has a vital role to play in providing a sustainable framework for the future of our society. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that the number of centenarians living in the UK has increased 85% in the past 15 years, and projects that there will be an additional 8.6m people aged 65 years+ in the next 50 years – a population equivalent to the size of London.

“The care sector is incredibly exciting.

It’s rapidly growing, with some fundamental challenges. But, with challenge comes innovation, and we’re seeing some extraordinary initiatives, both from a technological and strategic delivery perspective. It’s incredibly inspiring to see brilliant ideas emerge and become reality.“ One such innovation is Caremark’s PatchCare®, which has been heralded by industry influencers as a beacon for the sector, and it may just revolutionise the way care is delivered in future.

Following a highly successful trial in mid-Sussex, Caremark is now rolling out the initiative, beginning with its flagship Pulborough branch this autumn.

“PatchCare® is our flexible new care service that matches carers up

with small geographical patches. It means clients benefit from regular, more tailored visits made by the same care and support workers each day, helping to ensure consistency of care and combatting loneliness and social isolation.”, says David.

“It sounds like common sense – and it is!”, he adds. “But it’s a completely new way of delivering care, improving clients’ wellbeing and health outcomes, increasing staff satisfaction and with positive knock-on effects on NHS services reported too.”

So, in an industry that faces its fair share of financial and logistical challenges, what’s behind Caremark’s success and continues growth? “A steadfast focus on upholding our values, a strong internal culture and a commitment to encouraging communication across the network have been key”, enthuses David.

“When we reflect on our growth, it’s clear that one thing unites us and all our franchisees: an unwavering commitment to creating the mark of excellence in care.”

And with a record-breaking summer behind it, surpassing 100,000 hours of care in just one week, Caremark has clearly found a model for success!

For further details contact David Glover on 01903 266392 or david. glover@caremarklimited.co.uk

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