SBT issue 460

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SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

BROADENED LEGAL AND TAX SERVICES FROM A GROWING TEAM WITH A REFRESHING APPROACH

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S E RVI NG TH E SUSSE X BUS I N ES S COM MUN ITY S I NCE 197 5

All business is symbiotic in nature.

You can be inspiring your peers one day, learning from them the next.

In the end, people buy people.

That makes sharing our stories the most compelling way to connect with one another.

What’s needed is a platform to embrace and empower our regional business ecosystem.

Where varied backgrounds and perspectives provide new context.

Harnessing potential, enabling growth.

And at the heart of it, a dedicated term of curators unlocking insights for the good of us all.

So we’re changing the way people think of connecting.

Because we believe in self-reflection, rather than self-promotion.

By demystifying the art of storytelling, we deliver authentic thought leadership through events, publishing and broadcast media.

We come together to discover, share and grow.

But we won’t be limited by geography, or our imagination.

Instead, we’ll seek out local leaders, visionaries and experts, wherever great businesses thrive.

Growing communities, in partnership with the businesses that power them.

And nurturing the enterpreneurial spirit in everyone.

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JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

SBTWelcome

W E LCO M E

Welcome to another issue of SBT

As we head towards the festive season and a new year, many will be asking themselves what the future holds. How much damage will a recession do to my business? Will our charity survive economic turmoil?

It is important to pause and remember that the answers to such questions aren’t black and white, and don’t always hinge on the actions of politicians. Markets evolve, sales trends can go up as well as down and, importantly, innovation has a strange way of pulling rabbits out of hats - at the very time a bit of economic magic is needed.

In this issue of the Sussex Business Times, we meet innovators from a diverse range of sectors - law, the arts, charities... The list includes many who have broken down barriers to make their own success from virtually nothing.

These inspirational business leaders are a cue for startups to be fearless and really embrace change to power up not just what they offer but how they offer it. The entrepreneurial spirit can bring about better products and services, not to mention stronger brands.

Crisp nights are drawing in, moving us ever-closer to the

season of goodwill - a time to reflect on the less fortunate and the many wonderful non-profits that exist to support them here in Sussex. It should also be a time for selfreflection and, as we discover in this issue, a moment to put yourself first. Being in the right head space will give you an advantage when it comes to tackling the challenges 2023 could throw your way.

We are delighted to have EMW and S-TAX as our cover feature for the final issue of 2022. It is good to know that expanded services and an ambitious team are providing more support for clients - whenever they need it.

As we head into the season of good cheer, the Sussex Business Times will be playing its part in the business community by trying to catch up with as many of you as we can at various events and gatherings.

For now, we hope you enjoy the informative features in this issue and, of course, wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Sam Thomas, Managing Director

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Issue 460

Cover 460

Joint Managing Director/Publisher Sam Thomas sam@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 07894 762304 Joint Managing Director Lee Mansfield lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk Production & Design Kim Butler kim@lifemediagroup.co.uk Accounts Clare Fermor clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk Published by The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Licenced to TBG by Pixel Publications Ltd Unit 1a Swan Barn Business Centre, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, BN27 2BY Printed by Gemini Print Group 1A Dolphin Way Shoreham-by-Sea West Sussex BN43 6NZ 01273 464884 www.gemini-print.co.uk

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

Copyright The Business Group Sussex Ltd. 2020 ©

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05

Monthly News

10

CBC Stories

14

Sussex businesses back new arts venture, couple celebrate more than 100 years of combined service in business and Carpenter Box announces expansion.

Sam Thomas interviews entrepreneur and co-founder of Focus Group Chris Goodman and discovers realising all your dreams doesn’t necessarily lead to contentment.

Legal

What does the EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill 2022 mean for employers? Mayo Wynne Baxter explains. Meanwhile, 365 Employment Law shines a light on some of the office Christmas party pitfalls employers may not know about.

18

Finance

24

New Business

26

Good Business

30

Sales & Marketing

32

Cover Story

37

Christmas Charity Special

52

Tech

54

Networking & Events

62

Motoring

66

Chamber News

70

Lifestyle

72

Wine of the Month

Carpenter Box offers some tips to get your business booming and World First explains why it is not too late to cash in on Black Friday sales.

The Business and IP Centre Sussex offers some practical advice on Intellectual Property, and we meet the new cohorts at Product Foundry.

How The Black Market champions equality.

Why isn’t your website performing? 67 Degrees explains.

We meet EMW and S-TAX and discover how a growing team has a refreshing approach.

Christmas is all about giving and, in our annual festive charity round-up, we throw the spotlight on the non-profits making a real difference to people’s lives in Sussex.

Silicon Brighton shares not-to-be-missed forthcoming events.

Dad La Soul launches in Brighton, plus a round-up of news from networking organisations as well as details on up-coming events.

Electric cars and solar panels, plus the top 10 cheapest electric cars to lease.

Latest news from Sussex Chamber of Commerce and Brighton Chamber.

Brighton Fringe explains why it needs your support.

Michael Yeoman gives us some extra special recommendations for Christmas.

SBT MONTHLY NEWS SPECIAL SUSSEX BUSINESSES BACK NEW ARTS VENTURE www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 5

Sussex businesses back new arts venture

Sussex has a rich heritage when it comes to art and artists. The rolling Downs and breathtaking coastline have inspired artists for centuries, including some of the most celebrated artists that ever lived. Picasso, Miró, Man Ray, Moore, Constable, Turner, Burra, Grant, Bell, Beardsley, Ravilious, Nash and Grayson Perry all have links with Sussex.

Sussex continues to provide inspiration Monthly and a home to some News amazing emerging talent, and October saw the launch of a new addition to the art calendar that specifically showcases the amazing creativity that the county has.

The Sussex Contemporary had a vision

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that is simple but is also ambitious.

They want to celebrate and promote the fantastic artistic creativity of Sussexlinked artists. This included artists that were born here (but may have since moved away), studied here or currently live or work here.

Sussex has a growing, vibrant arts scene and they wanted to show off the best of it to the world, and they

did that spectacularly. They put out an open call for artists to submit work and then deployed a panel of art-world heavyweights to judge what should go into the final exhibition.

The judges were led by Dinah Casson CBE, designer and founder of Casson Mann, and include Chris Kendall, collector and founder of Hidden Gallery group, Alex Leith art journalist and editor

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

of ROSA magazine, and Julian Bell, the internationally renowned painter, author, critic and lecturer.

The judges had the difficult task of whittling down the entries to 146 pieces which went on display at the Brighton i360 for two weeks last month and the exhibition was seen by around 10,000 visitors making it one of the most visited Sussex art exhibitions ever. The art was also for sale with a percentage going to local charity Table Talk Foundation.

“We came up with the idea of The Sussex Contemporary to provide artists with a platform to show their work to a bigger audience. The Sussex is now a

major exhibition in the arts calendar, and we want artists of all abilities working in any medium to get involved.” Said Joanna Myles, co-founder of Sussex Contemporary. “But it would have been impossible without support from Sussex businesses, so our thanks go out to our wonderful sponsors.”

“We don’t take the stance that art is for the cultural elite, art is for everyone, so we also want our exhibitions to be free to visit too and that requires sponsorship. It’s really important to us that in every event and exhibition we do, everybody wins. Suppliers get paid, sponsors get a return, we cover our costs and most of all; art lovers

get to see some amazing Sussex art and Sussex artists get exposure and a chance to sell their work.” Said cofounder Jason Edge.

Local businesses that got behind the project included one of the region’s largest law firms, Mayo Wynne Baxter, as headline sponsors with support also comiing from Brighton i360, Seawhites of Brighton, Platinum Media Group, King & McGaw, Creative Pod, MPB, Whitespace, Absolutely Sussex, Brighton Gin and of course SBT. For details of future Sussex Contemporary events visit their website www.thesussexcontemporary.co.uk

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MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

Family business couple celebrate a combined 116 years of service Sussex-based cleaning, hygiene and healthcare products business Wightman & Parrish is celebrating more than 100 years of combined service for married couple, Michael and Pam Parrish.

Michael and Pam

Monthly News

celebrated a

combined 116 years

at a celebration dinner in The Hardwick Suite

at the International Lawn Tennis Centre.

Family, friends and work colleagues came together to thank the couple

for their drive and dedication over the

years. Having both joined the company

60 years ago, they have grown with the

business and reached many milestones along the way.

Michael Parrish joined the family

business in 1960, taking over from his

His son Nicholas Parrish took over as

Nicholas Parrish, Managing Director at

Director. Having previously done

took on the role of Chairman, helping

get so many people to come together to

Royal Naval Reservist and Magistrate

largest distributors in the south-east.

have achieved so much over the past 60

reaching the rank of Lieutenant

Parrish’s working at the company. The

receive the recognition they deserve.

Michael was also lucky enough to meet

the company, following the death of

“It was also great having Sir John

father, Eric Parrish, as the Managing

Managing Director in 2005, and Michael

Wightman & Parrish, said: “It was great to

National Service, Michael was also a

to make the business one of the

celebrate the success of my parents. They

alongside his role as Managing Director,

Nicholas is the fourth generation of

years, and it was wonderful for them to

Commander over his thirty-year career.

Parrish family have solely been running

her Majesty Princess Elizabeth when

George Wightman in 1918.

Timpson join us for the celebration. My

father was the Mayor of Lewes at the

Pam Parrish previously worked for

years, as he also runs a family business

day off school to be there on the day to

business in 1964 and took on a variety

same time as my father. John used to

accounts, and used to price up every

week, and my dad would cut these out

having to purchase new warehouse

supported both Michael and her wider

moment for our family.”

the business continued to expand.

together they were a great team and

Wightman & Parrish is an independent,

she visited Lewes in 1951. Michael’s

father has been a fan of his for many

time and Michael managed to get a

Strutt & Parker before joining the

and started his employment around the

meet the Princess.

of roles over the years, from payroll to

write a column in the Telegraph every

Michael grew the company rapidly,

invoice by hand in the early years. Pam

and send them to me, so it was a special

space twice during his time as MD as

colleagues throughout the years and

Winning the tender for Sussex Police in

ran the business together.

family-run business that specialises in

business, and Wightman & Parrish have

A total of 78 people joined the sit-down

cleaning and hygiene solutions and has

with cleaning and hygiene products

Timpson CBE from The Timpson Group

1968 was a huge turning point for the

the collation and distribution of both

been supplying many local authorities

dinner, with special guest Sir John

sustainability at the centre of the business.

ever since.

giving a speech.

www.w-p.co.uk

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MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

Carpenter Box Financial Advisers expands with acquisition of Ammonite Wealth client book Carpenter Box Financial Advisers (CBFA), which has offices throughout Sussex, has acquired the private client book of London-based wealth management company Ammonite Wealth, representing a strategic investment in its future growth and prosperity.

The book comprises

Monthly News

affluent individuals who pay annual

fees for advice on

financial issues such

as cash management, tax, investments, retirement and later life planning.

Roy Thompson, partner and head of financial services at CBFA,

said: “Ammonite Wealth has taken

impeccable care of its private clients over the years so, when considering

the sale of its financial advisory clients, it needed a buyer that would show the same level of dedication.

“We have many synergies with

Ammonite Wealth when it comes to

private advice. What’s more, we also

have our sister practice Carpenter Box on hand for accountancy services,

enabling us to offer a comprehensive package under one roof.

“We were looking to expand our

Rob Harradine, co-founder of Ammonite

care is second to none, so the timing

getting to know the team at Carpenter

business and our commitment to client

Wealth, added: “It’s been a pleasure

was perfect.”

Box Advisers and we know they will take

The average age of CBFA’s newly

great care of the clients.”

acquired clients is 47, young in industry

To find out more about the services on

opportunity for the company to provide

Advisers can help you make the most

terms. This represents a big growth

offer and how Carpenter Box Financial

products, services and financial advice

of your finances, please call 01903

over their lifetime.

234094 or visit their website.

Some of CBFA’s new clients live locally,

www.carpenterboxfa.com

with others spread across the South of

England and London. It has assembled

a top team of professional advisers with Roy Thompson

many years of experience and expertise to service them, which Roy oversees.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 9

Achieving your dreams and financial freedom, but feeling unfulfilled?

Take heart from this eye-opening feature. CBC Stories meets inspirational entrepreneur Chris Goodman, Co-Founder and Director of Focus Group, a UK telecommunications and IT business. He talks about how he achieved all his goals but felt unfulfilled - because he had failed to invest in himself.

CBC Stories

Tell us a bit about

We set up in 2003. We actually didn’t

journey

and my business partner. We’d both

yourself and your

Focus Group now

start trading until 2004. It was just me worked in sales, and both worked

for somebody else. As most people

has nine offices around the UK. We’ve

out there know, who have founded a

customers. So, it’s constantly growing -

are not going to achieve all your dreams

got nearly 800 staff and almost 30,000

business, you perhaps realise that you

but it wasn’t always a big business.

and ambitions working for somebody

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else. We took the plunge in 2004 to quit our jobs and go it alone.

We were really young. I think Ralph was 21 when we set up the business and I

was 23. I think being young, a bit green around the edges, meant that we came

in with a completely fresh approach. We weren’t burdened by doubts and fears.

C B C STO R I ES SP O N SO R

paid job. More of a vocation. While that’s incredibly admirable and we

need people who are willing to put We hadn’t built a life of things to lose

yet. At that age, there was a work hard,

themselves second, I was always driven to make a success of myself.

play hard mentality.

What is your definition of success?

Was starting your own business

That definition of success has

something you always wanted to do?

I think it was. My great-grandfather

was an entrepreneur. He was the chap

who invented the snap-lock safety pin, so in my family history there was an

entrepreneurial spirit and commerce.

And growing up, I saw the trappings of what that can come with. Not in

my personal life but I’d seen it in past

generations, so I was pretty keen that, if the opportunity presented itself, I’d

find my way into business. My parents were both teachers so, as all teachers

out there will know, it’s not the highest-

changed dramatically over the past 20 years. I suppose, in a way, the

perception of financial and material

success is what drove me. I find now, when I am having conversations

with people about motivation, work ethic, work-life balance, it is easy

to view it in a different way and say

‘Maybe you should be careful about that work-life balance’.

There is always a question mark over whether you would have been so

successful if you weren’t so driven in those early days.

When we got to 2020 and sold a share of the business, we’d had a fantastic

journey, but had I really taken the time to enjoy the journey - to reflect at various

moments on the highs and the lows and all the things that come with running a business, like having responsibility for staff? The answer is absolutely no.

While I would diligently write my to-do list and goals for each year, the extent

of my ‘have I succeeded or not?’ was at the end of the year either putting a tick or cross next to the various items.

There was no emotional aspect to it. No sense of appreciation.

The level of enjoyment or satisfaction I would get from the ticks was far

outweighed by the one or two crosses, where I’d written ‘Lose some weight’ or ‘Play more golf’. Negativity bias is very common.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 11

CBC STO RI E S S PO N S OR

We don’t give ourselves the time to be

aware of these traits. Most aspirational people reach that point and within

minutes they are ‘What next, what now?’.

You tell your kids ‘You can have

anything, but the one thing you can’t have is everything.’ So, you have to

realise at some point that sometimes it is enough and understand what is enough, because if you are constantly striving

you are never going to be happy. You

are never going to find that contentment that, ultimately, people are searching for. It’s not necessarily about wealth.

It’s the sense that it gives you. The

opportunities it creates for you. How sad is it that you get to the point where you have those opportunities but, actually,

you are not content with who you are?

Maye, you are not content with the choices you’ve made. Maybe, you

breached your moral code in order

12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

to get there and, if you are living with

cognitive dissidence where your actions

don’t portray the morals that you’ve got, then you are destined to live a life that

is not as fulfilled as maybe it could have been, which is a real shame.

Let’s be honest... When do you seek out counselling or a life coach? You seek them out when you aren’t doing well.

When you are in a bad place. What we

actually need is great people around us from a very early age to just check in

with us. ‘How are things? How are you progressing?’ We all need that bit of a

steer from time to time. Sadly, we don’t

reach out for that until we are struggling.

Talk to us about some of the sacrifices you have made

This realisation came in the past couple of years through having

counselling, both in a traditional sense

but also life coaching. I sacrificed things around my personal life,

really. Whether that was my physical

health, my mental health or the health and well-being of my family and

relationships. Not in a catastrophic

way. Certainly not in a way that I could perceive but, over time, these things have a tendency to build. In terms

of physical and mental health, it was in a non-productive way. I think that was putting myself last. That’s very different now; I put myself first.

If I put myself first, I am the best version of me and I have more to give myself

and my family. That’s a complete shift.

I had my first really poor mental

health experience in 2005. When

that happened in 2005 and 2012,

my approach was ‘OK, I’m not very

well and I need to see a doctor’ and invariably the doctor prescribes you

C B C STO R I ES SP O N SO R

mirror and know that I

am being true to myself.

Doesn’t matter how

successful I am, if I am

pretending to be someone I am not then I know that.

That’s not going to sit well with me.

My mentality over who I

am prepared to spend time with has changed. I am not going to compromise and pretend that I am friendly with people who I don’t

like. I don’t think anyone should compromise on their values and what’s important to them.

Getting outdoors is so, so important.

The simplest things, if you give yourself the

time to be present, will bring you absolute joy.

For most of us, what

we have in front of us is with antidepressants. In my case, it was an anxiety/panic disorder. But I didn’t change anything else. As soon as I’d

taken the medication and felt better, I

saw no reason to change my lifestyle.

Those periods were two or three

months of not being able to work

properly. Not being able to go outside

so much, because you develop a bit of agoraphobia. I was continuing to work hard to play hard. My life was not in

balance. I didn’t listen to my body or my brain, which was crying out for help.

Ironically, it was the pause that

coincided with effectively realising all my dreams.

I thought, this can’t be right. Something

I am in a very different place nowadays.

This is a very small extract of a

Having stability away from work was

touches on Chris’s blog and the Focus

massively important.

I would say to anyone struggling with

their mental health, just invest the time in you. Everyone will find their own source of comfort.

health. I had a moment where I had

It is about understanding what is

at it, thinking this is just ridiculous. It

your 18-year-old self?

Put yourself first.

the last couple of years of self-reflection.

What does happiness look like to you?

a completely different way of looking

What one bit of advice would you give

has to change, so that’s what triggered

was forced upon us by covid which

coincided with a third dip in my mental

more than enough.

lengthy podcast interview, which also Foundation, launched in 2021.

Full podcast - https://youtu.be/ EMPngHvf-SA

Focus Foundation - https://www. focusfoundation.org.uk

enough. What makes you feel content?

For me, being able to look myself in the

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 13

The EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill 2022 – What does this mean for employers?

Martin Williams, Head of Employment Law at Mayo Wynne Baxter, explains.

On 22 September

Legal

2022, the

government

announced the

introduction of the

Retained EU Law (Revocation and

Reform) Bill 2022. The bill was initially thought to impact 2,400 pieces of

retained EU law, but this has since been revised upwards by 1,400.

Could there be more? This cannot be completely ruled out.

14 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

The laws are spread across hundreds of policy areas and, consequently, many sectors of the economy. The detailed concentration in this article is on the employment provisions.

On 31 December 2023, and in accordance with the ‘sunset clause’ in the bill, any EU based regulations in UK law will be repealed (cancelled) or revoked

(withdrawn) unless they are specifically

preserved and incorporated into UK law.

The bill does include the potential

extension of the sunset clause until

2026. This allows additional time to

assess whether some retained EU laws

should be preserved. However, it has to be doubted that proper scrutiny would be possible in that time frame.

The bill also provides for some other

important changes; first, it removes the principle of EU law supremacy, which

as it stands means that EU law trumps

L EGA L SP ON SO R

• The Fixed-term Employees (Prevention of Less

Favourable Treatment) Regulations.

domestic legislation where there is a

conflict; secondly, it also facilitates the move away from EU case law taking

precedent in the UK courts. It allows the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court to depart from existing and binding

domestic cases which have already been decided on the legislation but

which are tainted by EU law if the courts consider it “right to do so”.

At the time of writing, the bill is at the committee stage and the challenges to its broad scope are many. One

of the key concerns is the power it

gives to ministers, without recourse to

Parliament, to decide what should and should not be law.

Areas of employment law, which

businesses and HR professionals have all become familiar with, and which fall under the bill’s remit, include:

• The Working Time Regulations 1998, which deal with maximum weekly working time and paid holiday.

• TUPE 2006, which deals with the

employment implications of business transfers.

• The Part-Time Workers (Prevention of

Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations.

growth by cutting the ever cited, but undefined, “red tape”.

• The Agency Workers

It therefore seems most likely that a

• The Information and

provisions that have become part of our

Regulations 2004.

will be undergoing changes, whether an

Regulations 2010; and

number of the EU-derived legislative

Consultation of Employees

domestic employment law landscape

This means that the bill could

Martin Williams

Added to this is the mantra of creating

overhaul or minor amendments.

impact long-established

The Trade Union Congress is greatly

maximum 48-hour working

changes that might be made,

pay, rights of employees when

erosion or, worse, the removal of

TUPE, equality of treatment

of holiday, safe working hours and

employment rights like the

concerned about the bill and the

week, rest breaks and holiday

considering that it could lead to the

a business transfers under

workers’ rights, for example, in respect

of part time and fixed term

limits and parental leave. However, the

workers, among other rights.

government has said that it is committed to keeping “high standards in areas such

It is worth noting that, since the bill only

as workers’ rights…”.

employee’s right not to be discriminated

Whether the government can “realise

not be affected.

maintaining “high standards” of workers’

applies to regulations and not acts, an

against under the Equality Act 2010 will

So, what does this mean for

the opportunities of Brexit” while rights, remains to be seen.

employers?

If the intention is to replace all EU-

At this early stage it is uncertain

seems an impossible task. Nevertheless,

employers. The bill hands power to

has set. It could be that they will,

what survives the cull, and in a way

to December 2026, but this will take us

derived employment provisions, this

exactly what the bill will mean for

this is the target date the government

the government and they will decide

therefore, inevitably rely on the extension

that will not be transparent. What we

past the next election.

to be the biggest shake up in UK

The only thing that does seem clear

do know is the bill has the potential employment law in many years.

at this stage, is the uncertainty which

Theoretically, the government could

employees. Meanwhile, businesses

any of the EU-derived legislation, and

changes that do filter through and be sure

now follows for both employers and

decide that they do not want to retain

should keep a watchful eye out for any

they could revoke it. With many of these

to implement them when that happens.

deeply rooted in UK law, this seems

mwilliams@mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

employment law provisions being now highly unlikely.

https://www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk/

However, the revolutionary zeal of a

government seeking to demonstrate the benefits of Brexit may know no bounds.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

Employment law: The problems of the office Christmas party Alex Jones, of 365 Employment Law, goes beyond run of the mill advice to employers to reveal what most guides don’t tell you.

We are now at the

Legal

time of year where there are lots of

articles and guides

on “How to avoid the

pitfalls of the office Christmas party”. I am sure that, as you start to read this,

you will be thinking, ‘oh no, not another one’, but please bear with me!

I regularly read the identikit articles on avoiding staff issues at the

16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Christmas party and find myself trying to work out whether or not they were all written in one place and, more importantly, do the tips that they

actually give help employers avoid

employment claims should something

go wrong. Many do not, merely saying the same thing, with the advice

almost always listing two key points

that will help employers avoid claims, i) write a policy; 2) tell staff what is expected of them.

Whilst both of those are a good starting point, they will not stop the problem

and, in many respects, make it worse if

the employer puts a policy in place - and then does nothing.

I have specialised in employment law claims (both bringing and defending them!) for over 20 years, and I have

dealt with employment issues involving office Christmas parties, and have two

(amongst many), very specific examples:

L EGA L SP ON SO R

events but chose not to follow it. Not acting on the evening, and talking

legal advice, would have avoided the majority of the claim.

2) I acted for a Respondent Employer, who faced a claim for constructive dismissal, from an employee who

resigned following the Christmas party.

The employee resigned because of her drunken behaviour, then later, when

realising her resignation affected the value of her bonus, alleged that the employer had deliberately wanted

her to resign, and had magnified the allegations to do that.

That employer took advice immediately, took statements from other employees, asked the employee to be sure about her resignation, then confirmed

everything in writing. They were able

to defend the allegations and reach a

settlement on the bonus amount. In that situation, the advice was much more

important than the policy, as the action was steered in the right direction.

1) I acted for a Claimant Employee,

The lesson from both of these examples

party at a restaurant made an off-hand

staff behaviour at external events is

launched a drunken tirade at my client,

on how to deal with specific situations,

back. He was dismissed on the spot.

employer thinks.

assumed it wasn’t an actual dismissal,

The other situation, where a policy

owner that the dismissal stood.

affect the employer, is an allegation of

Unsurprisingly, my advice to my client

happen and had to advise on as a result

who when drunk at the office Christmas

is that putting a policy that deals with

comment to the owner. The owner then

valuable, but without the correct advice

who then responded by doing the same

it may not be as relevant as the

He woke up the next morning and

so attended work - only to be told by the

setting out standards, but in reality can sexual harassment, which I have seen

was that it was an Unfair Dismissal due

of staff parties.

employer had the potential, the next day,

Most employers who have an anti-

to the complete lack of procedure. The

to remedy that defect, but chose not to.

harassment policy have expectations

My client would almost certainly win

structure in place, often with the aim of attempting to avoid liability.

That employer had a policy in place

For an employer to have an allegation

about expected behaviour at work

then try and avoid liability by saying that the policy set out standards of

behaviour expected, is destined to fail.

The employer is running the event and

their staff are there. That is why it is so important for those at a senior level, to be told what to do in the event of such issues arising, including direct intervention at the event itself.

The difficulty employers face is setting out expected standards of behaviour, and monitoring those standards,

without being accusatory of staff enjoying themselves. This is why

regular advice is so important, so that different scenarios can be discussed, and in particular how and when the employer should respond and act.

Please always take advice on any staff related issues.

365 Employment Law Solicitors Tel: 01903 863284

ajones@365employmentlaw.co.uk www.365employmentlaw.co.uk

set out, and a confidential reporting

such a claim, and the matter was

settled after we issued proceedings.

Alex Jones

of harassment at a staff party, and

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 17

Tips to get your business booming Sarah Fitzgerald, Business Services Partner at Carpenter Box, offers advice to help you thrive during economic uncertainty.

The Bank of England

Finance

just raised interest

rates to 3 per cent and said that the

UK has entered a

on these and become one of the ‘lucky’ businesses thriving through adversity?

Here are our top tips:

recession. With high inflation, particularly

Have accurate information

are having to trade under extremely

management information is up to

due to energy prices, businesses challenging conditions.

However, there are many opportunities for growth and there are plenty of success

stories out there. So how do you capitalise

18 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

It is important to ensure your

date and accurate to allow informed

business decisions made. Up-to-date

management information will also assist in the preparation of forecasts.

Regular forecasting will be increasingly

important to monitor cash flows and identify any pinch points. Sensitivity

analysis and increased rigour may need to be factored into cash flow models to reflect different short-term scenarios.

Stay on top of your cash

Most businesses go through slow periods. A seasonal business, for

example, will have decreased income

during the off-season compared to during the on-season. There can be less obvious peaks and valleys in your income,

F I N A N C E SP O N SO R

clearly doesn’t. Competitor

analysis and product surround

tools can be great for identifying opportunities to adapt, but in

its simplest form just keep track of what your competitors are

doing and don’t be left behind.

Also, keep an eye on what

businesses in other industries

are doing. Whilst they might not be directly comparable to you,

they might give you ideas which you can adapt and apply.

Take advantage of support Sarah Fitzgerald

on how to recover their old services.

By looking forward, you’ll see that the business environment has moved.

It’s not about hoping that old services become popular again; it’s about

ideally in advance of them arising.

Your cash flow forecast can help you monitor your day-to-day cash flow

and anticipate when times will be slow

before they arise. By anticipating when cash coming into your business might be light, or when you might have to

spend more than you’re accustomed to, you can avoid a cash crisis.

By examining your cash flow over

the previous years and forecasting

your future cash flow, you can better

anticipate financial cycles and how they may affect your bottom line.

Adapt, don’t recover

When business gets disrupted, most

businesses focus nearly all their attention

types of story, and that every book is just an adaptation of

these. Much the same can be

said for business. The solution to your biggest challenge has probably been

done by another business somewhere at some point.

adapting old services to make them

In difficult business conditions, it’s time

to consumers today.

Build a network of colleagues,

better, more relevant, and more valuable

though, that you have to prepare for

They say there are only seven

Stick to your strategy When the only constant is change itself,

to use the support that’s available. professional acquaintances and

business advisers and use the advice and support they can provide.

it can be easy to find your business

How we can help our clients

objectives and goals. Detailed plans and

help review your business, provide advice

further and further away from your initial

forecasts are near enough impossible at the moment so strip your strategy back.

Focus on your vision of where you want

to be and then build a one-page-plan of how you are going to get there.

The plan should be a guide, not a rule

book and stick to what you are good at.

Each adaptation should be to move you

Carpenter Box can provide guidance to on accessing support and assist with

identifying options for cash flow needs.

We can provide support for your

business strategy, including preparing forecasts and projections to assist

with decision making, and applying for financial support where needed.

back in line with your vision. You should

For more information, please visit

your strategy.

01903 234094.

adapt your services and operations, not

www.carpenterbox.com or call

External solutions for internal problems Keep track of what’s going on around

you, what looks like it works and what

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

FI N A NCE S PO NS O R

Is it too late to cash in on Black Friday?

World First explains how e-commerce sellers can still claim a slice of the cake long after the November sales events.

Black Friday has

Finance

evolved into an

international, multi-

day online shopping festival that finishes

on Cyber Monday.

Amazon may be a favourite for many merchants – but it’s certainly not the only option for e-commerce sellers.

Most western marketplaces offer Black Friday and Cyber Monday promotions.

Customers start researching their Black

20 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Friday deals as early as October, so you

need to get your brand out there and on their “wanted” lists as soon as possible.

you have the necessary stock and manpower in place.

Use sales figures and analytics from

There’s no need to despair if it’s a little

throughout the year to better hypothesise

Friday 2022, many of the tactics and

and focus your efforts on top sellers or

too late to get on board with Black

which of your products will sell best

strategies that apply to Black Friday

products you want to showcase.

on a whole, especially for major

Learn more about how to cash in on

can be extended to your e-commerce shopping events like Christmas and Valentine’s Day.

Decide well in advance what offers you’re going to make and ensure

Black Friday on the WorldFirst website. https://www.worldfirst.com/uk/blog/ selling-online/too-late-for-blackfriday/

Whole of Market Commercial Finance specialists, helping business owners since 1990.

Our expertise will find you the right solution, and the best value.

•

Commercial loans

•

Commercial mortgages

•

Construction and development finance

•

Cashflow lending

• Invoice finance and factoring products • Leasing and HP arrangements • Bridging loans • Trade finance

If you are looking to raise capital to expand your business please get in touch to discuss what’s possible on:

Scan to find out more:

03330 063 095 / commercial@seicogroup.com

www.seicogroup.com

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

N EW BUS I N E S S SP ON S OR

A practical guide to your Intellectual Property with BIPC Sussex At the Business & IP Centre (BIPC) Sussex, and across the BIPC National Network, there is a particular focus on Intellectual Property (IP). So why is IP so important that it takes up half of our name? The team explains in this feature.

In the UK, increasingly

New Business

more and more

business’s assets are intangible – brand,

designs, trade secrets

– rather than tangible – property or

machinery. Because of this, having a

you’re just looking for as much information as you can get on IP, we can help.

Here are our five steps to making the

most of your IP, and how BIPC Sussex can support you at every step.

ensure that your IP stays protected. We

will talk specifically about your business, and together we will identify what IP is

involved and will be most important for you - whether that’s your content, branding, designs or inventions (which may be protected by copyright, trademarks,

practical understanding of the basics of

Identify

business great.

A great first step is to book an Intellectual

Protect

of our team - bookable through our

We will explain the process of applying for

IP is vital to protecting what makes your

At BIPC Sussex, we will help you

understand the different ways that IP can be involved in your business. Whether

you chose to apply for protections of your

assets such as registering a trademark, or

22 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Property one-to-one clinic with a member Eventbrite page or by emailing us.

This can be in person at Jubilee Library,

Brighton, or online, and our team member can sign a non-disclosure agreement to

registered designs or patents, respectively.)

IP protections and help guide you along the way. This might take the form of:

• Searching online databases for existing IP – to make sure that your trademark

N EW B U SI N ESS SP ON SO R

hasn’t already been registered by someone else, for example

• Showing you how to format your designs for a UK registered design application

Review

Intellectual Property, or signposting

We always recommend to new

(IPO)’s services and support, such as

to the UK Intellectual Property Office

businesses to start strong by knowing

their mediation service.

equally important to continue to review

But by identifying, protecting, and

continue your business journey. Once

you put yourself in a far stronger position

stay alert to any new IP you might want

being infringed upon.

other people’s IP that you need to make

Take the first steps

welcome you back for new queries.

We know that when you’re starting or

Likewise, we encourage more established

valuable, but by taking an hour or so out

IP in a while to book a one-to-one with

services and learn about your IP, you are

webinars to get a quick refresher. We also

future of your business.

focusing on individual Intellectual Property

Drop by BIPC Sussex at Jubilee

to Copyright or Introduction to Patents.

to Friday, email us at bipc@brighton-

to know what opportunities licensing and

Defend

one, webinar or workshop through our

of our Expert partners, Pam Gordon QFP,

If you’re in a position where you need

• Discussing how to protect your

copyright if you hire a freelancer

• Helping you to choose the correct class in which to register your trademark

If you have a question on the more

complicated side of things, or need

specific advice from a qualified IP attorney, we will refer you to one of our Expert

Partners for Intellectual Property, either a registered Trademark Attorney or Patent

Attorney, who can provide you with half an hour of specialist advice for free when you access them through our service.

Exploit One key way to exploit – that is, to make

money from – your IP is through licensing

and franchising agreements. Even if you’re

at an early stage of your business, it’s great franchising may present in the future. One runs webinars and in-person workshops

focusing on licensing and franchising, and offers one-to-one appointments.

and understanding your IP, but it’s any new IP that may arise as you

reviewing your IP as early as possible,

you understand the basics of IP, you can

if you later find that your IP rights are

to protect, as well as being aware of

sure not to infringe upon. We will always

running a business your time is extremely

businesses who haven’t looked at their

of your busy schedule to access our free

us, or book one of our Introduction to IP

making an invaluable investment in the

run a series of short, lunchtime webinars

Rights in more detail, such as Introduction

to defend your IP, we can help by

talking through your problem, and

Library, Brighton, 10am-5pm Monday hove.gov.uk, or book an IP one-to-

Eventbrite (BIPC Sussex Eventbrite).

Visit www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/bipc or email bipc@brighton-hove.gov.uk

referring you to our Expert Partners for

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

Greater Brighton’s innovative product makers Product Foundry is a BRITE innovation programme for cutting-edge product makers in the Greater Brighton region. After an incredibly successful first cohort in the summer, on 13th October the BRITE team at Plus X Brighton welcomed the second set of exciting innovators making a difference to the physical world.

In six weekly sessions, the group New will be introduced Business to prototyping, learning how to develop products that generate investor buy in. These businesses will take over Plus X Brighton prototyping workshop to use 3D printing, laser cutting, and testing methods to progress their products and meet their goals.

Get to know the clever creators setting off on their journeys with Product Foundry below. And, if you’d like to join the Product Foundry yourself, get in touch with the BRITE team’s Alex Valeri to find out more.

24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Ian Byrne, Founder at 3Dify 3D scanning specialists 3Dify specialises in creating models for the creative industries using photogrammetry. Their full body scans have been used in films and exhibitions, including sculptures of King George IV and famed hat maker Stephen Jones at the Royal Pavilion in Brighton.

No stranger to the specialist equipment in the Plus X Brighton workshop, Founder Ian Byrne joins Product Foundry to explore a new idea for the business, gain insight from the programme’s product design experts, and take advantage of the structured development time. During the course of the programme, Ian will explore ideas

for a digital productivity timer for people using the Pomodoro technique.

Matthew Withers, Founder at CD02 Innovators in magnetic imaging of batteries, CDO2 has developed a new technique for monitoring the current flow in batteries for the automotive and aerospace sectors. Their real-time current imaging system helps tackle safety and reliability concerns around EV batteries.

CDO2’s CTO Matthew Withers became a member of Product Foundry to focus on scaling technology and develop the product for larger scale manufacturing as electric vehicles become increasingly popular.

N EW B U SI N ESS SP ON SO R

Laura Bossom, Founder at Cultiva Kingdom Laura Bossom is the founder of Cultiva Kingdom, a sustainable textiles brand that puts mother earth at its heart. She joins Product Foundry to experiment with an innovative and ethnical plantbased alternative to the hair industry.

With an academic background in design and four years’ experience as an entrepreneur, Laura is an allround expert in running a sustainable business. She joins the cohort to meet other creative entrepreneurs, and revisit manufacturing processes and testing methods with the support of a professional team.

Paul Dungworth, Founder at FunkyHaler FunkyHaler is a new creation aiming to reduce the stigma associated with using an inhaler. Through vibrant and distinctive designs, FunkyHaler will change users’ relationships with their inhaler from medical device to something that reflects the personality of the user. FunkyHaler… the coolest way to ease the wheeze.

This decorative actuator is the creation of Paul Dungworth, who has been testing different materials. He joins Product Foundry to identify texture and colour options for the product, as well as to get access and training to specialist equipment and support.

Kris Pointer, Founder at MakeHub MakeHub is a business concept set up to counter the decline of design and engineering education in UK state schools. In September, it began running a beta project with primary schools in Sussex and Adur.

The brainchild of Kris Pointer, MakeHub joins Product Foundry to use the workshop’s machinery and software to develop projects that will provide more opportunities for students.

Reianna Shakil, Founder at Studio ZRX Sustainable design practice Studio

ZRX exists to balance experimental playfulness with timeless functionality.

Reianna Shakil is undertaking the programme to focus attention on her innovative idea for a ubiquitous domestic appliance - a complete redesign of the existing product on the market that has largely remained unchanged for decades.

She joins Product Foundry as a recent graduate and current Makerversity resident and is looking to further her knowledge and confidence in product development as a precursor to working on her innovation, as a recipient of Innovate UK’s Young Innovator’s Award 2022-2023.

Ed Chason, Designer at Spark & Bell Spark & Bell design and create handmade lights from their workshop in Portslade. With a focus on materials including brass, recycled plastic, and glass, Spark & Bell make beautiful creations to brighten up your home.

Lighting & Sustainability Designer Ed Chason joins Product Foundry to focus on optimising processes and product efficiency. Regulars to Plus X Brighton may recognise Ed from his stint on the front desk – make sure to say hi while he’s back in the building!

Bryn Jones, Founder at Cable and Cotton Bryn Jones, Founder at Cable and Cotton, joins Product Foundry to build new products, meet likeminded people, and share skills and ideas.

As creators of colourful LED fairy lights, we’re excited for Cable and Cotton to bring their bright ideas to the BRITE Project!

Heidi Swinyard, Founder at Teddy Brighton Over the last six years, Brighton-brand Teddy Brighton has illustrated over 8,000 pet ‘pawtraits‘ to bootstrap the development of their bespoke ceramic gifting and sister brand souvenir range.

After perfecting the ceramic components

within her Hove studio, Founder Heidi Swinyard now joins Product Foundry to prototype the silicon, resin, rubber, and steel components ready for manufacture in 2023.

Jennifer Gould, Founder at Glazy Glazy is a brand-new venture for Founder Jennifer Gould. She joins Product Foundry with a working prototype for an innovative and sustainable DIY double glazing that fits any window.

As an experienced leader and creator with her existing business Divine Company, Jennifer brings strong design problem solving skills into the programme.

Interested in joining Product Foundry?

Design products that have a positive impact on the planet, eliminate waste and create value throughout their lifespan.

Learn how to: • Build a design-based business that is capable of making net-positive products, where customers, suppliers and investors all benefit from a regenerative design approach.

• Measure the impact of your supply chain, the materials and processes used in manufacturing, the useful life of your products – and what happens to them next.

• Design out waste from your products; make them more repairable, adaptable and longer-lasting; and find new materials that make a positive contribution to the environment.

Product Foundry is part of BRITE (Brighton Research Innovation Technology Exchange). Led by Plus X, in partnership with the University of Brighton, BRITE aims to support leaders of companies that have ambitions to grow and scale their business, receiving up to £5.5m of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund. To find out more, visit briteinnovation.co.uk/ product-foundry.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 25

GOO D BUS I N E S S S P ON S OR

How The Black Market champions equality Romy Alford explains equality is achieved by changing the conversation in the hospitality and entertainment industry. She encourages corporate business to have a circular business model through supporting our champions for change and creating long term impact in these industries.

Good Business

Inequality in the

values and ideologies because to me,

entertainment

long term.

hospitality and industry

Let me start by saying

this is how society is changed in the

Since entering the world of entertainment I’ve seen a lot of good representations

that there are a lot of good businesses

of diversity and equality, and I also have

championing equality in the hospitality

the lack of consistency in the industry

bringing businesses together to create

whose representative of the changes that

out there who are dedicated to

seen the opposite. What strikes me is

and entertainment industry. My focus is

and I’ve yet to see one industry leader

partnerships and really make sustainable

ultimately will benefit us all.

working in isolation. I’d really like to

I focus on giving up and coming

become representatives of the same

in a venue that they wouldn’t necessarily

and long-term change, rather than

create a community of businesses who

26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

entertainers the opportunity to perform

have access to as well as mixing them

with more seasoned professionals who

can pass on their experience. Innovation to me is borne of being open to new

ways of thinking and not being afraid of development, feedback and reflection.

The Black Market is about creative

expression and creating educational as well as entertaining moments in time for audiences, as a producer I want

audiences to make conscious choices about the entertainment they support

and how their support makes impactful change not only to the performers but

to the wider community. Call it ‘ethical entertainment!’

GO O D B U SI N ESS SP ON SO R

themselves and feeling valued, there’d be a lot less conflict across the globe.

How is The Black Market making that change happen?

I live out this ethos through my

working practices and how I represent

performers and brands I work with. Each performer is a valued member of my

TBM team. I spend a lot of time working with performers to ensure they have

the maximum value from the facilities

and space in the venues we work with

e.g. arranging custom lighting, staging, animations, venue tours etc.

The other area that’s close to my heart as a former union rep in secondary

education and as someone who’s been subject to exploitation across many of

my jobs is the working practices across these industries. It cannot be that a

performer or waitress or producer has to have three jobs in order to survive.

As a single mother, I see lots of solo parents who are unable to pursue

their dream careers in hospitality and entertainment because the hours are horrific, don’t work with childcare,

are unsustainable and don’t pay the

bills. I’m also aware of lots of working

practices which would (in my old world of education) be a cause to call in the

unions. I get riled up when I hear about performers working in a culture of fear and exploitation, let alone the sexism

that seems to be rife, especially in the cabaret world. It’s just not on. But it

needs champions in the businesses to lead on making change, and for that to happen businesses need to work

together across all levels, corporate and independent.

My goal is for The Black Market to be known as a representative of good

practice within the industry and become a leader of change and innovation in these areas on a national scale.

What’s the potential benefit to society

I am an independent business that’s

if this changed?

entirely self-funded so I show my

In terms of overall society, reflecting

and effort where I can. I arrange a

a society based on inclusion can

Hotel Pelirocco) because it’s important

Persistent isolation obviously allows

also because I know how important

we already struggle as a society to

catalogue of professional photos with

issues that impact people on a daily

footage and images from the show for

gratitude to performers for their time

our natural diversity and promoting

promotional photoshoot (currently at

only benefit people in the long run.

to me to have high end advertising but

other negative attributes to fester and

portfolios are. Performers receive a

cope with the range of mental health

some retouching, they also receive

basis. Our national services (NHS,

their showreels.

and so many people either slip through

I think you can only carry on living out

There has to be a grassroots revolution

invite people with similar values and

children become young adults with a

to affect change my next step is to

so ingrained they can’t be undone.

TBM so we can start to make long

A lot of my work through The Black

more businesses to adopt this

career as an educator. I’ve seen what

message gets out there, the wider the

social services etc) are overburdened the net or are unable to be helped.

your authenticity as a business and

to resolve this, it can’t be left until

ideologies along with you, in order

range of mental health issues that are

engage corporate clients to book

lasting partnerships and encourage

Market has been informed by my

circular business model. The more the

can happen when children don’t see

is spreads?!

explore or be themselves. The Black

Come to the December event!

to be seen and heard, standing in your

Sussex Business Times’ readers

being your authentic self. I think if

TRADE10VIP for my show on December

being happy and comfortable within

packages and silver standard seating.

themselves as valued, loved, able to Market is about giving opportunities

own power and being celebrated for

are welcome to utilise the code

there were more days lived by society

2nd, which entitles them to 10% off VIP

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

ENTER CODE: THANKYOU10 FOR 10% OFF STANDARD SEATING

GOO D BUS I N E S S S P ON S OR

What’s the idea?

Herringbone (@wereallylikemovies) you

Part of The Black Market’s uniqueness

glitzy and glamorous era, but is all as it

will be transported back into a bygone

is not only that the events are made

seems…? Join us to find out!

and drink brands as well as other local

As a VIP, after indulging in handmade

plant based, seasonal and ‘free from’

cabaret table, sample another fabulous

allergens are used in my recipes for

accessories, with an opportunity to meet

up entirely of local entertainers, food

businesses, but we provide an entirely

canapes in your VIP room, sashay to your

menu that ensures none of the 14

cocktail and glam up with our burlesque

the VIP canapes. The food is ‘free from

and greet the artists after the show.

allergens, definitely not from flavour!’

Your experience

All seats are automatically entered into our competition to win a chance for

six tickets to our VIP after party at The

Per person

● 2 x cocktails (worth £8 each) made by mixologists and using local handmade spirits

● Cabaret table with burlesque accessories

● VIP room with handmade canapes

● Meet & Greet performers after the show ● Chance to win 6 tickets to performers after party

Silver package £33 + £2 levy Per person

As a guest of The Black Market, you

Plotting Parlour.

our mixologists (made using our local

Hope to see you there - it’s Christmas

your seat and get ready for a non-stop,

of surprises!

with the best of local talent all wrapped

Gold package

Book tickets via: bit.ly/3CrSrdR

by the fabulous Glenda Swing & Rita

£350+£10 levy

www.theblackmarketbrighton.com

will be treated to a welcome cocktail by handmade spirit brands), saunter to

super sexy and stylish show packed

up in a beautiful burlesque bow! Hosted

28 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

and our first birthday so expect lots

(VIP: Cabaret table of 6 people min.)

● 1 x cocktail (worth £8) made

by mixologists and using local handmade spirits

● Seat in main audience

● Chance to win 6 tickets to performers after party

Does your business need a helping hand?

During these unprecedented times, many businesses are struggling so we would like to help. We are offering free general guidance on: • Unpaid invoices & contract disputes • Commercial landlord & tenant issues • Professional Negligence • Commercial insurance claims

• Trading Standards & consumer complaints • Shareholder & Partnership disputes • Employment claims & settlement agreements • Franchise disputes

Call us on 01273 223290

or visit www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk/here-to-help

Offices across Sussex

www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 29

Seven reasons why your website isn’t performing well Whether it’s poor SEO or not enough content, automotive Shoreham-based website specialists, 67 Degrees, reveal why your website may be underperforming.

Now more than ever,

Sales & Marketing

it’s so important

that your website is

performing the best

it can. Car buyers are

browsing thousands of dealers’ websites each and every day, and you want to

make sure yours is fulfilling expectations.

Ask yourself these three questions:

3. Are you capturing all the necessary leads in the correct way?

Getting your website to perform at its best can be a timely process, which is why

at 67 Degrees, we’re here to help. Our

website design and development team

have explained seven of the key reasons why your website isn’t performing…

1. Is your dealership appearing in the

Poor SEO

2. Is your website easy to navigate for

SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is

relevant online searches? customers?

30 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

an extremely important factor to your

website. There are quite literally millions

of people searching for cars every single day on Google – it’s certainly tough

competition to make sure you are on page one of the search engine!

Make sure you are ranking for the most relevant keywords; these include those relating to the brand and the type of

stock you have. If you are a specialist

Mercedes-Benz dealership, you’ll want to make sure you rank for primary

keyword terms such as ‘Mercedes-Benz in [insert location]’ - this is SEO 101.

SA L ES & M A R K ETI N G SP O N SO R

Bad user experience

Little to no content

User Experience (UX) is important to

Content is so important on your website

any website. To put it into perspective, it’s how browsers turn into buyers. If

the user journey hasn’t been properly

thought out, you could be missing out on leads flooding your inbox.

If you don’t have internal links on your

homepage sending people to stock or services, how are users going to find them? Many car dealers want to talk

about ‘their story’, which is great, but this should be a secondary thought.

Why not put yourself in the shoes of

customers by seeing how easy it is to navigate your website – you may be surprised by the results!

Not fully optimised Every website should be optimised

to whatever device the customer is

using to browse your website on – be it desktop, mobile or tablet. If your

a button to highlight what a user should do, and in this instance will be:

– and we don’t just mean blog articles -

Buying a car

pages on your website should have at

Sending an email enquiry

but wording on all your pages. All of the

Enquiring about a car

least 500 words per page to be optimal

Calling the dealership

pages with 300 words or less to be ‘thin’

Substandard design

further down the search list.

Everybody loves a great looking

Your website content should answer your

impressions count! The one thing

of our automotive clients, it’s all about

images of your cars in stock. As such,

also very important; don’t just waffle for

images that are full width, and the

for SEO purposes. Google considers

and could be penalised by being shown

website and as we know, first

customers’ questions, and in the case

potential customers want to see is

vehicles. The quality of your content is

your website should have big bold

the sake of filling words on a page.

overall website design should be eye-

Page load speed

has been created with design in mind

catching and appealing. A website that can instil trust in your brand and show

Did you know that 40 per cent of online

professionalism as a business.

load after just three seconds? Because

Your website, your way!

the past 10 years, consumers are used

Here at 67 Degrees, we pride ourselves

Slow page loading = lower Google

car dealer websites is up to the highest

buyers will exit a website if a page doesn’t technology has evolved so quickly over to being served information immediately.

in making sure each and every one of our

ranking, it’s as simple as that.

standards. We have won multiple awards

mobile – eventually they will get fed

Unclear call to actions

we’d love to show you what we can do.

Google penalises websites which don’t

A clear call to action (or CTA for

us on 01273 007855.

performance. A CTA usually appears as

www.67degrees.co.uk

website isn’t optimised, it’s harder

for customers to navigate. It may be

that the user needs to keep zooming

in to try and view a page correctly on up and exit the website. Be aware that have a mobile version, by showing

them further down the search results.

short) is a key factor of your website’s

for the design and UX of our websites so Find us online at 67degrees.co.uk or call

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31

Broadened legal and tax services from a growing team with a refreshing approach We meet EMW and S-TAX to discover how expanded services and an ambitious team are providing more support for clients - whenever they need it.

Cover Story

At EMW everything

they do, they are people clients like.

the best possible

S-Tax, part of the EMW family, is

is about delivering

outcomes. Ambitious and competitive, it

provides sound legal advice to clients

that range from individual ideologists to

FTSE 50 businesses. Behind that advice

are experts who aren’t just good at what

32 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

a specialist, boutique consultancy

providing advice on capital allowance tax reliefs.

With a combined team that is now 170

people strong, services are delivered from

offices conveniently located in Brighton, Gatwick, London and Milton Keynes.

Its refreshing and flexible approach to working has positioned EMW as an

attractive employer. It has become ‘home’ for the entrepreneurial independently

minded, and that is something clients have been quick to appreciate.

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

They came together in early 2021,

following a period of reflection after the

departure of three of the partners. EMW launched an intense recruitment drive knowing that the goal was to find the

right people to broaden the legal services provided from the Gatwick base.

Always on the lookout for new talent, the firm says it is the right fit for

those who want to work in a less formal setting and can challenge

conventional thinking - attributes that have helped to shape the business it is today.

Its office at Gatwick has been growing steadily since a re-launch - meaning it can get to know and provide

outstanding services to ‘more and

The result is an aspirational, energised team with laser focus.

Ian Mabbutt, partner in EMW’s Corporate Team, said: “Undoubtedly the resilience and conviction shown by those who remained, together with some bold

decisions about which direction the office would take, has resulted in a closely

bonded team taking real pride in each other’s success.”

more of the people and businesses

Senior lawyers

important economic areas in the UK’.

The team is led by senior lawyers with

that make this region one of the most

The current EMW team comprises

personable lawyers who have built a unique, fresh-thinking brand.

significant industry experience in utilities, financial services, media, technology,

fashion and telecoms. We have experts in all areas of legal services including

employment, banking, technology, real

estate, dispute resolution and corporate.

As we grow we are providing experience and mentoring for the next generation

of lawyers, some of which attended the recent RICS Matrix event which was

sponsored jointly by EMW and S-Tax. Caroline Watkins is one of the longest

serving members of the team and has

been delighted to watch the team grow since being the sole partner at the time

of our relaunch. Caroline provides expert construction legal advice and contract

documentation (standard and bespoke)

for a number of sectors such as housing, healthcare, education, commercial,

retail, industrial and renewables. She acts for clients providing finance on

matters of due diligence, insolvency

protection and security. Her background includes six years spent in the City providing advice to clients in the

professional indemnity insurance market and two years in-house at a large water supplier. Her route to construction law

has been far from direct – her previous

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33

COVE R STO RY S P ON S OR

is comprehensive providing litigation advice on all areas of litigation.

Adrian made the difficult decision to

stay in his position, however, as with

a lot of people, the pandemic and the changes it brought with it meant that

Adrian welcomed a call from EMW in

March 2021. “Law firms dealt with the

challenges that the pandemic presented in different ways some decisions made

me question whether I wanted to remain where I was. By chance EMW got back in touch and asked if I was interested in a new challenge.”

When considering his options, Adrian noticed that the new offering at the

Gatwick office had a much broader

base, with added depth in real estate

(Caroline with construction and Daisy’s appointment was on the cards at the career in radio led to recruitment into a

major tech firm to complete her training, but experience in construction clients and projects swayed her to decide

to embark on a career as a specialist

construction lawyer. Caroline considers

herself privileged to have carved out her early career in three high-profile firms

despite the backdrop of the economic

conditions in 2008, and finally finding her home (via two invaluable years in-house) making the best use of her experience

at EMW. Balancing her career with solo parenting her son has been a massive

challenge and one which she considers could not be met without the absolute

belief, support and limitless energy from EMW management.

Aiden Dunning has 20+ years working

in-house with global brands in Financial

Services, Media and Technology sectors and, having joined the team as the first partner to join Caroline following those recruitment decisions made in 2021,

he now shares this experience with our

clients. It is essential to Aiden that he is

able to provide clear and demonstrable

34 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

value to the businesses he works with – this ethos was a key reason Aiden

chose to make the change from previous management roles to join EMW. “Having

spent 26-27 years building and managing legal teams and hiring external law firms, I could see that there are very few law

firms that operate in the way EMW does.

During the interview process it was clear that the lawyers at EMW are focused on delivering the outcome for their clients and that this is more important than

highlighting the legal work involved in

doing so. This was fundamental to my

decision to join EMW at such an exciting time in their journey.” Aiden advises on a range of commercial deals and

compliance for owner-managed and

private-equity backed companies and global corporates.

Adrian joined EMW in October 2021 to head up the Dispute Resolution

offering in the Gatwick area. He has

since been appointed head of litigation across the firm with team members in Milton Keynes, London and Gatwick.

The Dispute Resolution offering at EMW

time) in addition to corporate and

commercial. “This was the clincher

for me. As a property litigator, much

of my work comes from working very

closely with the real estate team. It was

therefore important that we had as broad a base of service offering as possible.

EMW had recognised the need to offer a much broader and comprehensive

corporate and commercial service and had taken steps to address this”.

Daisy Waldren is the latest partner to

join the team and she heads up the real estate offering in the Gatwick office

as well as specifically the Real Estate

Finance team across the firm as a whole.

Previously Daisy was a partner at a large regional South-East firm, so brings with her a wealth of experience and existing clients based in the South-East and

London. Daisy acts for many lenders

and investors on both investment and development finance, and investors

acquiring and disposing of mixed-use property and the landlord and tenant management of those interests. She provides jargon-free, efficient and

proactive advice, as a result of getting to

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

Centre Business Improvement District is very important to us as local business community

members and we have hosted meetings for Wendy Bell and

their team at our offices (at the top of the old High Street in Crawley),” said Ian.

“We have done the same for

the Gatwick Diamond Business

Awards which is another example of our use of the great location and facilities we have here.

“Our collaboration space is great for informal chats with clients and for breaking down the

barriers often experienced when dealing with lawyers!”

The business is running a

series of breakfast sessions

- so far covering topics such as Business Resilience, know the goals of her client’s businesses and being part of their team.

“I chose to join EMW for the challenge of being part of a growing business

and developing a real estate practice

in the area for EMW. It was important

for me that I was going to be given the autonomy to create a team and profile

for the property side at EMW in Gatwick and the partners have allowed this.”

The S-Tax team are able to identify

capital allowances that general practice accountancy firms don’t capture as the team includes both accountancy and

surveying professionals. S-Tax serves client operating care homes, bars &

restaurants, hotels, offices, surgeries, Zoos, furnished holiday lets and industrial units.

Allan Shaw (S-Tax) has been involved

in B2B business for over 25 years and

heads up the S-Tax sales efforts, he is also

responsible for growing our introducer/

partner network along with looking after our existing referrers. Allan loves the

reaction he gets when S-Tax identify tax allowances that provide real-life savings

which deliver clients unexpected upside.

One recent project involved the purchase of a high value commercial property

where the buyer was told that no Capital

Allowances were available, an initial review was undertaken by S-Tax and terms were

added into the sales contract that enabled the buyer to claim any Capital Allowances

that might be available. Once the sale was completed S-Tax undertook a full survey of the property along with a validation of

claim history and a successful claim was made for £1.6m.

Supporting the business community EMW is proud of the support it offers

local initiatives that deliver benefits to the wider community.

“Our involvement in the Crawley Town

Employee Ownership Trusts,

Water Neutrality, Construction

Projects, Post-Brexit Employment

Issues, Business Immigration, and B-Corporation applications.

Each of the roundtable events provides clients with an opportunity to meet and

share their experiences with each other all under Chatham House rules.

On an even less formal note, the team ran a one-off cycling event from the

office to the iconic Box Hill and back.

Before they finished the ride, EMW was petitioned to make it a regular event!

This is now a permanent fixture on the calendar, with a different route being devised for next year.

Business and pleasure Caroline said: “The large roof terrace at our penthouse office has offered

opportunity to enjoy sun-downers during

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

COVE R STO RY S P ON S OR

the summer with local business partners and was the backdrop to our End of

Summer Drinks event, which was well supported by Charlie from Ridgeview and their excellent wines.

“We are also arranging a private evening at popular outlet Mint Velvet with a

personal stylist able to guide everyone who attends through their range of

women’s clothing (and offer a generous 15 per cent discount).

“These informal events are very much how our team like to spend time with

clients and understand how we might add value to their business. These

events also provide great networking opportunities for attendees.”

Corporate social responsibility Aiden said: “We take our corporate

social responsibility as seriously as our client service.

“During the last year, we have

supported Crawley Open House

36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

homelessness charity with a number

neurodiverse people) for those seminars

so. We will continue our tradition of

profile of these great organisations.”

suggestions provided by the team

EMW will also further develop its

of events and will continue to do

selecting our next charity partner from during our staff Christmas dinner.

“There is more to come from us over the

and are very happy to help raise the

relationship with the team at Plus X where it is part of their partnership programme.

next year too. Our breakfast sessions,

The reputation of both EMW and S-TAX

will our involvement in the Crawley Town

the office in Gatwick back in 2018. The

Building Sussex Connections and the

that excellent reputation - thanks to

cycle and fashion events will continue as

has been built on the work started at

Centre BID, Gatwick Diamond Business,

current team has further expanded

Boundary Club.

its unbridled drive and desire to be

“We are sponsors of the Gatwick Diamond

standout different.

Business award for the Business of the

It could not have been prouder when a

to meeting the nominees.

advisers that we know, like and trust…

Year (over 1M) and we are looking forward

“Victoria Bevis, from our Employment

client commented: “We were looking for and that’s EMW.”

team, will continue to serve as a board

Website: https://www.emwllp.com/

Commerce and provide her Inclusive

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/

member of the Bexhill Chamber of

Twitter @EMWlaw

Employment seminars. We’ve partnered

company/emw-law-llp

with Littlegate Farm (a supported

employment charity) and Strive Caf

頨a not-for-profit business employing

SBT CHARITY SPECIAL

OLYMPIANS TURN OUT TO SUPPORT THE STARR TRUST WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA BALL

SBT CHARITY SPONSORED BY

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 37

Black+White Birthday Ball Saturday March 11th 2023 at 7pm In aid of Wolo Foundation - Helping to improve the quality of life of families in Sussex affected by cancer Dress Code: Black tie & Sparkles

BRIGHTON METROPOLE

Put on your black tie and sparkles and join us on Saturday 11th March 2023, for Wolo Foundation’s Birthday Ball, at the newly refurbished Hilton Brighton Metropole. Following the success of WoloBall last year, we’ve gone even BIGGER and BETTER! You will be greeted with a welcome drink on arrival, followed by a deliciously stunning 3 course meal with half a bottle of wine. There will be live entertainment, a charity raffle/auction, dancing and live music into the early hours!

Join us for an evening to remember!

Wolo supports families on their cancer journeys and inspires everyone to live their lives to the full. They help the whole family, not just those diagnosed, and provide regular family events to reduce isolation/loneliness. They also offer practical help, opportunities to improve mental health and overall wellness, and encourage everyone to live their best lives one day at a time. By supporting the event, you are helping to make a big difference to families all over Sussex.

Book early to avoid disappointment - individual tickets are available now!

Tables of 10 and sponsorship opportunities are also available.

For more information and to book, visit our website www.wolofoundation.org or email contact@wolofoundation.org #wolomoment #weonlyliveonce

38 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Sponsor

Media Partner

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

Olympians turn out to support The Starr Trust Winter Extravaganza Ball The Winter Extravaganza is the biggest fundraising effort in the Starr Trust charity’s annual calendar of events and this year returned for the first time following the pandemic, raising £40,000.

Headline Sponsor_Rubix VT

Long term supporter Gemini Print

Rob Starr Interviewing Eddie the Eagle

Held on 29th October

Charity

at the Hilton Brighton Metropole, the event was generously

sponsored by Rubix

VT and Handelsbanken, meaning all £40,000 raised on the night will go

directly into supporting young people

aged 10-25 years old who are struggling to overcome roadblocks in their lives.

During the evening, Chairman of

the Starr Trust, Rob Starr candidly interviewed special guest and

inspirational Olympic Legend Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards, where the audience

were invited to ask their own questions of the Olympian.

Guests and Young Starrs supported

by the charity were inspired by Eddie’s

definition of success. “Success means something different for everyone, but for me it is about actually giving your

dreams a go rather than just dreaming about them,” said Eddie.

Eighteen-year-old Alex, who is

supported by the Starr Trust,

confidently spoke live on stage to

over 300 guests about her journey,

telling how the funding and support has enabled her to overcome huge trauma and roadblocks in her life, to now being a thriving university

student studying to become a special educational needs teacher.

Good friend of the Starr Trust,

Olympian Decathlete Daley Thompson CBE attended the occasion. He

chatted and posed for photos with

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 39

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Co-sponsors Handelsbanken

Ambassadors Jason Burrill and Nicholas Taylor of Healys

young people supported by the Trust and said of the event: “My first Starr Trust Winter Ball and it was a lovely night out for a charity I love with

people giving generously, but the best

thing is obviously the number of young people and their families, the Trust will now be able to help.”

Scottish television personality Gail Porter joined her good friend and Ambassador

of the charity Marc Abraham OBE to co-

host on the night, encouraging guests to get behind the cause.

Nick Poyner, MD of Rubix VT and

Sponsor of the Winter Extravaganza, said: “The hardworking team at the

Starr Trust truly delivered an amazing event with their Winter Extravaganza

Ball at the Hilton Brighton Metropole.

40 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Wine Sponsor_Highweald Estage

We were very proud to be a sponsor and had a fantastic time. As well as

being great fun, the ball and auction raised huge amounts to help the

charity remove roadblocks for young people, which we are proud to play our part in.”

Rob Starr, Founder and Chairman of the Starr Trust said: “A wonderful occasion amongst friends with both new and long-term supporters showing their

support. We can’t thank the generous

sponsors and guests enough for helping to raise these funds which will literally change lives.

“We are incredibly proud of Alex for

all she has achieved so far and very grateful to her for bravely telling her

story on the night. We were all blown

away by the pledge from sponsor

Rubix VT to top up the fundraising even further by rounding the final figure up

to £40,000! Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who gave their time and contributed to making this event the success it was.”

Also kindly supporting the evening were Highweald Wine Estate, who

provided the English Sparkling Wine for the drinks reception, along with

Creative Pod and Gemini Print who

provided support through their design

and print services, and E3 Events, who managed the live auction and event production on the night.

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

DaleyThompson_Eddie_Nathan_Rob Starr

Creative Pod and Guests

Young Starr Alex with Mum Janine

Supporters White Cloud Coffee

Starr Trust Team with Eddie the Eagle_Gail Porter and Marc Abraham

Ryan Heal Best of British

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 41

Wolo Foundation

Helping to improve the quality of life of families in Sussex affected by cancer.

Charity

What is Wolo?

Knowing they didn’t want others to go

‘we only live once’,

flame inside their hearts - and that’s

Wolo stands for

the perfect way to

describe their ethos

- to make the most of each day. Life is a blessing and we need to enjoy it; doing

the things we love, with the ones we love.

through it like they did, ignited a little how the idea began.

Wolo Foundation registered as a charity in 2020 and helps families living in

Sussex through their cancer journeys.

They support them by offering practical

Husband and wife team, Justin and Fler

help and support to make their day-

a cancer diagnosis of their own. With

other charities, local businesses and

Wright set up Wolo Foundation after

to-day lives easier. They work with

three young children to support, they

communities to offer families a wealth

was out there for families like theirs.

diagnosis, treatment and beyond.

were shocked at what little help there

42 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

of services to support them through

Who do Wolo help?

Any family living in Sussex with a child or children under the age of 16 years

at the point of diagnosis. They support all family members, whether it be an

adult or child with a diagnosis - siblings and partners are supported too. They

currently have almost 100 families and upwards of 200 children in their Wolo community.

How do Wolo help?

Every family is unique, and every cancer is different. Wolo’s bespoke approach recognises that people don’t always

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

know what they need. Wolo offers all family members emotional guidance

and practical help. From mental health

support and complementary therapies,

to practical help with cleaning, childcare, will writing or home maintenance issues.

Nothing is too much trouble.

Regular family events help to reduce

loneliness and isolation and encourage new friendships. Tickets to local

attractions and short family breaks help

to ensure families can spend quality time together making memories.

Wolo’s work is about practical help, health and well-being and developing long

lasting relationships. Ultimately they want

to increase life enhancing experiences for the person with cancer and their family,

and try to encourage everyone to live their best lives, day-by-day.

How can you help?

Wolo are looking for anyone who can

offer a service to a family going through

time directly supporting families in

childcare, legal help, memory making

supporting has grown by over 1333%

decorating, car maintenance or a meal

receive priority invitations to events

through the charity. Wolo are passionate

opportunities to network with like-

community groups and other charities

support should any of your workforce

cancer treatment - whether it be therapy,

need - the number of families they are

opportunities, counselling, gardening,

in 2.5 years. In return, members will

- literally anything! These can all funded

such as the WoloBall (11/3/23),

about collaboration with businesses,

minded individuals and direct access to

to help make a difference to the lives of

receive a diagnosis.

local families going through cancer.

Statistics show that 1 in 2 people in the

Wolo hold a variety of fundraising events

UK born after 1960 will be diagnosed

looking for willing participants who want

precious - we need to make the most of

throughout the year, and are always

with cancer in their lifetime. Life is

to help raise funds by doing a skydive,

it - we only live once - Wolo!

wing walk, ice bath or similar.

Wolo are seeking 100 businesses/

contact@wolofoundation.org wolofoundation.org

CEO’s to join the exclusive Wolo 100 club. To join, you need to commit to

donating £100 per month to Wolo, for

a minimum of 12 months. This regular income means Wolo can spend their

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 43

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Be a Rockinghorse Star for children spending time in hospital over Christmas Could you sponsor a star in a magnificent light display at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital and help give children in hospital the Christmas they deserve?

Spending time

Charity

in hospital over

Christmas isn’t fun for anyone, but it’s even worse for children

- not knowing if Father Christmas will know where to find them, not being

able to enjoy the time at home with their family, not to mention being scared and worried about their treatment.

But every year Rockinghorse brings Christmas to children in hospital,

delivering advent calendars, decorations and presents to the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton and children’s wards across Sussex.

How you can help

Alexandra Children’s Hospital.

makes a visit and that families have a

spending time in hospital this Christmas.

£2,000 Shining Star - in return for a

at home during the festive period.

arrange a present collection in your

star with your logo in the projection

But they can’t do this without your help.

projection on the side of the Royal

Christmas tree in the hospital.

They even ensure Father Christmas

There are lots of ways to help children

Christmas dinner to help them feel more

You can donate straight to the charity,

£2,000 donation, you will receive a large

local area or sponsor a star in a dazzling

and a bauble with your logo on the

If you can be a Rockinghorse Star this

Alexandra Children’s hospital in December.

£1,000 Bright Start - you will have a

Christmas, it will help children enjoy the

In return you will receive an invitation

star with your logo amongst the magical

in hospital at a time they should be at

children’s hospital, be featured in their

the Christmas tree.

and social media before and after the

£500 Star – you will have a star included

display and your logo on a bauble on

Christmas they deserve despite being

to their Stars launch event at the

home with their families.

online campaign hub, included in all PR

Holly is a mum whose baby girl spent

campaign and receive a personalised

in the display along with a small bauble

Christmas at the Royal Alexandra

thank you from the Rockinghorse team.

on the Christmas tree.

daughter was in critical care over

Sponsorship options

Whatever you are able to donate,

to visit on Christmas day. It was lovely

options available:

children get the Christmas they deserve,

when we visited. These small things

£5,000 Super Star – in return you

while being in one of the most stressful

projections, your logo on the top of

Children’s Hospital. She said: “My Christmas. I remember that Santa came for my other child to receive a present

The charity has a range of sponsorship

every single penny will help ensure that even if they are in hospital.

really helped to calm me down and relax

will have the largest logo star in the

Find out more about how you can

times of my life.”

the main Christmas tree in the Royal

rockinghorse.org.uk.

44 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

support Rockinghorse at https://www.

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

Sussex business owner undertakes 24hour podcast for local children’s charity Sam Thomas, host of County Business TALKS Podcast, co-founder of County Business Clubs and managing director of Sussex Business Times, completed a 24-hour live podcast as part of a £10,000 challenge in support of Rockinghorse.

Sam joined the

Charity

Rockinghorse

Children’s Charity

board as their first Parent Trustee in

February 2021 following his family’s

experience at the Trevor Mann Baby Unit

at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital where their twins were born in 2015.

While Sienna was born without any

complications, Sam’s son Luca struggled to survive due to a prolapsed cord.

Despite interventions, they were given

the devastating news that Luca may not survive and, if he did, he would likely

face severe brain damage. But, thanks

to the dedication and care shown by the incredible staff at the unit, Luca slowly built up his strength and the family

started to get more positive feedback from the doctors.

Eventually, after four weeks, they were finally able to take Luca home to meet

Sienna and,after two years of monitoring and testing, he reached every milestone along with his sister.

Since 2015 Sam has raised the equivalent of £20,000 for the charity through a range of challenges, events and sponsorships.

And during this, the charity’s 55th

Anniversary year, Sam decided to set

himself the challenge of raising £10,000

through a range of events and challenges, including completing a 24-hour podcast.

Sam already hosts the weekly County

Business Clubs TALKS podcast, where he

speaks to local business people to share

Amanda Heatherington, Corporate

decided to use these skills to organise the

said: “It was such a great idea of

would speak to 24 different guests.

a fundraiser for Rockinghorse. It was

Sam said: “My love for podcasts and

guests he interviewed, despite him

their stories and inspire listeners, so Sam

Engagement Manager at Rockinghorse,

charity version of the podcast where he

Sam’s to use his podcast platform as fascinating listening to all the different

having these conversations is what

losing his voice towards the end!

challenges of the year.

“Having Sam as such a passionate

“On 13 October at 12pm in the Plus X

makes a difference to us. As a small

on the hour every hour I interviewed

us to support thousands of babies,

and business leaders to professional

So, a massive thanks to him for his

led me to take on one of my biggest

supporter of Rockinghorse really

Studio in Brighton I began my challenge,

local charity, people like Sam enable

another guest from entrepreneurs

children and their families every year.

athletes, Master Chef winners, radio and

continued support”

tv presenters and many more.

You can donate to Sam’s £10,000

“Throughout the 24 hours we also

challenge on his Just Giving page,

the episodes live on stage with Dragons

Challenge.’ Or join Sam and the

Company Rachel Watkyn and Giles

charity fundraiser at the County

“I had 24 amazing conversations that

get your tickets join here - https://

raised £2500 which takes my total this

business-clubs-christmas-party-

hosted over 60 people to watch two of

just search ‘Sam Thomas 10k Trustee

Den winner and founder of the Tiny Box

team on 15th December for the final

Palmer founder of Brandwatch.

Business Clubs Christmas Party. To

were streamed live and have so far

www.eventbrite.com/e/county-

year to over £7500!”

tickets-461677589097

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 45

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Join Martlets for #BrightonFlock

There’s a baa-rilliant new art trail coming in Autumn 2023 - thanks to Martlets, the muchloved local charity that provides life-changing hospice care.

Shaun by the Sea

Charity

will see a colourful cavalcade of one-

off painted Shauns decorate Brighton

streets from September next year for eight weeks.

In a truly ewe-nique opportunity, local

businesses are being invited to sponsor a Shaun. Alongside this there are of a host

of additional exciting sponsorship options, including the chance to lead our learning programme and sponsor the trail app.

Brandwatch, the world’s premier social

suite, has already confirmed its role as a

headline sponsor of what promises to be one of the biggest and brightest charity events of 2023. So don’t delay, sign up

as a sponsor - Rockwater, Trident, Enter Gallery and Green Insurance are already part of the flock.

46 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Norman Cook, aka Fatboy Slim, has

Rachel Peacock from Aardman, the studio

through his Big Beach Café. He said:

delighted to be working with the brilliant

being a sponsor for the next trail, my

forward to working with sponsors and

part of such a creative and inspiring

Brighton and Hove; he is sure to add such

local charity we couldn’t do without, is

many will flock to be part of the fun!”

committed to sponsoring a sculpture

behind Shaun the Sheep, said: “We are

“If you’re thinking about joining us in

charity Martlets on their next trail. We look

advice would be to go for it! To be a

artists to bring Shaun to the streets of

community project, in support of a

fun and colour and we are in no doubt

absolutely priceless.”

The trail is brought to the city in

Martlets CEO, Claire Irving said: “At

association with Wild in Art, the

connecting people in need with people

Martlets on the previous art adventures

bring together individuals, families,

trails generated millions of social

community groups and businesses in

media interest.

illness in our community. We very

To find out more, visit

this opportunity to be part of the

email Susi or Amber at Sponsors@

Martlets we’re passionate about

organisation who partnered with

who care. Shaun by the Sea will

- Snowdogs and Snailspace. These

fundraisers, volunteers, schools, artists,

media impressions and global TV and

support of those affected by terminal

much hope local businesses will seize

www.shaunbythesea.co.uk or

#BrightonFlock with Martlets.”

shaunbythesea.co.uk

r f u lock o n i Jo Be part of the biggest brightest charity event to hit Brighton Don’t be sheepish - download our SPONSORSHEEP Pack today!

shaunbythesea.co.uk/sponsors/

Big #BrightonFlock shaunbythesea.co.uk

A Wild in Art event in support of Martlets

Headline Sponsor

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 47 ™ Aardman Animations LTD 2022

Registered charity number: 802145

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Search Seven celebrates charity fundraising success 2022 has been a fantastic year for fundraising for the Search Seven team, raising just under £20,000 for charity. They are now on the brink of reaching their 100k fundraising target. We hear from Founder and CEO Gavin Willis, who gives a review of the year and also announces some exciting plans for 2023

At the start of

Charity

2022, we launched our latest charity campaign called

#S7100, endeavouring

to increase our fundraising efforts from

£77,000 to £100,000 by the end of 2023.

With a year still to go, we are well and

truly on course to not only hit this target but exceed it.

2022 has seen the introduction of new

events to the S7 Events roster, including the Rockinghorse Ryder Cup, which brought two teams of 12 together to

compete over two days, with SBT’s Sam

Thomas and myself as the team Captains.

48 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

It was a great victory for Team Yellow in

an epic event that raised over £4,000 for Rockinghorse, Search Seven’s flagship charity, of which Sam is a Trustee.

Over the summer, and during the

heatwave, the Search Seven team rallied together to complete a half-marathon

walk in London in support of their chosen charities. This was a brand-new type of event for the company, alongside

the community events that we usually

organise, seeing an incredible team effort.

Each member of the team set up

their own JustGiving pages to raise money, and awareness, resulting in

an incredible £5,000 raised across

all the charities. It proved extremely

successful and is something we plan to replicate next year.

The final event of the year was the

inaugural S7 Golf Day, which took place

at the Dyke Golf Club, and was organised with the help of TPG Sports Events.

With a thick mist refusing to clear in the morning, the event was close to being

cancelled. With minutes to spare within our window for a 10am latest start, the competition got underway at 9.50am

and was a real success, raising almost £5,500 for charity.

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

Our efforts have been recognised too, as Search Seven has been named a

Finalist at the Sussex Business Awards

for the Business Growth Award, as well as Employer of the Year, which we are absolutely thrilled about.

Any big plans for 2023?

Yes indeed!

We are planning to host a big community event next summer to ‘hopefully’

celebrate reaching our 100k fundraising target - plans are top secret and are yet to be revealed, so watch this space.

There will be another S7 Golf Day too, Search Seven invited a few of its chosen charities to say a few words on the day,

with The Children’s Respite Trust, The Lucy Rayner Foundation, and Rockinghorse all raising awareness for their causes.

Are there any other charities Search Seven has supported outside the #S7100 Charity Campaign?

Yes, very much so.

As well as the #S7100 Charity Campaign, there has been a further £4,000 raised and donated to other charities.

In March 2022, we decided as a team

to make a £1,000 donation to help the victims of the Ukraine War, providing support to Ukraine and showing solidarity in their efforts.

We have also introduced our Charity Referral Scheme.

With the intention of bringing people together to make a difference and

say ‘thank you’ to those that have

recommended us, we now operate a

seven per cent Charity Referral Scheme,

with five per cent of our revenue from

and I know Sam is desperate to hold a

the successful referral going to the

Rockinghorse Ryder Cup rematch.

charity of their choice.

In addition to sponsoring the Sussex

With several partners and clients

we are also delighted to announce

delighted to announce that we have

sponsor at next year’s Sussex

to date, with more money to be added

on stage as a keynote speaker, talking

referrer, and two per cent going to a

Business Times’ Charity section,

recommending us in 2022, we are

that Search Seven will be the charity

raised over £3,000 for different charities

Business Show, where I will also be

before Christmas.

about our charity fundraising journey,

Were there any other big

to embed a purpose-driven approach

announcements in 2022?

and sharing a few tips to those looking to their business.

You could say that!

It’s set to be a big year indeed!

Over the last 18 months, we have

I would like to say a big ‘thank you’ to

people, including new additions to the

partners, suppliers, and everyone who

Media offerings, which has led to a

and by coming together as a community,

seen the team grow from four to 14

the Search Seven team, our clients,

team to support our SEO and Paid

has supported us this year. It means a lot,

significant change in Search Seven’s

we are all helping to make a difference.

leadership structure.

If you would like to schedule a call with

We have seen real investment in growth,

Gavin to chat about partnerships, SEO

matched by a 50% increase in yearly

corporate fundraising, email gavin@

scale sustainably in 2023.

www.searchseven.co.uk

with our current headcount being

and/or PPC requirements, or CSR and

revenue, putting us in great shape to

searchseven.co.uk or visit our website

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 49

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Best of British finishes 2022 with a bang in Gatwick November saw the final Best of British event of 2022 and, once again, it was a fantastic one.

The event was

Charity

at Crowne Plaza

Felbridge, Gatwick,

where over 300 guests were in attendance to

help raise many thousands of pounds for the amazing Starr Trust - while listening

to the legend of Sky Sports, Jeff Stelling.

It was great to hear from Starr Trust

Chairman, the inspirational Rob Starr,

who is approaching his 52nd Olympic

Triathlon of the year, raising an incredible amount for the charity.

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

The event was sponsored by Creative

privilege to have supported such as

DevAssist and Britton and Time

our community as well as supporting so

Pod UK, headline sponsor; RubixVT,

amazing company, that do so much for

Solicitors, event co-sponsors, and

many fantastic causes.

media partner Sussex Business Times.

We look forward to supporting Ryan and

The event raised over £10,000 for The

the team in 2023 across all their events in

raised for the charity by Best of British

and their new venue in Tunbridge Wells.

Starr Trust, taking the total to £18,000 Events this year.

Best of British have also raised an

amazing £156K for a variety of charities throughout 2022 and it has been a true

Brighton, Gatwick, Eastbourne, London

If you would like to be a part of one

of next year’s events, please do get in touch - info@bestofbritish.org.uk

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

T ECH S PO NS O R

Events Not To Be Missed Silicon Brighton is a community-led initiative supporting those working in our local digital sector. We provide a variety of free and accessible events to help people learn new skills, make connections, and progress their careers in tech. This month is buzzing with activity, so read on for a taste of what’s in store!

Scan the QR code or visit

hub.siliconbrighton.com/events to find out more.

Tackling Fake Traffic from Artificial

Amazon’s Culture of Innovation

From Conversation to Software

Fri 18th November | 12:30-1:30pm | Online

In person at Spaces

In person at Spaces

Engagement

Weds 23rd November | 6-8pm | Online /

Thurs 24th November | 6-8pm | Online /

Recent research shows that potentially

Get a glimpse behind the curtains

Get best practice advice on how to

are fraudulent, meaning your sales and

innovation and how they deliver bespoke

to software that solves their problems,

up to one-third of a website’s visitors

marketing funnels could be polluted with bad, or worse, stolen data. Come and

learn how to identify bots and prevent them from being on your website.

of Amazon’s peculiar approach to

engagements with customers, presented

by Amazon’s Digital Innovation Lead, Robert Hodges.

transform conversations with clients

using user stories, story mapping and release planning to create meaningful

and insightful choices for your clients.

Detecting Financial Vulnerability with

Game Dev Drinks

People + Culture Club Christmas

Weds 30th November | 6-8pm | Online /

person at Green Door Store

Thurs 15th December | 5:30-7:30pm | In

Unsupervised Machine Learning In person at Barclays Eagle Labs

Hear how EDF have used data science

and machine learning to analyse Smart

meter Pay As You Go (PAYG) customers

for signs of financial distress, to develop better support for those customers during the cost of living crisis.

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Fri 25th November | From 7pm | In

Meet Up

Are you a game developer? Want to

person at North Laine Brewhouse

area? Come along to Game Dev Drinks,

People-people who have a bias against

music get-together hosted by Justin

is the place for you! Join them for a natter

Director of Dream Harvest).

this relaxed and informal get-together.

meet other developers in the Brighton

If you’re looking for a community of

a monthly networking, social and live

traditional ‘HR’, then People + Culture Club

French (Founder, CEO and Creative

and a drink of whatever takes your fancy at

Bringing together local digital and tech communities for a big end-of-year celebration!

SILICON BRIGHTON BIG FESTIVE MEETUP Catch up with friends, meet people from different parts of the tech community, and make new contacts for the year ahead.

Thursday 8th December 18:00-23:00 Old Albion, Hove www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 53

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

Calling all Brighton dads A grassroots movement pioneering for change…introducing Dad La Soul.

From stand-up

Networking & Events

comedy to silent

discos and dad dance battles, Dad La Soul playdates create a

safe space for dads to connect with likeminded people, enjoy quality time with their children and have some fun.

Dad La Soul is a multi-award-winning revolutionary grassroots movement

that uses art, tech and music to battle social isolation and loneliness in dads across Sussex.

They create kick-ass Saturday morning

playdates for dads, stepdads, grandads and male-identifying carers who

want to hang out with their kids, play, learn, teach and make new friends.

Dad La Soul events bring people

together, challenge conventions, spark conversations and start friendships

with dads that perhaps might otherwise struggle in silence.

“Dad La Soul is a lot of fun but there is a serious message behind it. We bring dads and kids together with amazing

activities, to break down barriers and

start conversations which dads may not otherwise have,” said Dan Flanagan, Founder at Dad La Soul.

Founded in 2017 in Worthing, Dad La

Soul has just launched a brand-new play date in Brighton, and it is calling all dads to get involved.

The Dad La Soul community will be ‘taking Brighton by storm’ one Saturday a month, at Plus X Brighton in Moulsecoomb.

Each event will focus on a different theme designed to engage the children and of course the dads! The events are a safe

54 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

space for dads and kids to let off steam, have some banter and ask for help.

The launch took place on Saturday 12th

November. The inaugural event welcomed more than 100 dads and children to play,

create connections and make some music.

The music workshop was led by the

fantastic Audio Active, a grassroots social enterprise organisation that help young

people engage with music across Sussex.

Reece Pickett, Youth Project Manager at

Audio Active, said. “One of the best Audio Active sessions I have seen…all the kids

were super engaged and really enjoyed it.”

After launching at their new HQ, Dad La Soul Brighton has created some great

collaborations with people, places and businesses to bring the events to life.

Collaborators include The Bevy, Brighton’s number one community run pub/hub,

County Business Clubs, a growth engine

for Sussex Businesses, Brighton and Hove Council and Plus X innovation hubs.

“This event was incredibly impressive.

I think around Brighton there just isn’t

support around for dads...having this is a great way for dads to meet people,” said Chris Llewellyn, a member of the

Management Committee at The Bevy.

Plus X Brighton is a seven-storey

innovation hub for all types of businesses from freelancers to corporates. Located on Lewes Road in Moulsecoomb, the

innovation hub encompasses business growth innovation programmes,

coworking and office space, support

for sustainable product makers, design workshops, podcast studios, media suites, meeting rooms and event

spaces. Plus X is committed to creating

purposeful partnerships to deliver positive social impact to local communities, especially those residents located in their home of Moulsecoomb.

Mat Hunter, Co-CEO at Plus X innovation hubs, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Dad La Soul. Not only are they focused on the health and well-being of dads and children, but who knows, perhaps spending Saturday mornings in our innovation hubs will ignite an interest in starting a new business!”

Dad La Soul is passionate about creating a supportive and accessible community. They have a range of ticket options available to ensure all families are welcomed. Tickets cost just £6 for a family of four, with free entry available for families with low or no wage.

Isabella Hoffmann, Community Lead at Plus X, said: “When Dan first approached us to be the new HQ for Dad La Soul, it was an immediate nobrainer. We endeavour to support and champion impact-focused events that encourage collaboration and connection in the community, which is exactly what these events do.”

The next event will be on Saturday 10th December, 10am-12pm at Plus X Brighton. Join Dad La Soul for the Christmas celebration of the year, as well as the world-famous Beach Punch and Judy show.

Book your ticket tby scanning the QR code or visiting https://bit.ly/3Aj5GNz.

By Alicia Sullivan

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 55

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

The importance of networking during economic downturns Archie Hampshire, Marketing Assistant at Network My Club, explains why you should still be building connections during a period of run-away inflation, ever-increasing interest rates and an energy crisis.

It’s no secret we’re

Networking & Events

going through hard

times. And there’s real potential for it to get even harder.

I’m sure it won’t be too long before we’re paying £1 for a Freddo.

But chocolate inflation aside, in this

current economic climate it’s essential you keep networking to grow your business.

Why should you keep investing in

attending networking events when all

they experiencing? Are they are having

ultimately add value to your network.

cutbacks?

by connecting them with your network?

Speak to your membership

Because people might not be ready to

Use your network to help others

Update them on current challenges,

person people think of in your industry

but that shouldn’t stop you from giving

the forefront of their minds.

your own network. How can people you

the signs are pointing towards making

to evolve? How can you support them

organisations

buy from you now but, by becoming the

You might not be receiving so much,

changes in the business, or where the

means when they are ready, you’ll be at

and finding ways to connect others with

there to help you!

know help them?

In a nutshell

networking wisely - even when it might

Adjust your offering

in the sand because you don’t think you

business you’re perhaps used to.

something new, either short-term or

Get closer to prospects

to adjust our event offering to online

Don’t be forgotten.

points. Use that information to think

starting the business), but still embrace

or they know someone that is, is it you

There are plenty of ways to use your

growth opportunities are. They are

To summarise, avoid burying your head

Maybe there is an opportunity to try

can get anything from networking.

long-term. During the pandemic, we had

Keep yourself out there.

Learn their current challenges and pain

(never did I think we’d do online when

Because when people are ready to buy,

about how to evolve your offering and

it today as behaviours shifted.

or your competitor they think of?

Learn from other businesses

https://www.networkmyclub.co.uk/

Your clients will likely be out networking

and sectors could all be going through

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/

take the time to listen to how you could

knowledge here will arm you better

not necessarily be driving the new

help them overcome them.

Listen to clients

Businesses of different sizes, ages

Twitter @NetworkMyClub

too. Either there or away from events,

different challenges. Improving your

company/network-my-club

better serve them. What challenges are

to help others, provide insight and

56 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 57

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

The Director’s Hub: founders’ ‘support’ club A peer-to-peer hub for small business directors expands to help more entrepreneurs.

A peer-to-peer

Networking & Events

networking group

for small business

directors is expanding across Sussex to

create more opportunities for likeminded entrepreneurs.

Aimed firmly at business owners who don’t have a big management team

to support them, The Directors’ Hub

connects individuals who want to share knowledge and achieve growth.

The Hub already has peer-to-peer

support groups in Brighton and Mid Sussex and has now launched in Eastbourne and Worthing. There

are plans to create more in Crawley, Chichester, and Hastings in 2023.

Founder and entrepreneur Sonny

Cutting said: “The Directors’ Hub has

grown from a tiny seed of an idea into

something which is much-needed and much-supported by small business directors throughout Sussex.

“I’m delighted to announce the new Hubs and intend to open more in

2023. I want to support entrepreneurs who want guidance from those facing similar issues. They can meet in a

welcoming environment where they

can discuss ideas and let off a bit of business steam.”

Each hub is an intimate, informal

support group with 12 like-minded

members who meet once a month to share successes, discuss business issues and learn strategies to help

with business growth. At each meeting

58 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

members have the chance to chat and get to know

each other followed by a

(Photo from left to right. Sabreen from Active Physio Clinics, Pippa from Global OHS, the host, Sonny Cutting, Paul from Gordian Solutions, Ben from Second Voice, Robert from Management Inspirations and Wes from Adapt Fitness.) This was the Hurstpierpoint Lunch Hub meeting earlier this year.

motivational speaker and

then a topic for discussion.

There is also a closed

WhatsApp group where

members can chat and ask for advice at any time.

“We wanted to create

something that would provide real value for

small businesses, that

was unlike other largescale peer-to-peer

groups. At The Directors’ Hub you get to know

other business owners well, build lasting and

meaningful relationships and receive the support

larger companies get from

their management teams,” added Mr Cutting.

“I couldn’t be prouder of the way it has grown, indicating a clear need for this

kind of peer-to-peer support group, and I look forward to adding more Hubs in Sussex and beyond in the future.”

Mr Cutting plans to grow The Hub,

which is part of the Sussex Business

Show and has been running for three years, to 20 groups. He is also in the

process of creating a new website to support both.

The hubs meet once a month in different locations around Sussex. Hurstpierpoint Hub meets on a Wednesday afternoon for Lunch Hub, Brighton Hub meets

on a Tuesday evening for the Supper

Club, Eastbourne Hub meets Tuesday evening and Worthing Hub meets Wednesday afternoon.

As well as offering a standard

membership at £600+VAT, there’s

a tiered membership for those who

want to be involved with more than one group in their designated area.

For more information about joining

visit directorshub.uk or call Sonny Cutting on 07889 533641 or visit sussexbizshow.com

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 59

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

And it’s a sell out!

The November Big Business Breakfast was sold out almost a week in advance, with 80 tickets purchased by business people from across Brighton and the South.

A big thank you is

Networking & Events

due to this month’s

breakfast networking sponsor, PrimeBlue R&D services.

Primeblue is a specialist in R&D claims.

With hundreds of successful claims

under their belt, they make sure you get the amount you are entitled to, maximising your claim within the boundaries set out by HMRC.

The team at PrimeBlue are highly trained experts. Sector specialists and business entrepreneurs work in partnership

with you and your business to make

sure the claim process is simple and straightforward.

PrimeBlue have chosen The Martlets as the beneficiary for this BBBC.

Martlets is a local charity that provides terminally ill people in Brighton and

60 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Hove, and surrounding areas, with the

Great to hear from our guest speaker,

very best care and support.

Alice Reeves. from The Joyful, a

Their expert team helps patients live life

future-focused businesses.

have left.

Always great to hear from Alex Ryan,

Martlets opened in 1997. The staff and

delivering marketing hints and tips to

of three separate charities: Copper

to get there nice and early so you have

to the full during the precious time they

purpose-first based consultancy for

of Marketing 101, with his regular spot

services were formed from the merger

make your business pop. Make sure

Cliff Hospice, Tarner and MacMillan

plenty of time to meet other like-minded

Day Hospice.

businesspeople in the room.

Across the hospice services, more

We look forward to seeing you next

supported and cared for since 1997.

County Cricket Ground, sponsored

Most people receive care from them

Heritage Foundation.

also visit the hospice for pain relief,

Look out for more details soon on

than 34,000 local people have been

in their own homes. Outpatients

month on Friday 16th December at Hove

by World First supporting the Chailey

physiotherapy, counselling, welfare

social media

choose to spend their final days there, or

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/

advice and social activities. Others

to join them as inpatients for respite care or symptom management.

bigbusinessbreakfastclub/803366/

WHY ATTEND? If you are looking to raise brand awareness, meet potential new customers and generate leads in Sussex, book a stand at the exhibition that brings the entire business community together in one place - the iconic Amex Stadium. Learn more: email mike@brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 61

07885 490266

brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk

Electric cars and solar panels what you need to know As the electric vehicle industry booms, Rivervale Leasing discusses environmentally friendly ways to charge EVs. As more and more

Motoring News

individuals and businesses get

familiar with the

benefits of electric

cars, they may be keen to find the

most environmentally friendly ways to power them.

The ideal option is solar electricity,

produced by panels on the roof of their homes or business premises.

Rivervale says: “We already know that

62 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

swapping a diesel or petrol vehicle

questions about electric car solar panels.

emissions and reduces CO2 emissions

Can I charge an electric car with

for an EV alternative removes local

by 50%. Why not take it further and

run your car with zero carbon impact?”

Sound tempting? While the use of

solar panels to charge a car battery

solar panels?

Yes! You can use solar panels to charge your car battery.

may prompt you to ponder the word

How does it work?

know, it is actually not.

Solar panels generate electricity from

‘complicated’, once you are in the

Below, the team at Rivervale answer some of the most commonly asked

UV lighting by absorbing packets of

photons. Many think it only happens when the sun is shining, but solar

MOTO R I N G N EWS SP ON SO R

panels can be effective even in overcast conditions.

How does charging an electric car with solar panels work?

As part of the process, the solar panel inverter changes the current to AC

(from DC) so that the energy harvested can be used domestically. This means that the energy can be used to power your home and charge your electric

vehicle. But remember, solar panels can’t retain or store the energy they

create. So, as an electric car owner,

you may prefer to have a power-stored battery so that any surplus energy is stored for use at a later date.

How long does it take to charge an EV from solar panels?

Of course, there is no set amount of time your EV will take to charge, but it can

range from 30 minutes to 12 hours. This depends on the size of the battery you

are charging and the speed at which your charging point charges. However, if you have power stores installed, then you

may find it quicker to charge. Of course,

during the daytime, there is more sunlight available. But a home battery system

is essential if you will be charging your electric car at home overnight.

Are there any financial benefits

charge your electric car with solar

panels overnight, then solar battery storage is a must-have.

when you charge an electric car with

Can I get solar panels for the roof of

Even though electricity is one of the

Of course, it would seem a lot easier if

solar panels?

cheaper traditional fuels out there (when

compared to gas, for example), installing an EV charger in your home is going to

add considerably to your electricity bill.

Therefore, many financial benefits come with installing solar panels in your home for charging your car.

You can also rent out your solar EV

charger to other drivers and earn extra money too.

How many solar panels does it take to run an electric car?

A standard solar panel installation

my car?

you could drive your car around with

solar panels on the roof. This would mean that you could charge your car as you go.

But, sadly, this isn’t possible right now.

As you would imagine, the surface area available on a car is not big enough to provide enough energy to run it.

However, as the technology behind solar panels and electric vehicles

develops, we hope to see solar panels on cars to help top up batteries and

act as a ‘portable power bank’. Here at Rivervale, we think the best time to go electric is now!

for a domestic property that consists

Interested in an Electric Car? Get in

enough electricity to charge an electric

to discuss EV leasing. Alternatively, you

of eight to12 panels should provide

car with an average-sized battery. But this depends largely on the type of

electric car you have and how many

touch with Rivervale on 01273 433480

can request a callback for a time that is convenient for you!

miles you drive, as electric range may not be that important. If you want to

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 63

MOTO RI NG N E WS S P ON S OR

10 cheapest electric car leases Leasing an electric vehicle is cheaper than you think - as Rivervale Leasing explains in this informative Top 10 guide.

Motoring News

Looking to go electric but worried how much it might cost?

There are plenty of affordable electric cars currently available. And with more rolling off production lines every few months, it’s never been easier to find your best value electric car.

Rivervale Leasing has put together a list of some of the cheapest EVs available to lease right now - from the ever-popular Renault Zoe to the stylish Mini Electric.

Here are ten of the cheapest electric cars to lease...

What is the cheapest electric car lease?

Renault Zoe Range: up to 190 miles Charging speed: Rapid charging - can reach 80 per cent in under 2 hours Lease price: from £300.21 exc. VAT per month Great for: Family-friendly, city driving This popular, family-friendly supermini is a comfy and fun drive. Roomy on the inside and compact and stylish on the outside, this little plug-in packs a real punch, especially with its new R110 engine which provides better acceleration. With an updated 52 kWh battery and a refreshed design, it combines the best of both performance and practicality.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, you might want to check out the brand’s quirky Twizy.

This eye-catching quadricycle is currently the cheapest electric car in the UK and sure to turn some heads on the road.

64 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SEAT e-Mii Range: approx. 135 miles Charging speed: Rapid charging - can reach 80 per cent in an hour Lease price: from TBA Great for: Economy, city driving Cut from the same cloth as the Skoda E CITiGO, the e-Mii is the electric version of the combustion-engined Mii. Along with its new electric motor, this city car boasts shiny new alloys, a redesigned dash, as well as some lux leather-trims, ambient lighting and smartphone connectivity. The effect is a model that feels slightly more elevated all round than its predecessor.

and love but this time greener. The Mini Electric has lost none of the recognisable style and sophistication the original Mini is known for. With a healthy powertrain (courtesy of the i3S) and strong grip, handling and performance, this is an agile city car that’s exciting to drive.

Honda E Range: up to 137 miles Charging speed: Rapid charging - can reach 80 per cent in 25 minutes Lease price: from £406.89 exc. VAT per month Great for: Affordability, first electric car

Vauxhall Corsa-E Range: approx. 180 miles Charging speed: Rapid charging - can reach 80 per cent in 30 minutes Lease price: from £261.13 exc. VAT per month Great for: Economy, first electric car

Surprisingly compact and efficient due to its rear-mounted motor, the Honda-E delivers on big car handling, albeit in a smaller, nifty package. Available in 134 bhp and 152 bhp, its great suspension and lots of innovative touches that make it a fine choice for getting a taste of the EV market.

Nippy, economical and reliable, the Vauxhall’s plug-in version of its popular Corsa model offers a fantastic step into the world of battery-powered vehicles, as far as small electric cars go. With an ample everyday range of 180 miles, solid handling and a comfortable interior, it’s quickly becoming one of the UK favourite EVs. And, with a 100 kW DCrapid-charge capability, it’s easy to maintain.

Kia eNiro Range: approx. 282 miles Charging speed: Rapid charging - can reach 80 per cent in 45 minutes Lease price: from £395.82 exc. VAT per month Great for: Family-friendly, longer journeys

Mini Electric Range: up to 145 miles Charging speed: Rapid charging - can reach 80 per cent in 35 minutes Lease price: from £312.79 exc. VAT per month Great for: Style, city driving It’s the classic hatchback we all know

Now, this is a family car for the electric market. Advanced tech, comfortable driving and an impressive range mean this plug-in is quickly becoming a fast seller in the EV market. This all-electric car boasts front-wheel drive, regenerative braking, a spacious interior and advanced sound system among other attractive features.

VW ID.3 Range: approx. 185 miles Charging speed: Rapid charging - can

MOTO R I N G N EWS SP ON SO R

reach 80 per cent in 45 minutes Lease price: from £303.44 exc. VAT per month Great for: family-friendly, longer journeys As the first release of an entirely new line-up of new battery electric vehicles, the ID.3 is promising high-performance and exceptional design packaged along with all the most cutting-edge tech. This five-door hatchback looks like it will be roughly the size of the Volkswagen e-Golf, so it’s sure to provide lots of space for those long, family car journeys.

Peugeot e-208 Range: approx. 185 miles Charging speed: Rapid charging reaching 80 per cent in 30 minutes Lease price: from £266.89 exc. VAT per month Great for: longer journeys, easy charging With much of the style of its petrolpowered predecessor, the e-208 is still a Peugeot at heart, just with a few new upgrades. With 185 miles, it’s easy to make a whole journey on a full charge while smartphone connectivity adds a touch of practicality for scheduling and maintaining its charge.

BMW i3S Range: up to 188 miles Charging speed: Rapid charging reaching 80 per cent in 35 minutes Lease price: from TBA Great for: Style, longer journeys, city driving While BMW is known for its signature premium build and style, the i3s is surprisingly good value for money. As a pure electric vehicle, it offers an extended range of up to 188 miles and great charging potential. While refined, it’s’ also a rather easy-going drive with well weighted controls and a pleasant ambience.

Hyundai Kona Electric Range: approx. up to 300 miles Charging speed: Rapid charging - can reach 80 per cent in an hour

Lease price: from £316.39 exc. VAT per month Great for: Economy, city driving

by post. These documents need to be signed and returned to us before the vehicle can be delivered.

The Kona is already a firm favourite in the family hatchback market, so the electric version is a great choice for those after functional innovation and design. From smartphone connectivity to an impressive sound system and an eye-catching exterior, the quality of this plug-in is apparent throughout.

Following the signing of the documents, we will confirm a date and delivery address with you, and your brand-new vehicle will be delivered.”

How leasing works Now you know about some of the cheapest and best-value electric car models on the market, what about how electric car leasing works?

How does electric car leasing work?

Rivervale says: “Electric car leasing is a straightforward process. Once you’ve decided on your preferred car, you can request a quote via the website or give us a call on 01273 433 480, and we will provide you an official quote via our online system.

“Then, if you are happy with the quote, you can proceed to the next step by clicking ‘Apply’ on our online system and completing a short application form. We will then pass it on to the underwriting team to run a standard credit check, which takes between 2-5 hours before a response is received.

“Assuming all is okay, and the credit check has passed, you will be approved for your chosen lease.

At this stage, we will provide you with an estimated delivery date for your vehicle, with the chosen colour, options, and specification. An order form will be available for you to review in our online system. If you are happy with the details, you can submit it back to us, authorising us to secure your chosen vehicle.

“Before delivery, you will receive official documentation for your new vehicle

If you have any questions throughout the process or after delivery of your vehicle, get in touch with Rivervale and a member of the team will be happy to assist.

Why switch to an electric car lease?

Electric car leases come with a range of benefits to both the environment and to your wallet. They are also equipped with the latest in safety and technology.

Is an electric car cheaper to run?

As they utilise electricity instead of fossil fuels, they are much cheaper per mile to run. That is also taking into consideration the price of energy increases. We go into depth and crunch some numbers on our blog about rising energy prices. Secondly, they have fewer moving parts. This leads to less wear and tear overall which makes them cheaper to maintain. Also, with a rapidly growing charging infrastructure, you are able to drive and graze with ease. Top up your range in the car park while you do your shopping – how convenient!

Like any of the models on this list?

All of these are available to lease as part of our growing electric & hybrid leasing collection. From marketleading models like the Tesla Model S to fantastic deals on value-for-money models, there’s something for every driver at Rivervale.

Just call us on 01273 433480 or request a call back to find your EV with us today. For more information and EV reviews, visit https://www. rivervaleleasing.co.uk/blog

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 65

Removing trade barriers key to boosting export growth of UK businesses Ana Christie, CEO of Sussex Chamber of Commerce, writes about challenges and how businesses surveyed believe they can overcome them.

Trade barriers are

Chamber News

the biggest hurdles to overcome if

businesses want to grow exports.

• 54 per cent of businesses say

smoother customs procedures are the key to boosting UK exports

• 42 per cent favour lowering tariffs, while

35 per cent say there is a need to reduce regulatory barriers, and 29 per cent want better support for smaller businesses

66 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

• Overcoming the new requirements

of the UK-EU Trade & Cooperation Agreement (TCA) has encouraged one-in-ten (nine per cent) UK

exporters to Europe to trade with new non-EU markets

While barriers to trade affect

most firms, overcoming recent EU

challenges has led some to expand

into new markets, a survey from the

British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and DHL Express has highlighted.

The survey of almost 1,000 UK

businesses, 92 per cent of them SMEs,

shows almost half (48 per cent) said the

top barriers to exporting were costs and

disruption, alongside tariffs (48 per cent), and customs procedures (47 per cent).

A further 41 per cent of businesses

said regulatory issues such as product certification were a hindrance to trade, and 37 per cent cited political, social,

economic or environmental uncertainty.

Only nine per cent of firms surveyed

C HA M BER N EWS SP O N SO R

technical barriers’ (35 per cent).

working with trusted logistics partners

When it comes to trading with the EU,

trade as we hopefully see the removal

exporters to the EU say they can meet

international markets.”

and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), while

Ian Wilson, CEO, DHL Express UK

almost two thirds (61 per cent) of UK

the requirements of the UK-EU Trade

feel the significant benefits of global

of barriers and the opening up of new

20 per cent say they can’t.

said: “Businesses have been through

But overcoming the challenges

years, but they have shown incredible

growth opportunities in new markets

uncertainty, having a presence in a

enormous challenges over the last two

presented by the TCA has offered

resilience. During times of economic

for some businesses.

number of markets is an effective way

Of the exporters to the EU that agree they

that UK businesses are encouraged

cent say they are now trading with new

opportunities. While international trade

a further nine per cent say they will now

have to go it alone. We can see from

the opportunities that trade presents for

aren’t aware of what FTAs could mean

resilience in the face of challenges.

for them to succeed overseas, so we

Commenting on the survey’s findings,

talk to Government, their trade bodies

British Chambers of Commerce, said:

support they need.”

traders have for UK trade negotiations

Global Business Network

other trade policy developments. Faster

We’re so much more than a UK

businesses with Free Trade

removing technical barriers to trade,

wider international community too?

stumbling block preventing more

mobility, and mutual recognition of

represent our members in over 40

can satisfy the TCA requirements, nine per

to keep looking for international trade

non-EU markets as a result of this, and

can be challenging, businesses don’t

consider doing so in future. This highlights

the research that most businesses

businesses, especially those who show

for them. It’s in everyone’s interest

William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the “Our findings highlight the real priorities said their business does not face any

to minimise risk, so we need to ensure

want exporters to feel empowered to and businesses like ours about what

barriers to exporting.

with partners across the world, and

The lack of engagement amongst

customs processes, tariff reductions,

network. Did you know there’s a

Agreements (FTAs) is another

focused support for SMEs’ easier labour

Well, British Chambers of Commerce

international sales. Four out of five

professional qualifications are the top six

countries around the globe. We call this

firms (79 per cent) had not carried out

issues for the UK’s SME exporters.

our Global Business Network (GBN).

need from a trade deal with major

“For traders exporting to the EU, speed,

Do you import or export goods and

to 69 per cent for UK exporters.

more to the forefront of their minds.

However, businesses want their trading

UK-EU goods movements. We also have

International Trade advice and

them access to new markets with ease

our key global markets through new

certification and documentation.

of respondents said ‘smoother customs

and trade negotiations. While there are

and services; or if you’d like to

future trade deals between the UK and

businesses, there are also of course

Chamber. Contact us at export@

tariffs’ (42 per cent) and ‘reducing

in the coming years, SME exporters

call the office on 01444 259259.

any assessment into what they may

efficiency and reduced hassle are even

services? Would you like to start?

The BCC has a plan to cut red tape on

Every Accredited Chamber offers

journey to be straightforward and allow

ambitions to boost UK exports across

services. Including customs declaration

and speed. More than half (54 per cent)

Single Trade Window developments

So, if you import or export goods

procedures’ would be a top priority for

challenges currently facing exporting

start – you’ll be needing Sussex

other countries, followed by ‘lowering

many opportunities. It’s crucial that

sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk or

international markets. This falls slightly

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 67

CH A M BE R N E WS S P ON S OR

The science behind the four day week Mel Berry, of Social Firefly, examines the facts following a trial in Sussex, supported by Brighton Chamber and led by the University of Sussex.

Four day weeks, nine-

Chamber News

day fortnights, flexible working - topics

which have regularly dominated the news

in recent years. They have been hailed

as the utopia of the modern workplace, but what’s the science behind them?

Dr Rae introduced business leaders to

the initial findings of her trial to measure

the biological and psychological benefits (spoiler - there are many!) of reduced working hours alongside business

performance. The Sussex four day week is the only study specifically looking at the biological component.

Over 60 local businesses made their

Trial is the first of its kind

science behind the four day week’ on 26

Six Brighton businesses, including

way to Brighton Chamber’s event ‘The October to find out.

Introduced by Kerry Watkins, Managing

Director of Social for Good, and chaired by Dr Charlotte Rae, Lecturer in Psychology

at the University of Sussex, the scene was set for a fascinating evening.

68 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Cloud9 Insight, Social Firefly, St John’s College and Brilliant Noise, undertook

a series of assessments, from in-depth questionnaires to biological tests such as MRI scans and blood tests.

The trial lasted three months, with

employees receiving 100 per cent of

their wage, working 80 per cent of their regular hours.

Dr Rae set out her findings, which included:

● Improvement in mood ● Reduction in burnout

● Increase in enthusiasm and motivation

● 10% increase in self-rated productivity These benefits were immediate

upon starting the trial and continued throughout.

In short, extra time for rest – sleep,

hobbies, relaxing and time with families – meant employees were happier and

C HA M BER N EWS SP O N SO R

better rested, enabling them to maximise

brain function on days they were working.

The highs and lows of taking part ‘Pilot it first’ We heard from four businesses about

why they got involved, the benefits, the

challenges and if they think the four day week is the future.

Cloud9’s employees tested having Friday off once a fortnight, spending the other

Friday on strategy and learning within the organisation, getting employees away

from their day-to-day work and benefitting the development of the business.

CEO, Carlene Jackson stressed it looked good for recruitment but not necessarily for retention - clear career paths, paying

well and great management were bigger contributors for keeping staff.

Their advice to anyone thinking about

it - pilot the scheme before introducing

patient – meaning they were able to

accompanied with other benefits,

deliver a higher quality of care.

it bolsters employers’ offerings,

However, if they were to continue,

businesses bottom line. And that’s the

cover additional costs of having to

before it’s the social norm?

Despite this, she felt the benefits greatly

Inspired to take the plunge?

fees would need to be increased to take on staff to cover additional day. outweighed the negatives.

‘A more human approach to work’

staff happiness, motivation and the

thing - it’s seen as a benefit. How long

The Sussex team are continuing to enrol employers. If you’d like to try a four

day week for your business, contact Dr

anything concrete.

Antony Mayfield, the Founding Partner

Charlotte Rae: c.rae@sussex.ac.uk.

wanted to build a better place to work.

This event was run by Brighton Chamber

out ineffective systems, creating a better

the 20 years of the Economic and Social

disciplined and focused. He felt a four day

of Social Science.

to allow time for people to be people.

Brighton Chamber would like to thank

Overall, he felt that taking part shows

The effect on business performance

Robinson, University of Sussex, for

a good thing, right?

Now onto the biggie - how was

‘A greater respect for staff’ James Armstrong, Director of Social Firefly, highlighted that team wellbeing, while

maintaining output, was at the forefront of his mind. An unexpected bonus was that

people respected each other’s time more and there seemed to be greater focus.

trust in colleagues, and that can only be

‘Consider the costs’ Christina, Registered Care Manager from St John’s College, got involved in the

pilot to improve recruitment and retention in an already squeezed sector - social

and CEO at Brilliant Noise, said he simply The shorter week was useful in flushing

and the University of Sussex as part of

talent offer, making team members more

Research Council’s flagship of Festival

week was the more humane thing to do -

event photography.

performance affected? Business

https://www.brightonchamber.co.uk/

productivity was maintained or improved,

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.

to make the four day work week

chamber-of-commerce/

performance metrics have shown

Twitter @brightonchamber

with five of the six companies intending

com/company/brighton-and-hove-

permanent - a pretty resounding success.

care. She said it was particularly useful

Is a four day week the future?

who reported feeling happier and more

It is not, in itself, a silver bullet but,

for those in emotionally demanding roles,

Mel Berry for this article and Stuart

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 69

LI FE STY L E S PO NS OR

Brighton Fringe needs your support England’s largest arts festival, Brighton Fringe, aims to remain affordable for artists and audiences during the cost-of-living crisis but it needs your help to do so.

In 2022, Brighton Fringe showcased over 4,000 Lifestyle performances of 765 events at 124 venues in Brighton, Hove and beyond, with an estimated attendance of 370,000 people, and an economic impact of £14 million for the local economy.

There was something for everyone with a jam-packed programme of comedy, cabaret and theatre, plus circus and dance performances, and also workshops, tours and more.

Venues varied from big top circus tents to candlelit churches and pop-up

70 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

performances in parks. The vast appeal of Brighton Fringe was demonstrated by its audience demographics.

Just over half of Brighton Fringe attendees fell in the 45-64 age range (51.1 per cent), with 14.8 per cent of audience members in the 64+ range and the remaining audience ranging from 0-44 years old (34.1 per cent). Around 60 per cent of the Brighton Fringe audience possess a BN postcode but the reach of the festival was felt both nationally and internationally with audiences travelling from the USA, Japan and even Australia.

Despite delivering a successful festival considering the economic landscape, Brighton Fringe still finds itself vulnerable. “As we have emerged from the pandemic, with the current economic uncertainty, in many ways we are all still in survival mode,” says Brighton Fringe CEO Julian Caddy.

“The arts sector remains extremely vulnerable, so as a festival that provides an open-access platform for people of all backgrounds and perspectives to take part, we aim to keep costs as low as possible, whilst still improving services wherever we can, the only way to do this is through support from the wider community.”

L I F ESTY L E SP ON SO R

Brighton Fringe not only runs England’s largest arts festival but also offers a free year-round education programme, ‘Fringe Academy’, which promotes artistic development, and additionally provides artists with financial support to take part in Brighton Fringe through their bursary scheme.

Brighton Fringe is a registered charity that receives no regular public funding.

Its finances are dependent on generous donations, box office commission, grant applications and partnerships with local and national businesses.

Previous partnerships have included sponsorships by major brands such as Citroën, Uber Eats, Hendricks Gin, Aperol Spritz and Alpro; travel industry giants Gatwick Airport and Govia Thameslink Railways; media partners such as The i Paper; utility company Southern Water, and financial services organisations such as Legal & General.

This year, several partnerships have already been announced. A partnership with local business Bird & Blend Tea Co. will see a number of bursaries given away, allowing those who may not otherwise be able to participate to host a Brighton Fringe event, alongside a generous donation through sales of a specially selected tea at all their stores across the country next spring.

Uber Eats are also set to continue its

relationship with Brighton Fringe as the headline ticket sponsor, allowing them access to Brighton Fringe’s audience and providing a platform for them to compete for customers with other delivery services in the area.

This year, Brighton Fringe is also offering free registration to several young people via our partnership with Brighton Youth Centre, as well as working closely with the Pebble Trust which nurtures young creatives in their endeavours.

There are many different ways for you or your business to get involved with Brighton Fringe and support the arts in the Sussex community and beyond.

Brighton Fringe is currently seeking an overall festival sponsor, as well as sponsorship for its Fringe Academy programme, bursaries and awards and other assets.

To do all this, alongside delivering England’s largest arts festival requires support from the local community. If your business would be interested in getting involved with Brighton Fringe through a partnership, please get in touch.

The small development team at Brighton Fringe work hard to tailor each partnership to your business needs through a variety of channels and strategies, whatever your requirements.

‘Why the arts?’ you may ask. Whilst there are so many worthy causes in this current climate, those involved in Brighton Fringe believe there is still space at the table for the arts. The arts allow each one of us a form of escapism and encourage us to explore our emotions, expand our imaginations and develop our understanding of the world. Brighton Fringe works with community groups such as Gig Buddies for Good Mental Health, The Ledward Centre, BARCO and others to ensure access to the arts for all, no matter the economic landscape of the day.

The first release of tickets for Brighton Fringe 2023 will go on sale on Thursday 1 December for Friends of Brighton Fringe, and Friday 2 December for the general public. Brighton Fringe 2023 will run from 5 May - 4 June.

To support Brighton Fringe, contact Amy Keogh, Head of Development and Operations, at amy.keogh@ brightonfringe.org www.brightonfringe.org

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 71

W I N E O F TH E MO NT H S P ON S OR

County Business Clubs’ Wine of the Month November 2022

Moving into winter and planning for Christmas

Harvest seems a long time ago and, as we move towards Christmas, I start to

think about what wines to stock up for

Estate which is based at Malthouse Farm, Streat Lane, Streat, Sussex, BN6 8SA.

the festive period.

Artelium vineyard at Streat near

After a tough year, I am looking forward to

What I like about this producer is the

spending some quality time with friends

and family. For me, winter brings out the darker spirits, perfect sharing in a flask

by a bonfire or by an open fire at the end of the night. In addition, I look forward to sharing some fine bubbles over the

Christmas period as easy drinking aperitifs or to go with fine foods. It’s great to treat

yourself every once in a while with a bottle of bubbles - not just to mark an occasion.

December’s Wine of the Month comes from a relative newcomer to Sussex

Wines based in Streat near Ditchling in

Sussex called Artelium, whom you may not have heard of - although the head

winemaker, Dermot Sugrue, is recognised as one of the UK’s finest winemakers, crafting some of the finest sparkling

wines. Artelium founders Mark Collins

and Julie Bretland have combined their

wines with a passion for art and so there

host a number of events at Artelium Wine

72 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Ditchling, Sussex

fact that they have not released their wines to early due to commercial

pressures but have aged their wines

for five years on the lees which adds complexity and character to English

bubbles. You get a real toastiness or bakery flavour coming from the time

spend in the cellar maturing before the

bottle has its metal cap replaced with a cork one ready for sale and serving.

One excellent example of this is the new rose, which is our wine of the month.

Makers Rosé from Artelium from 2015 Artelium 2015 Rose is a blend of

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier; hand-picked from a single vineyard and skilfully made by celebrated winemaker Dermot Sugrue. This

traditional method wine has been aged on the lees for over 48 months. It has an Intense strawberry colour, is bold

yet nuanced with a rich depth of red fruit flavours

Tasting notes

An aromatic, exciting nose with bold,

lifted red berry fruits alongside savoury spice and baked brioche. Tart baked

rhubarb and crunchy, juicy cranberry on the palate. A lovely approachable style,

offering excellent maturity and depth of flavour. Great concentration with fresh acid and lovely lees texture. A rich, complex rosé. Long, clean finish.

Serving suggestions

A perfect example of a gastronomic

rosé! Yes, it’s delicious on it’s own, but

pour it alongside delicious cured hams,

asparagus draped in lardo, or roast duck leg and it’ll sing. Epic with mature, hard

cheeses like Lincolnshire Poacher. Roast Turbot with brown butter and capers wouldn’t go amiss.

Winemaker - Dermot Sugrue

Grape variety 50% Pinot Noir 30% Chardonnay 20% Meunier

Vineyard characteristics - Soil Chalk Maturity - Lees aging of 5 years

W I N E O F TH E MO N TH SP ON SO R

Disgorgement - August 2020 & June 2021

New 2020 vintage Sussex Brandies and

very slight toast/smoke character and

Suitable for vegans

Award-winning Spirit of the Downs

accessible and easy drinking brandy

2020 vintage.

A very elegant brandy, with bright notes

Sussex Brandy aged with English Oak

and toasted sugar notes come through

11 months of aging on the Chardonnay

may develop from more time in the

ABV 12%

Explanation of the 2015 vintage conditions

Typical. Summer was cool too! Slow ripening, with acidity remaining very

high and sugars low through August in to September, but from mid-Sept on the temperatures soared – an Indian

Summer was upon us and lasted well in to October. The grapes ripened

brilliantly, balance was found and we harvested exceptional quality fruit. A tense year – both in the waiting for ripening, and the resulting wines.

Recent awards for Artelium at GB Wine Awards 2022

A number of their wines received

medals at the awards, the Artelium Blanc De Blancs 2015 that stood

out at the star of the show winning the Trophy for the ‘Best Blanc de Blancs’ and going on to win the

Best Sparkling. The entire team

were over the moon to be awarded Best Newcomer, but probably a bit overwhelmed and very honoured

when we were awarded “Supreme Champions”.

Artelium wines are available direct from the vineyard or at selected outlets in

Sussex, alternatively you can purchase online at https://www.artelium.com/ english-wine-shop

Grape Spirits from Spirit of the Downs has launched new spirits from the

sweet biscuity note making this a very with a refined medium dry fruit flavour. dancing across the tongue. Marzipan

vintage 2020 - This brandy benefits with

well. Lacking a touch in depth, which

grape and traditional aging in casks

barrel, but still absolutely delicious.”

Alistair Simms based in Yorkshire. The

Spirit of the Downs is available from

brandy with subtle floral notes of

Farmers’ Markets every month, local

with butterscotch and oak. The brandy

bars as well as a plans for a pop-up

sweetness and sits in style between a

the two weeks before Christmas from

made by the UK’s last Master Cooper

grapes create a young, fruit led English

Steyning, Shoreham and Arundel

elderflower and honeysuckle, together

vintners, breweries and selected cocktail

is well balanced and has a lovely

shop at Shoreham Airport terminal for

calvados and an Armagnac.

12nonn till 6pm Wednesday to Saturday.

Sussex Brandy with French Oak

Plans for new Spirit of the Downs

with 11 months of aging on the

Spirit of the Downs also plans to open

French oak to provide a “VS” style

summer. Further updates to follow in the

vintage 2020 - This brandy benefits

distillery

Chardonnay grape and aging with

its new distillery in Shoreham ready for

Sussex brandy. The grapes help

coming months.

with plenty of fruit with flavours of

Michael Yeoman, Founder

Butterscotch and balanced Oak and

Brighton and Hove Wine Club and Spirit

create a more intense English brandy sweet caramel, Crème Brule, Raisins, Vanilla with Smokiness and long finish.

of the Downs – Great Taste Producer,

The previous vintage was a winner

IWSC Bronze

of Great Taste 1 star 2021 and IWSC

Winner of Great Taste 3 Star Award and www.spiritofthedowns.co.uk

Bronze 2021. Judges’ comments on

the 2019 vintage were: “A refined and

elegant spirit with a rich lim4rousin oak spiciness. Remarkably smooth with a

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 73

Spirit of the Downs Award Winning Handmade Local Brandies and Grape Spirits

Spirit of the Downs uses grapes grown by small batch English sparkling wine producers, the South Downs National Park in Sussex. These premium spirits are created using traditional production methods with a combination of both indigenous wild and champagne yeasts aged for a minimum of a year. Spirit of the Downs is a sustainable product using pressed grapes from small batch English sparkling wine production, the used pomace from Spirit of the Downs is used to fertilise the apple orchard at Trenchmore Farm enhancing the soils biome creating better quality fruit.

Our Brandies and fruity Grape Spirits are the perfect gift for Christmas. Enjoy our brandies on their own with Christmas Pudding or as an after dinner digestive by the fire for Christmas!

Sussex Brandy aged in French Oak – Great Taste Judges tasting notes for 2019 vintage; " Floral and perfumed: revealing honeysuckle, orchard fruit, vanilla cream and a touch of black pepper. " Producers tasting notes; This is a lovely brandy with great balance between fruit and oak aging in a VS Cognac Sussex Pinot Grape Spirit is a fruity spirit with taste of Maraschino Cherries and dark berries, ideal on its own, with ice or a light tonic. Judges comments on last years 2019 vintage; “This is rather exceptional - there's a beautiful creaminess to this Eau de vie. It carries its alcohol so lightly, it's positively dangerous.

Buy Spirit of the Downs at Steyning, Shoreham or Arundel Farmers or Christmas markets, your local vintners, brewery or cocktail bar alternatively order online from www.spiritofthedowns.co.uk 74 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 75

IN AID OF

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

THURSDAY 15TH DECEMBER MALMAISON, BRIGHTON MARINA FROM 6:30PM TILL LATE SPONSORED BY

76 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk