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SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

RUBIX VT - 25 YEARS IN THE MAKING WE SPEAK TO NICK POYNER, RUBIX FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 1

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

The start of a new year is always a good point to re-assess priorities and goals.

In uncertain economic times, you may be tempted approach such appraisals with a bit of trepidation. It can be all too easy to sense the negatives and hit the pause button on plans for growth.

But, as featured in this issue of SBT, downturns are often one of the best times to invest.

We hear from financial experts who explain, if you’ve got a great idea, finance is available to make it happen right now. Sound good?

In a similar vein, our cover story looks at the rise and rise of Rubix VT. This is a fascinating feature that highlights the importance of never giving up on an idea or aspiration. With the right people supporting you, anything is possible!

If you are looking to be inspired - let’s face it, January isn’t the most ‘feel good’ month of the year - take a look at the truly motivational comments in a roundup of Series 3 of the County Business Talks podcast. There are business leaders who have overcome horrific incidents to find the real positives in life and others who firmly believe that putting people at the heart of everything you do will pay dividends. Feeling a bit low and think you need to start looking after yourself? There are some wise words on that topic too.

If you are looking to expand your network of connections this year, Network My Club stands ready to equip you with insider tips - thanks to its brand new weekly newsletter, The Networker.

Don’t forget to read the Legal section - features written by trusted experts on pressing business issues that could

save you a fortune, not to mention sleepless nights.

A new year always brings fresh challenges, but it also presents opportunities. That gap in the market, a collaboration, new partnership... Whatever that opportunity is, it holds the potential to not only see you through the ‘on’, ‘off’ recession but set you up for greater things to come.

That old adage that as one door closes another opens is true - and more often than you may think.

So, with positivity and the entrepreneurial spirit in mind, think of this issue of the Sussex Business Times as your window to what 2023 could shape up like for you.

Here’s to a successful year.

Sam Thomas, Managing Director

VALUE ADDED PARTNERS

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Issue 461

Cover 461

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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Monthly News

10

CBC Stories

14

Fox&Bear marks its 10th anniversary with an acquisition, a new health and wellbeing centres opens and more news from across Sussex.

Sam Thomas looks back on series 3 of the County Business Talks podcast and gives us a recap on his guests.

Legal

Tips on how to maximise your dilapidations claim from Mayo Wynne Baxter. 365 Employment Law tackles the pressing issue of strikes and how they may effect your staff. Caroline Watkins, of EMW Law, writes about the benefits of equality in the legal profession. Cognitive Law discusses how to get your business in good legal shape.

22

Finance

24

New Business

28

Cover Story

36

Charity

42

Plus Accounting explains the difference between qualified and unqualified accountants and Seico Group reveals why it is important to invest today for tomorrow.

A start-up success story - Savvy Ferments.

Rubix VT - 25 years in the making.

Latest news from the Wolo Foundation, Rockinghorse Children’s Charity and The Starr Trust.

Networking & Events

Network My Club launches The Networker weekly newsletter, re-launch of The Property Professionals Lunch, Big Business Breakfast Club latest and news about the seminar timetable for Brighton & Hove Business Show.

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Motoring

58

Chamber News

62

Lifestyle

66

Wine of the Month

Rivervale celebrates a great start to 2023 and shares information about the highly-anticipated Maxus T90EV electric pick-up truck.

News from Sussex Chamber of Commerce and Brighton Chamber.

How to streamline your wardrobe for 2023, plus easy self-care hacks.

Michael Yeoman shares information about a limited release sparkling red wine from a local producer.

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MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

Acquisition of advertising and branding agency marks next stage of growth Leading Brighton-based marketing agency Fox&Bear is celebrating its tenth year of trading with the acquisition of a third marketing agency, Mineral Creative.

Bringing this highly talented and Monthly successful creative News agency onboard will strengthen Fox&Bear’s fast-growing Design and Branding department.

Mineral Creative join the business with a wide-ranging roster of clients including global brands, SMEs and charities.

Formed in 2013 through a highly successful collaboration between James Dempster and Tim Cobb, of Eastbourne based CobbPR, Fox&Bear is now embarking on the next stage of its growth.

James Dempster, Managing Director and Co-Founder at Fox&Bear said: “Today, we are delighted to announce that we have

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purchased a leading advertising agency to help push us on to the next level.

“Over the past ten years I have found that employing experts in each role has been a recipe for happy clients. This is the third acquisition that I’ve undertaken and is a proven way to grow whilst maintaining our culture of delivering excellent work.

“At Fox&Bear we believe in telling stories powered by data. We live in a time that pushes data and insight on us at every turn, but without powerful creative this means nothing.”

Fox&Bear’s team of 18 highly skilled and super-motivated marketers have been joined by the creative team of Ben Harrison, Chris Jewell, Gemma Hill, John Sim and Jenny Sefton,

formerly at Mineral Creative.

Ben Harrison, Director at Mineral Creative, said: “We’re thrilled to be joining forces with Fox&Bear. Chris Jewell and I founded Mineral nearly eleven years ago to offer clients big agency expertise with boutique levels of customer service. In Fox&Bear we’ve found a team that really shares our values and can offer our clients services we don’t offer, and vice versa. We’re excited for the future.”

Fox&Bear brings together expertise in digital marketing, public relations, strategy, design, branding and analytics, to create cunning campaigns and deliver them fiercely.

To find out more, please visit: https://foxbear.co.uk/

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

New health and wellbeing centre opens at FOUNDRY Run by Victoria Medial Centre (VMC) and its existing Beacon Centre outlet, Digital First, Room 201 will offer one-to-one and group drop-in sessions, led by leading social practitioners and mental health nurses.

The idea for the centre

Monthly News

came about after the

team at VMC noticed a gap in the service

provided for mental

health and wellbeing.

Over the past year, the social practitioners at the practice have become increasingly busier with those looking for help, advice and even just someone to talk to. The

team wanted to create a designated safe space for those looking for support.

Room 201 aims to provide a controlled and open access service for patients with any type of mental health or wellbeing anxieties.

The location at FOUNDRY has been

in the newly opened FOUNDRY.

accessible location for all Eastbourne

“We are confident that Room 201 will be

setting, with the aim to make the

to visit to help address any concerns

stressful for those looking to seek advice.

skilled professionals, some of the best

Room 201 officially opened on December

life and give the people of Eastbourne

chosen due to its central and easily

residents, and also as it is a non-clinical

a safe space for Eastbourne residents

experience more comforting and less

they may have. We have a team of highly in the country, to help bring our vision to

8, with VIP guests including Caroline

whatever help and support they need.”

Councillor Pat Rodohan, alongside local

Room 201 is now open to the public on

Ansell MP and Eastbourne Mayor councillors and businesspeople.

the first floor of FOUNDRY for residents

Nigel Grinstead, CEO at Victoria Medical

appointment at the surgery.

opening our second unit in the Beacon,

To find out more, please visit:

Centre, said: “We are delighted to be

and even more excited to have a space

to drop in when convenient or make an

https://victoriamedicalcentre.co.uk/

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MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

Business leaders chosen to support Digital Futures skills drive in West Sussex Digital Futures West Sussex has announced three business leaders as Digital Futures ambassadors for the county.

They will be the

Monthly News

business voice for

the Digital Futures

programme, which

will run through 2023,

improving access to the wide range

of digital careers available across the county and helping to meet the skills needs of growing businesses.

The Digital Futures ambassadors

selected to support the initiative are Luke Mead, chief executive of LMS Group in Chichester, Mark Bullen,

managing director of GB Electronics in

Worthing, and Barney Durrant, director of Bluebell Digital in East Grinstead.

Each ambassador brings experience and knowledge on the advanced digital skills gaps in the county and the challenges

businesses currently face in recruiting tech talent, as well as the significant growth of digital industries in West Sussex.

The ambassadors will play a key role in

supporting businesses in their local area

to attract homegrown tech talent, as well as supporting jobseekers with guidance on suitable entry routes to digital jobs

and showcasing the benefits of a digital career in the county.

Having started out fixing computers

in his bedroom at the age of 15, Luke

Mead set up IT support company LMS Group in 2010.

Luke said: “The shortage of homegrown tech talent has always been apparent when recruiting at LMS Group. To be

involved as a Digital Futures ambassador means I can share the experience I’ve

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gained over the past 15

years of working in tech

within the county, and to

showcase the benefits of

building a digital career in

tech within the county too.”

As managing director of Worthing-based

electronics design company and manufacturer GB

Electronics, Mark Bullen

already works with schools and colleges in West Sussex to inspire young people to pursue careers in innovation and tech.

Mark said: “I am delighted to be chosen as an ambassador for Digital Futures West Sussex. We can certainly see

considerable potential in our region and in order to maximise opportunities, it is

vital to dramatically increase the profile of the digital industry.

“This will have a positive knock-on

effect on inward investment, promoting more start-ups, fast-tracking company growth and presenting West Sussex

as a fantastic location for established technology-orientated businesses to base themselves in.”

Barney Durrant has more than 20 years’ experience in the digital sector. After

seven years working at Google, he set

up his own digital marketing company, Bluebell Digital, in East Grinstead.

Barney said: “I’m passionate about the

internet and the opportunities that digital

can offer young people and those looking for a change in direction in their careers.

“As a digital marketer, my business is

closely aligned with educating businesses about what they can achieve online, so

this project seems like a natural fit for me.

I can’t wait to engage with people across the county on this vital area for our future economic development.”

Digital Futures West Sussex is jointly

funded by West Sussex County Council and the West Sussex Districts and

Boroughs. The programme is being led by local strategic consultancy Always Possible with support from the three

Digital Futures ambassadors, working in partnership with local authorities, education providers and business

networks to raise awareness about the range of digital jobs available across various sectors in West Sussex.

The programme will be running multiple events across the county in 2023,

starting with pop-up information hubs

in January to connect jobseekers, those

seeking a career change, graduates and

students with trainers and businesses to showcase the opportunities available.

To find out more about Digital

Futures West Sussex, visit: www. digitalfuturesws.co.uk

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

World cup winner Tymal Mills signs T20 contract extension with Sussex Cricket The left-armer will now remain with the Sharks until at least the end of the 2024 season.

Having joined Sussex

Monthly News

Cricket 2015, Tymal

has gone on to take

96 T20 wickets for the Sharks and is only 11

wickets away from becoming Sussex’s all-time leading T20 wicket-taker, a

record currently held by former Sussex legen Will Beer.

In last year’s Vitality Blast competition, he finished as the Sharks’ leading wicket-taker with 15 wickets.

As well as being a major force in

the domestic T20 scene, Tymal has

played 13 T20I’s for England, taking

12 wickets and was part of the squad that won the ICC T20 World Cup in November last year.

Speaking on his new deal, Tymal, said: “I’m really pleased to have signed a contract extension that will take me

through to my 10th season at the club.

“Although I only play T20 I see myself as a full time Sussex player, I live in Hove, I’m raising my children here

and there’s nowhere else I see myself playing cricket.

“I’m really excited for the immediate

future working with and playing under Paul Farbrace from the chats I’ve had

with him so far and the speed at which

this contract extension was offered and delivered makes me feel valued at the club moving forward.

“I look forward to seeing everybody back at Hove this summer.”

Not only has he become one of the most feared fast bowlers in England, Tymal has become a regular on the global franchise circuit.

In 2017 Mills became the second most expensive overseas draft player in IPL history, when selected for the Royal

Challengers Bangalore and has since gone on to play for various franchise teams in India, Australia and more recently, the UAE.

Sussex Bowling Coach, James

Kirtley, added: “I am delighted that

Tymal has signed an extension to his contract with us. He was part of the

world cup winning squad and I have heard so much good stuff about the way in which he went about things at the world cup, it just shows the professionalism of the man.

“That is something I always see with Tymal around our group, he always

encourages our bowlers and players

in the T20 squad and he is a fantastic example and standard-bearer for our team.

“He is a highly respected, well-regarded player around the world, and we are lucky to have him here at Sussex.”

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That, as they say, is a wrap!

Sam Thomas looks back on Series 3 of the County Business Talks Podcast - 16 truly amazing conversations with brilliant guests.

This series has been

CBC Stories

a real game changer for me.

I am on a mission

to try and change the narrative around

how success is measured and including that someone’s success, especially

in business, should not be measured purely as a financial metric.

I tried to delve deep into what makes these exceptional individuals tick,

10 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

many of whom are very financially

successful. But the overriding message is that, ultimately, we are all searching for fulfilment and contentment, and

money and financial success, although

providing us with potential opportunities and the ability to buy more stuff,

doesn’t necessarily give us purpose and certainly not fulfilment.

As we navigate this crazy journey of life,

and I continue to learn from the amazing stories that people share with me on the

podcast as well as my own experiences, I am continually reminded by everyone,

that although it is a cliche and we all know I love a cliche, life is a journey and not

a destination - getting up everyday and

doing your best, whatever that looks like to you, enjoying the process and being

present in the moment, that is the key to true success, happiness and fulfilment.

When listening to these episodes please ask yourself, how do you measure your success?

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

For me, Charlie Macksey described it

brilliantly in the book ‘The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse’.

What do you think success is?’ “To love,” said the mole.

I would like to thank all my amazing

guests: Mark Woolley, Mike Monk, Jessica Freeman, Karen Dobres, Jo Child, Sam Murphy, Ed Chinn, Tom Hooper, Fiona

Anderson, Marc Convey, Lindsey Clay, Chris Goodman, Ricky Whiting, Andy,

Steve, Chris Tugwell, Julian Caddy, Dan

Wade and Rob Starr. I am so grateful for your time, your openness, honesty and sharing your inspirational stories and journeys with me and our listeners.

Mark Woolley, founder and international creative director of leading British hair company Electric, talked about his journey in building a global brand.

Speaking about his inspiration to go

into business, he said: “Every now and

again someone would say ‘I own my own business’ and ‘I’m doing this’, so one of

my goals from being at school was that I would like to own my own business.

“I wasn’t academic but I was really into art. I liked art, music and I liked sports - but they weren’t academic subjects.

In the subconscious, hairdressing presented itself as a creative, fun

business to be involved in. There were

all these young people who seemed to

own their own businesses and I thought that might be for me. It sounds so silly

when you say it like that, but I think they were the touchpoints.”

Mike Monk, founder and organiser

of Brighton & Hove Business Show and owner of Advantage Business Mentoring, spoke about his long

and successful career in sales and

marketing. His advice, given with some

inspirational examples, is to ‘Never give

up’. He imparted some stories that truly did offer motivation and an insight into how to out-class your competitors.

Jessica Freeman has over 25 years’

experience in HR and started her own

company in 2014. She is also a coach at Dorking Ladies’ Rugby as well as a community coach for Harlequins

Rugby Club and played rugby herself at a very high standard. She spoke about why there is no difference between business and sport.

She said: “Do you know what? There’s never a right time. There’s always a

reason not to do something. If you let that reason be your decision-making factor, then you are not actually ever going to do anything.”

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CBC STO RI E S S PO N S OR

Karen Dobres, director of Lewes FC, explained what it means to

impact diversification and how it

benefits everyone.

Speaking of being a woman in sport, she

said: “It’s hugely male-dominated and the disparities are vast. We can talk about

what women are paid compared to what men are paid but also are the pitches

the women play on the same or are their pitches inferior and much further away

from the town that they’re representing

making it harder for people to come to?

“When I first said that I was going to

stand to be a director at Lewes FC, my friends were laughing, but people like

me have to feel comfortable at a football ground. I have to feel I can be a director - we’re talking about diversity all over

the shop and, you know, let’s just do it.”

Jo Child, founder of Co-Women, also spoke about diversification.

She said: “Another thing that I’ve

noticed with women in business is that they feel this need to be serious, to be taken seriously, to present themselves seriously and, again, going to these events women were not smiling.

“The idea of men versus women is such a trigger for people when it’s not men

12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

versus women in the first place. It doesn’t matter what product or service you’re providing, you’re going to have your

demographic. It’s a shame that feminism has got such negative connotations

attached to it because if you just strip it back to basics it simply means equality for men and women.

Unfortunately, we have got to a point now where we’ve got extreme feminism. With any project, the pendulum always has to swing completely the other way before

it can come back and rest in the middle

and I think that’s what’s happening right now. We’re on this path for equality for women but that triggers people into

thinking that it’s something that is not.”

Sam Murphy, managing director of

award-winning brokerage Mortgage

Medics, talked about How Being Different Can Be Your Superpower in Business.

He said: “What has always been my primary goal from day one is to just look after people. If you look after

people and treat them with respect,

then they will do business with you and look after you in return.”

Ed Chinn, associate director at EY

Breakthrough Incentives, spoke on the topic of Being Diagnosed with ADHD,

Changing Careers and Having an Impact.

One of his standout comments was:

“So, I am going to drop the bomb early here and say - this is not something I’ve told everyone yet - but I’ve had a recent diagnosis of ADHD, more

the Attention Deficit side. If you set a goal for something and are open to

opportunities... That positive mindset and visualisation is so helpful.”

Force of nature Tom Hooper brought his motivational style to the podcast with a conversation about Mental Health, Life Choices and Curve Balls.

He said: “My story stems from

overseas. I was adopted in 1990 by

my two English parents from Romania.

I spent the first years of my life in an orphanage. My journey through life

versus my journey through business is very, very different.”

Fiona Anderson, who has helped new

ventures and entrepreneurs over many years, talked to me about Start

Ups, Entrepreneurs and Building a Strong Network.

She said: “Where I can orchestrate

partnerships of collaborations, I do. They always have a positive outcome.”

Marc Convey, former MD of 23D and

co-founder at Thrive Now, a collective movement connecting a community

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

of people who desire to create a

had failed to invest in himself.

revealed how the business survived the

humans, spoke about From Childhood

He said: “When we got to 2020 and

they demonstrated their belief in Respect,

better world by being better, happier Trauma to Thriving Now.

He shared: “It’s 30 years this year since I

was in a fire and for the 30 years beyond that point I was just running into life,

head on, to almost make up for the stuff that I felt I’d lost in life. I was never on fire but I was trapped in a garage and

had to fight my way out. I was flatlining in the ambulance and was in a coma when I first got to the hospital.”

Lyndsey Clay, a qualified coach,

networking champion and social concierge, joined me to discuss

Breaking the Blueprint to be Happy.

sold a share of the business, we’d had

a fantastic journey, but had I really taken

most challenging of times in the 1990s, Accountability, Trust and Integrity.

the time to enjoy the journey - to reflect

Dan Wade, new practice development

the lows and all the things that come

PLC and co-founder and trustee at

at various moments on the highs and 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

manager at WPA Healthcare Practice

Table Talk Foundation, explained Why Everyone Should Work in Hospitality.

Hugely inspiring, he imparted information about his earlier years working in

kitchens - the banter, borderline bullying, but an amazing experience that taught

him about the power of teamwork, how

to develop a thick skin and enhance his strong work ethic.

sense of appreciation.”

Rob Starr, CEO and founder of

miscarriage, IVF and divorce, she said:

Ricky Whiting, an SEO expert, an author,

Starr Trust Charity, joined me to

during that time and I didn’t know what

co.uk, talked about From an Itty Bitty idea

Referring to the traumas of infertility,

“There were definitely some dark days life was going to look like now and

who was I without our relationship.

studio director and founder of Itty Bitty. to Marketing and Growing a Business.

Constantly changing job and looking for

He said: “I always think you’ve got the

feel like myself again.”

of course, and processes. They are all

that thing that was going to make me

Chris Goodman, co-founder and

three Ps. You’ve got your people, profit, important but, actually, people first.”

director of Focus Group, a UK

Brothers, Andy, Chris and Steve Tugwell

talked about how he achieved all his

conversation about Building a Business

telecommunications and IT business, goals but still felt unfulfilled - because he

from TSS Facilities joined me for a

on Strong Family Values. As well as

SEICO Group and chairman of the have a conversation about Taking on

Challenges and Life One Day at a Time.

One of the things that will stick with me

is him saying: “We all have 24 hours in a day. If you want to do something, find a way of doing it.”

Everyone has a story to tell...

Happy listening.

https://www.youtube.com/@

countybusinessstoriespodcast

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 13

Tips on how to maximise your dilapidations claim Helen Bell, Partner at Mayo Wynne Baxter, explains how a little knowledge can help landlords recover more.

Yes, this is a dry

Legal

subject and perhaps, to some, not that

interesting. However, by taking note, it

could make the difference between

recovering thousands of pounds and recovering little or nothing when the time comes.

Most properly prepared leases will

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contain the usual covenants requiring

Plan in advance

same condition as it was at the time the

At the end of the lease the landlord

the tenant to leave the property in the

lease was originally granted. A seasoned landlord will know that even where

the lease clearly sets out the tenant’s obligations, there are steps that they can take prior to the lease ending to

minimise their losses and the potential

letting void should the property be left in a noncompliant lease condition.

will generally be considering if the

tenant is liable for dilapidations. The relevant covenants of the lease to consider are usually:

• Repairing covenants

• Decorating covenants

• Covenants to comply with statute

L EGA L SP ON SO R

• Covenant to yield up the property in a specified condition

• Reinstatement covenant Properly drawn, the lease will include a covenant permitting the landlord to

differences in opinion of what repair works may be required increasing the possibility

of an early settlement thus saving costs.

enter the building for the purpose of

After the lease has expired

to inspect the property, and the detailed

When the lease has ended

inspecting the condition. It is advisable

terms of the lease, about 6 months prior to term end to record the condition and

inform the landlord’s strategy for dealing with any dilapidations.

Some leases, or licences to alter, may

include a clause that certain works must be reinstated prior to lease end but only on being given the requisite landlord’s

notice. Accordingly, an early inspection gives the landlord time to serve the

appropriate notice avoiding a complete defence by the tenant for any failure to reinstate the property.

Prepare and serve an Interim Schedule of Dilapidations

Different rules apply for the recovery of the costs of repairs by the landlord if

they are done during the lease than if

they are done after lease end. There are

various advantages to serving an interim schedule of dilapidations before the lease comes to an end:

• It gives the tenant time to undertake all the repairs therefore reduces the period between the tenant leaving

and the landlord being able to relet the property.

• If the tenant is obstructive, it gives

the landlord time to invoke a clause

permitting them to undertake the work themselves and recover the costs of doing so as a debt.

• It can act as notice to reinstate giving the tenant enough time to undertake reinstatement works which can sometimes be substantial.

• It can prompt a dialogue between the landlord and tenant where there are

the landlord must comply with the Dilapidations

Protocol otherwise known

as the Pre-Action Protocol for Claims for Damages in

relation to the physical state of commercial property at termination of a tenancy.

Helen Bell

The Protocol prescribes a

timetable for dealing with the

to delays and additional costs to deal

the Protocol may lead to a delay in

your house in order before being in a

dilapidations claim. A failure to follow

with technical defences and to put

recovery of damages and/or a court

position to make a claim.

an order disallowing certain costs of

Once the lease has expired the

sanction which is usually reflected by bringing the claim.

landlord’s ability to recover the costs of

The Protocol requires the landlord to

curtailed by section 18 of The Landlord

a quantified claim within 56 days of

cap on the damages that can be claimed

landlord is fully prepared and armed

covenants. This is why it is always better

surveyor as well as being conversant

dilapidations issues well in advance of

putting the property back into repair is

serve a schedule of dilapidations and

and Tenant Act 1927 which imposes a

the lease expiry. It is essential that the

arising from a breach of the repairing

with advice from a qualified building

for the landlord to start considering the

with the Protocol or has access to an

the lease coming to an end.

in property disputes. It is at this time

We at Mayo Wynne Baxter LLP have

how stringently should the landlord

Helen Bell who is ranked in Legal500

the costs and what are the risks? Every

happy to help navigate the Protocol

£200,000 then the advice may differ

and successful resolution to your

experienced and specialist legal advisor that matters of strategy come into play;

specialists in property litigation including

comply with the Protocol? What are

2023 and Chambers 2023. We are

case is different. If the dilapidations are

to maximise the prospect of an early

than if the dilapidations are £20,000.

dilapidations claim.

A well-prepared Protocol compliant

hbell@mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

Claim letter may reap dividends

www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

by placing the landlord in a strong position to negotiate a good

settlement. Conversely, if the claim

letter is non-complaint this can lead

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

Employment Law: What if industrial action affects your staff?

It is hard to avoid the news of various strikes, and how they are affecting the country as a whole. Many small employers will find that their staff are affected, even though they as a business are in an unaffected area.

It goes without saying

Legal

that businesses

directly linked to

workers in striking

areas, for example,

rail, will notice an immediate effect. The purpose of this article is not to discuss

the merits or otherwise of any industrial action, or even to deal with those who employ staff in directly affected areas,

but what specifically should employers

16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

do if any industrial action affects

employees ability to either get to, from, or even perform their role. In many

respects, being alive to the secondary

effects of industrial action is important

for small employers as, if staff are unable to work in full, this may have an adverse effect on the employer’s business.

Whilst different public sector workers are striking at different times, all of

the above issues could affect the workplace generally: 1. Rail strikes

It goes without saying that these are likely to be the most consequential

for unrelated employers. A number of issues could arise, the most obvious

being the inability of employees to either get to work or get home from work.

Given that such strikes are announced in

L EGA L SP ON SO R

Employers may be faced with a situation where employees refuse to co-operate, or feel they have no choice but to try

and enforce attendance. This course of

action should not be taken lightly. Firstly, do they have a contractual right to do so (unlikely), and secondly, what action will they take? An employee dismissed in

such circumstances would have a strong case for unfair dismissal.

2. Teaching staff strikes

The obvious knock on effect from any such industrial action, would be that staff are unable to attend work, or

potentially even work remotely, if they

Alex Jones

have unexpected childcare obligations as a result. Employer’s should, as with

the above, engage early, work out how

and which staff are affected, and try and reach compromise. Employers should also be aware that staff have the right

to take off emergency leave to deal with

dependent issues. A last minute childcare issue because issues had not been dealt with early, may come under that.

advance, employees and employers will have a clear timetable of any affected

days, and can plan in advance. The day

(particularly the evening) before, and the

morning after should also be considered as potentially affected periods. The

simple position is that staff may not be

able to attend work on those days, and employers should engage with them early about alternatives:

i) Is working from home possible? Many

office based employers already have a

hybrid workforce in place, and it would be reasonable for them to adjust working patterns on strike days;

ii) Are alternative forms of transport to work possible eg car shares, and if

Employers should also be aware

of potential discrimination issues

surrounding childcare issues. For

example, if there are teacher strikes,

and an employer refuses all requests

for time off to deal with this, that could be potential sex discrimination, as

statistically, women are more likely than men to face childcare obligations. By engaging early, employers will avoid potential claims.

3. NHS strikes

This type of industrial action could

have a secondary effect on employers, for example:

i) Staff may be out longer for preii) Those appointments may be moved on

they fund taxis?;

iii) Staff taking family members may

iii) Could annual leave or unpaid leave be used by agreement?

periods if treatment is harder to access.

As with the other examples above,

engaging early and agreeing a sensible policy and/or process is key.

As with any external issue that affects

employees, identifying that issue early,

considering possible effects, liaising with

employees and finding possible solutions will always put the employer in a better

position than being reactive. The ongoing effects of Covid-19 were an example of this. Those employers that continued

dialogue and identified solutions, avoided claims, and had a more harmonious relationship with their workforce.

Please always take advice on any staff related issues.

Alex Jones

365 Employment Law Solicitors Tel: 01903 863284

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

arranged appointments;

not, if the employer considers the

employee’s attendance crucial, could

iv) Staff could be off sick for longer

short notice;

have similar issues (and similar effects to 2 above);

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 17

Women in Law – the benefits of equality in the legal profession Caroline Watkins, EMW Law LLP’s Gatwick construction partner, offers some personal insights into equality in the legal world and the balancing of gender representation over the years.

As a grammar

Legal

school and university graduate from

Tunbridge Wells, I

was an optimist at the

time of embarking on my legal career.

The need for diversity hadn’t particularly crossed my mind. I had good female role models throughout school and

university and generally had no reason to believe that my entry into the legal

market would be in any way impeded by my gender.

I completed my training at a City

firm and soon the rose-tinted scales

began to fall. A partnership board of 95% men was unfortunately par for

18 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

the course in most firms. I started to understand gender bias, conscious and unconscious, and developed a

healthy dose of imposter syndrome.

As a relatively junior lawyer, I watched a good friend of mine walk out of her

office in tears after she’d been informed that her salary increase was less than

her male comparators for the third year running. No-one seemed to be able to tell her why, and complaining to senior

management felt like going against the hard-nosed professional exterior most

of us were trying to assume at that time (you fake it till you make it, right?).

It was around that point that I became

something that was an utter anathema to

the general expectations of an aspiring female City lawyer; a sole parent.

Suddenly beholden to the demands of the most unreasonable boss at home

as well as the less slightly unreasonable

demands of clients, the guilt of failing to deliver on both fronts was massive. It

turned out I was delivering; work liked me and I liked them, and it seems that my

son even likes me occasionally, but I had no idea – I was overwhelmed with my own perceived failure.

What can be done?

I have learned a lot since then and

become better at setting boundaries.

I’m still a people pleaser; I think most

lawyers are as providers of professional

L EGA L SP ON SO R

services. We like our clients and we want to do our best for them. That

should always be a given. I have also learned that there is always a way of getting the best out of people using

appropriate performance expectations,

mentoring and responsive management, in order to ensure that someone

delivering at home and at work doesn’t end up drowning and failing on both counts. This is supported by diary

management, effective communication with clients, keeping to deadlines and the use of smart technology which

records not only time but documents, contact with clients and business development to give employers

comfort that the agreed performance targets are being met.

Flexible working

“The term “flexible working” is

often heard but the scope of it is

misunderstood; legislation sets out the circumstances in which an employee

can make a request for flexible working and a flexible working policy is a

common requirement for employers.

But if an employer wishes to fully

equip their prospective workforce with

a remit in which they can best perform, we have seen that since the pandemic this is best achieved by adopting a flexible attitude and approach.

Measures such as flexibility in working from home and compressed or

reduced hours are excellent examples of good practice but the gold star

goes to employers that actively tackle gender bias, create opportunities that

are available to all and have the insight to recognise and develop skills in the

workforce that optimise the offering of the business in a manageable way.

Here at EMW, we have a progressive

approach including the ability to work

remotely from anywhere for up to 4 weeks per year. This is certainly something

that has helped me manage my family

commitments (particularly school holidays)

alongside the demands of

work. The leadership team at EMW Gatwick is fully gender-

balanced and we are backed

by the rest of the partnership being of the view that a

flexible approach is vital to our success.

Where are we now?

With 60% of entrants to the legal profession since 1990

being female, it is difficult to see why there isn’t gender

equality at partnership level on the basis of this statistic alone. Yet the Law Society,

Caroline Watkins

now on its seventh female president, has published

the Women in Law Pledge to which

businesses can sign up as a way of

making a commitment to supporting the progression of women into senior roles

by focusing on retention and promotion opportunities, and setting clear plans

and targets around gender equality and diversity. It is clear that there is still work to be done.

The Equality Act 2010, which sets out legal framework to protect the rights

of individuals from discrimination and

advance equality of opportunity for all, is 23 this year. Case law within the

UK (and the EU) has provided further guidance on its provisions since its

implementation. The UK Government has produced a very useful gender

equality roadmap for change which tackles the issue at the policy end of things, illustrating the limiting

attitudes to gender that start before

school even begins. Media-wise, we have experienced moments such as Australian Senator Larissa Waters

breastfeeding her baby while moving a motion in the Australian Federal

already incorporated into our society and the alerts in the UK Government

roadmap no longer accurately represent the British attitude to gender equality.

And it’s normal to be able to feed the baby and still do your job well.

Expectations of lawyers should be high; the profession needs to keep evolving, striving for excellence and putting

the needs of clients first. It’s why I entered the rewarding, challenging legal world in the first place. High

expectations that are realistic should encourage good performance, not

confound it by setting lawyers up to

fail with unreachable targets or badlymanaged client relationships. Thanks

to recognition and intervention from the

relevant authorities we are watching the sea change, and my optimism for the future is not diminished.

Caroline Watkins Principal

0345 074 2496

Caroline.Watkins@emwllp.com www.emwllp.com

Parliament in 2017. Perhaps the

endgame is where we have a working environment where the Pledge is

no longer necessary because this is

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

Getting your business in good legal shape for 2023 As we welcome in a new year our minds often turn not just to personal resolutions, but also to the goals that we want our business to achieve this year, explains Cognitive Law. Whether you’re a

Legal

fully-fledged business owner or looking to start a new venture

this year, now is the

perfect time to take stock and get your

house in order. Then you can get on with achieving those goals.

This may sound somewhat of a chore, so to help you on your way we’ve put

together some helpful tips on how to get

20 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

your business in order to hit the ground running for 2023.

Already running a business?

1. Look at the business plan

You may think you are completely au

fait with your business plan, but when was the last time you actually looked

at it properly? Go back and reacquaint

yourself with your goals, objectives and strategies, to give you an idea of where

you are against them. Congratulate

yourself for those you have achieved

and set new goals. Identify areas you

are underachieving in and put together a step by step plan of how you are going to overcome them. This will focus your

attention on where you are now, where you want to be and how you are going to get there.

2. Set new goals

Goals keep us motivated and give

L EGA L SP ON SO R

us something to focus on and work towards. Setting effective and

achievable business goals is at the heart of any good business goal strategy.

They might be personal income goals that are dependent on the success of

the business, they might be an exit plan or you may have other growth goals.

Whatever they are, remember to keep goals SMART – Specific, Measurable,

Achievable, Relevant, and Time bound.

Then incorporate them into this years Business Plan.

3. Review your cash flow

Cash flow is vital for the survival of any business. Look back over the last 12

months and identify how much revenue came in, how much was spent on

outgoings, and how much was left for

have overlooked building this year’s

Have you thought about profits, losses,

place throughout the year to enable

decision-making, differences in opinion

flow smoothly. Taking some time at the

you’ll just be able to agree anything,

in the pipeline will either reassure you, or

become, or how misunderstandings

pipeline. Marketing efforts should take

investment, minimum time to be spent,

the pipeline of incoming revenue to

on direction? Whilst you may think that

beginning of the year to review what is

it’s surprising how polarised views can

re-ignite your marketing activities.

at the outset can cause big problems

6. Keep up to date with the law

knows where they stand. Agreeing and

later. If it’s all written down, everyone

Keep on top of any changes that may

formalising the business relationship

or financially. Check there are no

where they stand.

which may impact how you do things or

3. Set out your stall

basic understanding of the law in your

how you do business. From payment

better and more informed decisions.

document in your terms of business the

affect your business, either operationally changes in the law heading your way

at the outset ensures everyone knows

your plan for the year ahead. Having a

Make it clear to your buyers or clients

business sector will allow you to make

terms to complaints, it’s crucial to clearly basis on which you are trading.

profit. Look at whether your outgoings

Starting a new business this year?

trim them to increase your profitability?

If 2023 is a year of change for you and

Negative thoughts couldn’t be further

into business with a trusted partner, you

to consider and guard against. What

carefully considered at the outset:

spouses or partners have a stake in

1. Business structure

divorce or split up? What if one of

have increased and if so, why. Can you Ensure you have tax reserves or that you have budgeted for tax over the coming year. Make sure you have headroom

between your income and outgoings so that if your income decreases andyour

outgoings increase, you are still solvent.

With a firm grasp on the basic profitability of the business and a well-rounded view of your cash flow, you can focus on the real activity for the year ahead.

4. Tidy up your accounts

It’s therapeutic to start the new year

with a clean slate. If you can, settle any

unpaid accounts and reduce your aged payables ledger. Collect all outstanding

accounts owed to you, to maximise your income. Don’t bury your head in the

sand! Having a strict credit management policy is key to keeping the cash flow coming into the business. Follow a

simple credit control procedure and

minimise the chance of debt recovery.

Tie up financial loose ends and know where you are going forward.

5. Review your pipeline

If you were busy last year, you may

4. Business Protection

you’re grasping the opportunity to go

from your mind but are so important

will need to ensure these 4 points are

will happen if one of you dies? If your the business, what happens if you

Partnership? Limited company? Limited

you becomes incapacitated, or your

of ways in which you can trade and

aligned? Not thinking about these

Depending on your circumstances, there

not documenting what will happen,

and differences in reporting

only animosity and stress but an

the ease with which the business

Court case to resolve matters.

to an end; and whether you want your

Having difficult discussions at the

the differences through with an adviser

can save a world of paid if it ends.

the business securely before you build it.

Whatever 2023 brings, Cognitive Law

2. Document your expectations

advice you may need for your business.

liability partnership? There are a number

business interests are simply no longer

share profits and losses in a business.

possibilities, and more importantly

are tax advantages and disadvantages,

is common and can result in not

requirements. You may want to consider

unnecessary, lengthy, and expensive

relationship can be changed or brought information to be publicly available. Chat to make sure you set the foundations of

beginning of a business relationship

will be here to help with any legal

Keeping arrangements between

Please do not hesitate to get in touch

are all very well BUT what if you both

we can help.

different view of what has been agreed?

www.cognitivelaw.co.uk

business partners ‘loose’ and ‘flexible’ come away from a meeting with a

with us on 0333 400 4499 if you think

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

FI N A NCE S PO NS O R

Does my accountant need to be qualified?

Unlike terms such as solicitor and barrister, which are protected by law, anyone can call themselves an accountant.

It is therefore

Finance

important to

recognise the

difference between

an accountant and a

qualified accountant.

The terms Chartered Accountant and

Chartered Certified Accountant can only

be used by someone holding the correct qualification. They are ICAEW (ACA) and ACCA respectively. You may also find

someone qualified under AAT, although many AAT qualified accountants go on

to study ACA/ACCA as they are a higher level of qualification.

When choosing an accountant, you

is to have a conversation and discuss

on their website for client testimonials or

qualifications to suit your needs.

accountants, and see who can provide

helped similar businesses.

At Plus Accounting we have staff with

relevant experience and expertise.

It may also be helpful to ask what quality

the ICAEW and we are also an ICAEW

The services you need can range widely

the membership of the professional

training requirements.

and the level of growth it is experiencing

members of the Mercia group, who

Choosing the right accountant for

want to keep certain areas in house

all our staff are kept up to date and they

these or you may want to outsource the

maintaining the correct standards.

should ensure that they have the correct

both qualifications, we are regulated by

your needs with one, or even multiple

the services you need, together with the

ask them for examples of how they have

control procedures are in place, alongside

given where your business currently is

accounting body. For example, we are

or trying to achieve. It may be that you

provide us with regular training, to ensure

my business

by hiring a team member to undertake

also review our work to ensure we are

When choosing an accountant, you

whole function.

and how you would like them delivered.

How can I ensure my accountant will

and ACCA approved employer for staff

should decide what services you require

As you can see there is a lot to think

about when choosing an accountant

Accountants can offer a selection of

provide a good service?

accounts, auditing, corporation tax

Along with ensuring the accountant has

and have the conversations you need

cashflow reporting, share valuations,

above, you should ensure they have

decision for your business.

types of services you require. The best

Plus Accounting - https://www.

services such as bookkeeping, annual returns, management accounting,

a relevant qualification, as mentioned

personal tax returns and many more!

the correct experience in delivering the

The best way to determine what you need

way to ascertain this would be to look

22 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

and understanding your needs first is

key, you can then do your own research too to ensure you make the best

plusaccounting.co.uk/

Commercial finance: investing today for tomorrow If you resolved that 2023 will be the year to push your business forward, finance is available, writes Andy Page, Head of Commercial Finance at Seico Group.

When was the last

Finance

time we’ve been

able to operate in a ‘normal’ business

environment? Ten

years? Twenty even?

The last three years have seen a

pandemic which continues to impact

the economy every day and prior to that

we’ve had Brexit, referendums, austerity and a financial crisis whose shock waves continue to be felt.

And that’s before we consider the wisdom of installing a revolving door at No 10.

These once in a generation/lifetime/

millennium events have come round with increasing regularity - anyone proposing to wait until everything calms down

before making that significant business

Andy Page

investment is likely to be left behind.

with their own preference and niche - at

to wait and that now is the right time

I can do that on your behalf to find the

you have formulated a plan. Whatever

your business. In my experience there

expenditure and for many people this

to every customer, as long as their

If you have decided you’re not prepared

Seico I speak with them regularly.

to grow your business then no doubt

right structure and pricing model for

it involves, that plan will require capital

is nearly always a lender to be matched

will have to be borrowed.

business plan is viable.

Despite a common perception at the

So if you’re looking to take the next

my experience of the market is that the

to raise the money, you may be in for a

moment that money is simply not there,

step, but figure that you won’t be able

opposite is true.

pleasant surprise.

Business lending was not subject to the

Please don’t be shy about getting in

market last Autumn. Deals were not

01273 778888 or via email:

volatility that was seen in the residential

touch with Andy Page for a chat on:

pulled, drawbridges were not raised and

commercial@seicogroup.com

finance is accessible to the business community, now.

There are many lenders out there, each

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

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

From a gut feeling to start a business to making gut-boosting sauerkraut A start-up success story: Savvy Ferments People start their

New Business

own business for

various reasons, from fulfilling a lifelong

passion project to

a side hustle for extra income. At the Business & IP Centre (BIPC) Sussex

we meet start-ups on daily basis with

their unique ideas and stories and we are excited to support them on their

We sat down with them for a short interview and to share their story.

Can you introduce yourselves?

We are Savvy and Stevo, a husband and wife team based in Brighton, and our

business is Savvy Ferments. We make unusual small batch flavours of raw unpasteurised sauerkraut.

business journeys.

What gave you the idea to start

One of these start-ups was Savvy

We started fermenting in the first

Ferments, who came to us just after the pandemic for some business

support and we have been following their journey and successes since.

24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

this business?

lockdown to earn some extra money,

as the pandemic affected our jobs and livelihood as it did for many people.

Then we realised there was a fast-

growing interest in raw fermented food in the city. We decided to combine our skills and go into business together – to make flavourful and gut-boosting

ferments for the people of Brighton and beyond! Stevo is the brains behind our incredible and eye catching branding and I’m the queen of the flavours.

Why the name Savvy?

Savvy: Well, my name is Savita which is primarily a female name of Indian origin

that means ‘Best In The Universe’ - yep hippie parents! And as my nickname

is ‘Savvy’, it seemed serendipitous to call our kraut SavvyKraut which is of course...The Best in the Universe!

N EW B U SI N ESS SP ON SO R

How did you learn to make sauerkraut?

Savvy: My food journey began in the

excellent natural alternatives to taking probiotic supplements.

70’s. Born to hippie parents I was

We make live culture food that is

diet. Our house was always filled with

accessible to anyone wishing to

stews. I remember being at school in

delicious flavours and showing people

with my rice cakes, tahini, and alfalfa

much more fun for everyone to begin to

brought up on a vegetarian wholefood the smell of spices, herbs, curries, and the 80s and feeling like a total freak sprout sandwich!

delicious, nutritious, affordable and improve their gut health. Making

how to use it on the plate makes it so heal from the inside.

Today though, I am so grateful for my

We make our SavvyKraut sauerkraut in

fuelled my love of nourishing food and

fresh. And with five banging flavours to

healthy upbringing and how it has

bi-monthly small batches so it’s always

bold flavours. As a sufferer of M.E.,

choose from there’s a kraut for every

has had a profound improvement

20 shops & cafes across Brighton, Hove

I have found eating fermented foods on my energy levels. I found lot of

shop bought sauerkraut just wasn’t delivering on flavour so I started to

tastebud! We are currently stocked in and Greater Sussex.

Where do you get ideas for new

make my own, using my love and

sauerkraut flavours?

make the sort of banging kraut my

cook and I’m excited by all the possible

knowledge of spices and flavour to taste buds were crying out for.

Why is making sauerkraut important to you?

Savvy: I am inspired by dishes I like to combinations of herbs and spices you

can use in fermented food. I don’t go for

traditional flavours as I’m all about breaking the mould and pushing the boundaries of

Savvy Ferments and what have you most enjoyed?

There are many areas of the business

that have been really rewarding but one

of the big highlights has been seeing the reactions of people when they eat our

SavvyKraut at the markets. Customers are naturally reticent as the idea of

fermented cabbage is not particularly

appealing but once people try it, they are blown away by the incredible flavours.

Hearing people’s feedback first hand is really valuable.

We’ve also learned so much about

business and one another. Learning

how to work together and enhance each other’s skills, Savvy as the inventor of

the flavours and Stevo as the designer of the brand. We could not be at this point with the business without one another.

It’s helped strengthen our belief that we can run a business well and make it a

success. Learning how to work together to make delicious food has created

massive new opportunities for us in a

fantastic city that loves eating healthily!

We believe that eating superfoods

what people expect sauerkraut to taste

How did the Business & IP Centre

health and general wellbeing. It’s

use a lot of limes, jalapenos and paprika so

journey?

is integral to promoting good gut

like. For instance, I love Mexican food and

become scientific fact that eating raw

this is what inspired my Jalapeno & Lime

& unpasteurised ferments such as

kefir, kombucha, kimchi and kraut help to boost our immunity and are also

Savvykraut flavour.

What is the best part about running

Sussex help you on your business BIPC have given us expert guidance on how to grow our business sustainably.

Initially through the Reset Restart

Programme and then with follow on

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 25

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

one-to-one sessions, we’ve become comfortable navigating areas of the

business that we would otherwise have struggled to understand.

The team are friendly, knowledgeable and have always gone out of their way to give the personalised support we’ve needed for our fermentation business! And we

are SUPER proud to have been featured

as a new Brighton business on this year’s promotional material to promote the incredible services of BIPC Sussex!

What does a typical day look like for you both, running your business?

Our mornings vary a lot depending

on where we are in the month. Every

morning starts with strong coffee and a

catch-up on what’s to be done over the

Yum Thai which has the most prep and

Jen Sincero - You Are A Badass

ingredients to consider.

Will Bulsiewicz - Fibre Fuelled

If it’s a ‘jarring & labelling’ week then this

What are your future plans for the

not making products. Our days either

We’re really excited about growing our

research & development, marketing, new

people across the UK to try our smashing

too will be spread across a week we’re

business?

side of making and jarring are used for

business to a nationwide scale, enabling

business, and admin.

flavours. We are also developing some

Trying to keep our weekends free but this

which don’t yet exist in the UK food

doesn’t always happen…ask our kids!

market. Watch this space!

What advice would you give someone

Would you like to be our next

“Life is either a daring adventure, or

Get in touch with BIPC Sussex to book a

and behave like free spirits in the presence

Information Specialist, so we can help

starting a new business, or in general?

free one-to-one session with one of our

of fate is strength undefeatable.”

you develop your business idea or grow

Where are you most likely to be found

If it’s a ‘make’ week, we work out our

At the beach with our kids, hiking

which flavours we’ll make each day.

Some flavours are more physical

and also take longer to make, so we

normally start the week with an easier

in Brighton?

across The Downs, exploring Stammer Park or checking out the amazing

markets and independent stores and eateries around Brighton!

make such as our Chilli Dilli Beets. By

Seeing as BIPC Sussex is based in

and so that’s when we take on the Tom

impacted you?

the end of the week we’ll be in full flow

26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

success story?

nothing. To keep our faces toward change

coming week.

ingredient requirements and decide

really exciting new fermented products

libraries… tell us what books have

your existing small business.

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

New year, new workspace?

Enjoy a free week of coworking at Plus X! Monday 23rd - Friday 27th January Whether you're a large established business looking for a new workspace for 2023, a growing startup needing a new environment to spark ideas with your team, or just a freelancer wanting a change of scenery, register to enjoy a whole week of free access to our inspirational innovation hub!

Enjoy full membership benefits - including access to our member-only events

Scan me to register today!

Plus, have a nutritional lunch on us from our Café!

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

Rubix VT - 25 years in the making It’s hard to believe that Rubix VT has only been around for just over two years. The Rubix branding seems to be everywhere, and you can almost guarantee meeting one of the team at a Sussex networking event. Rubix VT appears to be the textbook example of an overnight success story. In fact, the Rubix journey is 25 years in the making.

Nick Poyner,

Cover Story

Rubix founder and

Managing Director,

started his telecoms

career back in 1998.

Having been in the telecoms industry

for a quarter of a century, Nick has seen

huge changes in comms technology and experienced all the peaks and troughs.

28 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

For Nick, some things remain constant:

the need to provide an excellent service and to understand what the customer really needs.

The quality that he has always

possessed is the determination to

succeed and keep learning. Rubix isn’t Nick’s first attempt to build his own

telecoms company, but he has learnt from previous ill-fated ventures.

Nick says: “I always harboured an

ambition to have my own telecoms

business, but things didn’t go smoothly before when I tried to strike out on my own. I had a couple of costly failed

attempts. I trusted the wrong people and

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

Rubix didn’t just launch in a recession – it came to life at a time during a

pandemic when people were uncertain if they would ever return to the workplace.

“I probably chose the worst time to launch Rubix VT,” Nick reflects. “In made mistakes, but I always had the belief I could make it work one day.”

It is a case of third time lucky. Rubix VT is a dynamic and welcome addition to the local business scene.

It is often said that a recession

can be a great time to start a new

business. Some of the most successful businesses launched in a downturn

including Microsoft, Airbnb, WhatsApp

and JD Sports. The thinking is that if you can thrive when times are tough, then

you will be well placed to grow when the economy sparks up again. And there

are advantages – it can be easier to find talented people and there may be less business competition.

October 2020, the country had just

entered its second lockdown, but for me, personally, the time was right.

“I was working for a company that wasn’t treating its people well and I didn’t share its values. I wanted a business where the people are

respected. The planets aligned and I decided to jump in with both feet.”

Just over two years later, Rubix VT is firmly established and is enjoying a

sustainable and consistent growth phase.

SBT sat down with Nick to find out more about his business journey

How did you first get into the telecoms

industry – and what did you do before?

I was working in recruitment at Brooke

Street and I was doing very well sourcing people for Cavendish Communications

in Newhaven and, one day, a role came

in and I thought why not go for it myself.

Effectively I placed myself.

I did enjoy working in recruitment. I even

managed to place Ian Trevett into Sussex Life Magazine – which was quite an

achievement! Maybe I couldn’t beat that!

Brooke Street played an important part

at the very start of my career. I wanted to leave school as soon as I was allowed, so at the age of 16, I left school on the

Thursday and on the Monday, I was at a Brooke Street temp agency in London.

They said they had nothing for me, but I can be very persistent. I just waited and waited in the office until they ‘suddenly’ found something for me. They just

wanted to get me out of the office.

My first temp job was for London

Underground doing data entry but soon

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 29

COVE R STO RY S P ON S OR

ISDN lines, which many businesses are

still using. Every phone line in the UK will

become digital with all calls routed over the internet (usually referred to as VOIP calls).

The demand will be very high, but I am

determined that we will only offer services that will benefit a customer and will offer a genuinely useful consulting service.

We are here for the long haul, and our reputation is very important to me.

How did you succeed in telecoms sales?

Firstly, through hard work. Sales can be tough. You have to pick up the

phone and knock on doors. You will get rejections and deals can fall through after you have committed a great

amount of time and effort. You need to found something far more interesting.

I started working at a barristers’

chambers and I was sent on prison

visits, police interviews and to court to take notes. I was 16 and unqualified

but it didn’t seem to matter then. It was exciting and sometimes a bit scary - I did hear about some horrific cases.

I intended to do my A levels and study law at university but the trouble was I

was now used to earning money - and I liked it too much!

Instead, I got a Trainee Manager position at Sainsburys which meant a relocation from Kent to Brighton (the Lewes Road store). I have lived here ever since, and

my three children were born in the city. I met my wife, Clare, when we were both

working in the bar at The Fortunes of War. How did you take to working in the telecoms sector?

I started in telecoms at the perfect

time. There were so many opportunities out there, it was just a matter of being professional and focused.

30 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

There was a great deal of uncertainty

be resilient and keep going.

there were real fears that computers

I have always been a firm believer that

programs had set up date fields with

building strong personal relationships is

there was serious alarm that when the

customers over the years, and I like to

1999, the computers would read the

the extra mile to ensure I have offered an

about the upcoming Millennium as

would crash. Early computer software

people do business with people, and

only two digits for the year. As a result,

essential. I have made many friends with

clock struck midnight on December 31st

think that they trust me. I will always go

year ‘00’ as 1900, and the result would

excellent service.

be a global tech meltdown.

Added to this, it is important to be

Businesses and governments spent

knowledgeable about the products you

computer systems, and the same applied

new innovations.

either replacing or upgrading phone

You had a couple of unsuccessful

hardly keep up with the demand.

business. What went wrong and what

billions on software fixes for their

for telecoms software. The solution was systems and, as an industry, we could

We all took full advantage by using fear

are selling and to keep informed about

attempts at starting your own did you learn?

to sell. I didn’t mind at all at the time but,

Quite simply, I went into business

way to do business.

mistake of trusting them. I won’t go

We have another big deadline coming

down, and it shook my faith in working

be permanently switching off the UK’s

my own for this reason. Hopefully I am a

looking back, I don’t think that is the

with the wrong people and I made the into the details, but I was very badly let

up as in 2025, when BT Openreach will

with other people. I started Rubix VT on

analogue telephone network, including

better judge of character now.

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

Nick Poyner Quickfire Q&A Ideal holiday?

Somewhere where I can learn

something new, a place with a

distinct culture and local food.

Pub roast or Michelin star restaurant?

Michelin Star.

Favourite film?

The Godfather.

Dream dinner party guests?

Arsene Wenger, Oliver Reed,

Tom Hanks, Michelle Obama,

James Martin, Ella Fitzgerald,

Jools Holland, Robert De Niro, James Gandolfini and Quentin What was the motivation for starting Rubix VT?

I did go through some very painful

any longer in a business where people weren’t being treated well.

What were the challenges you faced

experiences when I had my own

when starting the business?

wanted to get my head down and earn

I had a clear idea of what I wanted

wasn’t long before the urge to start my

too much of a rush. I tried to grow the

businesses and, for a while, I just

the money I needed for my family. But it

to achieve but, in hindsight, I was in

own business came back.

company too quickly and recruited too

I have worked with many people in the

proper due diligence, and I recruited

well and what doesn’t. I have been ready

business cycle. Although I had built up

sufficient funds to finance the start-up.

out of control. I had to make some very

hastily. I employed some people without

industry, and I have seen what works

some very good people too early in the

for a long time, but I wanted to build up

financial reserves, the wage bill got a bit

People need to be paid when you are

hard decisions.

building the business.

I truly believe we have got it right now.

In the end, I decided the time was

We have a talented and hardworking

for a company where the culture was

the business in a sustainable manner.

you should always treat your people

now, but I will take a more thoughtful

right when I found myself working

core team, and we are now set to grow

unacceptable to me. I firmly believe that

We are looking to take more people on

with respect. I couldn’t face working

approach to recruitment.

Tarantino.

What advice would you give to 18-year-old self?

Start your own gig.

Biggest mistake in business?

Trying to run to fast and thinking I can do everything myself.

Proudest moment in business?

Seeing people who we’ve

trained come through and achieve their goals.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A mix of still being involved with Rubix but also having

some form of charity and a mentorship programme for young people.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31

COVE R STO RY S P ON S OR

There is nothing more important in a

business than the people. We have a

young sales team (Phoenix Young, Will

Farthing and Sean Hurley) who all have a great attitude and are keen to learn.

I have total faith in Jazmin Palmer who heads up the support operations and in Ekaterina Shakirova who manages the finances. And I brought in Ian

Trevett to have a fresh look at telecoms marketing. We have a tight, ambitious team – and I think (and hope) that our people enjoy working for Rubix.

How important is the company culture?

It is at the heart of everything I want

to achieve. I am determined to grow a business with the right values and ethics. This means treating the staff with respect and ensuring they are

part of the journey. It also means being transparent and offering a high level of customer service.

I truly believe in giving something

back and supporting local charities.

32 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Last year, we raised some money to help send a lovely young boy called Loui Legend to America for life-

changing surgery. We have enjoyed working with the Rockinghorse

About Rubix VT

Children’s Charity and we are inspired by the work of The Starr Trust,

which helps young people fulfil their

Telecoms. Simplified.

Rob Starr and the team in 2023.

Rubix VT keeps things simple.

potential. We will be do more with

Just over two years in, are you happy with the progress of the business?

Absolutely. I learnt a lot from the

growth of The Focus Group, which has been enormously successful. Ralph

and Chris built the business through a

mix of acquisition and organic growth.

Early on we acquired two companies

and we have grown steadily ever since.

We are now at the end of year two

and we are now exceeding £1million annual turnover.

The journey is just starting. And

2023 will be very exciting. We have

some big plans – watch this space!

Telecoms doesn’t need to be complex.

The team at Rubix will recommend the flexible phone system that genuinely helps your business.

Whether you work at home or in the

office, whether you make calls using

a desk phone, mobile or laptop, they will get you connected.

Contact Rubix at hello@rubixvt.com or call 020 3740 4923. www.rubixvt.com

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

Sponsor

Media Partner

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33

SU S S E X BUS I N E S S T I M E S

Brighton Paradox

A peculiar adventure of 10 podcast investigations, looking at Brighton & Hove’s first years of city status - and what this might tell us about the near future.

Throughout 2022, I

SBT

got really nosey about Brighton & Hove.

A city I have lived,

worked or played in since 1996. Where

I went to school and college, where my wife and children were born, my first

job, where my business is registered, where my heart calls home.

But during the lockdowns, I didn’t step foot inside the city for over a year. For the first time in over two decades.

I found myself observing the place

and its people, culture and economy

34 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

from outside, in my Worthing crow’s nest. I felt detached and homesick

and admiring, as well as angry and

bewildered. The best of society and innovation, tech and compassion

was writ large during the peak of the

exist somewhere so small and with

so much social and creative capital.

Constant paradoxes - of unique

ingenuity and talent meeting paralysis and self-limiting behaviour.

pandemic - with amazing efforts of

Why?

and communities.

What is really happening in 2020s

creativity to grow ideas, connections

But I was also watching a fragile

economy with so many people feeling unsupported; a city more reliant on

tourism and students than it wanted to admit; and deep inequalities, fault-

lines and poverty that just shouldn’t

Brighton and what does this mean for the next decade?

My curiosity took me on a strange

quest to find out, creating over 100

hours of audio from over 60 interviews.

I’ve trawled reports, stats, newspaper

SU SSEX BU SI N ESS T I M E S

columns, essays and social media

to try and piece together an idea of

how Brighton & Hove might thrive in the coming years. I’ve been making

podcasts for over five years and enjoyed countless investigations in that medium, so it seemed a good place to start.

The Brighton Paradox was born - and

will start to be made public this month.

This peculiar adventure is a 10 part podcast investigation, looking at

Brighton & Hove’s first years of city

status, and what this might tell us about the near future.

1. The Edge

Episode one looks at Brighton in the 80s and 90s, the merger with Hove and the impact of winning city status in 2001.

2. Hail Guest!

What is a Brighton & Hove ‘welcome’?

This episode explores the challenge

of (in)equality, charity, sanctuary and

inclusion with Caroline Lucas and Dr Carlie Goldsmith.

3. Omertà

Does the city suffer from groupthink?

This episode looks at diversity of

thought, culture and who is ‘allowed’ to speak their mind in 21st century Brighton & Hove.

4. The Fifth Supercity

What is Brighton famous for right now?

What has put the city on the map in the past 20 years? This episode asks tricky questions from leaders in business and culture, with a close look at Big Beach Boutique, Brighton SEO, The Brighton

Summit and The Brighton Festival

maverick individuals and collective, co-

amongst others.

operative, networks is one of its biggest

5. Food & Football

leadership needed to drive change over

paradoxes. What does this mean for city

Brighton & Hove Albion’s rising star is

the next decade and beyond?

How? And can Brighton be both a foodie

10. The Cusp

Featuring an exclusive interview with Paul

prosperity doesn’t have to be left to

& Hove Food Partnership, HISBE and The

city is on the cusp of something big?

changing perceptions of Brighton, globally. heaven AND a city of 44 foodbanks?

The future of Brighton & Hove’s

Barber as well as innovators from Brighton

chance, or external agents. What if the

Compost Club.

This final episode stitched together a

6. Superfusion

wide array of thoughts.

A number of major academic studies

This is a hugely collaborative

tech as the key to Brighton’s economic

projects and strategy company, always

And is it still true? We explore pioneers

provided state-of-the-art technical

incubators and creative tech research.

and help with production costs.

7. Living & Learning

have opened doors with ideas, finance

identified the fusion of creativity and

endeavour, led by multi award-winning

growth. But does everyone know this?

possible. Plus X Innovation Hub has

of co-working spaces, business

facilities, planning space, introductions

Does Brighton & Hove equal London

Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club

and time – and the first launch party will

prices but Eastbourne’s wages? Some

be at the Amex Stadium.

Brighton’s lifestyle, sea air and unique

Lo Fi Arts are the production

London renaissance of health, education

Brighton’s Help To Grow Management

say that the pandemic has shown how

eco-system may lead to a radical counter-

wizards, UnitedUs and University of

innovation and opportunity. Will it?

Programme are valued project

8. The Laboratory

by Fatboy Slim and Noraay. Media

Brighton has a problem in scaling up

partners. Music has been provided and marketing support from Sussex

big ideas. But maybe that also suggests

Business Times and Fox&Bear.

Brighton & Hove be its talent for testing,

We couldn’t have done it without any of

others are slow to realise? The UK’s, or

listen and maybe find some inspiration.

its strength? Could the future of

and demonstrating, the possibilities that even the world’s, ideas lab…?

9. Leadership

Brighton’s power tussle between

these guys. And now it’s over to you, to

To hear the first episodes of The

Brighton Paradox as they land, visit alwayspossible.co.uk/paradox

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CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Wolo Africa 100 Trail Run and Trek In partnership with Africa Wild Trails, and hosted by Zingela Safari & River Company, a team of runners and hikers set out on a mammoth multi-day mission to raise money for Wolo, a Sussex charity supporting families affected by cancer.

The team embarked on an incredible 10day journey through Charity the African bush, the Tugela River and rural Zulu communities.

Running or trekking 16 miles a day for six days through areas where there is plenty of wildlife, wonderful scenery and friendly people. The terrain was varied but predominantly undulating game paths, dotted with tall standing aloes and acacias.

There was an underlying ethos of nature conservation, with the mission culminating in the release of a giraffe to help increase the gene pool of the current population - essential to the future of this vulnerable species.

After arrival at Durban International Airport, and transfer to the lodge, the team were greeted by the team leader, and an initial trail briefing during dinner. This was followed by a talk around the fire about giraffe conservation from a local ecologist.

Day two consisted of a short acclimatisation run and trek, followed by

36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

the group spending time getting to know each other, and a dip in the river! Others went kayaking, and there was plenty of wildlife and views to enjoy.

Days three to seven were when the 100mile journey began! Averaging 16 miles a day, the team ran or trekked through a variety of stunning and inspiring locations, ranging from game reserves to rural villages. Spending 2 nights at Emaweni Camp, the team had the opportunity to visit 2 local communities.

Chris Goodman, a participant, said: “At two locations we were treated to wonderful hospitality. They performed traditional dances and sang songs. We tasted their ‘grog’, a fermented maize beer. We ate boiled maize - much like popcorn.

Everyone smiled and laughed, and we were left feeling blessed and privileged to have been welcomed into their communities.”

It was an early start for part of the group on day eight, as they went to Nambiti Private Game Reserve to witness the capture of the giraffe that would be released later that day. The group

managed to capture two male giraffes, named Wolo and Logan, ready to be released back into the wild.

Chris said of the moment after the release: “The team of handlers, researchers and vets were all on hand to make sure the release went according to plan, and once in position the two giraffes were released. Slightly wobbly at first, they stumbled out, but were soon striding out through the acacia trees. It was a humbling moment. The culmination of years of research and then funding to bring about what will in time secure the future of the giraffes in Emaweni and Zingela. A truly emotional moment for all the group, after completing 100 miles, this was definitely a WOLO moment!”

“As we drove away, awestruck by what we’d just witnessed, we were only just beginning to realise the significance of the past week. It wasn’t just about the 100 miles, or raising money to support cancer sufferers, it was the very essence of Wolo. We only live once; and with that one life, we must protect the future of our planet so that those who come after

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

us have a sustainable and vibrant planet in which to live theirs.”

The rest of day eight was spent at Nambiti Private Game Reserve. Some well-earned time to relax and enjoy a safari, where they were lucky enough to see lions, elephants, rhinos and buffalo in their natural habitats.

The following day, the group departed Nambiti for their flights home, secure in the knowledge of just how big a challenge they had completed, and the beginning of the realisation of the impact the journey had on their lives.

Participants completed this challenge to raise funds for Wolo Foundation. In reality, they not only helped to raise funds for Wolo, they also embarked on a personal journey, made life-long friends, and had a life-changing experience. Their efforts also helped to secure the future generation of giraffes in the country. What a trip!

If you are interested in raising money for a local charity and creating an African journey with memories that will last a lifetime in 2023, please visit wolofoundation.org for more information.

About the Wolo Foundation Its mission is to help improve the quality of life of families in Sussex affected by cancer.

Wolo stands for ‘we only live once’, 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.

Husband and wife team, Justin and Fler Wright set up Wolo Foundation after a cancer diagnosis of their own. With three

young children to support, they were shocked at what little help there was out there for families like theirs. Knowing they didn’t want others to go through it like they did, ignited a little flame inside their hearts - and that’s 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 help and support to make their dayto-day lives easier. They work with other charities, local businesses and communities to offer families a wealth of services to support them through diagnosis, treatment and beyond.

Who does 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 does Wolo help?

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

How you can help Wolo is looking for anyone who can

offer a service to a family going through cancer treatment - whether it be therapy, childcare, legal help, memory making opportunities, counselling, gardening, decorating, car maintenance or a meal - literally anything! These can all funded through the charity. Wolo are passionate about collaboration with businesses, community groups and other charities to help make a difference to the lives of local families going through cancer.

Wolo hold a variety of fundraising events throughout the year and are always looking for willing participants who want to help raise funds by doing a skydive, wing walk, ice bath or similar.

Wolo are seeking 100 businesses/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.

Statistics show that 1 in 2 people in the UK born after 1960 will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Life is precious - we need to make the most of it - we only live once - Wolo! contact@wolofoundation.org wolofoundation.org For the second year running, Wolo Foundation in collaboration with Africa Wild Trails, will deliver an international charity run, trek/adventure fundraiser in September/October 2023 Limited places available. Register your interest/find out more here: https://wolofoundation.org/woloafrica-100-2023

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 37

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Businesses rose to challenge to support sick children at Christmas Rockinghorse Children’s Charity stages spectacular light display at hospital to bring the magic of the festive season to everyone.

The Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital was the setting for a Charity magical light display with local businesses, charity supporters and the community coming together to wish sick children a Merry Christmas.

change their plans. A cough that doesn’t go away, a temperate that keeps on rising or an accident waiting to happen.

ensure families can spend some time together no matter what is going on for them during this festive period.”

“At Rockinghorse, we support all children and their families. We do anything we can to help them feel more at home in hospital at Christmas.”

Helping make Christmas happen

In the run up to Christmas, Rockinghorse Children’s Charity ran their ‘Be a Rockinghorse Star’ campaign, which raised funds ensure no child visiting or staying in hospital last Christmas missed out on the festive fun.

Every year Rockinghorse brings Christmas to children in hospital, delivering advent calendars and gifts to children in hospital, putting on Christmas parties and festive activities, bringing Santa, reindeer, donkeys and dogs to the hospitals, as well as delivering Christmas meals and hampers to families on Christmas day.

The charity created a magical light projection on the side of the children’s hospital to wish all the children and their families and very Merry Christmas and to thank the staff who worked over Christmas.

Spending time in hospital over the festive period 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 Christmas at home with their family, not to mention being scared and worried about their treatment.

Donna Holland, CEO of Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, said: “Christmas is an especially busy time for the charity.

We support the families who already know they are going to be in hospital at Christmas. They’ve just got a diagnosis, or their child is already sick. They know that Christmas day will be spent on a ward, in a treatment room or having surgery.

“We also support the families who don’t know they are going to be in hospital yet.

Something will happen that will completely

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Dr Oli Rahman, Chair of Trustees at Rockinghorse and Paediatric Consultant at The Alex, describes the difference this makes to children and their families. He said: “Each year we see increasing numbers of children and young adults coming to the Emergency Department at the Children’s Hospital.

The last few weeks have been incredibly busy, and we have struggled to cope with the demand. We see worried parents concerned about their child’s symptoms, children with serious illnesses, babies struggling to breathe and feed and teenagers facing serious mental health issues.

“Christmas is a particularly difficult time for so many. The support that Rockinghorse gives to children and their families is vital, especially now as the NHS struggles to cope with the increased demand over winter. The toys bring joy and distraction from difficult and sometimes painful procedures, the festive activities ensure that the patients don’t miss out on fun and learning, and the meals and hampers

A range of Sussex businesses gave generously to support Rockinghorse’s Christmas Be a Star campaign - including Rubix VT, a telecommunications company based in Sussex, who have supported the largest Super Star in the display.

Nick Poyner, Managing Director at Rubix VT said: “At Rubix VT, we are always keen to do what we can to support the wonderful work of the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity.

“It feels even more important at Christmas time. Christmas is a magical time of the year for children and Rockinghorse excels at making sure no-one feels left out. It is hard to be in hospital or suffering during the festive period, so the team at Rockinghorse do their best to bring the joy of the season.

“Children in hospital often worry if Father Christmas will find them. The people at Rockinghorse point Santa in the right direction! How could we not support Rockinghorse?”

Other local businesses who have kindly supported the campaign include ILG, Mascol Events, County Business Clubs Sussex, Golden Lion Group, ABNAmro, Cloud9 Insight, Creative Pod, Second Voice and Mattioli Woods.

Find out more about how you can support Rockinghorse at: www.rockinghorse.org.uk

The Rockinghorse

Join us at the Grand Hotel in Brighton on 4 March 2023 for a sparkling evening Book now:

www.rockinghorse.org.uk 01273 330044

Headline sponsor

Supporting sponsors

Living Room Health

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 39

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Charity boss filmed by BBC as he completes 52nd Olympic distance triathlon Rob Starr, founder and chairperson of the Starr Trust charity, raised over £100,000 and was greeted by crowds of well-wishers - including Olympian Daley Thompson and the BBC South Today film crew.

Rob Starr made the pledge to Charity undertake this world record breaking personal challenge in December 2021 and completed his first triathlon of the challenge on 1st January 2022, continuing weekly thereafter throughout the year and finishing all fifty-two ahead of time on 30th November 2022.

Olympic Gold Medallist Daley Thompson CBE was amongst those cheering Rob on at the finish line, having praised his dedication and commitment to raise over £100k in support of numerous disadvantaged young people in Sussex.

Mr Thompson said: “I was never in any doubt Rob would get the job done. It takes a certain type of person to take on a challenge like this and Rob is certainly not one to make things easy for himself!

I look forward to hearing about all the young people this enables the charity to help over the coming year.”

Sussex based charity, the Starr Trust removes roadblocks for young people and the funds raised will support many including nineteen year old wheelchair tennis player Nathan, who has Cerebral Palsy. Nathan’s dream is to make it to the next Paralympics playing the sport he loves and the funds raised will cover the cost of a new wheelchair he needs to give him the best chance of success.

Wheelchair Tennis Player Nathan Freeman

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Rob Starr completes year long triathlon challenge.

said: “I can’t believe Rob has done this for me and other young people in need, it’s amazing, I don’t know how he does it. Rob and the Starr Trust make me feel I can achieve anything. They are such a big part of my family and are literally making this dream possible for me.”

The Starr Trust has a large number of applications from young people in need and funds raised through Rob’s challenge will support many of the new applicants reaching out for help from the charity. Awards of up to £5,000 are granted to young people aged 10-25 years to help them succeed and thrive in whatever they put their minds to. More information on how to apply is here: www.starrtrust.org/apply Likened to Forrest Gump for his determination, Rob said: “Fifty-two Olympic Distance Triathlons completed this year and thank goodness for that.

This was certainly one of my harder mental challenges rather than physical and I learnt a lot about myself and how important resilience really is.

“I certainly lived this year fixated on my main mantra of ‘control the controllables and accept the uncontrollables’. There

are so many people to thank, and I will be doing that for sure, but right now a huge thank you to everyone who helped and supported me.

“We raised an astonishing £105,000 and I hope more will come in as we have so many Young Starrs to support next year. And as for next year, to answer the question I keep being asked ‘what is next?’, all I can say is I have no idea – and that is always the exciting bit!”

The Starr Trust is extremely grateful to every single person who has supported so far for their generosity in helping to raise over £105,000. Special thanks to: Parks Agencies, Best of British Events, Brighton i360, Healys Solicitors and many more.

View the BBC South Today news feature here: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=JjZWKyUNdzQ A weekly blog documenting Rob’s challenge: www.starrtrust. org/52x52-challenge Fundraising link to make a kind donation is here: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/52x52triathlonchallenge Images by Stephen Lawrence

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www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 41

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

County Business Clubs’ Christmas charity fundraiser helps Sam hit target £10,000 raised for leading children’s charity at hotel event in Brighton

County Business Clubs

Networking & Events

ended 2022 in style

with a Christmas party charity fundraiser.

Staged on December 15th at the

fantastic Malmaison Hotel, Brighton, it

attracted the patronage of 100 friends, members and supporters from County Business Clubs’ growing community.

The party was the final event of Sam Thomas’s £10k Trustee Challenge,

raising money for the Rockinghorse Children’s charity.

After a year of doing a variety of different challenges - running a half marathon,

hosting the Rockinghorse Ryder Cup, completing 55 holes of golf in a day,

jumping out of a plane with my 76 year old dad, completing my first Olympic

triathlon and a 24 hour podcast - it has certainly been quite a year!

Sam said: “I am so grateful to everyone who has supported me over the year,

42 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

attended an event, sponsored me or

have our friends from Letters in Lights

reached my target without you and the

as well as the incredible magic mirror.

made a donation. I could not have

providing the fabulous CBC light display

party was a perfect way to celebrate.

The magic mirror is so much fun, helping

“On the night, thanks to your generosity,

attendees and I would highly recommend

to capture some magic moments with

we raised over £1,500 on the raffle. That

using Alison and the team to add that

took me over the £10k target.

something truly special to any event.

“Special thanks to Matt Warren and the

“The event was the perfect way to finish

who donated £500 on the night and

grateful to everyone who attended and

and Carpenter Box, who sponsored the

County Business Clubs this year.

throughout the year.

“Special thanks to other sponsors

“The event highlighted the power of

Insurance Brokers, EMC Corporate

when we come together and hopefully

Management and Plus X.

team at Structured Communications

the year an,d once again, I am truly

our corporate supporters, Creative Pod

everyone who has supported me and

event. They also supported other events

community and the impact we can have help change peoples lives.”

this year go to Search Seven, Preston Finance, Accredo, Engage Wealth

“Thanks to the brilliant County Business

Sam added: “The food and staff at

Clubs team and each and everyone of

amazing venue to host an event.

to support. Let’s have a cracking 2023!”

factor to the night, we were delighted to

www.countybusinessclubs.co.uk

Malmaison were exceptional and what an “Also to add a touch of magic and a WOW

you from the amazing community we look

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

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 43

The Networker will help you take your networking to the next level Bradley Hatchett, Founder of Network My Club, launches a weekly newsletter for business owners and sales leaders to step up their networking game.

When you start

Networking & Events

businesses, you’re advised to go ‘networking’.

But you’re rarely shown where, and never how to do it.

Then you have to navigate the sea

of networking events out there. All in

different shapes and sizes. And finding the right ones can be frustrating, and costs you precious time and money.

This is why Bradley Hatchett, Founder of Network My Club, created The

Networker. A weekly newsletter aiming

44 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

to provide guidance. Arming you with

on a path to improve and change.

take your networking to the next level.

This is Bradley’s take on why you

the mindset, frameworks, and tools to

What’s the definition of networking from someone who’s delivered 400+ events (and counting)?

“Becoming the person people think of, when they think of what you do.”

Released on Wednesday 11th January, the first edition of The Networker leans into why you network.

A good starting point whether you’re at the start of your networking journey, or

network…

Why you network Most (if not all), answer that question

with a variation of ‘to grow my business’.

Great start – I can’t argue with that. But it’s quite broad. Let’s dig a little deeper.

How will networking help you grow your business?

There are many obvious reasons -

networking can contribute to business

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

growth - as well as some overlooked, unconsidered and even hidden

benefits. And below I’ve collated the most frequently shared.

A chance for you to consider or

reassess (depending where you are

in your networking journey) why you actually network.

The more obvious reasons are to: • Meet potential new clients

• Build a professional network that’ll refer and recommend you

• Connect with and learn from others in the same position

• Explore new business partnerships

• Gain new ideas and inspiration for your business

• Ask for advice and share challenges

• Grow a personal brand and

Bradley Hatchett

reputation within your industry

• Collaborate with others on joint

the #1 edition of The Networker.

to network, who with etc.

• Share ideas, advice and receive

Sales come from long term focus,

But word of warning, don’t disregard the

investing your time, and being consistent.

others. Keep an open mind.

Firstly, it’s about achieving the ultimate

You may be speaking to someone

person people think of when they think

your why to networking, but you never

projects or initiatives

feedback on products or services

Some of the less obvious or hidden reasons:

• Find new suppliers

• Source funding or investment

• Seek out mentors or advisors for your business

• Recruit staff and build a pool of potential talent

goal of networking – becoming the

who can’t directly help you achieve

of what you do.

know who they know.

Because if no one knows you, or knows

That’s the beauty of networking.

of you, how will the growth come?

• Learn about trends and developments

Consider why YOU network

• Socialise and feel a sense of

Look over the list and consider two to

across various industries

community (because running a business is lonely, am I right?!)

I could go on, but all those points will

contribute to you achieving that goal of growing your business.

Did you notice? There isn’t a point that

relates to selling. Networking is not selling.

That’s a point I couldn’t avoid getting in

Knowing the why is a great starting

point – the where, what and how you

can learn and are skills you can hone.

five reasons why you’re networking. And

That’s where The Networker comes in.

your business growth goals.

Join the 200+ businesses already

Everyone has different goals, which is

receive weekly tips that’ll take your

different reasons.

here: https://www.networkmyclub.

the points that’ll likely help you achieve

why you find different people network for

subscribed to The Networker to

networking to the next level. Sign up co.uk/the-networker/

Knowing why you network gives you

direction. They become your reference

to help inform your decisions; e.g. where

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 45

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

Networking club ends year with a flash dance and singing December was another sell-out event for the Big Business Breakfast Club and we had a flash dance, with nearly 100 attendees singing 12 Days of Christmas.

Networking & Events

The event was a whole lot of fun, and provided some great networking.

If you missed the last #BBBC of the year, in December, here’s what you missed out on.

You might be thinking ‘lucky me’ anyway, I think this video helps to show what happened, it was amazing.

Huge thanks to our sponsors - Chris Dickinson from World First. The World Account from World First is designed for cross-border businesses trading in multiple currencies. For importers and exporters, whether you do business on a marketplace, your own website or offline directly with your trading partner, it’s the hassle-free way to pay and get paid quickly and easily – no

46 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

overseas address is required. This is more and more relevant every day for all types of businesses, very much worth reaching out to Chris to see if World First could be a fit for you and your business.

Chailey Heritage Foundation was the chosen charity. It provides education and care services and is one of the UK’s leading centres for children and young people with complex neuro-disabilities.

The whole team at the Big Business Breakfast Club would like to thank each and every one of you for your support throughout 2022 and look forward to seeing you back this year ,kicking off at the Old Ship on Friday 20th January.

Secure your space here - https:// www.tickettailor.com/events/ bigbusinessbreakfastclub

Most of the young people accessing its services have severe cerebral palsy, many have visual and/or other sensory impairments. All are wheelchair users and very few have verbal communication.

Our most sincere thanks goes to the many hundreds of business owners who have attended the #BBBC, Global and Juice breakfasts over the years, through lockdowns and recently, back in the real world. Thank you!

The foundation’s expertise is in maximising independence and choice, developing effective communication and providing powered mobility opportunities.

Thank you 28th Street Media for the video.

Great job. You will find all 150 photos from this month’s event,over on our FB pages courtesy of XC Photography UK.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 47

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

Brighton & Hove Business Show 2023 schedule The seminar timetable for this year’s Brighton and Hove Business Show has been confirmed - and will help visitors plan their day at the event.

It boasts first-class

Networking & Events

speakers, who will

each bring something different to the show.

Headlining the June 8 networking

extravaganza is Carlene Jackson, CEO

of Brighton-based tech company Cloud9 Insight, a Microsoft Gold Partner, which

has provided over a thousand businesses

with cloud-based CRM software systems.

During her keynote speech, Carlene

will talk about ‘How to make company culture your biggest asset for growth’.

Other speakers include Brandon Harris,

Professional EOS Implementer, who will

talk about ‘Simplicity is best in business’.

Emma Pearce, one of the South East’s

most respected Marketing Consultants, of Pearce Marketing, will offer advice suited to a raft of professions, from

business owners to sales directors. She will lead a seminar on how to boost

prospects with invaluable LinkedIn tips.

Lawrence Howard, CEO of Thriiver, will tackle common challenges businesses

are facing today and how, by embracing

diversity, employers can overcome these to deliver growth in a seminar on the

topic of ‘How diversity can support your businesses growth’.

Ben Kench is considered the UK’s top

Sales and Business Growth Specialist.

He is the best-selling author of ‘Selling For Dummies’ and during his seminar will share ideas and insights that take

48 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

a slightly different approach but deliver

with the aim of helping businesses to

significantly better results.

meet, learn and grow in the city.

He says: “In business we all need new

Sponsor

we all manage that, when the economy

to sponsor the Seminar Room at this

customers and new sales…and although

SRC Corporate Finance has kindly agreed

‘tightens’ we can struggle and feel the loss.

year’s show and the organiser’s thanks go

“What if it wasn’t that way? What if there

to them for their generous support.

was a way to not only maintain but grow?

Tickets

“What if we could transform sales and the

Hove Business Show. You can

in both volume and margin?”

on the day. For tickets, visit https://

Seminar Timetable

visitor-registration/

selling process so that we enjoyed more

• Brandon Harris - 10.40am

It’s free to attend Brighton and

register in advance and save time

brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk/

• Carlene Jackson - 11.15am

Stands

• Lawrence Howard - 12.45pm

show. For stand options and prices, visit

• Emma Pearce - 12.10pm

You can still book a stand for this year’s

• Ben Kench - 2.10pm

https://brightonandhovebusinessshow.

Slo-Mo Networking

uk/book-a-stand/

Brighton Chamber is bringing its Slo-Mo

Mike Monk, founder and organiser of

Business Show from 1.20pm.

able to reveal the line-up for this year’s

The focus will be on small groups and

everyone and I’m thrilled to be giving

key questions to help them create really

their very specialist knowledge with other

Networking back to Brighton and Hove

the show, said: “I am delighted to be

seminars. There really is something for

participants will move around, answering

recognised experts a platform to share

meaningful connections - perfect if you

businesses who will benefit.”

spend your networking time productively.

For further information about

This event will be led by Amy Lishman,

brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk/

want to build your network efficiently and

Head of Member Engagement and

Deputy CEO at Brighton Chamber. She

is a business match-maker, connecting

people to help them grow their networks.

She regularly facilitates networking,

events and meetings across Brighton

the show, visit https://

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

Headline speaker - Carlene Jackson, CEO of Brighton-based tech company Cloud9 Insight, a Microsoft Gold Partner.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 49

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

The Property Professionals Lunch is back

Bigger and bolder than before, the Sussex-based property networking event where even those with just a smidge of an interest in property can rub shoulders with real estate titans.

If you have been

Networking & Events

around the networking block in Brighton

and Hove, Property Professionals may

not be new to you, but behind the

scenes it has been all change for 2023.

As we wave a fond farewell to the

team at Searches UK for their expert organisation of previous lunches, we

herald in a new era under the guises of

Sophie Campbell-Adams, of Britton and

Time Solicitors, and Dan Skipp, of White House Block Management.

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

The lunch, held on a quarterly basis, offers a fantastic opportunity for

people to network with like-minded

professionals to generate business,

grow connections and support local businesses all within a relaxed and friendly environment. This year’s series of lunches will also see

continued support for Sussex-based Rockinghorse Children’s Charity

through a series of raffles with all

proceeds going towards their good

cause in providing life-saving support for sick children throughout Sussex.

The lunch is not limited to the obvious property professions and anyone who works with property, would

like to connect to those who do, or

who provides services to the sector is welcome. This allows guests to

connect with a broad spectrum of

individuals that they might not meet in their usual networking circles, which

could lead to new and exciting doors being opened.

We spoke to both Sophie and Dan

about how they plan to take the event

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

to the next level and how their drive

and determination will allow them to do just that:

Sophie Campbell-Adams, Solicitor and Head of Property Litigation at Britton

and Time Solicitors, said: “As a frequent attendee at the Property Professionals Lunch and other networking events in

the local area, Property Professionals is second to none for meeting individuals from the property sector.

“In my opinion, the key to networking is simple – you need great people,

great food, and a great environment

for people to come together and talk.

I also find that in some events, there

is an over-emphasis on business and attendees will consider the event to be unsuccessful if ‘business’ is not conducted or a new lead gained.

“Networking for me is not first and

foremost about generating new business (yes, it is important, but it is not the

be-all and end-all), it is making genuine connections with people. Once those

connections are made and established,

business can then flow organically from that relationship.

“With this in mind, my focus for Property Professionals is creating an environment where those foundations can be made and where generating business is a

natural product of those connections. I

Essentially, I’m here to ensure everyone

am excited to breathe new life into the

has a positive afternoon.”

strength to strength. We have many

To complement the two new hosts, the

shake up the event and entice even

to include a welcome glass of fizz,

well-established event and take it from exciting ideas in the pipeline that will

lunch itself has also been upgraded

more professionals to attend.

alongside the usual sumptuous three-

“I love meeting new people who share

of wine per guest. And to top it all off,

as me and cannot wait to welcome

the exclusive après networking at The

course meal, paired with two glasses

the same passion for the property sector

tickets also include an invitation to

everyone to the event.”

Cricketers, Brighton.

Dan Skipp, Managing Director of

To kick-start January’s event, which

said: “Having attended the Property

Sophie and Dan will be joined by guest

I’ve seen first-hand what a great event

connoisseur Olly Smith, courtesy of

that no other event does in Sussex.

presence, the raffle is set to feature a

“So, when the opportunity came to

any wine aficionados.

next level with Sophie, I jumped at

And for those keen to attend future

taking over any successful event that

are: Thursday 20th April 2023, Thursday

combined with growing the event by

October 2023.

keys to success.

Tickets to this month’s event are

“As a host, I want to provide greater

Professionals LinkedIn, following the

and after the lunch through hosting,

alternatively, you can contact Sophie at

to maintain long-standing relationships.

whblockmanagement.com.

White House Block Management,

will take place on Thursday 26 January,

Professional Lunch events since 2019,

speaker and award-winning wine

it is and how the lunch occupies a niche

Rockinghorse. Alongside Olly’s celebrity

take the event forward and to the

dazzling array of wine-based prizes for

the chance. I believe it’s crucial when

events, the dates for your diary in 2023

understanding what has worked well,

20th July 2023 and Thursday 19th

adding value to those attending are the

available now through the Property

opportunities to network before, during

links to the lunch’s Eventbrite page. Or

making introductions, and helping guests

sca@brittontime.com or Dan at dan@

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

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

Big Business Breakfast Club returns with a bang The first event of 2023 will be sponsored by Safe-C Corporate and Public Safety Limited and JRL later this month.

Safe-C is an international awardNetworking winning Sussex-based & Events company specialising in health and safety, risk management and training for local companies.

They can an act as the ‘Competent Person’ for organisations that require health and safety support under Management Regulations.

The business has strong local links to providers of fire safety and security equipment, and specialist fire risk advice including the services of former senior fire officers holding membership of Institute of Fire Engineers. In addition it has links to the providers of office equipment, signage and safety wear.

If you are running a successful business and using valuable staff time and money on health and safety in the hope that you will get it right – it might be time to consider change This month our sponsor has nominated Wolfram Syndrome as the beneficiary.

Wolfram Syndrome, also called DIDMOAD (Diabetes Insipidus, Diabetes Mellitus, Optic Atrophy and Deafness), is a rare genetic disorder, causing the four conditions that make up the name, as well as various other possible disorders.

Wolfram Syndrome UK (WSUK) is the only charity and website in the UK for this condition. It was started in 2010, as the only website associated with

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

WS was a worldwide site. There was no easy-to-read information available and no real support, as many medical professionals had or still have never heard or come across the syndrome. It was felt the UK required a website where families could find information and support that might be helpful to them.

WSUK became a registered charity in June 2013. It works closely with the two hospitals that run the WS clinics in Birmingham and host an annual conference for those affected, their families, support teams, medical professionals and researchers.

Our special guest speaker will be Elliot Hassler, the writer and director of Vindication Swim. It depicts the story Mercedes Gleitze, who in 1927 became the first British woman to swim the English Channel. The film portrays Gleitze’s upstream struggle in overcoming both the cold waters of the English Channel and the oppressive society of 1920s England. However,

after a rival comes forward claiming to have accomplished the same feat, Mercedes is forced into battle to retain her record and her legacy We will also be joined by Alex Ryan, of Marketing 101, with his regular spot delivering marketing hints and tips to make your business pop.

Come and join us on Friday the 20th of January at the Old Ship Hotel on Brighton seafront from 8am. Book here: https://www. bigbusinessbreakfastclub.co.uk/ Make sure to get there nice and early so you have plenty of time to meet other like-minded businesspeople in the room.

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a sponsor of the Big Business Breakfast Club, get in touch with the team at team@ bigbusinessbreakfastclub.co.uk

Saturday 4th February 2023 Hilton Brighton Metropole Hotel 100% of all fundraising will go to charities in Sussex TABLES AND TICKE TS STILL AVAILABLE CONTACT CHRIS GOODMAN FOR MORE DETAILS chris.goodman@focusgroup.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 53

Great start to 2023 at Rivervale New vehicle availability is resuming to some normality, so taking delivery of a vehicle on the upcoming 23 plate in March is possible, even if you place your order today.

Motoring News

There’s a cracking

New products

For more information on this highly

vehicles arriving in

Good news for customers - there is a

Rivervale review on our website.

the streets of the UK in 2023. As the

Very soon we’ll be taking delivery of the

Sussex, were delighted to announce

carrier, the MAXUS MIFA 9, which will be

the T90EV is currently on display

chauffeur and transfer services.

showroom on Victoria Road in Brighton.

From other manufacturers, the offering

line-up of new

the UK throughout

the year and, for EV

drivers, it’s even better news as the implementation of additional public

chargers saw massive growth in 2022.

Here is what we are most excited to see this year...

54 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

wide range of new cars and vans hitting

anticipated EV, check out the Maxus T90

the only main-dealer for MAXUS across

world’s first all-electric seven-seat people

the UK’s first all-electric Pickup Truck,

ideal for larger families, as welll as luxury

and available to test drive from our

MOTO R I N G N EWS SP ON SO R

Say goodbye to range anxiety

Our Bosch Service Centre on Victoria

Many drivers have been sceptical of

a comprehensive Winter Health Check

in 2022 the electric vehicle charging

with any service booked. Included with

across the UK with on-street kerb-

Washer Fluid and De-Icer for the

Road in Brighton is currently offering

making the switch to electric. However,

for just £24 inc VAT or free of charge

infrastructure grew by 29 per cent

our compliments are an Ice Scraper,

side chargers up by 23 per cent and a

colder months.

continues. We will see the all-new, fully-

rapid chargers, according to Zap-Map.

Our highly trained technicians will

the end of 2023, the sporty recasting

With the number of publicly available

vehicle including braking systems,

executive saloon and estate, the 5 series

range of all-electric or plug-in hybrid

and fuel filters, measure oil, coolant

and luxury market newcomer Genesis

private and business users, 2023 should

and electrical systems, transmission,

GV60, GV70 and GV80.

are still worried about range, here are the

providing you complete peace of mind.

significant 79 per cent growth of ultraelectric Ford Transit Custom towards

complete a full inspection of your

of the Audi Q8 e-tron, BMW’s popular

chargers continuing to grow and the great

air conditioning, check integrity of oil

goes all-electric and will be badged i5

models available from Rivervale for both

and brake fluids, check your battery

will enter the electrified market with the

be the year you make the switch. If you

tyres, wheel alignment and balancing,

Meanwhile, Hyundai adds the sleek

electric cars with the longest range.

Are you excited for 2023? We are!

coupe-like five-door IONIQ 6 to

Reducing your motoring expenses

company Kia promises the EV9 a

Keeping your car regularly serviced

leasing deals. Call us on 01273 433480.

delivering 320 horsepower and 310

in tip-top condition and could help to

www.rivervale.co.uk

the success of the LEAF with the all-

safe, but also reduce your motoring

the electrified line-up, while sister much larger version of the Kia Soul EV,

and maintained helps to keep your car

miles of range and Nissan building on

not only keep you and your passengers

new Ariya a sleek SUV Crossover.

expenses in the long run.

Get in touch to find out more about our

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 55

The Maxus T90EV electric pick-up truck has arrived Maxus has raced ahead of the curve, producing the UK’s first electric pick-up truck.

And it’s a much-anticipated arrival at that.

Maxus has

Motoring News

transformed their

conventional T90 pickup truck and fitted it

with an all-electric kit.

They coin their creation the aptly named T90EV, familiar but improved in many ways to its predecessor.

56 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Introducing the UK’s first electric pick-up truck...

The all-electric pick-up doesn’t

compromise on range either, boasting

a comfortable 220 miles (354 km) on a

Highly capable, the Maxus T90EV

full charge. That’s enough to challenge

driving. It’s equipped with a

E-Transit Custom, and Vauxhall Vivaro-e.

and stylish interior.

The T90EV also boasts a payload

is a breeze for both on and off-road high-level spec and a contemporary

some big names, such as the Ford

MOTO R I N G N EWS SP ON SO R

of 1000kg and a towing capacity of

neat dashboard design and floor console.

The Maxus T90EV has been available to

stick at.

T90EV at a glance

the first quarter of 2023.

1500kg, which is nothing to shake a

The visually sporty and stunning exterior is complemented by a

modern, sleek interior with a 10.25inch digital touchscreen instrument cluster, providing a minimalist look

that still has all the components and

features you need in a pick-up of this calibre. It also comes with a

reversing camera and rear parking sensors as standard.

There is plenty of room for both

occupants and storage - all thanks to a

• Battery pack capacity: 88.55kWh

order since August 2022, with delivery in

• 220 miles / 354 kms Range (WLTP

If the Maxus T90EV looks right for

• 150 kW motor

Rivervale a call on 01273 433480. Our

• Body size: 5,365 x 1,900 x 1,809mm

of your queries.

• Reversing camera and rain sensing

Alternatively, you can visit our website

combined)

• Pickup 3,300kg RWD

• Cargo box: 1,485 x 1,510 x 530mm

you, or you have any questions, give

helpful staff will be happy to answer all

windscreen wipers

for more information.

induction and LED daytime running light

www.rivervale.co.uk

• Halogen headlight with automatic • 17“alloy wheels

• Stainless steel sports bar and outside rope hook

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 57

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

Business manifesto - developed by the British Chambers of Commerce network Proposals for delivering growth for the business community, explained by Sussex Chamber of Commerce.

The 53 accredited

Chamber News

Chambers across the UK see businesses

in their communities constantly adapting

to a changing environment by juggling eyewatering energy bills, labour

shortages, inflation at a 40-year high, and climbing interest rates.

The British Chambers of Commerce urges the UK Government to strike

the right balance for growth without compromising our great public

institutions which so many of us rely on.

The Government must work with the Chambers of Commerce to support,

and turbo charge the ‘can do’, solution-

oriented businesses across our country.

We want to see a long-term growth plan that involves investment in people and

skills; supports businesses to adapt and thrive; and build good relationships with

our global allies to get British businesses selling again.

People run businesses and businesses

rely on people. This Business Manifesto offers solutions, including cost-free

options, to get our economy moving in the right direction again.

Building British business We want to make Britain the best place to start and grow a business.

The UK has a booming entrepreneurial spirit which has the potential to

transform our country into a global

economic powerhouse. However, as it

58 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

currently stands, four in ten businesses think their profits will decrease over the next 12 months and business

investment is down to pandemic-era

ensure there is effective competition in the business energy market.

Invest in people now for a stable

levels. We need to create the optimum

economy

confidence again.

The UK is facing the tightest labour market

business environment to build business

Action plan · I nvest in infrastructure: Prioritise

in years, with 1.2 million unfilled jobs.

Skills and labour shortages mean that employers are struggling to fill job

long-term growth by backing public

vacancies. Firms cannot fulfil their

digital infrastructure. This will allow

new work away. Research shows that

changing times, while also creating

facing difficulties getting the right staff.

projects, as well as green and

order books and are having to turn

businesses to adapt and thrive in

76% of firms attempting to recruit are

jobs in local economies across the UK.

Chambers of Commerce and their

· Speed-up plans for regional

devolution deals in England: To

member businesses are making huge efforts to tackle the skills crisis and

support the development of homegrown

maximise growth and economic

skills. Yet in a rapidly changing world,

areas must be given power to make

is vital that firms can also access the

opportunities. Public procurement

outside of the UK now.

and funding must continue to be

Businesses and Government must work

prosperity for all communities, local

and at a time of high employment, it

decisions on economic development

skills and people power they need from

contracts for SMEs must be simplified, funneled into local areas.

· Adjust Business Rates to encourage

together for a more effective job market, now and for the future.

growth now: Business Rates should

Action plan

compensate for other cost impacts

· Bring economically inactive

be adjusted where necessary to such as increased energy bills.

· Provide longer-term certainty on energy support for businesses:

Government must provide certainty on how the energy support package will

work from April so that businesses can plan for the future. In addition, Ofgem

should be given the powers it needs to

older workers back into work:

Carefully tailor careers advice, job

seeker support and rapid re-training opportunities to help employers

harness the skills and experience of older workers.

· Help parents and carers access work:

Simplify access to childcare funding and

C HA M BER N EWS SP O N SO R

provide flexible and universal childcare

entitlement for employers to attract and retain skilled people.

· Incentivise investment in human

capital: Building a skilled workforce

requires investment. While training costs are already tax-deductible, allowing

training costs to also be claimed back

under the Annual Investment Allowance would encourage businesses to invest more in their people.

·R einstate the T Level employer

incentive in England: A government funded financial incentive will

encourage SMEs to offer Industry Placement opportunities.

· I ntroduce flexibility in the

Apprenticeship Levy: This will ensure employers can support everyone in

the workplace to get the training they

need; and in England, any underspend

should be transferred to help fund the T Level incentive.

·U rgently reform the Shortage Occupation List: This will help

businesses fill urgent job vacancies

when they cannot recruit locally. The

List should include job roles below RQF Level 3 for sectors where there is clear evidence of a national shortage.

Raising export-led growth International trade can make every

must put trade, particularly exporting, at the center of its growth agenda.

Action plan · Resolve the Northern Ireland issues:

In our recent survey, 54% of businesses said that smoother customs procedures are the key to boosting UK exports. If

Britain is to become the best place to

start and grow a business, Government

and skills. Government has a vital role to

a Net Zero future.

Northern Ireland. We expect co-

Action plan

burdens for SME traders, cutting

· Financial incentives: Government

burdens with the Protocol on Ireland/ operation on lowering VAT compliance

to unlock business action as we move to

red tape on food and plant exports,

should expand the list of energy saving

mutual recognition of professional

business such as LED lighting. They

trade in services.

in green building improvements are

flexibilities on business travel, and

products eligible for lower VAT for

qualifications to boost cross-border

must also ensure that investments

· Amend sunset clause on retained

EU law: This would provide regulatory certainty for businesses in tough economic times.

· Keep CE marked products and components beyond 2025/26:

eligible for Business Rates Relief and

provide targeted grants to drive uptake in higher-cost items.

· Expand Green Accelerator

programmes: Government should expand the Green Accelerator

programmes across the country based

This should keep costs down for

on successful Chamber of Commerce

supply chains by providing certainty.

such as the British Business Bank.

manufacturers and retain efficient

· Set up a Trade Accelerator with

DIT: Leverage Government support for exporters with trade promotion and facilitation services provided

by the Chamber Network in the UK and overseas to source immediate opportunities for exports.

Green innovation is about change now,

three times more likely to survive.

The biggest barriers are cost, confusion,

solution on business compliance

Only 10% of UK businesses are

many reasons why a Chamber member is

on Net Zero to drive our economy.

play as an investor, enabler, and advisor

Commission should reach a negotiated

Leadership in green innovation

are exporting, which could be one of

chains, providing training and support

The UK Government and the European

business a better one.

exporting, yet 60% of Chamber members

innovation accelerators and supply

models in partnership with a funder

These could focus on domestic supply chains and export opportunities using UK expertise in tidal, offshore wind, nuclear, carbon capture usage and storage and other green tech.

· Energy saving public information campaign: At present, there is a

confusing mix of publicly funded

programmes across England and

the Devolved Nations offering advice on Net Zero. Government should

for a better tomorrow.

streamline energy saving advice into a

The transition to Net Zero presents

Ready for Brexit” campaign.

businesses with opportunities to grow, by meeting Government requirements and

single initiative, learning from the “Get

sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk

by satisfying fast-growing global demand for environmental products and services.

Chambers of Commerce are leading the way. Our network is developing green

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 59

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

When the Net Zero Champions met Caroline Lucas

Vicky Welstead, of Fugu, writes about how Britain’s first Green Party MP, Caroline Lucas, joined Brighton Chamber’s Net Zero Champions to answer questions and hear how to support businesses helping decarbonise our economy.

First elected in 2010

Chamber News

and co-leader of the Green Party from

2016-18, Caroline

Lucas has chaired All

Party Parliamentary Groups on Climate Change and Limits to Growth and is now Deputy Chair of the APPG on

Renewable and Sustainable Energy.

On 2 December, more than 50 Net Zero Champions – the Brighton Chamber

members in business who are driving

the journey to Net Zero – joined a Q&A,

facilitated by Emma Mills-Sheffield from Mindsetup Ltd, with Caroline Lucas,

discussing how to accelerate progress.

Here’s a snapshot of the conversation:

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What drew you to politics in the first place?

massive loophole. If a company says

they’ll reinvest profits into oil and gas extraction, they hardly pay anything.

“The anti-nuclear movement got me

So, despite the Glasgow COP agreeing

Porritt’s book Seeing Green put it into

Government has introduced this new

into politics and reading Jonathan

to stop incentivising fossil fuels, the

a political package for me. I marched

perverse incentive.

Green Party, or the Ecology Party as

“We need to shame the Government at

with a plaque on the wall, only to find a

giving billions to oil and gas companies.

down Clapham High Street to join the it was then, looking for a big building

every step. Telling everyone how they’re

boxroom above a Chinese restaurant.”

It’s bonkers.”

How can we persuade the Government

How can cities do more to achieve

“Even BP’s chief finance officer says

“Much of what cities can do depends

to do with, yet our windfall tax has a

fantastic work going on. But if we

to have a proper windfall tax?

BP has more money than it knows what

Net Zero?

on what’s allowed nationally – there’s

C HA M BER N EWS SP O N SO R

have more devolution, so much more

could be done. We’ve listened to Andy Burnham on what he’s achieved with trams and more affordable electric

buses, but that’s only because he’s been given powers to take back control. Local

authorities should have the powers to be able to make the changes we need.

“If I look to Europe, I can see exciting projects to achieve Net Zero, not

because they’re any more creative or committed, but because they’ve got

a facilitating national framework that

allows that leg up. We’re never going

to level up from Westminster – we need local control.”

If we’re going to hit 1.5, how can

Brighton be part of the solution, not the problem?

“By accelerating things we’re already

doing. I think we’re one of the few local authorities with a circular economy

officer. But we need more finance and

a better national framework. One of the

After the Q&A the event opened into a

said: “Since joining the Chamber a year

and the technology exists to do it. On

facing those working to build a greener

circularity has been about connecting

frustrations is we all know what to do,

general discussion on the challenges

waste, energy, food, transport. What’s

economy and what can be done to

lacking is a joined-up way of facilitating it.

remove barriers.

“Much comes down to what’s allowed

Harriet Dean-Orange, founder of

sign up to a stupid PFI contract, it’s not

months five zero waste shops have shut

years on are not what you need now.”

be known for refilling. Now there’s only a

ago much of our efforts to improve our

with other businesses. It’s about finding those connections where one person’s

waste is another person’s produce. We

need to make these circles smaller and

in terms of rules and contracts. If you

Harriets of Hove, said: “In the last few

surprising the terms of that contract 20

across the city. Brighton & Hove used to

Find out more about Brighton

couple of us left and we’re struggling.

of this writeup on the Chamber

What can micro businesses do to reduce their impact?

“We’re in unfit properties, hemorrhaging

“The first step I’d take is reviewing where

Hove struggling to lower people’s

a company with no green credentials,

recycling and do more about the circular

pensions fund is going and who you’re

creating waste in the first place. If we

struggling and it’s a difficult time for big

carbon neutral, we need to showcase

more local.”

Chamber, plus an unabridged version website: brightonchamber.co.uk

money. I feel like I’m the only one in

Thank you to Vicky Welstead from

your electricity comes from. If it’s from

waste. Can we stop obsessing about

points from this event. Thanks also to

then switch. Or, look at where your

economy? What we need to do is stop

banking with. Small businesses are

want other local businesses to become

environmental investments, but some

the ones doing it already.”

without much cost.”

Luke Bray, Partner at Axiom Architects,

of those things would have a big impact

Fugu for writing up the key discussion Emma Mills-Sheffield for facilitating, to Caroline Lucas for joining us, and to Platf9rm for hosting.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 61

LI FE STY L E S PO NS OR

Streamline your wardrobe for 2023 Do you have a wardrobe full of clothes but nothing to wear? You are not alone.

So many of us have

Lifestyle

plenty of clothes

but struggle to put

an outfit together. It

doesn’t make sense.

Surely, if you have more clothes, you have more options?

Well, no, the more clothes you have, the

It means streamlining your wardrobe to fit your lifestyle, colouring, body type

and personal preference. The result is a

collection of clothes that mix and match easily, save you time, money and space and have you looking and feeling your

best. And the best bit? It is much better for the environment.

harder it becomes. You end up wearing

Ready to streamline your wardrobe

and leave the rest on the hangers. The

First, you must find the time to gather all

the same things over and over again

answer is a capsule wardrobe. Now bear with me. A capsule wardrobe does not

mean you restrict yourself to 10, 33, 100 or any other specific number of clothes.

62 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

for 2023?

your clothes in one place. That includes everything from the basement, loft, and car, EVERYWHERE. You can declutter

your wardrobe in one of two ways; either

go through item by item, for example,

shirts followed by trousers, etc. Or, you

blitz the whole lot in one go. It depends on how much time you have and how

much you have to declutter. To decide what to keep and what to donate, consider the following; Your lifestyle

Think about what you do in a typical

month and break it down from 100%. For example, you might spend 50% of your time at work, 25% at home with family, 10% out with friends, 5% at a yoga or

fitness class and 10% on others; this will become the basis of your wardrobe. You

L I F ESTY L E SP ON SO R

should now have an idea of how many

If your veins are...

rule is, if you are heavier on top, choose

life. In addition, you should consider

Purple - you are neutral-toned

garments on your bottom half; if you are

clothes you need for each part of your

how often you do a wash cycle or visit the dry cleaners. If you have too many

multiples in your wardrobe, pick out the best options by quality, how new they

are, how often you wear them and how comfortable they feel. Donate the rest.

Your colouring

Why should you care about your

colouring? Because knowing which colours suit you can make a huge

difference in your mood, make you look

younger and healthier and enhance your

best features. There are three main areas I look at when a client comes to me for a colour analysis:

The depth of colour: How bright or muted their colouring is

The temperature of the colour: How warm or cool their colouring is

The strength of the colour: How dark or light their colouring is

If you have yet to have a colour analysis, these simple rules can help you make the most of colour.

Firstly, look at the inside of your wrist to

determine which colour will suit you best:

Green - you are warm-toned Blue - you are cool-toned

brighter, lighter, looser and patterned

heavier on the bottom, select the reverse.

If you are heavier around the middle,

Next, if you have a lot of colour in your

consider one block colour throughout

to wear brighter shades. If you have

frills or anything fancy in places you

more muted shades.

something huge and baggy to conceal

Finally, you want to look at the strength

make you look bigger!!

to look at yourself in a black-and-white

Your wardrobe going forward

contrast between your hair, skin and

and considered what works and what

shades and should avoid head-to-toe dark

anything you intend to replace. If there

your hair, eyes and skin, for example, dark

them aside for one season, and if you do

contrast in the colours you wear. If you

have your answer and can donate them.

wear bright and dark colours and have

Finally, to maintain your wardrobe,

avoid pastels from head to toe.

shape and budget in every purchase.

Your body shape

wardrobe, book a free consultation.

skin, hair or eyes, you will likely be able

and straight lines in overcoats etc. Avoid

minimal colouring, you should opt for

are trying to hide. And finally, wearing

of colour. The easiest way to do this is

an area you are not happy with will only

headshot. If you are fair and have little

Once you have looked at your wardrobe

eyes, you would be better suited to pastel

doesn’t, donate the rest and put aside

colours. If there is high contrast between

are garments you are unsure about, set

hair and pale skin, you can afford to have

not use them by the next season, you

have dark skin and hair, you can afford to contrast in your wardrobe, but you should

Next, look at your wardrobe and consider which styles suit your body shape.

consider your lifestyle, colouring, body For more detailed help with your

www.capsuleclosetstylist.com

Knowing which body shape you are can help determine which styles and cuts

enhance your best features. The simple

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 63

LI FE STY L E S PO NS OR

Easy self-care hacks to integrate into your busy working day We live in a constant state of change and uncertainty. There are many economic challenges out of our control that can create anxiety.

The good news is

Lifestyle

our well-being is in

our control. Here are some simple and

quick self-care hacks

that you can weave into your busy day, to help regulate your nervous system, leaving you feel calmer and happier.

Using your morning routine to set the scene for your day

· Try to avoid starting your day by

looking at your phone. Constant email and news traffic sets the tone for the

64 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

day when you should put your mental

and physical health first. Start by taking some deep breaths, enjoy some gentle stretches, yoga, or a quick YouTube

workout. The night before have your

clothes ready so you can quickly get

dressed and work out and start the day by producing endorphins.

· Meditate for 10 minutes. Start with

breathwork to feel more focused and calm by simply exhaling longer than the inhalation for 1-2 minutes. Use

visualisation by visualising yourself working hard on your goal, making

it happen and enjoying the process.

Repeat positive affirmations to

cultivate a happy mindset (i.e. I can

do this, I am good enough, etc). Use meditation to align our busy minds with our bodies, bring ourselves

back to the here and now so that we reduce anxiety about the future or the past.*

· Set your intentions for the day in a

journal before you start working on

your to-do list, and think about how

you want the day to go and the energy that you will bring.

L I F ESTY L E SP ON SO R

· Practice gratitude at the start and

end of each day by focusing on what you are thankful for. Use gratitude to

help manage the negative bias in your brain. Some of the happiest people practice gratitude daily.

Mindfulness during your working day · I ntegrate mini mindfulness moments throughout the day when you are

brushing your teeth, making a coffee, etc all you need to do is notice how you are feeling, come back to the

present moment, take some deep breaths and scan your body for

any tension. You can place a small

sticker on some of your belongings, for example your phone as a reminder to do this

· I n your lunch break try to get out for

a walk-in nature and mindfully use all

your senses to take everything in and recharge your inner batteries.

· Do some chair yoga and benefit from gentle neck rolls and stretching your shoulders which helps prevent poor

posture, and potential health issues.

• Before you send an important email or deliver a presentation take one

or two minutes to think about your

· Start meetings by giving everyone one minute to connect with the present

moment, take some deep nurturing

breaths, then do a check-in to find out

how everyone is feeling. You will have a far more productive meeting.

· Set intentions for when you attend a

· Focus on self-compassion, do you speak to yourself in a compassionate way? The most important relationship you will have is the one that you have with yourself.

Forgive yourself for any mistakes, look

at ways to develop and think about how

Insider highlights that apparently only

you want to achieve.

active listening. A report by Business

2% of the population can properly and effectively multitask.

· Where possible can you have walking

meetings? Avoid back-to-back meetings, if possible block out short breaks in your calendar and protect that time.

· Utilise the power of visualisation. Some of the happiest and most successful sports

professionals use visualisation to achieve

their goals. If you are feeling nervous then try visualising the process, what you are going to say, do and wear etc.

· Focus on positive quotes and

you want to show up tomorrow and what

· Go to sleep by reflecting on what you are most proud of and grateful for.

· Use music to help you to get yourself

into the right mindset and create the right energy for whatever you are working on.

· Use visualisation to help you relax and

drift off to sleep by imagining you are in your happy place.

· Prioritise sleep Please get in touch if you are interested in learning more about developing a

affirmations. Tune out of the negative

bespoke wellbeing programme including

inspiring quotes and affirmations that

share lots of tips on Linkedin.

favourite affirmations or quotes stuck

Telephone: 07841108460 Website:

headlines in the news and focus on

you really connect with you. Have your to your laptop as a constant reminder.

Evening

moment. How will your message via

· Leave work at work/home office and

email or presentation be received?

reclaim your evening for yourself.

meeting and be fully present by using

intentions, and shift from being reactive to being present in the

of day that you must switch off by, to

try challenging yourself to have a time

mindfulness or yoga in the workplace. I

themeditationeffectwithcara.com * If you have any health conditions prior to participating in breathwork, please consult a doctor.

Sources of inspiration: Jay Shetty, Brene Brown and Mel Robbins

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 65

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

County Business Clubs’ Wine of the Month January 2023 Limited release sparkling red from Plumpton Estate is this month’s top wine buy.

Happy New Year! As we start 2023, we see the vineyards in a bare dormant

state waiting for the vines to be pruned in preparation for the forthcoming

season. The low arch of the sun creates

a mistiness on the vineyards first thing in the morning.

Plumpton Estate Vineyard

For this month’s Wine of the Month, we have chosen our friends at

Plumpton Estate, near Ditchling

Beacon, in East Sussex, who typically produce around 40,000 bottles of wine covering a range from the

traditional Champagne grape varieties - Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier - but also more popular

Noir is pressed and immediately

removed from the skins, providing

a clear liquid which is used to make traditional sparkling wines. In this

instance, the reason the wine is red is

due to extended contact with the skins of the Pinot Noir grapes.

Having a sparkling red wine is unusual

but not unique as, in Australia, there is a tradition of sparkling red wines such as

Michael’s

a sparkling Shiraz.

tasting notes

There are only around 600 bottles of

the lightness and fruitiness that comes

this is a limited release from

your tongue with lashings of cherries.

For me, what I love about this wine is

the Sparkling Pinot Noir 2018, so

through. It has lovely bubbles coating

Plumpton Vineyard.

This is a perfect wine to accompany BBQ’s with smoked meats.

English varieties, such as Bacchus

How the sparkling Pinot Noir

together with lesser know grapes such

As a single varietal Pinot Noir, the wine

Grape Varietals - Pinot Noir (100 %)

and complexity then the base wine is

Sparkling Red

(essence of elderflower and citrus) as Ortega and Riesling.

The estate’s college is a centre of excellence, offering degree-level

education for students across the world.

It is one of the only institutions in the Northern hemisphere to offer degree

level academic and vocational education taught in the English language. The students work with the lecturers to create the wines each year.

Plumpton Sparkling Pinot Noir 2018 From Plumpton’s wide range of wines, we have chosen the newly-launched Sparkling Pinot Noir which is quite

unusual due to it being a sparkling red

wine instead of sparkling white pinot noir.

The key difference is that most Pinot

66 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

is made

Wine specifications

is pressed lightly to extract flavour

Wine Style - Traditional Method

fermented to 9%.

ABV % - 12 %

After a primary stabilisation, the liqueur

Where to buy?

bottled. The wine is aged for two years,

College, Brighton and Hove Wine Club

making this a traditional method

you can as these 600 bottles will not last

de tirage is added to the wine then it is

You can buy directly from Plumpton

then riddled, disgorged and labelled,

or local specialist vintners. Get it whilst

sparkling wine.

the year!

Wine makers tasting notes

Michael Yeoman, Founder

whilst the nose touches on notes of

of the Downs – Great Taste Producer,

meats when chilled and cheeses too.

IWSC Bronze

Raspberry and cherry take centre stage

Brighton and Hove Wine Club and Spirit

shortbread and toast. Pairs well with white

Winner of Great Taste 3 Star Award and

Food pairings

Pairs well with white meats when chilled and cheeses too.

www.spiritofthedowns.co.uk

Selling, buying or starting a business?

Call us on 0800 84 94 101 Offices across Sussex

www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 67

68 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk