SBT issue 493

SBT POWERED BY:

ISSUE 493 FREE

COMPLETING THE PROPERTY PUZZLE HOW A JIGSAW PUZZLE LED TO A SUCCESSFUL CAREER IN PROPERTY

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 1

SHARING BUSINESS STORIES FOR 50 YEARS

Angels Den Sussex 2025

Chris Goodman

Rob Starr MBE

Mike Clare

A Night That Changes Lives across our county

Brighton i360 Thursday 6th November 6:30 – 9:30 PM

10 Charities. £100,000.

1 Unforgettable Evening.

Nazila Blencowe

Join us for an electrifying night where impact meets inspiration. Watch as ten incredible Sussex-based charities pitch their life-changing projects to five visionary philanthropists, our Angels, who will award a total of £100,000 in grants live on stage.

Chris Goodman “Together, we can make a profound and lasting difference in our community.”

Sarah Willingham former Dragon!

Secure your ticket now and be part of something extraordinary

scan here Tickets: Just £35 *Limited to 200 seats!

Featuring this year’s Angels: Each2 donating £10,000 to transform lives across Sussex, with www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk Focus Foundation match funding this to make £100,000.

What’s Included: • Sparkling drinks reception & networking • Charity presentations that will move you • A stunning flight on the Brighton i360 • Delicious food & celebration

W E LCO M E

Welcome Welcome to another edition of SBT As I reflect on this latest issue of Sussex Business Times, one word keeps coming up: evolution.

This edition is packed with stories of people and businesses

adapting, growing, and finding new ways to stay true to who they are, from legal firms prioritising personal connection over corporate scale, to founders using AI to drive

purpose-led change. Whether it’s across tech, property,

wellbeing, or events, the theme is clear: progress doesn’t always mean disruption. Sometimes, it means returning to your roots with a fresh perspective.

Which brings me to our cover story…

This month we’re proud to feature Wilbury Residential (formerly Callaways), a name woven into the fabric of

Sussex property for over 90 years. Under the leadership of

Heather Hilder-Darling, the business has undergone a thoughtful

rebrand, one that honours its legacy while embracing a more human,

values-led approach to lettings and property management. It’s a powerful reminder that the strongest brands are built not just on reputation, but on relationships.

Elsewhere in the issue, you’ll find a diverse range of voices, from campaigners and community leaders to emerging entrepreneurs, each reminding us that success in business is ultimately about people.

As always, thank you for being part of the SBT community. We love telling these stories. Let’s keep evolving, together.

Warm regards,

Sam Thomas,

Managing Director, Sussex Business Times

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Issue 493

Contents Cover 493

Joint Managing Director/Publisher Sam Thomas sam.thomas@countybusinessclubs.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 MCR Media Solutions LTD Unit 35 Bolney Grange Industrial Park Haywards Heath East Sussex RH17 SPB 01273 233558 www.mcrmedia.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. 2024 ©

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Monthly News - Tech Focus: Serverless Print

10

Children’s Hospital Appeal

14

Charity Partnerships

16

Help to Grow Programme Impact

24

Founders & Flourish

26

Sole Trader vs Limited Company

30

Legal Insight: Size vs Service

32

The Employment Rights Bill

36

COVER FEATURE: Wilbury Residential

42

AI & Everyday Conversations

46

DigiFest 2025 Preview

54

Placr Recruitment Profile

56

Wine of the Month

58

Film Review: F1

How IT Document Solutions and Vasion Cloud are streamlining print management for the digital age.

How toys and games are helping reduce anxiety at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital.

Local businesses raising funds for Cancer Research UK, Crohn’s & Colitis UK, and more.

Graduate testimonials and insights from the University of Brighton’s business support scheme.

How purpose-led founders are reimagining business through people, profit, and planet.

Key differences and decisions for entrepreneurs starting out.

Why small, people-first law firms are winning trust and clients.

Major proposed reforms that could reshape the future of UK work.

Callaways rebrands after 90 years, the story of legacy, leadership, and solving the property puzzle.

How recording and analysing meetings can unlock hidden business value.

Eastbourne’s upcoming tech conference for forward-thinking businesses.

A values-first approach to matching candidates with culture.

Côte du Rhône 2021, a perfect autumn red from Maison Les Alexandrins.

Fast-paced visuals and rivalry fuel this cinematic deep-dive into racing and obsession.

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The Print Management Evolution: Why “PaperCut is Dead” and Universal Print Isn’t the Answer Simon Vine, Business Development Manager at IT Document Solutions, in partnership with Vasion Monthly News

IT Document

missing the serverless revolution that’s

Cloud Have the

handle print infrastructure.

Solutions and Vasion Answers

Your clients invested in print management

transforming how modern businesses

The Infrastructure Reality Check

for good reasons: cost control, security,

PaperCut requires ongoing server

running PaperCut’s server-dependent

potential single points of failure.

Print’s connector limitations, they’re

but still depends on Universal Print

and efficiency. But if they’re still

maintenance, updates, and creates

architecture or struggling with Universal

Universal Print promises cloud benefits

6 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Connectors, Windows systems that must run constantly with no high

availability mode. When these fail, printing stops entirely.

Vasion eliminates this complexity

completely. True serverless architecture means no print servers, no connectors,

no local infrastructure whatsoever. Your

clients get genuine cloud transformation,

not just cloud-washed traditional systems.

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

Simon Vines

multiple sites. Another organisation

migrated 1,500 users and hundreds of

printers in under two hours, impossible with traditional servers.

The ROI That Speaks for Itself • 87% of Vasion customers achieve at least 100% ROI.

• Almost half report over 200% ROI within 12 months.

The numbers don’t lie: • PaperCut users save £2,000 – £5,000 annually per eliminated server, plus reduce helpdesk tickets by 90%.

• Universal Print users cut connector

maintenance costs, Windows licensing overheads, and job limit overages, while gaining enterprise features

Microsoft simply doesn’t provide.

One healthcare client saved £70,000

annually serving 7,000+ users across

Why Partner with IT Document Solutions?

As the UK’s only Master MSP for Vasion, ITDS brings:

•O ver 10 years of cloud print expertise.

•E nd-to-end migration support

(discovery, design, deployment, and ongoing care).

•9 8% client retention across healthcare, education, and enterprise.

You keep the client relationship, benefit

has shifted. Traditional server-based systems are becoming as obsolete as fax machines.

Your clients deserve: • Scalable solutions for remote work.

• Genuine security.

• Zero infrastructure burden.

The question isn’t whether they’ll migrate to true serverless printing, it’s whether they will do it with you, or when a competitor shows them the future you overlooked.

Ready to Future-Proof Print?

Partner with IT Document Solutions and Vasion to lead your clients into

from shared recurring revenue, and

the serverless era.

enhance your reputation, not risk it.

Let’s talk today about transforming

The Uncomfortable Truth

revenue-growing opportunity.

The print infrastructure landscape

www.itdocumentsolutions.com

gain the confidence that transitions will

print management into a cost-saving,

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 7

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Sussex Cricket Launches Ticket Ballot for England Women’s International T20 at Hove Sussex Cricket is excited to announce the opening of the official ticket ballot for the England Women’s International T20 against New Zealand Women at The 1st Central County Ground, Hove, on Monday 25 May 2026.

The ballot will

Monthly News

open on Monday

2 September 2025

and close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday

30 September 2025. By entering

the ballot, fans will have the chance to guarantee their place at this

unmissable fixture and secure tickets at the lowest possible price before general sale.

Taking place during the May half-

term holiday, the match is the perfect

opportunity for families to enjoy a night of world-class cricket together in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

England Women have a rich history at Hove, with two of the last three

internationals at the ground selling

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out, making this one of the hottest

• Sussex Cricket Members and previous

tickets of the summer.

Women’s International purchasers will

The 2026 clash promises another night

tickets before they go on general sale.

of high-energy, world-class cricket in a family-friendly atmosphere.

How the ballot works: • Fans can enter the ballot for free via the Sussex Cricket website from 2 September.

• Successful entrants will be notified and given the exclusive opportunity to purchase tickets at the cheapest price available.

• Any remaining tickets will be released for general sale on 15 October.

also be given an exclusive window to buy

Pete Fitzboydon, CEO of Sussex Cricket, said:

“It’s always special to welcome England Women to Hove, and we know how

much these matches mean to our fans and the local community, who support Women’s sport so passionately.

“With two of the last three sell-outs,

demand will be huge again in 2026, so the ballot is the best way to make sure you

don’t miss out and to get the best price.”

Head to www.sussexcricket.co.uk to enter the ballot for tickets

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The wall graphics in Level 5

Children’s hospital outpatient’s gets a facelift thanks to Rockinghorse The outpatient’s department at The Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital gets some new decorations thanks to Rockinghorse Children’s Charity and The Sussex Sign Company.

The Outpatient’s

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department at the Royal Alexandra

Children’s Hospital

is a busy place, with

children and families coming in and

out of the space every day, waiting for appointments at the various clinics operating throughout the week.

But waiting for appointments can

be boring, and sometimes scary, for younger patients. Whilst the local children’s hospital charity already

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provides toys, games and books

for waiting patients, having a nice

environment can also be really helpful

to relieve the feelings of anticipation for younger visitors.

Plus, creating a welcoming space

that makes it feels less like a hospital

environment can help children worry less about future appointments.

And thanks to The Sussex Sign Company, the outpatient’s department now has some wonderful new decorations.

The Sussex Sign Company are experts in signage, from office signs to vehicle

wraps, shop signs to wall graphics, their expertise helps businesses become more visible for their customers.

And Rockinghorse were lucky to have been chosen by the company as their Charity of the Year. This means the company fundraise for the charity

throughout the year, taking part in events and challenges, along with generously using their skills to create something amazing for the Royal Alex.

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

Karen Baker (staff nurse), Laura Barker (play worker), Becka Steel (physiotherapist) and Sophy King (healthcare assistant) in the Level 5 waiting area

The company have worked with

Rockinghorse to design and create graphics for the glass panels

surrounding the waiting area on Level 5 at the hospital. The decorations,

encompassing the charity’s logo along

with a range of fun images, games and wordsearches, have been created and recently installed to great effect.

Laura Barker, Play Worker at the

hospital, said, “These decorations have made such a huge difference to the waiting area here at the hospital.

“Parents and families waiting for their appointments love playing with the

games and it’s made the whole space much more welcoming and friendly.”

Maisie Miller, General Manager at Sussex Signs, who facilitated the

project, said, “During our Charity of the Year partnerships, we always look for

ways our skills can directly benefit the

They make such a huge difference to

charity we’re working with.

the whole area and really will make

“While partnering with Rockinghorse,

experience of visiting the hospital.

who provide such essential support to the

a difference to children and families

Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital, this

“They also make a real impact our

get involved. Creating a brighter, more

with staff loving the new environment

families really resonated with us—but

interacting with the puzzles and games.

nurses and hospital staff who do such

“We really can’t thank The Sussex Sign

more uplifting environment too.

support. What they have done will have

“The finished graphics are colourful,

and families spending time waiting to be

bring a little joy to everyone who uses

so much more friendly and accessible.”

project felt like the perfect opportunity to

wonderful colleagues within the NHS,

engaging space for children and their

and noticing how the children love

it’s also lovely to know that the doctors, incredible work every day now have a

interactive and fun, and we hope they the space.”

Company enough for this amazing

such a long-lasting impact on children

seen, making the hospital environment

To find out more about this project and the

Amanda Hetherington, Head of

many more that Rockinghorse fund and

away by the decorations. She said,

website at www.rockinghorse.org.uk or

Partnerships at Rockinghorse, was blown

deliver throughout Sussex, just visit their

“These graphics look absolutely fantastic!

call the charity on 01273 330044.

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MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

Jan Etches with Danny Sebastian - presenter of Bargain Hunt

From hidden gem to cultural gateway Brighton Toy and Model Museum’s bold regeneration Brighton is famous

Monthly News

for its vibrant culture, independent shops

and welcoming spirit.

Yet for many years,

one of its most remarkable treasures has often been overlooked. Brighton Toy and Model Museum is home to

one of the finest collections of toys and model trains in the UK – perhaps even in Europe – but until now its modest

entrance and dim surroundings have

hidden its brilliance from view. That is about to change.

This autumn, the museum embarks on a

major regeneration project that promises not only to transform the museum itself, but also to brighten one of the city’s

most neglected gateways. For those

who turn left when arriving in Brighton by train, the first step into the city is

12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

through the Trafalgar Street underpass:

a functional but gloomy tunnel, with little to inspire or welcome. The museum’s

team has secured funding and support to change that story, and in doing so,

they hope to reintroduce the museum to both locals and visitors.

The centrepiece of the project is a

brand-new façade. Where once a small

doorway sat discreetly in the brickwork, the entire 20-foot arch will now become a fully glazed entrance, allowing people to peer inside and instantly sense the

magic that awaits. For the first time in

more than three decades, the museum

will be able to showcase its world-class

displays to passers-by, tempting curious minds to step inside.

Lighting will play a crucial role in the

transformation. Brass Victorian lanterns,

designed in the style of the Southern

Railway, will flank the entrance, while specialist lighting firm iGuzzini will

illuminate the arches and walls along

the length of the underpass. The result

will be a brighter, safer and more inviting passageway that signals to visitors: you have arrived in Brighton.

Art will also have its place in the

project. The much-loved murals of the

Brighton Belle, which already grace two of the arches, will be lovingly restored and refreshed.

Together, these changes represent a

£200,000 investment in the future of the

museum and the surrounding community.

For General Manager Jan Etches, the

project is as much about the city as it is

about the museum. “We’ve always been

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

Before

After

proud to be Brighton’s hidden gem,”

she explains, “but now it’s time to step into the light. These improvements are

not just for our visitors, but for everyone who passes through this gateway to the North Laine. It’s about making the area safer, cleaner and more welcoming.”

The museum’s story is a remarkable

one. Founded in 1991 by craftsman and collector Chris Littledale, it grew from his personal passion for model trains and tinplate toys. Littledale, now 83,

remains the heart of the museum, still

working six days a week in the on-site workshop. His skill as a tinsmith has won him an international reputation,

restoring pieces for collectors around the world – including Frank Sinatra!

His extraordinary dedication has made the museum what it is today: a labour of love, sustained by craftsmanship,

perseverance and community support.

The collection itself is astonishing.

Covering 4,000 sq feet, with 12,000

items on display and housed across

four Victorian arches, visitors encounter working model railway layouts, dolls,

construction kits and toys spanning the golden age of toymaking from the late

nineteenth century through to the 1960s.

Many pieces are unique or the finest of

their kind, and while other toy museums

have come and gone, Brighton Toy and

than a collection of toys. It is a living

itself as one of a kind.

between childhood wonder and adult

There is even a discussion that, one day,

industrial heritage and its cultural future.

Museum – a title it would amply deserve.

Brighton Toy and Model Museum is

Community support has been central to

also making a statement about the city

have come from the Railway Heritage

safer tunnel, a more visible treasure –

Tinplate Workers, GTR’s Community

Brighton is a place where heritage and

Model Museum has quietly established

it could be recognised as the National Toy

connection between past and present, nostalgia, and between Brighton’s

not only securing its own future but

the regeneration project. Contributions

it belongs to. A brighter gateway, a

Trust, the Worshipful Company of

together, these improvements signal that

Improvement Fund, the Community Rail

community matter.

North Laine Residents Association and

www.brightontoymuseum.co.uk

Network, and local groups such as the the North Laine Traders Association.

Individual supporters have also played their part, from fundraising events to donations in memory of loved ones.

David Sewell, Chairman of the North

Laine Traders, describes it as “a success story in leading the regeneration under the Railway Station. The Toy Museum has been a gem for years, but this project elevates it to a new level.”

As the work progresses, anticipation is building. The museum plans a launch event to celebrate the reopening,

inviting the community to rediscover a

Did you know that the museum can host private events and corporate meetings. It is a meeting space like no other. To find out more, email Jan Etches at jan@brightontoymuseum. co.uk or call 01273 749 494 The works are expected to be completed by 17th October. The museum will still be open and visitors can take advantage of a 25% entry discount while the works are taking place.

place that has always been much more

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MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

Working with charities is an integral part of what we do at Webtrends Optimize

At Webtrends Optimize, we are passionate about helping others and giving back to those who need it most. Working with charities and raising money and awareness is an integral part of what we do and is always a key part of our offering.

For the past 4 years,

Monthly News

we have worked

closely with Sussex

Cricket Foundation as

one of our main charity

partners, as well as sponsoring their

disability teams. We have also continually raised money for Cancer Research UK,

and more recently for Crohn’s and Colitis UK after a member of our team was diagnosed with the disease.

As a team of people who have

personally gone through difficult events and have been supported by some

amazing charities, we understand how important it is to do our bit. We are

constantly looking for ways we can be more involved in the local community, and what fundraisers we can engage with to raise money and spread the

message about these worthy causes.

14 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Sussex Cricket Foundation

and get to wear the same kit as the first

working for Webtrends Optimize, but

and friends to join us in watching them

relationship we have with Sussex

fantastic success stories over the years.

Sussex Cricket.

Every May, we volunteer at their

The aim of the Foundation is to actively

the County Ground in Hove, which

community, and they have been incredibly

disability cricket. The last few years have

so many opportunities, particularly

with over 700 people attending and

otherwise had access to these sporting

special to be part of such a momentous

There are many enjoyable aspects of

team. It’s always great to invite family

one of our favourite parts is the close

compete, and we have witnessed some

Cricket Foundation, the charity arm of

annual DIScoverABILITY Day, held at

change lives through cricket across the

continues to break boundaries within

successful with this. They have provided

seen record numbers of participants,

to young people, who wouldn’t have

taking part in the activities. It’s always a

facilities, coaches and teams.

occasion in the Sussex Cricket calendar,

Over the past few years, we have had

and our team love being involved.

the privilege of supporting and watching

We recently were joined by the Super 1s

sponsorship ensuring the D40 and VI

to learn more about how workplaces can

their different teams compete, with our

team in our Head Office, as they came

teams have access to better facilities

be accessible, inclusive and nurturing.

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

It was really rewarding to showcase this side of a workplace and be part of an

experience that could shape their future career steps. This partnership spans

many different opportunities for both

sides, and we are excited for what else is to come!

Starr Trust Ambassador

The Starr Trust continues to make a real difference to the lives of many young

people through the dedicated guidance they provide and their commitment to removing any roadblocks that might hinder their success.

Webtrends Optimize have proudly

supported The Starr Trust over the last 3 years, sponsoring and attending events, taking part in fundraising initiatives, and most recently, our CEO, Matt Smith has been part of two bike ride challenges, which collectively, have raised nearly £10,000! Matt is a huge advocate for

the charity and feels passionately about

the work the charity do. He was recently asked to become an ambassador for

The Starr Trust to continue his support, pledging to continue fundraising for

them through many different means.

Other fundraising

Our team love to keep active and are

always up for a new challenge, meaning we have embarked on lots of different

fundraising adventures over the years.

We always take part in Macmillan Coffee Morning with lots of keen bakers in the

team, as well as fitness challenges – last year we took part in Tough Mudder.

Whilst things often get competitive, we really enjoy taking on a different challenge as a team.

We recently did a workshop at The

House of Lords on Sustainable Income Growth with an agency partner

specifically for non-profit businesses.

We know how important it is for

charities to maximise every visitor to

grow and increase funding and believe your AB testing strategy is a key part

experimentation, we maintain the belief that it is up to all of us to make a difference to our communities and charities.

We recently made the decision to start our journey to becoming B-Corp accredited to cement our commitment and pledge to continue the work we do. Aside from servicing our clients and partners, we are committed to prioritising people and protecting the planet to serve a greater purpose.

There are many things which contribute to a company’s B-Corp status, and a lot of this we were already doing. For example, we offer a substantial discount to any charity/ non-profit business we work with, we work closely with charities to fundraise

of this. The workshop was incredibly

for them, and we donate part of our

forward to supporting more charities

proud of our relationships with local

website optimisation.

taking on some more challenges and

Our Journey to B-Corp

output the best it can be.

Webtrends Optimize are within data and

www.webtrends-optimize.com

well received, and we are looking

annual revenue. We are incredibly

and nonprofit organisations with their

charities and are looking forward to

Whilst our skills and expertise at

continuing to make our workplace and

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MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

University of Brighton marks major milestone as 250th local business leader completes Help to Grow programme The Help to Grow management programme recently celebrated a significant milestone, with its 250th business leader completing the course.

The achievement highlights the

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university’s crucial role in supporting

the growth of Small

and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) across the region.

As SMEs account for 99.8% of the

UK business population, their success is a national priority. Help to Grow, a

government-funded initiative, is designed to provide senior leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to scale their

companies. Nationally, 91% of participants have reported improved leadership and

management skills and would recommend the programme to others.

The 12-week course, delivered through a blend of in-person and online sessions,

equips leaders with the skills to develop a robust business growth plan with

the support of university experts and a dedicated one-to-one mentor.

Here’s what our some recent candidates have to say:

“The best aspect of the programme has been the opportunity to step back and think about the business structure, operations and future goals. Because of the programme we are now looking for an investor or stakeholder and to restructure the business.

I would recommend the programme as it is important to reevaluate and rethink systems, values and operations.”

“The programmes strengths lie in starting from basics and taking a step approach, getting you to reevaluate your processes and ask why you are doing what you do.

The programme helped me get back to purpose and values, then reinstating these to the team ready for the next phase. It gave me real oversight of business and introduction to other business leads.”

Dr Mel Dymott, Dr. Med Christie Schramek UK

Jamie West, FGS Organics Ltd

“The programme provided value in allowing me to interact with people with similar SME challenges, providing interesting case studies to analyse and being informed and challenged by the expert speakers and facilitator. The programme helped me to focus on some small and large changes that need to happen to get us to where we want to be. It provides lots of benefits and tools to take away.”

Neil Walby, Acre Landscapes

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“The in-person sessions have been a

highlight. It’s great to meet other businesses and have some interesting discussions.

As a result of the course we are currently reviewing our entire pricing strategy

following a competitor analysis. It has been

very beneficial to take some time away from the business and look at a larger plan.”

Tracie Davey, Worthing and Adur Chamber

become a better leader and grow your business

90% Government funded MBA style business training 12 weeks online and face to face Taught by university experts Produce a growth plan Free 1 to 1 mentor Delivered in Brighton and Crawley

Find out more

helptogrow@brighton.ac.uk www.brighton.ac.uk/helptogrow

An enjoyable and challenging programme with excellent lecturers. Now to put the lessons into practice! Highly recommended for SMEs looking to grow.

tim felix leadership Services ltd

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 17

MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

Together, Apart: Why Hybrid Work Needs Human Connection

Remember when we used to learn things just by overhearing someone on a phone call across the office? Or picking up on a vibe in a meeting room and knowing something was up? That’s osmotic learning – and it’s getting harder to come by in the age of hybrid work.

Since the pandemic,

Monthly News

we’ve all been sold

the dream of working from anywhere. And sure, it’s brought

plenty of upsides: more flexibility, less commuting, the ability to do

deep work in peace. But at the same

time, something subtle and important has been lost. Not just in business performance, but in our brains.

What’s lost in translation – and why it matters

Work isn’t just tasks and deadlines – it’s people. And when those people

aren’t physically around each other, all sorts of invisible threads start to fray.

We miss the quick clarifications, the

spontaneous discussions, the shared sigh when the printer jams.

18 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Researchers at the Digital Futures at

Work Research Centre, led by Professor Jacqueline O’Reilly at the University

of Sussex, have been exploring how

digital transformation is reshaping our

working lives. The research programme has examined everything from labour

market access to workplace wellbeing – and one message keeps coming

through loud and clear: digital tools are incredibly helpful, but they’re only part of the picture.

Remote and hybrid working can

sometimes leave junior staff feeling lost, make mentoring feel like pulling teeth,

and create awkward “us vs. them” silos between teams. Physical absence can

create what social scientists call a social capital deficit; when the loss of informal relationships chips away at trust and

psychological safety. It can be especially

difficult for new hires, or anyone who

thrives on the spontaneous collaboration and support of working face-to-face.

“Ever since lockdown and the

rise of remote working, we have considered how we can be an

effective hybrid team,” says Daisy

Wood, Sussex Innovation’s People, Culture and Operations Manager.

“We all appreciate the opportunity to get work done from home, but many of the things that underpin

our work – from informal knowledge sharing to innovation and creativity, to basic team chemistry – depend

on those touchpoints where people are sharing a space together. Our

solution has been to schedule regular group activities ranging from ideation sessions to social events, as well as

organising the working week around a

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

few core days where our entire team are in the office together.”

The science behind what we’re feeling In conversation, there’s lots going on beneath the surface that we don’t

consciously realise. Our brains have

evolved to pick up micro-expressions: fleeting facial movements that offer

subtle emotional cues. Studies show that empathic people register these expressions in milliseconds, almost

without thinking. Online signals like these are often lost entirely. Delays, awkward

camera angles or poor lighting can make it much harder for our brains to pick up the social cues we rely on to feel

understood and to understand others.

Researchers at the University of Sussex have been studying a phenomenon

called interoception, which describes our ability to sense our own internal bodily signals, like our heart rate.

They’ve found that people who are more tuned into their own heartbeat tend to manage stress better, regulate their

emotions more effectively, and even

perform better when the pressure is on.

But it’s not just about what goes on

inside us individually. When people

problem of constantly seeing and

rates often subtly sync up. Groups

to contend with.

in sync tend to reach better agreements

What Sussex Innovation is doing

work together in person, their heart whose physiological rhythms are more

reacting to your own face on screen –

and collaborate more smoothly. It

about it

emotional connection.

We’ve recognised that many of our

This synchrony is much harder to

office, but still value their collaborative

full range of non-verbal cues – things

difficult for growing businesses to justify

breathing rhythms, and those fleeting

time. So we’ve launched our new day

coordination and emotional attunement

and connect. These spaces are about

building deep trust and truly smooth

encounters, shared coffee breaks and

reflects a shared focus and a deeper

members are spending less time in the

achieve in virtual settings. Without the

time together. Ultimately, it can be

like subtle posture shifts, shared

an office space that’s empty half the

micro-expressions – our unconscious

office plan for people to drop in, work,

become weaker. And that, in turn, makes

more than desks; they’re about chance

collaboration far more difficult.

impromptu mentoring moments that

Much has been written about “Zoom

spark new ideas and build trust.

Fatigue” – the drained feeling that

We’re not trying to turn back the clock

virtual meetings. There are several

we’re blending the best of both worlds

effort involved in making your own

and focus of hybrid work with the

maintaining unnaturally intense eye

Because sometimes, the best ideas

load that comes from constantly trying

sitting next to someone.

There’s also the “mirror effect” – the

www.sussexinnovation.co.uk

sometimes takes over after a day of

on our modern way of working. Instead,

contributing factors, from the

(innovating, you could say): the freedom

expressions clear and readable, to

richness of face-to-face connection.

contact, to the increased cognitive

happen when you just happen to be

to send and interpret non-verbal cues.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

Brighton cyclist to cross continent with just a ‘bag for life’ A Brighton adventurer is gearing up for a gruelling 3000 mile bike ride across the USA, crossing deserts and braving temperatures of over 40 degrees celsius.

Armed with a

Monthly News

lightweight bicycle and kit so minimal it will fit in a

supermarket-style

‘bag for life’, Matt Garman will ride

3,048 miles coast to coast, traversing

the entire North American continent from California to Florida.

Garman will leave Mission Beach,

San Diego on Sunday, September 14 and plans to complete the self-made challenge in five weeks, reaching the

beach-side fort Castillo San Marcos in

St Augustine on Monday October 27th.

“There’s no option except to finish as

we’ve booked flights back for the 27th of October. I’ll be travelling light, just

been 16 months in the planning.

credit card. All of my kit can fit into one

“There are also 14 days in our planned

one set of clothes, my mobile and a shopping bag.”

During his marathon ride, 54-year-old Garman and his lifelong friend David Cox, 56, will cross the baking hot Colorado and Yuha deserts.

“The deserts will be the toughest parts

but also the most beautiful. The ride will be tough and I’ll probably have a very sore bum by the end of it.”

To make the journey on time the duo will need to cycle for eight to nine hours per day covering often distances over 100 miles a day.

“My biggest worry is a crash or getting

hit by a car or a truck. Other than that I

am just really looking forward to seeing the vastness of the deserts and to

meeting all sorts of people. It’s a major adventure with a dear friend which has

20 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

route where we have to cover over 100 miles and our very longest day will be 127 miles. I’ve only cycled over 100 miles twice before.”

The serial adventurer is raising money for Rockinghorse Children’s Charity

which supports children with life-limiting conditions and their families.

For his trip across the US, Garman will

be riding a brand new carbon Giant Defy bicycle with Di2 electronic gearing.

It won’t be his first endurance test.

Garman has previously rowed across the Atlantic, swum the English Channel and

completed the notorious Ironman triathlon.

Cox is also an adventurer who has also

swum the channel, competed in Iron Man and the gruelling Marathon de Sables.

“I have always set challenges for

myself. I have a never ending need to demonstrate what I am capable of,” says Garman.

“I left school at 16 with no qualifications and did a lot of low paid jobs before finally running my own businesses.

This was a very different route to that

of my brothers, who were all high flyers

academically and went to university. So a lot of this admittedly comes down to insecurity, I think.”

Off the road, Garman is a leadership expert and keynote speaker, having addressed organisations including

NatWest, Lloyds Bank and Vistage.

His latest book, An Unconventional

Journey into Leadership, was published earlier this year.

“There are many paths to greatness and most of them are very unconventional. I hope my ride helps to inspire people to embark on their own challenges.”

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

Sussex Cricket Foundation Workplace B’Ashes The Sussex Cricket Foundation’s annual Workplace B’Ashes fundraiser has become a big hit during the summer, and 2025 was no exception!

On Friday 22nd

Monthly News

August, sixteen

teams from eleven

local businesses took part in the fun and

inclusive soft ball cricket tournament

on the hallowed turf at The 1st Central County Ground, Hove.

Playing a round-robin of group

matches, followed by semi-finals and some friendlies - the teams battled it

out throughout the day to decide the

eventual champions. In the early-evening

sun and in front of an enthusiastic

aim is to actively change lives through

own team defeated Dotsquares in a very

game to deliver accessible and enjoyable

crowd, the Sussex Cricket Foundation’s

cricket across the community. We use the

competitive final to claim the title!

opportunities that grow the sport, tackle

The B’Ashes has become a firm

and enable people to fulfil their potential.

providing a fantastic corporate day

Through our activities, we look to make

Foundation’s unfunded community-

type of cricket experience people are

Cricket and Sporting Memories.

work or how you can support, please

As Sussex Cricket’s charitable arm, our

cricket-foundation.

favourite of many local companies,

inequalities, improve health and wellbeing

out and raising important funds for the

cricket accessible to all, no matter what

based programmes such as Walking

looking for. To find out more about our visit sussexcricket.co.uk/sussex-

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

The missing middle: what Sussex entrepreneurs say devolution must deliver

The shape of

Monthly News

Sussex’s future

economy might

not be defined in

the future by how

many businesses start, but how many scale - and whether political leaders understand the barriers in their way.

In two recent episodes of the Sussex And The City podcast, innovation

advisor Simon Chuter and sustainable

marketing entrepreneur Maddy Cooper explore what it really means to build

high-growth businesses in the region

- and what role a mayor could play in

accelerating or inhibiting that growth.

Both offer a grounded but critical view of the conditions on the ground in Sussex.

22 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

And both suggest that without targeted intervention, the gap between ambition and action will only widen.

Scaling is hard - and largely unsupported

Simon Chuter has spent the past decade working with growth-stage businesses through Sussex Innovation, university partnerships, and Scale Up Sussex.

His argument is that the region has plenty of early-stage activity - but

far fewer businesses that make the

leap to 20+ employees or sustainable revenue growth.

He identifies five common barriers: access to talent, finance, markets,

leadership capacity and infrastructure

- most of which are system issues that can’t be solved by founders alone.

“We’re talking about smart, driven people with viable products who hit invisible ceilings,” he says.

“The support they need is patchy,

underfunded, or not coordinated.”

Sussex doesn’t lack innovation — it lacks joined-up ambition

Maddy Cooper left a successful career in global marketing to launch Flourish, a platform helping businesses

navigate the complex rules around sustainability comms.

But even with a strong model and

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

national relevance, her business - like

many others - has struggled to access meaningful regional support.

She compares Brighton unfavourably to Cambridge, where “support for high-

growth businesses feels strategic, fast, and focused.” In Sussex, she says,

“There’s no clear hub, no visible plan, and no one to turn to.”

Her conclusion is that there’s a ceiling on ambition, and it’s cultural as much as structural.

What does this mean for devolution?

Both guests support the idea of a Sussex mayor in theory.

But they are wary of another layer of structure without substance.

Chuter calls for “a growth symposium

with teeth” - a convening of successful

businesses with the biggest potential

If the new regional leadership wants to

and back them.”

change this, it will need to get serious

Both are cautious about top-down

recognise that while small is beautiful, it

about the middle of the economy - and

initiatives and one-size-fits-all

can’t be the whole Sussex story.

investment in scale-up conditions -

Everything you need to know about

and access to risk capital - the

can be found at sussexandthecity.info

deliver on jobs or innovation.

Alternatively, scan the QR code for

strategies. But both agree that without especially mentoring, skills pipelines mayoral authority will struggle to

The wider question

devolution in Sussex and Brighton

more information.

Sussex has a high number of small

businesses, and many will thrive by staying small.

But with far fewer medium-sized

employers, there are far fewer good

jobs and opportunities for people to cut their teeth in business. In areas

like Hastings, there are no companies employing over 200 people.

entrepreneurs, funders, educators

and public bodies to identify what’s already working and scale it up.

Cooper is more direct: “Find the dozen

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

VAP STO RI E S S PO N S OR

Value Added Partner Stories We speak to Mary Kemp, co-founder of AI Potential VAP Strories

Tell us your Story?

but the transformations in people inspire

three years ago that

to AI confidence reinforces that we made

company, I would

business; we’re in the business of helping

If you had told me

me. Every client who goes from AI anxiety

I’d be building an AI

the right choice. We’re not just in the AI

have laughed. My partner and I had found

people write their next chapter with

our rhythm in corporate America - we

courage and clarity.

businesses grow, and had built something

What has been your greatest or

burst onto the scene, and suddenly the

date?

to shift. We spent countless late-night

Dynamic Business Award for Woman

understood the game, knew how to help sustainable together. Then generative AI

proudest business achievement to

ground beneath every industry began

Standing on that stage, holding the

conversations weighing our options.

in Tech, I felt like I was living someone

Play it safe? The comfortable path would

wouldn’t have even recognised myself

service offering. Instead, we found

“Woman in Tech”? These weren’t labels

What if we could help people navigate

at this point in my journey. Yet there

survive it? That question changed

unlikely path, but the collective courage

Should we adapt our existing business?

else’s story. Just a few years earlier, I

disrupt carefully orchestrated supply

chains. These leaders understand that AI

adoption isn’t about being first to market;

have been to add AI as just another

in that description. “Tech founder”?

ourselves asking a different question:

I ever imagined wearing, especially not

Tell us a story/fact about yourself that

this transformation rather than simply

I was, representing not just my own

Something people might not know about

everything.

What has been your biggest business

of everyone who had believed in AI Potential from the beginning.

challenge to date?

What type of clients do you

and relationships wasn’t easy. There were

looking to meet?

as we began working with leaders who

a fascinating sweet spot: they’re mature

something clicked. We weren’t just

and built robust foundations, yet nimble

guides for people standing at their own

see them clearly. These are businesses

because we believe technology should

decades of serving clients, navigating

When I watch a team member discover

communities. Many of our partners operate

work and redirect that energy toward

expensive—it’s reputationally damaging.

realizes AI can help them think more

could compromise client data. In legal

those moments remind me why we made

In education, it could impact student

Walking away from years of expertise

moments of doubt - plenty of them. But felt overwhelmed by AI’s possibilities,

building a business; we were becoming

currently work with and who are you We work with organisations that occupy enough to have weathered challenges

enough to seize opportunities when they

crossroads. Today, AI Potential exists

that have earned their stripes through

amplify human potential, not replace it.

regulations, and building trust within their

they can automate hours of mundane

creative problem-solving, or when a leader strategically rather than just work faster this leap. The technology fascinates me,

24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

in sectors where getting it wrong isn’t just In finance, a poorly implemented AI tool

practices, it could affect case outcomes. experiences. In manufacturing, it could

it’s about being right for their organisation.

people might not know?

me is that I’m a volunteer racing marshall.

It’s a world away from boardrooms and AI workshops, but I love it. Standing

trackside, you’re part of a team keeping drivers and spectators safe, and you need to stay calm and focused even

when things get unpredictable. For me, it’s a mix of adrenaline and community - being outdoors, working alongside

people who share the same passion, and knowing your role really matters. In some ways, it’s not so different from business: you have to make quick decisions, trust your team, and be ready for anything.

How do you define Success?

For me, success is about people finding their courage. It’s seeing leaders move from fear to confidence, and teams

realising they can use AI to focus on

the work that matters most. Success is when people feel empowered, not

overwhelmed, and know they have what it takes to thrive in a changing world.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 25

FI N A NCE S PO NS O R

Shape the Future of Purpose-Led Business Get involved in a new campaign and trend report reaching up to 1 million founders and business leaders

Found & Flourish - an

Finance

impact-led community and platform for purpose-driven

founders - is teaming

up with Plus Accounting and Projects and launching a landmark trend report and digital campaign spotlighting the future of business through the lens of profit, purpose, and people.

We’re gathering insight from

entrepreneurs, founders, freelancers,

and business leaders across the UK to shape a more inclusive, values-led

vision of entrepreneurship - and we want to hear from you.

• Amplify your voice – Share your

• What founders really need to thrive in

insights and challenges, and you may

2025 and beyond

be featured in our final report.

• Reach and recognition – Our final publication will be shared across a network of up to 1 million entrepreneurs, investors, and

the future of business.

Scan the QR code below or visit:

• Lead the change – Align your brand

the-future

with a movement committed to creating businesses that work for people and planet.

What We’re Exploring: • The role of values, equity, and social

• Be part of something bigger – Join

• Smart growth strategies (not hustle

success in business.

• Barriers to inclusive entrepreneurship

26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Complete the survey and help shape

partner communities.

Why Get Involved?

a nationwide conversation redefining

Want to be featured?

impact in modern business culture)

www.foundflourish.co.uk/shape-

You are invited to Alchemist’s Dead Man’s Ball - Brighton’s spookiest Halloween party.

Shiver your timbers with live performances, scary flash mobs and a deadly DJ set. Feast on a hog roast or vegetarian option, and swig your welcome drink.

Dress like a pirate (deceased!) or walk the plank.

Book fast - places are limited!

October 25 | 19:00 - 00:00 The British Engineerium Tickets: £50

https://tinyurl.com/mphju9c3 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

Sole Trader vs Limited Company: The pros and cons for your small business Paula Nurse, Client Service Director, Carpenter Box When you start out in

Finance

your own business,

it’s not uncommon for you to find yourself as a one-person

operation. You will oversee your own accounts, sales and marketing and

everything regarding the products and services you provide.

In this article, we take a look at the

differences between being a sole trader or a limited company and examine the

pros and cons each option has to offer.

This will help you to weigh up the best option for yourself and your business.

28 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Sole trader Sole traders are individuals, formally recognised by HMRC who run a

business for themselves. They are

often referred to as self-employed or

freelancers. However, the official term for such people is ‘sole trader’.

When you register with HMRC as a sole

trader, you must keep appropriate financial records and pay any taxes due. This

includes tracking all eligible expenses,

issuing invoices for any work undertaken and submitting self-assessment returns confirming your taxable income.

When to set up as a sole trader

You will need to set up as a sole trader if any of the following apply:

• If you have earned more than £1,000

from self-employment between 6 April and 5 April

• You need to prove you’re self-

employed, for example to claim TaxFree Childcare

• You want to make voluntary Class 2

National Insurance payments to help you qualify for benefits

Under employment, tax is deducted at source through the Pay As You Earn

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

insurance, but keep in mind that

liability for your sole-trader business ultimately lies with you.

•Y ou may be at a disadvantage when

bidding for big contracts: even if you are providing exactly the service a

client is looking for, internal policies

may rule you out because you’re a sole trader and they’ve decided to work only with limited companies.

•T here is no to very little flexibility on Paula Nurse

(PAYE) scheme. Sole traders, however, use self-assessment to calculate their tax and NI burden which is

paid to HMRC twice a year. This is

unlike being a traditional employee of another organisation.

Alongside these tax payments, sole

traders usually need to pay Class 2 and

Class 4 National Insurance Contributions (NICs). The amounts are calculated

automatically when you submit your selfassessment form online. You can find

out more about this on the government’s Self-employed NI rates page.

Pros of a being sole trader

• It’s easier to set up as a sole trader:

there’s less paperwork (although you still have to complete an annual tax

return) and you don’t need to register with Companies House.

• You have a greater level of privacy

than limited companies: if you set up a

limited company, some of your personal details will be published in the records of Companies House. However, you’ll

need to put some information out into the public domain if you’re to market your business effectively.

Cons of being a sole trader

• You have full liability if your business

gets into debt: it’s possible to protect yourself from such things through

the likes of professional indemnity

insurance and payment protection

the tax and NI you pay individually, compared to a limited company.

•Y ou may not be eligible to claim tax

reliefs: you have to be within the charge

of corporation tax to be eligible to claim Research & Development tax reliefs

and the creative industries tax reliefs.

Therefore, you have to be a limited

company in order to claim these reliefs.

The above information is relevant in the current year, however, from April 2026,

HMRC are introducing Making Tax Digital (MTD) for sole traders who meet certain

criteria. This article does not cover MTD. Limited company A limited company has its own legal

identity and is structured as a business with shareholders and directors. The

company can be run by just one person,

however the setup is more involved than being a sole trader.

For limited companies run by an

individual, the person in question

becomes the director of the company and shareholder. They will take their remuneration by way of a salary,

Pros of being a limited company

• They may feel more trustworthy to

some clients: a limited company can

give the impression of a greater sense of permanence and financial success.

• Limited liability: financial liabilities are placed on the company rather

than on the individual(s) running the

company. Generally, that means your personal assets aren’t at risk if you run a limited company.

• They can be more profitable: limited

companies pay corporation tax rather than personal income tax. You also

have far more flexibility in terms of how you remunerate yourself, affording you more tax planning opportunities.

Note that you may still need to apply for a registered trademark, if that’s relevant to your business.

Cons of being a limited company

• More paperwork: It takes more effort to set up a limited company, and

the ongoing reporting requirements

are more onerous including filing the

accounts with Companies House and

the Corporation Tax return with HMRC. It’s advisable for limited companies to engage an accountant to keep their finances in order.

Whether you become a sole trader

or limited company you should also consider whether you need to be

VAT registered. VAT registration is

compulsory if your business’ annual

turnover exceeds the VAT threshold. This is currently set at £90,000 per year.

dividends (or a mix of both) from the

We’re happy to talk you through

yourself can be complex, but we can

business so you can make the best

business profits. How to remunerate help to remove the complication.

To set up a limited company, you need

your options when setting up your

decision. Get in touch on 01903 23094 to discuss your needs further.

to register with Companies House.

You must file an annual confirmation

statement and annual company accounts each year which will be on public record.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 29

FI N A NCE S PO NS O R

Find out more:

Why should your business consider partnering with Seico Group?

Confidence and trust is a key driver of new business to Seico Group, especially when it comes to mortgages and commercial finance.

Some companies

Finance

partner with Seico

because it is core to their business but

they don’t have the

inhouse expertise or an established

Other businesses want to broaden

or commercial borrowing needs.

mortgages as complementary and

If your business would like to

out the services they offer and see helpful to their customers as well

as generating an income stream for their company.

reputation in mortgage brokering or commercial finance. Mortgages is

Partners benefit from being able to

a service they want to offer to their

confidently refer clients to a mortgage and

commercial Whatdo doour ourclients clients sayfinance specialist with over 33 What say and they want to enjoy the additional years in the industry who can expertly about us? revenue stream. look after them for all their residential about us?

What do our clients say customers to enhance their service

about us?

What do our clients say about us?

PRESENTATION | 2024 | CONFIDENTIAL | DO NOT DISTRIBUTE

30 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

PRESENTATION | 2024 | 2024 CONFIDENTIAL | DO NOT PRESENTATION | CONFIDENTIAL | DO DISTRIBUTE NOT DISTRIBUTE PRESENTATION | 2024 | CONFIDENTIAL | DO NOT DISTRIBUTE

discuss partnering with Seico Group and start enjoying the benefits, get in touch by emailing: gemma.king@seicogroup.com www.seicogroup.co.uk/partnerwhitelabel-mortgage-service/ 01273 778888

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01273 778888 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31 mortgages@seicogroup.com

LEGAL S PO NS O R

Why Small Firms Deliver Big Results

By Lucy Tarrant, Managing Director, Cognitive Law

When it comes to

Legal

choosing a law firm, it’s easy to assume that bigger means

better. Big names.

Big offices. Big teams. But after more than 30 years in the legal industry,

I’ve seen first-hand that what clients (especially business owners) really

want is not size, it’s service. That’s

why at Cognitive Law we’ve built a

consultancy that puts people before

process, relationships before red tape, and quality over quantity.

A boutique firm with big expertise

At first glance, we might not look like

every other law firm and that’s exactly

the point. We’re proud to be organically home grown. We haven’t acquired or

merged with another firm, and we have hand-picked every lawyer with whom

we work. We’re quietly ambitious about our growth but vehemently opposed to playing the numbers game just to get bums on seats.

Careful cultivation of our boutique firm

means we’re small enough to care about every single client, yet broad enough in

expertise to meet all of their needs; from commercial litigation to employment law, later life planning, and most

32 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

recently (and excitingly), residential property.

Our newly launched residential property

service offers a personal

and responsive approach to what can often be a

stressful process. Led by experienced consultant property lawyer Sara

Le Grove, the service is

already being recognised

Lucy Tarrant

for its clarity, efficiency,

and calm professionalism.

means they have the autonomy to

demands, having direct, one-to-one in-

in a way that works best for their

reassurance and quick results that are

professionals and business owners.

For homeowners juggling multiple

structure their days and relationships

person support from start to finish offers

clients, many of whom are other busy

often hard to find.

Want to agree a payment structure that

Direct access. Real relationships.

to us after traditional office hours? We

clients have with law firms is the layers

by a lawyer who is motivated, flexible,

to their lawyer. At Cognitive Law, there

chasing billable hours.

gatekeepers. When you work with

Consultants who love what they do

contact from the start and that doesn’t

flexibility in how, when, where and for

suits your cash flow? Need to speak

One of the most common frustrations

can do that. Every client is looked after

they have to go through just to speak

and focused on delivering value, not

are no switchboards, secretaries, or

one of our consultants, you get direct

Because our consultants have complete

stop when the clock hits 5pm.

whom they work, they’re genuinely able to

Our lawyers work for themselves, which

distractions. We regularly hear things like,

enjoy practising the law without any other

L EGA L SP ON SO R

Karen Blakesley

Mandy Tourle

Mayumi Hawkes

Rehana Ali

Richard Bates

Sara Le Grove

“I love being able to do the work I want to

do, when I want to do it, without having to get involved with the running of the firm.”

That freedom not only improves their

wellbeing, but it also means that clients are getting legal advice from someone

who is energised and enthusiastic, not

exhausted or pulled in other directions by competing pressures.

We’re a home for experienced lawyers who don’t want to work within rigid

structures or be answerable to anyone

other than themselves. They want to give their clients more, not just in terms of

service, but in their time and empathy.

The result is having clients who feel heard and supported from beginning to end.

Giving back Our charity work isn’t a box-ticking

exercise, it’s driven by genuine passions within our team. Working flexibly allows our lawyers the freedom to support the causes that matter most to them.

For example, our later life consultant

Richard Bates has just taken on

losing that boutique, personal feel.

Whitehaven to Scarborough to raise

Bigger isn’t always better (No

the coast-to-coast cycle ride from

money for The Starr Trust, a fantastic

sniggering at the back please!)

young people to overcome obstacles

Is bigger always better when it comes

proud to support him in this challenge.

Cognitive Law, we believe that the best

As a firm, we also champion St

those are easier to build when you’re

the Southern Hospice Group), Focus

sees you, not a case file. When you’re

among others. Each charity we support

in your outcome, experienced in your

consultants and the wider values we

way that suits you.

Brighton-based charity that supports

and achieve their goals. We’re incredibly

to legal advice? We don’t think so. At

results come from real relationships; and

Barnabas House Hospice (part of

working directly with someone who

Foundation, and George’s Rockstars,

working with someone who’s invested

reflects the interests of our individual

sector, and has the freedom to work in a

hold as a firm.

Sussex roots, national reach While we’re based in Sussex and deeply connected to the Brighton business

We may be boutique, but we’re built for impact. And we’ll continue proving that

small firms really can deliver big results. www.cognitivelaw.co.uk

community, our consultants and clients

span the country. Thanks to our flexible model and smart use of technology,

we’re able to deliver outstanding service wherever our clients are without ever

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33

LEGAL S PO NS O R

UK Government’s Employment Rights Bill Roadmap: A New Chapter for Workers In July 2025, the UK Government published its long-awaited roadmap for implementing the Employment Rights Bill, The roadmap outlines a phased rollout of 28 major reforms between 2026 and 2027, with some changes taking effect immediately after Royal Assent, expected in Autumn 2025.

This ambitious reform

Legal

agenda is part of

the government’s

broader “Make Work Pay” mission, aimed

at tackling low pay, insecure work,

and outdated employment practices.

It promises to reshape the UK’s labour market by introducing new rights,

enhancing enforcement, and promoting fairness and flexibility.

Core Objectives of the Bill

The Employment Rights Bill seeks to: • Guarantee day-one rights for key

34 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

entitlements like unfair dismissal and

Phase 1: Winter 2025 – Immediate

• I mprove access to flexible working

• Protections for industrial action

parental leave arrangements

•P rotect workers in precarious roles,

including those on zero-hours contracts

•S trengthen trade union rights and industrial relations

•P romote equality and transparency in the workplace

•E stablish a new Fair Work Agency to enforce labour standards

Phased Implementation Timeline

The roadmap breaks down the reforms into four key phases:

Changes

participants: Workers will be shielded

from dismissal for lawful participation

• Simplified rules for industrial action ballots and notices

Phase 2: April 2026

• Day-one rights for paternity leave and unpaid parental leave

• Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) extended to low-paid workers and available from day one

• Fair Work Agency launched to enforce minimum wage, holiday pay, and SSP

L EGA L SP ON SO R

• Doubling of protective awards for

breaches in collective redundancy consultations

• Sexual harassment recognised as a whistleblowing issue

Phase 3: October 2026

• Restrictions on fire-and-rehire tactics • Expanded trade union access rights

• Duty to inform workers of union rights • Extended tribunal claim time limits (from 3 to 6 months)

• New protections for harassment and sexual harassment

Phase 4: Throughout 2027

• Day-one unfair dismissal rights,

with a statutory probation period

(government prefers 9 months; Lords suggest 6 months)

• Guaranteed hours contracts for zerohours workers who regularly work set hours

the right to request more predictable

hours. Employers must give reasonable

notice of shift changes and compensate for cancellations. These protections will also apply to agency workers.

4. Transparency and Equality

Large employers (250+ staff) must

publish Equality Action Plans, including gender pay gap data and menopause support. This is designed to foster inclusive workplaces and reduce systemic inequalities.

transparent to help close wage gaps.

5. Strengthened Enforcement

Industries like retail, hospitality,

The newly formed Fair Work Agency

will have powers to inspect workplaces, demand documents, issue penalties,

and bring legal proceedings on behalf of workers. It consolidates existing

enforcement functions and is expected to expand its remit over time.

• Bereavement leave introduced for

6. Industrial Action and Trade

• Equality action plans required for large

The Bill enhances protections for

pregnancy loss

employers, including menopause support

• Strengthened flexible working rights

and clearer shift notice requirements

Major Reforms in Detail 1. Flexible Working by Default

Union Rights

workers involved in lawful industrial

action and simplifies the process for

ballots and notices. Trade unions will

gain greater access to workplaces, and employers will be required to inform workers of their union rights.

Employees will be able to request

7. Bereavement Leave for

This includes remote work, compressed

New rights will allow time off for grief

flexible arrangements from day one.

hours, and flexitime. Employers must provide “reasonable” grounds for

refusal and consult with employees before making decisions.

2. Unfair Dismissal Reform

The right to claim unfair dismissal will

become a day-one entitlement. However, employers may dismiss during a

probationary period using a “lighter-touch” process. This reform aims to balance

worker protection with business flexibility.

3. Zero-Hours Contracts

Workers on irregular contracts will gain

Alex Jones

Pregnancy Loss

following pregnancy loss at any stage, including miscarriage and ectopic pregnancies — a compassionate expansion beyond current rules.

8. Tribunal Time Limits Extended

The time limit for bringing employment

tribunal claims will increase from three to six months, giving workers more time to seek justice.

9. Pay and Tips Transparency

Employers will be legally required to pass on 100% of tips and service charges to workers. Pay structures must be more

manufacturing, and logistics are expected to face the greatest

implementation hurdles due to their

reliance on in-person work and variable scheduling.

What’s Next?

The government has scheduled

consultations to refine the details of

several reforms, including the statutory

probation period and guaranteed hours contracts. These consultations will

shape the final regulations and help employers prepare for compliance.

While the Bill has passed through the

House of Commons, it is currently in its

final stages in the House of Lords. Royal Assent is expected in Autumn 2025, triggering the first wave of reforms.

The Employment Rights Bill represents one of the most comprehensive

overhauls of UK employment law in

decades. It promises stronger rights and fairer treatment for workers, but also

demands significant adjustments from employers. As the roadmap unfolds,

both sides of the labour market will need to adapt to a new era of transparency, flexibility, and accountability.

If you need confidential advice on any

of these challenges, or any employment related issues contact Alex Jones at ajones@365employmentlaw.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

Completing the property puzzle Callaways is celebrating its 90th birthday with an exciting rebrand to Wilbury Residential, SBT meets Heather Hilder-Darling, the owner of the long-standing Hove agency.

On a windswept

Cover Story

Brighton seafront, rows of brightly

painted beach huts stand in cheerful

defiance of the weather. For many,

they’re just a pretty backdrop for a

weekend stroll. For Heather Hilder-

Darling, they’re part of a market she

knows better than anyone. “I can tell

you the sale price of a beach hut from 12 years ago without looking it up,”

she laughs. “It’s a small world - and in Brighton & Hove, the beach hut world is even smaller.”

36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Heather is the owner of Callaways, the

long-standing estate agency celebrating its 90th anniversary. Or at least she

was. Callaways has now been reborn as Wilbury Residential.

With over 15 years at the helm, she has

steered the business through recessions, market booms, political uncertainty, and a pandemic, all while holding fast to her belief that estate agency is, above all, a people business.

Her passion for property started

long before she knew it could be a

career. “When I was six or seven, I

got a jigsaw puzzle for Christmas - a big stately home, just the façade. I

loved piecing together the windows

and porticos,” she recalls. Soon after, her father’s work took the family to

Kilmarnock in Scotland. “We moved into a brand-new development, and my sister and I would walk around

the unfinished phases, balancing on foundations, deciding which room would be which. That’s probably

where the creative spark began.”

Since then, Heather has moved 22

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

times, lived in France, Belgium, and Italy, and developed an instinct for

understanding not just the bricks and

mortar, but the people whose lives are shaped by them.

Early Career: Sexism and ‘Knowing Your Place’

Her first job in estate agency came in the 1980s, after she returned to

Worthing from Europe. The experience was eye-opening, and not always in a

good way. “Back then, women weren’t negotiators. We were generally only

hired as secretaries. If we went out on viewings, our role was to hold the end

of the measuring tape. As a woman, you ‘knew your place’,” she says.

It was a stark contrast to her experience

in estate agency at that time, there was still a very clear hierarchy - and women seemed to be at the bottom of it.”

Networking in those days often meant

entering all-male spaces. “I remember

a golf day with 100 participants where I

was the only woman. Golf was great for meeting people, but I wasn’t going to drink pints all night just to fit in.”

Meanwhile, she was raising three

young children without family nearby

to help. “There were no school clubs or after-school care like there are now. I

somehow managed to cram a full-time job into part-time hours. In the school

holidays, the kids spent a lot of time at

Worthing Leisure Centre, just so I could keep working.”

abroad. In Brussels, she had worked

Taking the Leap

scale in communications, biscuits

Around 1988, I spotted an advert in

for companies on an international

and the European Referendum. Not many people will remember an early

computing company called Wang which introduced some of the first business

computers in Europe, but Heather does.

“It was frustrating because I knew I had the skills and the tech knowledge, but

his first commissions went on buying our first buy-to-let and so we began building knowledge and our portfolio.

By the early 1990s, Bob had built a

successful career in estate agency, but redundancy during the housing crash became the push they needed to go

it alone. Together they launched Land & Brand New Homes, specialising in strategic land sales and show home

marketing. “When Bob said he wanted to start the business, we had three

kids, a 15% mortgage, and two dogs. I

thought he was mad,” she laughs. “But it was the best thing we ever did.”

The entrepreneurial spirit became part of their identity. “We’ve been through so many economic ups and downs

that we’ve learned to adapt rather than panic. You keep faith, you work hard, and you find a way through.”

the local newspaper for a vacancy as

Buying Callaways

encouraged my husband Bob, (then

In 2007, Bob spotted an opportunity.

‘Land Buyer’ for McCarthy & Stone. I working for an estate agency) to apply, as I knew it would suit him to the

ground. He got the job - and we live to

tell the tale almost 40 years later. One of

“He mentioned an agency I might like - it turned out to be Callaways in Hove. It

had been around since 1935 and had a great reputation,” Heather recalls. She

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 37

COVE R STO RY S P ON S OR

bought the business and moved into its Church Road premises. “In 2024,

we relocated to our own self-contained

offices in Wilbury Grove. It’s off the high street, but easy for clients to find and it feels very much our own.”

Some landlords have stayed with

Callaways since before Heather bought

it. “That kind of loyalty comes from trust, consistency, and delivering what you promise.”

The Human Side of Property Heather describes Callaways as “a

boutique agency” - not in size, but in

ethos. “We know our clients personally.

We’re not just processing transactions; we’re helping people through some of the biggest changes in their lives.”

A significant part of that work is

supporting clients who feel left behind by technology. “If you’ve lived in the same house for 40 years, suddenly

facing anti-money laundering checks, GDPR, and endless online forms can be overwhelming,” she says. “Some

clients don’t have mobiles or internet

38 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

access. We break it all down, guide

them through it step-by-step, and make sure they have the support they need.

Sometimes that means sitting down with them and filling things in together.”

For Heather, this isn’t an optional extra.

“For many clients, especially older ones,

Beach Hut Association AGMs, appeared on BBC’s The One Show, and built a blog series around the lifestyle and

culture of hut ownership. “People know they can call me years after a sale and I’ll still have the details. It’s a small market, but it’s built on trust.”

this level of help makes the difference

Rebranding for the Future

completely lost.”

In 2025, 90 years after it was founded,

between them feeling confident or

Brighton’s Beach Hut Queen If you’ve read a newspaper article

about Brighton & Hove beach huts in

the last decade, chances are Heather

was quoted. Her niche expertise began during lockdown with no one else to

carry out the role. “I thought, right, I’ll

get stuck in - and I loved it,” she says.

Her connection to beach huts goes

back even further. Bob’s family owned

one in Rottingdean when he was young.

“They’re more than just huts; they’re little havens. I’ve sold them to young families,

grandparents, and everyone in between.”

She’s been a regular speaker at Hove

Callaways became Wilbury Residential, the fourth rebrand (but first name

change!) since Heather took over.

“Branding needs to keep up with the

times,” she explains. “Our black, white, and gold look is elegant, but lots of

agencies use similar colours now. We

want to stand out, be brighter, appeal

to new audiences, and show that we’re forward-looking. We’re moving from

“Callaways Sales & Lettings” to “Wilbury Residential” – a name rooted in our

location and future-focused identity.

The rebrand also reflects an

internal shift. “We’re developing our

management team so they can lead the business in future. We’re introducing auctions, embracing AI, and looking

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

at acquisitions. The aim is to keep

evolving without losing the personal service we’re known for.

“The agency is in good hands. We

have Laura Simpson (who’s quite rightly

becoming the Queen of Beach Huts due

to her knowledge and impressive number of beach sales! but also manages sales and lettings), Melanie Hilder

who manages property maintenance and repairs, alongside various other

responsibilities, and Vanessa Light who

is our inhouse Company Accountant and has no end of skills.”

At the heart of the rebrand is the

focus on the values that Heather has always insisted are adhered to in

the business. “We pride ourselves in our professionalism, trust, integrity,

tenants, smoothing issues rather than letting them escalate.”

The Market Today Heather is realistic about the challenges facing the property market. “Political uncertainty, mortgage rates, and the after-effects of the pandemic have

slowed sales. Houses are taking longer

to sell, and more deals fall through at the last minute.”

But she remains optimistic about

Brighton & Hove. “The city will always attract London buyers, and Worthing

offers great value for those wanting a

slightly quieter life by the sea. There will always be people who need to move.

The key is confidence.”

authenticity – and being approachable.

Partners in Life and Business

guiding them through every step,

Heather and Bob have known each

We are “hand-holders” for our clients, whether it’s a landlord navigating 177

pieces of legislation or an elderly couple facing their first move in 40 years.

“On the lettings side, we aim for win–

win outcomes between landlords and

other since they were 14 and have

been married for 41 years. They work in separate offices - “which helps!”

don’t see much of each other during the

day, unless he’s bringing me a doughnut or a cup of tea.”

They do, however, have to guard against

shop talk taking over their personal time.

“We’ve ruined a few rounds of golf by

bringing up work halfway through. You

have to work at keeping that balance.”

Why Heather’s Not Retiring Yet At 70, Heather has no plans to slow down. “I’ve seen friends retire and get left behind. I don’t want that. I

like waking up and thinking, ‘What

am I going to learn today, apart from improving my golf swing?’”

That might be mastering a new CRM feature, finding a creative solution to a tricky sale, or navigating a sudden market change. “It keeps my brain

active, and it keeps me connected to

people and the world around me. That’s reason enough to keep going.”

she jokes - and play to their strengths.

“He’s a natural salesperson; I’m more marketing, admin, and creative. We

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 39

MOTO RI NG N E WS S P ON S OR

Geely EX5 Arrives in the UK – Rivervale’s First Look Geely may be a new name to British drivers, but the group behind it is far from a newcomer.

The Chinese company

Motoring News

already owns Volvo, Polestar and Lotus,

has a majority stake in LEVC and holds

investments in Smart and Mercedes-

Benz. Its arrival in the UK market comes with the all-electric EX5, the first car to carry the Geely badge in the UK.

Rivervale’s Marketing Manager, Ben

Freakley, was among the first to see

the EX5 at a private preview earlier this

year. His early verdict is that it combines premium quality with family-friendly

design, advanced technology and a

price point that promises to undercut

rivals such as Tesla, BMW and Skoda.

The EX5 is set to launch in October

2025, but pre-production models have

already given a clear picture of what to expect. With a usable 60.2 kWh LFP

battery, the car targets a WLTP range of

40 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

around 267 miles. Charging performance

The EX5 has also been fine-

in just 20 minutes using a 100kW fast

Engineering, promising comfort on

motor driving the front wheels, delivering

compromising stability.

pricing suggests a starting point close

In terms of competition, the EX5 sits

premium rivals.

Skoda Enyaq and Peugeot E-3008. Its

Inside, the EX5 is designed with space

yet it offers equipment that often costs

is strong too, with 30% to 80% available

tuned for UK conditions by Lotus

charger. Power comes from a 160kW

Britain’s challenging roads without

0–62 mph in 6.9 seconds. Indicative to £35,000, positioning it well below

alongside the Tesla Model Y, BMW iX3, range and performance are competitive,

and comfort in mind. A flat floor creates

extra elsewhere.

like a hidden storage drawer under the

Our first impression is that the EX5

add everyday practicality. Up front,

family life. It has generous cabin space,

cluster and a 15.4” central display

younger passengers. If pricing lands as

trims bring luxuries such as a head-up

be one of the most significant electric

generous rear legroom, while touches

rear seat and multiple storage cubbies

feels like it has been designed for real

the driver is greeted by a 10.2” digital

as well as technology that will impress

running Geely’s Flyme OS. Higher

expected, Rivervale believes this could

display and seat massage. Materials

launches of 2025.

with padded surfaces, faux leather

For updates on finance options and

feel closer to premium territory,

“GeeLuxe” seats and wood-style inlays.

availability, visit rivervale.co.uk.

MOTO R I N G N EWS SP ON SO R

Rivervale Acquires Concept Vehicle Leasing On the 19th August 2025, Rivervale are excited to announce that they completed the acquisition of Concept Vehicle Leasing and Concept Fleet Solutions, expanding personal & business leasing and their FN50 Fleet footprint.

Concept has built

Motoring News

a strong reputation in personal and

business leasing as well as outsourced

fleet management. The move brings extra scale to Rivervale’s growing FN50 fleet operation and means

Concept customers will now have

access to Rivervale’s wide choice of

funders and manufacturer links. This will open up sharper rentals, faster

lead times and greater vehicle choice.

The addition of Concept’s fleet also

brings further strength to its position and reassurance for clients.

Vince Pemberton, CEO, Rivervale,

Bulloch will help with the transition

service, for both personal and

Paul said: After more than 25 years

fleet‑management technology are a

emotional moment. I’m incredibly

hire and leasing divisions together and

dedicated team, and industry partners

customers into our FN50 fleet operation,

journey. It’s the right time and the

and faster lead‑times for Concept’s

our customers and staff will be well

commented: “Concept’s award‑winning

before moving on to new projects.

business leasing customers, and

in the sector, this is both a proud and

perfect. By combining our contract

grateful to our loyal customers,

integrating Concepts fleet managed

who have been part of the Concept

we unlock sharper rentals, richer choice,

right partner, and I leave knowing

existing customers.”

supported in the future”

All Concept staff based in Surrey will

For more information about Rivervale

customers. Concept founder Paul

rivervale.co.uk

join Rivervale and continue to support

and this acquisition, please visit

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 41

The conversation revolution: how smart transcription is quietly transforming business Small firms are discovering that their biggest untapped resource isn’t new technology – it’s the meetings they’re already having Most businesses

AI

don’t realise they’re

sitting on an untapped goldmine: the

conversations they

already have every day. From client calls to internal meetings, these discussions

are packed with insights, decisions, and opportunities. Yet once the call ends, most of that value evaporates.Link

“Information flows beautifully during conversations, but organisations

often hit a barrier when it comes to

42 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

transforming those discussions into actionable results,” says Dr Marta B. Ruiz, Senior Researcher at the

UK Productivity Institute at Alliance Manchester Business School.

Research from workflow automation firm Zapier suggests UK businesses waste

conversations into actionable work.

The solution isn’t complex AI systems or expensive enterprise software.

It’s something far simpler: recording and transcribing the conversations that already happen, then building

lightweight automations around them.

over £2bn annually on manual tasks that

Start small, think problems first

from what happens after meetings end:

The most successful implementations

could be automated. Much of this stems the scramble to document decisions, chase action items, and translate

don’t begin with technology. They start with friction points.

A I SP ON SO R

Take a London-based financial firm

whose founder, Mark Stevens, noticed his consultants were spending 30

minutes after each client call writing up notes and updating their CRM system.

“It was death by a thousand cuts,” he

says. “Each call wasn’t a huge time sink, but across 50 calls a week, we were losing entire days to admin.”

Rather than investing in expensive AI

platforms, Stevens started with basic call recording and transcription tools. The

questions, plus we’ve built a knowledge base that new team members can search before client calls.”

This isn’t just about efficiency –

it’s about institutional memory. In

knowledge-based businesses, expertise often lives in people’s heads rather

than accessible systems. Conversation transcripts capture that knowledge as

it’s naturally shared, creating resources that outlast individual employees.

transcripts became the source material for

Beyond the hype cycle

ups, and internal briefing documents.

The conversation automation space

automated CRM updates, client follow-

“The technology and automation

investment was a no brainer,” Stevens

explains. “The time savings were worth thousands. More importantly, our

consultants could focus on actually

helping clients rather than documenting every conversation.”

This approach – identifying specific

problems before implementing solutions – is crucial for success. Companies that

start with “we need AI” often struggle to find practical applications. Those that

begin with “we’re wasting too much time

on X” typically find clearer paths forward.

The competitive advantage of going first Early adopters are discovering

unexpected benefits beyond time

savings. Transcribed conversations

become searchable knowledge bases, revealing patterns in client requests, common project challenges, and successful approaches.

sits awkwardly between AI hype and

call,” says founder Tom. “Now we have automated responses for common

Internet Institute. “Companies need

clear policies about what gets recorded,

how transcripts are stored, and who has access to conversation data.”

Early adopters report that transparency helps. Teams that understand how conversation data is used – and

see direct benefits from resulting

automations – tend to embrace the

technology. Those where recording feels like surveillance often resist.

The conversation revolution reflects a

value in simpler approaches: decent

transcription, basic automation rules, and integration with existing tools.

“You don’t need artificial general

intelligence to turn a meeting transcript into a project brief,” notes AI transformation expert Mary Kemp, co-founder of AI

Potential. “You need good transcription,

template systems, and maybe some basic text processing. The infrastructure for this has existed for years – we’re just now connecting the pieces properly.”

This practicality may explain why

adoption is spreading fastest among smaller businesses rather than large

enterprises. SMEs face fewer technical barriers and can implement solutions quickly, while larger organisations

often get bogged down in procurement processes and integration challenges.

However, the shift toward conversation-

technical concepts in every discovery

workplace technology at Oxford’s

models, many businesses are finding

giants tout sophisticated language

to identify which client questions

realised we were explaining the same

Catherine Morrison, who researches

Looking ahead

The privacy paradox

repeatedly surface across projects. “We

gains and employee privacy,” warns Dr

mundane productivity tools. While tech

A Manchester-based software

consultancy uses conversation data

“There’s a balance between efficiency

based automation raises important

questions about workplace surveillance

and data protection. Recording business calls involves multiple parties and potentially sensitive information.

broader shift in how businesses think

about data and automation. Rather than creating new processes for AI systems, successful companies are finding ways

to extract more value from activities that already happen naturally.

As transcription technology improves and integration tools become more

sophisticated, expect this approach to spread. The businesses figuring

it out now – recording strategically,

automating selectively, and focusing on real problems rather than technological possibilities – will likely maintain

advantages as the space matures.

“We’re not trying to replace human

conversations,” reflects Mary Kemp.

“We’re just making sure that all the

great thinking that happens in those

conversations doesn’t disappear when

the call ends. It’s a simple idea, but the impact is totally transformational.”

For businesses willing to start small

and think practically, the conversation

revolution might just be getting started.

Mary Kemp is co-founder of AI Potential,

which specialises in generative AI training and transformation for UK businesses

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 43

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

What’s One Dream You’re Proud of Pursuing - Regardless of the Outcome?

Reflections from a VAP Top Table Experience at Casa Baxevanis

When I ask a question

Networking & Events

at one of our Top Table storytelling

experiences, I never

quite know where it will

take us. Last month at Casa Baxevanis,

with the smell of charcoal drifting through the garden and the sound of laughter

rising above the clink of glasses, I asked a simple yet powerful question:

“What’s one dream you’re proud of

pursuing, regardless of the outcome?”

It’s a question that lingers. Not because it demands a quick response, but because it touches on something

deeper, the difference between chasing something because of what you might

gain, and pursuing something because it feels true to who you are.

A table, a barbecue, and a childhood memory

When I first started hosting the Top Table

44 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

storytelling experiences, the idea wasn’t born in a boardroom or from a strategic plan. It came from something far more

And that’s exactly what happened in August’s top table.

personal, my own upbringing.

Experiences, not events

Being half Greek Cypriot, some of my

There’s something very different about

fondest memories are of sitting around a long table with my family, eating, talking, and sharing stories. My Stede, my

Greek nan, was always at the heart of it.

Her table was a place where food and

storytelling blended seamlessly, where connection came more naturally than

small talk, and where everyone felt like they belonged.

So, when my brother, Kyriakos

Baxevanis, offered to host this month’s

Top Table at his home with a traditional Greek barbecue, it felt like a full circle

moment. The intention behind Top Table has always been to capture the spirit

of those childhood meals: great food,

meaningful conversation, and a reminder that true connection comes when we slow down long enough to listen.

a Top Table experience compared to a standard networking event. The point isn’t to swap business cards or pitch

services. It’s to create a safe and honest space where stories are shared, lessons are learned, and relationships are built

on something deeper than transactions.

Last month was no exception. I’m

incredibly grateful to Kyriakos, Filipa Silva Sá, and the wonderful team at

Nostos Catering UK for creating such a

warm, authentic setting. And, of course, to our Sussex 100 partners and guests Emma Draper, Ben Freakley, Helen

Pomery, Amanda Minty, Noel Preston, Emma Pearce, Alex Ryan, Sophie

Bryan, and Angela Maguire, who each

brought their own openness and energy to the table. Together, they made the

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

experience what it was: something

special, something real, something that reminded us why storytelling matters.

My own answer to the question As with every Top Table question, I don’t just ask for the sake of asking. I answer it too. And this time, my answer was both simple and complex:

I dream of creating a world that sees success differently.

A world where we move beyond the

narrow definition of success as money,

fame, or status. A world where success is about balance, presence, fulfilment, and authentic relationships.

I dream of building an education system that values emotional literacy as much

as academic achievement, teaching our

children how to understand themselves,

work, my podcast, our events, or the

it’s something bold and world-changing.

the impact I hope for. But I do know this:

because the act of pursuing it,

initiatives I’ve been building will make

Either way, it’s worth acknowledging,

it’s a dream I’ll never regret pursuing.

regardless of what happens, is where

The lesson in the lunchbox

the real success lies.

For me, Top Table is about more than

That thought reminded me of one of the

just gathering around a meal. It’s about

for my twins, short daily notes I slip into

better questions, to share stories that

kindness and wisdom.

deeper truths that business and life so

Little Lunchbox Letters I recently wrote

carving out the time and space to ask

their lunchboxes to encourage them with

matter, and to remind ourselves of the

The message that day read: “Don’t just live in the world. Imagine a better one, and go and create it.”

That’s what this dream is about. It’s

not about guarantees or outcomes. It’s

often rush past.

So I’ll leave you with the same question I was asked at Casa Baxevanis, as the

sun set and stories flowed over plates of grilled meats and souvlaki:

What’s one dream you’re proud of

about choosing to imagine something

pursuing, regardless of the outcome?

steps towards it, however uncertain,

Because maybe, just maybe, the answer

better and having the courage to take however imperfect.

to that question will tell you more about

world. Because if we can do that, I

What’s your answer?

than any definition of success ever could.

tackling the mental health crisis.

That’s the beauty of the Top Table

By Sam Thomas

your answer. Perhaps your dream is

www.different-hats.co.uk

their emotions, and their place in the

believe we can make real progress in

The truth is, I don’t know what the

outcome will be. I don’t know if my

yourself and about what truly matters

question. There isn’t a right answer, only

Founder Different Hats

something small and personal, perhaps

sam@different-hats.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 45

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

Eastbourne Digifest 2025: Why AI is the Conversation Every Sussex Business Leader Needs to Have Artificial Intelligence has quickly moved from buzzword to daily reality.

For many businesses,

Networking & Events

the question is no longer whether

AI will affect their

organisation but on

what timeline and to what extent. From leadership and workforce change to

security and customer experience, the

AI era is already here and for businesses across Sussex, staying ahead of the curve is essential.

That is why Eastbourne DigiFest 2025, The Tech Conference for Business, organised

by Chalk Eastbourne and sponsored

by East Sussex Growth Hub, Lightning

Fibre and Switchplane among others, has

chosen AI as one of its central themes. The event, taking place this October, brings

together industry experts, entrepreneurs

46 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

and business leaders to explore the technologies shaping our future.

Sussex is home to a diverse economy

from advanced manufacturing and retail to creative industries and professional services. Each of these sectors is

already being reshaped by AI. According to a government survey on AI activity

in UK businesses, around 15% of firms have already adopted some form of AI with the highest uptake in information and communication sectors.

The danger is not being too early but

being left behind. Those that hesitate

risk losing ground to more agile rivals.

By bringing global voices into a regional setting, Eastbourne DigiFest helps

level the playing field. It gives local

companies access to insights that would

otherwise require expensive trips to

London or international conferences.

This year, AI takes centre stage with

talks designed to be thought-provoking, practical and relevant to businesses of all shapes and sizes.

One of the strongest themes is

leadership. Paul Hetherington, Vistage Chair and Non-Executive Director

at BRE Group, will explore how AI

is changing the very nature of work

in “Leading People in the Age of AI: Navigating the Brave New World of

Work.” As roles, responsibilities and

workplace culture evolve, leaders must support their teams through change while keeping people at the heart of

progress. Paul’s talk provides practical

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

advice on how to lead with confidence in uncertain times, a skill every business will need to master.

Equally urgent are the questions

of responsibility and trust. Glenn

Chilcott, an AI policy advisor and

Founding Director at First Avenue, will address “Responsible AI: The Role of Ethics, Regulation and Governance.”

Glenn Chilcott - First Avenue

As scrutiny of AI systems grows,

businesses will be judged not only

on what they achieve with AI but on

how they achieve it. Glenn’s session will guide companies on adopting

new technologies responsibly while

maintaining the confidence of customers and employees alike.

For those curious about what AI can actually do, Russ Miles, Technical

Product Owner and author, will bring

a developer’s perspective with “Build Paul Hetherington - Vistage

Smarter: AI Agent Engineering for

Developers.” His session shows how

AI agents - the next big step in growing AI capabilities - can solve real-world problems, streamlining operations,

personalising customer journeys or creating new services.

Another powerful perspective comes

from Tim Jameson, Managing Director of AxisOps. In “AI and the Future of

Being Human”, he explores a profound

question: if AI shaped every choice you Russ Miles - ClearBank

made, from what you eat to how you

run your business, would life feel easier or emptier? Tim argues that while AI creates extraordinary possibilities, it

risks diminishing qualities like critical thinking, resilience and creativity.

Alongside the AI programme,

Eastbourne DigiFest will also tackle a subject no business can ignore: cybersecurity. With high-profile

breaches making headlines, including

the recent incident involving M&S, the Tim Jameson - AxisOps

risks are closer to home than many leaders would like to believe.

The UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2024 reported that 50% of businesses experienced a cyber attack in the past year with SMEs frequently targeted. Kurtis Toy, representing the Cyber Centre of Excellence, will deliver “Hacked?

What to do to prevent, survive and thrive in a world facing cybersecurity threats everywhere.” His talk provides both a wake-up call and a practical guide for businesses that need to strengthen their defences. With AI increasingly used on both sides of the cyber battlefield, this session underlines the need for digital strategy and cybersecurity to go hand in hand.

What makes Eastbourne DigiFest so valuable is not just the range of topics but the way they are brought to life by expert speakers. Past events have attracted hundreds of attendees from across the south east and this year promises to be no different. The festival has become a focal point for digital innovation in Sussex, drawing together a community of business leaders who recognise that technology is not a side issue but central to their future.

Eastbourne DigiFest has already established itself as a flagship event for the county, demonstrating how innovation and technology can drive success for local enterprises. By placing AI at the heart of this year’s programme, it reflects both the urgency and the opportunity facing every business.

For leaders determined to future-proof their organisations, the message is clear: the time to engage with AI is now and Eastbourne DigiFest 2025 is the ideal place to start.

Find out more and secure your place at eastbournedigifest.com

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 47

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

Brave cyclists pedal 180 Miles from Coast to Coast in support of the Starr Trust On 30th August, a group of 12 supporters of the Starr Trust Charity travelled by minibus from Brighton to Whitehaven, from where the first leg of the three day Coast to Coast bike ride would commence.

Networking & Events

Cyclists set off

The Coast to Coast Challenge

champagne at the iconic Crown Spa

Whitehaven after

• Day One - Whitehaven to Windermere

town’s South Bay.

the sea, as is tradition

• Day Two – Windermere to Richmond

CEO of Webtrends Optimize and

• Day Three – Richmond to

“This ride was the most challenging

at midday from

dipping their bikes in

for this challenge. Braving the elements of wind and rain, the team conquered

the famous ‘Hardknott Pass’, a roman built road with an elevation of 393

meters and renowned as the toughest

hill climb in England. Hardknott Pass in

the Lake District was an ultimate test of endurance for the team, being steeper than the mountain stages of European cycling races including the Tour de France and the Giro d’Italia.

48 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

(39 Miles)

Hotel in North Yorkshire, overlooking the

(61 Miles)

Sponsor of the event, Matt Smith said:

Scarborough (80 Miles)

we’ve had, from the weather, to the

After a tough 180 mile ride over 3 days,

covered. The cycling team were fantastic,

final destination Scarborough, where

finished it without every one of them!”

the sea to mark the coastal finish line.

Daniel of The Implant Centre team

Trust team followed by celebrations with

completed. Lots of highs and lows, quite

cyclists arrived back safely to their

once again they dipped their bikes in Medals were presented by the Starr

extreme hill climbs and the distance

I wouldn’t want to and couldn’t have

said: Another epic Starr Trust event

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

literally, but luckily everyone survived.

Where do we sign up for the next one?”

Sally of the Implant Centre said: “We

had so much fun again this year, but the first day was brutal and really tested all

of us. Overall an amazing adventure with the most wonderful people in stunning

surroundings. Sore legs but full hearts!

We can’t wait to see what 2026 brings!”

Richard Bates, Charity Trustee

and Lawyer at Cognitive Law, said:

“Another incredible challenge in aid of the Starr Trust, well done to the whole

team for digging deep and getting over Hardknott Pass!”

Tracey Starr, Partnerships Manager for The Starr Trust said: “We can’t thank

Matt Smith at Webtrends Optimize enough for the incredible effort he has put into

organising and sponsoring this cycling

I went through. I cried a lot - some

beyond in his new role as Ambassador

Chris & Mark, as without their constant

came together to show their support

crossed that finish line.”

generously loaned us two vehicles to

Main event sponsor: Webtrends Optimize

comfort before and after their long ride.

Mobile Mechanic Sponsor: Browns Bikes

gave their all to this challenge and Browns

There is still time to make a kind

challenge! Matt has gone above and

happy, some not! Special thanks to

of the Starr Trust. Other local businesses

encouragement, I never would have

including Rivervale Car Leasing who

make sure our team were transported in Special thanks to all who took part and

Vehicle Sponsor: Rivervale Car Leasing

Bikes the mechanic who was on hand

donation to support their efforts.

and moral support!”

Scan here to donate

throughout for emergency roadside repairs

Jackie Ashwood from Sussex

Business Times said: “Probably one

of the hardest things I have ever done, but what an amazing group of people

to take on this gruelling challenge with.

I cannot put into words how difficult this was and all the emotions that

www.starrtrust.org

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 49

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

Photography by: Michael Cheetham, Amity Weddings

Big Business Breakfast Club: Aloha at Saltdean Lido The Big Business Breakfast Club (BBBC) brought a splash of Hawaiian colour to Saltdean Lido on Friday 15th August, welcoming 120 business leaders for its annual “Alohastravaganza.” Guests in floral shirts filled the ballroom overlooking the lido for a morning of networking, inspiration, and community spirit.

Special Guest:

Networking & Events

Lyndsey Clay

Tottington Manor and Terra Restaurant,

represented by Helen and Steve Pomroy

and Phil. With an AA Rosette to its name,

Ryan (Marketing 101) returned with his “Big Steps for Small Business” slot.

This month’s focus was email marketing

August’s headliner

Terra has become one of Sussex’s premier

founder of Connected Brighton and

ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere.

with BBBC co-host Sam Thomas,

Charity Partner: Prept Foundation

Ambassadors Honoured

personal challenge to building one of

This month’s charity partner was the

Four loyal attendees were inducted as

driven businesses. With plans to

Galloway. Prept inspires young people

her coaching programme, her story

healthier lives while easing pressure on

• Majda Ledden (Majda’s Touch)

resilience and ambition.

BBBC’s total charity donations to over

• Robin Warner (Benchmark Wealth

was Lyndsey Clay,

Lyndsey Clay Coach. In conversation Lyndsey shared her journey from

dining destinations, known for local

Brighton’s most celebrated community-

Prept Foundation, represented by Dr Rob

franchise Connected and expand

through food education, encouraging

resonated with attendees as one of

the NHS. Attendees raised £182, bringing

Sponsor Spotlight: Tottington Manor

£8,000 since the initiative began.

automation, using platforms like

Mailchimp to keep customer journeys alive beyond the first click.

BBBC Ambassadors, recognising their sixth visit:

Management)

& Terra Restaurant

Big Steps for Small Business

• Jon Holden (Aventi Solutions)

The morning was proudly sponsored by

BBBC’s resident marketing expert Alex

• Lee Baker (Lee Baker Consultancy)

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

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

Ambassadors now number more than 130, proudly spreading the BBBC spirit across Sussex.

Fun, Prizes & AOB The popular business card draw

highlights included Sam Thomas

Next Stop: The i360

swim, Steve Darby introducing

BBBC returns on Friday 19th

announcing his Pier-to-Pier charity October Unpacked, and Sonny Cutting promoting the upcoming Sussex Business Show.

delivered prizes from Print Lord,

Captured on Camera

Alignment, and Saltdean Lido. A “Best

Resident photographer Michael Cheetham

Sarson Darby, Tottington Manor, YB

Dressed” award was also presented, with the winner receiving a custom Hawaiian shirt from Print Lord.

Additional “Any Other Business”

September at the newly refurbished Brighton i360. The event promises

another packed morning, with the new

i360 owner joining as special guest and an optional flight in the pod for just £5 for Brighton & Hove residents.

(Amity Studios) and videographer Howie McConnell (28th Street Media) captured the day, including the now-famous

balcony group shot of 120 smiling faces against the backdrop of the lido.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

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

Putting Sussex at the heart of Business Eastbourne Business Show launch - and Gatwick Returns

Following the success

Networking & Events

of the Brighton &

Hove Business Show, Sussex business

leaders can now look

forward to two further flagship events

this autumn: the inaugural Eastbourne Business Show (Wednesday 10th

September 2025, The Kings Centre)

and the return of the Gatwick Business

Show for its second year (Thursday 16th October 2025, The Elite Venue Selection

opportunities, but they are far more

effective than other events. Business

shows are where entrepreneurs, SMEs and industry experts come together to

build relationships, share knowledge, and uncover new opportunities. Exhibitors span a wide range of sectors from

finance, marketing, and HR to technology, wellbeing, and professional services.

The diverse mix reflects the vibrancy and diversity of the Sussex economy.

Felbridge Gatwick).

Eastbourne Business Show –

The shows offer excellent networking

The Kings Centre

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Wednesday 10th September 2025,

This year marks the very first

Eastbourne Business Show, and what

better venue to host it than the town’s landmark Kings Centre. It is a perfect contemporary location situated close to the town centre and the seafront -

the perfect setting for a fruitful day of business collaboration.

Visitors can expect a day filled with

exhibitors, keynote talks, and panel

discussions. all of which are designed to help business owners sharpen

their strategies and discover valuable partnerships.

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

Gatwick Business Show – Thursday 16th October 2025, The Elite Venue Selection Felbridge Gatwick

Just a few weeks later, the spotlight

It is an ideal platform for ambitious

attracted hundreds of attendees

companies keen to expand their reach.

and generated thousands of new

Why Attend?

for business growth and collaboration

connections - proof of the appetite across Sussex.

moves north for the second Gatwick

Whether you’re an ambitious start-

strong debut.

events are designed to connect you

Hosted in Felbridge, this event is well

opportunities. Meet potential clients

exhibitor packages offer excellent value

Sussex, Surrey, Kent, and beyond. In the

products and services, and gain

services and raise their profile. To find

serves as hub for trade and connectivity.

multiple industries. Past shows have

brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk.

up or an established company, these

Book Your Place

with the right people and the right

Visitor entry to both shows is free, while

positioned to draw businesses from

face-to-face, discover innovative

for companies ready to showcase their

heart of the Gatwick Diamond, the show

insights from leading voices across

out more and secure your place, visit

Business Show, building on last year’s

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 53

TAILORED RECRUITMENT SOLUTIONS

0333 7723787 07885301064 www.placrrecruitment.co.uk

Who We Are

success for both businesses and candidates. Our team is

Recruitment is dedicated to delivering a personalised, high-quality

perfect fit.

With over two decades of recruitment experience, Placr service to both employers and candidates.

committed to understanding your specific needs and finding the

National Reach

Based in Sussex, our reach extends nationwide, and our mission

Though we’re based in Sussex, our recruitment services extend

is simple: we place the best candidates into the best companies,

across the UK. Whether you’re looking for talent locally or across

fostering growth and success for both

the country, we’ve got you covered.

Our Services

Industry Expertise

We specialise in permanent recruitment, ensuring long-term

tier candidates with leading companies in various industries.

Permanent Recruitment

Our expertise spans multiple sectors, allowing us to match top-

placr top job My client is looking for a dynamic and innovative

candidate to join their rapidly growing company. They

are looking for a strong Account Manager to help grow the business and reap the rewards.

The ideal candidate will lead the account development and penetration strategy for assigned customers in a variety of market sectors. They should be skilled

at building and maintaining relationships with clients

and work to provide exceptional customer service to clients. This is an ideal opportunity to join a growing

Account Manager

• Develop positive relationship with clients

• Resolve conflicts and provide solutions to clients in a timely manner

• Reach out to potential customers to create new business and build portfolio.

Candidate requirements:

• Experience as a Sales Account Manager

• Understanding of sales performance metrics

• Proficient in CRM software, ideally Salesforce and Microsoft Office suite

company and develop your career progression.

• Understanding of Auto ID Technology’

The Role: Account Manager

Benefits:

The Hours: Monday - Friday 09:00 - 17:30

Location: Storrington (WORKING FROM HOME)

Salary: £28,000 - £30,000 - Plus commission OTE first year £40,000 - £50,000 Job role:

• Manage a portfolio of accounts

54 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

In addition to the competitive base salary and uncapped bonus potential, we offer the following benefits: • 23 days of holiday

• Company laptop & phone

• Onboarding & training process • Trips abroad to visit clients

placr job Our client is an independent local Car repair and MOT centre based in Storrington West Sussex looking for an experienced motor technician to join their expanding team. You will work and liaise with the Company Director and the Head of Office operations.

The Role: Motor Vehicle Technician The Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-6:00pm (Full Time) Flexible on hours/days if necessary Location: Storrington West Sussex Contract: Permanent (3 month probationary) Salary: Based on experience/qualifications Candidate requirements: • Minimum 3 years experience/ NVQ Level 3 qualification in Light vehicle maintenance and repair • MOT tester qualified a bonus but not a necessity • Ability to think and work well under pressure in a fast paced environment • Dedication and passion for the job • Attention to detail • To be somewhat flexible with working overtime

placr job My client is looking for a dynamic and innovative candidate to join their rapidly growing company. As an Appliance Engineer with my client who are growing at a staggering rate, you’ll be at the forefront of their expansion. You’ll travel throughout the surrounding area, visiting customers to provide high-quality appliance repairs.

Motor Vehicle Technician

• Works well individually as well as in a team • Can think logically and prioritise effectively • Confident in diagnosing and repairing all makes and models of vehicles • Must have a clean full drivers licence and own vehicle to get to/from site • Must have your own tools (we provide specialist tools and Diagnostic equipment) • Ability to confidently talk through any works/ diagnostics with customers and effectively probe to gain accurate information from them Benefits: • Company pension • Weekends and Bank holidays off • Break at Christmas • Overtime available • Intensive on-the-job training Licence/Certification: • Driving license (required) • City & Guilds NVQ Level 3 Automotive (required)

Motor Vehicle Technician

equipment • Perform repairs and routine maintenance on a wide range of household appliances including washing machines, dryers, dishwashers and fridges

The Hours: Monday - Friday 08:30 - 17:30 Location: BN postcode Salary: £34,000 - £38,000

Candidate requirements • Proven experience working with white goods.

• A desire to take the next step in your career and embrace new challenges.

• Willingness to cover an area within your location

Job role • Travel within the surrounding area to visit customers and conduct appliance repairs.

• Participate in regular training sessions to enhance your technical skills and knowledge.

• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with household

Benefits • Competitive Salary • Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package.

• Seize the opportunity to progress your career and train to become an Area Manager.

• A van and fuel will be provided for your convenience.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 55

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

County Business Clubs’ Wine of the Month September 2025

Maison Les Alexandrins – Cote Du Rhone 2021

As we move into

WOTM

what seems autumn, I start to look

forward to opening

more red wines and

so Cote Du Rhone in the South of

France give a well balanced and easy

to drink “mid week” glass of wine. This wine delivers good depth of flavour

Michael Tasting notes

On the nose - Lots of red fruit and a little smokiness

On the palate - Fresh red fruit, red cherry, and raspberry notes are

prominent, a hint of light pepper and light oak. It has a savoury. Smooth Tannins Medium body and Acidity.

at a great price. If you want to spend

Characteristics

Crozes Hermitage which is the more

Syrah 40%

a little more, you may wish to buy the premium red wine from this producer and area and around £20 a bottle.

The Wine

The Maison Les Alexandrins 2021

Côtes du Rhône “Les Terrasses de

l’Eridan” is a fresh and light red wine with notes of fresh fruit, a round

palate, and smooth tannins, made

from a blend of Syrah and Viognier.

The 2021 vintage was challenging due to variable weather, but the wine’s

style is modern and contemporary, suited for everyday drinking.

56 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

• Varietals – Grenache 60% and • Alcohol – 14% volume

Food pairing for this Cuvee

Cote Du Rhone is very versatile and

so works well with most rich savoury dishes such as Mushroom Tagliatelli, Spaghetti Bolognese, Steak pie, Sunday roast

Where to buy?

This wine is widely available online and also from your local Majestic

Wine store or from Spirit of the Downs

Distillery, Bolney by the glass or bottle.

• Colour - Deep ruby red with purple hues.

Written for County Business Club

Côtes-du-Rhône.

Specialist and producer of Spirit

• Style - A fresh, light, and quaffable

• Maturation - Harvested grapes were pressed before being in both wooden and stainless steel vats.

• Classification - AOC Côtes du

Rhône, Vallée du Rhône, France

In summary

A rich, flavoursome and good value

wine. Ideal for sharing with friends and family for any occasion.

by Michael Yeoman, English Wine of the Downs, award winning local

artisan Sussex Brandies, Grape Vodka and Boosy Barista Coffee Liqueur.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 57

with John Heal F1 is a film that races with undeniable style,

doesn’t always give the characters the nuance

begins as a sleek portrait of speed and

often servicing exposition rather than texture.

territory, yet still finds moments of surprising

of spectacle: the sound design and score

story that wants to probe obsession, rivalry,

tethered, even when the narrative drifts.

reach the emotional depth it aims for.

The pacing, while energetic, falters midway,

The cinematography captures the visceral thrill

finding traction again. The ending lands with

cockpit shots, sweeping trackside frames, and

clarity that lingers long after.

relentless motion. The editing mirrors the sport

If there’s a flaw, it’s that F1 never fully

times it sacrifices clarity for adrenaline.

study or a crowd-pleasing sports epic. In

Performances are committed, with the lead

on each. Still, the craft and intensity on

but not always with equal substance. What

they deserve. Dialogue tends toward efficiency,

ambition occasionally veers into familiar

Where the film succeeds most is in its sense

resonance. Beneath the roar of engines lies a

generate a pulse that keeps the audience

and the cost of glory—even if it doesn’t always

of Formula 1 with impressive immediacy. Tight sun-glared asphalt create an atmosphere of

itself—fast, sharp, and unforgiving—though at

exuding charisma and drive, but the script 58 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

with a second act that stretches thin before impact, but not with the kind of emotional

decides whether it wants to be a character trying to be both, it sometimes underdelivers display make it worth the ride.

Cinematography: 4.5/5 Score: 3.5/5 Plot: 3/5 Dialogue: 3/5 Pacing: 3/5 Ending: 3.5/5

Overall: 3.5/5

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 59

60 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk