Sussex Business Times January 2014

SBT

ISSUE 374 FREE

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

SIMPLY THE BEST Cover Story: Meet the MD of The Kitchen Store, Sussex’ Entrepreneur of the Year PAGE 10

PLUS FINANCE: RECOVERING FROM THE RECESSION PAGE 17

THE TOAST OF SUSSEX PAGE 38

THE ALEXANDER HOUSE HOTEL REVIEW

PAGE 34

FROM LEARNING TO EARNING

PAGE 44

P Cover SBT DEC 2013.indd 1

08/01/2014 10:54

WIN

£12,000 WORTH OF SERVICES

SILICON BEACH TRAINING HAS LAUNCHED A COMPETITION FOR LONDON & SOUTH EAST START-UPS WITH A PRIZE WORTH OVER £12,000.

We want to find the best up and coming start-up talent in London and the South-East and give them the help needed to take the next step with their business.

Judged by an expert panel of local business leaders, 5 finalists will battle it out for the grand prize fund consisting of over £12,000 worth of business essentials donated by the some of the best businesses in the South-East.

APPLY NOW Applicants must fill in the online application form before 5pm Friday 28th February 2014.

The Silicon Beach team will narrow down a short-list of 25 entrants.

Our judges will then rate their top five entries who will be invited to Silicon Beach to present their business to our judging panel with a 10 minute Q&A session on April 18th 2014.

A winner will be chosen on the day by the judges and awarded the grand prize.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY CONTACT: Email: info@siliconbeachtraining.co.uk Telephone / Fax: +44 (0)1273 622272 www.siliconbeachtraining.co.uk/blog/start-up-competition Sponsored by 2 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Welcome SBT DEC 2013.indd 2

08/01/2014 11:06

SBT Welcome MEET THE TEAM

Lee Mansfield, Managing Director/ Publisher

Laura Knight, Editorial

Graham Carn, Financial Editor

Lottie Dowdeswell, Commercial Business Manager

“The Sussex Business Awards and to meet the county’s business stars and see them crowned for the coming years”

A good business should never sleep, I suppose, but I do hope it had time for a snooze after a big lunch, the Queen’s Speech and some Figgy Pudding on Christmas day! Joking aside, sometimes it’s valuable to take a little time to put your feet up, relax, restore and take stock over the festive season.

On the subject of personal wellbeing, I was interested to discover in my research for the last issue that business people are applying their working mindset to fitness and deciding to work smarter, rather than harder. In the case of exercise regimes this also seems to mean faster, so we looked into this issue in more depth on page 48, so flip ahead if you’re cracking on with your New Year’s resolutions already.

At the beginning of December, we were delighted to be in attendance at the Sussex Business Awards and to meet the county’s business stars and see them crowned for the coming year. We met some fantastic contacts and heard some truly inspiring stories, some of which we’ve delved into in this issue.

With the recovery now officially firmly underway, it’s interesting to see the positive effects - and the areas in which reality has still not caught up with the numbers and our Financial Editor, Graham Carn, has looked in depth at the housing market in this issue. We’re also discussing the role apprenticeships will play in getting the current willing but unemployed workforce into the right roles for them on page 43.

But for now, from all of the team here at SBT, we wish you and your business all the possible success and happiness for 2014.

Laura Knight Editor

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 3

P Welcome SBT DEC 2013.indd 3

08/01/2014 11:06

Contents SBT Issue 374

SBT

ISSUE 374 FREE

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

SIMPLY THE BEST Cover Story: Meet the MD of The Kitchen Store, Sussex’ Entrepreneur of the Year PAGE 10

PLUS FINANCE: RECOVERING FROM THE RECESSION PAGE 17

THE TOAST OF SUSSEX PAGE 38

THE ALEXANDER HOUSE HOTEL REVIEW

PAGE 34

FROM LEARNING TO EARNING

PAGE 44

P Cover SBT DEC 2013.indd 1

08/01/2014 10:54

Alan Margetts, Managing Director, The Kitchen Stores www.thekitchenstore.co.uk

Sussex Business Times Managing Director/Publisher: Lee Mansfield lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk Commercial Director: Simon Skinner simon@lifemediagroup.co.uk Commercial Business Manager: Lottie Dowdeswell lottie@sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk Features Editor: Maarten Hoffmann sbteditorial@gmail.com Financial Editor Graham Carn Editorial Laura Knight laura@lifemediagroup.co.uk Subscriptions subs@lifemediagroup.co.uk Design: Harriet Weston harriet@lifemediagroup.co.uk Media Director Linda Grace linda@lifemediagroup.co.uk Accounts: Clare Fermor/Amelia Wellings clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk amelia@lifemediagroup.co.uk Published by LMG SE LTD Park View House 19 The Avenue, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN21 3YD 01323 411 601 Printed by Gemini Press, Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, BN43 6NZ 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 Life Media Group 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 Life Media Group LTD 2013 ©

3 7 10 17 24 31 34 37 44 50 54 62

Welcome

Roll up roll up for another great issue of SBT – your essential guide to business brilliance in Sussex

Spending It! Our pick of the things we wished were in our Christmas stockings. Perfect for strategic hinting.

Company Profile The Kitchen Store, winners of the Sussex Business Award for Entrepreneur of the Year

Finance SBT Financial Editor Graham Carn looks at the impact of the housing market on recovery, and of recovery on the housing market in his detailed report.

Angels of Architecture Meet ARCH-angels, the front runners of the new school of building design

Working Lunch SBT stops by the iconic and acclaimed vegetarian restaurant: Terre a Terre, a culinary experience like no other

Hotel Review Staying calm and collected but connected at Alexander House, East Grinstead

Sussex Business Awards Meet the stars of one of the biggest nights in the county’s business calendar

From learning to Earning Are apprenticeships the key to our skills and employment crisis?

Work (Out) Smarter If you’re planning a new you for the new year, take the same approach you would to business and get serious about getting fit

Motoring Audi’s A3 triumphs for business and pleasure alike

Made In Susex This issue’s homegrown heroes are IEP financial

4 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Contents SBT DEC 2013.indd 4

14/01/2014 10:11

DSSUS

DESiGN DESiGN STATEMENT STATEMENT

Design Statement is a brand new Whether it’s Recline Personal, Our partners include; And So bespoke showroom opening in Run Personal or Kinesis To Bed, Dave Franklin Interiors, BESpokEStone INTErIorS AND WEllNESS Handcross this month, offering Personal, they make sure all Republic, Edera Furniture, a personal and unique service. of their equipment is designed Aneesi towelling goods, Prestige Situated between London and with innovation and social Saunas, Alegna Baths, C P Hart, Brighton it is the place to go, to responsibility in mind.

Technogym, soft furnishings make a statement in your home. from Pickwell Studios, Channel Technogym is proud to be part Glazing, Scotframe, and We can offer you a key to of a movement that invests TempleSpa. luxury living, with exclusive in health for everyone and products, fixtures and fittings all promotes a better quality of Technogym is one of our partner life. Technogym firmly believes immaculately presented by our companies featuring state of the that the greater the number partners for you to view and feel art gym equipment. Technogym of people participating in the in the showroom. has always based its philosophy Wellness movement, the better upon a deep commitment to the world will be. It pays to be Design Statement offers you a the concepts of Wellness. healthy. one-stop design service where style, functionality and attention to detail are second to none.

Design Statement Mid Sussex House High Street Handcross RH17 6BW

P Contents SBT DEC 2013.indd 5 DSSUSSEXBUSINESSTIMES.indd 1

www.design-statement.co.uk facebook.com/designstatement @d3signstatement info@design-statement.co.uk 01444 401873 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 5

14/01/2014 10:11 30/09/2013 16:35

“Our bank has £250m to lend owner managed businesses... and we’re getting our share.”

Our bank has lent us the capital we need at a good rate, with no fees. We like dealing with a specialist business bank, especially as our local manager understands that owner managed businesses are the engine of the economy. Here in the engine room, our business is firing on all cylinders.

Mark Cain, Director, Velvet Central Limited

0845 045 0900

* Visit our website or call 8am-8pm Monday to Friday to contact your local branch

Michael Wilkins, Senior Branch Manager, Brighton branch, 20/22 Marlborough Place, Sussex BN1 1UB

Our business is business banking

aibgb.co.uk

*Telephone open from 8am-8pm Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays in England and Wales. Calls may be recorded and monitored for security and training purposes. BT landline calls to 0845 6 lines www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk numbers will cost no more than 5 pence per minute. Charges from other service providers may vary and calls from mobiles usually cost more. Allied Irish Bank (GB) and Allied Irish Bank (GB) Savings Direct are trade marks used under licence by AIB Group (UK) p.l.c. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c.), incorporated in Northern Ireland. Registered Office 4 Queens Square, Belfast BT1 3DJ. Registered Number NI 18800. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

AIB1 SB

P Spending It SBT DEC 2013.indd 6

08/01/2014 12:31

Spending It

Goodies & Gadgets

Our pick of the things we wished were in our Christmas stockings. Perfect for strategic hinting

WATCH The Pontos S Extreme impresses from the very first glance. With its assured, self-confident, masculine look and sporty image. Propelled into the innovative and high-tech world of fine watchmaking by its technical features, the special alloy used for these Maurice Lacroix timepieces reinforces the durability and makes the watches light weight. POWERLITE® Maurice Lacroix, from £454. www.mauricelacroix.com

BREATHALYSER The BACtrack iPhone Breathalyser accurately measures how much alcohol is in your system. You can put your blood alchohol content (BAC) in context to learn how alcohol affects you and with the internal air pump it ensures precise, consistent results every time. BACtrack, £149.99. www.bactrack.com

DATA STORAGE Netgear’s ReadyNAS 314 is the ideal desktop storage solution for small office environments. It offers technology for centralising, securing and controlling access to all types of documents. It also offers piece-of-mind that documents are safe thanks to its unlimited snapshot technology and cloud-managed replication function. Netgear, from £519.99 www.netgear.co.uk

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 7

P Spending It SBT DEC 2013.indd 7

08/01/2014 12:31

GLOVES Beautifully hand stitched lambskin leather gloves with royal blue top stitch detail. Lined in purple cashmere. Made in England.

Timothy Everest, £135. www.timothyeverest.co.uk

IPAD CASE This Quba cotton canvas iPad case features contrast navy lining, metal and leather stud-and-eyelet fastening, plus subtle tonal Quba branding and a small, pre-aged embroidered pennant. Quba, £29. www.quba.com

UMBRELLA This designer umbrella by Fulton for Hammond & Co contrasts a navy canopy with a light brown wooden handle and a silver metallic engraved logo tab. The canopy fastens with two popper tabs and has cream printed polka dots inside. Debenhams £30.00.www.debenhams.com

SWIVL GLOVES This brown 100% leather iPhone case from Penguin has a stitch detail and embossed original Penguin logo to front. It is presented in a branded gift box. Penguin, £17.99. www.getthelabel.com

SPEAKER

Easily self-capture lectures, videos, and presentations with your iPhone, iPod touch, or pocket camera with Swivl.

Using a wireless marker, this device automatically follows you horizontally and vertically, and features an integrated microphone for CD-quality sound. Swivl, £179.99. www.swivl.com

This Micro Box Bluetooth Speaker might be small but it is incredibly powerful and adaptable and comes absolutely loaded with features. It has a built in microphone that allows hands free operation with your phone, giving you the option to take phone calls whilst in your car. Portable Backup, £39.59. www.portable-backup.co.uk

8 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Spending It SBT DEC 2013.indd 8

08/01/2014 12:32

Spending It

LUNCH BOX

SHOES This patent striped patterned formal shoe is a sleek standout style. Features a 2 eye lace up closure and pointed toe. A perfect style for evenings out with a difference.

Dune, £89. www.dunelondon.com

Frozzypack unique lunchbox with integrated cooling simplifies your day. Keeps your food fresh for at least 7 hours in room temperature.

Easy to use, keep the lid in the freezer for at least 10 hours for maximum cooling effect.

Frozzypack, from £15.99. www.frozzypack.se

CUFFLINKS Make a statement with these solid sterling silver round framed cufflinks filled with textured leather in Aqua Blue, Made by Melissa’s very own in-house silver smith. Melissa Curry @ coldlilies, £80. www.coldlilies.com

DRESS REMOTE ACCESS Instantly work on your files, programs and network – just as if you were at your desk.

Work from home or while traveling. Work is now just a tap away. Citrix, free. www.gotomypc.co.uk

This beige shirtdress is perfect for work, day to night dressing and even for beach. It is 100% Cotton and made in the UK. Logue London, £190. www.loguelondon.com

BRIEFCASE Look stylish whilst protecting your laptop/ tablet or those all important documents. This briefcase is pleated luxury Italian leather made in Italy.

Carl Pazolini, £400. www.carlopazolini.com

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 9

P Spending It SBT DEC 2013.indd 9

08/01/2014 12:33

Profile

Home-Grown Hero

SBT speaks to Alan Margetts, MD of The Kitchen Store and now officially Sussex’ Entrepreneur of the Year!

“Surveying skills taught me a very ordered and methodical way of working, and I think this plays a large part in the systems and efficiencies of our companies now”

OPPOSITE: Alan Margetts

Tell us a bit about yourself and your background, as Insight Sussex’ favourite entrepreneur!

I left school at 16 and went to work for a Chartered Building Company in Rochester, Kent; training to be a Quantity Surveyor. To start with, I studied one a day a week alongside working in order to get qualified.

That was in the early nineties and although the company I was working for had been trading successfully for 20 years, it became a victim of the recession in the first half of the 90’s and ran out of cash. So with two former colleagues I established my first venture, Lionstar Construction Ltd, at the age of 20. I worked for six months without any income and used my savings to fit out our very small office just outside Maidstone, buy our first computer and pay the bills! In the mornings, I’d drive around picking up our trades people and take them to London to work on a couple of contracts on schools that we’d picked

up from old contacts. I did what I could on site – mostly unskilled labouring - but would have a suit in the car for meetings. In the evening, I’d drive the tradesmen back to Kent and do the work I was actually skilled at back at the office.

Looking back, this was my first taste of entrepreneurialism and it reinforced a certain work ethic in me which I’ve always retained: particularly one of doing whatever is needed and putting in the hard work for as long as needed before expecting anything back. The surveying skills taught me a very ordered and methodical way of working, and I think this plays a large part in the systems and efficiencies of our companies now.

What was the inspiration behind The Kitchen Store - why did you feel this was a business Sussex needed?

I moved to Sussex in 1996 and took a job with Manhattan Furniture in Lancing.

Manhattan has an impressive history of furniture making in Sussex going back to 1948 and continues to this day as a significant and major employer

10 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Kitchens SBT DEC 2013.indd 10

14/01/2014 09:39

ProďŹ le

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 11

P Kitchens SBT DEC 2013.indd 11

14/01/2014 09:39

“I look for people with absolutely the right values and work with them to give them the skills they need”

ABOVE: The Kitchen Store, Hove

on the south coast, selling kitchen furniture nationally and internationally.

The 1980s had seen the closure of all nine of Manhattan’s retail stores in the south in a move focusing Manhattan on the new housing market, but at the beginning of the early 2000s I could see the potential of Manhattan in the retail market once again. Customers from the eighties wanted to update their well loved - but by now well used - twenty year old kitchens and we were missing opportunities to help them. So in late 2003, I aimed to actively promote the Manhattan brand in the retail market again through the creation of The Kitchen Store… by that point, I was aged 27. Some would say quite young for such an ambitious plan!

After reaching an agreement with Manhattan, TKS became their UK retail distributor, bringing high quality, locally built furniture direct to homeowners once more. Our plan was to open a Sussex-based chain of Manhattan outlets (the economic situation forced

a temporary detour for a time which I’ve mentioned below). We also wanted to ramp up our after-sales services allowing existing Manhattan kitchen owners nationwide to buy parts and accessories. Today this accounts for 25% of turnover.

Manhattan have been excellent partners and suppliers over the years and The Kitchen Store has trebled sales in the retail market since 2004.

What sets your business apart from others in the field?

Without a shadow of a doubt it’s our people. Our customers buy from us because they like and trust the person they’re dealing with. This is a key distinguishing factor but it’s easier said than done. For this reason, and after a lot of trial and error over the years, I’ve settled on recruiting team members based on their values. If they have excellent skills but wrong values we can’t take them. I look for people with absolutely the right values and work

12 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Kitchens SBT DEC 2013.indd 12

14/01/2014 09:39

Profile

with them to give them the skills they need.

Our stores of course are a major draw. At around 300m2 each they are the largest independent stores in their areas. For the 2013 Hove store opening we employed DesignLSM, a leading UK interior designer, who created a really unique space. This format of size and style with great people is our signature.

How do you feel about being named Entrepreneur of the Year? Why do you think you won?

I am absolutely delighted. But shocked.

This is the first year we’ve put the Company forward for any kind of award and we’ve been fortunate to be recognised in both the Brighton & Hove Business Awards and Sussex Business Awards.

It’s rare that someone from outside gives their verdict on how you’re doing and most of the time, like most businesspeople, I’m consumed by the hundreds of things we’re not doing

well enough, so it was a great honour to receive the recognition. For the staff they love it and I’ve been quite taken aback by how supportive and delighted they’ve been too. On a personal level undeniably it’s a great lift and spurs you on.

I think we made it to the short list because the judges recognised the very rough impact that the downturn has had on consumer spending… particularly on high value optional-spend items like new kitchens. Our sales growth through the downturn has been impressive and bucked the trend. Apart from 2008, (as we weathered the worst), we have grown the business every single year and we have never borrowed a penny – not by luck, I would add, genuinely through some very hard work and tough times along the way.

In 2007 I was keen to expand the company and add new stores and started the property search. I made offers on a couple of sites that met our criteria and we came close but I

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 13

P Kitchens SBT DEC 2013.indd 13

14/01/2014 09:39

Local Innovation, Global Ergonomics The UK’s leading ergonomics company is based in Berwick, East Sussex.

Ergonomic solutions, office design and furniture, training and consultancy, workstation accessories and Health and Safety E-learning.

t. 0845 345 0010

www.posturite.co.uk

14 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

Posturite-Full-Page-Ad_SBT_JUN-2012.indd 1 P Kitchens SBT DEC 2013.indd 14

14/06/2012 17:17:24 14/01/2014 09:39

7:17:24

Profile

was worried about the outlook. I didn’t want to get saddled with an expensive building round our necks with a dwindling market! So the deal had to be good to make it all work. I made lower offers for some good sites; all of which were refused. I’m glad I did, as the Northern Rock crisis came a couple of months later and we saw an immediate toughening of the market from that day forward.

I was determined (and restless) to grow the business somehow, so later in 2007 we set about opening up a trade kitchen supplier. We named this Manhattan48 Ltd and it opened in April 2008. This filled a gap which we were not currently serving – the local tradesperson. The beauty for us was, aside from putting someone into our newly built trade counter, we could use our existing back office design and administration staff. This kept our overheads low. I sold my shares in Manhattan48 in January 2013 and reinvested our return back into growing The Kitchen Store.

In 2012, we finally secured an additional site for The Kitchen Store in Hove. For years this particular site was one I always dreamt of (really!). If I could have chosen a site in Brighton and Hove, it was this. But I never ever thought we would get it. The truth is probably that in better times a PLC or national chain would have kept us from ever being in the running. So bizarrely we secured an excellent trading site because of the recession. This store opened in March 13.

In June 2013, we made an agreement to integrate the retail business of Paula Rosa kitchens into The Kitchen Store.

This made us an exclusive home to the two leading brands of Sussex-made kitchen furniture and gave us the ability to promote add-on products to around 15,000 new kitchen owners a year.

The prospects for this in 2014 are very exciting.

This year we are on track for 60 per cent growth in sales.

Going back to your question – I think our track record of sales growth, profit, cash and our restlessness and determination to keep moving forward is why we were considered.

How will the award inspire you to push forward in 2014? Do you have

any exciting plans for the business?

Yes, there’s no denying the award does inspire an even greater desire to push on. We already have a very clear plan set out for developing the company between now and 2018 and will be starting to search for a new store location in April.

This year I also want to evolve our Additions (mail/telephone order) business. As our product is very technical (multiple part codes and components required for each order), we have been worried about taking these products online for fear of confusing the consumer, or worst still, helping them to order the wrong stuff!

I do though think so much has changed in consumers’ buying habits and the ease of access to the internet

whenever and wherever you are means soon consumers will expect 24 hour online access to your range, however complex! So our technical sales service will move to an online model merging with our existing online accessory store.

The online versus shop floor mix is a key dilemma for all UK retailers. It’s a major challenge to understand the changing expectations of the consumer in the digital world and work out how best to sell your products to them while retaining a physical ‘high street’ presence.

www.thekitchenstore.co.uk

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 15

P Kitchens SBT DEC 2013.indd 15

14/01/2014 09:39

ADVERTORIAL

Developing Effective Boardroom Talent A new programme developed by Portsmouth Business School and supported by the Institute of Directors (IoD) promises to be a masterclass in developing boardroom skills.

The Boardroom Talent Course begins in Portsmouth next February and over ten sessions will provide business owners, current and aspiring directors and those new to leadership the tools they need become talented and professional directors.

Those who book by 21 December will benefit from a substantial Early Bird Discount which has been made available to the University through the Higher Education Innovation Fund.

Participants will learn practical and solutions-oriented skills they can put into action from the on-set.

Topics covered include strategic thinking, operations strategy, financial management, risk and crisis management, governance, board dynamics, leadership and management and problem solving.

Developed to help current and future leaders, it will add value to their businesses and enhance their understanding of the key legal responsibilities of directors. It will give them the confidence to lead and manage and create opportunities through their enhanced knowledge. It will also open doors to building strong working relationships with others at board level.

Grant Harrison, IoD Ambassador, said: “A significant challenge for those running small and medium-sized businesses is they often don’t know what they don’t know. This course is designed to cover all the bases of effective leadership at director level.”

Gary Jeffries, MD of Hughes Ellard, and Local Enterprise Partnership board member, said: “This course can help those who wish to extend their skills as part of their personal development as well as prepare those who aspire to progress their career.”

David Smith, Associate Dean,

Leadership experts from Portsmouth Business School will teach the Boardroom Talent Course

Portsmouth Business School, said: “The hard edge experience of practicing directors combined with the high level knowledge of the Business School, is a great feature of this course, and should add real value for participants.”

The course runs for 10 fortnightly sessions from 4-8pm at Lakeside 1000 starting on Wednesday, 26 February 2014. To find out more visit www.port.ac.uk/boardroomtalent or email bsro@port.ac.uk

Show you mean business. Go back to school.

Portsmouth Business School’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) will provide you with the opportunity to develop your strategic problem-solving skills whilst mastering the latest business knowledge and practice: • • • • •

Develop your management abilities Benefit through innovative work-based learning Generous scholarships Taught part-time in two-day blocks over two years Accredited by the Association of MBAs

To find out more about our wide range of degrees, come along to one of our regular open evenings – details of which can be found at www.showyoumeanbusiness.com.

‘The Portsmouth MBA has been a lifechanging experience and one that I wouldn’t have wanted to miss.’

Heather Short, Entrepreneur 16 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

www.port.ac.uk P Finance SBT DEC 2013.indd 16

For more information or to apply: T: +44 (0)23 9284 4888 E: mba.admissions@ port.ac.uk W: www.port.ac.uk/mba

14/01/2014 11:35

Finance

The Housing Bubble

With little doubt that property prices are increasing, particularly at the lower end of the market, what does it mean for individuals and business - should we be worried?

There is, increasingly, much debate about Finance ‘a housing bubble’ so first of all let us Insight try to be clear if it is real or not. Looking at all the recent statistics, and the weight of opinion, from differing sources they all support the belief that the majority of properties in the UK are overvalued following sharp property price rises virtually across all the country.

Zoopla, the internet search engine, is stating that the average UK home values have seen a rise of £10,329 over the past year and the research recently, undertaken by professor James Mitchell, head of economic modelling and forecasting at Warwick Business School, has concluded that around three-quarters of properties in the UK are ‘overvalued’, with a 93% probability that London is already in the grip of a house price “bubble”.

In the economic study all thirteen regions in the UK were tested and ten were considered to be currently

overvalued. Behind London, Wales was the most likely region to also be in the middle of a house price bubble followed by the north-west. Only Northern Ireland, Scotland and the east of England do not have over-inflated house prices, according to Mitchell’s research, which is based on house price and salary data from the UK’s largest mortgage lender the Halifax.

In terms of the type of property seeing the most significant increases, in England semi-detached properties have seen the biggest increase in value.

Lawrence Hall from Zoopla said: “This year saw a host of new government initiatives that are now helping the property market to gain stability and set the foundations for a sustainable recovery. As a result, 2013 has witnessed property price growth across most of the country and particularly at the entry level of the market”.

What is the official view?

It is clear that the Governor of the Bank of England, Mark Carney, has concerns.

From the political perspective, seeing

the country emerge from the deepest recession, by far in recent times, is a good thing and if it is being driven by returning confidence in the property market, price growth, and feel- better consumerism on the back of it then so be it. Politicians are aware, however, of the need for growth to be broader based and George Osborne is saying as much. However, whilst confidence slowly returns to business and investment follows to aid the broader recovery, wherever growth comes from in the interim is welcome.

Carney and the Bank of England are of course thinking beyond elections in 2015 and it is clear that he is applying the brakes on an overheating housing market which for the government has short term attractions of political popularity and positively influencing the direction of the middle class property owning vote.

Following publication of the latest Bank of England financial stability report, the governor said price rises could soon turn into an express train with only one brake: an interest-rate

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 17

P Finance SBT DEC 2013.indd 17

14/01/2014 11:35

“…the UK housing market has a sort of microwave type quality to it, with a tendency to turn from lukewarm to scalding in a matter of a few economic seconds”

hike. If interest rates had to be used to slow down rampant house prices then in itself that would be a threat to low interest rates currently supporting the economy and which are needed for longer to assist its ability to recover.

Although the Bank of England may say that it has an array of financial controls at its disposal to control house prices, such as restrictions on loanto-values and improved underwriting standards by banks, the simplest, most effective and quickest – and therefore probably its weapon of choice against a bubble is an interest-rate hike. Using this blunt weapon must be avoided however, Carney warned, because there were still large parts of the economy struggling to survive and all over the country there were many businesses still dependent on low-cost credit.

Within the Bank of England there is some real fear of a runaway mortgage market, both residential and buy-tolet. If it gets out of control the worry is it could gather momentum of an unstoppable nature. For that reason they are withdrawing the Funding for Lending Scheme (FLS) provided by the bank for mortgage lending, hoping also that “The changes announced refocus FLS where it is most needed without providing further broad support to households”. It is needed, he says, by small businesses that are still

starved of credit. The SME market will recognise and empathise with those comments. Although it is partly the case that businesses are still not confident enough, or have suffered from such high a gearing in the past that they are reluctant to borrow, but availability of funds is also clearly a problem with such strict stress testing of loans for affordability now in place (even though the lenders are a little more outward looking than they have been in the recent past).

What is clear is that the housing market needs little encouragement to motor ahead and Carney was clear that the Bank’s Financial Policy Committee believes it will continue growing in the near term even without the FLS. The independent Office for Budget Responsibility forecasts house prices rising by 5.8% next year and 7% in 2015.

The Banks Chief Economist, Spencer Dale, very recently told a group of business leaders that: “A healthy housing market is good for our economy and supports the recovery.

More importantly it will underpin further increases in house building which has played an important role in driving economic growth”.

“But let’s not be naive. Anyone with more than a passing interest in British economic history is aware that the UK

housing market has a sort of microwave type quality to it, with a tendency to turn from lukewarm to scalding in a matter of a few economic seconds. The Bank is aware of this risk.”

The professional view?

Crystal ball gazing with financial and housing markets is a very fine art as there are so many factors that influence and can blow the most thoroughly considered opinion off course. The expert view coming from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is that the number of surveyors predicting price rises, rather than falls next year, is at its the highest since September 1999.

RICS said that a balance of 59% more surveyors predict that rises will increase rather than edge down over the next three months as the number of homes for would-be buyers to choose from continued to fall “well short” of demand. Also the proportion of surveyors predicting that sales will pick up heading into 2014 reached a record level, with 76% of surveyors expecting sales to increase, marking the highest reading in records going back to 1998.

This optimism on activity came with a warning that without a “meaningful increase” in the supply of homes, both house prices and rents will become more unaffordable. RICS explained

18 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Finance SBT DEC 2013.indd 18

14/01/2014 11:35

Finance

that the reading for the number of surveyors predicting price rises rather than demonstrated there was an “anaemic supply” of properties for sale. In agreeing that the housing market had recovered throughout 2013 following Help to Buy and FLS which widened mortgage availability and fuelled demand, it argued that stronger efforts must also be made to increase the number of homes on the market, with the mismatch between supply and demand putting upward pressure on prices. It called on the Bank of England to restrict house price rises to 5% annually amid fears that the market is overheating.

Supply and demand are clearly key issues with property values and certainly the Bank of England’s change of stance means it recognises this and together with taking its foot off the FLS support for the mortgage market it could be anticipated that it will also encourage a tightening further of the affordability tests for all mortgage funds.

With any bubble, whatever its true size, the only certainty is that it will burst and what the study conducted by James Mitchell at the Warwick Business School concludes that any overvaluing “raises the risk – although not the certainty – that house prices will fall”.

“But a bubble it appears to be, and we should all – householders, business people and policymakers alike – be alert to this risk.”

“Surveyors’ expectations that house prices will increase into the New Year surged to their highest levels in more than 14 years in November”

Looking into 2014 In his autumn statement, Chancellor George Osborne announced £1bn of loans to unblock large housing developments and raised a borrowing limit for councils to fund new homes.

He also announced other measures that non-UK residents will have to pay capital gains tax on property sales from April 2015 - to take some of the heat out of the London housing market, where strong house price growth has been put down in part to overseas investors looking for a safe haven for their cash. Therefore, without formal official acknowledgement of a ‘bubble’ the Chancellor and the Bank of England are both trying to influence demand and supply. Both know that. unchecked, the property market is a threat to the low interest rates currently supporting the economy

Individual opinion will vary on the merits of rapid property value growth – it is likely to be influenced by your own position within the housing market.

Those with property may see price increases as a very positive thing, as do those with spare cash that are investing in the very active BTL market, but those trying to move onto the housing ladder or those that are trying to move up the property ladder in terms of value, at a time of far more stringent affordability tests, may not be so content.

Those encouraged by price inflation may be more likely to spend, which is good for UK recovery, and government is electorally influenced by positive growth figures and the ‘contentment’ of the electorate. Economically, house prices alone leading us out of recession

are not sustainable and there have to be broader growth generators. The very real danger, is that if our recovery is consumer led off the back of a housing bubble, and if there is overvaluing which needs to be brought under control quickly via interest rate rises, it threatens what otherwise is a slow and fragile economic recovery and could plunge households and business back into very harsh times indeed.

Graham Carn, SBT Financial Editor Graham is also the Senior Partner of Blackstones Consulting – if you have any comments or questions on this article please email: blackstones@btinternet.com

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 19

P Finance SBT DEC 2013.indd 19

14/01/2014 11:35

Surviving the Recession So you survived the recession, what next for SMEs — the real work begins...to grow!

Many SMEs clearly struggled during the recession, now they must get over that trauma and start taking risks!

Coming through any recession is an Finance achievement and a Insight recession as deep and as long as the one that now appears finally behind us has been a particular test of strength.

However, despite the sighs of relief, there are no prizes for just making it through – the prize is what lies ahead in that small businesses can now move from the mind set of survival and ‘getting through’ to start investing and taking advantage of growth opportunities. After the storm comes the calm to grow again, and if too much timidity is shown the danger is that they get left behind by less risk-averse competitors.

A recent study from the London Business School made a simple conclusion: “Survivor mode can become your normal mentality, which can make it harder to take risks and investment, even when that is necessary.”

“Companies that don’t grow will get stuck. It might be that they can go on for years, but it is a death spiral.

They must get back on the front foot or risk being overtaken by fresh new businesses without legacy issues.”

The accountants and business advisers Baker Tilly have conducted a survey showing that 45% of the 750

small and medium-sized enterprises polled were confident about their growth opportunities in the coming year, but only 16% were prepared to take on more debt to fund expansion. A fifth were, however, planning to increase capital expenditure, and 23% to step up their spending on sales and marketing.

“The recovery will leave people behind unless they are prepared to invest,” said Neil Sevitt, a Partner at Baker Tilly. “The biggest risk facing SMEs that have survived is to stand by and do nothing. They must be alive to opportunity and aware of what their competitors are doing. They cannot afford to do the same thing they have always done. They have to be more creative.”

Having had to experience and

endure a prolonged period of cost-cutting can obviously make it hard for businesses to adjust to the idea of spending money again. When the recession was all around us many sacrifices, with budgets and staffing, had to be made as businesses went into a survival mode or even a period of hibernation. Getting out of that mentality will be tough for many. But business needs to get growing again – proactively rather than reactively – and the way to do that is generally to focus on sales and research development.

You have to have confidence that you have the right product, and that in the long term you will be successful. You can’t just sit there spending nothing.

You have to be prepared to take calculated risks and to invest in making

“Banks may have funds available to lend to businesses, and they may be loosening the criteria by which they spend, but it seems entrepreneurs are still unwilling to borrow from them”

20 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Finance SBT DEC 2013.indd 20

14/01/2014 11:35

Grahame Allen Following six consecutive quarters of negative

A GLOBAL DOWNTURN

The UK isthe outUKofeconomy recession.

Aremoved we safe growth, finally outfrom return? And when will output recover to pre-recession The downturn in economic activity was levels? of recession in the last quarter of 2009. The

felt across the world, with many countries, Finance economy had moved into technical recession including all G7 economies, falling into in the third quarter of 2008 as GDP fell for a Following six consecutive quarters of negative growth, the UK economy finally moved out of recession in recession during 2008. So far, GDP has failed second the last successive quarter ofquarter.

2009. The economy had moved technical recessionlevels in the of 2008 tointo return to pre-recession in third all of quarter the as GDP fell for a second successive quarter.

G7 countries.

At the height of the recession, GDP fell by 2.6% in a single quarter (Q1 2009) – the Recession and recovery UK was in recession longer than the percentage by same by which the economy At thepercentage height of the recession, GDP fell by 2.6% inThe a single quarter (Q1 2009) – the same other G7 economies and was the last to expanded during theexpanded whole of 2007.

Grahame which theAllen economy during the whole of 2007. exit. However, Japan (8.7%), Italy (6.9%) The recession was the ‘deepest’ recession (in and Germany (6.8%) suffered greater total The UK is out of recession.

Are we safe from return?

And whenGDP will output recover to pre-recession 1 of lost output) in the UK since quarterly contractions terms The 'deepest' recession since the Secondin World than War the UK’s 6.4% levels? and both Japan and Italy have since suffered data were first published in 1955. Actual 0 a further quarter of negative growth. The growth in 2009 saw the sharpest fall in Following six consecutive negative growth, the UK economy finallyEU moved out of recession in possibility remains that some Member GDP in a calendar quarters year sinceofofficial -1 (-5.0%) Q3 figures 1949 andThe theeconomy highest fall may experience a ‘double-dip’, the last began quarterinof 2009. had movedStates into technical recession in the third1990 quarter of 2008 1973 Q3 -2 returning to recession after a short period of since excluding thesuccessive recession following as GDP1931, fell for a second quarter.

1980 Q1 slow growth. the-3 Second World War. The slowdown affected all sectors of the economy, though At the the recession, GDP fell by 2.6% in a single quarter (Q1 2009) – the same percentage by -4 height ofand manufacturing construction were which the economy expanded during the whole of 2007. % change from last particularly affected.

-5 period of positive

1129 words

it happen! The effect of dealing with a recession on how you think about business should not be underestimated.

Businesses that were profitable, then had to batten down the hatches, need to become profitable again. It will be hard to sometimes regain the momentum because recessionary times are a blow to your psyche — you become almost scared of it happening again and it can take time to readjust.

However, without advocating hurried, we safe from return? when rash, or illAnd thought out decisions, every ion levels? now and then there is a case to throw a little caution to the wind. If you stop growing, stop developing, stop coming A GLOBAL DOWNTURN up with new ideas, the future you want The downturn in economic activity was will never happen - you have no hope. felt across the world, with many countries, Fighting for survival does make it including all G7 economies, falling into harder to get into a proactive frame of recession during 2008. So far, GDP has failed mind. When times tough, you have to return to pre-recession levels in all are of the G7 countries. to make extraordinarily tough decisions.

Sometimes it needs a little help from a The UK was in recession longer thanadviser the mentor or trusted but a more other G7 economies and was the last to independent view can help get you out exit. However, Japan (8.7%), Italy (6.9%) of the survival mind-set. One tip is to and Germany (6.8%) suffered greater total return?

And when willthan output recover to pre-recession down your opportunities – write contractions in write GDP theall UK’s 6.4% them on a massive sheet of paper! and both Japan and Italy have since suffered Once you start focusing a further quarter of negative growth.

The on those, e growth, the UK economy finally moved out of recession possibility remains thatthan some EU Member rather at cost savings, you willin may experience a ‘double-dip’, ovedStates into technical recession in the thirdthem quarter of 2008 start thinking about more and then returning to recession a short of that you there isafter more of aperiod likelihood slow growth. can start to make them happen! % in a single quarter (Q1 2009) – the same percentage by ole of 2007.

What are other SME’s thinking about growth and where is working capital to come from? Do businesses believe ince the Second World War banks are more willing to lend now than they were last year?

Having survived the1990 lastQ3five years of difficult trading times for many, 1973 Q3 optimism among Britain’s entrepreneurs 1980 Q1 is surging to the highest level in five years and businesses are finally and gradually becoming confident enough to dip into their cash reserves and 2008 Q2 start investing.

The optimism is quantified in a new

very

4 5 riod of positive growth

6

7

2008 Q2

The 'deepest' recession since the Second World War

0 -7 -1

0

1

2

3 4 5 Quarters from last period of positive growth

6

ECONOMIC RECOVERY 7 8

1990 Q3 1973 Q3

-2

The recession was the ‘deepest’ recession (in terms of lost output) in the UK since quarterly data were 1980 Q1 -3 first published in 1955. Actual growth in 2009 saw the sharpest fall in GDP (-5.0%) in a calendar year since -4 official figures began in 1949 and the highest fall since 1931, excluding the recession following the change from Second%World War.lastThe slowdown affected all sectors of the economy, though manufacturing and -5 period of positive construction were particularly affected. growth 2008 Q2

-6

A global downturn

-7 The downturn in economic activity was felt across the world, with many countries, including all G7 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 economies, falling into recession during 2008.

Soof far, GDP has failed to return to pre-recession levels in Quarters from last period positive growth all of the G7 countries.

The 28 recession was the ‘deepest’ recession (in terms of lost output) in the UK since quarterly data were Thepublished UK recession wasActual longergrowth than ininother countries - butfall notinasGDP deep as some first in 1955.

2009G7 saw the sharpest (-5.0%) in a calendar year Quarter-on-quarter growth, OECDin data since official figures began 1949 and the highest fall since 1931, excluding the recession following the Second World War. The slowdown affected all sectors the economy, though2009Q3 manufacturing 2007Q2 2007Q3 2007Q4 2008Q1 2008Q2 2008Q3of2008Q4 2009Q1 2009Q2 2009Q4 and construction were particularly affected.

UK 0.6% 0.5% 0.5% 0.7% -0.1% -0.9% -1.8% -2.6% -0.7% -0.3% 0.4%

ACanada global downturn 1.0%

0.5%

0.3%

-0.2%

0.1%

0.1%

-1.0%

-1.8%

-0.9%

0.2%

1.2%

France 0.4% 0.7% 0.3% 0.5% felt-0.4% -1.5%with-1.3% 0.3% 0.2% 0.6% all G7 The downturn in economic activity was across -0.2% the world, many countries, including Germany 0.3% into 0.8% 0.1% during 1.6% 2008.

-0.6%So far, -0.3%GDP-2.4% -3.5%to return 0.4% to 0.7% 0.0% economies, falling recession has failed pre-recession levels in Italy 0.2% 0.1% -0.5% 0.4% -0.6% -0.9% -2.2% -2.7% -0.5% 0.5% -0.3% all of the G7 countries.

Japan

0.2%

-0.1%

0.4%

0.7%

-1.1%

-1.3%

-2.7%

-3.6%

1.5%

-0.1%

0.9%

US

0.8%

0.9%

0.5%

-0.2%

0.4%

-0.7%

-1.4%

-1.7%

-0.2%

0.6%

1.4%

The UK recession was longer than in other G7 countries - but not as deep as some Quarter-on-quarter growth, OECD data

Source: www.parliament.uk, Grahame Allen 2007Q2 2007Q3 2007Q4 2008Q1 2008Q2 2008Q3 2008Q4 2009Q1 2009Q2 2009Q3 2009Q4

COULD THE UK RETURN TO RECESSION? UK

0.6%

0.5%

0.5%

0.7%

-0.1%

report from another Following twoDeloitte, successive quartersmajor of (albeit Canada 1.0% 0.5% growth, 0.3% -0.2% accounting and business advisory relatively slow) economic the UKfirm,0.1% France 0.4% 0.7% 0.3% 0.5% economythat looks less + likely than it once did to-0.4% stating 80% of entrepreneurs Germany 0.8% 0.1%Government suffer a ‘double-dip’ recession. believe that0.3% their businesses will1.6% grow-0.6% Italy 0.2% over 0.1%high, 0.4% -0.6% borrowing, still is lower than by at least though 10% the-0.5% next year.

This previously forecast.

Although unemployment Japan 0.2% -0.1% 0.4% is the highest number since the 0.7% survey-1.1% has risen to around two-and-a-half million, 0.4% US 0.8% 0.9% 0.5% -0.2% began in 2008. this is lower than some predictions of three In addition, years of downward saving cash million or more.after Despite some while recovery shocks,the thenation’s FTSE 100economic has risen strongly over failed toyear, materialise, 56% ofmarket business the past and the housing has shown increasing owners said thatstrength they were confident enough to start using this money to However, the recovery remains far from fisecure. nance Though growth.unemployment Only 15% were still seems to actively stockpiling. have stabilised, employment has continued a further sign of ofpossible optimism, only toIn fall.

The impacts tax rises and expect cuts to public fully 5% their expenditure turnover toare fallnot over known. is running well above the nextInflation year and 88% expect the the UK 2% target. toThe Bankby ofmore England’s rate economy grow thanbase 2 %. may yet have to rise as a of consequence.

Mark Doleman, Head Entrepreneurial

THE RETURN OF LOST OUTPUT

-0.9% -1.8% -2.6% -0.7% -0.3% 0.4% Business atduring Deloitte, said: “This Output lost the recession willrefl notects 0.1% -1.0% -1.8% -0.9% 0.2% 1.2% abe strong previous 12 months for recouped for some time yet. The latest -0.2% -1.5% -1.3% 0.3% 0.2% 0.6% Treasury forecasts are for83% growth of between entrepreneurs, where experienced -0.3% 0.4%14%0.7% and-2.4% 1½% in-3.5% 2010,and between 3% a1% growth in turnover sawand0.0% -0.9% inof -2.2% -2.7% -0.5%3¼ and 0.5% 3¾% -0.3% 3½% 2011 and between growth more than 50%.” in 2012.-2.7% However, the latest of 0.9% -1.3% -3.6% 1.5% average However, when it comes to-0.1% funding independent that -0.7% -1.4% forecasts -1.7% suggests -0.2% 0.6% the 1.4% growth plans it appears that most economy will grow by 1.3% in 2010, 2.1% entrepreneurs believe they need to be in 2011 and 2.4% in 2012. reliant on creating their own working Treasuryasforecasts GDPappears may return capital bank fisuggest nance still to to thehard pre-recession in the 20% second quarter be to comelevel by. Only believe of 2012; the latest average of independent that banks are more willing to lend now forecasts suggests the first quarter of 2013. than they were 10% Regardless, it willlast be ayear longand timeonly yet before expect take out a bank loan and 7% the UK to economy recovers to its pre-recession will use an overdraft facility. “Banks position. may have funds available to lend to businesses, and they may be loosening the criteria by which they spend, but it seems entrepreneurs are still unwilling

8

terms of lost output) in the UK since quarterly data were saw the sharpest fall in GDP (-5.0%) in a calendar year ghest fall since 1931, excluding the recession following the l sectors of the economy, though manufacturing and

P Finance SBT DEC 2013.indd 21

growth

1 -6

29

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 21

14/01/2014 11:35

Finance

“If you stop growing, stop developing, stop coming up with new ideas, the future you want will never happen - you have no hope”

to borrow from them,” Mr Doleman said.

“This is bad not just for entrepreneurs, but also for the banks, so it is important that this relationship is mended.”

Figures out for the last quarter from the Bank of England showed that net lending to companies — the amount of new loans advanced compared with the amount paid off by customers tumbled.

In August by £3.8 billion and within this, lending to SMEs was nearly £700 million lower. This followed an £893 million fall the previous month and dealt a blow to hopes of improvement as the economy shows signs of recovery.

Surviving the recession as an SME has been an achievement. Probably the business is probably leaner and meaner than it was at the outset and the management understanding of the business is likely to have improved also. With main economic indicators consistently looking more favourable now is definitely a good time to get on the front foot with identifying and maximising opportunities.

Using a business’s own cash is clearly a better option than acquiring debt but for many businesses outside finance is still necessary. As with the mind-set of survival and the need to be positive, the preconception that support

from lenders is not there is likely to be exaggerated. Definitely funds may not be as freely available as they were prior to 2008, and the repayment analysis is very robust, however, for those with a well prepared plan and business rationale there should be no mind-set that outside funding cannot be found.

Banks and other lenders are not going to take undue risk (they have had their corporate fingers burnt enough in this regard) but like any business they need to trade and lending is a core product. As businesses come out of the trenches, so do the lenders. Normality, whatever that looks like now, will take time to establish but generally and across all sectors the time is surely there for greater optimism and all the wheels of the economy engaging and working together once more at increasing pace.

Graham Carn, SBT Financial Editor Graham is also the Senior Partner of Blackstones Consulting – if you have any comments or questions on this article please email blackstones@btinternet.com

E l

E m

W

A c

22 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Finance SBT DEC 2013.indd 22

C o

14/01/2014 11:35

Want to make your dream home a reality?

For your Free Consultation Call Now 01273 267 184

Creative use of space

“IF YOU WANT GREAT Extend theJAG” useful PR ASK life of your home

Eco-friendly, money-saving solutions We place you at the centre of your project

ARCH c r e a t e

angels

y o u r

P Finance SBT DEC 2013.indd 23

d r e a m

h o m e

www.aaarchitects.co.uk info@aaarchitects.co.uk www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 23 @ArchAngelsBton 14/01/2014 11:35

Angels of Architecture

Winners of Sussex Best Small Business 2013, ARCH-angels talk us through the holistic approach to architecture ARCH-angels Architects (AaA), founded by Nicola Profile Thomas and Richard Zinzan in 2009, are passionately committed to providing cost-effective, creative, low energy buildings. Based in Brighton, the company have experienced year on year growth since their launch and have just taken home the title of 2013’s Best Small Business at the Sussex Business Awards.

A welcoming, friendly practice, AaA focuses on a holistic, people-centric approach – a world away from the clichéd perception of architecture. The work ARCH-angels do is ecologically

conscious, approaching each build as a lasting project that will have a lifespan of its own and considering its environmental impact as a whole throughout that time. The team put the client at the very centre of each design, using the best possible balance of their ideas, dreams and wishes with the space and structures at hand to craft unique, beautiful buildings that are in harmony with their environment whilst meeting the client’s individual requirements.

ARCH-angels dispel the myth that successful businesses must be ruthless.

It’s clear from the moment you step inside their open plan shopfront that the team is a close knit one, and this feeling is backed up by AaA’s investment in

staff development. “Our commitment to our customers extends to the support and continual enrichment of the whole of the team,” says Richard as he explains their culture of frequent meetings with an open forum to discuss projects and ‘WIFLE’ (What I Feel Like Expressing) opportunities. “Each member of staff is encouraged to attend training for both personal and business development. The practice promotes flexible part-time working and job sharing; understanding the demands of working parents resulting in a very committed experienced team who are able to flourish in their work because there is a balance with their home life.”

AaA have regular team gatherings and a couple of annual parties; indeed, those present at the Sussex Business Awards would have had the opportunity to meet most of the team as they celebrated their win. However, it’s not just fun and games, of course: ARCH-angels understand that fulfilled individuals make a great team, resulting in the best possible end product for their clients.

In the four years since the business’ inception, ARCH-angels have weathered some of the worst economic lows in living memory. The balance sheet and expansion of the team both show consistent growth, even throughout the recession. Of particular note as a challenge is the greater number of local small companies and sole practitioners competing for the business, but as front runners of the new school of architectural business,

24 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P ArchAngels SBT DEC 2013.indd 24

14/01/2014 09:32

Profile

ARCH-angels are simply remaining focused, positive and confident in their investments and ethos.

“Educating people on the benefits of low energy architecture has allowed us to flourish in a competitive marketplace with creative and resourceful design, we have encouraged it as an affordable option.” Nicola is keen to point out that the company’s eco-friendly approach is not a business decision but an ideological one: she stresses that the building process and the premises that result from it have an enormous impact on the environment, and that we have a responsibility to make this influence as positive as possible.

As a new business, ARCH-angels have had to build their reputation from

scratch in a tough time for businesses of all sizes. “We did this by taking part in shows and exhibitions, writing for local publications, attending networking events, speaking at conferences and, of course, having a shop window,” explains Richard. “This worked well for us in establishing our name, but in the last year in particular we have found that the exhibition strategy is one that needs reworking, due to the additional competition we mentioned earlier. It used to be that we stood out as one of a handful of architecture firms, but at the last exhibition we attended, there were twenty. It no longer represents a good return on investment, so we are now placing greater emphasis on referrals and enhancing the website.

“AaA prides itself on this open, flexible approach towards clients, employees, and suppliers: building lasting relationships on all levels” www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 25

P ArchAngels SBT DEC 2013.indd 25

14/01/2014 09:32

“Our holistic approach to managing extends into a clear strategic vision for developing our business. Consistency is a primary focus in terms of customer services whilst our client satisfaction survey maintains our effort towards customers, in order to assess performance and more importantly; understand the successes, failures and ways of improving the service. This is reflected by our referrals: 50% of our work comes in from recommendations from past clients.”

Whilst ARCH-angels stress that they are expanding with caution, their caution is optimistic and reasonable.

They take a pragmatic approach to both exposure and risk, are confident in our planning and delivery when it comes to each project in its own right and on the whole when it comes to investment in their growth. The team, whilst predominantly from architectural backgrounds, are all business-focused and work with a Business Coach on a regular basis to develop their strengths and turn their skills-based offering into a successful, stable and growing business. The team spend at least half a day on business development each week, in addition to individual training and enrichment projects.

AaA prides itself on this open, flexible approach towards clients, employees, and suppliers: building lasting relationships on all levels. The practice fosters an ethos of collaboration and sustainability not just environmental but in its wider sense of social and economic responsibility. They are part of the Architect in the House scheme which supports Shelter, they take part in the local Eco Technology Show and the annual RIBA Threshold event. Richard is a mentor on the undergraduate course at Brighton University School of Architecture and actively supports work experience programmes with secondary school pupils.

Through this holistic and widely beneficial approach, ARCH-Angels hope to continue to grow their business, and with new sister company ZSTa, the practice has diversified into the high end luxury residential, education, commercial and leisure sectors.

Conservatively, they hope that this new venture – which offers the same clientfocused service and rounded approach to business as AaA, under different

26 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P ArchAngels SBT DEC 2013.indd 26

14/01/2014 09:33

Profile

WHAT EVERYONE IS SAYING What the Clients Say...

“ARCH-angels’ knowledge and expertise took our project from ordinary to exceptional.

Added to this, their friendliness and clear explanations gave us great confidence throughout the process – we are absolutely delighted with the results and would thoroughly recommend them to anyone. ” Emma Dunstan, Hove

What the Staff Say branding that aims it more squarely at large business customers rather than individuals – will become profitable within its first year. “We do not take unnecessary risks, but always aim high and are positive and ambitious,” says Richard. The separation of this enterprise allows the team, plus additional skilled partners, to begin to expand and replicate the success of ARCH-angels without posing unnecessary risk to the existing business and the happy stability of the team. “We’ve seen businesses expand too far, too quickly, only to have the bubble burst from under them,” adds Richard, showing some of the humility that makes ARCH-angels so approachable and so popular with their clients. “We know our capabilities, but we’re not the type to draw off all our profits in dividends and take risks in that sense.

We budget so that we can make careful, measured investments for the benefit of our staff and customers.”

As economic recovery takes hold, clients - including that 50% that come to ARCH-angels based on glowing recommendations from their friends and colleagues – are investing in improving their properties for better hopes on the housing market; to improve on conversions and extensions made in haste at the market’s worst, but also when they’re planning to stay in the house they already have. “Many people

are finding that, for what it would cost in an increased mortgage, fees and costs to move, they could turn their existing property into the home they’ve always dreamed of.

We are confident when it comes to crafting people’s dream houses… their ‘forever’ homes,” says Nicola. “We may be architects, but we’re homeowners with families ourselves so we truly understand how important this process is, and how crucial it is that they have the experience and results they want from it. For many, this may be the largest lump sum they ever spend, and we make sure they are confident that they have made the right decision in spending it with us.” It’s not a responsibility ARCH-angels take lightly.

“Through ingenuity, determination and aided by an expert business coach whom we meet regularly; we have seen the company grow from two to seven team members and now commissions are growing from small to medium scale whilst thinking of the bigger picture,” concludes Richard. The team are primarily architects first, who have learned to be business people and sales people but remain most importantly people – people who will sit with clients and help them realise their dreams from imagination to bricks and mortar, via ARCH-angels.

“Nicola and Richard give us the opportunity to expand our knowledge through training schemes offered by The Green Register amongst many. On a personal level, they encourage us to look after our wellbeing by attending life coaching sessions. Overall the partners are very open, approachable and constructive in difficult situations; there is a great sense of camaraderie and professionalism within the team. ” Pete Sonntag, Project Architect

What the Suppliers Say ‘We have worked with ARCHAngels Architects for the last 2 years and have a great working relationship with them, both Nicola and Richard and the rest of the team there are highly professional and always accommodating and efficient when issues arise. Our invoices are always paid on time which is essential for a small business like ours, I would recommend working with them to anyone.

Chris Penn - Director - Peceptum Design Ltd

www.aaarchitects.co.uk

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 27

P ArchAngels SBT DEC 2013.indd 27

14/01/2014 09:33

At Waitrose, we combine the convenience of a supermarket with the expertise and service of a specialist shop. Above all, we take pride in the freshness and quality of our food.

Local Stores in your area where you can also pick up a copy Sussex Business Times

Burgess Hill

Lewes

Eastbourne

Hailsham

Worthing

Chichester

Eastgate Street, Lewes 01273 486286 www.waitrose.com/lewes

The Martletts, Burgess Hill 01444 230092 www.watirose.com/burgesshill High Street, Old Town, Eastbourne 01323 644505 www.watirose.com/eastbourne

Vicarage Field, Hailsham 01323 846708 www.waitrose.com/hailsham

Horsham

Via Ravenna, Chichester 01243 537512 www.watirose.com/chichester

High St, Worthing 01903 230222 www.waitrose.com/worthing

Brighton

Littlehampton

130-134 Western Rd, Brighton 01273 326549 www.waitrose.com/brighton

18 Piries Pl, Town Centre, Horsham 01403 259777 www.watirose.com/horsham

Avon Rd, Littlehampton 01903 718187 www.waitrose.com/littlehampton

Horley

26 Victoria Road, Horley 01293 820002 www.waitrose.com/horley

MEZZANINE FLOORS

Group Travel Made Easy

• Coach hire, leisure & corporate.

• Comfortable and reliable.

• Create your own itinerary or let us do it for you!

BUILT TO LAST CONTACT US: TEL: 01892 542 220 EMAIL: SALES@CRMFLOORS.CO.UK

C R M Floors MEZZANINE FLOORS

gardner mezzanines

www.crmfloors.co.uk 28 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P CRM SBT DEC 2013.indd 28

01903 505805

www.worthing-coaches.co.uk 14/01/2014 09:35

Solutions

On Another Level

Expand your possibilities by making smarter use of your existing space CRM Floors Ltd, a family run business, is urging businesses Profile struggling for space to look at making better use of what’s already available to them.

The company specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of mezzanine floors along with an interior fitting service that installs office partitioning and suspended ceilings for a wide spread of market sectors including retail, industrial, construction – indeed, anywhere a building requires additional floor space.

The wealth of experience within CRM Floors Ltd is extensive and has been further enhanced with the incorporation of Gardner Mezzanines who have been proud market leaders for many years. In short, CRM Floors say if they can’t design and install a mezzanine that satisfies the customer’s demands, then no one can!

The business operates out of two locations, one in Kent covering the South East and one in Devon supplying the South West; however our customers take us all over the country making CRM Floors Ltd a true national supplier.

Every customer obtains a free on-site, no-obligation consultation, a customised design to meet specific needs, a safety-conscious approach to on site working, advice on building regulation requirements, quality installations at best value pricing all supported by the most experienced advice available in the market today.

“Mezzanines are generally the most cost effective method of maximising existing space - space that you are paying for but not using!” says Rob May, MD. “Our mezzanines support a decking material to suit your requirements along with individually designed and manufactured staircases, handrails and loading gates, which can be moved to other parts of the floor should your

“Mezzanines are generally the most cost effective method of maximising existing space - space that you are paying for but not using” access requirements change. The floors themselves can also be extended, altered or even moved to new positions or premises, giving you flexibility to adapt, all at a cost that will pleasantly surprise you.”

“All our floors are individually designed to suit YOUR needs, YOUR application and YOUR premises. Our mezzanines are used for a variety of purposes such as, increasing storage capacity, expanding your offices or doubling your production capability, all without the prohibitive disruption of moving. Our manufacturers are one of only a few mezzanine floor manufacturers in the UK and all the floors are prefabricated away from site, cutting installation time, and thus causing minimum disruption to your working environment.

“If you are an expanding business,

which is not only struggling to find extra space, but also looking for a good return on its investment, a tailored mezzanine package could well be the answer. An additional benefit is that once installed, at a fraction of the cost of a new-build, the ongoing costs are minimal compared to those of a new building. In the event of a down turn in business, the decision to invest in a mezzanine package could prove to be a very wise decision indeed.”

“CRM Floors incorporating Gardner Mezzanines are a very proud business; proud to be delivering something exceptional to our customers. Our business is driven by referrals so all our customers can rest assured that they need to be left totally satisfied and happy to recommend us to their neighbours.”

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 29

P CRM SBT DEC 2013.indd 29

14/01/2014 09:35

SBT S SBT SBT ISSUE 371 FREE

ISSUE 370 FREE

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

PLUS

No.1

ISSUE 369 FREE

for busin in Suss ess ex

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

THE BATTLE FOR BETTER BROADBAND PAGE 17

NEW BANKS ON THE BLOCK

PLUS

PAGE 22

FINANCE ROUND-UP

SBT ROUND TABLE

THE HOFFMANN AND RATHBONE WINERY

REVIEW OF THE RANGE ROVER EVOQUE AND JAGUAR XFR

PAGE 17

PAGE 30

PAGE 26

REVIEW OF THE MERCEDES A CLASS & KIA SORENTO

PAGE 38

PAGE 38

THE ERGONOMIC ACADEMY

Make a Splash

Local hero company Posturite provides ergonomic solutions for the workplace

Morgan Sindall has successfully delivered an iconic leisure centre on the south coast for Worthing

PAGE 12

THE SUSSEX BUSINESS AWARDS

PAGE 54

SITTING COMFORTABLY?

The twenty fifth Sussex Business Awards 2013 are now open for business

First Sussex, now the world for Posturite

PAGE 22

P cover SBT July 2013.indd 7

PAGE 12

14/08/2013 12:28

P Cover SBT June 2013.indd 5

12/06/2013 15:23

BRIGHTON’S BEST KEPT SECRET P 01 Cover SBT May2013.indd 7

09/05/2013 16:09

GET INDIVIDUAL ISSUES IF SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES MAGAZINE DELIVERED DIRECT TO YOU, STRAIGHT FROM US, WITH FREE POST NAD PACKING. 10 ISSUES (A YEAR’S SUBSCRIPTION) FOR JUST

£10.00 HOW?

CONTACT US NOW AT CONTACT@LIFEMEDIAGROUP.CO.UK OR 01323 411 601 30 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Lunch SBT DEC 2013.indd 30

14/01/2014 10:21

Tried & Tested

Working Lunch

SBT stops by the iconic and acclaimed vegetarian restaurant: Terre a Terre, a culinary experience like no other

Terre a Terre Brighton

Address: Terre à Terre The Vegetarian Restaurant 71 East Street Brighton East Sussex BN1 1HQ Tel: 01273 729051 Email: mail@terreaterre.co.uk Web: www.terreaterre.co.uk

Forget everything you have ever read or heard about Review vegetarian food.

Forget ‘veggie options’ of dull pasta and nut roast.

Forget everything you have ever eaten at vegetarian restaurants. Dining at Terre à Terre is a culinary experience like no other, with intense flavours, sublime textures and a combination of ingredients that few have the imagination or daring to put together.

Terre à Terre was born in 1993, out of a shared passion of two people with a mission. Amanda Powley and Philip Taylor, both classically trained chefs, wanted a platform for their innovative

ideas where they could push the boundaries of traditional cuisine whilst adhering to their beliefs in meat-free cooking.

Whilst deciding what to choose from we sipped delicious light mango drinks and nibbled on saucily flavoured cashew nuts. My guest - a vegetarian herself - thought she knew a thing or two about cooking vegetarian food but pleasantly, this place is in a class of its own. The menu wasn’t huge but was incredibly diverse and imaginative without being pretentious. After a long deliberation, we chose to start with Fritter Zaatar at £8.95, which was in fact a platter of courgette, lemon zest, parsley, fennel seed zaatar dusted fritter, aubergine zhuganoush, pomegranate molasses and seeds, with a salsa salad of preserved lemon, pine nut and sweet currants. This was delicious a buzz of flavours and textures: really fresh and exciting.

Whilst we deliberated, the friendly and helpful waitress explained that dietary requirements beyond vegetarianism itself could be catered for, and I immediately thought of my colleague who often dreads submitting her own list of allergies when attending work functions. In previous reviews in this very magazine, she’s stressed how a restaurant or caterer’s attitude to this important matter can make or break an event for her, either bathing her in comfort and enjoyable food or ruining her experience by making her feel awkward, and it occurred to me for the first time what it would be like

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 31

P Lunch SBT DEC 2013.indd 31

14/01/2014 10:21

Tried & Tested

to entertain her as a client. I made a mental note to make sure anyone I entertain isn’t made to feel like an inconvenience for not eating certain things, and it struck me that Terre à Terre might be the ideal inclusive environment where even hardened carnivores were bound to enjoy a new mix of flavours alongside vegetarian or vegan guests and those with restrictive diets.

Run Rarebit Run, at £14.95, was our choice for our main course, a warm and comforting toasty Sussex cheddar rarebit laced with Sheep’s Nose Cider and mustard grains crammed into hot pot spiced cornbread served with smoked yogurt and salt baked carrot, caraway pickled and puréed. Finished with tamari pumpkin seeds, cake crumbs and ‘olive soil; I wasn’t entirely sure what I was expecting from reading the menu, but it was delicious!

The waitress helpfully advised it was one of their smaller plates so we ordered a side of spiced chunky chips with an avocado dip, which packed a real punch of flavour. Terre à Terre certainly have mastered their niche of meat-free cuisine.

“Terre à Terre has an extensive and vibrant organic wine list; all wines have been tried and tested by their knowledgeable team” To finish we had the Chocoholic (dare or share!) at £12.85 which consisted of – wait for it: Cinnamon-sugar dusted doughnut straws, served with vodka cherries with chocolate dipping sauce; chocolate, orange conserve & almond layered torte with buttery toast ice-cream, chocolate meringues with cinnamon cream and chocolate truffle cake. I may be a self-confessed chocoholic but my guest was not and we both agreed that this was by far the stand-out course. The subtly detailed chocolate notes were carried through to every delicately layered item… all I could, and can say, is wow! The boxes

of Christmas chocolates being passed around the office now taste somewhat inferior, I must say.

Terre à Terre has an extensive and vibrant organic wine list; all wines have been tried and tested by their knowledgeable team so that they are perfectly placed to offer you advice on the best food and wine pairings around.

Terre à Terre takes a considerable amount of care and time training its front of house staff to ensure that their knowledge of the menu and the wine list is at the highest level and that they are equipped to deal with queries regarding dietary requirements and other specialist information, which means it’s not just vegetarians who fined their culinary cravings met and exceeded here: The Terre à Terre menu offers vegan and gluten free choices and, with advanced notice, the kitchen can prepare dishes for a raw or macrobiotic diet. It could be THE place to bring that guest you’re really not sure how to feed. Relax, let Terre à Terre apply their expertise to the situation and bask in the reflected glory… and don’t forget some of those spiced chips. They really are a triumph.

32 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Lunch SBT DEC 2013.indd 32

14/01/2014 10:21

THURSDAY 30TH JAN 2014 @ LA CANTINA, EASTBOURNE

DINERS CLUB

ÂŁ14.95PP INCLUDING WELCOME COCKTAIL AND WINE!

Dine and Network at La Cantina of Eastbourne and meet with the people that make Sussex great!

Experience the incredible rolling menu, exclusively tailored for the SBT Diners Club members.

Pre-booking with payment is essential as numbers are limited for this event.

BOOK NOW

Complete and return to confirm your seats, or simply call Lottie on 01323 411601.

Alternatively email lottie@sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk with your requirements. www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 33

Thank you to everyone who has supported the Diners Club - Eastbourne so far. We look forward to seeing you all in the new year.

P Lunch SBT DEC 2013.indd 33

14/01/2014 10:21

RuralGetaway

Tucked away in 120 acres of surrounding parkland, the Alexander House Hotel is a rural getaway with a beautiful spa and abundance of conference facilities. Just minutes from Gatwick, is is an ideal location for business and pleasure that offers peaceful seclusion without the daunting trek to get there

Alexander House East Grinstead Address: Turners Hill East Grinstead West Sussex England RH10 4QD Main tel: 01342 714914 Reservations tel: 01342 859 702 www.alexanderhotels.co.uk

From the moment you approach the house with its Review sweeping driveway, you are assured that 5* luxury is bursting at its seams.

Entering the hotel, you are greeted by a pair of finches in a beautiful iron cage a little touch of character that this hotel has in abundance.

Once we’d checked in, we viewed the conference facilities and were pleased to find large airy spaces with beautiful views of the gardens for larger meetings: exactly the injection of vibrancy and freshness that you need when spending hours in deep thought and conversaton. The smaller rooms set aside meetings of up to 10 are beautiful presented with plush interiors and classic furnishings, to provide comfort for more intimate gatherings.

The facilities are, as you would hope from such a venue, all state-of-theart and include air conditioning and complimentary wifi, plus attentive service so you can get on with your meeting and leave the rest to the hotel.

If that’s quite enough ‘talking shop’

for you, you’ll be pleased to read that Alexander House Hotel has two different dining experiences under the talented Executive Chef, Mark Budd.

AG’s is a sophisticated 3 AA Rosette Restaurant featuring menus inspired by the surrounding countryside, woodland, land and field and bring dishes to life through clever use of colours, textures and theatrical presentation.

We were seated at the table by friendly yet professional staff, who gave us the extensive Autumn Al a Carte menu. Whist we were contemplating dinner choices we were served Canapés, from Steak Tatare to Squirrel Morsels titillating our taste buds. Duck Liver Foie Gras Curls, with black figs and maple roast oats eaten with homemade brioche was my choice to start, whilst my partner had deconstructed Rabbit in it’s own consommé with prune parfait on toast.

For such delicate flavours, they were surprisingly unforgettable and though starters are priced at £14 to £18, the quality ingredients and skilful delivery are worth every penny.

The wine choice is extensive and diverse, with options for a range of

34 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Hotel SBT DEC 2013.indd 34

08/01/2014 12:52

Tried & Tested

budgets and plenty of advice to ensure a good match for your dishes. There’s plenty of choice there too, with main courses varying from Grouse to Dover Sole. We indulged in Hay smoked fillet of beef and glazed cheeks with maple squash and potato skins at £30 and that pan fried Dover Sole, potted brown shrimps, cauliflower and soufflé potatoes again at £30. The Hay smoked beef fillets were such a triumph that even though the portions were generous, I felt I wanted another one! I am afraid when I return I might neglect the rest of the menu in favour of having exactly the same thing again – I heartily recommend it.

With a pause between courses, a sweet treat was brought to the table: peanut candyfloss served on an imitation tree. It was cheerfully bizarre and absolutely delicious. For dessert, I chose the Valrohna milk chocolate whisps with milk semi-fredo and hazelnuts to finish my meal and yes, that was just as evilishly indulgent as it sounds, but at £9.50 and such a heavenly rounding-off to my meal, my waistline and I are not one bit sorry between us.

If you so wished – and you had room - you could treat yourself to the cheese board before or after your dessert for just £9 which showcases some of the elite cheeses of the world.

The hotel itself is beautifully presented and has generously sized and individually designed rooms with attention to detail on colours and textures to provide unrivalled luxury. We stayed in the Cherry suite, which whilst

“Beautifully presented and generously sized and individually designed rooms with attention to detail on colours and textures to provide unrivalled luxury” modern was surprisingly plush and balanced its business-friendly free wifi with warm, soft white bathrobes and luxury spa toiletries.

The jewel in the crown is the free temporary membership to be used throughout your stay in the beautiful and tranquil Utopia Spa. The Grecian inspired interiors inspire you to leave your stresses and strains at the door and sink into pure bliss. Whether you lounge by the pool, plunge into the hydrotherapy pool or bask in the monsoon showers you are sure to find peace within this magnificent spa... and no, you won’t be interrupted by the sound of planes overhead. I don’t know why or how, but the Alexander House Hotel manages to seem a world away from the bustle of Gatwick and motorways, even though it’s just a few minutes’ drive… the perfect escape, with a portal into the world of business if you need to mix the serious stuff into your pleasure during your stay. But try not to work too hard… it would be a waste.

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 35

P Hotel SBT DEC 2013.indd 35

08/01/2014 12:52

Delicious Restaurant Quality Sauces for Home The Curry Sauce Company produces a range of superb curry sauces that are ready prepared and so offer wonderful convenience. At the same time however, the sauces are so gorgeous that they allow you to prepare a meal in minutes every bit as good as you would expect from your favourite restaurant.

Our sauces, naan breads and chutneys are stocked nationwide by fine food retailers such as Delicatessens, Farm Shops and quality Butchers.

Meanwhile we offer a Mail Order service ensuring delivery of your favourite curries to your home or place of work.

Browse and place your order through the website at www.currysauce.co.uk or telephone 01243 550045 and we will process your order for you.

Let Your REPUTATION DO YOUR MARKETING FOR YOU! Brought to you courtesy of our sister company

Today, clients are looking for an informed choice when choosing a professional service and Checkaprofessional’s new online service is providing just that.

The Checkaprofessional website will give instant access to all professional service providers who have agreed to be vetted by us and continuously monitored by their clients, who can post verified feedback on the site. It will provide a FREE one-stop shop to finding the right professional service for a client’s particular needs.

Find out about the unique advantages Checkaprofessional membership could provide for your online marketing.

ESTATE AGENTS MORTGAGE BROKERS LEGAL SERVICES OPTICIANS

ΔΔ ΔΔ

SOLICITORS COSMETIC SURGEON SURVEYORS HAIR & BEAUTY

ΔΔ ΔΔ

ACCOUNTANTS THERAPISTS DENTAL VET’S

ΔΔ ΔΔ

IFA’S IT

ΔΔ

0808 901 9042 www.checkaprofessional.com

36 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Awards SBT DEC 2013.indd 36

14/01/2014 10:26

The Toast of Sussex

The winners of the twenty ďŹ fth Sussex Business Awards were announced Thursday 5 December at the Brighton Dome

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 37

P Awards SBT DEC 2013.indd 37

14/01/2014 10:27

500 of the county’s leading business people gathered to Awards celebrate twenty five years of business excellence, many of whom were previous award winners themselves.

VIPs in attendance included Peter Field, Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex and Chairman of the Judges; Jason Kitkat, Leader of the Council and the Mayor of Brighton, Denise Cobb.

Presented by Countdown’s Rachel Riley, 15 awards were presented to the winning companies and individuals.

The Grand Hotel Brighton was the only company to win more than one category and took home two awards - Best Customer Service and the Most Sustainable Business.

The Dome itself won the award for Leisure and Tourism.

Andrew Comben, CEO, Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival, said: “We were delighted to receive to the award for leisure and tourism last week at the Sussex Business Awards. The award is a recognition of the dedication and hard work that our teams put in and also how Brighton Festival 2013 was received and regarded across the region. In 2013, Brighton Festival had a three fold increase in audiences and made a multi million pound contribution to the local economy. It was terrific to pick up the award on behalf of everyone involved in the festival from across our organisation.

It was also a great pleasure to host the awards in our own venue for the first time and we greatly enjoyed welcoming the county’s business people to Brighton Dome for a very special evening.”

A brand new category, the Award for Social Enterprise which was sponsored

by Legal & General, was made to The Big Lemon - a Community Interest Company founded in 2007 to develop a new fun, friendly, affordable and sustainable bus service. The Brighton and Hove Food Festival received a highly commended accolade for its work in attracting 160,000 residents and visitors to their 60 plus events throughout the year.

The International Business of the Year (sponsored by HSBC) was made to Scientifica who supply equipment to researchers into degenerative diseases in more than 30 countries around the world.

“We celebrated one million customer reviews and approximately 500,000 website visits each month, I am delighted to be able to say that we are finally the Sussex Company of the year” - Kevin Byrne, Checkatrade.com The Argus category, Best Boss of the Year went to the co-owners of Cheesmur Building Contractors, Terry Nitman and Steve Hayman, for their inspiring story of how they turned debts of over £650k into an £10m turnover company in less than five years.

Kevin Byrne, Managing Director of Checkatrade.com and last year’s Businessperson of the Year received the top accolade of Company of the year. Kevin said: “I have sat on the list of finalists for this category many times before. In the year that we celebrated one million customer reviews and approximately 500,000 website visits each month, I am delighted to be able to say that we are finally the Sussex Company of the year.”

The Award for the greatest contribution to charity was made to John Peel OBE. Presenting his award, the publisher of Absolute Brighton, Alan Prior said: “John has been a driving

force behind the Sussex Community Foundation, which has already awarded around £6 million in grants to over 1,500 community groups since it was founded in 2006.

And as a Managing Director he turned a loss-making £3 million business into a highly profitable £65 million turnover success. A true example of a businessperson putting something back into the community.”

Peter Field, Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex Chair of the Sussex Business Awards judging panel for the third year commented: “I am really impressed at the resilience of our companies and individuals in the face of a slow economic recovery and to see that, far from just staying alive, all our entrants managed to develop their businesses and increase their market share.

“To me it proves that the timely and clever decisions they made while trading through the downturn has ensured that

38 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Awards SBT DEC 2013.indd 38

14/01/2014 10:27

And the Winners are...

WINNER

The Award for Best Customer Service

Sponsored by Domestic & General

WINNER

The Award for Innovation in Business Sponsored by Sussex Innovation Centre

The Grand, Brighton

Cash Bases Limited

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Checkatrade.com RUNNERs-UP: Classic Consulting

RUNNERs-UP: Madgex, Vent-Axia

WINNER

The Boss of the Year Sponsored by The Argus

Terry Nitman and Steve Hayman, Cheesmur Building Contractors RUNNERs-UP: Kevin Byrne (Checkatrade. com), Nikki Gatenby (Propellernet)

WINNER

The Responsible Business Award Sponsored by Checkaprofessional.com

Jurys Inn Brighton RUNNERs-UP: Basepoint, Clear Computing Ltd

WINNER

Sussex Company of the Year Sponsored by Morgan Sindall

Checkatrade.com RUNNERs-UP: Propellernet, The Eventa Group

WINNER

The Award for the Most Sustainable Business

WINNER

WINNER

The Award for Most Promising New Business

The Award for Leisure and Tourism Sponsored by Midnight Communications

Sponsored by Morrisons Solicitors

Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival

DevAssist Ltd

RUNNERs-UP: Brighton Film School, Sussex Funeral Services

RUNNERs-UP: Fishers Adventure Farm, The Eventa Group

WINNER

WINNER

The Healthiest Workplace Award

The International Business of the Year

Sponsored by Sussex Enterprise

Sponsored by The Montefiore Hospital

The Grand, Brighton

Domestic & General

RUNNERs-UP: Jurys Inn Brighton, Pureprint Group Limited

RUNNERs-UP: European Recruitment, Madgex

WINNER

WINNER

Sponsored by Heart FM

Sponsored by Legal and General

The Small Business of the Year ARCH-angels Architects RUNNERs-UP: PSM Instrumentation Ltd, Sciensus Ltd

WINNER

The Entrepreneur of the Year Sponsored by Sussex Business Times

Alan Margetts (The Kitchen Store) RUNNERs-UP: Mark Bailey (Sciensus Ltd), Matt Turner (Creative Pod Ltd), Nicola Thomas and Richard Zinzan (ARCH-angels Architects)

Sponsored by HSBC

Scientifica RUNNERs-UP: Ambiental, Rainbo Supplies & Services Ltd

WINNER

The Social Enterprise of the Year

The Sussex Businessperson of the Year

Sponsored by Mazars

The Big Lemon

Andrew Hookway, extech

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival RUNNERs-UP: hiSbe Food CIC, Young Start-up Talent

RUNNERs-UP: Andrew Stenning (Searches UK), Terry Nitman and Steve Hayman (Cheesmur Building Contractors)

WINNER

The Greatest Contribution to Sussex Charity Sponsored by Absolute Brighton

John Peel OBE www.sbawards.org.uk @SussexBizAwards

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 39

P Awards SBT DEC 2013.indd 39

15/01/2014 10:41

they held their nerve and are ready to take the advantage as the economy steps up another gear.

“Their stories and achievements are all remarkable, and it was only at the end of a very long day of debate that the final list of winners for the Awards emerged.”

Behind the Celebrations Event organisers Midnight Communications themselves recently scooped six GOLD awards at this year’s Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) PRide Awards.

The Brighton-based agency took home the biggest award haul of the Home Counties South event on Thursday evening, collecting a Gold Award in the ‘Not for Profit’ category for the third year running and Best Sporting Campaign for the second year.

The only UK-wide awards scheme that recognises excellence in public relations and communications work, more than 120 of the region’s leading public relations practitioners attended the annual awards ceremony held at the Hilton Brighton Metropole.

Midnight took two awards for its work with Whalefest 2012 – Not for Profit and Low Budget Campaign which the judges described as: “An imaginative and creative campaign and a worthy winner!”

Three gold awards were made for Midnight’s work with the Sky Sports Living for Sport initiative - Best Sporting Campaign, Best use of Social Media and Best use of Planning, Research, Measurement and Evaluation.

Last but not least, a Gold award was made for the Best Consumer Relations Campaign on behalf of Checkatrade which this year has celebrated one million customer reviews, approximately 500,000 website visits each month and more than 11,400 trade members.

Commenting on its success, Managing Director Caraline Brown said: “What a way to celebrate the end of our 18th birthday year! I am so proud to demonstrate that Midnight remains top of the PR game in terms of media relations, events and social media.

“As a team we are committed to delivering the highest level of service and results for our clients and this has been recognised by winning a gold award for Planning, Research, Measurement and Evaluation.”

The Importance of The Sussex Business Awards

We speak to Caraline Brown, Magaging Director at Midnight Communtcations about how important the awards are for Sussex Businesses and what it can do for your benefit you The Sussex Business Awards was a great night. Why is it important that we recognise talent in this way?

Winning an award is great for everyone – for staff morale and for creating new business opportunities. So many of our winners tell us that winning an award open doors for them within the business community. Simply by adding the award to your email signature, you are going to begin to grab people’s attention... it could even be the start of a whole new marketing campaign.

Why is it right, and important, that we have these celebrations even when budgets are tight?

It’s a proven fact that award winning companies attract more business. People want to work with winners! And life can’t be all doom and gloom. Even in the recession it’s is good to look at the positive aspects of your business and take the opportunity to celebrate with your staff and clients. The judges commented this year that, time and again, we heard inspirational stories of success through adversity and of course, the only way to get the economy growing again is for people to take that leap and do more business, so awards and accolades are a great way to easily identify who it might be promising to do that business with, right now.

Why are these awards important for the Sussex business community?

The Sussex Business Awards have been going for 25 years and as such are the most established and prestigious award scheme in the county. The fact that they have been around so long demonstrates that people have faith in the integrity of the Awards and they become the aspiration of all the award schemes.

What benefit do the awards present to those who win one, long term, for their business?

In a recent survey of 400 business people, 81% admitted to being influenced by awards when buying products and services for their

“400 business people, 81% admitted to being influenced by awards when buying products” business, so it’s clear these accolades really will make a difference to their recipients.

Winning an award offers a great opportunity for publicity for all involved, too... it’s whatever they choose to make of their win, really!

Congratulations on your own awards wins, too! How much do they mean to you?

What a way to celebrate the end of our 18th birthday year! I am so proud to demonstrate that Midnight remains top of the PR game in terms of media relations, events and social media. As a team we are committed to delivering the highest level of service and results for our clients and this has been recognised by winning a gold award for Planning, Research, Measurement and Evaluation.

What advice would you give to make more Sussex businesses winners?

Start thinking about your entries early and plan which ones you want to enter. Drafting an award entry is time consuming if you are to do it well. Keep to the facts. Lay out your entry is a way that is attention grabbing and easy to read. Don’t make statements about being the biggest or the largest etc without being able to back it up with facts. Make sure you stick to two sides of A4. I have often seen big glossy presentations ignored for “going over the top” or “trying to gain an unfair advantage”.

The facts should speak for themselves.

Keep it clear. Use straight forward not-techy language, no jargon, and talk about your business with passion!

40 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Awards SBT DEC 2013.indd 40

14/01/2014 10:27

Sussex Business Awards Winners 2013

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 41

P Awards SBT DEC 2013.indd 41

14/01/2014 10:27

YOUR KITCHEN, OUR OBSESSION

40 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Education SBT DEC 2013.indd 40

14/01/2014 09:37

Finance

Whatever kind of kitchen you’re thinking about, you’ll find a huge range of options at The Kitchen Store, plus a great team of people to take complete care of everything: from sketching of initial ideas right through to fitting your kitchen.

Based on the south coast, we operate across Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire.

Why not pop in to one of our showrooms in Lancing or Hove to see our selection of kitchen styles for yourself?

Our kitchens range from large to small, to suit a range of homes and all kinds of budgets. Working directly with the manufacturer means our prices offer great value.

We work closely with our customers to understand their needs and create the very best kitchen design and solution possible. Our staff are highly trained, experienced, professional and friendly.

Lancing, West Sussex

Brighton and Hove, East Sussex

Tel: 01903 52 43 43 Opening hours: 9.30am – 5pm Monday to Friday 9.30am – 4pm Saturdays

Tel: 01273 95 77 78 Opening hours: 10am – 6pm Monday to Friday 10am – 5pm Saturdays

www.thekitchenstore.co.uk

info@thekitchenstore.co.uk www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 41

P Education SBT DEC 2013.indd 41

14/01/2014 09:37

From Learning to Earning

Are apprenticeships the key to our skills and employment crisis?

Training and education are essential in Focus solving the UK’s unemployment crisis, say experts.

Mr Davies was speaking in response to a warning issued by the Prince’s Trust this week that thousands of young people are in danger of being trapped in a lifetime of unemployment.

The latest figures release by the Office for National Statistics show that 115,000 18 to 24-year-olds have been unemployed for more than two years and the Prince’s Trust has called for urgent government action to help train these would-be workers with employable skills.

“There are over one million young unemployed in this country and they are becoming totally demoralised by the job market. They have to be given confidence in the training and apprenticeships we can offer them.

Otherwise, we will be dealing the financial ramifications of our failure for decades to come,” said Will Davies a large scale employer in the construction sector.

“Our young people have been failed by the education system. As an employer I see youngsters leaving our education system every year totally unequipped for the world of work.”

David Cameron has spoken of his government’s revamp of the apprentice system. More emphasis will be placed on qualification in maths and English,

independent assessment and longer schemes.

“Having a basic knowledge of maths and English is obviously a desirable aspiration but at the end of the day, skills training will better serve our youngsters than more academic requirements,” said Will Davies who is the founder and MD of property maintenance and refurbishment company aspect.co.uk, and a long-time campaigner for apprenticeship reform.

Mr Davies is a believer in traditional skill-based apprenticeships designed by employers and not government appointed agencies as the best route to employment for non-academic youngsters.

“Improving the standards of maths and English will benefit many

44 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Education SBT DEC 2013.indd 44

14/01/2014 11:04

Training

youngsters looking for work but there are many social skills and an attitude to the world of work that is totally unacceptable in parts of our young workforce that skill-based apprenticeships can remedy,” said Mr Davies. “It is essential that employers are granted the power to design apprenticeships for young people.

Employers know the skills they require and therefore they know the skills that are employable,” he said.

“Generations of employment schemes have failed young workers. Civil servants and outside training agencies (although undoubtedly well meaning) have failed to produce youngsters with employable skills. “Employers like aspect.co.uk have campaigned for years to be given access to the apprenticeship purse strings,” said Mr

Davies. The Skills Funding Agency are investigating the failure of a private training company which received more than £100 million in public finance.

Elmsfield Training had been paid more than £60 million since 2010 to train apprentices for Morrisons supermarkets.

Stephen Barter, director in KPMG Management Consulting, agreed that appropriate skills are the next big step to tackle in UK employment: “Britain is also still suffering from a skills shortage and, although the Chancellor has gone some way to address this through new training initiatives. The lack of appropriately skilled staff could fuel salary inflation as employers struggle to find suitably qualified recruits able to hit the ground running.”

“As an employer I see youngsters leaving our education system every year totally unequipped for the world of work”

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 45

P Education SBT DEC 2013.indd 45

14/01/2014 11:04

Education & Training

The good news, or at least part of it, is that more companies expect to create jobs than not over the next 12 months for the first time since the onset of the recession in 2008, according to a new survey by the CBI and Accenture.

On the Up, the CBI/Accenture Employment Trends Survey, covers businesses employing more than one million people between them. It found that 51% of firms expect their workforce to be larger in 12 months’ time, with private sector workforces anticipated to grow across all regions, with Yorkshire and Humberside and the East Midlands the most buoyant. Encouragingly, there are also an increasing number of opportunities for young people to find work, with companies planning to take on more graduates and apprentices.

The survey also reveals a continued cautious approach to pay, and underlines the vital role played by flexible contracts in underpinning growth and job creation.

Katja Hall, CBI Chief Policy Director, said: “We’re starting to see the recovery have an impact on business plans to hire, with more than half of firms boosting staff numbers next year and more opportunities for young people.

“It’s good to see jobs being created across most regions, not just London and the South East. Our labour market performed well throughout the recession and pay caution and flexible contracts will continue to underpin growth.

“For the UK to remain an attractive place to do business, as the recovery takes hold, wage growth must go hand-in-hand with growth in productivity.”

It was also refreshing to read that jobs for permanent staff are increasing at a faster rate than temporary posts, with a balance of +18% (35% plan higher recruitment and 17% lower) of firms planning to raise permanent hires and +14% planning to expand their temporary workforce. Graduate job prospects are picking up, with +20% of organisations planning to increase their graduate in-take in the next 12 months, which only goes to emphasise the value employers are putting on skill and education.

Lastly, but by no means least in importance, firms are rapidly growing their apprentice numbers – to the tune of 34% - and more than four in five firms expect new job opportunities to open up for young people in the coming year.

Olly Benzecry, Managing Director for Accenture in the UK and Ireland: “UK businesses clearly recognise the value of closer collaboration with education and the need for more vocational training and apprenticeships, and this is starting to translate into action through initiatives such as Movement to Work. Even so, there is much to be done if the UK is to remain competitive in the global economy, attract investment and tackle the challenge of youth unemployment.”

46 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Education SBT DEC 2013.indd 46

14/01/2014 11:04

Training

Fresh Cleaning Services are a Sussex based family owned commercial and domestic cleaning company. Fresh Cleaning has been established for 10 years. We pride ourselves on the personal touch to each individual client. Our staff are fully trained, achieve high standards which we except and maintain for our clients.

WHAT WE OFFER:

• Office Cleaning • Stripping and resealing floors • Carpet Cleaning • Consumables provided • Free estimates and advice • Drive ways, patios and flag stone jet washed • Washroom services • Fully insured • Competitive rates • Testimonies available • Initial ‘spring clean’ to all new contracts • Visits from management to client sites • Monthly audits/reports

Fresh Cleaning Services are a Sussex based family owned commercial and For more information contact us: domestic cleaning company. Fresh Cleaning has been established for 10 years. We pride ourselves on the personal Fresh Cleaning Services LTD touch to each individual client. Our staff are fully trained, achieve Parkstandards View House which we except and maintain for our clients. high

19 The Avenue Eastbourne East Sussex Office cleaning BN21 4YD

Stripping and resealing

01323 411601

floors

Carpet cleaning d.stephens@fresh-clean.co.uk Consumables or 07976 568241 provided d.sinden@fresh-clean.co.uk Free estimates and advice or 07964338026 Drive ways, patios and

flag stone jet washed www.fresh-clean.co.uk Washroom services Fully Insured

Hydro Hot Eastbourne The Hydro is the perfect www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 47

Competitive rates Testimonies available from long established

P Education SBT DEC 2013.indd 47

The Crysta 14/01/2014 11:04

For a free demo visit

www.crunch.co.uk

0844 500 8000 Follow us @TeamCrunch 30 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P CRM SBT DEC 2013.indd 30

14/01/2014 09:46

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 31

P CRM SBT DEC 2013.indd 31

14/01/2014 09:46

Working (Out) Smarter

Latest fitness trends reflect determination of a business community who aren’t afraid to work hard as long as they work smart, and see the results they want quickly. Sound familiar?

How many New Year’s resolutions Focus have you made that involved some form of diet, weight loss or exercise plan? If the answer is anything more than one and you’re still not happy with your body, you’re just one of millions of busy people who don’t think they have time to look after themselves on top of their careers, family commitments and hobbies. And thankfully, you’re about to join the new wave of fitness fanatics who know that they were wrong. Just like in business, it’s not always about working harder – it’s about working smarter.

Last issue, we interviewed City Gym Express MD Emmah Mansfield, who explained the trend for fitting High Intensity Interval Training – known as HIIT – into lunchbreaks and in before work in order to make the best of time available to work on fitness and wellbeing. Lifestyle magazines internationally are touting ‘strong is the new thin’ as a mantra for women’s fitness in particular, and people of all ages and genders are reaffirming their commitment to living well. Perhaps unsurprisingly, in today’s hectic and always-connected culture, this means short bursts of working hard at a goal, and expecting to see results quickly.

If you’re planning a ‘New Year – New Me’ kind of start to 2014 but are concerned about falling into the trap of working hard for a few weeks, seeing minimal results, becoming discouraged and slipping back into old habits, get

your business head on and take a serious look at options popular with the new school of getting fit fast.

BOOTCAMPS ‘Bootcamp’ style fitness training is no longer the reserve of World’s Strongest Man contestants. New facilities springing up across Sussex and around the UK cater specifically to groups that have historically been shy of joining ‘serious’ exercise solutions for fear that they will be excluded or unable to keep up: namely beginners, women and the overlap of the two! These specialised courses aim to help those who are new to their fitness regime find a programme they can stick to and integrate in their life, long term. They’re intense, quick to complete and have lasting results.

Sharon Smith, MD of GI Jane Bootcamp explains: “We are a women only Bootcamp based in Kent and women come to us from all over the world for weight loss and fitness at our residential bootcamp.

We do not claim to be purely a quick fix, but show our clients how healthy eating, portion control and exercise can change your life in the long term.

Our Military fitness trainers – and that is every bit as effective but probably not as scary as it sounds! - are totally committed in training the minds as well as the body so our clients are able to carry on with their lifestyle changes once they go home, already feeling fitter and like they’ve been revitalised.

Weight can affect so many aspects of a someone’s life and perhaps it shouldn’t be the case but women seem more

susceptible to being held back by it than men, so it’s our job to help them improve their confidence, self esteem and belief in themselves.” It’s not just for girls, though. “We also run corporate days for mixed groups which they will find challenging, motivational…and fun, believe it or not! We also launched our first overseas camp this year in Thailand, which again is an amazing and unique experience, ideal for providing yourself with that little extra kick of motivation needed to get started on changing your life for the better.”

50 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Lunch SBT DEC 2013.indd 50

14/01/2014 11:19

Fitness

HIIT AND TABATA The tabataTM fitness programme is now available around the UK at Fitness First, Active4Less, Everyone Active (SLM) and independent gyms. tabataTM is fast becoming the most popular form of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) in the world amongst both professional athletes and enthusiastic amateurs. The popularity of tabataTM and the growing global ‘buzz’ surrounding it are based around an obvious benefit for the time-poor business community: the intense

sessions last just four minutes in duration. It’s the ultimate, faster, fitter workout.

The official tabataTM ‘system’ was developed by renowned Japanese scientist Professor Izumi Tabata (known the ‘father’ of HIIT amongst the fitness world), while he was working with the Japanese Olympic speed skating team on their fitness programme. He discovered that short sharp bursts of intense exercise are the best way to get fitter faster and more effectively. His method consists of a combination of 20

“We also run corporate days for mixed groups which they will find challenging, motivational…and fun, believe it or not!”

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 51

P Lunch SBT DEC 2013.indd 51

14/01/2014 11:19

Fitness

seconds of intense exercise followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeated 8 times.

For the UK launch of tabataTM, instructors are working with a tabataTM master trainer to ensure they are fully equipped to deliver the 20 minute class featuring dynamic new bodyweight moves that have a heart-pumping effect at their core, which aims to get participants up to their maximum heart rate over the crucial four-minute section, and you can read about why that’s important in the ‘Less Work, More Results’ column. Each 20 minute class will include a mobilisation, warm up and cool down routines and once it’s launched, instructors will be introduced to new routines and moves every 12 weeks to ensure participants are kept

actively engaged and motivated.

Many people enjoy tabataTM safely and successfully with our educated instructors.”

Lee Matthews, Head of Fitness at Fitness First said “We are proud to be the first health club chain to partner tabata™. Fitness First prides itself on offering our members the newest and most effective workout methods and the tabataTM protocol is the perfect fitness solution for the busy, time conscious people that we see at so many of our gyms. Following the previous success of our athlete based class launches we’re certain that the speed and scientifically proven effectiveness of tabata™ is going to be a huge hit with our members.”

Less Work, More Results All exercise will raise your resting metabolic rate (RMR), but high intensity training prolongs the calorie-burning effect for up to 12 hours after you’ve left the exercise class. This is shown in a significant increase in EPOC (Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption for TabataTM and other HIIT systems.

Doing one 4 minute Tabata Session will get you as fit as...

An hour of JOGGING An hour of CYCLING at a moderate pace.

Two hours of WALKING. An hour of ZUMBA Two hours of YOGA. Just one 4 minute Tabata workout gets you fitter than an hour working out on an exercise bike – the science: Professor Tabata’s original research involved two

different trails. In the first one he got a group to try out cycling at a moderate speed for an hour. He got another group to try out the so-called Tabata Protocol (20 seconds of high intensity, 10 seconds of rest, repeated eight times) for just four minutes.

Both groups did their routines five times a week.

Astonishingly, the group that did the four minute workouts got fitter than the group slogging it out for an hour at a time. Over the course of six weeks the Tabata group improved their aerobic and anaerobic fitness dramatically.

Anaerobic fitness alone shot up by 28%. The group doing an hour at a time saw an improvement in their aerobic fitness

but none at all in their anaerobic fitness levels.

In EXPERIMENT 1, subjects cycled for an hour, five days a week, pedalling at 70 rpm and at 70% of their VO2 max (the gold standard test for fitness - it means the maximum amount of oxygen your body can take in during exercise.

Exercise is steady increased and VO2 max reached when it cannot take in more oxygen despite the increased work-load).

In EXPERIMENT 2 - subjects cycled for 4 days a week following the Tabata protocol, with one day of moderate exercise (30 minutes on a bike at 70% VO2 max).

RESULTS After six weeks, both groups made similar improvements in their aerobic capacity (the endurance groups’ VO2max increased by 10%, whereas the Tabata group increased by 13%) but when it came to anaerobic capacity, the Tabata group improved dramatically (by 28%) whereas the moderate intensity group made no improvement at all.

52 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Lunch SBT DEC 2013.indd 52

14/01/2014 11:19

The ONLY fully equipped gym in Eastbourne town centre

SPECIAL OFFERS FREE PERSONAL TRAINING SESSION

FREE DAY PASS

CALL NOW FOR MORE DETAILS 01323 648 863

City Gym Express 2014

Corperate Rate

12 Month D/D Off Peak - £23 12 Month D/D Peak - £28 1 Month Rolling D/D - £35 1 Month Cash - £38 1 Year Paid In Full - £285 1 Session - £6

£230 for 10 people on a 12 month D/D plus £23 per month for any memberships added on after Ask a member of staff for more details about pricing and special offers

CARDIO • FREE WEIGHT AREA • TRX STRAP • CIRCUIT TRAINING • SHOWERS

No. 2 Furness Road Eastbourne East Sussex BN21 4EX P Lunch SBT DEC 2013.indd 53

Call us now:

01323 648 863

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 53

14/01/2014 11:19

Test Drive Audi’s A3 triumphs for business and pleasure alike

54 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Motoring SBT DEC 2013.indd 54

14/01/2014 10:23

AUDI A3

Review

Thoughts of spring 2014 may be fleetingly sprung this week by the news that the all-new A3 Cabriolet has just become available to order in readiness for first deliveries in April. Priced from £25,790 on the road, the latest softtop A3 takes the recently introduced A3 Saloon as its foundation, meaning that its proportions are now not only

beautifully balanced, but also make provision for complete concealment of the hood within the sleek new body. A comprehensive choice of engines and an array of technological innovations adopted from the larger Audi models also transfers from the four-door A3, making it a versatile choice.

Two new relatives of the Audi A3 Sportback - What Car?’s Car of the Year 2013 - have just become the respected title’s Executive Car of the Year and Open-Top Car of the Year for 2014. The all-new Audi A3 Saloon and

A3 Cabriolet joined last year’s overall winner in the What Car? hall of fame at a high-profile event at London’s Grosvenor House. These awards not only emphasise how highly the What Car? test team ranks the now fourstrong A3 range, but also mark one of the most decisive victories for the A3 Saloon in a class populated by some highly esteemed competition.

Summarising the rationale behind the decision to position the new A3 Saloon - tested in 2.0 TDI Sport form - ahead of the BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 55

P Motoring SBT DEC 2013.indd 55

14/01/2014 10:23

Motoring

“It’s a close one, but the A3 deserves this win. For the money it’s the best car here”

on the executive car shortlist, Editor in Chief Chas Hallett said: “The Audi A3 does everything a 3 Series does for substantially less money, either as a business or private buy.”

The test team highlights the A3 Saloon’s “tax-busting emissions” and comparatively low running costs, the sharp but relaxed performance delivered by its 2.0-litre TDI engine and the fact that it offers similar interior space and flexibility to its bigger rivals, including a sizeable boot and plenty of room for four tall adults. The team concludes by writing: “It’s a close one, but the A3 deserves this win. For the money it’s the best car here.”

The all-new A3 Cabriolet, the design of which draws heavily on the Saloon’s, also fended off strong competition from the Citroen DS3 Cabriolet and the Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet to claim the Open-top of the Year prize.

According to the judges, the 1.8 TFSI Sport model tested won through partly due to the fact that it is “up there with the best open-tops for sheer driving fun, delivering plenty of grip, minimal body roll and precise steering,” but also because “everything about it feels worthy of the premium badge, from the clean styling, to the comfortable, quality interior.” Chas Hallett summed up the decision with: “The A3 Cabriolet is

reassuring and fun to drive, and it’s just as good with the roof down. This hasslefree open-top is the best you can buy. “ UK deliveries of the all-new A3 Saloon have begun, and its Cabriolet counterpart will reach its first UK customers in April. Available in Sport or S line forms and with a choice of four TFSI or TDI engines, the A3 Saloon is priced from £22,825 OTR to £29,710 OTR. The S3 Saloon, equipped with quattro all-wheel-drive and powered by a 2.0-litre TFSI engine delivering 300PS, is also now available priced from £33,240 OTR. Initially offered with three engine options - two TFSI and one TDI and equipped to SE, Sport or S line specification, the A3 Cabriolet can be ordered now with prices starting from £25,790 OTR to £30,615 OTR. The S3 Cabriolet - the first ever convertible S model at this level - is also set to make its UK debut later this year. www.audi.co.uk

56 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Motoring SBT DEC 2013.indd 56

14/01/2014 10:23

P SBT

MDJ Services Limited Accountants Business Development Business Solutions MDJ Services is a well established accountancy practice serving Sussex and the South East • We offer a full range of accounting services • We work with new and established companies to help establish and grow successful enterprises • We are committed to providing a friendly and efficient service tailored to your needs at a reasonable cost • We are happy to offer a FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION to all new clients Our services include: • Statutory and annual accounts • Management accounts • Corporate tax • Personal tax • Company formations and services • Payroll • Construction industry scheme • Business plans • VAT • Business consultancy • Bookkeeping

Contact Us MDJ Services Limited Third Floor Map House 34-36 St Leonards Road Eastbourne East Sussex BN21 3UT Telephone: 01323 646477 Fax: 01323 646412 Email: post@mdjservices.co.uk www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 4216www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P SBT_November11_Version3.indd Motoring SBTSBT DEC 2013.indd P Finance July 2013.indd57 16 42

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 57

14/01/2014 10:2310:56 13/08/2013 09:43 05/12/2011

Small enough to care, yet large enough to cope We understand how lonely it can be to run a business.

So we’re here to support you and make your life easier by taking care of your financial matters, leaving you to do what you do best.

Moore Stephens Chartered Accountants

City Gates, 2-4 Southgate, Chichester

For a friendly, no obligation meeting, call us today.

T 01243 531 600

Working with you, not just your business

www.moorestephens.co.uk/south

58 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk Moore Stephens (South) LLP are registered to carry out audit work and regulated for a range of investment business activities by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales.

P Q&As SBT DEC 2013.indd 58

14/01/2014 09:49

SBT Ask the Experts is Sponsored by

SBT

ASK THE

EXPERTS

WE ASK THE EXPERTS TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS YOU NEED

Q&A

It is reported that 85.2% of people do not purchase or read magazines or papers these days, as technology gives access to so much more. Just how are prospective clients making choices? Do they realise they can make a more informed choice? And how are they finding the answers to their needs?

Building Public Trust Do you research a product or service before purchasing?

This is exactly what your clients are doing! They want to find out about you, your service and what your previous clients are saying about you before committing. Give them a chance to check you out completely independently!

If you are serious about your reputation, building your client base and standing out from the crowd then you need to look at a marketing tool which provides - client reassurance, third party independent vetted and continuously monitored testimonials, from a trusted, well known company whom the public are familiar with!

Gaining qualifications, being regulated, joining schemes and purchasing insurance is exactly what is required to start out in many professions, however, this is just the tip of the iceberg – once achieved, how do prospective clients really get to know about you and your individual business? And with so many offering the same services, what makes them trust in you?

One thing’s certain; you can’t expect to stand out from the crowd using the same marketing strategy everyone else does!

Agree with it, like it, or concerned about the possibility of negative feedback, doesn’t mean it will pass your profession by! Using client feedback about your services and skills has always been valuable, but with online focus playing an ever bigger role in peoples` lives, it has now become

crucial to your business and how you run it.

You only have to look at the travel business or online auction sites and of course the trade industry, to know that, for many consumers, being informed by `feedback` before buying is now considered essential. This trend has sky-rocketed because online, `word of mouth` comment has become easy to place and almost instantly accessible.

If consumers cannot give feedback and they are not happy, some are turning to commenting on blogs, where there is no control and no right of reply at all. How can a business defend itself if they limit themselves to this scenario only? Also how many consumers read these blogs and how many clients could a business potentially lose?

Being regulated or part of a scheme is without a doubt a huge benefit, as these are known within the profession, can provide the training, the insurance to practice and keep its members up to date regarding the industry. As many regulators and schemes are only known within the professions

they represent, other businesses or consumers would not generally look at these to find a professional within, or for completely independent, impartial vetting and feedback. Most regulators and scheme providers do not advertise, so how would prospective clients know they exist, or hold a directory of professionals whom they regulate!

Then again, the trust element of a regulator or scheme provider, maybe questioned and as we now see, many are looking for totally independent reviews. For some schemes and regulators however, they can only confirm the member is a member and that they are practising. Prospective clients are seeking more!

Checkaprofessional.com, sister site of Checkatrade.com, now a household name for finding fully vetted and continuously monitored trades, contacted several scheme providers and regulators when launching Checkaprofessional.com. We are pleased that quite a few regulators and schemes have started to look at working with us and formed commercial relationships to help their members, as well as help educate prospective clients on the choices and differences with each profession. In some areas we are working together to promote consumer awareness about the importance of choosing a safe, reputable suppliers within different industries.

Marketing the way everyone else does will keep your business stuck in the slow lane, look at a new way.

Visit www.Checkaprofessional.com or contact us Free on: 0808 901 9042.

h 0808 901 9042

P Q&As SBT DEC 2013.indd 59

info@checkaprofessional.com www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 59

14/01/2014 09:50

Society SBT

Photography Simon Skinner Š

Sussex Business Times Christmas Networking Dinner

60 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Social SBT DEC 2013.indd 60

14/01/2014 09:54

Chestnut Tree House at Gatwick Airport media

Graham Franks Photography Š

British Airways ground staff and cabin crew held a special Christmas Party at Gatwick Airport for the siblings of the children cared for by Chestnut Tree House on Sunday 1 December 2013. This was the second year for this exciting event which was even more action-packed for the children invited.

Father Christmas took up residence in the cockpit of an aeroplane and invited every child on board. They were able to look around the luxury plane that usually ies passengers from London City Airport to New York. Afterwards they visited Father Christmas in his grotto to collect their Christmas presents.

To round off the day, Dick and Dom from CBBC entertained the families, signed autographs and had pictures taken with the children, Olympic gold medallist, Susan Dando also came along with her Olympic torch for the children to see and Reggie the Red, from Crawley Town Football Club, joined in and had his photo taken too.

To see what else everyone at Chestnut Tree House is up to this Christmas, like the Chestnut Tree House Facebook page or follow the hospice on Twitter, @ChestnutSussex.

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 61

P Social SBT DEC 2013.indd 61

14/01/2014 09:55

Home Grown Hero

Made In Sussex:

IEP Financial

Not many people move between the fast paced world of finance and a farmyard in the Sussex countryside in the space of a day, but Ian Poysden, Managing Director of IEP Financial, does just that

Ian spends his days, and lots of evenings, Brand working hard and meeting clients at the Focus IEP office in Church Road Hove, along with 18 members of staff. However, once the high finance deals are done, Ian gets into his car and half an hour later arrives home in Ditchling, where he pulls on his green wellies to deliver new born calves, collect eggs and breed various livestock making him and his family selfsufficient in meat.

Ian said: “It was several years ago that my wife Michelle and I decided to move to the countryside after wanting a change of scene and we spent 20 months restoring a 500 year old Grade II listed farm cottage. I am now extremely passionate about our small-holding and believe it provides the perfect balance to my professional life in the city.”

IEP Financial launched in January 2013. Previously, Ian ran Allfield Financial Group’s Hove office for 12 years before setting up IEP. He said: “There is no doubt that the economy is now on an upward curve of growth and we have had a busy year here at IEP. A few years ago we were just firefighting, but now I am genuinely optimistic about the next few years ahead.

“This year we have seen one of the biggest pension overhauls in history with the introduction of Auto Enrolment and we have been working closely with businesses to help them prepare and install their new pension models.

Auto-enrolment is much more than just a bean counting exercise and employers have got to get their internal communications right, their appreciation of the small print in the regulations, and

ensure they have a pension scheme in place that is fit for purpose.”

During 2013 Ian has employed eight new members of staff to manage the increasing workload, undergone an office refurbishment to accommodate the staff, launched a brand new website and continued to build on his Corporate Social Responsibility work helping worthwhile causes.

IEP Financial believe it is important to invest time in the local community and do this by supporting a number of different charities and organisations including Sussex County Cricket Club.

Ian said: “My affiliation with Sussex County Cricket Club goes back many years and I have sponsored the club in a professional capacity for the past 13 years. The club invests a considerable amount of time and resources into the

community surrounding the ground, a commitment that reflects our own approach at IEP.” As part of their rebrand IEP Financial also confirmed that Rockinghorse, a charity that improves the lives of sick children throughout Sussex, would be their charity of the year.

Ian added: “We had worked with Rockinghorse for a number of years, but wanted to formalise our support for them in the longer term. Therefore my staff and I were unanimous in choosing them as our charity of the year.

Rockinghorse do a terrific job in Sussex and I’m delighted that we have helped them by raising over £3,000 throughout 2013.” www.iepfinancial.co.uk

62 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P MadeinSussex SBT DEC 2013.indd 62

08/01/2014 12:43

Friends of the Albion Networking Group

Promo

al c o l t i ng

b

s with s e n i us

in Sussex

Join the Friends of the Albion Networking Group today and promote your business to over 130 other Member companies.

Enjoy monthly breakfast meetings with superb facilities at the Amex stadium and the chance to belong to the most interesting and enjoyable affinity group in the area.

Your business will also have a Member listing in every Albion home matchday programme.

01273 878278

Call Albion Commercial on or email commercial@bhafc.co.uk for more information.

Visit the P MadeinSussex SBT DEC 2013.indd 63

te a websi

t

w

softh d n e i fr ww.

e a l b i o n . co . u k

www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk 63

08/01/2014 12:43

We develop business.

At BDM Voice we have a range of services that are focused on delivering tangible improvements to your business performance. Our services are aimed at helping you deliver substantive and lasting improvements in the processes and presentation of your business.

Call Recording

Call Tracking

Call Analysis

Call Recording is a valuable tool that allows you to gain insight into how your company handles inbound and outbound calls.

Our Call Tracking facility provides you with an instant barometer of consumer response to your marketing activities.

Our unique critiquing and analysis of calls is one of the most effective ways to monitor and measure your call handling.

Mystery Shopping

Contact Centres

Training

Our Mystery Shopping provides a one-stop service for reviewing customer service assessment, telephone call handling, or e-mail handling.

Benefit from our bespoke, one to one call handling service implemented by our highly trained and experienced UK based call handlers.

Effective, efficient and friendly customer service is essential to your business.

Ensuring that they are coached to the highest standards.

Contact us today for your complimentary introduction into how we can develop you business.

44 www.sussexbusinesstimes.co.uk

P Awards SBT DEC 2013.indd 44

01444 316299

www.bdm-voice.co.uk

14/01/2014 10:31