Liverpool Chamber Magazine Issue 30 Spring 2011

ISSUE 30 SPRING 2011

Liverpool’s starring role in Range Rover launch INSIDE:

Liverpool Marathon announced page 9 Balfour Beatty pledge support for apprentices New flights from Liverpool JLA page 28

www.liverpoolchamber-magazine.org.uk

page 20

SPrinG 2011 n 3

jaguar landrover makes huge contribution of Merseyside economy the ChAMBer recently arranged a reception

industry tradition by hosting the global launch of

to welcome Jaguar LandRover’s new Operations

the car here in the city where it is made, with over

Director, Richard Else. He is keen to make

1000 journalists from 140 countries will be visiting

connections with the city’s business community

the city to test drive the vehicles through the city,

and will be contributing to the LEP, replacing his

a superb showcase for Liverpool as well as the

colleague Michael Strachan who has moved to

Evoque.

Bently Motors as a board director and we wish

News Member news Liverpool Waters Events

with Richard on the LEP, building a strong and

is that this momentum continues. Peel’s Liverpool

sustained partnership.

Waters development, is an ambitious private sector investment of £6bn, that will enhance the

announced the creation of 1500 new jobs at the

city’s waterfront and provide tens of thousands of

Halewood plant due to the imminent launch

jobs. It is vitally important that this development

of the Range Rover Evoque. Jaguar LandRover

has the public support of Liverpool’s citizens

4-5

announced in February that these 1500 new

and business community to ensure that planning

recruits will be trained up to an Intermediate

permission is granted.

6-9

L2 Apprenticeship. Business Secretary Dr. Vince

10-11 12-13

Conference & Events 14-18 Hotels & Accommodation 19 Skills & Training 20-22 International Trade 23 Health & Wellbeing 24 Legal & Finance 24-27 Transport 28 Property 29 PR & Marketing 29 Environmental 30-31 Charity 32-34

Front cover image: The Jaguar Evoque at Liverpool Pier Head

evolved dramatically in the past decade, our aim

Last year, the Indian-owned company

Contents

This launch is further evidence that the city has

him well in this new role. I look forward to working

The cancellation of the

Cable recently visited Halewood factory as the

Liverpool Boat show is a huge

company announced £2bn worth of supply

disappointment for the city.

contracts for the Range Rover Evoque that have

This event was a benchmark

been awarded to more than 40 UK companies.

for the way the city is

The successful companies include International

progressing and it’s very sad

Automotive Components, Johnson Controls and

to lose it, especially for the

Magna International on Merseyside, creating 326

hotels, bars and restaurants who

high skilled jobs in the region’s automotive supply

were set to benefit from the

chain. Jaguar Land Rover is a key player within the

visitor influx. I hope that

UK economy and the new Range Rover Evoque, a

we will see a commercial

lynchpin of the economy of Liverpool city region.

boat show in Liverpool in

The company is also breaking with motor

the future.

Liverpool Chamber’s chief executive, Jack Stopforth

contact points Advertising For details on advertising opportunities in Liverpool Chamber, contact: amanda Sutton on 0113 228 5203 or e-mail amanda.sutton@excelpublishing.co.uk Liverpool Chamber is produced on behalf of the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce and Industry by Excel Publishing Co Ltd. It is distributed to members of the Chamber and other qualifying businesses free of charge.

editorial If you have any news or views you would like to share with other Chamber members, contact Pamela Holstein on 0151 227 1234 or e-mail at editorial@ liverpoolchamber.org.uk

Membership For more information about membership of Liverpool Chamber, visit www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk or ring the membership team on 0151 227 1234.

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in Liverpool Chamber, the Chamber nor its publishers cannot accept any responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies it may contain.

THE ULTIMATE BUSINESS NETWORK visit www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk

4 n newS

‘Spring on the waterfront’ replaces Boat Show Following the shock cancellation of the Liverpool Boat Show, a new series of events titled “Spring on the Waterfront” will start on April 29 and cover the same ten-day period. The programme includes a comedy festival, regatta, the Tall Ships festival and a Liverpool Shanty Festival.

Explaining his reasons for the cancellation, organiser, MARINE Industry Events (MIE) cited the damaging effects of the economic climate in the leisure marine

sector impacting on exhibitor take-up for the event and said the integrity of the long term potential for a major boat show in Liverpool needed to be protected.

Rob Mackenzie: Managing Director of MIE, said ‘The city council and its corporate partners, British Waterways, Liverpool Marina, Albert Dock Liverpool and the local sailing community have worked very hard to support this project. It is better to cancel the show to protect Liverpool’s

reputation and the integrity of what we know to be the

enormous long term potential for a major boat show in Liverpool.’

New Year Honours for Broughton The 2011 New years honours brought recognition to Martin Broughton recent former Chairman of Liverpool Football Club. Sir Martin, 63, who lives in Oxted, Surrey, he oversaw the sale of Liverpool football club, bought by New England Sports Ventures, gave such a through provoking speech about his experiences at the Chamber’s Annual

Dinner at the end of 2010.

He had a had a particularly demanding year as Chairman of British Airways weathering the storms of massive disruption to flights caused by snow and the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud and strikes

by BA cabin crew.

Sir Martin, is married with two children and is a fan of football, but horse racing is

his real love. He is credited with helping to safeguard the future of the horse racing industry during his stint as chairman of the British Horseracing Board between 2004 and 2007.

Other business-related honours this year include a CBE for David Frost, director-general of the British Chambers of Commerce.

join business leaders to discuss a Year for Growth BCC Annual Conference: Osborne, Cable, Miliband and Pickles 7th April 2011, Church House, Westminster With the growth agenda firmly on the minds of those in Government and businessowners across the UK, the British Chambers of Commerce will be hosting an all-party lineup of speakers at its Annual Conference. George Osborne, Chancellor of the Exchequer, will be joined by Business Secretary, Dr Vince Cable; Eric Pickles, Communities Secretary; and Ed Miliband, Leader of the Opposition, to discuss ways to create the right conditions for businesses to thrive over the coming years. These leading figures will be questioned by

Dr Vince Cable

business owners and managers from all over the UK. Cabinet Ministers will be joined by a range of highprofile business leaders to debate how we can unleash the strength and confidence of the private sector, and make 2011 a Year for Growth. Hosted by Martha Kearney, broadcaster and journalist, other speakers at the conference include: • Ken McMeikan, Chief Executive of Greggs • Chris Sullivan, Chief Executive of the UK Corporate Banking Division, RBS

• Steve Felice, president, Consumer, Small and Medium Business, Dell • Ricky Ricketts General Manager, BT Local Business • Sahar Hashemi, founder of Coffee Republic and Skinny Candy • Elliot Moss, Director of Business Development, Mishcon de Reya • Tom Smith, Executive Chairman, Nessco Group Holdings Ltd Visit www.bccconference-2011.co.uk for more information.

NEWS n 5

London Calling Liverpool City Council, Liverpool Vision and the city’s business community have collaborated to launch the Liverpool Embassy in the heart of London’s financial district. The Embassy, launched at the end of January, showcases the city’s commercial and business offer to investors and developers.

It is the latest major initiative of the ‘One Plan’, a new vision for the city, which aims to draw on the strengths, resources and expertise of the public and private sector to sell the city nationally and internationally.

City Council Leader Joe Anderson said: “The Embassy will allow us to get face to face with investors and decision-makers.

It’s about making sure the investment community in London know about the city’s transformation and public and private sector working hand in hand to present investment and development opportunities.”

The Liverpool Embassy was the brainchild of Guy Wallis, a senior partner at legal firm DWF. He said “It’s a simple idea but one that seems to have caught the imagination of the city’s civic and business leaders. Following the success of World Expo in Shanghai, it was the next logical step and one which has brought the city’s business community

“The Embassy will allow us to get face to face with investors and decisionmakers. It’s about making sure the investment community in London know about the city’s transformation and public and private sector working hand in hand to present investment and development opportunities.”

Embassy opening ceremony

together to make the project a reality.”

Businesses who have pledged support to the Embassy so far include Grosvenor,

BUSINESS

NORTH WEST

To find out more information about the Embassy go to www.liverpoolinlondon.com.

“I very much enjoyed attending the exhibition.

Business North West was a very useful experience and I would definitely encourage people to go – there was something for everyone however big or small an organisation.”

Ann Walter, JMF Solicitors

Manchester Central 4-5 May 2011

The region’s premier business to business exhibition and conference

Merepark, Arena and Convention Centre Liverpool, The Flanagan Group, Enterprise and Downing.

The project is being delivered by Liverpool City Council, Liverpool Vision and Downtown Liverpool in Business.

“There was a real buzz about the hall and the speakers were excellent.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to attend.”

Jeff Johnson, Johnson Retail Associates

“There are few regional events that bring together the mix of business ideas, advice, support and encouragement that I found here.

It was clear from the reaction of the other visitors that I met that they shared this view.”

David Lunn, Business Concepts Ltd

Find New Business Solutions Join the leaders of the region’s business community at Manchester Central for two days of networking, education and face to face business at BUSINESS NORTH WEST 2011. Packed full of product and service providers with innovative solutions, ideas and inspiration to help grow your business, a visit to the region’s biggest and best event is a time and cost effective day out of the office for any SME business owner/director seeking to take their business to the next level.

SUPPORTED BY

MEDIA PARTNER

Register FREE today at www.businessnorthwest.co.uk 33333-LCC BNW.indd 1

4/3/11 14:55:38

6 n MeMber newS

Mersey care call to “join in” Membership Programme MerSeY CAre nhS truSt, the local provider of specialist mental health care, is determined to be accountable to its local community – and it is seeking involvement from businesses in the area.

The Trust is set to become a Foundation Trust equivalent, meaning it has met the standards required of the very best NHS organisations.

It wants stakeholders – including businesses - to have a greater say in its future. The Trust aims to have 10,000 people signed up as members and is inviting local businesses to encourage their workforce to ‘join in’.

More than 7,000 people have already signed up. They include service users, carers, staff, members of the public – and

BBC’s roger phillips signs up

a growing group of celebrity members that includes champion gymnast Beth Tweddle, journalist Alastair Campbell, broadcaster Roger Philips and film and television producer Phil Redmond.

Members can choose their own level of involvement, from simply receiving information through to standing for election to the members’ council, increasing knowledge and skills in specific areas. All Members have access to the massive NHS discount scheme, with offers and discounted prices from retailers.

Mersey Care’s Membership Manager Julie Crompton, who is leading the Join In recruitment

campaign, said members will play a key role in ensuring that people get the services they need: “Mental health affects everyone. Within most businesses, there will be someone who has used services or has a mental health problem.

By joining in - and encouraging colleagues to do the same - they can help us develop services that meet their needs.“ To sign up or find out more about becoming a member of Mersey Care call 0151 473 2885 or email: membership@merseycare.nhs.uk.

You can also sign up online at www.merseycare.nhs.uk

“Mental health affects everyone. within most businesses, there will be someone who has used services or has a mental health problem. by joining in - and encouraging colleagues to do the same - they can help us develop services that meet their needs.“

Centriforce products is poised for future growth CentriForCe proDuCtS, has announced that it has made significant progress towards establishing the infrastructure which will support its plans for growth over the next three to five years.

The privately-owned business, which converts plastic waste destined for landfill into sustainable second-life products, has already doubled in size over the last four years as demand for its products has increased in the UK and overseas.

Capacity at Centriforce’s six-acre production facility on Derby Road has been given a boost with the installation of an additional extrusion line. The new line, which is already up and running, will help to fulfil strong demand for the company’s sheet-based products, which include a sustainable alternative to plywood called Stokbord®.

Centriforce has invested in improving its processes and has recently been

awarded ISO9001 and OHSAS 18001 accreditations. It expects to achieve the ISO 14001 environmental accreditation shortly.

Additionally, the business has strengthened its management team with the creation of two new roles within the marketing and procurement functions. Both appointments will play a key role in re-focussing the business as it looks to expand into new markets and develop its supply chain relationships.

Commenting on the recent developments, managing director, Simon Carroll said, “We recognised some time ago that investing in our people, products and processes was fundamental to our plans to take the business forward into the next phase of growth.

“The progress we’ve made this year puts us right on track to become the UK’s market leader in recycled plastic products.”

Simon Carroll MD

8 n member news

AIMES reduces recovery time from 4 days to 4 hours AIMES Grid Services has recently won a contract to provide Park Group Plc, the UK’s leading multi-redemption voucher business, with secure disaster recovery and business

continuity services. The deal makes Park Group the first tenant of AIMES’ new business continuity centre at Liverpool Innovation Park, understood to be the only facility of its kind in

(L to R) Dennis Kehoe, CEO, AIMES Grid Services and Steve Lock, group IT director, Park Group plc in the AIMES business continuity suite at Liverpool Innovation Park

Going Wild after tender wins!

Wild Thang, the Liverpool based promotional merchandise, print and uniform clothing supplier are going wild having recently succeeded in landing three tender contracts in quick succession including Liverpool City Council to provide the Mathew Street Festival Merchandise solution, Charity Mines Advisory Group to provide promotional items and clothing, finally Halton Borough Council promotional merchandise framework on behalf of Merseyside Collaborative Group provider which incorporates Halton Council, Knowsley Borough Council, Sefton Council, Liverpool City Council, St Helens Council and Merseytravel which will enable all listed organisations to place

orders under this contract.

Contracts could be worth in excess of £200,000.

Managing Director Andrew Dwerryhouse said: “As part of our ongoing investment we will be installing £50,000 worth of new digital printing equipment to help keep up with demand.

The applications and criteria for tenders is very, very demanding to fulfil at the best of times but this gives us great confidence. It’s a real boost financially in these testing economic times. We are a family run company with fantastic staff, so it really is an all round great team effort that makes these things happen.”

the city region.

As part of the company’s business continuity plan, Park’s IT systems are replicated in a virtual and cloud computing environment hosted at the AIMES secure data centre. Should there be any problems at Park’s headquarters on Wirral, such as an IT failure or an incident that prevents employees from reaching their site, operations can be immediately transferred to the AIMES Edge Lane facility with no loss of service. Frontline staff will be able to continue with their work at the business continuity centre which houses desk space, PCs and telephones for up to 50 people.

For Park Group, which had

National Success for Riverford on Stockley Veg Man A man who launched his own franchise business in 2009 has been named as one of Riverford Organic’s top franchisees in the UK, with much of his success down to the development of his business across Merseyside in 2010.

Alan McInness, who delivers fruit and veg boxes to customers across Cheshire and Merseyside, beat off competition from 110 other Riverford Organic franchisees nationally to

For any further information please contact andrew@ wildthang.co.uk

It’s a family affair directors celebrate after tender wins. (L to R) John Howarth, Sarah Howarth, Chris Dwerryhouse, Andrew Dwerryhouse

previously been working with a provider located outside of Merseyside, the AIMES service has enabled it to achieve its goal of reducing IT recovery time from four days to just four hours. Both companies are now looking at ways to reduce this further so that they can be back up and running within four minutes.

Professor Dennis Kehoe, Chief Executive of AIMES, said: “The improved service we’ve offered Park demonstrates how virtualisation and cloud computing technologies are transforming the way in which IT services, such as disaster recovery, are delivered by providing a faster and more cost effective approach.”

(L to R) Alan McInness & Guy Watson

be named runner up in the company’s Franchisee of the Year Awards 2010.

Presenting Alan with his award Guy Watson, founder of Riverford Organic said: “Alan has done an amazing job developing his business and the Riverford brand across Cheshire and Merseyside. He is now turning over in the region of £7,000 every week and is a great example to our other franchisees across the UK.”

MEMBER NEWS n 9

Launch of 2011 Runliverpool Marathon A major new UK marathon has been announced by organisers, RunLiverpool, to take place in the Liverpool area on October 9th.

It will be the first to be held in the city in over 20 years and is set to be a high-profile annual event in Liverpool’s sporting calendar attracting an estimated 12,000 participants.

Unveiling the 26-mile marathon route, organisers explained how it has been designed specifically to take in some of the best-known sights on both sides of the Mersey.

Starting in Birkenhead Park, the race finishes in the shadow of the ‘Three Graces’. The event has already captured a huge amount of international attention, with organisers receiving enquiries from countries across Europe and there has been considerable interest from the United States, due to it taking place on the anniversary of John Lennon’s birthday.

Through its national and international draw and formal charity programme, the RunLiverpool Marathon is expected to contribute an estimated excess of £3M in economic impact to Liverpool and the city region, and will contribute to the profile of the city as a world-class tourist destination and running centre of excellence.

An estimated 30,000 visitors are expected to stay in the city during marathon weekend.

Race Director, Alan Rothwell said: “It’s fantastic that all our hard work is finally paying off.

With London still dominating the marathon landscape and the city of Liverpool

now firmly acknowledged as an international tourism destination, we knew that the time was right to bring back the ultimate runner’s challenge”.

Marathon veteran, Ron Hill MBE commented: “My running career has seen me compete in 115 marathons in locations around the world – however I made my debut at the original Liverpool city marathon back in 1961. Winning that race launched me into a lifelong love of long distance running and the marathon in particular. Nine years later I broke the World Record for the distance with a time of 2 hours 9 minutes and 28 seconds. The return of the marathon to the city is testament not only to the commitment and passion of the RunLiverpool team but also to the growing interest in the sport. It’s very encouraging to see that the legacy of those early races is alive and well in the twenty-first century.”

WIDNES VIKINGS GO INTO BATTLE WITH HELP FROM MEDICASH Leading healthcare cash plan provider Medicash has been announced as a new partner of Widnes Vikings RLFC. The sponsorship deal will see the Medicash brand on the kits for the 2011 season.

Medicash chief executive Sue Weir said: “We are delighted to become a partner of Widnes Vikings and are looking forward to what will hopefully be a successful season. We will be working with other associated partners to develop the Vikings Business Club and improve and strengthen Vikings’ links with

(L to R) Dave Allen, Sue Weir and Steve O’Connor with the new 2011 Away Kit

local companies and community groups.”

Liverpool based Medicash are also the official 2011 headline sponsor of St Helens RLFC (Saints) having increased their level of commitment with the club from 2010’s sponsorship deal.

Widnes Vikings chief executive Julie Gaskell said: “We are very excited to have Medicash on board for the 2011 campaign. Sponsors’ support is crucial to ensure we can grow as a club and achieve our goal of playing in the Super League.”

10 n LIVERPOOL WATERS

Liverpool Waters developer calls for business support Liverpool Waters is a vital part of Peel’s Atlantic Gateway Masterplan

For the last few years the Peel has been drawing up a cohesive £50bn investment strategy for the North West. This follows Peel’s purchase of the Manchester Ship Canal ending the rivalry between the ports of Liverpool and Manchester.

The Atlantic Gateway is a long term idea for collaboration between the Manchester and Liverpool city regions, developing land along the Mersey and the Manchester Ship Canal, linking up the Liverpool waterfront with the Salford Quays development.

The Liverpool and Wirral Waters developments on both sides of the Mersey are key anchors in this strategy, while Wirral Waters has received outline planning permission, Liverpool Waters will be subject to planning approval this summer.

Lindsey Ashworth Development Director, Peel Group, made an appeal for the business community to demonstrate public support for the development of Liverpool’s derelict central docks when he presented the masterplan at the Chamber.

Presenting the full scale and ambition of the project, he outlined the aim, to create a world class, iconic site that will be a showcase of the best of waterside regeneration, featuring landmark, skyscraper, Shanghai Tower, in the area, between the Pier Head and the Tabacco warehouse, The scheme would bring the area

Liverpool Waters Pier Head

back into use as a beautiful mixed-use waterfront location including over 9,000 new homes, two new large public parks, offices, retail and cultural facilities and creating 20,000 new jobs.

He explained: When a cruise ship enters

“We aim for it to be a catalyst for other developments in the surrounding area. It will increase tourism businesses and importantly, integrate with existing communities. Job creation for local people will be the most important aspect.” and leaves the city, this is effectively Liverpool’s ‘front porch.’ At the moment, it’s a desolate wasteland. This is an opportunity to create a world-class waterfront and create jobs in a way that complements the existing heritage waterfront but moves the city forward too.

Liverpool Waters Dock

Peel have ambitions to create an architecturally stunning, environment, creating a whole new city centre district with a mix of commercial, residential and recreational space. That will also echo the city’s 21st century ambitions to be a world class city, with a modern skyline reflecting its status.

Peel is keen to work with local communities, the city council, business community and the heritage lobby to ensure that this adventurous scheme is realised.

Preserving the look of the world heritage waterfront is an issue however, Lindsey assured the meeting that the development will not block views of the existing buildings. He said: “Liverpool Waters has been purposely masterplanned around the important heritage present on site – both above and below ground - being sure to incorporate and safeguard the World Heritage Site. The site also includes several important historical features and buildings, such as the unique Jesse Hartley Clock Tower and the Stanley Dock Conservation Area.

“We aim for it to be a catalyst for other developments in the surrounding area. It will increase tourism businesses and importantly, integrate with existing communities. Job creation for local people will be the most important aspect.”

LIVERPOOL WATERS n 11

“The project will create a major sustainable community however, its needs the support of the city as a whole in order to go ahead.

The business community needs to get behind this as a body and as individuals.”

Lindsey continued: ”The new buildings will be environmentally friendly, collecting rain water and harvesting wind energy. It’s a distinctive scheme and at 150 acres, is the largest planning application in the UK. This will be private sector led investment, over a time span of three to four decades and £6bn. Creating 14 million square feet in phases with all existing buildings, including the historic clock tower, retained and restored.”

Peel’s support of the Shanghai Expo has enabled them to tap into a source of finance and encourage investment and partners from China to back the scheme.

The partner project, Wirral Waters has the backing of Prime Minister and Peel has already been granted planning permission by Wirral Council, encourages

Liverpool Waters-clock tower

investor confidence in the whole project, particularly from overseas.

Peel has a successful track record in delivery of major projects including Salford Keys, developed over a twenty year period resulting in attracting BBC and Granada to relocate to the area.

Lindsey concluded: “The project will create a major sustainable community however, its needs the support of the city as a whole in order to go ahead. The business community needs to get behind this as a body and as individuals.”

Neil Scales, Chairman of Liverpool Chamber commented: “In light of the current recession and imminent public sector cuts we are pleased to see the private sector drawing up this ambitious road map to the future.

Liverpool Waters Tabacco

“Liverpool’s waterfront is magnificent and any development planned for the next generation must ensure that it remains an iconic symbol of great design and heritage for the future. We would like to encourage Peel to be even bolder in its design aspirations for both building height and design. This project we believe has the potential to be a world class exemplar of a modern waterfront city weaving around the historical footprint.

We would urge members of the region’s business community who wish to see the Liverpool regain its rightful place as a world class city and see it prosper throughout the twenty first century to make their support know to both Peel and Liverpool City Council.”

12 n events

Sophie Warburton & Victoria Hiles from Radission Blu enjoy the networking lunch

Networking at Liverpool Marina & Harbour Club The first Liverpool Chamber networking event of the year took place at the Marina & Harbour Club. The event took on a new format for 2011 with a focus on two sessions of table networking before and after dinner. Over forty guests enjoyed a meal of roast turkey and chocolate mousse followed by a second networking session enabling them to meet further business contacts.

Bryan Adams, PH Creative, Andy McCombe with Cullen Financial Planning & guest

Sally Lupton and Lisa Bradshaw of Liverpool Biennial of Comtemporary Art

In the mix at Chaophraya Chamber members enjoyed informally meeting in the bar at the new style Chamber of Commerce lunch before a sumptuous Thai lunch at the restaurant of the moment, Chaophraya. Over forty guests made new contacts over the sessions of table networking before and after dinner and took part in a crowd sourcing activity to give the refreshed event a new name. Watch this space . . !

Ms Sarah Wignall of GM print and Vicky Jaycock of Arena and Convention Centre

Events Listings 2011 n Tuesday 22 March - Brilliant Leadership - The Magic Bullets Member fee: £180, Non-member fee: £180, Time: 09:15 - 16:30 For further information or to book please contact cpd@ liverpoolchamber.org.uk or call 0151 224 1880. n Tuesday 22nd March Networking Lunch Hard Days Night Hotel Member fee: £25 Non-member fee: £30, Time: 12.15pm - 2.30pm Hard Days Night Hotel, North John Street, Liverpool. n Tuesday 22 March Introduction to Importing Workshop This course is designed for those who have to deal with procedures associated with importing goods.

It will cover the essentials that

everyone dealing with imports should know or be aware of.

Recommended for staff with little knowledge of International trade procedures.

Member fee: £150, Non-member fee: £200, Time: 09:30 - 16:00 n Wednesday 23rd March The Complete Guide to Sourcing, Writing and Winning Tenders Session 1 - 23 March 2011 Member fee: £285, Non-member fee: £350, Time: 09:00 - 12.00 n Thursday 24 March - What is New? HM Revenue and Customs Presented by experts from the HM Revenue and Customs is a unique opportunity for your business to learn about trading with countries outside the EU. Member fee: £15, Non-member fee: £25, Time: 09:30 - 12:00

n Thursday 31 March Heart, Body, Mind and Soul Heart, Body, Mind and Soul An event for Liverpool Women in partnership with Liverpool University to celebrate all facets of being a woman in Liverpool.

Member fee: £20, Non-member fee: £20 Time: 5.30pm - 7.30pm BT Convention Centre Liverpool, King’s Dock, Liverpool n Wednesday 6 April - Charity Networking Brabners Chaffe Street provide some insight into aspects of law affecting charitable organisations.

17.30pm - 19.30pm Brabners Chaffe Street, Horton House, Exchange Flags, Liverpool

n Thursday 7 April Grand National 2011 Chamber Hospitality Day, Cost: £185+VAT (Members) Our full day hospitality package is specially designed for business people, their partners and guests. SOLD OUT. n Thursday 14 April - Speed networking @ Crown Plaza JLA 5.30pm, Crown Plaza Liverpool John Lennon Airport Speke Aerodrome, L24 8QD n Tuesday 19 April Networking Lunch Lunya 12.30pm for 12.45pm to 2.30pm 18-20 College Lane, Liverpool ONE, L1 3DS

Book online for all events at Liverpoolchamber.org.uk

EVENTS n 13 ADVERTISING FEATURE

San Carlo – our business is your pleasure Liverpool’s stylish San Carlo has fast become the city’s leading destination restaurant Since opening in 2009, the sophisticated venue in Castle Street continues to be the restaurant of choice for Liverpool’s business leaders, influencers, sports stars and celebrities.

An always buzzing atmosphere, great authentic Italian food and excellent service in a chic contemporary setting have been key to ensuring its popularity amongst the most discerning of diners.

San Carlo Liverpool is part of the award-winning San Carlo Group, which was founded as a family business more than 16 years ago, “At San Carlo we’re passionate about offering only the best, truly authentic Italian food made from the finest ingredients, many of which are flown in daily from local markets in Sicily and Milan” said Carlo Distefano, Proprietor.

Other venues under the watchful eye of Carlo Distefano include Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham, Bristol, Leicester and Signor Sassi in London. The group also has

31700 LCC Harnbury.indd 1

associate restaurants in Milan and Rome.

Though the pace is fast, the atmosphere in San Carlo Liverpool, and indeed all restaurants in the San Carlo Group, is informal and relaxed.

Mozzarella Burrata with Piemonte black truffle. Fish specialities include halibut with lobster sauce, salmon, wild sea bass, Dover sole, giant prawns, oysters and crayfish.

From a perfectly cooked bowl of pasta and bottle of wine to the

The stylish interior of the Castle Street restaurant

Diners can browse over the extensive menu that features more than 150 exquisitely presented dishes.

There is a huge choice of starters from simple dishes such as Parma ham and melon to

finest Lobster and Champagne, the menu offers the perfect choice for any occasion and its impressive and comprehensive wine list that complements the dishes is 90 percent Italian.

San Carlo Group is proud of its

many accolades, in November 2010 revered food critic Jay Rayner, writing for the Observer newspaper, said of San Carlo “It has the ingredients others can only dream of.” San Carlo has also received the industry-leading Les Routiers in Britain Hospitality and Service award, a listing among The Times Top 10 Italian Restaurants, as well as praise from gourmet critic Lord Bradford, who features the restaurant on his website.

Open 365 days a year from noon until late, San Carlo restaurants nationwide are always a lively hub of activity.

As one table empties it is full again in a matter of minutes, so making a muchsought-after reservation is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.

For further information please call 0151 236 0073 or visit the San Carlo Group website at www.sancarlo.co.uk

7/3/11 16:42:36

14 n CONFERENCE & EVENTS

Meeting excellence and variety on your doorstep Heralded as a buoyant and attractive leisure destination the world over, it appears the conferencing world has caught up with Liverpool as a great place to do business. In the last few years some of the most internationally recognised gatherings have chosen to take their event to the city and with the ongoing investment in the

33128-LCC Chester Races.indd 1

business tourism product, it’s easy to see why.

Most recent events have included the International Harm Reduction Conference which brought together an incredible 1,100 delegates from 80 countries around the world, including many from Europe, Asia and Eurasia. This year the city will also play host

to the 16th European College of Sports Science in Liverpool, which is hosted by Liverpool John Moores University and takes place at ACC Liverpool.

Small is beautiful Of course, it’s not always about the large events, sometimes businesses, particularly those based locally are often on

the lookout for venues that can accommodate their small meeting needs. In light of this the Liverpool Convention Bureau has joined forces with 27 participating venues to create a Liverpool Small Meetings Package offering a tiered scheme of day delegate rates across the City Region starting from as little as £17.50.

17/12/10 14:27:16

u p16

16 n conference & eventS u from p14

The packages also include unique added value incentives such as a team building crafts session at arts venue the Bluecoat, a cocktail demonstration and tasting at Malmaison Liverpool, a stadium tour at Liverpool Football Club and complimentary entry into the Beatles Story visitor attraction courtesy of Premier Inn Liverpool Albert Dock.

space so that delegates can base themselves in one place.

Other unique venues include the new £72 million Museum of Liverpool, the largest newlybuilt national museum in Britain for over a century and the

UNESCO World Heritage Site and will include meeting and event space.

Liverpool Hope University continues to expand with the introduction of the Eden Building, which opened in

A versatile choice From purpose built convention centres like ACC Liverpool, to academic venues or sporting venues there are plenty of options to suit your needs and budgets. It’s also worth remembering that unusual venues can also offer fantastic meeting spaces and dramatic backdrops to events. The Anglican Cathedral and St Georges Hall for example are venues which can really add the wow factor to your next event. While those wanting the addition of accommodation, often opt for hotel meeting

is the Centre for Educational Leadership (CEL), which is based at the Liverpool Science Park, heart of the Knowledge Quarter, part of the University of Manchester. The venue has been open since 2008 but in the last six months has opened its doors to allow external companies to make use of its purpose built training facilities.

CEL boasts two training rooms with maximum capacity of 30 and 60 respectively.

get connected

world’s first national museum devoted to the history of a regional city. Opening in July 2011, the attraction occupies an enviable waterfront location, which is part of Liverpool’s

October 2010. The venue features a 250 seat lecture theatre, an executive conference suite and various breakout spaces.

Also now available for hire

Even if you are based locally, your colleagues might not be which is where Liverpool’s connectivity comes into its own when you’re organising a meeting or event. Virgin Trains now offer services from London Euston to Liverpool in a little over two hours with direct trains making travelling simpler for delegates. In fact during 2009, almost 780,000 people arrived in Liverpool using this service.

New routes are also regularly being added to Liverpool u p18

advertiSinG feature

the university of liverpool - A Russell Group University Liverpool Cricket Club DeDiCAteD Conference & Event Services at the University of Liverpool offer unique choice of venues from large, modern conference rooms to banqueting facilities. This is coupled with a choice of location, either a few minutes from the heart of Liverpool’s lively city centre or a few miles away in our peaceful parkland setting.

At the University of Liverpool, we understand creating the right impression is important, and believe that having the right environment can enhance your event. We recognise the detailed planning and teamwork that goes into arranging every event,

providing the conference and meeting organiser with a high degree of confidence.

The Foresight Centre our award-winning business conference centre offers meeting space, Video Conferencing, dedicated IT training facilities and The Hub lounges state of the art technology. The Victoria Museum and Gallery the original red brick University building offers a unique setting for Weddings dinners and special events within its elaborate dining room. The addition of the Leggate Theatre, Gallery and Museum provides unusual options for memorable events.

bowlshockeyrugbycricketlacrossesquashtennis bowlshockeyrugbycricketlacrossesquashtennis bowlshockeyrugbycricketlacrossesquashtennis bowlshockeyrugbycricketlacrossesquashtennis bowlshockeyrugbycricketlacrossesquashtennis bowlshockeyrugbycricketlacrossesquashtennis bowlshockeyrugbycricketlacrossesquashtennis Popular venue for funerals, weddings, conference, 50th birthday celebrations etc.

This season Lancashire are hosting Sussex, Somerset, Yorkshire, Durham and Warwickshire at the Club.

For sponsorship and hospitality opportunities, please contact the Club Manager, John Perry.

Contact: Nicola Gilmore/Lesley Dann Tel: 0151 794 6440 Email: conference@liv.ac.uk University of Liverpool, Conference Office, Foresight Centre, 1 Brownlow Street, Liverpool, L69 3GL

tel: 0151 427 2930 e-mail: office@liverpoolcricketclub.co.uk web: www.liverpoolcricketclub.co.uk

33332-3-11LCC Liverpool.indd 1

1/3/11 12:54:02

CONFERENCE & EVENTS n 17

File: 33348-LCC Arkle Ad size: A4 1/4P (88mm wide x 130mm high)

33316-3-11LCC Landrover.indd 1

St John’s Beacon, one of Liverpool’s most iconic landmarks, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Wirral, North Wales, Lancashire and even Blackpool Tower and the Lake District on clearer days...

Venue Hire St John’s Beacon is available to hire for both private and business events.

From wedding anniveraries to company presentations, our function room and boardroom offer what is arguably the most stunning location in Merseyside for breathtaking views of Liverpool’s heritage waterfront and city centre.

Hourly, half day and whole day terms are available and full catering can be supplied at competitive rates.

For further details please email tours@radiocity.co.uk or call 0151 472 6828

15/2/11 15:49:05

18 n CONFERENCE & EVENTS u from p16

John Lennon Airport. These include Brussels, recognised as the administrative centre for many international associations and the popular Amsterdam Schiphol Airport route which connects the city to over 650 worldwide destinations.

Staying on For delegates who do need somewhere to stay in the city, the wealth of choice grows

every year. Having attracted big hotel chains such as Malmaison, Novotel and Hilton the hotel portfolio has continued to diversify to suit any taste. This includes those offering a full service that have everything a business traveller could want, to simpler apartment style options aimed at those watching budgets.

Spring sees the opening of highly anticipated Hotel Indigo

which will boast a Marco Pierre restaurant and will be the second celebrity chef restaurant in the city following the launch of Jamie’s Italian which opened in June 2010. Another new deluxe boutique hotel due to open this year is The Layla hotel, which will include a spa in addition to meeting and event facilities.

Something different?

In the pursuit of offering excellent training and events, Liverpool is also now home to a new teambuilding programme, which is available at Knowsley Hall. Life Survival is a militarybased adventure and training company who blend experiential and translational learning programmes which help participants approach challenges in a work place and life.

If you wanted to take a more traditional approach to teambuilding and incentives, Thai restaurant Chaophraya features a corporate cooking school, or why not go racing at Aintree or take in a game at

Liverpool or Everton Football Club? While in the summer, you might want to try your hand at watersports at Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre. Moreover, with many of these venues benefiting from meeting rooms or event space, they’re a great way of combining business with pleasure.

So if you need a purpose built or unique venue for your meeting, event or conferencing needs, don’t forget about the wealth of options that are available on your doorstep. If you need more guidance, more info can be found by speaking to Liverpool Convention Bureau either by calling 0151 237 3925, or by visiting the website www.LiverpoolConvention Bureau.com The team are on hand to offer free venue sourcing, help with bids, managing accommodation bookings and lots more besides.

So if you haven’t considered Liverpool before for your events, it’s about time you did.

Merseyside Innovation Awards – the search is on The search to find some of the region’s most innovative businesses is now underway with the launch of the 16th Merseyside Innovation Awards The awards, open to individuals or companies with fewer than 50 employees, aim to recognise and reward the use of innovation as a means of boosting growth and profitability.

“The launch of the 2011 Merseyside Innovation Awards coincides with an even greater focus on the need for the private sector to drive economic growth in the city region,” said Brian McCann, of Vanguard Corporate Finance - the founder of the awards.

“The whole sponsor group is looking forward to working with an exciting range of applicants this year and supporting them to develop their innovations into business growth.”

Brian McCann

Each month, a winner will be selected and given the chance to compete in the grand final

in July, when three shortlisted contestants will present to a distinguished panel of judges from across the commercial spectrum. The overall winner will receive £10,000 in cash, £4,000 worth of legal, business, PR, accounting or design consultancy, with support from some of the region’s leading business advisors as well as publicity for the idea.

Last year’s winner was St Helens manufacturing company Kleen and Green which has developed a device capable of reducing petrol costs by up to 40 per cent.

The deadline for entries is 29 April and the final will take place on 7 July at the Crowne Plaza in

Liverpool. More information on how to enter is available at www.merseysideinnovation awards.co.uk

“The whole sponsor group is looking forward to working with an exciting range of applicants this year and supporting them to develop their innovations into business growth.”

HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION n 19

THE LIVERPOOL COMEDY FESTIVAL This Spring Liverpool Comedy Festival will celebrate its tenth consecutive year with another brilliant line-up of comedy With top names already secured and plenty more to follow, The Comedy Trust are promising a Festival that is bigger and better than ever before. Dylan Moran, Milton Jones, Andy Parsons, Greg Davies, Jon Richardson, Arthur Smith and Russell Kane are already confirmed for the Festival which will run from 28 April - 8 May 2011.

As well as big names there will be Comedy Workshops, Young People’s Comedy Nights and stand up comedians from the national circuit. Old favourites like The Best of Liverpool and Drink Up Stand Up will also return along with classics from the last ten years including Duck Up Stand Up and Ferry Funny

so there will be something for everyone.

Gillian Miller, chair of The Comedy Trust said: “The Festival is an institution now and we are delighted that so many great comics want to get involved.

We couldn’t put together such a popular Festival without the support of our two media partners the Liverpool Echo and Radio City and we have also had great support from Liverpool City Council every year since we began in 2002.”

Sam Avery, stand up comedian and Director of The Comedy Trust: “We can’t wait to get started this year. The tenth anniversary Festival will be massive and the comics are raring to go.”

32861-LVPL ES.indd 1

11/11/10 16:34:19

Located on Liverpool’s most famous street; sat between two iconic Cathedrals and neighbours to two Universities, two Theatres and an international Concert Hall.

• We offer flexible day delegate and 24 hr rates • We have five different and dynamic areas for your meetings and events • We are creative thinkers, sticklers for detail and determined to make you happy • There is complimentary Wi - Fi throughout • Our event spaces can accommodate up to 130 people • All catering by our award winning restaurant ‘The London Carriage Works’ ‘Best Hotel’ - Northern Hospitality Awards 2010 ‘Hotel of the Year’ - The Mersey Partnership Tourism Awards 2010.

Contact Laura Denton T: 0151 709 3000 E: events@hopestreethotel.co.uk www.hopestreethotel.co.uk

www.thelondoncarriageworks.co.uk

‘Best value in the city for meetings and events, the views are fabulous‘ Janet Pickavance Chief Executive Brabners Chaffe Street LLP ‘The extension is brilliant! Truly spectacular penthouses and function rooms, very well done’. Lord Birt

33350-LCC Hope.indd 1

3/3/11 08:19:00

20 n sKILLS & trAINING

Balfour Beatty pledges support for apprenticeships Construction giant Balfour Beatty is showing its support for the region’s youth by signing up to the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce’s apprenticeship pledge.

The initiative was launched by the Chamber in November 2010 with the aim of helping young people into work and providing local employers with the skilled and motivated staff that their businesses need.

The move allows Balfour Beatty to build on the success of its own Apprenticeships Scheme.

Launched in Knowsley in 2010 and now running in a number of projects across England, the scheme maximises opportunities for young people to benefit from the significant projects which the company is currently undertaking in the region.

Mark Howden, Head of Regeneration at Balfour Beatty said: “Apprenticeships not only have the ability to transform a young person’s future but they are also proven to help reduce recruitment costs and improve productivity and motivation.

Our Apprenticeship Scheme in Knowsley revealed that there is a

huge amount of untapped talent in the city region and we want to help ensure that as many young people as possible who are motivated and prepared to work hard can access the opportunity for a better future.

In the current climate, we at Balfour Beatty have committed to nurturing and developing home-grown talent. By signing the pledge we are committing to providing opportunities for young people who are enthusiastic to learn and progress but who may be struggling to get a foot on the ladder.”

Carole Crosby, Deputy Chief Executive of Liverpool Chamber of Commerce stated: “We are delighted that Balfour Beatty has signed the pledge and made a positive commitment to supporting Apprenticeships.

“Skills issues have long been a concern to many employers, Apprenticeships are innovative but also proven; they are an excellent way of recruiting a motivated, highly skilled, and loyal workforce. During these tough times, businesses need extra resource in order to survive

Apprentice Special Offer!

Liverpool Chamber Training is asking companies in Liverpool to take the Apprenticeship pledge.

To encourage employers to take on an apprentice we’re offering to help save on employment costs by subsidising the apprentice wage.

If you sign up with we will pay 50% of the apprentices’ wage. This means the full cost to a company for an apprentice is just £61.22 per week.

• We offer free training in apprenticeships this will include – NVQ, Functional Skills (English & Maths) and a Technical certificate.

• The courses offered are IT (user), Business Administration and Customer service: Liverpool Chamber Training offer a free recruitment service to ensure businesses find the right candidate. Katie Jones,

Employment Support Officer explained: “We carry out initial interviews with the candidates.

We will then send you over the candidate CV’s – if you would like to see any of the candidates for interview we will also arrange this for you. This helps you to find the perfect candidates without the stress! Apprentices are able to work full time, up to 40 hours per week, and we will pay 50% of the apprentice wage for 16 weeks.

After which time we can replace the candidate if you wish.”

If you would like to hear more about the Apprenticeship Pledge, or you would like to sign up, just email Katie.jones@ liverpoolchamber.org.uk or call on 0151 227 1234 extension 2318

Carole Crosby, Deputy Chief Executive of Liverpool Chamber of Commerce and Mark Howden, Head of Regeneration at Balfour Beatty

and grow.

“This is a solution that enables Apprentices to work in a huge range of roles, while a business gets an injection of new talent and the skills that they need to compete. Liverpool Chamber would like to encourage businesses across the city, to sign the pledge and consider using apprentices when they are recruiting.”

Balfour Beatty companies are

currently completing work on the remaining £60 million Knowsley Schools programme, as well as working with Liverpool City Council and its partners on Edge Lane West on the final phase of the Edge Lane Highways and Environmental Improvement Scheme and will soon begin construction on seven new community fire stations for Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service.

PURCHASING PROFESSIONALS BRING VALUE TO TRAINING While purchasing training is usually left to the HR team, procurement professionals can add value to the process says Liverpool Chamber’s CIPS Centre Manager, Stephen Sullivan. He said: “A procurement expert can manage the strategic aspect of the training enabling outcomes to be maximised and savings made.

They can source suppliers and can draft contracts where needed.”

A good purchasing manager will be looking for a provider who understands their organisation, has tailored, focused training and good feedback from previous clients. They will be looking at the

appropriateness of the trainer’s experience and they will be carrying out due diligence on the training company itself.

Stephen continued: “When buying training, your company is aiming to improve the capability and effectiveness of its employees, a procurement professional can help to realise this investment.”

To find out more about procurement qualifications for all levels of buyer, contact Stephen Sullivan on 0151 22 4 1880 or email CIPS@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

sKILLS & trAINING n 21

Ventana Systems UK Ltd 12 James Street, Oxton, Merseyside, CH43 5RD t. 0151 513 9779 f. 0151 210 2545 e. info@ventanasystems.co.uk www.ventanasystems.co.uk

Supporting Decision Making in a Complex World Decisions today are made for a future that is: • • • •

More volatile More uncertain More complex Structurally different

Ventana help you make the right decisions and turn complexity and uncertainty to your advantage Using advanced analytics and modelling,Ventana help you capture the knowledge and experience within your organisation, advisors and customers, enabling experimentation into a range of possible future scenarios.

Measure the likely effect of your decisions as each model connects managements’ levers for possible action with your indicators of desired success, such as profitability, growth, or reduced risk.

• • • •

Proactively exchange knowledge Encourage experimentation Improve insight driving better decisions Manage and use information better

Ventana can provide you with everything you need from software and training to analysis and project support.

Call or email to arrange a meeting and discuss how we can help you cope with complexity.

33315-3-11LCC Ventana1-4p.indd 1

Give your career a boost in 2011 28/2/11 33271-3-11LCC 16:27:34 AoSF 1-4p.indd 1

24/2/11 11:29:25

Liverpool Business School (LBS) has newly designed programmes in: • MBA Executive Leadership (recognised by the Chartered Management Institute) This programme is studied on a part time basis by experienced managers in middle and senior management roles. The MBA Executive Leadership provides the potential of a dual award in partnership with the Chartered Management Institute with the opportunity to become a Chartered Manager alongside the MBA. The programme has been developed with the aim of enhancing strategic, operational, analytical and managerial skills. These skills are reinforced through application of learning in the workplace creating benefits to both the students and employers.

CIPD accredited programmes:

• Flexible, part time degree programmes in Business and HR and Human Resource Management for team leaders, small business managers and those interested in managing people successfully. The pace of learning is determined by you and the fees start from as little as £130 per month (subject to final confirmation). HR practitioner skills are developed throughout the programme. Applicants with non standard academic qualifications are also most welcome to apply and attend an interview with one of the programme team.

On line applications can be submitted at www.ljmu.ac.uk/pgapplication. For informal email discussion contact Maureen Royce, Programme Leader on m.a.royce@ ljmu.ac.uk or call Liverpool Business School Admissions.

On line applications are also now open for: Part time CPD Programme (MA in Personnel and Development) to gain Intermediate standard Associate Membership CIPD (Monday afternoon and evening for one year); Masters level qualifications for MA Personnel & Development offered as fulltime, part time and evening only delivery. M level top up Masters (MASHR) also available to practicing managers who already hold MCIPD. For all those interested in postgraduate HR study, a Programme Open Evening takes place on Tuesday 19th April 2011, 3.30 – 7.30 pm in the Moot Room, John Foster Building, 98 Mount Pleasant Liverpool L3

For further details of courses please contact the Admissions Hub T: 0151 231 3999 E: BLWadmissions@ljmu.ac.uk 33334-LCC LBS.indd 1

7/3/11 12:22:24

22 n sKILLS & trAINING

Liverpool chamber names apprentice of the year Liverpool Chamber Training celebrated Apprenticeship week by naming its Apprentice of the Year.

Christina Doyle, 21, from Belle Vale, has worked as an Administration Assistant at the Young Persons Advisory Service for over two years. She was presented with her award at a surprise ceremony at her work place.

She said doing an apprenticeship has been a brilliant experience, explaining: “Its really helped me to grow my confidence and take on more responsibility at work. Doing an apprenticeship is a great opportunity to gain a qualification and work while you are doing it, its great for your CV.” Christina was awarded the honour because she has over come many obstacles and put in a lot of extra hard work and commitment in order to

progress her career and achieve her goals. After completing her Level 2 Business Administration Apprenticeship, Christina was offered a permanent position with the Young Persons Advisory

Presenting the award, Jack Stopforth, Chief Executive of Liverpool Chamber of Commerce commented: “I’m delighted to present this award to Christina.

She has worked extremely hard

Service and currently working towards her Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Business Administration.

to become Liverpool Chamber Training Apprentice of the year 2011.

The Chamber is proud to

support Apprenticeships are the proven way to train your workforce. The Chamber has recruited members of its workforce through Apprenticeships. Apprentices can make your organisation more effective, productive and competitive by directly addressing your skills gaps, even in uncertain economic times.”

Monique Collier, YPAS Chief Executive commented: “I am extremely proud of Christina’s achievement of ‘Apprentice of the Year’: As with most young people, Christina has travelled a challenging journey of personal and professional growth since July 2008, which has been a pleasure for YPAS to support and observe.”

Chamber Training is one of the major providers of apprenticeships in the city and has a track record of delivering Apprenticeships for over 20 years.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

CRUCIAL BUSINESS SUCCESS

ILM Accredited workshops, courses, and qualifications Inclusive Access is accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management to deliver qualifications in:

• Team Leading • Effective Team Member Skills • First Line Management • Effective Management Invest in your staff to create a dynamic and effective team to drive your business forward.

Contact Sandie Bailey for more information on how our courses can improve your business performance.

0151 653 7111 sb@inclusiveaccess.co.uk www.inclusiveaccess.co.uk Fully accessible training rooms in Wirral, 15 minutes from Liverpool City Centre.

33405-3-11LCC Inclusive.indd 1

At a time when many organisations are finding conditions tough, training can fall to the bottom of the priority list. Yet, team leaders and managers are the most important and expensive asset in most organisations.

Having the best staff in place and making the most of those staff is crucial to business success. Investing in key staff demonstrates a commitment to them which will increase staff morale, aid retention of good staff, and provide them with the skills to increase productivity.

So, whether your team are taking on extra responsibilities due to redundancies, or you want to improve efficiencies and thereby profitability in your organisation, now is the time to invest in high quality, accredited leadership and management training for your staff.

Learning new techniques helps to identify areas where managers could make changes.

These adjustments can improve the working atmosphere

8/3/11 10:22:26

and efficiency of the whole organisation leading to an increased bottom line.

Improved communication ensures that team members are able to share ideas with managers which could make real changes to the business – and save costs. Managers need the skills to share information and pass on their own knowledge to their team.

The Institute of Leadership and Management is the largest awarding body for leadership and management qualifications in the UK. ILM qualifications are designed to help managers increase staff efficiency and motivation, ensuring that their businesses run at an optimum level of productivity. Training courses can be tailored to the needs of individual organisations and their managers.

For further information about ILM qualifications available from Inclusive Access, please call Sandie Bailey on 0151 653 7111 or visit www.inclusiveaccess.co.uk.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE n 23

Thoughts for 2011 Clive Drinkwater, International Trade Director, UK Trade & Investment It’s that time of year again when we consider what we have been doing and plan how we can do things differently in the coming year. As we look ahead to 2011, we have some uncertain economic times ahead but we are constantly being told that we should export our way out of the difficulties. It is something that I would of course advocate myself,

Clive Drinkwater

but is it a realistic aim?

Well, as ever, I have a five point plan that businesses should follow to get on the road to international success: 1. Take advantage of the competitive pound. We have benefited from this for a couple of years now. There is evidence that it is beginning to work its way through into increased exports and you should look to take advantage of it yourself.

Not that long ago the Dollar was at nearly 2 to the pound, now it’s at 1.55. The Euro was around 1.40, now it’s 1.18. This puts you in a much better competitive position against your European and American counterparts.

2. Seek out the sectors of growth.

There are some industries which have hardly noticed a downturn and the year ahead promises real growth in:

• Medical/Bio/Pharma • Energy • Environmental technologies • ICT • Digital/Creative 3. Think about the European market on your doorstep. The last year has seen good growth in Germany, Sweden and Poland as well as some others. You will get the benefit of strengthening economies as well as the competitive pound.

4. You must look at the emerging markets of the world. Of course, you should look at Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC markets) but consider others such as Mexico, South Africa, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia. Did you know that Qatar, Turkmenistan, Ethiopia and

Mozambique featured in the top ten fastest growing economies of 2010? There is real growth in these economies and you need to have a strategy to capitalise upon the many opportunities there.

5. Sharpen your focus. Go back and revisit your strategy and value propositions. Identify opportunities for your business and hunt them down ruthlessly.

If you don’t your competitors will We are in a great position to achieve an export led recovery but it will not happen just by chance. Planning your business around emerging international opportunities is becoming ever more important. Consider my five point plan and see if you too can emerge at the end of 2011 as a growing successful international business.

CHAMBER SURVEY OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE SHOWS MORE GOVERNMENT SUPPORT NEEDED FOR UK EXPORTERS The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has announced the results of its International Trade and Exporting Survey, ahead of the Government’s highly-anticipated trade white paper and the figures tracking the UK’s international trade performance.

Liverpool Chamber’s International Trade Executive, Elena Encisco said: “The survey highlights some important issues which businesses on Merseyside have continued to encounter in the face of the recession. The top three barriers to export seem to focus on the suitability of products or services for the export market; difficulties finding overseas customers, agents and distributors; and concerns over red tape – legislation and paperwork. Concerns over risk exposure – fluctuation in exchange rates and the economic stability of key markets – was also an important factor. Not surprisingly, companies are telling us that assistance in locating potential clients, training on how to do business abroad, and a One-Stop Shop providing

market research, legal and fiscal advice are leading priorities. The Chamber is very much alive to these concerns. Alongside its Certification, Training and UKTIled advice service, we have also recently formed an International Trade Committee which aims to improve the flow of news, views and experiences between members and pubic policy makers.”

The survey shows a lack of exporting culture among British firms and the need for more government support. A large number of businesses are unable or unwilling to tap overseas markets and many current exporters continue to face difficulties financing international deals.

Commenting on the BCC survey and the Government’s forthcoming Trade White Paper, David Frost, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Our survey reveals some uncomfortable truths for British business and for the Government about our ability to export.

“Too many of our companies

lack an exporting culture, even though they produce high quality goods and services. We cannot rebalance Britain’s economy when so many companies say they’re

Elena Encisco

simply not ready or able to take their products overseas. The government’s trade white paper must include some radical moves to get Britain exporting.”

24 n HEALTH & WELLBEING n MEMBER NEWS

Gym membership WESTFIELD PLAN needn’t cost the earth CAN HELP WITH STRESS & ANXIETY It’s the time of year when many of us resolve to lose weight and tone up anticipating beach holidays and the onset of warmer weather But according to a new survey the cost of joining a gym is putting many people off their, a third of all Britons – and up to 42 per cent of 18 to 24-yearolds – think the membership is too expensive and as many as 19 per cent of those over 55 do not exercise because of the cost.

The report’s findings are worrying because it recognised that a fit and healthy lifestyle, including taking the recommended half hour a day of exercise, is essential for physical and mental wellbeing.

Eighteen per cent of respondents blamed the British weather for their sedentary lifestyles – and 36 per cent said they didn’t have time to exercise due to work and family commitments.

Regular physical activity reduces the rate of bone loss, the risk of heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes.

Exercise also stimulates the production of endorphins chemical substances produced by the body that make you feel happy and exhilarated and can alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety.

But keeping yourself fit and

As many as one in six adults will have a mental health problem at any one time. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a proven and effective way of tackling mental health issues and is now available as a benefit on Westfield Health’s Chamber

Primary Health Plan as part of an Employee Assistance Programme.

For more information, please call 0845 602 1629, available 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday, or visit www.westfieldhealth. com/chamber

healthy doesn’t need to be expensive. Westfield Health’s Chamber Primary Health Plan offers a range of healthcare benefits and services, including a health club concession benefit, which encourages policyholders to take up gym membership by offering special concessionary deals at a wide range of UK health and fitness clubs.

The Chamber Plan is available to all members of Liverpool Chamber of Commerce. For more information, please visit www.westfieldhealth.com/ chamber or call 0845 602 1629, available 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

n LEGAL & FINANCE

The £185m North West Fund goes live The North West Fund is a new £185m evergreen fund for Northwest businesses and is the largest public sector fund in the UK and one of the largest in Europe.

North West Business Finance Ltd (NWBF) with support from the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) the European Regional Development Fund

(ERDF) and the European Investment Bank is ready to make investments.

Between 2011 and 2015 the fund is expected to create/ safeguard almost 14,000 jobs and improve the economic performance of England’s Northwest with an estimated GVA increase of £700m.

Initially, £170m of The North

West Fund will be allocated to the six fund managers. They then have a mandate to invest their allocation into the specific product or sector they manage, before 31st December 2015.

Business Minister, Mark Prisk said: “Along with the Government’s £1.4bn Regional Growth Fund and other economic development initiatives, this fund

will play an important role in boosting the prosperity of local businesses; creating new private sector jobs and driving economic growth in communities across the North West.”

The North West Fund is now live and applications can be made on-line at www.thenorthwestfund.co.uk.

26 n LEGAL & FINANCE ADVERTISING FEATURE

Helping entrepreneurs through the recovery Every day for those in business comes with new challenges, opportunities and obstacles and every stage of the business cycle presents a different set of financial challenges.

At Coutts, we understand that business owners are still nervous of the economic conditions.

They realise that the temptation to capture market share while competitors are fainting and failing about them, must be moderated by the continuing constraints on human and working capital within their business. Postrecession recovery holds as many dangers for the entrepreneur as recession itself. However, the past two years have changed their personal wealth strategy in a number of ways. They are reminded that exit-strategies are fragile, and that injecting every penny of their personal wealth into a business may not be the wisest move.

Furthermore, we have found Directors much more willing to diversify cash balances across the wealth management spectrum, investing in balanced portfolios, as well as investment property, business angel investing and more esoteric investment opportunities.

This is driven by three themes: the poor cash rates available, the sense that markets are a reasonable medium-term bet, and a specifically a desire to diversify their personal wealth. They are frustrated with having deposits sitting with five to ten retail banks - and irritated that they had to undertake such a time-wasting endeavour. They are looking to consolidate and are in search of someone they trust.

Entrepreneurs have also been reminded of the mortality of enterprise and are therefore more willing to spend some of their precious time in thinking how they protect their family. Updating wills, thinking about business protection and personal insurance, considering how they might build

Ray Eugeni

a pension pot for their spouse (through employing them in the business) and inheritance tax planning has moved higher up their agenda.

Tax planning has become high on their agenda, too, maximising their family’s potential entrepreneur relief - and maybe this will see the growth of a new generation of family businesses as well as considering the role of director’s loans, dividend policies, and searching for capital gains in preference to income. It is a

busy time for advisers and wealth managers, with so much change and uncertainty still in the air.

Finally, there seems a very marked interest in social enterprise. More traditional philanthropy sometimes has less appeal to the entrepreneur than investing in, and even grandfathering, a commercial enterprise to benefit a social cause.

All of these issues require careful consideration, planning and management. At Coutts in Liverpool, we have built up strong expertise in helping entrepreneurs address these.

Whether you are in the early stages of building your business, looking for funding to grow or considering selling, we can advise on the right course of action, issues to consider, potential pitfalls and possible opportunities.

We also understand that many business owners thrive on networking, from building potential business contacts to sharing success stories. Coutts can provide access to one of the UK’s

largest networks of entrepreneurs through events designed to bring like minded individuals together.

We recently launched a Social Enterprise Advisory Service - the first of its kind in the UK. This service brings together a panel of leading independent experts from within the field of social enterprise, who together focus on advising clients interested in becoming involved with this diverse sector on the best way to navigate it, finding opportunities to suit them.

Coutts aims not only to be viewed as the leading provider of financial services to Britain’s entrepreneurs and their businesses, but a champion for their cause and an authority in this field. We look forward to speaking to you.

For more information about becoming a Coutts client in Liverpool, contact Ray Eugeni on raymond.eugeni@coutts.com or 0151 236 1086 or visit www.coutts.com/liverpool

28 n TRANSPORT

Oil workers to benefit from early morning Aberdeen service A new morning flight is being introduced by Eastern Airways from Liverpool JLA to Aberdeen for business travellers and offshore workers.

The airline has launched an 8.10am flight to Aberdeen, replacing the 10.40am departure. The 8.10am weekday

timing will be offered alongside a 5.45pm flight on Mondays and Tuesdays, plus a 5pm departure on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays to Aberdeen from Liverpool. Fares from Liverpool to Aberdeen start from £75 one way, including taxes and charges.

Ryanair to fly to Greece & maintain Summer 2011 capacity Ryanair unveiled their Summer 2011 flying programme, changes to the airline’s operation will see a reduction in the overall number of destinations served but an increase in frequency on the most popular routes.

One new addition to Ryanair’s Liverpool network will include Toulon in the South of France.

This is just 45 minutes from Marseille and just over an hour from St Tropez on the Cote d’Azur. RYANAIR has announced the launch of two new summer

routes from Liverpool John Lennon airport to the Greek islands this April. A twice weekly service, flying on Wednesdays and Sundays to Kos, begins on April 13. Then, a day later, the Rhodes flight, operating each Monday and Thursday, commences.

The routes are among 43 operated by Ryanair from JLA, which recently celebrated carrying the 15 millionth passenger on the Dublin-based airline.

Gibraltar service comes to JLA for first time easyJet has announced a further new service to start operating from Liverpool JLA. This will be the first time that flights from JLA will have operated to the British-owned island and the low-fares airline will operate a three-timesweekly service commencing on 29th March.

Robin Tudor, Head of PR for Peel Airports commented, “This will be the first time scheduled flights will be available to Gibraltar for the region’s passengers direct from Liverpool John Lennon Airport and we expect this unique destination to be yet another easyJet success.

Ryanair’s Maria Macken and Peel Airport’s Robin Tudor celebrate the milestone

(L to R) easyJet’s UK General Manager, Paul Simmons is joined by Brian Simpson, MEP for the North West and Chairman of the European Parliament’s Transport Committee

easyJet now flies to 33 destinations from Liverpool John Lennon Airport including recently announced new routes to Brussels, Salzburg and Tallinn.”

JLA gets its first flights to Madeira The largest independent specialist tour operator to the Portuguese island of Madeira is to operate two flights this year direct from JLA for the first time.

The departures on 16th May and 24th October will give travellers in the region the chance to sample the delights of Madeira.

Nick Smillie, Sales Director

for Peel Airports said: “We are sure that lots of passengers from across the region will want to take advantage of this opportunity to travel direct from JLA to Madeira.

We expect these flights to prove popular and hope that it will encourage Atlantic Airways to operate even more services from here next year.

Passenger numbers double & New rail link opens at South Parkway Transport authority Merseytravel said the amount of passengers using the Liverpool South Parkway interchange in Garston has doubled over the past 12 months.

Merseytravel said over 35,000 passengers a week now use the interchange.

TransPennine Trains now stop at the station daily, offering passengers a link to Liverpool John Lennon Airport and onward travel to Crewe, Birmingham, Runcorn, Manchester Oxford Road, Sheffield, Nottingham, Norwich and across the Merseyrail network.

Leo Goodwin, commercial director for First TransPennine Express, said: “With direct trains, quick, frequent bus transfer

and a choice of low-cost airlines, we’re confident that passengers from across the Pennines will appreciate how easy it is to reach the airport. We’ll also be offering discount advance purchase rail fares to complete the package.”

The station itself is linked by a dedicated airport bus link every 20 minutes.

To make travel as simple as possible, all-in-one discount tickets including rail travel with First TransPennine Express and transfer on the Airlink 501 bus to the airport have been introduced.

Northern Rail, London Midland and East Midlands Trains services also call at the station bringing passengers from across the region to the Airport.

(L to R) Robin Tudor from Peel Airports helps to marshal in the First TransPennine Express train ‘airport style’ at Liverpool South Parkway, accompanied by Jim Barclay, Merseytravel’s Director of Resources and Liz Collins, First TransPennine Express’ Finance Director

PROPERTY n 29

LILA* launches themed school in city centre LILA, once known as Liverpool International Language Academy, is celebrating the opening of its £300,000 learning and training centre in New Barratt House, North John Street The new building and location provides the perfect environment to educate and train learners both from the UK and overseas.

Building on success in language training, LILA* is now offering vocational and professional qualifications to local people as well as interpreting and translation services to the business community.

LILA* was established in 2004 by two sisters from Middlesbrough.

They opened their doors with one classroom, three students and lots of ambition. LILA* director, Leanne Linacre comments: We stared our business from one room, paying our first Chamber membership of £145 seemed like such a hard decision. We’ve now moved into our third premises and we are proud of our successful, growing business.”

Designing the custom-made school took over a year and involved consultation with Liverpool interior design company Aztec and Crosby based creative studio Eyefever; but that wasn’t all.

Rob Maxwell, Aztec managing director, comments: “We feel that LILA* has acquired the ideal location as a hotspot of Liverpool culture, right in the heart of the city for its international students. This, combined with our understanding of how training facilities work best, [means that] the academy now has a space that functions and an enhanced social experience for the new students to interact and develop.”

LILA*s aim is to bring the essence of city into the school: in every area students are reminded of Liverpool’s heritage; even the corridors are lined with historical photos. Lessons are a treat for LILA* learners as every classroom is uniquely themed. Whether it is a local poet or a famous singer, each room has a distinctive identity. its an ideal centre to host meetings, training events and conferences.

33063-3-11LCC Langtree.indd 1

PORT SUNLIGHT APPOINTS THE DESIGN FOUNDRY Having worked on a number of design briefs for the past year, The Design Foundry has now been appointed by Port Sunlight Museum & Garden Village to look after the charitable trust’s PR and marketing. The trust is responsible for preserving and promoting Port Sunlight village created by William Hesketh Lever for his factory workers in 1888.

The Design Foundry will now work closely with Port Sunlight to raise awareness of the series of events held in the village throughout the year, including the Summer Festival and The Christmas Food Fayre.

Katherine Lynch, Museum Manager at Port Sunlight comments, “We are delighted to welcome The Design Foundry on board. Having worked with the team for over a year, they fully

understand our message and we are looking forward to raising our profile further, making sure that Port Sunlight is top of everybody’s agenda for organising a fun and educational day out.”

As well as the highly successful events arranged all year round, Port Sunlight boasts an accredited museum and an art gallery along with a fine dining boutique hotel, available to non residents and high quality accredited holiday cottages, a garden centre, village pub and tea rooms.

Helen Jones, PR Account Manager at The Design Foundry, says, “We believe that with our targeted PR strategy, we can promote real interest, ultimately helping grow visitor numbers to a unique experience. For those who visit for the first time will be truly astonished at what they discover.”

PR & MARKETING n

9/2/11 11:01:15

Flower Show & Aintree among new wins for consultancy Kenyon Fraser has had a flurry of wins from the region’s SME sector, strengthening its position as the leading full service agency in the city.

The Liverpool-based consultancy has added community regeneration specialists Run Services, Panoramic Liverpool restaurant, business consultants Business Doctors, and insurance brokers Astbury Wren to its marketing and PR portfolio.

Property investment group Bold Spirit and mechanical & electrical consulting engineers Consolux are benefiting from the consultancy’s developing digital capability.

Managing Director Richard Kenyon said: “The business is buoyant at the moment, which is reflected in the number of new corporate clients we have on board. Business conditions may

be tough, but there is no doubt that our services are in strong demand, and we are looking to grow quickly.”

Kenyons been retained to handle the marketing campaign for this year’s Southport Flower Show and has now been charged with increasing footfall and profile for the UK’s largest independent flower show, currently in its 82nd year and has also been appointed to handle PR for the Grand National, managing the consumer PR for the event. MD Richard Kenyon said: “We have worked with Aintree Racecourse on numerous projects over the years and to be promoting its annual showpiece event is very exciting for us. We’ve had a string of new business wins this year – and working to promote one of the world’s best loved sporting events is another significant step for us.

30 n ENVIRONMENTAL

Benson signs enhances green credentials with help of Eco Environments Liverpool renewable energy company, and Green Ambassador, Eco Environments has helped fellow Green Ambassador, Benson Signs enhance its environmental credentials.

Benson Signs commissioned Eco Environments to install a 10kw solar photovoltaic (PV) system at its 45,000 sq ft factory in Great Howard Street.

This means the company now boasts a total system of 25kwp following other installations during the past five years.

Chris Benson, Managing Director of Benson Signs, said: “Six years ago the media started to get excited about the potential for businesses to put in place genuine environmentally friendly practices which, in turn, offered a good return on their investment.

“I was keen for Benson Signs to take a lead locally and we have achieved a tremendous amount in that time. We are delighted with the latest installation by Eco Environments and would hope to do further installations of solar PV in the future together with other initiatives such as water harvesting.

David Hunt, a director at Bootle-based Eco Environments, said: “Chris is an ideal customer because he understands the

importance of developing a comprehensive environmental strategy with solar PV as one of the key elements.

“The Government’s introduction of Feed in Tariffs last year has accelerated the ability for businesses to make a healthy return from their investment. FITs pay you for all the energy you generate regardless of whether you use it or not. You also save money by not having to buy the electricity you have produced, while you get a further payment for the electricity you export as a surplus to the National Grid.

Businesses can achieve 10-15 per cent return on investment from solar PV systems.”

Eco Environments specialises in providing homes and businesses with a comprehensive range of renewable energy solutions, specialising in Solar Photovoltaic (PV), wind turbines, solar thermal water heating systems and heat pumps, holding MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) accreditations for all of these technologies.

David, who is responsible for the firm’s sales and marketing, said: “The key thing is we actually design, install and commission systems, so we have real handson knowledge of what will and won’t work, and how to integrate the various technologies.”

Chris Benson generates power from his factory roof

£300m BIOMASS POWER PLANT TO BRING GREEN JOBS Peel has unveiled plans to generate renewable energy at its Alexandra Dock site, developing an environmentallyfriendly biomass power plant.

The project will generate green electricity for homes and businesses as well as bringing permanent local jobs to Sefton, Liverpool and the wider Merseyside area and an investment of approximately £300m.

It will generate clean, green electricity for the equivalent

of 170,000 to 250,000 homes every year and cut emissions of CO2, the main greenhouse gas, by 300,000 to 450,000 tonnes annually.

Andy Martin, Chief Estate Surveyor for Peel Ports said: “This project will bring significant benefits and green collar jobs for the people of Sefton, Liverpool and the North West. The development supports the Port’s strategic plans to contribute to the low carbon economy.”

ENVIRONMENTAL n 31

Liverpool business visitors help make the city greener Conference organisers hosting events in Liverpool will be able to compensate for their carbon impact by donating to a range of green projects across the city.

Foundation, a climate fund for the North West, has joined forces with the Liverpool Convention Bureau (LCB) in the city’s first ever partnership to offer organisers the chance to contribute towards local carbon-reduction projects.

Foundation Chief Officer, Mark Turner, explained: “Carbon emissions are unavoidable when it comes to organising and hosting large events such as conferences and we hope that this new scheme will give people the chance to compensate for the environmental impact of their events.

“The way it works is simple: Organisers using the bureau to

make their bookings, who are interested in compensating for their carbon, will be asked to

as fitting solar panels and energy efficient boilers in local halls and schools and creating new

Mark Turner & Carol O Reilly

contribute £100 for a meeting with up to 100 delegates, ranging through to £1,000 for a big event with more than 800 guests.

“All the money will then be used to fund community projects in the Liverpool city region, such

woodlands,” he added.

Carol O’Reilly, Liverpool Convention Bureau Manager, commented: “We want everyone to recognise Liverpool as an exemplary destination and green credentials are a large part of our

appeal.

“The carbon compensation scheme we have launched with Foundation is a real first and something that we feel event organisers will appreciate. Whilst carbon offsetting is not a new concept, carbon compensating is a fresh way of responding and is evolving into a perfect way to encourage low carbon behaviours.

Through the Convention Bureau scheme event organisers and individual delegates can work out their own footprint and contribute to local community projects – it’s a great idea.”

Since its launch in April 2009, Foundation has awarded over £140,000 to eight projects across Merseyside and is on target to save 1668 tonnes of Co2 which is the equivalent of heating over 470 homes or powering the Mersey ferries for a year.

GREEN BOOST FOR LT PRINT GROUP AS BUSINESS ACHIEVES PRESTIGIOUS ACCREDITATION WIRRAL-based print firm LT Print Group has given its green credentials a massive boost after being awarded Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) status for its eco friendly services.

The prestigious FSC accreditation is only given to companies that can prove they comply with the highest social and environmental standards on the market. The FSC’s Forest Management and Chain of Custody certification allows consumers to identify, purchase and use timber and forest products produced only from well-managed forests.

LT Print managing director Bob McWilliams said: “We are very conscious that our production and business operations have an influence on the environment and have always been determined to make a positive difference wherever we can. The FSC accreditation for

our business is very important and we consider it a glowing endorsement to have. LT Print has had to fulfil strict criteria and everyone on the team has contributed. We are aiming to be the most environmentally friendly printer in the North West.”

We have a firm commitment to minimising the environmental and social impact of the print we produce and have, for many years, only used paper from well managed forests. This is also becoming increasingly important to clients who want to demonstrate their commitment to the environment. We can ensure an organisation’s print requirements are as green friendly as possible and that when ordering from LT Print Group they are dealing with a company that takes its environmental and corporate social responsibilities very seriously.”

Eco Environments works with Businesses, large and small, as well as architects, M&E consultants, developers, house builders and other contractors to help you choose the right renewable energy solutions or the integration of multiple solutions for your project, including: • • • • •

Solar Power Solar Thermal Wind Power Heat Pumps Energy Efficient Lighting

33164-3-11LCC Eco-Env.indd 1

Our head office is in Liverpool with a network of regional offices across the UK. Contact David Hunt on 0845 68 68 111 or email: david.hunt@eco-environments.co.uk www.eco-environments.co.uk

28/2/11 10:32:44

32 n cHARITY

JOSPICE EXPANSION PLAN FOR ANNIVERSARY YEAR Hospice charity, Jospice has embarked on a major project prior to its golden jubilee, launching a fundraising campaign to support expansion.

Pat Murphy, Jospice’s Director of Fundraising explained: “The centre in Thornton, consists of two buildings, one is used as a conference centre, along with a number of patient bedrooms on the second floor.

We aim to convert the conference centre to provide ten more patient beds. This will enable us to convert older bedrooms in to offices and staff rooms. This is part of a range of improvements such as upgrading existing bedrooms and replacing the heating system and windows, making project in excess of £1million in total, increasing the number of beds from 25 to 29 making it one of the biggest hospices in the UK.” Barry Bartlett, Director of Condy Lofthouse Architects has worked with Jospice in the past and is overseeing the redevelopment project, He said: “It is always a challenge working with in an existing building, it imposes constraints and raises issues that need rationalising.

Palliative care has specific unique needs and incorporating them is always a real challenge.

It is rewarding working so closely with Jospice to deliver and improve facilities for the benefit

33146-3-11LCC Local Sol1-2L.indd 1

of its patients”.

Pat explained: “We have used CLA in the past and found that Barry’s team were sensitive to patient and staff needs and that is very important for us, and they brought the job in on time and to budget. So we were delighted to use them again.”

The hospice was able to bid for money to fund the project from the Department of Health. An appeal for the remainder of the funds was launched in September 2010 by Vice President, Cherie Blair.

Pat continued: “We’ve already had good support from the business sector and nearly £900,000 has already been raised on top of our £2.5m annual running costs. We are pleased to have been nominated as charity of the year by Crosby Associates and several other businesses.

There are a lot of ways that business can support us even in a recession They can involve staff in one of many events, do a donate don’t dump day to collect for our charity shops or maybe a dress down day.”

25/2/11 14:23:40

CHARITY n 33

Teddies need a home...

Can you help us find a home?

We are very soft, cuddly and born at the Liverpool Women’s.

Volunteers Needed We’re recruiting Volunteers to assist with the running of the Fundraising Barrow. The barrow will be selling Liverpool Women’s merchandise. All the proceeds from the barrow will be going into the ‘Kitty’, the Liverpool Women’s Charity, reg. charity number 1048294 For further information about volunteering call the Volunteers Office on 0151 702 4368 Or for more information on Liverpool Women’s Charity contact Lisa Masters on 0151 702 4416 Email: lisa.masters@lwh.nhs.uk www.thekitty.org

33182-LCC LWH.indd 1

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Race for Life this summer Ladies! Regardless of your age, size or fitness level, join together this summer and step up to help beat cancer. With over 300 events taking place across the UK from May to July, there is sure to be one near you.

work? Form a Race for Life Group and encourage all the women you know to join in – from mums and daughters to friends and greatgrandmothers. You could even ask the Race for Life team to visit your workplace to host a ‘Sign Up’ event.

Men – we need you too!

Tesco and Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life 2011 is the UK’s largest women-only fundraising event. A unique celebration of sisterhood where thousands of women all round the country walk, jog or run 5k or 10k to raise money to help beat cancer.

So why not rally the girls at

Men have a fantastic opportunity to get involved, because it’s only with the support of volunteers that Race for Life happens. From getting everyone to the start line, to handing out medals at the finish – there are many ways for men to support the women in their life.

No matter what you do, take part in Race for Life this summer. Every penny raised goes towards Cancer Research UK’s groundbreaking work to help beat cancer.

Enter today at www.raceforlife.org or call 0871 641 1111*.

To ask the Race for Life team to hold a ‘Sign Up’ day at your office please email emily.clayton@cancer.org.uk *Calls provided by BT will be charged at up to 6p per minute. A Call Set-Up Fee of up to 6p per call applies to calls from residential lines. Mobile and other providers’ costs may vary.

8/3/11 10:32:02

34 n cHARITY ADVERTISING FEATURE

MOWLL Seeks, Invests, Achieves & Celebrates MOWLL is dedicated community cohesion and supports adults who have experienced exclusion from education, employment and from their communities.

In the past disabled people have not had their voices heard or opinions recognised and MOWLL seeks to create opportunities for this to happen through a person centred approach.

We provide: PACTT (Peer Advocacy Changing Things Together) is a user led group supported by MOWLL to provide positive support to each other, self advocates and the organisation. PACTT provides programme design and delivery; pastoral support; mobility and travel training; confidencebuilding; awareness-raising of rights and making information accessible.

Jigsaw is a modular programme that includes Community and Identity, Health & Well Being, Job

n NEW MEMBERS

33364-LCC MoWLL.indd 1

Skills, Personalisation, Circles of Support and Steps to Independence.

Disability Equality Training is delivered by Peer Advocates to university students undertaking degrees in health, education and social care. Training is currently provided to Liverpool, John Moores, Hope, Chester and Glyndwr Universities. Future practitioners and policy-makers learn first-hand the obstacles faced by people with learning disabilities and the potential they have to contribute to the improvement of health, education and social care services.

For further information: Contact Heidi on: h.kenworthy@liverpool.ac.uk Visit MOWLL on: www.mowll.net

2/3/11 11:41:39

New members to Liverpool Chamber May 2010 to March 2011 3GK Ltd.

Unit 5 Price Street Business Park, Park Street Birkenhead CH41 3PE T: 0151 6475380 enquiries@3gk.co.uk Mr Greg Kemp

A1 Healthcare

36 High Street Prescot L34 6HQ T: 0151 426 0077 toni.coates@a1nursing.co.uk www.a1nursing.co.uk Mr Toni Coates

Aldi Stores Ltd

74-75 St Johns Way St Johns Shopping Centre Liverpool L1 1LS T: 0151 709 5705 www.aldi.co.uk

Anaya’s Closet 62 Bold Street Liverpool L1 4EA T: 0151 709 4966

Balfour Beatty Capital

Cavendish House Cross Street Sale M33 7BU T: 0161 972 3064 emma.pooley@bbcap.co.uk www.bbcap.co.uk Ms Hannah Burchell

Baron Security

The Armoury Building BAe Estate, Hawarden Airfield Chester CH4 0GZ T: 01244 539 085 baronsecurity@fsmail.net www.baronsecurityltd.co.uk Mr Sean Pullen

Base Communications

Synergy House, Southern Gateway, Speke Boulevard Liverpool L24 9HZ T: 0845 873 7475 eddie@basecommunications.co.uk www.base-communications.co.uk Mr Eddie Douglas

Bravissimo

8 Bold Street, Liverpool L1 4DS T: 0151 702 8510 liverpool.shop@bravissimo.com www.bravissimo.com

Brew Tea Bar

25 Bold Street, Liverpool L1 4DN T: 0151 708 7987

British Judo Association

Suite B, Loughborough Technology Centre, Epinal Way Loughborough LE11 3GE T: 01509 631690 emma.daviescarolan@ britishjudo.org.uk www.britishjudo.org.uk Ms Emma Davies-Carolan

Building Consultancy Group 44 Canal Street Bootle L20 8QU T: 0151 324 1775

CLA

Unit 17 Connect Business Village 24 Derby Road Liverpool L5 9PR T: 0151 207 4371 info@condylofthouse.co.uk www.condylofthouse.co.uk Mr Barry Bartlett

Click Consult

Unit B1 Willow House Oaklands Office Park Hooton Road Wirral CH66 7NZ T: 0845 077 2959 phil.mottershead@ clickconsult.com www.clickconsult.com Mr Phil Mottershead

Computer Cab (Liverpool) Ltd

5 - 7 Falklands Street Liverpool L3 8HB T: 0151 298 2060 martin@merseycabs.co.uk www.merseycabs.co.uk Mr Martin Coyne

Construction Partnership UK Ltd

West Lancashire Investment Centre, Maple View White Moss Business Park Skelmersdale WN8 9TG T: 01695 553 780 www.constructionpartnership. co.uk

Crown Safety Management Services Ltd Hanover House 85 Hanover Street Liverpool L1 3DZ T: 0151 285 3824 info@csms.org.uk www.csms.org.uk Mr Mark Hinds

Cube3 Solutions Ltd

Silverwood Dibbinsdale Road Bromborough, Wirral CH63 0HJ T: 0151 343 1639 info@cube3solutions.com www.cube3solutions.com Mr Clive Unitt

D&A Global Logistics Ltd Orchard House 17 Summerwood Lane Halsall L39 8TH T: 01704 841775 dave.fisher@daglobal.co.uk www.daglobal.co.uk Mr David Fisher

diligenta

7th Floor, 101 Old Hall Street Liverpool L3 9BD T: 0151 328-2853 David.Berry@Diligenta-Ltd.co.uk Mr Robert O’Brien

Dolan Bikes

8 Old Boundary Way Ormskirk L39 2YW T: 01695 581166 terry.dolan@btconnect.com www.dolan-bikes.com

Dr Emmanuel Matan c/o MIG Consulting Royal Liver Building Pier Head Liverpool L3 1JH T: 0151 236 0200 dr.matan@matan.co.uk

Dr Hermans

84A Bold Street Liverpool L1 4HZ T: 0151 709 8392 drhermans@hotmail.co.uk

E M S Internet Ltd

Patten House, Moulders Lane Warrington WA1 2BA T: 01925413333 vicky@ems-internet.co.uk www.ems-internet.co.uk Ms Victoria Ireton

new members n 35

New members to Liverpool Chamber May 2010 to March 2011 Elixir Foundations Community Interest Company

High Performance Consultancy

The Bridgewater Complex Canal Street Bootle L20 8AH T: 0151 550 0062 info@elixirfoundations.co.uk www.elixirfoundations.co.uk Ms Jennifer Kelly

23 Seymour Street Liverpool L3 5PE T: 0844 800 5932 info@highperformance consultancy.com www.highperformance consultancy.com Miss Victoria Brown

Everything Everywhere

His & Hers

32 West Avenue Stockton Heath Warrington WA4 6HX T: 07956390644 danielle.morgan@ everythingeverywhere.com Ms Danielle Morgan

Final Demand

117 Queens Dock Commercial Centre, Norfolk St Liverpool L1 0BG T: 0151 283 6822 info@finaldemand.biz www.final.demand.biz Mr John Sumner

First Forensic Ltd

Unit 1, Winnington Hall Winnington Northwich CW8 4DU T: 01606 74810 admin@firstforensic.co.uk www.firstforensic.co.uk Mr Andrew Wade

Flanagan Cleaning Service 68, Delamore St Liverpool L4 3SX T: 0151 523 7949 Mr Terry Flanagan

Fulcrum Sales Ltd

7 Tanar Close Wirral CH63 9AN T: 07770 730072 Keith@fulcrumsales.co.uk www.fulcrumsales.co.uk Mr Keith Jack

Fusion21 Ltd

Building Skills Centre, Link Road Huyton L36 6AP T: 0151 481 3000 dave.neilson@fusion21.co.uk www.fusion21.co.uk Mr David Neilson

Graham Construction

Peter House Oxford Street Manchester M1 5AN T: 0161 209 3950

Green Knight Communications Ltd

Office 20, Space Solutions 39A Sefton Lane Industrial Estate Maghull Liverpool L31 8UX T: 0151 285 1214 info@gkcomms.co.uk Mr David Sutton

Hatters Hostel Ltd

56-60 Mount Pleasant Liverpool L3 5SH T: 0151 7095570 liverpool@hattersgroup.com www.hattersgroup.com Mr James Clancy

Hattons Solicitors

3 Victoria Square St. Helens WA10 1HQ T: 01744 744411 www.hattonslaw.com Mrs Tracey Parry

Apartment C308 3 Kenyon’s Steps Liverpool 1 Liverpool L13BH T: 01512365300 emma@eg-publishing.com Ms Emma Hill

Hopkins Coaching

The Cottage Willaston Mill Lane Neston CH64 1RN T: 0151 327 3845 jerry@hopkinscoaching.co.uk www.hopkinscoaching.co.uk Mr Jerry Hopkins

Hotfrog Marketing

67 Beckett Street Kirkdale, Liverpool L4 1QU T: 07866 455 330 phil@hotfrogmarketing.com www.hotfrogmarketing.com Mr Phil Newton

How2Evolve Ltd

Kingsley Associates

Horton House, Exchange Flags Liverpool L2 3PF T: 0151 244 5455 enquiries@kingsleyltd.com www.kingsleyltd.com

Larkins Freight

10 Crantock Close Liverpool L11 0BR T: 0151 291 7319 sales@larkinsfreight.com www.larkinsfreight.com Mr Gerard Heffey

Learning World Group Aspect House Aspect Business Park Bennerley Road Nottingham NG6 8WR T: 0115 973 9200 Mr Andy Sheppard

Little Red Vintage

74 Bold Street Liverpool L1 4HR T: 0151 703 6872 littleredvintage@gmail.com

Liverpool Business Marketing Online

12 Ling Street, Liverpool L72QF T: 07723050251 ian@liverpoolbusiness marketingonline.com www.liverpoolbusiness marketingonline.co.uk Mr Ian Malone

23 Lewis Walk, Kirkby Liverpool L334JD T: 07989 345 689 eric.jones@how2evolve.co.uk www.how2evolve.co.uk Mr Eric Jones

Liverpool Women’s Charity

HR Go Exectec Ltd

Logic Electrical Contractors and Consultants Ltd

Il Palazzo, 7 Water Street Liverpool L2 0RD T: 0845 5333 712 warren.bendle@hrgo.co.uk www.hrgoexectec.co.uk Mr Warren Bendle

Incendia Payment Solutions LTD

39 Seymour Terrace Seymour Street Liverpool L3 5PE T: 08451112345 customerservices@ incendiaprepaid.co.uk www.incendiaprepaid.co.uk Mr Mark Ashcroft

Institute of Infrared Thermography

Martland Mill, Mart Lane Burscough Ormskirk L40 0SD T: 01704 898 564 joan@infraredinstitute.co.uk www.infraredinstitute.co.uk Ms Joan Dunne

Jane Kennedy Training & Development Ltd

256 Score Lane Liverpool L16 5EQ T: 0151 722 4271 info@janekennedytraining.com www.janekennedytraining.com Ms Jane Kennedy

Jelf Manson Healthcare Kabel House 15 Quay St Manchester M3 3HN T: 0161 245 1263 Mr Steve Herbert

Crown Street, Liverpool L7 8SS T: 0151 702 4416 lisa.masters@lwh.nhs.uk Ms Lisa Masters

Unit 11B, Manor Complex Kirkby Bank Road, Kirkby Liverpool L33 7SY T: 0151 920 4111 info@logic-electrical.co.uk www.logic-electrical.co.uk Mr Peter Donaldson

Lombard Shipping & Forwarding Limited

Lombard Centre, Link Road Huyton Business Park Liverpool L36 6AP T: 0151 449 3535 info@lsfuk.com www.lsfuk.com Mr Frank Fox

Lunya

18-20 College Lane Liverpool One, Liverpool L1 3DS T: 0151 706 9770 peter@lunya.co.uk info@lunya.co.uk Mr Peter Kinsella

Majorline

19 Bold Street Liverpool L1 4DN T: 0151 708 0626 jordan@majorline.co.uk

Morgan Sindall (Construction)

1st floor, Building 2000 Vortex Court, Enterprise Way Liverpool L13 1FB T: 0151 230 5950 barry.roberts@morgansindall.com Mr Barry Roberts

Navis Marine Specialists Ltd

16 Elwyn Drive Liverpool L26 0UY T: 0151 291 7273 admin@navismarine specialists.com www.navismarinespecialists.com Mr Craig Brake

Network Rail

Government & Corporate Affairs, Kings Place 90 York Way London N1 N1 9AG T: 07801900328 Angela.King2@networkrail.co.uk www.networkrail.co.uk Mr David Lewy

NolanHughes HR Consulting

204 Wood Lane Hawarden Deeside CH5 3JF T: 07711798893 kathleenhughes@nhhrc.co.uk www.nhhrc.co.uk Mr Kathleen Hughes

One Vision Housing

Atlantic House Atlantic Park Dunnings Bridge Road Bootle BOOTLE L30 4TH T: 0300 365 1111 enquiries@ovh.org.uk www.ovh.org.uk Ms Tina Nettleton

Outreachsail CIC

8 Truro Road Liverpool L15 9HW T: 0151 475 0572 outreachsail@live.co.uk www.outreachsail.co.uk Mr Alan Wilson

PanoramicLiverpool.com 34 Floor West Tower Brook Street Liverpool L3 9PJ T: 0151 236 5534 info@panoramicliverpool.com Mr Oliver Hawthorne

Pendlewood Ltd

1+3 Gorsey Place Gillibrands Skelmersdale WN8 9UP T: 01695 557500 Mr Alan Pendlewood

Pilot

19 Bold Street Liverpool L1 1QR T: 0151 707 1463 www.pilotclothing.com

Pinnacle Tree & Landscape Solutions Ltd 2 Prescot Road St. Helens WA10 3UB T: 01744 610 555

Poundmart

Unit 45-49 Clayton Square Great Charlotte Street Liverpool L1 1QR T: 0151 703 0737

Progressive Creative Media

119 Benson Street Liverpool L1 2SS T: 07789206005 andrew@progressive creativemedia.com www.progressivecreative media.com Mr Andrew Gillooley

Republic

19-21 South John Liverpool L1 8BU T: 0151 707 6305 180@republic.co.uk

Richard Holden Flowers

15 Cleveland Square Liverpool L1 5BE T: 0151 706 0288 richolden@hotmail.com www.richardholdenflowers.co.uk Mr Richard Holden

Safety layne investments Ltd

77-81 Seaview Road Wallasey CH45 4LE T: 07973756237 frank@fwbx.co.uk 77-81 Seaview Road Mr Frank Brennan

Sakinsu Ltd

15 Bold Street Liverpool L1 4DN T: 0151 708 0626 info@sakinsufishspa.co.uk www.sakinsufishspa.co.uk

Sakura

Walker House, Exchange Flags Liverpool L2 3YL T: 0787 200 8717 Ms Maria Toolan

Set2Let Ltd

3rd Floor, West Tower 10 Brook Street Liverpool L3 9PJ T: 0845 3669311 darren@set2let.com Mr Darren Owen

Shiverpool Tours Limited

131 Vauxhall Road Liverpool L3 6BN T: 0151 709 2030 info@shiverpool.co.uk www.shiverpool.co.uk Mr John Stone

Shiverpool Tours Limited

131 Vauxhall Road Liverpool L3 6BN T: 0151 709 2030 info@shiverpool.co.uk www.shiverpool.co.uk Ms Judy McLean

Smith Law and Shepherds IFA Ltd

Lyndene House Melling Road Hornby Lancaster LA2 8LG T: 015242 22409 psmith@slsfs.co.uk Mr Peter Smith

Social Media POW

IMAP Centre Sandown Road Wavertree LIVERPOOL L15 T: 08448 875 3387 mark.paddock@ socialmediapow.com www.socialmediapow.com Mr Mark Paddock

South Liverpool Recycling Ltd

Venture Point Business Park Evans Road, Speke Liverpool L24 9PB T: 01514860664 enquires@southliverpool recyclingltd.co.uk www.southliverpool recycling.co.uk Ms Liz Rimmer

Liverpool Marina

A great place to relax

Liverpool Marina Bar & Grill | Harbourside Marina Plc Coburg Wharf | Sefton Street | Liverpool L3 4BP

0151 707 6777 marketing@liverpoolmarina.com www.liverpoolmarina.com Special offer for all our customers

March & April 2011 2 Main Meals

& Bottle of Wine for:

ÂŁ20

Liverpool Marina Bar & Grill, Harbourside Marina Plc, Coburg Wharf, Sefton Street, Liverpool L3 4BP Tel: 0151 707 6777