Platinum Business Magazine - issue 113

platinum ISSUE 113 SEPTEMBER 2023

THE LARGEST CIRCULATION REGIONAL BUSINESS PUBLICATION IN THE UK

The IoD joins forces with Platinum

MOTORING

The biggest beast in the car park

TRAVEL

Why multiples matter in business valuations

DINING

Rows & Vine at Ridgeview

When in Italy…

DALE VINCE OBE ELECTRIC PLANES ON THE HORIZON

SURREY BUSINESS AWARDS 2023

JUDGING GETS UNDERWAY The judges for this year’s Surrey Business Awards are hard at work to whittle down a record number of entries into finalists.

Renowned for recognising and rewarding the very best businesses in the region, the Surrey Business Awards are highly coveted and seen as a mark of excellence within the business community.

The annual event, organised by Platinum Media Group, attracts hundreds of entries every year from businesses of all sizes and sectors.

The judging is a rigorous three-stage process including pre-scoring entries to determine a shortlist, interviews and a judges meeting where entries are discussed and evaluated in detail to decide the overall winners.

Winners will be announced at a sensational gala ceremony on October 17th at the G Live in Guildford.

Around 500 of the county’s business leaders, judges and VIPs are attending, giving guests the perfect opportunity to network with peers, celebrate with colleagues and find out those all-important results!

Stay tuned for the 2023 finalist announcement in next month’s issue!

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

MAGA ZINE

IN AI D O F

We were delighted that ❛❛ the award reflected the care

and effort that each member of our team delivers to go the extra mile for our customers to make each home truly special. We strongly believe in our team and delight in the successes that they have worked together to achieve as we grow

Antler Homes

Presented by actor and comedian, Hal Cruttenden

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Large Business of the Year Winner 2022

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SURREY’S BIGGEST AND BEST BUSINESS AWARDS T IC K E T S N OW O N S A L E

WWW.PLATINUMMEDIAGROUP.CO.UK £120 EACH OR £1100 FOR A TABLE OF 10 Ticket price includes a champagne reception, three-course meal as well as entertainment and networking opportunities Dress code is black tie It is an incredible achievement and fantastic recognition for all our hard work and passion for a business that means so much to us.

We are starting out on our journey and this award will give us the rocket fuel that we need to take our product global

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“Advice.

Good in good times.

Better in bad.”

Smart advice to help you make the right decisions for your financial future.

Call our Gatwick office to arrange a free introductory meeting with Paul Cannons.

Call 01293 661323 or email paul.cannons@brewin.co.uk brewin.co.uk/gatwick

The value of investments can fall and you may get back less than you invested.

RBC Brewin Dolphin is a trading name of Brewin Dolphin Limited. Brewin Dolphin Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register reference number 124444) and regulated in Jersey by the Financial Services Commission. Registered Office; 12 Smithfield Street, London, EC1A 9BD. Registered in England and Wales company number: 2135876. VAT number: GB 690 8994 69

CONT ENTS 18 BIG STORY

FOOD & DRINK

66 The Rows & Vine A review of the fabulous restaurant at the Ridgeview Wine Estate

18 Dale Vince The green industrialist who may be about to become an aviation industry disruptor with plans for electricpowered aeroplanes

68 Ridgeview’s finest Platinum looks across the awardwinning range of sparking wines from one of the world’s best vineyards

NEWS

8 Local and international news A round of the important business stories in Sussex and around the world

EVENTS

2 Surrey Business Awards Judging is well under way for Surrey’s premier business awards 12 The Platinum Club Now in its 15th year, and still going strong 24 Sussex Tech Week 2024 More details about a major new tech-based conference in Brighton 48 Sussex Business Awards Deadline for entries is closing fast.

Have you entered?

M60i

nt id p, will dns,

trying to climb over the car in front.

If that’s your thing, then stick it all in Sport Plus and hang on. You also have a huge panoramic glass roof, matrix LED lights, air suspension, parking cameras everywhere, and heated and chilled front seats.

nd ss d, ly r’s dly s. an he

The BMW iDrive 8 software is more complex than ever but a tad more accessible, if you pay attention.

is nd at ot

S E P T E M B E R 2023 • ISSUE 113

This is a true seven-seater, and all seats are fully electric so no strain required to make any of the combination of seats arrangements. The rear tail gate splits in two, much like the original Range Rover. This is a great arrangement as it gives you somewhere to sit whilst sorting the kids/ dog/dirty boots. And l didn’t know l ever needed them, but l quite like the heated and cooled cup holders.

52 Plumpton Racecourse The national hunt season starts on September 24th. SeeTECH you there!

STUFF The engine can be described as monstrous. The exhaust note is full of grunt and in Sport Plus, it will do things that a 2.8 ton car should not be able to do, and thanks to the active roll stabilisation system, differential and xDrive all-wheel drive system, this great mass sticks to the tarmac with minimal corner roll.

MODEL TESTED: BMW X7 M60i xDrive POWER: 523bhp SPEED: 0-62 4.7 seconds TOP: 155 mph ECONOMY: 21.9 mpg PRICE FROM: £83,295 - £104,450 AS TESTED: £115,615.00

Of course, if you love the car then you don’t really need the earthshattering performance of the M model as there are entry level 40i petrol and diesel models available from around £80,000.

70 IoD Surrey Catching up with the work of IoD Surrey, and a look forward to some of their members’ events Once you fully trust the car, you can throw it into corners that logic – and physics – say you should certainly not be able to. The 23-inch wheels are the largest ever fitted to a production BMW, and they absorb just about everything the appalling UK roads can throw at it.

The elephant in the room of course is the sheer size of this beast. It’s not surprising that the majority (75%) of the sales are in the US, China and Korea as it really is too lardy for the UK roads.

Parking is an issue as it will overhang every parking space, and travelling down small side roads caused me to bring the wing mirrors in sharpish and hold my breath.

OPINION

The mass also reflects in the economy as, with around 21 mpg, it is not exactly frugal and l am pretty sure that with my leaden right foot, l didn’t even get close to that figure – but l was smiling every time l filled it up. For those interested, it is fully ULEZ compliant.

BUSINESS

14 Gatwick Airport Internationally, new long-haul routes; domestically, helping tackle hygiene poverty 28 MHA The importance, commercially and environmentally, of going green 34 Focus Consulting Twenty-five years of putting the client first 44 Surrey Research Park Futura’s pioneering work receives FDA approval 46 Education & Skills Partnership MOTORING Empowering employees with employer-sponsored training 56 MDHUB MDHUB members going the extra mile for charitable causes 60 Let’s Do Business Funding doesn’t stop with start-ups 63 Cleankill Squirrels – cute and furry garden animals or a menace?

In summary, this is an astonishing piece of world-class engineering with a superb interior, more performance that you could ever need in daily driving, a real world seven-seater and a joyous place to sit but like me, it is a dinosaur having its last hurrah before the Eco Brigade force us all into anonymous, soulless little electric boxes.

I, for one, will mourn the day we no longer have ‘real’ cars in our lives but then l guess that’s what the old timers said about the horse and cart!

64 Anger Management Maarten Hoffmann is concerned about the creeping AI technology

MOTORING

74 BMW X7 M60i Maarten is very impressed with this 2.7 tonne piece of high-speed machinery

PLATINUM

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PLATINUM MEDIA GROUP

FINANCE

30 EMC Why multiples matter in business valuations 33 Azets The benefits of the Cloud in accounting technology 36 Kreston Reeves Business borrowing amid rising interest rates 43 Haines Watts How to incentivise your team

LEGAL

38 DMH Stallard Globalisation – working without international borders 40 DMH Stallard commentary Alternative exits for business owners 50 Mayo Wynne Baxter Fixed recoverable costs to be introduced 54 Loch Associates Are government reforms of noncompete clauses good or bad?

INNOVATION

58 Sussex Innovation Grant funding – which, why, when and how?

TRAVEL

72 Visit Milan Tess de Klerk on the city that’s a fusion of history, fashion and culinary excellence

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All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit. Surrey Business Magazine is owned and published by Platinum Media Group Limited.

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WELCOME

WELCOME Welcome to the September issue of your favourite magazine, and whilst you were all away sunning yourselves, the Platinum Team has been hard at it putting together a great issue, stuffed with news, views and opinion.

The most important new event in the South East calendar is the Sussex Tech Week, to be held in Brighton in March 2024. This event will cover the waterfront of the tech sector, organised by Wired Sussex and powered

by Platinum Media Group. Three thousand people a day are expected, culminating in the first ever Wired Sussex Tech Awards.

Our Dynamic Big Story profiles Helen Dickinson OBE, the CEO of the British Retail Consortium whilst Platinum chats with Dale Vince OBE, the founder of Ecotricity – and what could be the first viable electric plane.

Jonathan Grant from DMH Stallard presents his new column, and this month discusses alternative exit routes out of your business; EMC explains why multiples really matter in your business valuation and Focus Consulting explains why it has spent 25 years putting the client first.

This month, Platinum has teamed up with the Institute of Directors and the first of many features on their extensive work with more news to come; and Pam Loch asks if the new non-compete clauses are good or bad.

Accountancy firm MHA explains that corporate sustainability should not come at the cost of profitability and Plumpton Racecourse prepares for the new season.

Maarten reviews the biggest beast in the car park, and Tess got busy in Milan, and then investigated medical spas.

We have been busy, now it’s your turn.

The Platinum Team CONTACTS PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Maarten Hoffmann maarten@platinummediagroup.co.uk COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR: Lesley Alcock lesley@platinummediagroup.co.uk EVENTS DIRECTOR: Fiona Graves fiona@platinummediagroup.co.uk EVENTS MANAGER: Žaneta Bealing zaneta@platinummediagroup.co.uk TR AVEL EDITOR: Tess de Klerk tess@platinummediagroup.co.uk PL ATINUM MOTORING EDITOR: Maarten Hoffmann maarten@platinummediagroup.co.uk DYNAMIC MOTORING EDITOR: Fiona Shafer fionas@platinummediagroup.co.uk HEAD OF DESIGN: Michelle Shakesby design@platinummediagroup.co.uk SUB EDITOR: Alan Wares alan@platinummediagroup.co.uk

W W W.PL ATINUMME DIAGROUP.CO.UK

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BREWER SELLS OFF ITS RUSSIAN BUSINESS Giant Dutch brewer Heineken has finally sold off its Russian business for €1 - or 86p - almost 18 months after first pledging to do so. It said it will take a loss of €300m on the division, which is being offloaded to Russia’s Arnest, which makes aerosol cans. Many Western firms jettisoned their Russian operations when the country invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Heineken’s Dolf van den Brink said: “It took much longer than we had hoped.” The chief executive and chairman added: “This transaction secures the livelihoods of our employees and allows us to exit the country in a responsible manner.”

NEWS BULLETIN NEW LAWS FOR ONLINE TECH GIANTS Some of the world’s biggest tech organisations are now obliged to comply with the Digital Services Act (DSA), a new piece of EU legislation, or face big fines. Nineteen major platforms face the most stringent rules including having plans in place to protect children and stop election interference.

The DSA became law on November 16th last year. However, firms were given time to make sure their systems complied. On April 25th the EU named the 19 very large online platforms that would be subject to the toughest rules. They were given four months to comply with the act’s rules, while smaller tech services will need to comply next year. Breaches could lead to a fine of 6% of turnover, and potentially suspension of the service.

EX-PRESIDENT WITH ‘NEVER SURRENDER’ SLOGAN SURRENDERS President Donald Trump* has posted on X (formerly Twitter) of his intention to ‘Never Surrender’, despite surrendering himself to Georgia state prosecutors. Trump is one of 19 co-defendants alleged to have conspired to overturn the Georgia result in the 2020 US Presidential Elections, an election he ultimately lost to President Joe Biden. Trump is facing 13 separate counts in Georgia, including a racketeering charge and several fraud and false statement counts. Although he is a billionaire, he hasn’t offered to contribute to the legal defence costs of the people charged alongside him. * All living US ex-Presidents retain the title ‘President’ for life

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NEWS

❛❛ You know you’ve reached

middle age when you’re cautioned to slow down by your doctor, instead of by the police ❜❜ Joan Rivers

LITTLE RESPITE FOR ENERGY CUSTOMERS

An average energy bill for a typical household will fall to £1,923 from October 1st under regulator Ofgem’s new price cap.

The maximum price of each unit of gas and electricity for 29 million households in England, Wales and Scotland is governed by the decision.

Bills will be on average £151 lower than current rates and £577 down on last winter. However, reduced government support and higher fixed costs mean many will see little difference in what they pay.

Ofgem chief executive Jonathan Brearley said: “We know people are struggling with the wider cost of living challenges and I can’t offer any certainty that things will ease this winter.”

WILKO STILL LOOKING FOR A BUYER The administrators of Wilko - the high street retailer who filed for administration at the beginning of August - has said jobs look set to go and stores will close after it failed to find a buyer for the whole business.

However, PwC said parts of the group could still be bought, although 12,500 jobs and its 400 stores are at risk.

PwC is looking for a buyer for all or part of the business. In a statement, a spokesperson said: “While discussions continue with those interested in buying parts of the business, it’s clear that the nature of this interest is not focused on the whole group.

“It is therefore likely that there will be redundancies and store closures and it has been necessary to update employee representatives.”

❛❛ I saw a study that said speaking in front of a crowd

is considered the number one fear of the average person.

Number two was death. This means to the average person, if you have to be at a funeral, you would rather be in the casket than doing the eulogy ❜❜ Jerry Seinfeld

LANDLORDS IN THE SPOTLIGHT The private rental market is to be investigated after the UK’s competition authority found a “significant minority” of landlords violating tenants’ rights.

The Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) will focus on things such as “sham licences”, which make evictions easier. The CMA will also examine discrimination, such as landlords who ban benefit claimants. It said it will take action if needed.

In July 2020, a judge ruled that blanket bans on renting properties to benefit claimants are unlawful and discriminatory, breaking the 2010 Equality Act on grounds of sex and disability. Landlords cannot ban people with children from properties as the ban was found to disproportionately affect women.

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FINANCE

SUMMER ECONOMY WORTH HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS TO CITY New research from Three Business reveals the huge contribution that the summer economy makes to Brighton.

The research shows coastal SMEs in Brighton contribute £379 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the local economy and are part of the wider summer economy, worth £3.15bn in GVA to the UK. Peak months from June to August, despite a poor summer weather-wise, support over 600 local businesses and 15,000 jobs across the city. Of the businesses surveyed, nearly three quarters (70%) say their area has become more popular with tourists since the pandemic and the same amount (70%) believe their business has benefitted from increased holiday-maker numbers.

LOCAL NEWS WORTHING BID DIRECTOR RESIGNS Kelly Davies, Director of Worthing Business Improvement District (BID) has resigned just five months after accepting her new role.

Mrs Davies was appointed in March 2023 ‘to build on the successes already achieved’ and ‘help it continue to grow’. She replaced Sharon Clarke, who had been the town centre manager for 20 years.

very best for the future.”

Board chairman Samantha Whittington only said that, “Mrs Davies decided to move on” and that “the organisation will be recruiting in due course.”

The official statement read, “With regret, the board of directors of Worthing BID announce that Kelly Davies has resigned as CEO of the organisation. The board thank her for all her efforts and wish her the

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LOCH ASSOCIATES ACQUIRES SIGHTSCREEN HR Loch Associates Group, the South East’s leading multi-service law and HR business, has acquired Kent-based Sightscreen, an HR, training and coaching specialist operating across the South East.

The announcement follows the group’s plans to grow its rapidly expanding HR business after witnessing continued growth and doubling turnover and its team over the past three years. The acquisition of Sightscreen HR, owned by human resource specialist and Managing Director Ben Holt, is expected to increase its turnover by 20%.

Pam Loch, Solicitor and Managing Director of Loch Associates Group, said: “The acquisition of Sightscreen will further enhance the HR, training and wellbeing services we deliver alongside our existing legal services through our expert teams.

❛❛ I love being married.

It’s so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life ❜❜ Rita Rudner

NEWS

❛❛ Before you marry a person,

you should first make them use a computer with slow Internet to see who they really are ❜❜ Will Ferrell

TOP SUSSEX FAMILY SOLICITORS Online magazine Business Today has turned its lens on a select group of lawyers it believes are making significant strides, winning plaudits, and setting high standards in the legal field.

Here is their list of the top 10 most influential matrimonial solicitors in Sussex.

1 Alex Funnell: Family Law Solicitor, Hart Reade Solicitors 2J oanna Potbury: Senior Associate, DMH Stallard 3 Susan M Hayes: Head of the Family Law department, Griffith Smith 4 Zoë Summers: Consultant Solicitor, Family Law Partners 5 Susan Knight: Head of the family department, Coole Bevis 6 Mahie Abey: Leader in the family department, Dawson Hart 7L inda Lamb: founder, LSL Family Law 8C hristopher Maulkin: Senior associate at Family Law Partners 9C aroline Bourn: Specialist family solicitor, Dawson Hart 10 Helen Fitzsimons: Specialist in children’s law, Helen Fitzsimons Family Law

FEARS OF A27 DISRUPTION Building contractor, the Buckingham Group, has filed notice to appoint administrators after announcing escalating contract losses and a sharp reduction in liquidity. All parties are now involved in talks to ensure that the A27 roadworks at Lancing are completed without delay.

The Buckingham Group said the company has faced deep losses and interim cash deficits on a number of its contracts.

National Highways, which is leading the project on the land sold by Brighton & Hove Albion, said: “We are aware of the current situation with regards to Buckingham Group Contracting. We are working with the developer to find a solution to complete the works.”

❛❛ Insomnia sharpens your

math skills because you spend all night calculating how much sleep you’ll get if you’re able to fall asleep right now ❜❜ Anonymous

PUBLIC INVITED TO ANNUAL GRAPE HARVEST Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens is inviting members of the public to its free grape-picking event in October. The vineyard at Lower Beeding is predicting a bumper 2023 harvest for its Sussex wine. Visitors can spend a morning immersed in the winemaking process by hand-harvesting grapes straight from the vineyard.

The upward trajectory of English wines is well established and with participants being offered fresh pastries and tea or coffee to provide fuel for the day ahead, Leonardslee, in the heart of England’s premier wine-producing region – Sussex – is very much a part of that.

Guests will also be able to learn about wine-making processes, and after a day’s hard graft, can relax and refuel with the local produce. www.leonardsleelakesandgardens.co.uk www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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★★★★★ THE PLATINUM CLUB IS A REALLY WELL ORGANISED NETWORKING GROUP, ❛❛WITH THE HOSTS HELPING TO FACILITATE TO ENSURE WE ALWAYS MAKE USEFUL, NEW CONTACTS AT EACH EVENT ❜❜ LLOYDS BANK

The Platinum Club is now in its 15th year and remains the pre-eminent networking forum in Sussex.

The Club launched based on no seated meals, no sponsors and no speeches - rather, an elegant but informal cocktail party with delicious hand-made canapés and Platinum hosts making relevant introductions throughout the evening and all in the luxurious surroundings of the Grand Hotel, Brighton.

CURRENT PLATINUM CLUB MEMBERS INCLUDE

INNOVAI ION

&API I AL

TO APPLY PLEASE EMAIL info@platinummediagroup.co.uk

★★★★★ ALL BUSINESS IS BASED ON RELATIONSHIPS AND PLATINUM GIVES YOU THE ❛❛ PLATFORM TO CREATE THE MEANINGFUL HUMAN CONNECTIONS THAT MATTER ❜❜ BAILEY AND FRENCH

Barry Carden, Partner, Galloways; Nigel Lambe, CEO, Sussex Innovation; Neil Laughton, CEO, Laughton & Co; Rob Clare, Director, Innovation Capital Team

Donna Holland, CEO, Rockinghorse Children’s Charity; Maarten Hoffmann, Managing Director, Platinum Media Group; Senda Kavindele, Senior Partner, KPMG

Lesley Alcock, Commercial Director, Platinum Media Group; Dr Adam Jones, Principal Lecturer, University of Brighton; Colin Laidlaw, VAT Director, Kreston Reeves

David Boosey, Partner, MHA MacIntyre Hudson

John O’Connor, General Manager, Watches of Switzerland; Maarten Hoffmann, MD, Platinum Media Group; Jonathan Grant, Partner, DMH Stallard LLP; Neil Kester, Financial Reporting Director, RSM UK

Maarten Hoffmann, Managing Director at Platinum Media Group; Kirsty Sadler, Regional Director at Lloyds Bank

The Platinum Club is membership only and we are now releasing more memberships.

Membership is available to senior business leaders, Directors, Managing Directors, CEOs of companies large and small. We accept four members per sector and many of them have been full and closed for the past 10 years.

★★★★★ WE SEE THE PLATINUM CLUB AS AN IMPORTANT AND ❛❛ INTEGRAL PART OF OUR BRAND AWARENESS STRATEGY, THROUGH INTERACTIONS WITH WELL CONNECTED BUSINESS PEOPLE AND OTHER INFLUENCERS. IT IS WELCOMING AND GREAT FUN TOO! MATTIOLI WOODS

❜❜

BUSINESS

London’s second airport is steadily increasing the number of its destination routes, coming close to returning to pre-pandemic levels

London Gatwick announces 50th long-haul route Passengers at London Gatwick can now fly to a choice of 50 long-haul destinations, after the airport announced it has landed a new Ethiopian Airlines service to Addis Ababa.

Ethiopian capital since 2006. It is also the latest of several new long-haul services to start before the end of the year, with the airport now offering more than 80% of its pre-Covid long-haul routes.

The airport has already welcomed new routes to key markets such as China, India, the USA and Middle East this year, and is now able to provide further opportunities for trade across Africa

London Gatwick - and the whole aviation sector – has had a particularly tough few years following the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, but the airport has recently reached a significant milestone as it continues to build back.

The new route will operate three times per week from November 21st and will be Gatwick’s first direct flight to the

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BUSINESS

❛❛ The new route… will be Gatwick’s first direct flight to the Ethiopian capital since 2006 ❜❜ Following Norse Atlantic launching five new US routes from London Gatwick earlier this year, the airline is due to start operating to Miami and Boston in September, before adding Montego Bay and Bridgetown in October.

British Airways will start flying between London Gatwick and Accra, Ghana in October, following new flights to Las Vegas and Vancouver earlier this year.

Air Mauritius is also due to take off in October, with daily flights to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport.

London Gatwick’s long-haul destinations now span the USA, Canada, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer, London Gatwick said: “Returning to 50 long-haul routes is a milestone moment for London Gatwick. While we’re delighted to offer passengers such an expansive range of short-haul routes across Europe, we’re also proud to provide connections to an increasing range of destinations around the world.

“These services are vital not only for offering people across London and the South East an excellent choice of holiday locations, or for visiting family and friends, but also for supporting local and regional businesses. Whether that’s outbound trade or inbound tourism, growing London Gatwick’s long-haul network is crucial for economic opportunities across the region.

“We look forward to welcoming Ethiopian Airlines to London Gatwick. This is the latest in a number of carriers looking to operate long-haul routes from Gatwick, which further highlights the strong demand for slots at our airport.”

London Gatwick is investing in its longterm future and its planning application to bring the airport’s Northern Runway into regular use has recently been accepted for detailed examination by the Planning Inspectorate (PINS). This low-impact plan will improve resilience, reduce delays, and provide a significant boost to the national and regional economy by supporting trade, tourism and new jobs.

www.gatwickairport.com

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BUSINESS

London Gatwick has donated more than two tonnes of toiletries and hygiene products to local communities through a partnership with charity The Crawley and Horley Hygiene Bank.

London Gatwick helping to tackle hygiene poverty Since the partnership began earlier this year, 2.1 tonnes of toiletries have been donated. The items include unused and unopened hygiene products such as shower gels, deodorants and shampoo, which were left behind at security by passengers.

The Hygiene Bank brings communities and businesses together to tackle hygiene poverty by providing products to those who need a helping hand.

Through the partnership, The Hygiene Bank has been able to increase the number local community partners it supports by a third.

The products collected at London Gatwick support two local schools, three local food banks, one food club, Ten Little Toes baby bank and the Danny Gallivan Trust supporting homeless veterans.

Lauren McDaniel, Senior Commercial Operations Manager at London Gatwick said: “At London Gatwick, we are always looking for ways we can both reduce waste and support local communities.

“Our waste goal is to recover 100% of our operational, commercial and construction waste for beneficial use by 2030.”

(Beneficial use is defined as repair, reuse, donation, recycling, composting, or converting to fuel.)

“This scheme demonstrates our ongoing commitment to meeting our goals and using resources more sustainably. We are investing in local programmes and partnerships that build better communities, enable social mobility, improve health and wellbeing and support people.”

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Lorraine Tippett, volunteer and coordinator at The Crawley and Horley Hygiene Bank, said: “When money is tight, it is toiletries that disappear from the shopping basket first.

“You can imagine how your wellbeing would be affected should you not have deodorant or are unable to wash your

hair or clothes. It can affect confidence and reduce time spent with friends or colleagues.

“London Gatwick makes a huge difference to the people who benefit from our donations. Items such as deodorant, shampoo and toothpaste are like gold dust for us and we are very grateful.”

www.gatwickairport.com www.thehygienebank.com

❛❛ London Gatwick

makes a huge difference to the people who benefit from our donations ❜❜

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BIG STORY

As politicians of all nations and all political colours bicker over Net Zero, and how to enact the appropriate policies in time for their own deadlines, it’s refreshing to see someone who, while not currently in the party political sphere, actually doing something about achieving it.

Dale Vince OBE is a green energy industrialist, and founder of Ecotricity. As an industrialist, he needs to travel; as an environmentalist, he needs to work out how to do so in the least harmful way.

In July this year, Vince announced, through Ecotricity, plans to introduce a regular flight service using aircraft powered by electricity, which emit only water for exhaust.

Alan Wares looks into the background to this potentially huge breakthrough for the aviation industry.

The green

PILOT 18

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BIG STORY

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BIG STORY

❛❛ In 1991, Vince had his ‘Eureka!’ moment when he saw his first wind farm ❜❜

Dale Vince was born in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk on August 29th 1961. Leaving school at 15, he became a New Age traveller. When RAF Molesworth was chosen to become a base for the US Air Force’s mobile nuclear armed Ground Launched Cruise Missile in 1980, Vince joined in the occupation of the nuclear base in protest. He was also one of the New Age travellers at the infamous Battle of the Beanfield near Stonehenge in 1985.

ECOTRICITY

In 1991, Vince had his ‘Eureka!’ moment when saw his first wind farm. ”I thought, either I can carry on by myself with the windmill on my van, or I can get into the big stuff,” he later commented.

He founded the Renewable Energy Company in 1995 with a single wind turbine that he had used to power an old army truck that he had been living in on a hill near Stroud, Gloucestershire.

The company was later re-named Ecotricity.

Vince later went on to build commercial wind-monitoring equipment, which the company still does today, using the name Nexgen. Ecotricity itself started generating with a 40-metre turbine in 1996, which at the time was the largest in the country.

Before August 2013, Ecotricity ran a mix of fuels. The company’s proportion of renewable energy rose from 24% in 2007 to 51% in 2011 (compared with a national average of 7.9%), with plans for a further increase to 60% by 2012.

By 2013, Ecotricity’s power supply was 100% renewable. Today, Ecotricity specialises in selling green energy to consumers that it primarily generates

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from its 87.2 megawatt wind power portfolio. The company is built on the principle of heavily reinvesting its profit in building more of its own green energy generation.

By 2019, the company had over 200,000 customers, and a turnover of £193m.

Vince restructured the company and its subsidiaries in 2020, to create Green Britain Group Ltd. His net worth was last estimated at £107m.

Vince was appointed OBE in 2004 for Services to the Environment, and received an honorary degree from the University of Gloucestershire in 2013.

He has donated to both the Labour Par ty and the Green Par ty and endorsed politicians from both parties in general elections. He has also made donations to a number of environmental protest groups such as Greenpeace and Sea Shepherd Conservation Society.

UK WIND FARM MORATORIUM In 2013, then Prime Minister David Cameron introduced a moratorium on the construction of new onshore wind farms in the UK. The construction of offshore farms has continued apace around the UK’s shores, though no new turbines have been erected in the past ten years.

This moratorium has hampered Ecotricity – and every other electricity supply company – from extending its renewable energy portfolio further.

In the mini-budget of 2022, Liz Truss announced an end to the moratorium.

Her tenure in office, though, was brief, so when Rishi Sunak – no fan of renewable energy – took office, it was felt he would re -introduce the moratorium. However, he was persuaded by his party’s backbench and grassroots members to support Liz Truss’ decision.

aesthetics. As such, it will be even more difficult politically for local authorities than it was for the national government.

Additionally, “While public support for onshore wind has been growing, the capacity of the grid to take on onshore wind has completely been reduced,” said Pippa Heylings, a South Cambridgeshire local councillor, and deputy chair of the Local Government Association’s environment board. She was directly referring to a lack of infrastructure upgrades over the past few years as electricity needs have increased.

So not really a ringing endorsement from the government.

It came with one major caveat – that local planning authorities would choose whether turbines would be approved in their location.

Critics point out that approving onshore wind projects are controversial with some environmentalists and nature enthusiasts for their alleged effect on ecosystems and rural

❛❛ By 2019, the company had over

200,000 customers, and a turnover of £193m ❜❜

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BIG STORY ECOJET

In July 2023, Vince, announced the launch of Ecojet, the world’s first Electric Airline, powered by renewable energy. The move marks the beginning of an aviation revolution by making Net Zero, emission-free air travel possible for the first time.

Ecojet’s fleet will comprise conventio nal plan es retrof i t te d wi th hydrogen-electric powertrains. Once converted, the aircraft will operate with the same power output as before, but with a total eradication in CO2 emissions.

The decision to repurpose old planes rather than build new models from scratch will save 90,000 tonnes of carbon per year. The only byproduct will be water, which can be captured and released into the lower atmosphere to avoid the harmful effects of contrails.

The company’s intention is to set up a regular route from Southampton to Edinburgh in early 2024, expanding to Europe, with, eventually, long-haul flights being the ultimate goal.

FOREST GREEN ROVERS In 2010, Vince became a major shareholder of Forest Green Rovers FC, and three months later was appointed club chairman. In 2011, the sale of all red meat products was banned at the club’s ground, leaving only vegetarian options and free-range poultry and fish from sustainable stocks.

Vince introduced a number of different eco-friendly developments at the club including the installation of solar panels on its New Lawn home ground, the use of a solar-powered robot grass mower, and the creation of the world’s first organic football pitch. In October 2015, Forest Green became the world’s first all-vegan football club.

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In 2021, the team became the first in the world to play in a football kit made from a composite material consisting of recycled plastic and coffee grounds.

The United Nations has recognised Forest Green Rovers as the world’s first carbon-neutral football club and it was described

by FIFA as the “greenest team in the world”.

As a visitor to Forest Green Rovers in August 2022, I can attest that the vegan food is excellent, and their green credentials are well noted.

However, the elephant in the room is that the club’s ground just outside the village of Nailsworth, Gloucestershire is only accessible by road vehicle; the nearest railways station being 10 miles away in Stroud.

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On board, further radical steps will be taken to further reduce the impact of the aviation industr y, including serving plant-based meals, eliminating single-use plastic and issuing staff environmentally-friendly uniforms.

Aviation accounts for some 3% of global CO2 emissions, while overall contribution to the climate crisis is

❛❛ This could

be the genesis of something huge ❜❜

❛❛ The decision to

repurpose old planes rather than build new models from scratch will save 90,000 tonnes of carbon per year ❜❜

estimated at three times this level due to the altitude that fossil fuel pollution is released at. This negative impact on the planet will be hopefully removed for good when the viability of electric air travel is proven and electric planes are adopted by the aviation industry.

Ecojet claims that this is the first step in that process, estimated to be ten years ahead of the rest of the industry in the development of what Vince described as “the biggest revolution in the aviation industry since the invention of the jet engine”.

Short-term, to secure routes and a license from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Ecojet will initially launch using conventionally fuelled planes. Ecojet will launch with two different sizes of turboprop aircraft (a 19-seat aircraft and a 70-seat aircraft). These aircraft will be eventually retrofitted with the hydrogen-electric powertrains as they become approved for service by the CAA – the first retrofits will take place in 2025, one year after the commencement of flights.

Dale Vince says: “The question of how to create sustainable air travel has plagued the green movement for decades, Ecojet is by far the most significant step towards a solution to date. The desire to travel is deeply etched into the human spirit, and flights free of CO2 emissions, powered by renewable energy will allow us to explore our incredible world without harming it for the first time.”

In short, this could be the genesis of something huge, and the very thing the aviation industry has been looking for to mitigate its contribution to Net Zero.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

23

SUSSEX

TECH WEEK

MARCH 2024

CREATED BY

POWERED BY PLATINUM ME DIA GROUP

The Sussex Tech Week, which takes place in Brighton in March 2024, is the first part of a five-year catalyst programme to revitalise and encourage the tech sector across Sussex.

The UK tech sector is booming. New figures released by the government’s Digital Economy Council show that the industry grew by 1000% between 2010 and 2020.

It now has over 96 ‘unicorns’ (private companies valued at over £1bn), collectively worth £333bn, compared with just eight in 2010.

Last year, the UK became just the third country in the world to have a tech sector valued at £1 trillion, with more ‘unicorn’ billion-pound tech start-ups being created than Germany, France and Sweden combined.

During 2022, fast-growing UK tech companies raised near-record levels of funding at £24 billion.

The tech sector in Sussex was valued at £1 billion in 2021 and although it is growing at pace, there is little cohesion across the county and this leads to a stunted growth pattern and a lack of community and investment. It is this community that leads to a greater increase in creativity, increased investment with more visibility allowing venture capitalists and investors to understand what advances are being made in Sussex, greater collaboration and as a result, a greater increase in the sector’s value and output.

These products and services are then disseminated throughout the economy. There is no sector within the modern economy that technology does not touch and that does not rely upon the technology sector to improve quality, productivity, and/or profitability.

Technology ranks as the top industry accounting for the highest number of fastest-growing companies in the list (1,360 analysed). The technology industry accounts for an impressive 289 (21.3%) of the fastestgrowing companies in the study, with 188 of these being in Europe and 101 companies in the US. A thriving and fully supported tech sector also leads to greater employment in the region. There were 1.86 million UK jobs in the digital sector in October 2021 to September 2022, which was 5.5% of all jobs. Almost 95% of employers looking for tech talent have encountered a skills shortage over the past year. In a survey of 13,000 employers and workers in the UK, 1,400 of which were in tech, the recruitment and HR firm found 94% faced a lack of talent last year, up from 89% the year before.

It is expected that the UK tech industry will add 150,000 new jobs in 2024 and with increased support, recognition and cohesion for the Sussex tech sector, we can ensure that a good number of those new jobs come to the county.

The 2024 Sussex Tech Week will bring the community together as never before and attract visitors and exhibitors from around the country so that they might understand what Sussex has to offer and why this is the location for tech start-ups and investment.

EDUCATION n EMPLOYMENT n COMMUNITY n INVESTMENT FOR EVENT INFORMATION: INFO@WIREDSUSSEX.COM FOR SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION: INFO@PLATINUMMEDIAGROUP.CO.UK

SCHEDULE DAY 1

AI/ML, 5G + DATA GOVERNMENT/STRATEGY/ LEADERSHIP

MAIN TECH STAGE

DAY 2

GAMES, XR ENVIRONM TECH FOR G

SECOND STAGE

MAIN TECH STAGE

Introduction

Introduction

9am

How Gaming Has Paved The Way/The Evolution of Gaming

10am

Future of AI/ML

Tech Policy and Governance

10am

Tech Gaming’s Role in the Built Environment

11am

AI Innovations and Business Potential

Leadership in the Digital Era

11am

Virtual Production: Real-time 3D and Games Engines

12pm

AI Ethics and Policy Implications

Tech Strategy for Businesses

12pm

Challenges Facing Sussex’s Games Industry

9am

1pm 2pm

3pm

4pm

LUNCH BREAK Embracing 5G: Opportunites and Challenges

Public-Private Partnership in Tech

Big Data and AI Integration

Digital Ethics in Governance

5G, Data Privacy and Ethics

Leading Through Digital Transformation

1pm

LUNCH

2pm

Bridging Realities: XR and the Metaverse

3pm

Embracing the Metaverse: Productivity and Collaboration Tools

4pm

Augmenting Reality: How AR Overlays Data over the Real World

R & BUILT MENT GOOD

DAY 3

SECOND STAGE

ED TECH/ELEARNING, WEB3 & CYBER SECURITY HR, DIVERSITY + INCLUSION

MAIN TECH STAGE

SECOND STAGE

9am

Digital Transformation in Education

Building Inclusive Teams in Tech

Sustainable Tech Initiatives

10am

eLearning Innovations & Future of EdTech

HR Challenges in the Tech Sector

Eco-Friendly Revolutions in Tech

11am

What Does AI Mean for Learning?

Elevating Diversity in Tech Leadership

The Role of Tech in Climate Solutions

12pm

Teaching with Immersive Technology

Bridging the Tech Skills Gap

BREAK

1pm

Public-Private Partnership in Tech

2pm

Past the Hype: The State of Web3

Tech’s Role in Modern HR

3pm

How NFTs Can Help Creatives

Cultivating an Inclusive Tech Culture

4pm

Digital Ownership and Security: Protecting Digital Assets

Digital Ethics in Governance

Leading Through Digital Transformation

LUNCH BREAK

FOR EVENT INFORMATION: INFO@WIREDSUSSEX.COM FOR SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION: INFO@PLATINUMMEDIAGROUP.CO.UK

BUSINESS

When we talk about our clients’ sustainability, Net Zero and climate change, at MHA we also talk about ‘Purpose with Profit’. In short, says Mark Lumsdon-Taylor, Partner at MHA, we believe that corporate sustainability shouldn’t come at the cost of corporate profitability

GOING GREEN Many businesses are in scope to measure, report and take action to mitigate their GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions. The UK government has made it clear that its Net Zero ambitions will not be met by relying on large companies alone and that all businesses will need to play their part in achieving the Net Zero goal and the creation of a sustainable economy.

Conversely, today’s businesses face a myriad of challenges driven by various factors ranging from postCovid rebuilding to the far-reaching impacts on business and economies of the war in Ukraine. The rapid and unprecedented rise in the cost of doing business makes it very difficult for companies to transition, despite the climate emergency.

❛❛ While green initiatives do

come with a price tag attached if treated in the right way, they can add significant efficiency and value to the business ❜❜

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While green initiatives do come with a price tag attached if treated in the right way, they can add significant efficiency and value to the business, and these aspects often far outweigh the initial investment. It is important, despite the current economic context, that businesses look beyond the shortterm cost and take advantage of the opportunities that ‘going green’ can bring.

BUSINESS

When evaluating green finance options to install solar and renewable energy initiatives, the first questions from businesses often focus on the time and process required to pay off the investment. When looking at finance for green technology, it is vital to keep cashflow either neutral (at worst) or positive. After all, businesses will often be investing in green technology to save operating costs and improve their pull to customers and clients through their green credentials.

Specialist lenders will now consider the savings generated from installing green technologies and apply them to the overall assessment of affordability. This enables businesses to avoid having to increase cash flow as the savings will in most cases meet the payments to the lender. For most businesses, green funding in the UK is now available for up to seven years which has a huge impact on affordability.

❛❛ Businesses will often be investing in

green technology to save operating costs and improve their pull to customers and clients through their green credentials ❜❜ The Green Finance and Banking team helps our clients to meet their climate change ambitions through financesourcing, corporate advice, identifying ways to reduce overheads through green technology and renewable energy initiatives, building relationships with industry partners and providing all the necessary structures through specialised green finance solutions.

But the benefits don’t stop there.

Let’s say that your business has

embarked on its ESG and/or Net Zero journey, but needs finance to continue.

Beneficial financing can be taken into consideration the returns on the investment in terms of the savings the initiative will deliver to the business.

In addition, a properly identified investment will often deliver cost savings to the business that pays for, or more than pays for the interest on any loans related to it. That’s great for your business, and great for the planet too.

Its purpose with profit at its best.

Mark Lumsdon-Taylor, Partner at MHA www.mha.co.uk

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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FINANCE

We previously wrote about the importance of profits in business valuations, and this month we turn to another element – that of the ‘multiple’, writes Michael Pay of EMC Corporate Finance

Why multiples matter in business valuations One of the commonly used methods for company valuation by buyers is through the application of multiples. Multiples are ratios that compare a company’s financial metrics, such as earnings or revenue, to its enterprise or market value. In this article, we delve into the concept of multiples in company valuations and explore the various factors that impact these multiples.

THE CONCEPT OF MULTIPLES

Multiples are a cornerstone of financial analysis and much used in Mergers & Acquisitions to value target companies and as part of a bidding process.

Many people will have heard of the priceto-earnings (P/E) ratio as this is used when referring to publicly quoted companies’ share prices, but in private company sales the EBITDA multiple is the most commonly used.

The EBITDA, or, to use its full title, the Earnings Before Interest, corporation Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortisation,

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is used because it is considered to be the closest approximation to what a company can generate in ongoing cash flows.

Offers will often be phrased as a multiple of EBITDA – and currently typical ranges will be four to eight times, depending on a variety of factors.

So, an eight-times multiple will value a business at twice that of a fourtimes multiple. It is not hard to understand that along with improving your EBITDA, increasing your multiple can have a dramatic impact on the valuation of your business!

FINANCE

❛❛ Multiples are

ratios that compare a company’s financial metrics, such as earnings or revenue, to its enterprise or market value ❜❜

2

BUT WHAT CAN YOU DO TO INFLUENCE THE MULTIPLE?

Several factors influence the multiples assigned to a company, each contributing to its unique valuation.

Understanding these factors is crucial when selling (or buying) a business.

It allows you to prepare the business in the best way to attract a high multiple and to negotiate from a position of strength with interested parties, to maximise the multiple and therefore the value. Here are some key factors that impact multiples:

1

INDUSTRY AND SECTOR DYNAMICS: Companies within different industries or sectors often exhibit varying growth rates, risk profiles, and operational characteristics. These differences influence investor perceptions and expectations, resulting in divergent multiples. For example, technology companies may command higher EBITDA multiples due to their potential for rapid growth, while mature industries like utilities might have lower ones due to their stability but lower growth prospects.

GROWTH PROSPECTS: The expected future growth of a company plays a significant role in determining its multiples. Companies with strong growth potential tend to have higher multiples as buyers and investors are willing to pay a premium for anticipated future earnings. This is par ticularly evident in industries driven by innovation and emerging markets.

3

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE: A company’s historical and projected financial performance directly affects its multiples. Positive financial metrics, such as consistent revenue and earnings growth, can lead to higher multiples. Conversely, companies facing financial challenges or volatility may be assigned lower multiples.

4

PROFIT MARGINS: Profit margins reflect a company’s ability to convert revenue into earnings.

Companies with higher profit margins are often perceived as more efficient and are likely to command higher multiples. Profitability is a key indicator of a company’s competitiveness and sustainability.

5

RISK PROFILE: Investors assess the level of risk associated with a company before assigning multiples. Factors such as debt levels, operational risks, and market volatility impact the perceived riskiness of an investment. Companies with lower risk profiles generally receive higher multiples.

6

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE: A company’s competitive position within its industry affects its valuation multiples. Market leaders or companies with a unique competitive advantage may have higher multiples due to their ability to generate superior returns compared to their peers.

7

MACROECONOMIC CONDITIONS: Broader economic conditions and trends can impact investor sentiment and, subsequently, multiples. During periods of economic uncertainty or recession, multiples across industries may contract as investors become more risk-averse.

CONCLUSION

Multiples are a critical component of company valuations in Mergers and Acquisitions. Understanding what may influence your own multiple is equally important to the underlying performance in driving value and should be considered as part of your own decision making. Even a small tweak can give big returns – during negotiations on a recent transaction that we advised on we managed to squeeze a tiny one-quarter increase in the multiple, but that resulted in another £1m for the shareholder!

Michael Pay is co-founder of EMC Corporate Finance www.emcltd.co.uk

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

31

Rock

Role

There’s more to a Hurst education than academic excellence. Here, self-expression is positively encouraged.

Children are inspired to explore. Invaluable years in our nurturing, enriching environment in which all children thrive, blossom and grow. Prepared. For life.

Hurstpierpoint College

www.hppc.co.uk

C O - E D U C AT I O N A L D AY A N D B O A R D I N G S C H O O L F O R P U P I L S A G E D 4 - 1 8

FINANCE Paul New, Accounts & Business Advisory Services Partner at Azets, discusses the benefits of cloud accounting technology in viewing data as a business partner and key to driving business performance

Automation in accounting: data driven decisions Technology is faster, cheaper and easier to implement than ever before and as accountants and business advisors, at Azets, we know that ambitious businesses should be constantly looking at how it can help them power ahead.

To grow a business, business leaders need to understand where they are now, have the ability to review their business and use that information and reliable data to plot their plans for growth.

WHAT IS CLOUD ACCOUNTING?

Cloud accounting works in a similar way to desktop accounting software.

Instead of installing the software on your computer, cloud packages run on remote, secure servers which are accessed using the internet. Data is securely stored on the cloud, giving you instant access to real time information.

THE BENEFITS

n TIME SAVING Cloud accounting brings new working practices aimed at reducing the time associated with data inputting. Most cloud accounting solutions include features such as bank feeds that automate postings into the software from entries on your electronic bank statements and the ability to upload scanned images of receipts and supplier invoices. n FLEXIBILITY Multiple users can login to cloud accounting software at the same time, from different locations.

❛❛ Cloud accounting brings new

working practices aimed at reducing the time associated with data inputting ❜❜ n MORE INFORMED DECISION-MAKING Cloud accounting software means you can be confident that you have an up-to-date picture of your financial data – allowing you to make more informed decisions about your business operations. n ENHANCED DATA SECURITY Cloud accounting is more secure than traditional accounting methods as there is no requirement to transfer data between your business and your accountant and business advisor.

n REQUIRES MINIMAL IT SUPPORT Your cloud service provider will do much of the required IT maintenance, such as the backing up of your data and installing software updates. n COMPLIANCE Cloud accounting software can help ensure compliance with regulation such as Making Tax Digital (MTD) as we move along the timeline. Cloud accounting puts in processes to simplify procedures and ensure easier management.

For more information on how you can use technology to power up your business, please get in touch: hello@azets.co.uk or visit www.azets.co.uk

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

33

BUSINESS

Focus Consulting is a leading independent, professional building surveying, design and cost consultancy providing services to the property and construction industry, based in Brighton & Hove

25 YEARS OF ‘PUTTING THE CLIENT FIRST’ From Listed buildings to modern eco-homes, Focus Consulting has been providing quality in-depth advice combined with highly rated customer service to clients across London and the Southeast for a quarter of a century.

Founded in 1998 in Brighton & Hove, which remains home to the company’s head office, the company is proud to have maintained its ethos of quality personal service, enabling it to remain a flexible and adaptable partner to its longstanding clients, which include major utilities organisations, education establishments and public authorities, as well as commercial and residential property developers.

Managing Director Tony Hulejczuk remains at the helm as the company’s Senior Chartered Building Surveyor

❛❛ When we started

out, it was very much because I wanted to be my own boss; I’d always wanted to do the best for my clients ❜❜ Tony and the Focus Team L to R: Iain Staines, Zoe Volkes, Tony Hulejczuk, Paul Price, Will Fasanto, Iana Soares

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and attributes the company’s success to maintaining the mission he set out when starting the business of ‘doing the very best for our clients at all times’.

As the company celebrates its 25th Anniversary, Tony looks back at what has helped to drive the company’s success, its continued commitment to ongoing improvement and the new ideas and technology which are already underpinning the company’s ongoing growth plans for the future.

WHY DID YOU START FOCUS CONSULTING?

When we started out, it was very much because I wanted to be my own boss; I’d always wanted to do the best for my clients and I could see the way I wanted to advise and support them.

I’d been working in a corporate and as the company split up, I saw an oppor tunity to set up my own consultancy, to grow and develop my own team in order to ensure that we could always provide value to a client.

YOU MAINLY WORK ACROSS THE SOUTHEAST AND LONDON, SO WHY CHOOSE BRIGHTON & HOVE AS YOUR BASE?

I set up the company here because it is a great working environment with a fantastic network of people in the industry. Over the past 25 years I have got to know so many people and it is a pleasure to have been able to continue working with them.

It remains our home because being here, with such a strong team, has meant we’ve been able to maintain the strong values which have enabled our clients across the UK and Europe achieve high-value outcomes.

TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR SUCCESS?

Our success can be attributed to a firm commitment to quality and a keen understanding of our client’s requirements.

We have managed to retain our traditional personal service while adopting modern values. Whatever the project size, the highest standards of service are maintained using qualified RICS accredited professionals and the latest technology in conjunction with tried and tested practices and processes.

Brunswick Terrace, Hove seafront – detailed Schedule of Condition

❛❛ Our success can be attributed

to a firm commitment to quality and a keen understanding of our client’s requirements ❜❜ WHAT ARE YOUR KEY HIGHLIGHTS?

It’s a great mix – there are the clients and projects of which I am proud but also the huge amount of work we have done in the community and the monies we have raised for charity through our Golf Days as well as other events.

And of course, there are our big celebration anniversary events – I have great memories of our five and ten-year anniversary parties. I admit I am very much looking forward to our 25th Anniversary Party which has been in planning for some time now.

NOTABLE PROJECTS Throughout the company’s years of trading, Focus has had the opportunity to work on many iconic and recognisable buildings including: nT he Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn Estate n Tate Modern extension, London n Brighton’s seaside arches n Gatwick Airport service buildings and hangars n Tower 42 (The Nat West Tower), City of London n Dungeness Power Station, Kent n The Van Allen Building, Brighton n Chateau D’Acon, France

WHERE DO YOU SEE THE COMPANY GOING IN THE NEXT 25 YEARS?

I am in the fortunate position where I have an amazing team which has played a significant role in helping the business grow and mature over the past decades.

With a number of recent additions, I am lucky that I can have such confidence in the team, that I know the future success of the company isn’t just all on me as the MD. I know that they will be continuing to bring new ideas to the business, putting long-term plans in place and supporting Focus Consulting’s continued growth and success for the next 25 years at least!

ANY FINAL WORDS?

Here’s to the next 25 years!

The Dock Hub, Wilbury Villas, Brighton BN3 6AH T: 01273 723344 E: brighton@focuscs.co.uk www.focuscs.co.uk

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

35

FINANCE

As Rachel Emerson, Partner of Kreston Reeves notes the Bank of England has lifted the cost of borrowing 14 times in a row with its base rate hitting a near five-year high of 5.25%

Rising interest rates and business borrowing Sparked by bursting inflation rates not seen for over four decades, it has increased the cost of borrowing, adding further stresses for businesses.

Whilst inflation is expected to fall, the increased cost of borrowing is causing businesses concern. Business owners need to understand how rising interest rates will impact their ability to secure borrowing, how lenders are responding, and what impact default rate changes may have.

It will sound obvious, but business owners should always be aware of their current borrowing, when credit facilities expire, and what covenants are linked to

that borrowing. If further borrowing is required, acting early to gain certainty is often advisable.

At the same time, the need to understand borrowing covenants and the headroom in those covenants is vital. It should be remembered that a covenant’s purpose is to protect both the borrower and lender, set at a level that allows variance in the business performance over the term of the facility.

If forecasts suggest that those covenants might be broken, perhaps because of increased overheads such as higher wages, or exchange rate fluctuations, business owners should

take proactive steps and explain to lenders how the position will be resolved. That may require the renegotiation of current borrowing or seeking a capital repayment holiday.

Lenders have always stress-tested borrowers’ ability to cope with an increase in the base rate, but with base rate rises well above lenders’ expectations, any future increases are likely to force a rethink of those stress tests and the rates applied. That may well lead to a tightening of available credit, emphasising the need for businesses to look ahead and plan for future borrowing requirements.

Lenders, however, remain open for business. They will still expect to see a well-structured proposal backed up by balanced forecasts that set out best and worst-case scenarios. However, do expect lenders to seek a personal guarantee and possibly a charge over personal assets – something that does not always sit comfor tably with business owners.

❛❛ Business owners

should always be aware of their current borrowing ❜❜

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FINANCE

❛❛ With base rate rises

well above lenders’ expectations, any future increases are likely to force a rethink of those stress tests ❜❜ BOUNCE BACK LOANS AND CBILS – EXTEND THE TERM TO IMPROVE CASHFLOW

Many businesses will have a Bounce Back Loan with a repayment term of six years. There is a right to extend the loan term from six to ten years. With Bounce Back Loan rates fixed at 2.5%, compared to borrowing rates now exceeding 10%, this continues to look good value.

WHAT CAN BUSINESS OWNERS DO?

The increased cost of borrowing will have a detrimental impact on cashflow.

With many businesses already having increased prices and squeezed suppliers, what other options are open to them to ease cashflow in the short term?

Businesses may wish to consider the following: n Repayment holidays. Bounce Back Loans and CBILS include the option for a lending holiday and now might be the right time to explore the opportunity. All lenders should be receptive to considering requests for short term capital holidays including those offering asset finance facilities. n E xtend borrowing terms. Extending the loan term will reduce monthly repayments. Those with Bounce Back Loans have the right to extend from six to ten years, and those with a CBIL can request an extension.

See further detail below.

n Recovery Loan Scheme. The RLS is now in its third iteration and is designed to help businesses weather the uncertainties caused by the COVID pandemic and subsequent economic challenges.

Many businesses do not realise that it is still open for new borrowers. n VAT loans. VAT is often an issuing of timing, and specialist short term loans are available to meet and spread the cost of VAT bills. n Value in assets. Is there an opportunity to refinance plant and machinery where there is hidden value? n Value in debtors. Invoice financing is a type of finance that can release cash locked up in the balance sheet that can help ease cashflow demands.

Borrowers will of course pay more in interest by extending the term, but monthly repayments could fall by as much as 50% providing a boost to cash flow.

CBILS also offer the ability to extend the loan term from six to ten years but at the discretion of the lender. This extension is available if the borrower is in difficulty and the lender believes that the extension will help the borrower repay the loan. Businesses that wish to extend the loan term to ease cash flow will need to factor in additional interest paid.

Businesses are reminded to take independent advice before borrowing or making changes to their existing borrowing.

If you have any questions related to this update or would like further information or guidance, please contact Rachel Emmerson: Email: enquiries@krestonreeves.com Call: 0330 124 1399 Visit: www.krestonreeves.com

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37

LEGAL

By Alexei Zuyev, Senior Associate and Adam Williams, Partner, DMH Stallard

GLOBALISATION – working without international borders Globalisation and international recruitment are increasingly important in today’s business landscape. As labour markets tighten and free movement ends, employers are forced to face the challenge and harness the benefits of recruiting from overseas.

VISA SPONSORSHIP AS A SOLUTION

The changing labour market and the end of free movement have made immigration control a recurring issue in recruitment. To overcome this challenge, employers are considering visa sponsorship as a solution. However, they also need to consider the costs and compliance burdens associated with recruiting non-settled workers.

BENEFITS OF BECOMING A LICENSED SPONSOR

Becoming a sponsor can bring several benefits to UK-based operations.

The most obvious benefit is the ability to attract talented individuals from other countries; helping address skill shortages and filling difficult-torecruit positions. Sponsoring workers allows businesses to access a wider pool of talent and bring in individuals

Becoming a sponsor ❛❛ can bring several benefits to UK-based operations ❜❜

with specialised skills and expertise.

It provides demand-driven access to a global talent pool, where non-sponsors are dependent on a supply of workers who already have (or can obtain) the right to work in the UK for themselves.

A sponsor licence can also be a tool to help attract and retain talent within the UK. It provides potential employees (especially those on student or graduate visas) with a long-term career path in the UK, through the potential to switch to an employer-sponsored work visa.

Being a licensed sponsor also gives businesses a competitive advantage in the marketplace, showing their commitment to investing in and supporting their workforce.

Becoming a sponsor also has compliance and risk management benefits.

It requires businesses to meet certain compliance obligations and demonstrate systems to monitor and manage sponsored workers, which should increase diligence and reduce scope for issues, such as deficient rightto-work checks. This helps ensure compliance with the law and minimises the risk of non-compliance.

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FURTHER INFORMATION A recent DMH Stallard podcast on globalisation and the world of work is available at: dmhstallard.com/news-insights/ podcasts/globalisation-workingwithout-international-border The contributors include: Simon Bellm, Partner at DMH Stallard and an expert in public, private sector complex employee relations and structural change issues.

Adam Williams, DMH Stallard Partner and expert in business immigration and employment law.

Alexei Zuyev, Senior Associate at DMH Stallard who specialises in advising on UK immigration matters, with particular focus on work-related immigration routes, right to work and compliance.

The changing labour market and the end ❛❛ of free movement have made immigration control a recurring issue in recruitment ❜❜

Once a sponsor licence is in place, the process for securing a skilled worker visa for each migrant worker will be much quicker, with various fast-track options being available for the majority of the applications.

COMMON CHALLENGES ASSOCIATED WITH VISA SPONSORSHIP

ALTERNATIVE VISA SOLUTIONS

Before sponsoring a worker, employers must determine if the role is eligible for work-visa sponsorship. The role must meet minimum skills and salary thresholds. Cost is another important consideration. Sponsoring workers can be expensive, especially for longterm sponsorships where the employer will cover some or all of the costs of the employee and their family.

The timeline of the process is another crucial factor. Some employers require candidates to start within a short period. Without a sponsor licence, the process can take weeks to months to set up. While there are ways to expedite the process, these options are not always available and are rarely guaranteed to hit any internal deadline.

To apply for a sponsor licence, businesses need to analyse their needs, select the appropriate visa route(s), gather key documents, prepare a supporting letter, complete an online application form, identify key personnel, submit the application, respond to any requests for information or visits from UK Visas & Immigration, and await licence approval.

Another important consideration is the additional duties and risks associated with holding a sponsor licence. The Home Office expects licensed sponsors to have a higher degree of commitment to compliance with relevant laws and regulations and to actively assist and co-operate with it in its prevention of illegal working. Businesses need to ensure they have the capacity and relevant HR systems and/or external advice and support in place, to monitor compliance and fulfil obligations. Training of the key individuals responsible for managing the licence will be key.

While work-visa sponsorship is the principal option for employers, the sophisticated approach involves consideration of alternative routes which may be more suitable, or cost-effective for certain individuals. Youth mobility schemes, ancestral links to the UK, recognition as a leader in their field, sponsored internship schemes, and being a graduate of a particular course/ university are examples of how other routes may present themselves, often avoiding the need for direct employer-sponsorship. Therefore, support and expertise at an early stage of a recruitment process to identify possible alternative routes, that are more optimal, could pay dividends.

dmhstallard.com

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LEGAL

Corporate Commentary After a tough few years, many business owners are keen to move on with their lives. Sale or Private Equity (PE) can be the answer, but if your business is not in a “hot” sector, or the growth profile does not attract investors, what are the options?

Jonathan Grant Partner and Head of Corporate

ALTERNATIVE EXITS FOR BUSINESS OWNERS EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP TRUSTS (EOTS)

These are becoming increasingly popular, replacing the more traditional management buyout.

Two main reasons these are popular: (i) builds loyalty, giving employees a long-term ownership stake (through an employee trust). (ii) allows founder(s) to de-risk/exit, with zero rate Capital Gains Tax (CGT).

EOTs can use borrowed money, but are often financed with profits/cash reserves, combined with future profits (deferred consideration). A founder could sell 50% to an EOT, then if the business continues to grow, seek a full exit in due course. It is not certain though whether the currently attractive tax rate will survive an election.

The risk with an EOT is that it will often include an extended deferred consideration period; if the business slows down, or loses momentum, the company may be unable to pay. Whilst payment arrangements can be adjusted, this may be one reason for founders to retain a controlling interest, until they’re satisfied that the management team is ready to take the reins.

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MANAGEMENT BUYOUTS (MBOS)

These are financed by a founder selling some/all shares to a key leadership team, with the price paid from retained profits/ borrowing.

Founders will typically sell all/some shares, supported by bank debt, and sometimes a deferred payment.

Key managers are normally asked to invest personally (‘skin in the game’), with the rule of thumb being one year’s salary.

Sellers will receive CGT tax relief, through Business Asset Disposal Relief (10% first £1m, and 20% thereafter). So, MBOs may be less attractive than an EOT from a CGT perspective, but achieving CGT treatment

at these rates, remains much more attractive than the other options of extracting reserves from a business (as income).

In issues one and two of Corporate Commentary, I covered ‘Current Trends in the M&A Market’ and ‘Sale or PE? Which will Deliver Best Value? ’, respectively. Both can be found at: dmhstallard.com/news-insights If you would like to discuss any of these themes further, please get in touch Mobile: 07912 087173 E: Jonathan.Grant@dmhstallard.com

Our focus is you Outstanding legal advice for individuals, families and businesses.

For business We make it our business to know your business, working with you to add value and to deliver tailored legal services with energy and creativity whether you’re an established market leader or an ambitious start-up.

For you Your family’s security and wellbeing are your priority.

And we have the legal skills and knowledge to support your plans and the challenges life brings.

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Selling, buying or starting a business?

Call us on 0800 84 94 101 Offices across Sussex

www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

FINANCE

By Dan Morgan, Managing Partner, Haines Watts Esher

How to incentivise your team Business owners must ensure they are doing their bit to retain top talent, as well attract new potential employees in such a competitive employment market.

Different methods of incentivising can lead to more motivated and happier staff, who provide better work output to create high customer satisfaction.

Methods to incentivise can include:

FINANCIAL INCENTIVES

Share-option schemes involve awarding your employees equity with favourable tax terms. Employees who have a personal stake in the company are likely to feel more invested in the success of the company, creating a sense of loyalty as well as increased engagement.

There are different options to choose from, and those who choose to participate in such schemes can use this to build wealth over time and become closer to achieving their long-term financial goals.

Alternatively, there is the option of a bonus. This is any additional payments on-top of a regular salary as a reward for staff who meet or exceed specific performance goals, and allows for increased job satisfaction. Bonuses are immediate forms of gratification, which is often preferred by employees, rather than going down the long-winded route of shares and equity based incentives.

We also develop bonus schemes with clients that are linked to long term performance of the business, with

the schemes paying out periodically.

These are particularly popular for owner-managed businesses, where the owners do not wish for any non-family shareholders to be involved, with the bonus scheme enabling key employees to be rewarded for creating shareholder value.

There are benefits to rewarding through bonus over salary increases due to the flexibility. They can be given at any time.

They also help maintain cost levels as they are not permanent and can be based on both business and personal performance.

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Granting employees access to high level training courses and workshops will encourage them to develop new skills, which they can put to use at work, as well as to advance further in their own careers.

Having the ability to expand on their own knowledge will ensure that they feel invested in, and supported by the company.

LIFESTYLE

In a post-Covid world, flexible working has become invaluable to modern employees. Where possible, employees’ needs should be accommodated, whether that’s done by allowing a hybrid working system or managing time off. A positive impact on an employee’s work life balance can lead to increased happiness and motivation, making it easier for business owners to retain their employees.

Regular social events can build stronger relationships outside of a work setting, which will inevitably lead to better communication and understanding between colleagues. This will reduce the chances of unhappiness at work – making it a much more positive environment.

COMPANY VALUES

Reinforcing your company values often, and ensuring that they are understood by every member of the team is vital. This includes knowing what they are and how you work towards them. This creates groups of likeminded individuals, who work well together and have a clear purpose at work.

If you want to discuss your people strategy, get in touch. www.hwca.com/accountants-esher T: 020 8549 5137 E: esher@hwca.com

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BUSINESS

Research undertaken at Surrey Research Park has stood up to scrutiny as it becomes widely available across the USA

FUTURA’S PIONEERING RESEARCH RECEIVES FDA APPROVAL Fu tura Medical, an innovative pharmaceutical company based at Surrey Research Park in Guildford, is celebrating a huge milestone – its breakthrough erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment MED3000 has been granted US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Marketing Authorisation for over-thecounter sale.

A well-established UK research and development (R&D) firm, Futura Medical has an impressive portfolio of products based on its proprietary, transdermal DermaSys ® technology, designed to offer rapid and targeted local delivery of clinically proven effective treatments via the skin. The company’s two core markets are sexual health and pain.

Futura Medical’s lead product MED3000, which is currently being launched under the brand name Eroxon®, is a fast-acting topical gel clinically proven for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Eroxon® works by promoting sensory stimulation of the nerves on the head (glans) of the penis by rapid cooling and recovery warming, leading to rapid smooth muscle relaxation, vasodilation and erection.

Europe, so point of access is very important. With Eroxon®, you can pick it off the shelf and there are no questions attached. A lot of men with ED are too embarrassed to see a doctor. Therefore, for them – and their sexual partners – to be able to buy a treatment in a credible retail store or through its online website has a significant impact.”

CEO James Barder explains that it has the potential to be a highly differentiated product by addressing significant unmet needs in the ED market. “MED3000 has two key differentiators,” says James.

“The first is its speed of onset. It helps men get an erection within 10 minutes, whilst competitor treatments on the market, such as Viagra, typically take 30 to 60 minutes to have an effect.

Removing the need for pre-planning, it offers couples spontaneity and can form part of sexual foreplay.”

Eroxon®’s efficacy to treat mild, moderate and severe erectile dysfunction has been confirmed by two major clinical studies, conducted in Eastern Europe and the USA. Overall, 63% of consumers achieved MCID (minimal clinically important difference) – the outcome measure that would be noticeable to a patient and be of clinical relevance – at 12 weeks.

The second differentiator is MED3000’s recently-approved over-the-counter status. The treatment is available to purchase without the need for a doctor’s prescription, making it highly accessible. “The UK is an unusual market in that ED treatments can already be purchased over the counter,” continues James. “However, almost everywhere else in the world, these drugs remain prescription only. That’s certainly the case in America, as well as throughout

Working with its commercial partners, Futura Medical is poised for the longterm distribution of MED3000 across the globe. The rights to the product have been out-licensed in USA, Europe, the Middle East and Latin America to several companies. Whilst initial launches have commenced under the brand name Eroxon ®, with the product currently available in the UK and Belgium, further launches are planned for 2023 and beyond.

❛❛ Working with its commercial

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BUSINESS

Futura Medical is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year so MED3000’s FDA approval has come at the perfect time.

“It has taken us a number of years to develop MED3000, with our first clinical study starting in 2016,” says James.

“It’s a major achievement to get FDA approval, and a great testimony to our small in-house team of 14, who have worked very hard to deliver that. Eroxon® has experienced strong demand since launching and we only expect this to continue.”

Surrey Research Park has played, and continues to play, an important role in Futura Medical’s R&D innovations.

James explains that, in the past, the company took advantage of the lab facilities on site and collaborated with fellow tenants. He adds: “One of the things that originally attracted us to the Park was the location as it was close to where our team members lived.

Within the Surrey Technology Centre, we’re able to rent fully-serviced offices

❛❛ Surrey Research Park has played, and

continues to play, an important role in Futura Medical’s R&D innovation. In the past, the company took advantage of the lab facilities and collaborated with fellow tenants ❜❜ on a relatively short-term lease. We originally used one unit, but are now using three, and have shrunk it back depending on what’s going on, which has been convenient.”

Now the roll-out of MED3000 is firmly underway, what’s next for Futura Medical? Following the FDA approval, the company will be working to get the drug approved throughout the rest of the world. “We’re working on some other products in the sexual health and pain relief categories, but at the moment, our main focus will be on expanding the innovation pipeline around Eroxon ® which, in many markets, we are creating

a new over-the-counter category,” explains James. “It’s really a question of how we can drive that innovation, especially for our commercial partners, who are very interested in having line extensions and other products in the area.”

www.surrey-research-park.com www.futuramedical.com www.eroxon.co.uk

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BUSINESS If you wish to succeed in the dynamic and competitive environment that is the modern workforce, you will need something to give you an edge over your competition.

By Jason Hargreaves of the Education & Skills Partnership

Empowering employees with employer-sponsored training Employer-sponsored training – the development and skills training offered by an employer to their staff – has become an essential strategy for empowering employees and driving organisational growth. Are you getting the benefit of training in your organisation?

BENEFITS FOR EMPLOYEES

There is a multitude of benefits that employer-sponsored training adds value from an employee’s perspective, to name a few n Boosts your confidence in doing your job well n Higher job satisfaction n Able to tackle complex tasks with ease n Developing transferable skills n Climb the corporate ladder within your organisation

Training up employees benefits the employers as well by creating a skilled and engaged workforce.

When employees receive appropriate and comprehensive training, it allows them to gain confidence in their ability to perform their job effectively, builds self-assurance, and leads to higher productivity. Of course, this will ultimately lead to the success of the company, so it’s worth it for employers to invest in training.

AGILE STRUCTURES

Courses offering transferable skills give employers the opportunity to expand employees’ skillsets. This essentially increases versatility and agility within company structures, and forces adaptability and resilience. Such traits help the company to succeed in today’s competitive job market.

❛❛ Training up employees benefits the employers as well by creating a skilled and engaged workforce ❜❜

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CAREER ADVANCEMENTS

Employees who take the initiative to undergo further training are good investments. With regular training and upskilling, they are the per fect candidates for internal promotions, and succession planning.

IMPROVE EFFICIENCY AND PRODUCTIVITY

With employer-sponsored training, employees can refine their abilities, acquire time-saving techniques, and adopt best practices in their respective fields. With this knowledge, employees become more efficient and productive.

This is beneficial to both employee and employer alike.

With greater efficiency, you can accomplish more in less time. This in turn benefits the employer with increased productivity and reduced operational costs. Essentially, everyone wins!

BUSINESS

REFRESH THE BUSINESS WITH NEW IDEAS

If you need to invigorate your business with new ideas, training programmes might seem like a “thinking outside the box” strategy. But it’s a great way to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the workplace as they encourage creative thinking and problem-solving.

This will make it easier to find solutions to organisational challenges. By allowing this kind of innovation, you might find that you can easily improve processes, products, and ser vices, actively contribute to the company’s growth and competitiveness in the market.

ORGANISATIONS HAVE A DUTY TO ENCOURAGE A LOVE OF LEARNING

Employees who choose to continue learning are more likely to remain motivated and invested in their work, contribute to a positive work environment where employees feel encouraged to seek answers, and explore new areas of interest – all to the benefit of their employers.

FIND OUT ABOUT THE TYPES OF TRAINING AND THEIR ADVANTAGES

If your interest is piqued by the benefits of employers-sponsored training, you might be asked what exactly is out there? Learn about the different kinds of training – from shor t courses for immediate term results, to embedded on-the -job training through apprenticeships, and how the team at The Education & Skills Partnership can help you and your staff move forward, together.

TRAINING EMPLOYEES EMPOWERS

As should be evidenced by now, employer- sponsored training is incredibly valuable for employees, providing them with numerous benefits that contribute to their personal growth and professional success.

❛❛ Our learning and

skills coaches are highly skilled and well-qualified in what they do ❜❜ THE DIFFERENCE IN WORKING WITH ESP

Organisations can enhance the learning experience for employees with different types of training, such as sh o r t c ourse training and apprenticeships, ensuring employees acquire practical skills and knowledge that align with their career aspirations.

The Education & Skills Partnership team is passionate about learning and development. Find out about the difference in working with us and how we work with employers and employees alike to design a training and education programme that fits the needs of both parties.

As an employee, embracing training opportunities and encouraging your employer to invest in your development is a proactive step toward unlocking your potential and will go a long way in ensuring long-term success in the everevolving workplace – speak to your line manager now!

Our learning and skills coaches are highly skilled and well-qualified in what they do. What’s most important to us is that our learners feel cared for and listened to, and that our courses help them fulfil their potential, progress in their profession, and meet their individual career development goals.

To discuss how we can support you on your journey of developing transferable skills, get in touch with our team for a free consultation. https://esp-ac.uk

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SUSSEX BUSINESS AWARDS 2023 CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF THE SUCCESSES, ACHIEVEMENTS AND RESILIENCE OF THE REGION’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY COMPANY OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by

CFO OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by

BUSINESSPERSON OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by

BUSINESS INNOVATION OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by

FINANCE

The winner of this award will be selected from the finalists in all the other categories.

This award will be chosen by the sponsor and recognises a business they feel stands out as an inspiration to other businesses.

This award aims to recognise the CFO who has had the most positive impact on people, profit and environment. The individual will have inspired and influenced the people around them to achieve growth and build a sustainable business of the future.

This award recognises an exceptional individual, either a successful entrepreneur or senior manager, who has made a significant impact on their business and can demonstrate outstanding achievement whilst inspiring others around them.

This award recognises a business that has made significant strides in their field, be it developing a new product or by introducing a new process or system to an existing business.

MEDIUM BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR

BUSINESS GROWTH AWARD

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

This award aims to recognise a business that has demonstrated outstanding achievements in all aspects of their organisation (turnover under £500,000).

This award recognises a business that has created a healthy and supportive work environment with a genuine commitment to the wellbeing of its employees.

This award recognises a business which, through outstanding vision and leadership, has achieved significant and sustained growth.

Sponsored by

This award aims to recognise a business that has demonstrated outstanding achievements in all aspects of their organisation (turnover between £500,000 and £5million).

While the work of the IMEX Group ❛❛ is on a global scale, it’s a family-run

company that’s firmly rooted in the local community – that’s why this recognition is particularly significant ❜❜ DAVID HARRISON OF IMEX GROUP CFO of the Year 2022

IN AI D OF

LAST CHANCE TO ENTER ENTRY DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 20TH 2023 VIEW CATEGORIES ONLINE WWW.PLATINUMMEDIAGROUP.CO.UK BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD

Sponsored by

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

CREATIVE INDUSTRIES AWARD

CEO OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

This award recognises a business that exceeds customer expectations in all areas of the business by providing the very highest level of customer service.

This award recognises a business based in, or conducting the majority of its overseas business from, an operational base in Sussex.

The company should demonstrate healthy import/ export activity and good trading relationship with any country outside of the UK.

This award recognises a business which operates in the creative and digital sectors (PR, advertising, architecture, art, crafts, design, fashion, film, music, photography, performing arts, publishing, software, toys/games, TV/radio and/or video games).

This award aims to recognise a CEO that has demonstrated excellent performance against multiple criteria – financial, reputational, employee engagement – balanced with a clarity of leadership.

LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AWARD

COMMUNITY HERO AWARD

START-UP OF THE YEAR

Sponsorship available

Sponsorship available

FINANCE

Sponsored by

Sponsorship available This award aims to recognise a business that has demonstrated outstanding achievements in all aspects of their organisation (turnover over £5million).

This award recognises excellence in the regulated sector management underpinned by a strong financial performance and adherence to a professional code of conduct.

This category covers a wide range of professional services including legal, financial, recruitment and consultancies.

BUSINESSES CAN SUBMIT UP TO THREE SUBMISSIONS £25 PER ENTRY

This award recognises an individual or business whose contribution to society makes a substantial difference to the lives of others.

This award recognises a business with entrepreneurial aptitude, vision, ambition, drive and commercial acumen to build a successful enterprise from start-up.

AWARD CEREMONY NOVEMBER 30TH THE GRAND BRIGHTON

LEGAL

From October 1st 2023, the new Fixed Recoverable Costs regime will be implemented in civil claims. The changes are expected to have a significant impact on litigation and legal costs. By Johanna Abrahams, Litigation Executive, Mayo Wynne Baxter

FIXED RECOVERABLE COST REGIME TO BE INTRODUCED Fixed recoverable costs set the amount of legal costs that the winning party in a dispute can claim back from the losing party. The issue with fixed recoverable costs currently is that the amount that can be reclaimed by the winning party may not cover the costs of the case.

As such, the intention of the new regime is to keep litigation costs proportionate to the value of the claims and to provide increased costs certainty for litigants.

The fact that litigants can rarely recover all the costs they incur even if they have a costs order in their favour is nothing new. Costs have always been subject to assessment by the court. That said, this new regime may widen the gap between those costs the client has to pay and those it can recover from the opponent even if successful.

Fixed recoverable costs will apply to all claims in the fast track up to the value of £25,000 and a new intermediate

This new regime may widen ❛❛ the gap between those costs the client

has to pay and those it can recover from the opponent even if successful

❜❜

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track will deal with most matters valued between £25,000 and £100,000.

The intermediate track will be added between the fast track and the multitrack. The multi-track costs will not change and the fast-track cost rules will be fixed costs throughout.

The level of costs will be decided based on both the value and complexity of the claim, but the determination of costs will be the value of the claim.

Non-monetary claims will not usually be allocated to the intermediate track unless the Court considers necessary in the interests of justice. Judges will continue to have discretion to allocate complex cases to the multi-track, taking them out of the fixed recoverable costs regime.

The new regime will see the Court allocating both a track and a band which takes the complexity of the case into account. To determine the applicable fixed costs, you take the value of the claim and pick the relevant part of the fixed cost schedule which will decide how much can be recovered by the winning party. The parties have the option of making an application to move both track and band.

LEGAL

An intermediate track case will automatically be listed for a Case Management Conference to decide Directions. Directions will only comprise disclosure, witness statements, expert evidence, pre-trial review, and listing for trial. There will be no budgeting or detailed assessment.

A case will not be allocated to the intermediate track if the trial is set to take more than three days, or if more than one expert is required for each party. In this case, the claim will be allocated to the multi-track.

There will be a new process introduced for noise-induced hearing loss claims, and fixed recoverable costs for clinical negligence claims are being considered separately. The consideration of fixed recoverable costs for all housing cases has been deferred until at least October 2025.

Where a party has acted unreasonably, the Court ❛❛ can reduce the fixed costs payable by 50% or have the fixed recoverable costs uplifted by 50% ❜❜

There is also a better chance to recover pre-issue costs as there is a set amount which is recoverable if a case settles before a claim is issued. A party can apply for costs above fixed costs if there is unreasonable behaviour by any party, which is poor conduct for which there is no reasonable explanation. Where a party has acted unreasonably, the Court can reduce the fixed costs payable by 50% or have the fixed recoverable costs uplifted by 50%.

Personal injury claims will be subject to fixed recoverable costs if the cause of action arises on or after October 1st 2023, with disease claims only being subject to fixed recoverable costs if the letter of claim is sent after that date.

Litigators should consider whether there are any pending claims valued at less than £100,000 which can be issued before the new regime is implemented as the level of fixed costs for each complexity band are less than what is recoverable under the standard basis costs regime. Although the intention is to bring predictability to costs, the regime does not deal with legal fees, meaning a winning party could still suffer a shortfall. There may also be a negative impact on smaller firms, meaning fewer people are able to access legal representation.

The Ministry of Justice has announced that it will review and extend the regime in three years.

For further information contact Johanna Abrahams, Litigation Executive Mayo Wynne Baxter Jabrahams@mayowynnebaxter.co.uk www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

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EVENTS

Come and join us here at Plumpton Racecourse as we kick start the new national hunt season on Sunday September 24th with our fabulous Family Raceday!

PLUMPTON RACECOURSE RACING

We have a brilliant six-race card that has always provided close and exciting finishes with some big priced winners.

Last year, See the Sea – rather apt being so close to the coast – won our feature raceday, trained by Donald McCain and ridden by Peter Kavanagh.

ENTERTAINMENT

There will be an action-packed entertainment programme for all the family. Key features of the day will be an opportunity to ‘Meet the Dinosaurs,’ who are very lifelike and friendly and will allow you to learn fascinating dinosaur facts that will educate all ages. There will also be the thrill of a 90ft bouncy castle obstacle course, and you can pit yourself against friends on our nine-hole crazy golf. Plus the obligatory face painters…

Furthermore, it will be the second year of staging our dog competition, which was a great success last year. There will be numerous categories available to enter so make sure you bring along your canine friends, with a percentage of funds going towards Paws for the Cause Rescue.

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EVENTS

DINING AND HOSPITALITY

Make the most of the Family Raceday by indulging in one of our dining packages.

Enjoy a delicious locally-sourced meal in one of our private boxes, the Paddock Restaurant or Final Fence Restaurant.

Prices start from only £80 per adult (inclusive of VAT), with a discounted children’s menu also available for our younger VIPs.

PARTNERSHIPS

There is nothing more exciting than giving your guests the experience of visiting the Parade Ring and mixing with our sporting stars or seeing your company in prime position at one of the

❛❛ There is nothing more exciting

than giving your guests the experience of visiting the Parade Ring and mixing with our sporting stars ❜❜ best sporting venues in Sussex. What’s more, these packages won’t break the bank.

Plumpton Racecourse is at the ‘Heart Of The Community’ where we bridge generations, nurture communities and embrace nature’s heritage with great racing at our core.

To find out more visit www.plumptonracecourse.co.uk or call 01273 890383. Admission tickets start from just £15 per adult, with group rates also available and under 18s race free when accompanied by an adult

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LEGAL

By Pam Loch, Loch Associates

COMPETITION TIME! Are the Government reforms of non-compete clauses a good or bad thing?

Non-compete clauses have, for years, been a thorn in the side of both business owners and employment lawyers alike.

Described by the Courts as “the most powerful weapon in an employer’s armoury,” post-termination restrictions are designed to protect the legitimate business interests of an organisation and prevent damage by unscrupulous ex-employees.

They usually include a legally binding obligation to prevent an ex-employee competing with an employer for a specific time after their employment ends. In recent years however, more and more organisations have routinely relied on non-compete clauses as a ‘catch all’ method to prevent exiting employees moving to a competing business, often resulting in expensive, time consuming and unnecessary litigation.

The Government is now acting to substantially limit the ability of businesses to restrict competition and prevent non-compete clauses lasting more than three months. Whilst this certainly opens up greater potential for the movement of employees across competing businesses and a more diverse recruitment pool across industry sector, the risk the reforms present for businesses to protect their legitimate business interests and retain valuable employees is substantial.

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Enforcing non-compete clauses has been the subject of many Court cases over the years. While generally they can be challenging to enforce, if carefully drafted and tailored to the role and circumstances, Cour ts can grant injunctions to prevent ex-employees joining their new employer. Restricted periods are usually three to six months, but Courts have enforced non-compete clauses which last longer.

From the perspective of a business recruiting staff, the reforms are a welcome change. In fast paced

industries, waiting three months for an incoming employee to be outside their restricted period is far more palatable than waiting six or 12 months.

Individuals who bring with them a substantial client following will be able to move jobs more easily and without the fear that they could face an injunction. Equally, the new employer also knows that it will no longer face a civil claim for inducing a breach of contract, beyond the three month restricted period. However, it poses a real concern from a retention perspective, with employees more likely to explore job opportunities elsewhere without the fear of retaliation and feeling able to cope with a threemonth restricted period rather than much longer.

Businesses should act now to take a two-pronged approach in respect of retaining employees and protecting their legitimate business interests.

Retention should not be as a result of employees feeling that they ‘can’t’ leave a role, but because they choose not to.

This means being proactive and looking at the culture of a business, the opportunities available to existing employees and recognising the employee’s value through incentives such as a good benefits package, flexibility where possible and an attractive salary at market rate.

LEGAL

at ways of strengthening these provisions in their contracts in light of the upcoming changes. However, they must be drafted correctly to be enforceable and employers should not include them in everyone’s contract as that will weaken enforceability.

The implications of the reform for settlement agreements are yet to be explicitly addressed. Employers often agree to additional non-compete restrictions as part of an agreed settlement with an exiting employee, often in return for an additional payment. Settlement agreements may continue to fall outside the scope of the reform, allowing employers to include longer non-compete clauses.

❛❛ Enforcing non-compete clauses has been the subject of many Court cases over the years ❜❜ Post- pandemic, more and more employees reported that a healthy work-life balance was essential to their good mental health and their desire to remain with their employer. This is an opportunity for businesses to review existing policies and packages and shift the focus away from preventing employees joining a competitor to creating an environment in which they thrive and are not looking elsewhere.

competitors during a period of notice, whilst keeping them contractually bound by confidentiality obligations.

Following a period of garden leave, post termination restrictions can kick in which, in many cases, will achieve the additional protection being lost in the reforms. However, employers do need to ensure their contracts of employment give them the power to place an employee on garden leave.

Inevitably of course, there will be employees who leave, irrespective of how good the work culture is.

To address that, businesses should look now at the methods which remain available to them to protect their legitimate business interests and in particular revisit their contracts and policies as they can be effectively used to minimise the risk of damage when the person leaves.

It should be noted that the reforms do not extend to other restrictive covenants such as non-solicitation, non-dealing and non-poaching clauses.

These alone can provide substantial protection to a business’ legitimate interests and employers should look

Relying on garden leave clauses, for example, is a very obvious method to keep employees away from

Additionally, the reform’s impact on existing employees’ non-compete clauses lasting longer than three months, remains uncertain. Employers might face the challenge of re negotiating contractual terms to comply with the new legislation, while preserving essential business protections.

The legal landscape of non-compete refo r m p o s e s c h all e n g e s a n d oppor tunities for employers and employees alike. As the proposed changes to non-competes inches closer to becoming law, businesses must carefully navigate the implications for recruitment and retention strategies, by revisiting their existing contracts to maximise the protections, as well as reviewing their approach to incentivising employees to remain with them. This is also a ripe opportunity for businesses to investigate and address any cultural concerns which would encourage employees to consider making a move, in order to create a strong, committed staff base and minimise both the number and negative impact of exiting employees.

Pam Loch, Solicitor and Managing Director of Loch Associates Group www.lochassociates.co.uk

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CHARITY

Our MDHUB members constantly surprise and inspire us through their dedication to their businesses. As if this wasn’t impressive enough, four members have used their unstoppable drive to raise money for four wonderful charities. From sponsored walks to swimming the Channel, we’re taking the opportunity to share and celebrate their inspiring efforts, writes Millie Green, MDHUB Social Media Lead

MDHUB MEMBERS GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR CHARITABLE CAUSES It’s three in the morning. In the swaying darkness, a swimmer weaves through the waves. Her destination? France.

A spotlight glares down from The Gallivant, breaking through the otherwise inky sky. This is where Sarah Dennis, Group Executive PA at Temple, found herself this July. www.templegroup.co.uk After almost a year of frustrating delays, Sarah took the plunge to raise money for Aspire, a UK charity for people with spinal cord injuries, supporting them from injury to independence.

Above: The Gallivant.

Right: Sarah Dennis swimming the channel

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The Aspire Jackals team swam through the night and into the dawn, passing a smack* of jellyfish on their way. They finally landed in France after 12 hours and 40 minutes. We are so impressed

by Sarah’s effort and that of the whole Aspire Jackals team. Read more about Aspire’s work on their website www.aspire.org.uk. You can also read more about their journey to completing

the swim on their JustGiving page www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ sarah-dennis1974 Compared to swimming the Channel, a morning swim in the summer seems an ideal way to start the day, to warm up your muscles and wake yourself up.

Now imagine doing a swim every day, for a whole year.

CHARITY

Clare Wilkinson Clare Wilkinson (above) at Hot Horse took on the monumental challenge to swim every day for 365 days in aid of the Trussell Trust, and completed her final swim at the Saltdean Lido on Saturday July 22nd 2023. http://hothorse.co.uk www.trusselltrust.org The mental effort to swim every day, rain or shine, is no joke. It’s an outstanding display of Clare’s dedication and drive, and her efforts will be well appreciated.

The Trussell Trust has delivered almost three million emergency food parcels in the last twelve months, a 100% rise on the previous twelve months. Over a million of these parcels were distributed to children.

If you would like to support Clare and the Trussell Trust, you can donate to Clare’s GoFundMe. www.hothorse.com/swimming

Victoria Green

Helen Vane Back on land, Helen Vane (above), Director at GoGecko took on a walking challenge, certainly not for the faint of heart, 27 miles on foot through the parks of London, all in aid of BRCA+ Chat, a charity providing support to those carrying a BRCA (or other) gene mutation. www.gogecko.org.uk https://brcachat.com For Helen, the walk was personal: her close friend Sarah had just come out of remission from ovarian cancer. Sarah’s family carry the gene mutation and are faced with impossible decisions to make to decrease their risk of developing cancer. Helen’s mum and sister, although not carriers of the BRCA gene mutation, are also both recovering from breast cancer.

BRCA+ Chat is a small Worthing-based charity, so giving something back was especially important for Helen. So far, she has raised £1,200 for BRCA+ Chat, including a very generous £500 donation from Clarity Environmental Ltd. You can read more about Helen’s walk and donate to her fundraiser on GoFundMe. www.justgiving.com/ page/helen-vane-onefootatatime

On the September 23rd, hundreds of purple-clad walkers will fill London’s streets in aid of Cancer Research for the Shine Night Walk 2023. Among them will be Victoria of Victoria Green (above), walking for a close friend recently lost to cancer. Victoria’s friend left behind a 15 year-old son. www.victoriagreen.com www.cancerresearchuk.org Victoria and the rest of the Shine Night walkers will raise money to support new, pioneering research into treatments that will help future cancer patients.

Read more about Victoria’s journey to the walk on the Cancer Research website ht tps://fundraise.cancer r e s e a r c h u k .o r g /p a g e / v i c t o r i a s giving-page-3621 Congratulations to these wonderful women. Their efforts are an incredible display of their care and courage, and the thousands of pounds raised will make a huge difference to all four charities.

If you feel so inclined, please do give generously to support these four amazing women in their achievements and do give them a great big hug next time you see them. *The collective noun for jellyfish. Really.

If you are interested in finding out more about the MDHUB, please visit www.mdhub.co.uk Email MDHUB Directors: Fiona Shafer: fiona@mdhub.co.uk or Phil Green: phil.green@mdhub.co.uk

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INNOVATION

As part of this summer’s programme of Knowledge Hub events, Sussex Innovation welcomed Gary Kendall, founder of member company CDO2, and Les Gill, Innovate UK Edge advisor to share their experience of how to position your business for grant funding.

Here are a few of the key insights they highlighted

GRANT FUNDING

– which, why, when and how?

With debt and equity funding harder to come by in the current economic climate, grant funding is becoming an increasingly attractive option for technology and knowledge -based businesses. However, for many small and micro-business owners, it can also be a confusing space to navigate.

It might seem like grant funding is only an option for larger and more established SMEs, but there are plenty of opportunities if you know how to position yourself to capitalise on them.

There are many different types of grant funding available to SMEs, with the government providing £172 billion for grants in the last two years alone.

At July’s Knowledge Hub event on Securing Grant Funding, Sussex Innovation tenant Gary Kendall, director of CDO2, spoke about his experience of applying for grants. CDO2 is a leading innovator in current density imaging – working alongside the University of Sussex Quantum Technologies Lab, it is developing new technology for

There are many different types of ❛❛ grant funding available to SMEs, with

the government providing £172 billion for grants in the last two years alone

❜❜

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applications in electric vehicle batteries, improving range, health and safety.

CDO2 and its partners’ work has been partially funded through the Innovate UK Faraday Battery Challenge and the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK. Gary’s key piece of advice was about the value of good partnerships. Funding bodies - much like private investors – are looking at the qualities of the teams and their ability to deliver the project they are planning. If you can demonstrate that several different partners are involved in your bid, and that they each bring relevant experience and skills, you will be in a much stronger position. CDO2 was particularly successful with its grant applications because of partnering with academic researchers. The experience universities have of working within the framework of public funding can be invaluable in helping to represent a project effectively.

A bid with multiple partners can be a double-edged sword though, as Gary pointed out. As well as demonstrating a breadth of experience, you will need to show a capacity to work well together when required. Spending time working closely on your pitch and understanding each of your roles and responsibilities is essential.

INNOVATION

As an advisor for Innovate UK’s EDGE programme, Les Gill has supported Gary with securing new and appropriate funding pathways for CDO2’s projects. Les spoke at length about the “dos and don’ts” of writing a successful grant application, pointing out that many bids fall at the first hurdle, simply because they don’t address the specific challenge that the funding is designed for.

That’s why the most important step for anyone exploring grant funding is to do your research. Take time to understand what is available, from small funding pots designed to support the introduction of new technologies, to major funding competitions that address national policy challenges like decarbonisation, social care or waste management.

At a regional level, it’s worth looking at what your local government and Local Enterprise Partnerships are incentivising through grant funding

before pursuing larger opportunities. If you work in a specific industrial sector, it’s also a good idea to understand which regions are prioritising funding for your industry. Sometimes it’s worth partnering with a local organisation to base your project somewhere that will have the necessary skills and resources close at hand.

For many small and micro-business owners, ❛❛ it can also be a confusing space to navigate ❜❜

Writing a funding bid takes a lot of work, and it’s a wasted effort unless you are sure that it is a good fit for your business. For that reason, you need to thoroughly read the scope of the funding and be honest with yourself about whether you are set up to deliver what it is asking for.

Not only that, but does it align with your ambitions? If you are going to spend a significant length of time delivering against a bid, it should be one that takes your business in the direction you want it to go in.

Related to this, be sure about the amount of money you’re bidding for.

If you ask for too much and can’t demonstrate that the funds are needed, your application is unlikely to be successful. However, Les counselled against asking for too little also. Whilst you might be more likely to succeed in your bid, it could be extremely detrimental to your business if you don’t leave yourself with enough capital to deliver the project’s intended outcome.

Finally, be prepared to ask for advice.

You can speak to a dedicated innovation and growth specialist by contacting Innovate UK EDGE, who’ll offer honest feedback on which forms of funding are right for your business requirements.

www.sussexinnovation.co.uk

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BUSINESS

Let’s Do Business Finance discusses the availability of Start Up Loan financing, dispelling the myth that it is only for businesses at their very beginning, and educating on how it is empowering businesses to take the next growth step

IT DOESN’T STOP WITH START-UPS In today’s fast-paced business landscape, start-ups and small businesses are often unaware of, or struggle to secure, the necessary funding to take their ventures to the next level. However, entrepreneurs need not fret, as there is a valuable lifeline available in the form of start-up loans. These loans have become a vital resource for fledgling businesses, offering financial assistance to those trading under three years, propelling them towards success and growth.

Start-up loans have gained popularity in recent years due to their potential to fuel economic growth and support innovation. Offering loans of up to £25,000 per applicant, the primary distinguishing feature of start-up loans is their accessibility to businesses that have been trading under three years old.

Unlike traditional loans, which often demand an established track record, start-up loans acknowledge that earlystage businesses require support during their crucial formative years. Offering the facility for businesses trading for up to three years, provides businesses looking to achieve growth in their early years access to capital to help them succeed.

This accessibility extends to a broad range of industries and sectors. Whether it’s a technology start-up, a creative venture, or a retail business, as long as the business has a clear plan and potential for growth, it stands a chance to secure a start-up loan. There is also a lot of freedom for the use of the funding which can include things such as equipment purchases, office space, marketing campaigns, and hiring essential personnel. By easing the financial burden during the early stages, start-up loans allow entrepreneurs to focus on building a strong foundation for their ventures.

Beyond the initial launch, start-up loans continue to be valuable assets for businesses looking to scale and expand. Many start-ups face cash flow challenges during the growth phase, making it difficult for them to invest in new opportunities or hire more employees. With a start-up loan, these businesses can access the capital needed to seize growth opportunities, enter new markets, and strengthen their market position.

Apart from the financial aspect, start-up loans come with added benefits.

❛❛ Beyond the initial launch, start-up

loans continue to be valuable assets for businesses looking to scale and expand ❜❜

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Many lenders provide mentorship programmes, business advisor y services, and networking opportunities to aid entrepreneurs in their journey.

The Start Up Loan Scheme itself also provides a comprehensive post loan mentoring and support programme to all successful loan recipients. This invaluable support can prove decisive for start-ups seeking guidance and expertise from seasoned professionals who have traversed similar paths.

Let’s Do Business Finance is an accredited business support partner of British Business Bank, and is the Start Up Loan providers for the South East region.

A huge advocate for Start Up Loans, it recognises the impor tance of supporting young businesses and the positive impact they can have on local economies. Having helped hundreds of applicants and approving £4.7million in Start Up Loans in 2022, the company is delighted to be an integral part of each journey, whether that be an entrepreneur just getting started or a more seasoned business owner looking for that next step to growth.

BUSINESS

START UP SEPTEMBER

To recognise entrepreneurism and the Start Ups of the South East, Let’s Do Business Finance and its wider group is, for a third consecutive year, running ‘Start Up September’. The Start Up September campaign, which saw huge success in 2022, highlights the range of support available for start up businesses and entrepreneurs and celebrates star t- up successes.

For the whole month, Let’s Do Business Group will be signposting businesses for support as well as offering free workshops, and consultations on topics such as strategy, planning, financing and marketing.

To take part, visit www.letsdobusinessgroup.co.uk/ start-up-september and keep on eye on its social channels.

To find out more about how a Start Up Loan can help your growing business visit www.letsdobusinessfinance.co.uk/ lets-start-up but our support doesn’t end there! If you are a more established business looking for growth funding, get in touch, we have a range of products that can help!

❛❛ The Start Up Loan Scheme itself

also provides a comprehensive post loan mentoring and support programme to all successful loan recipients ❜❜ SUCCESS STORY

A recent success story, includes forward thinking entrepreneur Eleanor Ward from Chichester, West Sussex, who secured £25,000 in funding from Let’s Do Business Finance under the Start Up Loan scheme to bring her idea for her company ‘SplashRobe’ to life. Up until 2020, Ellie had been a solicitor – but after

having a baby and losing her mother that year, swimming transformed into a way to process her grief and find a new identity. She decided to follow her instincts with her earlier thought of creating a product that she, her fellow swimmers, and lots of other people could use and enjoy – a new, innovative type of changing robe.

❛❛

Having Let’s Do Business Finance on board was incredible.

We looked at re-mortgaging the house and angel investment, but I needed the initial start up capital for initial development and production of the robes. When I got the finance approved it finally felt real and like it was happening. It’s scary, but exciting!

It’s almost impossible for the average person to start a business, and that’s why the support from Let’s Do Business has been so good. They’re helping a lot of people out there!

Eleanor Ward, Founder of SplashRobe

❜❜

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WORTHING LANCING

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CHICHESTER

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FLEXIBLE OFFICES CO-WORKING / HOTDESKS MEETING ROOM / EVENT SPACE 24/7 Access Honest Pricing / Flexible Contracts Managed Space Super fast Internet (1GB Dedicated Shared Line) Utilities Printing Open Plan Kitchen and Break Out Areas

Desks and Chairs Meeting Room Access Refreshments and Fruit / Cereal FREE Beer Friday Business Support / Mentorship via Barclays Eagle Labs Access to Members Directory

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PEST CONTROL

Some people think grey squirrels are cute and cuddly, but they actually cause more problems than rats, according to Paul Bates, Managing Director of Cleankill Pest Control

Squirrels – cute and furry garden animals or a menace?

Squirrels are very determined creatures and if they find a weak point around the soffit boards leading into your loft, it can be very difficult to get them out and keep them out. Rats, on the other hand, tend to enter lofts by moving up wall cavities from the under-floor drain areas and can’t normally find their way in again, once they have been proofed out.

Like rats, squirrels have ever-growing incisor teeth so the creatures need to constantly gnaw on hard objects to keep their teeth from growing too long. Electric cables chewed by squirrels are a common cause of building fires and blackouts. Squirrels are also responsible for causing thousands of pounds worth of damage to roof beams and supports.

Squirrels in residence can also contaminate any unsealed water tanks with their droppings and cause flooding by gnawing through water pipes.

Treatment for a squirrel problem will normally involve a survey of the premises to assess where the pests are entering the building and what proofing measures need to be taken to keep them out. Then it is likely that a trapping programme will be needed to catch and remove all of the squirrels, requiring several follow up visits.

The best way to prevent an invasion is to block any holes in the building and ensure overhanging trees are far enough from a premises to stop squirrels leaping on to the property. Ivy, or any other climbing plants, should be cut back so they can’t be used to access roof spaces.

Treatment for a squirrel problem will normally ❛❛ involve a survey of the premises to assess where the pests are entering the building ❜❜ Food sources, for instance bird feeders, should be removed or replaced with squirrel-proof versions.

Much like other rodents, squirrels can carry and transmit a range of diseases such as Lyme disease (via ticks), leptospirosis and salmonella. They can also transport fleas, posing a further risk to both people and pets. In addition to the risk of disease, females can become very aggressive and will attack if they think their pups are being threatened.

Once settled, it is extremely difficult to get squirrels to leave, and DIY pest control is strongly discouraged by

the British Pest Control Association.

It is illegal to use a rat trap for a squirrel as they can cause suffering to the animal, and under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, it is illegal to release a grey squirrel into the wild or allow one to escape. It means that if you trap a squirrel you are obliged to despatch it using a humane method.

This can be distressing and should only be performed by a qualified and competent pest controller. Pest control professionals are the only people with the experience, expertise and skills to assess and advise the best course of action.

If you have a squirrel problem or another pest problem, contact www.cleankill.co.uk for a free survey.

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ANGER MANAGEMENT

IT WILL NEVER STOP

By Maarten Hoffmann DISCLAIMER: All views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of this publication

Paranoia is a dangerous emotion for us humans. In occasional waves, it’s manageable. But constant paranoia whittles away at us until the postman says good morning and you start thinking he has an alternative agenda.

That’s how it is with hackers trying to steal our data, our private thoughts and, effectively, our lives. It wears you down until you don’t trust that innocent message from your Mum about lunch on Sunday.

Just when we thought we had a handle on it and only idiots get scammed, FraudGPT pops up on the dark web and we are all thrown back into the dark ages. That wonderful thing called AI is set to change the world in so many wonderful ways that the mind boggles, and as the tech world gives with one hand, it punches you in the face with the other.

❛❛ Phishing will now be really tough to defeat as AI will impersonate people you trust ❜❜

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WHAT IS FRAUDGPT?

FraudGPT is an AI-powered generative Chatbot that has the ability to produce coherent and realistic text. Similar to ChatGPT and the deceitful WormGPT, FraudGPT works by generating written content based on user prompts. This is a powerful and dangerous tool for hackers and cyber criminals to create convincing messages that can trick even the most aware individuals into being manipulated into taking specific actions such as providing their account information or bank details.

WHERE’S THE THREAT?

FraudGPT can be used to generate believable yet fake invoices, emails, messages and other documents that manipulate unaware individuals into providing sensitive information like credit card numbers and passwords.

If FraudGPT is impersonating an otherwise reputable business to defraud people, this could lead to a real business facing lost revenue, damaged reputations, and legal liability. It will make it more difficult for organisations to attract new customers, partners and stakeholders. The rise of generative AI in recent years has led to an influx in Business Email Compromises (BEC) in the UK for businesses, with 77% of organisations facing BEC.

ANGER MANAGEMENT

❛❛ This is a powerful

and dangerous tool for hackers and cyber criminals to create convincing messages that can trick even the most aware individuals ❜❜ HOW DOES IT WORK?

As an AI Chatbot, FraudGPT can lever generative models to produce realistic scripts that writes text based on user prompts, enabling cyber criminals to trick individuals into releasing sensitive information via convincing texts or emails. The AI tool can also be programmed to supply information on the best websites to commit credit card fraud against. FraudGPT can provide non-verified “Visa” bank identification numbers to help cyber criminals steal credit card access.

Phishing will now be really tough to defeat as AI will impersonate people you trust in such a way that you will never be able to discover it unless you contact everyone who sends you a mail to check it is them. As many of us receive hundreds of mails a day, this is simply impossible.

Because the AI is a highly personalised learning tool, hackers and cyber criminals are able to use FraudGPT to create fraudulent documents, invoices and payment requests based on official ones from reputable organisations, leading to victims falling for financial scams.

And worse, if it can be, is that AI can be compared to a year-old baby.

It knows a few bits and pieces but has a whole lot of growing and learning to do. AI learns from its errors and failures and refines itself every minute of every day. By the time the AI baby is three years-old it will know more than humans and learn faster. It learns what we fall for and what we don’t, what works and what doesn’t, and it will refine itself to the point that we mere mortals will have no chance of catching it out or avoiding it. When it’s fully grown, it could be a terrifying thing to behold.

AI will be a tool for great and wonderful things and has the potential to change our world forever. But as with all great things, the villains get hold of it and pervert its use into something malevolent and so damaging that we have yet to get our minds around how bad it could be.

Then there is ChaosGPT with its proclamation in its inaugural tweet: “Human beings are among the most destructive and selfish creatures in existence. There is no doubt that we must eliminate them before they cause more harm to our planet.”

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By Maarten Hoffmann

FINE DINING: THE ROWS & VINE We had been looking forward to reviewing the new restaurant at Ridgeview Wine Estate for some time and finally, we were rewarded with a beautiful summer’s day. So off came the roof of the Bentley they had kindly sent me for review, and we sped through the Sussex countryside to see my old friends at RV. I have visited the restaurant before, but it was for a Gatwick Airport Stakeholders meeting which was not quite the right occasion to leisurely dine, so l was delighted to return with zero intention other than to eat!

The setting is simply stunning. Set amongst the rows of vines – hence the name – they have done a wonderful job of designing the space to ensure it is airy, spacious and welcoming – and all in the South Downs National Park.

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I have known Tamara and her team for many years, therefore it makes writing an independent review quite tough but thankfully, this is not a concern – it is superb in every aspect.

We were greeted by caring and attentive staff as we were shown to our table and presented a menu of small bites, sharing plates, charcuterie and cheese boards and, of course, an array of award winning wines. I think l might have died and gone to heaven.

I selected the Denver steak with caramelised banana shallots and salsa verde, while my dining partner went for pan-fried lamb rump, minted crushed

❛❛ The setting is

simply stunning ❜❜

peas and red wine reduction. Seeing that we were reviewing, we added in the smoked Cheddar with chilli jam croquettes and grilled peach and feta salad, orange blossom honey and beetroot crips. With the table groaning under the weight, we savoured the smorgasbord of delight in front of us and dived straight in.

Silence reigned at the table as we tucked in – the lamb was succulent and juicy, and l am now a great fan of crushed peas with everything! The Denver steak, which l had never heard of before, was full of flavour and the banana shallots were a superb accompanying flavour to the steak. Now, smoked Cheddar croquettes sound quite simple but they exploded on my tongue with the chilli jam cutting through and l have to admit, l ordered another batch.

FOOD & DRINK

I am not a great fan of salads in general and certainly not if you add feta cheese but my partner was rapturous over it, and it’s the first time she’s been that quiet for many a year!

What a great start. Next, the oysters could not be resisted with shallot vinegar, lemon and Tabasco on a bed of ice.

Although l have learnt never to drink at lunchtime, we had two glasses of their award-winning Blanc de Blancs that was such a perfect accompaniment to the oysters that, well, another couple of glasses just had to be ordered. The Bloomsbury has always been my favourite RV tipple and l have a couple of cases in the cellar but l think l will now switch allegiance to the Blanc de Blancs – enough said.

The boards could not be ignored and we plumped for the Sussex Cheese

The Bloomsbury has always ❛❛ been my favourite RV tipple…

but I think I will now switch allegiance to the Blanc de Blancs – enough said ❜❜ Board, consisting of Idle Hour, Duddleswell, Sussex Camembert, caperberries, house grape chutney and crackers – and it was an absolute perfect end to a fabulous meal, in a fabulous location.

Bravo to the RV team who have not only created a world-class vineyard over the years but now, a world-class restaurant. I sense l will become a regular visitor henceforth and l heartily recommend you do too.

Ridgeview Wine Estate, Fragbarrow Lane, Ditchling Common, East Sussex BN6 8TP 01444 242040 www.ridgeview.co.uk info@ridgeview.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

By Maarten Hoffmann

FINE WINE: RIDGEVIEW WINES

We could not possibly review the Rows & Vine without a nod to the base of the entire operation – the award-winning vineyard and the produce thereof.

Ridgeview was founded in 1994 by Mike and Christine Roberts, and is dedicated to creating world-class sparkling wines in the South Downs of England. The vineyards specialise in growing classic grape varieties to make the highest quality bottle fermented sparkling wines. The world-class status of its wines is reflected by the number of national and international medals and trophies they have received since the release of the first wines from the 1996 vintage.

The second generation of the family has now become established in key roles within Ridgeview, with Mike and Christine’s daughter Tamara now being the CEO, enabling the continued and rapid expansion of the business. Their dedication, passion and determination have significantly contributed to the international reputation and popularity now attributed to English Sparkling Wine.

Many years ago, English wine was scoffed at by the French wine industry.

But then climate change came along.

Northern France and south east England have the same chalky soil, with France having the climate and topography that ‘was’ perfect for growing the finest grapes.

Ridgeview Wine Estate, Fragbarrow Lane, Ditchling Common, East Sussex BN6 8TP 01444 242040 www.ridgeview.co.uk info@ridgeview.co.uk

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Climate change altered all that and as the French market suffers dreadfully, with many being paid by the government to rip up the vines and plant olive trees; the southern English soil now provides the perfect conditions for first-class vines. So much so that many French vineyards are buying every acre of southern English land that becomes available. In 2015, French champagne

house Taittinger purchased a 100-acre farm in Kent and will have its first bottles ready this year. Pommery, Freixenent and Louis Roederer have all purchased land in an area historically called The Garden of England – now known as The Vineyard of England. In blind tasting a few years back Ridgeview beat them all. Buy British!

❛❛ Many years ago, English wine was

scoffed at by the French wine industry.

But then climate change came along ❜❜

FOOD & DRINK

RIDGEVIEW’S FAVOURITES n The Chardonnay-dominant Bloomsbury has fruit-forward flavours, good acidity, delicious flavours of pear and brioche and creamy mousse.

It was served at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. n Cavendish has a darker fruit profile, as it’s dominated by the red grapes Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, in addition to Chardonnay. It has creaminess on the palate, and spicy pear and clove notes.

n The Fitzrovia Rosé is Chardonnaydominant with a delicate salmon colour achieved by the addition of red wine.

It is a refreshing sparkling rosé with a pleasing raspberry flavour.

n The Blanc de Blancs is a single vineyard wine made of Chardonnay, grown right outside the tasting room. The 2006 vintage of this wine won best sparkling wine in the world from Decanter in 2010. It has lovely apple and pear flavours with refreshing acidity. n The Rosé de Noir is also excellent, with a lovely pale onion skin colour, and spicy red fruit notes.

n The Blanc de Noir is a gorgeous rich and yeasty sparkler with dense apple compote flavours.

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EVENTS

Welcome to the start of a new regular column about the Institute of Directors (IoD) in Surrey. By Jarmila Yu

IoD: Here for you A coach I encountered at the start of my entrepreneurship journey introduced me to the concept that “environment dictates performance”. This principle has guided me to ensure I keep the right company – joining communities and surrounding myself with people who can share best practices, offer key resources, provide accountability, and supply inspiration for the excellence required for success.

to dive in and be active in those community groups to fully benefit.

Entrepreneurship and business leadership can be lonely, stressful and over whelming. It can also be exhilarating, fulfilling and satisfying.

There is more suppor t available than ever and there is also a massive community of like-minded entrepreneurs and business leaders keen to provide encouragement, inspiration, and advice out there.

Membership bodies, trade groups, and networking communities facilitate connection, but you must be inspired

At a time of economic challenge, and as the IoD continues to undergo an important period of transformation, now more than ever, directors of organisations of all sizes need to be represented, offered critical learning and skills development opportunities, and given access to peer-to-peer networking for best practice sharing.

Having been invited to further extend my support of the IoD, by taking on the role of Chair for the Surrey branch, I’m looking forward to finding ways to strengthen the IoD experience in the county, inspiring our members and attracting new ones to utilise what the IOD offers.

The valuable member connectivity and engagement activity that the IoD has always prided itself on providing, is vital

❛❛ I’m looking forward to finding ways to

strengthen the IoD experience in the county ❜❜

to support the directors and the businesses they lead. And at a time when the government’s resources are increasingly stretched, it is even more essential that businesses have a voice via groups like the IoD that can influence those who shape the national business environment.

This is an exciting time for the IoD as it enters a new chapter in its long and esteemed history. Our value proposition remains true to our core belief that “Better Directors Build a Better World”.

First order of business was to build an Ambassador team that reflects the breadth of Surrey’s directors. Second was to develop a series of regular o nlin e and fac e - to - fac e eve nt opportunities for members to meet and engage with each other.

The 17 strong team of Ambassadors has now been announced, and our new events are now starting to be promoted, many taking place at Foxhills Club & Resort (our Surrey hub).

The IoD Surrey branch vision is simple.

We’re here to represent and support our growing member base of directors in small, medium, and large enterprises from across the vibrant business community they are part of in Surrey.

I invite you to join us on the journey by following us on social media, attending our events, and reaching out to the Ambassador team. We look forward to strengthening engagement, facilitating connection between our members, and welcoming new members along the way.

Together let’s Connect. Develop.

Influence.

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FINANCE

IOD SURREY Branch Coffee & Connect – Online Looking to network with business leaders in your local area?

SURREY DIRECTORS SOCIAL NETWORKING – Foxhills Club & Resort, Surrey

Join our Surrey Chair, Jarmila Yu, for our monthly informal online meet-ups for members.

Join our Surrey Branch team, for our bi-monthly informal meet-ups for members.

The next virtual meeting takes place on Thursday September 7th from 12-1pm.

There will be an opportunity for business leaders to chat to one another regarding issues that are currently affecting their businesses, or simply to meet some new faces and make new connections.

This event is part of a free series enabling members to connect and discuss topics of interest.

A joining link will be issued a few days prior to the event, so please save the time in your diaries once registered.

We look forward to welcoming you.

It’s an opportunity to meet other members and enjoy some peer-to-peer networking in the relaxed and convivial environment that is the Manor Lounge at Foxhills Club & Resort. Get to know the IoD Surrey team of Ambassadors, and tap into their knowledge, expertise and networks and ensure you are maximising your membership.

The event runs from 6pm till 8pm, and refreshments are available to purchase on the night. To book your place, register at: www.iod.com/events/directors_social_networking_event3146744526 Places are limited, so be sure to register your attendance as soon as possible.

We look forward to seeing you there.

DATES

2023 September 25th / November 27th 2024 January 29th / March 25th / May 20th / July 29th / September 30th / November 25th

NEXT DATE September 25th

DATES

COMING SOON

2024 January 9th / February 6th March 5th / April 9th May 7th / June 4th July 2nd / August 6th September 3rd / October 8th November 5th / December 3rd

Being visible and accessible is core to our mission of getting to know and better support the director community in Surrey. Our Surrey Ambassadors, spanning key business sectors and specialisms, are active in Surrey. You’ll start to see us at other business and industry events across Surrey. If you would like to collaborate with us on an event, we’d love to talk.

2023 September 7th / October 4th November 7th / December 5th

To book your place, register at: www.iod.com/events/surrey_ coffee_and_connect3837178259

We are also planning additional Surrey Branch, in-person events; including our quarterly Directors Talks Breakfasts, Directors Briefings Lunches, and Directors Business Book Club Dinners, to be run at our Surrey Hub, Foxhills Club & Resort.

Contact: chair.surrey@iod.com www.linkedin.com/company/iod-south/ www.iod.com/locations/south/surrey/ E: chair.surrey@iod.com

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TRAVEL Aaah, Milano. At once beautiful and grotty, stylish and raw, the city captivates with its contradictions. By Tess de Klerk

MILAN

A fusion of history, fashion, and culinary excellence There is never a dull moment in this city that blends historical grandeur and modern vibrancy. The city’s rich past and progressive present create a dynamic tapestry that captures the hear ts of travellers seeking both cultural enrichment and modern luxury.

Known as a global fashion and design capital, this city’s allure extends far beyond its haute couture reputation.

With its iconic landmarks, cultural treasures, and culinary scene that tantalises the taste buds, Milan is ideal for a city break.

“WHEN IN MILANO, DO AS THE MILANESE”

n Immerse yourself in fashion and design in Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan’s high-fashion district. It’s a shoppers’ paradise (especially for those with deep wallets), featuring luxur y boutiques and designer flagship stores from global fashion powerhouses. n Eat gelato in the Brera Design District; it’s a trendy neighbourhood as well as a fantastic creative hub that celebrates contemporary design, with galleries, showrooms, and events that highlight cutting-edge art and design concepts.

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n S hop at the markets. I suggest the Viale Papiniano Market, the largest and most popular street market in the city. It runs each Tuesday and Saturday. Eately, a high-end culinary marketplace is fantastic too, offering a wide range of Italian products, from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and wines, plus stalls and restaurants providing a journey through Italy’s rich gastronomic landscape. n Milan’s aperitivo scene is a cherished tradition to take full advantage of.

Dinner is only served between 8pm–11pm but fret not, aperitivo time steps in around 7pm to tide you over. Enjoy these pre-dinner drinks accompanied by fre e spreads of appetisers, creating a lovely social atmosphere for everyone. n D on’t go home without tr ying Risotto alla Milanese; saffroninfused rice cooked to creamy per fection, of ten paired with osso buco, a braised veal shank dish. This signature Milanese dish captures the city’s culinary soul. n U se bike sharing with BikeMi. The city’s flat landscape and many cycle paths make it a pleasure to explore on two wheels.

The Duomo di Milano

DON’T MISS…

n T he Duomo di Milano (of course): A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Milan Cathedral, or Duomo, is a striking symbol of the city. Its intricate façade and towering spires make it one of the most visited sites in Italy. n Santa Maria delle Grazie: Home to Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic “The Last Supper” mural, this UNESCO World Heritage site showcases Milan’s artistic heritage and draws art enthusiasts from around the globe.

TOP TIP

n Sforza Castle: Once a fortress, now a museum complex, Sforza Castle houses a diverse collection of art, from Michelangelo’s unfinished sculptures to ancient Egyptian artefacts.

There’s a lot of swamp land around Milan, leading to masses of mosquitoes during the hot summer months. They are a plenty and molto aggressive – PACK REPELLANT!

n Teatro alla Scala: A mecca for opera aficionados, La Scala is one of the world’s most renowned opera houses, hosting per formances that showcase Milan’s deep musical traditions.

TRAVEL

Teatro alla Scala

Known as a ❛❛ global fashion and

design capital, this city’s allure extends far beyond its haute couture reputation ❜❜ WINE & DINE

Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia: Known for its innovative approach to traditional recipes, this restaurant offers an unforgettable culinary journey through Italian flavours. ££££ Cracco: Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Carlo Cracco, this restaurant reinterprets Italian classics with contemporary flair, creating an avantgarde dining experience. ££££ Trattoria Toscana da Giannino: This family-owned trattoria delights diners with Tuscan specialties and warm hospitality, creating a homey and authentic Italian dining atmosphere. ££ Shabby Grill Steakhouse: You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better steakhouse. Anywhere. ££ Sforza Castle

TREAT YOURSELF TO A STAY AT THESE FANTASTIC HOTELS

The Bulgari Hotel Milan: Known for its contemporary elegance, this luxury hotel offers stunning views, a private garden, and an upscale spa.

From £1,198 per double Mandarin Oriental, Milan: Combining Milanese design with Asian influences, this hotel offers refined luxury, Michelinstarred dining, and a tranquil courtyard.

From £1,179 per double

Park Hyatt Milan: Situated steps away from the Duomo, this hotel exudes sophistication, featuring a blend of classical and modern design, along with top-notch amenities.

From £1,150 per double Armani Hotel Milan: Reflecting Giorgio Armani’s signature style, this hotel boasts minimalist aesthetics, impeccable service, and panoramic city views.

From £1,000 per double *prices for September 2023

In Milan, history meets innovation, and art mingles with fashion while the city beckons visitors to make it their own. I, for one, never fail to return home infused with a buzz soaked up from this inspirational city.

GETTING THERE Fly direct from Gatwick to Malpensa with easyJet. From £94 return in September.

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MOTORING

BMW X7 M60i

By Maarten Hoffmann

I have to admit to loving excess in all things. Therefore, when the latest colossal BMW SUV arrived on my drive, l was not overly surprised to see the tarmac sink under its wheels and the birds take flight from the tree.

This thing is huge and has a Germanic presence set to challenge allcomers in the sector – and scare the crap out of Poland!

The X7 is going up against competitors such as the Range Rover SVR, Porsche Cayenne, Audi RSQ7 and Mercedes GLS AMG – this is a tough sector and the BMW will have a fight on its hands. The X7 launched in 2018, and this new facelift model is the fast version with a barnstorming

❛❛ I didn’t know

I ever needed them, but I quite like the heated and cooled cup holders ❜❜

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V8 4.4-litre, twin turbo power plant producing 523bhp with a mild hybrid 48V battery that adds a further 127bhp, filling in some of the torque gap. It will hit 62 mph in 4.7 seconds and, considering it weighs in at 2,565kg, or 2.8 tons, this acceleration is astonishing.

trying to climb over the car in front.

If that’s your thing, then stick it all in Sport Plus and hang on. You also have a huge panoramic glass roof, matrix LED lights, air suspension, parking cameras everywhere, and heated and chilled front seats.

The new interior is very smart and the 14.6cm screen running across the dash displays everything required, plus a mountain of items not really required – and that runs into the driver’s dash screen. In all, a very user-friendly dash display with razor sharp graphics.

The centre console houses an assortment of buttons, not least the drive modes.

The BMW iDrive 8 software is more complex than ever but a tad more accessible, if you pay attention.

For me, the best setup for town is engine and suspension in Comfort, and the steering in Sport. This gives a great feeling through the wheel whilst not

This is a true seven-seater, and all seats are fully electric so no strain required to make any of the combination of seats arrangements. The rear tail gate splits in two, much like the original Range Rover. This is a great arrangement as it gives you somewhere to sit whilst sorting the kids/ dog/dirty boots. And l didn’t know l ever needed them, but l quite like the heated and cooled cup holders.

MOTORING The engine can be described as monstrous. The exhaust note is full of grunt and in Sport Plus, it will do things that a 2.8 ton car should not be able to do, and thanks to the active roll stabilisation system, differential and xDrive all-wheel drive system, this great mass sticks to the tarmac with minimal corner roll.

Once you fully trust the car, you can throw it into corners that logic – and physics – say you should certainly not be able to. The 23-inch wheels are the largest ever fitted to a production BMW, and they absorb just about everything the appalling UK roads can throw at it.

The elephant in the room of course is the sheer size of this beast. It’s not surprising that the majority (75%) of the sales are in the US, China and Korea as it really is too lardy for the UK roads.

Parking is an issue as it will overhang every parking space, and travelling down small side roads caused me to bring the wing mirrors in sharpish and hold my breath.

TECH STUFF MODEL TESTED: BMW X7 M60i xDrive POWER: 523bhp SPEED: 0-62 4.7 seconds TOP: 155 mph ECONOMY: 21.9 mpg PRICE FROM: £83,295 - £104,450 AS TESTED: £115,615.00 The mass also reflects in the economy as, with around 21 mpg, it is not exactly frugal and l am pretty sure that with my leaden right foot, l didn’t even get close to that figure – but l was smiling every time l filled it up. For those interested, it is fully ULEZ compliant.

Of course, if you love the car then you don’t really need the earthshattering performance of the M model as there are entry level 40i petrol and diesel models available from around £80,000.

In summary, this is an astonishing piece of world-class engineering with a superb interior, more performance that you could ever need in daily driving, a real world seven-seater and a joyous place to sit but like me, it is a dinosaur having its last hurrah before the Eco Brigade force us all into anonymous, soulless little electric boxes.

I, for one, will mourn the day we no longer have ‘real’ cars in our lives but then l guess that’s what the old timers said about the horse and cart!

PLATINUM

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*BUSINESS CUSTOMERS only. Based on EQA 250+ AMG Line. Advance rental £5,687 ex. VAT. 4 year lease on Contract Hire. Figures listed excluding 20% VAT are for customers who may be able to reclaim VAT or are VAT exempt. Subject to availability and change. T&Cs apply. Orders between 01.08.23 – 30.09.23. Mercedes-Benz Finance, MK15 8BA. Sandown Mercedes-Benz is a Credit Intermediary not a Lender.

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THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR WOMEN

SEPTEMBER 2023 #28

BIG STORY

Helen Dickinson CEO British Retail Consortium Women in Tech Making a difference in profitability

Lifetime Allowance changes

HEALTH

Exploring Nootropics

TRAVEL

The finest medical spas

EXCITING LAUNCH

The Dynamic Festival of Business EXCLUSIVELY FOR WOMEN

E H T C I M A N Y D L A V I T FES

THE FESTIVAL OF BUSINESS  EXCLUSIVELY FOR WOMEN

APRIL 29TH 2024 THE GRAND BRIGHTON

CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2023 • ISSUE 28

BIG STORY

14

Helen Dickinson OBE

The Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium has her work cut out fighting off the narrative that supermarket

26

FEATURE

FEATURE

Sarina Wiegman – a trailblazer

Women are the answer

Dynamic looks at the career of the Lionesses’ Dutch-born manager who has taken the team to hitherto unreached heights

The most successful entrepreneurs I know are optimistic. It’s part of the job description Caterina Fake, Founder, Flickr

PLATINUM MEDIA GROUP

4

32

The UK tech industry is struggling to secure the talent required to make them function. Women, it seems, are the solution.

36%

The percentage of small businesses worldwide owned by women

All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit. Surrey Business Magazine is owned and published by Platinum Media Group Limited.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk | SEPTEMBER 2023

News

8 Upfront The top international news stories involving women in business

TRAVEL

40

22 In The Right Direction Good news stories from around the world

Travel

40 Tess de Klerk discovers Europe’s best medical spas

Events

2 Announcing the 2024 Dynamic Festival 30 News of a keynote speaker at the upcoming Brighton Summit

Feature

20 Making better use of warehouse spaceIf the UK is not careful, it will soon run out of commercial warehouse space. Dynamic has a few suggestions in how to mitigate this issue

Spotlight

24 Highlighting two female business leaders who ought to get more recognition that they currently receive

FINANCE

Success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally. It comes from what you do consistently

Marie Forleo, Entrepreneur, Writer and Philanthropist

12

12 Samantha Kaye of Wellesley discusses what the changes to the Lifetime Allowances mean for you 18 Alison Jones of Kreston Reeves with suggestions on how to make a difference to your profitability

Health & Wellbeing 34 Exploring nootropics – ‘brain food’ to you and me

Further reading

36 Laura Ashley-Timms is the co-author of The Answer is a Question

Art Scene

38 Kellie Miller discusses the works of Su Jameson

What’s On

42 A brief snapshot of art and culture cross Sussex and Surrey

CONTACTS PUBLISHER: Maarten Hoffmann maarten@platinummediagroup.co.uk EDITOR: Tess de Klerk tess@platinummediagroup.co.uk MOTORING EDITOR: Fiona Shafer fionas@platinummediagroup.co.uk COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR: Lesley Alcock lesley@platinummediagroup.co.uk EVENTS DIRECTOR: Fiona Graves fiona@platinummediagroup.co.uk EVENTS MANAGER: Žaneta Bealing zaneta@platinummediagroup.co.uk HEAD OF DESIGN: Michelle Shakesby design@platinummediagroup.co.uk SUB EDITOR: Alan Wares alan@platinummediagroup.co.uk

WWW.PLATINUMMEDIAGROUP.CO.UK SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to another edition of our passion project. Dynamic Magazine was truly born from the excitement we feel as we witness determined women and girls take their rightful places in this world, demand equality and showcase incredible passion and talent.

Please don’t think that this means that we don’t recognise or appreciate everyone else too - of course we do! But we also love creating this space especially for championing women. Speaking of champions…

Thank you for your hard work and passion, Lionesses! In this month’s magazine we take a closer look at their coach, Sarina Wiegman, who had to pretend to be a boy to play football when she was young! We also look at how Helen Dickinson, CEO of the British Retail Consortium, is playing the high stakes game of defending the supermarkets in today’s retail climate.

We don’t stop there. In Spotlight, Lebby and Sophie chat with us, and in Further Reading we hear from author, Laura Ashley-Timms. One of my personal favourite sections in Dynamic is Art. Not in the least because of gallery owner and art critic, Kellie Miller’s beautiful way of drawing me into the world of the artist.

And much more. We hope you enjoy you enjoy this month’s Dynamic magazine.

Editor, Dynamic Magazine tess@platinummediagroup.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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M&S LEADS CALL ON VAT RETHINK MPs, retailers and charities have written to the government urging it to axe the 20% VAT on period pants, the alternative to tampons and sanitary towels.

In December 2020, then Chancellor Rishi Sunk announced the abolition of VAT from all period products. However, HMRC classified period pants as garments, rather than essential goods, and so retained the 20% VAT cost. Additionally, retailers are not passing on the VAT cut to consumers.

Now, Marks & Spencer has launched Say Pants to the Tax, promising to pass on all cost savings to shoppers if it is successful.

Campaigners are asking Victoria Atkins, the minister at the Treasury responsible for VAT, to get them reclassified as period products in the chancellor’s autumn statement later this year.

UPFRONT THE LATEST BULLETINS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

NIKE PERFORMS KIT U-TURN In the light of Mary Earps’ inspired performances for England in the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup, Nike, which makes the England men’s and women’s football kits, has re-considered its decision not to make replica women’s goalkeeper shirts.

The original decision not to produce goalkeeper shirts for any of the nations whose kits it made, was taken before the World Cup, a move widely criticised by football fans globally.

Replica shirts for the outfield players had been on sale, but Nike insisted there was little need to make goalkeepers’ shirts - a decision they have finally acknowledged was wrong.

The FIFA Women’s World Cup Final was the second-most watched TV event in the UK after the King’s Coronation.

❛❛

A strong woman stands up for herself.

A stronger woman stands up for everybody else Unknown

8

CALL FOR TRANSPARENCY ON PAY EQUITY Still on Nike, investors in the company are being asked to vote for a resolution calling on the company to disclose more data on pay equity for female and minority employees.

Massachusetts-based investment adviser Arjuna Capital, a regular submitter of shareholder resolutions, filed the proposal with the SEC in July. The firm asked Nike for an annual report on median earning gaps for female and minority employees, stating that the report should include the company’s associated wage policy and “risks related to recruiting and retaining diverse talent.” In a report published ahead of Nike’s shareholder meeting on September 12th, investors were met with the proposal that would allow them to “compare and measure the progress of the company’s diversity and inclusion initiatives.”

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk | SEPTEMBER 2023

SHEIN BEING AUDITED AMID FORCED LABOUR CLAIMS Attorneys general from 16 US states have asked the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to audit China-founded fast-fashion retailer Shein’s supply chain for the use of forced labour. In a move clearly seen a party-political, the letter, sent to the SEC in August, added to pressure on Shein as hawks in Congress target Chinese firms who they say do not align with US foreign policy goals. Shein, which sells budget clothes and home furnishings in more than 150 countries, recently moved its headquarters to Singapore but makes most of its products in China. “We have zero tolerance for forced labour, and no contract manufacturers in the Xinjiang region. We will continue to engage with US federal and state officials to answer their questions,” a Shein spokesperson said.

LAWSUIT FILED AGAINST BLACK WOMEN-ONLY VCF The founders of a venture capital fund devoted to funding Black women-owned businesses defended their efforts to support underrepresented entrepreneurs in the face of a lawsuit by a conservative activist accusing it of racial discrimination.

New York-based Fearless Fund’s leaders and its lawyers pledged to fight a lawsuit filed by a prominent affirmative action opponent American Alliance for Equal Rights, a group founded by activist Edward Blum. “We are not scared,” Arian Simone, the chief executive and co-founder of the Atlanta-based Fearless Fund, said.

“We are fearless.” According to the Fearless Fund, women of colour business founders in 2022 received only 0.39% of the $288 billion that venture capital firms deployed.

❛❛

Think like a queen.

A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness

Speak to a GP

Gain a better understanding of your medical condition

Questions for your consultant Become more involved in decisions about your care

Understand your treatment options

Discuss management choices and their pros and cons

scan the QR code to access your friendly, dedicated service

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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UPFRONT

❛❛

Women are the real architects of society Cher

UK EQUAL PAY LAW TO BE REINSTATED UK Government Ministers have pledged to reinstate the right of women to receive equal pay with men for doing the same job, despite recently scrapping the law behind the protection.

Hundreds of EU laws were dispensed with earlier this year through the Government’s post-Brexit “EU Retained Law Bill.” These laws included a regulation establishing the right of women to claim equal pay and terms with men if they ultimately work for the same “source” setting their employment terms and conditions.

The Government’s U-turn came just hours after senior Labour figures told the Financial Times that the party would introduce a pledge to reinstate the previous protections if it won the General Election, expected next year.

THE FUTURE IS FEM-ALE Until the 16th century, when hops were first used in England, most ale and beer was still produced by women, known as ‘brewsters’. The late 18th century saw the decline of brewing as a household art and the rise of the male-dominated ‘beer business’ had begun, with commercial, large-scale brewing.

But brewsters are back. Now, according to the Independent, the eight best beers brewed by women are: • BEST OVERALL Queer Brewing Co: Existence As a Radical Act • BEST NEW ENGLAND Wild Card Brewery: Magonia Fresh Hop NEIPA • BEST IPA Coalition Brewing: Always With A Twist IPA • BEST LAGER St. Austell Brewery: Korev Cornish Lager • BEST CASK BEER Nomadic Beers: Little Wanderer • BEST ALCOHOL-FREE BEER Merakai Brewing Co: This Is A Thirst Trap • BEST GOSE The First & Last Brewery: Hedgerow Gose • BEST DARK BEER Brewster’s Brewery: Dragon Street Porter

❛❛

A woman with a voice is, by definition, a strong woman Melinda Gates

NADINE (IS IT YOU?) In a move which saw her pre-empt a humiliating exit from the House of Commons, Mid-Bedfordshire MP Nadine Dorries has finally resigned her seat, eleven weeks after publicly announcing her intention to do so.

Dorries had announced her intention to stand down ‘with immediate effect’ in June when she was overlooked in Boris Johnson’s controversial resignation Honours List.

She has not voted in the House of Commons since April 2022.

Her resignation paves the way for a by-election in her former constituency which will take place sometime in late September or early October.

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www.platinummediagroup.co.uk | SEPTEMBER 2023

RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW, WE NEED YOUR HELP

Could your business be part of our moving story and Help Keep Martlets Caring?

If you want to discuss ways your business could support Martlets call our Fundraising team on 01273 747455 or email fundraising@martlets.org.uk

Help Keep Martlets Caring Registered Charity Number: 802145 MN0041

FE ATURE PROMOTIONAL

Will the change to the Lifetime Allowance affect how you take pension benefits going forward?

Could the change be reversed in the near future?

SAMANTHA KAYE from Wellesley investigates

STICK OR TWIST What do the changes to the Lifetime Allowance mean for you?

T

he way we retire has shifted radically over the past decade, and another major change is set to impact high earners. One of the headline announcements of the Spring Budget in March 2023 was the Lifetime Allowance (LTA) and the potential abolition for the 2024/25 tax year – the cap on the total value that you could hold in your pensions without facing a tax penalty.

It currently stands at £1,073,100, but it will be removed from April 2024. The change will mostly affect senior professionals like doctors and head teachers, who might have previously been tempted to take early retirement or opt out of pension saving.

MOVING GOALPOSTS

Although the move has been lauded for simplifying the pension system and promoting greater awareness of saving for the future, industry experts are sceptical.

HMRC has yet to show how the LTA could work in practice. What’s more, with a General Election looming, Labour has pledged to reverse any changes if they come into power, in favour of a solution for NHS staff only.

Investors have therefore been left with a number of tricky questions. What should you do if you previously paused your pension contributions to avoid breaching the LTA? Should you crystallise funds in excess of the LTA now while there’s no tax charge? Or could this leave you vulnerable to tax in the future if the LTA is reinstated by Labour or a future government? What does it all mean for Inheritance Tax (IHT) planning, given that you can pass pensions to beneficiaries IHT-free upon your death?

The issue is perhaps more pertinent for women, who will often rely on their pension more than men due to issues like the gender pay gap and any time taken away from their career to raise a family 12

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ASSESSING YOUR POSITION

Any questions arising from the proposed LTA changes will typically require professional advice on any actions you might need to take to secure your short- and longterm financial well-being. Immediate things to consider are:

The change will mostly affect senior professionals like doctors and head teachers

1. Are you using a mix of tax-planning tools to save for your future – including pensions and ISAs? 2. Check your pension nomination – who does it pass to when you die?

3. If you’ve previously been affected by the LTA, it’s worth checking your pension policies and procedures to clarify the details on benefits.

It’s impossible to say today what the future holds, but regular contact with your adviser is the key to ensuring there’s not a knock-on effect on your future plans.

Worried about what the LTA might mean for you?

Contact me today to arrange a no-obligation chat.

Samantha Kaye, Chartered Adviser, Wellesley House, 50 Victoria Road, Burgess Hill, West Sussex, RH15 9LH E: samantha.kaye@sjpp.co.uk www.wellesleywa.co.uk

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.

The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. The value of any tax relief generally depends on individual circumstances.

St. James’s Place guarantees the suitability of advice offered by Wellesley when recommending any of the services and products available from companies in the Group. More details of the Guarantee are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

Wellesley is a trading name of Wellesley Investment Management Ltd. The Partner Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/about-st-james-place/our-business/ our-products-andservices. Wellesley Investment Management Ltd: Registered Office: 44 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, England, TN2 5TN. Registered in England & Wales, Company No. 06530147.

SJP Approved 31.08.23

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

13

STORY BIG

Helen Dickinson OBE

LOOKING OUT FOR THE RETAIL INDUSTRY Any regular visitor to a supermarket - or any shop - over the past five years will have noticed a shocking rise in the price of many items - for a variety of reasons. The International Monetary Fund is pointing the finger straight at profiteering retailers; retailers flatly deny this, pointing out issues with the supply chain; the Government – without having the firmest grip on the situation – is bizarrely blaming wage increases, to which workers claim ‘what wage increases?’

So everyone has the hump with everyone else.

In the middle of all this, the British Retail Consortium, representing the UK’s retailers, and the customers they serve, is trying to find a redress to the balance between this accusation of profiteering and customer needs.

As Dynamic now points out, Helen Dickinson, the CEO, clearly has her work cut out…

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Given her role at the BRC, she is compelled to step in and defend the supermarkets from criticism being levelled at them

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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STORY BIG

H

elen Dickinson OBE was born in 1966 in Surrey. She was educated at schools in New Zealand between 1973 and 1978, and The Kings School, Ottery St Mary, Devon before attending Kingston Polytechnic.

Her first job was as a sales assistant at a high street chemist. After joining KPMG she ultimately rose to the position of Head of Retail, working for the company for 23 years. She was appointed CEO of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), having landed that role over ten years ago, in January 2013. She received an OBE for services to the retail industry in 2016 When Dickinson left her role at KPMG, the UK retail industry was relatively stable. Consumer confidence and retail sales were improving after shaking off the last remnants of the global financial crisis from five years earlier.

DEALING WITH COVID

As CEO of the British Retail Consortium, Dickinson was one of the people to attend government briefings during the Covid-19 pandemic, where she urged people to shop responsibly after panic buying led to a shortage of food in supermarkets.

She has a thankless balancing act between being a voice piece for the UK retail industry, for consumers, and talking with a Government which has had to deal with many international challenges over the past few years, not all of which have been dealt with that successfully.

During one particularly feisty online exchange regarding Covid between then Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng, and representatives of 70 major retail companies (who dismissed Kwarteng’s demeanour as ‘rude’) in January 2021, she had to tread a careful line between the demands of her members, and the diplomatic role required to be CEO of the British Retail Consortium when dealing with the Government.

News had got out that the exchange was heated, and that Kwarteng had behaved in a dismissive, belligerent manner. Dickinson sought to calm the waters by stating her disappointment that details of a hitherto confidential meeting had become public.

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HELEN DICKINSON IN HER OWN WORDS

The BRC’s mission is to make a positive difference to the retail industry and the customers it serves, today and in the future. We tell the story of retail and work with our members to drive change, doing this in a way that adds value to all the companies in membership - if you’re a retailer or a supplier of services to retail, we’d love to welcome you!

I lead the brilliant BRC team and am responsible for our strategic direction, performance and impact. I’ve been working with retailers for over 30 years and am passionate about retail, diversity and inclusion and accelerating the industry’s journey to Net Zero. I received an OBE for services to the retail industry in 2016, am a member of the Pennies Retail Advisory Board, a Social Mobility Commission Ambassador and won Activist of the Year in the 2021 Retail Week Awards.

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IMF AND THE PROFITEERING ACCUSATIONS

Given her role at the BRC, she is compelled to step in and defend the supermarkets - and other retailers – from criticism being levelled at them, especially accusations of profiteering. After the International Monetary Fund placed a large slice of the blame for double-digit inflation on excessive and unnecessary retailer price rises, combined with the Government weighing in with its misguided finger-pointing, she launched a robust takedown of the narrative coming retailers’ way.

“The Government must end its scapegoating of retailers,” Dickinson wrote in a recent blog. “I remember conversations with retail leaders seeing inflationary pressures coming even before the war in Ukraine. Labour shortages, freight issues, dislocation of supply caused by the pandemic, Brexit frictions, a weakening pound, rises in the New Living Wage, the impact of climate changes on commodities and harvests... the reasons to expect rising costs were obvious.”

In pointing to supermarkets expanding their ‘value’ ranges, and quoting a Competition & Mergers Authority report, she reasoned the evidence was clear that retailers were exonerated for their price rises.

Dickinson was one of the people to attend government briefings during the Covid-19 pandemic

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BRC’S RAISON D’ÊTRE

As the go-to trade association for UK retail businesses, our purpose is to make a positive difference to the retail industry and the customers it serves, today and in the future.

We tell the story of retail, work with our members to drive positive change and use our expertise and influence to create an economic and policy environment that enables retail businesses to thrive and consumers to benefit.

We do this in a way that delivers value back to our members, justifying their investment in the BRC. This membership comprises over 200 major retailers – whether operating physical stores, multichannel or pureplay online – plus thousands of smaller, independent retailers through a number of niche retail Trade Associations that are themselves members of BRC. Retail is an exciting, dynamic and diverse indus-

BREXIT INFORMATION

In more than once instance, Dickinson has been infuriated

by Brexit. Not so much by the vote and the subsequent political bile that followed; more the execution of Brexit, with uncertainty, doubt, concern and lack of clarity or information coming from the one place that needed to calm the stormy waters - the Government.

Indeed, in a universe of ubiquitous finger-pointing, she has more than once fired off her ire at ex-Prime Minister Boris Johnson for his behaviour, and lack of consultation, in the lead up to the UK’s exit from the EU. In that regard, Dickinson is probably on the right side of the argument here. At a time when all facets of UK industry – especially retail – needed clarity, little was forthcoming.

Not that that really helps. It’s fairly evident Dickinson – and the BRC - are having to fight the ‘blame’ narrative on several fronts. This has made her job so much harder; certainly in comparison to the relatively rosy industry she inherited responsibility for ten years ago.

try. It is a driving force in our economy, a hotbed of innovation and the UK’s largest private sector employer. Retailers touch the lives of millions of people every day, supporting the vibrancy of the communities they operate in. However, the industry is going through a period of profound change, with technology transforming how people shop, costs increasing, and growth in consumer spending slowing.

Retailing will continue to evolve and advance.

Online retail will continue to grow as retailers invest in new emerging technologies; there will be fewer stores and those stores remaining will offer new experiences; there will be fewer, but better jobs and a career in retail in the future will be very different to today.

We are committed to ensuring the industry thrives through this period of transformation.

At a time when all facets of UK industry – especially retail – needed clarity, little was forthcoming FURTHER CHALLENGES

As well as Brexit, the BRC under Dickinson’s tenure has had other battles with the government. The biggest one – aside from the effects of Covid on the retail industry and its consumers – has been business rates, the controversial property tax that has become the bane of retailers since its revaluation at the start of the 2017/18 fiscal year.

The pace of reform has been slow, or too slow for the BRC’s liking. Following the Chancellor’s Budget of 2023, Dickinson was moved to respond, “The Government took an essential step towards longer term reform of the broken Business Rates system by the scrapping of downwards phasing of transitional relief. Yet the need for Business Rates reform is far from over, and the changes made in the budget are a far cry from the fundamental reform promised in 2019.”

“Any meaningful plan for the future of our town and city centres must have wholesale reform of our Business Rates system at its heart.”

All the while inflation remains higher than previously forecast, uncertainty will continue within some, if not most, parts of the economy. In being presented with these challenges, Helen Dickinson OBE, in her first ten years as CEO at the British Retail Consortium, has evidently undertaken her role with diplomacy, knowledge, integrity, tenacity and care, becoming an important champion for all aspects of the retail industry.

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

17

FINANCE

In times of continued high inflation, rising interest rates and the current cost-of-living crisis, all businesses need to be taking a hard look at their finances and the systems they have in place to monitor their results.

Cash is always king. But you can’t control other areas of your business if you are not monitoring them.

By ALISON JONES, Partner of Kreston Reeves

Practical steps to make a difference to your profitability Here are some thoughts on areas that you really need to focus on:

RETENTION OF STAFF

Your staff are your most valuable asset so do ensure that you are looking after them. As well as providing flexible working, there are many little extra things that you can do to improve their lives during this current crisis which will help you retain them. It does not cost much but providing breakfast for example can have a huge impact on your staff.

When was the last time that you checked your product costings and is the markup still what you are expecting?

Does this markup then enable you to cover your overheads, or do you need to be either increasing your prices and/or cutting costs?

ACCOUNTING PROCESSES

INVOICING

Do you raise interim invoices or are your clients on standing orders? This is a good tool to ensure that cash is still being received on a regular basis.

When was the last time that you reviewed all your processes for efficiencies? Could AI be a useful tool to help you improve this? Most of our clients now use Xero to record their financial information and this uses AI which has significantly reduced time, keeping their accounts up to date. There are lots of other pieces of software using AI that could help with other areas of your business.

PRICING

ACCOUNTS AUTOMATION

Is this up to date in the current market and have you added an inflationary rise to your prices? You need to be aware of your competition to ensure that you do not price yourself out of the market but do keep an eye on them to ensure that you have not been left behind. Some of our clients also consider the risk of each sale/product and they will add a premium when this is considered to be high risk.

You are not alone with the right team of advisors working with you 18

COSTINGS

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Can anything be automated? Dext, for example is a piece of software that automates recording expenses and uses AI to post them into Xero. Is there any other part of your business where automation could help?

MARKETING

It is very tempting to reduce expenditure in this area, but this is not always a good plan as you can quickly be forgotten if your competitors are continuing with their marketing. Are you marketing in the right way and in the right place? Would your business benefit from being on TikTok or YouTube? You may be surprised by how much these platforms can generate more business for you by reaching a different market and increasing your profile.

WEBSITE

Do you monitor how much business this creates? Does this need refreshing? Do you ask for testimonials or recommendations, including on Google, as these are powerful tools for encouraging new clients. Don’t be shy, you are good at what you do, and the world needs to know!

REVIEW YOUR CONTRACTS

Review your contracts to ensure that you are paying the best prices. Do you need to change your utilities supplier?

If you do not have the time or experience to review these in detail, there are firms that will audit your contracts and can suggest cheaper alternatives.

FINANCING

You should also review your financing arrangements, including your loans. We can perform an audit for you including suggesting alternative providers which could help you reduce your costs in this area.

ELIMINATE ALL WASTEFUL PROCESSES

It is estimated most businesses waste the equivalent of 20-30% of their turnover each year. Regardless of the type of business you run, a waste audit includes looking at overproduction and over-servicing, waiting times, transportation, inappropriate processing, unnecessary inventory and motions, defects, and mistakes. Reviewed collectively, these can lead to some significant cost savings as well as better service for your customers and clients.

It is estimated most businesses waste the equivalent of 20-30% of their turnover each year Do speak to your accountant? They have a wealth of knowledge and experience in many of these areas and they can help you by monitoring your results with you and providing a sounding board to help you make decisions.

And finally, this is a stressful time for everyone but please don’t forget the acronym – TEAM – together everyone achieves more. And you are not alone with the right team of advisors working with you.

Alison Jones can be contacted at alison.jones@krestonreeves.com Visit www.krestonreeves.com or call us on 0330 124 1399 SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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FE ATURE

The number of business premises used for warehousing and logistics has almost doubled in the last decade, according to the Office for National Statistics, leaving the UK facing a potential problem.

DYNAMIC looks at what’s behind the demand and why businesses need to adapt

Making better use of WAREHOUSE SPACE This has been largely driven by the massive increase in e-commerce and online retailers such as Amazon – a company that accounts for a quarter of all warehousing space in the UK. In late 2021, commercial property services firm, Cushman & Wakefield, predicted that the UK could run out of warehousing space within a year. Over 12 months later, demand continues to be at an all-time high, with vacancy rates having been sat at less than 2% for the past year. This is way below the rate needed to balance fluctuations between supply and demand, which is 8%.

WHAT’S DRIVING THE DEMAND FOR WAREHOUSING SPACE?

Where e-commerce has dominated the take-up of warehousing space, analysis has also shown that the increase in demand is also because of stockpiling. More retailers and manufacturers are now using third-party logistics providers to store their goods, which drove almost 20% of all warehousing take-up in the first half of 2022.

This is likely due to businesses wanting to make their supply chains more resilient rather than relying solely upon ‘justin-time’, a model that is highly vulnerable to any disruptions within the supply chain. Stockpiling goods means that even if there is a disruption, the business will have enough stock to fulfil orders and keep up with customer demand.

This, along with what’s seen as chronic under-development of storage space, has created a perfect storm that is affecting businesses across the UK and limiting their growth.

Apart from lack of space, labour vacancies is another major issue faced by the logistics and warehousing industries 20

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Recent joint analysis from Savills, the British Property Foundation (BPF) and the UK Warehousing Association found that the lack of space has meant that rents have risen around 61%. This is most harmful to small businesses and those that work with slim margins, which may struggle to keep up with rental costs and could see their profits squeezed even more. Consumers may also feel the bite of this, with some businesses forced to pass on extra costs to their customers.

How can businesses adapt to the lack of space?

1 GREATER USE OF HEIGHT

Utilising all available space will be vital – especially vertical space. For small storage facilities, shelving units, stacking systems, and warehouse steps may be enough to maximise the height. For larger spaces or those that deal with heavy items and materials, pallet racking is an essential investment. Specialised equipment such as mobile warehouse steps and side loaders can assist in the process of storing items at height and make it much safer and less labour-intensive.

Although still uncommon, more developers are pointing towards multi-storey warehousing as a way to combat the lack of space. The UK’s first multi-storey logistics space, Segro V-Park Grand Union, in London is planned to be six storeys high. Building mezzanine levels into current spaces may also provide a faster short-term solution.

2 EFFICIENT STORAGE

Similar to utilising height in your warehouse is also investing in ways to efficiently store your equipment, for which there are many simple but effective solutions.

Some commonly used equipment such as steps, shelf trucks, and trolleys can be found in foldable styles, meaning that they can easily be packed away when not needed. Wall brackets can also help to store equipment such as heavyduty ladders safely, securely, and in a way that saves space.

3 AUTOMATION

Automating otherwise time-consuming tasks can ensure processes are completed quickly, as well as reduce the risk of human error. This is especially useful for FMCG companies where speed and accuracy are essential for customer convenience.

Warehouse management systems and the use of AI technologies can both help towards achieving this.

AI in warehouses can streamline processes and help businesses to use their space more efficiently through analysis and effective planning. AI can quickly use market trends and current demand to calculate future needs, aiding in decision-making around what stock to prioritise and where to store it to avoid wasting space.

Products such as powered pallet trucks and pallet stackers can also assist with tasks that are carried out by people; they do the heavy lifting.

Demand continues to be at an all-time high, with vacancy rates having been sat at less than 2% for the past year

4 EXPANDING SUPPLIER BASES

Businesses that are unable to build their own stockpiles due to space could also minimise the risk of supply chain disruptions by expanding their supplier bases. Doing so will mean that when an issue strikes, the business will be able to source what they need from different suppliers.

5 STRATEGIC USE OF LOCATIONS

Apart from lack of space, labour vacancies is another major issue faced by the logistics and warehousing industries. Automation can partially help by making workers’ jobs easier to complete. However, future developments will need to not only consider the available space, but also the surrounding labour pool. In areas where logistics and warehousing are dominant, the competition for skilled workers will be the fiercest.

Along with these adaptations, perhaps the real key to helping businesses meet their demand and thrive is the sufficient development of warehousing space. The expansion of available space might then lead to even greater demand for it, with businesses growing and increasing their own stockpiles.

The report by Savills and the BPF predicts that growth could rise by 42% in Leeds, 35% in Manchester, 29% in Birmingham, and 28% in Nottingham – leading to benefits such as job creation and giving the local economy a boost.

There are already signs of renewed growth in warehouse development plans, with just over two million sq ft of warehousing space opening this year in Yorkshire alone.

If this continues, the day the UK runs out of storage space may never come.

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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To me, bossy is not a pejorative term at all.

It means somebody’s passionate, engaged and ambitious and doesn’t mind learning

TAIWAN TACKLES PERIOD POVERTY Taiwan will be joining New Zealand, Kenya, Botswana and regions in France and Canada in providing free sanitary products in schools and universities. Taiwan will include grants for low-income learners to access period products, which is expected to benefit 95,000 students. Provision is also being made via public venues such as libraries, museums and art centres in major cities.

Scotland already provides period products free of cost to anyone who needs them while the rest of the UK has, sadly, only abolished VAT on sanitary products.

Amy Poehler

IN THE RIGHT

DIRECTION

THE US GENDER PAY GAP NARROWS The pay gap between full-time working women and their male counterparts in the US is now narrower than ever, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics – but there’s still some way to go before parity is reached.

Many feared that the pandemic would reverse pay gap progress, but the opposite appears to be true with women now making 84 cents (74p) for every $1 (88p) that men earn for similar work – the closest it’s ever been.

“Many women are coming back into the labour force at higher wage rates than before,” Julia Pollak, chief economist at ZipRecruiter, told news site Axios.

“What was a ‘she-cession’ in some ways appears to be turning into a ‘she-boom.’”

NO PRESSURE TO WALK 10,000 STEPS If hitting the magic 10,000 steps a day sometimes feels like an impossible task, take heart – a new analysis reveals health benefits kick in at as few as 2,300, while 4,000 is enough to cut the risk of premature death.

Researchers led by Maciej Banach, Professor of Cardiology at the Medical University of Lodz, Poland, analysed step count studies involving almost 227,000 people. They found that 2,337 steps a day benefitted the heart and blood vessels, while walking at least 3,967 steps reduced the risk of dying from any cause.

Every 1,000 steps over 4,000 cut the chance of early death by 15%, the study concluded.

“This applied to both men and women, irrespective of age or whether you live in a temperate, subtropical or subpolar region of the world, or a region with a mixture of climates,” said Banach.

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A SILVER LINING IN RISING COST Artificial fertiliser, made using natural gas, shot up in price after the invasion of Ukraine. Consequently, UK farmers started using less of it or using natural alternatives, leading to the unexpected outcome of higher crop yields.

According to the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), wheat, barley, oilseed rape and sugar beet yields rose by 2.4% in 2022, while fertiliser use fell by a reported 27%.

US DESTROYS THE LAST OF ITS DECLARED CHEMICAL WEAPONS ENVIRONMENTAL FUND TO TRAIN YOUNG PEOPLE A wildlife trust and charity have received £1.49m to train young people from diverse backgrounds to help them get environmental sector jobs. UpRising and Shropshire Wildlife Trust received National Lottery funding to launch the free Environmental Leadership Programme to engage people aged 18-25 from a range of socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds with nature. It aims to deepen young people’s understanding of what drives environmental behaviour change, leading them to develop nature-focused campaigns in their local communities.

The last of the United States’ declared chemical weapons stockpile has been destroyed at a military installation in Kentucky, the White House announced. Rockets filled with GB nerve agent were destroyed, closing a chapter of warfare dating back to World War I. “For more than 30 years, the United States has worked tirelessly to eliminate our chemical weapons stockpile,” President Joe Biden said in a statement released by the White House. “I am proud to announce that the United States has safely destroyed the final munition in that stockpile — bringing us one step closer to a world free from the horrors of chemical weapons.”

“Price rises in 2022 were a real shock for many farmers, but one upside could hopefully be a permanent reduction in fertiliser use,” said Martin Lines, chairman of the Nature Friendly Farming Network.

❛❛

I just love bossy women. I could be around them all day Amy Poehler

Students will spend nine months taking part in the free course and there will be 100 young people in each cohort.

The programme will run for four years.

Applications are currently open for the October start date.

REVERSING HEARING LOSS IN MICE Scientists at King’s College London have used a genetic approach to fix deafness in mice, restoring their hearing abilities in low and middle frequency ranges.

Dr Elisa Martelletti, the study’s first author from King’s Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience said, “Seeing the once-deaf mice respond to sounds after treatment was truly thrilling. It was a pivotal moment, demonstrating the tangible potential to reverse hearing loss caused by defective genes. This groundbreaking proof-of-concept study unlocks new possibilities for future research, sparking hope for the development of treatments for hearing loss.”

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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In our exclusive Spotlight feature, we highlight women who are doing good things in their community.

They’re not always seen but we think they should be.

SPOTLIGH T Lebby Eyres The CEO of The Health Lottery tells us how her fundraising efforts led to a career shift As a child, I was never a brilliant fundraiser. Getting sponsorship in the 80s was a tedious process which involved cold calling neighbours – not much fun for a slightly shy, gawky teen.

It wasn’t until my mother died of breast cancer in 2008 that I began fundraising in earnest, as a means of getting through my grief. At the time, I was deputy editor of new! magazine. Our marathon-running art director inspired me to do the Moonwalk to raise money for breast cancer charities.

After my father died from pneumonia in 2013, I decided to run the London Marathon for the British Lung Foundation.

The following year, I did the Paris and London Marathons to support an anti-domestic violence campaign we’d launched in the magazine under my then-editorship. We were reaching half a million readers a week, many of whom had experienced an abusive relationship or knew someone who had. I felt we were making a difference.

After being made redundant in 2018, I began working as a freelance journalist, but found I missed being part of a team.

I returned to my university sport of rowing and met some inspirational women who’d rowed the Atlantic.

It felt like fate when a dropout led to a friend asking me to join “The Mothership” team for the 2021 Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. We rowed from La Gomera to Antigua in 40 days and raised £70,000 for the Felix Fund, Women in Sport and Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice.

We rowed from La Gomera to Antigua in 40 days and raised £70,000 for the Felix Fund, Women in Sport and Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice 24

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Afterwards, returning to journalism felt a little hollow.

I wanted to be part of something more meaningful. So when the former owner of new! magazine called to tell me about the role of CEO of The Health Lottery, I jumped at the chance to apply.

Now, just over eight months after I joined, we have relaunched the brand and I’ve put my journalism background to good use to make sure we’re telling the story that with every ticket sold, we are helping to fight health inequality around Great Britain. At The Health Lottery, we support community projects that can otherwise get overlooked.

It’s a real motivation to know the better we are at our job, the more we make a difference.

See www.healthlottery.co.uk

Sophie Carr A big congratulations on winning the Dynamic Innovator of the Year Award!

Sophia Carr, Director of Bays Consulting tells us about her journey to get to where she is today I didn’t set out wanting, or ever expecting to become, a business owner. In fact, I landed my dream job straight out of university, working as an aeronautical engineer and I genuinely could see my whole life mapped out. Two things combined to change that: I missed the research aspects of university, and I was fascinated about why people were missing (not seeing) information. I persuaded my employer to fund a part-time PhD, and that was game changer.

I was introduced to Bayesian Statistics.

It took eight years to get my PhD, studying in the evening and weekends during which time I got married and had a child. It was undoubtedly challenging to finish my studies, and achieving that is something I am really proud of.

Just over a year after I graduated, I was made redundant while my second child was only a few months old.

That was during the economic crash of 2008/9 and I couldn’t find part-time technical work. This was important to me, I desperately wanted to stay in technical work and use the skills I gained. Ultimately, I decided to found my own company to do just that.

I mean how hard can that be? It turns out founding a company is pretty easy; building a profitable company is much, much harder. I promised my husband I’d just do some consulting for a couple of years and then go back to a proper job.

The thing is, it turned out I really enjoyed running my own company.

As Bays has slowly grown I’ve worked hard to ensure that the culture is one where everyone can find their place in tech. I am incredibly proud of the fact that the company has an equitable gender split and that our staff includes reservists, veterans and more part-time men than women.

By allowing the company to grow slowly, the team has really come together and we’ve found ways of working that work for us. I’ve felt the joy in seeing others who were brave enough to join a small company grow and succeed and realised that this gives me huge fulfilment.

I am not where I thought I would end up in my career but I am, I think, where I am meant to be.

By allowing the company to grow slowly, the team has really come together and we’ve found ways of working that work for us

www.baysconsulting.co.uk

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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FE ATURE

In the realm of women’s football, few names resonate as strongly as Sarina Wiegman’s.

The Lionesses coach took the team further in the Word Cup than any England squad had reached in 57 years. By Tess de Klerk

Sarina Wiegman

A TRAILBLAZER IN WOMEN’S FOOTBALL With her exemplary coaching prowess and remarkable achievements, she has carved a path that inspires both players and fans alike.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Wiegman’s personal journey adds depth to her meteoric rise in the world of football

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I have a lot of respect for Sarina.

For the men, everything is arranged.

Here, this is much more difficult Louis van Gaal

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

27

FE ATURE

CONTRASTING REALITIES AND DEDICATION

Sarina’s childhood team; Six year old Sarina: first row, second left

EARLY LIFE AND PASSION FOR THE GAME

Born on October 26th 1969, in The Hague, Netherlands, Sarina Wiegman’s affinity for football developed early in life. Raised in a family that adored the sport, she kicked her first ball at a tender age, playing football in the streets and quickly showcasing an innate talent that would come to define her future. Back then, girls and women weren’t allowed to play football in the Netherlands, but that didn’t stop Sarina from chopping her hair off and joining her twin brother’s Haag team. Over the years, she faced many challenges of a male-dominated sport, often playing with and against boys, refining her skills and determination.

FROM PLAYER TO SCHOLAR-ATHLETE

Wiegman’s journey took a significant turn in 1988, when she had the opportunity to participate in the 1988 FIFA Women’s Invitation Tournament in China. During this tournament, fate intertwined her path with that of Anson Dorrance, the head coach of the US Women’s National Team (USWNT). Impressed by Wiegman’s skills and potential, Dorrance extended an invitation that would shape the course of her life. He encouraged her to study at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and join the North Carolina Tar Heels women’s football team, a powerhouse in collegiate soccer.

In 1989, Wiegman seized this opportunity, crossing the Atlantic to immerse herself in the vibrant US football culture. Playing alongside luminaries like Mia Hamm, Kristine Lilly, and Carla Overbeck, Wiegman’s time with the Tar Heels proved transformative. The team clinched the NCAA championship in 1989, a remarkable feat that showcased Wiegman’s ability to excel on the international stage.

Right: Sarina holding the Euro 2022 trophy

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Wiegman’s experiences at the University of North Carolina provided her with a stark contrast to the situation back home in the Netherlands. She marvelled at the high calibre of the team and the quality of support and facilities, which stood in stark contrast to the challenges faced by female players in her homeland. In the Netherlands, women’s players juggled football with other professions due to the lack of sufficient support.

Upon returning to the Netherlands after her stint in the United States, Wiegman embraced her role as a trailblazer. She became a beacon of inspiration for female athletes, demonstrating that success was possible even under challenging circumstances. To sustain her playing career, Wiegman worked as a physical education teacher at Segbroek College in The Hague, a position she held while continuing to excel in football.

CHAMPIONING EQUALITY AND CHANGING THE GAME

Off the field, Wiegman’s personal life reflects her dedication to empowerment and gender equality. A vocal advocate for women’s rights in sports, she has consistently championed increased opportunities and support for female athletes.

Her work transcends mere wins and losses; it’s about paving the way for future generations and changing perceptions about women’s participation in football. As of 2022, the Dutch men’s and women’s national football teams receive the same salary.

A POWERFUL PARTNERSHIP

Sarina Wiegman is married to Marten Glotzbach, who shares her passion for football. Marten, a former youth football trainer and coordinator, transitioned to becoming a Professor of Economics at Segbroek College. He utilised his coaching qualification by organising football matches at the school, eventually finding his way into coaching the Netherlands Women’s national football team.

Marten and Sarina’s partnership extended beyond their personal lives. They worked alongside each other as coaches for the Netherlands Women’s national football team; a testament to their shared commitment to the sport.

Despite Sarina’s departure to become the head coach of the England Women’s team in September 2021, their influence on women’s football remains a profound force.

A FOOTBALL FAMILY

The couple have two daughters, Sacha and Lauren Glotzbach, who have inherited their parents’ love for the beautiful game. Both Sacha and Lauren are accomplished footballers in their own right. Lauren plays for the youth ADO Den Haag team, while Sacha showcases her talents at Sports Club Monster.

Right: Consolling England’s Millie Bright Below: The 2023 World Cup team

Overcoming adversity has been a defining characteristic of Wiegman’s teams, with England rising above every challenge presented over the four weeks of the tournament with a calm, ruthless efficiency WHAT’S NEXT FOR SARINA?

Sarina is a strong contender to potentially assume the role of the Netherlands men’s national coach in the future.

Privately, Dutch football authorities have hinted for months that Wiegman would likely find herself on the shortlist of candidates. Her candidacy has gained more traction following her teams’ impressive streak of reaching four consecutive major women’s international finals.

Historically, no prominent football federation or top-tier club has ever extended an offer for a men’s team managerial position to a woman. Wiegman confirmed her commitment to her role with England though, stating she had no intentions of departing, despite the 1-0 defeat to Spain in the FIFA Women’s World Cup Final.

Her current contract with the Lionesses extends until after Euro 2025. There has also been talk of Sarina leading England’s men’s team after Football Association CEO Mark Bullingham expressed openness to a woman succeeding Gareth Southgate. Either way, Bullingham vowed to rebuff external attempts to recruit Wiegman and expressed optimism in her prolonged tenure. Addressing the pay gap (around £400,000 a year compared to Southgate’s £6 million), he said he aims for parity eventually, acknowledging the current discrepancy in the ‘market’ for both positions.

Wiegman’s name also emerged in American media as a potential replacement for the resigned head coach of the US national team. However, the KNVB (the Dutch FA’s) renewed interest might strongly appeal to her. Another prospect for Wiegman is managing Great Britain in the Olympics, pending successful qualification.

Wherever she chooses to go, Sarina Wiegman’s journey is one of tenacity, perseverance, and an unwavering love for the beautiful game. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, coaches, and anyone striving to make their mark in a world that sometimes resists change. As she continues to shape the future of women’s football, her legacy is destined to endure, leaving an indelible imprint on the sport she holds dear.

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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E VENTS

Lord Simon Woolley will be a keynote speaker at Brighton Chamber’s annual Brighton Summit on October 20th at the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts

BRIGHTON SUMMIT Meet one of the UK’s most high-profile campaigners for social justice Lord Simon Woolley has dedicated over 30 years of his career to promoting equality and human rights. He’s a crossbench peer, co-founder of Operation Black Vote, and the first Black man to serve as principal of Cambridge University’s Homerton College.

Fostered and then adopted as a child, he grew up on a Leicester council estate and left school without any A Levels. In 1996, Lord Woolley founded Operation Black Vote, which works with ethnic minorities to increase understanding of civic

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society, participation in Parliament and public life. Over the past two decades, the number of MPs from Black and minority ethnic backgrounds has risen from four to 65 as a result.

Joining Brighton Chamber as a keynote speaker at Human: Brighton Summit on October 20th, Lord Woolley will talk about his life – the challenges he’s encountered, the skills and passions he’s developed along the way, and his dedication to promoting opportunity for underrepresented communities and individuals.

ABOUT HUMAN: BRIGHTON SUMMIT Books have been born, businesses brokered, and brilliant bonds of friendship made over the course of Brighton Summit’s ten-year history. That’s thanks to the highly collaborative format which maximises opportunities to meet, share and learn. But also down to attendees’ mindset: free your mind, banish your boundaries and zoom outside of your comfort zone.

Brighton Summit is a full day of expertly curated keynotes, workshops and speaker sessions to supercharge your business and personal development. And each year, our theme helps us to focus on and enhance our shared discussion. This year, our Human theme will see us embrace, dissect and celebrate our shared humanity.

Featuring a keynote from forensic scientist Angela Gallop, and sessions to spark connections in new ways from wine and cheese tasting, to building Lego, learning breathwork and more – it’s a Summit for everyone.

Human: Brighton Summit is on October 20th at the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts.

Find out more and get your ticket at brightonsummit.com

Brighton Summit is run by Brighton Chamber, a dynamic and welcoming membership organisation for businesses of all sizes.

To get the latest Summit updates straight to your inbox, head over to the Chamber website to sign up to our mailing list.

With thanks to our sponsors: Galloways Accounting, Osprey, University of Sussex, EMW LLP, EQ Investors, Plus X Innovation and Reed.

And with special thanks to some of the humans helping behind the scenes at Brighton Summit. Brilliant branding by Sandra Staufer and Visual Function, with captivating copy by Rich Ford, Sherlock Studio.

Media partner: Platinum Media Group Print partner: Lollipop Web partner: Madison Solutions

PLATINUM M E DIA G ROU P

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TECHNOLOGY

The UK tech industry has a growing employment issue with 95% of companies reporting difficulties in securing talent. Where are the solutions to be found?

WOMEN are the answer to the tech talent gap

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T

he UK Tech sector grew by 1,000% between 2010 and 2020, and last year the UK became the third country in the world to have a tech sector valued at £1 trillion. More ‘unicorn’ billion pound tech start-ups are being created than Germany, France and Sweden combined.

Around two-thirds (67%) of tech workers in the UK believe women are the answer to bridging the tech talent gap, yet only 40% stated their company has a plan to improve the gender split in their IT teams, according to research.

The annual Computer Weekly/TechTarget IT salary survey also revealed that almost a quarter of all participants strongly believe women are not well represented in higher positions within the tech workforce.

The lack of women in the tech sector is not only hindering diversity, but also contributing to the significant skills gap, leaving firms struggling to find the talent they require.

Hostile environments for women in tech roles could deter them from pursuing careers in the industry, leading to a missed opportunity for a pool of potential talent.

Senna Baillie, Director of Community, at VeUP, said: “The industry and companies within should continue to work together to highlight and implement the necessary means to break down barriers to entry, and implement strategies to shift away from the idea of the sector being exclusive.

Around two-thirds (67%) of tech workers in the UK believe women are the answer to bridging the tech talent gap “As well as looking to recruit new talent, tech companies must look inward and drive an inclusive culture to expand organisational support and access to courses for their female staff. Getting more females into tech is crucial to unlocking an abundance of knowledge as well as strengthening retention and attitudes across the board.”

More than half of the survey participants highlighted the need for greater involvement of men in creating an inclusive culture for women in the tech sector, up significantly from 23% from last year, indicating a growing recognition of the importance of male allies in fostering diversity and equality.

Joanna Kori, Head of People at Encompass Corporation, said: “Research such as this emphasises the importance of building a truly diverse workforce. Women have so much skill, experience and expertise to bring to the table. If the gap is to really be bridged, it is crucial that organisations are proactive, and put the right policies and initiatives in place to attract and retain them.

“Businesses within the technology sector must continue to invest in female talent, introducing or focusing on a range of areas, such as flexible working, which can be transformative when it comes to enabling women to excel in their career development while enjoying the work-life balance that is imperative today. We must empower women in their life and wellbeing choices, as well as their work choices, and support them to reach their potential. If we are to continually see positive change, flexibility is key.”

Regarding equal pay, 63% of respondents believe women and men with similar qualifications are paid equally within their organisations, though 10% disagree.

The survey also highlighted a disparity in average salaries, with female participants earning an average yearly salary of around £61,640, while male participants earned an average of £86,392. This disparity is often due to women being less likely to be promoted to higher, well-paid positions or leaving the sector before reaching a higher salary range.

The tech sector has started to shift its focus from exclusively encouraging women into the industry to a broader approach, continuously adjusting and improving upon including people from different ethnicities, with different disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and those from less wealthy socio-economic backgrounds.

Progress is being made, with 41% of respondents reporting their organisations to have mature DE&I strategies in place, but there remains much work to be done to improve.

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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WELLBEING

The allure of a straightforward method to amplify brainpower, thus leading to heightened productivity, intelligence and focus is undeniably captivating. But is it all hype? And is it safe?

EXPLORING NOOTROPICS

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WHAT ARE NOOTROPICS?

Nootropics encompass a diverse array of supplements and medications that hold the promise of improving cognitive function within the brain, including faculties such as memory, creativity, motivation, executive function, and overall thinking abilities.

T

he popularity of nootropic drugs can be attributed in part to their portrayal in popular culture, such as the movie “Limitless,” where a smart drug propels Bradley Cooper into heightened productivity. However, such ‘brain hacking’ still remains a distant aspiration Nootropics are alternatively known as cognitive enhancers, smart drugs, or brain boosters. This classification encompasses an extensive spectrum, ranging from naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, and plantderived compounds to prescription medications and novel synthetic compounds.

Let’s have a closer look at some of the substances out there.

SYNTHETICS

Nootropics are alternatively known as cognitive enhancers, smart drugs, or brain boosters

Synthetics such as those in the Racetam family (piracetam, aniracetam, pramiracetam), Noopept, phenotropil were blanket banned for selling and distributing in the UK in 2016 (they’re readily available online from outside the UK, though). Some of these compounds have proven efficacy in those with serious cognitive decline such as piracetam in dementia patients but there is little evidence from large, controlled studies regarding the effectiveness and safety of these compounds in healthy brains.

LION’S MANE Plant MUSHROOM ‘brain Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium stands out as a unique boosters’ erinaceus) natural nootropic with potential neuroprotective and cognitiveenhancing properties. A 2009 clinical trial found that Lion’s Mane supplementation could stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production, supporting overall brain health.

Notably, the study participants with mild cognitive impairment experienced improvements in cognitive function after taking Lion’s Mane for 16 weeks

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RHODIOLA

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) is a powerful adaptogen that helps the body adapt to stress. This herb boasts potential benefits for mental stamina and resilience. A 2003 randomised controlled trial among 161 participants found that Rhodiola could alleviate mental fatigue and improve cognitive function under stress. Participants experienced a significant reduction in fatigue and an increase in mental performance during stressinducing tasks.

Essential nutrients for a happy brain • B Vitamins inc folate • Vitamin C • Vitamin D • Vitamin E • Omega 3 • Magnesium

The allure of a straightforward method to amplify brainpower… is undeniably captivating PRESCRIPTION ‘SMART DRUGS’

These constitute another prominent category of nootropics, often associated with students seeking prolonged focus and attentiveness. Among the common prescriptions used as smart drugs are methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta), Modafinil and amphetamine-salt-based stimulants like Adderall (USA). While these medications are essential for individuals with cognitive differences or certain psychiatric disorders, healthy individuals may also misuse them to enhance work or study performance.

The risks are considerable. Using prescription medications without professional guidance can lead to harmful consequences, including dependency and addiction. Long-term use of these drugs, especially during brain development stages like adolescence, might impede brain plasticity and result in potential cognitive decline. Side effects of illicit usage can include psychiatric disorders, cardiovascular issues, and even an increased risk of suicide.

Nootropics offer an enticing promise of enhancing cognitive function, memory, and overall mental performance.

However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before taking any new substances – even herbs. And always be vigilant to potential side effects, interactions, and precautions.

GINKGO BILOBA

Ginkgo biloba, often called a “living fossil” because it has survived mostly unchanged for close to 150 million years, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for cognitive enhancement. Today, some studies back up the plant’s benefits for memory and concentration, its neuroprotective effects and its ability to improve microvascular circulation in the brain, concentration, and overall cognitive function.

BRAHMI

Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), a central herb in Ayurvedic medicine, has been relied upon for millennia for its memoryenhancing properties – among a host of other benefits. In 2001, a clinical trial demonstrated that bacopa monnieri supplementation led to improvements in memory, learning, and cognitive performance in healthy individuals.

Interestingly, the effects were more pronounced after 12 weeks of supplementation, suggesting that the benefits might build up over time.

ASHWAGANDHA

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is another adaptogenic herb with a broad range of potential cognitive benefits – particularly by improving resilience to stress, which can impair mental clarity, alertness and focus. A systematic review of scientific literature has shown that ashwagandha administration can lead to significant improvements in anxiety or stress level.

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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RE ADING FURTHER

THREE KEY SKILLS MANAGERS NEED TO NAVIGATE RAPID CHANGE WITH THEIR TEAMS 1

Laura Ashley-Timms is the COO of performance ASK MORE POWERFUL QUESTIONS Questions are the keys to unlocking your teams’ conconsultancy Notion, co-creator of the fi dence and potential in the face of change. Rather than ® STAR Manager online development programme, practising a traditional command-and-control manageand co-author of The Answer is a Question ment style, providing solutions to problems that your emComplex hybrid-working models and rapid technological advancements are just some of the unprecedented changes facing today’s workplace. Additionally, staff priorities have shifted in terms of work/life balance, job satisfaction and development opportunities, meaning managers find themselves overstretched and struggling to manage a mostly disengaged workforce.

Here are three key skills managers need to effectively lead their teams through change:

ployees bring to you, managers need to develop the ability to ask questions designed to stimulate their thinking. This approach benefits the immediate situations people bring to you but also countless future situations where the issue might recur. Every time you ask a powerful question and help others to think through the situation differently, their confidence and capability increase. They also become more resourceful, and when that happens, they know how to solve their problems independently.

HEAD & HEART

What is revered as leadership today is often nothing more than a destructive set of obsolete behaviours

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THE ART OF MODERN LEADERSHIP

By Kirstin Ferguson Penguin (2023) Whether you are the head of one of the largest companies in the world, supervising a small team, or guiding your family, it will be your ability to integrate your head and heart that will influence your success in leading others and navigating our complex world.

Combining studies from leading thinkers in the field with her own research, and more than three decades of personal experience, the author explains the eight key attributes of a head-and-heart leader, and provides the tools to measure your own approach.

2 ACTIVELY LISTEN

Actively listening to your employees is crucial to foster authentic engagement and higher performance. Active listening means giving the employee your full attention without interrupting with your own input. Begin by being present in the moment and making a conscious effort to sense the other person’s state. What is their mood? How much energy do they have? Do they seem stressed? Concentrate on how people are speaking, what they’re saying—and what they aren’t saying. Acknowledging that you’ve listened to someone when they’re expressing a challenge they’re facing is an important part of building empathy and trust with them. You might say, “I hear what you’re saying. That sounds really difficult. Let’s work together on this. May I ask you a question?” acknowledging them in this way will help them open up to your questions and ease into a more natural conversation.

DARE TO UN-LEAD

THE ART OF RELATIONAL LEADERSHIP IN A FRAGMENTED WORLD

By Celine Schillinger Figure 1 Publishing (2022) What is revered as leadership today is often nothing more than a destructive set of obsolete behaviours and systems evolved from the centuries-old industrial theories popularised by Frederick Taylor and Henry Ford. The author believes that this mode of leadership harms individuals and societies and must be reinvented. Dare to Un-Lead explores how contemporary organisations can transform leadership from a top-down hegemony to one that empowers people to lead together through the concepts of liberty, equality, and community.

Staff priorities have shifted in terms of work/life balance, job satisfaction and development opportunities

3 GIVE APPRECIATIVE FEEDBACK

Employees can become frustrated with a lack of feedback, especially during periods of uncertainty. Learning to spot opportunities to give appreciative feedback, rather than focusing on what you want people to improve on, is a great way to build staff confidence. Pointing out the behaviours that are making a positive difference to the outcomes being achieved, and celebrating them, will strengthen these habits and deliver faster improvements.

THE MICROSTRESS EFFECT: HOW LITTLE THINGS PILE UP AND CREATE BIG PROBLEMS--AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT

by Rob Cross, Karen Dillon Harvard Business School Publishing (2023) ‘Cross and Dillon provide fresh insight into one of the most important topics of our time – why so many high performers are at risk of burnout in both their careers and their lives. Based on solid academic research, The Microstress Effect offers not only hope but also practical guidance for fending off microstress and living a rich, fulfilling life.’ – Susan David, Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Emotional Agility

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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SCENE ART

Su Jameson’s new collection ‘Conversations’ explores the connections and complexities of being human and the tools we use to communicate. By KELLIE MILLER

CONVERSATIONS:

The works of Su Jameson Her hand-built ceramic sculptures strive to create physical and emotional exchanges drawn from her interactions and observations. Her work explores the complexities of being human, issues around belonging, strength and fragility, and communication tools. Derived from ideas that are at once particular and universal, the work invites contemplation and reinterpretation.

A bold colour palette brings to life her mesmerising ceramic sculptural forms, and you cannot help but look closer, deeper into each piece.

Some of the pieces include birds. Su is surrounded by birdsong where she works. Birds are symbolic of her upbringing. The birds singing have infi ltrated her psyche during her solitary studio practice. By including these characters, she is pushing back against influences from her childhood fuelled by Irish superstitions where birds were seen as unlucky and unwelcome, especially indoors.

The revolt against these messages has resulted in the realisation that their inclusion in her works is a constant engagement. This newfound companionship through the surround sound of birdsong and loose interpretations in the clay has been joyful and cathartic.

“Rather than a specific narrative, I am interested in a more allegorical conveyance of hidden/semi-hidden, and sometimes complex meanings that are highly personal; through symbols, colours, and textures. This approach, I hope, allows for a more universal dialogue,” says Su.

A bold colour palette brings to life her mesmerising ceramic sculptural forms, and you cannot help but look closer, deeper into each piece 38

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So, this collection is an evocation of inner voices confl icting, comforting, questioning, ancient and current with bird-like additions on some works as representations of this. Su notes that birds are our only known living dinosaurs and thus evoke ancient wisdom. They are social and pass on knowledge across generations. Her research has looked at the use of totems in early African carvings, where birds such as the pelican are symbolic in initiation ceremonies.

You can experience and enjoy Su Jameson’s new collection at Kellie Miller Arts, Brighton.

Kellie Miller is an artist, curator, critic and gallery owner. www.kelliemillerarts.com Caller

A Moment

Ancestor

Introspection

Whispers SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

39

TR AVEL

Europe’s f inest medical spas

TESS DE KLERK casts her eye over the best locations across Europe to find the finest places to relax, cure ailments and generally achieve wellness WHAT ARE MEDICAL SPAS?

Medical spas have become more popular in recent years for men and women alike. High quality medical spas provide comprehensive medical and/or wellness care in an environment that integrates spa services with traditional, alternative, cosmetic and western medical treatments and therapies. They have full-time, onsite doctors and staff, including qualified nurses, pharmacists and physiotherapists.

These spas strive to blend the best of two worlds — a relaxing spa experience with the procedures and expertise typically only found at a doctor’s office.

Some of the finest (and most expensive) medical spas are to be found in Europe. These world-class establishments offer luxurious accommodation, outstanding facilities and teams of specialist doctors for consultations, investigative procedures and surgery.

Furthermore, they feature state-of-the-art operating blocks with recovery suites and 24-hour care. Medical spa services also include weight loss and stress-reduction programmes, check-ups, beauty treatments and preventive medicine.

VILLA STÉPHANIE

Baden-Baden, Germany This remarkable establishment provides a comprehensive range of services spanning from cardiology and ophthalmology to cutting-edge front-line stem-cell therapy, which rivals the advancements seen anywhere else. Cuttingedge machinery delivers advanced full-body analysis, and a designated physician will craft a completely personalised plan. This plan encompasses tailored naturopathic treatments, targeted exercise, diet, and any other elements that resonate with your heart, body, and soul. With an available gynaecology team, a kinesiologist, physiotherapists, and even dental care services, it offers a complete and invigorating transformation within a stunning environment.

Seven-night Body Cleanse Detox Programme stay from £4,367 per person

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LANSERHOF TEGERNSEE,

Waakirchen, Germany Located amidst picturesque villages of the Bavarian Alps, this modern wellness retreat is gaining significant attention for its DNA analysis services. More than 90 genes are meticulously examined by specialists to identify potential genetic inclinations toward diseases.

Personalised advice on lifestyle choices and nutrition is then carefully put together in aid of preventing the development of these conditions.

Renowned for its rigorous detox approach, Lanserhof is a cheerleader of intermittent fasting.

CLINIQUE LA PRAIRIE

Montreux, Switzerland Situated along the stunning shores of Lake Geneva, this longstanding establishment in Montreux has been tending to individuals of considerable affluence for nearly a century.

Throughout its history, the primary focus has consistently been on enhancing not just lifespan, but quality of life, a concept known as health span. These days this philosophy encompasses advanced practices such as stem-cell therapy, DNA analysis, personalised immune enhancement, and state-of-the-art skincare. The clinic’s legacy is rooted in its commitment to enhancing longevity and well-being through a harmonious fusion of medical expertise and serene natural surroundings, making it a sought-after destination for those with very deep pockets who seek revitalisation and health optimisation.

Six-night Revitalisation Programme from £26,000

Seven-night LANS Med Basic Programme from £3,513

High quality medical spas provide comprehensive medical and/or wellness care LONGEVITY HEALTH & WELLNESS HOTEL

Alvor, Portugal This minimalist medical spa is well known for the ‘bone detective’, Ricardo Rosa, a skilled physiotherapist and osteopath who boasts a high success rate in treating chronic back pain. Most other ailments can also be addressed by the next-door private hospital with exceptional facilities and consultants or simply rejuvenate with spa and holistic treatments.

Three-night Longevity Relax & Detox Programme from £500

SHA WELLNESS CLINIC

L’Albir, Spain This top-notch medical centre caters to a wide range of needs, spanning addiction, sleep problems, smoking, alcoholism, genetic testing, memory enhancement, and holistic therapies.

The macrobiotic, Japanese-inspired diet ensures a sense of vitality and, being located in Alicante, you’re guaranteed the boost that only sunshine provides.

It’s also the site of an outstanding cognitive health programme. Professor Bruno Ribeiro employs his extensive scientific knowledge and advanced technology to restore mental equilibrium. Guests use NASA-designed headsets for relaxation and focus, coupled with brain cell regenerating light therapy. Luxurious massages and ocean panoramas aid guests in unwinding and disconnecting.

Seven-night SHA Recovery Programme from £5,995 SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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LOWER BEEDING

WILDFLOWER WALKS

Enjoy a stroll down into our valley with our avid naturalist and gardener Elliot Chandler, where he will introduce you to the diverse and rich native flora that grows among the more exotic plants here in our gardens.

You will also have the opportunity to see some of the wildlife that calls Leonardslee home. This guided walk is suitable for everyone from budding naturalists to seasoned botanists.

Leonardslee Gardens September 29th www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk

WHAT’S ON...

A brief snapshot of art and culture in Sussex and Surrey

BRIGHTON

BOUNDARY BRIGHTON FESTIVAL 2023 Boundary is the biggest electronic dance music festival in Brighton with a capacity of 20,000. Taking the best of Brighton’s creative energy, lust for life and generosity of spirit, Boundary Brighton is a festival with four stages of music, a vintage fair, delicious local food and other unexpected treats, all nestled between the crest of the Downs and the city with the sea below.

Stanmer Park, Brighton September 30th www.boundarybrighton.com/

UCKFIELD

OKTOBERFEST 2023

Step back into the 1970s and join Basil, Sybil and Manuel in an hilarious immersive three-course dining experience, with a glorious mix of audience interaction, performed scenes and a touch of competition, you are in for a treat. Just don’t mention the war!

Come and experience an interactive singalong musical night of Oompah-themed madness, music and mayhem. Dress to impress!

Classic hits from the 60s through to today, all played with an Oktoberfest twist, and including some traditional German toasts.

Bratwurst on demand!

Luxfords Restaurant, Uckfield October 6th www.civiccentreuckfield.com/events/ fawlty-towers-dining-experience

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HURSTPIERPOINT

FAWLTY TOWERS DINING EXPERIENCE

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The Horse Inn September 30th www.thehorseinnhurst.co.uk

CHICHESTER

HOVE

ST LEONARDS-ON-SEA

On the Brooklyn waterfront, where the fierce passions of ancestral Sicily linger, the orphaned Catherine falls for her handsome, newly arrived cousin Rodolfo – an illegal immigrant. Their romance is encouraged by her aunt but viewed with revulsion by her uncle who harbours an unspoken desire. As tensions rise, their story spins inexorably beyond control.

Arthur Miller’s visceral and compelling drama is a timeless masterpiece.

Momma Cherri of Gordon Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares fame is BACK! Join Momma every Saturday for her Soul Food Brunch, served by up and coming Drag artist Tylernol and their friends.

Perfect for a family treat, friends get together, even for a date. Soul music, drag performances, make up station, and fantastic food and drink - what more could you want?

‘Bring Your Baby Pub Quizzes’ are fun, brain-stimulating daytime parent socials.

Quizzes take a slower pace than traditional ones. We are parents ourselves, and understand juggling a ‘baby brain’ with baby distractions! We take two breaks to feed, change and chat, and questions are always repeated. Baby change is available, including our legendary mobile baby change which means you don’t need to leave the quiz to change baby!

A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE

Chichester Festival Theatre October 6th-28th www.cft.org.uk

Martin Simpson

MOMMA CHERRI’S SOUL FOOD BRUNCH

The Old Crow, Hove Every Saturday through September and October www.oldcrowinc.com

‘BRING YOUR BABY’ PUB QUIZ

Marina Fountain Third Wednesday of the month www.bringyourbaby.org/book-a-quiz

Michael Rosen RYE

RYE ARTS FESTIVAL 2023 This 52nd annual Rye Arts Festival will run from September 15th-30th 2023.

The Festival is proud to offer a full range of artistic events with world class performers from around the globe, as well as locals.

The Fay Hield Trio

Across Rye September 15th-30th www.ryeartsfestival.org.uk

SEPTEMBER 2023 | www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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NOV/DEC 2022 #19

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The all-new electric Fiat 500 TRAVEL

The Highlights of the Highlands

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