Surrey Business Magazine - issue 22

SURREY

BUSINESS THE OFFICIAL SURREY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE MAGAZINE

ISSUE 22 JANUARY 2020

GINA MILLER SPEAKING OUT & STANDING TALL

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unforgettable travel destinations

THE STUNNING

LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR

FOCUS ON

TECHNOLOGY AVOIDING SOCIAL MEDIA PITFALLS

Giles Thomas SURREY BUSINESSPERSON OF THE YEAR

CONTENTS 5

THE CHIEF EXEC Louise Punter on the latest news from within the Surrey Chambers of Commerce

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THE PRESIDENT President Steve Coburn looks ten years ahead to 2030

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COVER STORY: GILES THOMAS Surrey Businessperson of the Year, Giles Thomas, and others on what it means to win at the Surrey Business Awards

NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the Chambers’ new members

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GATWICK AIRPORT Connecting people in a net zero world

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TRAVEL Travel experts Go Bespoke look at the 20 most unforgettable holiday destinations for 2020

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NEWS The latest from the Chambers and the Surrey business scene

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STEWART & CO Make your cashflow a priority in 2020

HAINES WATTS Five reasons business owners should seek a mentor

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CLEANKILL The tell-tale signs you have unwelcome guests in your office

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NATWEST The latest survey of business confidence.

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media

DMH STALLARD Avoiding the pitfalls of social

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INTERVIEW: GINA MILLER Interview with the dynamic businesswoman who has been suffering abuse while taking on the Government

SURREY

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HART BROWN Jane Crosby, Partner at the Surrey-based law firm, on sponsoring the Surrey Business Awards

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SURREY POLICE The police are the public, and the public are the police

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY A round up of some of Surrey’s more far-looking technology companies

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SPONSOR A CHAMBER EVENT Get involved in the Surrey Chambers of Commerce activities

HEALTH & WELLBEING Health Editor Tess de Klerk contemplates fasting, and checks into the spa at South Lodge Hotel

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INTERVIEW: We speak to Tamara Roberts, CEO of Ridgeview Wine Estate, and recipient of the Sussex Businessperson of 2019 award

DELIVERED SOCIAL How to keep your business New Year resolutions for longer than a week

MOTORING Maarten Hoffmann tests himself in a Lamborghini Aventador, and reviews the Mercedes CLA

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SURREY CHAMBERS GOLF SOCIETY A look ahead to the 2020 calendar of events

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SURREY CHAMBERS EVENTS Highlights of upcoming Surrey Chambers events across the county

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WHAT’S ON IN SURREY A round-up of the shows, operas and ballets across the county

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SURREY CHAMBERS MEMBERSHIP Can you afford not to be a member?

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. Platinum Business Magazine is owned and published by The Platinum Publishing Group.

SURREY BUSINESS

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Businesses local to Gatwick are 50% more likely to export than the national average

Gatwick brings global trade opportunities closer

We’re more than just an airport

A WORD FROM THE CEO

Welcome to 2020

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fter a year of prevarication we now welcome more certainty than we have had for some time.

The political and constitutional deadlock of the past year has finally been resolved, and we look forward to some clear leadership. The challenge the government face is probably the biggest ever faced in peacetime. We look forward to immediate substantial action to invigorate our stagnant economy, build new infrastructure, boost skills and lower the cost of doing business. We look forward to decisive action, which will avoid a messy and disorderly exit from the European Union over the next few months. In preparation for our exit we must make sure businesses receive detailed information that they need to navigate the complex changes ahead.

It is crucial that the government works in partnership with businesses to create the kind of environment we all want to live and work in. Where business flourishes, the whole community flourishes. At Surrey Chambers we work hard to support, promote, connect and represent businesses creating the eco system for our vibrant area. During 2019 we have hosted over 130 events and welcomed thousands of delegates to a wide variety of events from networking breakfasts, International Women’s Day, Economic Briefings and Brexit Bootcamps to name but a few!

Maarten Hoffmann – Director

Lesley Alcock

Somebody asked me recently what the Chamber would be doing in the event of an economic turndown. My immediate response was to say “continue what we always do”, which is supporting businesses of any size, sector or type in whatever way they need that support. We recently brought several specialists into a room to help exporters through the minefield that could have been a no-deal Brexit. That was put together in the space of 4 weeks and what really made it work was the amazing support we received from one group of members (our specialists) as they shared their knowledge with another group (our exporters). We were very proud that we were able to help businesses and that there was such a feeling of camaraderie, even if the advice was not needed immediately!

2020 will be no different as we kick the year off with a packed programme of events including our Health & Wellbeing event, the Construction Forum and our many and varied networking opportunities. The Surrey Chambers team are always delighted to hear from our members with ideas of how we can help them. Our Helpline remains very popular with calls being made regularly concerning legal, HR, Tax and Health & Safety matters. Encourage colleagues and clients to join Surrey Chambers as we build the strength of the business voice in Surrey.

Nicole Kemble

maarten@platinumpublishing.co.uk

Commercial Director

Commercial Manager

Ian Trevett – Director

Kate Morton

Hanna Nicholson

ian@platinumpublishing.co.uk

Features Editor

Travel Editor

Louise Punter

CEO Surrey Chamber of Commerce

Fiona Graves

Lydia Bunyard

Alan Wares

Danielle Mason

Events Director

Head of Design

Events Executive

Sales Executive

Hannah Joslyn Chamber Editor

Steve Elford

Head of Web Development

Platinum staff images courtesy of David Green, Shoot Me Now Photography • shootmenow.co.uk

SURREY BUSINESS

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PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

THE PRESIDENT’S VIEW

2030?

WHAT HELP WILL YOU NEED IN

© Paul Judd Food

by Steve Coburn

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’ve been working with the British Chambers of Commerce, chairing the Regional Assembly meetings, and we’ve been tackling the question of ‘What are the challenges that businesses will face in 2030?’

It sounds so far away, that my mind moves to Science Fiction scenes and futuristic technology. I think of people talking into embedded microphones in their wrists, with clear glass ‘phones’ and Heads-Up Displays in their glasses.

2030 feels like a long way off but it’s only 10 years away. And 10 years ago, it was only 2010.

When I think back to 2010, then things weren’t so different to what they are today, were they? Business hasn’t changed that much in the last 10 years, or has it?

Well, back in 2010, we had never heard of the iPad. It was launched by Apple in early 2010. If you wanted to shop online, you needed to use your PC. Back in 2010, it was relatively straight-

forward to manage the data on your employee’s devices. Or, it was lowrisk if you didn’t! Now, we have GDPR, and we’re all looking at how we manage access to the Personal Data that’s stored on our systems.

In 2010 we went through a General Election and Gordon Brown lost control of the government to a David Cameron and Nick Clegg coalition (thanks to Labour losing all their Scottish Seats to the SNP – yep, back in 2010, we weren’t talking about Scotland breaking away from the United Kingdom – that came in 2014). No-one knew who Teresa May, Boris Johnson, Jeremy Corbyn or even Donald Trump was. Well, OK, most of us knew who Donald Trump was – but no-one knew he was a politician!

We did have the Euro Debt Crisis, and we were all hearing about ‘Quantitive Easing’ and trying to understand what it would mean for us. Flights were being grounded due to Volcanic Ash Clouds from a volcano in Iceland, BP were in trouble for causing a huge Oil Spill off the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, and we first heard of ‘Chilean Miners’ after 33 of them were rescued after spending 69 days trapped.

And, we all thought that the London 2012 Olympics were going to be a dis-

aster (oh yeah, maybe we had heard of Boris Johnson – he was the London Mayor responsible for delivering the 2012 Olympics).

Protecting yourself from Cyber Crime just meant ‘installing McAfee Antivirus’ and our Town Centres were still buzzing with lots of people (because Permitted Development hadn’t been introduced, so our Town Centre buildings were all filled with office-workers, rather than the Residential Flats that they are today).

So, maybe, yes – things have changed a lot in the last 10 years. I wouldn’t have been able to foresee Brexit and Donald Trump as POTUS. But, I was aware of the likely impact of the iPad, Cyber Crime and Data Protection/ GDPR. That’s because I work in the Technology Industry.

So, when it comes to understanding what the business landscape will look like in 2030, there will be a lot of surprises. But, within our own industries, we will have a reasonable handle on where things might be heading.

I’d love you to share your thoughts and predictions with me. It will help shape the things that the Chambers, up and down this country, do to ensure they are able to help you when 2030 comes.

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CHAMBERS

news

Freestyle Apprentices

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T Support and Solutions firm, Freestyle IT, who are based in Hook, Hampshire, have once again demonstrated their commitment to supporting the professional development of young people locally.

In partnership with Basingstoke ITEC, Freestyle IT have now seen five candidates successfully complete their courses, whilst working within the business and

go on to join the Technical Services and Sales teams. The most recent recruits are Luke Goodman (Business Administration Apprenticeship) and Tim Wolfe (IT Help Desk Apprenticeship).

Mike Roberts Commercial Director, at Freestyle IT said “Congratulations to Luke and Tim for making sure that the service level they provide to our customers is maintained at the highest level.”

Church gifts to help Hospice

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pile of children’s clothes, toys, books, luggage and handbags has been collected by the congregation at Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ) in Sunbury and donated to Princess Alice Hospice shops.

Area retail manager Shane Moore said: “We are pleased to make a connection with such a generous organi-

sation as this church. The congregation lives in the community we serve, so this is very close to home for them all. We’re very grateful for this timely donation.

Mundays LLP enter The Times Best Law Firms 2020

“Our Hospice shops raise £500,000 each year towards the £10.3m it takes to provide end of life care to around 800 people.”

Regus Chertsey has new lounge and café

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Neale Andrews, Managing Partner of Mundays commented: “I am delighted for the team that we have been included in The Times Best Law Firms 2020 list. The way in which the research is undertaken for this ranking reflects the high regard in which our peers within the law view our expertise and experience, putting us in the top 200 firms in England, Wales and Scotland.”

ollowing a major capital investment, Regus Chertsey has unveiled a new Business Lounge and Café. Area Sales Manager for Regus, Peter Doyle commented, “We are absolutely delighted with the fantastic new facilities. The response from our existing clients has been overwhelmingly positive, both in terms of supporting the launch event and their ongoing use of the facilities” Regus Chertsey has a selection of pri-

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vate offices, co-working space, virtual offices and meeting rooms. Private offices start from as little as £186 per person per month.

To celebrate this exciting news Regus are offering Surrey Chambers of Commerce members an introductory 10% discount off the standard price.

For more information email peter. doyle@regus.com

undays LLP (Mundays) are thrilled to announce their inclusion in The Times Best Law Firms 2020. The list of only 200 firms is based on recommendations made by more than 3,200 solicitors and barristers as well as lawyers in legal departments across England, Wales and Scotland.

When you start seeing you’re worth, you’ll find it harder to be around people who don’t.

BUSINESS WISDOM

Stag Print wins national award

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urrey-based print and packaging company, Stag Print, is celebrating winning the Solutions for Packaging award at the national Solutions

Awards 2019, held at the Café de Paris in London in November.

The Solutions for Packaging category looked for companies that have used imaginative design, print or finishing and print to solve a customer’s packaging problems. Stag Print received the award for its work on helping to design and produce standout boxes for a health and wellness company. The packaging incorporated high quality print, copper-coloured

There is a difference between giving up and knowing when you have had enough BUSINESS WISDOM

foiling, and two-sided lamination for an extra premium look and feel.

MD Sushil Patel said: “The whole team is absolutely thrilled to win this prestigious national award and we would like to thank everyone who voted for us. We are a small family company celebrating 40 years in business, so 2019 has been quite a year!”

10-year Tour of Britain partnership for SweetSpot

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eybridge based SweetSpot Group have announced a new 10-year partnership with British Cycling, that will see SweetSpot continue to deliver the Tour of Britain, the UK’s most prestigious cycle race, for the next decade.

SweetSpot revived the Tour of Britain in 2004, and in the 15 years since the two organisations have ensured that the national tour has gone from strength to strength, attracting some of the world’s highest-profile riders and

enormous crowds throughout the country.

Hugh Roberts, SweetSpot Group Managing Director, said: “Together with British Cycling, we can achieve so much more with our sponsors and stakeholders to improve road cycling from grassroots to elite level in Britain.”

The 2020 Tour of Britain takes place from Sunday September 6th-13th, beginning in Cornwall and finishing in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire eight days later.

TFBI team up with ASICS

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urrey based Forest Bathing Institute (TFBI) measures the health benefits of forest bathing and research reveals these are improvements across 12 areas of well-being.

TFBI have developed a unique form of forest bathing called Forest Bathing+ (FB+) which is now being widely adopted across England. FB+ is a more comprehensive therapeutic form of forest bathing developed in cooperation with

professors,

known for its hi-tech sports footwear and forward thinking.

Gary Evans Founder and Director of TFBI has been fostering close working relationships universities to advance and promote the health benefits of forest bathing.

Gary said; ‘I am thrilled and delighted to be part of a global organisation who appreciate the importance of mindfulness on health and well-being. It is a privilege to be appointed as their expert consultant on nature and health and to be able to promote the benefits of natural healing found within our environment.’

numerous universities, doctors and scientists.

In November, Gary was appointed as a consultant on nature and health for ASICS, the global Japanese company

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NATIONAL Cheap beer rules

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ot all doom and gloom on the high street as the JD Wetherspoon national pub chain has announced that it will create 10,000 new jobs as it invests more than £200 million in pubs and hotels over the next four year.

It is to build 60 new pubs and ‘a few’ new hotels, while a further 80 existing pubs across the UK will be doubled or tripled in size. The chain currently runs 875 pubs and 58 hotels and employs

news 44,000 staff. Chairman Tim Martin said: “We are especially pleased that a large proportion of the investment will be in smaller towns and cities which have seen a decline in investment in recent years”.

JD Wetherspoon reported increased profits before tax of £95.4 million on £1.8 billion of revenues in the year ended July 2019.

Sussex fast track A

Sussex live events agency smashed its way into the top 100 fastest growing private companies in Britain in the Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 list.

You don’t have to be great to start, but you do have to start to be great BUSINESS WISDOM

Boom and bust

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our businessmen arrested over the London Capital & Finance (LCF) savings scandal are said to have pocketed almost £20 million in the run-up to its collapse.

LCF, which took £237 million from more than 11,500 investors to plough into mini-bonds, went bust in January 2019 after the Financial Conduct Authority froze it bank accounts.

In a High Court judgement, Chief

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Master Matthew Marsh repeated administrators finding that £19.9 million was transferred to Elten Barker, Simon Hume-Kendall, Andy Thompson and Spencer Golding in the six months leading up to LCF’s downfall.

Identity, with its HQ at Westham, reported an average annual sales growth of 46% a year over the past three years, putting it firmly on the prestigious league table of the UK’s private companies with the fastest growing sales. Even more impressively, the events company is on track for another record-breaking year - with sales forecast to grow by well over 100%. Identity’s MD, Michael Gietzen, 34, who originally qualified as an accountant, took over his father’s exhibition stand company eight years ago and has since transformed it into an international events agency.

Michael Gietzen said: “This is a terrific achievement. Our local team is exceptional. It is their hard work and immense talent, combined with a massive investment in our facilities that has provided us with the in-house ability to deliver every aspect of a show-stopping event for our clients.

Needless to say, as one the fastest growing companies in Britain we are always on the look out for new talent to join the team.”

Start where you are, use what you have, do what you can BUSINESS WISDOM

Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory

Massive cash out

BUSINESS WISDOM

Property fund run

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nvestors shaken by the suspension of withdrawals from a leading UK property fund pulled nearly £100m from similar investments in the subsequent two days.

M&G froze withdrawals from its property portfolio fund after it was unable to sell assets fast enough to meet investors’ demands for money. It prompted the biggest day of outflows from other UK property funds of the year on December 12th, according to funds transaction network Calastone.

Investors’ response was described as “understandable”, but those whose money remains in these funds were reminded that property should always be considered as a long-term investment. Withdrawals of £61m on Thursday and £36m on Friday, revealed by the Calastone data, came after a tough year for the sector. M&G blamed its temporary suspension - a decision taken by its official monitor - on “Brexit-related political uncertainty” and difficulties among retailers.

The M&G Property Portfolio has invested in 91 UK commercial properties - including shopping centres, and other retail and industrial properties on behalf of UK investors.

If everything seems under control you’re not going fast enough BUSINESS WISDOM

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he founders of Google are leaving their executive roles as heads of the search engine’s parent company, bringing a 20-year reign to an end.

Larry Page and Sergey Brin, both only 46, founded the company in a garage in Menlo Park, California whilst students at Stanford university in 1998. Holding company, Alphabet is valued at $877bn and is the world’s fourth largest public company, after Microsoft, Apple and Amazon. The company will now be headed by long-standing lieutenant Sundar Pichai, 47, who was previously chief executive of Google, will take on all those roles as Alphabet’s chief executive. He owns about 0.1% of Alphabet’s shares.

“I’m excited about Alphabet’s longterm focus on tackling big challenges through technology,” Pichai, who has worked at the company since 2004, said on Twitter. “Thanks to Larry & Sergey, we have a timeless mission, enduring values and a culture of collaboration & exploration – a strong foundation we’ll continue to build on.”

Page and Brin control 51% of the special class of Alphabets voting shares, giving them ultimate control of the company’s future direction. Their fortunes are estimated at $62.7bn and $60.9bn respectively and with their Alphabet shares worth $101bn, life looks set to be pretty good for these young men.

New Governor

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he Bank of England is set to announce the new Governor. The current incumbent, Mark Carney is due to depart on January 31st. Those on the shortlist are: Minouche Shafik, Andrew Bailey, Kevin Warsh, Shriti Vadera, Paul Tucker, Raghuram Rajan, Ben Broadbent, Jon Cunliffe.

Sterling Sterling

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terling has soared after the Conservative Party won an overall majority in the general election. As traders dared to hope that the party’s strong majority would remove uncertainty over Brexit, the currency leapt 2.2% to $1.34, its highest level since May last year. The pound also jumped

to a three-and-a-half-year high against the euro. The BBC’s economics editor, Faisal Islam, said the scale of the Tory victory had calmed the mood of the financial markets: “The market reaction is a reflection not just of the result, but of the fact that a big majority gives the prime minister room for manoeuvre.”

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MAKE CASHFLOW YOUR PRIORITY FOR 2020

Build a more resilient business by taking control of cashflow this year. Lucy and Luke from leading independent accountants, Stewart & Co, explain why cashflow is set to be more important than ever of invoices issued by SMBs were paid late. As a result, 28% of SMBs see cash flow as a key challenge, with up to 50,000 failing each year due to cash flow issues, according to the FSB.

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ritain has 5.8 million small businesses (SMBs) who together form the backbone of the UK economy, employing 60% of all private sector workers. Their success is crucial to all of us.

However, the last two years has seen a worsening of Britain’s late payment culture which threatens the future success of some SMBs. As a business owner, you may have experienced this first-hand. Customers failing to meet agreed payment terms, invoices paid late and the knock-on impact this has on your business’s ability to pay suppliers.

Xero’s report on the State of Late Payments showed that in 2019, nearly half

So, it’s time to take back control and make cash flow your business’s priority. Let’s explore three techniques you can implement now to do just this: Clear expectations at the outset When speaking to a new customer, make payment terms clear and obvious at the outset. These should be highlighted in all documentation you send – quotes, contracts and verbally. Reiterate payment terms when sending invoices and use automation (see below) to ensure new customers don’t form bad habits from the start.

For existing customers or bigger jobs, consider invoicing upfront or in instalments. Remember that at this stage of any transaction you have the negotiating power and the ability to dictate the terms.

Use technology If you are using a cloud accounting solution, such as Xero, offer payment by credit/debit card or accept Apple Pay by integrating with solutions such as Stripe or GoCardless. For businesses that invoice monthly, you can also use GoCardless to offer customers Direct Debit solutions. In the UK, xero subscribers who offer at least one payment service enabled on their invoices are paid up to 15 days faster than those who don’t.

Use automation Many accounting solutions offer built in credit control tools to send automated emails to chase debtors. For example, in Xero you can set up automated reminders for invoices. For more sophisticated solutions, integration with tools like Chaser or Fluidly can offer greater functionality such as thank you notifications when payment is received.

Poor cash flow management stifles ambition, with businesses unable to invest in growth due to a lack of funding. Business owners spend on average two weeks a year chasing payments, often after hours. As a result, late payments are impacting owner wellbeing with 44% stating it has affected their mental health. So make cashflow your priority for 2020 and you’ll see the benefits.

For more information contact Stewart & Co, enquiries@stewartco.co.uk

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FINANCE

REASONS BUSINESS OWNERS SHOULD SEEK A MENTOR If you’re feeling at a crossroads in business, why not appoint a mentor asks Daniel Morgan, Managing Partner at Haines Watts Esher spiration and new ways of looking at sticking points be these in your business or mind-set.

Why owners choose to work with a mentor and how they benefit differs from person to person. To follow are my top five reasons for encouraging clients to work with a mentor.

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eing a business owner means being the heart and soul of your company and the one continually driving it forward. Our research into the lives of UK business owners reinforces the notion that they are heavily invested in their company - and not just financially. Their drive, passion and determination shapes the longterm success of their business.

But, it’s also true that business owners don’t have all the answers. When market volatility, political uncertainty or disruption abounds it can be daunting to solve the challenges on your own.

The threat of burnout is lurking and there are few support systems to help relieve that stress.

Over many years of supporting ambitious business owners and through my own personal journey from trainee to managing partner of a growing firm, I’ve experienced the tangible benefits of having a mentor by my side.

Mentors can make a huge difference through insights they share from their own personal experience. They stimulate thinking and challenge conventions – often helping you to find in-

A sounding board

Many business owners feel a sense of isolation. Often surrounded by supporters but missing a real confidant – someone they can share their doubts and concerns with. Mentors will listen but crucially can also offer an informed opinion. They will share their mistakes and victories and can offer empathy an informed advice.

Challenge assumptions

A mentor can and will ask the tough questions. They will challenge why you are doing certain things, where you are spending your time and ‘hold a mirror up to you’ to bring clarity. Being challenged by someone objective but whom you respect, can focus you on the big questions you so often avoid.

Widen your network

Mentors tend to have vast and varied circles of influence. While tapping into their contacts is not the primary reason for working with a mentor, there is no doubt that over time relevant and mutually beneficial introductions can be made.

Skill transfer

Shrewd business owners always look to develop their capability and skills. What better way to learn than to observe and take instruction from an owner who has embedded those skills in their own behaviour. Working with a mentor can help hone your leadership abilities and enable you to bring others on who can manage the day to day while you tackle the vision and wider plan for your business.

Ask a successful business owner who their influencers are, almost all will describe a mentor. If you’re feeling demotivated, are at a crossroads or just need an objective third party to bounce ideas off, why not appoint a mentor?

Inspiration

Motivation is key to taking action. Our research shows that owner’s lose motivation at times and that when this happens it can be a real struggle to recover. Mentors can help you rekindle your spark. They love to share their experience. Hearing stories about what your mentor has done in their career and life can provide much needed inspiration. Who better to motivate you than someone who has been there and done that?

Surrey offices in Esher and Godalming Visit us at: hwca.com/accountants-esher T: 020 8549 5137

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Be Safe With Us

Did you know that Chamber members have unlimited access to a range of essential business support services.

ChamberHR

ChamberHealth & Safety

ChamberLegal

ChamberTax

These services give you unlimited access to no less than five business advice lines and a website which features over 750 free downloadable template documents.

Believe it or not all these services are included in your membership fee – you will have nothing extra to pay!

These services offer members real protection and peace of mind. To ensure that you can have access to these valuable services all you need to do is join.

Don’t delay… join today!

PEST CONTROL

THE ‘TELL-TAIL’ SIGNS...

you have unwelcome guests in the office

By Paul Bates, Managing Director Cleankill Pest Control desks. Staff were issued with food boxes by the company and, almost miraculously, the mice disappeared – and went on the hunt for free food somewhere else.

J

anuary is not only a good time for personal resolutions but it can also be used to bring changes into the office.

It’s sometimes the simple changes that can make a massive difference.

For instance one of our clients was being plagued by mice in their offices.

It turned out that the workers’ habit of eating lunch at their desks was causing the problem. So we suggested introducing a rule that everyone had to put their food in plastic containers and preferably take time away from their

If you remove the food source, most pests will go elsewhere. This should be combined with ‘proofing’ the building so entry points are blocked and if, mice decide to return to seek out food, they will find it much harder to get in.

Most people think that rats are the main pest in cities, but it’s actually the mice that cause all the problems and rule cities like London. Cleankill Technical Manager Chris Davis says: “Mice own London, we just rent the buildings! Rats get the bad publicity but they are actually happier outside while mice want to be inside.”

they also like warmth and a safe harbourage. A colony was recently found in a customer’s communication room and with a bit of detective work Cleankill found that the rodents were using the purple wiring cables as mice motorways to get around the building.

Sometimes detective work involves using small cameras under flooring to find out where mice are entering. They can get through a gap the width of a pencil so technology is often needed to make sure staff have the complete

MICE OWN LONDON! RATS GET THE BAD PUBLICITY BUT THEY ARE ACTUALLY HAPPIER OUTSIDE WHILE MICE WANT TO BE INSIDE

Cleankill’s team of technicians face a constant challenge to keep mice under control. As well as a food source,

picture. Other detective work sees technicians using special ultra-violet dust. The mice walk in the dust and leave a tell-tale trail.

If you suspect you have unwelcome guests look out for very small, slightly curved black droppings, nibbled food containers and gnawed wiring. Mice are incontinent so anywhere they pass through will be contaminated with their urine – which is impossible to see. It’s not just hygiene problems that are caused by mice. They can cause huge disruption by nibbling cables resulting in power failures or – at worst – fires.

Contact us for a free survey www. cleankill.co.uk or call 0800 056 5477

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PRIVATE SECTOR OUTPUT FALLS FOR THIRD MONTH RUNNING

P

rivate sector business activity across the South East fell for the third consecutive month in November, according to the latest NatWest PMI® data. The decline, albeit marginal, was the second-quickest for over three years, with anecdotal evidence linking the latest setback to weak demand conditions and continued uncertainty. A seventh consecutive reduction in new business was also recorded, alongside a further fall in employment, with the rate of job shedding quickening from October.

The headline NatWest South East Business Activity Index – a seasonally adjusted index that measures the combined output of the region’s manufacturing and service sectors – posted 48.9 in November, down from 49.5 in October, to signal a contraction in private sector output for the third month

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running and marked the longest sequence of deterioration for over a decade. Moreover, the rate of decline was the second-quickest since July 2016. Sector data highlighted a contraction in output for both manufacturing and services, with goods producers reporting the sharper rate of decline.

Business activity was weighed down by a seventh successive fall in order book volumes in November. The latest reduction was linked by panellists to client hesitancy amid continued uncertainty, particularly in relation to Brexit. Notably, the reduction was among the quickest in the current seven-month sequence of decline, albeit only moderate overall.

NatWest serves customers in England, Wales and Western Europe, supporting them with their personal, private, and business banking needs.

NatWest helps customers from opening student accounts, to buying their first home, setting up a business, and saving for retirement.

KEY FINDINGS • Further and faster decline in business activity • New business falls for seventh consecutive month • Job shedding continues, and at faster pace

Alongside a wide range of banking services, NatWest offers businesses specialist sector knowledge in areas such as manufacturing and technology, as well as access to specialist entrepreneurial support.

NatWest has been running MoneySense, an impartial financial education programme for 5–18 year-olds, for more than 21 years. By the end of 2018, NatWest will help another 1 million young people to understand and take control of their finances.

Weaker demand conditions also translated into easing capacity pressures in November, with outstanding business falling for a fourteenth consecutive month. That said, the rate of backlog deterioration was the second-slowest for nine months.

Finally, private sector firms in the South East remained confident would rise over the coming year. The level ofBUSINESS positive sentiment SURVEY streng was the highest since July.

South East Business Activity Index sa, >50 = grow th since previous month

70

60 50 40 30

'01

'03

'05

'07

'09

'11

'13

'15

'17

'19

Sources: NatWest, IHS Markit.

COMMENT

Stuart Johnstone, Managing Director, London & With capacity pressures easing, priSouth East, Corporate & Commercial Banking vate sector firms in the South East continued to cut workforce numbers remained optimistic that activity will during November, as has been the “Private sector activity in the South NatWest serves customers in England, Wales and Western Europe, supporting them with their personal, private, and business banking increase over the coming year in Nocase in each month since August. The East contracted for the third month needs. NatWest helps customers from opening student accounts, to buying their first home, setting up a business, and saving for vember, with expectations climbing rate of job shedding quickened from in a row during November, with the retirement. to a four-month high.”

October and was one of the strongest rate of decline gaining momentum Alongside wide range of banking services, NatWest offers businesses specialist seen overathe past decade. to the second-quickest seensector for knowledge in areas such as manufacturing and technology, as well as access to specialist entrepreneurial support. over three years.

Meanwhile, new business fell at one of the fastest Meanwhile, cost burdens facing priNatWest has been running MoneySense, an impartial financial education programme for 5–18 year-olds, for more than 21 years. By rates in the current seven-month vateend sector firms in the East 1 million the of 2018, NatWest willSouth help another young people to understand and take control of their finances. sequence of contraction, with panel continued to increase during the latest members linking Brexit uncertainty survey period. Input prices rose solidto client hesitancy. ly overall, although the rate of inflation was the slowest since June 2016.

“At the same time, firms continued to reduce workforce numbers. The Average prices charged by busirate of job shedding quickened from nesses in the South East also rose in October and was among the sharpNovember, as has been the case in est seen over the past ten years. each month for over four years. The increase was only marginal however, Stuart Johnstone and among the slowest in the current “Nevertheless, private sector firms 51-month period of inflation.

Finally, private sector firms in the South East remained confident that output would rise over the coming year. The level of positive sentiment strengthened and was the highest since July.

METHODOLOGY The NatWest South East PMI® is compiled by IHS Markit from responses to questionnaires sent to South East companies that participate in IHS Markit’s UK manufacturing and services PMI surveys.

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AVOIDING THE PITFALLS OF

SOCIAL MEDIA With 3.2 billion users worldwide, the importance of social media – personally and professionally – can’t be underestimated.

Aysha Hussain provides a few reminders about the need for businesses to treat social media activity responsibly consequences, including heavy financial penalties and serious reputational damage.

What was that?

Most social media platforms encourage their users to share their thoughts.

It should really go without saying, but you need to be aware of the legal implications of posting statements about other individuals or companies, whether from your personal or corporate account. Publishing defamatory content (any statement about a person or company that injures the reputation of that person) on any social media platform can carry significant

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Katie Hopkins was famously fined £24,000 in damages and allegedly £300,000 in costs after the High Court found that a series of tweets posted in 2015 were defamatory and had caused ‘real and substantial distress but also harm to the claimant’s reputation which was serious’. While these tweets were from a personal account, it could just as easily have been a company that posted such defamatory comments.

The tip to take away from this example really is to err on the side of caution: unless you are 100% sure of your facts and can easily prove them, refrain from posting statements about others, however tempting. At the very least, make sure that employees with access to the company’s social media accounts are thoroughly briefed on your social media policy. The risk you face is a protracted legal battle and a substantial fine.

Permission to strike a pose?

Businesses should carefully consider what pictures they choose to post, and how they wish them to be used: intentions are essentially irrelevant when it comes to social media, and once something has been posted, control of it is relinquished.

Using a picture in any form on social media without permission or licence will leave your business open to litigation. In a recent case, Getty Images successfully sued a small removals business which had used one of its photographs for breach of copyright.

The business was ordered to pay £2,000 in damages, plus legal costs not an insignificant amount for a small business for naively taking a chance and using the photograph.

Employers also need to remember to seek permission before re-posting any pictures from their employees’ social media accounts; the content on an employee’s personal profile is itself protected by copyright.

LEGAL

A recent extreme example from the States reinforces the reputational damage that can result from using an image without permission. A young woman had applied to a marketing agency; details of her social media profiles were required for the role. She was horrified to learn later that the company in question had reposted – with negative comments - an image of her on its Instagram account. The image was of the applicant in a pool wearing an unusually revealing bikini. The story went viral and the company was forced take down its social media profiles and website because of the backlash.

registrable if it is distinctive – and that mark could include a hashtag. However bear in mind that this is neither straight forward nor cheap.

Some years ago the fast food giant McDonald’s used the hashtag #McDStories to promote a new campaign. Some-

copyright infringement. Many websites and online platforms such as YouTube, where copyright infringements are a constant issue, now have automated Content ID systems to monitor for potential copying.

There is a provision in the law for ‘fair dealing’ which allows the use of copyright protected material in certain very limited circumstances, but the Copyright Licensing Agency recommends that businesses create a policy and guidance for employees on how to avoid copyright infringements.

USING A PICTURE IN ANY FORM ON SOCIAL MEDIA WITHOUT PERMISSION OR LICENCE WILL LEAVE YOUR BUSINESS OPEN TO LITIGATION

#hashtag Hashtags have become a powerful tool for marketing your business on all social media platforms. They may seem like a good marketing move for your business, but without sufficient protection they can be used by others to your company’s detriment.

So what can you do to protect your hashtag? Hashtags are too short to qualify for copyright protection, so your best bet is to try and register your hashtag as a trade mark; UK trademark law allows a mark to be

what predictably, it was quickly hijacked

by Twitter users to publicly share their bad experiences with the company.

Without control of the hashtag, McDonald’s were forced to pull an expensive campaign after just two hours. This remains a salutary lesson about thinking through the consequences of using words or phrases that sound great – but can generate negative feedback when released into the ether.

Got the video Copyright breaches can occur easily without you even being aware of it, and businesses should be particularly cautious of posting video content that includes music: without the appropriate licence, that can amount to

Our specialist Technology, Media and Telecoms team has broad experience in dealing with issues concerning social media activity. If you need help with bringing or defending a potential claim, or with establishing an appropriate policy for your business, please do get in touch.

Aysha Hussain is a solicitor in DMH Stallard’s specialist TMT team. She can be contacted on 01273 744207 or by email at aysha.hussain@ dmhstallard.com

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GINA MILLER SPEAKING OUT

&

STANDING TALL

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INTERVIEW Brexit and the subsequent Parliamentary paralysis divided our nation and unleashed shocking levels of pent-up rage and vitriol. Few were subject to as much abuse as the successful businesswoman Gina Miller, who led a legal challenge against the government to ensure that Parliament was not bypassed in the process of leaving the European Union.

Miller has always been a committed Remainer and her vociferous critics castigated her for being motivated by stopping Brexit at any cost. But this misrepresents what Miller believes in and stands for. As a citizen of the Commonwealth, she has a deep respect and commitment to the British Law and Parliamentary democracy, and she put herself in the firing line to protect the institutions that, too often, we do not value enough.

By Ian Trevett

“A

s we walked towards the iron railings of the Royal Courts of Justice there was already a daunting crowd gathered outside.

Some of them wore nooses round their necks and tabards with my name printed on their chests.

“This was the first time reality struck - I realised that people actually wanted me dead. It took all my strength to stay calm and carry on walking past.

I wanted to stop, I wanted to talk to them, I wanted to explain, but my team hurried me on.

“On the walk towards the entrance, I heard photographers screaming my name. One angry voice rose above the fray and shouted, ‘Traitor!’

“It was the strangest feeling. I knew I was doing this because I loved my country, not because I wished to betray it. I was doing this because I wanted to protect the freedoms that made Britain great, not destroy them. I was doing this because I believed I was right. And here I was, accused of being a traitor by someone I’d never met. It was hurtful and bewildering…”

Miller’s recollection of arriving at the Royal Court is stark and terrifying, and she must have wondered what she had got herself into. Miller, along with two fellow claimants, had instructed City law firm Mishcon de Reya to challenge the authority of the British Government to invoke Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union using prerogative powers, arguing that only Parliament can take away rights that Parliament has granted.

When Mishcon first announced they had been instructed to pursue a case against Her Majesty’s Government, the firm was immediately subject to a torrent of online anti-Semitic abuse and its offices were attacked. Realising what they may be facing, Miller’s co-claimants quickly withdrew from the action, leaving Miller alone.

freedom. She reveals that, “Outside of my home, I feel like I’m walking on eggshells. I have developed a sixth sense for possible conflict. We used to love going to the theatre or concerts, but now we rarely go. For the first time in my life, I became the target of unadulterated, blatant racism as well as receiving threats of being attacked with acid.”

Miller, though, was made of sterner stuff. She recalls, “Mishcon de Reya was asking the court’s permission to clarify a matter of constitutional law and it was a perfectly legitimate but

Life lessons in Guyana and Britain

The mistrust of Members of Parliament has never been higher. The BBC and other news broadcasters come under fire from every side. The most experienced judges in the UK have their faces plastered across the front page of a top-selling newspaper with the headline: “Enemies of the People”.

THERE IS NOTHING THAT BULLIES HATE MORE THAN A VICTIM WHO FIGHTS BACK. IF THEY THOUGHT THEY COULD INTIMIDATE GINA MILLER, THEY MADE A BIG MISTAKE urgent question. To attack them with such foul language and venom seemed to me to be out of all proportion. It was bullying - and I hate bullying.”

There is nothing that bullies hate more than a victim who fights back. If they thought they could intimidate Gina Miller, they made a big mistake.

British institutions that are admired across the world have been under siege, but seemingly few people here seemed that bothered.

We take our institutions for granted.

It took someone born outside Britain to recognise what we were at risk of losing.

But she has paid a big price. Viscount Rhodri Philipps offered £5,000 to the “first person to ‘accidentally’ run over this bloody troublesome first generation immigrant. If this is what we should expect from immigrants, send them back to their stinking jungles.”

Miller was raised in Guyana, where her father was a barrister. She learnt from him a respect for the law and an innate sense of fairness. Many of the clients were too poor to pay a barrister’s fees but he would take their case anyway.

He told his daughter, “No matter how little people have, you still have to fight for them.”

Subject to endless horrific racism and threats, Miller has effectively lost her

He also instilled an admiration for Britain. Gina says, “As a child of the

SURREY BUSINESS

21

Commonwealth, I had been brought up to believe Great Britain was the promised land: a culture where the law was observed and decency was embedded in the national fabric.�

Her Guyana childhood was idyllic but it came to a shuddering halt. Her father was an outspoken critic of the government and the political climate was increasingly volatile. Worried about the safety of the family, her parents sent Gina and her older brother to England.

At the age of 11 she started at Moira House Girls School in Eastbourne. She

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INTERVIEW suffered from homesickness and the situation became harder when she received a letter from her mother saying that the president in Guyana had introduced stricter currency controls, meaning Miller had to get a job before school to survive.

In Guyana, Miller learnt notions of respect and fairness. In the UK, she learnt resilience and how to survive.

She has faced the most incredible trial and tribulations since living here.

Whilst studying at university she was subjected to a brutal and savage

MANY IN THE CITY WERE FURIOUS AS SHE WAS UNDERMINING THEIR PRACTICES OF OVERCHARGING. JUST AS WITH BREXIT, MILLER FACED THE MOST VICIOUS INSULTS

attack by a group of men, some of whom were students at the university.

She was too traumatised to finish her studies.

At the age of 23, she gave birth to her daughter Lucy-Ann, who tragically suffered brain damage at birth, resulting in severe developmental problems. Miller refused to allow her daughter to go into a home and dedicated her life to raising her child, and in the process she sacrificed her career and her first marriage.

She married again in 2000 to a man who quickly became physically and mentally abusive, to the point that she had to escape with her daughter when he was out, spending several nights sleeping in a multi-storey car park.

Gina looks back at that time as the one of the lowest points in her life, but also a turning point: “I thought to myself, ‘Gina, you have to be strong, rebuild your life, for your daughter.’ “… I knew I was strong enough to look after myself and my daughter. I didn’t need anything or anyone.”

A partner with a purpose

Happily, she did find someone who she could trust and would look out for her.

She married Alan Miller in 2007, and found not just a husband, but someone who shared her values and determination. The couple set up an investment firm SCM Direct with deliberately transparent fees, and have campaigned against the practices of the industry, where investors are ripped off by excessive hidden fees.

They also launched the True and Fair Campaign to promote transparency and challenge mis-selling.

Many in the City were furious as she

was undermining their practices of overcharging. Just as with Brexit, Miller faced the most vicious insults.

Speaking Out and Standing Tall

Boris Johnson’s claims that he will bring the country together has been met with much scepticism. There has been a terrifying spike in hate crimes and acts of racism, and the values that Miller admired from afar are in short supply. Despite the terrible abuse she has suffered, Miller is adamant that we must all speak out on discrimination and bullying.

She says: “We cannot afford to become compact or lazy. As the saying goes, ‘good people must speak out or bad things happen’. “… I dread to think what the rise in race-hate crimes means, and where it might lead. You look back at Nazi Germany and you think, ‘How could people have sat in their houses and watched out of their windows as they saw old men, women, children beaten and rounded up, and not do anything stop it?

“They stayed silent because fear set in. They stayed silent because they were scared that if they raised their voice they too would be taken away.

And for a long time people didn’t speak up about the small things. But small thing grew into much larger, and more dangerous acts. “… We feel safe looking at history with the twenty-twenty vision that comes with hindsight, and yet we are sleepwalking into some of the same dangerous mistakes of our forebears.”

It is down to us all, not just Gina Miller.

We all need to speak out and stand tall.

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INTERVIEW

Gina Miller - Quick Q&A After all the abuse you have received, how did it feel at the Brighton Chamber of Commerce summit, where you received a standing ovation?

Over the last 3-4 years I have steeled myself against abuse and hatred, so it was very emotional and heartening to receive such warmth and support.

I have never spoken up to be liked but respected for my values, principles and fighting for fairness so in those terms it made me feel both humble and honoured.

Do we take our Law and Parliament for granted?

It is a normal perspective to take what we have for granted, so I don’t necessarily think it is a UK issue. What I do think about being brought in a Commonwealth country in the 1960s and 1970s was that we were still instilled with old fashioned ‘British’ values, but these have also, perhaps, been diluted.

How worried are you about the future of the UK? I am very worried that hatred, intolerance and a closing down of debate is being encouraged all too often by those in positions of power. I worry about a lack of leadership, compassion and empathy. A nationalist fervour is being perpetuated by media barons with an ideological political agenda that is anti-social and that is then amplified by social media Do you have advice on how can people overcome their fears and stand up for what is right?

Fear is crippling but the effects of not speaking out when you know something is wrong can cripple society and our way of life. Take the time to reflect, think through all options all angles before you speak out as unintended consequences

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can be even more damaging than the issue you sought to act against. If you can, act as a collective as there is both power and protection in numbers.

What are your ambitions and hopes, both personally and for the UK? I will not stop using the campaigning voice I have developed over the last 30 years. I will continue to speak out against injustice, inequality and the abuse of power, whenever I see it. But great opportunities lie ahead, just as much as threats. I will be open to opportunities for reform and change that materially improves the quality of life for our families, our communities and our country, as we usher in a new decade with new challenges. They must not be discussed through a narrow ideological lens.

To find out more about Gina Miller, buy the excellent autobiography Rise

by Gina Miller, published by canongate.co.uk

DIGITAL MARKETING

We resolve...

Want to stick to those new year business plans for more than the first week?

Jonathan Bird, CEO of Delivered Social tells us how will feel the sense of satisfaction that comes from your carefully laid business plans being a success.

Try and form a habit

N

ew Year’s Resolutions: nearly everybody makes them, but hardly anyone sticks to them. This is true in business. Most will make plans to implement in the new year, but by February they’re forgotten. There are plenty of things you can do to fix this!

For sticking to your new year business plans, big or small, here’s my advice:

Be realistic with your plans

The first step is to be realistic when devising plans in the first place. You might like to think that you can achieve huge things by December - but will you really stick to the steps you must do to get there? By setting smaller, more realistic goals, it’s more likely that you

Your business plan won’t be a success overnight! To make sure it sticks, try to form a habit. Work towards your plans a little bit every day and it will soon become a habit. You’ll start to do it without even thinking, but you’ll be able to look back and see how far you have come.

Review regularly

Even the best-laid plans can go off track. This is exactly why you should be scheduling in regular reviews of your business plans to make sure you’re moving in the right direction.

You can pick up on what needs to be changed before it becomes a big issue. There is no shame in admitting that you need to re-think your plans a little bit! After all, your business could end up being completely different from what you imagined in 2019, so you may need to adjust accordingly.

Accept help and support

nudge in the right direction, there is plenty of help available. You just need to look around and accept any offered help! Working to your strengths and enlisting the help of others can do your business wonders. Why not book in for a Social Clinic at Delivered Social and see how we can help?

Hold yourself accountable!

There’s nobody else who is going to implement your business plans - it’s all up to you! You need to make sure that you’re holding yourself accountable. Are you doing all that you can to make your business plans a success?

Where are you going wrong, but also what are you doing right? Putting a little pressure on yourself can really help move things forward.

There’s no need to be afraid of your new year business plans. They can propel your business forward if they’re used properly. Start planning now, and who knows where you could be in another year’s time?

You can find more helpful tips and advice at www.deliveredsocial.com

If you’re struggling, or just need a

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SURREY BUSINESS AWARDS

WHAT IT MEANS TO WIN

T

he Surrey Business Awards is the ultimate celebration of the best companies and the most inspiring entrepreneurs. The second year of the Surrey Business Awards took place on November 21st 2019 at Epsom Downs Racecourse in front of 400 of the leading people in the region. In this issue,

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we hear from some of this year’s big success stories including interviews with Giles Thomas from The Manor Collection who scooped Businessperson of the Year; GlucoRx who won Company of the Year and Large Business of the Year; and Kyan who were awarded Employer of the Year.

We also get the low-down on what it means to win an award from some of Surrey’s top industry winners including bdhSterling - Professional Services Award; Strategic Imperatives – Business Innovation of the Year; and Kelly’s Storage – Best Customer Service.

BUSINESS BUSINESSAWARDS SURVEY Giles Thomas, The Manor Collection Businessperson Of The Year

Please explain what your business does

The Manor Collection is a small group of hotels based in Surrey and Kent. Independently owned and managed the hotels collectively host over 200 weddings a year as well as a large number of corporate and private events. Both Hartsfield Manor and Reigate Manor, the Surrey-based hotels of the group, are well regarded in the area for providing fantastic facilities and meeting spaces to many of the corporate businesses in the area as well as attracting many from further afield. We are passionate about delivering exceptional guest experience to everyone.

What do you think impressed the judges about your company?

I believe my career in hospitality which has seen me learn every role over the past 17 years was a key factor.

ing aged 16 at a golf and country club where I was cleaning, hoovering and ensuring high standards for members of the club. I completed a degree during my nine years working for this company in accounting and law which developed my learning along with developing new roles including accounts, events management, and food and beverage management.

What does achieving this Award mean to your business and your staff?

It really was a shock to win this award.

I am very lucky to have 150 great team members working for our hotel group, who support our success 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

I am really honoured to have won this award and grateful to have some success to bring back to our hotels for us all to celebrate.

I started my career in hospitality start-

Kelly’s Storage

Best Customer Service Please explain what your business does We are Kelly’s Storage, a family run, independent company on a mission to be an example of how businesses can benefit their communities, provide an exceptionally happy workplace and deliver an experience so good for their customers that they tell stories about us.

We store, manage and protect over 1.25 billion documents & 100 petabytes of data for businesses across the UK in our state of the art flagship in Guildford. For our domestic customers, we bring storage units direct to their door saving all the time and hassle of the traditional (self) storage model for those moving house or who simply need to free up some extra space.

Over the past 80 years our offering has changed and developed but what has always remained is our steadfast commitment to innovation and to providing an exceptional customer experience.

What do you think impressed the judges about your company?

We’re delighted that the judges recognised the importance we place on the

link between our own employees’ engagement and wellbeing and the service they deliver out to our customers.

At Kelly’s Storage we believe you cannot ask your team to be the absolute best for their customers if you are not providing the environment, culture and values that allow your team to thrive.

When we invest in talented, highly engaged staff and their development we are investing directly into our customer’s experience.

What does achieving this Award mean to your business and your staff?

This award recognises our entire team’s dedication to delivering the highest level of customer service every single time.

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Kyan

Employer Of The Year Please explain what your business does We’re a digital product studio. We design and develop websites, apps and platforms for anyone with a big, bold idea. That might be an online music marketplace, a disability app or a financial services system.

These are just some of the products that we’ve worked on for clients large and small in the last 12 months and we do all of this with our 41-strong team of product people, engineers, strategists and specialists.

eas offer a variety of places to work, relax and socialise.

We like to provide our staff with everything they need to be their best

What does winning the Award mean to your business and your staff?

What do you think impressed the judges about your company?

First and foremost, we think that stepping into Kyan HQ has a unique ‘wow factor’. We’ve spent considerable time and effort making our studio a great place to be for our staff (and visitors too). The open space and ample break-out ar-

But thirdly and finally, we think our company structure is what truly set us apart. We don’t have a hierarchy at Kyan – we operate entirely flat. Every opinion is valued, there are no reporting lines and staff are all given relatively free rein to achieve their goals.

selves, whether that’s our active social event calendar, their individual training budgets or our weekly, wholly transparent wind-down meetings.

This award really does mean a lot to us. We pride ourselves on being a brilliant employer of brilliant people. We’re delighted to be recognised for creating a positive working environment, especially up against some incredibly strong finalists.

bdhSterling

Professional Services Award Please explain what your business does

bdhSterling is a boutique independent financial planning business based in Epsom. While we provide traditional holistic financial planning advice to local Surrey clients, we specialise in assisting clients with very complex planning needs that many other advisers cannot assist with. We have extensive experience in international advice and can assist clients, and consolidate pensions and other assets across international borders. Another common specialism is the transfer of UK final salary or defined benefit pensions – either to another UK pension provider or internationally.

What do you think impressed the judges about your company?

bdhSterling was extremely proud to win the Professional Services Award at the recent Surrey Business Awards,

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particularly given the exceptional quality of the other entrants. As the work we do requires in depth technical knowledge of UK and international financial regulations and taxation, and the consequences of inappropriate advice can be serious, our clients place a lot of trust in us. We believe the judges were impressed with our ethos of always acting in our client’s best interest and continually improving the quality of service we provide – from creating bespoke back-office systems to establishing international offices to provide a consistent and reliable international service.

What does winning the Award mean to your business and your staff?

As a relatively small company, it can sometimes be difficult for our staff to appreciate that the work we do is world class. This award has given

our staff enormous pride in working for bdhSterling and reinforces the importance of always providing outstanding professional service to our clients. It is also rewarding for the hard work and dedication by our staff to be recognised by our peers!

BUSINESSAWARDS SURVEY BUSINESS Strategic Imperatives

Business Innovation Of The Year Elevate challenges how the telecom sector perceives billing and transforms service monetisation into a modern, blazing fast, fully integrated, and extremely flexible cloud-native SaaS solution that is generations ahead.

What do you think impressed the judges about your company?

Please explain what your business does Founded in 2006, Strategic Imperatives has grown to become the UK’s leading provider of SaaS solutions to telecoms providers. We introduced the first true SaaS provisioning solution which today is the backbone of the UK fixed-line market. Our focus now is our ground-breaking cloud-native SaaS monetisation solution, Elevate, launched to revolutionise the billing market.

Elevate was born out of our recognition that legacy billing platforms had become a barrier to innovation and change in the telecoms industry. Feedback from the judges acknowledged that we have taken a disruptive approach to a traditional sector and combined this with our customary fresh thinking, resulting in a ground-breaking monetisation platform that was built from the ground up for today’s telecoms market.

Our intention was to transform the billing market, and this is what we have

done, and will continue to do.

What does winning the Award mean to your business and your staff?

We are a team of technologists, pooling our passion and talent to create solutions that shake up the industry.

We thrive on creating original solutions that solve real pain points that have plagued service providers for years, and we are thrilled to have been recognised for Business Innovation.

We have always taken pride in being a truly local-first company, committed to actively engaging and investing in the community in which we operate.

Having won industry awards at a national and European level, receiving an award at the Surrey Business Awards is an achievement close to our hearts.

GlucoRx

Large Business of the Year / Company of the Year Please explain what your business does GlucoRx is honoured to have won best ‘Large Business of the Year’ and ‘Company of the Year’ at the Surrey Business Awards 2019. We are one of the NHS’ leading suppliers of quality, cost effective diabetes management solutions. We are committed to raising awareness of diabetes and helping improve patient lives with our blood glucose/ketone meters, insulin pen needles, lancets, diabetic foot foam creams and glucose gels.

What do you think impressed the judges about your company?

We believe the judges were particularly impressed with how quickly GlucoRx has grown, coupled with everything the company has ‘given back’ since its inception 10 years ago. Our mission has always been to help save the NHS money, so cost savings realised (ap-

GlucoRx is also notably active within the local community, including sponsoring athletes and Aldershot Town FC, educating children in schools about diet and exercise, holding regular Diabetes testing and Awareness days, donating supplies (i.e. to ‘Surrey, Search & Rescue’), and raising funds for charities such as Health Amplifier. prox £150m) have been reinvested in other areas. We have introduced products with equivalent or better specifi cation than alternative brands, without overcharging the NHS. We have tried to stand out from the competition and offer patient choice, through partnering with dynamic companies to launch emerging technologies.

What does winning the Award mean to your business and your staff?

Receiving such an accolade means so much to GlucoRx. We owe our success to our dedicated staff whose ethos of ‘helping our NHS’ is ingrained in each of us. With our close-knit culture, we all strive to do our best and are proud of what we have achieved together.

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LEGAL

A PASSION FOR START-UPS Jane Crosby, Partner and Employment Law expert at Hart Brown Solicitors, on judging the Start-Up of the Year Award at the 2019 Surrey Business Awards

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s part of our year-long centenary celebrations, Hart Brown Solicitors decided to sponsor the ‘Start-Up of the Year’ category at the 2019 Surrey Business Awards.

It was my first time judging an award and I wanted to make sure every applicant had a fair opportunity of winning the title. I was involved in the judging process with Nigel Maud, our Chief Operating Officer who knows how to run a successful, longstanding legal practice in Surrey. We had to judge a diverse range of businesses, all with one thing in common: an unwavering belief and passion for what they do.

While all the paper applications made interesting reading, a handful of companies really stood out and we would like to thank all the business owners who took the time to meet us.

Bill Palmer and Jon Murrell of Consentricare have a great idea with their mobile app for elderly care and I am looking forward to watching their future success.

We visited as many companies as possible and whittled the list down to four finalists: Consentricare Ltd, Securium Ltd, My Busy Bots and Teresa Weller Hair Art. While all the companies who entered the awards should be praised for making an enormous effort, these four finalists stood out for us. I remember going into a small café, and meeting two women who had set up a business from home and I didn’t really know what to expect. I left feeling that these two women, Candice and Leanne of My Busy Bots, had created a really brilliant concept and they both really cared about what they were doing with their idea.

Our winner was Securium Ltd, and its CEO Dr Anna Vartapetiance showcases the best of the talent and innovation that Surrey has to offer. Her cyber intelligence business will help keep children safe and I remember Anna saying: “If I can help one child my business will be a success”. Anna’s quiet determination is impressive and she is certainly not to be underestimated.

I wish all of our four finalists, and all of the other applicants who took the time to enter the awards, great success in their new ventures and I am sure they will be contenders for the category ‘Company of the Year’ in a few years’ time.

Likewise, the enthusiasm of Teresa and Gid of Teresa Weller Hair Art is infectious and I can see why their hairdressing business is going to achieve great things in Dorking. They really want to make women feel special about how they look.

As commercial lawyers, we are used to advising start-up businesses, but it is important to remember that these businesses are living and breathing enterprises. We can, of course, advise people in writing about what is best for their businesses, but when we take the time to meeting business owners at their place of work we get the perfect opportunity to understand the practical reality of how that business works.

After much deliberation, Nigel and I came to an agreement about the companies we wanted to visit in order to learn more about how they operated.

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Jane Crosby with Anna Vartapetiance, CEO of Securium

www.hartbrown.co.uk

POLICING SURREY

SURREY POLICE

THE POLICE ARE THE PUBLIC AND THE PUBLIC ARE THE POLICE

By Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner David Munro

P

eople sometimes mistakenly assume that the Police and Crime Commissioner’s role is akin to being the ‘Chief of Police’ and my days are spent directing officers around the county to deal with policing matters.

The reality of course is very different – whilst I do hold the Chief Constable to account, I rightfully leave the day-today operational policing in his capable hands.

The PCC’s role is in fact to be the representative of the public. That is why I am always eager to hear from those who live and work in Surrey on what they think about policing in their local area. During 2018/19 – I had over 150 different meetings, events or visits with local charities, residents groups, service providers and crime prevention organisations.

At the time of writing this, the Chief Officer team at Surrey Police and myself will be hitting the road to hold a series of public engagement events across Surrey.

The ‘Policing Your Community’ events are coming to every borough and district in the county between 8th January and 5th February 2020.

They will be an opportunity for residents to hear about future plans and current challenges as well as to ask questions of their local Borough Commander on issues affecting their communities.

I will also be talking through my proposals for the 2020-21 Council Tax Precept. Setting the policing element

of the council tax is one of the most vital tasks a PCC has to make and it is really important to me that we involve the Surrey public in that decision.

Back in 1829, he and his commissioners established a list of policing principles that remain as relevant today as they were then.

The precept increase received earlier this year has meant that we are soon to see an increase of 79 new officers and operational staff across the county. These events will be an opportunity to hear how the proposal for 2020 will continue to ensure we provide the best possible service to the tax-payers of Surrey.

One which I particularly subscribe to is that the “police are the public and the public are the police”.

We ran a similar series of events back in the spring and I very much valued the feedback, comments and suggestions that were put forward by those who attended.

In my office in Guildford, I have a portrait of Sir Robert Peel who is known as the ‘Father of Modern Policing’.

For us to deliver the best possible policing service we need to do this in partnership with our communities and I would encourage anyone who is interested in policing in their local area to register for your local event and come along to speak to us.

To learn more about the ‘Policing Your Community’ roadshow and to sign up to your nearest event – visit: https://www.surrey-pcc.gov.uk/getinvolved/policing-your-communityengagement-events/

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TECHNOLOGY

FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY

T

o mark the upcoming WXG conference, we are dedicating the following pages of Surrey Business Magazine to technology.

WXG, an all-day tech conference exploring what we can achieve when we work together, is now in its eighth year. Everyone is welcome along: fellow agencies, fresh new startups, bold freelancers, big biz, charities and many more.

Created by Kyan, a leading digital product agency, the conference features a strong line-up of digital leaders. Taking place at the Electric Theatre, Guildford on May 21st, tickets are now on sale at wxg.co.uk

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Also these pages, Brett Riley of Itarmi explains the importance of using technology advancements to create a ‘virtuous cycle’. He describes a virtuous cycle as being a state of “perfect harmony where customers reap the benefits of convenience, access, transparency and disruptive commercials that suit their business needs.”

The New Year brings new hopes and ambitions, but also challenges. Ben Stupples, Commercial Director of Farnham-based Net Technical Solutions, reminds us that on January 14th, several mainstream Microsoft Operating Systems will reach End of Life. This will likely lead to a dramatic rise in cybercrime

and malicious activity, so even if you are not directly affected what better time to evaluate your network security? He offers 10 useful tips to help you do all you can to protect your business-critical data.

Alongside his useful tips he concludes: “There is no single ‘magic box’ solution to deal with cybersecurity and no combination of services is guaranteed to offer 100% protection. However, by developing a structured and layered approach, you can mitigate the threat of cybercrime and ensure that if the worst happens, you are able to recover quickly.”

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WAYS TO PROTECT AGAINST HACKERS

With several mainstream Microsoft products reaching ‘End of Life’ in January 2020, there has never been a better time to evaluate your IT network security, says Ben Stupples, Commercial Director of Farnham-based Net Technical Solutions

2

Deploy a robust proprietary firewall with ‘Unified Threat Management’ Just because a product says, ‘firewall’ on the box that doesn’t mean that it’s up to the job. Avoid routers with built-in firmware firewalls and instead spend a little extra money on a proprietary firewall from the likes of Fortinet or ZyXEL with a built in UTM bundle to provide additional virus scanning, content filtering and intrusion prevention/ detection.

O

n January 14th several mainstream Microsoft Operating Systems will reach End of Life.

This will likely lead to a dramatic rise in cybercrime and malicious activity, so even if you are not directly affected what better time to evaluate your network security? Here are 10 useful tips to help you do all you can to protect your business-critical data.

1

Keep your systems up to date If you are using Windows Small Business Server 2011, Server 2008, Exchange 2010 or Windows 7 within your business then you need to make an urgent plan to upgrade. After January 14th, Microsoft will no longer support these Operating Systems and there will be no further security updates or patches automatically released.

Hackers have been busy preparing for this date and will be looking to exploit any insecurities and weaknesses. It’s also worth noting that if you have users running Microsoft Office 2010, this goes End of Life in October 2020 and after that date Outlook will no longer connect to Office 365 for emails.

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3

Choose a business-grade anti-virus solution With so many AV products on the market it’s difficult to know which provides the best protection.

Visit www.av-comparatives.org and look at their quarterly independent Real-World Business Security tests.

These tests measure not only the protection rate of all the major vendors but also false alarms where genuine traffic is blocked in error. VIPRE and ESET currently score highly, but make sure you check out previous reviews for a more balanced comparison.

4

Don’t rely on Office 365 alone to cover your mail filtering requirements Filtering unwanted messages from your organisation’s inbound email traffic is one of the most important things you can do to fight against cybercrime.

After all, if a bad email is prevented from accessing your network then it can’t do a great deal of damage. The filtering service built into Office 365 isn’t particularly strong, so consider using an independent service from a

reputable vendor such as SpamTitan or Mimecast. Office 365 users should also consider activating ATP (Advanced Threat Protection) which provides malicious link scanning and attachment sandboxing.

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5

Implement a strong password policy Having separate passwords for all your different applications may be a pain but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Hackers have been stealing passwords for years because people make it so simple by using them on multiple accounts and choosing easy to guess codes. Strong passwords should include a combination of uppercase, lowercase, numbers and special characters. If you have a server with domain authentication, then your password policy can easily be enforced across the whole organisation.

6

Consider Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) MFA works by requiring more than one method of authentication to verify the user’s identity, such as a banking app requiring text or pin number verification in addition to just the password. MFA can

HACKERS HAVE BEEN BUSY PREPARING FOR JANUARY 2020 AND WILL BE LOOKING TO EXPLOIT ANY INSECURITIES AND WEAKNESSES be used in many scenarios such as logging onto your domain, connecting to a VPN or simply accessing emails. Office 365 has MFA built in for free allowing you to secure each of your devices with a one-time authentication process.

7

Review shared file and folder permissions Threats such as ransomware can spread through an organisation like wildfire and one click on a bad link can infect the whole network. By ensuring your staff have permissions to only access the network areas they need, you can limit the spread of this malware, reducing downtime and data loss.

8

Ensure multiple forms of data backup are in place and tested regularly Relying on a single form of backup is risky. What if the data is corrupted or compromised? What if the restoration fails? It’s always best to have multiple forms of backup, including at least one local method such as tape, removable media or NAS along with a secure Cloud backup such as Acronis or Microsoft Azure. Alternatively, products such as Datto combine these into a single solution with local NAS device encrypting data and replicating in real-time to the Cloud, providing full business continuity and disaster recovery.

9

Create a culture of awareness in your organisation Most data breaches are caused by unsuspecting staff clicking on links in emails, opening malicious attachments or falling victim to phishing scams, (where the recipient is tricked into sharing sensitive information or sending money). Prioritising IT education in your organisation is vital. IT security should be an agenda item for all regular staff meetings and it’s worth considering Internet Security and Phishing Awareness training for your staff.

10

Develop a multi-layered approach to IT security There is no single ‘magic box’ solution to deal with cybersecurity and no combination of services is guaranteed to offer 100% protection. However, by developing a structured and layered approach, you can mitigate the threat of cybercrime and ensure that if the worst happens, you are able to recover quickly.

IT Security forms a core part of the services provided by Net Technical Solutions. For more information on how we can help, visit www.ntsols.com

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TECHNOLOGY

THE MODERN WORKFORCE

AND CREATING A VIRTUOUS CYCLE The advancements in technology and what that means for enterprises and their customers by Brett Riley, CEO and C-Founder of ITARMI

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t’s without doubt that a two-sided market play using technology to link up service providers to customers has immense potential, and validation of this business model has been more than proven. It’s bizarre to think that through a mass adoption of smart phones a new breed of super companies has been spawned. The growth and spread of these companies has pushed regulators to the limit leaving vacuums in compliance in their wake across the board. Technology advancement doesn’t need a passport; it doesn’t have to wait in queue at immigration, all it needs is access to the good old World Wide Web. ITARMI had taken advantage of the technology play and started to connect IT engineers to deliver to organisations in both local and global locations. Engineers when prompted will arrive at the location and will install, deinstall or support companies with a minimum call out fee that covers the initial two hours. Companies now have at their disposal a transparent trusted platform that can assign, track and pay as they go.

The growth that ITARMI has experienced in the space of two years has been significant, currently delivering into close to 120 countries with 900 engineers. The nature of the business model has enabled ITARMI to be agile and more importantly keep operational costs low which then in turn starts to drive a real competitive edge. Enterprises have been consuming this model with great relish

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and the global brands that ITARMI is currently delivering for are testament to that.

In the B2B world the service providers have needed the investment to employ a workforce that they could control through rigid process and a strict governance of services. The frameworks of employment control workforces’ time and how they use it, therefore a psychology of fear drives outcome.

New giants are on the horizon, they will take the technology that has been refined, developed, invented and balance it with what the two-sided market wants, which is creating great synergy between service providers and customers. A virtuous cycle is a state of perfect harmony where customers reap the benefits of convenience, access, transparency and disruptive commercials that suit their business needs. The service provider will be delivering their services at levels of excellence like their lives depend on it, because they do and most importantly because they want to.

The momentum this will create will be unprecedented and the effect it will have on traditional service organisations will be immense. Organisations that have not been able to move into emerging markets due to logistics and operational costs will be able to piggy back off these companies delivering services at the speed of light. They will be a lot more agile, cost efficient and deliver a great service. The fact is a virtuous cycle extends way past the customer and the service provider, it will herald a new age of access, data sharing and collaboration. A virtuous cycle will exist, it’s only a matter of time.

For further information visit www.itarmi.com

S

Sponsor a CHAMBER EVENT

urrey Chambers of Commerce holds over 100 events a year spread across the county. We host regular breakfast meetings, industry specific forums and corporate dinners perfect for entertaining clients. These events are designed to

Option 1: £300+VAT PRE-EVENT • Marketing flyers - the words ‘sponsored by’ and your company logo on event flyer.

• Company logo on Surrey Chambers website against sponsored event of your choice.

• Promotion of the event included in weekly newsletter.

AT EVENT • One complimentary place.

• Event ‘sponsored by’ and company logo on delegate list; copy for each attendee.

• Opportunity to display corporate banner and literature.

• Acknowledgement by Chamber representative for sponsorship at event.

• Tagged on Twitter/Instagram social media platforms.

give you the chance to enhance your business network, find new customers and local suppliers, and meet other dynamic business people. Sponsoring a Surrey Chambers event allows you to raise your profile and brand awareness within the county and showcase

Option 2: £750 +VAT

your expertise as a company. By sponsoring an event you can take advantage of the Surrey Chambers of Commerce database and reach your target audience. It’s the perfect opportunity to make new connections and be seen to be leading and influencing.

Option 3: £1500 +VAT

PRE-EVENT • Marketing flyers - the words ‘sponsored by’ and your company logo on event flyer.

• Company logo on Surrey Chambers website against sponsored event of your choice.

• Promotion of the event included in weekly newsletter.

• Hyperlink on the respective Surrey Chambers website page, through to your own website.

PRE-EVENT • Marketing flyers - the words ‘sponsored by’ and your company logo on event flyer.

• Company logo on Surrey Chambers website against sponsored event of your choice.

• Promotion of the event included in weekly newsletter.

• Hyperlink on the respective Surrey Chambers website page, through to your own website.

AT EVENT • Two complimentary places.

• Event ‘sponsored by’ and company logo on delegate list; copy for each attendee.

• Logo on delegate badges.

• Opportunity to display corporate banner and literature.

• Acknowledgement by Chamber representative for sponsorship at event.

• Opportunity to speak briefly at event (up to 10 minutes).

• Tagged on Twitter/Instagram social media platforms.

AT EVENT • Up to 10 complimentary places / table of 10.

• Event ‘sponsored by’ and company logo on delegate list; copy for each attendee.

• Logo on delegate badges.

• Short bio and accompanying photos in event programme.

• Opportunity to display corporate banner and literature.

• Acknowledgement by Chamber CEO for sponsorship at event.

• Opportunity to speak briefly at event (up to 15 minutes).

• Tagged on Twitter/Instagram social media platforms.

POST EVENT • Logo included in post-event email to attendees.

If you are interested in sponsoring a Surrey Chambers of Commerce event, please contact: Hannah.Joslyn@surrey-chambers.co.uk or call 01483 735540

POST EVENT • Logo included in post-event email to attendees.

• Thank you feature in newsletter and social media.

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Intermittent fasting

does it work?

Health Editor Tess de Klerk explores the pros and cons of this latest health craze

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ou might have noticed the buzz around the practice of intermittent fasting. Everyone from the fitness guru Ben Greenfield to Jennifer Aniston can’t seem to praise the practice enough but what does it entail, is it safe and does it work?

myriad of advantages a healthy BMI brings but proven benefits include increased energy levels, reduced inflammation, reduced leptin levels which can lead to an increase in testosterone in men, an increase in cell detoxification, and perhaps the most excit-

to understand the bodily process.

When we eat the body transforms food into glycogen, which is stored in the liver. During times of fasting, glycogen reserves are lowered. When glycogen/energy reserves reach a certain low, the body responds by releasing fat cells into the bloodstream. These fat cells are now converted into energy, for the body and brain, in a process known as ketosis. Fundamentally the body switches to ‘survival mode’ and uses body fat to survive.

“We may have gotten so used to frequent eating to ensure optimal amounts of nutrients pertinent for health, that it might be hard to grasp why fasting works”

Let me start by expelling the notion that fasting is starving. I for one shudder at the idea of struggling through 24 hours without sustenance and it simply prompts me to add Camembert to my grocery list! The good news is that the benefits of intermittent fasting start kicking in after abstaining for 12 hours. Yes, this can simply mean not eating after 8pm and having breakfast after 8am. Do-able.

The most obvious use of intermittent fasting relates to weight loss and the

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ing discovery of all, protection against neurodegenerative diseases.

We may have gotten so used to frequent eating to ensure optimal amounts of nutrients pertinent for health, that it might be hard to grasp why fasting works. It can be helpful

Studies have shown an increase of up to 60% of energy converted from fat in people who fasted between 12-24 hours, with the biggest change occurring after fasting for 18 hours. It is obvious that burning fat reserves for energy will go a long way in losing weight but in the brain ketones also trigger the release of BDNF, which

SURVEY HEALTHBUSINESS & WELLBEING

helps strengthen and build neurons and neural connections in areas of the brain responsible for memory and learning.

One of the most impressive studies has shown an increase of ketone production significantly improving the memory of people with early signs of dementia.

Fasting is not necessarily the only way to boost ketone production, as cut-

ting back on carbohydrates and increasing intake of healthy fats can have a similar effect. However, research has shown that the ketogenic diet (low-carb, high-fat intake) increases ketones fourfold whereas fasting shows an increase of up to twenty fold.

In other words, fasting intermittent-

ly for periods of 12-24 hours can be beneficial for the health of many but it is not for everyone. Fasting is contraindicated for expectant mothers, youths, the elderly, and anyone with any medical condition should consult their health care provider first.

One might also be concerned about dealing with that ‘hangry’ monster hidden inside many of us! That destructive force spawned by hunger but I can report that by the second day of my experimental fasting, hunger seemed to fade away, I felt quite calm and did not feel the need to eat until 12pm. It is early days but thus far, in my case, intermittent fasting has, mercifully, not been as arduous as I expected.

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DIP INTO...

THE LAP OF LUXURY

A countryside hideaway boasting a cuttingedge spa, Tess de Klerk spends a day unwinding at The Spa at South Lodge

I

can admit that I struggled to contain my glee when I received an invite from the lovely Sara to review The Spa at South Lodge Hotel. I then had to remind myself to temper my expectations as these things rarely live up to the purported hype but I am pleased to report that this hype is well deserved! South Lodge Hotel can rightly be proud of their award-winning, state-of-the-art spa which opened its doors earlier this year.

Set into the natural contours of the breathtaking Sussex Downs, the oak clad premises meld seamlessly with its surroundings, with floor to ceiling windows throughout the thermal suite, a gym and an indoor infinity pool. Never have I had such a breathtaking view whilst enjoying a sauna!

Amongst others, The Spa features a steaming outdoor hydrotherapy pool.

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Yes, an outdoor pool hot enough to comfortably laze in during even the coldest of winter days. Oh, and did I mention the spectacular, ever-present views? With these facilities, one gains the benefits of spending time in nature whilst indulging in the lap of luxury. But just in case you might feel the desire to plunge further, there is a beautiful 18m wild swimming pond on the grounds.

My morning flew by in a jasmine scented haze of decadence and I reluctantly made my way to Botanika for a spot of lunch. My reluctance quickly disappeared as I sat in the beautiful restaurant, spoilt for choice. Head chef Jonathan Spiers has created a Mediterranean influenced menu using the South Downs as a larder for fresh and seasonal ingredients. Although not vegetarian, the menu features a plethora of plant-based plates with something special for all dietary preferences.

I was served a perfect dish of seabass with Jerusalem artichoke, samphire and a black garlic dressing only to be topped off by the lightest, creamiest of cheesecakes. Aaah, all in a day’s work...

Next, I was lead to the calming treatment rooms. The Spa at South Lodge offers a wide range of body, face, nail and hair treatments in their treatment rooms, mud room and Ridgeview Beauty Bar. All their treatments use luxurious brand products, carefully selected for their company philosophies and results-driven properties. I opted for the Bamboo massage and my therapist, Dawn, clearly knows her stuff!

She found areas of deeply seated tension I hadn’t realised I had and she deftly massaged me into utter bliss.

After a refreshing drink of juice blended with herbal elixirs, it was time for

SURVEY HEALTHBUSINESS & WELLBEING

“She found areas of deeply seated tension I hadn’t realised I had and she deftly massaged me into utter bliss...” my treatment at the luxury clinic, Aesthetic Collective. The clinic offers the latest in non-surgical cosmetic and aesthetic treatments performed by skilled medical practitioners and therapists. I was curious to try the relatively new, no downtime Byonik pulse-triggered laser treatment as it seemed the ideal accompaniment to my luxury spa day. I have not often come across a technologically advanced treatment after which I can pop straight back to the steam room. Still, I expected discomfort during treatment, as it is more often than not with laser, but I can attest that it felt like any other relaxing facial but with super-charged results.

All in all The Spa at South Lodge Hotel is superb and I walked away from the beautiful premises feeling radiant and revitalised. www.exclusive.co.uk/south-lodge

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ALL HAIL THE PRESIDENT Ridgeview Wine Estate will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year.

Kate Morton meets the CEO, the First Lady of English Sparkling Wine, Tamara Roberts

I

t was only a matter of days following my interview with Ridgeview Wine Estate’s CEO Tamara Roberts, that her 2020 International Presidency with the International Wine & Spirit Competition was announced. Not only is this the first time that an English wine producer has been appointed as President, but it’s the first time that a female has been selected for this highly regarded role – a testament to the rising global status of the English wine industry and most importantly, testament that females are becoming trailblazers in an industry which, for so many years, has been dominated by the opposite sex.

Rewind a few days and I met with Tamara on a cold autumn day at Ridgeview Wine Estate, the vineyard where the award-winning English sparkling wine is produced.

Situated at the foot of the South Downs, the estate is tucked away

just outside Ditchling, the quintessential East Sussex village, and is surrounded by stunning English countryside – flame-tipped trees, snowy dots of grazing sheep and crisp rolling landscapes. On arrival, you can’t help but notice the grandeur of the estate, the smart charcoal-panelled outbuildings clearly hold an abundance of skill and magic. And beyond these, you can’t miss the acres and acres of luscious grape-bearing vines – 20 acres to be precise – as far the eye can see.

Tamara greets me with enthusiasm.

She’s an extremely busy lady; she’s a CEO and now a President, yet she’s calm, collected and oozes a glowing charm. You can instantly sense she is methodical, a vital skill, I’m sure, required when pursuing a career in wine production.

Ridgeview was the brainchild of Tamara’s parents. With entrepreneurialism at their heart having run their own successful computer business in the

1980s, Mike and Chris Roberts had a revelation. Tamara recalls: “At the time there was a small inkling that something was going on in the wine industry. There were glimmers of new things starting here with Nyetimber who were successfully growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier and I think that my father cottoned onto something special. That, along with his massive love for the Champagne region – it was his favourite wine region, he adored the wine and knew vast amounts about it – it was then that the penny dropped.”

In the early 1990s Mike and Chris purchased Ridegview. Originally a sheep farm, the Roberts planted over 20 acres of planted vines – Tamara notes this is small in comparison – and focussed on their sparkling new venture.

She continues: “The ambition of my father and mother right from

THEY WERE TAKING ON CHAMPAGNE, NOT CAVA OR PROSECCO – BUT CHAMPAGNE

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THE BIG STORY BUSINESS SURVEY

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the very beginning was that the wine would be of the highest quality and compete at the top level of the sparkling wine category. They were taking on Champagne, not Cava or Prosecco but Champagne.”

Roll on 25 years, and they were absolutely right. With its unique climate and soil, England is pretty much the only other region in the world that has the ability to compete against the likes of Champagne because of its perfect wine-making climate.

“From the research my father did, he had the knowledge of the climate but he also took a calculated risk. You can only be proven right by what you produce in the future.

10 category amongst world wines and we beat them all, Champagne too, in a blind taste test. There are certain moments in your life that you won’t forget and that was one of them. It moved us from a slightly niche ‘cottage’ industry into a world-class industry.”

THERE ARE SUBCONSCIOUS GENDER DIFFERENCES GOING ON AND YOU HAVE TO MANAGE THAT BUT AT THE SAME TIME I DON’T WANT TO PRETEND TO BE A MAN

“We immediately won a gold medal in a domestic wine competition and then the trade starting coming to us very early on with the likes of Direct Wines and Waitrose who were all knowledgable about wine, and intrigued by us.

“One of the biggest door openers for us was in 2005 when our 2002 Vintage won an International Wine and Spirits trophy - then in 2010 we won Top English Sparkling at the Decanter World Wine Awards. We were in a top

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In her role at Ridgeview she has overseen the growth of production from 25k bottles per annum to 400k bottles, and is responsible for the day to day running of the business. With 30 employees and a capacity to produce one million bottles on site, Tamara’s background in finance has certainly given her an edge when it comes to understanding growth, profitability and production, and of course having a nose for good wine helps.

Joining Ridgeview as General Manager in 2004, Tamara become CEO in 2014. She has won numerous awards including Sussex Businessperson of the Year at the 2019 Sussex Business Awards as well as Sussex Business Woman of the Year in 2017.

The success of Ridgeview is most certainly down to free will, determination and a whole lot of passion and love thrown in. Sadly though as a woman in wine, Tamara is in a category so tiny, that she is few and far between. With a strong desire to bring females in the industry further into the spotlight, is it an unusual career for a woman to be in?

“It is fairly rare to see a woman head a wine brand but we certainly aren’t unique – we’ve got Sam Linter, Managing Director and Head Winemaker at Bolney – but unfortunately there are very few women on the commercial side of things and that’s disheartening.

However, when I look at the industry as a whole, there are lots of female wine makers coming through. With that comes a lot of media attention and that’s a great thing.”

THE BIG STORY on but you have to manage that and at the same time I don’t want to pretend to be a man!”

Tamara continues: “To be fair it is an unusual career as it is quite practical.

I still feel in the industry as a whole there is a lack of encouragement and perhaps ambition to take on these roles. Maybe it’s a fear of failure. But it is a lonely place being a CEO, you are on your own making a lot of hard decisions. If you are on your own in the gender profile it is even more lonely as you don’t quite fit in. There are subconscious gender differences going

Have you suffered from sexism? “It’s happened to me a number of times and from other women too which I find very strange. I often think, ‘why do I have to sit and justify my position?’

There are certain guys who find it very difficult to make eye contact with a woman in a meeting; for example I will be out with my husband at an event and people will direct questions to him rather than me. I can’t quite understand the reasoning behind it, perhaps it’s a slight fear. At one particular business meeting, a guy referred to my husband as the CEO and turned to me and said; ‘and you must do the marketing’?”

Is it changing? “Yes, there is another side to it. I sit on two boards, the Wine and Spirits Trade Association and Wines GB, and I get respect from those. I don’t feel like I’m the token woman there.

“My father was way ahead of his time with his attitude towards women in

the workplace. There was no gender specific roles, my mum was very entrepreneurial. I grew up in that environment and then naturally you take it on yourself. We have to encourage mutual respect. We are all human beings after all. Some of us have better skills than others regardless of whether we are male or female.”

Tamara continues: “But in the last five to ten years I have seen much more of a collaborative approach in and around business. We talk about successes more and encourage flexibility for both male and female employees.

But sadly there is definitely a fear of failure out there; I’m not sure what would change it… perhaps politics?”

Tamara’s journey is inspiring, extraordinary and encouraging. Championing women in business, she certainly deserves all of her successes. Looking back in history, in 1805 Barbe-Nicole Clicquot was the first woman to run a Champagne house, taking the helm at a time when women in France couldn’t hold a bank account, let alone run a Champagne house. However, Barbe-Nicole grew the business into an international empire, driven by passion and determination and ‘President’ Tamara, an effervescent female CEO, is too making her mark on the international sparkling wine scene. We raise our glass to you!

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NEW MEMBERS

Surrey Chambers of Commerce welcomes its latest member companies

W

Bookkeeping For Everyone Ltd Contact: Carole Jackson Tel: 07488 252946

www.bookkeepingforeveryone.com

Lean Consulting

Contact: Cameron Turner

Critica

Tel: 07717 312844 www.leanconsulting.com

Contact: Dan Kavanagh Tel: 01252 888929

www.critica.co.uk

Home Instead Senior Care Effectuate Consulting Ltd Contact: Dan Hart Tel: 07909 995074

Contact: Christopher Daly

Tel: 01483 488222 www.homeinstead.co.uk

Milners

Everyone Active

Contact: Garry Milner Tel: 01372 271871 www.milners.com

www.everyoneactive.com

Renaissance Asset Finance Ltd Contact: Paul Hamilton

Tel: 01268 269500 www.renaissanceaf.com

KDS UK Limited

Contact: Neil Parkes Tel: 01784 450400

www.kds.com

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SURREY BUSINESS

If you are looking to join Surrey Chambers then please do get in touch with either: sarah.butcher@surrey-chambers.co.uk noah.pesci@surrey-chambers.co.uk tom.woods@surrey-chambers.co.uk or call 01483 735540.

We look forward to hearing from you!

www.effectuate.co.uk

Contact: Lucy Butler Tel: 07903 623056

hen you join Surrey Chambers of Commerce, your company details automatically get listed on this page alongside fellow new members. What a fantastic way to let the Surrey Business community know you are out there and ready to get those all-important connections.

TechVentures

Contact: Ron Goddard Tel: 02074 594259 www.rongoddard.com

TRAVEL

CONNECTING PEOPLE...

By Stewart Wingate, CEO, Gatwick Airport, London

renewable electricity and by having a strong focus on energy efficiency, we have become carbon neutral and our ground-based facilities are already half way to net zero.

We have pledged to be a carbon net zero airport by 2050 so we will have to keep this momentum going and increase public transport use and encourage the transition to electric vehicles.

M

any airports across the world are managing two competing tensions by looking for ways to meet increasing passenger demand for connectivity, while ensuring that any growth is also sustainable.

In the UK, the Government has asked the country’s airports to explore how they might grow by making best use of existing airport runways. At Gatwick, we are taking this forward by seeking planning permission to bring our existing Northern Runway into routine use to deliver incremental growth.

Aviation however is global in nature and any solution to reduce the sector’s carbon emissions must also be global. In partnership with other industry players, airports can use their influence to promote an ambitious long-term, global approach to reduce aircraft emissions.

Government action will be key and can be a catalyst. Carefully thought out policies must be developed across the globe that encourage the necessary market innovations, investment and international cooperation.

Before stepping down, former Prime Minister, Theresa May, legislated for the UK to become carbon net zero by 2050. This is undoubtedly one of the most important challenges we face as a nation – and as a planet - and it is one that all industries, including aviation, must solve together.

If this all happens, the future of aviation can be very different from today.

It can be cleaner, quieter and smarter.

Competition and consumer purchasing power will help to drive this change. We are already seeing innovation in this space, with BA about to start offsetting carbon emissions on domestic flights and easyJet doing the same on all its flights already.

At Gatwick we have a strong track record on sustainability. By purchasing

Gatwick’s aircraft fleet is already fuel efficient. And as an industry, I am posi-

tive that we can move forward with hybrid and then electric engine technology for European flights. People across our industry are optimistic this can be done and easyJet and Airbus have just joined forces to analyse the opportunities and challenges surrounding hybrid and electric aircraft.

Long-haul will be harder and some carriers are currently looking at carbon recapture, which involves converting carbon into ethanol and mixing it into airplane fuel. A Virgin Atlantic aircraft recently landed at Gatwick having flown using carbon recapture and recycling technology for the first time on a commercial flight.

The flight was a landmark moment and, as Richard Branson said on arrival, it helped to ‘demonstrate the art of the possible’. Other new technologies and innovations will of course be needed if the ambitious, but important net zero 2050 target is to be met.

I believe that net zero carbon emissions for aviation are within reach by 2050. Growth and sustainability do not need to be mutually exclusive challenges. With significant innovation, investment – and of course ambition - it is possible for both to be accommodated in a net zero world.

www.gatwickairport.com

...IN A NET ZERO WORLD SURREY BUSINESS

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TWENTY UNFORGETTABLE TRIPS FOR 2020

In this first issue of the new year, Go Bespoke brings you its Top 20 exciting ideas and experiences for your travel wish list

I

t looks like 2020 is shaping up to be an intriguing time to travel and this year’s major trends will shed light on lots of unsung locations and reveal new aspects to some old favourites. Broaden your personal horizons, learn a new skill, get under a destination’s skin – there is also a mass awareness of climate change which will play a vital role in steering our future travel decisions.

1

Experience the Aurora Borealis from new floating hotel and spa retreat, Arctic Bath, in Swedish Lapland. This bucket list spectacle is best viewed during the months of August to March. The hotel has just six cabins and there is a big focus on health and wellness plus enjoy dogsledding, visiting the Storforsen Nature Reserve or going on a moose safari.

2

Trek to the summit of the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, a spectacular undertaking which ranks among the greatest outdoor challenges on the planet.

Recommended months to climb are July to October and December to February.

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TRAVEL BUSINESS SURVEY

3

Spend a few days relaxing at the new Mandarin Oriental on Lake Como before heading into Milan for a special private viewing and dinner beneath Leonardo Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’.

4

Go on a Maldivian adventure to Kanuhura, a five star luxury family-friendly retreat. Kids under 12 go free and can take part in many fun experiences including creating pirate costumes and boarding their very own ‘pirate ship’ to dig for treasure on one of Kanuhura’s two deserted islands.

5 6

Book a trip to Abu Dhabi for some winter sun and go kayaking around The Louvre on Saadiyat Island.

Thrill-seekers will love this paragliding experience at Six Senses Zighy Bay in Oman. Soar with the birds 960 feet above sea level, soaking up the beautiful views of the Al Hajar mountains and the Gulf of Oman, before descending onto Zighy beach below.

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TRAVEL

7

Stay in comfort without compromising on your ethics at the UK’s first 100% vegan hotel, Saorsa 1875, in Perthshire. It’s the perfect antidote to the frantic pace of modern living with eleven bedrooms individually styled with calming linens and antique furnishings. The restaurant is completely plant-based, showcasing local, seasonal and foraged produce.

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8

Marrakech will be the first African Capital of Culture in 2020, awarded thanks to its substantial haul of architectural, artistic and cultural legacy. And where better to stay than the iconic Royal Mansour, which will be celebrating its 10th anniversary with two new sensational restaurants – Sesamo and The Nest. >>

Go on an eight-day cooking course in Goa where you will get to grips with cooking fish, rice, coconut, vegetables and the local fruit kokum. You will also visit market and tea plantations and a spice garden.

10

Sail the vibrant waters of Indonesia to Komodo National Park and the Raja Ampat islands on Amandira, a two-masted traditional Phinisi vessel handcrafted by the Konjo tribe.

The ship can accommodate up to ten guests.

11

Try out the world’s first multi-sensory virtual reality experience, ‘The Vessel’ at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina in Hawaii.

The Vessel offers customised journeys using advanced therapeutic technology, such as Deep Space and Zen Garden, that help ‘reset’ your brain to achieve a more relaxed state of mind.

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12

Embark on a one-of-a-kind global adventure aboard the custom-designed Four Seasons Private Jet. Book the World of Adventures trip, departing in May 2020 which spans 8 countries and 24 unforgettable days; meditate at sunset over Petite Anse Bay, see endangered mountain gorillas in the Virunga Mountains in Rwanda, learn to salsa in Bogotá, and much more!

Businesses local to Gatwick are 50% more likely to export than the national average

BUSINESS SURVEY

Gatwick brings global trade opportunities closer

We’re more than just an airport SURREY BUSINESS

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13

Edge, said to be the Western Hemisphere’s highest outdoor observation deck, is set to launch in New York on March 11th, with a record-setting height of 1,131 feet and views extending up to 80 miles plus a champagne bar operated by London-based Rhubarb Hospitality Group. Stay at the new Aman hotel opening in the heart of Manhattan within the grandeur of the iconic Crown Building.

14

Another big movement this year is the rise of the ski safari. At Eleven Experience’s Chalet Pelerin and new Chalet Hibou in underthe-radar French village Le Miroir, it’s possible to glide through seven resorts in as many days, from Val d’Isère and Tignes to the charmingly old-school Sainte Foy, and heli-ski across the Italian border.

15

2020 will mark the launch of Crystal Endeavour, Crystal Cruises’ first custom-built expedition ship in August. It will have naturalists and expedition leaders Boris Wise and Eva Molin Westerholm overseeing as many as 22 expert guides. The ship will accommodate just 200 guests, with butlers on hand, Nobu Matsuhisa’s Umi Uma & Sushi Bar, mud rooms and a full-service spa.

16

Bordering a protected nature reserve, the new Six Senses Kitzbuehel Alps is the first sustainable luxury hotel and residences in the Austrian Alps. With full ski-in, ski-out access, the resort is nestled in an evergreen forest, just five minutes above the village of Jochberg.

17

Explore the highlights of the American South on a tailor-made selfdrive holiday. Visit Nashville, the home of American country music, for a private, backstage tour of the Ryman auditorium. Hear candid stories about stars like Johnny Cash who graced the stage and tour dressing rooms, getting a closer look at rare vintage photos and priceless memorabilia.

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BUSINESS SURVEY TRAVEL

18

Shaped endearingly like a mythical creature’s head on the island of Borneo, Sabah is home to some of the most spectacular natural marvels to be found in this part of the world.

Nature enthusiasts and adventureseekers from across the globe come here to bask in sun-soaked pristine coasts, explore undersea creatures of world-renowned scuba diving sites, scale to the top of Borneo’s highest peak, and venture deep into tropical rainforests brimming with rich biodiversity of plant and animal life.

20

Dive into one of Switzerland’s oldest traditions with an authentic Alpine cheese-making experience at The Chedi in Andermatt. You’ll press your own wheel of artisanal cheese and have it posted to you once it’s matured a few months later.

19

Enjoy a thrilling helicopter journey over the Alps before indulging in a Heli picnic on top of Mont Blanc, hosted by your own personal sommelier.

Go Bespoke is delighted to offer Platinum readers £500 off their first booking*. Quote ‘Platinum’ when making your enquiry. *Ts & Cs apply offer valid on bookings over £5,000.

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LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR

Following on from my review of the mighty Huracan Evo last month, they were kind enough to drop the top of the range Aventador onto the drive and it would be churlish to refuse, so here is the story of my second Lambo week. By Maarten Hoffmann

I

t is difficult to see where the relationship exists between the original Lamborghini tractor factory and today’s supercars, but it all comes down to the fierce rivalry between Ferruccio Lamborghini and Enzo Ferrari.

With his love of racing fast cars firmly established, Ferruccio purchased a Ferrari and realised that it was not perfect and had the temerity to tell Enzo, who told him that he did not need advice from a tractor maker – and there the rivalry began.

Totally beautiful but as they say – ‘never meet your heroes’ and that was the case for the Countach 40 years ago as it was total pig to drive. So will this hero disappoint?

There is little doubt that it is stunning to look at – dramatic styling that swivels heads wherever it goes with its massive air intakes in front of the rear wheels and the last of the great V12 engines. This is an entirely new car with carbon fibre monocoque, 6.5-litre

of course, but then what do you expect and you soon learn to trust the reversing camera. The same applies to the ride on our wonderful British roads as your fillings will get a great workout and any loose ones will be found in the footwell but do not make the mistake of trying to pick them up whilst driving as this monster needs your undivided attention.

The colossal engine bolted inches from the back of your head has a sound like angels gargling nails but it is all sound and little of anything else as this is a total pig to drive. Fast? Yes of course it is and will swivel your eyeballs but driving today is 5% fast and 95% traffic, parking and cruising at speeds under 40mph.

It will take you gloriously to 60mph in 2.9 seconds and 100mph in under 6.5 in a shrieking crescendo, so it has that covered but as for the remaining 95% of your driving time, it is exhausting.

THE COLOSSAL ENGINE BOLTED INCHES FROM THE BACK OF YOUR HEAD HAS A SOUND LIKE ANGELS GARGLING NAILS

Ferruccio was determined to produce a car that solved the problems he encountered (and hammer Ferrari) and here we are today, with two of the most important supercar manufacturers. Although no longer in original hands with Lamborghini being owned by Audi, and Ferrari by Fiat, they both survive as top of the range sexy supercars.

The Aventador harks back to the old supercar days of the Countach poster most boys had on their walls.

Ferruccio Lambor

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ghini

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V12, robotised seven-speed box and electronically controlled differential.

The scissor doors also make a statement and tend to produce blood from the back of your head if you are not very careful getting out of it but they do look dramatic of course. And that is what this is all about – drama, theatre and a statement – look at me l have made it and can afford an iconic masterpiece such as this.

The interior is a sight to behold with drama everywhere, from the fighter jet starter button to the white and blue leather inserts in the seats. A tad of disappointment with the Audi A4 SatNav and Audi key but looking past that it is a superb place to be.

Poor vis out of the back

The gearbox comes nowhere close to being acceptable as it cannot creep, therefore crawling along in traffic is no fun and the automatic function is

MOTORING

jerky and slow and will not allow it to smoothly creep along. It constantly wants you to boot it and, although l am always up for that, the 500 cars in front of me on the M25 would not agree. Of the modes available, Strada (road) is far too ponderous and in Corsa (track), the gear changes are totally savage – enough to actually hurt. Therefore, Sport it is but in manual only and with no on-the-floor gearstick, it is paddle shift only.

As far as the chassis goes, it was obviously never tested on British roads as the ride is dreadful. The faster you go, the better it gets but how many

times can you go fast on modern European roads? The steering is superb and magically direct and the traction astounding but it cannot detract from the gearbox and the ride.

There are unquestionably some superb elements to this car – the speed, the steering, the brakes and the pure drama of the whole thing but that is vastly outweighed by the problems – the gearbox and the ride – simply dreadful. Don’t get me wrong, Lambo are making some great cars such as the Huracan and the Urus – both fantastic motors but the Aventador l am afraid misses the 21st century mark of

cars you can actually drive and enjoy with a modicum of surety that you will make it home in one piece, not shaking with exhaustion and with most of your fillings.

TECH STUFF Model tested: LP 700 Engine: 6.5-litre V12 Power: 740bhp Speed: 0-62 2.9 seconds Top: 217mph Economy: 17.7mpg combined Price from: £260,040

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MERCEDES CLA

by Maarten Hoffmann

T

he CLA Shooting Brake is the fifth model in their compact range, all underpinned by the platform of the A-Class hatchback. Shooting Brake – estate to you and l.

It offers a great combo of style, space and affordability in the sector and the likes of Audi and BMW are left playing catch-up. Although this is a compact car, they have made a great fist of making it feel much bigger. It is longer than the previous generation C-Class and longer than most of its rivals. Interior space is great with 495 litres with the rear seats up and 1354 with them down and that is a very good chunk of load space.

The CLA comes with a choice of 1.6 and 2.0-litre petrol engines and a 2.1-litre diesel engine and you can order it with the 7G-DCT dual-clutch auto box and the 4Matic all-wheel drive system, which sends torque to the back axle via a rear mounted multi-plate clutch when it deems necessary. All clever stuff but then you would expect nothing else from Mercedes.

I have to admit that regardless of the fact that it sold like hotcakes, l never liked the CLS. All that swooping nose to tail just left me confused as to whether it was coming or going but the CLA, although it has similar lines, it is less dramatic and therefore less like the shell of a tortoise. It’s a good looking car.

price down. The air vents have been carefully designed to match the colour lines and it is all very harmonious.

As regular readers know, l am a great fan of the Audi all-singing, all-dancing dashboards and, equally, l am a great fan of the Mercedes auto gear changer. It’s on the stalk on the right side of the steering column just like it was back in the day. It’s out of the

compact although my bag is a disaster zone. Anyway, the point is that we carry an increasing amount of crap around with us and here, there is room for all.

The one thing that drives me potty is over complication and Merc are masters at this. I am sure that once you own the car and spend the time to work it all out, this might not apply but the infotainment system in so confusing to those relatively new to it such as new car owners, hire car clients etc. The large central screen is great and is touch sensitive but then there is a pad on the centre console that you can direct with the touch of your finger but doing that safely whilst trying to keep any eye on the road is overcomplicated.

The controls on the steering wheel are also overly complex as an array of buttons does various things based on where you touch them. All very smart but come on guys, other cars allow the

THE CLA IS ONE OF THOSE RARE CARS THAT DOES NOT BENEFIT VERY MUCH FROM THE EXTRAS LIST

Inside it is all as it should be. Cosy, warm and lit up like the 4th of July.

There are strip lights all around and they can be colour changed at will and as much as l would like to hate them, l don’t. They just look very cool, offering a very cosy feeling to the interior. The seats are great but they are all manual, which I guess helps keep the sticker

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way and just takes a very simple flick of the finger to switch from forward to reverse and does away with any hump in the centre, thus giving more room for cubbyholes for all that ‘stuff’ that we seem to carry around in our cars. I should point out that l am the master of not carrying ‘stuff’ as with changing cars every seven days, l am neat and

BUSINESS SURVEY MOTORING

SHOOTING BRAKE

ALL CLEVER STUFF BUT THEN YOU WOULD EXPECT NOTHING ELSE FROM MERCEDES

same function with half the complication.

On the road, it is all calm and correct.

The 2.0-litre engine sounded too small to please me on paper but not at all.

It is pretty rapid and very smooth and l would find it tough to justify the extra money for a larger engine - and these are not words that fall from my lips easily – especially as l still have

the Lamborghini on the driveway right behind the CLA! The damping is quite gentle, just as it should be for a bias towards refinement, and allows its wheels plenty of vertical travel when absorbing bigger lumps and bumps in the road without disturbing the body too much. Body roll is distantly present in the handling mix but doesn’t prevent the car from steering crisply and cornering with poise.

The CLA is one of those rare cars that does not benefit very much from the extras list. Bigger wheels, bigger engine – none of it improves the car as the base model is already so well sorted that it should not be played with and isn’t that the point – any new car should, but rarely does, come in its best party frock as standard. (the Mercedes FD is currently having a heart attack!)

The CLA Shooting Brake is a very well rounded car that l would challenge you not to be content with right out of the gate. Stuttgart done good.

TECH STUFF Model tested: CLA 220 4Matic Engine: 1,991 cc Power: 184bhp Speed: 0-62 7.8 seconds Top: 140mph Economy: 58.9mpg combined Price from: £28,640

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Drive into an all-electric 2020 with the EQC. As we enter a new era of mobility, the new Mercedes-Benz EQC offers the practicality of an SUV with the sleek aesthetic of a sports car. Radiating ease and modernity, the first fully-electric Mercedes-Benz is anything but ordinary with a unique and spectacular design. Using renewable raw materials to create the upholstery and fitting an all-encompassing LED strip light that reaches from front to back, the EQC offers both an exterior and interior experience like no other.

The intuitive MBUX system adds another level of innovation, offering a revolutionary infotainment system: with natural voice control, touch-sensitive surfaces, and Augmented Reality for navigation.

Offering a range of 259 miles*, the EQC can conveniently be charged at home or at on-the-road stations, whatever suits your lifestyle. With a total power output of 408 bhp and a speed of 0-62 mph in just 5.1 seconds, this re-imagined SUV is truly electrifying.

For more information and to book a test drive contact us on 01483 916292.

Mercedes-Benz of Guildford Moorfield Road, Guildford, GU1 1RU

01483 916292 www.sandown-group.co.uk

*The stated figures were obtained in accordance with the prescribed measuring process. Electrical consumption and range have been determined on the basis of Regulation (EC) No. 692/2008. Electrical consumption and range depend on the vehicle configuration. The indicated values were determined according to the prescribed measurement method - Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). Figures shown may include options which are not available in the UK. Figures determined with battery fully charged. This model is a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) requiring mains electricity for charging. Images for illustrative purposes. Registered office: Holes Bay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2BD. Registered in England and Wales. Registration number 8657001.

Take good care on the roads this new year.

Prepare for the winter roads ahead with a Winter Health Check at Mercedes‑Benz of Guildford for just £29.99.

Your Winter Health Check includes a full inspection of your car’s key features, including lights, fluid levels, brakes, tyres, battery and cooling systems, all by our Mercedes‑Benz trained technicians.

You’ll also receive a complimentary car wash and vacuum, and a free Sandown Mercedes‑Benz Winter Gift Set which includes a Sandown ice scraper and Mercedes‑Benz winter washer fluid and additive*.

To book your Winter Health Check contact us on 01483 916454.

Mercedes-Benz of Guildford Moorfield Road, Guildford, GU1 1RU

01483 916454 www.sandown-group.co.uk

*Please quote WHC2019 when booking your Winter Health Check to receive a free Winter Gift Set. Gift offer available until March 2020.

Surrey Chambers

GOLF 2020 SOCIETY Surrey Chambers of Commerce Golf Society (SCGS) has been running for 23 years and offers the opportunity to play some of Surrey’s finest courses and to entertain guests in a relaxed and mildly(!) competitive environment. By Tara Wavre

O

pen to all business owners or senior executives, the society’s main strength is the quality of the venues attended, with Swinley Forest, New Zealand and Hankley Common amongst the stunning monthly selection.

Society days are a great chance to entertain clients or reward employees for all their hard work. We see a mix of all of these preferences at our society days, so come as an individual to meet

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new people or come as a group for a fantastic chance to bond, you are very welcome whatever you choose.

Our last 2019 fixture was at Woking, sponsored by 3Wise Internet Solutions, on the December 3rd. Despite the bad weather we had in the weeks leading up to the event, Woking Golf Club had kept their course to such an excellent standard that our golfers were able to enjoy the day. Competition was stiff indeed but our members

winner, with a score of 43pts off a handicap of 12, was Will McNamara.

Woking is always a firm favourite of the SCGS but if you missed out in 2019 you’ll be pleased to know we’re going back there in 2020.

In this issue, you can see our full list of 2020 dates, as well as our sponsors for these events. Our January event sees us returning to Hankley Common on the 21st and we are supported by Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice. The rest

GOLF

of the year sees us visiting a mix of our firm favorites and trying two new courses which both feature in the Top 100 for Surrey and England.

I’d like to draw your attention to our Tandridge event on the 20th April. After the success of our first major at Burhill in 2019, which saw 84 golfers compete

in a shotgun start, we will be doing the same again in 2020. The event is kindly sponsored by Redbox and we will be supporting the Kent Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance Fund with a charitable raffle.

Please contact Tara.Wavre@Surrey. chambers.co.uk to book on to a SCGS day or find out some more information.

2020 FIXTURES: January 21st

Hankley Common

February 25th West Hill

March 24th Foxhills

April 20th Tandridge

May 19th

Coombe Hill

June 11th Hindhead

2020 SPONSORS

July 1st

Worplesdon

August 5th

Camberley Heath

September 9th New Zealand

November 12th

HEADLINE SPONSOR

ORDER OF MERIT SPONSOR

Swinley Forest

December 1st Woking GC

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To find a full list of our 2020 events visit www.surrey-chambers.co.uk/event-listing

January 14th NETWORKING BREAKFAST Event Time: 07:45 - 09:30 Event Theme: Networking AM Price: Member: £20.00 +VAT Non Member: £25.00 +VAT Event Location: The Refectory (Seasons) Guildford Cathedral Stag Hill Guildford, Surrey GU2 7UP

new from a possible guest speaker, and most importantly, start the day off right with a breakfast! Hosted by one of Chambers events team, we like to keep the agenda simple: Networking, breakfast and then a little more networking – We told you it was going to be simple!

Our Calendar is full of interesting and exciting events just for you, we love to cover topics that are relevant to you and your business. We understand making new contacts & gaining new clients is at the top of your list. Therefore we run our Networking Breakfasts, these run monthly and give you a chance to meet new people, learn something

January 28th REDHILL & REIGATE BUSINESS FORUM

Event Time: 16:30 – 19:00 Event Theme: Redhill and Reigate Business Forum Price: Member Rate: Free Non Member Rate: Free Event Location: Reigate & Banstead Borough Council Town Hall Castlefield Road Reigate RH2 0SH Leadership / Change Management is our theme the first Redhill & Reigate Business Forum of 2020.

Reigate and Banstead’s vibrant business community is well known for its innovation and creativity. Please join us and your peers in the borough for what promises to

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be a stimulating and insightful series of presentations and ensuing discussion. With guest speaker: Sue Jenkins – Director of Kaizen, Surrey & Sussex NHS Trust.

SURREY CHAMBERS

EVENTS DIARY

2020

January 30th

MONTHLY NETWORKING

Event Time: 18:00 - 20:00 Event Theme: Members Networking Evening Price: Member Rate: Free Non Member Rate: £20.00 +VAT Event Location: Macdonald Frimley Hall Hotel Lime Avenue Portsmouth Road Camberley GU15 2BG Here at Surrey Chambers, we think it’s highly important that you get to know the team, but also get to know the faces behind the organisations you see and hear about on a daily basis. Members of Surrey Chambers can enjoy

this complimentary event on a monthly basis; the chance to meet fellow members and network with both new and established businesses from all over Surrey.

Not a member? Don’t worry! Please be assured that you are always welcome at any Surrey Chambers event, and our members networking evenings are the perfect place to learn about all the great things that the Chamber can do for your business.

February 5th HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT!

Event Time: 14:30 - 16:30 Event Theme: Have your cake and eat it!

Price: Member Rate: £10.00 +VAT Non Member Rate: £15.00 +VAT | Event Location: The Elvetham Hotel Fleet Road Hartley Wintney HOOK RG27 8AS

It may be that you’re looking to catch up with an existing supplier or perhaps you’re searching for an opportunity to grow your network and expand your business into the neighbouring county - these are the sort of networking sessions where these partnerships blossom! The flexible format also combines both general networking and some facilitated networking, to ensure you make the most of the afternoon and have the chance to speak with as many businesses as possible. Don’t forget to bring plenty of business cards!

Surrey & Hampshire Chambers of Commerce invite you to our afternoon networking. Following on from last years success, this is the perfect opportunity to grow your business connections by meeting a wide range of companies from locations around the Surrey and Hampshire border.

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WHAT’S ON IN SURREY

Compiled by Hannah Joslyn

parody musical inspired by the gang in Friends, the iconic TV show, and The Last Temptation of Boris Johnson (Mon 24th – Sat 19th Feb), a comical look at post-Brexit Britain, 2029.

New season at New Victoria Theatre – Woking www.atgtickets.com/venues/ new-victoria-theatre/

The New Year season at the New Victoria Theatre is packed with returning favourites, famous faces and WestEnd premieres.

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre – Guildford www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

2020 kicks off with Downton Abbey favourite Elizabeth McGovern starring in the Olivier and Tony award-winning God of Carnage (Thur 14th – Sat 18th Jan).

Later in the season, Tom Chambers (Top Hat, Strictly Come Dancing, Holby City) and Sally Bretton (Not Going Out, Death in Paradise) star in the classic thriller Dial M for Murder (Tue 4th – Sat 8th Feb).

The Yvonne Arnaud’s Film Season (Tue 21st – Sat 25th Jan) is back by popular demand! With screenings ranging from Cats to The Goldfinch, there is plenty of choice.

John Cleese makes his stage-writing debut at the Yvonne Arnaud in March with a hilarious new adaptation of the classic comedy Bang Bang (Mon 2nd – Sat 7th March), described as a ‘delicious blend of French Farce and Fawlty Towers.’

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Frantic Assembly are celebrating their 25th Anniversary with a brand-new production, I Think We Are Alone (Wed 15th – Sat 18th Apr) by Sally Abbott, co-directed by comedy and acting legend, Kathy Burke and Scott Graham.

Other exciting highlights of 2020 include Friendsical (Mon 23rd – Sat 28th Mar), an original and unique new

Shen Yun, the dance spectacular, makes a welcome return with a brand new show. The company’s display of the five millennia of traditional Chinese culture in a unique visual journey wowed audiences on its first visit to Woking and is set to make a repeat for 2020.

Peter Pan Goes Wrong follows in January with the riotous spin on the J.M. Barrie story of Neverland. From the award-winning team behind The Play That Goes Wrong, The Comedy About

BUSINESS ARTS & CULTURE SURVEY

surrounded by formal gardens. The audience arrive from 4pm and, champagne in hand, wander through the historic walled gardens where a convivial atmosphere reigns.

In the long interval, the audience settles into two restaurants or into private picnic pavilions; dine in the Duchess restaurant in the house or in the Walnut Tree restaurant in the Walled Orchard.

Private Indian pavilions are dotted around the Crinkle-Crankle garden, on the Croquet Lawn and on the Mole’s Lawn. Then there are those that just fling their rugs under an apple tree.

Grange Park

A Bank Robbery and the ‘Goes Wrong’ BBC television series, Mischief Theatre make their first stop in Woking with the full-family comedy.

A take on another celebrated tale, Matthew Bourne’s production of The Red Shoes has all the intoxicating drama to be expected from ground-breaking British choreographer Matthew Bourne. A sell-out before its world premiere season opened in 2016, Matthew Bourne’s triumphant adaptation of the legendary film returns to Woking in February, now also having won two Olivier Awards.

The musical line-up for the new season kicks off with the touring debut of Once the Musical. Based on the cult Irish indie feature, the whimsical love story captivated the West End and is brought to life by a talented cast of actor musicians. Beautiful - The Carole King Musical is back to bring audiences to their feet through retelling the real life story of Carole King’s rise to fame featuring a winning selection of hits from the Carole King record collection.

of The Desert to the Woking stage accompanied by irresistible disco dance floor-fillers. Also in March, this crowd pleaser is closely followed by musical favourite and Willy Russell classic, Blood Brothers.

And when the opera ends, the audience walks out into a magical English landscape. The 2020 season runs from June 4th to July 19th.

Grange Park Opera, Surrey is an unmissable part of the English summer season.

The programme includes the perennial favourite La Bohème, Meet Me in St Louis with its rip-roaring score, and the return of Maltese superstar tenor Joseph Calleja in La Gioconda.

The season is rounded off by a world première: The Life & Death of Alexander Litvinenko.

The five-tier opera house is in the magical grounds of West Horsley Place, a 300-acre estate with a glorious, sprawling 14th century house

On the very, very last night (which we call The Final Fling) we stage our first foray into dance with guest artists from The Royal Ballet.

BOOK AHEAD Grange Park Opera – West Horsley grangeparkopera.co.uk

In March, Strictly Come Dancing winner and Holby City’s Joe McFadden brings the giant bus of Priscilla Queen

SURREY BUSINESS

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JOIN THE CHAMBER “Surrey Cham bers of Commerce is the county’s larg est independ ent, not-for-profi support organ t business is businesses to ation that helps connect loca lly, nationally a nd globally in order to gain custom suppliers an ers, d knowledge.”

CAN YOUR BUSINESS AFFORD NOT TO BE A MEMBER OF SURREY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE? Sitting at the heart of the business community, Surrey Chambers of Commerce connects you to opportunities, skills, knowledge and valuable contacts. We can help you grow and develop, by promoting your business, introducing you to new customers, keeping you informed and representing you locally, regionally and nationally.

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ith a membership representing businesses of all sizes across every sector of the economy, the Chamber works hard to ensure that the continued prosperity of Surrey takes into account the needs of business, as well as providing a range of high quality services to help businesses to grow and meet new potential customers, including making introductions into over 40 countries.

Surrey Chambers of Commerce is an integral part of the Surrey business support network and alongside its partners offers specialist advice, knowledge and information on a wide range of issues facing local businesses.

you the chance to enhance your business network, find new customers and meet like-minded and other successful business people.

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Connect you to other businesses – we run over 100 events a year that give

Represent you – we believe it is important that you and your business are fairly represented locally, regionally, nationally and, where appropriate, internationally on issues affecting business. We work closely with Surrey County Council, the eleven local borough councils, district and two Local

Help you to find new customers – raise your profile, increase your brand awareness and generate new business by using our website, publications and database to communicate with thousands of business people.

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SURREY BUSINESS

Enterprise Partnerships and we feedback and provide input to the British Chambers of Commerce who talk directly to government, influencing policy and strategic decisions.

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Save you money - we can provide you with a variety of discounts designed to save your company money. As well as national deals you will benefit from exclusive discounts offered by other Chamber members. You too can offer a special member to member deal.

Call: 01483 735540 Email: sarah.butcher@surrey-chambers.co.uk Visit: www.surrey-chambers.co.uk

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Choose from Longcross, home to the 2017 PGA Cup and named in Golf World’s top 100 courses and golf resorts in England, or Bernard Hunt, home to the Senior PGA Professional Championship until 2020.

We offer a range of corporate golf packages that cater to any need. Whether you’re planning a large event or an exclusive golf experience, you can rely on Foxhills.

Our Golf Sales team will assist with the planning of your day. When you arrive, relax and enjoy time with your guests while our Golf Services team manage your event.

Call 01932 704447 to speak to the team about your next corporate golf day.

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ENGLAND 2019

New Year New Offers at Mercedes-Benz of Guildford

Mercedes-Benz of Guildford Moorfield Road, Guildford, GU1 1RU

01483 916292 www.sandown-group.co.uk