Business MK October 2022

Play your part in campaign to tackle knife crime

High Sheriff calls on firms to join initiative

Business has been urged to play its part in supporting the fight against the rising tide of knife crime across Milton Keynes.

Thames Valley Police, the Police & Crime Commissioner for the Thames Valley, Milton Keynes Council and MK Dons are calling on the community to join them in a month of action against violent crime at the end of this year.

The initiative in December aims to bring businesses together with schools, parents, voluntary sector organisations, community groups and statutory bodies across the city to take a stand together against violence in all forms.

This includes knife crime, which has resulted in a number of lives being tragically lost over the years, but also domestic abuse, hate crime, bullying and other forms of violence and aggression.

To mark the month of action, Milton Keynes will host the National Monument Against Violence and Aggression outside Stadium MK. Also known as the Knife Angel, the monument is a 27ft sculpture made from around 100,000 bladed weapons collected in knife amnesty bins during police operations across the country.

Speaking to guests at the relaunch meeting of Milton Keynes networking group the City Breakfast Club, High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire Debbie Brock urged businesses to join the campaign. “The Knife Angel coming to Milton Keynes provides a tremendous opportunity to spark conversation across the whole community about violence and the tragedy and grief it causes,” she said.

She highlighted ways in which businesses in particular can help:

n Corporate volunteering days. Campaign organisers are planning to staff the Knife Angel monument with marshals during daylight hours.

The Knife Angel is visiting Milton Keynes as part of a nationwide tour highlighting knife crime and previous hosts have found marshals to be an excellent way of engaging with visitors, explaining the campaign and signposting people to other agencies and information.

Training and other support is provided, said the High Sheriff.

n A photography and art competition is to be run as part of the campaign, with the winners announced at the closing ceremony at Stadium MK. Businesses can support through funding of certificates, lanyards and badges for children who become anti-violence champions.

n Support - financial or in expertise - of the digital and social media campaign.

The Knife Angel will be outside Stadium MK in December

“We need to raise awareness of the impact of knife crime,” said the High Sheriff. “I would like to thank the business community for their interest and support. We all have a part to play to reduce it.”

Chief Inspector Euan Livingstone, Deputy Commander for Milton Keynes policing area, said he and his officers were committed to tackling violent crime. “This month of action will allow us all to join together to make a stand against serious violence with the knife angel as a key focal point.”

Matthew Barber, the Police and Crime Commissioner for the Thames Valley, said:

>> To page 6.

Milton Keynes and North Bucks for the area’s business community

Debbie Brock

kerry@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

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Delight for winners at SME Bedfordshire Business Awards

The celebrations are under way among Bedfordshire’s small and medium-sized businesses after the winners were announced in this year’s SME Bedfordshire Business Awards.

They received their trophies and applause from hundreds of guests at a gala awards dinner and ceremony at bedford’s Corn Exchange.

And there was particular delight for Bedford company Window Ware, based at Cross Park and a major UK distributor of window and door hardware and tools. The company was named the night’s overall winner of Business of the Year.

The full list of winners is:

Martin

martin@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

jan@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

jenny@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

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sharon@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Apprentice of the Year Sponsor: Liebherr Gold: Hardeep Kaur Sanghera - Smarta Healthcare; Silver: Taylor Gilling - Harrisons Accountancy.

Bedford Business of the Year

Gold: Tutor Train; Silver: The K9 Club.

Best Customer Service Sponsor: Business2Business / MK Pulse

Gold: L&K Flowers; Silver: The Hair Corner.

Best Enterprising Business

Gold: Teaching Talons (The Aminal Ambassadors); Silver: Bonfire Creative Intelligence.

Best New Business Sponsor: Wrest Park Enterprise

Warehouse refurbishment attracts tenants

Conversion of a former warehouse into three separate units has attracted new tenants to Liscombe Business Park at Soulbury near Leighton Buzzard. Dental specialist Laboratory Arts, Martin Cook Electrical Services and a specialist storage facility have become the latest tenants to move on the park after work to reconfigure the warehouse into a ground-floor office/ workshop, first-floor offices and a storage facility.

The work is the latest in a refurbishment programme that has seen Liscombe Park’s owners convert a total 11,500 sq ft of barn space into prime modern office space.

“All the new accommodation was let prior to completion of the conversion work, allowing occupiers to work with the landlord in resolving configurations that worked for them,” said Andrew Dudley, agency consultant

Gold: Black Diamond Pub Company; Silver: AnnexusEV.

Business Chameleon

Gold: Smarta Healthcare; Silver: Marsh Farm Futures.

Business Person of the Year

Gold: Bilal Farooq - Greystone Solicitors; Silver: Tim Mason - DMLINK.

Businesswoman of the Year Sponsor: Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce

Gold: Kirsty Maynard - THSP; Silver: Lauren Shepherd - babyballet Biggleswade & Bedford; Bronze: Bina Briggs - Plain Talking HR.

Community Business of the Year Sponsor: Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue

Gold: YouTurn Futures; Silver: IMPAKT Housing & Support.

Dunstable Business of the Year

Gold: Spicer & Co; Silver: Red Bird Tutoring.

Employer of the Year Sponsor: AllenDay Recruitment

Gold: Receptional; Silver: Wealth Matters.

Family Business of the Year Sponsor: 123

Internet Group

Gold: Harrisons Accountancy; Silver: Spicer & Co.

Hair Salon / Barber of the Year

Gold: Lucia Hair & Beauty; Silver: House of Handsome Bedford.

Leighton Buzzard Business of the Year

Gold: DMLINK; Silver: SMP Gas & Heating.

Lockdown Leader

Gold: Rafi Mohammed - Marsh Farm Futures; Silver: Kathy Bird - Clearhead.

Luton Business of the Year

Gold: Greystone Solicitors; Silver: The Pattern Studio.

Positive Impact

Gold: Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity; Silver: Seraph Agency.

Service Excellence Sponsor: Bedford Borough Council

Gold: Window Ware; Silver: The Pattern Studio.

Sustainabilty Sponsor: Central Bedfordshire Council / Green Business Network

Gold: Willow Tree Distilling; Silver: Teaching Talons (The Animal Ambassadors).

Website of the Year

Gold: Titanium 22 Digital; Silver: Far & Ride.

Young Business Person of the Year Sponsor: Oval Law

Gold: Emily Price - Be Our Guest Princesses; Silver: Jonny Duggan - AnnexusEV.

at commercial property consultancy Kirkby Diamond which marketed the units.

Laboratory Arts opted to move after originally locating to another scheme.

Martin Cook Electrical Services, already based at the park, was keen to combine its separate office and storage facilities into a single facility. The remaining warehouse has been let

before being finished for a specialist storage facility.

Liscombe Business Park estates director John Hawkins said: “We are very proud of the companies that occupy our buildings and are delighted to have helped many of them fulfill their business plans by either establishing them in the park or helping them to expand.”

Car share delivers friendship, fun and a sense of purpose

Anew car sharing scheme has launched to help employees and business occupiers at Silverstone Park to reduce fuel costs and emissions.

Using the Kinto Join app, commuters can find their ideal ‘travel buddies’ based on location and working hours. Users are opting in either as the driver - using their own vehicle - or as a passenger.

The app records individual journeys that, over time, help to build a bigger picture of people’s travel movements, thereby increasing the pool of people for journey sharing.

Ruth Williams, asset manager at

Silverstone Park’s operator MEPC, said: “With the cost of living crisis and fuel prices also high, people are rightly concerned about the effects that travelling to and from the workplace is having on their personal finances. A car sharing scheme provides a much more contemporary method of travel for people and helps address those concerns.”

Such a scheme also adds to the sustainability credentials of businesses taking it up, she added. “We are really excited to see what patterns emerge across the surrounding districts and counties that Silverstone Park employees commute from and to during the working week.”

Research by Silverstone Park of other workplaces where employees are car sharing has shown positive feedback.

Users have begun to see the benefits, particularly in terms of money saved.

The app is similar to the Strava app popular with runners and walkers, said Silverstone Park’s travel adviser Veronica Reynolds. “The research shows that people are finding the shared journeys into work fun. New friendships are being built and at the same time there is a shared sense of purpose in terms of contributing to lowering emissions.”

The car sharing scheme took effect early last month.

Editor

Liscombe Park

Changes bear fruit as law firm forecasts ‘buoyant’ times

Lawyers at a firm in Milton Keynes are expecting activity levels in the corporate and commercial sector to continue at their high level despite the challenges facing the UK and world economy.

Howes Percival has reported a 12 per cent increase in turnover and profit per equity partner since the start of 2020 in its latest annual results.

Turnover has risen from £23.4 million before the pandemic to £26.3 million this year, market share has increased across all offices and the firm has welcomed almost 100 new recruits.

“Like everyone, we experienced the shock waves when the pandemic struck but we were able to adapt quickly to the new ways of working to support our clients and take advantage of the opportunities that emerged in certain sectors,” said Milton Keynes office partner Simon deMaid.

Howes Percival has had offices in Milton Keynes for more than 35 years. Its office at Knowlhill has trebled in size in the last 12 months, with a particular focus on corporate, commercial and banking.

The department has welcomed Andy Harris as its head, with senior appointments following.

The firm has also introduced new flexible and familyfriendly working practices, health and well-being benefits and a wider-ranging bonus scheme.

Motor retail group completes acquisition of dealerships

Two long-established motor dealerships in Milton Keynes have been sold to automotive retail group SG International Holdings Ltd t/a Allen Motor Group.

The company has paid an undisclosed sum for the acquisition of Delgarth Motor Company and Milton Keynes Autorama. The two companies that represent Hyundai, Suzuki and Kia in Milton Keynes and Bletchley have been under the ownership of the Turney family since being founded by Dave Turney in 1981.

Allen Motor Group already operates Ford, Kia and Mazda across the South East, West Midlands, London and Kent

and has now added the two Kia outlets, as well as entering Hyundai and Suzuki for the first time.

Mr Turney said: “We are immensely proud of the business we have built over the years with a fantastic team around us. The time has come for myself and my son Steve to hand the keys over to a much larger and growing group in Allen Motor Group. I wish them all the best and would like to thank my amazing team for the past 41 years.”

Delgarth Motor Company and Milton Keynes Autorama were advised by professional services firm UHY Hacker Young and lawyers at regional law firm

Birketts. “Kia and Hyundai are probably two of the most desirable brands in the UK currently therefore it is no surprise there was strong interest in these businesses,” said David Kendrick, equity partner and corporate finance specialist at UHY Hacker Young.

“Having grown their UK dealer group over the past number of years, it fits perfectly for Super Group and cements their relationship with Kia further.”

Allen Motor Group chief executive Niall Hooper said: “We are delighted with the acquisition and very much look forward to welcoming all of our new colleagues into the Allen Motor Group.”

Data centre opening is part of expansion strategy

Data centre provider Proximity Data Centres has opened its tenth UK facility in Milton Keynes.

of highly connected regional edge data centres meeting the digital needs of 95 per cent of the population outside London.

“Our people have been at the heart of everything that has happened in the last couple of years and our focus was very much on ensuring that everyone was supported, valued and rewarded during such a challenging period.”

The firm has seen strong growth in corporate and commercial, property, litigation, employment law and private client services.

Mr Harris said: “We want to be the ‘go-to’ firm for deals in the city. Activity levels in MK have remained extremely buoyant this year and we expect this to continue, despite some of the wider economic challenges.”

Proximity Milton Keynes Edge 10 is a purpose built, tier 3 standard 48,000 sq ft facility with multiple data halls and provides 3 MW of available power.

It has taken over the site formerly owned by Nuco Technologies, parent company of data facility Host-It. The new centre pictured below will serve clients across Central England and is part of Proximity’s strategy to provide a nationwide network

John Hall, managing director, colocation, said: “The region also has a rapidly expanding technology sector and Edge 10 is ideally positioned to support this important market. Edge 10 is an important milestone for Proximity as we are now well on the way to establishing a truly UK-wide edge data centre footprint.” Proximity is planning a further ten sites within the next 12 to 18 months, he added.

Lawyers at national law firm Shoosmiths in Milton Keynes advised Proximity on the deal. Real estate partner Liam Phillips said: “Proximity’s services form a key part of the UK’s digital infrastructure. It has been a privilege supporting the firm’s journey so far to acquire and bring online a network of centres that are strategically located and tailored to suit regional demand. Shoosmiths has a flourishing reputation advising the data centre sector. Our long-term partnership with Proximity shows the legal expertise that we bring to the table.”

Shoosmiths has advised on Proximity’s acquisition of more than 300,000 sq ft, including sites in Birmingham, Liverpool and Chester. Mr Hall said: “They will continue to play a key role in helping us to execute our proven rapid acquisition strategy as we look to double the size of our Edge data centre portfolio over the next 12-18 months.”

Parts maker celebrates opening of new factory

Vehicle parts manufacturer vGroup International has moved into its new headquarters at Kiln Farm.

Guests from the automotive sector, including from lease companies and dealership groups, joined staff and suppliers at the official opening ceremony for the 40,000 sq ft facility that will manufacture and despatch more than 1,000 orders a day.

VGroup has moved from its former headquarters at Stacey Bushes to the newly refurbished building that features a showroom displaying the group’s products and services, as well as a photography and videography studio.

The opening ceremony focused on the company’s environmental targets. The vGI Holdings group has pledged to be net carbon zero by 2024 and, after performing the ribboncutting to officially open the new headquarters, vGroup International chairman Martin Nash talked about the challenges faced by the company and other business owners in the sector.

The global economy has set firm carbon targets and the automotive sector is embracing initiatives with electric and alternative fuel vehicles, he said. vGI is well on the way with sustainable products such as screenwash pods and 100 per cent recyclable car mats.

Guests also took the chance to have a look at the latest electric cars and vans on display, including BMW, Ford, Maxus, Mercedes and Mini.

Speakers from TFL, Energy Saving Trust, BMW and joined other industry experts to discuss the challenges of ‘going green’.

Mr deMaid, pictured, said:

Guests mingle at the official opening of vGroup International’s new facility at Kiln Farm

Publisher puts on a show with exhibition deal

The publishers of leading business newspapers and Business MK and Business Times have added a new string to the company’s bow after agreeing a partnership with the organiser of two major annual business exhibitions.

Pulse Group Media, which also publishes the lifestyle magazines MK Pulse and NN Pulse, has joined forces with Your Business Expo and will co-host exhibitions in Northamptonshire.

“Joining forces to organise these exhibitions is a logical bolt-on to our current publishing business in print and online,” says Pulse Goup Media director Kerry Lewis-Stevenson.

“There is so much synergy with what

we are already expert in and, in the current climate, diversification into a complementary sector makes an awful lot of sense.”

Your Business Expo is run by Sheila Smith. She launched a networking group back in 2010, from which evolved the Northamptonshire Business Expo. It continues to attract dozens of exhibitors from all over Northamptonshire and beyond and has enabled Sheila to launch Business Expos elsewhere in the UK, including in Leicester.

“We have known Sheila Smith for some time and know that she is hugely respected in the exhibition sphere,” says Kerry. “When the opportunity came up to team up with her on the exhibitions, we felt it was

a chance not to pass up.”

Sheila will continue to contribute to the expos as a consultant. “I have been running the expos for some 12 years now and feel that it is time for them to benefit from a fresh set of eyes and ideas,” she says.

“I am delighted that Pulse Group

Media have come on board. They are hugely respected regionally for the quality of their publications and online offer and I have no doubt they will bring the same level of quality, positivity and innovation to the expos.

“We cannot wait to get started.”

‘We felt it was a chance not to pass up’

Pulse Group Media director Kerry Lewis-Stevenson (left) is pictured with Sheila Smith, founder of Your Business Expo

Chambers lead on region’s skills improvement plan

Milton Keynes and Bedfordshire Chambers of Commerce are to play a key role in the development of a Local Skills Improvement Plan for the South East Midlands region.

They and Northamptonshire Chamber have been confirmed as the Designated Local Employer Representative Body working on the plan.

Every Local Enterprise Partnership in England is preparing to start work on a plan for their area. It aims to give employers a stronger voice in shaping local skills provision by working

closely with further education providers and engaging with local leaders and other stakeholders to become more responsive to the skills needs of employers in local labour markets.

Development of the LSIP is due to start in November. The government approved a bid from the three Chambers in September after applications were submitted earlier this year.

Bedfordshire Chamber’s chief executive Justin Richardson said:

“Skills shortages are regularly highlighted by businesses as a key recruitment issue and the Local

Skills Improvement Plans are an exciting opportunity for Chambers of Commerce across the region to bring together employers and key stakeholders to set out the priorities needed to ensure local provision is reflective of emerging skills needs.

“It is fantastic to be a key part of

the vision where businesses are given a much stronger voice in local skills planning and putting the needs of business at the heart of the skills system.”

Louise Wall, his counterpart at Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire Chambers, added: “Government

recognises that employers know what is needed for their businesses and, through the Local Skills Improvement Plan, the Chambers across our region will be diligently gathering the information and then presenting a ‘living’ report that identifies the true needs of employers and maps out a plan that can deliver the skills provision that businesses require.”

The plan will build on work already under way across the South East Midlands to increase skills levels, she said.

“We are really looking forward to working with local businesses, education providers, employer representative bodies and key stakeholders to deliver a meaningful plan for the area,” Mr Richardson added.

Reshoring or ‘nearshoring’ operations to build resilience in the face of global challenges is a growing trend among businesses across Europe and the USA, research by robotics giant ABB has found. But at the same time, a significant education gap remains in the skills necessary for these strategies to succeed.

Four out of five education professionals say robots and automation will shape the future of employment over the next ten years. Yet only one in four education establishments use robots in teaching programmes despite planned investment in robotics and automation by 70 per cent of US and European businesses over the next three years due to supply chain shifts.

“The world is constantly

evolving - businesses are shifting existing structures and adopting new technologies to futureproof their operations for a variety of challenprepared for th ejobs of the futureges and uncertainties, with robotic automation playing a key role,” said Sami Atiya, president of ABB’s robotics and discrete automation business. “We need significant investment in continuous education to prepare our existing and future workforce to thrive in an age

of robotics and automation, important not only to prepare for the widespread shifts we are seeing but also to create prosperous societies going forward.”

ABB has a robotics and automation base in Milton Keynes at Kingston. The company’s 2022 survey of US and European business leaders revealed that 74 per cent of European and 70 per cent of US businesses are planning to move operations to build their supply chain resilience in response to labour shortages, the need for a more sustainable global footprint and global uncertainty. Most view automation as the enabler, with 75 per cent of European and 62 per cent of US businesses surveyed planning to invest in robotics and automation to facilitate a shift in operations by 2026.

To bridge the skills gap, ABB has bolstered its robotics and automation education programme with new training centres, including its €100 million global innovation and training campus in Austria. It has also opened regional training centres in the UK, Berlin and Brazil.

Mr Atiya said: “Change needs to happen now. As companies turn to robotic automation to offset labour shortages, improve efficiency and increase resilience, workers need the skillsets to use automation to perform their jobs and augment their own roles. Businesses need to join forces, cooperating with education institutions and governments to ensure that society is prepared for the jobs of the future. Only through this can we fully utilise flexible automation and unlock value from the ongoing reindustrialisation.”

Justin Richardson

Louise Wall

Employers to have a stronger voice as business needs come to the fore

‘We need investment in education to prepare our workforce to thrive’

Businesses need to join forces to ensure society is prepared for the jobs of the future

Ready to act to offset rising fuel costs

lifts totaling 200 miles in a single month.

Tackling knife crime culture is no quick fix

It is the stark reality of Britain’s cost of living crisis. One in three employees fear that they will not be able to afford the fuel for their daily journey to work if the price of petrol and diesel continues to rise.

The concern is raised in new research by Milton Keynes Volkswagen Financial Services, which also finds that 35 per cent of workers are considering changing jobs if it were to save on commuting costs. A quarter are also looking at car sharing with colleagues.

VWFS chief executive Mike Todd said: “Rising fuel costs are a serious issue and as our research highlights, many people are already making lifestyle changes to negate the higher prices.

“Drivers looking for a quick fix might want to consider low emissions vehicles to help reduce running costs

but the fact that some will not be able to afford to drive to work if prices keep increasing is the shocking reality of the situation.”

The data also showed a generation divide, with young people most affected by the fuel crisis.

Fuel prices have hit record highs in 2022 and, despite prices starting to fall, motoring organisation the RAC reported the average petrol price at

the big four supermarkets Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons at the start of August was £1.74 per litre. Diesel was £1.86.

The study found that in an average month 30pc of respondents drove fewer than ten miles giving lifts to family, friends or colleagues. The next most popular segment was 1050 miles (24pc) while only 2 per cent of respondents said they would give

Mr Todd said: “We know the cost of living crisis has tightened lots of people’s budgets and bigger ticket items such a new car may still be a necessity for many so our role as a finance provider is to help consumers with these affordability issues.”

The figures were revealed in the run-up to World EV Day in September. Average running costs for electric vehicles are around 70pc of comparable petrol and diesel cars, according to VWFS, which says that drivers can expect average annual running costs of £722 - including fuel, servicing and Vehicle Excise Duty - when behind the wheel of an electric vehicle.

That is a significant £1,933 cheaper than a comparable petrol car and a substantial £1,636 less expensive than a diesel car.

These yearly running costs incorporate fuel, servicing and Vehicle Excise Duty and equate to monthly savings of £160 and £136 for petrol and diesel drivers respectively.

“This is why the transition to green travel is more important than ever and why electric cars are the future,” said Mr Todd. “These vehicles are far more sophisticated and more reliable than people realise and in fact are also far more affordable than people think.”

VWFS is developing propositions to help its customers to make the transition to electric cars. The switch to electric is a cost-effective move for consumers. However, says VWFS, EVs are currently in short supply due to a global semiconductor shortage. Therefore, alternative short-term options may include lower emission petrol and diesel vehicles with suitable fuel economy.

From page 1.

“Tackling the culture of knife carrying shown by a minority in Milton Keynes and beyond will not be a quick fix. Bringing the Knife Angel to the city is symbolic of our joint commitment as the police, the council and the community to stamp out knife crime.

“We are all determined to make Milton Keynes and the Thames Valley safer places to live.”

The Knife Angel’s arrival in Milton Keynes is aimed to encourage debate in schools, homes and communities about ways to tackle knife crime.

“Serious violence cannot continue to take lives in Milton Keynes and I hope that as a city we will show our commitment to doing better for our young people,” said council leader Cllr Pete Marland, pictured

MK Dons Sport & Education Trust works across the city to encourage active healthy lifestyles, particularly among the younger population.

Chief executive Maralyn Smith said: “Both MK Dons and MK Dons SET are committed to the reduction of violence in all forms and hope the activities have a real impact in reducing violence in our city.”

Employers have their say in skills improvement plans

Business support group

Buckinghamshire Business First has become the official Employer Representative Body for skills in the county outside Milton Keynes.

It is among employer representative bodies across England being tasked with writing Local Skills Improvement Plans which detail how provision locally should change to meet labour market needs.

BBF is one of 37 business groups from across the UK have been chosen to lead local skills plans to help address local skills shortages. The appointments were confirmed by the government last month.

BBF will lead on the research, development and production of a LSIP for Buckinghamshire, working with Buckinghamshire Local Enterprise Partnership, employers, stakeholders, training providers and Buckinghamshire Council to identify the key changes needed to align post16 technical education and training more closely to employer and local labour market needs. The plan will

build on the work of the Bucks Skills Hub’s Local Skills Report 2022.

“We are delighted that Buckinghamshire Business First has been chosen as one of only 37 business groups across England to be awarded this official designation, which will provide a great opportunity for local employers to influence skills training provision in the county,” said BBF managing director Philippa Batting.

Businesses can contribute by helping to identify current and future skills requirements in the local area and helping to bring about changes which ensure a better match between skills provision and their skills needs, she added. Employers can also support local employment and upskilling through apprenticeships, providing work placements, and seconding staff to colleges.

“Ultimately, the LSIP will be an opportunity for businesses to understand how their future workforce will need to be positioned to ensure their business plans are successful,” said Ms Batting.

Volkswagen Financial Services’ UK headquarters in Milton Keynes

Workers consider job switch to save money, survey finds

MP welcomes government U-turn on NI increase

Workers will be able to keep more of the money they earn now that the government has reversed its decision to increase the rate of National Insurance, says a city MP.

Ben Everitt, who voted against the proposal in Parliament in earlier this year, says the move endorses the government’s growth agenda and will keep an average £330 a year in the pockets of the nation’s employees.

The move will also save UK businesses an average of almost £10,000 next year.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng announced last month that the 1.25 per cent increase

announced by his predecessor Rishi Sunak would be reversed from November 6.

920,000 businesses will see a cut in National Insurance bills, with 20,000 taken out of paying National Insurance entirely due to the Employment Allowance, which rose in April 2022 from £4,000 to £5,000.

Mr Everitt inset, MP for Milton Keynes North, said: “I am delighted the new government is reversing the increase in National Insurance which will see workers keeping more of the money they earn. I voted against the increase in the first place as I do not believe we should be taxing people more for having a job.

Distribution firm pays £6m for HQ building’s freehold

Distribution firm Pacific Logistics has completed the £6 million purchase of the building that has been its headquarters in Milton Keynes for the past eight years.

The company was keen to remain at Pacific House, pictured, on Kiln Farm when owner Poetic Gem - part of PDS

“The more money people have in their pockets, the more money they can spend at our amazing local businesses. This move backs the government’s progrowth agenda and will help businesses invest, innovate and create jobs.”

The previous government decided to raise National Insurance in order to fund health and social care. The

Multinational - decided to put the property up for sale.

The 64,500 sq ft unit was marketed by commercial property consultancy Kirkby Diamond. Partner and head of commercial agency Eamon Kennedy said: “Mid-box industrial/warehouse units are in high demand right

rate was due to return to 2021-22 levels in April 2023, when a separate new 1.25 per cent Health and Social Care Levy was due to take effect.

The new legislation also cancels next year’s introduction of the levy.

Overall funding for health and social care services will be maintained at the same level as if the levy were in place and the government

across the region and there is a welldocumented shortage of supply. The distribution company was very keen to remain at the premises and wanted to avoid it being offered in the market place.

“We were able to negotiate a competitive sale price.”

will be doing this without a tax increase, Mr Everitt said. The additional funding used to replace the expected revenue from the levy will come from general taxation.

The Chancellor has said he is committed to reducing debt-to-GDP ratio over the medium-term and boosting growth, which will help sustainably fund public services.

Move ‘will help business to invest, innovate and create jobs’

“I do not believe we should be taxing people more for having a job.”

Recruits boost expansion plans

Built environment specialist Woods Hardwick has recruited ten new staff members over the summer as part of expansion plans in its Bedford, Birmingham and London offices.

In the Bedford and new London offices, Julia Brownsword has rejoined as an architectural assistant and Georgie Bramwell as a junior architectural technician. Shavonne Dalton is to join later this year as an associate for engineering and James Whitehurst is starting his surveying apprenticeship.

Tom Bower joins as head of marketing and communications, having previously worked in health, education and property sectors. He will oversee the setting up of an in-house marketing and communications department across all offices.

And the engineering department in Birmingham has welcomed five

new recruits. Matt Ford, director for engineering, said: “This is an exciting time for the business and the demand for built environment projects shows no signs of slowing down.

“The recruitment market is very competitive at the moment and to attract so many new staff in such a short space of time is testament to the company and culture we have here.”

The recruits increase Woods Hardwick to a workforce totalling 82, a 14 per cent increase for the multi-discipline practice

that specialises in architecture, engineering, planning and surveying. Their arrivals follow the practice’s decision earlier this year to become an Employee Owned Trust, meaning staff have a say on how it is run as well as share company profits.

“Moving over to an employee-owned business was a strategic decision to help us attract the best talent across the sector tand reward staff for their efforts with a share of company profits,” said director for commercial Calum Wilson.

Director returns to lead development projects

Development of key areas in the city centre, including Station Square and the market, are among the priorities facing the new special projects director at Milton Keynes Development Partnership.

Adam Sciberras has returned to MKDP from Lendlease, for which he was development manager for the Smithfield Birmingham masterplan. He previously

worked for the wholly-owned subsidiary of Milton Keynes Council as a development executive.

“I am excited to take on this role and to contribute to making the city an even better place to live, work and socialise,” he said.

Among his responsibilities will be the regeneration plans for Bletchley and wider placemaking across Milton Keynes.

Homes firm appoints HR director

Estate agency and property services provider Connells Group has appointed of Iain Lewis as group human resources director.

“I start with a great platform to build from and believe my breadth of experience and varied background will help me to realise new opportunities, address any issues and ultimately create an even better HR function than already exists,” says Mr Lewis inset

The aim for any HR team is to help attract, develop, motivate and retain the best possible talent and everything I do will be focused on supporting the business to do that.”

Connells Group financial director Richard Twigg adds: “We believe he will make great strides as our new group HR director.

Iain’s wealth of experience and broad spectrum of skills make this a fantastic appointment for us.”

brings in creative force

Rae Lee has been appointed as creative producer for the 2023 IF: Milton Keynes International Festival.

Ms Lee inset, is an independent producer, whose most recent roles include executive producer for the contemporary circus company Gandini Juggling, which performed at last year’s Festival. Over the past nine years, she has produced work indoors and outdoors in circus, dance and theatre both nationally and

internationally. In 2021 she set up the children’s theatre company Theatre Lark.

“The International Festival continues to be a fantastic opportunity to co-create and to engage with worldrenowned performers in hugely exciting ways,” she says. “I am thrilled to take the festival’s audiences on the next part of their journey and am looking forward to the year ahead.”

The IF: Milton Keynes International Festival takes place on July 21-30 next year.

Tom Bower, head of marketing and communications, is pictured right with new recruits (from left) Shane Lyon, Robyn Daniels and Nathan Robinson

Adam Sciberras

Law scholars show why they are top of the class

Teachers at the Open University’s Law school are celebrating after students and alumni won three pupillages, two scholarships and a Neuberger Prize.

A pupillage is an apprenticeship to becoming a member of the Bar which then would qualify them to practise as a fully independent barrister.

Two students have been offered a prestigious Stephen Lawrence Scholarship at Freshfields, designed to address the disproportionate underrepresentation of black and black-mixed race men from less privileged backgrounds in large commercial law firms.

As winner of the Lincoln’s Inn Neuberger Prize, Kathryn Der Gregorian is one of eight students from non-Russell Group universities who will gain experience and network with barristers during their final year of study towards a Law degree.

Hugh McFaul, head of the OU Law School, said: “Improving access to the profession through scholarships and awards is an excellent way of opening up the legal profession to diverse groups of people. It is essential that lawyers reflect the society they serve.”

Delighted Salam Abdul is pictured with his colleagues at Maaya Indian Kitchen & Bar in Central Milton Keynes after he was named Chef of the Year at the English Curry Awards.

“This award is also for the rest of the kitchen team who support me each night and work equally hard.”

Mr Abdul received the award for the South regional category in front of 350 guests at the ceremony in Birmingham. “I have been a chef all my life and work hard to create the very best food for our customers,” he says.

Only 400 pupillages available annually with around 6,000 law students vying for them. Mr McFaul said: “The Freshfields Stephen Lawrence Scholarship is designed to broaden access to careers in commercial law and we are delighted to have two students who have been awarded the Scholarship. Similarly, the Lincoln’s Inn Neuberger Prize is an excellent achievement. There is much to celebrate for the Law School.

Pupillage winner Laurie-Elizabeth Ketley was living in hostels with her young son in 2015. Now she is set to begin her pupillage at 3PB Barristers

Kathryn Der Gregorian. Below: Laurie-Elizabeth Ketley in Birmingham after graduating and receiving the Baroness Hale of Richmond Scholarship at Gray’s Inn last year.

“I am testament to the fact that you can overcome hardship and keep going,” she said. “Sometimes OU students wonder if there is a stigma attached to OU study because it is not the most traditional route. Some people suggest it is not a real university or it is easier than a ‘regular’ university. However the reality is that regardless of where I studied, I obtained a first-class degree, received a Gray’s Inn scholarship and have now secured a pupillage.

“OU students appeal to many Chambers as they have experience of being able to juggle work, daily life and studying. This in turn shows commitment and a strong work ethic.”

Thomas Barry and Kurt Tavares, winners of the Freshfields Stephen Lawrence Scholarship, are preparing to work with lawyers and other professionals towards opportunities including training contracts with law

firms including Freshfields.

“I am still in shock,” said Mr Barry. “The testing regime was gruelling. However, the future opportunity to work with and learn from the best lawyers in the world is absolutely priceless.”

Sponsor renews Dons partnership deal

One of the most staunch sponsors of MK Dons FC has renewed its partnership with the club. Plumbing & Gas Solutions and its sister company Facilities Management Solutions have agreed a deal to continue their club partnership for the current season.

“We are delighted that Plumbing & Gas Solutions have renewed their commitment to MK Dons,” said MK Dons chairman Pete Winkelman. “They have been with us throughout a difficult couple of years, providing us with a fantastic service.”

The company, founded in 2010, provides residential and commercial plumbing and heating services. Managing director Carl

Yeomanson said: “This is an important relationship which we have been building on now for a number of years and value it highly. Stadium MK is iconic within our city and we feel it is an important brand to align ourselves with.”

Plumbing & Gas Solutions has sponsored the Player of the Month Award in recent seasons, along with matchday and player sponsorships and a large crowd banner in the stands.

“They are a great partner to work with, really understanding what a partnership truly means,” said MK Dons commercial manager Andy Wooldridge. “It is pleasing that a successful, fast growing local business has chosen to continue its backing of the club.”

Chef strikes gold at national awards ceremony

FIAT makes history with manufacturing move

Production is under way at the Stellantis factory in Luton of the FIAT Professional Scudo light commercial vehicle.

It is the first time that FIAT vehicles will have been manufactured in the UK and vehicles manufactured at Luton will be produced in both right- and left-hand drive for the UK and European markets.

Luton continues to build the internal combustion derivatives of Stelantis’ models the Vauxhall Vivaro, Opel Vivaro, Citroën Jumpy, Citroën Dispatch and Peugeot Expert LCVs. The factory has been given

the manufacturing of the Scudo to help the company keep pace with strong demand and growing order books for the vehicle, Stellantis says.

Plant director Mark Noble said: “It is great news for Luton Plant to start manufacturing the FIAT Professional Scudo. This means we now produce all of the Stellantis brands mid-sized LCVs, for both the UK and the European markets.”

The Scudo will continue to also be produced at Hordain inFrance where the battery electric e-Scudo version is manufactured for all markets.

to our process Environment adds even more creativity

Whenit comes to project management, Makilo is in it for the long game. Welcome to a business that likes to sit down with its clients, discuss their project and work with them in order for both they and the client to explore and understand fully the aspirations and goals they are being set.

Makilo is a creative development agency, creating websites, apps and more that have the simple aim of helping clients to work more efficiently. “We design, develop and support digital projects for clients looking to change, grow or simply fix the things that matter most to them,” says managing director Chris Tilt.

Makilo delivers creative strategy, websites and web applications, design and art direction, and digital marketing services for UK and international businesses, not-for-profit organisations and individuals from its base at Milton Keynes Business Centre on Linford Wood.

Makilo also works with organisations including the National Energy Foundation, also based in the city near Bletchley Park. Each project begins with a workshop in Makilo’s headquarters at Milton Keynes Business Centre at which the client, other stakeholders and Makilo discuss the project from inception through to finish, what it is looking to achieve and how best to get there.

“The workshops are at the heart of it,” says Makilo co-founder and lead developer Tom Barrington. “We find that the whole process becomes much more creative in that environment.”

Makilo is fitting out its unit at Milton Keynes Business Centre to make the premises inspirational to visitors. The company is also planning a series of Open Door events at which businesses are welcome to drop by to discuss creative development issues they are facing.

Van maker issues call to apprentices

Like many industries, the automotive sector is facing the constant challenge of sourcing the talent of the future and bringing it to its ranks.

Now Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, part of the Volkswagen Group whose National Learning Centre is in Milton Keynes, has issued an appeal to school leavers to consider apprenticeships in the industry as an alternative to further education as students continue to digest their GCSE results revealed in August.

The number of apprentices across the UK starting new courses has fallen by seven per cent since 2018, leaving many trades short of future talent. Less than one in four apprenticeships starts were for

those aged under 19, research shows.

Apprenticeships offered by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles include roles in an industry undergoing a technological transformation.

Young workers can opt for apprenticeships as a service technician, parts adviser or service adviser, where they learn from expert technicians.

The programmes are tailored specifically to help apprentices to develop and hone their skills, using both practical and theoretical learning in the brand’s Van Centres as well as at the Volkswagen Group’s National Learning Centre at Wymbush.

“Perceptions of workshops and garages are still very outdated so we would

encourage people to get in touch to see what it is really like,” says head of network sales Rob Holdcroft.

“The skills gained via apprenticeships open up many opportunities for the future in a modern, electric and digital company.”

Students require a minimum of GCSE grades A-C (new grades 9-4) or an equivalent qualification in English, Maths and Science to apply, with applications open all year round.

“Working in a Van Centre is an exciting, varied and evolving experience,” says Mr Holdcroft. “Apprenticeships are a great alternative to further education, offering fantastic opportunities to learn and earn at the same time.”

Founded in 2016, the company has evolved from supporting other creative agencies around the UK to focusing on its own developing client base in and around Milton Keynes, working with them to achieve their digital transition.

It was a deliberate decision made in the aftermath of the pandemic and Makilo is a regular at business events around the city, in particular at those organised by technology forum Biztech.

One of its latest projects is an app developed for The Parks Trust, the organisation which maintains and manages the 6,000 acres of green space in Milton Keynes. The app is proving highly effective in the Trust’s management of its trees, woodlands and green spaces with staff able to conduct surveys and inspections while out on site, enabling The Parks Trust to complete the work swiftly and more efficiently.

The fact they can do so is down to the supportive and welcoming environment at Milton Keynes Business Centre itself. Makilo’s directors knew instantly they had found the right place when their search for premises brought them to Linford Wood.

“What sealed it for us was the centre’s transparency,” says Chris. ”We knew exactly what level of service we were going to receive and it filled us with confidence that this was the right place.”

Their hunch has proved correct. “Flexibility is important and we knew we wanted to grow,” says Tom. Makilo moved into studio premises at Milton Keynes Business Centre before expanding into the company’s current larger unit. ”The centre knew our ambitions and have done everything to help us achieve them.”

One last question, I ask: Where does Makilo come from? “Simple,” says Chris. “Think of the phonetic alphabet. Mike and Kilo… MK.”

Pictured (from left) Tom Barrington, Chris Tilt and account manager Patrick Barrington

When a settlement bid is not a sign of weakness

Despite our best endeavours and sometimes through no fault of our own, we can find ourselves involved in legal disputes. Should you find your business faced with a potential dispute, recourse to the courts can be regarded as an option - and sometimes it is the necessary option - but possibly not the best solution.

Does your business really want to be involved in legal proceedings?

It is very important to understand what your business is getting involved in. It is almost always better to find a commercial solution to a dispute. Your business should consider:

n The value of the claim, the costs involved and the implications of success or failure;

n What your business is trying to achieve from the litigation process;

n The time, cost and management commitment that will be required;

n How it will affect your ongoing commercial relationships and the reputation of the business;

n Whether there is a commercial

advantage to the dispute;

n What the effect will be for both parties if the dispute is made public;

n Whether the other party will be able to pay up if you win;

n All litigation is to some extent speculative (for example, how will the witnesses perform in the witness box?)

Is it possible to negotiate a settlement?

Your business should not consider it a sign of weakness to approach the other side to explore the chances of a settlement. This can be done at any time during the litigation process, even during a trial. Commercial mediations are increasingly common and are very cost-effective.

Always take legal advice first to ensure that any settlement discussions are conducted on a “without prejudice basis”. This means that anything said about the dispute during the settlement negotiations or in any written settlement offer cannot be used later at the trial. This protection only applies to statements made purely in an attempt to settle the case.

The green, green grass of home

In 21 years, George Davies Turf has grown from a one-man band into a multi-million pound business. Its founder talks to Business MK about the journey.

Fourth generation farmer George Davies intended to work on the family farm when he returned from university with an agricultural degree in 2000. But he knew he needed to supplement his salary with other incomes. Initially he looked into growing alternative high-value crops, like lavender, sage, peppermint and chamomile.

“But I soon realised that growing alternative crops involved a lot of investment, and it was high risk too. So I thought ‘What have we got here?’ Well, we have Milton Keynes on our doorstep and we are right in the middle of Bedford, Northampton and Wellingborough.

“I thought ‘What do these guys want?’ They are going to want trees, shrubs, plants and turf. Can we grow turf?”

He discovered the answer was ‘No’, due to the soil type and unsuitable irrigation on the farm. But there was no reason why he could not buy it from other parts of the UK and distribute it from the farm.

Thus George Davies Turf was formed. It sold 18,000 rolls in the

first year and in those early days, when he was out on the road all the time, a wooden honesty box stood at the entrance to the farmyard at Olney for customers who preferred to collect. He estimates that in the ten years it took for him to stop driving and concentrate on developing the business, a total of £1 million was placed in this box.

Today George Davies Turf is a far slicker operation, employing 19 people. Since coming off the road, George and his team have taken it to the next level. At the time of writing the company has already sold 850,000 rolls of turf this year. It has also expanded into other related products, such as top soil, bark, compost - 8,100 bulk bags sold this year so far - decking and artificial grass.

“People say not to diversify too much from your core product but in a way our core product is our service,” says George. “And as long as that service remains at the forefront of what we are doing, it does not matter whether it is topsoil, turf or decking.”

By his own admission, George is a control freak. The business had

been operating for ten years before he recruited its first lorry driver.

“I was doing everything myself and was still heavily involved in the family farm. I thought I would kill myself or somebody else because I was doing stupid hours.

“I was petrified that I would never find anyone who could do the job as well as me and be as good with customers. I was not prepared to hand over the customer service to someone. And I needed someone to look after the lorry as well as I did. It was my pride and joy and looked fantastic. I did not want to hand it

How Neves Solicitors can help

We take a practical approach to problem solving, focusing on our clients’ overall objectives. Peter Kelly and Fiona Hewitt have many years’ experience in a wide range of commercial dispute matters including debt recovery, breach of contract claims, injunctions, shareholder and partnership disputes, PR/media and reputation management, commercial landlord and tenant issues and land-related disputes.

Contact Peter or Fiona on 0330 0945 500 or email peter.kelly@nevesllp. co.uk or fiona.hewitt@nevesllp.co.uk

Rebrand reflects a new digital industry

George Davies Turf has just undergone an extensive rebrand. “The trucks are red, the website was green and we had blue uniforms so we were a bit of a mismatch,” says George. “We decided to keep the lorries red, as everyone recognises them, while the website and uniforms are now red and grey.”

More than just a fresh look and feel, the rebrand also reflects a

desire to adapt to digital changes in the industry.

“We want to adopt more efficient online processes, to be the first turf provider in the country to launch an innovative new app to speed up purchasing and customer service and to make sure we become the trusted turf supplier for aspiring and upcoming landscape gardeners.”

The two 22-plate Scanias also feature a revised livery, which

includes the phrase Proud of our History, Excited about the Future

“I think the new livery looks great,” says George. “It is fresh, modern and suits our message as a forward-thinking business.

“We are on an exciting trajectory of growth as a company and our rebrand and eye-catching fleet pulls everything together to showcase where we are going.”

Peter Kelly

Fiona Hewitt

In almost all cases, commercial mediation rather than recourse to the courts is the preferable solution to a legal dispute.

Photo: Made in Blue

George Davies Photo: Made In Blue

over, but I knew I had to.”

It turned out to be one of the best decisions he was to make, freeing up time to concentrate on other areas of the business.

Today George employs eight drivers and believes them to be great ambassadors for the company in their compliance, high levels of customer service and the way in which they look after the trucks.

“Our drivers are up there with the best in the country.”

Head office is on the 350-acre Davies family farm but the turf it sells comes from sandy soil ground in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.

The company supplies to 3,000

customers, some who place an order once a year; others who require a daily delivery. But they all want the turf delivered on time, invariably at 8am.

“Because turf is the last piece of the project, timing is critical,” says George. “If you have lads sitting around on site and you are paying them good money and they have to sit there for six or seven hours until the turf turns up then they will lose a lot of money.

“What if it does not turn up until 4pm? It might take four hours to lay it so do they pay them overtime or do they send them home and hope the turf will still be okay the following

morning? We try our hardest to meet our customers’ needs but when you are doing up to 300 timed deliveries a week within a two-hour slot, it can be a logistical nightmare.”

The turf’s very short shelf life does not help. Unless it goes into the company’s purpose-built chiller, which keeps it fresh for a few days, turf ideally needs to be laid within 36 hours of being cut.

“It is the same when you cut your grass and you leave the cuttings in the lawnmower. They get smelly and black very quickly,” says George. “A pallet of turf is basically a load of grass clippings with soil around it.”

a Scania R-series, in 2008. This was followed by more new and used Scanias and Volvos, all either equipped with a Moffett or Manitou forklift. Today Manitou products now form part of all new additions to the fleet.

The world is changing... it’s time to take back control

Who knows what the future might hold but it is clear if you fail to plan you plan to fail writes Steve Rees, commercial director at Square Media. Daily pressures and demands can mean there is little time given to the big questions that will make a real difference.

Just take a moment to answer these simple questions.

n Why do you exist?

n What problems will you solve today?

n Why do people buy from you?

If you do not have the answers or have not got time to come up with an answer, it is time to listen to those alarm bells.

what are the implications for your business?

Company image is hugely important to George Davies. It is a key reason why George Davies Turf runs such a well turned-out, predominantly Scania fleet.

The fleet’s eight trucks work hard. Between them they deliver 1.4 million rolls of turf a year, roughly the equivalent of 190 rugby pitches. However, it was a different story 20 years ago when the company was in its infancy. He started out with a Peugeot 306 car pictured towing a trailer, before upgrading to a used 7.5-tonne Mercedes-Benz 811D. At this time George was making all the deliveries himself.

“We were shifting 25 tonnes per day and quite often I would have to hand-ball it off. I was as fit as a fiddle and as strong as an ox. But I was aware that my back and body would not withstand this punishment for years.”

The solution tcame in the shape of a used Volvo FL10 with 450,000 km on the clock, equipped with a Moffett forklift. A huge amount of time and manual labour could be saved but there was one small problem… George did not have a HGV licence. “I bought it before I had my licence because it came at the right money.”

George passed his HGV test in January 2004 and the next day drove to London in what he recalls as a “baptism of fire”. The truck clocked up a further 500,000 km before the first new lorry arrived,

In 2020 the first new generation Scania P410 8x2 rigid was added to the fleet, since joined by three more supplied by TruckEast Northampton on repair and maintenance contracts. They are likely to cover some 900,000 km in ten to 12 years on the fleet.

Manitou has become George Davies Turf’s forklift supplier of choice largely due to its excellent reach. “My record was to rock up at the garden centre, pull the curtain back, demount the Manitou, take a pallet off, put the Manitou back on and close the curtain in just under two minutes,” George says.

“I was really going some but a three- or four-minute tip is common.

“I think the Manitous are invaluable. It is vital to make the drivers lives as easy as possible and that is what these do.”

The fact is the world is changing and businesses will need to adapt more than ever before to survive the next few years which are going to be tough.

Take back control. Create a marketing plan in a day at a workshop run by experts from Square Media working with people specialists HR Solutions.

At the end of the workshop each delegate will take away a workbook containing their bespoke marketing plan. The sessions will guide people through stages using a tool known as PESTLE

Political: What political changes, and mandates are in place that will impact your business? So, what are the implications for your business?

E

conomic: What stage of the cycle are we entering? Recession threatens with low grown, highinterest rates, high inflation. So,

S

ocial: How do people behave and communicate; we are experiencing a social revolution right now around diversity and inclusiveness. So, what are the implications for your business?

Technological: Huge development here in digital, more work from home, selling online and through mobile, electrification. What are the implications for your business?

L

egal: What’s coming down the track that could stop the way you do things…. So, what are the implications for your business?

E

nvironmental: Climate change and sustainability is huge. So, what are the implications for your business?

We will focus on:

Purpose Help to determine why you exist, what problem you solve and why people buy from you;

People Your audience and who you need to reach to fulfil your purpose;

Plan This is the key part of your day:

n Audience;

n Message;

n Media;

n Data capture;

n Nurture;

n Conversion;

n Onboarding and wowing new customers;

n Upselling and cross selling;

n Creating advocates for your business who generate fresh referral.

Take back control. Create a marketing plan in a day at a workshop run by experts from Square Media working with HR Solutions.

n There are a few spaces remaining for the next marketing workshop on October 26 at Kettering Park Hotel. Call 03303 801 651 to book yours.

Steve Rees, commercial director at full service marketing agency Square Media

Published on behalf of Square Media www.squaremedia.solutions

‘My back and body would not withstand this punishment’

THE POWER of Three

The Power of 3 runs through the core of OCM as we have three professional disciplines brought together allowing us to deliver such a powerful client focused proposition.

As an Independent Chartered Financial Planning Firm, a Discretionary Asset Manager and Tax planning specialist, we utilise the power of 3, to ensure we deliver a seamless and first class, cost and time efficient service to clients. This is because at OCM we truly believe Our Clients Matter.

ocmwealthmanagement.co.uk

The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate the activities of tax planning, estate planning or IHT planning. OCM Wealth Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (www.fsa.gov.uk/register/home.do). FCA Registration No: 418826. OCM Asset Management is a trading name of OCM Wealth Management.

Chamber hails its award winners

Meet the winners of this year’s Bedfordshire Chamber Business Awards. Presenting the awards at the Chamber’s Connect

Over Coffee networking event at the Courtyard by Marriott Luton Airport hotel, chief executive Justin Richardson said: “Thank you to everyone who entered. We appreciate all your efforts in the business world to keep Bedfordshire strong and showing the UK that we may be a small county but we are mighty.”

The winners are:

The Community Champion Greystone Solicitors, Community Business of the Year.

The Planet Saver Willow Tree Distilling, Green Business of the Year.

The Rapid Riser

Copybox Document Systems, Scale-up Business of the Year.

The Game Changer

Richard Edwards - Be Seen Screen, Entrepreneur of the Year.

The Workforce Developer WSA - The Communications Agency, Commitment to People Award.

The Equality Trailblazer The Bedford College Group, Diversity and Inclusion Award.

The Global Player

GB Kent & Sons plc, Export Business of the Year.

Entrepreneur of the Year Richard Edwards is the inventor of the BeSeen Screen, a reflective warning strip altering drivers to a brokendown vehicle. It is designed to improve visibility and provide extra seconds of awareness to help prevent serious accidents, he says.

The product has taken three years to perfect and has been extensively tested at the Millbrook Vehicle Proving Ground near Ampthill. The banner has the same reflectivity as emergency vehicles and is suitable for use on cars, vans, caravans, and HGVs.

Pub operator puts planet alongside profit

family member Ed Robinson has taken on the new role of sustainability manager at Wells & Co.

The pub trade is fighting its way out of its toughest period in living memory and much focus has rightfully been placed on the financial side of things, returning to trade and profitability after the pandemic.

Bedford family brewer and pub operator Wells & Co. recognise that there is more to doing good business than money, however. The company has emerged from the pandemic with a new way of operating that puts equal emphasis on their impact both on the natural environment and the communities around them.

The model of the Triple Bottom Line is gaining momentum across forward-thinking businesses, and appeals to the team at Wells & Co. The model, incorporating Planet, People and Profit, requires companies to focus as much on social and environmental issues as they do on financial targets.

“Understandably, a lot of our recent work has been geared around delivering financial targets and returning the business to a normal footing,” says Wells & Co chief executive Peter Wells. “Going forward, however, we need to ask ourselves more challenging questions about the impact we are

making on the environment and the communities around us, which also includes everyone in the business. To make a clear difference, we need to understand where we are now and then introduce the measurements and targets to improve.”

In pursuit of this goal, fifth-generation Wells

“It is still relatively early days in my new role but I am already learning at a rate of knots and am hugely excited to drive the Triple Bottom Line approach to doing business across the Wells & Co. estate,” he says. “Everything from waste management to supplier ethics to community support will come under the microscope. We need to ensure that we are acting as great neighbours, guardians for our environment and responsible operators, all while continuing to deliver experiences you would recommend to friends.

“This will mean challenging the ways we currently do business in many respects. No small objective but it is a hugely worthwhile goal and I am up for the challenge.”

The journey towards a sustainable Net Zero way of operating will be a long one but Wells & Co. has already scored some early People and Planet wins. Project in recent months have included the introduction of food waste reduction app Too Good To Go to their managed pub estate, the planting of 200 ‘Jubilee Trees’ at the Forest of Marston Vale at Marston Moretaine near Bedford and the introduction of a handful of beehives behind Wells & Co’s new brewery in Fairhill, Bedford.

The first batch of Beepoint honey is already on sale at the company’s Brewpoint headquarters.

Developer Hampton Brook has completed work on a new store at Gypsy Lane in Luton for supermarket chain and handed over the building for the final fit-out.

The new foodstore is due to open later this month. It is set to create 45 new permanent jobs, with more created during the construction process.

Hampton Brook director Ian Jackson paid tribute to the late Cllr Paul Castleman who passed away last summer. “His resolve to see this store built for the local residents was truly

admirable and I am sure he would have been proud of today’s milestone,” Mr Jackson said.

Hampton Brook has invested heavily in Luton, where its ambitious plans at London Luton Airport are providing major economic growth and job creation through the multi-million pound refurbishment of the former Monarch Airlines headquarters building.

This is delivering new high-quality Grade-A office space to attract new businesses to Luton, with further investment planned at the site, Mr Jackson said.

Bedfordshire

the area’s

Venue unveils its roadmap to net zero. P17

All change at college ahead of merger. P17

New model is shaping the future of the business: CEO

A beehive at Wells & Co’s headquarters in Bedford

Spotlight on Central Bedfordshire. P16

transport hub is key to town expansion

Work has begun on the new £2.3 million Biggleswade transport interchange that supports transformational growth in the town.

A traditional ‘breaking of the ground’ event marked the start of the scheme that will make it easier for commuters to use public transport. The project also supports future growth and new development in Biggleswade.

The new bus and rail interchange, on unused land owned by Network Rail next to Biggleswade Railway Station, will bring public transport connections together in one convenient place to promote sustainable travel. The scheme will include bus stops, a bus turning circle, and improved pedestrian access.

An attractive public space will also be created featuring plants, trees, and a rain garden alongside paved areas and seating. As part of the plans, the transport interchange will

become the new Biggleswade bus terminal. The town centre will continue to have bus stops at Hitchin Street.

It is one of the many major projects being delivered to keep Central Bedfordshire moving onwards and upwards and investing in the future. These include:

n A Govia Thameslink project to provide improved cycle parking and facilities at Biggleswade Railway Station.

n A Department for Transport-funded Access for All programme, delivered by Network Rail and providing an obstacle-free, accessible route to and between the railway station platforms.

The council’s main contractor is Galliford Try and construction is due to complete in spring 2023. The transport interchange is one of the Biggleswade projects funded by £70million of government money through the Housing Infrastructure Fund.

Infrastructure project powers jobs and growth

Work has begun on a new electricity substation that provides the infrastructure to power business growth, jobs and new homes in Biggleswade.

Central Bedfordshire Council coordinated a ‘breaking the ground’ event to mark work starting on the National Grid’s 400kV substation and UK Power Networks’ new grid substation.

These two compounds will see electrical power drawn from existing high voltage overhead power lines at the site north of Dunton Lane and transform that power into lower voltage to power homes and businesses.

The new substation will help to futureproof the area, the council says. It will access more power from the National Grid to maintain a reliable electricity supply, support future investment in Biggleswade and help the town move towards a low carbon economy.

The start of construction on site is the culmination of 18 months of design, surveys, studies and extensive consultation, said UK Power Networks project manager Geraint Hancock. “We have designed a scheme with National Grid that will make the electricity network for Biggleswade fit for the future.”

Construction work is due to complete in 2024.

n Find out more on the Biggleswade Masterplan at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/biggleswade

The new £25 million community and leisure centre in Houghton Regis has reached its next step. Planning approval has been given and construction is planned to start in the autumn.

The project benefits from a £20 million government Levelling Up Fund grant and will offer residents new, exciting and modern sports facilities and community amenities within the Kingsland Campus.

The new two-storey community and leisure hub, pictured, will include

n A 25 metre eight-lane main pool, which is more than double the size of the existing Houghton Regis Leisure Centre pool;

n A learner pool with a movable floor to raise or lower the depth for swimming lessons and classes;

n Separate shallow pool for very young children;

n A substantial fitness suite, with twice the number of fitness stations than at the existing centre;

n A dedicated spinning bikes studio;

n Multi-use exercise studios which provide dedicated spaces for a variety of

classes and other activities;

n Two squash courts;

n Creche.

To complement the sports facilities, the building has a spacious foyer and reception area, with a large café open for centre users and the public, community spaces, a creche and Changing Places facilities for disabled visitors.

Outside there will be a children’s

play area available for visitors and the community. A fitness trail is set among the landscaped areas which surround the centre.

A 238-space car park will include electric vehicle charging points, motorcycle parking, accessible parking bays and cycle parking. Improved walking and cycling routes will connect the building to other parts of the Kingsland Campus and the local community.

Cllr Tracey Stock, executive member for health and wellbeing and communities, said: “This is a key milestone for a major project. The new centre will complement the wider plans helping to transform the area and will provide residents with an asset they can use and enjoy.”

Construction is expected to start in autumn 2022 and the new centre will be open in 2024.

The existing Houghton Regis Leisure Centre will remain open until the new centre is complete to ensure residents have continuous access to leisure provision.

n Find out more at www. centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/kingsland

New scheme aims to boost staff numeracy levels

Central Bedfordshire Council in partnership with Bedford Borough Council is offering residents and employees in the area the opportunity to improve their ability to understand and use maths in their daily life, whether at work or at home.

The Multiply Programme is part of a three-year government initiative to improve adult numeracy skills. Targeted at those who are aged 19-plus without a Level 2 or equivalent maths qualification, the Multiply programme will aim to reduce the numeracy skills gap reported by employers and improve adult numeracy across the population generally.

Funding has been jointly awarded to Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire Councils and will be used to

fund delivery of courses to:

n Increase confidence with numbers for those needing the first steps towards formal numeracy qualifications;

n Help people use numeracy to manage their money to include budgeting, managing bills, and debt management;

n Develop innovative numeracy programmes together with employers to cover specific numeracy skills required in the workplace. To be developed in partnership with key employers.

A dedicated team has been brought together to deliver training either directly or through embedding of math’s modules into current employability courses and sector-specific programmes such as hospitality, logistics, health and social care.

n To learn more about how you can involve your staff in this programme, contact Bev Auburn, skills and partnership manager, Bedfordshire Employment & Skills Academy. email bev.auburn@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk

Council opens MOT test stations in Sandy and Houghton Regis

Central Bedfordshire Council has officially opened two MOT testing stations, offering a brand new service to residents and businesses.

Council officers were joined by elected councillors, who were given a tour of the MOT centre at Thorn Turn, Houghton Regis, following the official ribbon cutting ceremony.

Located at the council’s Thorn Turn and Sandy

depots, the testing stations will provide MOTs on Class 4, 5 and 7 vehicles, ranging from cars and mobile homes to mini-buses and goods vehicles, as well as hybrid and electric vehicles.

The team will also carry out annual compliance tests for Hackney carriage and private hire vehicles and use the modern stations to maintain and test the council’s own fleet of vehicles - a service that will save money.

n MOTs are available to book online at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/MOT

Be Central Bedfordshire

Economic Growth Partnership

Central Bedfordshire Council, through its Be Central Bedfordshire website and services, provides a wealth of support and information to help all businesses, either established or new to the area, to thrive and grow.

Roadmap guides venue towards net zero target

Five-year plan proposes self-sufficient green energy production by 2027

By 2027, a conference centre in Bedfordshire aims to be producing its own green energy using the natural resources available on its doorstep.

Wyboston Lakes has unveiled its four-year Green Energy Roadmap, the foundation for its plan to become self-sufficient in energy production and in turn to achieve its net zero carbon emissions target.

The plan outlines a year-by-year timetable up to the end of 2026 for the introduction of a energy generation solutions including solar, wind and water source heat pumps, some of which already have planning permission in place. There will also be projects to move to more energyefficient plant and equipment. The total investment in the development is estimated to be more than £5 million.

“For many years we have been searching for and investing in sustainability projects, to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions,” says managing director Steve Jones. “As a result, for instance, all electricity used on the

site is generated from renewable energy sources, saving more than 1,300 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.”

Energy efficiency has been improved and fuel costs reduced by a £110,000 investment in heat recovery units to upgrade ventilation at the resort. “These also dramatically improve the quality of air in the meetings spaces and many public areas,” says Mr Jones.

Wyboston Lakes already holds Platinum accreditation from Greengage Eco-Smart - which rates a venue’s eco-approach - a Gold Award from Green Tourism and the Gold Star from meetings body IACC. It aims to reach Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2040.

“The Green Energy Roadmap will further focus our commitment to driving forward the actions that will help us both to fight against the increasingly high cost of energy from producers, ultimately to be self-sufficient, while at the same time moving towards our Net Zero Carbon Emissions target,” says Mr Jones.

College unveils management changes ahead of merger

Management changes at the top level of The Bedford College Group are under way ahead of the proposed merger next year with Central Bedfordshire College.

Ian Pryce is to relinquish the role of principal but remains as chief executive. He has appointed two deputies: Em Lowe, who will deputise on education matters, and Pat Jones, to be his deputy on financial matters.

The post of principal has been separated between Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire. Karen Campbell is now principal of Bedford College, including its specialist agricultural and environmental arm Shuttleworth College. Robin Webber-Jones becomes principal of Tresham College across the three Northamptonshire campuses in Kettering, Corby and Wellingborough and The National College for Motorsport at Silverstone.

A third principal will be confirmed once the merger with Central

Bedfordshire College is completed. It is due to take place in February.

“We will become one of the largest college groups in the UK,” said Mr Pryce. “Central Bedfordshire College needs to improve on its latest Ofsted result. These managements changes will enable us to prepare to meet all those challenges and best serve our communities.”

The group has also appointed vice principals to each campus. They are:

Bedford College: Gail Cocozza; Dave Wilkins; Alex Mortby. Shuttleworth College: Dr Catherine Lloyd.

Tresham College: Dr Jo Baxter; Nick Haywood; Dr Mohammad Milani. Group-wide maths, English and Progression Pathways: Nina Sharp.

The Bedford Sixth Form and The Corby Sixth Form will come under Helen Smith as Group Head of Sixth Forms.

Debbie Houghton joins the group’s Executive Group of Directors with a brief on apprenticeships and business development.

Lights... camera.. action on film industry’s waste recycling

Waste management specialist Cawleys is playing its part in helping the UK film industry to meet its net zero targets.

The firm, headquartered in Luton, is working with consultancy Sustainable Film, which collects waste from film production companies for recycling.

Sustainable Film is working with film studios including Warner Bros. Studios in Hertfordshire, Pinewood, Bovingdon and the OMA studios in Enfield, Middlesex. It collects general and food waste, mixed recycling and compostable cutlery, cups, pates, boxes and packaging.

General waste is transported back to Cawleys’ Materials Recycling Facility in Luton for segregation.

Around 35 per cent of general waste becomes recyclable and food waste is sent to anaerobic digestion, generating bio-fertiliser and renewable energy. Compostable food packaging and post-consumer food scraps go for composting.

Sustainable Film’s co-founder Jimmy Keeping said: “Working with a company like Cawleys who share these values allows us to make a difference in the work we do.”

Dan Tebay, head of corporate sales at Cawleys, said: “Working with them to devise plans to divert as much volume as possible away from disposal and pushing it as high up the waste hierarchy as possible has proved fruitful. We are excited about this relationship developing further.”

Steve Jones

Karen Campbell

Robin Webber-Jones

The joy of flex

(flexible working, that is...)

What was your first job?

My very first job was working in the local pharmacy at the age of 15.

I worked every day after school, 5-7pm and every Saturday all day. I was paid weekly in cash and loved having my own money to spend on whatever I wanted.

Why did you choose your particular career?

I originally wanted to become a lawyer but at the start of A-Levels it became clear that maths and numbers were my strong suit. Accountancy then seemed to be a good career choice based on this skillset.

What’s the best job you’ve had and why?

My current role at Hillier Hopkins. It sounds cheesy but it’s true.

I’ve been with the firm for nearly four years and have been given the support and flexibility to create an outsourcing team. We essentially act as our clients’ own financial team, handling all or some of the accounting processes of the business from book-keeping to VAT returns.

I’m extremely proud of the outsourcing department I’ve helped to build.

…and the worst?

I temped as a receptionist after finishing university and before starting my training contract as an accountant. It was so quiet, I literally had nothing to do and was so bored most of the time.

What’s the best advice you’ve received in business?

To not compare yourself to others. Everyone is on their own career path so don’t worry if someone gets promoted before you or was partner

by the time they were 35. Concentrate on your own goals and set a realistic pace for progression.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Getting promoted to senior manager at Hillier Hopkins. Many places see working part-time as a restriction on career progression but Hillier Hopkins was able to see past this. …and the low point?

I left my previous role not on great terms. I was overworked, underpaid and was literally at breaking point, even during my last week there.

Who in business do you respect the most?

Anna Whitehouse, otherwise known as Mother Pukka, for her campaign on what she calls #FlexAppeal, helping employers to understand what flexible working is and helping more employees to request and get it.

What annoys you the most in business?

People who believe and behave like others are ‘below them’. Everyone at all levels, in all roles, deserve to be treated with respect.

I’ve had many clients who treat me differently to my team members just because I have manager in my title.

What’s the best thing/worst thing about where you work?

The best thing is the support I receive from my peers, whether it’s praise for when something goes well or understanding when something doesn’t quite go right.

What’s your career ambition?

My current goal is to become a director at Hillier Hopkins. I’ve always said I wouldn’t want to be a

partner but the closer I get, the more interested I become.

I know how much commitment becoming partner would take and as a mum of young children it’s hard to balance it all.

…and your life ambition?

To be happy and healthy.

What’s the best moment of your life?

Having my children, who are seven and nine. They are hard work but I wouldn’t change it for the world.

…and the worst?

Losing my dad at the start of 2020. He had been ill for a while but it was still a shock.

How do you relax?

I don’t get much time to relax with two young children so mainly watching some boxsets on TV. This month I’ve been enjoying Stranger Things and The Boys

What’s your guilty pleasure?

I love the Australian soap Home and Away. It’s set to record so I never miss an episode.

What’s your worst fault?

I’m a bit OCD and like things done in a certain way. In particular, the way a spreadsheet is formatted can really bother me if it’s not consistent.

What are you afraid of?

This is a bit morbid but my biggest fear is not seeing my children grow

up. I want to be around for all the big milestones and become a grandparent.

I’m also not a great fan of spiders. What annoys you most in life?

Bad drivers. I can suffer from road rage quite often. Living in Milton Keynes, you get used to roundabouts so when people can’t predict them and stop even when no one’s coming, it drives me mad...

Tell us something you regret.

Not practising my first dance prior to my wedding day. I felt so uncomfortable having everyone watch us slow dance when we had no idea what we were doing.

Tell us a secret about yourself.

I’m a bit claustrophobic and hate

MY FAVOURITE...

large crowds or being confined to small spaces. I once had a panic attack at New Year in London when the crowds for the fireworks became too much.

What are the first three things on your bucket list?

n Fly long haul first class.

n Buy a beach hut in our favourite UK holiday destination, Bournemouth.

n Cruise around the Hawaiian Islands.

What song/music would you like to be played at your funeral?

To Build a Home by The Cinematic Orchestra. It’s a song I hear a lot on the TV programme This Is US and love how emotional it is.

FOOD Mum’s home-made macaroni cheese.

MUSIC / SONG Kate Bush’s Running Up That Hill. I’ve always loved this song, even before its recent surge in popularity. I’m a fan of the Placebo cover too.

BOOK I read a lot of Paige Toon. They are great holidays reads. I get so caught up in them, I can read them over a couple of days.

FILM I love 1980s classics such as Dirty Dancing and Top Gun TV PROGRAMME This Is US makes my cry every episode. I’m so sad it has ended.

RESTAURANT There is a great Indian restaurant near us called Mowgli. The food is tasty and the staff are so friendly.

DESTINATION Hawaii. We visited here as part of our honeymoon and it was beautiful.

Where business people discuss their motivation, ambition, experience - and themselves. In the chair this time is Karen Featherstone, senior outsourcing manager at chartered accountants Hillier Hopkins

Why Karen has big respect for ‘Mother Pukka’ blogger Anna Whitehouse, whose #FlexAppeal campaign has highlighted the benefits for both employers and employees.

‘I’ve always said I wouldn’t want to be a partner but the closer I get, the more interested I become.’

The business networking events this month across Milton Keynes, North Bucks and Bedfordshire

All Business Buzz events run 10am-noon

BRACKLEY

1st Thursday: Paisley Pear, Northampton Road.

MILTON KEYNES

Networking lunch.

AYLESBURY

2nd Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: Online

MILTON KEYNES

2nd Thursday 12 noon-2pm: Online

BUCKINGHAM

3rd Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: Online

CAPPUCCINO CONNECTIONS

4th Thursday 10am-12 noon: Online

Contact: Anna Atkins-Carter, regional director North Bucks / West Chilterns. 07540 097776, email anna.atkinscarter@theathenanetwork.com or visit www.theathenanetwork.com

BEDFORD

2nd Wednesday 12 noon-2pm: Online

SOUTH & EAST BEDFORDSHIRE

4th Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: Online

WOBURN

3rd Thursday 12 noon-2pm: Online

Contact: Kate Cherry, regional director Bedfordshire & St Albans. 07909 675333 email kate.cherry@theathenanetwork.com or visit www.theathenanetwork.com

3rd Friday: Revolucion de Cuba, Savoy Crescent, 12th Street

BEDFORD

1st Wednesday: George & Dragon, Mill Street

BIGGLESWADE

2nd Wednesday: Yorkshire Grey, London Road

Price: £6, payable in advance on the Business Buzz Booking App https://app.business-buzz. org/app or at the event.

EAST MIDLANDS

1st Friday: Online. Price: £10

BEDFORDSHIRE

4th Tuesday: Online

Price: £10, payable in advance on the Business Buzz Booking App https://app.business-buzz. org/app or at the event.

October 5 7.30am-9am: Delta by Marriott Hotel, Kents Hill

Networking breakfast event hosted by the longest-established breakfast networking club in Milton Keynes. Speaker: Ian Revell, chief executive of Milton Keynes Community Foundation. Subject: The launch of a new large match funding opportunity in November. Book at www.citybreakfastclub.co.uk

BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS

October 19 10.30am-11.30am: Milton Keynes College

Sponsored by SkillsHub:MK. Informal networking with breakfast. Free eventChamber members and non-members welcome.

To book on to Chamber events, visit www.chambermk.co.uk/events

October 19 7.45am-9.15am: The Bedfordshire Golf Club, Stagsden

Sponsors: Mazars; Metro Bank; Woodfines Solicitors

Speakers tbc. Contact: Kerry Ransby email kransby@woodfines.co.uk or visit www.bedfordbreakfastclub.co.uk

Business networking and referral group. Price: £6.

MILTON KEYNES

2nd Thursday, 7.30am-9.30am: Abbey Hill Golf Centre, Two Mile Ash

VIRTUAL NETWORKING

Tuesday Brunch

2nd Tuesday, 9.30am-11am

Wednesday Breakfast 4th Wednesday, 7.30am

Thursday Breakfast

3rd Thursday, 7.30am

Friday Breakfast

2nd Friday, 7.30am

THE ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE

Monday 10am-11am: Online

A regular virtual meeting helping small businesses get tasks from ‘to do’ to ‘done’.

Advice and tips on time management and productivity.

Price: £6 per session or £12 per month.

October 19 12 noon-2.30pm: Maaya, The Hub, Central Milton Keynes

Sponsors: Document Logistix; EMW; Pinders

Networking in a relaxed environment with exceptional Indian cuisine. Price: £25. Find out more at www.thelondoncurryclub.com

Networking events provide a platform to meet and build relationships with peers and fellow members. The group also hosts personal development sessions, with talks from business leaders

EVENING NETWORKING

October 26 5.30pm-7.30pm: Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, Northampton

Hosted by the Next Generation committee. Free event for Next Generation Chamber members. To book, visit www.nextgenerationchamber. co.uk

MILTON KEYNES VIRTUAL NETWORKING

October 14 10am-11am: Online.

Hosted by Daxa Patel. Free event..

To book on to FSB events, visit www.fsb.org.uk

For more information, visit www.nextgenerationchamber.co.uk

CHILE: OPEN FOR BUSINESS

October 4 4pm-5pm: Online

An introduction to the South American country as a potental export market.

Presented with the British Chilean Chamber of Commerce. Hosted by Bedfordshire Chamber in conjunction with Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. Free event for Chamber members.

CONNECT OVER COFFEE

October 18 9.45am-11.30am: English Heritage, Wrest Park, Silsoe

Networking event + the opportunity to showcase your business with a one-minute pitch. Free event for Chamber members; nonmembers £15.

To book on to Chamber events, visit www.chamber-business.com/events

More information: www.buscomm.co.uk

Alt. Fridays 7am: Abbey Hill Golf Centre, Two Mile Ash

Networking breakfast with speaker. Price: £15. Contact: www.businessgrowthclub.co.uk or Mark Orr 07903 655169

BUSINESS LUNCH

October 7 11.45am-2pm: Marhabar by Olive Tree, Savoy Crescent, 12th Street, Central Milton Keynes Networking lunch co-hosted with Business Live Global. Price: £30 IoD members + guests; nonmembers £42. To book, contact Tania Toriello at tania.toriello@iod.com.

MILTON KEYNES - THE CITY VISION

October 18 12 noon-2pm: Milton Keynes Museum, McConnell Drive, Wolverton

Discussion on the MK Vision following the award of city status by the late Her Majesty the Queen and the business opportunities it creates.

12 noon-2pm, networking lunch. Bedford & Ampthill

1st Tuesday: The Swan Hotel, The Embankment, Bedford / Online

Leighton Buzzard

3rd Wednesday: The Dukes, Heath & Reach / Online Luton

2nd Monday: South Beds Golf Club, Warden Hills Road / Online

Sandy & Biggleswade

1st Wednesday: Stratton House Hotel, Biggleswade

Contact: Louise Yexley on 07989 020647, email louise.yexley@wibn.co.uk or visit www.wibn.co.uk

October 11, 25 7.45am: Online meetings.

More information: www.bucks-fizz.biz

If you are serious about growing your business, BNI works. Last year BNI members in the UK generated more than £482 million worth of business for each other. To find out how, visit a local chapter meeting and see for yourself. Each chapter has a personality of its own and finding where you fit best helps you get connected.

DIAMOND

Tuesday 6.45am: Abbey Hill Golf Centre, Two Mile Ash

APOLLO

Wednesday 10am: MK Gallery

PHOENIX

Friday 9.45am: The Bedford Golf Club

Speakers: Pete Marland, leader of Milton Keynes City Council, on the council’s vision for the future of business; Hilary Chipping, chief executive of the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership, on SEMLEP’s role in the provision of grant funding for business innovation and technical enterprise; Professor Lynette Ryals, chief executive of MK:U, on how the new university’s Degree Apprenticeship programmes aim to generate the technical and business skills to meet employers’ skills requirements.

Price: £25 IoD members + guests; non-members £35.

For more on IoD events, visit www.iod.com.

Milton Keynes

1st Tuesday: The Brasserie at Milton Keynes College, Sherwood Drive, Bletchley

Contact: Edith Samambwa on 07802 581838, email edith.samambwa@wibn.co.uk or visit www.wibn.co.uk

No fuss, no membership, pay as you go... The Business Buzz format is relaxed, informal, conversational B2B networking.

Town focused events meet face-to-face, allowing visitors to build better, more robust relationships. These are complemented by regional virtual events.

ENCORE

Friday 6.45am: Holiday Inn London Luton

More information: www.bni.co.uk Airport

PIONEER

Wednesday 9.30am: Online meetings More information: www.bni.co.uk

Clockwise (from above): Cllr Pete Marland, Hilary Chipping and Professor Lynette

Ryals have accepted invitations to speak at the IoD event

PARTY NIGHT October 28 12 7pm-11pm: Wavendon Community Centre

Music, food and fundraising for Milton Keynes Community Foundation. Tickets: £15 per head (over-18s only)

.

To book, visit www.womeninenterprise.co.uk

To

your networking group’s events included in future editions of

to

Revive the economy: New PM faces an unenviable challenge

The Conservative leadership battle culminated in Liz Truss being appointed as the UK’s Prime Minister. Now the new PM is now tasked with the unenviable undertaking of reviving the UK’s ailing economy. Facing soaring inflation and a looming economic recession, OCM Wealth Management’s deputy chief investment officer Gina Stone assesses the potential impact that the policies of Number 10’s newest resident will have on the UK economy.

Plans to tackle the UK’s ongoing cost of living crisis remained the focal point throughout the campaigning process, as the UK consumer faces the deepest living standards squeeze for 60 years. Liz Truss’s campaign centred around a significant fiscal policy support package thought to contain tax cuts, handouts to those on lower incomes and a freeze in utility costs.

In her first week as Prime Minister, Truss, pictured, announced a package worth £130 billion for households to supersede the Ofgem energy price cap raise in October, capping prices at £2,500 per household for the next two years - £1,000 below the expected increase and halving the forecasted £5,000 rise expected next year as natural gas prices continue to soar.

For businesses, a further £40 billion

has been pledged to cap prices. As a result, economists have been quick to revise down their expectations for peak UK inflation.

As a key driving force behind soaring headline inflation in the UK, the latest cap on energy prices has reduced peak inflation expectations to between ten and 11 per cent, down from the 14pc previously forecast.

A lower headline inflation figure

From an investment perspective, headwinds clearly remain for the UK economy in the near term, with quick action required to address the cost of living squeeze and targeted measures to revive economic growth while keeping a close eye on inflationary pressures. So far, we are encouraged by the early actions of the Truss government, contributing to a cautiously optimistic approach on the medium- to long-term outlook for UK equities. Overall, despite rising interest rates remaining a headwind for markets in the short term, it is our view that following a rerating of risks, UK assets are becoming more attractive, with opportunities arising as the medium- to long-term outlook improves.

is expected to support growth and reduce some of the pressures on consumers and businesses in the near term.

While the measures are unlikely to be enough to see the UK avoid a recession, they are expected to limit the depth of the recession, allowing the UK economy to recover at a faster pace than previously anticipated. Truss is yet to announce

more detailed plans to stimulate the economy through this challenging period and the devil will be in the detail. However, it is clear that measures must be carefully targeted to avoid stoking inflation.

With UK debt levels recently crossing 100pc of GDP following stimulus throughout the pandemic, concerns are being raised as to how the new PM’s plans will be funded.

Truss has ruled out a further windfall tax on energy company profits, stating that this would go against her government’s plans to spur investment in growth. Instead, the plans look to be funded by further borrowing, which, although is acceptable during a crisis, suggests that some fiscal discipline will be required in the longer term, tempering The UK’s growth expectations for 2023 and onwards.

Another key issue which must be considered if the UK is to revive its growth hopes in the future is the nation’s productivity issue, with ONS data observing UK productivity figures among the lowest of the G7 owing to years of low investment.

Liz Truss has campaigned to spur economic growth by a variety of tax cuts to promote investment in technology and business. As the nearterm focus remains on the immediate cost of living crisis, there has been little development on Truss’s proposed tax cuts at this stage.

However, as it is currently understood, the Prime Minister may look to reverse the National Insurance hike that took effect this year, as well as next year’s planned Corporation Tax hike in a bid to stimulate investment. It has also been reported that the PM may be looking into research and development tax incentives to encourage growth in the years ahead.

www.ocmwealthmanagement.co.uk

Gina Stone

Foundation launches cost of living crisis appeal

An emergency fundraising appeal is under way in Milton Keynes in response to the alarming rise in the cost of living.

Energy prices are set to soar this winter and many residence face the prospect of having to choose between heating and eating, says the city’s grant-making charity Milton Keynes Community Foundation.

It runs an annual Surviving Winter appeal but has also launched the Cost-of-Living Crisis Appeal to help

Doctors vote for their charity of the year

Aresidential community of more than 65 adults with learning disabilities and autism has been selected by the Milton Keynes network of medical professionals as its Charity of the Year.

MK Medics is a network of GPs and hospital consultants that aims to improve healthcare in Milton Keynes and support charities.

Camphill MK, based at Willen Park, has received the first donation of £1,100 raised at a family summer social event. MK Medics is already planning a second fundraising event for later this year.

“We are keen to see and support examples of care in the community for the city’s most vulnerable residents,” says Dr Sharon Roque, GP at Newport Pagnell Medical Centre. “Camphill is an incredible charity supporting individuals and we hope we can play a role in helping them raise the much-needed funds for their expansion.”

Camphill MK chief executive Tim Davies says the funds will go towards plans to build an additional 60 accessible bedrooms for individuals with mobility support needs. “The continuous support from MK Medics is helping to make our mission to expand the community possible,” he adds.

Business

those strugggling with energy price increases, food poverty and other associated cost of living challenges.

“With the rise in costs, this really is the time for people who can to give what they can and support some of the most vulnerable families in Milton Keynes and make a real difference for our city,” says the community foundation’s chief executive Ian Revell pictured Demand on community groups supporting vulnerable families has increased dramatically in recent

months. MK Food Bank is already operating at levels typically seen in January with operations manager Louisa Hobbs reporting 84 phone calls, 300 emergency parcels and 26

new families in less than one week alone.

“... And it is only Wednesday,” she adds.

Donations to the appeal will go into the Cost-of-Living Fund, which will enable community groups to continue their work across the city helping those affected most by the crisis.

The foundation is asking for support by:

n Donating your winter fuel payment;

n Making a one-off donation; n Donating your £400 energy bills discount. This can be done via direct debit in six instalments of £66 throughout the winter period.

“With your kindness, we can help some of the most vulnerable people in our community to stay warm, safe, and well this winter,” says Mr Revell.

n Find out more and show your support at https:// mkcommunityfoundation.enthuse.com/ cf/mk-cost-of-living-crisis-appeal

Peak practice makes perfect as colleagues scale the heights

Colleagues at Milton Keynes-based architects GSSArchitecture have taken part in the Lakes 24 Challenge in the Lake District to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Staff from all five GSSArchitecture offices took on one of the most demanding mountain walking challenges in the country, targeted to scale 24 of the highest peaks within a target hiking time of 24 hours.

The team walked 29.5 miles with 11,660 ft of ascent in the 24 hours.

GSSArchitecture partner

Jonathan Hunter, team captain for the challenge, said: “We love to push ourselves in everything we do, whether that be projects or staff challenges.

“It is important that members from our five offices have the opportunity to get together throughout the year and if we can raise money for charity while

we do it, then even better. This was not an easy challenge but I am proud of our team members

who took part and the amount of money we have raised for such a great cause.”

So far, GSS has raised £2,800 for the practice’s chosen charity from the challenge, with the figure set to rise again after offices in Milton Keynes, Kettering, Gloucester, Harrogate and Newcastle hosted a Macmillan Coffee Morning last month.

It was an honour for the practice to be commissioned to design and deliver the new Macmillan Cancer Support Centre at Kettering General Hospital which completed earlier this year, said Mr Hunter.

The new centre, the first of its kind in Northamptonshire, provides support, resources and therapeutic services to people who are living with, or are affected by, cancer.

best in the city in MPs’ competition

Woodside Café at Linford Wood has been voted as MK’s Best Café in a competition run by the city’s two MPs.

More than 8,500 votes were cast by the public in the competition, set up by MPs Ben Everitt and Iain Stewart to promote local cafés which have been badly hit by lockdowns and the global cost of living crisis.

Eco-friendly Woodside Café opened last summer at Milton Keynes Business Centre in Foxhunter Drive and topped the public vote. Bean In Stony, based in

“I have visited so many fantastic cafes during my time as MP so far so I am glad I did not have to do any judging. It was brilliant to see we had more than 8,500 public votes to decide the winner.”

Mr Stewart, who represents Milton Keynes South, adds: “We are fortunate to have so many amazing cafés across Milton Keynes and I look forward to working with ministerial colleagues to see how

this government can continue to help them do well.”

Costing £220,000, the pavilion was built by owners Capital Space Ltd to ensure that the Milton Keynes Business Centre meets the needs of small and medium-sized businesses. It was commissioned in response to a survey of customers, who asked for more communal space in the centre’s grounds.

Centre manager Matt Roberts says: “Our focus is always to provide the very best environment for our customers’ businesses to thrive.”

Stony Stratford, finished runner-up with The Game Changer Kitchen in Giffard Park third.

Mr Everitt, MP for Milton Keynes North, says the competition had created “such positive engagement”.

Woodside Cafe, voted the winner in the competition run by Milton Keynes MPs Ben Everitt (far left) and Iain Stewart