Business Times Northamptonshire April 23

Distillery aims to go global after £1.5m investment win

Gin distillery Warner’s is gearing up for international expansion after securing a £1.5 million investment.

The money has come from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund and will also support the distillery’s marketing objectives, tourism capacity and production. The company plans to double its bottling capacity and triple sales to more than £25 million within five years.

Warner’s, which has been at the head of the market since the gin renaissance of the mid-2010s, was the first distillery to launch a range of natural non-alcoholic spirits which has become one of the fastestgrowing areas of the business.

The £1.5 million has been provided by The FSE Group Debt Finance Fund and is backed by the Recovery Loan Scheme. “We have developed a strong brand around quality and provenance and have secured the funding and resources required to meet growing demand,” said

Gin maker plans to double bottle production as growth gathers pace

Warner’s co-founder and co-chief executive Tina Warner-Keogh, inset “The MEIF expansion capital means we can continue delivering growth and build on the platform created to date.”

The award-winning distillery is based on a family farm at Harrington near Rothwell. Warner’s is a certified B Corp - a sustainable operation that puts nature at the heart of the business - and commits a portion of its revenues to deliver green action.

It has established the Warner’s Nature Marque initiative, which encourages biodiversity in pub gardens across the UK, and its

Trash & Treasure botanical series is produced using ‘unwanted’ ingredients and food wastes such as dandelion roots, over-ripe bananas and discarded citrus peels.

Ann Marie McFadyen, investment manager at The FSE Group, said: “Warner’s has proven high demand for its award-winning products, which has in the past been met with temporary recruitment and short-term solutions. Its experienced and capable management team is now looking to establish an operation and employee base that is fit for future growth as they scale the business, and we are delighted to be supporting them to achieve this.”

The global gin market is estimated to be worth £9.3billion, with the UK accounting for £2.2billion. The latest data suggests that 72 per cent of consumers think about sustainability credentials when choosing food and drink, with 40pc willing to pay more for items that are sustainably sourced.

Warner’s has aligned its approach to the changes in consumer behaviour. It said its focus on sustainability and natural ingredients differentiates them from competitors and places them in a strong position to exploit a still-growing market.

Success of Warner’s’ international growth plans would be “a major win for the UK drinks industry”, said Hilary Chipping, chief executive of the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership – responsible for delivery of the government’s growth agenda locally.

“The food and drink sector in the South East Midlands region alone To page 5 >>.

Editor Andrew Gibbs news@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Publisher Kerry Lewis-Stevenson kerry@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Sales Director Martin Lewis-Stevenson martin@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Advertising Sales Jenny Homeshaw jenny@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Advertising Sales Jan Lewis jan@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Advertising Sales Sharon Maplethorpe sharon@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Feature Editors: Annie Roberts Sammy Jones

Graphic Design: Simon Goodger

Marketing &

Photography: Steve Brill

Get out of the office and into competitive games… that’s the message to businesses across Northamptonshire.

It comes from health and wellbeing charity Northamptonshire Sport and Northampton-based law firm HCR Hewitsons, who are organising a business event with a twist this summer.

The HCR Hewitsons Business Games 2023 take place on June 22, when 20 teams will compete in an evening of action-packed sports, including volleyball, archery, bowls and hobby horse show jumping.

They are part of a programme of initiatives aimed at promoting improvements in health and wellbeing in a fun way for colleagues in business across the county and beyond.

The HCR Hewitsons games are modelled on Northamptonshire Sport’s successful annual Business Games event and are being

staged in association with the University of Northampton at its Waterside Campus sports facilities in the proposed new Active Quarter of Northampton.

Dominic Hopkins, who coleads the new HCR Hewitsons Central England office next to the Waterside Campus with fellow partner Charlotte Thornton-Smith, said: “We have a passion for people and the HCR Hewitsons Business Games echoes that sentiment. Bringing together our people and local business representatives to have some friendly sporty competition is a great way for us to unwind and socialise and, of

course, enjoy the on-campus facilities.”

Northamptonshire Sport is leading on the Active Quarter with partners including the university, Brackmills Business Improvement District, West Northamptonshire Council, Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust, West Northants Public Health and British Cycling.

Northamptonshire Sport believes that partnership with the local business community is key to creating a thriving and sustainable space. The Business Games partnership with HCR Hewitsons is a great example of this, said Gabrielle Deere, the organisation’s strategic director - business

development and commercial.

“As we know playing together is the best way to get to know people, engage employees or reconnect which plays a vital part of people’s wellbeing,” Ms Deere added.

“The games ensure that everyone can take part - you do not have to be sporty and there is no competitive advantage. Believe me, very few are experts in hobby horse show jumping…”

n To find out more and register for Northamptonshire Sport Business Games or for more on the Active Quarter, email Ms Deere at gabrielle.deere@ northamptonshiresport.org

Let the Games begin... Employers back university’s action call on sustainability

Accord heads improvement plan to be unveiled at conference

Businesses from the logistics, food and drink and footwear industries are to join policy makers, academics and local government officials at a conference to discuss the sustainability challenges facing Northamptonshire.

The Sustainability Summit being hosted by the University of Northampton aims to identify and highlight shared sustainability challenges and devise a long-term plan of action to address these.

The summit on May 15-16 will also unveil the Northampton Sustainability Accord, a commitment led by the University of Northampton to work with each of the organisations attending the event to practically target those challenges through research, enterprise and knowledge exchange.

Amin Hosseinian Far, Professor of Systems Thinking at the university, said:

“The Northampton Sustainability Accord will not simply be a piece of paper which sits in a cupboard and collects dust throughout the next year. It will be a practical roadmap for local businesses, industries and stakeholders to identify their responsibilities in contributing towards improving sustainability within Northamptonshire and beyond.”

Progress will be assessed and discussed at the next summit in 2024, he added.

More than 40 expert speakers have already registered their attendance at this year’s summit, including from Weetabix, SATRA, Sustainable Leather Foundation, IEMA, British Footwear Association, Cranfield University, Fresh Produce Consortium, Beanstalk Global and both West and North Northamptonshire Councils.

Full details, including how to book,

are at www.northampton.ac.uk/events/ uon-sustainability-summit-2023/ Dr Ebenezer Laryea, Associate Professor in International Sustainable Development Law and chair of the summit’s planning committee, said: “Northampton’s town centre is currently going through a considerable period of renovation, which means it is the perfect time to identify our shared sustainability challenges and begin working on the solutions we could develop together to address these.

“It is encouraging to already see so many commercial partners and local industry professionals planning to attend the Sustainability Summit and be part of the solution. For the sake of our future generations, we must work collaboratively today to ensure their tomorrow.”

Link-up backs vehicle industry resurgence

The UK’s return as a centre of excellence for the development and manufacture of motorcycles continues with a new partnership between MAHLE Powertrain and automotive engineering consultancy Vepro.

The two have agreed a technical partnership that aims to accelerate solutions to the challenges faced by original equipment manufacturers worldwide to shape mobility for a sustainable future.

MAHLE Powertrain’s facility in Northampton houses the world’s first motorcycle dynamometer that offers climatic and altitude testing. “Worldfamous and storied brands are increasingly choosing to base their development efforts in the UK and together that makes us well placed to offer the complex range of services that motorcycle and light vehicle producers need,” said John Hollingworth, MAHLE Powertrain’s sales and marketing director.

Police ready to live the electric dream

New motorcycle will help to restore community policing levels, said Chief Constable

It is a three-wheeled motorcycle adapted for use by the emergency services. Now two Northamptonshire companies are working together to develop a fully electricpowered version.

MAHLE Powertrain is working with White Motorcycle Concepts to develop a fully electric threewheeled motorcycle geared to the requirements of police, emergency first responders and last-mile delivery fleets.

The project, led by the motorcycle’s creator White Motorcycle Concepts, is using the expertise and facilities of engineering services specialist MAHLE Powertrain in Northampton to adapt the design of the Yamaha Tricity 300.

Its combustion engine is being replaced with a fully electric powertrain with fastcharging capability and an operating range of 100 miles.

The project is key to compliance by the emergency services with forthcoming legislation and to achieve net-zero ambitions without sacrificing service levels. Existing electric motorcycles, which are geared to the retail market, are slow to charge, expensive and therefore not cost-effective.

calibration and integration of electrified powertrains, will use its simulation expertise in Northampton to determine the optimal powertrain specification required.

an alternative, practical and very visible way for our

neighbourhood police officers to get out and about in their communities. We need to continue to ensure we are prepared for the future with a sustainable fleet that not only meets the green agenda but also enables us to deliver the policing service our communities need and want.

“Our close involvement in these developments ensures the operational vehicle meets our specific requirements and I look forward to seeing the

output from this study.”

The electric three-wheeled motorcycle will also make police more visible - rapidly becoming a key requirement in community policing - and the completed design can be easily adapted to other services such as paramedic first responders and even lastmile delivery duties.

The bike can be ridden on a standard car licence, removing the need for specialist training.

Testing by the Metropolitan Police in London has confirmed the motorcycle’s suitability for high-speed work where aerodynamic stability is critical, even when equipped with heavily-laden panniers.

The project, whose feasibility stage was due to finish at the end of last month, has been funded by the Niche Vehicle Network, supported by the Department of Transport and Innovate UK. A follow-up project to develop the prototype units is planned, ultimately leading to small series production.

Vepro’s experience with full vehicle development is complemented by MAHLE Powertrain’s expertise with vehicle powertrains, both for traditional internal combustion engines and eMobility, said Vepro founder Neil Wright, who set up the Leicestershirebased company after more than ten years working for brands including Triumph Motorcycles.

“This year is shaping up to be an excellent year for the British powered twowheeler and light vehicle industry,” he said. “That is thanks to the rise of small, enterprising brands and start-ups but also the return of famous marques such as Royal Enfield, Norton and BSA as they develop their R&D centres, often in the same area where it all began more than 100 years ago.

The project has been building on Brixworth-based WMC’s success with the WMC300FR hybrid three-wheeled motorcycle, developed with Northamptonshire Police and on trial with emergency services across the country.

Both it and the forthcoming fully electric version make use of the company’s patented V-Duct, a duct that passes through the centre of the motorcycle and which significantly reduces drag, improving performance and efficiency.

MAHLE Powertrain, which provides engineering and consultancy services for the design, testing, development,

By analysing real-world data in a modelled virtual environment, MAHLE Powertrain will investigate components such as traction motors and charger systems to determine the best possible configuration.

This work will also assess a variety of battery options - from traditional slowcharging and low-cost options through to novel ultra-fast technologies - and analyse how best to package them within the motorcycle.

Northamptonshire Police Chief Constable Nick Adderley, who is also the UK Police lead for motorcycles, said: “The hybrid threewheeled bikes we now have in our fleet are providing

“We are delighted to be joining forces with MAHLE Powertrain to ensure the support these manufacturers need is always on their doorstep as well as offering support to OEMs further afield.” NIck Adderley

Commercial director hails estate as a ‘jewel in the crown’ for high-tech sector

Developer and asset manager MEPC has appointed Chris Kimber-Nickelson as the new commercial director at Silverstone Park. He is promoted from development

director and takes up his role immediately.

Senior investment manager Rachel Morris, from the park’s joint owner Federated Hermes, will oversee the investment management.

Asset manager Ruth Williams and marketing and executive assistant Rebecca Harrhy complete the team.

MEPC has invested in Silverstone Park as asset manager and developer for

IT’S NOT JUST A JOB.

Jennie Jahina is a specialist employment lawyer, helping all sizes and types of private sector business, and public sector organisations. Jennie deals with strategic projects (restructuring, compliance, business relocations and outsourcing/insourcing exercises), day-to-day operational and people management matters, and employment tribunal representation.

If you need help with employment issues, call Jennie on 0800 088 6004.

Sales manager earns group promotion

the past decade, during which time the number of businesses based on the estate has grown from around 50 to more than 90. Many are in advanced engineering, manufacturing, electronics and software

development. “I believe the estate is a real jewel in the crown for the UK’s hightech industry in terms of innovation, business growth, productivity, skills and jobs,” said Mr Kimber-Nickelson.

Play, sing, dance, dream: New artistic head’s vision for theatre

Royal & Derngate, Northampton, has appointed Jesse Jones as its new artistic director. The theatre has also appointed Holly Gladwell to the new role of deputy chief executive (producing and programming). She joins Mr Jones and chief executive Jo Gordon as part of the leadership team.

Mr Jones has been associate artistic director at Paines Plough and first worked with Royal & Derngate in 2015. He previously directed Mog the Forgetful Cat, a co-production between Royal & Derngate, the Old Vic and Wardrobe Ensemble, which is currently out on tour and the world premiere musical adaptation of Pippi Longstocking, for Royal & Derngate and Wizard Presents.

Simon Antrobus, chair of Royal & Derngate’s trustees said: “We met some inspiring individuals in an extremely competitive recruitment process but were especially struck by Jesse’s commitment to making theatre accessible for all. His

desire to both entertain and empower Northamptonshire’s communities, to develop and support artists and to work to improve chances for all children and young people shone through. All these attributes, along with Holly’s extensive experience, will help us to deliver on our existing plans and develop exciting new ones.”

Ms Gordon added: “Jesse is a brilliant theatremaker. We are all so excited to see the energy and innovation that he will bring to Northampton at such an important moment for regional theatre.”

Mr Jones replaces James Dacre, who is leaving at the end of this month. “I am excited to help throw the doors of this special place open ever wider, working alongside artists from right across the UK and further afield and inviting people from all over Northamptonshire and beyond to come together to play, sing, dance, dream,” he said “I am looking forward to finding our voice together.”

Pictured below is Billy Richardson, equestrian sales manager at Scotts of Thrapston, ahead of his move to sister company Scotts Timber Engineering as group head of sales. He will now lead the sales operation of both companies as well as business development.

The move is the result of significant investment by the parent company in the sales activity, winning new contracts with major housebuilders and specialist developers. “Now it is my job to build upon that success, using the proven tactics I demonstrated in equestrian sales, and further increase our market share,” said Mr Richardson.

Product development and winning further new contracts is key, he added. Scotts is also helping clients and itself to move towards net zero. “We are constantly developing new products that push new boundaries and enable us to continue to achieve record-breaking growth,” Mr Richardson said.

He worked in the building materials and glazing industries before joining Scotts. “This promotion means our sales operations across both companies are in very capable hands,” said Scotts managing director James Scott.

Finances are

for SMEs, economic healthcheck survey finds

Recession, rising costs and retention of staff are the three key challenges identified by SMEs for 2023, according to a new survey from an award-winning HR consultancy.

The third annual SME Survey from Kettering-based HR Solutions has revealed that ‘finances are arguably a higher priority than ever before’ with more than half of the companies questioned predicting rising costs will be an issue in the year ahead.

Seventy per cent say that available finance will have the biggest impact on decisionmaking, closely followed by

profitability and inflation.

A total 46pc of participants admit managing and controlling costs is a major challenge for 2023. To manage costs, 38pc say that maintaining a sufficient cash flow will be vital.

The fieldwork took place at the end of 2022 among companies in all sectors with fewer than 250 employees.

HR Solutions chief executive Greg Guilford said: “The UK now finds itself on the verge of a recession which is highly likely to have impacted the survey data for 2023 and swayed the statistics heavily towards a financial focus.”

Recruitment and employee retention are also key priorities. The importance of mental health at work has increased by 6pc since the 2022 survey. “Business owners must continue to see this as a high priority,” said Mr Guilford.

HR Solutions has created a dedicated hub of resources, templates and guides as well as a ten-point plan to help companies manage effectively in a recession.

“Forward planning and innovative thinking will be crucial for SMEs to succeed,” Mr Guilford said.

“I pride myself on providing practical and clear advice, striving for outcomes that save businesses time, money, stress and reputation… It’s what I do.”

Jennie Jahina Head of Employment

top priority

Pictured (from left), Chris Kimber-Mickelson; Rachel Morris; Ruth Williams and Rebecca Harrhy

Jesse Jones and Holly Gladwell are pictured with theatre chief executive Jo Gordon (centre).

Photo: Kelly Cooper

Steel maker buys new furnaces to cut emissions

Investment totalling £5 million in state-of-the-art electric induction furnaces is set to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from one of Tata Steel’s tube mills in Corby by a minimum 2,000 tonnes a year.

The new furnaces will replace the ones which have been in operation since 1980. Installation is due to take place over two weeks in October.

The move is a major step in Tata Steel’s plans for the Corby site carbon dioxide neutral, in turn a stage towards the company’s

declared environmental ambition to be net zero around the world by 2045.

Works manager Gary Blackman said: “This is the first part of our extensive plans to make the Corby site CO2 neutral in line with Tata Steel’s declared environmental ambitions.”

The furnaces work on the Stretch Reduction mill, which takes 169mm diameter steel tubes and heats them to around 1,100°C before they are stretched into hollow sections as

£5m investment to boost net zero bid

small as 40mm diameter with wall thicknesses as thin as 3.2mm.

The line produces Tata Steel’s premium branded product Celsius in rectangular, square and round sections and used in mechanical applications such as tow bars, tower cranes and ski lifts.

Corby works engineer Paul Ilko,

who is the project lead, said: “The improved efficiency of the new electric furnaces means we will need less pre-heating from the gasfired furnaces and therefore fewer associated emissions. At the same time, as part of our sustainability commitment, we aim to move our electricity supply towards lowcarbon, renewable sources in due course.”

The new furnaces will be installed by Hampshire-based Inductotherm heating and Welding. Sales manager

Adrian Cullum said: “The induction process is renowned for the precision and repeatability in metal processing. We will be replacing the existing Radyne units with 12 upgraded Inductotherm induction heating coil assemblies along with associated electrical infrastructure, cooling systems and process control gear.

“The upgraded units will offer Tata Steel a more technically advanced and energy-efficient equivalent replacement.”

Private equity firm completes acquisition of interiors business

Private equity investor Nene Capital has completed its first acquisition of 2023.

firm Howes Percival’s Northampton office.

>> From page 1 exported around £313 million in 2021 and it has the potential for significant growth,” she added. “With a diverse range of food and drink businesses, this region is home to innovators in the sector supported by an expansive sector ecosystem in which Warner’s is a leading business and brand.

We are delighted to see investment in Warner’s and hope to see much future success.”

The company’s natural spirits are crafted using water from a spring with home-grown botanicals. The largest independent craft gin distillery in the UK, Warner’s 200-year-old site also acts as a visitor attraction with ten acres of botanical gardens, distillery buildings, tastings, and tours.

MEIF is a collaboration between the British Business Bank and ten

LEPs in the West, East and South East Midlands.

Mark Wilcockson, the bank’s senior investment manager, said: “MEIF continues to support SMEs that prioritise sustainability and eco-friendly approaches to business and Warner’s Distillery fits this description perfectly as a B Corp. The MEIF supports sustainable growth for the region and this investment will support the company’s international expansion from its Midlands base.”

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2022 and the European Investment Bank. The FSE Group manages a section of MEIF that provides investments between £100,000 and £1.5 million to support growing SMEs across the region.

Developer secures funding for major warehouse construction project

Funding has been secured for construction of a new industrial/warehouse building on a two-acre development site in Corby.

Developer Brackley Property Developments has entered into a full forward funding agreement with property investment firm Leftfield for the speculative development of the new unit at Cockerell Road.

North Northamptonshire Council gave the plan the green light late last year. Work is now under way on the development of a 43,000 sq ft unit. Completion is planned for Q3 this year.

“This is an exciting mid-

box development opportunity in a prominent, well located site,” said BPD’s managing director Stephen PendrickMoyle. “The new unit will offer occupiers the chance to secure high-quality industrial/ warehouse accommodation and within close proximity of a large local labour supply.”

Nico Fourie, chief executive of Leftfield Advisors, said: “Leftfield Fund III continues to accumulate strategic assets in key locations. Our conviction to the sector requires quality buildings, which attract strong covenants. We are delighted to work closely again with BPD on this new project.”

n A private investor has

acquired the freehold of a shop in Towcester that is currently let to national pharmacy chain Lloyds Pharmacy. The unit in Watling Street has exchanged hands in a deal brokered by commercial property consultancy Kirkby Diamond for an undisclosed sum.

Mark Hannam, partner and head of services at Kirkby Diamond said: “We were instructed by a longstanding client, a private investor, to identify and acquire a prime town centre retail investment. We are now undertaking the property management to ensure the asset value is maintained while looking at ways to add value.”

The Corby-based business now owns Woodland Corporate Interiors, a specialist contractor working with institutional landlords across London and the Home Counties. The existing WCI management team will remain in place as part of a structured handover. Nene Capital’s plan is to continue to support and grow the business.

Nene Capital was advised by lawyers at regional

Corporate and commercial senior associate Miles Barnes said: “Having worked with the Nene Capital team on this portfolio since its inception, it has been great to see the growth they have achieved.” He and his team advised on all aspects of the transaction, including due diligence, the negotiation of the key transaction documents and advice on financing, employment and real estate issues.

Warner’s Distillery at Harrington. the company is planning to double production and increase revenue threefold by 2028

‘It has the potential for significant growth’

Leaders grill Minister at business Q&A

More than 100 organisations from across Northamptonshire heard business minister Kevin Hollinrake address the issues of cashflow, business support, the challenges facing the high street and the county’s food and drink sector at a business brunch and Q&A.

Mr Hollinrake, the Minister for Small Businesses, was the keynote speaker at the event, organised by networking group NNBN and staged at Kettering Park Hotel.

The Minister stressed what he called ‘the need for stability - economic, political and regulatory’. He went on to say that small businesses need a stable background in

order to do well and stressed the need for the government to simplify regulations and let businesses succeed.

Mr Hollinrake spent an extra hour at the end of the event chatting to businesses and answering more questions. He said: “I really enjoyed my visit to Kettering where I met businesses from across Northamptonshire. I was challenged on many areas of the government’s business and economic policy.

“Coming from a small business background myself, I appreciate how much hard work goes into making a small business successful and I am determined to do my bit as business minister to help small businesses succeed in

the months and years ahead.”

He had been appointed the Parliamentary UnderSecretary of State for Enterprise, Markets and Small Business in October.

Kettering MP Philip Hollobone, who helped organise the visit, said: “Many congratulations to NNBN on organising this business brunch. There was a real buzz in the room and the Minister, who comes from a 30-year business background himself, really connected with the audience, knowing from bitter experience the ups and downs

of working in small business.

“He listened, he was impressed by the optimism in the room and he shared his ambitions for how the government might help small businesses succeed in the years ahead.”

NNBN director Simon Cox said: “This was a huge coup for Northamptonshire, with our local businesses meeting the Minister, asking questions, raising concerns, and hearing about plans for the UK business economy and how this might directly affect individual businesses.”

Door firm renews cricket sponsor deal

Industrial door repair specialist Stanair has extended its partnership with Northamptonshire County Cricket Club for the new season.

Stanair, which has locations across the county, has been supporting Northamptonshire cricket for a number of years.

NNBN launched just over a year ago to support businesses, charities and organisations in North Northamptonshire. It is expanding into West Northamptonshire and held a launch event at Delapré Abbey last month.

Cllr Daniel Lister, West Northamptonshire Council’s cabinet member for economic development, town centre regeneration and growth, said: “We welcome the support that NNBN will be providing in addition to the ample networks and support operating in our area.”

Advertiser’s Message

Director Wayne Thompson said: “Stanair is delighted to renew its partnership with Northamptonshire County Cricket Club for the new season. This is an exciting time for both Stanair and the club and we know both our customers and the club’s supporters will continue to back the team and its future success in 2023 and 2024.”

The Stanair logo will be prominent around the ground. Club mascot Steeler will continue to wear the Stanair logo on the front of his kit. NCCC’s head of commercial Daniel Vernon said: “We are really pleased to carry on our long-term partnership with Stanair. They are another great Northamptonshire business and it is great to continue to have them as a part of the 1878 Business Club.”

A great service deal for business fleets

Kettering Motorist Centre is a family-owned garage founded in 2002 by the Hartley family. The business was taken over six years ago by sons Richard and Tim.

Together they have been modernising the business and increasing their services from tyres, brakes, MOTs, servicing and airconditioning to include electric vehicles and advanced diagnostics for most brands.

As a family-owned, local business, Kettering Motorist Centre has built a reputation for having the highest standards of work and customer care.

It has thousands of customers who return

every year to have their cars and vans serviced and MOT-ed, many of whom are reminded through a FREE members App.

Kettering Motorist Centre is now offering servicing on account for local businesses with three or more small vehicles.

“Anyone running a business will have a reliance on vehicles to keep people, products and services moving,” said Richard Hartley. “Whether you have appointments to meet, products to deliver or simply need transport to get things done, if you have vehicles, Kettering

Richard Hartley

Please scan the QR code to watch our new welcome video and give us a call to to find out more about our services.

Once your account is approved and set up, you will receive reminders through our Members App for all servicing and MOT due dates. Your vehicles can be booked in, serviced and picked up without payment on the day - all work will be on account.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Keynote speaker pledges to help small businesses to succeed

Kevin Hollinrake, the Minister for Small Businesses, is pictured (front, centre) with senior business figures in Northamptonshire at the NNBN Q&A event in Kettering

Apprenticeships are the future

Building firm pledges to create 10,000

Construction materials giant Travis Perkins has unveiled plans to train 10,000 apprentices by 2030.

Calling all F1 fans... Put yourself in pole position

Sports memorabilia specialist Memento Exclusives has partnered with Oracle Red Bull Racing to build and sell its official show car simulators. The simulators honour the team’s 2022 Championship-winning F1 car, the RB18. Construction of the simulators has already begun at Memento Exclusives’ headquarters in Bugbrooke, with the first delivery expected early this month.

Founder and chief Barry Gough said: “To be trusted to build and sell Oracle Red Bull Racing branded simulators underlines our team’s credentials and the trust that the team has in us. This marks our first partnership with the team and what a brilliant way to do so.”

The simulators are available in two special editions: The Champions Edition, priced at £99,999, and The Race Edition at

£74,999. They are available to buy from the official F1 memorabilia e-platform F1 Authentics. Oracle Red Bull racing team principal Christian Horner said: “We are delighted to have co-created a unique sim racing experience that puts drivers in the cockpit of the Championshipwinning RB18. Driving a Formula One car is something most of us can only dream of but this simulator is as close as it gets to the real thing.”

The Northampton-based firm made the announcement at its first apprenticeship graduation ceremony at which 382 apprentices received awards.

The company aims to create the Next Generation Workforce by encouraging individuals to join the construction industry through its entry level programmes as well as upskilling those already in role with its career development apprenticeships.

It has more than 1,250 apprentices on programmes nationwide, which it recently extended to the wider industry via the Builders Merchants Federation to attract more diverse

talent to construction and to accelerate the learning of the skills needed for the industry’s future.

Chief executive Nick Roberts said: “Ensuring our country is equipped with the right skills to deliver a greener, more sustainable future for our built environment is essential. We aim to bring in fresh talent, improve the diversity of our industry and upskill existing colleagues at a time when net zero and new safety legislation means the building and construction industry is undergoing its biggest shake-up for more than 30 years. Apprenticeships are fundamental to ensuring that the industry has the skills we need “ The construction sector estimates that it needs more than 200,000 new workers by 2027 to meet forecast demand.

business bites

Latest business news from North Northamptonshire Council

NN Job Club

Need help or support finding a new employee? The NN Job Club is a weekly service, designed to offer a range of support and assistance to Jobseekers across the North Northamptonshire area.

For more information: email nnjobclub@northnorthants.gov.uk or visit www.northnorthants.gov.uk/jobclub

E-bike Scheme

Would your employees benefit from an e-bike trial? If your business is located within North Northants, you can take part in this county-wide trial for FREE.

For more information: email e-bikescheme@northnorthants.gov.uk or visit www.smartmovenorthamptonshire.net

NN business support

Does your NN Business need support from the local Council? We provide a wide range of business facing services that are dedicated to supporting your business in achieving its full potential.

For more information: visit www.northnorthants.gov.uk/business-support

DISCOVERNN APP

Have you downloaded the APP yet? Explore North Northamptonshire from the palm of your hand with our DiscoverNN app

It supports local businesses, and helps residents and visitors see everything the area has to offer.

For more information: visit www.northnorthants.gov.uk/DiscoverNN

The RB18 simulator (left) lines up with the F1 Championship-winning Oracle Red Bull racing car

Know your rights whatever size your shareholding

Becoming a minority shareholder or investor in a business may lead you to believe that, given the limited rights you will have, there are not many important considerations to take into account. However, even a minority investor needs to protect their interests as much as possible.

“While minority shareholders may not usually benefit from voting rights, it is important to ensure they have access to drag along or tag along rights which provide them with a fair exit,” said Anna Horrell, pictured, a company and commercial solicitor with Borneo Martell Turner Coulston.

“All investors need to know what their rights will be when it comes to choosing to sell their shares or if the other shareholders want to sell a part or all of the business.”

What are tag along rights?

Tag along rights afford minority investors protection from being left behind when the majority shareholders agree to sell their shares to a third-party buyer. The buyer will be obliged to make an offer to purchase the minority stakeholders’ investment too.

What are drag along rights?

As the name suggests, drag along rights are less appealing than tag along rights. When majority shareholders instigate a sale of their investments, drag along rights effectively force minority shareholders to sell to the third party.

Advantages and disadvantages

Whether one considers these rights as an advantage or disadvantage very much depends on the investment strategy of the minority shareholder. For example, here are three scenarios to illustrate the different considerations:

n Impact on investment. If you anticipate or model your investment strategy on long-term growth in the business and you are forced to sell through drag along rights, that

could clearly impact your return on investment.

n Pricing impact. Drag along rights are typically seen to favour majority stakeholders so that they can make their investment sale more appealing to third parties who want to buy the business outright.

n Secure exit route. You would be keen to avoid a situation where the majority shareholder sells without you and you are forced into a joint venture with a buyer or purchaser whom you had no connection or prior business relationship with.

n Borneo Martell Turner Coulston has a strong team of experts which will allow us to deliver you streamlined, comprehensive advice to help you navigate the rights afforded to you in a shareholder agreement.

For an informal discussion, contact Anna Horrell on 01604 622101 or email anna.horrell@bmtclaw.co.uk

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Please note that the law may have changed since this article was published.

Advertiser’s Message

Our county... so much more than shoes and radar

Think of Northamptonshire and you will probably think of shoes, the lift tower, Althorpe, Silverstone race circuit, radar (if you are at the Crick/Daventry end of the county) and probably logistics.

However, Northamptonshire is a county of much, much more.

Recent statistics taken from a review of company formations have been published, using date from the Office for National Statistics and Companies House. The figures show Northamptonshire to be a thriving place in which to do business.

In 2022 9.8 per cent more businesses were registered than in 2021, with 7,831 new companies being registered in the county. Given the economic challenges facing the country in recent months and years, those are impressive numbers.

Across all sectors, there are some impressive businesses appearing from nowhere.

Whatever the size of business, it is important to get your people policies right. A little time spent getting your proverbial ducks in a row can save a lot of time, trouble and expense further down the line. Think carefully about:

n Your staff recruitment process: Employment status, advertisements, interviews and job offer. It is very easy to find yourself in hot water over the wording of advertisements and interview ‘Dos and Don’ts’;

n Contract of Employment;

n Policies and Handbook;

There

n Statutory Rights: Antidiscrimination laws, National Minimum Wage, holiday, Statutory Sick Pay, equal pay, leave rights and pension;

n Termination of Employment: Fair procedure, valid reason, notice period, redundancy and unfair dismissal.

n To help you on your way Wilson Browne Solicitors has produced a free guide for start-ups. Read it at www.wilsonbrowne.co.uk/guides/ employment-law-guide-for-start-ups/ At Wilson Browne we can offer support in all aspects of setting up a new business. Visit www.wilsonbrowne.co.uk and browse the section ‘For Business’ for more information.

are some impressive businesses appearing from nowhere

Much depends on the investment strategy of the minority shareholder

Local Skills Improvement Plan - LSIP

Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) were introduced as a key part of the Government’s vision of an adult skills system where businesses are given a much stronger voice in local skills planning

Engaging effectively with local leaders and other stakeholders and forging a stronger and more dynamic partnership that will enable provision to be more responsive to the skills needs of employers in local labour markets

The Skills and Post-16 Education Bill provides a statutory underpinning for local skills improvement plans. It introduces duties on providers to cooperate in the development of and then have regard to the plans

Scan the QR code to find out how you can make sure your voice is heard.

Careers hub aims to enhance opportunities Scheme brings employers closer to

Business has gone back to school for the launch of a new Careers Hub by the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership. Delegates were among more than 200 from the business and education sectors who heard how the hub aims to strengthen the partnership between employers and careers leaders in schools and colleges.

The hub is part of a national network that will improve carrers education standards measured against eight industry benchmarks.

The South East Midlands Careers Hub will be one of the largest in the UK, working with 150 schools as well as further education colleges and training providers.

Speaking at the launch event, SEMLEP chair Peter Horrocks said: “Our

classroom

businesses repeatedly tell us that finding people with the right skills to grow their businesses is one of their greatest challenges. This new Careers Hub will help deliver expertise and create connections to help match young people and their careers with the future needs of the local economy.”

The South East Midlands Careers Hub is being funded by the Careers and Enterprise Company, Tresham College, SEMLEP, The Connolly Foundation and Luton Borough Council. Its priority areas are to link careers provision in schools and colleges to the needs of the local economy and to increase the opportunities of apprenticeships, technical and vocational routes into work. The hub also will focus on more experiences with

employers for students and teachers and to deliver best practice in careers education.

Careers and Enterprise Company chief executive Oli de Botton said: “What we know is our thriving national network of Careers Hubs and the local partnerships they foster are driving consistent improvements in careers education across the country, especially for the young people and communities that need the most support.

“The longer Careers Hubs work together with schools and colleges, the more depth and breadth of exposure students have to employers and the world of work. That leads to better understanding of all possible pathways, better awareness of opportunities and the skills needed to get there and better outcomes for young people.”

Deadline looms to join growth programme

Time is running out for businesses to access a free intensive support programme designed to help them achieve sustainable long-term growth.

Across the South East Midlands, hundreds of firms have taken advantage of support from SEMLEP’s Growth Curve programme since its launch in 2020. Funding for the programme is coming to an end and businesses have until June 30

to apply for free support from Growth Curve advisers.

SEMLEP Growth Hub manager Vicky Hlomuka said: “This programme has provided invaluable support and training for local businesses, putting them on track for future growth during an incredibly difficult period.”

Business leaders have one-to-one meetings with SEMLEP advisers to plan for the future and learn about funding opportunities.

n Find out more at www.semlepgrowthhub.com/growth-curve

A year of investment, security, wellbeing and support

Brackmills Business Improvement District has entered its 14th year as a BID and is taking this opportunity to look back at its successes…

In the last year alone, Brackmills BID has supported its resident businesses with a packed calendar full of virtual and face to face events, security enhancing initiatives, infrastructure investments and a host of environmental and wellbeing projects. Crime continues to remain at an all-time low on the estate. Brackmills has a dedicated Police Community Support Officer and 21 cameras, strategically placed across the estate to help our PCSO monitor, prevent and tackle crime and Northamptonshire Police gather intelligence.

For the third year running the BID’s voluntary directors have voted to freeze the annual BID levy fee and in the words of the BID’s CEO Sara Homer: “We recognise how important it is to support businesses – and that is what we are committed to doing.”

LOOKING AFTER OUR ESTATE

Paul Hurst is the BID’s full time Police Community Support Officer. He patrols the estate - typically walking around 40,000 steps every day - engaging with and supporting employees and businesses.

A typical day sees Paul monitoring the security systems and checking the estate’s CCTV and Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras. He also provides businesses with support and crime prevention tips and in the case of accidents Paul is trained to administer first aid.

Growth Curve also includes university-led masterclasses run in partnership with the University of Northampton, Cranfield University and the University of Bedfordshire.

Growth Curve is open to businesses experiencing or projecting high growth in the next two to three years, have at least two employees and current annual turnover of £100,000 with projected annual growth of at least 20 per cent.

IN 2022...

Elegant and sporty... Phantom rules the waves

The Phantom 65, created by Oundlebased boat builder Fairline, has been named the winner of the sports cruisers over 45ft category at the 2023 Motor Boat Awards. The craft was hailed for its effortless acceleration, responsive handling, refined cruising and its build quality.

Hugo Andreae, host of awards host Motor Boat & Yachting magazine, said: “With those sleek, flowing lines, it strikes the perfect balance between elegance and sportiness yet

somehow still manages to pack in up to four cabins below deck and masses of sociable living space inside and out.”

Earlier in the year, Fairline was included in this year’s CoolBrands Index, an annual initiative that rounds up some of the UK’s trendiest brands. Miles Moorhouse, Farline’s head of marketing, said: “Fairline is built on a reputation of incredible craftsmanship but prides itself on an ability to evolve and never stand still.”

...More than 96,000 rides were taken to and/or from Brackmills on Voi Scooters. August proved to be the most popular month for scooter usage, with 10,855 people hopping on to a Voi Scooter on Brackmills.

...To protect a series of underground power and communications cables, the

BID reinforced a section of Caswell Road that had been compromised due to trucks repeatedly mounting parts of the kerb.

The BID invested in wire caging to protect the cables, ensuring the road could continue to support heavy duty vehicles without a risk of disruption to the estate.

www.brackmillsindustrialestate.co.uk

To mark International Women’s Day last month, staff from across Brackmills gathered at Decathlon for a celebration and networking event

Plan aims to put employers at the heart of the skills system

Local Skills Improvement Plans were introduced as a key part of the government’s vision of an adult skills system where businesses are given a much stronger voice in local skills planning. Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, working in conjunction with both Milton Keynes and Bedfordshire Chambers of Commerce, is the designated lead for the development of the South East Midlands region’s LSIP.

The aim of the LSIP is to place employers at the heart of the skills system and the Chamber’s role will be to consult with employers, training providers and other stakeholders to articulate their skills needs.

Employer opinions are a cornerstone of LSIPs, which will be made into statutory requirements to shape skills provision over the next three years.

By way of background, the government’s Skills for Jobs White Paper set out an employer-led approach aimed at making post-16 further education provision more responsive to local skills needs and ultimately local economic needs. As part of this new approach, the Chambers of Commerce in the South East Midlands have been asked by the Department for Education to work in partnership with a range of stakeholders to develop the local LSIP with the intention of giving

employers a stronger voice in shaping local skills provision through closer working with FE providers, engaging effectively with local leaders and other stakeholders and forging a stronger and more dynamic partnership between employers and FE providers that will enable provision to be more responsive to skills needs of employers in local labour markets.

LSIPs will do this by providing a clear articulation of future skills need and setting out the priorities for change in local provision that will help people develop the skills they need to get good jobs and increase prospects.

Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes Chambers of Commerce chief executive Louise Wall, pictured below, said: “Government recognises that employers

Key that voice of employers is heard, said network head

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.

“We also have great links with our education providers, trade bodies and local authorities so it is exciting to be working with them on the LSIP and to be speaking to businesses of all sizes and sectors on what their skills needs are.”

The Chamber is inviting organisations from all sectors to share their views on the current and future skills landscape in the region. It wants to hear from as many employers and stakeholders as possibleopinions that will help shape the region’s future skills provision.

If your business has had challenges upskilling your current workforce or you have ideas about how employers and training providers can work collaboratively, this is your chance to share your experience and help generate positive change.

n To have your voice heard, scan the QR code on page 10 to complete the online survey.

Membership group NNBN is calling on employers in Northamptonshire to support a new initiative to improve skills levels.

The government’s Skills for Jobs White Paper set out an employer-led approach aimed at making further education provision more responsive to skills requirements and economic needs.

The document introduces Local Skills Improvement Plans as a key part of a skills system where businesses are given a much stronger voice in local skills planning by working closely with FE providers, engaging with local leaders and other stakeholders.

“It is key that employers and businesses engage

with the Local Skills Improvement Plan and voices are heard,” said NNBN director Simon Cox.

The LSIP is calling for significant engagement from the business community in order to ascertain skills requirement. The Skills and Post-16 Education Bill provides a backdrop for local skills improvement plans. It introduces duties on providers to co-operate in the development of the plans. “We see this as a way that we can collectively shape the future of closing the skills gaps and shortages we find in our business communities,” said Mr Cox. He called on businesses to engage in the survey led by Northamptonshire Chamber.

LSIP project manager Tony Knaggs said: “Having the right skills to do our job is key to us having a healthy, growing economy. The message is ‘Get involved’ and we can only do this by working with member organisations such as the NNBN who are key to getting the message out to hundreds of local businesses.”

Simon Cox

The MP for Northampton South reflects on last month’s Budget: Disappointment at the rise in corporation tax, delight at the allowance on capital purchases.

Steady as she goes: Measures put growth at head of agenda

T

Borrowing was significantly lower than had been forecast and GDP outrun was better than expected, leading to a marginal improvement in forecasters’ current outlook for the economy.

Public sector net borrowing in January was in surplus by £5.4 billion, which was a £7.1 billion smaller surplus than 12 months previously but a £5 billion larger surplus than forecast by the Office for Budget Responsibility.

The big disappointment for

he government has judged the recent Spring Budget a success. It was a ‘steady as she goes’ budget, based around the prospect for economic growth and the public finances improving since the Autumn Statement.me - and most probably youwas the decision despite some intense lobbying by MPs, including me, to proceed with the corporation tax hike from 19 per cent to 25pc.

This may come back to bite my party politically in the future but in the meantime it is businesses, struggling with disruptive markets, higher costs and lacklustre consumer confidence, that have to add this to their ever expanding list of fiscal challenges.

The full force of the tax rise will hit businesses with profits of more than £250,000, while those with profits of between £50,000 and £250,000 receive marginal relief. Those with profits of less than £50,000 will see no change - they will continue to pay corporation

Andrew Lewer

tax at 19pc

The sweetener to this tax rise will be the ability to offset this with a full expensing allowance which can deduct 100pc of the cost of certain plant and machinery from profits before tax. It applies to spending on equipment such as forklift trucks, tools

Let’s

it applies only to purchases. Renting and leasing machinery, which is a very popular and cost-effective way of financing purchases like these, will be left out in the cold with no equivalent tax relief.

cycle makes it opportune.

such as ladders and drills, construction equipment such as bulldozers and excavators, machines such as computers and printers, vehicles, office equipment and some fixtures such as kitchen and bathroom fittings and fire alarm systems. The list goes on but this is only open for three years and

Advertiser’s Message

about

Love Corby was set up back in 2014 by Corby Borough Council to help promote tourism.

The group has grown considerably over the years and now includes many local business and charities based in the town and surrounding area.

And its membership has diversified too, with members from other sectors apart from tourism and hospitality. Members say Love Corby is a great way for local business owners to support each other and promote business locally.

Since the local authority map in Northamptonshire changed in 2021, when the councils of Corby, Kettering, Wellingborough and East Northamptonshire were abolished, along with Northamptonshire County Council, and replaced by North Northamptonshire Council, Love Corby has lost all its funding and support.

But the marketing group, which is run on a

In the round, this was a fairly safe and risk-free budget which politically parked blue tanks on red lawns, leaving Labour limited opportunity to redraw a dividing hedge.

There is still the chance for a more radical Budget in November but this takes us very close to pre-general election time and makes it harder for the government to present itself as genuinely taxcutting in philosophy rather than just when the election

IR35, tax thresholds and family tax allowances are all areas where I shall continue to press for action. As well as the expensing changes already mentioned, I will give credit where it is due for the pension reforms and allowance charges for the introduction of a streamlined approach for health technologies - and I hope for such opening up in other economic sectors too. I have already met several local business executives and owners to discuss the Budget and prospects for the economy in the months ahead. I look forward to meeting many more regarding doing so as a key part of my role as a Member of Parliament.

Accountants unveil rebrand

C

voluntary basis by local business owners, want this successful group to continue so they set up the group as a CIC. Having survived the effects of the pandemic, Love Corby has now launched a new-look website and recruited an admin person to help to run the group. And next month sees the opportunity for Corby businesses to take to the streets to market themselves.

The eye-catching and colourful lamp post banners on George Street are exclusively for Love Corby members and are up for renewal in early May. Love Corby is already in talks with highways and planning over the renewals. The beauty of being run as a not-for-profit organisation gives Love Corby the edge in being able to offer a great low rate for membership. All membership revenue is reinvested into the group to help promote business for our members.

Only £95 per year gives you and your business:

n A full page company listing on www.lovecorby.co.uk;

n Free attendance at the group’s monthly networking events;

n The option to purchase flags on George Street;

Cottons Group has offices in Northampton and Daventry, as well as Rugby, Milton Keynes and London, and is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Mr Smart, who took over as managing partner in January, said: “The decision to change to Cottons Group is one we planned carefully over the last year and it will offer us the flexibility we need so that our partner brands and services can live under one roof.

“A strong brand is also crucial for recruitment and staff morale. This rebranding is the culmination of a lot of hard work and strategic planning and we believe it will help us better communicate our value proposition to our clients and partners.”

A fairly safe and risk free budget which politically parked blue tanks on red lawns

Deal continues health firm’s expansion

Occupational health specialist Medigold

Health has completed the acquisition of fellow provider Health Management to form the UK’s largest independent provider of workplace health and wellbeing solutions.

The deal is the latest in a series of acquisitions over the past 12 years as the Northampton-based company aims to keep pace with soaring demand for occupational health services. The acquisition has been supported by a follow-on investment from growth capital investor BGF, which has backed Medigold Health since 2017. The deal also means that Medigold Health’s workforce is to grow to around 1,100, serving more than 3,500 customers. Chief executive Alex Goldsmith said: “Our acquisition of Health Management will ensure we can continue meeting the current and emerging needs of the UK’s employers and, crucially, make our essential services more accessible to more businesses.”

Logistics needs tech-savvy pioneers

Ignite the spark… That was the message to students across Northamptonshire at a career event introducing them to opportunities in the logistics industry.

Exploring Global Logistics, hosted by Northampton College, saw pupils from Abbeyfield School, Sir Christopher Hatton Academy and Thomas Becket Catholic School take part in workshops delivered by organisations including DHL, Wincanton, URBN and Skills for Logistics.

“The logistics sector is modernising and employing new technologies to meet rising supply and demand

College head calls for investment to continue industry modernisation

challenges,” said college principal Pat Brennan-Barrett.

“This is increasing demand for skilled employees in electrical and mechanical engineering, IT and analytics.

Every retail organisation has a supply chain so this is an area where there are multiple opportunities for employment.”

She called for investment in the employees of the future.

“To ensure the continued growth of this sector, we need to invest in a new generation

DEVELOPMENT

B r o o k l a n d s T e c h n o l o g y P a r k , c o m b i n i n g a h i g h r a t i o o f o f f i c e t o w o r k s h o p s p a c e i d e a l f o r t e c h n o l o g y , r e s e a r c h & m a n u f a c t u r i n g e n t e r p r i s e s

H i g h s p e e d b r o a d b a n d

A i r c o n d i t i o n i n g

L o w e n e r g y s e r v i c e s

S o f t l a n d s c a p i n g

L o w c a r b o n f o o t p r i n t

H i g h s e c u r i t y s i t e

B u s i n e s s U n i t s f r o m 4 , 0 0 0 s q f t t o 8 , 0 0 0 s q f t

L o c a t e d b e t w e e n N o r t h a m p t o n a n d W e l l i n g b o r o u g h w i t h e a s y a c c e s s t o a l l m a j o r m o t o r w a y n e t w o r k s

C o m p l e t i o n D u e : A p r i l 2 0 2 3

of tech-savvy pioneers who can use digital skills to further modernise the logistics industry and evolve the global supply chain.”

A session by DHL Express saw students tackle a challenge to plan the transport of products around the world. It aimed to improve their understanding of logistics and use skills such as logical thinking, teamwork and communication.

Skills for Logistics, the assessment organisation for

the sector, delivered a session breaking down the component parts of a pair of jeansmaterial, dye, zips and buttons - and showing where each ismade. The session explored the future requirements for sustainability and how this affects supply chains.

Project manager Rachel May said: “Logistics is a career option that college students need to consider seriously and we need to engage the education sector and employers to develop a curriculum that matches the needs of the workforce and creates a ready-made talent pipeline.

“Northampton is at the

centre of the logistics triangle in the UK. Geographically it is the best-placed college to take advantage of the opportunities logistics provides and it knows it has an important role to play.”

Staff from Wincanton, which has a major base in Northampton, talked to students about supply chains for ice cream, bread, toys, T-shirts and trainers.

Before the event employers met at the college’s Booth Lane campus for a breakfast discussion on ways to work wth the college to create a talent pipeline for the industry and to strengthen its logistics provision.

Visit highlights workplace wellbeing

Leaders from warehouse, transport and logistic businesses joined West Northamptonshire Council at the Ford distribution centre in Daventry to discuss wellbeing in the workplace.

Best practice was on the agenda at the forum organised by the council’s health protection, public health and regulatory service staff. They were

joined by representatives from Ford and manual handling specialist Pristine International. Topics included training and management of workplace hazards. “We are dedicated to providing businesses with the tools they need to keep their employers safe,” said Cllr David Smith, cabinet member for community safety and engagement.

LOOKING FOR HELP WITH ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE?

The business networking events this month across Northamptonshire

Breakfast

4th Wednesday 7.30am-9am: Online

3rd Thursday 7.30am-9am: Online

2nd Friday 7.30am-9am: Online

Afternoon

non-members, co-hosted with Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce.Visit www.northantschamber.co.uk/events

A group for networkers looking for referrals, introductions, opportunities and sales. A tried and tested model offering dynamic weekly online meetings and an experienced management team: Northants and surrounding areas

Every Tuesday at noon.

National networking

Every Wednesday at noon.

Contact Gary Thorpe for all events. Email: gary.thorpe@debt-doctors.co.uk

Tel: 07963 766052 or 01536 333425

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.

Elite BNI (Kettering)

Tuesday 6.45am-8.30am: Online

Ignite BNI (Daventry)

Tuesday 6.45am-8.30am:

The Turnpike, Harpole Northampton

Pioneer BNI (Northamptonshire)

Wednesday 9.30am-11am: Online

Pavilion BNI (Northampton)

Thursday 6.45am-8.30am:

The Old Northamptonians RFC, Sir Humphrey Cripps Pavilion, Billing Road, Northampton Prosperity BNI (Kettering)

Thursday 6.45am-8.30am:

The Kettering Golf Club, Headlands, Kettering Sterling BNI (Northampton)

Thursday 11.45am-1.30pm:

The Old Northamptonians RFC, Sir Humphrey Cripps Pavilion, Billing Road, Northampton Lighthouse BNI (Northampton)

Friday 6.45am-8.30am

Franklin’s Gardens, Weedon Road, Northampton

Contact: Duncan Webster. e: duncan@ bnibreakfast.co.uk or call 07977 422220

No fuss, no membership, pay as you go... The Business Buzz format is relaxed, informal, conversational B2B networking. Our town focused events meet face-to-face, allowing visitors to build better and more robust relationships. These are complemented by regional virtual events.

All Business Buzz events run 10am-noon

Brackley Buzz

April 6:

Paisley Pear, Northampton Road.

Price: £8.

Northampton Buzz

April 19:

Fox & Hounds, Harborough Road.

Price: £8.

Wellingborough Buzz

April 11:

Castello Lounge, Market Street

Price: £8.

For more details, download the Buzz App or visit www.business-buzz.org/about/locations/. Book and pay for your favourite Buzz at https://app. business-buzz.org/app or at the event.

Fridays 3pm-4pm: Online

Visitors welcome.

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. Find out more at buscomm.co.uk/ourevents

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.

SPEED NETWORKING

April 25 5.30pm-7.30pm

University of Northampton

Co-hosted with the University of Northampton. Meet fellow Next Generation Chamber members and UoN students. To book, email info@nextgenerationchamber.co.uk.

With the right support at the right price it is possible for any small business to succeed. Members believe there is so much to gain with a positive attitude of mutual face-to-face.

All monthly breakfast meetings, 7.30am-9.30am.

WELLINGBOROUGH

1st Thursday:

Great Doddington Club, Lower Street

Price: £16.

NORTHAMPTON

3rd Wednesday: The Turnpike, Harpole.

Price: £16.

VIRTUAL MEETINGS

Price: £6

Brunch

2nd Tuesday 9.30am-11am: Online

The FSB has 2,000 members across Northamptonshire. These include a monthly FSB Northampton virtual networking at which everyone is welcome - you do not have to be a FSB member to join in.

Northamptonshire

April 27 10am-11am: Online

Hosted by Sally Wood, director of Sally Wood Consultancy Limited and FSB area leader for Northants, Leics & Rutland. To book and for details of other networking, support and webinar events online, visit www. fsb.org.uk/events.

Find out more about NextGen Chamber at www.nextgenerationchamber.co.uk

NNBN is a business membership for North Northamptonshire which aims to help businesses in the North Northants area recover, build and grow for a brighter future.

AWARDS ENTRIES - TOP TIPS

April 6 9.30am-11.30am:

Holiday Inn Express, Kettering Workshop led by Jessica Pilkington, managing director of Pilkington Communications.Free event for NNBN members; visitors £10.

BUSINESS NETWORKING

April 13 7pm-8.30pm:

The Threshing Barn, Chester House Estate

April 27 7pm-8.30pm:

Park Inn Northampton

Free event for NNBN members; visitors £10.

NNBN ONLINE

April 20 9.30am-11am

Networking. Free event, non-members welcome. For more information and to book, visit https://nnbn.co.uk/events/

UK BUSINESS FORUM NORTHAMPTON

2nd Wednesday 5.30pm-9pm: Delapré Abbey, London Road

A friendly, informal and relaxed networking event for small business owners. Each event features a short educational presentation on topics to support business owners followed by informal networking. First drink of the evening is on us.

UK Business Forums has been the home of small business community support and advice for nearly 20 years. Membership is not necessary but join for free and maintain the business relationship you make at our networking evenings through our free online business support forums.

Free event. To book, visit www.ukbfevents.co.uk

BUSINESS ROOM

Practical support to help businesses grow their business. The Business Room is a one business area group for business owners, those in employed positions, MLMs and franchised businesses.

KETTERING

April 3 6 12 noon-2pm:

Kettering Park Hotel

NORTHAMPTON

April 13 12 noon-2pm:

Old White Hart, Far Cotton

WELLINGBOROUGH

April 19 12 noon-2pm:

The Stanwick Hotel, Stanwick

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

April 18 5.30pm-7.30pm:

Opus Energy, the Lakes, Northampton Informal networking. Sponsored by Opus Energy. Price: £10 + VAT Chamber members; non-members £15 + VAT.

KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER PARTNERSHIPS

April 21 8.30am-10.30am

Kettering Park Hotel & Spa, Kettering Knowledge Transfer Partnerships support companies to develop innovations and step change their business and are part funded by Innovate UK. Hear how the KTP has impacted local businesses such as residential park operator Tingdene and Warners Distillery. Free event to Chamber members and

Feature

SOUTH NORTHANTS

April 18 12 noon-2pm:

The White Horse, Silverstone

THE CONNECTIONS CLUB - NORTHANTS

Only open to business owners, influencers and decision-makers. Each session is limited to a maximum of three business areas.

NORTHAMPTON

April 4 11.45am-2pm: Delapré Abbey, London Road, Northampton.

Contact: Barbara Hodgson 07504 946 585 / 01933 652884, email barbara@yourbusinessmatters.co or visit www.yourbusinessmatters.co

Business Buzz is a thriving networking group with branches across Northamptonshire focused on the towns and areas that each serve. Businesses enjoy relaxed and productive face to face networking with like-minded colleagues all focused on one thing: growing their business. Now meet the hosts of two Business Buzz group in Northamptonshire: Glen Thomason in Northampton and Adam Fox in Wellingborough

Iam Glen Thomason from Glad Insurance Solutions.

I help people find the best insurance solutions for their business.

One thing that makes me different from some of the bigger brokers is I provide a personal, single point of contact solution for all of your insurance needs.

Many of the larger brokers are currently moving towards using big call centres to deal with smaller business customers, which means you get less of a personal service because whenever you call up with a query you speak to someone different. I want to change that so I have deliberately structured my business to keep my own overheads to a minimum, which enables me to sit down and spend the necessary time with clients to truly understand their requirements and deliver an insurance solution to fully meet their needs.

I also co-host a weekly radio show on Revolution Radio Northampton called The Reality Check, where we talk

GSSARCHITECTURE

Landmark buildings will be a hub for a new community

The new nursery and primary school at the Glenvale Park development in Wellingborough is making significant progress on site with the external envelope now complete.

Glenvale Nursery and Primary School comprises a new 420-place twoform entry primary school, 75-place nursery, and community centre in Wellingborough, forming part of the Glenvale Park development to the north of the town.

exciting play opportunities.

working on several projects with Milton Keynes College, which include the newly refurbished Chaffron Centre at the college’s Chaffron Way campus and three South-Central Institutes of Technology in Bletchley, Reading and Oxford.

My name is Adam Fox and I specialise in helping small business owners grow their businesses through the effective implementation of systems, great marketing and personal growth and development to ensure the growth can be sustained and continue into the future.

I come from a construction and compliance background but work with a diverse range of clients, from trades to publishers, from fellow coaches to not for profits.

I had spent the pandemic looking for a networking group that had the feel of a Business Buzz event with no joy. It was when the world started to open up again after the pandemic that I decided I wanted to bring my own networking event to the Wellingborough area that had the feel I wanted.

It was during my first

Glen Thomason

about mindfulness and how our thoughts and emotions create our reality.

I recently became the host of Business Buzz Northampton. I was a regular attendee, a previous event sponsor and a big advocate of the Business Buzz format to create amazing, relaxed environments for networking so it seemed like a natural step to take over as host.

One of the benefits of being a Business Buzz host is that both my personal and business profile are greatly elevated within the local community with all the emails and social media posts and I find that when I meet new event attendees they already know who I am and what I do.

GSSArchitecture is leading the designs on the learning and community zone of the masterplan, with the scheme also including a Local Equipped Area for Play and a Neighbourhood Equipped Area for Play to create a focal hub for the local community that caters for a wide range of ages with a variety of inclusive, stimulating, and

The primary school, community centre and nursery, being constructed by Lindum Group, will be landmark buildings within the Glenvale Park masterplan, with the school building designed to expand to a three-form entry primary school in the future.

Project architect Tom Jagger, partner at GSSArchitecture, said: “It is fantastic to see how the works are progressing on site at Glenvale. The new primary school, community centre, nursery and LEAP/

NEAP will provide a key hub for the new community, providing purpose-built facilities that can enable the delivery of excellent learning opportunities for local children and benefit the wider community.”

Having worked with more than 400 education clients nationally, GSS is continuing to build upon its impressive portfolio of projects in Northamptonshire and the surrounding counties by working closely with local developers, councils, and other consultants.

The practice is currently

The SCIOT at the Bletchley campus for Milton Keynes College is progressing while those in Reading and Oxford finished in late 2021 and early 2023 respectively. The Bletchley scheme involves the extensive redevelopment and extension of The Andrew Peck Building which will specialise in delivering technical and digital education to provide employers with a technically skilled workforce and students with a clear route to technical employment. By bridging skills gaps, the SCIOT will help to drive growth and widen opportunities.

n For more information on how GSSArchitecture can assist with an upcoming project or to view their extensive portfolio of projects in a range of sectors, visit www.gssarchitecture.com

GRIFFITHS AIR CONDITIONING BICS

App is set to transform industry

Anew audit app is set to revolutionise the professional cleaning industry, said its largest independent, professional body.

The British Institute of Cleaning Science, based in Northampton, unveiled its new Cleaning & Hygiene Audit App at the national Cleaning Show in London last month. The app provides an inspection facility and an in-depth check of processes, systems, paperwork and policies.

Keep

your cool when business warms up

With warmer weather fast approaching, an established Burton Latimer business is working to ensure that Northamptonshire organisations are ready to keep employees and computer server rooms cool and working efficiently as temperatures rise.

For more than 23 years, Griffiths Air Conditioning have been providing regular service visits to clients throughout the county, ensuring air conditioning systems are clean and working as well as possible.

experience as an attendee at Northampton Business Buzz that I realised I had found exactly what I was looking for. Rather than trying to get a brand new networking meeting off the ground as well as running my own businesses, Business Buzz had everything I needed so I signed up there and then to bring Business Buzz to Wellingborough.

It meant I had the event I wanted in the venue I wanted with an amazing team behind me to support in the marketing and the running of my event.

Find out more about your local Business Buzz meetings at www.business-buzz.org

“This pioneering app is the first specifically built for soft services,” said BICS’ chief operating officer Neil SpencerCook.

“It will prove invaluable in helping to improve standards and demonstrates how BICSc continues to innovate and strive for raising standards across the industry.”

Audits are effective in monitoring cleaning standards, providing an in-depth report on service delivery. Cleaning quality improves as a result, leading to a cycle of continuing increased standards, Mr SpencerCook said.

Business owner Ian Griffiths said: “If air conditioning systems are not serviced, filters and coils become blocked, restricting air flow which in turn uses more electricity than they need to.

‘Mould will also begin to grow on the damp surfaces of the indoor unit which, if not treated, will start to produce unpleasant odours. It is also a legal requirement to check for refrigerant leaks which, if not identified early and repaired, could result in

a compressor failure as well as the leaking refrigerant gas, in most cases, adding damage to the world’s ozone layer.”

Current clients of Griffiths range from large international concerns based in Northamptonshire through to small businesses with just a single air conditioning system. Most air conditioning manufacturers recommend that maintenance is carried out at least every six months but Griffiths can organise each individual service contract to suit a client’s particular requirements.

Service intervals for equipment in dusty atmospheres will, for example, need to be more regular.

Griffiths also install all types of air conditioning systems that provide cooling in the summer and heating when it is colder, for both commercial and domestic properties. Corporate customers can spread the cost of new energy-efficient systems up to a five-year maximum through schemes run by several of the major suppliers of air conditioning equipment.

n For a competitive quotation on a new or replacement air conditioning system, or a quotation for a service contract, contact Griffiths Air Conditioning. Telephone 01536 420666, email office@griffithsaircon.co.uk or visit www.griffithsaircon.co.uk. Visit their Energy Efficiency Centre showroom at 111 High Street in Burton Latimer, open 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday.

I’m a big advocate so it seemed like a natural step

I realised I’d found exactly what I was looking for

Adam Fox

FRANKLINS SOLICITORS NORTHAMPTON

Review your Will to ensure it matches your circumstances and the law

It is recommended that your Will is reviewed every three to five years - not just when a significant life event happens - in order to ensure your Will still reflects your current wishes.

Furthermore, writes Laura Daly, (inset), senior paralegal at Franklins Solicitors, you may have had changes in your personal life or finances and your Will may no longer reflect your circumstances and may need to be updated to reflect the current changes in the law. Here are some examples of changes that may have occurred to prompt you to review your Will:

A marriage, separation, divorce or remarriage

Wills are revoked on marriage unless there has been provision made for this within your Will. Therefore, any Will you had prepared prior to your marriage may no longer be valid and the effect of this is that it will be treated as though you had not prepared a Will at all.

If you have divorced from your spouse since you prepared your Will, your Will will not automatically be revoked, however any provisions relating to your ex-spouse will

fail. Additionally, if you are separating from your spouse, your assets under the intestacy rules will pass to your spouse and this may be something you no longer wish to happen.

As such, a new Will will need to be prepared to reflect your current wishes in terms of the distribution of your estate.

Purchase of a house as a cohabiting couple

If you are purchasing a house and are not married, you may wish to consider preparing a new Will to confirm that if anything were to happen to either of you, the survivor is protected within the property.

There is no such thing as a ‘common law’ marriage and as such, your partner would not automatically inherit the property if one of you were to pass away.

Sale of a Property

If you have specifically gifted a property within your Will and you no longer own that property, the beneficiary who has been gifted that property would no longer receive the benefit under your Will and consequently may no longer be provided for within your Will.

It is recommended that your Will is reviewed to ensure those named beneficiaries whom you wished to benefit will still be benefitting despite your change in circumstances.

Death of a spouse or a named beneficiary

It is important that, if a tragedy has occurred in your lifetime, your Will is reviewed to ensure you have stipulated where you wish for your assets to go in the event that your spouse or named beneficiary has predeceased.

Birth of a child or grandchild

Your Will may need to be reviewed to ensure that, if you have had a child, you have provided for that child. If you have had grandchildren whom you wish to benefit, your Will will need to be updated to provide for them if they have not been included in your current Will.

It may be that you wish to gift sums of money to your grandchildren and a codicil can be prepared to sit alongside your Will to reflect your new wishes.

Vulnerable or Disabled Beneficiaries

If you have a vulnerable or disabled beneficiary since your Will was prepared, your Will is unlikely to provide for the beneficiary adequately.

SAINTS £51k boost for foundation

If the vulnerable or disabled beneficiary is unable to inherit sums of money as it would affect any benefits that they receive, or they are vulnerable and not able to properly manage money, you may wish to review your Will to ensure that they are adequately provided for and trusts can be used to protect these beneficiaries.

Changes in your financial position

Your finances may have increased or decreased since your Will was prepared so it is important to review your Will to ensure that it still reflects your wishes. The law changes frequently and changes in your financial circumstances may have inheritance tax implications that might mean your Will is no longer tax efficient.

Alternatively, if your assets have decreased your Will may need to be reviewed.

For example, if you had provided for beneficiaries by including large sums of money within your Will and wished for anything left over to go to another beneficiary, that beneficiary may inherit either a much smaller sum or nothing if there are now insufficient assets in your estate to meet the monetary gifts.

n To arrange an appointment to create or review your Will, contact one of Franklins Solicitors’ legal experts on info@franklins-sols.co.uk or call Franklins Solicitors in Northampton on 01604 828282 or in Milton Keynes on 01908 660966. Find out more at www.franklins-sols.co.uk

Life-changing work by Northampton Saints Foundation has had a £51,000 boost thanks to the success of its annual Foundation Day.

Thousands of Saints fans showed their support for the work of the Foundation when they attended the clash against Gloucester at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, taking part in a host of fundraising activities helping to raise £51,392.75.

The money allows the Foundation to support young people as they develop new skills, rebuild their confidence and, where appropriate, return to education, training or employment.

“The money raised will make a huge difference to the lives of young people in Northamptonshire and beyond,” said the foundation’s managing director Catherine Deans.

Market conditions mean attractive opportunities are awaiting the long-term investor

2022 was a difficult year for investors as geopolitical tensions and a strong rebound in consumer demand fed through into elevated inflation expectations across key developed economies.

As headline inflation levels reached multi-decade highs, the Bank of England in December 2021 became the first developed economy central bank to raise interest rates, going on to raise rates at ten consecutive meetings thus far. The US Federal Reserve looked to aggressively raise interest rates as they took the US base rate from 0.10 per cent to 4.75pc as borrowing costs reached the highest level since 2007.

We expect 2023 to be a tale of two halves, with stronger than expected economic data out of the USA and Eurozone in January and February pointing to more work needing to be done in order to tame inflation. While January saw strong financial market performance as investors began to price in a pause in the Fed’s monetary policy tightening, a series of strong economic data dampened sentiment, weighing on fixed income and equity markets in February.

We still expect inflation levels to decline substantially as global inflationary pressure abate, with falling energy and food prices contributing to a decline in year-on-year comparisons and giving central banks the opportunity to pivot away from hiking interest rates. Ongoing resilience in key developed economies is expected to support global economic growth, potentially boosting risk asset prices over the coming year.

As the long-term economic outlook begins to brighten, diversification will be key as investors look to benefit from a peak in interest rates. Following somewhat stronger economic data than expected, a key question remains whether developed economies can escape recession in 2023 as household balance sheets remain stronger in comparison to previous recessionary environments.

The collapse last month of Silicon Valley Bank has increased concerns surrounding the impact of the aggressive monetary policy tightening implemented by

central banks so far, with volatility related to the bank’s collapse likely to reverberate across markets. While the news unsettled investors, it is important to note that we do not believe this presents a systemic risk to the wider financial sector, with SVB collapsing as a result of significant balance sheet mismanagement - which is specific to SVB and is not a wider issue.

Typically, rising interest rates occur during periods of economic strength, meaning increased rates may coincide with strong equity market performance. However, given the risk of inflation becoming entrenched in the economy, central banks have been forced to raise rates far more aggressively following over a decade of ultra-low interest rates.

energy exports may result in a more costly refill of natural gas reserves in Europe. With inflation remaining above central bank expectations in many developed economies, interest rates are increasing as economies slow, with China’s rapid reopening set to support global economic growth moving through 2023.

Central banks are being forced to tighten monetary policy despite weakening economic growth, although excess savings built up during the pandemic are currently sheltering households as consumer spending shows a level of resilience.

2022 was one of the most volatile years in recent history as a result of geopolitical tensions and macroeconomic headwinds. Investors were left with few places to hide as fixed income markets

inflation data alongside strong economic data make this a less predictable environment than many had believed moving into 2023. Investors have moved to price in further rate hikes by the US Fed and ECB in particular, which has weighed on financial markets in recent weeks following a strong start to the year.

While economic conditions remain challenging in 2023, it is our view that current market conditions present attractive opportunities for long-term investors. With equity markets reaching depressed valuations as key recessionary risks were priced in, this presents an attractive entry point for longterm investors.

European equities escaped a worst-case scenario as a mild winter fed through into a decline in natural gas prices, with ongoing economic resilience therefore resulting in a strong performance from European indices with European equities up by more than 14pc since falling to a yearly low in September 2022.

With interest rates expected to peak in the coming months, fixed income yields have become more attractive, offering a more attractive level of income in comparison to recent years while offering increased diversification and providing a level of protection during periods of negative investor sentiment should recessionary concerns grow as a result of the higher interest

rate path laid out by central banks.

While markets are likely to remain volatile in the short term, we are cautiously optimistic on market returns over the year. For this reason, the themes which we see as being key to navigating markets over the year are active portfolio management, diversification, quality and yield.

While higher rates are a positive for consumer savings accounts which benefit from the increased rates of return on their cash, the benefits of this tightening cycle have been significantly outweighed as rising energy and food prices have resulted in a drop in consumer disposable income levels. Mortgage rates have increased to their highest level since the 2008 financial crisis, further squeezing household balance sheets, which is preventing many consumers from benefiting from the increased savings rates.

Typically, a rising interest rate environment would be expected to weigh on global economic growth, feeding through into lower commodity prices and providing households with lower energy prices and cheaper fuel prices, further providing some benefits to households.

This interest rate hiking cycle, however, is not a typical one, with the war in Ukraine restricting commodity and grain supplies, while the ongoing ban on Russian

entered their first bear market in a generation and equities experienced significant declines, with commodities and the US dollar the best performing assets during the turbulent market conditions.

The difficulty for investors was highlighted by the performance of the 60/40 portfolio, which declined by around 20pc in 2022, meaning diversified longterm investors without active management strategies faced significant headwinds. More cautious investors were hit hardest as gilt markets, previously considered ‘low risk’, declined sharply following former Prime Minister Liz Truss’ minibudget and economic plan.

The rapid monetary tightening implemented by many central banks over the last year has forced investors to reevaluate asset valuations which are tied to assumptions surrounding interest rates, with a rerating of risks weighing on market returns in 2022.

Recent upside surprises in

Edd Gallus, associate global macroeconomic analyst at investment specialist OCM Wealth Management, assesses how higher interest rates can affect investment plans.

With interest rates expected to peak in the coming months, fixed income yields have become more attractive

Edd Gallus

SAXON BLINDS

Blinds built to meet education’s needs

For schools, academies, colleges and universities looking to invest in commercial child-safe blind systems, now is the perfect time to start planning for installations during all the main school holidays.

Saxon Blinds once again spent Easter, summer and the half-term holidays working on projects throughout the education sector, taking advantage of the buildings being empty to complete our works with the minimum fuss and disruption.

Many of the heavy duty blind systems we install in schools are transforming the performance and look of classrooms, school main halls, sports halls, making them more suited to modern technologies and the time now spent looking at screens. They can also increase the potential use of the building when it comes to hiring out to other outside groups or organisations , so increasing the opportunity to generate additional income into the school.

As well as modern blinds

systems that look better and work more efficiently than the traditional curtain systems, Saxon Blinds is also helping more and more education clients fit systems that can be deployed should there be a security breach.

Roller blinds can be instantly lowered where there are signs of intruders, or where there is a situation the might be upsetting to the children.

“Our bespoke systems are all manufactured in our Northampton factory and as such are built to suit any given situation,” said Saxon Blinds managing

n For more details contact Saxon Blinds on 01604 601888, email sales@saxonblinds.co.uk or visit www.saxonblinds.co.uk

director Mark Grainger.

“The are compliant with safety regulations, so there are no dangling cords or anything that might prove hazardous, and blinds systems are closely fitted to each individual window, leaving exit doors and fire exits clearly accessible.”

Saxon Blinds produces a complete range of products, offering choice, flexibility and competitive pricing, as well as a five-year guarantee on all commercial blinds.

All Saxon Blinds staff are DSB checked and part of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme.

Construction company Watson & Cox has begun work on the building of seven specialist new homes for a charity in Milton Keynes supporting adults with learning disabilities.

The firm, based in Wellingborough, is building the homes at Camphill MK’s two sites and is co-leading a campaign highlighting mental health in the construction sector.

Watson & Cox has previously delivered projects for educational institutions such as the Univeristy of Northampton, Oxford Brookes University, schools and residential developments. “We love projects like this with Camphill MK, where we get to engage with the end users and create something that will address a real need in the community,” said managing director Darren Wallace.

Alifestyle store in Northampton has invested in state-ofthe-art software to improve their customer experience.

Bell of Northampton, on Kingsthorpe Road, has introduced Brightpearl, a new retail operating system and advanced inventory planning to streamline inhouse processes.

All staff using the system are receiving continual ‘on the job’ training. It also allows management to deal with issues and circumstances as they occur.

The programme assists with the receiving and despatching of goods and generates shipping labels automatically. “Previously, the way we did things

could have meant a tripling of data entry for customer information,” said managing director Lee Ferris above, left. Bell’s accounts package will also be connected to Brightpearl so payments and reconciliation will be easier across all channels. “Brightpearl enables us to focus our manpower effectively,” said Mr Ferris. “The paradigm shift as such is to save time with automation coupled with transparency of stock allocation and handling. It is not what we could not do, it is how we were doing it. As we develop a deeper understanding of the system and discover the nuances, we will adapt and better our processes even further.”

Inspirational award winners: Community is so important

Meet the winners of this year’s Inspirational Women Awards, presented at Northampton’s Guildhall to mark International Women’s Day.

Becky Bradshaw, chief operating officer at the University of Northampton, won the business award.

“Working at the University of Northampton, I have the privilege to meet inspirational women every day who are taking advantage of the opportunities higher education offers to expand knowledge and experience,” said Ms Bradshaw, who has worked in higher education for more than 20 years.

“These are the entrepreneurs

and business leaders of tomorrow and my motivation.”

Community award winner Sally Jordan chairs Ecton Brook Residents’ Group. She has organised community initiatives including litter picking, Christmas events, games and activities for children, coffee mornings and a community garden and more. “Community is so very important to me. If you have a cohesive community, you are part of the way to alleviating so many of today’s problems,” she said. “I will continue to strive to make Ecton Brook a nice place to live for as long as I can.”

A Special Recognition

Award, sponsored by the council’s highway partner Kier, went to Julie Bainbridge. She has dedicated the last ten years of her life to the charity Baby Basics Northampton which supports new mothers and families who are struggling to meet the financial and practical burden of looking after a new baby.

“I feel passionate about communities and the environment, and that voluntary actions at the local level can make a positive difference to people’s everyday lives,” she said.

“It is great that awards like this exist to recognise such actions and I am grateful to the organisers and sponsors.”

The awards received more than 70 nominations. Each finalist received with a goodie bag including gifts from judges Natalie Faulkner from Beauty With Inn and Teresa McCarthy Dixon from the McCarthy Dixon Foundation as well as a professional headshot sponsored by creative agency Amplitude. West Northamptonshire Council chairman Cllr André González De Savage said:

“Each of the finalists deserve recognition for the hard work and commitment they have shown in their communities and I would like to thank them for their efforts to create an even better and stronger society for West Northants.”

Rotarian receives MBE for work with education charity in Africa

Voluntary work over 22 years with a UK charity that supports education in the former Swaziland in Africa has earned Keith Fossey a MBE. Mr Fossey, a member of the Rotary Club of Nene Valley, is pictured after receiving his MBE, awarded in the New Year’s Honours List, from The Princess Royal last month.

He has been chair of the charity Swaziland Schools Project for the past ten years and operations manager for 15. The charity raises money in the UK, which is used to

get children into education in the country now called Eswatini, helping them to escape poverty and towards a rewarding adult life. It pays school fees for orphans and vulnerable children and builds classrooms, toilets and teacher’s houses.

When Mr Fossey and his wife Liz made their first trip to Eswatini, the life expectancy was 30. It is now around 57 thanks to the greater availability of anti retro viral medicine to stop HIV developing into AIDS and because schools are educating children about it.

n Find out more at www.swazilandschoolsprojects.org. Learn more about the Rotary Club of Nene Valley at www. rotarynenevalley.org.uk

Something’s

It is proving a recipe for success…

A new menu, a proud use of local produce and a series of events are drawing visitors in their droves to Delapré Abbey.

The historic venue in Northampton is home to the award-winning Hibiscus restaurant, the popular Orangery café and Common Ground delicatessen. And visitors are lapping up the new fare produced by head chef Bart Polinski, assistant manager Lewis Bourke and their team.

Say hello, wave goodbye: All change to trust board at hospice

New trustees (from left) Katie Summerfield, Ros Doherty and Felix Connolly

Trustees Maxine Estop-Green and Daniel Freeland have stepped down from the Cransley Hospice Trust, which has also welcomed three new additions: Ros Doherty, Felix Connolly and Katie Summerfield. Board chair Paul Humphrey paid

The sales benefit directly Delapré’s community work and wellbeing programme now that the catering operation has been taken in house.

“To work more closely with this award-winning team is exciting,” said Delapré Abbey’s chief executive Richard Clinton. “Five years after opening, we have seen the Orangery, Hibiscus and Common Ground go from strength to strength.”

The Trust is keen to continue its work with Northamptonshire’s

Recognising that charity is serious business

tribute to the departing members, praising Ms Estop-Green’s work as vice chair and Mr Freeland’s expertise in marketing.

The three new board members are already volunteers at the hospice in Kettering. “All three are

already contributing enormously valuable skills at a time when our support for the development and delivery of the end of life care services for the community of North Northamptonshire is more important than ever,” said Mr Humphrey.

food and drink producers. “Delapré is so much more than a venue. It is a place which can showcase to visitors’ home-grown food and drink with great service and passion,” said Rachel Mallows, director of produce champion Made In Northamptonshire.

“I am over the moon that the trust are taking their catering in house as this really will help to promote the thriving food and drink offer here in Northamptonshire.”

Despite the change, it will be business as usual in the kitchens.

“We are so grateful to our local suppliers and to everyone who supports what we do and gives us such great feedback,” said Bart, who was named Whitco Chef of the Year at the 2022 Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards.

n Find out more and book at delapreabbey.org

cooking in the kitchen... and it’s fuelling the focus on county’s health and wellbeing

Bart Polinski (centre), Lewis Bourke and team member Demi Rogers

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