Business Times May 2022

Business Times Est. 1991

May 2022

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In print and online, Business Times is published in Northamptonshire for the county’s business community www.Business-Times.co.uk

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Appointments: The latest recruitments and promotions. P8

NE W S

The search is on for this year’s winners. P10

PR OP ER TY

Sustainability: The companies moving with the times. P16

FE ATU RE

The latest from the thriving property sector. P18-19

Q&A: PR boss Emma Speirs talks business... and herself. P21

Chris Walker is chief executive of Diamond Hard Surfaces, a specialist engineering company that has been exporting its products around the world since it was founded in 2004. Now the company’s success has been recognised with the winning of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade. Full story: Page 3.

Steel giant reveals more new investment in processing site New mill is part of Tata Steel’s plan for the long-term future of plant

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orthamptonshire has been given a vote of confidence by TATA Steel, the UK’s largest steelmaker, which is investing tens of millions in a new mill at its Corby site.

The site, which produces products for everything from sports stadia and skyscrapers such as The Shard in London to hospital beds and renewable green energy schemes around the world, processes steel made at Port Talbot in South Wales.

Now - in a further strengthening of its UK business - one of the four mills at Corby will be completely replaced with the best available technology leading to improved efficiency, reduced energy

consumption and better availability for customers.

Chief commercial officer Anil Jhanji said: “This key investment is part of the wider investment into our Corby site designed to give it the best possible future.

“We will continue to operate the current cold mill while the new one is built, ensuring there is no impact on our customers. The new mill will also allow us to explore additional market opportunities

while still serving our current customers.”

The new mill, which will roll steel into tubes which can be used in construction and engineering applications from farm machinery to bridges and heavy goods vehicles, is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.

TATA Steel has four mills on the site, the replacement will be one of the two cold mills. It will produce cold formed structural tubes in both round and rectangular sections, which are used extensively in the construction and engineering industries. The mill will be capable of producing around 300,000 tonnes of product.

Corby works manager Gary Blackman said: “This is an exciting investment which comes on the back of the recent £4 million we spent in a new stateof-the-art warehouse which is nearing completion.

Both projects form part of a wider £30 million transformation programme we are undertaking at Corby, consolidating the site on to a smaller footprint making our operations more efficient.”

Business News Tech cluster begins search for new chair

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ilverstone Technology Cluster and Silverstone Park have bade farewell to Roz Bird, who has taken up a new position as chief executive officer at Norwich Research Park.

She stepped down as STC chair last month but is continuing as an official ambassador. Silverstone Park has begun the search for her successor as commercial director.

STC chief executive Pim van Baarsen said: “The STC owes Roz a huge debt of gratitude for her incredible commitment and work.

“She was a real driving force behind the research that was integral to its launch in late 2016 and, of course, the founding of the STC organisation itself.

She has since helped to steer the STC, along with the board, onwards and upwards to the very strong position it finds itself in now.”

The cluster is now considering its options for the way forward, he added.

“We are delighted that Roz wishes to play a part in the STC’s future and that she will be joining our roster of influential ambassadors. We certainly wish her well in her new venture.

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ecruitment agency Robertson Bell has become an Employee Ownership Trust, EOT. The company, founded 15 years ago and working with clients in the public and notfor-profit sector, has recorded its best ever trading year and founder Stuart Bell has decided to sell the business to an EOT, enabling the staff to benefit from the company’s future success.

Move ‘has real potential to change their lives’, says founder Mr Bell will remain in place as chief executive as part of the deal.

He said: “Having spent 15 years building a business, one that is continually evolving and adapting to the ever-changing needs of the organisations it helps, the

To book space in a future edition or talk to us about your advertising plans call 01604 259900 or email news@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

time has come to transfer ownership to the those who have made Robertson Bell the success it has been; its people.

“Through an EOT we can empower staff with the knowledge that they will be the ones to benefit as the company continues to flourish.”

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“This of course means a new chapter for the STC. We will consider what are the best options for the STC and make an announcement in due course.”

Recruitment agency completes switch to employee ownership

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Roz Bird

EMPLOYER’S AGENT

Robertson Bell’s Midlands office is in the Innovation Centre in Northampton where it operates a team of 35 staff.

Including its two directors, who both joined as trainees.

The company’s emphasis on people is what has driven the value in the business, says Mr Bell.

Introduced in the Finance Act 2014, EOTs allow shares to be held on behalf of a company’s employees.

Robertson Bell EOT Limited will facilitate employee ownership of Robertson Bell, ensuring the staff benefit from company profits and the continued growth of the business. Employees become eligible to be beneficiaries of the trust after 12 months of service.

Mr Bell said: “We have successfully competed with London-based firms for 15 years and this is testament to the hard work of the team.

This company has not been built by experienced people; it has been built brick by brick by local people starting as trainees and it is their continued commitment that has spurred my decision to sell to an EOT. “The move will help protect our deep-rooted values, culture and emphasis on our people while being a unique opportunity for them to take on more responsibility and leadership. It has real potential to change their lives.”

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goodrichllp.com | 01604 859859 | admin@goodrichllp.com INDUSTRIAL | COMMERCIAL | EDUCATION | MULTI-ROOM RETIREMENT | OCCUPIER FIT-OUT | LEISURE | RETAIL

Stuart Bell

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Business News

Business Times: Support for business that is second to none

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re you recruiting? Looking for a job? Organising a business event about which you need to tell potential delegates? Business Times has the answer.

Northamptonshire’s longestestablished and most trusted business newspaper unveiled its new-look website in March, a move that has been received enthusiastically by the county’s business community.

It is full of the latest business news and thought-leadership articles from the leading businesses in Northamptonshire. Now the site brings even more value to the business community, with the

New website offers opportunities galore for county companies opportunity to post job vacancies and business events FREE. The process is a simple one: All you have to do is register and complete the easy-to-follow instructions to advertise your organisation’s job vacancies. It is exactly the same process to post details of a business event you are organising.

These will be published once they have been checked and the details approved by Business Times but the facility has been designed to increase still further the newspaper’s ongoing support for and championing of

the Northamptonshire business community.

“We have been delighted with the feedback to our new-look www. business-times.co.uk website,” says Martin Lewis-Stevenson, director of Business Times publisher Pulse Group Media. “Our clients had been clamouring for the site to be revived but we have taken our time to get it right and deliver exactly what the county’s brilliant business community wanted. We launched it once we were satisfied that it would meet their expectations and I’m so

pleased that it is doing just that.”

Add to that the opportunity for organisations to post job vacancies to local jobseekers and details of events to businesspeople eager to get back to face-to-face networking and www.business-times.co.uk is already proving to be the ‘one stop online shop’ for Northamptonshire business.

“It is what we are here for,” says Mr Lewis-Stevenson. “We have always set out to be the conduit through which business across Northamptonshire tells the rest of

the business community its news, success stories and announces new contracts, awards, appointments and so on.

“We have added the Jobs Board feature because we recognise the challenges employers face in recruiting and keeping the talent and skills they need to grow as they continue to bounce back after the pandemic. Also, networking is a proven way to develop new business and we are the perfect media to promote the opportunities for organisations to do just that.” n See for yourself at www.businesstimes.co.uk.

Engineering firm celebrates Queen’s Award for Enterprise International focus has paid off, says chief executive

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ocus on developing its international trade has paid rich dividends for a specialist engineering company.

Diamond Hard Surfaces, based at Towcester, produces high-performance, durable diamond-based engineering materials and coatings for advanced engineering markets such as aerospace, electronics and the oil and gas sector.

It supplies customers all over the world and such has been its growth over the past three years that the company is among the recipients of this year’s Queen’s Awards for Enterprise for International Trade.

Diamond Hard Surfaces has recorded consistently exceptional sales growth over the past three years.

Now chief executive Chris Walker intends to use the Queen’s Award to expand the company’s overseas activity even further.

“We have gone after our international business sector by sector,” said Mr Walker.

“We have built up a wealth of experience in international trade and have been trading with the USA, Australia and the Middle East since way before Brexit.”

Diamond Hard Surfaces has focused on its international trade since the business began in 2005 with the backing of Oxford Technology 4 VCT, a quoted venture fund specialising in the start-up and early stage technology sector.

Development of a unique process for the deposition

“It will give customers confidence that international trade is at the heart of what we do” of the extreme diamondlike carbon-based material was completed in 2009 and patented globally.

The material, Adamant®, gives extended life in high temperature, chemically aggressive and abrasive environments.

“We have always been internationally focused,” said Mr Walker, who also chairs the Federation of Small Businesses’ International Trade Policy Unit. “It is an important message to any start-up business, to look at developing international sales as well as those in the domestic market.

“I am passionate about international trade. It is in my psyche and it is a

great thing that UK plc is encouraging businesses to trade internationally.”

Becoming a recipient of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise will be a central part of Diamond Hard Surfaces’ marketing in the future.

“Winning the award gives us so much exposure,” said Mr Walker. “We have ambitious plans for growth and we want to expand into new markets.”

Sales administration manager Sally Bristow adds: “It will give customers confidence that international trade is at the heart of what we do and it recognises the focus that we have been able to give to business internationally. It reassures our customers existing and new that the company they are doing business with is a sustainable business.”

Diamond Hard Surfaces is one of 226 companies recognised in this year’s Queen’s Award for Enterprise list. Now in its 56th year, the awards are the most prestigious business awards in the country. Winning businesses can use the Queen’s Awards Emblem for the next five years.

Chris Walker and Sally Bristow with the team at Diamond Hard Surfaces

Components with Diamond Hard Surfaces’ coatings are being used by blue chip companies in 22 countries. The technology is patent-protected and the company has developed its own manufacturing process at its current headquarters at Caswell Science & Technology Park.

It has since gained ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 status and has won awards including Small Company of the Year at the British Engineering Excellence Awards and FSB East Midlands Business Exporter of the Year, both in 2017.

To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

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Business News

Chamber showcase puts the best in business in the spotlight

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lans are under way for the Milton Keynes Business Showcase event being hosted by Milton Keynes Chamber of commerce next month.

The event takes place on June 9, with doors opening at 10am at Kents Hill Park Training & Conference Centre.

The Chamber’s deputy chief executive Julie Maclennan said: “Following the success of our previous Milton Keynes Business Showcase event, we are excited to return at a new venue to allow the local business community to showcase, network and make new connections.”

Exhibition stands are available for Chamber members on a first come, first served basis.

The Business Showcase begins with a Business Before Hours networking event from 8.30am with a breakfast and networking opportunity for attendees to meet up to 50 business contacts before the Business Showcase opens.

Business MK is the official media partner for the Business Showcase, which is sponsored by Chamber platinum partner 123 Internet Group and Chamber gold business partner Right Digital Solutions.

“I cannot wait to attend the upcoming Milton Keynes showcase,” said 123 Internet managing director Scott Jones. “The event will be a

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fantastic chance for local businesses to network and meet other likeminded professionals. These Chamber of Commerce events are always well attended.

“As a Chamber Platinum Partner, I am excited to meet all the attendees and find out more about their products and services. With breakfast networking and seminars, it is a perfect chance to learn, collaborate and exchange ideas between members.”

Tim Hubbard, sales and marketing director at Right Digital Solutions, added: “It is a great opportunity to meet fellow members and the local business community. Since joining, we have been unable to connect with like-minded peers at events such as these so we are really excited to be a part of this showcase.”

Right Digital Solutions will also offer all visitors a complimentary Digital Health Check for their business. n Prices for Business Before Hours are £10 + VAT Chamber members; non-members £15 + VAT. To book, visit www.chambermk.co.uk./ events. n To book an exhibition stand, call 01908 733082 or email events@chambermk.co.uk.

Labels firm on the move as growth plans continue

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abelling specialist AM Labels has moved to new premises in Kettering as the company bids to deliver on its expansion plans.

The new site on the Telford Way Industrial Estate is more than twice the size of the company’s previous facilities.

The relocation comes after several years of continued and steady growth, particularly across the company’s colour label printer offering and demand for its in-house label production services.

The larger premises will enable AM Labels, founded in 1996, to further develop

and expand its portfolio, increase its operations and boost production capacity for its customers. AM Labels also plans to increase its workforce to support the growing demand for its products and services.

Sales and marketing manager Brendon Bass said: “The driving force behind our relocation was to enable us to significantly expand our business operations, increase our product offering and provide greater options and convenience for our customers.”

The new premises includes a larger label production area

and extended storage space where the company can. Sales, marketing, technical support and accounts departments work from a modern openplan office area alongside meeting rooms and an openplan kitchen area. The site also features an outdoor courtyard area, which will be used for events and by employees.

A new Technical Experience Centre is due to open later this year, created as part of a full renovation of the building since its purchase last year.

The centre will showcase the company’s expanding range of printing, scanning and RFID equipment.

For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

Business News Conference focuses on the digital future

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eet a delivery robot, try out an e-scooter and swim with dolphins in Virtual Reality at Merged Futures 4, the fourth annual tech innovation showcase event organised by Digital Northants.

Merged Futures takes place at the Learning Hub at the University of Northampton’s Waterside Campus on June 17, bringing together Northamptonshire’s innovators, educators and entrepreneurs.

It is also an opportunity for the business community to discover some of the University of Northampton’s innovative teaching methods, the skills developed by students and the potential to partner and collaborate with the university.

Cllr David Brackenbury, North Northamptonshire Council’s executive member for growth and regeneration, said: “This is an excellent collaboration between the public and private sectors and an exciting way of stimulating connections to drive forward the economy and find creative solutions to a range of issues.”

Cllr Lizzy Bowen, West Northamptonshire Council’s cabinet member for economic development, town centre regeneration and growth, added: “We are well connected, home to inventors and entrepreneurs and events like these bring them together to ensure Northamptonshire remains at the heart of the UK economy.”

In the exhibition space, organisations will demonstrate their work, from the use of Virtual Reality technology in healthcare to how the Internet of Things can boost wellbeing.

There will be an advice hub for business owners to explore how they can use the technology on display in their own organisations. There will be sessions to inspire the next generation of digital and tech talent, including topics as varied as setting up a new games design company, how to get ahead in digital marketing and the Chester House Estate’s future plans to bring its Roman town to life.

Lotus contract win prompts factory move A Midlands presence important to growth, says MD

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parts manufacturer supplying leading brands in the automotive sector has moved into new premises in Wellingborough.

BCW Manufacturing Group, based in Burnley, has taken a ten-year lease on the unit on the Park Farm Industrial Estate.

It is one of only a few facilities in the UK and Europe that is capable of anodising aluminium parts to the required high standard for structural bonding to be used in the automotive industry. BCW Manufacturing Group recently won the contract from Lotus Lightweight Structures - the previous tenant of the property - to take over the plant and continue supplying Lotus Cars as well as Aston Martin.

It will also service a growing demand from electric vehicles manufacturers and overseas markets.

In the early 2000s Lotus Lightweight Structures developed a strategic relationship with Aston Martin to construct an anodising process specifically to address bonding strengths and quality of anodized chassis parts. This resulted in Lotus signing an occupational lease for the

BCW’s new facility at Wellingborough facility at Wellingborough in 2009.

Before its acquisition by Lotus Lightweight Structures, the building was home to Sport Carrier, a specialist in luggage carrier systems and a Tier 1 supplier of aluminium power coated roof rails assemblies for Vauxhall Opel.

Taking the unit at Wellingborough will more than double BCW’s anodising capacity, said Claire Whelan, managing director of BCW’s parent company the Ansuka Group.

“This site is just the right fit for us and having a Midlands presence is strategically important to our longterm vision in BCW’s growth,” she added. “Wellingborough now enhances and strengthens BCW capabilities.”

BCW is taking on 20 employees already at the Wellingborough facility.

New owners complete engineering firm buyout

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ew owners of a powder coating company have promised it is ‘business as usual’ following a management buy-out.

Directors Giles Ashmead and Richard Besant, with the support of Cordovan Capital Partners, have completed the MBO of Powdertech (Corby) Ltd from the company’s founder and retiring managing director Martyn Green.

In a company statement the owners said: “We are excited to announce the next chapter in the growth of Powdertech (Corby) Limited. Giles and Richard will continue to lead the team and for customers and suppliers it is ‘business as usual’. There is no change

The move grows BCW to more than 300 staff and gives it manufactuiring premises in the UK of around 310,000 sq ft.

“We have been busy working to ensure the transition to BCW is as smooth as possible,” said Ms Whelan.

“We have a fantastic team to help deliver this and we are looking forward to running the first programmes from the new site.

“Anodising is the perfect treatment for lightweight sports vehicles such as the Lotus Emira. We offer an aluminium anodising service of the highest standard, providing an end product for lightweight bonded aluminium structures where bond durability and corrosion resistance are equally critical. BCW offers added

focus on enhanced sustainability of the anodising process, which this site delivers to.”

The site totals more than 3.5 acres. The facility itself is a secure, self-contained warehouse providing industrial and ancillary office accommodation which has been extensively fitted out by Lotus during its time in occupation with continuous technology updates.

Northampton-based property specialist Prop-Search, acting on behalf of the landlord, secured the letting of the 55,900 sq ft facility.

BCW is a leading supplier of machined and treated parts for iconic brands such as Jaguar Land Rover, Perkins Diesel Engines, Aston Martin Lagonda, LEVC and Borg Warner.

IT’S NOT JUST A JOB.

to the organisation or operation of the business.”

The new owners plan to continue the company’s expansion in providing innovative finishes, technical solutions and high-quality products to the architectural market.

In their statement, they said: “We are ‘chuffed’ that we will be continuing the great work that Martyn Green has done since he started Powdertech in Corby in 1989. Martyn is one of the giants on whose shoulders we have been privileged to stand.”

Mr Green will continue to work with Powdertech’s former sister company Powdertech Surface Science, based in Bicester.

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.

“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.”

n Merged Futures 4 takes place on June 17, 10am-3.30pm, and KEEP UP WITH THE TIMES... is free to attend. To book tickets, For the very latest Northamptonshire business news, visit www.digitalnorthampton. visit www.business-times.co.uk Business Times small add 2019.qxp_Layout 1 18/01/2022 15:33 Page 9 com/mergedfutures

Jennie Jahina Head of Employment

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For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

Business News

Fulfilment firm targets growth in the USA

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assive expansion in the USA is set to follow major investment in its fulfilment site by a Northamptonbased company.

Increases in international shipping costs into the USA have highlighted the benefits of domestic shipping for e-commerce firms and outsourced fulfilment services provider James and James has unveiled a major expansion of its American base in Ohio.

The site is now almost three times as large at 80,000 sq ft and means that James and James can support its clients selling into the US market. It allows the company to protect customers from changes in international shipping with increased options on where to ship from. Retailers can trade

Site expansion aims to meet demand from UK retailers more confidently and efficiently, the company said, with reduced delivery times, greater reliability and at a lower cost. Brands such as Frenchie Bulldog, Crafted London and Lisa Eldridge depend on James and James to enable them to sell to the lucrative US market.

The move has also created 15 new jobs.

Chief executive Emma Dempsey said: “The US provides a great additional market for UK retailers, with many shifting their focus from

Chief executive Emma Dempsey the EU to US after Brexit. This new fulfilment centre provides the certainty and cost benefits of domestic shipping to businesses who are trying to reach or grow in that region.

“Ohio is not only well-placed to serve the East Coast population but is also within a one-day drive to most major populaces. Offering clients access to a strong technology platform and multiple sites from which to trade and ship internationally provides greater protection from changes in international trade, and reduces shipping costs and time to market for those trying to scale.”

This new Ohio facility currently employees 37 full-time employees.

James and James is also looking to open a new fulfilment centre on the West Coast, while continuing to grow operations in the UK and EU, among other regions globally. It also has a European site in The Netherlands.

Celebration as Tesco awards major regional distribution contract

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reight firm XPO Logistics has won a major new contract to manage Tesco’s chilled distribution to stores in the North West of England.

Under the new agreement, XPO will be responsible for temperaturecontrolled transport using XPO fleet and drivers despatched from Tesco’s distribution centre at Widnes in Cheshire.

XPO, whose headquarters are at Crick, has provided non-food transport services to Tesco UK for more than 25

years. The company deploys a fleet of tanker trucks and specially trained drivers to collect fuel at 15 refineries and deliver it to nearly 500 filling stations across the UK. Dan Myers, XPO Logistics’ Managing Director - UK and Ireland, said: “Tesco and XPO have built trust between our two businesses over many years by working together to ensure a robust supply chain. We believe this has created a solid foundation for the future development of our partnership.”

The two companies will also work

To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

together on a plan for a carbonneutral or carbon-negative solution that supports Tesco’s sustainability objectives. In 2009, Tesco became the first business globally to set a goal of becoming net-zero carbon by 2050.

Mr Myers said: “Providing transport operations at Widnes distribution centre is a natural evolution in our relationship, and we look forward to supporting Tesco in delivering this next phase in their logistics strategy.”

XPO provides technology-enabled freight transportation solutions for customers across a range of supply chains in Europe, including food and beverage, e-commerce, industrial and consumer goods, as well as for the Tour de France and other world-class events.

A bridge so far for corporates and F1 fans

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steel and glass bridge, featuring digital screens, has been installed at the Silverstone Circuit making the Silverstone International Conference and Exhibition Centre more accessible for all who use the venue.

Motorsport fans, corporate delegates and Formula 1 teams will all benefit from the bridge which is due to open this summer.

The bridge, which spans the Hamilton Straight startfinish line, provides a direct walkway between the Hilton Garden Inn, due to open later this year, and the conference and exhibition centre, known as The Wing.

Silverstone managing director Stuart Pringle said: “This has been an eagerly anticipated moment. I am delighted that these original plans have come to fruition.”

Head of sales Hayley Smith added: “Many of our clients and delegates currently travel for overnight accommodation.

Now they can simply use the bridge, the prospect of which has already seen us experience an increase in bookings.”

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Appointments Yusen confirms new MD in post

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ransport and logistics provider Yusen Logistics has appointed David Goldsborough as its UK managing director. Mr Goldsborough is based at the company’s UK headquarters in Northampton. and has worked in the Yusen Logistics

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group since the acquisition of Tibbett Logistics in 2017. he had been Regional Managing Director for Yusen Logistics in Central and Eastern Europe since January 2020.

“I am delighted to have this opportunity,” says Mr Goldsborough inset, who took up his new role in February.

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T Dan Hawkes

Architecture specialist makes partner

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is work growing the firm’s architectural team has earned Dan Hawkes promotion to fixed profit share partner at property firm Berrys.

Mr Hawkes is a senior architectural technologist at Berrys’ Kettering office which he joined in December 2020. He began his career at a national firm of chartered surveyors and, by the age of 22, became the youngest chartered architectural

technologist in the UK. He now has more than a decade’s experience in designing and delivering rural, residential and heritage projects across the country.

Berrys Managing Partner Matthew Anwyl said: “Dan has made significant contributions to the business and have been instrumental in developing and growing his area of work. He is an excellent role model and ambassador for the business.”

rainee lawyer Beth Kay has passed the distinguished Chartered Institute of Legal Executives exams.

Beth, who works in the wills and probate team at Northamptonshire law firm Wilson Browne Solicitors, completed her Level Six CILEx exams to qualify as a graduate member of the association.

She is the first of several employees at the firm taking a different route to qualify, choosing not to attend university but starting at the firm in the new enquiries team.

Beth pictured joined Wilson Browne in 2017 and was then offered a fully funded exam place, allowing her to access specialist law training while working in the wills and probate team.

“The support from the firm has been fantastic allowing me to study while gaining

n Solicitor Rachel Hawkins (right) has returned to Wilson Browne as a partner in the private client department in Wellingborough.

She joined the firm as a trainee and returns a fully accredited member of Solicitors for the Elderly and a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners. She is also a Notary Public.

Ukraine appeal: Brackmills businesses show their support for aid initiative

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unding, food, medical supplies and baby clothes… just a few of the items businesses on Brackmills are donating to the Northampton Supports Ukraine appeal.

The appeal, to support people in Ukraine and refugees in Poland, is being led by Northamptonbased logistics company Goodwill Solutions and supported by Brackmills Business Improvement District, West Northamptonshire Council and other local organisations.

Brackmills BID Chief Executive Sara Homer is pictured with John Sheriff, Group Development Director of Goodwill Solutions, at the launch of the appeal.

“This is a humanitarian project that we all need to get behind and support,” she said. “Ten trucks have already taken equipment, food and other essentials over to Poland and into areas of Ukraine. We need to do more.

Each journey takes around 31 hours, with each truck making the trip costing €2,000, she added.

As well as financial donations, the Northampton Supports Ukraine Appeal is in need of first aid kits and medical supplies, clothing, tinned food, and baby products, of which the appeal is particularly short.

“Families with young babies are arriving in Poland without clothes, food and even shoes so please donate if you can,” said Mr Sheriff. n To donate products, visit Goodwill Solutions, 1056 Deer Park Road, NN3 6R between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. Call 01604 422464 on arrival. n There is a dedicated bank account for financial donations. Name: Goodwill Solutions CIO. Sort code: 20-90-08. Account number: 63993264.

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experience within my role in the wills and probate team,” said Beth. “I am immensely proud of my achievements and thrilled to have become a graduate member of Institute of Chartered Legal Executives.”

CILEx is a professional association of more than 20,000 Chartered Legal Executives lawyers, paralegals and legal practitioners in England and Wales.

EVENT FOR BRACKMILLS BUSINESSES COUNTER TERRORISM BRIEFING May 19 10am - 2:30pm Wootton Community & Sports Centre Brackmills has teamed up with Northamptonshire Police to run this half-day counter terrorism briefing. This is a free event for all Brackmills based businesses.

This informative workshop will outline threats, the importance of protecting sites, security measures for the industry, what to do in the event of an incident and how to respond to an incident.

Topics on the agenda include: n

The threats and mitigation advice;

n Outline of the threats, including those from vehicles’ n Protective security (Speaker: A government seciurity advisor); n

Protecting sites, staff and assets;

n What to do in the event on an incident and how to respond; n Counter-terrorism awareness advice for staff and contractors; n The Civil Contingencies Secretariat: How it can support you; The Cross-sector Safety and Security Communications East Midlands Region was established in December 2017 and covers Northamptonshire and its neighbouring counties of Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.

The group works in partnership with key public and private sector organisations in the region to provide local business with proactive security advice, to help improve their business resilience, and reactive security information, when there has been a major incident.

Sara Homer, Chief Executive of Brackmills BID, launches the Northampton Supports Ukraine Appeal with John Sheriff ,of Goodwill Solutions

Reserve your place at https://counterterrorism2022.eventbrite.co.uk

For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

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9

Business News

Shop locally, buy locally, eat locally

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ew categories and a new sponsor…

The Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards is back for its 14th year.

The awards recognise and celebrate excellence within the Northamptonshire food and drink sector.

And this year’s competition features introduction of two debut categories: the Healthy Food and Wellbeing Award, which welcomes a fresh sponsor Delapré Abbey, and the Farming Environmental Award sponsored by Weetabix for the Weetabix Growers Group.

Weetabix is also headline sponsor of the awards for a third year - a sign of the Burton Latimer company’s commitment to the county’s flourishing food and drink sector. The breakfast giant will once again be joined by existing category sponsors Booker, British Pepper & Spice, Daily Bread, Whitco, Heygates Flour and Animal Feed, Howes Percival LLP, Moulton College and Whitworth Bros Ltd Flour Millers.

Launching the 2022-23 awards at The Falcon Hotel

Organisers and sponsors champion the county’s food and drink producers at the launch of the 2022-23 Weetabix Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards

John Petre, supply chain, procurement and technical director at Weetabix launches the 2022-23 awards in Castle Ashby, We e t a b i x ’s supply chain, procurement and technical director John Petre said: “The Farming

“We look forward to supporting the sector by celebrating the sector.”

Environment Award is an exciting new category, along with the Healthy Food and Wellbeing Award sponsored

by Delapre Abbey - both of which capture the importance of sustainability.

“Weetabix is proud to once again be the headline sponsor for the Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards and we look forward to supporting the sector by celebrating the sector.”

The Farming Environmental Award aims to celebrate the work of the members of the Weetabix Growers’ Group, who provide wheat from within a 50-mile radius of the Burton Latimer site. The award will champion those farmers who are reducing the environmental impact of growing wheat, Mr Petre added.

The full details of the latest competition were revealed by awards director Rachel Mallows, including a change to the Café award, a category now named Community Café of the Year to celebrate great cafes and tea roomsooms that also support their local communities.

“We are asking our foodies of the county to buy local, shop local and eat locally and help the sector not just recover but thrive after the past two years,” Ms Mallows said.

Zak Perrin (second from right) at the awards launch

‘It has opened my eyes to producers on our doorstep’ Zak Perrin, owner and chef of The Falcon Inn at Fotheringay won a Gold award at the 2021-22 awards.

“Winning Gold at the Food & Drink Awards is my proudest achievement in my career,” he said. “It has been a great thing for the business and for myself personally. It has also opened my eyes to the producers we have on our doorstep locally and a great network.”

Previous Gold award winner Simon Derrick from food manufacturer Blue Skies said:

“I have always been aware of a strong food and drink sector in Northamptonshire but I do not think I was ever aware of just how much is here.

“You really get a sense of the passion, enthusiasm and the skills, whether it is the restaurants, food producers, or local pubs.

“The enthusiasts you have around food and drink in this county is amazing and I think we need to do more to celebrate that and to champion it across the county and further afield.”

THE CATEGORIES Artisan Local Drink of the Year Artisan Local Product of the Year

Sponsor: Heygates Flour and Animal Feed

Artisan Local Vegetarian / Vegan Product of the Year Sponsor: Daily Bread

Booker Dining Venue of the Year Sponsor: Booker

Booker Young Chef of the Year Sponsor: Booker

Community Café of the Year Supported by The Good Loaf

Farming Environment Award

Sponsor: Weetabix Growers Group

F&B Achiever of the Year

Sponsor: Howes Percival LLP

Food and Drink College Student of the Year Healthy Food and Wellbeing Award Sponsor: Delapré Abbey

Local Food Hero of the Year Sponsor: Moulton College

One To Watch

Sponsor: Whitworth Bros. Ltd Flour Millers

Flashback to the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards dinner and ceremony in 2021at The Royal & Derngate The Gold, Silver and Bronze award recipients will be announced at the Awards ceremony on October 20 at The Royal & Derngate Theatre in Northampton.

For more details on the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards 2022/23, including entry and nomination forms,

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visit www.northamptonshirefoodanddrink.co.uk, email sophie@ themallowscompany.com or call Sophie on 01933 664437.

Follow the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards on Facebook at @foodawards or Twitter and Instagram at @ foodawardsHQ or on LinkedIn at @weetabixnfadawards

Weetabix Sustainability Award Sponsor: Weetabix Whitco Chef of the Year Sponsor: Whitco

World Cuisine Restaurant of the Year Sponsor: British Pepper & Spice

For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

Business News

Howzat! County cricket celebrates sponsor bonanza

Memorial plan to teachers killed by asbestos

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ork has begun to create a lasting memorial to the hundreds of UK teachers who have died as a result of exposure to asbestos.

Northampton-based asbestos consultancy Acorn Analytical Services launched the memorial project during Global Asbestos Awareness Week to highlight the issue of asbestos and the danger it poses to staff and children.

Surveys have revealed that more than 80 per cent of UK schools still contain asbestos and, according to the National Education Union, more than 200 teachers have died from the asbestos-related disease mesothelioma in the past 20 years.

Speaking at the project’s launch in Global Asbestos Awareness Week, Acorn director Neil Munro said: “People are always shocked to learn that teachers and children are being put at risk by asbestos in our schools every day.

“Tragically, it is well documented that teachers and pupils have a heightened risk of contracting mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos fibres in the school environment. In fact, the risk to teachers is three to five times that for

O Acorn Analytical Services directors Neil Munro (right) and Ian Stone other workplaces.

“Teachers are losing their lives from acts as simple as pinning up work on noticeboards because they are unaware that they contain asbestos.”

Asbestos was widely used in school buildings between the 1940s and 1980s and regularly used in construction in the UK up until 1999, when it was banned. The likelihood of asbestos being present in educational buildings built before 2000 remains high, according to Acorn Analytical. The company launched its Asbestos in Schools campaign on World Teachers Day in October last year.

“Now we want to take that a stage further,” said Mr Munro. “What we

want to do next is to pay tribute to teachers who have lost their lives because of asbestos by creating a lasting online memorial to them.

Acorn Analytical is inviting families of former teachers who have died as a result of asbestos to submit a short biography and a photograph of their loved one for the memorial, which is expected to go online later this year. To contribute to the memorial project email south@ acornasbestos.co.uk.

“We want the memorial to ensure they will not be forgotten and we also hope their stories will encourage people to be more proactive when it comes to tackling asbestos in schools with which they have links,” said Mr Munro.

incredibly successful winter for the club and it is really pleasing to have so many exciting partnerships, both new and some that have supported us for nearly 15 years. Looking back to a point where we were weeks from closing our doors and comparing that to where the club is today is an incredible change.”

To support Northamptonshire’s next generation of cricketers, cinch is to provide a minibus for pathway and academy squads to travel to training, fixtures and events.

Mr Vernon said: “The ongoing development of our player pathway from the grassroots up is a core focus for us and cinch have been really supportive in ensuring the relationship brings advantages for all our players, not just the first team.” cinch partnership manager Aaron Cort said: “We are delighted to grow our sports porfolio in Northamptonshire with the addition of NCCC and are looking forward to supporting the club across all levels of cricket, engaging with fans and the local community.”

nline car retailer cinch has agreed a deal to be lead principal partner at Northamptonshire County Cricket Club.

The multi-year deal has been confirmed ahead of the 2022 season.

The cinch brand purple will be prominent around Wantage Road with the newly named cinch stand and signage along the eastern side of the ground.

The deal is the highlight of the most commercially successful preseason in the club’s history. cinch already has a huge presence across Northamptonshire with the cinch stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, home of Northampton Saints rugby, and having funded the all-weather pitch at Northampton School for Boys.

The deal with cinch is the latest in a series of new and expanded partnerships for Northamptonshire with more local and national businesses partnered with the club than ever before.

The club’s commercial manager Daviel Vernon said: “It has been an

The whole world has changed.

WE HAVEN’T (We’re still all the help you need.)

No matter what stage of life your business is at, regardless of size, our team of specialist solicitors has a wealth of experience and a proven track record in advising on Commercial and Business Law.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: Corporate & Commercial | Commercial Property Buying or Selling a Business | Debt Recovery Dispute Resolution & Litigation | Employment Law

0800 088 6004 | enquiries@wilsonbrowne.co.uk | wilsonbrowne.co.uk To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

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11

Legal Briefing

Insolvency opens the door to compromise and settlement The perfect storm of price increases, inflation and the war in Ukraine may be too much for some businesses to withstand.

However, help is at hand, says solicitor David Farmer, of the commercial litigation team at Wilson Browne Solicitors.

J

ust when you thought the pandemic was largely behind us and businesses were looking forward to something resembling normality, we have been hit with huge cost of living increases, cost push inflation, the prospect of arguably the worst scenario of ‘stagflation’ and, of course, a conflict on our doorstep leading to supply chain issues and volatile markets.

For many businesses it is tough and some will inevitably hit the rocks but ‘Insolvency’ is not a bad word: it opens the doors for negotiation, compromise and settlement.

Recent statistics from the government suggest you should arm yourself with a good insolvency lawyer if the need arises. The number of registered company insolvencies in February 2022 was 1,515 - this is 13 per cent higher than in February 2020 pre-pandemic and more than double the number of insolvencies recorded in February 2021.

This is likely to increase with the moratorium on the use of statutory

demands and the presentation of winding up having come to an end on March 31 this year.

Creditors Voluntary Liquidations were also 125pc higher than in February 2021 at 1,329 and 40pc higher than in February 2020.

If you find yourself in an insolvency situation, Wilson Browne Solicitors can help. We act for directors, entrepreneurs, sole practitioners… just about anyone who needs specialist help and advice.

With a knack for seeing all sides of an insolvency situation and an inclination for producing effective and creative solutions, the team provides quick, clear and commercial advice to company directors, insolvency practitioners, creditors and debtors alike.

We usually help clients via: n Avoiding or reducing personal liability; n Defending claims from office holders such as transactions at undervalue, wrongful trading and transactions to the detriment of the

Setting up a new business is an exciting time. If you are launching your new venture with one or more colleagues, it is imperative to decide how you are going to structure it legally. One popular option is that of a partnership business, of which there are three types in the UK:

David Farmer Crown etc; n Disqualification proceedings; n Employment law and insolvency; n The issue of winding-up petitions; n Defending winding-up petitions.

Wilson Browne are recognised experts in the funding of cases such as these under Conditional Fee (no win, no fee) Agreements and with delegated authority from Temple Legal Protection Limited they can offer a no cost risk insolvency practitioners on unsuccessful cases.

The first chat is always free.

Call Wilson Browne Solicitors’ commercial litigation team on 0800 088 6004.

n Ordinary partnerships; n Limited partnerships; n Limited Liability Partnerships.

Tom Bodkin, a solicitor in the corporate and commercial team with Borneo Martell Turner Coulston outlines the pros and cons of each.

The journey begins... but get the structure right

T

here are several commonalities between the three types of partnership, he says; for example the partners of each will share the risks, costs, and responsibilities.

up. Also, accounts do not need to be made publicly available.

Cons All partners are jointly and severally liable for any debts and obligations of the partnership as a whole.

Which type of partnership type is best for me?

Limited Liability Partnership Governed by the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2000, LLPs are a mixture of an ordinary partnership structure and a private limited company.

Pros Members are not personally liable for any debts incurred by the partnership and unlike an ordinary partnership, fiduciary duties are usually owed to the LLP, not other members.

Cons running an LLP involves onerous duties, similar to running an incorporated company such as

Ordinary partnership The most popular form of partnership in the UK is an ‘ordinary partnership’.

Each partner acts on behalf of the other partners when negotiating with outside parties and all partners owe each other a fiduciary duty, as laid out by the Partnership Act 1890.

Pros Since they are not incorporated, ordinary partnerships lack the formality of a limited company and tend to be easier and cheaper to start

Wealth management firm sells majority stake

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ccountancy firm MHA MacIntyre Hudson has taken a majority stake in Northampton-based wealth management and independent financial advice specialist Cave & Sons.

Cave & Sons will be renamed MHA Caves Wealth as a result of the deal, which has the approval of the Financial Conduct Authority.

Its investment managers and financial advisers will work with MHA MacIntyre Hudson’s private wealth client teams across the firm’s regional offices.

The deal is in response to increasing client demand for an integrated private wealth service, which incorporates discretionary and advisory wealth management alongside tax planning and other accounting and advisory services.

Chief executive Simon Harvey said: “This deal enables MHA MacIntyre Hudson and MHA Caves Wealth to become a ‘one-stop shop’

Simon Harvey

for both new and existing clients’ wealth management needs. We aim to provide the full range of planning, advisory and wealth management services that business owners and high-net worth individuals require.

“The partnership between MHA MacIntyre Hudson and MHA Caves Wealth is also a springboard for future expansion. With MHA MacIntyre Hudson’s network of offices and clients throughout the UK and the skill and experience of its private client team behind us, MHA Caves Wealth can look forward to bringing our wealth management services to clients across the country.”

Cave & Sons is one of the UK’s oldest wealth management firms.

Founded in 1906, it specialises in the provision of discretionary and advisory wealth management and of independent financial advice. MHA MacIntyre Hudson is the largest member of MHA, the network of accountancy firms that together form the UK’s 12th largest accountancy group.

Rakesh Shaunak, group chairman of MHA MacIntyre Hudson and MHA, said: “Increasingly, owner-managers and high net worth individuals want to see a comprehensive and fully integrated range of advisory and investment services from their providers. In addition, they want a highly personal, tailored wealth management service, responsive to specific individual needs with the highest levels of client service. Our partial acquisition of Cave & Sons, now MHA Caves Wealth, further strengthens our ability to provide this service.”

Lawyers join housing firm’s legal panel

Tom Bodkin annual filings and disclosing income.

Limited partnership Governed by the Limited Partnerships Act 1907, limited partnerships were popular in the 1980s, but waned in popularity when they became more heavily regulated.

Pros they have informal articles of association and can therefore be set up relatively quickly.

Cons a limited partnership must be registered with Companies House and a number of relevant business permits and licences must be obtained, which can be costly.

n Whatever partnership you opt for, it is important to have a partnership or a LLP agreement in place. Setting this up can be complicated so it is highly recommended that you consult a specialist solicitor before you embark on your new venture. For further information, contact Tom Bodkin at Borneo Martell Turner Coulston on 01604 622101 or email tom.bodkin@bmtclaw.co.uk

H

ousing and care provider Anchor has appointed regional law firm Howes Percival to its legal panel.

The firm, with offices in Northampton and Milton Keynes, joins fellow firms Gowling WLG, Capsticks, Devonshires, Freeths, Trowers & Hamlins and Walker Morris. The panel will run for an initial period of three years and provide full service legal advice.

Anchor is England’s largest notfor-profit provider of housing and care for people in later life and serves more than 65,000 residents in 54,000 care homes across almost 1,700 locations.

Emma Costello, Anchor’s head of legal, said: “We have secured a new legal services panel with sector-leading advisers supporting us operationally as well as assisting in the delivery of our progressive

Robert Starr growth programme to continue to provide homes where people love living in later life.”

Howes Percival partner Robert Starr said: “Our healthcare team has a particular strength in working with businesses in the care industry and this panel appointment is testament to our expertise in this area. We are excited to build on this and work with the other panel firms to support Anchor in achieving its future goals.”

For expert local opinion on legislation and regulations affecting Northamptonshire business, visit www.business-times.co.uk 12

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For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

Advertisement Feature

Silver service: The driving force behind vehicle leasing celebrates 25 years in business

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ix Prime Ministers have been in office. Five different nations have won football’s World Cup. Seven different teams - including two based in Northamptonshire - have won the F1 championship in motor racing. There has been change aplenty in the past quarter-century and the same applies Samantha Miles (left) and Lynette Randall toast 25 years in business to the world of vehicle leasing.

From what was a fairly straightforward proposition, the focus today has turned to issues such as benefit in kind taxation, road tax bands, carbon dioxide emissions and electric vehicles.

“So much has changed in the world of hiring and leasing,” says Lynette Randall, founder of leasing specialist Alpha Contracts. “Technology has moved forward in terms of greener cars with lower emissions, electric cars are becoming more common on our roads and people are more aware of the effect their motoring has on the environment. Coupled with that, the government has brought in legislation to limit emissions and the more environmentally friendly your vehicle, the better your tax bill, whether that is in benefit in kind or road tax.”

The entire car industry has changed since Lynette founded Alpha Contracts with her co-director Samantha Miles in 1997. From its original offices in Wellingborough Road, Northampton, Alpha Lynette Randall, Samantha Miles and the Alpha Contracts team outside the company’s Upton offices.

Contracts’ aim was to provide fleet solutions that took the hassle away from the client and provided them with a straightforward way of buying or leasing company cars and vans.

The good news is, however, that Alpha Contracts has remained ahead of the game on all these changes and more, ensuring the process remains as smooth and worry-free for its clients as it possibly can be.

Today, from its current premises in Park View, Upton, the company sources any Above: Rowena Cooper and Alex Bates from the Alpha Contracts sales team. Above right: Sales manager Justine Tompkins vehicle, any model, new or nearly new, and provides many options for vehicle funding including “We have seen a sharp increase which vehicles or packages best suit sector mean that ordering times for contract hire, lease purchase, finance in clients who want to reduce the their needs, we can advise on how new models are measured in months lease, contract purchase, HP, personal effect of company car benefit in kind those rules will affect the bottom rather than weeks and so careful leasing or outright purchase. taxation rates,” says Lynette. “They line and help them make informed planning is required in order to ensure Alpha Contracts can also take on are coming to us for advice on the decisions.” a new vehicle is available when it is the financing of the company vehicles best vehicles to go for in order to The Alpha Contracts team works needed, especially if the recipient is in relation to accounting practices maximise the benefits that come with with clients to plan ahead and make looking for a top-of-the-range model and tax legislation and is able to the more environmentally friendly sure that when a vehicle is coming up or a vehicle that is a little out of the provide detailed banding sheets of vehicles and thus reducing their for renewal everything is in place well ordinary. vehicles within a company’s specific personal tax liability. When we are in advance of the replacement date.

“Well in advance of the changeover parameters. working with clients to determine Changes within the manufacturing date, we give our clients information

To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

about what is on the market. We find out what vehicles they have in mind and have everything in place for them when they need it,” says Lynette.

“In this busy world, companies need to be able to leave their vehicle requirements in the hands of someone who will ensure they get the best possible deal and handle all the associated paperwork and information gathering, leaving them to get on with the day-to-day running of their business.”

Keeping vehicles up to date and finding the right make and model is one thing. Alpha Contracts’ service goes further, sourcing and arranging finance, handling vehicle road tax renewal, licence checking and servicing and MOT reminders throughout the contract period.

The company works closely with leading vehicle funders such as Leaseplan UK Ltd, Lex Vehicle Partners, Alphabet GB Ltd, Santander and Arval, building strong relationships that offer the most competitive finance packages for the customer.

Access to online systems enables the team to supply quotations with varying parameters at the click of a button on any make or model, car or commercial vehicle.

Many fleet managers take advantage of the firm’s rental bandings sheets, sorted by P11d, monthly rental or CO2 emissions.

“As an established franchisee of some of the largest providers of vehicle finance in the UK, we benefit from massive fleet buying power and volume-related bonuses so our customers reap significant savings,” says Samantha. “We are aware that many competitors offer similar vehicles and funding packages but attention to customer service and the continuity between the sales team and our clients is what makes us unique.

“We started the business with three of us and we are all still involved, with a couple more people joining us along the way. That gives us a strong team and the continuity means that clients get to know the people they are dealing with.

“At Alpha we understand the importance of each customer, from those with large fleets to those with one vehicle, and we treat every individual requirement as important.

Every vehicle is tailored to the client’s needs, whether they are a company with a large business fleet, a sole trader with specific trade requirements or a private individual in search their pride and joy.”

n For more information, telephone Alpha Contracts on 01604 756620 or visit www.alphacontracts.co.uk

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13

Money Matters

Insolvency: Don’t let slack record-keeping compound your employees’ woes

W

hen a business ceases trading due to insolvency, there will usually be no funds with which to pay redundancy compensation to its employees. In such circumstances, the Redundancy Payments Service is responsible for assessing claims from the affected employees and meeting redundancy costs from the public purse.

Clearly, entitlement to redundancy, holiday pay and wages arrears will vary between claimants depending on factors such as length of service and salary. Therefore the RPS must have access to reliable, up-to-date payroll information when assessing claims in order to ensure that the correct compensation is paid.

In a formal insolvency process such

Accurate and up to date payroll records save time and redundancy heartache for employees should a business succumb to insolvency. Lauren Auburn, director at BRI in Northampton, explains. as liquidation or bankruptcy, the appointed insolvency practitioner is responsible for providing RPS with the necessary details having verified payroll information provided by the insolvency party using the trading records. If the information has been maintained properly, the process is relatively straightforward. However, businesses have differing standards when it comes to recording transactions in a thorough and timely manner.

Incomplete, out-of-date personnel records can present significant problems. As RPS cannot blindly

Lauren Auburn

accept any claim that it receives, the claimant will not receive their compensation without this verification.

The rejection of claims by the RPS can result in disgruntled employees directing their grievances at the insolvency practitioner. Of course, these complaints would be more appropriately aimed at the employer who had failed to record their untaken holiday allowance or overdue commission payments.

While trading is healthy, it may be tempting for a small business to neglect aspects of routine recordkeeping, relying, for example, on staff to maintain a private tally of their ongoing holiday allowance.

Unfortunately, if that business later enters into an insolvency process, these slack habits can have a detrimental

impact on employees already reeling from their dismissal.

For obvious reasons, an insolvency practitioner cannot verify untaken holiday information using handwritten notes in a redundant employee’s personal diary. And if this is the only available record, the employee’s claim will ultimately be rejected.

In short, the trading records of a business are the only tool with which to assure RPS that the taxpayer is funding no more and no less of what the employee is legally entitled to. n If you have concerns over the solvency of your business and the potential effect on your employees, contact BRI Business Recovery and Insolvency for a free consultation.

Knitting business and personal ambitions together Hot chocolate and marshmallows, macaroni and cheese, fish and chips... Some things just work well together and Claire Emery, of Elsby and Co, believes accounting and wealth management are another perfect combination.

I

enjoy the opportunity to present a message about accounting to readers of the Business Times.

Every few months (when it’s my turn) I give some thought to an accounting problem and solution that’s likely to appeal to business owners and decision-makers.

Sometimes it is easy to overlook the obvious. We work to provide for our families, to put a roof over our heads and to be able to earn enough money to enjoy a lifestyle that we and our families appreciate.

Our basic human needs might be simple but getting to the ‘end game’ can take years of hard work, and just as importantly, it takes careful planning and expert guidance.

As accountants we like to answer questions about what we can deliver.

How can you help me grow my business? How can I better manage my cash flow? Is my business as taxefficient as it could be?

All are incredibly valid but what about the questions that are rarely brought to the fore?… How can I make more of my dividend payments? What are my limited company investment options? Are

there any tax-efficient extraction methods for limited company owners and how can I use these to enhance my personal investment portfolio?

In short, a whole host of investment and wealth management opportunities are often overlooked where the accounting solution sits apart from the investment advice.

At Elsby, we work closely with our clients and understand their needs.

I read recently that 95 per cent of accountants share the same processes.

Claire Emery

If this is the case, it is the successes are matched with five per cent that makes sound investment advice Business Elsby different and and wealth structuring, successes it is this difference enabling them to that pushed us to are matched with get more from their form Elsby Wealth relationship with us. sound investment Management. This Clients have the advice and wealth additional service comfort of knowing structuring means we can add that that Elsby Wealth little bit more, going the sits under the umbrella extra mile for our clients. of Financial Solutions Elsby Wealth provides fully Group which currently holds in independent regulated advice in the excess of £1 billion in assets under areas of investments, pensions, life management. assurance, Venture Capital Trusts, It should come as no surprise to and Enterprise Investment Schemes learn that many of the world’s largest to business owners and individuals. accountancy firms now have a wealth This sits perfectly with our management or investment division. accounting and advisory services, The fit might be as perfect as fish ensuring our clients business and chips but outside of the largest accounting firms few practices are able to provide a full ‘360 degree’ solution where your business and personal goals can be knitted together. within the built environment sector.

We can even manage this within Through the corporate sponsorship, one meeting, ensuring complete Fortus will continue to deliver its alignment between the two. webinar series as well as engage in fbe hosted seminar events, round tables and collaborative ‘Pulse’ surveys to deliver insight direct n To find out more about how Elsby from the sector. can help you and your business, fbe national chair David Jones e-mail claire.emery@elsbyandco. said: “We have found a partner who co.uk or Andy Kennedy, director truly shares our passion for the built of Elsby Wealth Management, at environment.” andrew.kennedy@elsbywm.co.uk.

Advisors seal built environment forum sponsorship deal

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ortus Business Advisors & Accountants has been unveiled as The Forum for the Built Environment new headline corporate sponsor for 2022.

Its construction and built environment division is based in Northampton. Executive director Stephen Watts said: “It was a key part of our strategy to partner with a highly respected and reputable organisation in the industry. We are

incredibly excited and honoured to have found just that with the fbe.

We very much see this as the start of a long and purposeful relationship that extends beyond 2022, bringing added value to the fbe and supporting its member businesses the best we possibly can.”

Fortus has hosted a series of webinars over the past year, covering topics such as succession planning and Employee Ownership Trusts

Phishing: Don’t take the bait when fraudsters cast their net, warns taxman

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raudsters are targeting individuals on social media in an attempt to obtain their personal details and claim bogus Self-Assessment tax refunds.

HM Revenue & Customs has issued a warning that scammers are attempting to persuade customers to share sensitive information, such as their Government Gateway logins and other personal details, then using this information to register for Income Tax Self-Assessment and submit false tax refund claims.

The individuals are promised a proportion of the tax repayment ‘risk free’ as an incentive to let the fraudsters ‘borrow’ their identities.

Customers from teenagers to

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pensioners are being targeted and HMRC has warned all individuals to stay vigilant and not to share their personal information. Doing so, even inadvertently, can put you at risk of becoming involved in tax fraud and having to repay the full value of the bogus claim. You should only deal with HMRC directly or through your professional advisers on matters relating to your SelfAssessment tax.

April Foster, Partner at chartered accountants Moore in Northampton, said: “Unfortunately, fraudsters pretending to be HMRC is not uncommon, with other phishing scams including emails or phone

April Foster calls stating that the caller is from HMRC and that there is a court case pending against the recipient.

The message asks the recipient to pay the outstanding balance immediately in order to avoid further action.

“Another example is a call or email claiming to offer you a tax refund and requesting your bank or credit card information to arrange this.”

There are a number of things to look out for to help you recognise a phishing email or bogus SMS text message from HMRC, she added.

“HMRC will never notify you of a tax rebate or offer you a repayment by email, SMS or WhatsApp and will never leave a voicemail threatening legal action or call you threatening arrest. Spelling

mistakes and poor grammar are another good indicator of phoney communications.”

If you are unsure whether an email from HMRC is genuine, forward it to phishing@hmrc. gov.uk - giving details of what you are reporting in the subject line - and then delete it. You can forward suspicious text messages to 60599. Do not open attachments or click any links in an email or text message as they may contain malicious software or direct you to a misleading website. n For further advice, contact Moore on 01536 461900 or email east.midlands@mooreuk.global

For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

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Sustainability

Producers support campaign to reduce food waste

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ood and drink businesses have given their backing to a project set to shine a light on sustainability and slash food waste in the north of Northamptonshire.

The Full Circle project, made possible through funding from the UK Community Renewal Fund, is providing farmers, producers, suppliers and food retailers with three online platforms to chart their journey to sustainability and to provide a matchmaking service that will link hospitality businesses with producers and suppliers who have food produce that would otherwise go to waste.

Rachel Mallows, a director of Made in Northamptonshire who also heads the Weetabix

Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards, said: “The statistics are shocking. Over a third of all food produced globally goes to waste, and in the UK, we throw away around 9.5 million tonnes every year.

“When we waste food, we also waste all the energy and water it takes to grow, harvest, transport, and package it. And if food goes to the landfill and rots, it produces methane - a greenhouse gas even more potent than carbon dioxide.”

As well as the interactive platforms the Full Circle project will include a detailed mapping exercise, aiming to create an interactive digital map to chart for the first time all Northamptonshire’s food

Rachel Mallows, pictured with Full Circle project manager Jay Davenport (left) and Ian Horton, of Ganders Goat businesses, food banks and food larders and their location.

Full Circle includes three apps, to which businesses signing up to the project will

have access free of charge for 12 months. These are: Zellar A sustainability audit app that that will enable food and drink organisations to create

an online profile and document their sustainability journey; Food Loop Matching businesses that may be seeking to receive or use food supplies with other businesses that have unwanted produce; Too Good to Go Linking vulnerable people and food banks with local producers.

The project is being managed by the independent charity Northamptonshire ACRE, which works to improve the quality of life in rural communities, and Made in Northamptonshire.

Project manager Jay Davenport said: “Our aim is to have over 100 businesses from the north of the county signed up to our Full Circle project. We have already had an excellent response so if

you are in the food and drink sector, make sure you do not miss out.”

One of the first to sign up and formally support the project is Ganders Goat, a goat farm based near Rockingham Castle and Corby which produces soap and ice cream. It is the first farm in the UK to use biodegradable and compostable packaging.

“We put sustainability and biodiversity at the forefront of everything we do which is why we are delighted to be involved with and supporting Full Circle,” said Ganders Goat co-founder Ian Horton. n To be involved, email project manager Jay Davenport at jay@ madeinnorthamptonshire.org

Back our bid for sustainability, council urges businesses

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usinesses can play their part in making West Northamptonshire a more sustainable place in which to

work.

The message is part of an ambitious new approach by West Northamptonshire Council towards protecting and improving the local environment, economy and society for future generations.

Sustainable West Northants aims to ensure everyone is working towards the same objectives and targets for developing sustainability, which are being mapped against global goals set by the United Nations.

Local people and organisations have a key role in future plans.

Businesses and residents are being asked to share their own steps and ideas to help make a difference by making a Sustainability Pledge and inspire others to become involved.

West Northamptonshire Council leader Cllr Jonathan Nunn said: “Being sustainable is all about living in a way that protects our natural resources, improves our environment, society and economy and provides opportunities for future generations.

“We are embarking on a bold new approach to make West

Northamptonshire a more sustainable place to live and work but this will only happen if all individuals, businesses and organisations team up for change.

“Becoming more sustainable does not happen in isolation. If we work together, we will achieve together.

Sustainable West Northants launched at the end of March, when the council unveiled three initial Sustainability Pledges. They are to: n Net Zero the council’s own emissions by 2030 and those of residents and businesses by 2045; n Take a community leadership role for sustainability in West Northants; n Ensure all council strategies and policies are aligned to and contribute to the delivery of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The council has also signed up to the UK100 Net Zero Pledge.

“We all act sustainably from time to time, whether walking to the shops, donating clothes or repairing instead of replacing something and if we commit to making these actions and sharing our ideas then we can really make a difference,” said Cllr Nunn. n Find out more and make your pledge at sustainable.westnorthants. gov.uk

Operator hails community spirit

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he new operators of the reuse and recycling centre at Farthinghoe say they are thrilled with their welcome from the local community.

Lorna Hall and Nick Rodwell, of Ace Reuse Recycling Ltd, took over the running of the facility following its refurbishment by West Northamptonshire Council.

They have been rescuing and processing reusable items from Northamptonshire’s household waste recycling centres for 12 years, and say they want to maintain the centre’s community atmosphere.

Ms Hall said: “One of the first things I learned following the reopening is

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how much of a community space this is. We want to continue that feeling of community and inclusivity.”

She and Mr Rodwell work with Grow Wild Outreach, a not-forprofit community interest company supporting people with disabilities and mental health challenges through environmental and conservation activities. Ace Reuse Recycling offers traineeships and volunteering opportunities and is seeking a subcontractor to service and repair appliances on site.

The facility, off the A422, is open five days a week in line with other waste and recycling centres across the county.

Recycling success: Axil Integrated Services has earned an extended contract with Birmingham Wholesale Market

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oubling the recycling rates of the largest wholesale market in the UK has earned a Northamptonshire waste management and recycling specialist a five-year contract extension.

Measures introduced by Corbybased Axil Integrated Services at Birmingham Wholesale Market has led to recycling rates increasing to 25 per cent in 12 months.

From more than 300 refuse collections, the new systems segregating and compacting the market’s waste has reduced collections to 124. And the market is passing the savings on to its 70 tenants.

Birmingham Wholesale Market is the largest integrated market in the UK, providing fish, poultry, fruit, and vegetables to wholesale customers and the public. It lies on an eight-acre site and is a major player in the Birmingham economy, with 15,000 jobs dependent on it.

General manager Andrew Barnes said: “Birmingham Wholesale Market has been designed for the 21st century and offers a highly efficient trading environment

Recycling success earns a contract extension where we make every effort to minimise or recycle food and material waste. Our partnership with Axil has led to a cleaner site that recycles more, with any rebates being passed straight back to our tenants.”

Waste is now segregated by stream to reduce costs and increase recycling levels. As part of its Total Waste Management service for the market, Axil has: n Installed a general waste compactor to reduce transport movements, collections and costs; n Improved segregation of materials with new balers to maximise rebate opportunities; n Introduced a new electric vehicle and trailer, resulting in more efficient movement around the site and improved health

and safety standards via removal of heavy wheelie bins; n Installed a Weightron machine, minimising waste being mixed between neighbouring traders.

Tenants are only charged for the waste they produce; n Reduced reliance on thirdparty suppliers by taking over such jobs. n Increased engagement. Tenants are invited to share best practices.

Axil’s Commercial Director Jason Lang, inset, said: “We are very proud of our team’s work on the market and we think the results are plain to see. We have made significant improvements to both waste and recycling rates as well as raising housekeeping and health and safety standards.”

For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

Your Business Times T3 SIGNS

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Promotion

usband and wife Pete and Lauren Nicklin, the team behind thriving T3 Signs, understand the importance of supporting community initiatives.

The Northampton-based company has ongoing commitments to support local projects. This includes sponsorship for the last two seasons of Kingsthorpe Jets Lightnings Under-8s team, as part of which T3 Signs has created signage for the new clubhouse and café.

Sales director Lauren says: “When we set up the company, we were determined to do things our way and this includes supporting our local communities. We feel it is important to support and give back to the local community. Both our boys play for Kingsthorpe Jets so we jumped at the chance to be able to sponsor such an allinclusive community club.”

These links, which shows no sign of coming to an end, are just one of the partnerships which make T3 Signs stand out from the crowd - just like their signs.

Since setting up the company just over eight years ago, the couple have forged strong links with a wide range of clients. This includes being official signage partners for

Winning smiles from players for Lightnings Under-8s

Partnerships help firm to stand out from the crowd Northampton Town FC and Northamptonshire County Cricket Club, with whom they have just signed a new threeyear partnership deal.

The success of T3 Signs has been through the enterprise’s commitment to four key principles: Trust, Value, Service and Quality.

“It is important that all customers receive the same high level of service,” says Lauren. “This means we work with clients who can not only turn to us for inspiration but feel confident the ideas can become a practical reality and meet all technical specifications.”

Ongoing investment in

equipment has enabled T3 Signs to extends its services and attain high print quality.

As well as signage and vehicles graphics, T3 Signs offers a complete design service and can effectively display brands using custom graphics The latest to join the team is Brandon Desborough, who has been working in the industry for ten years. “Brandon will support us in helping the business to continue to grow and thrive,” says Lauren. n Find out more at www. t3signs.co.uk, call 01604 629599 or email Lauren@ T3signs.co.uk

GRIFFITHS AIR CONDITIONING Promotion

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riffiths Air Conditioning, based in Burton Latimer, is ready to respond to the increase in demand for new air conditioning systems and any issues with existing installations as the warmer weather arrives.

Working closely with Daikin, the world’s most popular air conditioning manufacturer, Griffiths offers a wide range of cooling, heating and ventilation options to suit any commercial requirement.

These high-specification, energy-efficient solutions will provide optimum comfort in any commercial building and in all weather conditions.

To meet current legislation and reduce the environmental impact of air conditioning, Daikin has introduced the next generation refrigeration gas R32. Its benefits are lower global warming potential, superior energy efficiency and a smaller refrigerant charge needed. Griffiths uses R32 systems wherever possible in order to pass on these end user benefits.

Griffiths is a Daikin D1+ Approved Installer and its experienced installation and maintenance teams are all fully trained on the wide range

Optimum comfort, whatever the weather of Daikin products. With ever-increasing regulation on energy efficiency and controls relating to refrigerant gas to reduce global warming, Daikin is constantly updating its products to stay ahead of the game.

Meanwhile, Griffiths matches these state-of-the-art products to the needs of their customers, making sure they have the best solution for any given situation.

As Griffiths is also installers of the full range of building engineering services, any

To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

KANDA PRINT MIDLANDS + BRUNEL SIGNS & DISPLAYS Promotion

Quality printing delivers sweet marketing success

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ow must be the ideal time for many businesses to make sure their messages are being heard loud and clear.

Large signage projects, put on hold during the pandemic, are now being given the creative touch by the teams at Kanda Print Midlands and Brunel Signs & Displays. Other clients are opting for merchandise and giveaways to treat customers and colleagues with increasing demand for goodies like confectionery, reusable water bottles, lanyards and ‘Welcome’ boxes with a choice of branded items.

Large illuminated and non-illuminated signs, tray signs and graphics for windows are enabling customers to freshen up their image. Like all the orders, the Corbybased businesses offer an expansive range of print and print finishing services to meet the needs of commercial clients and private customers, from an eye-catching logo to a poster, packaging, exhibition stand or weather-sturdy sign.

The in-house graphics team, based at Wood Street just minutes from Corby’s town centre, have the creativity and the technical know-how to create products that not only look good but meet all expectations.

Health and safety regulations mean growing demand for signs from site safety to waste segregation and booklets which meet specific needs of each client’s business. Bespoke dry wipe boards, magnetic or non-magnetic custommade to a customer’s size and design are another item currently in big demand.

Other products include a wealth of corporate material, general stationery, signage, large format items, promotional merchandise, exhibition items, direct mail, food and general packaging, selfadhesive labels, bespoke school printing and NCR Pads. Both digital and litho print options are available offering the choice of small or large quantities.

New for 2022 is the bespoke branded confectionery selection. Customers can

add their branding to any confectionery they have in mind. The perfect way to cater for staff incentives, corporate event giveaways or customer brand awareness.

Lee Rockingham, who heads the businesses, said: “We take pride in our fast turn around and, depending on the job, can even offer a same-day service. We are one of the leading business-to-business print, signage and merchandise solution providers in the East Midlands and have a proven wealth of experience built up over 30 years.

“Our comprehensive services cover all aspects of design and print, from a creative idea right through to the final printed product.

Budgets and timelines are always taken into consideration to ensure each client gets what they want for the right price.

“We know it has been a tough time for businesses, but we like to talk to each customer to see the most cost-effective way of meeting their needs from concept through to delivery.”

complimentary ductwork or electrical requirements can also be undertaken to provide a one-stop shop for any project.

Griffiths will be bringing the Daikin Sustainable Homes mobile showroom to the Crick Boat Show on June 3-5. n Contact Griffiths by telephone on 01536 420666, via www.griffithsaircon.co.uk or visit the Energy Efficiency Centre showroom at 111 High Street in Burton Latimer, open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.

n To find out more call 01536 266164, email: heretohelp@kandaprint.co.uk or visit at www.kandaprint.co.uk. To contact Brunel Signs call 01536 266164, email: info@brunelsigns.com or visit www.brunelsigns.com. Or drop in at Leisure House, Wood Street, Corby, NN17 1PT.

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Property Portfolio Bishop Cosins Library at Durham University: Welcoming visitors once more after a twoyear refurbishment programme led by heritage specialists at GSSArchitecture

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taff at Northamptonshire architectural practice, GSSArchitecture are celebrating their latest project success, having been shortlisted for a Constructing Excellence Award.

The practice has been involved in works at the Palace Green World Heritage Site at Durham University, for more than ten years and, following the completion of the latest phase of works, the scheme has been announced as a finalist in the Conservation and Regeneration category of the Constructing Excellence regional awards.

Led by its specialist in-house heritage team, GSS has applied its expertise to preserve the Grade I and Grade II Listed buildings.

The latest project at the site, Bishop Cosins Library, opened its doors once again earlier this year after an extensive two-year external and internal refurbishment. Originally built in 1669, Bishop Cosins Library is one of the earliest public libraries in the North East of England and has now been conserved and regenerated for future use.

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Expertise is bringing history back to life GSS’ heritage team has worked on a number of high-profile appointments and projects, reaching significant milestones.

Led by William Assheton, partner and Architect Accredited in Building Conservation, the team are also working on the transformation of the Grade II Listed Alfred East Gallery, Kettering Library and Manor House Museum for North Northamptonshire Council. The team has recently completed the restoration and refurbishment works at Bradwell Abbey, an historic Scheduled Ancient Monument site in Milton Keynes.

The importance of historical buildings is not only considered

when working on conservation, restoration, or regeneration schemes. GSS’ masterplanning team is working on developments that require the safeguarding of heritage aspects, ensuring that places retain the historic character that makes them special.

The team are currently involved in a £500 million Campus of Ageing and Vitality masterplan in Newcastle which is next to buildings of historical interest as well as a World Heritage Site.

n Find out more at: www.gssarchitecture.com

For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

Property Portfolio

Apartments plan will reflect site’s industrial heritage

Cable firm nets lease on warehouse

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Former footwear factory to be converted after developer secures £9m loan

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edevelopment work on the grade II listed former GT Hawkins footwear factory in Northampton is under way after the developers secured a £9 million loan.

The development loan from specialist real estate lender and investor Octopus Real Estate will finance the creation of 89 new homes; 17 studio apartments, 60 onebedroom and 12 two-bedroom flats, all of which will be designed as New York loft-style apartments.

The developer is a local joint venture between property developers OEH Group and Acca Group. A show flat is expected to be ready later this year.

OEH Group director Ermir Sefolli said: “We are extremely proud of the history of the factory and will endeavour to sympathetically restore the building and retain and refurbish as many historical elements as possible.

“I am thrilled that Octopus has funding that enables us to finance developments like these. Our town has a rich history and it is a great privilege to be able to restore this local landmark while bringing muchneeded new homes to the area.”

The factory was built in the late 1800s as a leatherworks and was once one of the UK’s major suppliers of climbing and military boots. It received Royal Warrant in 1885, producing boots for Queen Victoria.

The warrant is still proudly displayed above the entrance and will remain in the prominent location after the regeneration has been completed.

The factory produced aviation boots and supported British war efforts during the First World War and into the Second World War. In 1953 it provided footwear to the first team of mountaineers to tackle Mount Everest.

The Hawkins factory closed in

To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

The former GT Hawkins footwear factory in Northampton is to be converted into New York loft-style apartments

1995 after 120 years of trading.

Andy Scott, head of residential development at Octopus Real Estate, said: “We are delighted to be supporting a local developer whose vision is to regenerate this iconic factory into 89 new homes and allow the Hawkins factory to remain an important part of the Northamptonshire area. This deal is well aligned with Octopus’s vision of bringing high-quality accommodation to the UK while retrofitting existing buildings, which

is, of course, an environmentally friendly way to bring new properties to the market.”

The deal was handled by property finance broker Tiger Financial.

Managing director Matthew Dailly said: “With a tight timescale to complete the loan, and with a large redbrick conversion of an industrial building being outside the appetite of many lenders, we carefully selected Octopus as our lender of choice.

We were impressed that Octopus immediately saw the developer’s vision and what they were trying to achieve and with how they acted as a sympathetic and flexible partner as the deal progressed.”

emand for mid-sized units in Northampton is proving to be a sustainable trend with the agency team acting for developer Seven Capital reporting the letting of a speculative Grade A facility at Pineham.

The 63,484 sq ft distribution warehouse has been acquired by network infrastructure cabling solutions provider HellermanTyton Data. The company has been in Northampton since 1988 and is part of HellermanTyton Group plc The landlord’s agency team of Burbage Realty, MWRE, Prop-Search and Savills agreed the letting on the basis of a new ten-year lease at a rent equating to £6.95 per sq ft.

Prop-Search director Richard Baker, pictured below, said: “Pineham has continually proven to be an exceedingly popular location for warehouse and logistics occupiers.

This unit has provided an ideal upgrade for the occupier in terms of both size and specification.

“There continues to be strong occupier demand for new space after years of limited availability.”

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For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

Q&A

Feature A new feature in which business people discuss their motivation, ambition, experience - and themselves.

First up is Emma Speirs, founder and managing director of public relations firm Ballyhoo PR.

One day I’ll get the work-life balance nailed What was your first job?

Aside from a Herald & Post paper round every Thursday when I was 14, my first job was working as a junior in a hairdressers at 16.

I worked every Friday after school and every Saturday until about 2pm. I would wash and sweep up hair, make tea and wash and tumble dry the towels. I was painfully shy and found making small talk with the old dears really tough.

It was a good learning curve though and I liked spending my wages after work on a Saturday by getting the bus into town and straight into Our Price to buy new CDs. Why did you choose your particular career?

I’ve always loved English and writing and reading stories. I was an avid reader from a young age and loved the idea of words on a page having the power to take me off to this imaginary world.

I knew I wanted to write for a living and decided to go into journalism. I studied English and Media at university and then went into various editorial roles at different magazines before studying PR in 2004. Since then I’ve been working in PR and as a freelance writer/editor of magazines.

I started Ballyhoo PR in 2016 and still get to do both as we have clients who produce their own magazines and outsource them to us. We also write regular magazine articles about our clients after successfully pitching the ideas to their editors. The best of both worlds.

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

This is a tough question. I’ve been given a few nuggets of wisdom over the years.

One thing I heard recently that I keep repeating to myself is ‘Don’t compare and despair’. It is fine to compare your journey to yourself.

For example, ‘Where am I now compared to a year ago or five

MY FAVOURITE...

FOOD Italian.

MUSIC / SONG 80s and 90s pop.

BOOK I love an autobiography. I’m currently listening to Dave Grohl’s Storyteller.

FILM Dirty Dancing.

TV PROGRAMME I seem to watch a lot of medical and police dramas.

RESTAURANT Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck for the whole sensory experience. I’ve never been anywhere like it before or since.

DESTINATION I loved Thailand and the Dominican Republic. Anywhere with white sands and turquoise sea would be my ideal destination.

years ago?’ but don’t compare yourself to people who set up at the same time as you or who are in the same industry.

As long as what you are doing is progress for you, the business is financially viable and your clients and loved ones are happy, that is enough. Looking at what the competition is doing can keep you on your toes and helps you to move with the times but to feel like you’re never good enough or don’t measure up no matter how hard you work can be incredibly demotivating and prevent you from celebrating any successes you do have - and it is important to do that.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Moving into our office in Lamport last year. The setting is just beautiful and after the struggles of running a business through Covid and us all working remotely for so long, it really felt like an achievement to all be together and working alongside each other in this gorgeous space.

Not only were we still around as a business but we also had a larger team and the type of office I had always wanted and saw for the business. It was like a visualisation or mood board coming to life. …and the low point?

Covid definitely was tough for me personally. I really struggled.

As businesses closed their doors not knowing when they would reopen again, we were getting calls pretty much every day that first week from clients either cancelling things with us or reducing their spend. I completely understood and tried to be as accommodating and sympathetic as possible but it was a worrying time.

To also have two small children at home who needed home schooling, to find new clients to replace the ones we were losing and to still be there for our clients who were struggling and needed our support to get their messages out there was hard.

I had less time and capacity

What’s your career ambition?

To grow Ballyhoo PR to a point that we are the ‘go to’ PR and copywriting agency for SMEs in the UK. …and your life ambition?

To finally get that work/life balance nailed.

Emma Speirs

than ever but was busier than ever getting urgent comms out and redoing work and plans we’d already done and trying to market the business to win new clients as well as be Mum and teacher. I also had to look out for my team and make sure I was doing everything I could to show my support for them and keep on top of the Covid rules and legislation as an employer.

I look back now and don’t know how we all managed for so long.

With every news announcement or lockdown, the calls would start coming again and as time went on, I just didn’t have the same energy levels to carry on. I found resilience I never knew I had and I know that, compared to others in the events, retail and travel sectors, I had it relatively easy.

Business owners have been through so much and the next challenge will be rising costs energy, fuel, National Insurance etc.

It seems relentless right now.

Who in business do you respect the most?

There are a few people I respect in business for different reasons.

Jacqueline Gold for taking a business (Ann Summers) that was aimed at what men wanted

women to be and wear and turning it around and appealing to the women directly and making them feel empowered. It was a real risk but totally paid off and took the company to a whole other level.

Also, Steven Bartlett of Social Chain and now a dragon on BBC’s Dragon’s Den. I love listening to his podcast and think it’s great that he talks so openly about emotional intelligence and how this can affect the way you run a business. Quite often we hold ourselves back from achieving our true potential.

What annoys you the most in business?

Expectations. It can be really hard to set boundaries in business. We live in a world that is so immediate and everything is available 24/7 and often at the touch of a button as consumers. This makes people impatient and unrealistic in their expectations when dealing with businesses, particularly small businesses.

It is easy to work incredibly long hours and still not be getting back to everyone quickly enough. Years ago people didn’t expect a response outside of the 9am-5pm hours.

Now it feels almost expected and it can be hard to keep up.

How do you relax?

I’ve only recently discovered baths. I always saw them as an inconvenience and a shower was a better use of time. Now I quite like having a soak and listening to meditation music or reading or listening to a book.

I also love binge watching a Harlan Coben series to totally escape my own thoughts and nagging to do list.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

See my favourite music (above).

What’s your most treasured possession?

My Gran’s wedding ring. Not only because it was my Gran’s but because when my Gran passed away, my Grandad would wear it as a pinky ring. It means a lot that it was given to me when he passed away too.

Tell us something you regret.

Not travelling more before I had children.

Tell us a secret about yourself.

I used to have a massive fear of swimming / drowning. It took me years to get over it. Even just the smell of chlorine would make my heart start pounding.

What are the first three things on your bucket list?

Go to Australia.

Go to Glastonbury.

Buy a house by the sea.

For the latest business news from across Northamptonshire, visit the new-look Business Times website www.business-times.co.uk. PLUS... post your job vacancies, promote a business event or find the expert your business is looking for in a comprehensive business directory.

www.business-times.co.uk

To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

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Business News The business networking groups across Northamptonshire and this month’s business 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

The belief is that, with the right support at the right price, any small business can succeed.

Members believe there is so much to gain with a positive attitude of mutual face to face.

Wellingborough May 5 7.30am-9.30am: Great Doddington Club, Lower Street, Great Doddington.

Price: £16.

Northampton May 18: The Turnpike, Harpole.

Price: £16.

Virtual meetings Price: £6 Brunch May 10 9.30am-11am: Online

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

Breakfast May 13 7.30am-9am: Online May 19 7.30am-9am: Online May 25 7.30am-9am: Online Afternoon Friday 3pm-4pm: 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.

EVERYONE SELLS! May 24 5.30pm-7pm: Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce offices, Waterside Way, Northampton Presented by Julie Futcher, the Sales Ace. Free event. To book, email info@ nextgenerationchamber.co.uk

Details of all events and to book at buscomm. co.uk/ourevents

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 an FSB member to join in.

Northampton May 26 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.

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.

BUSINESS ROOM Attendees maximise their time out of the office and in the room by ensuring all the attendee information is shared in advance.

This gives attendees time to plan their networking session so they can get more out of each meeting, therefore making it as profitable as possible.

Each meeting involves structured networking, a session where a member will share their knowledge, business story or insight and a Business Exchange, where members respond to the requests for help and contacts.

These are lock out groups so only one business area is represented.

Kettering May 10 12 noon-2pm: Kettering Park Hotel

Free to attend for start-up and established businesses.

Each group runs run from 9.30am to 10.30am. To confirm if the meetings are online or face to face visit the website at www.northnorthantsbusinessnetwork.co.uk.

Wellingborough May 18 12 noon-2pm: The Stanwick Hotel, West Street, Stanwick

Kettering May 11 9.30am-10.30am: Kettering Town FC. Price: £6.

South Northants May 17 12 noon-2pm: The White Horse, Stocks Hill, Silverstone

Corby Details tbc. Check website for updates

THE CONNECTIONS CLUB - NORTHANTS Only open to business owners, influencers and decision-makers, this is a structured and professional group, which gives people the opportunity to connect with other business owners who are serious about growth.

It allows you to take away a valuable skill, learning or insight from every meeting and meet valuable contacts. It is not lock-out but each session is limited to a maximum of three business areas.

All Business Buzz events run 10am-noon

East Northants Details tbc. Check website for updates

Brackley Buzz May 5: Plough Pub & Kitchen, High Street.

Price: £6.

Wellingborough May 9 9am-10am: Online.

Free event.

Northampton Buzz May 18: Fox & Hounds, Harborough Road.

Price: £6.

For details of all events, visit www. northnorthantsbusinessnetwork.co.uk.

East Midlands Virtual Buzz May 27: Online.

Hosted by James Brodie. Price: £10.

For more details, download the Buzz App or visit twww.business-buzz.org/about/locations/.

Book & pay for your favourite Buzz at https:// app.business-buzz.org/app or at the event.

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.

Money back guarantee if you do not find a meeting of value. Visitors welcome.

Ignite BNI (Daventry) Tuesday 6.45am-8.30am: The Turnpike, Harpole Northampton Pioneer BNI (Northamptonshire) Wednesday 9.30am-11am: Online

BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS May 10 8.30am-10am: Square Media, Corby Price: £10 + VAT. for Chamber members; nonmembers £15 + VAT Contact: Visit www.northants-chamber.co.uk

May 4 9.30am-11am: The Beehive, Northampton.

Price: £6. Book via www. northamptonbusinessnetwork.co.uk

Northampton May 12 12 noon-2pm: Old White Hart, Cotton End, Far Cotton, Northampton

Northampton May 3 11.45am-2pm: Delapre Abbey, London Road.

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

Greg Pawsey

Putting a buzz back into town’s networking community

G

reg Pawsey is on a one-man mission to get the Brackley business community buzzing again.

The will advisor and estate planner found the lack of interaction with other local business owners during lockdown challenging both personally and professionally.

Looking for a solution he came across Business Buzz, a group of informal networking events across the country which at the time were operating virtually.

“I loved the Buzz format, it is so relaxed and friendly and everyone is genuinely interested in helping each other with their time or advice,” Greg said.

“I had been attending the virtual events for around 12 to 18 months when we finally came out of lockdown so when the opportunity to launch a live event in Brackley came up, I jumped at the chance to be the host.”

Brackley is a delightful town in which to network, he added.

“Due to its close proximity to merging county lines there is huge opportunity to raise your profile and meet key business partners from far afield.”

Brackley Buzz relaunched its live events in January and has gained more than 40 attendees at each Buzz so far. Meetings take place on the first Thursday of every month at The Plough Pub & Kitchen on the High Street between 10am and 12 noon. Tickets are £6.

Business Buzz takes a fresh approach to business net-working, with no membership fees, subscriptions, no pressure of sales pitches or even commitment to attend. The drop-in monthly events offer a relaxed and informal space to meet, and make friends, have genuine conversations and harness a supportive community. n To find out more about Business Buzz Brackley and to book your place at the next event on May 5, visit www.business-buzz. org/northamptonshire/brackley

PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN THE HEADLINES...

Send your latest news for publication in Business Times to news@business-times.co.uk

>> To have your networking group’s details included in the May edition of Business Times email: news@business-times.co.uk 22

Business Times

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May 2022

For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

In the Community

Solicitors rise to employer’s anniversary challenge

T

he challenge: To complete 40 miles equivalent of physical exercise over 40 days, raising at least £40 per participant,

to mark the 40th anniversary of regional law firm Franklins Solicitors.

The result: more than £2,700 raised for Cynthia Spencer Hospice in

Northampton and Milton Keynesbased charities Willen Hospice and MacIntyre.

Participants completed their 40 miles by walking, running and cycling. Some preferred Zumba or skiing. “There was a real buzz around the challenge,” said Franklins marketing manager Rosanna Stimson.

Their efforts raised a grand total of £2,741.25. Nina Gandy, inset, corporate partnerships fundraiser at Cynthia Spencer Hospice, said: “Virtual challenges like this are still a fantastic way for participants to support good causes like Cynthia Spencer Hospice so that we can continue to care for patients and their families too. These challenges also bring teams together, as well as being great for wellbeing and mental health.”

Chance meeting grows into a ‘wonderful business partnership’

H

ealth and beauty products worth a total of £125,000 have been donated to cancer charity The Lewis Foundation.

It is the largest single gift received by the charity, which delivers gift packs to adult cancer patients in hospitals across the Midlands.

The owners of multi-million-pound enterprise Sol Retail in Swan Valley gifted a staggering 10,000 units of stock to mark the company’s ongoing charity work and recent ten-year anniversary. A lorry-load of cosmetics and toiletries was delivered to the charity’s warehouse in Northampton’s Kings Heath industrial estate.

Sol Retail managing director Barry Tong and his wife Katy first met The Lewis Foundation’s founders Lorraine and Lee Lewis when they were fundraising on a small supermarket stand in 2018.

“We are astounded by the sheer generosity of Barry, Katy, and the Sol

Katy and Barry Tong (left), pictured with Lee and Lorraine Lewis Retail team, so much so that we have even had to use an extra warehouse room to temporarily store the stock before our volunteers pack them into our gift bags,” said Lorraine. “That chance meeting four years ago has turned into a wonderful business partnership and we are so very grateful to Sol Retail for choosing to support The Lewis Foundation in this way.”

The Tongs have watched on as The Lewis Foundation has grown. “We have been following Lorraine and Lee’s journey with real interest,” said Barry. “We have hit our own major milestones as a business this year too, by becoming Amazon’s biggest retailers and reaching a £10 million turnover on our tenth birthday, so we wanted to do something spectacular to celebrate.

We might be a global business but our roots are very much in Northamptonshire, which is why we are giving back to a local worthwhile cause on a massive scale.”

Sol Retail has also provided the charity with business advice to deliver on its growth plans. “It means so much to us all to know that this substantial donation will make even more of a difference,” said Barry.

Any surplus stock will be sold in the charity’s pop-up shop in Northampton or at fundraising events including the Water Dash on June 18. Find out more online at: www.thelewisfoundation.co.uk

Digging deep for Jubilee celebrations

H

undreds of trees have been planted in West Northamptonshire in the first phase of the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.

Residents, community groups and parish councillors from Upton and St Crispin’s in Northampton are pictured on a break from planting more than 400 trees in St Crispin’s Park and Upton Country Park.

Oak, crab apple, birch and rowan trees were among the sapling varieties planted. The parish council has also planted four mature cherry trees in each corner of Upton Square, which will be marked with special Jubilee plaques.

Cllr Nick Sturges-Alex, of Upton Parish Council, said: “We were keen to get involved in honouring the Queen’s reign and leaving something for future generations. We

are thrilled to be part of the Queen’s Green Canopy and take a small place in the history of a once in a lifetime event.”

Scout groups have also been busy planting trees at Daventry Country Park, creating an

Recognising that charity is serious business To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

avenue of 24 cherry trees leading to existing orchards.

The scouts have already planted almost 300 trees and 4,000 spring bulbs during their monthly volunteering sessions at the park. Oak trees are taking root at the

Club hails sponsorship deal with homes builder

T

eam managers and coaches at Roade FC will keep warm on the touchline over the next two seasons thanks to a sponsorship deal with a local housebuilder.

Davidsons Homes South Midlands, which has its regional head office in Blisworth, has contributed £1,000 towards new weatherproof winter jackets for the junior teams’ managers and coaches for the next two seasons.

The club, founded in 1910, currently runs a total 15 teams from under-six age group to adults. “We have many managers and coaches that require training gear,” said commercial and development manager Peter Lowe.

“We therefore really appreciate Davidsons Homes’ generous contribution, which will go a long way to ensure that our managers look and feel the part, as well as helping

to instil a stronger and more professional identity to the club’s image.”

The club’s revenue stream had been hit by the pandemic, meaning the cancellation of fundraising events such as quiz nights and the club’s annual fireworks display.

“This sponsorship deal therefore could not have come at a better time, particularly as the club continues to grow at a rapid rate,” said Mr Lowe.

Davidson Homes South Midlands managing director James Burnham says: “Roade Football Club is a real asset to the local community, encouraging footballers from all kinds of different backgrounds to take up the sport and enjoy themselves.

It was without hesitation that we offered our support to the managers and coaches of the junior teams, who volunteer their time every week to coach the young players.”

lan Hames (left), sales manager for Davidsons Homes, with Peter Lowe, commercial and development manager for Roade FC, and club coaches and committee members

Saints score at Foundation Day

A

wealth of sponsors including headliners cinch have helped Northampton Saints Foundation raise more than £60,000 at the club’s second annual Foundation Day. The purpose of Foundation Day is to raise awareness and vital funding for Northampton Saints Foundation which has seen growing demand for its services.

The Foundation relies heavily on fundraising activities, with an annual target of £300,000 to continue its award-winning community work.

Northampton Army Reserve Centre, planted by the 103rd Battalion of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and at Abington Park by the Friends of the Park.

Cllr Pinder Chauhan, who heads the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative at West Northamptonshire Council,

said: “It is fantastic that so many community groups, organisations, businesses and residents have given their time and contributed to marking the very special occasion of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, while also enhancing the natural environment of West Northamptonshire.”

n Find out more about the Queen’s Green Canopy and Platinum Jubilee events in West Northamptonshire across the June 2-5 holiday weekend at www.westnorthants.gov.uk/cultureand-tourism/queens-platinum-jubilee

0800 088 6004 enquiries@wilsonbrowne.co.uk wilsonbrowne.co.uk Business Times

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May 2022

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