Business Times Northamptonshire November 2021 by PulseGroupMedia

Business Times Celebrating 30 years est. 1991

November 2021

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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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Yours for $1m (+ taxes): Aston Martin goes electric. P3

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Historic ‘jewel in the crown’ opens for business. P5

AW AR DS

Law firm expands with appointment of new partners. P14

PR OP ER TY

Meet the winners at this year’s awards ceremony. P17

£75m plans for a new Eddie Stobart base at Daventry. P23

uilding materials supplier Travis Perkins is celebrating 20 years as principal partner of Northampton Saints Rugby Club. A partnership that is one of the longest-running in sport. The milestone anniversary was marked at the Gallagher Premiership match against Worcester Warriors last month, which saw key Travis Perkins plc staff join past Saints players on the pitch for the presentation of an exclusive

20th anniversary shirt to Travis Perkins from the Saints. “To be a part of one of the longest-running partnerships in British sport and to be able to help bring rugby to more communities, is a great privilege,” said Travis Perkins plc’s chief operating officer Frank Elkins. From next year, Travis Perkins will become the Saints’ headline community partner. “We pride ourselves on forming long-term

relationships with our commercial partners so everyone at the club could not be more excited to celebrate the 20-year milestone of this incredible relationship,” said Saints chief executive Mark Darbon. “Travis Perkins is a huge presence in our local community and we are proud to have worked collaboratively with them for so long. “Everyone at the club is looking forward to what the next phase of our enduring partnership with Travis Perkins will bring.”

Two become one: Manufacturing allies complete acquisition deal

wo manufacturing companies that have worked together for years have now formally joined forces. Composite components manufacturer Carbon Component Solutions has completed the purchase of Arnold Engineering Plastics. The company, based on the Moulton Park industrial estate in Northampton, was previously owner managed by the Larkins family who shared a long-standing relationship with Carbon

Component Solutions. The firm has specialised in plastic manufacturing for 50 years and the acquisition enables Carbon Component Solutions to expand its manufacturing services and goods. Carbon Component Solutions is based at Silverstone and co-owned by brothers Bryn and Scott Noon. “Purchasing Arnold Engineering Plastics is an exciting opportunity to expand our business and manufacturing capabilities,” said Bryn. “We have had a strong relationship with AEP for some time and we are now excited to work alongside Peter Larkins to integrate the two businesses together into Carbon Component Solutions’ wider services.” Scott added: “We are looking forward to being able to provide our clients and customers with a greater range of services which was one of the driving forces for us doing this transaction.”

Law firm Howes Percival’s Northampton office advised Carbon Components Solutions on the acquisition. Corporate partner Matt Thompson, who led the Howes Percival team, said: “It has been a real pleasure to have advised Bryn and Scott Noon on the acquisition, helping Carbon Component Solutions expand its portfolio. “Carbon Component Solutions is wellplaced within Silverstone's expanding tech and manufacturing industries. Northamptonshire has always had a competitive manufacturing industry and this acquisition ensures that Carbon Component Solutions remains a leading business within the field.” The deal is one of a number being handled by the firm’s office in Northampton, he added. “I am anticipating a number of additional deals completing before the end of the year.”

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(from left) Business Times directors Martin and Kerry Lewis-Stevenson with Wilson Browne Solicitors chairman Kevin Rogers and business development and marketing director Wayne Jenkins

Law firm voices its delight at Business Times return

ilson Browne Solicitors are delighted to rekindle their relationship with Business Times following its acquisition by Martin and Kerry Lewis-Stevenson. Following a hiatus during lockdown when print and traditional methods of circulation were not practical, the leading local law firm has picked up where it left off, with a long-term commitment to support and advertise in Business Times, Northamptonshire’s longest-established business publication. The decision follows a meeting at the Back2Business exhibition in September organised by Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce at which Wilson Browne’s business development and marketing director Wayne Jenkins and Martin Lewis-Stevenson, co-director of Business Times, had the opportunity to meet and discuss Martin’s plans for the

Business Times and other publications in the portfolio. “The first lockdown hit all printed media really hard,” says Wayne. “Many were forced to stop publishing due to external factors and the obvious challenges in distribution and that led to us having a bit of a break in terms of advertising. Meeting Martin and Kerry at the expo’ was a great opportunity to hear their very positive plans for the publication and especially the significant investment in ‘digital’ with their Corby-based partner Square Media. “It all sounds very exciting and the investment and the detailed plans for moving the titles forward convinced me that we should get back on board. “I am a great believer in the old saying that ‘People buy people’. I really warmed to Martin and Kerry, their enthusiasm for what they are doing, their plans and their commitment convinced me. Martin

and Kerry are both keen motorcyclists too and as a lifelong ‘biker’ myself I instantly felt comfortable with them.” Plans are under way for a big investment in the digital element of Business Times, its sister business publication in Milton Keynes, Business MK and the two lifestyle magazines in the portfolio, NN Pulse and MK Pulse. A big part of the investment is already both attracting new and welcoming back former contributors and advertisers. “We are delighted to have Wilson Browne Solicitors back as a client,” said Martin. “As one of the leading law firms in the region and one with such a prominent profile, we feel it is a perfect partnership. “Kerry and I are really enthusiastic about working with them. We are certain that they will benefit from even more exposure and I am sure our readers will find their legal insights valuable.”

Business has its say on climate change strategy

usiness has had its say on West Northamptonshire’s plans to shape its climate strategy. The council has committed to become carbon-neutral by the end of the decade. “It is important that we listen to businesses as their actions could have a huge impact on the environment, whether that is positive or negative,” said Cllr

Colin Morgan, assistant cabinet member for climate. Businesses were invited to join one of a series of mini-summits which took place in October ahead of the COP26 conference of world leaders in Glasgow this month. “There will be additional outcomes from that which we will also need to build into our strategy,” said Cllr Morgan.

“Once we have initial options in place, we will be asking for everyone’s feedback so we can make refinements.” The plan will be a working document, amended based on new information, approaches and technologies, Cllr Morgan added. The document is due to be published on November 15 - the day after COP26 ends - and consultation will last for eight weeks.

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

Business News

A motoring icon goes electric... and it’s yours for $1m

f you have more than $1 million burning a hole in your pocket and would love to own a piece of British motoring heritage with a modern twist, read on. Production is under way of an electric-powered version of a British motoring icon: the Aston Martin DB6. The new version - produced in very limited numbers for an exclusive clientele - is being built at the Silverstone headquarters of niche manufacturer Lunaz. The DB6 joins the stable of a rapidly growing company that is already meeting significant worldwide demand with the world’s only electric Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Range Rover and Jaguar sportscar models. Highly limited build slots will be made available for Aston Martin DB4 and DB5 cars. “The introduction of electric Aston Martin DB6 cars has been driven by sustained demand from our existing clients,” said Lunaz group founder and chief executive David Lorenz. “It also reflects the desires of an entirely new classic car buyer. These women and men have been drawn to Lunaz because for the first time they are presented with the powertrain

and modern conveniences of today, clothed in a design that speaks of an era when aesthetic purity was the only requirement.” The exact price of an electric DB6 remains confidential between Lunaz and the buyer but will exceed $1million plus local taxes. The first deliveries are scheduled for the third quarter of 2023. The car will be powered by Lunaz’s own modular electric powertrain, developed entirely in-house. Each vehicle has upgraded brakes, suspension and steering while the interior includes air conditioning, the latest info-tainment, navigation systems and full wi-fi connectivity. “The Aston Martin DB6 delivered on the promise of truly indulgent continental touring,” said Lunaz’s design director Jen Holloway. “This is a legacy we could not resist furthering by creating the most alluring electric car in the world.” The new range follows an injection of growth capital from institutional investors including the Barclay, Reuben and Dallal families and former England and Manchester United football captain David Beckham. The models are being

An electric Aston Martin DB6. Below: The ‘holy trinity’ of electrified Aston Martin, Rolls Royce and Bentley

built at Lunaz’s headquarters on Silverstone Technology Park. “The rapid growth of Lunaz

reflects the growing role that remanufacturing and electrification plays in plotting a sustainable course

to a clean-air powertrain future,” said David Lorenz. “By furthering the legacies of these beautiful Aston Martins, we create many more highly skilled jobs and expand our cleantechnology production presence at our home in Silverstone.” Lunaz is developing electric versions not only of classic and iconic cars but also of HGVs, beginning with recycling vehicles.

Incoming president Pritesh Ganatra is welcomed by his predecessor Simon Toseland

New president makes digital pledge

he new president of Wellingborough and East Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce has pledged to use his position to ensure the area ‘goes

digital’. Pritesh Ganatra, plans to work closely with the local authorities and infrastructure companies building the ‘new breed’ of full fibre networks in the county to ensure that Wellingborough and East Northamptonshire are first in line for the multi-million pound investments. Pritesh, director of technology consultancy BTS (UK), succeeded outgoing president Simon Toseland at the Chamber’s annual general meeting in September. “The next few years will present some interesting challenges for local businesses,” Pritesh said. “Potentially the most influential will be the willingness of the new unified councils to allow easy access to companies such as CityFibre, Openreach and Virgin Media to lay high-grade fibre optics

to businesses, which has a knock-on effect of delivering affordable services to residential areas.” Pritesh said that his predecessor had developed the Chamber into a much more effective organisation. The new president has more than 25 years’ experience in commercial technology and infrastructure. “I believe that the Chamber can work more closely with both local businesses and the new unitary authority, earning respect and reliance from both,” said Pritesh. “The Chamber needs to evolve with the challenges and changes facing all business. In today’s increasingly digital world, every business should have the very best in connectivity and my aim is to bridge the gap between the infrastructure companies and authorities to speed up the process for our members who deserve a world-class service. “The opportunities are there in principle. We just need to make it happen.”

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

Business Times

November 2021

Legal briefing

Keep search for talent within the bounds of the law Employers are facing a challenging time at the moment in recruitment with a UK-wide labour shortage. If you are lucky enough to find some good candidates, it is important to ensure that your recruitment process does not fall foul of employment law. Graham Irons, employment partner at Howes Percival Solicitors in Northampton, has some tips to help you to get it right.

electing the best person for the job is critical but you need a process that is objective, consistent and non-discriminatory. An employer should identify the specific behaviours, skills, knowledge and characteristics that are essential for the role. Selection criteria must be as objective as possible and interview questions should be applied consistently for all candidates. Scores and answers to questions should be recorded so that if a decision is challenged you have the evidence to justify selection. In making arrangements for interview or assessment, employers must remember their duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled

Graham Irons employees. Ideally, those involved in the hiring process should be trained in equal opportunities and consideration should be given to training in avoiding unconscious bias.

Applicants should also be provided with a privacy notice explaining how you will process their personal data. Such data should only be retained if it could relate to any claims arising out of the recruitment process or the

candidate asks you to retain their information for future vacancies. Making the offer In a rush to snaffle their chosen candidate, employers often forget that the job offer is a golden opportunity to set out all of the terms and conditions upon which the employee is being recruited. For this reason, we would always recommend that you send out the employment contract with the written job offer. The job offer may set out some of the key terms but the contract then provides the important detail to manage the employment relationship and ensure compliance with employment law. Vetting Always make a job offer conditional upon receiving satisfactory references and right to work checks and then make sure you promptly follow them up. While the majority of references these days merely confirm job role and employment

dates, they may still flush out any gaps in employment and a failure to respond to a reference request may be a red flag you need to explore further. Vetting does not stop with recruitment. Always include a probation clause which usually has a shorter notice period so if it does not work out you can part company with your employee more quickly. It is essential that you monitor performance and conduct and provide feedback during the probation period. You should then carry out a final review on or before the period ends. This is often missed, which makes dismissal more difficult and more expensive.

n For help with equality and diversity training or producing robust employment contracts, the team of experts at Howes Percival can help. Call partner Graham Irons on 01604 258003 or email graham. irons@howespercival.com.

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A positive impact on planet and society Goodrich is officially working towards becoming a certified member of the Planet Mark scheme. Our reasons… n We want to positively impact both planet and society in everything we do to build a brighter future. n To actually know what our carbon footprint is and then target a reduction of 12% each year. n To show that we are different from our competitors, but similar to our clients and their funding partners. n It’s the right thing to do! We will be measuring not only our carbon footprint but also our social value contributions. This refers to the net social and environmental benefits generated by

Business Times

November 2021

our team. Measuring our social value gives a holistic insight into our positive contributions to not only the environment but also to society, demonstrating our commitment to meaningfully contribute to a better planet for all. Our social value will be measured across five categories: our people, including measures such as health and well-being initiatives; community and volunteering; donations; procurement; environmental impacts. By being more strategic about our social responsibility, we will be able to significantly increase our positive impact and hope to encourage continual improvements within our community.

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

Business News

Businesses benefit from restoration of the county’s ‘jewel in the crown’

usinesses are playing a key role in the future of the Chester House Estate which has undergone a £14.5 million transformation. New life has been breathed in to the 84-acre scheduled monument built on a former Roman town at Irchester, near Wellingborough. And while the public can now discover ‘the jewel in the county’s crown’, it has also given business opportunities to producers and artisans across Northamptonshire. Business already taking a space include Irchester-based Saxby’s Cider which has created a brew which uses apples from the estate.

Earlier this year Moulton College announced a partnership with the estate for students to get hands-on experience. The project was jointly funded by North and West Northamptonshire Councils and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. It includes the restoration and conversion of the 17th-century Grade II* listed farmhouse into a restaurant and bed and breakfast, Northamptonshire Archaeological Resource Centre, a learning centre, a museum and an events and wedding space, as well as the flagship farmhouse. Business manager Jack Pishhorn has co-headed the project since early

last year. “We have made some bold and exciting decisions, ensuring the project would have a sustainable business model that would not be a burden on taxpayers,” said Mr Pishhorn. “Along the way we have made some long-lasting partnerships and been proud to support local charities and businesses.” The Chester House Estate project has been supported by a grant of more than £3.96 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and with a Government Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage award of £719,700. The NLHF describes the site as “a nationally significant part of our heritage”.

Chester House

Directors disqualified after flight claims firm admits fraud

ore than 180 victims of a fraudulent flight delay compensation company are to be reimbursed. Flight Delay Claims Team promoted itself through a website, saying it could help people to claim up to £540 in compensation for delayed, cancelled or overbooked flights. But while the Northamptonshire-based firm secured compensation for some, scores of customers were left cheated and out of pocket as a result of the company’s misleading and dishonest techniques. An investigation by Northamptonshire Trading Standards led to the company directors Martin Ryan and his son Joseph Ryan being charged with fraudulent trading. Now Northampton Crown Court has sentenced

Father and son fined after ‘cheated’ customers left out of pocket Martin Ryan to 22 months imprisonment, suspended for two years. He was also disqualified from being a director for five years and was made the subject of a five-year criminal behaviour order. Joseph Ryan was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, was disqualified as a director for three years and received a three-year criminal behaviour order. Their company E. Asthampton Ltd, registered in Rushden, was also fined £5,000. The pair pleaded guilty at a previous hearing, when Judge Rupert Mayo ruled that they pay £250,000 to compensate victims and towards the costs of the prosecution. A total of 182 victims will now receive their share of the amount set aside for compensation.

The investigation began in June 2017 after Trading Standards received complaints from some of Flight Delay Claims Team’s customers, together with a request for advice from the company itself. Officers visited its business address in Northampton, identified a number of issues and advised on how to rectify them. But, after further complaints, a criminal investigation revealed the firm’s systematic defrauding of its customers between March 2016 and September 2019. Trading Standards received 531 complaints about Flight Delay Claims Team - the most about a single company. Judge Mayo said that one of the worst aspects of the fraud was the copying and electronic transposing of signatures on to documents

which were then used to pursue innocent victims through the court. This also represented a fraud on the criminal justice system. The judge praised the Trading Standards team for their handling of the case. Cllr David Smith, portfolio

holder for community safety and engagement and regulatory services on West Northamptonshire Council, said: “Reading some of the comments made by the victims was heartbreaking, with one victim having to take money out of his pension pot

to pay the amount demanded. “I hope the result of this investigation transmits a strong message that those who commit fraud should expect to feel the full weight of the law.” Cllr David Brackenbury, North Northamptonshire Council’s executive member for growth and regeneration, added: “I am delighted that justice has been done.”

Looking for a different approach to law? • Our Cyber Conference ran over three days and included topics from insider threat to the taxation of crypto-assets • Our Future Workspaces report provided a post-pandemic office space tool kit for employers • Our Private Client team was Highly Commended in the national Law Society excellence awards 2020 • Our Corporate team is ranked top in the UK for the number of deals done • Our Future of Farming event helped set the agenda on issues affecting rural and agricultural businesses.

Find out why we’re not your average law firm at www.hcrlaw.com HCR Hewitsons is a trading name of Harrison Clark Rickerbys Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the SRA

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

Business Times

November 2021

Legal Briefing

Smooth the path when it is time to part company

urlough has ended and many employers are still feeling the repercussions of the pandemic. On the one hand, many businesses are struggling; on the other, it is widely accepted there are more jobs than applicants. But what do you do if you need to downsize? Or, have ‘issues’ with an employee that need resolving without lengthy processes. A settlement agreement - formerly called a compromise agreement - may be the answer. This is a legally binding agreement between an employer and an employee who agrees not to bring a tribunal claim against the company, in return for financial compensation. Settlement agreements are typically associated with ending employment, issued either shortly before or after the employment has ended, although in some circumstances they can be used when employment is going to continue. To be binding, the employee must take independent legal advice before signing and they must be allowed to choose their own legal advisor. Employees are entitled to the following which will always be payable on termination even without a settlement agreement:

Nikita Shergill, an employment solicitor at Wilson Browne Solicitors, explains why a settlement agreement can be the answer in order to avoid costly and time-consuming tribunal proceedings.

Nikita Shergill

n Notice pay; n Payment for accrued, unused holidays; n Any other contractual benefits; n The employee must receive a severance payment as compensation for their loss of employment, tax free up to £30,000. In redundancy situations, an employee’s statutory redundancy pay must be enhanced to act as sufficient consideration (or financial incentive) to take the agreement;

The benefit is the certainty of knowing that a tribunal claim is not on its way

n It is customary for employers to contribute towards the cost of the employee’s legal advice - typically £350-£500 + VAT. The benefit of a settlement agreement is the certainty of knowing that a tribunal claim is not on its way, which alleviates the stress, strain, costs and management time that goes into fighting them. Also, it will include a provision to protect the company’s confidential information which, given that tribunal judgments are published online, is a great way of avoiding bad publicity. These conversations should be protected and approached on a ‘without prejudice/off the record’ basis in accordance with s111A of the Employment Rights Act 1996. However, this protection does not blankly apply to all situations and all tribunal claims. Having this conversation with an employee makes your intentions clear and it is difficult to rectify once the horse has bolted so seek specialist advice on how to approach the topic with your employee(s). What if the employee says no? Employees do not have to agree. If this happens, the company would

ordinarily continue with the process it had already started; for example redundancy process, formal performance management etc. In the worst case scenario, the employee may decide to bring a tribunal claim if their employment is terminated without a settlement agreement. But all is not lost - if it is a claim for ordinary unfair dismissal and on the proviso that those settlement discussions were protected, the employee should not be able to rely on your ‘off the record’ conversations as evidence of their claim.

Wilson Browne Solicitors. We can take the stress away from you by drafting a bespoke agreement to afford your company the utmost protection from all employment law angles.

Where timber meets perfection ‘A working environment to exceed my expectations’

W Established in 1999 and providing an excellent service for residential, commercial renovations and new-build developments. AJB group specialises in the design and manufacture of high quality internal joinery, external doorsets, windows, composite doors and mouldings.

www.ajb-group.co.uk 6

Business Times

November 2021

elcome to AJB Group, a familyrun business established in 1999 by experienced carpenter and joiner Amarjit Binji. Life began on the Oadby Industrial Estate in Leicester but fast forward to 2015, when Amarjit found a 40,000 sq ft site in Corby to accommodate his fast-growing business. The factory needed a complete overhaul but today, after six years, the office and reception refurbishment is now complete. “We spend a vast amount of our time at work and therefore it has always been important for me to provide a pleasant workspace for everyone here at AJB,” says Amarjit. “However, my vision and dream of creating an amazing working environment has exceeded my own expectations. “A huge and well deserved ‘Well Done’ to all the amazing people here at ‘Team AJB’,

delivering a great service to our business, our customers and our industry.” To celebrate, AJB invited its number one customer to officially open the office to celebrate this achievement. Simon Shadbolt, managing director of fire door manufacturer FR Shadbolt & Sons, is pictured with Amarjit as he cuts the ribbon to officially open AJB Group’s new-look premises. “It is an honour to come and open such a wonderful office,” said Simon. “It is a tribute to the high quality of work AJB carries out.” AJB manufactures the hardwood frames for the fire doors produced at FR Shadbolt & Sons’ factory in Essex. Many are for the high end residential and office fit-out market in London, including for the capital’s most iconic buildings such as The Shard and Battersea Power Station. “It has been a wonderful partnership over the last 20 years,” said Simon. “Long may it continue.”

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

Business News

Manufacturer celebrates Jaguar LandRover accolade

taff at a rubber and plastic injection moulding company in Northampton are celebrating after the firm received JLRQ approved status from Jaguar LandRover. The award is recognition of Burnetts Manufacturing’s outstanding performance as a direct supplier of components used to build cars across the Jaguar and Land-Rover ranges. Being recognised as a JLRQ approved supplier has benefits in terms of quality, reputation, and new business sourcing, said a Burnetts spokesman. Representatives from

J a g u a r L a n d R o v e r, including global STA director Andrew Mclure, attended the event to present the accolade to Burnetts and tour the company’s manufacturing facility. Burnetts became a first tier to Jaguar LandRover in 2017. “Since then, the relationship has gone from strength to strength and this has been recognised with the JLRQ award,” said Burnetts managing director Declan Murphy “The team have worked hard to consistently meet the standards required and this is something I am proud of, especially with the current global challenges.”

Declan Murphy (centre) with the Jaguar LandRover award

Warehouse site sold in £21m deal

A Megan Sanders visits the showhome’s bedroom, influenced by the company’s history of making army boots during the First World War

Homes site salutes town’s shoe-making heritage

he rich heritage of almost 150 years of shoemaking has inspired a development of new homes in Rushden. Davidsons Homes has opened the showroom on its 80-home development at Sanders Field, off Northampton Road. The design has been inspired by the history of local shoe manufacturer

Sanders & Sanders and company director Megan Sanders stepped away from her desk to officially open the new development. “It was a pleasant surprise to discover that Davidsons Homes had not only been inspired by our family’s heritage in the town when naming the new development but also when designing the showhome,” she said. “We are thrilled to have been

invited along to the launch.” Sanders & Sanders has manufactured footwear in Northamptonshire since the business was founded by brothers William and Thomas Sanders in 1873. Today it produces more than 2,000 pairs of shoes and boots every week at its factory in Spencer Road, from where it has traded for the past century, and exports to more than 30 countries.

substantial w a r e h o u s e complex at Darwin Road in Corby has been acquired by a global investment and asset management company for £21 million. The site’s five units are mainly let to freight forwarding company Rhenus Logistics. Other tenants include main Scania dealership TruckEast Ltd Commercial property agent Prop-Search acted for vendor Longmead Capital. “We are pleased to have completed the sale of this substantial investment,” said Prop-Search director Richard Baker. “Rhenus Logistics occupies approximately 95 per cent of the site and has proved to be a robust tenant for a significant number of years. Its long-term position and the potential for significant rental growth was very attractive to the purchasers, which was reflected in the price achieved.”

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

Business Times

November 2021

Legal Briefing

New tax on residential developers... as always, the devil will be in the detail

he government proposed to announce in its Autumn Budget the rate of the new Residential Property Developer Tax. The RPDT will be charged on the profits made by companies c a r r y i n g o u t re s i d e n t i a l development and activities in the UK from April 1 2022. The initial draft legislation was published on September 20 and the government consultation on the details ended on October 15. There are still areas which need ironing out, such as how the profits should be calculated and how developments for the purpose of renting - not sale - should be dealt with. Unfortunately, the opportunity to join in any consultation is unusually short and the proposed date of April 1 2022 for full implementation is very close. Therefore there may

Corporation Tax rules. We will need to await the details of the Autumn Budget Statement to emerge for a more comprehensive explanation of the RPDT and how this will impact new developments, developers, builders, and affordable housing incentives.

K a t h r y n F r i s b y, h e a d o f conveyancing, and specialist property solicitor Mohammed Rahman, of Borneo Martell Turner Coulston

Specialist property lawyers Kathryn Frisby and Mohammed Rahman assess a levy due to be introducted on property developers’ profits from next year be further extensions soon. The activities of development are clarified as being activities carried out on or in connection with land in the UK in which a developer has an interest. Part of the consultation involved various models of calculations and computations of how the RPDT profits would be considered. The legislation has been drafted to state that the profits are calculated

on the activities carried out by a ‘developer’ rather than activities carried out by a ‘company’. This is with the intention to avoid any potential loopholes where companies employ separate developers who are in fact connected with the company or vice versa. This would mean that companies within the scope of the RPDT would have to identify, declare and apportion profits

from their residential property development activities and would not be permitted to offset any finance costs from their profits. With respect to collection and management, the RPDT will be applying similar rules to the Corporation Tax rules and will use many of the same definitions. This is with the intention of keeping the new tax simple to follow for those who are already familiar with the

n For more details on the report and consultation, visit https://assets.publishing.service. gov.uk/government/uploads/ system/uploads/attachment_data/ file/1018791/210916_-_RPDT_ consultation.pdf. A full report will be available after the Autumn Budget and we always suggest developers obtain independent tax advice. For further information on the legal points in relation to this or other property matters, contact Kathryn Frisby or Mohammed Rahman or visit www.btmclaw.co.uk

Universities launch management programme to boost business resilience and growth

orthamptonshire-based businesses can get help to grow their management capability through a newly launched scheme. The Help to Grow: Management scheme aims to support senior

Business Times

managers of small and medium-sized businesses and CICs to boost their business’s performance, resilience, and long-term growth. The first scheme got under way last month with support from the University of Northampton, the

November 2021

Leicester Castle Business School and government funding. The 16week programme is delivered online and in person by academics and business mentors from De Montfort University Leicester. By the end of the programme

each business will have developed a business growth plan. Karen Jones, dean of Faculty of Business and Law at the University of Northampton, said: “Through the Help to Grow scheme we aim to use the collective strength of the

University of Northampton and De Montfort University to work in collaborative and creative ways to support the business community in the region, inspiring innovation, and economic recovery post-pandemic.”

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

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

Business Times

November 2021

Money Matters

Job gazumping: The new curse facing employers

Former M&S store to house job centre

Hired talent is opting for greener grass before they even start, leaving businesses in the lurch and struggling to secure the skills they need.

mployers are increasingly being gazumped by staff who have accepted an offer but not yet started work as the war for talent heats up. Such is the shortage of businesscritical staff in key sectors, new employees who are working out notice periods are accepting offers with higher pay, leaving many businesses in the lurch. Together with increasing energy costs and continuing supply chain challenges, businesses are facing a perfect storm of increased costs that will ultimately have to be passed on to customers, said Gary Wong, a director at accountants Hillier Hopkins. “Gazumping is something many homebuyers will know only too well

and now it is hitting employers too, adding to an already challenging business environment. Businesses may think they have their staffing needs met, only to find that a key new member of staff has been lured away to a competitor offering a bigger salary before they have even started. There is no sign of this stopping any time soon and a real headache for businesses.” It is, said Hillier Hopkins, seen across many industries including logistics, social care, retail and hospitality, food manufacturing, agriculture, and financial and professional services. Hillier Hopkins urges businesses to streamline recruitment processes to bring new staff onboard as quickly as is possible to avoid losing out

Gary Wong, Audit Director

“There is no sign of this stopping any time soon and it is a real headache for businesses.” and to look to include a greater level of engagement with the candidates during any notice periods. “Employers who have to wait three months or longer for a new member of staff to join are really suffering,” said Mr Wong. “In some industries, even a one-week wait can see a business lose a new candidate.” For many businesses, particularly those that have struggled throughout

the Covid pandemic, they will have no choice but to pass on those costs to their own customers. “It is important that businesses forecast and scenario plan the next 12 months to see where those cost increases will occur. Forecasting cashflow will be essential. Businesses that can see challenging financial times ahead should engage with their funders and lenders to see them through.”

ettering’s former M&S store, which closed more three years ago, is to become a temporary jobcentre. The prime High Street location will be used as part of the government’s efforts to meet increased demand for the service. Another temporary jobcentre will open in Northampton at Princess House, Cliftonville Road with the Department of Work and Pensions saying more sites will open once locations are confirmed. The DWP announcement said: “The new jobcentres will provide services across the country where they are needed. They will increase capacity to provide tailored face-to-face support in a Covid-secure environment and help support more people back into work and progress into new roles. “DWP will review the need for these temporary jobcentres as the economy recovers.”

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November 2021

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Business News Mark Mullen

Food waste app: Sign up and make a difference, says BID

own centre businesses in Northampton have been given the opportunity to reduce their food waste thanks to a new partnership with a world-leading food waste app and social impact company. Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District has teamed up with Too Good To Go, an anti food waste initiative that enables people to buy surplus food and drink from bakeries, restaurants, grocery stores, pubs and cafes and stop it

from going to landfill. The partnership means that any hospitality and food business in Northampton town centre is able to join the app and have its annual fee waived as part of its BID membership. Mark Mullen, the BID’s operations manager, said: “Food waste is a growing concern for many businesses and their customers. By teaming up with Too Good To Go, we are giving BID businesses the chance to make a real difference and

create extra revenue from goods that were previously just going to waste.” Several retailers have signed up already, he added. “We hope many more will follow.” Consumers download the free Too Good To Go app and search

for a nearby business with unsold food which they then purchase and collect. Since launching in 2016, Too Good Go - together with over 6 million registered users and 15,000 partner businesses - has saved 6.5 million

Magic Bags, stopping 16 million kg of carbon dioxide emissions from being wasted. Research shows that food waste contributes to ten per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. “We are thrilled to be partnering with the Northampton BID to help even more hospitality and food businesses in Northampton to fight food waste,” said Too Good To Go’s UK managing director Paschalis Loucaides. “If we are to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change, reducing food waste is the number one action we can take.”

Conference highlights ‘a greater appetite to innovate’

echnology giants BAE Systems and Amazon Web Services have outlined how they are looking at ways to work with the innovative businesses based within the Silverstone Technology Cluster. Both organisations were among the main speakers at the STC’s annual conference, which attracted senior figures from advanced engineering and manufacturing, electronics and software development and commerce. The cluster’s chief executive Pim van Baarsen and

chair Roz Bird said the conference, held at Horwood House near Milton Keynes, highlighted ‘an even greater appetite to innovate’ from its members and industry’s desire to explore opportunities with those businesses. The conference also included a lively session on the Oxford to Cambridge Arc ‘Super Cluster’, linking STC with other clusters along the growth corridor. Mr van Baarsen said: “The presentations from AWS, BAE Systems and the Super Cluster have

Pim van Baarsen really got people excited. The STC has continued to experience growth even during the pandemic, with the number of organisations coming to engage with us increasing all the time.”

Life science membership organisation OneNucleus joined Cambridge Network, Oxford innovation, Oxfordshire Greentech and MKAI among the presenters. Ms Bird said: “The reason the Silverstone Technology Cluster exists is to provide opportunities for our members to grow their business and I believe we really delivered on that promise at the conference. “People have talked to me about the great atmosphere on the day and how the conference helped to celebrate the innovation and can-do attitude

that the region has to offer.” The conference was held in association with founding STC member MEPC Silverstone Park. Guests included business and scaleup experts Shai Vyakarnam and Tony Hart, and Andrew Lewer, MP for Northampton South. Mr van Baarsen said: “We listen to our membership all the time and can sense after the conference there is an even greater hunger to innovate. They really can see more potentially very rewarding opportunities opening for them.”

Our solicitors are experts in a full range of legal services from corporate, employment, litigation and property to estate planning and family law. To find out more, please contact Gerald Couldrake on 01604 230 400 or at gerald.couldrake@howespercival.com.

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Business Times

November 2021

Money Matters

High streets welcome funding boost from council

Accountants help businesses to recover R&D tax savings Chartered accountants Moore East Midlands have helped local businesses to recover more than £2,477,000 in tax savings on spending between January 2019 and June 2021.

esearch and development tax relief is a UK tax incentive designed to encourage innovation and increased spending on R&D activities by UK businesses. It is available to any business which is liable for corporation tax and undertakes research and development activities such as creating or modifying new or existing products, processes, or services. Over the recent years, R&D claims have increased significantly as businesses are seeking out ways to save and improve their cashflow. Tim Woodgates, associate at

Tim Woodgates

Tax relief is often overlooked by smaller businesses who assume they wll not qualify

Moore’s Corby office, says: “We have assisted clients to identify and claim enhanced tax relief on £73 million-plus of R&D costs. A popular misconception is that R&D tax relief is aimed purely at medical

and pharmaceutical companies. Because of this, R&D tax relief is often overlooked by smaller businesses who assume that they will not qualify. This is not the case, as long as your project seeks to achieve an advance in science or technology then there can be major tax savings available.” The team at Moore has helped clients across a wide range of sectors to make successful R&D tax relief claims. If you think your business can benefit, Moore can assess your situation to see if you have a claim and make the claim on your behalf.

To find out more about R&D tax relief, visit www.moore.co.uk/rdtax or call 01604 654254

TELL YOUR BUSINESS NEWS TO NORTHAMPTONSHIRE’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY IN THE COUNTY’S LEADING BUSINESS NEWSPAPER. email news@business-times.co.uk or call 01604 259900

igh streets across North Northamptonshire will be given support through a new government fund. A total of £312,000 has been awarded to North Northamptonshire Council through the Welcome Back Fund which builds on the Reopening of the High Street Safely Funding to deliver new projects and put in place measures to help residents rediscover their local High Street. The key aims of the fund are to boost the local economy, support local businesses, promote the area and welcome people back to their local High Street safely. The council is working together with 12 town councils in the area and has already distributed £185,000 worth of funding to these authorities to enable them to deliver events and promotion of local attractions. North Northamptonshire Council will use the remaining funding to run initiatives such as installing footfall

counters in some town centres, consultation with businesses in the area, photography, improvements to town centre street scenes and marketing campaigns focused on the high street. Plans are being developed for an area-wide tourism app. Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council, said: “The High Street experience in North Northamptonshire is very traditional with a good mix of independent businesses as well as national household names. We welcome this funding which will enable us to highlight the area, make our town centres an attractive place to live, work and shop and support us to carry out work to bring visitors and vibrancy to our towns once again.” Earlier this year, the government announced the £56 million Welcome Back Fund to enhance high streets across the country.

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Engineering firm aims high after £250k funding win

unding totalling £250,000 will enable an electrical engineering company in Northampton to deliver on two new contracts and take on new staff. Bowers Electrical Engineering Services will use the money to purchase new materials and cover labour costs. It is an important part of the company’s growth plans, said managing director Chris Bowers.

BEES works with clients in the medical, life sciences and engineering sectors. It specialises in validation of decontamination equipment, design and building of specific machinery, control and automation of electrical panels and a customer part distribution service. It has secured the growth capital loan from Maven Capital Partners E&SE Midlands Debt Finance

fund through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund and backed by the Coronavirus Business Interruption Scheme loan. Mr Bowers said: “Following this MEIF funding, we are now in a very strong working capital position, allowing us to spring forward and deliver the next level of our growth trajectory and tender for all sizes of machine control and automation projects.”

Maven investment manager Graham Hall said the deal would enable BEES to ‘seize upon some great business development opportunities proactively sourced during lockdown’. The deal has been welcomed by the government’s growth delivery agency the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership. Its Growth Hub manager Vicky

Hlomuka said: “Not only is the electrical engineering sector itself an important part of our local and national economy but BEES also provides services to the NHS, and the engineering, medical and life science industries, whose value is seen more clearly now than ever. I am delighted to hear that they have secured funding from the MEIF to help continue their growth journey.”

MP vows to lobby for UK PPE manufacturers

S Medicom UK managing director Hugues Bourgeois shows Dame Andrea Leadsom MP around the Medicom factory

outh Northamptonshire MP Dame Andrea Leadsom is to press ministers about the government’s plans to ensure that the UK is no longer overreliant on cheap imported personal protective equipment. The Conservative MP was speaking on a visit to the Medicom factory in her constituency, which produces millions of medical masks for the NHS. She said: “This is a highly impressive facility, which is playing a vital role in ensuring that the UK has what we need to protect our health workers. “It is important that the UK is not dependent on imported PPE, which is not necessarily of the same quality and whose transport has a major

environmental impact. The security of the supply chain is essential.” Medicom, a world-leading manufacturer of high-quality PPE, has created around 250 new jobs at its newly opened factory in Liliput Road, Northampton. The facility has been developed by the global Canada-based group following an agreement with the UK government to provide more than half a billion masks for the NHS. A major factor in the deal has been helping to ensure supplies at a time of unprecedented demand during the Covid-19 pandemi. The Northampton factory is already producing more than 1.5 million face masks a day under Medicom’s Kolmi brand. Dame Andrea said: “The creation of

new local jobs is always welcome. On a wider level, this major investment by a multi-national company is an example of the global opportunities the UK can pursue after leaving the EU.” The governments of Canada, France, Singapore and Hong Kong have also chosen Medicom as a key supplier. The company has ten manufacturing sites around the world but the plant in Northampton is the first in the UK. Dame Andrea was given a tour of the factory by Medicom’s UK managing director Hugues Bourgeois. “We have made this big commitment because we believe in the NHS and strengthening PPE production in the UK,” he said. “We are very grateful to Dame Andrea Leadsom for her support.”

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Business Times

November 2021

Business News: Appointments

Digital expert joins to meet transport technology boom

igital and business transformation specialist Stephen Dyke has joined engineering company Cosworth in the newly created role of chief operations officer. Mr Dyke joins Northampton-based Cosworth from global engineering consultancy Ricardo, where he spent two years as managing director, leading the company’s automotive and industrial offering across EMEA. He chaired its EMEA board and was a statutory director of Ricardo UK so brings valuable expertise to Cosworth in the automotive, commercial, defence, marine, aerospace and energy sectors. Before moving to Ricardo, Mr Dyke led data and digital transformation within Amey, EY and Network Rail, as well as running the transport and logistics business at CSC, now known as DXC Technology. His appointment is in response to the company’s growth within the transportation technology sector, driven by programmes and partnerships in intelligent transportation. Mr Dyke will report to Cosworth chief executive Hal Reisiger. His arrival will allow the company to accelerate its progress towards electrification and to tackle new mobility challenges through hybrid

Hospice trust appoints chief executive

Audit specialist earns partner promotion

R Stephen Dyke and EV propulsion, data connectivity and automation technology. “Cosworth is an exciting business and much broader in its capabilities than many yet know from the outside,” Mr Dyke said. “Since joining, I have learned more about our high-performance engineering and an opportunity to scale the company’s suite of offerings into new sectors and geographies.” Mr Dyke spent more than 20 years in the RAF and studied electronic systems engineering at Cranfield University. “I am looking forward to supporting the business growth, taking everything for which Cosworth is renowned and evolving our product strategy that integrates into future mobility solutions,” he said.

e g i o n a l accountancy and business advice firm Azets has promoted Richard Monkhouse to partner at its Kettering office. Mr Monkhouse has worked for Azets since 2014 and moved from its Peterborough office to Kettering in January. He leads the practice’s work on external audits, including charities, owner manager businesses, UK and overseas groups and academy schools. Kettering office

Richard Monkhouse managing partner Paul Tyler said: “Although he has only been with the office for a relatively short time, he has been a real asset to us not just in the audit field but strengthening the partnership group.” Regional managing partner Tim Croft added: “He will continue to be a great asset to the Kettering office and the wider region.”

hilip Talbot is the new chief executive of Cransley Hospice Trust in Kettering. He took up his post last month, succeeding Peter Kelby who has retired after seven years at the helm. Mr Talbot has moved after 12 years leading an Age UK brand partner in the Midlands. “I am delighted to be joining Cransley Hospice Trust at such an exciting time for the organisation and look forward to playing an instrumental role in driving the support

Philip Talbot and development of end of life care in North Northamptonshire,” he said. Tr u s t c h a i r P a u l Humphrey said: “We are very pleased that Philip has accepted the role. Philip brings a wealth of experience and I look forward to him joining the charity and this next exciting phase of Cransley Hospice Trust’s development.”

From trainee to director, engineer rises through the ranks

ngineering manager Ben Walsh pictured is settling into his new role as technical director at Stanair Industrial Door Services. He has worked for the company since 1995, when he joined as a trainee engineer and moved up the career ladder to

lead engineer before becoming engineering manager. His new role includes overseeing the training and progression of the Stanair engineers. Stanair Industrial Door Services was founded in 1974 to

provide repairs to industrial and commercial doors. “Ben is just the latest example of how the company encourages its staff to succeed and progress within their chosen career,” said a spokesman.

Law firm expands with appointment of new partners

ollers are delighted to announce the arrival of two new partners, Heather Palmer and Kate Godber. Heather is a highly accomplished solicitor who, having trained at Ward Hadaway, established her own practice specialising in property law. After ten years of dealing with all aspects of property law, in 2011 Heather began to specialise on resolving issues for landowners and developers arising out of restrictive covenants, easements, rights of way, light, drainage and ransom strips. Heather has higher rights of audience, is highly experienced in both contentious and non-contentious matters and is considered to be one of the country’s leading advisors in her fields of expertise. In addition to routinely acting both with and against Queen’s Counsel, Heather also regularly lectures at the RICS national conferences where

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her understanding of the valuation principles for negotiated damages in respect of ransom strips and restrictive covenants is of particular value to the audiences. Heather said: “I am delighted to be joining such a well established and respected regional firm like Tollers, who have the resources that will allow us to expand this highly specialised and niche area of property law.” Kate has joined the firm’s thriving trusts and estates department. She qualified as a solicitor in 2007 and then as a chartered tax advisor in 2012. Kate’s areas of expertise include estate planning, wills, trusts, estate administration, Lasting Powers of Attorney and personal tax. With many long-standing clients, Kate is seen as a trusted advisor when it comes to providing bespoke and proactive solutions for estate and tax planning.

November 2021

Heather Palmer (left) and Kate Godber are newly arrived partners at Tollers “Having worked both in large regional practices and latterly in a smaller boutique firm, I feel that Tollers offers me the opportunity to pass on the knowledge and experience I have gained and to develop my career further before taking it to the next level,” Kate said. “I am really excited to have become a member of the Tollers family.” Duncan Nicholson, Tollers managing partner, said: “We are

absolutely delighted that Heather and Kate have chosen to join Tollers expanding team of legal experts. Both of them bring a wealth of expertise and gravitas to our existing teams. “As a firm we are constantly looking to strengthen for the future and this is even more so as the country emerges from the pandemic. The addition of both Heather and Kate will ensure that Tollers continues to provide the

highest-calibre legal advice to the sectors and markets we serve.” These two key appointments clearly demonstrate Tollers’ commitment to the firm’s delivery of Exceptional People, Exceptional Service and Exceptional Delivery. n Talk to Tollers on 01604 258558 or 01536 276727, for all your business and personal legal requirements.

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

Business News

We have risen to each challenge, says outgoing vice-chancellor

niversity of Northampton vice chancellor and chief executive Professor Nick Petford is to step down from his role in the sumer of next year. Professor Petford, who has led the university since 2010, is leaving to pursue opportunities in the field of international education. Chief operating officer Terry Neville is also to retire at the end of the academic year. “It has been an honour to have served as the vice chancellor of the University of Northampton for more than a decade,” said Mr Petford. “In that time, many thousands of our graduates have made their mark around the world.” Professor Petford and Mr Neville headed the university’s relocation to a purpose-built facility within Northampton’s Enterprise Zone. The move has grown its links to the local economy and creatied a new commercial and leisure district for the town. The university also received Gold status in the government’s Teaching Excellence Framework. “I arrived at Northampton in the knowledge that universities looked

Fire chief urges bosses to check premises protection ‘It is important that they continue to meet their legal duties’

Professor Nick Petford set to face unprecedented challenges and I am proud that we have risen to each challenge and overcome it, particularly in these most recent, difficult times,” said Mr Petford, who will assist in the appointment of his successor. Mark Mulcahey, chair of the university’s board of governors, praised the work of Mr Petford and Mr Neville, saying they had “led the university to the vanguard of using higher education as a catalyst for social impact. That progressive thinking has become the hallmark of the University of Northampton and a worthy legacy for these remarkable colleagues.” Mr Neville said: “It has always been my belief that through their teaching, research and community outreach, universities are the engine of productive change. My years of working at Northampton have seen that belief become reality and I am grateful to have played my part.”

ire chiefs are urging businesses to check and update their fire protection measures as they return to company premises after the pandemic. Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service’s protection team provides advice and guidance to firms to minimise the risk of fire in the workplace. And they are telling businesses not to delay in seeking advice on keeping their staff, stock and premises safe. The county service will also advise on reducing the risk of arson and false alarms. There were more than 4,700 deliberate fires in businesses in the UK in 2019-20 and most attacks are unplanned and opportunist crimes. It also assists with fire risk assessments, staff training and checks on fire safety equipment. Scott Richards, community protection manager at Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service, said: “We know what

Scott Richards

Our advice does not focus on compliance at any cost... officers will discuss solutions with owners a challenging 18 months this has been for businesses but it is important that they continue to meet their legal duties. Our

work and advice to businesses does not focus on compliance at any cost. Officers will regularly discuss solutions with owners that are more suitable to a particular situation, more pragmatic and easier to manage and, in some cases, more cost-effective.” Mark Andrews, business engagement lead at the National Fire Chiefs Council, added: “Fire services are committed to helping businesses get back to work so they can continue to make their valued contribution to the economy and local communities. Fire can have a devastating impact on a business with many never recovering. We encourage businesses to get in touch with their local fire service for advice.”

n Contact the NFRS Protection by emailing fireprotection@ northantsfire.gov.uk or call 01604 797000.

Trusted legal advisers to the business community in Northampton. To find out more, please contact Gerald Couldrake on 01604 230 400 or at gerald.couldrake@howespercival.com.

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

Business Times

November 2021

Business News

Historic pub wins £315k restoration funding boost ‘A sympathetic renovation using the best conservation standards’

n historic coaching inn could reopen to the public after West Northamptonshire Council agreed a £315,000 funding package. The 16th-century Old Black Lion in Northampton has sat empty since its closure in 2018. Now councillors have agreed to release money from the council’s £24.9 million Towns Fund pot allocated to Northampton by the government in March. The funds will go towards restoring the building on Marefair to a community pub, offering food and drink, a function room, and five guest bedrooms. A further £150,000 of Section 106 funding is also being sought, while £200,000 of match funding has already been provided by the council to support the project. The plan would involve the Churches Conservation Trust, which runs the nearby St Peter’s Church, taking over the lease. Cllr Lizzy Bowen, cabinet member for economic development, town centre regeneration and growth, said: “The Old Black Lion is an integral

Business Times

part of Northampton’s heritage but in its current state it has a negative impact on the neighbouring 12thcentury St Peter’s Church - one of the finest Norman buildings in the country - and gives a negative impression of the town to people arriving from the train station.” Renovation will retain the grade II-listed pub’s original features. “We want to ensure a sympathetic renovation using the best conservation standards in order to create a welcoming, financially viable and much-needed community venue.” The project will form the basis of the council’s wider regeneration plan for the Marefair area and will provide an anchor point for the new ‘Heritage Gateway’ area of the town which will link to and support the town’s thriving Cultural Quarter. The Churches Conservation Trust is set to take a 30-year lease to allow the project’s delivery, with the first 12 years offered at a peppercorn rent and a clause allowing the trust to purchase the building from the

November 2021

The Old Black Lion: West N o r t h a m p t o n s h i re C o u n c i l has agreed funding towards its restoration Photo: Alex Davidson

council at a later date. The trust is supported by the Friends of St Peter’s, a group of volunteers who help to care for the Grade I listed church. They also host a regular programme of events, talks and lectures, both at the church and online and have been involved in the project from the outset. Peter Aiers, chief executive of the Churches Conservation Trust, said: “We are really excited to be working on this innovative venture. Our team brings considerable experience of community-led regeneration of church buildings and the skills

we have developed are directly applicable to help tackle the problem of struggling high streets. “After years of work by many people I am overjoyed that the project is moving into this new and exciting phase. We are extremely grateful to all of our partners and funders for their continued support and belief in this bold and complex scheme.” Proposed works to the Old Black Lion include: n Reinstating of the historic carriage passage from Marefair into the inn’s courtyard and a new

path and gate to connect the pub’s courtyard entrance on St Peter’s Street to the adjacent churchyard. n A new dining room extension at the rear, re-establishing the horseshoe plan of the original building, and overlooking the courtyard, which will be a beer garden. n Five bed and breakfast guest bedrooms, a meeting room and a function room, which will both be available for private hire and community use. The Churches Conservation Trust is also exploring a partnership with the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers, which could see a national bellringing training centre based at the Old Black Lion and St Peter’s. The pub will provide facilities for visitors to St Peter’s Church, generate funds for the repair and conservation of the church and support the work of the Churches Conservation Trust.

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Business News

Gala ceremony celebrates the cream of the county

he achievements of hundreds of food and drink businesses and individuals across Northamptonshire took centre stage at the Royal and Derngate, Northampton, for this year’s Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards. A total 64 finalists in 13 award categories enjoyed their night in the spotlight with 350 guests at the glittering awards ceremony. Awards director Rachel Mallows said: “Not only do we celebrate achievement at the awards evening, we also provide long-lasting support with individual mentoring, business support and training, marketing and promotion as well as entrance into the Great Taste Awards for our Gold product and drink winners.” The awards, now in their 13th year, received hundreds of applications in 13 categories from what Rachel described as ‘a diverse range of ambitious and driven individuals who make up the fabric of Northamptonshire’s food and drink sector’. Major food and drinks businesses across Northamptonshire, including headline sponsor Weetabix, again generously supported and sponsored the awards. Weetabix’s group HR and IT director Stuart Branch said: “What an incredible evening

Join the party at the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards... one of the county’s biggest occasions of the year

A packed Royal and Derngate for the awards ceremony celebrating such inspirational and forward-thinking people and businesses who make up the Northamptonshire Food and Drink scene.

“As a business based within the county, we are immensely proud to support the awards process with year-long backing to ensure that those who are declared finalist or

winners in each category, receive the recognition they deserve as well as mentoring and guidance.” Market-leading wholesaler Booker, based at Wellingborough, is another supporter of the awards and sponsored the Young Chef of the Year award. Its catering development controller Nathan Portess said: “The Booker Young Chef of the Year competition showcases the very best talent that Northamptonshire’s young people working in the hospitality and catering industry has to offer At Booker, we are committed to helping chefs across the county by improving choice, price and service for them and we are delighted to support the 2021/2022 Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards.” MC for the evening was BBC broadcaster Helen Fospero. “I am bowled over by the skill, talent and teamwork showcased tonight by finalists and award winners,” she said. “It is my first visit to Northampton and I will certainly be returning more often to sample the quality produce the county has to offer. “It is incredible to see so many young people being encouraged to learn chef skills and forge a career in the food and drinks sector too.”

John Evans (centre) collects the award for Towcester Mill Brewery. He is pctured with host Helen Fospero and Tom Warner of Warners Gin

Weetabix once again was headline sponsor at this year’s awards

MEET THE WINNERS AND FINALISTS... Artisan Local Drink of the Year Sponsor: Heygates GOLD Steam Ale - Towcester Mill Brewery SILVER Old Silson Gin - Wharf Distillery BRONZE Infusion Set - Jelley’s Vodka with Tea Lab; Black Cherry and Vanilla Rum - New Town; Solar Star - Phipps NBC; Pilsner - Silverstone Brewery Artisan Local Product of the Year Sponsor: Heygates GOLD Blueberry Jam - Friars Farm; Jeyes’s Northamptonshire Sauce - Jeyes of Earls Barton SILVER Salted Caramel Ice Cream Ganders Goat; Northamptonshire Blue - Hamm Tun Fine Foods BRONZE Mango Caramel Popcorn What’s Poppin’; Picklish - Bite Me Spices Artisan Local Vegetarian/ Vegan Product of the Year Sponsor: Daily Bread GOLD Pecan, Pumpkin and Cranberry Cake Sophisticake Creations SILVER Little Bertie - Hamm Tun Fine Foods; Vegan Sausage Roll - Whittlebury Bakery BRONZE Mushroom Biriyani - Bite Me Spices; Chilli Jam - Friars Farm

Booker Dining Venue of the Year Sponsor: Booker GOLD The Falcon at Castle Ashby; The Pig and Waffle, Grafton Underwood SILVER Murray’s at Whittlebury; The Palmichael Restaurant, Burton Latimer; The Red Lion, Cranford BRONZE The Folly Inn, Towcester; The Tollemache Arms, Harrington

Independent Café/Tearoom of the Year Sponsor: Whitco GOLD Ten Hands Cafe Bar, Towcester SILVER The Apothocoffee Shop, Earls Barton; The Good Loaf, Northampton; The Grain Store Coffeehouse, Woodford BRONZE New Lodge Farm, Bulwick; The Watermill Tearooms, Ringstead

Booker Young Chef of the Year Sponsor: Booker GOLD Ellie Galloway of The Church Restaurant, Northampton SILVER David Smith of The Palmichael Restaurant, Burton Latimer BRONZE Louis Smith of Boboli Restaurant, Kibworth Harcourt; Shawn Monk of The Falcon, Fotheringhay

Food and Drink College Student of the Year Sponsor: The Mallows Company GOLD with DISTINCTION Emma McGlamery (Moulton College) GOLD Phoebe Gluyas (Moulton College) SILVER Dan James (Northampton College); Susanna Pack (Moulton College) BRONZE Lewis Gurney (Tresham College)

Chef of the Year Sponsor: Dawn Farms GOLD Zak Perrin of The Falcon, Fotheringhay SILVER Jim Millar of Willow and Brook, Apethorpe; Bart Polinski of The Orangery, Delapre Abbey BRONZE Michael O’Gorman of Side Order Catering, Wellingborough

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

F&B Achiever of the Year Sponsor: Howes Percival GOLD Matt Fountain of Bewiched Coffee; Laurence Conisbee of Wharf Distillery SILVER Steve Reid of Friars Farm BRONZE Greta McDonald of Sweet Lounge; Jeeva Sanmugam of Classic Cuisine

Local Food Hero of the Year Sponsor: Moulton College GOLD The Old Swan, Earls Barton; Northampton Siri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara SILVER The Old White Hart, Far Cotton; Northampton Hope Centre One to Watch Sponsor: Whitworth Bros Ltd. GOLD Yum Chop Foods, Towceste; Explore Chocolate, Finedon SILVER Vicky’s Kitchen, Northampton BRONZE Roman Way Brewery, Weedon; Brothers Pub Co, Northampton Weetabix Sustainability Award Sponsor: Weetabix GOLD Blue Skies, Pitsford; Re, Flore SILVER Syan Farms, Horton BRONZE Sol Laug Haven, Moulton; Applegate Organics, Northampton; The Food Library, Northampton World Cuisine Restaurant of the Year Sponsor: British Pepper & Spice GOLD Saffron, Northampton SILVER June Plum, Wellingborough BRONZE The Exotic Dining, Kettering; Tamarind, Northampton

‘This award is like a big hug. It is heartfelt and really matters’

elighted Ellie Galloway, winner of the Booker Young Chef of the Year was shocked by the results. “It is the first year I have taken part in the competition and I never expected to get this far,” she said. “I am so grateful for the award which I know will provide me with amazing opportunities as I progress in my career.” Lindsey Singh, of Re in Flore, won the Weetabix Sustainability Award. “Having moved back to the UK from India, I was shocked at the amount of food waste produced in the UK. We have created a shop in the village, rather than a village shop, where our customers value the quality produce we have on offer and can buy exactly what they need without the plastic or excess quantities This award is like a big warm hug; it is heartfelt and it really matters.” Zak Perrin of the Falcon at Fotheringhay was named Chef of the Year. “I am blown away,” he said. “I was up against some serious talent from chefs across the county. It was a tough competition and I will be celebrating with my team for some considerable time.” His award already has pride of place on the bar at the Falcon. Food and Drink College Student of the Year silver winner Susanna Pack, from Moulton College, is in the final year of her catering course. “It is amazing to be recognised for the skills I have learnt while at college,” she said. “I am in my final year of a catering course and my passion is for cake decorating which I hope to develop in the future.”

Menu befits a gala occasion Guests were delighted at the menu for the awards ceremony, which featured all-Northamptonshire produce: Hamm Tun Fine Foods’ Cobblers Nibble within the Cheese Souffle; Bookers Blackgate Signature Sirloin; Warners Rhubarb Gin and Ginger Cheesecake with a Weetabix granola base; Pecan, Cranberry and Pumpkin Cupcakes from Sophiticake Creations.

Business Times

November 2021

Business News Saxon Blinds celebrates 21 years in business

The heat is on and installers are rising to the challenge

s more and more people understand the benefits that heat pumps bring in heating their homes or commercial premises, Burton Latimer-based Griffiths is working hard as the county’s premier installer of this energy-saving microgeneration technology. Heat pumps extract heat from the air or ground and very efficiently use it to warm the water flowing through radiators or underfloor heating. They are powered by electricity but one kilowatt of electrical power will produce around four kilowatts of useable heat - four times more energy-efficient than an electric fan heater. Griffiths was the first approved installers of heat pumps in Northamptonshire under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme back in 2008 and has carried out hundreds of heat pump jobs since then. Most installations qualify for the government’s Renewable Heat Incentive, a cash-back scheme for providing heat from a renewable source amounting to several thousand pounds in most cases. Working with two of the biggest names in heat pump technology - Daikin, with regards to air source heat pumps, and Kensa for the ground source projects - Griffiths has built up a wealth of experience in application, installation and servicing. Griffiths is a Daikin

D1+ Premier Partner Approved Installer of air source heat pumps and part of Kensa’s Underground Network of Approved Installers for ground source heat pumps. Daikin Altherma air source heat pumps are available in three versions, LT (low temperature) that provide hot water up to 65°C and HT (high temperature) with a maximum of 80°C. The high temperature systems are ideal for larger or hard to heat properties such as listed buildings. Also available is the Altherma Hybrid air source heat pump, a combined heat pump and combi gas boiler which is aimed at the gas boiler replacement market but is equally suitable for new builds that have natural gas or LPG available. It could provide a 35 per cent saving on current gas costs and it qualifies for RHI payments. As well as installing the heat pumps, Griffiths’ engineers also carry out all associated plumbing and electrical works, and the service team provide the essential annual maintenance, ensuring the heat pumps are running as efficiently as possible. Contact Griffiths on 01536 420666, email office@griffithsaircon.co.uk or visit the Energy Efficiency Centre showroom at 111 High Street in Burton Latimer, where you can see working examples of the heat pump products. Open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday.

“Stopping advertising to save money is like stopping a clock to save time”

S C

aring is a ‘job of the future’, says the boss of an East Northants home care company. And he is urging people to come on board as he pledges to build an army of caregivers to provide support in the local community. Mark Darnell, of Home Instead East Northants, currently has 65 vacancies at his care company which has clients across Kettering, Wellingborough, Rushden and surrounding villages. Mark says that jobs in his sector are future-proof, referring to the resilience of care work against a backdrop of sectors such as hospitality and travel that have been so badly impacted by the pandemic. Now that the government’s furlough scheme has ended,

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November 2021

n For advice on commercial blinds, contact Saxon Blinds on 01604 603111 or email sales@saxonblinds.co.uk

Futureproof your career, says home care boss

COPIES PRINTE & DELIV D ER EVERY ED MONTH

Business Times

n For more information on the 65 vacancies in East Northants call 01933 678775 or visit www. homeinstead.co.uk/eastnorthants

Mark Darnell is pictured with Veronica Waters

– Henry Ford

people have sadly lost their jobs. However, with an aging population, home care has seen a huge increase in demand, so much so that there is a national shortage of caregivers. The UK population includes more than 14.28 million baby boomers who are coming into older age over the next few years. The millennial generation follows a close second at 14.22 million people. At the same time, we are living longer. “The need for outstanding home care support has never been greater and we really need more people with the desire to help others,” said Mark. “Because we offer award-winning training, anyone with the right personality can become a caregiver. We have had many people join our team during the pandemic who have reassessed their lives and wanted to change career paths.” Home Instead CAREgiver Veronica Waters added: “Every day is different and, because you are helping people remain as independent as possible, it is very rewarding. At times the work can be challenging but you receive first-class training and the team are always on hand for support and advice. There is nothing better than leaving a client happy and content - you really do make a difference to their lives.”

axon Blinds is celebrating 21 years in business this past month. The company has been manufacturing and installing commercial blinds in schools, universities, offices and other public buildings throughout Northamptonshire since 2000. And the business is seeing the benefits of becoming a bespoke manufacturer of all types of roller blind systems. This summer, Saxon Blinds has seen record demand for its child-safe commercial blinds as schools and other academic establishments prepared for the start of the new academic year. In recent years the company have seen huge demand for heavy duty made roller blinds increase through product innovation, architectural building design, shading, safety and security benefits in both commercial and domestic properties. Saxon Blinds specialises in the manufacture of electric, battery-powered motorised options, heavy duty manual chain and gear controls. Its products are now made and installed to suit all commercial type sector buildings, also including office suites, shops, government and public buildings throughout the UK. “We can advise on the correct fabric shading solutions along with options to operate the heavy duty blinds safely,” says managing director Mark Grainger. Saxon Blinds also provides expert security advice for its products, he adds. Saxon Blinds offers a survey, supply and install service. Every member of staff is a CSCS-skilled worker and DBS checked. All commercial blinds come with a five-year guarantee.

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

Business News

A time to look back... and a time to look forward

ith the end of the year rapidly approaching and Christmas just around the corner, many individuals and organisations will start looking back over the past year. Although the lockdowns have ended and restrictions have eased, it is still an incredibly challenging environment, both on a personal and commercial level. Businesses have had to work hard and innovate to survive. And that hard work now seems to be paying off. As well as being a time to look back, it is also a time to look forward. As the end of the year approaches, we need to start thinking about the year ahead, to plan for the challenges that are sure to come and to prepare to grasp the opportunities that will appear. Hopefully the year ahead will be easier than the previous two but it is still certain to bring its own hurdles and setbacks. Every business needs to do everything it can to ensure that it is ready to meet them. However, you do not have to do this alone. By joining the Growth Curve Programme, you will gain the opportunity to discuss your

business, its challenges, and your aspirations for the future with one of SEMLEP’s high growth business advisers before going on to attend a university masterclass. This masterclass consists of a series of intensive, interactive sessions that will focus on developing and

honing your leadership and business management skills. These sessions will cover a wide range of topics that could include sales, marketing, human resources and operational efficiency. The programme is designed to help you to learn how to take a

step back and look at your business from different angles. This will provide you with new insights into the challenges your business faces and allow you to see how other organisations are overcoming similar hurdles. You will learn new ways of working to better lead yourself and your team and develop an action plan to address the most urgent and important issues facing your business. It also gives you an invaluable opportunity to connect with likeminded people who can be a source of motivation, support and guidance. Once you have completed the programme you will continue to get ongoing support as well as access to a network of your fellow Growth Curve alumni. Businesses are scaling up across the area and the opportunity to share experiences should not be overlooked. This month The ScaleUp Report will be published. This report is designed to help businesses like yours take stock of the current situation, to see where you are, to get an idea of the economic health of the region and to understand the common barriers to growth. Make sure to take a look at the

report to get a better understanding of your business landscape. You never know what you might learn. As part of Growth Curve, you will also be notified of future grant funding for which you may be eligible, such as Recovery and Resilience Grants and Additional Restrictions Grants. Growth Curve is run by SEMLEP’s Growth Hub, in partnership with the University of Bedfordshire, Cranfield University and the University of Northampton, and is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund. In order to be eligible to apply to join the Growth Curve programme, your company must be a SME (maximum turnover of €50 million or annual balance sheet of €43 million) based in the South East Midlands, have between three and 250 employees and before the pandemic have had annual turnover of £200,000 and been experiencing or projecting high growth for between two and three years. n Find out more at the SEMLEP Growth Hub website www. semlepgrowthhub.com

Dining in style... the perfect place to start your festive celebrations

he Palmichael in Burton Latimer has been owned and run by the Palmiero family since 1981. As part of the celebrations of a milestone 40 years in business, The Palmichael welcomes diners to its newly renovated, light and airy restaurant, which it unveiled in September last year, with additional seating and bar upstairs. The Upstairs at the Palmichael is as beautiful and in demand as downstairs, offering a sumptuous bar and dining area where guests enjoy delicious, high-quality cuisine in a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. Christmas is coming and Upstairs at the Palmichael is perfect for a festive celebration with friends, family or work colleagues. The restaurant welcomes group bookings of up to 40 guests. The Palmichael’s mouthwatering Christmas menu will be served from November 30 until December 24. Lunch is priced at £21 (for 2 courses) or £25 (for 3 courses). Or opt for the evening Christmas

It’s Christmas... It’s time to celebrate Dine in style at The Palmichael menu at £32 for 3 courses. To acompany your meal, Maria and her team have created a list of original Palmichael drinks combined with old favourites with a seasonal twist.

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

n Find out more at www. thepalmichael.co.uk. Contact Maria today to book your table. Call 01536 723641 or email info@thepalmichael. co.uk

Festive Dinner £32 for 3 courses Festive Lunch £21 for 2 courses / £25 for 3 courses Open Tues-Sat 10.30am-9.30pm or last order CAFElRISTORANTE ITALIANOlBAR www.thepalmichael.co.uk 01536 723641 info@thepalmichael.co.uk Business Times

November 2021

Networking

>> The local networking round-up

ace to face networking meetings are back across Northamptonshire offering fresh opportunities to connect with like-minded people. Networking online, which has been a lifeline for many businesses during the pandemic, still continue to offer people a chance to keep in touch. Across Northamptonshire there are networking groups to meet a wide range of styles which means people can find one to suit the way they like to do business.

A group for networkers looking for a constant stream of referrals, introductions, opportunities and sales. The tried and tested RIO™ model offers dynamic weekly online meetings and an experienced management team: Peterborough every Tuesday at 8am. Cambridgeshire and South Lincolnshire every Wednesday at 8am. Northants and surrounding areas every Tuesday at midday. National networking every Wednesday at midday. Contact Gary Thorpe for all events. Email: gary.thorpe@debt-doctors.co.uk Tel: 07963 766052 or 01536 333425 All meetings are over 90-minutes, and we are continuing online, which means you’ll benefit from no increase in your time commitment, no additional fuel costs and no high monthly/weekly meeting fees as we move out of lockdown.

Tuesday’s BNI (Temporary Online) Meeting 6.45am-8.30am, Ignite BNI, Holiday Inn Northampton West M1, Jct 6 (NN7 4LP). Thursday’s BNI (Temporary Online) Meetings 6.45am-8.30am, Pavilion BNI, Collingtree Park Golf Club (NN4 0XN); 6.45am-8.30am, Prosperity BNI, Kettering Rugby Club (NN15 6NT); 11.30am-1.30pm, Sterling BNI, Delapre Golf Club (NN4 7DU). Friday’s BNI (Temporary Online) Meeting 6.45am-8.30am, Lighthouse BNI, Franklin’s Gardens (NN5 5BG); 6.45am-8.30am, Unity BNI, Gt Doddington Club (NN29 7TL). Contact Duncan Webster for all events, email: Duncan@BNIBreakfast.co.uk, Tel: 07977 422220.

No fuss, pay-as-you-go networking. Bedford Buzz Wednesday, November 3 Leicester Buzz Tuesday, November 9 Rugby Buzz Thursday, November 11 Bicester Buzz Face-to-Face Thursday, November 11 Northampton Buzz Wednesday, November 17 MK Buzz Face-to-Face Friday, November 19 Banbury Buzz Wednesday, November 24 Hinckley Face-to-Face Buzz Wednesday, November 24 East Midlands Virtual Friday, November 5, new event for businesses based in Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Rutland & through-out the East Midlands. All Business Buzz events operate from 10 am to noon. All Buzz events are bookable via the web-based app: app.business-buzz.org/app or simply drop-in on the day. For full details of all Business Buzz events visit the webpage: www.business-buzz.org

Business Times

November 2021

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 collaboration and a desire to share collective wisdom and experience. Brunch (9.30-11am) - alternate Tuesdays - virtual only. Evening (6.30-8.30pm) - 4th Tuesday of the month - virtual only. Northampton (7.30-9.30am) at The Turnpike, Harpole alternate Wednesdays. Daventry (7.30-9.30am) at Mercure Daventry Court Hotel - in person 2nd Wednesday of each month. 4th Wednesday will remain virtual. Wellingborough (7.30-9.30am) at Great Doddington Club - in person 1st Thursday of each month. 3rd Thursday will remain virtual. MK (7.30-9.30am) at Abbey Hill Golf Club - in person 2nd Thursday of each month. 4th Thursday will remain virtual. Market Harborough (7.30-9.30am) - alternate Fridays - virtual only. Friday Freebie (3-4pm) - every week - virtual only. All meetings are £6 (face-to-face £16), except the free meeting, with a money back guarantee if you don’t find a meeting of value. Visitors welcome. Details of all events and to book: www.buscomm.co.uk/ourevents

The FSB has 2,000 members across Northamptonshire and as well as local campaigning, the team of staff local members hold regular networking and support events, currently all online and free to attend. These include a monthly FSB Northampton Virtual Networking where all are welcome, you don’t have to be an FSB member to join in. FSH also hold regular Northampton Business forum on key business issues, and MP meetings with local members. To find these and hundreds of other networking, support and webinar events online at www.fsb.org.uk. Upcoming events: FSB Northampton Virtual Networking Thursday, November 25,10am to 11am.

Networking group set up by Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire Chambers of Commerce to help young business people in the region to grow and develop via a series of monthly networking events and personal development sessions. For updates on forthcoming events visit the website at www.northants-chamber.co.uk/who-we-are/ next-generation-chamber/our-events

NORTH NORTHANTS Kettering Wednesday, November 10. 9.30am, Kettering Rugby Club Corby Check for updates online Wellingborough Monday, November 8, online East Northants check for updates on line WEST NORTHANTS Northampton Business Network is meeting on Wednesday, November 3 at NLive Radio, Northampton. Book via www.northamptonbusinessnetwork.co.uk

Speed Networking Tuesday, November 2 Sedgebrook Hall, 11am to 1pm . Policy Hour: Meet Secretary of State for Education Friday, November 5, online. 10am to 11am. Northamptonshire Networking Lunch Tuesday, November 23 12 to 1pm followed by Annual General Meeting. Kettering Park Hotel & Spa. 2pm to 3pm. Meet the Neighbours: Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Tuesday, November 30, online, 10am to 11.15 am For updates and to book events visit the website at www.northants-chamber.co.uk

This provides practical support to help businesses grow their business. There are two types of regular face to face connection events. The Business Room is a one business area group for business owners, those in employed positions, MLMs and franchised businesses. Networking requires an investment of time and money, but it doesn’t always deliver an ROI. The Business Room is proudly different, providing a time-efficient and cost-effective way to build your contacts and collaborators and access new opportunities. 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 in advance so they can get more out of each meeting, therefore making it as profitable as possible. Each meeting involves structured networking and in addition a session where a member will share their knowledge, business story or a business insight and a Business Exchange, where members respond to the requests for help and contacts and give testimonials Groups are back meeting face to face from 12 to 2pm with one permanent online group. These are lock out groups so only one business area is represented. Kettering Tuesday, November 9 - Kettering Park Hotel, Kettering, NN15 6XT Wellingborough: Wednesday, November 17 – The Stanwick Hotel, West Street, Stanwick, NN9 6QY Northampton Thursday, November 11 – Old White Hart, Cotton End, Far Cotton, Northampton, NN4 8BS Market Harborough Thursday, November 4 – The Three Swans Hotel, 21 High Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7NJ South Northants Tuesday, November 16 – The White Horse, Stocks Hill, Silverstone, NN12 8UW Stamford Tuesday, November 16 – The William Cecil at Stamford, St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LJ Business Room Online launched on Thursday, November 18. 12-2pm via zoom. 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 – at every single meeting and meet valuable contacts. It is not lockout, but each session is limited to a maximum of three business areas. Northampton: Tuesday, November 2. Meet 11.45 - 2pm. Delapre Abbey, London Road, Northampton, NN4 8AW Connections Club Stamford at the William Cecil, Wednesday, November 3. 11.45am to 2pm. Business Room: The Business Room is a one business area group for business owners, those in employed positions, MLMs and franchised businesses. Networking requires an investment of time and money, but it doesn’t always deliver an ROI. The Business Room is proudly different, providing a time-efficient and cost-effective way to build your contacts and collaborators and access new opportunities. 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 in advance so they can get more out of each meeting, therefore making it as profitable as possible. Each session involves a training may be say networking and a member session where they add value to your business. This may be a skills’ share or a business insight in your session. These are lock out groups so only one business area is represented. For future events see the website. For further information contact: Barbara 07504 946 585/ 01933 652884 Email barbara@yourbusinessmatters.co www.yourbusinessmatters.co

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

Business Times large 17032020.qxp_Layout 1 17/10/2021 15:43 Page 2

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Business Times

November 2021

01604 620 616 enquiries@drakecommercial.co.uk www.drakecommercial.co.uk

GALLOWHILL ROAD NORTHAMPTON

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Semi detached industrial unit Recently fully refurbished Located on popular Brackmills Industrial Estate

Detached modern warehouse Undergoing substantial refurbishment Located on popular Brackmills Industrial Estate

Detached modern warehouse unit Capable of subdivision or whole Substantially refurbished including new roof system

4 SOVEREIGN COURT ROUND SPINNEY

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Large industrial complex Located on popular Lodge Farm industrial estate Flexible lease terms available

Brand new development. Last unit remaining Other occupiers include Toolstation and Electric Hub

TO LET 12,903 SQ FT End of terrace industrial unit Located on popular Round Spinney estate Good sized compound to side of unit

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Mid terraced office Located off the M1 motorwa Let to proven PLC covenant

End of terraced industrial unit Large Yard area Secure fenced and gated yard

• Sales, Lettings & Acquisitions • Rent Reviews • Lease Renewals • Valuations • Development • Investment 22

Business Times

November 2021

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

Property Portfolio

Transport giant set to move to new £75m campus New facility answers logistics company’s need for extra capacity

ogistics firm Eddie Stobart is to expand its road and rail operations at the Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal. It is to move into a new two-unit campus to be built by specialist logistics developer Prologis. Eddie Stobart has been based

he net zero message came across loud and clear to businesses at a workshop to highlight how they can play their part in tackling the climate crisis. Delegates were at The Hub Prologis DIRFT to welcome the government’s Carbon Battle Bus, which made a stop at the development as part of a major national initiative on its way to Glasgow ahead of the COP26 climate change conference this month. The Zero Carbon Tour has been organised by sustainability certification body Planet Mark to raise awareness of the actions already being taken by the business community to address the climate crisis and to take the net zero carbon message to communities across the UK in support of the UN’s Race to Zero campaign. The workshop at the Hub Prologis DIRFT focused on awareness of net zero terminology and setting credible net zero targets. Delegates also heard presentations from local businesses already making progress towards their net zero targets. The tour is backed by logistics property developer Prologis and other businesses, as well as the Institute of Directors. Prologis is the UK’s largest logistics property developer and has been developing net zero carbon buildings for more than a decade - each one is certified as net zero by Planet Mark, including the buildings at DIRFT.

at the site since 1997 but will vacate its current premises once the new campus pictured is completed. The £75 million scheme will create two buildings with a total area of 538,000 sq ft, separated by a shared loading yard. Sally Duggleby, vice president in Prologis UK’s

leasing and development team, said: “We have a long relationship with Eddie Stobart and it is brilliant to

be enabling them to expand their distribution operations at DIRFT even further. We knew there would be a need

for extra capacity and having a plot that is ready to go, with infrastructure in place, means we can move quickly with the construction.” DIRFT, classed as a nationally significant infrastructure project, is covered by a development consent order and planning decisions at the site are made under delegated powers. This means that planning consent for the new campus was granted in eight weeks.

The terminal is currently hosting around £100 million of infrastructure works and a new rail freight terminal. Ms Duggleby said: “Over the past 12 months we have seen just how important logistics and rail freight has been in supporting the nation and we are extremely proud that Eddie Stobart has chosen to further expand here.” Eddie Stobart’s new campus is due to be completed by the autumn of next year.

‘The goal of a cleaner, healthier planet is within our reach’ Prologis has worked with Planet Mark for 13 years. “We are proud to say that every new logistics building we have developed in the UK during this period has been net zero carbon in construction,” said Prologis’ head of sustainability Simon Cox. “We are passionate about promoting best practice when it comes to net zero carbon development and it is great that these workshops are providing much-needed help and advice around such a critical issue.” Planet Mark’s aim for the Zero Carbon Tour is to help businesses to set net zero carbon targets and create realistic plans to achieve them.

Founder and chief executive Steve Malkin said: “This is a key moment in time and we are aiming to give energy and impetus to the urgency of tackling the climate crisis. “Net zero brings more urgency and more opportunity for organisations to work together to tackle the climate crisis. In doing so, they are publicly demonstrating their commitments that they are organisations and brands that are here to support society and our transition to net zero. “It is an exciting time of innovation and action with the goal of a cleaner, healthier planet within our reach.”

Self-storage specialist opens new facility

elf-storage company Space Station has opened a new facility in Daventry as part of its UK expansion programme. It purchased the facility from Squab Storage and removals and has created 28,500

sq ft of storage space with various-sized individual units available to rent. The Daventry site is the company’s 12th in the UK. Space Station is also planning a rebrand to be unveiled by the end of the year.

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

Business Times

November 2021

Property Portfolio Logistics and warehouse occupiers are investing in automation to offset the shortage of suitably skilled workers and rising costs.

Opportunity knocks amid market changes The focus on more efficient working practices, including automation, will continue as the property market adapts to a new era, says Simon Parsons, partner at Berrys

he recent Bank of England - Summary of Business Conditions report, Q3 2021, was unified in its content. The business world is reporting the same issues, lack of materials and very significant labour shortage. The effect is the inability for many businesses to carry out their production or provide services to desired levels. The consumer market has not slowed and continued online retail demand and a large increase in domestic tourism are demanding services from businesses

most acutely hit by labour shortages and growing costs. Demand from investors into commercial property continued to increase, with a large majority seeking to invest into the warehouse market. Logistics and warehouse occupiers are investing into automation, especially taking account for the shortage on labour supply. Occupiers are likely to increase their focus towards automation and efficient working practices as the construction industry suffers from short-term material cost increases and labour

shortages. However, while the commercial property market will suffer in the short term like all other businesses, the longer-term view is that this will be a strong and diverse sector again in the future. Much of the market’s activity is a reaction to both Brexit and Covid-19 and is a restructure of the commercial property market. Many agents across the UK are seeing stronger demand for out-of-town retail as the convenience market seeks new alternatives to expensive

and restricted new build development. These secondhand properties are also typically well located, having been established close to town centres or residential areas. Certain office markets are becoming interesting to office occupiers as they look to either reinvest into their existing portfolio or create new hubs for a mixture of remote working and coworking. The latter is creating a new investor demand for buildings that facilitate coworking. Demand for the worst affected sector – the high street – is even increasing in locations where operators of health and community care services are seeking to establish themselves.

The high street changing its dynamic to a mixture of leisure and community services. Combined with the increase in residential conversion of underutilised upper floors, this will provide certain investors with new opportunities. Finally, the demand for small modern warehouse and manufacturing units has continued to grow and widen as we experience more and more types of businesses looking to benefit from improvements in construction and design. This market is being only restricted by the lack of suitable land and statutory regulation. Funding into property development is widely available, however the cost of this makes the warehouse and industrial market the most

attractive option. Landowners can benefit from this and either sell land or form part of a joint venture. There are opportunities across a wide range of property sectors. The difficulty is the sourcing of open market transactions. Owner occupiers of commercial property can reinvest into their businesses by releasing capital tied up in the property assets. Occupiers can assess their future property needs and protect against shortages in supply and investors can improve their portfolios by acquiring letting risk in strong sectors. n For confidential property advice, contact Simon Parsons, BS(c) Hons MRICS. email simon.parsons@berrys. uk.com or telephone 01536 213169.

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Business Times

November 2021

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

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Offers Invited • The Woodland Valley development lies on the B576 between Desborough & Rothwell. • 0.6 acres of roadside land available • For sale with outline planning for 6,000m² of commercial/retail development labelled as a local centre. • Part of the larger Persimmon Homes planning

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For more information please visit berrys.uk.com or call: Kettering: Kevin O’Dell 01536 517777 Towcester: Duncan Batty 01327 356140 To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

Business Times

November 2021

In The Community

Sunday League initiative puts mental health in the sporting spotlight M ental health charity Northamptonshire Mind has joined “For many players, referees and volunteers, football is their only forces with county footballers with the goal of raising outlet to forget what is going on in their lives.” awareness of mental health issues. Nick Tite, communications and fundraising lead for The importance of social sporting activities Northamptonshire Mind, said: “It has been a challenging 18 months for so many people. Awareness of mental health including local football was brought home to communities For many... and its effects have become much more high-profile as across Northamptonshire when teams were prevented football is their a result of the pandemic. We are pleased to support the from getting together during lockdown. only outlet to Nene Valley Sunday League in this campaign.” Now Northamptonshire Mind has teamed up with forget what is the Nene Valley Sunday League in a unique project to To mark World Mental Health Awareness Day last going on in get the message across about the importance of keeping month team captains wore an armband with the charity’s their lives in touch, reaching out for a chat and remembering that logo, created by Wellingborough-based printers Print someone will always be there to listen or to provide support. Data Solutions. League chairman Graham Pinney said: “We were acutely Kate Shelton, operations director at Print Data Solutions, said: “We aware of the need for mental health support across out footballing are delighted to have been able to support Northamptonshire Mind community and we were delighted to launch this project with and the Nene Valley Sunday League with this worthwhile initiative. We have worked hard within our own business, especially during Northamptonshire Mind. “It is vital players know where to go for support and as a league the pandemic, to put in place support for our teams’ health and we wanted to ensure we are doing all we can to help them talk and wellbeing and we know how important it can be just to know that signpost them to where they can receive support for their mental health. there is someone there to talk to during difficult times.”

Course targets trustees in charge of community facilities

orthants ACRE is running a training course to support groups looking to find out more about managing community facilities.The training on Thursday, November 25, via Zoom will look at governing documents for community facility charities such as village halls, playing fields, recreation grounds and parks. Areas covered will include: Appointment and election of trustees; Charitable objects; Dissolution clauses; Reviewing and amending your governing document. This is ideal training for trustees who would like a better understanding of their charity’s governing document. It would also be of help to committees who are considering undertaking a review their governing document with a view to amending it. The training will be delivered by Northamptonshire ACRE’s community facilities adviser and payment is required before the training to secure your place. To book your place, contact community facilities adviser Frances Harris at email frances.harris@northantsacre.org.uk

Saints on the move to boost health activities in schools

growing number of schools will benefit from the All Move programme which is run by Northampton Saints’ community department in partnership with Mencap. Last season, another important programme was added to the club’s repertoire in All Move, which sees participants with learning difficulties from Special Educational Needs and Disability schools across the county take part in a sport and physical activity challenge. Saints will now focus the programme on up to ten SEND schools across the club’s catchment area, while also taking in schools from Suffolk by utilising the community department’s new Suffolk Hub.

Former Dr Martens HQ becomes home to Age UK’s new branch

ge UK, a local charity that provides services across the whole of the county, now has a base in Irthlingborough for around 20 workers. For over 60 years the charity’s main office has been in Northampton, currently in The William and Patricia Venton Centre. Chief executive Christopher Duff said: “I am delighted that the charity has been able to open another office in the former Dr Martens headquarters in Waterside House in Station Northamptonshire, and this is not always easy when Road. The excellent transport links will make it easier it takes over an hour to drive from one side of the and more efficient for staff to visit clients in their county to the other,” said Mr Duff. “We are taking It is important homes and for us to support the local community.” our services to the people and will continue to work to ensure that The Social Prescribing, Collaborative Care and closely with North Northamptonshire Council and our services are Hospital Discharge & Community teams that cover the many smaller councils in the area to provide available to older the support that older people need.” the Wellingborough and North Northamptonshire people wherever Find out more about the services and support the area will be based in Irthlingborough. they live... “It is important to ensure that our services charity provides in Northamptonshire by calling are available to older people wherever they live in 01604 611200.

Ten students with a learning difficulty or autistic spectrum disorder at each school will be supported to complete a virtual marathon of 26 hours of fun, physical activity. Each hour equates to one mile of the marathon, and Saints’ inclusion officers will work with the schools involved to create a bespoke programme of both virtual and in-person (Covid-safe) sessions, while this year’s programme will also include launch and celebration events for the students and schools involved. “Earlier this year we saw students participating in the All Move programme benefit from increased confidence and long-lasting exercise habits, all thanks to trying new activities,” said Jamie Higgins, community inclusion officer at Northampton Saints. “Exercise can be a tonic for anyone’s mental health and so to be expanding our offering of All Move to even more schools in 2021/22 is incredibly exciting. “We ae absolutely delighted to be partnering with Mencap again.

Recognising that charity is serious business 26

Business Times

November 2021

Nene Valley Sunday League and Mind have teamed up to offer mental health support

Any children with a learning disability can miss out on physical activity opportunities that many people take for granted, and the All Move programme is a great way to get them involved.” The All Move programme has been funded using the income raised from Mencap’s partnership with the 2021 Virgin Money London Marathon. Chris Ballet, project manager for All Move, added: “Following the success of Saints’ All Move delivery in Northamptonshire schools during 2020/21, we are looking forward to this upscaled model in 2021/22. “Building upon last year, Mencap is seeking for All Move to help promote increased connectedness between young people with a learning disability and the physical activity opportunities they have access to within All Move provision and beyond it in the community.” For more information on the programme or to register your school or organisation’s interest in taking part, email JamieHiggins@northamptonsaints.co.uk. A minimum of ten students with a learning disability or autism is required per school or organisation to qualify for the programme.

0800 088 6004 enquiries@wilsonbrowne.co.uk wilsonbrowne.co.uk For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

In The Community

Appeal aims to help those in need this winter A n annual appeal to support older and vulnerable people throughout the winter months has been launched by Northamptonshire Community Foundation. The Foundation is the leading independent grant-making charity in the county and its annual Winter Well-being appeal has raised £235,000 since 2010 to protect some of the most vulnerable members of our communities. Winter can be a lonely and worrying time for many older and vulnerable people living alone. In addition to the ongoing public health crisis, many are still cautious about leaving their homes. The uncertainty of the coming winter months will lead to increased social isolation again this year. This year, the appeal needs the help of the local community more than ever. The fuel crisis is set to take hold of the nation and one in ten households in Northamptonshire currently live in fuel poverty, meaning that they spend more than ten per cent of their income on fuel. Victoria Miles, chief executive of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, said: “Fuel poverty has always been an issue and the Foundation has stepped up and raised annual funds in the past for

the most vulnerable in our communities who need help and support during the cold winter months. “This year will see fuel prices rocket and we will unfortunately see more people having to choose whether to heat their homes or cook a hot meal. We are pleading with those who can to give generously to our Winter Well-being appeal so we can make sure the funds reach people in need this winter.” Money raised will be awarded in the form of grants to local community groups and small charities whose activities protect and help older and vulnerable people in supported environments. The campaign has had a great start, with the Foundation’s deputy chief executive and grants director Rachel McGrath taking on the Thames Path Challenge to raise vital funds for the appeal. Over the course of two days, Rachel walked 100 kilometres along the River Thames and raised over £1,600 to kick off this year’s appeal. Waitrose Rushden have also generously donated £333 from their Community Matters green coin scheme. To learn more and donate to the appeal, visit www.ncf.uk.com/give/winter-wellbeing

Survival training plays its part in the fight against crime

oodland skills survival courses which can help young people turn away from violence and crime are taking place thanks to a donation of over £3,000 from teams working on a National Highways scheme. The funding will help meet the cost of the courses run by Elite Survival Training which engage young people and help them make positive life choices. The courses are linked to the Community Initiative to Reduce Violence run by Northamptonshire Police. It aims to work with young people who are involved in or at risk of becoming involved in, knife crime and/or gangs. Or those who may have been touched by this as victims. When the initiative came to the attention of teams working on the National Highways' A45/A6 Chowns Mill Improvement Scheme in Northampton, the partners came together to donate a total of £3,045 to help with their work. National Highways project manager Dean Holloway said: “This is an incredibly worthwhile cause and we are happy that our scheme has been able to support their work. “As well as the generous donations from our contractors, we will also be taking the opportunity to talk to the young people about potential future careers and perhaps inspire them to join the highways industry.” Each of the contractors who sponsored the courses will receive a Social Impact Award Certificate from My Back Yard - the project working with CIRV and the business community to help deliver the initiative. The donors also have an invitation to attend a session with the young people themselves to see how the funding is benefiting them. Ric Ellis, from CIRV, said: “Money raised to pay Elite Survival Training to run a series of woodland skills survival courses this year has inspired and enthused some of the most vulnerable and marginalised young people in the county. This includes those in or on, the periphery of knife and other crime or who may indeed have been victims of this themselves. “The outcomes of the courses have included increased selfesteem and self-confidence, with those attending going onto other interventions which have included skills training and access to work trials and jobs.

“All of the Chowns Mill businesses we have worked with become a My Back Yard partner and receive our social impact award. We hope to work with these partners again so we can realise other significant social outcomes together.” CIRV was successful in Boston and Cincinnati in the USA and in Glasgow before the Northamptonshire CIRV project opened. The aim of the project is to work with young people, particularly gang members, to show them an alternative pathway through mentoring, support, job opportunities and other change programmes. National Highways, formerly Highways England, is investing £24 million to increase capacity at Chowns Mill which experiences severe congestion due to the amount of traffic on the A45 and A6, as well as local traffic accessing Higham Ferrers and Rushden. The improvements have seen the junction redesigned with a new layout which opened earlier this month and includes a new link road connecting the A6 South and A5028 with the existing roundabout. The scheme is due to be completed this winter.

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

John Sullivan shows the young people how to light a fire

Caption

Campaign aims to provide support for bereaved parents

n independent charity has run its 19th Baby Loss Awareness Week. Northamptonshire Health Charity observed the week in October by helping to raise awareness about pregnancy and baby loss. The charity, which supports NHS hospitals and community services across the county, has been sharing information, case studies from bereaved parents, as well as details about how donations to the charity have made and continue to make a difference. Donations help to enhance the facilities and services the bereavement midwife teams provide to parents experiencing the loss of their baby at Northampton General and Kettering General Hospitals. The week is an opportunity for bereaved parents, families and their friends, to commemorate babies’ lives, raise awareness of pregnancy and baby loss, and to drive for improvements in both care and support for those affected and to save babies’ lives in the future. There is a dedicated page at the charity’s website: www.northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk/baby-loss-awarenessweek-2021/ - where you will find plenty of information and where updates have been posted each day. There has also been a social media takeover in the hope of encouraging widespread local support for Baby Loss Awareness Week. Charity fundraiser Rob Powell said: “We hope that by observing the week in this way will spark conversations about baby loss and give local bereaved parents and families an opportunity to talk about their precious babies.” Clea Harmer, chief executive of stillbirth and neonatal death charity Sands, said: “For anyone whose baby has died, however recent or long ago, the world is changed forever, and there is no simple answer to grief. Finding ways to cope and look after yourself or your partner is different for everyone. “I hope that Northamptonshire Health Charity’s focus on the week will help start more conversations about pregnancy and baby loss, and by doing so help bereaved parents and families feel more able to talk about their babies and find ways to look after themselves and others.” Anyone across Northamptonshire can share their photos or posts on social media with the hashtags #BLAW #BLAW2021 and #BabyLoss.

For further information about Baby Loss Awareness Week visit: www.babyloss-awareness.org

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

November 2021

TOP THINGS TO DO NOW The UK has agreed a deal with the EU. Rules for doing business with Europe have changed, and we all need to make changes to keep business moving. While the deal with the EU means zero tariffs and zero quotas, businesses still need to adapt to changes to trade and customs procedures, and changes to travel. Businesses should use the Brexit checker tool at gov.uk/transition for a personalised list of actions.

TAKE ACTION NOW TO KEEP YOUR BUSINESS MOVING GOV.UK/TRANSITION

Business Times

November 2021

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Business News

Councils sign up to Armed Forces covenant ‘The best way to show our support’

he leaders of West and North Northamptonshire Councils have pledged their support to the UK’s armed forces by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. Respective council leaders Cllr Jonathan Nunn and Cllr Jason Smithers are pictured with Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire Brigadier David RussellParsons, representing the Lord Lieutenant, as they put pen to paper. The Covenant is a pledge to acknowledge and understand the needs of the Armed Forces community and aims to build a more open and honest relationship between employers, the Ministry of Defence and reservists. It

recognises that the UK has a moral obligation to members of the Armed Forces and their families and it establishes how they should expect to be treated. Cllr Smithers said: “We not only appreciate our Armed Forces’ service to the country but also the important role they play in our communities throughout Northamptonshire. Signing the Covenant reflects our commitment to ensuring that those serving the country in the armed forces and their families are not disadvantaged in any way in this county.” Both councils have each appointed an Armed Forces Covenant member champion and a designated senior officer to build relationships

(from left) Cllr Jonathan Nunn, leader of West Northamptonshire Council, Brigadier David Russell-Parsons DL representing HM Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire and Cllr Jason Smithers, leader of North Northamptonshire Council sign the Armed Forces Covenant with the local Armed Forces community. The covenant commits that the Armed Forces community should not face disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of public and commercial services in the

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ntrepreneurship, based on sound foundations of expertise and experience, marks out HCR Hewitsons as a firm with a different approach - ready to innovate, keeping clients as its focus. We offer both in-depth specialist legal expertise and insights into key issues, through events and publications such as our recent national Cyber Conference and our Future Workspaces white paper. Our Future Workspaces report considered the impact of home working on our economy and infrastructure, based on our own research both pre- and post-pandemic. It highlighted some of the changes we all see in the use of office space and commercial property. From corporate and commercial work to construction, our teams provide the kind of service that leads people to say: “HCR Hewitsons provide us with an excellent service that we

area where they live. It also acknowledges that special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those who have given most such as the injured and the bereaved. Cllr Nunn said: “Signing

and upholding the covenant is the best way we can show our support and how much we value the contribution and sacrifices made by all of our Armed Forces. We are absolutely committed to supporting our Armed Forces

community and delighted to be able to formally demonstrate this by agreeing to uphold its principles and be an Armed Forces-friendly organisation to its staff, customers, suppliers, contractors and the wider public.”

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red Delive yal by Ro l Mai Charlotte Thornton-Smith have yet to find with other firms” in one of the legal directories ranking lawyers across the UK. Those rankings are evidence of our expertise. Clients acknowledge our “exceptionally responsive, extremely helpful” employment team, as well as a pensions team whose “depth and breadth of pensions knowledge is extensive”. Our top tier dispute resolution team is likewise

recognised for its expertise in technology cases, both domestic and international. That expertise extends from agriculture and estates complexities to companies needing advice on corporate and commercial law. A deep understanding of their sector’s needs draws praise for our charities team too. A client said: “We are grateful for the team’s empathy and for their concern to understand our needs.”

Contact Charlotte Thornton-Smith at ctsmith@hcrlaw.com or on 07790 131843.

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To advertise or submit editorial

call 01604 259900

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November 2021

Public Relations Public relations has proved to be a vital tool in keeping lines of communication open for businesses during the pandemic. A report by the Chartered Institute of PR explores in detail the role that PR professionals have played over the past 20 months and Emma Speirs, managing director of Ballyhoo PR, reflects on how she and her colleagues rose to the challenge in Northamptonshire.

he Chartered Institute of PR has released a report entitled PR in a Pandemic which looks at the work carried out by PR professionals during the Covid-19 pandemic. The report makes for interesting reading and shows how PR practitioners have been recognised outside of the industry for their contribution during the pandemic. PR professionals, from agencies and freelancers to those in in-house roles, have been integral to keeping the lines of communication open as events unfolded and more traditional routes of access, such as the telephone and ‘popping in’ to businesses, were no longer possible. Public relations practitioners have supported organisations with proactive communications and marketing with activities such as digital transformation, online content creation and social media management. They have led crisis PR plans and executed them and supported internal communications efforts around staff

Sharing news and information has never been more important and business changes as well as keeping stakeholders updated with time critical communications. It has got me reflecting on the work we have undertaken since the start of the pandemic. We have supported eight doctors’ surgeries with the roll-out of their Covid-19 communications, which was extremely fast paced. This included managing their Facebook pages, fielding questions from worried patients and liaising with the press in their local area to plan and communicate the roll-out of their Covid-19 vaccination programme. We have worked with a retailer who has had to deal with several store closures and kept their customers updated via their website and social media pages.

Emma Speirs

PR professionals have been integral in keeping the lines of communication open.

And we have worked with an accountancy practice and estate agent, both of which were dealing with their busiest periods for some time. We have secured national press coverage and regional TV and radio interviews for companies and individuals looking for other ways to reach their target audience and tell people about what they are up to. And we have stepped up to support a number of in-house marketing teams who have had to cover for furloughed employees by writing their blog posts, website copy and managing their social media profiles. We have supported charities whose fundraising events have been cancelled and they have had to look for other ways to raise money online.

I often think that it is quite ironic that the PR industry has a bit of a PR problem itself, with people either thinking it is a dishonest profession full of ‘spin doctors’ or people simply not understanding the type of work involved. PR encompasses so much activity, from proactive pitching to the media, crisis PR and turning around urgent press statements to the more day-today elements of communications such as newsletters, blogs and social media posts. PR is essentially about sharing news and useful information, which has been more important than ever since March 2020. How do you share your news with your customers, stakeholders and the public?

n For advice on all things PR and communications, visit www. ballyhoo-pr.co.uk or contact Emma on 01536 682800 or email emma. speirs@ballyhoo-pr.co.uk.

Cloudy2Clear, A Local Family Service With A Smile I think we can all agree that seeing the back of 2020 was a welcome event for each and every one of us, and we can now hopefully march into 2021 with renewed positivity and optimism. One thing is for sure though, there have also been some heart warming positives that we can take out of last year. It has often been said that we can only really get to know one another and realise what is truly important in times of crisis. I think few would argue that in this case what has proven to be important is local community spirit and family. When talking to Trevor & Wendy Skidmore the owners of Cloudy2Clear

Northampton & Oxford it became clear that these values have been held for over 13 years. Since buying the local franchise in 2006 they have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community whilst introducing their 2 sons Lloyd & Ross into the family business along with Dan, Mark & Jo as demand for their service has grown.

using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”. For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www. cloudy2clear.com

All C2C employees operate a strict social distancing policy.

The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. Trevor commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in

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November 2021

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