Issuu

Business Times Celebrating 30 years est. 1991

October 2021

NE W S

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

NE W S

HIstoric building reopens as creative hub. P3

FE AT UR E

Passion for pickles leads to a shot at the big time. P5

Co-founders Daniel Price and Jonny Sitton on the production line of My 1st Years’ new factory at Grange Park, Northampton

NE W S

Let’s work for a brighter, cleaner future. P6

NE W S

Vehicle test centre achieves a UK first. P7

Back to business: Firms flock to Chamber business exhibition. P11

Gift brand opens new factory months after arson heartbreak Directors look forward to growth plans resuming after blaze

he founders of personalised children’s gifting brand My 1st Years have spoken of their delight and satisfaction at being able to open the company’s new factory only months after fire destroyed their former premises. The company’s factory at Brackmills was destroyed in May in an arson attack that caused more than £15 million worth of damage and forced the company to pause its sales. Now, only 18 weeks later, My 1st Years has relaunched with a new brand direction and range of products.

The arson attack on the brand’s Northampton factory and offices destroyed goods, gutted the building and forced My 1st Years to completely stop sales which were estimated to hit £30 million in 2021. The fire destroyed more than £3 million worth of stock more than £1 million in equipment, as well as a 100,000 square foot warehouse, head office and photography studio. It also meant the business refunding customers awaiting delivery of orders while pausing trading for more than 18 weeks. Before the fire, My 1st Years had launched new collections and was about to launch internationally. The company won global attention when Prince George was pictured wearing a personalised robe meeting former US president Barack Obama. Its products have also been seen on Kardashians, singer John Legend’s children and others. My

1st Years’ range of childrens clothing, toys and homeware offers the option of embroidery, flocked, printing or engraving with a special name or customised message Its co-founders Daniel Price and Jonny Sitton are keen that the company continues its trajectory now the new factory at Grange Park has opened, with new products and better materials and a faster personalisation process.. “Waking up on the morning of the fire was surreal and heartbreaking for us and for our teams,” they said. “We never thought we would be in this position but the fire has allowed us time to relook at how we want to progress as a business and made us realise the importance of the right insurance for every single company. “Our insurance allowed us to keep our workforce employed and to get a new factory in only a few months. If we had not had that we would be in a very different position now.”

Business News

Whitworth Bros. chairman joins Entrepreneur of the Year shortlist

Business Times T Distributed by Royal Mail to more than 9,500 key executives and decision makers every month.

Editor Andrew Gibbs

Publisher Kerry Lewis-Stevenson

news@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

kerry@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Sales Director Martin Lewis-Stevenson

Advertising Sales Glenda Clark

martin@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

glenda@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Advertising Sales Jan Lewis

Advertising Sales Sharon Maplethorpe

jan@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

sharon@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Feature Editors: Annie Roberts Sammy Jones

Graphic Design: Simon Goodger Photography: Steve Brill

he use of technology including blockchain and working with the world’s leading milling plant manufacturers to improve design and efficiency has earned a place in the national EY Entrepreneur of the Year finals for the chairman of flour miller Whitworth Brothers. Martin George is one of six finalists from the Midlands and South West region, being named in the Disruptor category. The judges said that Mr George has “a strong passion for change and legacy and had continually been a disrupting force within the UK flour milling industry to ultimately become one of the largest producers in the UK.”

They also praised Mr George’s commitment to Whitworth’s Quality and Innovation Centre at its headquarters in Wellingborough. He and five other finalists join 19 other entrepreneurs from the North, London and the South East and Scotland in the UK finals. Chris Romans, EY private partner and head of tax in the Midlands, said: “The Midlands and South West winners of EY’s Entrepreneur Of The Year programme represent some of the most inspirational, forward-thinking and vibrant business leaders in our business community. The last 18 months have been a tough time for many businesses. We are delighted that EY’s Entrepreneur

Martin George Of The Year offers inspiring business leaders the chance to showcase how they have been able to build, pivot and adapt their businesses to the environment and, importantly, how they plan to continue to grow their business and make the most of new opportunities.” The overall UK Entrepreneur Of The Year will be announced in November. The winner will represent the UK at the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year forum in 2022, which attracts entrepreneurs from more than 60 countries.

The deadline for advertising in the next edition of Business Times is FRIDAY 15 OCTOBER Toolbase and Prologis UK management on site at Toolbase’s new distribution centre near Northampton

To book space in a future edition or talk to us about your advertising plans call 01604 259900 or email news@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk Read previous editions online at www.business-times.co.uk

TARGET KEY DECISION MAKERS

MORE THAN

9,500

Distribution centre expects to create 250 jobs

new distribution centre being built in Northamptonshire by one of Britain’s fastest growing suppliers of tools, accessories and building supplies is set to create around 250 new jobs. Toolstation has broken ground on the site at Prologis Park Pineham, between M1 junctions 15a and 16 and expects

the site to be ready for operations in the autumn of next year. The 500,000 sq ft facility is a key part of Toolstation’s expansion plans. The company serves customers online and via more than 500 UK branches. It is currently opening around 60 new branches a year and has seen a boom in online and digital orders, reporting

annual growth of more than 22 per cent in 2020. James Straw, capital deployment and leasing associate at Prologis UK, said: “It is great to see Toolstation secure the last space on Prologis Park Pineham which is a prime logistics location that will allow Toolstation’s current growth trajectory to continue.”

DELIVERED EVERY MONTH Connect with us on social media and join the conversation /BusinessTimesNorthamptonshire @BusinessTimes91 Business-Times 17 Stilebrook Road, Olney, Bucks MK46 5EA

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 at gerald.couldrake@howespercival.com or on 01604 230 400.

Disclaimer Lunar Publishing Limited cannot take responsibility for the content of the advertisements, editorial or the services provided by the advertisers. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are accurate. All artwork is accepted on condition that permission has been given for use in Business Times. Reproduction, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. ©Lunar Publishing Limited

Business Times

October 2021

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

Business News

Vulcan Works set to open, creating 300 jobs

grade II listed former ironworks in Northampton is set to become home to creative businesses with studios, workshops and managed workspaces. The £14 million Vulcan Works development, in the heart of the town’s Cultural Quarter, is a combination of renovation and new build, providing 68 lettable units aimed at start-ups and growing businesses within the creative industry. The project was undertaken by West Northamptonshire Council and construction partner Stepnell. Work started on site in March 2019. Stepnell’s Midlands regional

director Adrian Barnes said: “We are delighted to have completed Vulcan Works a tremendous achievement for everybody involved. We are extremely proud of everyone who has had a part to play in bringing this historic building back to life, providing an exciting space for new businesses to grow and thrive while still retaining some of the original features and characters of the former factory.” The project faced a number of challenges in order to preserve its 146-year heritage, he added. Vulcan Works’ town centre location required the use of a tower crane for material movement

Vulcan Works and the project consisted of listed elements as well as new build.“The interface between the elements had to be carefully considered and sequenced to ensure we got it right,” said Mr Barnes. “We

are delighted with the end result.” The new Vulcan Works is expected to support up to 100 businesses in its first ten years of operation, creating around 300 jobs. Cllr Lizzy Bowen,

West Northamptonshire Council’s cabinet member for economic development, town centre regeneration and growth, said: “The project has delivered a collection of buildings that I know small creative businesses will want to call home. “We were insistent on an extremely high standard of finish and that is precisely what we have got. The transformation of this collection of buildings, some of which were in a terrible state of repair, is absolutely startling.” The project, designed by architects Purcell UK, involved the refurbishment of the old iron stone work

factories along Guildhall Road, the refurbishment of the former museum store and the creation of a new threestorey building, as well as constructing a brand new block on Angel Street to create the new office, studio and managed workshops. The South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership, responsible for growth delivery in the region, has contributed £6.3million towards the development through its Local Growth Fund. A further £3 million is being provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government from the European Social Fund.

Founder reflects on 50 years as helicopter company marks anniversary

he business began with one Bell 47 helicopter providing charter and agricultural support services. 50 years on, it is preparing to open its fifth UK base early next year. Sloane Helicopters, the UK’s longest-established privately owned helicopter company, celebrated its 50th anniversary with customers and suppliers at its headquarters in Hangar One at Sywell Aerodrome near Northampton. The company has made substantial contributions to

the aviation industry over the five decades, founder and chairman David George told guests at the celebration, including introducing Anglo-Italian manufacturer AgustaWestland’s AW109SP GrandNew multi-purpose helicopter to the UK emergency medical services market. Sloane currently operates EMS contracts for the air ambulance services covering Warwickshire and Northamptonshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland and the Irish Community Air Ambulance. The company has also

reintroduced the dedicated service to the Isles of Scilly from Penzance. It provides helicopter, engineering and training support for 32 (the Royal) Squadron as well as being an authorised service centre for both Robinson and Leonardo aircraft. Mr George said: “I am very proud of what we have achieved during our first 50 years. There are few companies in the aviation industry who have achieved this milestone which would never have been possible without the dedication and loyalty of all of our present

and past employees.” Sloane’s initial success in the 1970s, led to the company becoming the UK’s first dealer selling aircraft for the Robinson Helicopter Company based

in California. Sloane has sold more than 500 new Robinson helicopters during the 46year relationship. In 1995, it became the UK and Ireland’s sole distributor for helicopters manufactured by Leonardo

in Italy and has since sold more than 90 new Leonardo aircraft. The company expects to open its fifth UK base at London Elstree Aerodrome early next year.

GOODRICH CONSULTING LLP Photo: Hawkers Yard, Ruislip Wrenbridge Land

EXPERTS

PROJECT MANAGEMENT KNOWLEDGEABLE David George (right), pictured with Andrea Mirteto, Leonardo’s vice president global sales Europe, and UK & Ireland head of region Jacapo Borghi

EMPLOYER’S AGENT

iness Times small add 2019.qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2021 13:16 Page 7

NIGHTS ofOLD UK/IE/EU PALLET DISTRIBUTION +44(0)1536 533544 sales@knightsofoldgroup.com www.knightsofoldgroup.com

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

PROACTIVE

QUANTITY SURVEYING SUPPORTIVE

FUND/BANK MONITORING CREATIVE

QUALITY MONITORING

RELIABLE

goodrichllp.com | 01604 859859 | admin@goodrichllp.com Business Times

October 2021

Legal briefing

Furlough fraud: HMRC is set to bite back, warns expert

id-market businesses should prepare for a flood of letters from HM Revenue & Customs as furlough draws to a close and the government looks to recoup a suspected £7 billion of fraudulent or erroneous Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme claims. That is the warning from business advice specialists at Grant Thornton. It says that HMRC is moving through the gears now that its Taxpayer Protection Taskforce is up to strength, following a recruitment drive to hire more than 1,200 investigators since March. The department is understood to be conducting around 30,000 checks as it shifts from a stance of focusing on compliance and support to one of stricter enforcement. Some business are set to receive a Code of Practice 9 letter inviting them to enter a Contractual Disclosure Facility. “This lets the recipient know they are suspected of deliberate fraud and offers them protection from criminal prosecution on the proviso they come completely clean, disclose any tax errors over the last two decades and repay the amount owed,” said Grant Thornton partner and tax disputes expert David Francis. More than one million businesses have used the CJRS during the pandemic. However, the government estimates that up to ten per cent may have been claimed incorrectly, with fraud

suspected to make up a significant proportion. The CJRS legislation says that any inaccuracy can be treated as deliberate and concealed. Mr Francis, a former tax inspector, said: “HMRC has been embattled on two fronts: supporting businesses to deal with both Brexit and the pandemic. It is fair to say the department has put that ahead of enforcement activity due to a lack resource. But that stance is set to change as it comes under pressure to recoup a suspected £7 billion fraudulently or erroneously claimed under the CJRS.” Businesses accepting the Contractual Disclosure Facility will have to concede that any fraudulent claim was deliberate. An attempt to put it down to a genuine mistake will invalidate the COP9 protection and leave those involved open to criminal prosecution. Sectors such as retail, leisure and hospitality are expected to be a major focus for HMRC.r. Mr Francis said: “Businesses may have made honest mistakes during the incredibly challenging trading conditions posed by the pandemic but HMRC’s view is likely to be that there will have been at least three instances to get things right: the initial claim, replying to the nudge reminder letters and again when completing a corporate tax return. It is important to enlist the right professional advice and respond within the 60-day deadline.”

In a relationship together and in business together... When the former crumbles, it is important to have protected the latter for both parties, says family law specialist Alishia Marrocco of Howes Percival Solicitors.

Alishia Marrocco is a senior associate in the family law department at regional law firm Howes Percival’s Northampton office.

Clarity from the start: Protect your business in a divorce

divorce which involves a business your spouse. It may become impossible for needs to be handled correctly. you to work together once there is a rift in With this in mind, it may be your personal relationship but terminating worth thinking of steps which can employment could lead to employment claims. minimise the risk to the business before a It might also result in an argument that they divorce occurs. Clear legal documents can were integral to the success of the business. make it easier to unravel business interests as n Debts. Consider whether business debts fairly as possible and prevent future problems should be secured against family assets. This arising. Here are some points to consider: can complicate matters and, again, raises n Would a pre-nuptial or post-nuptial arguments that your spouse has an interest in agreement be of benefit? While still not the business because money from matrimonial automatically binding in England, provided assets will have been used to support it. that certain formalities have been complied Clearly document any loans to the business with, there is a strong chance that any so that your extra investment is recognised. agreement will be upheld. It will allow ring If the worst does happen and your marriage fencing of assets so that shares in the business comes to an end, instruct lawyers and are treated as separate property and not subject accountants early to assist you. Also try and to sharing. This can be particularly choose those who focus on resolution important if you are bringing an rather than dispute because that will Business existing successful business into make the process emotionally co-operation the marriage. easier and more cost-effective. n Consider whether your You may want to think becomes difficult spouse should be a shareholder. about alternative forms of if the personal If they are, would you be dispute resolution such as relationship has able to buy out their interest Collaborative Law or mediation soured on separation? If you are 50:50 as an alternative to court. shareholders, would they co-operate The Family Court will try to avoid on business decisions such as the renewal an outcome which causes the sale of a of a commercial lease or refinancing prior to business but it has to ensure that each party resolution of the financial matters on divorce? has the resources to move on. It may therefore Business co-operation could become difficult be the only solution if there is no other way if the personal relationship has soured. of settling matters. n Should you enter into a shareholder’s agreement? Terms can be reached ahead of any separation on issues such as what will To discuss how to protect your business from happen to the business on separation including divorce, or any other family matter, contact who will leave and whether there will be Alishia Marrocco on 01604 258032 or email restrictions on transferring shares. alishia.marrocco@howespercival.com You may want a written agreement about what rights the leaver would have to take clients, use confidential information or set up in competition. You could agree the method of valuation of shares. n Think carefully before employing

HELP YOUR BUSINESS TO MAKE THE HEADLINES...

Send the news from your business to Business Times. email news@business-times.co.uk or call 01604 259900 4

Business Times

October 2021

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

Business News

Passion for pickles brings a taste of success

Abbey plan bids to revive Food entrepreneur relishes historic stable block her shot at the big time

elapré Abbey in Northampton is looking to boost its visitor offer by converting a 19th-century stable block. T h e b u i l d i n g s a re currently used for storage but could be transformed into spaces for creative business or niche retail, café and a microbrewery. Delapré Abbey P r e s e r v a t i o n Tr u s t reached an agreement with Northampton Borough Council in February last year for a lease on the building provided the trust had obtained suitable planning permission, West Northamptonshire Council had approved the works and the council had secured vacant possession of the property. T h e a b b e y ’s c h i e f executive Richard Clinton said the stable block offers an opportunity to bring back to life an important part of the 550-acre site. “A new feasibility plan has been developed in response to the impacts and demands created from the pandemic,” he added. “The curation of the uses of the site are currently being developed and as these plans take shape we look forward to sharing them with the public.” The conditions originally had to be met by August this year but the council is proposing to extend the deadline by 12 months. Cllr Malcolm Longley, cabinet member for finance, said that extending the deadline was the most practical solution. “The creation of an additional attraction at the site will help boost the local economy and increase visitors to the abbey itself. The alternative is that we continue to maintain the buildings at a cost to the people of West Northamptonshire and that they provide no wider benefit.” Mr Clinton said: “We are keen to ensure the final offer complements the existing visitor attraction, helps support a thriving visitor economy, creates jobs and importantly supports the needs of our communities.”

Northamptonbased entrepreneur has won a national business award after turning her kitchen into a pickle production line. Gita Raikundalia was inspired by a trip to Chicago, where she first tried Giardiniera, a relish made from pickled vegetables which has been a firm favourite in the city after being introduced by Italian immigrants. On returning home, she could not find her new favourite condiment on UK shelves so decided to recreate the recipe herself. After encouraging feedback from family and friends, Gita realised her product’s potential and quit her job to start Nakasero Foods. The business launched in February 2020 - just a month before the UK’s first national lockdown - and quickly signed up more than 30 retailers to stock Gita’s Giardiniera. But when retail was forced to close its doors, Gita started selling online and using social media to build Nakasero’s profile. Earlier this year, Gita expanded her range with Marmalata, an Italian chilli jam that also comes in a spicy version. Now she has almost doubled the size of her business and, having outgrown her kitchen at home, is seeking a manufacturing partner so she can scale up production

to meet demand. Nakasero Foods has been named a winner in the Lloyds Bank Small Business of 2021 awards in recognition of how creatively and quickly it adapted to the challenges of the last year. Gita’s prize is a mentoring session with Tamara Lohan, co-founder of the boutique hotel travel specialists Mr & Mrs Smith. Ms Lohan will provide insight and support to help Gita to explore new opportunities and grow her business. “We have got a strong vision and lots of ambition,” said Gita. “In five years’ time I would like Nakasero Foods to be a recognised brand with a range of ten or 15 products.” Paul Gordon, managing director of SME and mid corporates at Lloyds Bank, said: “Gita’s story is inspiring. She is creating some really distinctive products and has been incredibly determined and adaptable, facing up to the challenges of the past year with entrepreneurial resolve, I am sure it will help her business achieve its full potential.” Gita is now working to develop new products, inspired by world cuisines including Korea, Japan and Greece. “Food has always been my passion and after I had fallen in love with Giardiniera I was surprised no one had really

Training scheme aims to boost heat pump take-up

n exclusive training scheme for local tradespeople is coming to Kettering, helping them to be among the first in the country to offer hybrid heat pumps to homeowners. Heat Pump Training UK, at Burton Latimer, is one of 11 specialist heating and plumbing merchants across the country to be selected for the scheme, delivered in partnership with low-carbon heating manufacturer Daikin. As well as helping local installers to future-proof their businesses, the initiative will help to roll out hybrid heat pump technology. Hybrid heat pumps run on electricity and are installed

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

alongside a regular boiler. The two appliances together provide heating and hot water, integrating with the property’s radiators as a first step towards introducing renewable heating technology into the home. The pumps can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 55 per cent compared to a boiler alone and deliver up to a 50pc reduction in energy bills. “Step one is helping local installers train on the latest technology and step two is for all of us to champion its benefits when we are speaking to our customers,” said Heat Pump Training Centre manager Chloe Wood.

Gita Raikundalia heard of it in the UK,” she said. “It is a real burst of flavour and goes great with anything

from pizza to salads. We had a really successful launch and the whole family helped out.

When the pandemic hit it was a big blow but I was determined not to let the business die.”

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.

Business Times

October 2021

Feature What can businesses do to help fight climate change and how can they benefit as a result? SEMLEP’s Growth Hub manager Vicky Hlomuka takes a look.

he effects of climate change are becoming clearer and clearer and are currently only set to get worse. The science is clear: we need to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050 or risk facing serious consequences. Individuals, organisations and governments are becoming increasingly aware of how important it is to do their part to help reduce carbon emissions and make the planet a cleaner, safer and more pleasant place to live. But can any one individual - or even one business - actually make that much difference? You are probably thinking that big multinational corporations could possibly do something. But what can a SME realistically do to help? An awful lot, as it turns out. With the COP26 international conference on how to tackle climate change taking place in Glasgow next month, businesses of all sizes - from huge multinationals to sole traders - are committing to do their bit to help cut carbon emissions and protect the planet. The government wants to make it as easy as possible for businesses to do their part and has partnered with business owners and respected climate groups to help employers to join them. SMEs significantly outnumber large corporations so the effect they can have by working together should not be underestimated. No matter how big or small your business is or which industry you are in, your commitment can make a genuine difference. Not only to the planet, but to your customers, and to your operating costs. Even the smallest businesses produce carbon, through their building,

Let’s work together to make the future a brighter, cleaner place their vehicles or simply through their supply chain. By cutting your emissions and providing innovative climate solutions, you will meet the expectations of customers, retain market access, cut operating costs and win new business. The government is asking businesses to make a commitment and pledge to halve their carbon emissions by 2030 and to reach net zero by 2050. That is, to reach the point where you and your supply chain are putting no more carbon into the atmosphere than you are removing from it. Participating businesses will then be asked to disclose their progress towards these

Vicky Hlomuka goals each year in order to allow the government to track how well the UK is doing. There are plenty of tools and support to help you to achieve this and measure your success,

both from the government, and from SEMLEP’s Growth Hub and its partners. For example, the Low Carbon Workspaces scheme provides match-funded grants of up to £5,000 to businesses to help to pay for projects that will cut their carbon emissions and minimise waste. This will allow businesses to recover up to a third of the costs of a wide array of different energy-saving measures, reducing the upfront costs, and helping to cut the time it takes to recover your investment. Although doing your bit to help to reduce the effects of climate change is a good enough reason by itself, becoming more

environmentally sustainable is good for your businesses too. Cutting your emissions by reducing energy bills through improving insulation or installing your own renewable energy sources can potentially save your business money and provide a competitive advantage. At the same time, by making your business more sustainable now, you will be futureproofing it for years to come. For example, by 2030 you will not be able to buy new petrol and diesel vehicles in the UK. By getting ahead of this change now, you will be boosting your opportunities for the future. On top of this, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are joining an international community of thousands of likeminded businesses, governments, universities, cities and regions that are all working together to make the future a brighter and cleaner place. Participating businesses will be recognised by the United Nations Race to Zero campaign, and you will be able to publicise your involvement to show your customers and stakeholders that you are a socially responsible company. n To find out more about how you can help, visit the SME Climate Hub. This provides a one stop shop for making your climate commitment and gives you access to best-in-class tools and resources for measuring your emissions, developing your climate strategy, reducing your own emissions and the emissions in your value chain and exemplifies complementary offset projects. To learn more and to make your commitment today, visit: https:// businessclimatehub.org/uk/

Expertise has stood the test of time

ctober 2021 marks the 22nd anniversary for Griffiths Air Conditioning & Electrical Contractors, the Burton Latimer-based business that now involves itself in a lot more activities than the business name suggests. Progressively over the years the business has expanded to become a provider of the full range of building and engineering services, meeting the needs of domestic, commercial and industrial clients throughout Northamptonshire and the seven surrounding counties. With modern town centre offices housed in a Grade II listed building that dates back to the 18th century, Griffiths works with homeowners,

Business Times

architects, builders, plumbers and commercial clients who all appreciate the benefits of working with just one provider to install all the services that today’s buildings require. Griffiths is a D1+ approved installer of Daikin air conditioning and heat pump systems, a NICEIC approved electrical contractor, MCS certified installer of heat pumps, solar thermal and solar PV, Gas Safe registered for domestic work, Polypipe underfloor heating approved installer and holder of several other certifications and accreditations relating to its work with plumbing and ventilation. Griffiths was the first Northamptonshire approved installer of heat pumps under the Microgeneration Certification

October 2021

Scheme back in 2008 and has carried out hundreds of heat pump jobs since then. With the government’s plans to phase out fossil fuel burning systems in new homes over the next few years, Griffiths is well placed to draw on its experience and to assist developers with the design and installation of heat pump systems. Energy efficiency is at the top of everyone’s agenda these days so Griffiths’ Energy Efficiency Centre showroom is ideally placed to show working examples of heat pumps and a wide range of energy saving products. One of the main factors to ensure low running costs of air conditioning, heat pumps and ventilation is regular maintenance. The Griffiths service

team carry out planned regular visits to a wide range of clients to make sure the installed equipment is running at its maximum efficiency as well as responding to any potential problems.

Contact Griffiths on 01536 420666 or via www.griffithsaircon.co.uk. Visit the company’s Energy Efficiency Centre showroom at 111 High Street in Burton Latimer, open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday.

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

Business News

Centre achieves a UK first for vehicle test standards Data quality is central to what we do, says head of emissions facility

ork to become the first test centre in the UK to meet new industry standards for vehicle emissions testing has paid off for MAHLE Powertrain in Northampton. Its Real Driving Emissions Centre has achieved ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification, a new standard for testing and calibration in laboratories. It is expected to become a universal requirement across the vehicle emissions testing industry and the MAHLE facility is the first in the UK to achieve certification. Other centres hold the certification but MAHLE was the first to have its actual emissions test procedures audited. Derek Wise, chief engineer for build and test, said: “For MAHLE Powertrain’s testing procedures to be recognised with this certification is testament to our staff’s skills and experience and the investments we have made in test and validation facilities. We are justifiably proud

that our emissions testing is the first in the UK to receive ISO 17025:2017 certification.” The test is used to develop customer vehicle calibrations to the latest worldwide emissions standards, validate vehicle designs for environment extremes or support homologation witness testing where vehicles or a particular component in a vehicle is certified to satisfy the requirements of statutory regulatory bodies. The ISO standard is set to become an assurance benchmark across the vehicle emissions testing industry. “We have had this standard in our sights for a while but it is very complex when applying it to the large numbers of factors involved in the measurement chain for emissions,” said Mr Wise. “However test data quality is central to what we do so we targeted being the first in the UK with the standard specifically for vehicle emissions.” According to the UK Accreditation

An Infiniti vehicle is put through its paces on the test bed at MAHLE Powertrain’s facility in Northampton

Service, MAHLE Powertrain’s RDE Centre is the first vehicle emissions testing facility in the UK to receive

ISO 17025:2017 certification for its vehicle emissions test processes and procedures. “It gave our assessors a

first-hand insight into the processes involved as a result,” said UKAS assessment manager Chris Downs.

Northampton South 07740 150924 kumon.co.uk To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

Business Times

October 2021

Business News

Kumon’s TWO WEEK Maths or English

FREE TRIAL

CURRENTLY ENDING ON 31ST OCTOBER 2021

Belinda Smith with the newest vehicle to join the delivery fleet at KG Smith & Son

New addition fires fuel firm’s ambition

mokeless fuel is a new venture for solid fuel merchant KG Smith & Son. But it is one that enables the family business to keep pace with the latest legislation. The company, founded in 1947, has grown to become the UK’s largest independent supplier of house coal. It also offers a range of products that includes smokeless alternatives such as natural anthracite and Homefire Ecoal 50, an ‘eco fuel’ made from crushed olive stones, a natural waste product of the olive oil manufacturing process. From its headquarters at Hartwell near Northampton, KG Smith & Son uses its 13 trucks to serve customers across much of the East Midlands and Home Counties. Deliveries to the rest of the country are via third-party transport providers. “Business is good but we are always

Deliveries at a canter as merchant expands vehicle fleet looking at new ventures that will allow us to stay ahead of legislation,” said Belinda Smith, who runs the business with her father Keith, the firm’s managing partner. Such is the demand for their smokeless fuel products that KC Smith & Son has added a new FUSO Canter 7.5-tonne truck to its fleet. The company acquired its first FUSO from dealership Intercounty Truck & Van in 2016 and has added four more over the last three years. “The Canter has proved to be a highly reliable workhorse and is now firmly established as our preferred 7.5-tonner,” said transport manager Chris Caws.

Key to the truck’s appeal for KG Smith are its body and payload allowance - the Canter will carry upwards of a tonne more than most competitors in the same gross weight class. “Payload is crucial as coal and solid fuel products are heavy,” says Mr Caws. “We will get four tonnes on the back of our latest Canter - more traditional 7.5-tonne tonne trucks would not get close to that.” The vehicle also has a compact footprint and a tight turning circle. “We do a lot of village deliveries that can entail getting up and down little alleyways,” said Mr Caws. “We will get a Canter into the sort of space for which you would normally have to use a van yet it will carry three times more product. The fact that it is so manoeuvrable makes life a lot easier for our drivers.”

Promotions specialist invests as demand soars

irectors at promotional merchandise business USB2U have invested in two new full colour digital printers at the company’s production facility in Northampton. Demand for branded USB sticks and other tech gifts has increased since the government announced the UK’s roadmap out of coronavirus restrictions and corporate events

resume. The new printers will increase production capacity and deliver photoquality prints with a high quality finish, said managing director Sebastian La Porta. “After a difficult 18 months for the industry, we are seeing business confidence slowly increasing,” he added. “However, this is set against the global transport delays which is unlikely to improve for the foreseeable

future. This major investment ensures we have the capacity to deal with this increase in demand and ensure that we have full control of the supply chain. The ‘think globally, act locally’ mantra has never been so relevant. “ USB2U attended its first trade show last month since the pandemic. It was among the exhibitors at Merchandise World, held at Stadium MK in Milton Keynes.

Financiers seal deal to take construction firm into new era

orporate finance specialists in Northampton have sealed a deal to bring two new directors on board at a construction company in the Midlands. Construction engineer Perry Stewart and chartered accountant Shaun Walsh have invested in Greswolde Construction, with ownership now shared between them and Malcolm Priest, who had owned the business since 1995. The deal was led and executed by specialists at Northampton corporate financier Watersheds. The company, based in Solihull, specialises in the education, healthcare, housing,

Business Times

October 2021

William Senior (right), of Watersheds, congratulates Malcolm Priest on Greswolde Construction commercial and industrial sectors. Messrs Stewart and Walsh are building a group of construction-related companies under the IBG Group banner.

This is their third investment. Mr Priest said: “I want to see the business thrive. However as we are waking up to face a new normal, I think it is the right time for me to step down and hand over some of my responsibilities to a highly experienced team who can meet those challenges so that Greswolde Construction has a strong and resilient future.” William Senior of Watersheds, who led on the transaction for Greswolde, said: “We knew we had found two people who understood the true potential of the business and who also had the industryrelated experience to help achieve sustainable growth.”

Instructing students via Zoom

At your local Kumon Northampton South Study Centre our aim is to help any child of any ability to shine. We support students to help them become confident, independent learners. With 60 years of experience and over 4 million students worldwide, the Kumon Maths and English Programmes enable children to embrace new challenges and to develop just right levels of understanding, work and study skills.

e believe this opportunity to grow on both an academic and a personal level should be available to all children. That is why, during OCTOBER, we are offering a two-week Free Trial to all new students at our study centre. The Kumon Maths and English Programmes help to build a solid foundation whilst developing ability in small, manageable steps. Through the use of example questions, students are encouraged to problem solve and work out answers independently. All our Instructors are highly trained in the Kumon Maths and English Programmes and will instruct your child right from the onset to build fluency, ability and confidence as well as develop a love of learning. Before starting the Free Trial, your child will have an individual assessment with your local Instructor to assess their maths and English

FREE TRIAL Take advantage of our Free trial offer and find out what your child can achieve through the Kumon Maths and English Programmes. The Kumon Northampton South Study Centre is located at Grange Park Community Centre, School Lane, Grange Park, Northampton NN4 5FZ with time-slotted sessions at the Centre on Tuesdays 3:30PM to 6:00PM and Saturdays: 9:30AM to 12:30PM plus ONLINE: Thursdays 4:00PM to 6:00PM

Berta Rapoz

ability as well as their study skills. This is a no obligation assessment which will give you the opportunity to meet your local Instructor and understand in more depth how Kumon will help develop your child. At Kumon we believe that learning is always for the long run. The individualised maths and English programmes enable students to progress to an advanced level, at their own pace, ensuring they maximise their ability and begin to realise their unlimited potential. Our students develop lifelong study skills and a passion for learning, equipping them for a successful future. Kumon is proud to be recognised as an education provider that delivers proven academic results. An independent study in 2020 revealed that Kumon students are over a year ahead of the national average and over six months ahead of their peers in their maths learning by the end of primary school.

To find out more call your local Kumon centre Berta Rapoz on 07740 150924 or email northamptonsouth@kumoncentre.co.uk to book a consultation.

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

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

Business Times

October 2021

Business News

‘The challenge now is to keep it looking this good’ Clean-up campaign urges businesses to help to keep town centre tidy

usinesses, town centre leaders and an army of volunteers have issued a challenge to keep Northampton town centre looking its best after collecting more than half a tonne of litter in one morning. The concerted clean-up campaign, organised by Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District, saw business owners encouraged to transform the look of their workplace and make shops, cafes, restaurants even more welcoming to visitors. They were joined by volunteers from the Northants Litter Wombles, Mayor of Northampton Clly Rufia Ashraf and representatives from West Northamptonshire Council and Northampton Town Council. Almost 50 people collected more than 100 bags of rubbish around the town centre. The dedicated ‘tidy day’ forms part of a series of projects to smarten up the town, encouraging business owners to take pride in

Volunteers take a break during the town centre tidy-up organised by Northampton Town Centre BID their premises and get Northampton looking its best. Northampton Town Centre BID operations manager Mark Mullen said: “We were delighted to see so many people join us. All of us have a part to play in restoring some of that civic pride, whether it is business owners sweeping their doorways or shoppers making sure they put their rubbish in the bin.

“With more than 300 bins in and around the town centre there really is no excuse for anyone to be dropping litter. Hopefully the Tidy Day will help show people just how good our town centre can look if everyone makes a concerted effort to dispose of their rubbish in the right way. “The challenge now is to keep it looking this good.” Cllr Jonathan Nunn, leader of West

Northamptonshire Council, joined the team clearing up Bridge Street, Victoria Gardens, St Giles Street and Fish Street while staff from Veolia, Chronicle & Echo, NLive Radio, McDonald’s, Metro Bank, Matchbox Café, Virgin Money, Nationwide, Salvation Army, The Body Shop, Turtle Bay, Grosvenor Shopping and Passenger also took part. The Tidy Day formed the focal

point of a week of action across the town. Other days will see similar activities organised by Northampton Town Council, with each councillor taking the lead for their individual wards.Community groups are also encouraged to get involved and can apply for a grant of up to £3,000 through the Constance Travis Global Goals fund via the Northamptonshire Community Foundation website.

Incredible offers to mark our milestone anniversary

B Birthday CELEBRATION

atchelor Air Conditioning & Refrigeration celebrates 30 years of being leaders and specialists of their industry across Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Northamptonshire. From domestic central air conditioning to industrial ventilation repairs, Batchelor Air Conditioning strives to offer customers practical solutions at reasonable prices, regardless of the size and scope of the project at hand. The team pride themselves on keeping all their bespoke services affordable and they have now been delivering this high-quality, five-star service for an incredible 30 years.

To celebrate the milestone anniversary, the team is offering up to 60% off multi-year maintenance contracts for air conditioning and refrigeration equipment and systems, plus an industry-beating ten-year warranty for peace of mind. www.batchelor.co.uk

01234 712901

“The whole team are so incredibly proud of what has been achieved in those 30 years...” Wayne Tica, Shareholder at Batchelor Air Conditioning & Refrigeration says: “This is a huge milestone for us as a business, and since launching in 1991, we have been supplying Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire with durable and energy saving solutions. “September 2021 may be the 20th anniversary of the company’s formal incorporation but the business has actually been trading since 1991, making this year a 30th anniversary too. “The whole team are so incredibly proud of what has been achieved in those 30 years but especially to have made it out the other side of a global pandemic.

To find out more visit www.batchelor.co.uk 10

Business Times

October 2021

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

Business News

Back to business... and exhibitors relish the opportunity

Sharon Hundal, Partner from law firm Borneo Martell Turner Coulston

Chef and sales executive Paul Hunt with research and development assistant Frankie Downes from Syan Farms

orthamptonshire Chamber of Commerce’s popular showcase the Back 2 Back Business Exhibition has made an impressive comeback. A steady flow of visitors took advantage of the opportunities to meet people face to face at the exhibition which was sponsored by Chamber Platinum business partner Wilson Browne Solicitors. Northampton Saints at Franklin’s Gardens hosted the event which included networking sessions, seminars and a wide range of exhibitors. Alongside law firms, IT and HR specialists to charities and accountants were Pulse Group Media, publishers of Business Times and their new digital marketing partners, Corby-based Square Media. Chamber chief executive Louise Wall, writing in the events programme, said: “The exhibition is a great opportunity not just to showcase our fantastic Northamptonshire business community’s products and services but also to highlight how many local businesses have had to pivot and adapt their business models during the pandemic.”

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.

Kerry Lewis-Stevenson and Martin Lewis-Stevenson, publishers of Business Times

Jennie Brown, Tax Partner at Streets is with Dylan Astle, Business Development Executive and Alex Hearn, Tax Semi-Senior

Do you have spare time to help our lovely clients? We need your help to make a real difference to an older person’s life by supporting them to live independently at home Training provided

Great rates of pay

Make a difference in your local community

Be part of a supportive team

#YOU

CAN

CARE

To discuss our current vacancies please call Marie on

Tel: 01933 678775

E: marie.franks@homeinstead.co.uk To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

Business Times

October 2021

Business News

New forum gives voice to business Have your say and help area to thrive

mployers have a new forum through which to have a greater say in the future of West Northamptonshire. The aim of the West Northamptonshire Business Forum is to connect local employers, increase take-up of support to benefit local businesses and the local area and to give a voice to the area’s business community. The forum’s first meeting took place at Daventry Town Bowling Club last month. It is run by a board made up of businesspeople and other stakeholders, including West Northamptonshire Council. Forum founder John Tippett, a businessman from Daventry, “I have established this forum because I am passionate about the local area, I recognise the potential West Northamptonshire has and I want to play a part in enabling this area to thrive. “By connecting employers together, sharing issues and collaborating, the local economy will benefit, employers benefit, the area benefits and local government will have a clear voice

from the business community.” The forum will: n Unite voices to address business needs; n Connect local employers together; n Share information for business growth; n Champion the business community. Cllr Lizzy Bowen, portfolio holder for economic development, town centre regeneration and growth on West Northamptonshire Council, said: “We think the forum is exactly what West Northamptonshire needs to empower the business community across Daventry, Northampton and South Northamptonshire. We will do everything we can to ensure all businesses and residents thrive in West Northamptonshire.” Mr Tippett added: “It ticks so many boxes and I am extremely excited for the fantastic things this forum will achieve once the board is up and running. I implore each and every local employer to attend and raise their voice.”

Tolly good show... Village pub is the region’s best

t’s cheers once more to the Tollemache Arms pub in Harrington, now officially the best pub in the East Midlands according to the National Pub & Bar Awards. The pub now lines up alongside the best from across the UK in the bid to be named the UK’s top establishment. The Tollemache Arms - known

Christmas Gifts for Patients Donate a gift for a patient in hospital on Christmas Day Visit our website to purchase a gift from our Amazon Wishlist or make a monetary donation and we will purchase a gift for you. www.northamptonshire healthcharity.co.uk greenheart@nhcf.co.uk We can only accept new items in their original packaging. Unwrapped gifts only please.

01604 626927 01536 491569 1 12 NHC-Bus-Times-Christmas-Ad-123x180mm.indd Business Times | October 2021

09/09/2021 17:22

to locals as The Tolly - was commended on its crea-tive and perfectly delivered food as well as its warm and friendly hospitality, an inviting atmosphere for all walks of life, maintaining a beautiful quintessential British pub surrounded by stunning countryside views, according to the judges. Co-owner Joe Buckley, pictured

orthamptonshire Health Charity is looking for Christmas gifts to give to people in hospital on Christmas Day. The charity supports Northampton General and Kettering General Hospitals and the community and mental health hospitals at Berrywood, Isebrook, Corby, and St Mary’s. It works all year round to provide for all departments and wards, above and beyond what the NHS provides. Now that Christmas is fast approaching, the charity wants to ensure that every patient in hospital receives a present on the day. There are many patients, mostly elderly, who have nobody - this means no visitors and no gift. Last year, every inpatient received a gift bag, which helped raise a smile, reminding them they are in people’s thoughts. Suitable items are puzzle books, slippers and socks, toiletries, lip balms and dominoes for elderly patients and toys, games and activities for the children’s wards and short break centres. For infection control, only new items can be accepted in the original packaging and not gift wrapped. If you’d prefer to shop online, purchase from the

with the award, said: “It was an incredible competition to be involved in and we are beyond proud of what the team has achieved in one of the most challenging years ever. They have adapted and excelled in the most amazing industry and it is great they get the recognition they deserve.” The annual awards are organised by Pub & Bar magazine.

Donate a gift for someone in hospital this Christmas

Amazon Wish List at www. amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ ls/1VSCK7UYYD28B. Or make a donation and a gift will be purchased for you. Trish Ribano, service manager at Welland Centre

for Adult Mental Health said: “We are so grateful for your support at Christmas. It makes our day when all the gifts arrive for us to give out as this can be a very lonely and difficult time for patients.”

For more information, contact 01604 626927, email greenheart@nhcf.co.uk or visit www.northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk For Northamptonshire’s business news visit www.Business-Times.co.uk

Business Class Internet Hosting Since 1995

SPE Get a qui CIAL ck OFF quote on ERS li AVA ne ILAB LE

Tier 4 Speciﬁcation The most stringent standard for fault tolerance, fire prevention and uptime.

48,000sqft, 600+ Racks From Colocation of a 1U server, to lockable rack enclosures and private multi-rack data suites.

ISO 27001 Certiﬁed Company

Audited annually, we comply fully with this security standard ensuring the physical safety of your data and equipment.

Substantial Connectivity Options Managed Transit or a selection of providers on-site or nearby (including GTT, BT, CityFibre, Verizon, Virgin Media, C&W).

Our Data Centre in Milton Keynes is ideal for connectivity, hosted desktop services and the latest Cloud Solutions The Data Centre in Milton Keynes represents our 20+ years of experience in the industry and also our passion and commitment in creating a world class facility. The most important aspects of a Data Centre are its Specification, Security and Connectivity.

Specification -

Security –

Connectivity –

Tier 4, the very highest specification for a data centre. This means that each and every main service has a separate and diverse back up of equal size to the total capacity of the primary set (N+N). This includes: Mains Power, Generator, UPS, Power Distribution, Air Conditioning and Network.

The building was inherently secure as the previous owner was a UK bank. We have enhanced this further by renovating and upgrading all main systems including installation of vehicle and person anti tail gate enclosures both outside and also within the building. All infrastructure and procedures meet or exceed the ISO27001 security standard.

Adjacent to a wide range of other fibre providers two of which have made a substantial investment in large points of presence directly into the facility including many hundreds of physical fibre cores via diverse routes. This means that this is not only a well connected data centre but a major connectivity hub suitable for the provision of leased lines MPLS circuits and National Ethernet solutions.

This facility is suitable for any hosting or connectivity requirements large or small. Please contact us for more information.

Call Now to Book a Tour - 01908 921080 Rack Space | Colocation | DR

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

Business Times

October 2021

Money Matters The experts at Moore UK chartered accountants assess the outcomes at Employment Tribunal of two very different unfair dismissal cases

Results show that reasonableness is key to a successful defence

ismissing an employee or treating them less favourably because they raise health and safety concerns is usually judged to be an automatic unfair dismissal and means that even employees with less than two years’ service can bring an unfair dismissal claim. However, two recent contrasting Employment Tribunal cases show that reasonableness is a major factor for tribunals when considering such cases. Here, the team at Moore Chartered Accountants look at the difference between the two cases. Case one – no unfair dismissal The first case involved an employee with less than two years’ service, working for a PPE supplier. During March and April 2020, the employee repeatedly asked to work from home or be placed on furlough because he was uncomfortable using public transport and working in the office. The company refused because his job could not be done from home and the company was too busy to make furlough an option. The company offered the employee

an alternative of taking annual or unpaid leave but the employee repeated his requests until, on the third repeat, the company dismissed him without notice by email. The employee claimed that he had been automatically unfairly dismissed because he had raised health and safety concerns but the tribunal found in favour of the company. The tribunal accepted that the employee reasonably believed that there were circumstances of serious and imminent danger to him. Further, to succeed with this claim, the employee also needed to show that he had taken appropriate steps to protect himself from the danger and communicate these steps to the company. The tribunal did not believe that the employee’s unreasonable demand to work from home on full pay or be furloughed at 80 per cent pay fulfilled this requirement. The court noted that the company had reasonably concluded that his job could not be performed at home, that furlough was not an option and that it had offered him the option of taking holiday or unpaid leave.

Case two – unfair dismissal The second case involved a chef in a restaurant owned by the company. The restaurant was closed during lockdown and, shortly before reopening, the company asked the employee to come in. The employee was concerned he would catch coronavirus at work and pass it on to his clinically vulnerable father and raised this with the company. The company did not provide any PPE or comply with any of the recommended workplace coronavirus health and safety precautions and told the employee to shut up and get on with it when the employee complained. The employee was then dismissed without notice, allegedly because the company planned to restructure and downsize. The Employment Tribunal found that the employee’s concerns were the real reason for the dismissal and that, before the employee had voiced them, the company had viewed him as a successful and valued member of staff. Therefore, his dismissal was automatically unfair.

There are two key points to take away from the contrast between these cases. First, there is a difference between dismissing someone just because they raised health and safety concerns, which is automatically unfair, and dismissing them because they are being unreasonable, which is not. Second, reasonableness is the key to defending such claims. In the first case, the company was reasonable but the employee was not and the employee lost.

In the second, the employee was reasonable but the company was not and the employee won. Employers can minimise their risk of successful claims by ensuring that they carefully consider employees’ coronavirus concerns, take steps to address them where reasonable and see if any compromise position can be reached to satisfy both parties. However, employers do not have to accept unreasonable demands from employees.

‘Yes’ culture enables introduction of flexible working policy

lsby & Co - one of Northamptonshire’s leading firms of chartered accountants - has launched a flexible working policy for staff as part of its commitment to developing a ‘yes’ culture. The practice - with offices in Sywell and Rushden which employs 46 specialists in accountancy, payroll and book-keeping - has realised the benefits of flexible working after appreciating the commitment of its staff during the pandemic. Elsby’s flexible working policy will enable the team to enjoy working from home and will allow them to work the hours that accommodate their personal lives. Founding partner Carl Elsby said: “We have realised that people thrive when they are trusted and

there is no question that throughout the lockdowns our team has excelled. “We want to reward them for their efforts by doing all that we can to help them have a working week that suits the sort of life they want to lead. We know this can be achieved while maintaining

We have realised that people thrive when they feel they are trusted the high standard of service that our clients have learned to expect from the firm. “In the main, we have found that our team has enjoyed being back in the

office. There is a sense of camaraderie when we are all together. We also believe that people learn better when working in close proximity to one another as there is a real value in that unofficial training on the job. “Ultimately, it is all about the importance of choice, though, as different people want different things.” Recruitment and retention is one of the biggest challenges facing business today and Elsby & Co wants to be industry leaders in terms of employee benefits, he added. “The flexible working policy is just one of a number of new privileges for staff that we will be introducing over the next few months to show that we are committed to being the employer of choice for those wanting a long and rewarding career in accountancy.”

MAKE THE NEWS...

Send your Money Matters and other business news to news@business-times.co.uk for publication in Northamptonshire’s longest-established business newspaper 14

Business Times

October 2021

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

Money Matters

Cryptocurrency: Profit quest and a question of tax

lthough the use of digital assets has increased dramatically over even the last two years, there is still no specific accounting standard for cryptoassets under international financial reporting standards. HM Revenue & Customs, on the other hand, has published some guidance on how they are to be treated under UK tax law. HMRC describes them as ‘cryptographically secured digital representations of value or contractual rights that can be transferred, stored and traded electronically’. More simply, they are virtual assets that use secure technology to make it impossible to counterfeit or alter their record of ownership. They are strictly digital and completely decentralised, with no single bank or government generating or keeping track of them. Instead, blockchain technology keeps a record of every single transaction using a cryptoasset, and ‘miners’ use powerful computer systems to validate the transactions, receiving newly circulated cryptoassets in return. They get their value like any other

You may have heard about cryptoassets, also known as cryptocurrencies or tokens. Many think of them as a novelty, a fad that will not last. But with the value of one Bitcoin jumping by 122% from £8,544 to £35,465 in the 12 months to September 2021, it is clear why there is a great deal of interest in them - the chance of making a profit. This begs the question of how will the profits generated by the exchanges of cryptoassets be taxed. Milton Keynes professional services firm MPA delivers its answer.

currency - demand for the token, scarcity or the coin’s utility and advantages.

How are cryptoassets taxed in the UK? Despite what the name may suggest, HMRC does not consider

For a brighter future, let’s get back to basics

rocedures, rules and terms and conditions are all fundamental to the operation of a business. However, we regularly see examples where basic procedures are not followed and the consequences can cause significant stress and pressure for directors or, in some cases, result in the failure of a business. With the above in mind, here are a few basic points for consideration. Credit control For some businesses, a single bad debt can have very serious consequences. Ensure you have appropriate credit control procedures in place and follow them. It is important to regularly review credit limits for existing customers and carry out thorough checks for new customers. Also, review credit limits on a regular basis as things can change quickly. Social media and Companies House are extremely useful free tools that can be used to gather information. Negative social media interaction such as complaints from customers can indicate that all is not well.

Lauren Auburn Companies House can also be used to look at directors and their previous failures. If a company has entered into an insolvency process, there is a requirement on the insolvency practitioner to file information at Companies House and some may be useful in helping to decide what credit limit should be set - if any at all for new companies, especially where the directors have been involved in previous failures. If you set a credit limit, stick to it. BRI has dealt with a number of suppliers who have lost a considerable amount of money in an insolvency scenario due to continuing to supply goods on credit without being paid in accordance with their credit terms.

Reservation of Title It is still surprising how many suppliers get this wrong. Incorporating a reservation of title clause into terms and conditions of trade is only the beginning and cannot be relied on in isolation. There are a number of points to cover off in order to have a valid RoT claim and reclaim goods that have not been paid for when a customer enters into an insolvency process. Produce realistic financial forecasts and monitor them regularly Monitoring cash flow is key. The majority of failures we see are due to companies having little or no working capital. Produce forecasts and monitor them on a regular basis, making changes where necessary. By doing this, you will be able to identify any future issues and can then seek professional advice at the earliest opportunity. The earlier directors seek professional advice, the more likely it is that a company can be rescued or even avoid a formal insolvency process altogether.

If you feel that you need support or guidance with business recovery, contact a member of BRI’s management team on 01604 754352 who will be able to offer confidential support and advice.

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

cryptocurrencies as currency or money and, contrary to the way some people view them, it also does not consider buying and selling them as gambling. That means that, just like any other asset, profits made from them, either for personal or business use, can be subject to tax. For personal investors, capital gains tax is the most likely tax to apply when selling, exchanging, or giving away a cryptoasset that increased in value following its purchase. CGT is set either at ten per cent or 20 per cent dependent on your taxpayer rate less deductibles. If your use of cryptocurrencies counts as a ‘trade’ in HMRC’s eyes - which it could do if it fulfils one or more of the badges of trade - you might also have to pay income tax on profits made

HMRC decides whether an activity counts as a trade based on factors such as the frequency of the activity, the risks being taken and how commercial the operation is. You may also face corporation tax and VAT bills, particularly if you provide goods and services in exchange for a cryptocurrency. Unfortunately, the way in which cryptoassets are taxed is usually assessed on a case-by-case basis. For this reason, the best thing you can do is ensure you keep good records, especially about trades, so you will be better prepared should HMRC come knocking with questions. You should also keep your tax advisor and accountant up to date with your usage of cryptocurrencies and any plans to do so in the future so they can monitor this fast-moving landscape with your best interests in mind. Get in touch with MPA for more information about the tax and accounting implications of using cryptoassets or for independent business support and advice. 0808 2696 5538 | hello@mpa.co.uk | mpa.co.uk

Business is moving to the next phase of recovery from the pandemic and for some it is time to recover. That, says Lauren Auburn of business recovery specialist BRI, is why getting the basics right is so important.

PRACTICAL ADVICE, PROFESSIONAL APPROACH

Elsby & Co are a family-run practice, working closely with you to provide an exceptional service that’ is based on continuity and an in-depth understanding of your circumstances. While we skilfully and efficiently manage the essentials with our in-depth knowledge and experience, we also guide and support you with a little extra consultative care.

Call us on

01933 312950

for a FREE consultation

For more details visit www.elsbyandco.co.uk Business Times

October 2021

Local Accountancy Practice finalists in National Awards! Ad Valorem are proud to announce we have been shortlisted as finalists in the prestigious Accounting Excellence Awards.

hilst clients are at the centre of Ad Valorem’s focus, team wellbeing and integration have also been a firm priority as new people join the business. We are glad to see the recognition of this within the industry and with this in mind, the Ad Valorem team are proud to share they have been announced as finalists for three Accounting Excellence Awards this year! The categories the team have been announced as finalists are ‘Medium Firm of the Year’, ‘Investing in People’ and ‘Practice Pioneer of the Year’. This is a great achievement and to be finalists for three national awards is a personal best for the team! We look forward to celebrating with the other finalists at The Brewery in the Barbican on the 21st October. May it continue.

What we have been up to… FIRM OF THE YEAR (MEDIUM) Our overarching theme throughout the business is to generate efficiencies for both our clients and team through digitisation. We are always looking to adapt workflow patterns and provide feedback on digital platforms to ensure we are offering everyone the very best on the market. We’ve empowered our younger people through our Culture Club and Innovation Hub,

providing a platform to voice opinions/ideas. This has resulted in commercial decisions including launching new service lines as well as employee wellbeing initiatives such as mental health sessions. We’ve developed a structure that enables career progression, unlike the traditional “partner-based” format, by utilising a 6-member pod system with a clear pathway for growth, whilst also keeping the small family team feel for clients.

INVESTING IN PEOPLE Our clients and team are our main asset to our business. Without both of these things we would Tax Cloud Accountancy Services not have grown and developed Our specialist Bring your finances into into the practice we are today. We expertise ensures you pay the real time with our Cloud correct amount of tax continuously Accountancy analysepackages. the talent held with our tax planning and advice. within the business and how best to utilise and enhance it. We have spent an extensive amount of time developing and upskilling our Senior Management Team and developing the business strategy to streamline the Ad Valorem values and services. We also ensure we offer a wide range of development opportunities for other team members by allowing people to develop in their chosen role by providing funding for training and examinations to facilitate a wide range of career paths, not just accountancy.

Cloud Accountancy

PRACTICE PIONEER OF THE YEAR Nikki & Nigel Adams (Ad Valorem’s joint Managing Directors) have been voted as Practice Pioneers. Both have been a great advocate for the practice’s transition into the digital world, whilst still keeping and understanding the importance of human interaction at our core. Nikki and Nigel have also provided guidance and experience across a number of industry forums outside of Ad Valorem, working with the R&D Wealth Finance ACCA,Management HMRC and over 40 &other Tax Credits Banking accountancy practices through We can help with all Eligible for R&D tax We can help maximise aspects of corporate credits? Our dedicated and protect your collaboration and mentorship. and personal finance. R&D team have provided hard-earned wealth so specialist R&D tax relief services to a wide range of businesses.

that you can have financial freedom in your retirement.

Ad Valorem would like to thank all of our clients, strategic partners and the team for all of the support and hard work carried out not only over the past 12 months, but also the past 20 years that have led up to this point. We wouldn’t be the practice we are today without our clients and team who have helped us get here. (e) enquiries@advaloremgroup.uk (w) advaloremgroup.uk (t) 01908 219100

Tax Services

R&D Tax Credits

Wealth Management

Finance & Banking

Please feel free to either callto uscall on:us on: Please feel free

+44 (0) 1908 219100 +44 (0) 1908 219100 or email us orat: email us at:

enquiries@advaloremgroup.uk enquiries@advaloremgroup.uk

Business Times

October 2021

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

Money Matters

‘A logical move’: Accountancy firms seal merger deal

mbitions to develop its presence in Bedfordshire are behind the merger of regional accountancy firm Streets with Luton practice SJ Males. The two firms have worked together on behalf of clients previously but now have formally united to become Streets SJ Males. The new combined firm continues to operate from the former SJ Males office on Butterfield Business Park. Streets, which also opened a new office in Northampton earlier this year, retains its premises at Wyboston Lakes and in Stevenage. Craig Males, who headed SJ Males with his wife Sarah prior to the merger, said: “We worked informally with Streets accessing advice and support we were not able to provide to our clients. This included specialist tax advice and assistance with more complex accountancy and audit work. “This approach allowed us to get to know each other better and supported the move for both firms to work more closely. We have recognised the need

to be able to offer our clients a greater breadth of service to support them with the challenges they face and we also wanted to increase the firm’s capacity to develop the business.” The new office is headed by Streets audit and accountancy partner Alan Endersby, who knows the area well. “I am really looking forward to working with Craig, Sarah and their team and to be joined by fellow Streets partners and staff to provide clients of the office with access to services and support from the wider firm. Luton is close to my heart and a town I know well. With excellent road links, the airport and continued economic regeneration, we are excited about the opportunities for enterprise in the region.” Streets already works with clients including owner-managed and family businesses, corporate entities and not for profit organisations including schools and academy trusts. “We are therefore well placed to look after a growing portfolio of such clients in the area but also to offer more specialist advice and support for those engaged

Partners and staff outside the new Streets SJ Males office in Luton. Pictured front centre are Craig and Sarah Males with office head Alan Endersby in technology, education, the creative industries, logistics, e-commerce and engineering or manufacturing,” said Mr Endersby. The merger will also strengthen both firms’ expertise in work for the property sector, he added. Streets’ chairman and managing partner Paul Tutin said: “We have been keen to strengthen our presence in Bedfordshire for some time, looking in particular at Luton and the surrounding area. From our established offices in Stevenage and Wyboston Lakes, we have looked after clients in the area for many years.

Day to day business tasks crushing your creativity? Our professional services have been carefully tailored to help streamline your business, allowing you to focus on big ideas and strategies for growth.

“Last year we opened a new office in Northamptonshire in response to the wider opportunities for a practice of our breadth and size in the county and south east Midlands. It therefore seemed a logical move to have a much more meaningful presence in Luton. While we considered opening a new office, we have been extremely fortunate to have been able to come together with Craig and Sarah Males, formerly of SJ Males & Co and now to be driving forward the new merged practice.” “The creation of Streets SJ Males will serve to enhance the provision

Advance Funding

and access to professional advisory services available to businesses and individuals in Luton and its surrounding business region. Whilst many large firms have moved to more regional models, Streets remains committed to and focused on looking after clients that live, work and operate businesses in the local area.” Through SBC Global Alliance, Streets’ global association of leading professional firms, the firm is servicing an increasing need for international tax advice and assurance services to those trading internationally and to UK subsidiaries with overseas parents.

Tax Services

Accounting Services

Business Advice

Call our team to explore what we can do for you

0808 296 5538

Innovation Tax Relief

Innovate UK Smart Grants

or visit mpa.co.uk today

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

Business Times

October 2021

Networking

>> The local Networking round-up

etworking online has been a lifeline for many businesses during the pandemic. Networking groups are moving back to face-to-face meetings with some continuing to make the most of the benefits of meeting online. 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.

Elite BNI (Kettering) – Tuesday 06.45 to 08.30am Temporarily Meeting Online Ignite BNI (Daventry) – Tuesday 06.45 to 08.30am In Person Meeting at The Turnpike, Northampton Pioneer BNI (Northamptonshire) – Wednesday 09.30 to 11am Online Only Chapter Pavilion BNI (Northampton) – Thursday 06.45 to 08.30am In Person Meeting at The Old Northamptonians RFC, Sir Humphrey Cripps Pavilion, Billing Road, Northampton Prosperity BNI (Kettering) – Thursday 06.45 to 08.30am Hybrid Chapter at The Kettering Golf Club, Headlands, Sterling BNI (Northampton) – Thursday 11.30 to 1pm In Person Meeting at The Old Northamptonians RFC, Sir Humphrey Cripps Pavilion, Billing Road, Northampton Lighthouse BNI (Northampton) – Friday 06.45 to 08.30am In Person Meeting at Franklin’s Gardens, Weedon Road, Unity BNI (nr Wellingborough) – Friday 06.45 to 08.30am Hybrid chapter Meeting at Gt Doddington Club, 41 Lower Street, Great Doddington, Wellingborough Contact Duncan Webster E: Duncan@BNIBreakfast. co.uk, T: 07977 422220

No fuss, pay-as-you-go networking. Bedford Buzz Wednesday, October 6 Leicester Buzz Tuesday, October 12 Rugby Buzz Thursday, October 14 Bicester Buzz Face-to-Face Thursday, October 14 MK Buzz Face-to-Face Friday, October 15 Northampton Buzz Wednesday, October 20 Banbury Buzz Wednesday, October 27 Hinckley Face-to-Face Buzz Wednesday, October 27 All Business Buzz events operate from 10 am to noon. Throughout October and November 2021 Buzz networking events will be returning to traditional face-to-face town centre format. Please check the Buzz App & our website for full details. 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

October 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.

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-generationchamber/our-events

Free to attend for start-up and established businesses and run from 9.30am to 11am, Visit the website at www.northnorthantsbusinessnetwork.co.uk Kettering - Wednesday, October 13. Venue tbc Corby – Tuesday, October 19 at The Clubhouse, Steel Park, Jimmy Kane Way, Corby, NN17 2FB Wellingborough - Monday, October 11. online East Northants - check for updates on line

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 costeffective 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 on line group. These are lock out groups so only one business area is represented. Kettering: Tuesday, October 12 - Kettering Park Hotel, Kettering, NN15 6XT Wellingborough: Wednesday, October 20 – The Stanwick Hotel, West Street, Stanwick, NN9 6QY Northampton: Thursday, October 14 – Old White Hart, Cotton End, Far Cotton, Northampton, NN4 8BS Market Harborough: Thursday, October 7 – The Three Swans Hotel, 21 High Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7NJ South Northants: Tuesday, October 19 – The White Horse, Stocks Hill, Silverstone, NN12 8UW Stamford: Tuesday, October 19 – The William Cecil at Stamford, St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LJ 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, October 5. Meet 11.45 - 2pm. Delapre Abbey, London Road, Northampton, NN4 8AW Connections Club Stamford launches at the William Cecil, October 6. 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 costeffective 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 further information contact: Barbara 07504 946 585/ 01933 652884 Email barbara@yourbusinessmatters.co www.yourbusinessmatters.co

Meet the Neighbours - Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes Chambers Online. October 5 11am to 12:15pm Business After Hours: Northamptonshire County Cricket Club Ltd. Thursday, October 7, 5.30pm to 7.30pm Policy Hour: Nadhim Zahawi MP Online. Friday, October 15, 10am to 11am. For updates and to book events visit the website at: www.northants-chamber.co.uk

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

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

We are

CMY

Your Outsourced Marketing Team We help our clients get the right communication to their target audience through the appropriate media at the best time!

Scan the code to book a free marketing consultation t: 03303 800 630 w: www.squaremedia.solutions

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

Business Times

October 2021

In The Community

Train station provides the ‘perfect platform’ for college art students A

rt students at Northampton College are on track to have their work seen by thousands. With the college unable to hold its annual art exhibition due to the pandemic, students have finally seen their work go on show at Northampton station thanks to a new partnership with London Northwestern Railway. More than 40 pieces of work across all areas of the art curriculum will be on display on the overbridge at the station, showcasing painting, photography, sculpture, fashion, digital design and millinery. Sophie Pennington, curriculum manager of arts, design and photography at Northampton College, said: “The station gallery is a chance to celebrate the fantastic artwork our students have produced over the past 12 months. There is a real eclectic mix and it was so hard to narrow it down - it was a bit like judging the Countryfile calendar. “I am so proud of their achievements. They have done an amazing job with some very high-quality work produced during a particularly difficult period, with the students often working on their own from home because of the various periods of lockdown.” The pop-up gallery is brightening up one of the busiest public areas of the station and will become a permanent addition, with artwork changed regularly and hung from specially constructed supports. The college display will be on show until March. David Flanagan, duty operations manager at London Northwestern Railway, said: “Working with the local community here in Northampton is extremely important to us and we love the idea of showcasing the talents of the students of the town. We look forward to strengthening those relationships further in the months to come and it is a great opportunity for students to get their work seen by hundreds of thousands of people, prompting conversations and inspiring others.”

David Flanagan, of London Northwestern Railway, with Sophie Pennington and Northampton College art students

Programmes are full of Eastern promise

he work of a team of academics to design and deliver mobility programmes for students looking to spend time in China has been celebrated by the British Council. In 2019, the University of Northampton was awarded a grant through the British Council’s Outward Mobility Internationalisation Partnership Fund to design and deliver programmes in China and work with Chinese partner universities to develop their wider internationalisation strategies. Dr Shaowei He, director of the China and Emerging Economies Centre, Dr Holger Siemons, senior lecturer in international business, Dr Sarah Jones, subject leader international strategy and business, and Dr Qian Zhang, senior lecturer in English as a second language, have been working with Yunnan Technology and Business University

to develop an online personal development package which supports UK students to have successful cross-cultural experiences in China. Dr He said: “I am pleased that the British Council have recognised the value of the work we have been focused on to support student mobility opportunities. “The pandemic developed the way the project has been operating but with that challenge came the fantastic opportunity to further enhance the virtual elements of the project, creating personal connections for students in the two countries during the pandemic, and giving us the opportunity to develop the online learning package. It has the potential to serve as part of pre-departure preparation for all students from other programme areas undertaking outward mobility activities with China.”

Recovery initiatives benefit from Foundation’s grant funding

new fund has been launched by Northamptonshire Community Foundation to support social enterprise initiatives that will help with the economic recovery from the pandemic. Social enterprises based in the county can apply for up to £5,000 to help support economic growth within local communities. The activities must benefit local residents, especially those that may be disadvantaged and vulnerable.

Groups can apply via www.ncf.uk.com with a closing date for applications of October 15 The foundation’s deputy chief executive and grants director Rachel McGrath said: “We have seen how the pandemic has massively impacted the economic and financial wellbeing of our local communities and so we are delighted to be able to launch a funding programme that will go some way to help support and contribute to local economic wellbeing and give a boost to new and existing social enterprise activity locally.”

Knitters get the needle to sew up funding campaign

nitters are being urged to keep on knitting to support Age UK Northamptonshire. The charity has been asking local people to knit little hats ever since the Innocent Big Knit started in 2003. Innocent donate 25p for every behatted smoothie bottle sold, so knitters in the county can help the local independent charity raise vital funds and use up their scraps of spare wool at the same time. The Northamptonshire charity’s target this year is 15,000 little hats – it's their biggest ever. Age UK Northamptonshire’s Business

Business Times

October 2021

Development Co-ordinator Jo Bird said: “Our kind supporters in Northamptonshire have knitted around 10,000 little hats so far so please keep them coming. We appreciate every single hat we’re sent, so be sure to include your name and address when you send them to us at The William and Patricia Venton Centre in York Road or drop them off at any of our seven shops. We always send a proper thank you to all our knitters.” Age UK Northamptonshire is a local independent charity and every penny raised by the Big Knit is

vital, enabling the charity to carry on improving life for over 15,000 older people and their families every year. To find out more about the services and support provided by Age UK Northamptonshire, or to get involved with fundraising activities, please visit www.ageuk.org.uk/ northamptonshire or call 01604 611200.

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

In The Community

Minibus moves Saints Foundation’s work into top gear T he Northampton Saints Foundation’s Engage programme has been given a lift through the donation of a minibus by online used car marketplace cinch cinch became an Elite Partner of Northampton Saints last year and has now also committed to helping young people on the Foundation’s social inclusion programme Engage. It works with youngsters aged between ten and 16 to increase confidence, boost self-esteem and provide skills development opportunities. The handover took place at Franklin’s Gardens with the foundation’s managing director Catherine Deans and Saints ambassadors Tom Wood and Jack Fleckney. The Foundation has seen a significant increase in the number of vulnerable young people referred to its Engage primary and secondary programmes during the pandemic. It has opened two brand new hubs as a result to extend its support. The minibus will transport up to nine people from Franklin’s Gardens to practical-based activities, adding more positive experiences to everyday life, and opening up new pathways that will help improve their futures. “We are very grateful to cinch for this incredible support,” says Catherine. “Our work with young people is always important but the journey through and beyond the Covid-19 pandemic is creating a demand like never before. We want to help all young people who need us, and the support of cinch in this way enables us to do just that.” “It is great that we’ve been able to provide this minibus to the Saints Foundation and the young people of Northamptonshire it so vitally supports,” says Avril Palmer-Baunack, chairman of cinch’s owner Constellation Automotive Group. To find out more about the Engage Programme visit: www.northamptonsaintsfoundation.org/programmes/engage

Paralympians prove the power of sport to inspire people with disabilities

he medal-winning triumphs in The Paralympic Games in Tokyo has shown what can be achieved when the right support is in place. This support comes from organisations such as The Northamptonshire Federation of Disability Fund and Northamptonshire Community Foundation, which have issued a joint statement. “The Paralympic Games in Tokyo once again show what amazing feats disabled people are capable of and most importantly focusing on what they can do as opposed to what they cannot do. “All of these athletes would not be where they are today without having had the opportunity to access physical activity opportunities in the first place, most importantly enjoy them and then develop their skills through dedicated training. “Many disabled people are still denied this positive introduction to physical activity because providers do not have the necessary skills, training, experience, equipment and facilities to include them.” The Northamptonshire Federation of Disability Fund has been established to help groups in the county address these issues and provide opportunities that are inclusive of disabled people. If you represent a group that could use this funding to become more inclusive of disabled people email Alex Rex on alex@ncf.uk.com for more information. To donate money to help sustain the fund and ensure more opportunities can be created in the future as a legacy from the Tokyo Paralympics contact head of philanthropy Mary Hollands on mary@ncf.uk.com.”

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

The foundation’s managing director Catherine Deans and Saints ambassadors Tom Wood and Jack Fleckney

Saints ambassadors Tom Wood and Jack Fleckney alongside the new minibus

Youngsters learn new skills and go back to the land

charity is making the most of government funding – employing nine youngsters and putting them to work in allotments and green spaces across Northamptonshire. Groundwork Northamptonshire, which runs a youth work programme and brings communities together through green and creative projects, has used the government’s Kickstart Scheme to recruit the group of 16- to 24-year-olds, all previously on Universal Credit and considered to be at risk of long-term unemployment. Nathan Wearn-Hutter, supervisor at The Green Patch, one of Groundwork Northamptonshire’s Kettering-based projects, said: “We call our new recruits our ‘kickstarters’ and without exception they are not just doing a great job but are also learning new environmental skills, working as a team and thriving. This group will be with us for six months in total, and it is going so well we are already planning a second round of recruitment.” Most of the charity’s nine kickstarters are working at The Green Patch, learning office and administration skills as well as the basics of allotment maintenance - planting, growing, building and preparing food. Meanwhile, one of the new recruits is working at Twywell Hills and Dales, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest for botany in the east of the county which is managed by Groundwork Northamptonshire. Luke Parker, 19, from Kettering, is the newly recruited Assistant Ranger Kickstarter. “It is an amazing feeling coming here. Just being on site makes me feel at home. I am learning so much about different animals, flowers and about people. I am also spending time at The Green Patch, helping build planters for raised flower beds at The Green Patch. It is a perfect mix.” Another recruit is Jonathan Mabey, 18, from Wellingborough, whose role includes transforming a tired pond area into a brandnew home for wildlife. “With Groundwork encouraging people of

all ages and abilities to visit us, it is such a priority for us to create an easily accessible space for everybody, said Jonathan. “It really is lovely here and we all just love how accepting and rewarding this environment is.” The Kickstart programme is funded by the Department of Work and Pensions DWP. One of projects the Groundwork Northamptonshire kickstarters are working on is the Groundwork Natural Neighbourhoods project. This project is funded by the government’s Green Recovery Challenge Fund which is delivered by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with Natural England and the Environment Agency. The 'Kickstarters' team at one of the allotments

Business Times

October 2021

Quality Print & Design PS I CRIP

AT LOW PRICES!

TS OUN S IM I LING STON S I DU DANE

This Y ear, a Loca l Chris Your C hr tm

Have

han More At GYM JUST

Northam

im, ym & es, , gsw ssim cla aka, sw pnem mits,ed &EoEffci spsorts 5Ugnylim m R a F s. rt ssee erat ck speot clcain ak ec off pra

K .CO.U YGYM ILOG

NE TR

LI IN ON

/2019

06/11

TI TI O N A C O M PE G A RT IS TS FO R YO U N , DI GI TA L. TH E WA LL JO

ndd

A4 final.i

Under 18s go free! delapreabbey.org

SHO RTLI STED

PAIN TING

S EXH IBITE

LERY D IN MK GAL

PRO JEC T

E 202 0. SPAC E JUN RY.O RG/ MKG ALLE ER YOU NGP AINT

today at ww w.loca or by p lgroce ur trusted local hone a rs.com Yo t 0160 4 961 320itioning

Air Cond

MK YO U N G T E R PA I N

Order

LL , OF F ON TH E WA GO ES ! AN YT HI NG

Experts

on Keynes, Covering Milt thampton Bedford & Nor

own ce, Breakd , Maintenan Installation bedroom,

Educational ev on women’s enings health and hip and knee pain BMI

Three Shire s Hospital in Northampton , is offering a range of free education al open even ts, with presentation s followed by a Q&A session with specialist Con sultants.

AIR S UNIT

G NIN DITIO CON

D LIMITER OFFE

■ Women’s Heal

th Event: Pelvi c pain, heavy periods & incon tinence Wednesday 22nd April 6:00pm - 7:30p ■ Hip and knee pain even m t Monday 18th May - 6:00p m - 7:30pm

ONLY

AK RHEAT, SPE DON'T OVE

OFF

TO PURE

Experts d Heating SERVICES Plumbing an PLUMBING ICES HEATING SERV

ng and Servici ✓ Boiler Repair Boilers to Existing ✓ Upgrades stic & Repair g Fault Diagno g ✓ Central Heatin g Power Flushin ✓ Central Heatin Cylinders /Un-Vented ✓ Hot Water Maintenance & Repair s ✓ Radiator owns & Pump ✓ Boiler Breakd s & Programmer ✓ Thermostats re Vessels Pressu Tanks/ ✓

& Repair , Shower Installs & Vents ✓ Taps, Toilets ✓ Leaks, Traps Repairs and Overﬂow ✓ Overﬂows & Burst Pipes ✓ Pipe Work als ✓ Waste Dispos Problems Water Hot ✓ Tanks & Heaters ✓ Immersion Heaters Install of Water ✓ Repair and & Thermostats ✓ Cylinders

YOUR FIRST PRINT ORDER*

£329 S END OFFER5/2021 28/0

GROUP call us on For a quote

08w.p3ure2-gr1ou4p.c5o.u6k 01visi9t ww

19560 1717

For further information or to reserve your space call: 0800 092 8667 bmihealthca re.co.uk/three shires

TABLE POR

conditioning, e gym ✓ Home air oﬃce, hom study/home ceiling cassette, nted, ✓ Wall mou ﬂoor mounted ducted and for more than ness trading ing ✓ A local busi years in air condition 20

03.2020

(Jan 20)

Discover 900 years of history at Delapré Abbey in Northampton.

MKT ADV /

A Gym

16:20

Photo: Purple Cat Photography

The perfect family day out

than Just

as!

istmas shop de liv ire's fin est gree ered from wine m ngroce erchan rs, butc ts and hers, more!

ptonsh

522739

Everything to promote your business

Leaflets & Flyers | Business Cards & Letterheads Pop Up Banners | Brochures & Booklets • • •

Instant and competitive quotations Bespoke design service Fast delivery direct to your door

* T&C’s apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Maximum discount of £50 applies.

Call TODAY on

Group media

01604 259900 ororemail: studio@lifedesignandprint.com email: hello@pulsemagazine.co.uk 22

Business Times

October 2021

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

Feature: Telecoms

‘A fantastic job bringing the vision for our website to life’

arketing agency Square Media is delivering on a major marketing deal for a £1 billlion fibre broadband roll-out project. After sealing the deal in early 2021, Square Media have since kickstarted all design and community-based marketing activity in towns across the East of England for the up-and-coming fibre broadband company Upp. The collaboration has been a light at the end of the Covid tunnel and marks a milestone achievement for the growing Corby-based agency whose growth has been accelerated even further by securing the deal. Square Media had already announced expansion plans to a 3,000 sqft office space, having more than doubled the company’s staff headcount in the past year and with plans to continue creating local jobs. Upp is to roll out a vast fibre broadband network across under-served areas in the East of England. Square Media is Upp’s appointed marketing partner. Working in partnership with a leading global branding agency, Square Media

Find out more about Upp at https://upp.com - designed and built by Square Media.

Matthew Rigby-White, managing director of Square Media

has designed and launched Upp’s Aaron Maine is Square Media’s project new website, a milestone project with manager. “This is a great collaboration Salesforce under the hood. for all involved,” he says. “As the “Square Media have already main contact, it has been a done a fantastic job pleasure to be ‘all hands bringing the vision for on deck’ throughout “It is great to our website to life,” says the entire process of be working with a Upp’s brand manager this project. Like any marketing and design Edward Money. “As collaboration, being agency that can help us in alignment with core our broadband strategy begins to roll out, it is values is key - luckily to engage with local great to be working with for us and Upp, we audiences.” a marketing and design embody exactly that as agency that can help us to we share many of the same engage with local audiences across values, making the partnership a the East Midlands. Square Media’s local smoother process. We are proud of the marketing experience made it an easy work we have done so far with UPP, and choice to award them the business.” we look forward to what is to come.”

Square Media is an outsourced marketing company based in Corby. The company’s wide range of services consists of marketing consultancy - with a complimentary one-hour consultation - branding, design, programming, development, and search marketing. The company’s founder and managing director Matthew Rigby-White started the company in 2013. Since then, the business has seen immense growth, with an office space of 3,000 sq. ft and a three-year lease signed earlier this year on a second unit. This has enabled an increase from the previous nine desk office capacity to 23, meaning more space for the developing team to explore and expand their creativity. The business plans to employ more than 40 staff by 2022. Square Media continue to develop as a company by optimising their processes to provide an overall better service for clients, giving a strengthened range of talents, expertise, and innovation levels to deliver a various marketing needs. Contact: press@squaremedia.solutions Telephone: 03303 800 630 Web: www.squaremedia.solutions

Homeworking is here to stay and everyone should benefit

he last 16 months have seen an astonishing shift in the working patterns of millions of Brits. At the start of 2020, a mere 6% of UK workers worked from home. Now it’s the norm for so many of us, regardless of what sector or industry we’re in. Joint research from the universities of Cardiff and Southampton has found the majority of us (88%) are keen to continue working at home in some capacity, even after the pandemic is over. Indeed, homeworking offers a host of benefits, but for it to keep benefiting us all long-term, our digital infrastructure needs to be up to the task. This is why CityFibre is investing up to £4 billion nationwide by bringing the fastest and most reliable network technology - full fibre - within reach of up to eight million homes by 2025. It’s not hard to see why so many of us want to stick with homeworking after the pandemic. Homeworking can often feature fewer distractions and it has been shown to reduce work-related stress and boost efficiency, with 70% of home-workers reporting that they’ve been just as, if not more, productive as they

were when office-based. For many, it has also unlocked more flexibility to take breaks when needed, leaving us with some much-needed breathing space and balance in our hectic lives. It’s also left many with more money in their pocket. From an employers’ perspective, offering

homeworking solutions can make recruitment easier while also opening up the job market to those who need more flexibility, including parents, carers or people with disabilities. So, if businesses had a pool of candidates before, now they have an ocean. Skills shortages are already costing UK businesses nearly £7

billion a year in recruitment fees alone, so adopting a ‘work anywhere’ model could provide UK businesses with a significant competitive advantage. Although there are many positives about the shift to homeworking, there are still challenges - the most significant being that many of us are still held hostage by poor connectivity. According to Ofcom, nearly 200,000 households across the UK currently receive less than 10Mbps, making even basic services like email a daily frustration. As you might expect, having poor connectivity can significantly impact efficiency and productivity, creating unnecessary stress and frustration for both workers and employers. What’s worse, it tends to affect entire communities, leaving digital black spots in locations across the UK. Currently, most UK homes still connect to the internet via networks built for telephones. Full fibre, on the other hand, is designed specifically for the digital age. These networks use 100% fibre optic technology to carry data at light speed all the way from the home to the point of connection - a pristine open highway with no bumps in sight.

To find out more about CityFibre’s full fibre roll-out visit: https://bit.ly/CityFibreBusinessTimes For details of features in future editions of Business Times and our sister title Business MK, email sales@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk or call 01604 259900 / 01908 465488 To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

Business Times

October 2021

Hassle free home working Enabled by CityFibre The office feels like a distant memory for many, but it’s not quite the same when downloads take an age and video calls keep cutting out. Wouldn’t it be great if everything just… worked? That’s why we’re building a new full fibre network. It’s the best technology for the job and it gives you access to fast reliable internet services from a choice of broadband providers.

Find out more cityfibre.com/businessmk

Business Times

October 2021

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

Feature: Telecoms

Giving the customer the best possible journey

ulse Group Media started in April 2009 with lifestyle magazine Pulse. Twelve years on and the portfolio has four titles – MKPulse, NNPulse, Business MK and Business Times, serving Milton Keynes, Northamptonshire and the surrounding area. Reaching more than 70,000 people every month, they are produced by a small full-time editorial and commercial team who, even before Covid-19, all worked from home. Communication is key for this closeknit team, however, there is no need for them to be in a single location.

When Pulse Group Media started looking for a new telephony system to meet the needs of its virtual team, boxx Communications had the ideal solution.

Virtual office This is what led Pulse to make use of an outsourced virtual office service. However, this was not the ideal solution, Martin Lewis-Stevenson, director of Pulse Group Media, explains further. “It was not such a great journey for the customer. If they could get through to us, they would be put through to someone who would answer in our name and take a message, but it would be obvious that they were not part of our business.”

Pulse was hesitant to install a fullyfunctioning telephony system due to concerns of cost and complexity. That changed after boxx presented a detailed proposal providing Pulse

with a full demonstration of a VoIP solution. “The costs were not much different [to the virtual office service] and it would mean that we could be

Flexibility to grow Pulse was able to retain existing telephone numbers with the VoIP service and make use of features, such as auto-attendant, transfer and divert, hunt groups and voicemail. boxx also reassured that quality would not be compromised. “I’d experienced VoIP a while back and it was not good,” says Martin. “But the quality has improved immensely and what’s great is that we can use dedicated desktop phones as well as using the service on our laptops and smartphones.” As a result, Pulse will be more accessible and responsive and that is what really matters. “It ticks all the boxes,” says Martin. “It gives us all the added benefits at about the same cost, but in the end, it is all about giving the customer a better journey.”

more engaging and responsive and give customers a better experience. The support they could offer was excellent. It just seemed to have the right feel for us.”

Milton Keynes' leading supplier of, VOIP and CONNECTIVITY solutions

LEASED LINE INTERNET ACCESS CONTACT BOXX FOR A LIVE QUOTE BASED ON YOUR LOCATION NOW

01908 350795 sales@boxxcomms.co.uk https://www.boxxcomms.co.uk/

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

Business Times

October 2021

Get your business seen by the right people, at the right time in media that readers trust

Over

70,000 copies

elivered d & d e t n i Pr th every mon

210,000 readers

Use our printed media to find out what’s going on locally and to discover local businesses

80%

Repeat a dvertisin g O ur adver tisers get a res ponse

Two magazines and two newspapers covering Northamptonshire, Milton Keynes & Bedfordshire To find out more contact our media sales specialists: 01604 935300 or 01908 465488

PulseGroupMedia Driving customer engagement through trusted, informative media

Business Times

October 2021

Read the latest editions online...

www.business-times.co.uk | www.businessmk.co.uk www.mkpulse.co.uk | www.pulsemagazine.co.uk

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

Property Portfolio Primark warehouse sold for £102m

rimark’s distribution warehouse in Thrapston has been sold for £102 million - delivering a profit of more than £40 million in eight years to its vendors. LondonMetric Property plc has exchanged on the sale of its distribution warehouse to EQT Exeter. The 785,000 square feet warehouse in Huntingdon Road is let to Primark for a further 11 years at annual rent of £4.4 million. LondonMetric acquired the property in 2013 for £60.5 million. Completion is due to take place in February. LondonMetric is to retain its other Primark logistics warehouse which totals 1.1 million sq ft and is let for a further 19 years. Chief executive Andrew Jones said: “This is a very good asset that has performed strongly, delivering a total return of £76 million since acquisition. The sale price achieved reflects a very competitive bidding process and highlights the depth of demand for well let logistics assets.” LondonMetric was advised by Knight Frank. The purchaser was advised by DTRE.

Rent arrears: New system aims to encourage negotiation, not arbitration

he government has published its response to the call for evidence in relation to Covid-19 commercial rent arrears, says commercial property agent Prop-Search, along with proposed new legislation it plans to introduce before the forfeiture moratorium is lifted next year. At the start of the pandemic, the government moved quickly to introduce a range of measures to protect tenants but which restricted the ability of landlords under commercial leases to recover payment of rent arrears, forfeit leases and obtain possession of premises from tenants. These measures have been extended numerous times throughout the pandemic but are set to come to an end on March 25 next year. New legislation is now being introduced to tackle rent arrears as a result of Covid-19, that will ringfence rent debt accrued during the pandemic by businesses affected by enforced closures and set out a process of binding arbitration between landlords and tenants.

Simon Toseland Simon Toseland, a director of PropSearch, said: “Under the new system parties will be expected to negotiate first and resort to arbitration only as a last resort. It has also signalled its intention to strengthen the existing voluntary Code of Practice, promoting cooperation between landlords and tenants to agree structured rent arrear negotiations.” However, the new system for debt recovery will apply only to tenants that have been affected by business closure restrictions during the pandemic - commercial tenants in sectors that were not required

to close during the pandemic will not be covered. Furthermore, the new system will only apply to rent debt accrued from March 2020 any rents falling due before then or after restrictions were lifted will not be covered. Landlords will therefore be able to evict tenants for non-payment of rent prior to March 2020 and after the end of sectorspecific restrictions such as trading restrictions on opening hours and social distancing measures. Mr Toseland said: “Unfortunately, some commercial tenants - to help manage cashflow - have withheld payment of rents since the first lockdown, even in respect of periods where they were open and able to trade, by using the Covid restrictions as their justification for refusing to pay. This has resulted in landlords facing substantial arrears on their rent rolls. This new system clearly strikes a balance, requiring landlords to share the financial pressure with tenants for Covid-related rent debts but expecting tenants who can pay to pay.”

Some landlords, frustrated by the absence of a full range of pre Covid-19 rent recovery options being available, have already started to pursue debt claims for rent arrears in the civil courts. The High Court has ruled on a number of cases confirming that landlords are, in most circumstances, entitled to recover rent and service charges owed to them by tenants whose premises have been closed as a result of Covid-19 restrictions. The first such case was Commerz Real Investmentgesellscahft mbH v TFS Stores Ltd, where the court held that while the current government measures restrict some of the remedies available to a landlord such as forfeiture for non-payment of rent - they do not prevent a landlord from bringing a claim before the court. Prop-Search says that the publication of the new Code of Practice - expected in the autumn will provide clarity and more detail on how the new measures will work in practice.

Let’s do business... Your Business Expo is back!

ith lockdown now officially over Sheila Smith, Expo Queen and owner of Your Northamptonshire Business Expo and Your Leicester Business Expo, has been quick off the mark confirming dates for two of the region’s favourite and most prestigious business exhibitions. Your Leicester Business Expo will take place at the King Power Stadium in Leicester on November 9, followed by Your Northamptonshire Business Expo which returns to the Holiday Inn Corby on November 25. However, says Sheila, these exhibitions are more than a little bit different... “While we are all so excited that faceto-face is finally back, we are offering a fabulous hybrid opportunity to businesses at both our exhibitions this year,” she says. “Our exhibition hybrid offer ensures exhibitors can enjoy both the opportunities of face-to-face interaction with attendees as well as our online Expo securing absolute maximum exposure.” The hybrid offer came about after the

Promotion

phenomenal success of the Virtual Business Expo that Sheila organised in October last year. “Going virtual attracted 960-plus visitors from eight different countries along with

more than 35 exhibitors and five great guest speakers,” says Sheila. “It was a huge success and I wanted to ensure we kept a virtual element for these first two in-person exhibitions.

“It works for visitors who are located at a distance as well as for our exhibitors who - let’s be honest - can never get to see everyone who attends however hard they try. This way exhibitors who choose to take part in our hybrid expo will be found online for an additional ten days. It is such an innovative and exciting way to network, connect, listen to great speakers and do business.” Both the Northamptonshire and Leicester Expos will feature more than 60 exhibitors showcasing a wide variety of business products and services. “Each business always brings something different to each exhibition and I cannot wait to see them and our visitors in November,” says Sheila. Janette Weedall, of The Holiday Inn, Corby, says: “We are delighted to once again host the Northamptonshire Business Expo. We are really looking forward to welcoming exhibitors and visitors alike to network in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. It will be a great opportunity for businesses to make new connections and showcase their products and services.”

Both exhibitions are free to attend on the day. Exhibition stand spaces cost from £275 (no VAT) - book online at www.yourbusinessexpo.co.uk

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

Business Times

October 2021

Property Portfolio

Consultants celebrate head office modernisation project

Council plans overhaul of facilities tenders

ompanies across West Northamptonshire are preparing to bid for new maintenance contracts from the area’s council. Smaller and specialist companies will also have the opportunity to tender under new sourcing methods under consideration by West Northamptonshire Council. Cllr Malcolm Longley, cabinet member for finance, said: “These services were sourced in different ways by our predecessor councils so we are looking bring these contracts for different buildings together. We are going to invite offers for each type of work. That allows smaller companies and specialists to bid, helping make sure we get good value.” The changes come after four former local authorities - Daventry and South Northamptonshire Districts, Northampton Borough and Northamptonshire County Council - were brought together from April 1 this year. New contracts are expected to start in April 2022 for:

T Cllr Malcolm Longley Cleaning; Security; ■ Heating and mechanical installation, inspection, servicing and replacement; ■ Separate specialist maintenance for lifting equipment, PAT testing etc; ■ Water hygiene testing, servicing and replacement; ■ Building fabric repairs, maintenance and replacement; ■ Drainage and sewage. Procurement for these services will take place in the coming months, with an additional contract for electrical testing due to have ben procured by the end of this month. ■ ■

he Northamptonshirebased team of GSSArchitecture, CS2 and BCAL have completed a significant project for global transport and logistics company DSV to expand, reconfigure and modernise its UK head office site. The works undertaken have involved a significant office and warehouse redevelopment at the site, including the creation of an overhead footbridge linking DSV’s existing three-storey office space at Raunds to a new build office and warehouse space. GSSArchitecture was employed by DSV to provide architectural and lead consultant services, alongside fellow Northamptonshire-based consultants BCAL and CS2. The completed works will now allow the site to operate more efficiently, improve on-site HGV cir-ulation and ensure the site complies with international DSV and modern logistics industry standards. The extension to the warehouse

Chris Chapman

‘We have a long history of delivering complex projects in the commercial and industrial sector‘ also now includes a side-on trailer load area, allowing all operations to be under one roof, rather than requiring goods to be transported across the yard to and from parked vehicles. Completion of the project at

DSV’s head office follows another successful partnership between GSSArchitecture and DSV, with the office extension and refurbishment at the latter’s Manchester site also completing earlier this year. Chris Chapman, partner and project lead at GSSArchitecture, said: “I am delighted that we have had the opportunity to complete a second successful project for our client DSV this year and I am proud of the entire team for the work that went in to making this possible. “At GSS we have a long history of delivering complex projects for clients in the commercial and industrial sector so it has been an excellent opportunity for us to strengthen our relationship with DSV and the rest of the project team that are local to our Northamptonshire head office.” n For more on the latest projects on which GSSArchitecture are currently working or to get in touch to discuss your upcoming project, visit www.gssarchitecture.com

MAKE THE NEWS...

Send your property and other business news to: news@business-times.co.uk or call 01604 259900 for publication in Northamptonshire’s longest-established business newspaper 24 Bridge Street, Northampton NN1 1NT

Chartered Surveyors and commercial property consultants

T LE

• First and Second Floor Office Suite • 990 Sq.Ft. • Tidy WC and Kitchen

ROSS ROAD BUSINESS CENTRE, NORTHAMPTON

214A KETTERING ROAD NORTHAMPTON

£7,500 PA

£20,000 PA

LE T

51-53 ABINGTON STREET, NORTHAMPTON

LE T

29 TUDOR GATE, WOOTTON • 896 Sq.Ft. • Self Contained Office Building • Well Presented • 4 Car Spaces

• 2181 Sq.Ft. • Warehouse/ Workshop • Tidy WC and Kitchen • Small Ground Floor Office

£12,500 PA

• 2423 Sq.Ft. • One Floor of Offices • Central • 2 Car Spaces at Rear

£20,000 PA

For enquiries call 01604 604050 or email: info@chowncommercial.co.uk

www.chowncommercial.co.uk 24 Bridge Street, Northampton NN1 1NT

Business Times

October 2021

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

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

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

Business Times

October 2021

sr wood place.qxp_Layout 1 13/04/2021 10:00 Page 1 martin smith commercial motors - mkt place.qxp_Layout 1 13/04/2021 10:05- mkt Page 1

Marketplace ESTATE AGENT SEEKS PROPERTY IN MILTON KEYNES

INDEPENDENT SPECIALISTS IN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SINCE 1981

Thomas Connolly xoxo

Stephen Wood Director 07798 610003

inreach IT - mkt place.qxp_Layout 1 13/04/2021 09:40 Page 1 70-78 Collingdon Street, Luton, Bedfordshire LU1 1RX T: 01582 401221

E: s.w@srwood.co.uk

W: www.srwood.co.uk

CALL ME ON 01908 774422

Advertise here for

£100 + VAT

SECURE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Cloud Service | Free IT Audit 24/7 IT Support

Call 01604 259900

Business Times

radfield home care - mkt place.qxp_Layout 1 13/04/2021 09:53 Page mk 1dental clinic - mkt place.qxp_Layout 1 13/04/2021 09:45 Page villiers 1 hotel - mkt place.qxp_Layout 1 13/04/2021 10:07 Page 1

inreachgroup.co.uk enquiries@inreachgroup.co.uk 0330 053 8180

Milton Keynes Dental Clinic's vision is to provide high-quality, market-leading dentistry and improve oral health through education and engagement. Everyone should be able to...

Proud to support older people in our community to live independently in ect4_Layout 1 13/04/2021 09:18 Page 1 their own homes.

Smile with confidence

VILLIERS HOTEL, BUCKINGHAM

mbs workplace environments - mkt place.qxp_Layout 1 13/04/2021 09:48 Page 1

www.radfieldhomecare.co.uk 01908 046724 milton.keynes@radfieldhomecare.co.uk

01908 372885 info@mkdental.co.uk www.mkdental.co.uk

www.villiers-hotel.co.uk To contact us call 01280 822444 Email: sales@villiershotels.com

Instagram: @Villiershotel

Facebook: Villiers Hotel Buckingham

Advertise here for

Simplifying TELEPHONY and INTERNET CONNECTIVITY for businesses large & small!

£100 + VAT

Office Furniture & Interior Fit-out Specialists

Discuss, Design, Deliver

vale hr - mkt place.qxp_Layout 1 13/04/2021 10:10 Page 1

01908 350750 www.boxxcomms.co.uk

Business Times

www.mbsworkplaceenvironments.co.uk sales@mbsltd.com 0800 2100 280

CLEAR CONCISE ADVICE

Professional Reliable

Providing bespoke HR and business support packages for small businesses

Courier Service

Helping businesses in Bucks, Beds and Herts with nationwide deliveries and collections Gabor@Luton.AJSExpress.co.uk

konsileo - mkt place.qxp_Layout 1 13/04/2021 09:55 Page 1

Call us on: 01582 256 161 Parcel & Pallet

Call 01604 259900

bower hr - mkt place.qxp_Layout 1 13/04/2021 09:26 Page 1

Medical Transportation

Specialist Delivery

Event Logistics

VA L E H R & B U S I N E S S SOLUTIONS

Whether a start-up or an established company, Bower HR can provide all your outsourced HR requirements

inreach comms - mkt place.qxp_Layout 1 13/04/2021 09:39 Page 1 e: serena@bowerhr.co.uk www.bowerhr.co.uk

07841 918186 www.valesolutions.co.uk info@valesolutions.co.uk

07771 934702

https://www.facebook.com/bowerhr/

Advertise here for

£100 + VAT Call 01604 259900

Business Times 30

Business Times

October 2021

Protect your business properly with insurance and risk management solutions tailored to your needs. Heather Coupland Client Director - Konsileo (Trading) Limited Tel: 07925 817624 heather.coupland@konsileo.com www.konsileo.com

SECURE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Cloud Telephony | Mobile Solutions Internet Connectivity inreachgroup.co.uk enquiries@inreachgroup.co.uk 0330 053 8180

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

Public Relations The final quarter of 2021 is upon us and it is time to finalise your plans for 2022, says Emma Speirs, managing director of Ballyhoo PR.

Plan now and be ‘PR ready’ for a brand new year

he summer has been arrival of autumn brings with it ‘back to school’ vibes and those ‘fresh start’ feelings of hope, focus and renewed motivation. October is also a great time to get ‘PR ready’ for the coming year. You have the final quarter of the year to plan your approach and ensure that certain fundamentals are in place and start thinking of any potential campaign ideas, what news you may have going on in your business over the next few months and how to reach your target market through PR. Whether you are new to PR or have been doing it for a while but want to hit the ground running in 2022 with everything ready to go, a good place to start is with a photo shoot. Hire a photographer for an hour’s shoot at your workplace

to give you a bank of high resolution, professional photos that you can use across the whole PR and marketing mix throughout the year, from double page printed magazine features to social media posts and your website. Pull together a list of images you think you might need and give it to the photographer ahead of the shoot. These could be photos of you and your team ‘at work’, individual headshots, team photos in front of some signage, or some external shots of your building. If you know you will be launching a new product soon, try and get some product shots too. Not only does it make life easier to have a folder of good- quality images ‘on tap’ it means you can turn short notice press enquiries around quickly too. Other things you can do now to be ‘PR ready’ for next year

If you have a ‘warm’ audience, your PR activity is more likely to result in sales as well as raise your profile.

Emma Speirs

is to create a one-page bio document. This is a chance to summarise your career and what makes you an expert at what you do. This can be used when pitching to journalists with any article ideas or when responding to media enquiries from journalists looking for experts to comment on stories. They can also be used for pitching yourself as a podcast guest or speaking opportunities at conferences and other events, which all help to build your profile as an expert in your field. You can also use this time to create media lists, sourcing contact information for magazines, websites and radio shows in which you

might want to be featured. Lastly, look at your own communications platforms. Do you engage enough with the audience you already have? Can you grow your audience on social media or via email lists? If you have a ‘warm’ audience to tell about any PR successes, your PR activity is more likely to result in sales as well as raise your profile.

For more advice on all things PR and communications, visit www.ballyhoo-pr.co.uk or contact Emma Speirs on 01536 682800 / 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

Have Your Windows Steamed Up? Replace the pane, not the frame!

All glazing backed by our

“I really liked the fact that they were a local family run business” Janet Beard

Social distancing in operation

We are a Which? Trusted Trader

Faulty locks, handles or hinges? Priority freephone www.cloudy2clear.co.uk

Love Your Home - Protect Your Windows - Save Money To feature or comment email: news@business-times.co.uk

Business Times

October 2021

Business Times large 17032020.qxp_Layout 1 17/08/2021 13:32 Page 5

NIGHTS ofOLD

UK/IE/EU PALLET DISTRIBUTION PALLETS / PART LOADS / FULL LOADS / GROUPAGE n Contract distribution n FORS Silver n Amazon consolidation

CONTRACT LOGISTICS n BRC Warehousing n Fulfilment solutions n Value added services

GLOBAL FORWARDING n Air /Sea freight n Export packing n Clearances

+44(0)1536 533544 sales@knightsofoldgroup.com www.knightsofoldgroup.com