South Cheshire Chamber Business Magazine Q1 2021 by South Cheshire Chamber

C H AMB E R B U S I NE S S

Green travel is on track with HS2 PAGE 6

News and views from the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Q U A RT E R 1 2021

The Largest Dedicated Commercial Property Consultants in Cheshire We Advise on all aspects of commercial property throughout Cheshire and the UK, covering all sectors including Industrial, Offices, retail, leisure and land. FOR SALE

FOR SALE

THE NANTWICH TEAM

Karen Kilcourse

karenkilcourse@legatowen.co.uk

51a High Street, Tarporley Retail/Residential Premises 1,322 Sq Ft (122.89 Sq M)

Basford East, Crewe Employment Site Available for Development/Sale 4.5 Acres (1.8 Hectares)

FOR SALE

TO LET

Matthew Pochin

mattpochin@legatowen.co.uk

8 Solway 75 High Street,Court Tarporley Crewe Business Park, Crewe Residential/Commercial Premises HighRedevelopment quality self contained with Potential office 4,257 Sq Ft (395.57 Sq M) 1,437 Sq Ft

8 Solway Court Unit B Southmere Court,Crewe Crewe Crewe Business Park, Crewe HighBusiness quality Park self contained 4,352 Sqoffice Ft (404 Sq M) 1,437 Sq Ft

FOR SALE/TO LET

TO LET

Andy Butler

andybutler@legatowen.co.uk

Sam Davis

samdavis@legatowen.co.uk

Unit 2b Spitfire Park, Cheshire Green Industrial Estate, Wardle New Build Industrial Unit Dedicated Secure Yard 12,019 Sq Ft (1,116 Sq M)

6 Verity Court, Middlewich 8 Solway Court Flexible Accommodation Crewe Office Business Park, Crewe with Parking High quality self contained 596 Sq Ftoffice to 1,473 Sq Ft (55 Sq1,437 M to 137 Sq FtSq M)

With offices in Nantwich and Chester, we have a strong market presence, in depth knowledge, extensive market contacts and an excellent track record in delivering deals.

Hannah Baker

hannahbaker@legatowen.co.uk

For a free copy of our ‘Property Focus‘ magazine, call or email the team.

Welcome

Welcome to the Chamber’s magazine ‘South Cheshire Business’. There is light at the end of the tunnel. It's now been over 12 months since COVID restrictions and lockdowns have been in place, but as we produce this magazine, we begin to see some of the restrictions lifted, and in particular local hospitality and retail venues are now able to re-open, which is excellent news for all. We encourage people to support their local businesses and help us recover the economy as soon as possible. It’s been a tough time for many businesses and their employees, and I’d like to take this opportunity on behalf of the Chamber to thank them for their resilience, dedication, and endeavour to work under extremely difficult circumstances while adhering to COVID restrictions and regulations. I’ve seen businesses adapt to the situation and become more agile, which has meant they could meet the needs of their customer and prosper. Since the last magazine, it has been announced that High Speed Rail to Crewe has received Royal assent, which is fantastic news for the area (P.6). This means work can begin on the vital infrastructure that will see a new rail line from Birmingham to Crewe. The area has already seen the benefits of HS2 with businesses expanding or interested in locating their business in the area and now there is Royal approval the interest in Crewe and the surrounding area will only increase. As I have said before, high speed rail coming to Crewe in itself won’t solve all our problems or create the economic growth we require, it will need a concerted effort from all local stakeholders in the public and private sector to work together to maximise the benefits of HS2. This once in a lifetime opportunity should not be missed and the benefits should be seen throughout the whole of our community. The Chamber will continue to push the needs of business to local and national government and being part of the Chamber gives you the latest information, promotion of your products and services; and access to experts who can provide advice and the latest best practice. The Chamber has been working remotely and embracing technology, by moving events and seminars online. We have held many online events including speed networking, Coffee & Chat, Local Economic Updates, International trade forum, financial support, Cybercrime and health & safety webinars. I hope you find this magazine informative and if your company has news to share or you’d like to take advantage of the advertising opportunities, please do not hesitate to contact Jon at the Chamber. May I take this opportunity to wish your business every success in the forthcoming months.

Paul Colman Chief Executive @SCCCI_CEO

NEW MEMBERS

4-5

CHAMBER NEWS

6-9

CHAMBER PARTNERS

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT & CHAIR

BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

12 - 13

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

14 - 15

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

16 - 17

CHAMBER PATRONS

18 - 22

CHAMBER PREMIUM MEMBERS

23 - 24

COMMUNITY NEWS

26 - 28

MEMBERS NEWS

29 - 36

CHARITY NEWS

CHAMBER EVENTS

INTRODUCTION

Contents

SOUTH CHESHIRE CHAMBER PATRONS

MEET THE CHAMBER TEAM Paul Colman Chief Executive Jon Barnes Operations Manager Jacqui Morris International Trade Manager Madeleine Abbey PA to Chief Executive Angela Wilkinson Membership Co-ordinator Dominic Hibbert Events & Marketing Co-ordinator

Richard Weilding South Cheshire Development Agency Development Loan Director Daryl Williams Event Co-ordinator Anne Xiourouppa Accounts Dianne Parrish Business Connector Cheshire Connect Sara Pomfret DIT International Trade Adviser

The Chamber, or any of its agents/representatives/staff, cannot accept any legal liability for the accuracy of the news items and articles contained in the magazine, which have been obtained and are reproduced in good faith. The Chamber also reserves the right to edit articles submitted for publication or exclude them completely.

TO JOIN TODAY GO TO WWW.SCCCI.CO.UK

NEW MEMBERS

Meet the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry

New Members

Lancaster University

Bailrigg, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 4YW sarah.mills@lancaster.ac.uk www.lancaster.ac.uk 07811 832770

Amplo Lettings

Lucro Solutions Ltd

Unit 6, Brierley Business Centre, Mirion Street Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 2AZ info@amplolettings.co.uk www.amplolettings.co.uk 01270 627979

203 Queens Drive, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5LB Shane@lucrosolutions.co.uk www.lucrosolutions.uk 07478 484834

Apparel Studio

Motherwell Cheshire CIO

FA Donovan & Son, Moston Road, Sandbach Cheshire, CW11 3HL mike@apparelstudio.co.uk www.apparelstudio.co.uk 01270 759206

156 Nantwich Road, Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 6BG referrals@motherwellcheshirecio.com www.motherwellcheshirecio.com 01606 557666

Avon UK (Adele West)

Nantwich Refrigeration

78 Horton Way, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 7GD adelejwest@yahoo.com 07847 373805

Unit 17, Third Avenue, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 6XU sales@nantwich-refrigeration.co.uk www.nantwich-refrigeration.co.uk 01270 589 807

PB Aerial Photography Ltd

BEB Property

63 Blagg Avenue, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5JX paulb@pbaerialphotography.com www.pbaerialphotography.com 01270 619711

7 Solway Court, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 6LD bebproperty@btconnect.com www.bebpropertyservices.co.uk 01270 821321

PDSA

Brupac Drinks and Machine Company Limited

Whitechapel Way, Priorslee, Telford, Shropshire, TF2 9PQ tams.Katie@pdsa.org.uk www.pdsa.org.uk 01952 797335

Brupac House 5 Marshfield Bank, Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 8UY sales@brupac.co.uk www.brupac.co.uk 01270 587700

PJM Photography

Charmed Mortgage Solutions Ltd

The Overlands, Church Minshull, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 6DX info@pjm-photography.co.uk www.pjm-photography.co.uk 01270 522988

54 Verdin Court, Leighton, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 3YH charm@charmedmortgagesolutions.co.uk charmedmortgagesolutions.co.uk 07780 665416

Custom IT

30 Wall Lane, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5LS mark@macstoreuk.com www.macstoreuk.com 0203 0049465

Fab Furniture Group Ltd

11 Alexandra Road, Middlewich, Cheshire, CW10 OEG alison@fabfurnituregroup.co.uk www.fabfurnituregroup.co.uk 0800 059 9685

First Days Maternity Supplies Ltd

1 Sutton Place , Sandbach, Cheshire, CW11 1TP jade@firstdaysmaternity.co.uk www.firstdaysmaternity.co.uk 07749 106490

Genus Breeding

Alpha Building, London Road, Stapeley Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 7JW GB-AP-Queries@genusplc.com www.absglobal.com/uk 01270 616616

Hal Payments

The Croft, Fishers Lane, Burland, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8LZ andy@halpayments.com www.halpayments.com 0800 448 0650

InsPiire Coaching Ltd

Beaumont Cottage, Congleton Road, Gawsworth Cheshire, SK11 9ER hello@inspiirecoaching.com www.inspiirecoaching.com 07919 594644

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 1 2021

Specialist Log Cabins Limited

Ibex House, Nat Lane, Winsford, Cheshire, CW7 3B7 beaverlogcabins@googlemail.com www.beaverlogcabins.co.uk 01606 590609

Squeaky Pedal

21 Merlin Way, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 3YP pete.roch@squeakypedal.co.uk www.squeakypedal.co.uk 07876 263249

Sunnyview Flowers

Sunnyview, Middlewich Road, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 6PB sunnyviewflowersuk@gmail.com www.sunnyviewflowers.com 07748 833780

Sunrise Laundry Ltd

Sunnyview, Middlewich Road, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 6PB sunnyviewflowersuk@gmail.com www.sunnyviewflowers.com 07748 833780

The English Coach

8 Queens Avenue, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK10 2DG sarah@theenglishcoach.biz www.theenglishcoach.biz 07890 356490

The Nantwich Clinic Ltd

12 Pall Mall, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5BN info@thenantwichclinic.co.uk www.thenantwichclinic.co 01270 627 118

The Talbot

6 Oatmarket, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5AL thetalbot@outlook.com www.marstons.co.uk 01270 627581

1. FACILITATION RAISE YOUR PROFILE AND CONNECT WITH OTHER MEMBERS

Regular Chamber and member and partner events programme

ANNUAL BUSINESS AWARDS CELEBRATION

2. INFORMATION

5 Stars for Chamber Premium Membership

NEW MEMBERS

Why join your local Chamber?

South Cheshire Chamber is proud to announce that all five of its current Premium Members have renewed their Membership. Jon Barnes, Operations Manager said:

“We introduced Premium Membership in 2019 for those businesses who wanted to enhance their profile in the local business community. Obviously the pandemic had an impact on the products and services we were able to offer, but we worked with our Premium Members and adapted to best suit their needs. Our Premium Members show the diversity of businesses within South Cheshire, and I am incredibly proud that they have chosen the Chamber to push themselves forward.”

Chamber Premium Members Top: Absolute Recruitment Middle left: Construction Linx Middle Right: Legat Owen Bottom Left: Rhino Safety Bottom right: Alextra Group

3. REPRESENTATION

If you would like to know more about Premium Membership, please contact Jon Barnes on 01270 445409 or jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk

TO JOIN TODAY GO TO WWW.SCCCI.CO.UK

CHAMBER NEWS

Green travel is on track with HS2 High speed rail is set to become a reality offering greener travel alternatives Construction is expected to create around 5,000 jobs with many more in the supply chain The first major works contracts, worth £50m, are now available for companies to bid for

South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce has welcomed Royal Assent for HS2 saying the project will create a new era of sustainable travel that will protect the area for generations to come. Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman says: “HS2 is more than super-fast travel to London. It will be a greener way to travel offering some of the lowest carbon emissions per passenger kilometre and significantly less than cars and heavy vehicles. “What’s key to us locally is capacity on the West Coast Main Line. The scheme will free up space on what is considered to be the busiest mixed use railway in Europe allowing for more freight to shift from road to rail, reducing carbon emissions. “With less overcrowding there will be the opportunity to introduce more regional and commuter trains, making train travel more accessible, cheaper and convenient for all.” High Speed 2 (HS2) Phase 2a Bill received Royal Assent last month meaning works can start on building a new rail line between Birmingham and Crewe. With it comes the prospect of significant inward investment for South Cheshire and the chance to look forward with positivity. A victory for all those local businesses who have supported the campaign and a shot in the arm for the region’s post pandemic economic recovery. The new section will be built at the same time as the line between London and the West

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 1 2021

Midlands making high speed travel possible when it first opens and the area attractive to companies planning to invest now. The Chamber has already received enquiries from companies planning to relocate. A chance to live in Cheshire and travel to the capital in less than an hour is likely to appeal to commuters and support the local housing market. By placing long-distance services onto their own set of high speed tracks between London and Crewe frees up space on the West Coast Main Line and other lines for more local and commuter trains. The Royal Assent places Crewe at the heart of the high speed revolution and is another step towards restoring the town’s fortunes as the epicentre of rail travel. The Chamber has played a pivotal role throughout. It has lobbied on behalf of Crewe since HS2 was first mooted and one of the key objectives of forming the Business Council, consisting of the area’s top employers, was to seize the opportunity for potential growth. In partnership with Cheshire East Council and the British Chambers of Commerce, the stakeholders have organised petitions and letters pushing for Crewe’s existing station to be transformed into a fully integrated superhub spreading the benefits of connectivity to surrounding regions, including Wales. The Government is being urged to confirm this as soon as possible. Chamber CEO Paul added: “Crewe was created by the railway and the fact it will prove the launch-pad for regeneration while also helping to protect the environment is fantastic news for the local area. “The pandemic has highlighted what can be achieved to protect the environment when fewer vehicles are on the road. We welcome the economic benefits HS2 will bring but also the opportunity to embrace a greener future for South Cheshire and protect the wonderful countryside we have on our doorstep for

generations to come.” Chamber President John Dunning said: “This announcement is great news and could not have come at a better time. I am pleased that the Business Council has been able to play its part in getting things to this stage and we will continue to be supportive in making sure that Crewe is “investment ready” in order to take full advantage of the opportunities that exist and in implementing Cheshire East's bold and exciting vision for the area. This second-coming of the railways to Crewe has the potential to be just as transformational as the first.”

"Fantastic news for the people and businesses of south Cheshire and beyond. We believe it will also be a huge attractive to bringing new business into the area." Andy Butler, Director Legat Owen

"Crewe Alexandra FC welcomes the news that phase 2a of HS2 has gained Royal Assent. Given our location right next to the line we welcome the positive economic impact it will have on our local area, especially the immediate vicinity around our Gresty Rd Stadium. We look forward to welcoming even more visitors, as a result of the improved connectivity in the years ahead." Tony Davidson, Director Crewe Alexandra FC

Crewe to West Midlands

viaducts

65 embankments

Crewe to London: 56min

New HS2 time

1h 30min

Current fastest time

5,000 36

cuttings

jobs supported

miles of railway

maintenance base

CS1518

bridges

tunnels

Extension to Crewe opens up contracts for businesses of all sizes Phase 2A represents the first new intercity railway built in the North of England for over 100 years. Places such as Liverpool, Lancaster, Preston, Wigan, Warrington, Crewe, Manchester, Carlisle and Glasgow will all see much faster journeys to and from the South as a result. With long-distance services on their own set of tracks between London and Crewe, the new infrastructure will free up capacity on the existing network for more local trains and freight by rail. Six trains per hour can be transferred onto Phase 2a lines, freeing up capacity on the WCML from Lichfield to Crewe. This could see services rise from hourly to half-hourly or better between Crewe and Stoke-on-Trent to Nuneaton, Tamworth, Lichfield and Rugeley, as well as more services from Crewe and Runcorn into Liverpool, as well as via Crewe between North Wales, Chester and London. High speed rail is already supporting over 13,000 jobs, and the extension to Crewe opens up the opportunity for thousands of contracts for businesses of all sizes, from all parts of the country on everything from concrete to catering, ecologists to electricians, to the trains and tracks themselves. Jason Pacey, Head of Community and Stakeholder Engagement - Phase 2a, said:

CHAMBER NEWS

HS2 construction facts Phase 2a

“Gaining approval to extend the HS2 line to Crewe will provide a boost for local businesses along the Phase 2a route creating opportunities both now and in the coming years." “Local businesses of different types and sizes can offer their invaluable expertise, supplies and services to the HS2 project, and in turn benefit from the long-term opportunities on offer." Overall HS2 is hailed as an exciting opportunity to: • Reduce overcrowding by freeing up space on existing lines • Reduce carbon emissions by allowing more freight to travel by rail taking lorries off the roads • Secure investment and create new jobs years before it comes High speed services will begin operating between London, Birmingham and Crewe between 2031 and 2033. Ground investigations are already taking place. _ Visit www.hs2.org.uk for more on the scheme. For supply chain opportunities go to http://www.competefor.com/hs2

"HS2 will revolutionise both the town and local area and bring about opportunities that would have previously been impossible and impractical. As a global brand Whitby Morrison, HS2 will allow us to bring the world to Crewe and shape a better future for everyone." Ed Whitby, Operations Director, Whitby Morrison TO JOIN TODAY GO TO WWW.SCCCI.CO.UK

CHAMBER NEWS

HS2 – an overview of the project so far PRIMARY MESSAGES 1. SUPPORT FOR HS2: MPs have approved the extension of HS2 from the West Midlands north to Crewe – Parliament continues to show very strong support for the progress of HS2. 2. BENEFITS FOR THE NORTH: By building this phase of HS2 earlier than planned, cities in the north of England, north of Wales and Scotland will be able to benefit from HS2 when it opens. 3. BOOSTING THE ECONOMY: This extension to Crewe offers an opportunity for thousands of contracts for businesses of all sizes from all parts of the country – and the jobs they create – further emphasising the pivotal role of HS2 in Britain’s post-pandemic economic recovery.

SUPPLEMENTARY MESSAGES 1. This phase of HS2 represents the first new intercity railway built in the North of England for over 100 years. 2. Places such as Liverpool, Lancaster, Preston, Wigan, Warrington, Crewe, Manchester, Carlisle and Glasgow will all see much faster journeys to and from the South as a result. 3. Placing long-distance services onto their own set of high speed tracks between London and Crewe frees up space on the West Coast Main Line and other lines for more local and commuter trains.

Manchester, Carlisle and Glasgow will all see better services and faster travel to and from the South. • The proposed high speed superhub at Crewe will spread the benefits of connectivity to surrounding regions, including Wales. Crewe itself will see £180m of investment and regeneration projects unlocked by the arrival of HS2.1 • With long-distance services on their own set of tracks between London and Crewe, the new infrastructure will free up capacity on the existing network for more local trains and freight by rail. Six trains per hour can be transferred onto Phase 2a lines, freeing up capacity on the WCML from Lichfield to Crewe. This could see services rise from hourly to half-hourly or better between Crewe and Stoke-on-Trent to Nuneaton, Tamworth, Lichfield and Rugeley, as well as more services from Crewe and Runcorn into Liverpool, as well as via Crewe between North Wales, Chester and London.

HS2 IS NOW LONDON TO CREWE • MPs have approved the extension of High Speed Two north from the West Midlands to Crewe. All major political parties support HS2 – the Bill passed with a majority of X • This new phase will accelerate the benefits of the new railway to the North West of England, Wales and Scotland. • HS2 will now run between London and Crewe when it first opens. HS2 is the first new railway built in the North of England in over 100 years. • HS2 will play a critical role in bringing Britain closer together and help fulfil the ambition of levelling-up the country.

BUILDING THE RAILWAY • The new section of HS2 from West Midlands to Crewe will be built at the same time as the line between London and the West Midlands. • This is fantastic news for the economy and jobs. HS2 is already supporting over 13,000 jobs, and the extension to Crewe opens up the opportunity for thousands of contracts for businesses of all sizes, from all parts of the country on everything from concrete to catering, ecologists to electricians, to the trains and tracks themselves. These contracts and the jobs they will create will play a pivotal role in helping Britain’s post-pandemic economic recovery. • The extension of HS2 will provide an additional 1,920 full time construction jobs and further jobs through suppliers of goods and services.2 • Businesses are already benefiting from the new HS2 extension. Ground Investigations are already taking place. The first major works contracts, worth £50 million, are now available for companies to bid for. • High speed services will begin operating between London, Birmingham and Crewe between 2031 and 2033. HS2 Services use the high speed track and the existing network to serve places like Liverpool, Manchester, Preston, Carlisle and Glasgow.

Accelerating benefits to the North • The extension of HS2 will cut journey times between Scotland and the North West and the South. • Places such as Liverpool, Runcorn, Lancaster, Preston, Wigan, Warrington, Crewe,

VALUE OF PHASE 2A HS2 Phase 2a delivers nearly £4bn of benefits in present value terms. The benefits of Phase 2a, including wider economic impacts, are estimated to outweigh the costs of building and operating the railway by a factor of 1.9.3

EXAMPLES OF CHANGES VIA THE BILL PROCESS4 HS2 Ltd has given over 1,500 undertakings and assurances in relation to HS2 Phase 2a. These include: • Lowering of the Kings Bromley and River Trent viaducts in the Staffordshire area by up to 3 metres, whilst maintaining the highways crossings under the viaducts. • Relocation of the southern portal of Whitmore Heath tunnel further south beyond the A53 Newcastle Road, removing the need to realign the road or construct theA53 overbridge. This change also reduces the loss of ancient woodland from Whitmore Wood. • Additional land for the reconfiguration of Ingestre Park Golf Club to replace the land lost and severed by the HS2 route, enabling the golf course to continue as a community asset. • Additional land for the provision of a replacement facility for Mayfield Children’s Home. • Additional landscape earthworks in the vicinity of the Stone Infrastructure Maintenance Base – Rail (IMB-R), which will further screen and integrate the IMBR into the surrounding landscape. • Additional noise mitigation (through a noise bund at Woodhouse Farm). • Highway and junction modifications and improvements and changes to construction routes to reduce traffic impacts at several locations. • Realignment of a number of footpaths and bridleways to accommodate concerns raised by landowners. • Contributing up to £350,000 towards the improvement of community facilities or the local environment in the Parish of Hopton and Coton. GREEN CORRIDOR • A network of habitats will be created along the HS2 Phase 2a corridor which will be utilised to provide new access routes. HS2 Phase 2a will create over 516 hectares (almost 2 square miles) of habitats of principal importance, including 78 hectares (192 acres) of woodlands.5 • Ancient woodlands are irreplaceable and HS2 Phase 2a is designed to avoid their loss, where reasonably practicable. Of the 11 ancient woodland sites directly impacted by the construction of the scheme, the area of loss has been reduced to 9.8ha (24 acres) through revising the route, compared to 10.5ha (26 acres) in original scheme. In order to partly compensate for the loss of 9.8ha of ancient woodland, 78ha (192 acres) of woodland habitat creation is proposed, along with the translocation of up to 9.6ha of ancient woodland soils; and the restoration

1 https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/council_and_democracy/council_information/media_hub/media_releases/ambition-to-deliver-180-million-of-investment-to-support-crewe's-regeneration-takes-another-step-for ward.aspx 2 Government overview of the case for HS2 Phase 2a and its environmental impacts - Update for the House of Lords, Nov 2020, 2.9 p10 3 Ibid. 4 Ibid p12 5 Ibid 4.5-4.6 p13

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 1 2021

CLIMATE CHANGE • The carbon emissions from the construction of HS2 Phase 2a will contribute less than 1% of the projected 2026 total UK construction carbon emissions. A UK Emissions Trading Scheme will regulate emissions from the construction and operation of HS2 Phase 2a. This means that, overall, most of HS2 Phase 2a’s carbon emissions will not contribute to an increase in UK Wide carbon emissions8 • In terms of CO2 equivalent emissions in grams per passenger kilometre (gCO2/pkm), HS2 Phase 2a will emit 10 gCO2e/pkm as compared to interurban cars (67 gCO2e/pkm); intercity rail (22 gCO2e/ pkm12) and UK domestic flights (170 gCO2e/pkm), based on projected carbon emissions in 2030.9 • HS2 Phase 2a is designed to the 1 in 100 year plus climate change allowance peak river flow event. In addition, the railway infrastructure will be protected from the 1 in 1000 year peak river flow event, ensuring that HS2 Phase 2a can return to operation without undue delay.10 TRAFFIC DISRUPTION11 The design of HS2 Phase 2a has also reduced the impacts of construction traffic through: • The introduction of site haul routes adjacent to the HS2 Phase 2a route to reduce the number of HGV movements on the public highway. • Borrow pits11 have been introduced to reduce HGV movements on the local road network. • A temporary railhead will be provided near Stone to enable materials and equipment for the construction of HS2 Phase 2a to be transported by rail where reasonably practicable and thereby reduce HGV road movements. FURTHER LOCAL MITIGATION MEASURES INCLUDE: • To restrict HGV traffic construction traffic from entering the village of Kings Bromley. • To maximise the use of the Stone railhead and rail connection to the Infrastructure Maintenance base at Stone to reduce the use of local roads to and from construction sites. • Numerous junction improvements within Staffordshire that will be affected by HS2 construction traffic. • An upgrade to the haul route in order to reduce HS2 HGV construction traffic along Den Lane/Wrinehill Road and Checkley Lane. • Where sensitive receptors have been identified such as roads with schools on, assurances have been given to certain relevant parties that these will not be designated as HS2 construction traffic routes. • undertaking further traffic surveys on Yarnfield Lane to better understand current levels of use by cyclists and traffic speeds to inform the detailed design • provision of funding for a School Crossing Patrol Officer on the crossing near to Woore Primary School, subject to approval by Shropshire Council.

6 7 8 9 10 11

Ibid 4.62 p 23 Ibid 4.69 p 24 Ibid. 4.37-4.38 p19 Ibid 4.40 p19 Ibid 4.41 p20 Ibid 4.108 p31

With the fantastic news about HS2 being confirmed I wanted to find out just why and how Crewe was chosen all those years back to become the now famous “railway hub”. This poem tells the story of the intrinsic role that Yorkshires Joseph Locke had in the very birth of our Town.

We Owe It All to Yorkshire’s Joseph Locke

CHAMBER NEWS

of a further 13.4ha of existing ancient woodland. In addition, HS2 Ltd has committed to a £2m Woodland Fund. This funding will help local landowners create native broadleaf woodlands and restore ancient woodland sites.6 • An additional £2 million of funding for biodiversity improvements (delivered alongside the Community Environment Fund) will be used to promote and enable the creation and enhancement of habitats along the line of route by third parties. The third-party projects funded in this way will further contribute to HS2 Phase 2a's biodiversity objectives.7

By Gareth Williams, street poet and managing director of Construction Linx. See In the Spotlight feature 16-17

Pride can be a sense of deep pleasure of a place a town or parish that you call your own base and when the Grand Junction Railway in 1829 adjusted the direction of their new railway line the words “via Crewe” would become existential the town became wanted, even preferential and forged its own fortune to fill its potential We owe it all to Yorkshire’s Joseph Locke From Pymms lane to the Alex and Big Bill the towns clock For our Backsies & the Razza has Locke’s DNA And we should be thankful that he got his way With 3 workshops required for the building and repairs Crewe works was created, and trains build in pairs Twenty thousand men started a journey of their own Enjoying every minute, apprentices home grown From welding to tin shops, (about 22) Cards would be out with banter and a brew With blood, sweat and tears with OUR trains, built in Crewe We can’t forget our draftsmen, the honourable Francis Webb who engineered his engines using HB pencil led the orphanage still stands empty in memory of his name In need a new use, strategic cause or worthy aim The fondness of these stoic men, we must now reclaim Literally building Crewe in a smog filled bygone era Surly makes our job today, focused and much clearer Cos we owe it all to Yorkshire’s Joseph Locke From Queens Parks, the Lyceum and the town clock Our bike chains that were full of his bletch To our towns Macon twinning at a stretch Before HS2’s confirmation about our new hub station that will bring us inspiration for a future generation. we heard Gresty the lions roar for something we can adore As we now build back better, following Boris’s advice Crewe can yet return to an industrial paradise Back to future and on track to our former glory Would be the perfect ending to our town’s railway story. When the platforms were first opened back in 1837 And people only dreamt about traveling down to Devon Just remember Joseph Locke and his technicoloured vision And you too might agree that Crewe was his best decision

I have received such wonderful and positive feedback about this poem which has now had over 6 thousand views. It was also an honour to be asked by the Crewe heritage centre to have this poem be part of their collection and join the history that makes Crewe what it is today. Don’t forget that, we owe it all to Yorkshires Joseph Locke! You can read more on my work by visiting www.lifepoemsaboutyou.co.uk TO JOIN TODAY GO TO WWW.SCCCI.CO.UK

CHAMBER PARTNERS

Crewe and Nantwich businesses inspire the next generation Young people from Crewe and Nantwich thinking about their future careers have been inspired by local businesses throughout the pandemic during virtual events hosted by The Pledge Partnership. Despite the challenges of lockdown, which has limited their ability to do work experience or just visit businesses or attend careers fairs, the virtual sessions have ensured they have been guided and supported. Funded by the European Social Fund, the Pledge Partnership, part of the Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership was extended in 2019 to cover the whole of Cheshire and Warrington with the overall aim to put employers at the heart of inspiring, informing and communicating with the next generation of employees. Engaging in the Pledge is a great way for employers to find future talent and to highlight career opportunities. The Pledge Partnership works closely with businesses in the region to connect them with young people. This work has continued over the past year through online events and workshops such as Career Expos and Industry Insights. The Pledge team is engaged with 100% of mainstream and special schools and more than 300 employers in Cheshire and Warrington have interacted with more than 100,000 students. The Pledge Partnership started as the Crewe Pledge and was originally hosted within the Chamber in 2015 with the aim of helping students become more work-ready and encouraging employers to support careers in the curriculum, especially for under-achieving students. This work has continued as part of the Pledge Partnership which is now made up of nine

localities across the Cheshire and Warrington sub-region, comprising the Crewe and Nantwich Pledge which is flourishing with over 100 local members including Bentley, AO, Air Products, Engie, Hibberts Solicitors, JG Creative and Rare Earth Digital. Liz Parkin, Pledge Facilitator for Crewe and Nantwich, said:

“The response to the Pledge Partnership has been overwhelming with businesses of all shapes and sizes giving their support. Thanks to many employers in South Cheshire, every school in our patch has had opportunities to continue meaningful engagements that will no doubt help shape students career choices.”

currently looking for volunteer Enterprise Advisors to support schools. The strategic role of an Enterprise Advisor allows professionals to give back to the community and gain a better understanding of the education sector and the challenges they face. Mark Bosworth, Enterprise Coordinator for Crewe said: "We are grateful to the employers that have stepped up to support our schools and I welcome any Chamber member to contact me about being an Enterprise Advisor." _ To get involved in the Pledge and help raise awareness of your business with the next generation, please email liz.parkin@871candwep. co.uk or call 07886 633 370. To find out more about the Pledge Partnership in Cheshire and Warrington visit candwgrowthhub. co.uk/skills/pledge/

Alan Wilson, Careers Teacher, Malbank School, Nantwich said: “The Pledge Partnership has been brilliant in supporting Malbank students during lockdown. They have enabled students to access valuable career experiences online, plus acted as a hub to connect Cheshire East Schools and employers. Their help has enabled Malbank School to achieve Gatsby benchmarks despite the epidemic. To sum up the Pledge’s help has not only been invaluable but essential.” There are many ways that employers can get involved with the Pledge. They are

Light at the end of the tunnel During this time, it is imperative for our local charities to consider how sustainability and forward planning can be effectively navigated, while managing the urgent and pressing needs of the communities, on our doorstep, suffering deprivation and disadvantage. Since Covid-19 more and more people are accessing the foodbanks, becoming homeless; unemployed or without regular income; the frail elderly living alone are suffering social isolation and incidence of increased mental ill-health; depression, and suicide rates are escalating! This in turn means that even more demands are being placed on the non-profit sector. This added to the challenges around shrinking resources in terms of managing social distancing, furloughed staff, and restricted funds, all combine to add extra stresses for our Crewe and South Cheshire third sector leadership teams. Cheshire Connect are progressing plans to enhance the skill donor support to meet the changing needs of charities and not for profits. In conjunction with this, we are ensuring that we are working closer to other infrastructure organisations such as the Cheshire East Council, LEP, CVS, Social Action Partnership and Cheshire

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Community Foundation. All these measures are ensuring a robust response to supporting the sector. If you are a local business or corporate enterprise, your leadership and staff may be interested to take an active part in your business’ Corporate Social Responsibility or Good Business Citizenship programme, including skill donor support. You will also be able to engage in the Social Value Award for Cheshire East, thereby giving you formal recognition of your commitment to giving back to the communities in which you operate. We are seeking business skill donor support to help the local third sector organisations, including community groups, to develop their own pathway and strategic plans towards a sustainable future. Here are just some of the business and professional skills required by our local charities and community groups: • Strategic Planning • Financial Forecasting • Marketing – online/social media/ website design • Mentors and Trustees

_ There is a bright light glinting ahead and we can all help to support our most vulnerable communities by sharing our knowledge, resilience, skills, and strength. For more information on how to get involved, please contact the local Crewe and South Cheshire Business Connector, Dianne Parrish on 07946 639394 or email: dianneparrish@cheshireconnect.com Photos: ‘The Wishing Well – Healthy Living Project’

from the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce

As I write this article we are beginning to move along the Governments Road Map for easing the Coronavirus lockdown which will undoubtedly come as a huge relief to everyone.

For the past twelve months, the focus has quite rightly been on fighting the virus, saving

lives, protecting the NHS and latterly on rolling out the vaccine programme, and the emphasis during this time has been on the medical, scientific and public sector organisations who have all done a fantastic job. It must not be forgotten however, that the business sector has also played its part, by adapting to Government guidelines, tweaking production lines, developing essential products, providing volunteers and supporting local charities. There are many good examples in this area where this has happened to great effect. Throughout this period however, although there has been an enormous amount of financial help and assistance provided for business continuity and survival, the economy has had to take a bit of a back seat. Now, as the lockdown eases, and life gets back to some form of normality, the priority will very quickly shift to economic recovery and this will be the opportunity for business to take centre stage and to lead the fightback. South Cheshire is well placed to make a significant contribution to the national effort and the Chamber will be there to help

its members to take advantage of the many opportunities that exist in the domestic, international and global markets. For example, it was great to see that the HS2 Phase 2a Bill ( West Midlands to Crewe) was recently granted Royal Assent. HS2 will be the catalyst for the future growth of the local and wider regional economy and brings the reality of a Hub Station at Crewe a step closer. Meanwhile, the Crewe Town Board has challenged local businesses (through the Chamber’s Business Council) to come up with ways in which it can commit to making a positive contribution to the towns future prosperity by supporting its plans, formulating ideas, and getting involved in their implementation. This is a challenge that I am sure will be relished, and as Chairman of the Business Council, I will do all that I can to encourage it.

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT & CHAIR

President’s Message

John Dunning President

South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

A message from our Chair Maybe it’s because we have had a number of consecutive warm, sunny days, but I can feel the mood lifting. And there is good reason for optimism. Spring is upon us; Covid related illnesses and deaths have reduced dramatically both nationally and in Cheshire East as lockdown and the vaccination roll out have taken effect; six friends/ 2 households are now able to meet outdoors and the Prime Minister’s roadmap out of lockdown has given us all a timeline to work towards.

Of course, businesses are at different positions on this roadmap. We have some members who have been operating all the way through lockdown, some who haven’t been able to open at all, and others such as the events industry and the arts for whom the final destination on the roadmap is still sadly distant. Whichever category you identify with, there is no doubt that you, your business and your employees have been affected, and have learnt to view things differently. It has been so interesting to hear how our members have responded to their circumstances. It’s a cliché now to say that the crisis has made us all re-think, but it is true. Increased use of technology and online meetings have encouraged some members to rethink their methods of delivery. Others have been able to discover a new USP for their business as

customer demands have changed, which then causes us to ask – what is it that our customers value? We may have thought we know our customer needs but with such a dramatic change in the way we live, businesses have had to consider what, now, do our customers need? Other changes have been much more personal, and many have had to work differently as they juggle home-schooling with running their business. Priorities and values have changed, and many business owner/ managers are realising that their staff have struggled with mental health and well-being. Some may be delighted to return to work from furlough, whereas others may be viewing the return with trepidation having been isolated for so long. It has drawn attention to the responsibility that organisations have to their staff to support and develop their resilience, being mindful of the way in which people respond differently to different pressures. As values and needs have changed over this last year, many local businesses, churches and charities have been energised in supporting those in the community who have suffered the most. We have frequently talked about making Crewe a better place to live and work and we have all learnt to appreciate more our local community, local parks and

spaces that have kept us going through this last twelve months. Let us all, not just on a personal level but also on a local government and institutional level continue to review our priorities and value what is important beyond this pandemic. Dr Diane Wright PhD MA BA (Hons) Chair of the Chamber South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Say hello to…

Anne-Marie Martin is Director Global Business Network at the British Chambers of Commerce Q. Tell us a little about yourself and your background I joined the BCC’s team in 2019 as Director of Global Business Networks, with responsibility for developing and implementing the global network integration strategy of the BCC. Since those first few months, our global footprint has grown exponentially. Before that, I was CEO of the pan European British chamber network COBCOE which has since transferred into the BCC network, and before that my first role in the chamber of commerce world was as CEO of the British Romanian Chamber of Commerce during a time when Romania embarked on its reform journey towards EU accession. However, I actually cut my teeth in industry, with a relatively long career responsible for sales, marketing and operations of an SME distributor of speciality chemicals and non-destructive testing equipment to the aircraft, aerospace and heavy engineering industries across complex emerging economies in the Central and Eastern Europe, on the export front line. Q. What attracted you to the company? Following the EU referendum in 2016, our two organisations felt it would make sense for us to begin to proactively pool some of our energies to connect our respective members to each other and drive continuity in relationships in a post-Brexit world. It soon became clear that

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a more formal agreement would add real value to our members, combining the strengths of our respective organisations and building on a shared vision of a global organisation that provides

access to British businesses internationally to a network of trusted expert support and contacts. Adam asked me to join the team to help develop the international strategy and grow an active and engaged global network; a hugely exciting project for me to get my teeth into.

Q. What are your main responsibilities? My primary role is to create, grow and maintain a dynamic and fully engaged, integrated global community; to deliver a programme of activities and projects that add value to the network, and a platform whereby chambers are able to connect, work together, exchange ideas and best practice and drive trade and business together, across the world. Despite the many challenges of the last year, we have experienced increased interest in our network and its scope, and the network has never been more active than it is at the moment, with successful business connections being made across the world. During this last year, my role has also evolved, and I am increasingly involved in developing new ideas, products and services that add value to both our own business and the network, as a whole. Q. What does a typical day involve? What I can hand on heart tell you, is that there is rarely a typical day, other than what feels like endless Zoom activity that we are all becoming so used to. I spend quite a bit of time in internal and external meetings, discussing initiatives with various stakeholders. I lead a few projects in the organisation including managing the Global Business Network, that involve developing concepts for events and some of the capacity building initiatives that are specifically designed for our international chambers.

BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Quite a bit of my time is spent working with our events lead and our marketing and communications team on a day-to-day basis to agree how to deliver and communicate all the good work we are developing for the network. I also have quite a few external speaking engagements coming up in the next couple of months, presenting the “power of our global network” to companies that are members of the chambers in our membership, which I always really enjoy.. Q. Who are your target audience and what is the main aim of the Global Business Network? The Global Business Network is a key strategic initiative launched by the BCC around two years ago. A unique international member network of currently 70 and growing British Chambers of Commerce located across all continents of the world directly connected to 53 regional chambers of commerce located across every key business hub in the UK. The primary strategic objective in creating a private sector led infrastructure is to drive international business between the companies in the membership of our Chamber Network, which provides any company that is a member of any chamber in the network with the opportunity to connect to a rapidly growing international ecosystem of known, trusted business connections and support. Q. What projects are you currently working on? There are quite a few. My stand outs include managing our 2021 Global Annual Conference which will take place in cyberspace on 16th and 17th June this year. This will be hugely exciting, because it will a brand-new virtual styled event, bringing together high-level keynote speakers, including government officials, senior business leaders on expert panel sessions, practical workshops and a fresh new look virtual

exhibition space. We expect to attract larger participation then ever before due to the digital capability, bringing audiences from across the world to discuss and debate the most pertinent topics of our time. We plan to launch a ‘Year of Trade’ campaign this year in response to the seismic decline in business growth, export sales and investment which are at their lowest since the last major economic crisis of 2008. The programme will include a series of virtual events, thematic surveys, practical guides and policy outputs. I cannot wait to get going on delivering the programme once we are ready to launch. Another project I am keen to roll out is a virtual platform of connectivity between the chambers in our Global Business Network, enabling them to connect, communicate and respond to respective enquiries, to organise joint trade forums and to showcase the best that their market or region has to offer in a seamless way. Q. How have things gone so far? There is no question that these last 12 months have been difficult and that some of the challenges unprecedented. But there has been so much positivity too. Incredible new ideas, developments and achievements. We have seen the spirit of entrepreneurship and sense of mutuality that chambers are renowned for, come to the foreground like never before. Chambers have given of their time with the benefit of foresight or perhaps, hindsight with experience sharing provided by markets that have been ahead of the curve in the wave of Covid. Q. Looking ahead, what are your main aims for the Global Business Network? The possibilities are absolutely endless. Our ambition is to grow the international membership to 100 by 2023 and together with the chambers in the UK help businesses to surmount barriers

to trade and seize opportunities by creating a framework of connectivity and practical support provided by a trusted, known private sector led network of reputable business partners via a truly global business network of 150+ chambers of commerce working symbiotically together. I would like to see this network eventually take on a life of its own. At that point, it will give me a huge sense of achievement and pride in the knowledge that my job is done. Q. What are your career aims and aspirations? I am probably on, what I would describe as, the last leg of my professional journey; at the stage where I absolutely love creating mini startup business initiatives and projects, designing and eventually delivering them as a ready-made sustainable package. I probably do have one or two of those still left in me. I would really like to get involved in programmes that tackle those big people driven agendas, for example, how new generations are driving consumer demand for companies to balance ethics with the desire for profit and a greater balance between work and personal lives. I would be keen to explore how chambers could attract these new, younger generations into membership with quite diverse demands, and what that offer might look like. There is an opportunity now to turn everything on its head and review the way we deliver business development opportunities for business and drive repositioning of membership fees in companies’ budget lines, from discretionary spend to “must have”. If there has ever been a time when chambers of commerce have demonstrated their value to members, it has been during this difficult time. _ This article first featured in West Cheshire & North Wales Quarterly Business Magazine

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce is a major issuer of International Trade documentation in the Northwest Why do you need Documentation? If you sell your products or services overseas, then you will need export documentation in some countries to clear customs. It can also be required as proof of origin to claim preferential duty rates or for banking purposes when payment is by Letter of Credit. Letters confirming UK registration and/or Chamber membership may also be required to

accompany tenders or contracts. Whether you require documents certifying, legalised, or an apostille by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), we are able to help! Should your customer require their documents to be legalised by the Embassy, we are able to undertake the legalisation process, making it easier for you and your customer. In today's global trade landscape, exporting, importing and outward investment

Top ten export destinations

The TOP 10 export markets for South Cheshire Chambers, Exporters

are key in driving growth, creating and/or safeguarding jobs and enhancing companies' and nation's competitiveness. If your ambitions stretch beyond the UK, then we can connect you to accredited British Chambers of Commerce across the world through our Global Business Network. Chamber members receive up to 50% discount on most export documentation!

Our exporters have reported an increased interest from the Turkish and Indian markets for our local products and services. Engineering, Medical and Dairy products being the favoured sectors. The figures below show the last trading month. It’s safe to say that exporters are enjoying the fruits of their labour in many countries outside of the EU. New countries are being added to their sales book and advice is being sought daily from Chamber about the documentation and regulations required to ship to these countries. Although more documentation is required as we are now a third country outside of Europe, our exporters have stated that it has been quite seamless moving their goods after Brexit. There have been some instances where goods have been stopped at the borders, but this is more of a teething problem rather than a long-term issue. Qatar

19%

United Arab Emirates

15%

Turkey

12%%

India

11%

Oman 10% Malaysia 8% Saudi Arabia

Israel

Lebanon

Switzerland

Chamber services • Export documentation. Includes UK, EU and Arab documents. • International trade advice. • Access to International Chamber Network.

Advisory services • Business development. • Introduction to the Export Process. • Completing Export Documents. • Getting Paid in International Trade.

From farmyard to foreign fields

At the Chamber of Commerce, we are proud to support our local businesses and that pride is increased when we realise that their local manufactured products are sought after worldwide.

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On our doorstep we have products that were literally home grown. A surplus of eggs on the Darlington’s farm in 1980 became the now legendary Darlington Daughters Lemon Curd. Many years later and the family business expanded into a worldwide market. The Chamber now creates the export documentation for our member ‘Darlington & Daughters to ensure the safe delivery of Jams and chutneys to the United States of America and beyond. When I say legendary, I really mean famous, as recently Sarah Darlington was interviewed by none other than Chef James Martin on his Saturday Morning show to discuss Sarah’s Mothers original Lemon Curd which is still made to the original recipe 40+ years later. Not just Made with love but made in Crewe!

If you would like to discuss your international trade requirements, please contact Jacqui Morris International Trade Manager 01270 445 406 or Jacqui.morris@sccci.co.uk

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Do you need support on your export journey? Speak to the experts! The Department for International Trade North West supports companies of any size and at all stages of their export journey to trade internationally. Here’s a refresher of our services: International Trade Adviser (ITA) account management and consultancy Professional export advisory service by ITAs with Institute of Export CPD accreditation. Diagnostic, regularly reviewed action plans, mentoring and contact. Market-specific events and briefings Designed to explain how to enter and grow in specific markets; led by market experts from the commercial and public sectors. Export growth programmes Formal diagnostic process followed by creation of a detailed report and action plan. Criterias vary according to the programme but are typically geared to high growth or small to medium-sized businesses.

Assistance with applying for grants For new business development, virtual and physical conferences, overseas market visits or export-related consultancy (research, translation, legal). Grants are subject to criteria and vary from programme to programme. This is not an exhaustive list and may be subject to change. Sara Pomfret, your local International Trade Adviser says “If you haven’t been in touch with your International Trade adviser for a while then please reach out and make contact. If you are not working with us and are interested in having a chat then please contact me and I will be more than happy to talk you through our support and services.”

_ For more information please contact her on sara.pomfret@tradenw.org or 07922 581333. See www.great.gov.uk for more details.

About your local ITA:Sara Pomfret is an International Trade Adviser for the Cheshire area and works closely with businesses throughout the region. She has over 25 years’ experience in exporting and working with businesses to expand their international trade worldwide in various sectors.

Fully funded training in export-specific skills and knowledge Masterclasses/workshops, including: Introduction to Export; Exhibition Skills; Intellectual Property; Researching Markets; Digital Marketing; Language & Culture etc. Sector-specific advice and support One-to-one advice from specialist ITAs or sector staff from DIT centrally; sector events including virtual webinars, briefings and round tables; virtual and physical tradeshows. Export Champions - peer support facilitation Introduction to suitable mentors (SME leaders) who share experience of their own export journeys and can inspire and encourage; delivered via the Northern Powerhouse Export Champions scheme.

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

In the

Spotlight with...

Gareth Williams Managing Director Construction Linx

Q. Gareth you have notched up a hat-trick of Chamber awards, how has that supported your business growth over the past 15 years? There is no doubt that our awards have helped to cement our reputation and strengthen our brand as a facilities maintenance and project management company, both locally and regionally. All team members across the business know they have all contributed in our success. Q. You now live-in picturesque Conwy, commuting to your office in Crewe a couple of times a week. How do you achieve a work life balance? I was born in Crewe and will always be extremely passionate and loyal to everything I love about my hometown. Moving to Conwy has meant a more natural work life balance is achieved and provides an environment that is calming and great for the whole family.

Construction Linx, based on Crewe Hall Enterprise Park, specialises in construction, building maintenance, refurbishment, and facilities management. Managing director Gareth Williams, a Chamber Premium Member, stepped into the limelight as Young Business Person of the Year in 2005 and has notched up two further Chamber awards since - Best Small Business in 2015 and excellence in Customer Service in 2019. Reacting to the pandemic, Construction Linx introduced services to deep clean and equip premises for social distancing, creating new roles for local people. The crisis has also been the catalyst for Gareth fulfilling a long-held ambition to move to North Wales with his young family where he shares lockdown home-schooling duties with his wife Rachel and pursues a new part time hobby of writing street poetry, gaining quite a following on social media with his writing style and presentation.

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Q. Construction Linx moved swiftly to introduce new services at the start of the health crisis, can you highlight any challenges your business has faced? We pride ourselves on being driven, dynamic and dependable and I feel that this time last year we prove those qualities more than any other time. The challenges we faced continue to be the same as any other business who cares for their team members’ well-being whilst adapting our services to our customer needs. Working collaboratively with both our network of trades and internal team members has been the difference in facing these challenges better, together. Q. You are dad to two boys, aged 10 and 6, and like all parents you have adapted to being home ‘teacher,’ how has that worked for you? An excerpt from my poem entitled “A Nervous Parents Evening” perhaps answers this the best……. “When all of this is over and kids are back at school, When the bruises have all healed, from me feeling like a tool, Then I will buy my son’s teacher all the apples she will ever need, and if that doesn’t win her over, then I’ll simply have to plead. Soon I can return to, what I do the best, picking up at home time, without all of the stress. Preparing him for bedtime, in pyjamas and all dressed, before falling asleep all content, feeling happy, knowing that I’m blessed”. Q. In the summer you discovered a new talent for poetry, reciting your verses on Facebook with a great response. Is this something you recognised before? The people that know me best will say that I am a live wire, can never sit still and always on the move. Dreaming up and thinking of new ideas within the business that helps us to drive forward. It is this drive and creativity that led me to putting pen to paper and producing something that I am proud of.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Views of Conwy where Gareth now lives with his wife Rachel and boys (pictured)

Q. You have also taken up running with a mission to cover the distance of Land’s End to John O’Groats by your 40th birthday in September. How is that going? At the time of writing, I am approaching Taunton on my “digital shuffle” to John O’Groats. I join the challenge a New Year’s Day and with a group of friends are enjoying the benefits of getting out on the real highways and byways and recording this on challenge websites digital map. It really does give you a sense of achievement when you run from town to town... Q. Tell us about the ethos of your business and dedication to customer service and client retention in these challenging times? Put simply, we believe our customers choose to work with a preferred contractor who provides consistent performance, has trustworthy intentions, and delivers solutions. Our company values of delivering consistently, whilst being engaging and problem solvers is what has kept a positive team spirit during this time. Q. You currently employ 12 people, including admin and trade. Where do you see the business going over the next few years? We are looking to expand the business by assisting our customers with more of our services on a regular basis and by connecting with likeminded businesses who share our belief. We are also extending our core of facilities management service by educating and providing holistic maintenance plans that make the life of our customers easier. Q. You are a long-standing Chamber member and now a Premium member, enjoying branding and promotional opportunities, have you found this useful?

the premium membership has brought its own benefits of opening doors/creating opportunities in bigger businesses and giving stature to our own company. Q. Tell us a bit about your career/background? After completing a year of business management at the Crewe campus of the Manchester University I decided to take what I had learnt and go it alone. At that time, there were programmes on television such as location, location, location and Property ladder. The most memorable quote on that programme was from a new landlady I just completed a nightmare project on her home and looked into the camera with a tear in her eye and said I have had to rely on unreliable people and this is the result. It was then and there that I decided that running a construction company made a difference from the start was a worthwhile cause. Q. Who inspires you and why? At the 1992 Olympic games in Barcelona, Derek Redmond tore his hamstring in the 400

metres semi-final but continued the race limping and, with assistance from his father, managed to complete a full lap of the track as the crowd gave him a standing ovation. Although Redmond was disqualified and listed as "Did Not Finish" due to the outside assistance finishing the race, the incident has become a well-remembered moment in Olympic history, having been the subject of one of the international Olympic committee‘s "Celebrate Humanity" videos and been used in advertisements by Visa as an illustration of the Olympic spirit and featured in Nike's "Courage" commercials - Watch the YouTube clip and you'll understand why. Q. What would you say is your greatest achievement to date? Having the courage and conviction to employ people better than me in all positions of the business. I believe you must “delegate rather than abdicate” tasks and this starts with recognising people with exceptional skills. The people in our business work to being the best they can be on a daily basis, and this is all you can ask. _ To find out more about Construction Linx services and how they can help you with managing and maintaining your facilities, be sure to visit: www.constructionlinx.co.uk

Gareth has achieved a hat-trick of Chamber awards.

The Chamber of Commerce has been a constant in my business life. In the early days, the mentoring scheme was fantastic and latterly

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CHAMBER PATRONS

Cheshire food waste campaign launches with help from AO.com

A food waste slow cooker campaign has been launched by Cheshire based charity, Cheshire Food Hub, with support from online electricals retailer, AO.com, as part of a drive to tackle food poverty in the community. Cheshire Food Hub, in partnership with The Welcome Network and the Recipe Exchange, has recently launched the Love Slow Cookers, Hate Food Waste campaign. The project will support families across Cheshire who are struggling to make ends meet, teaching them how to use a slow cooker to make cheap and nutritious meals. AO.com has stepped in to support by donating 200 Swan slow cookers which will be loaned to the families along with fortnightly recipes and ingredients packs. Families will be able to access low-cost surplus foods from

their local food group to try recipe alternatives, helping to reduce food waste and save money. In addition to reducing food waste, the campaign aims to help local people minimise their energy bills and improve on their cooking skills. Another core part of the project is to reduce landfill impact by collecting donated preloved slow cookers, refurbing and then returning them back into the community. Jo Garner, Head of Finance and Development at Cheshire Food Hub, said: “Slow cookers provide a cheap and easy way of cooking meals, and thanks to the generosity of AO.com we are able to help local people not only feed their families, but also gain vital cooking skills.” John Roberts, AO Founder and Chief Executive, said:

“Throughout Covid, our aim has been to serve customers safely and support organisations helping those most in need. The Cheshire Food Hub is doing vital work and we’re delighted to get behind this imaginative approach to supporting families to create nutritious meals. We hope that by donating 200 slow cookers, we can help the Cheshire Food Hub make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable people.”

Nick Hopkinson MBE DL, High Sheriff of Cheshire, said: “Teaching people simple ways of preparing low cost but nutritious meals in a slow cooker will have a significant impact on food poverty in our area, and I’m grateful to AO and others for their generous donations.” Cheshire Food Hub has also launched a crowdfunding campaign to encourage people to donate to help more slow cookers become available. _ For more information visit https://www. gofundme.com/f/love-slow-cookers-hate-waste.

A BOOST to our wellbeing To say that the past year has been challenging is a huge understatement. The world has struggled with the impact of the pandemic and the anxiety and distress that it has caused. Assurant acted quickly to support its employees, but little did its employees know how much their lives, both at work and at home, would significantly change. Like other businesses, Assurant has felt the impact of COVID-19. With different ways of working, increased screen time, restrictions on daily activities and also the onset of winter, there was an opportunity to develop a wellbeing programme that could provide additional support to Assurant’s employees during this time. Michael Carter, European HR Director, said: “Our colleagues told us that they were feeling anxious about the pandemic, and their health and wellbeing were affected as a result. And with an increasing number of virtual meetings, “Zoom” fatigue was also real. “We were determined to support everyone during the winter months, so in November 2020 we launched our BOOST campaign, which was created specifically to enhance resilience, strength and wellbeing,” continued Carter.

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With a themed programme of activities, the BOOST campaign has offered enhanced support, education, awareness and opportunities for employees to get involved: • In December, the theme was around social connectivity, encouraging employees to reach out to their family and friends to help raise awareness of loneliness. • January’s theme focused on adapting to change with workshops focused on managing change as well as boosting personal resilience. Assurant also ran financial wellbeing sessions for all employees as well as tackling the subject of Seasonal Affective Disorder. • Mental health was the topic for February, reflecting on the actions taken during the previous 12 months as part of the Mental Health at Work Commitment. Assurant encouraged employees to take time out of their day to talk about mental health and hosted webinars on how to manage anxiety and depression.

Future topics will include Social Responsibility, Physical Wellbeing and there will be a week-long schedule of events for Mental Health Awareness week in May.

“The feedback from our employees has been incredible. The BOOST campaign is helping colleagues cope with the stresses and strains that they’ve had to manage over the last 12 months, by providing them with practical advice, easy to use tools and the support of the organisation,” added Carter. _ For more on the company go to www.assurant.co.uk

Bentley Motors is working with long-term partner, Cheshire Community Foundation to launch a Covid impact fund supporting key projects in the local area. A series of oneoff grants ranging from £5,000 to £25,000 is available from the impact fund which aims to deliver a 12-month programme of activities focused on making a real difference across the community. The launch of the new fund significantly bolsters the funding available to local not-forprofit organisations in 2021 and will be open to applications from projects that tackle food poverty; mental health and wellbeing; debt relief and financial education. These are all challenges that have been amplified by the impact of Covid-19 and examples of the types of initiatives that could be supported include holiday hunger

projects, alongside local foodbanks and social supermarkets. Dr. Astrid Fontaine, Member of the Board for People, Digitalisation and IT, comments:

“Supporting the local community through our Come Back Stronger programme has been a key part of Bentley’s response to Covid from the beginning. Now, as we focus on long-term recovery, it’s vital that we look again at the support in place for those that need it most. “I’m therefore delighted to be able to boost our long-standing relationship with the Cheshire

Community Foundation through this additional injection of support for local community. We look forward to hearing from the organisations locally about the support that they require.” Zoe Sheppard, CEO of Cheshire Community Foundation, added:

“The whole team at Cheshire Community Foundation is thrilled to support our valued partner Bentley with this grants programme.

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Bentley teams with Cheshire Community Foundation to launch Covid impact fund

The impact of Covid-19 has been devastating to so many people in the local community, and this fund will enable Crewe charities and notfor-profit organisations to support those who really need it most. Bentley’s generosity and commitment is truly inspiring.” The Cheshire Community Foundation works with small charities and voluntary groups across Cheshire, helping to connect them to companies that can help to make a difference. Bentley and the Cheshire Community Foundation have worked together for almost nine years since the foundation was launched in 2012 with over £200,000 being donated through the Bentley Fund. _ For more information visit www.bentleymotors.com

Cheshire College develops digital across the community The importance of digital skills and access to technology has never been more apparent than it is today and Cheshire’s largest provider of post16 education, Cheshire College, is on a mission to support the community with their new five-year project, ‘The Digital Hub’. Designed specifically to boost digital skills, enhance career pathways and develop confidence, The Digital Hub project is set to benefit further-education learners, schoolchildren, businesses and the wider community with increased access to technology. Running until 2025, The Digital Hub comprises of three main strands and is being delivered in collaboration with Warrington and Vale Royal College, UTC Warrington and several local businesses including Code Nation and Virtalis. Karen Roberts, Project Lead and Assistant Principal – Apprenticeship and Employer Engagement, commented: “I am delighted that Cheshire College is able to facilitate access to new technology, in order to empower businesses and participants alike to gain confidence in digital applications. Innovation is at the heart of our ambitions and working closely with various stakeholders, we are driven and committed to upskilling and reskilling existing workforces.”

The first strand of the project, Digital Doorstep, aims to deliver skills and career pathways in additive manufacturing and Virtual and Augmented Reality through the use of portable, entry level equipment in local schools, colleges and businesses. Over the five-year project, it is expected that over 50,000 learners will benefit from access to the equipment, inspiring more young people than ever to progress onto higher-level courses and skilled employment. The second strand of The Digital Hub, Project 4.0, focuses on digital skills in the workplace with an emphasis on improving Advanced Manufacturing Skills to expand digital infrastructures, upskill and reskill existing workforces and promote digital as a career choice. The newest project strand, ‘STREAM’, facilitates access to technology within community organisations to raise awareness and develop confidence in digital applications. Equipment includes laptops, smart mobile phones and live streaming systems. _ To find out more about The Digital Hub and how you can get involved, email employers@ccsw. ac.uk or call 01270 654638 (Crewe Campus) / 01244 656455 (Ellesmere Port and Chester Campuses).

TO JOIN TODAY GO TO WWW.SCCCI.CO.UK

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Guinness celebrates Sal’s Shoes founder that end up in landfill. CJ Bowry, founder of Sal’s Shoes, said:

The Guinness Partnership would like to recognise the achievements and tireless work of one of our partners, CJ Bowry – founder of the charity, Sal’s Shoes. Seven years ago, CJ’s son, Sal, had outgrown his shoes. The shoes were still in great condition and CJ knew another child could make good use of them. It was important to CJ that the shoes should reach a child who really needed them, so she began looking for a suitable charity. Surprisingly there wasn’t a single charity who could tell CJ where or to whom her boy’s preloved shoes would end up going. CJ ended up sending the shoes to a friend overseas, who was able to distribute them to a child in an oncology ward. After collecting more outgrown children’s shoes from family and friends, word soon spread, and CJ was inundated

with pairs of barely worn shoes; and ‘Sal’s Shoes’ was born. The Guinness Partnership provides affordable housing across England, and partners with local charities supporting health, wellbeing and social inclusion. Recognising that many families struggle to buy essentials, such as children’s shoes, Guinness welcomed the opportunity to work with Sal’s Shoes to help ensure that children don’t go without, and don’t feel self-conscious about not having the things that some of their classmates would be able to take for granted. A shoe recycling hub in Crewe will collect and redistribute school shoes to children living in Crewe. The hub based in the St Paul’s Centre will provide items free of charge to families in need and reduce the amount of good quality shoes

“There are 4.2 million children living in poverty in the UK. That’s nine children in a classroom of 30. With 1 in 10 families going further into debt to pay for children’s school clothes, we’re delighted to be able to help foot the bill for children in need.” Brian Hamlin, Community Partnership Manager at Guinness said: “We are proud to work with CJ and to be one of Sal’s Shoes partners. Many families struggle to buy essentials, and our partnership ensures that children don’t go without the shoes they so desperately need.” Sal’s Shoes is now in its 7th year of operation and has grown to be the leader in the charitable shoe recycling sector, having provided over 2 million pairs of pre-loved children's shoes in 49 countries around the world. _ For more on Sal’s Shoes and news from the Guinness Partnership go to www.guinnesspartnership.com/news

University launches Good Employment Learning Lab for Line Managers

Pictured: Julia Rouse

Free masterclasses, peer learning and coaching available to line managers in Greater Manchester and the North West Adult Social Care sector No matter what sector or size of business, many workers can relate to the challenges associated with managing a team, and with a wide body of research on the effect of different management styles on workers and organisations, even experts believe there is no 'right way' to manage people. Academics from Manchester Metropolitan University have formed a new project, The Good Employment Learning Lab, which will enable researchers, policy makers and managers to collaborate, understand and address shared problems. The £1m project, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), is led by Professor of Enterprise, Julia Rouse alongside a team of other researchers from the Decent Work and Productivity Research Centre and a range of external partners. It focuses on using evidence from research and practice to develop ideas, trial new forms of training and coaching and evaluate what works best.

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 1 2021

The project consists of forming three ‘Learning Labs’: • Greater Manchester Good Employment Learning Lab will partner with the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter (a coalition of local government, employers, trade unions, workers and other experts who aim deliver Good Employment in Greater Manchester). Working in three Greater Manchester districts (Manchester city centre, Oldham and Salford) to run workplace trials, we will develop a shared understanding of best practice in developing people management skills and share this learning across the UK. • Social Care Good Employment Lab will also run workplace trials, but this time focused on managers of adult social care workers, conducted at home or in residential care across the UK. • Engaged Scholarship Learning Lab will raise the skills of researchers, policy makers and organisations to make sense of tricky problems together. Activities will include workshops introducing the Engaged Scholarship method, sessions

for early career researchers on 'Becoming an Engaged Scholar' and workshops for academics and practitioners involved in Practicing Engaged Scholarship. The outcomes of the Good Employment Learning Lab will be new learning, new communities and new evidence-based ways of supporting people management. Each of our three Learning Labs will also produce an open access Digital Resource Bank. Professor Julia Rouse said: "Line managers are at the front end of the challenge of ensuring that staff are engaged and happy, and that teams are working productively. Many receive very little support with the often tricky task of managing people. We are passionately committed to supporting change by creating spaces where managers, researchers and policy makers can work together to design effective ways of developing line managers. "We are pleased to be working with the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter, the NHS and social care partners to innovate line management support in an exciting place and a vital sector. We are also really looking forward to sharing our experience of engaging research and practice, and learning from others, in our Engaged Scholarship Learning Lab." _ To find out more about the Good Employment Learning Lab project, contact goodemploymentlab@mmu.ac.uk

Morning Foods has announced a major expansion of its Oat milling capabilities at its site in Crewe UK. The new project includes the installation of new advanced milling equipment and process upgrades which will substantially increase its output over the next four years by over 50%. This will allow for an increase in the range and variety of oat products made at the site in Crewe with

a view to supplying new markets in both the UK and overseas. Managing Director James Lea said: “I am hugely excited to announce this expansion programme and demonstrate our total commitment to the quality and variety of oat products milled in Crewe. We are a long-standing supporter of British farming and this significant

investment will enhance our commitment to the oat crop in the United Kingdom”. The mill in Crewe has already benefited from a multi-million-pound upgrade over the last few years. The new project complements this by substantially increasing its output in an environmentally sustainable way. The project has been financed by Barclays who have been bankers to Morning Foods for many years. Relationship Director, Paul Devenport commented: “We are again delighted to have been instrumental in facilitating this new funding deal for Morning Foods which will give them the ability to ensure that they remain at the leading edge of food manufacturing in the UK and into the future.” As part of the new development the company will be introducing new technologies which will reduce the carbon footprint of the site and the products it produces. The new facility is expected to complete construction in 2023. Morning Foods has been milling Oats in the UK for over 80 years and traces its history back to 1675. It has grown to be one of Europe’s largest Oat Millers supplying its Oat based products to over 80 countries worldwide. _ For more information visit www.morningfoods.com

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Morning Foods announces major investment in Oat Milling in the UK

Vertical farming centre showcases technological innovation Reaseheath graduate Jake Jackson who is to manage the day to day running of the unit

The UK’s largest training and research centre for vertical farming has been completed at Reaseheath College and University Centre in Nantwich. Vertical farming is the practice of growing plants indoors under fully controlled and sterile conditions in stacked layers. It offers a means of growing safe, healthy and nutritious food locally and has been welcomed by environmentalists due to its low food miles and smaller land requirement. It also reduces reliance on food imports. The Vertical Farming Centre is part of the Institute of Sustainability and Food Innovation, a joint venture between Reaseheath and its

academic partner, the University of Chester. The project aims to showcase the technological innovations within this fast growing and specialised sector and offers undergraduates and businesses the opportunity for applied research and technical training. Reaseheath also plans to link with local schools, particularly in the practical application of digital and STEM subjects. Covering 200 square metres, the main facility consists of three floor to ceiling growing chambers while a separate research growing room allows for micro scale testing and trials such as the effects of different light levels, temperature and nutrient recipes on plant growth and development.

The project has been supported by Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership, which has contributed £340,000 through its Local Growth Fund. This government funding is available for projects which benefit the local area and its economy. Simon Burgess, Reaseheath’s Head of Projects, Research and Innovation, said: “This is an exceptionally exciting project which offers tremendous benefits to both our students and our academic and industry partners. University Centre Reaseheath is extremely good at applying practical science to commercial research and this will open up a lot of opportunities, for instance through our ability to set up trials and develop the optimum conditions xxx particular crops. for growing “We are also looking to engage schools and colleges and excite students about digital and STEM subjects, particularly programming and statistics. Hopefully this will open their minds to potential careers within the food production, horticultural and agricultural industries.” _ For more go to www.reaseheath.ac.uk

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How do we treat visitors in the wake of Covid-19? Getting back to business whilst keeping apace with Covid safety has been a real challenge. Whilst it's understandable that your first priority will be thinking about how to keep your staff safe, managing visitors is also key. We have all had to react quickly to evolve our working processes and there have been some distinct stages in the way the workplace has handled visitors. Back in March, before the country had absorbed the full impact of Covid, we initially saw the introduction of no handshake policies. As the outbreak escalated and the UK went into full lockdown, businesses and schools closed their gates and those who remained open limited incoming visitors wherever they could. In the last year our way of working has changed radically with many people adopting homeworking and embracing tools such as Teams and Zoom to facilitate online meetings, often with great success. This was already a direction many organisations were moving in which was greatly accelerated to meet the challenges of social distancing. However in some situations, you can’t replace the face-to-face experience with its digital counterpart and today businesses, retailers and schools need to have a plan in place for gradually re-opening their doors to visitors and contractors. Identifying and tracking these visitors has never been more important, as an accurate, dated visitor contact record is

instrumental to any successful track and trace initiative. Patrick Ashe, our Sales Manager experiences this on a daily basis, explaining:

“We are finding this pandemic is raising many practical questions. For example - if your reception has touchscreen visitor checkin, how do you manage the infection risk of this high contact touchpoint? With this in mind, we enhanced our current visitor checkin screens to include a contactless, Covid secure module using the visitor's mobile phone and scanning feature to complete check-in.”

way we invite, welcome and manage visitors into our place of work . . . and at home but SG World will continue to evolve its visitor management solutions for this changing world. If your organisation needs any support with a strategy to manage visitors to your site, then we always welcome conversations with Chamber members. _ For more on the company visit www.sgworld.com

Whilst the vaccination programme represents the light at the end of the tunnel, the knock-on effects of Covid-19 will stay with us for a very long time. The pandemic has changed the

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Dan Marshall (pictured) is joint CEO of the Absolute Solutions Group, a leading group of North West Recruitment companies with the HQ based in Crewe. Here he updates us on the recruitment picture locally. It’s the one-year anniversary of the first article I wrote about the potential impact of COVID-19 on the recruitment industry back in March 2020 last year. Whilst I was undoubtedly concerned at the time both for the general safety of the country and naturally our business as well, I didn’t for one minute think that one year on I’d be writing again about the pandemic during a third period of lock down! At the time of writing that’s 338 days of lockdown and/or severe social distancing restrictions. By the time you are reading this it will be over one year! Unbelievable quite frankly and a real strain for many company owners that they simply would not have foreseen in any circumstances. Hats off to you all. The Government has set out a roadmap

to carefully ease us out of this 3rd lock down and, coupled with the vaccination roll out, I’m extremely hopeful that this is the last time I write about the Recruitment industry during this pandemic, but it would be remiss of me not to update you on our view of the health of different industry sectors. Of course, the levels of recruitment and new jobs are a good indicator to the health (or not) of an industry, but we also speak to company Directors and Senior Managers on a daily basis, so have a pretty good view across multiple sectors. Industries that are booming are still pretty much the same as 2020. Warehousing, Logistics and Distribution, Manufacturing (particularly hygiene / cleaning products, home DIY and medical products) and driving roles to distribute these goods across the UK. Food manufacture and food distribution is, in particular, a hugely expanding market as you might expect. For example, we are fortunate enough to handle the recruitment for a leading North West food warehousing and distribution company and their recruitment drive has been unprecedented over the last year. The driving roles I mentioned are a mix of courier roles – typically vans delivering the still booming internet sales market – and larger HGV’s, who have been instrumental in keeping vital goods flowing throughout the UK. Since new regulations came in place regarding travelling into the EU and back post-Brexit on January 31st, 2021, such as more official Border documentation and stringent COVID-19 testing, Hauliers have played a vital role with this transition taking

place in such challenging circumstances. Commercial / Office recruitment remains quiet as businesses have kept recruiting for key positions on hold until there is a clear exit from the current pandemic. Replacements for leaving staff is not unheard of at all; however recruiting for new positions to underpin company growth/ expansion remains cautious. The Absolute Solutions Group have a healthcare division – Absolute Health and Care – and we are now starting to see a resurgence of healthcare recruitment requirements as the vaccine rollout vaccinates vulnerable residents and staff in private and public sector care homes and new staff are being allowed in again. The Absolute Solutions Group have remained as proactive as we can during this pandemic, supporting Clients and Candidates as much as we can. We’ve been lucky enough to have served the warehousing, manufacturing, healthcare and driving industries for several years before the pandemic and were, therefore, well placed to help companies in these sectors over the last 12 months. Never a company to stand still, stay tuned for the next issue of the Chamber magazine as we will have some exciting news about a brand-new division within the Group! Until then, please keep staying safe and let’s finally beat this pandemic! _ If you’d like to focus on your business and use the Absolute Solutions Group to find you the best people to help you on your journey, call us on 01270 509 266 or email info@absol-group.com

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Recruitment & Covid-19 – one year on

New premises for Alextra Accountants Alextra Accountants are pleased to announce their Staffordshire based office has moved to a new premises in Newcastle-under-Lyme, located at The Drayton Beaumont Building, Merrial Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 2AE. The office is based in the heart of Newcastle Town Centre in the prominent 1930’s building, formerly known as The Old Police Station. The announcement comes as a result of significant growth in recent years, including two business acquisitions. With 24 employees already at their office in Crewe, the Newcastle office provides ample space for the existing team of 18 based in Staffordshire, including the chance to bolster the Alextra team with further recruitments in the local area. The company’s brand is Alextra Group and part of their growth and office expansion is to provide a full end-to-end service. Alextra’s aim is to offer the people of Cheshire and Staffordshire and the surrounding areas, the high-quality, expert accountancy advice, that they provide to all of their clients. Alextra Director, Shawn Gallimore, comments: “Covid-19 has created many new challenges for businesses over the last year. In the last 12 months, we have been able to strengthen our team through further

recruitments, which has been paramount in allowing us to continue offering support to our clients during the pandemic. Supporting our clients is at the heart of what we do and we are immensely proud of the services we provide across Cheshire and Staffordshire and surrounding wider regions. Our second office will allow us additional opportunities to attract the best local talent as we envision further recruitments in the future. The decision to move our Staffordshire team to the heart of Newcastle Town can only be seen as a positive. The office is close to pubs, shops and restaurants and Covid permitting, a bustling vibrant area. We moved into the new office at the start of January and look forward to exciting times ahead when we are able to welcome clients again, once the lockdown restrictions are lifted. We remind businesses that during these challenging times, having an accountant is more important than ever. We can help businesses gain access to government funding as well as helping clients take advantage of any tax benefits. We urge businesses to get in touch should they need accountancy advice.” _ For services go to www.alextragroup.co.uk TO JOIN TODAY GO TO WWW.SCCCI.CO.UK

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Future of the office

Hannah Baker - commercial property agent at Legat Owen in Nantwich looks at changes to the office market To say that the Covid-19 pandemic has altered our working world would be an understatement. However, despite the initial assumption that it may destroy demand for office space entirely, recent trends suggest that office space will remain crucial to companies of all sizes, albeit with an evolving purpose. For many, the novelty of ‘working from home’ soon diminished to feel more like ‘living at work,’ and it has become more apparent that the office is in fact often a ‘social necessity’ for businesses. The communal, interactive, and social aspect of the environment it seems has been greatly missed. Video/zoom calls have been vital throughout lockdown and serve a purpose. Nonetheless, face to face meetings and interaction is essential for employees to develop and learn from one another and generates innovation within businesses.

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Despite the global pandemic and multiple lockdowns, we have found there to be an ongoing demand for a full range of office space in the local market. Many, who pre Covid-19 effectively worked and ran their businesses from home, now demand office space away from new home distractions. We have also found that larger companies are now acquiring additional office space to be able to effectively practise social distancing within their offices. A rise in enquiries from start-up companies: With many people having extra time on their hands, and/or job security concerns in these uncertain times, it has prompted new business ideas and we will continue to see an increase in new companies demanding office space. Hardship creates innovation and this has been proven in the past by companies such as Air Bnb, Uber, and WhatsApp that were all started during a recession. Prior to lockdown: We were already seeing a growth in demand for flexible workspace as more companies were beginning to see the benefits of flexible working. The Covid-19 pandemic has amplified this trend. Over the last 12 months, we have seen a rise in the demand for serviced, all inclusive, flexible office space that require less commitment from companies and the ability to easily review their needs in a time of uncertainty. What does the future hold for the office market: Offices to most will remain a necessity. It has become evident that they play a key role in learning, development and providing social interaction. However, people also now appreciate

that working from home can be just as efficient which has ended the rigid culture of working 5 days a week in an office. The long-established traditions of an office will be challenged, and companies will be evaluating the purpose of their workplace. The office must evolve with the changes in society to become a more flexible and desirable environment, with a focus on collaboration, stimulation, and sustainability.

Flexibility will be key: The demand of flexible offices will only increase, but certainly in South Cheshire, a greater supply is required. The changes to the retail industry have left many large units in town centres vacant eg ex department stores, which could be converted to meet this increased demand for flexible office space to mean offices become more integrated into communities. The recent changes to the planning system make it easier to change the use which will accelerate this trend and bring a new type of office stock to the market.

From Glastonbury to weddings, the COVID-19 crisis continues to cancel and postpone many important events; but some things can’t be put off even during a pandemic! As many business owners are aware, all workplaces must have a suitably stocked first aid kit, appointed first aider(s) who have received adequate training, and information and resources for employees highlighting first aid arrangements. Adequate training can be fulfilled by taking practical, face-to-face training with an approved and accredited first aid training provider to gain First Aid at Work (FAW) or Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificates. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends annual refresher training to help top-up knowledge and keep abreast of any changes to first aid procedures. Amidst the pandemic, The HSE has agreed that First Aid at Work or Emergency First Aid at Work certificates that expired after 16th March 2020 remained valid until 31st October 2020 or 6 months from the date of expiry. This means that requalification training for these expired certificates should have been completed by 31st March 2021. If you have yet to requalify, Rhino Safety is here to help!

In January, the wellestablished Health & Safety consultancy Rhino Safety

became an approved and accredited training provider, further increasing the range of services they can provide. The new training division offers over 20 courses taught by highly qualified and experienced trainers, with the first courses held in January and February all sold out within days of being launched.

Rhino Safety training courses are delivered to the same excellent standards that the multiaward-winning company is known for in health and safety services, with engaging and enjoyable learning as the priority. Refreshments and lunch are provided in all open and Rhino-venue courses, in a comfortable and professional environment.

All of Rhino Safety’s courses If you are interested in comply with Covid-19 Secure booking on a course with measures, including enhanced Rhino Safety, there are various cleaning procedures and social options to choose from: distancing. In addition, the maximum number of delegates • Public / Open Courses – are recommended for companies or attending courses is currently individuals that require three spaces or reduced. less. • Onsite Courses – are recommended for companies that wish to train more than three members of staff at a time in their own premises. • Rhino Venue Courses – are recommended for companies that wish to train more than three members of staff at a time but do not have the space to host the course. Rhino Safety work with a number of local venues and are currently developing their own centre in Sandbach.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Back to Business: Support on hand as town centres reopen

Following the government’s latest step to exit lockdown, all non-essential retail reopened on April 12, as well as restaurants, bars and cafes for outdoor table service only and hair and nail salons, libraries, and gyms. To support businesses to welcome back customers safely, Cheshire East Council is launching a public information campaign, funded by the European Regional Development Fund. The campaign will inform people of the Covid-19 measures in place to protect them and the precautions they need to take to aid the safe reopening of the borough’s 11 town centres, as well as encourage them to support local businesses – which is more important than ever. Frank Jordan, Cheshire East’s executive director for place, said: “Businesses have already been hit hard and are now having to adapt to what is a very different business landscape, while complying with a number of Covid-safe measures. “The council’s regulatory services team is continuing to offer guidance and support to

businesses regarding the current restrictions put in place by government and I urge them to get in touch if they have any questions or concerns. I would also like to appeal to the public to play their part in ensuring our town centres can reopen safely. “This includes wearing a face covering where necessary – including in shops – making sure they sanitise their hands and maintaining social distancing, which still applies with the rule of six. “By adhering to the safety measures, people can relieve some of the pressure facing local businesses and not put them in the position of having to turn people away or face possible enforcement action.” The council will also be proactively working with town and parish councils to utilise an additional recently announced stream of European Regional Development Funding (ERDF), through the ‘Welcome Back Fund’. The funding will be used to support activities and initiatives that help local businesses to prepare to reopen safely and successfully. To support hospitality businesses, the council has amended its temporary pavement licence, making it free for businesses to apply. The licences, also known as ‘alfresco licences’, are valid until September 2022 and grant permission to set up temporary outside seating to allow for social distancing measures. The council is keen to work in partnership to support Cheshire East’s town centres to thrive and is developing a number of Town Centre

Vitality Plans, which will identify potential initiatives to support businesses and the local economy moving forward. Meanwhile, it is inviting applications for the government’s Restart Grant, having so far paid out more than £134m in grants to Cheshire East businesses to help boost their recovery and rebuild the local economy. The Restart Grant scheme supports eligible non-essential retail businesses and hospitality, accommodation, leisure, personal care and gym businesses with one-off grants of up to £18,000 to help them reopen safely. _ More information on support available to businesses can be found at: Business (cheshireeast.gov.uk) For further details regarding the Restart Grant and how to apply, visit: Coronavirus (Covid-19) help for Business Rates customers (cheshireeast.gov.uk) For further information about applying for a temporary pavement licence, visit: Pavement Cafes (cheshireeast.gov.uk)

Sign up to free service showcasing digital best practice member for environment and regeneration, said: “It is estimated that more than £14bn is owed in late payments to the UK’s SMEs and the effect on such businesses can be huge – especially in the current climate as the impacts of Covid-19 continue to be felt.

Cheshire East Council is looking for 200 SME businesses to take part in a free programme to help them to adopt digital technologies, boost their productivity and recover from the impacts of Covid-19. The Adoption of Digital Accounting and Payment Technology (ADAPT) programme will give businesses that sign up access to a dedicated knowledge hub with information about the technologies available, the benefits and how they can be adopted, as well as best-practice guides. It will demonstrate to SMEs how these digital technologies can help tackle the problem of late payments through automating their invoicing and payment processes, so they get

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 1 2021

paid quicker and the overall debt burden is reduced. A limited number of businesses that sign up to take part will also be selected at random to join an online event hosted by digital experts at Barclays Technology Campus, in Knutsford, and facilitated by industry experts, as well as to receive fully-funded business diagnostic and support. Through the Digital Cheshire partnership, the council is also progressing plans for a separate series of digital masterclasses, with more details on how businesses can apply due to be announced over the coming months. Cllr Nick Mannion, Cheshire East cabinet

“We are committed to supporting businesses to recover from the pandemic and are pleased to be able to provide this programme so that we can help businesses to boost their productivity and get paid faster.” The ADAPT programme, which is provided to SME businesses by Cheshire East Council and is funded by Innovate UK, the UK's innovation agency, is open to SME businesses based in, or with a site in, Cheshire East. Places are strictly limited to 200 and as part of the programme, businesses will be asked to take part in a series of before and after surveys. _ For more information and to complete an expression of interest form, visit www.adaptcheshire.org

The redevelopment of the Royal Arcade site in Crewe is progressing with a public consultation underway. Phase one would see the construction of a new bus station and 400-space multi-storey car park, while phase two would see a leisure-led and retail unit development, including a state of-the-art cinema, 10-pin bowling centre, gym, restaurants, cafes and bars and public realm enhancements.

The planning application, on behalf of Cheshire East Council, will be submitted as a ‘hybrid’ scheme, meaning that plans for phase one will be submitted with full details and the plans for phase two will be submitted in outline. By taking this approach, the general uses and the layout of the leisure and retail scheme can be considered at the same time as the bus station and multi-storey car park, leaving detailed design matters to be submitted at a later date.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Autumn date for Crewe Royal Arcade works

It also means that the new bus station and car park would be opened ahead of the leisure and retail space. Together, the proposals will bring a number of key benefits for Crewe including modern transport facilities, and a significant improvement to the leisure and retail offer which in turn will provide confidence for further investment and new jobs in the town. Subject to planning permission being granted, works on the site will mobilise this autumn. The existing bus station would be in operation until summer 2022 when it would then be replaced with a temporary bus station layout, while the new bus station is being constructed. The new bus station and multistorey car park are then due to open in spring 2023. For phase 2, a further planning application will be submitted in spring 2022 for the final design of the leisure and retail units. Once the new bus station and car park are opened, work can start on the leisure and retail units. The target date for the completion of the full scheme – which includes improvements to the public realm on Victoria Street and Queensway – is spring 2025. _ For more go to www.royalarcadecrewe.co.uk

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Work starts on Leighton Hospital’s new £15m Emergency Department

Work has started on a multi-million pound project to expand Leighton Hospital’s Emergency Department. Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which manages the hospital, received government funding last year to reconfigure and expand emergency care services. The Trust will use the money towards creating a new £15m two-storey building next to the site’s current A&E, which will help the hospital to see and treat more patients. Dr David Matthews, Consultant in Emergency Medicine, said: "This is a very important and exciting development for our patients and staff at a time when the NHS has been tested to the maximum by a combination of continually increasing patient attendances, the coronavirus pandemic and the annual winter

pressures which now seem to start earlier and last longer. “The new department has been carefully designed to cater for a greater number of patients in a modern and purpose-built environment that allows clear separation of children and adults, an isolation facility for patients with coronavirus, a larger resuscitation room for the most sick and injured patients, and appropriate areas for friends, relatives and those with illnesses relating to their mental health. This will offer patients a better experience at a time which is often difficult and stressful for them." The new building, which will cover more than 4,000 square metres over the two floors, will include a dedicated paediatric suite, mental health assessment rooms and a bereavement suite as well as the additional treatment rooms.

There will also be offices and staff facilities on the first floor. James Sumner, Chief Executive of Mid Cheshire Hospitals, said: “The new Emergency Department is fantastic news for the Trust and for the local community as it will give us a bigger, better and safer environment for patients and staff. “A&E attendances have increased across the country over recent years, including at Leighton Hospital, and so this is also an opportunity to meet the growing needs of our local population.” The Trust has submitted a planning application for the modular build and has now started preparation works on the A&E car park, which is where the building will be located, so that the new facility could be open in time to support the hospital during next winter’s pressures. As part of the preparatory works, the A&E car park at Leighton Hospital will close. The A&E entrance off Smithy Lane will also only be available to emergency vehicles or to access a new drop off and pick up point outside the Emergency Department. Patients and visitors attending A&E are being asked to use the main entrance or maternity car park, where an additional 77 spaces have been created to support any increase in demand. Staff at the hospital are also set to benefit from an extended employee and overflow carpark, which includes more than 300 new spaces.

County Group praises ‘sterling’ effort to back The Dabbers The County Group has praised the efforts of Nantwich Town Football Club to stay afloat as it resumes organised activities in line with the easing of restrictions. The insurance company remains a longstanding sponsor of The Dabbers which ran a crowd-funding campaign late last year urging local people to help mitigate the ‘devastating’ impact the pandemic has had on its finances. The JustGiving page raised more than £23,000 but as junior teams resume play, more money will be needed to meet the shortfall for general maintenance and running activities such as popular holiday sessions for children. Club chairman Jon Gold said: “Like other community clubs, the pandemic has hit hard. We have lost income from matches and from use of our function facilities for events and place to meet for organisations. “We put out an urgent appeal late last year and there was a tremendous response. A fantastic £23,706 was raised. But we rely heavily on volunteers and this momentum needs to be maintained to ensure the future of the club as the hub of local activity. “We are grateful to The County Group and to all our sponsors and would be delighted to hear from any local business that can support us. In line

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 1 2021

Nantwich Town FC chairman Jon Gold at the County Group’s board

with the easing of restrictions we have welcomed back all of our junior, youth, ladies and disability sides this week and look forward to the day when fans can join us at the Optimum Pay Stadium to cheer on their local side again.” The County Group runs a special scheme called Club Connect to help raise funds for local clubs like Nantwich Town -where a percentage of the commission earned is donated back to the club, when a customer takes out a new policy and mentions the club. County Group managing director Alastair Christopherson said: “Football bonds a community and we like to give back to the towns where we have offices and employ from the area. We are particularly proud of our association with Nantwich Town FC which is steeped in history and has passionate support.

“The club has strong roots in the community and encourages youngsters to get out and kick a ball while enjoying friendship and the camaraderie of being part of a team. “Exercise to support mental health has become so crucial during Covid and the club plays a vital role in reaching out to so many youngsters with its youth teams and school holiday activities. “Well done to all its officials, volunteers and fans for their sterling effort to support the club in what remain very challenging times.” The County Group, based on Crewe Business Park, is also a long-standing sponsor of Nantwich’s other famous sporting sons – Nantwich Cricket Club. _ For more information on insurance products go to www.countyins.com

Crewe-based Supported Community Business (Special Needs) Ltd is a registered charity and not for profit organisation offering a unique opportunity to support ambition in special needs individuals and enable them to fulfil their potential. SCB, as it is affectionately known, provides a therapeutic workshop facility where those in the local community with special needs or learning difficulties can experience real work tasks in a controlled supportive environment. Established in 1998, it offers a supported working environment to more than 20 service users. Director Colin Mills said:

“The aims of the project are simple – to give people with learning needs an equal opportunity to experience a working environment like most people would do in their life, to make them feel like they have a purpose and are making a difference.

“By breaking down jobs into smaller manageable tasks, staff are able to enhance numeracy, dexterity, observation skills, and general understanding. The tasks also break down feelings of isolation and promote stimulation of the mind, as service users work as part of a team to produce the end project and are encouraged to rotate through the different stages, demonstrating that all tasks are of equal importance. “Alongside learning new skills, which are transferable to everyday life, SCB increases service users’ knowledge of health & safety through weekly lessons, which in turn enhances a sense of

wellbeing both at the workshop and domestically.” Located at Quakers Coppice, on Crewe Gates Industrial Estate, SCB has a large workshop area, a small canteen and office. Whilst run as close to a normal working environment as possible, taking into account the abilities of those attending, service users work at their own pace, are under no pressure to produce set amounts, and are actively encouraged to interact with each other, staff, and visitors. Staff not only instruct, train and supervise but also act as carers during the time service users are attending the facility. The routine is not only important to those accessing the workshop but also to parents and carers, as they can plan their own day around the workshop schedule. Colin added: “Like most charities, and many companies, the Covid19 pandemic has impacted greatly on business. Income and donations have dropped considerably but, thankfully, we are still operational and always looking for new challenges.

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Crewe special needs charity calls out to companies

“If any local business feels they could use the service SCB provides please do get in touch to discuss your needs.

Likewise, if your business does not lend itself to outsourcing work, maybe you could consider sponsorship or an annual donation. Currently we are looking for someone to cover the cost of our cardboard waste disposal, service our domestic boiler system, and fork truck servicing.” _ If you feel this is something you could support, or wish to discuss any other possibilities, please contact Colin Mills on 01270 255319 or e-mail scb-specialneeds@btconnect.com

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Leading physio warns of long Covid symptoms A South Cheshire physiotherapist and independent prescriber is urging people not to ignore the symptoms of long Covid after recovering from the virus himself. Rick Carter, one of few private practitioners in the UK qualified to prescribe medication, is treating many patients for problems associated with long Covid in his Crewe and Nantwich clinics. The father-of-three, who has practised in the area since 1994, said:

“I was hit hard by the virus in October. I’ve recovered other than lingering issues with fatigue so I can totally empathise with patients feeling frustrated by ongoing issues." “Initially there was talk of long Covid actually being a ‘thing’ but evidence has shown millions to be suffering. An ONS survey has suggested at least one in five people have symptoms which limit their daily activities for over a month after initial infection. “Often low mood, brain fog, fatigue, joint pain, muscle aches are residual issues. These are sometimes difficult to separate out from other conditions that may have similar symptoms. It’s complex and needs time, patience, care and

Rick Carter in Clinic

continuing support from our network of local and national healthcare professionals. “All our therapists spend time exploring the nature of our clients’ conditions and often Covid continues to cause issues many months after the virus has been contracted.” The Office for National Statistics (ONS) survey pointed to common problems including fatigue, headaches, coughs, sore throats and muscle pain. Tiredness was the one most experienced with some people surveyed unable to walk very far at all. Now ctchealthcare’s registered physiotherapists are working alongside psychologists and hypnotherapists to treat patients for the physical and mental symptoms of long Covid including low mood and trouble sleeping.

Mr Carter, who is trained to prescribe medication such as pain killers and antiinflammatories to help enhance patient recovery, added: “At ctchealthcare we pride ourselves in completing episodes of care, thinking beyond the symptoms which present themselves in clinic. “Our company strapline is ‘making you feel better’ and over the years we have encouraged a more holistic approach. Prevention is very much regarded ‘better than cure’ and companies that we work with see the benefits of supporting the mental and physical wellbeing of employees. “With long Covid now a national issue we urge patients and workplaces to recognise the symptoms and seek help.” The company has been at the forefront of health and wellbeing provision to private and corporate clients across Cheshire and Staffordshire for nearly 27 years. Mr Carter, who has worked with the Premier League as well as local sides, began as a one man physiotherapy clinic working from a GP surgery in Crewe. There are now ctchealthcare clinics in Crewe, Nantwich, Stafford and Stoke providing physiotherapy, sports massage, acupuncture and a range of complementary and holistic therapies. _ For more information on long Covid recovery programmes call 01270 361363 or visit www.ctchealthcare.co.uk

Park View Business Centre goes green decision to invest in sustainable improvements wherever relevant. These changes will help us to move with the times and be a small part in getting the country to meet its net-zero goal for electricity generation.

Roof-top Solar PV installation at Park View Business Centre and office space available

Park View Business Centre on the Combermere Abbey estate between Nantwich and Whitchurch is pleased to announce the completion of three significant green initiatives. The growing business centre has moved its Mains Electrical Contract to Ecotricity – Britain’s greenest energy company. As the only energy provider supplying all of their customers with power generated from the wind and the sun, this is helping to make Park View Business Centre more sustainable and effectively carbon neutral. In addition, a significant investment has been made in a 109kW installation of Solar panels so that the business centre can generate and use as much of its own electricity as possible.

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 1 2021

Lastly, an electric vehicle charge point has also been installed. This is available to people working at the centre, as well as anyone else in the area needing to top-up their EV battery. Peter Beckett, Director of Park View Business Centre says: “We have taken the strategic

"Any tenant coming to take up space with us can rest assured that their office carbon footprint is now negligible. This is a better way to operate and succeed in the future. We look forward to welcoming new tenants for whom this policy is important.” Meanwhile Park View Business Centre has announced the availability of some stand-alone office and on-site warehouse storage space. From 1,000 ft2 to as much as 18,400 ft2 is available to rent at competitive rates. The option of taking a fully serviced office, adjoining the storage space is possible for a logistics or internet-based retail-marketing company. _ For more information visit www.parkviewbusinesscentre.co.uk or call 01948 661 600

Being able to supply patients with COVID-19 testing kits and results with ease, promptly and securely was a priority for the Everything Genetic team. The Rare Earth Digital team came to the rescue. Designing and developing a custombuilt system has enabled Everything Genetic to win a substantial contract with Bupa to provide COVID-19 at home PCR test kits to thousands of patients nationally. Nantwich-based company Rare Earth Digital fuel growth through great software and this is an impeccable example of how this has been accomplished for one of their clients. Everything Genetic, also in Nantwich, understand the importance of having bespoke software systems in their business. Their custombuilt portal has enabled the company to achieve significant growth and success over the last 12 months.

You can purchase the kits through the custom-built portal Rare Earth Digital created by visiting www.bupa.co.uk/health/payg/ covid-pcr-test

The COVID-19 at home PCR testing kit can be used to check if you have COVID-19 even if you don’t have symptoms. The kit contains a nasal/ throat swab and instructions of how to carry out the test to see if you are infected with COVID-19. The patients receive the kit typically within 24 hours of order and the results within 48 hours of it getting back to Everything Genetics’ partner lab by email and by text message. Jez Touch, Director at Rare Earth Digital commented:

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Rare Earth Digital client wins major contract with BUPA

“We’ve worked with EGL for several years and it’s rewarding to be a part of what they’ve achieved in that time. We’d like to publicly congratulate Founder and CEO of Everything Genetic, James Price and his team on a fantastic achievement.” _ Visit www.rareearthdigital.com or email hello@rareearthdigital.com

Accountant Clayton adds big sum to mental health charity coffers A young accountant has doubled his fundraising target for the mental health charity MIND after calling time on alcohol throughout 2020, with help from his friends and colleagues at The County Group in Crewe. When Clayton Hodge, 22, (pictured) raised a glass to welcome in New Year 2020, little did he or indeed the world know of the pandemic challenges that lay ahead. With great willpower and determination he has raised over £2,500 for the charity after saying ‘no thanks’ all year to his favourite bevvy even while out with friends in the summer when restrictions were lifted. Clayton, who is training as an accountant at the insurance company on Crewe business park, was sponsored by family, friends and work pals to raise money for MIND as well as awareness of how it supports people with mental health issues. He said:

“I never had a drink problem but was spending a lot when I went to the football and for a drink afterwards. So for 2020 I vowed not to consume any alcohol and get friends to sponsor me.

“At first it was hard and my friends would pull my leg but then Covid came along and all the stress it created put mental health in the news every night. It became a small sacrifice to make. “There were some tough times like when we were allowed to mix with six people and my friends were drinking my favourite cider in the sunshine at The Cat in Nantwich. I had to leave the pub! “After a while though it became second nature and they gave me tremendous support as did The County Group who also donated to the fundraising total. And there were benefits for me. I have saved money and feel much fitter.” And even an Aspinalls blackcurrant cider, his favourite tipple, no longer holds an allure. “When it came to New Year I had a lager and hardly anything since,” said Clayton from Coppenhall. The County Group, which employs more than 70 people at its base on Crewe Business Park, regularly supports their charity efforts.

Alastair Christopherson, Group Managing Director said: “We get behind colleagues whether it’s their sponsored runs, sky dive or buying their cakes in the office. Clayton began his journey just before the coronavirus crisis started and has shown incredible determination to stay the course. We’re all very proud of him. “With most now working from home we have continued our ‘open door’ policy where they can chat to a manager about any issue on the phone or online. “We check in just to say ‘hello, how you doing’ and have supported working from home with equipment. As soon as we can we will celebrate the end of the crisis together.” _ For more information on insurance products visit www.countyins.com

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Cause Related Marketing – a message from the PDSA

For over 100 years, PDSA has been helping pets and their owners when they need it most. Here it highlights how businesses can help a chosen charity by donating from the sale of a product or service With 5.8 million small businesses in the UK - collectively the small business community can have a hugely positive impact on society. But currently, only 2% of UK charities’ income comes from businesses, compared to 43% from individuals. We want to play a part in moving the needle on that 2% and are keen to increase our support from small businesses, to enable us to continue help over 388000 pets from our 48 Pet Hospitals.

However, as a charity we are accountable for any income raised via fundraising, and therefore we must ensure that we encourage our supporters to fundraise responsibly, follow the law and protect the charities reputation. The fundraising regulator provides lots of information on what needs to be taken into account when a charity and a business work together. To support a charity through the sales of your product or service, you must have a Commercial Participation Agreement in place. You’ll then have the right agreement primed to be able to market your giving and you’ll be able to proudly publicise your support for your chosen charity (hopefully PDSA!). We’ve found an easy way for small businesses to donate to us, through the sales of their products and services. By pledging a donation via our Work for Good page, workforgood.co.uk/charities/pdsa/ businesses can donate in a legal, simple and sustainable way that works for them. We’re living in a world where people increasingly want to buy from and champion businesses that are led by their values and we’d really appreciate the opportunity to talk to any businesses who’d be interested in putting purpose alongside profit. _ For more on supporting the charity go to www.pdsa.org.uk

Picture below: Max the Miracle Dog was awarded PDSA Order of Merit for outstanding contribution to society as a virtual therapy dog. To read his story go to ‘latest news’ on the PDSA website

Alpha Omega reaches out to rural African communities Security specialists Alpha Omega has extended its charitable support overseas with a scheme to help mothers feed and educate their children in rural African communities. The company, based on Crewe Business Park, began its mission in Nigeria at Christmas arranging food parcels to go to mothers, many of them widows, who struggle to feed their children. So overjoyed were they to receive bags of rice, cooking oil and other food to cook, the company received reports of them ‘dancing happily’ and chanting Alpha Omega as the parcels were handed out. Now the security business, established by former Nantwich man and champion kickboxer Ken Lawton 23 years ago, in collaboration with Ms Ukachukwu, a Researcher on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), is setting up the Alpha Omega Foundation to carry on more good works internationally. One task will be to arrange another food drop for the mothers and widows of Ndiobasi, a rural community in southeast of Nigeria. Another aim will be to reach out to the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities of Britain to nourish the children of hard-up families and support education initiatives. Ken said: “We began this mission in Nigeria, to give humanitarian aid. The women, more than 70 of them, felt a huge weight lifted of their shoulders. It was only a small gesture for us but one which had a massive benefit to them. It

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 1 2021

Alpha Omega owner Ken Lawton and his partner Ms Amaka Ukachukwu, a Researcher on Women, Peace and Security, are supporting women and children in rural African communities

touched our hearts to hear how they did a little dance of joy and sang our company name. “We are now in the process of establishing the Alpha Omega Foundation to do more in this country and overseas. It’s in the early stages but the main elements will be enhancing security through women in communities.” In recent months Alpha Omega’s charity support has included being a major sponsor of Leighton Hospital’s Merry Miles fundraiser for the Lost Little Ones appeal to create a dedicated

suite on the labour ward for bereaved parents. In recent months its charity support has included being a major sponsor of Leighton Hospital’s Merry Miles fundraiser for the Lost Little Ones appeal to create a dedicated suite on the labour ward for bereaved parents _ For more on services or working with the company call 01270 258881 or visit www.alphaomegauk.com

A message from Paul Brown at WR Partners accountants, business advisors and tax specialists With the focus on Covid-19 and Brexit, the rapidly approaching start of the new rules affecting those providing services through their own personal services companies has rather slipped under the radar. However, from 6 April 2021 the new rules for IR35 apply and there is a growing body of evidence that many of those affected are ill prepared.

As a result, the Government decided to put the obligation on those using the services of the PSC to decide whether there was an employment-like relationship. If the end user of the services decides there is such a relationship, then the payments to the PSC are subject to PAYE and NIC – and if the payments are made by a

third party such as an agency, they will have the responsibility for deducting the tax. _ If you have any questions about IR35, please contact 01606 369000 or email hello@wrpartners.co.uk

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IR35 - are you ready?

The off payroll working rules (the formal name for IR35) affect those working through a personal services company (“PSC”). If the rules apply because the relationship between the PSC and their customer is “employment like” then the income of the PSC is effectively taxed as if it were from a normal employment. For years the responsibility has been on the PSC to determine whether the rules apply or not and for them to implement them – and in truth many have ignored them.

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'Super-Deduction' Tax Reliefs under the spotlight

“Don’t let the tax tail wag the commercial dog – get advice before committing to major expenditure” Andy Bridge, Barringtons Long-standing South Cheshire Chamber members Barringtons Chartered Accountants in Nantwich take a look at the new tax superdeduction policy which comes into force in a bid to encourage investment across the UK and boost the British economy’s recovery in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Most company business owners understand that if you incur a cost that is wholly and

exclusively for the purpose of your trade, then it can be deducted from your taxable profits or added to tax losses. Likewise, if companies invest in plant or other equipment that qualifies for tax relief, even though the expenditure is the acquisition of an asset – something that will be working in your business for years – it can be partly or wholly written off for tax purposes in the year it was acquired. The facility that allows assets to be written off are called capital allowances and currently, they range from just a few percent per annum to a 100% write down. That was the case until Mr Sunak delivered his Budget. The Chancellor surprised us all by saying that companies investing in brand new plant and machinery in the period from 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2023 will be able to benefit from enhanced capital allowances. Where the investment is in new assets that qualify for the main rate of capital allowances of 18%, they will benefit from a 130% first-year allowance. For example, if a company bought a new machine for its factory for £10,000 during April 2021, it could deduct £13,000 from its profits which at the present 19% rate of corporation tax this would save £2,470 in corporation tax, effectively achieving 24.7% tax relief. In a further twist, investments in new assets qualifying for special rate capital allowances will benefit from a 50% first year allowance (although

claiming the 100% annual investment allowance instead where this is available will be more beneficial). Barringtons Technical Director Andy Bridge says: “New temporary tax reliefs on qualifying capital asset investments are available from April 2021. This measure introduces a temporary 130% super-deduction for main rate new assets, and a temporary 50% first-year allowance for special rate new assets. But Andy also raises a note of caution - “Please take advice BEFORE committing to major expenditure though and don’t let the tax tail wag the commercial dog. Bringing forward expenditure to take advantage of the so-called “Super Deduction” may make sense but the tax affect might not be quite what you think – 130% allowances relieved at 19% Corporation Tax is a reduction of £24,700 in your tax bill for every £100,000 invested, but 100% allowances relieved at 25% Corporation Tax (post 1/4/23) is a reduction of £25,000.” _ For more information contact Barringtons in Nantwich on 01270 623821 or email advice@barringtons.co.uk

Manufacturers urged to bid for 1M€ ‘zero defect’ funding CEO Stuart Campbell (pictured) said:

“ICE is working with the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry to encourage manufacturers, software developers and hardware development companies to bid for grant funding through ZDMP. South Cheshire companies looking to improve process and product quality are invited to bid for funding from the Zero Defects Manufacturing Platform (ZDMP) project. The multi-million project runs under the EU’s Horizon 2020 program, which includes the UK, with funding available to small to mediumsized software developers, tech companies and manufacturers to enable experimentation and nurture innovation. Supporting the drive locally is Crewe-based tech company Information Catalyst (ICE) which helps companies improve their business activities through cutting edge research, innovation and custom software development. CEO Stuart Campbell and his 30-strong team of scientists and software engineers support a global market with system design and smart manufacturing solutions.

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 1 2021

“Times are tough but as a locally-based company I hope the availability of these grants can both help fellow SMEs of South Cheshire out in terms of their activity and also encourage them to improve the quality of their products and processes to make manufacturers and developers even more efficient and robust for the future.” Mr Campbell, who founded ICE 10 years, manages the project on behalf of a consortium of 30 partners including Ford, Continental, and the Universities of Southampton and Valencia. He added, “ZDMP is aimed at European SME software developers, tech companies and manufacturers to create, test, validate and/or integrate innovative zero-defect solutions. “The main objectives are to ensure excellence and quality of the product by advanced modelling, detection, inspection and predictive techniques. It views the quality of process through equipment, resource and energy efficiency.

“People may think this only applies to the classical manufacturing sectors such as automotive and electronics yet it includes any sector such as construction. A building site is the ultimate factory and zero defects are important for stable building! “SMEs are the target of ZDMP, they are the backbone of any economy and by encouraging them in all aspects, such as zero defects and the production of innovative technology, it can help them grow, employ more people and contribution financial and social benefits to the economy in a virtuous circle. “Crewe has a long history of innovation and manufacturing and I’m keen to see local companies benefit. The process is very simple using a template at www.zdmp.eu where videos of the project and recorded webinars are also available. It will take around 4 hours of your time with, of course, a great idea so submission by the 30th April deadline is still possible. Stuart tells us the success rate for such calls is about 25% and that bids can be up to 150K of funding. Whilst we encourage you to bid even in this call, there will be a similar one in August where 2.2M€ worth of funding will be released which we will bring you news of in future editions." _ Further information is available at www.zdmp.eu For more on ICE go to www.informationcatalyst.com

Introducing Can Qualifications - a local business which offers a range of education and training services. After many years specialising in the social care sector Management qualifications were added to our offer and continue to be popular with businesses of all size and type.

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Full marks for management qualifications

These include the Level 3 and 5 Management Diplomas and both the Certificate and the Diploma at Level 7 in Strategic Management. Our work with 100’s of companies has shown that alongside gaining a recognised qualification, retention and staff morale all improve as staff feel valued and part of the ongoing development of the organisation. From meeting people in the South Cheshire area via our Chamber membership, it has become increasingly obvious that local businesses and their staff could benefit hugely from undertaking these qualifications.

Our team is made up of skilled and experienced practitioners with teaching, training, and assessing expertise. We use an electronic portfolio to upload learner work, plan, and

support and this makes the process smooth and efficient. The management suite of qualifications teaches both management skills and techniques and utilises current workplace projects and ideas in development to focus on as key topic areas. This in turn supports the employers Business Plan as learners project work can inform ongoing developments.

The application process is simple. The induction will be planned at a time to suit and include an introduction to the e portfolio and an initial plan. _ Please contact Heather on 0800 177 7733 or heather@can-training.co.uk for more information.

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Squeaky Pedal Collab with Content Kings UK production company Content Kings have signed a collaboration deal with rising Cheshire-based indie Squeaky Pedal to focus on specialist factual content for TV and heritage organisations.

“This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for us” said Squeaky Pedal co-founder Jason Davidson.

“It will allow us to tap into the immense experience held by Content Kings and enable us to work together on a range of exciting new ideas for both TV and the wider media landscape.” Squeaky Pedal was founded in 2017 by filmmakers Peter Roch and Jason Davidson and is based in Crewe. The company has already won a number of awards at film festivals, including Sky History’s Short Filmmaker of the Year Award. The duo started the company creating long form specialist factual documentaries and has grown their offer by building a strong reputation for producing impactful and heartfelt commercial projects for a number of high profile heritage clients including The Imperial War Museum, The National Army Museum and Historic England. They joined the South Cheshire Chamber in January 2021. Jonathan Levi, Managing Director of Content Kings said:

“Squeaky Pedal’s ability to bring remarkable stories to life in a refreshing and dynamic way that connects with audiences from all backgrounds shines throughout their work. We found their accessible and engaging approach to story-telling unique and we want to help them refine their concepts for exciting new TV formats whilst also further raising their profile to enable them to develop new projects and relationships with heritage organisations from across the country.” Content Kings is the brainchild of entrepreneur Gavin Hay, co-founder of Brighter Pictures, former ITV and Warner Bros executive producer and author Jonathan Levi and post-production specialist Simon Green, founder of Green Rock. The firm has already secured its first commissions, including a feature-length true crime documentary for Channel 5 and a primetime commission for ITV, both of which have yet to be unveiled. _ For more information visit: www.squeakypedal.co.uk

Jonathan Levi

Pete Roch

Jason Davidson

Nantwich celebrates its ‘Covid Heroes’ Nantwich Mayor, Councillor Pam Kirkham (pictured) has honoured the outstanding work of Nantwich’s Community during the pandemic, presenting Covid Hero Awards at the Town’s Annual Meeting. The annual Mayor’s Salt of the Earth awards has been put on hold for two years now to due to the pandemic. However, as lockdown restrictions ease and the roll-out of vaccinations are now well under way, The Mayor wanted to acknowledge the remarkable work of the Nantwich Community over the past 12 months. Narrowing down many nominations of those who have gone above and beyond, The Mayor selected just four receipts of Covid Hero Awards, highlighting their outstanding contributions. Cllr Kirkham said:

“This year has been tough and trying with isolation and sadness. But amid this we have also seen our community come together. Whilst we remained safe in our homes, many of our residents, volunteers, organisations and businesses came into their own." "Adapting to news ways of living, many quickly saw the need to assist those the more vulnerable in the

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 1 2021

community. These individuals have shown outstanding kindness, selflessness and support within our town and I am overwhelmed by their achievements.” First to collect their award was Dr David Holden and the NHS vaccination team in Nantwich. Alongside their day-to-day roles, the team have worked tirelessly to co-ordinate the Covid Immunisation programme at the Civic Hall. Formed a year ago to support the most vulnerable in the community, Nantwich Buddies were presented the Community Group Heroes Award. From initially collecting shopping and prescriptions, the team have gone from strength to strength, supporting over 160 households, also assisting with the smooth operation of the vaccination programme at the Civic Hall. The Community Hero Award was handed to Maureen Coulter. Maureen has been a Food Festival Volunteer for many years, however with no Food Festival to focus on she has gone above and beyond to organise food drop-offs for Nantwich Foodbank. Nic Bunting received the final award, The Mayor’s Extraordinary Act of Kindness Award. The Mayor was taken aback by Nic’s commitment to the town’s youngsters. During the pandemic, Nic like many has been home schooling whilst continuing to run his own business. But in addition, he worked tirelessly, at all hours, to refurbish old and broken laptops. These were given to help other children and families in the community, offering them the chance which they may not have had to learn.

South Cheshire businesses and their employees are being offered a chance to get behind an exciting new fitness initiative to support NHS hospitals including Leighton in Crewe. The Great British Rainbow Active Series offers all ages and abilities the chance to undertake a cycle ride, run or walk for their local hospital at their own pace over 30 days. Leading the Series are Michelle Vorel-Adams and Phil Fortun (pictured) who staged a cycling marathon during the first national lockdown and raised £5000 for the Royal Stoke University Hospital where Michelle was treated for a lifethreatening DVT. Helping to raise its profile with news releases, social media, web content and imagery is long-standing Chamber member, Jan Roberts of Pure PR in Nantwich. Jan said:

“Emerging from the pandemic there is so much gratitude towards NHS staff in every local hospital. Everyone has been touched by their selfless caring for Covid victims and role in delivering the vaccination programme. The Great British Rainbow Active Series is an opportunity for everyone to do something positive for their health and wellbeing and raise money for NHS heroes along the way. As a South Cheshire based business, I’m delighted to help promote this new and exciting initiative for my local hospital.”

Money for the NHS is raised through registration online – so no sponsorship forms or collecting of monies. All participants will receive a pin badge or medal and other rewards on completing their challenge. There will be a range of special awards including Best Newcomer, Young Achiever (under 16), Best Fundraiser and Top Cyclist/Runner/ Walker.

Each calendar month there is the opportunity to enter the Great British Rainbow Active Series. Challenge yourself to run, cycle or walk your target monthly distance to receive an exclusive medal or pin badge uniquely designed for each month.

Michelle, who has been made European Cycling Directeur for her efforts to promoting cycling and wellbeing, hopes to hear from local companies who can get behind the Series. She said: “Covid has shown we need to do more as a nation to increase fitness and immunity. Sponsorship of The Great British Rainbow Series offers a chance to tick the CSR box, team build, raise spirits and reap the benefits of increased brand awareness through our PR and marketing. “This is a fantastic opportunity for local companies and individuals to get behind a fundraiser that will say a big ‘thank you’ to those brave souls on the front-line while encouraging exercise for physical and mental health. We are reaching out to companies now and would be delighted to hear from anyone who would like to support their local hospital.” _ To become a Sponsor or Brand Ambassador of the Great British Rainbow Active Series email michelle@rainbowactiveseries.com

CHARITY NEWS

Get behind the Great British Rainbow Active Series

How it works Each calendar month there is the opportunity to enter the Great British Rainbow Active Series. Challenge yourself to run, cycle or walk your target monthly distance to receive an exclusive medal or pin badge uniquely designed for each month. • Choose the distance you want to achieve each month, from 2km up to 2000km (or miles if you prefer) • Take part wherever you are in the world either outdoors or use an indoor bike/ turbo trainer or treadmill – choose your own routes, apps etc • Track your own progress, then send us evidence of your completed monthly distance • Cycle/run/walk solo, with a buddy, family, friends and/or enter as a team (i.e. work colleagues, leagues, school/ college friends)…subject to Covid restrictions • Make a donation to your local NHS hospital through the entry fee process hassle free, choose to make an additional donation, fundraise or just enter the series and pay the fee • Sign up for one, three or six months, choose to do a different activity and challenge each month

To register to take part go to rainbowactiveseries.com TO JOIN TODAY GO TO WWW.SCCCI.CO.UK

CHAMBER EVENTS

South Cheshire Chamber Events Programme

Virtual Speed Networking

How to Maximise your Membership

Held monthly Whether you are considering joining the Chamber, have been a member for some time, or have employees who may not be fully aware of all the benefits of Chamber membership, this event will enable you to fully utilise your membership. This event is open to members and non-members.

Held bi-monthly Speed Networking events are now a regular and efficient fixture for meeting other Chamber members. This structured event enables you to meet all delegates virtually in addition to offering guidance and tips on making the most of your networking. This event is open to members only.

Local and Economic updates

Final Friday

Held on the last Friday of the month Hosted by a Chamber member, this event offers great networking and regularly attracts over 50 different businesses. This event is open to members and non-members (non-members by invitation only and subject to capacity). This event will resume as soon as social distancing guidelines permit.

Held quarterly January, April, July, October This event features an update and comparison of the local, regional and national responses to the latest British Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Economic Survey. In addition, the event will feature a second speaker who will provide an update on local project activity e.g. HS2, Crewe Town Centre. This event is free to members. Nonmembers may attend subject to capacity and will be charged an attendance fee.

International Trade Forums

Held three times per year With a range of expert speakers, this event provides an excellent source of information, knowledge and contacts for any business that is currently, or plans to, trade internationally. This event is open to members and non-members

Chamber Chat, Coffee and Catchup!

Held monthly An online informal catchup with all Chamber members in place of the popular Final Friday event. This is your chance to relax, unwind and catch up with old and new friends at the Chamber! This event is open to members only.

Chamber Share

Held monthly A series of webinars designed to share best practice, knowledge and skills across the Chamber Membership Community. Previous events include: Cyber-crime, HR & Employee Wellbeing and Sales & Marketing. This event is open to members only.

For further details and dates of forthcoming Chamber events visit www.sccci.co.uk/portal/event/

For more information and event listings or if you wish to promote your own event please visit the Chamber Member Portal: www.sccci.co.uk

Our Mission Statement

“To be an asset that is integral to the success of the local business community and influential in promoting the future prosperity of the area”.

Networking / Representation / Crewe Signposting / Events / Nantwich / Knowledge Hub / Export Training / Sales / International Trade Awards / Facilitation / Support Mentoring / Voice of Business / South Cheshire Seminars / Start-Up Advice / Local Economy Interactive Portal / Promotion / Information

For more information on how the Chamber can help your business please contact Angela Wilkinson on angela.wilkinson@sccci.co.uk

We welcome your feedback and ideas for Chamber events. A short feedback questionnaire is available on www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/972R6KN and we would encourage you to complete this to assist us with event planning for 2019 and beyond

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 1 2021

Next Issue due out June 30th 2021. Editorial and advertising deadline June 1st 2021. For advertising Sales and Articles, please contact Jon Barnes: 01270 445409 or jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk

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To find out how South Cheshire Chamber can act as a Gateway Organisation for your business: Contact jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk or go to: gov.uk/kickstart

South Cheshire Chamber Business Magazine Q1 2021

Articles inside

CHAMBER EVENTS

CHARITY NEWS

CHAMBER PARTNERS