South Cheshire Chamber Business Q3 2020

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

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

Q U A RT E R 3 2020

Crewe Market Hall prepares for Spring launch PAG E 28

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.

TO LET

LET

THE NANTWICH TEAM

Karen Kilcourse

3 Hospital Street, Nantwich Retail unit suitable for a variety of uses 1,554 Sq Ft (144.37 Sq M)

Rockwell House, Crewe Gates Industrial Estate, Crewe A good mix of warehouse/ manufacturing and office space 28,509 Sq Ft (2,648.49 Sq M)

TO LET

TO LET

karenkilcourse@legatowen.co.uk

Matthew Pochin

mattpochin@legatowen.co.uk

The Dovecote, Crewe Hall Farm, 8 Solway Court CrewePark, Crewe Crewe Business HighHigh specification office with parking quality self contained 3,172 -office 6,525 Sq Ft (294.68 - 606.17 1,437 Sq FtSq M)

8 Solway Court Unit B Southmere Court, Crewe Crewe Business Park, Crewe Business Park, Crewe High quality self contained 2,081 -office 4,352 Sq Ft (183 - 404 Sq M) 1,437 Sq Ft

TO LET

TO LET

Andy Butler

andybutler@legatowen.co.uk

Sam Davis

samdavis@legatowen.co.uk

8 Orion Park, Crewe New high specification unit with good circulation and parking 3,912 Sq Ft (363.42 Sq M)

8 Solway Court Corspace Space, Electra House, Crewe Park,Crewe Crewe Crewe Business Business Park, High quality self contained Fully serviced flexible co-working space with office parking available 1,437 Sq Ft

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’.

At the beginning of the year, I commented on how 2019 had been a hugely frustrating year for everyone including the business community. It was caused by a lack of clarity and uncertainty caused principally by BREXIT and how I hoped 2020 would provide more certainty going forward. Well, how wrong could I be?

Words cannot describe how unexpected and extremely difficult this period has been for our community, but I would like to thank all key workers who have been fighting this terrible pandemic on the frontline. I would also like to thank the business community who have become agile and adapted to help support the fight and continue to employ staff and keep the economy going.

The pandemic has had a massive impact on the local economy and the effects will be felt up and down the country, but despite this difficult situation, our area has the foundations to recover extremely well and become an even stronger economy.

I am very proud to be a member of the newly established Crewe Town Board that is overseeing the delivery of the Governments £25m Towns Fund investment, but also the overall vision for Crewe and the surrounding area. As can be read on page 6, this area will see investment close to £200m over a number of years that will help transform the town ready to embrace the growth generated by the arrival of high speed rail.

This investment will be used to prepare a vision for Crewe that will enhance the town centre, transport infrastructure, education, night time economy, arts and culture in the area. This area is the envy of many places as we have a strong economy with outstanding businesses, exceptional transport connectivity (Before HS2 comes to town) and excellent educational institutions. Along with a new brand for Crewe, there is no reason this area cannot prosper and be the place people and businesses want to make their home.

In addition to the public sector investment coming to this area, our Patron Bentley Motors recently announced their commitment to become the global leader in sustainable luxury mobility. They will reinvent every aspect of their business to become an end-to-end carbon neutral organisation as they embark on their brand’s second century. (p.19) This includes new investment and an aim to be financially resilient and recession-proof in the future, which will be tremendous for the area and is a much needed boost in the current climate.

The Chamber continues to provide help and support for local businesses throughout the pandemic, providing up to date information, advice and support including guidelines from local and national Government. As our Chamber is part of the British Chambers Of Commerce accredited network we were able to feedback the issues facing businesses as they came to terms with the effects of COVID-19 and the shortfalls in the support provided by Government.

Being part of the Chamber gives businesses the latest information, promotion of their products and services; and access to knowledgeable experts who can provide advice and the latest best practice. The Chamber has been remote working 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

10

HEALTH & WELLBEING

11

EXPERT EYE

12 - 13

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

14 - 15

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

16 - 17

CHAMBER PATRONS

18 - 22

CHAMBER PREMIUM MEMBERS

23 - 24

COMMUNITY NEWS

25 - 28

MEMBERS NEWS

29 - 37

CHAMBER EVENTS

38

CHARITY SPECIAL

39

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

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NEW MEMBERS

Meet the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry

New Members Insure Life Ltd

4 Alvaston Business Park, Middlewich Road, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 6PF sales@insurelifegroup.co.uk www.insurelifegroup.co.uk 01270 694949

Unit 9, Sandbach Market, Sandbach, Cheshire, CW11 1AX sellmygoldandsilver@gmail.com 07554 019218

Red Rag Marketing

Nucleus Coach and Consulting

Leaf it to me Gardening Services

Automotive Minds Ltd

K W Events and Marketing

Hardware and Gardenware Ltd

Hollinshead Podiatry

Intercog Ltd

7 Hopsedge Close, Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 5TR hello@redragmarketing.com www.redragmarketing.com 07393 226811

6 Barnato Close, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 3GH info@leaf-it-to-me.co.uk www.leaf-it-to-me.co.uk 07854 656067

35 Stock Lane, Shavington, Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 5ED Kate@kweventsandmarketing.com www.kweventsandmarketing.com 07307 330123

330A Nantwich Road, Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 6PB info@footache.co.uk www.footache.co.uk 01270 211466

United Kingdom Business Advisors Northern 1 Glaisdale Close, Wistaston, Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 6SF david.lee@ukba.co.uk www.ukba.co.uk 01270 664538

Erda Training and Therapy

167 Ruskin Road, Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 7JX dianeearl47@gmail.com www.erdatrainingandtherapy.co.uk 01270 650934

A. Lench Building Contractors

The Office Suite, Unit 3, West Avenue, Talke, Stoke-on-Trent Staffordshire, ST7 1NT swilliams@alenchbuilders.com www.lenchcleaning.com 01782 785347

Westside Taxis

4-8 Browning Street, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 3BB enquiries@westsidetaxis.co.uk www.westsidetaxis.co.uk 01270 258888

Realm Creative Ltd

100C Crewe Road, Alsager, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST7 2JA chris@realmcreative.co.uk www.realmcreative.co.uk 07436 044672

BAE Systems Global Combat Systems Munitions Limited Radway Green , Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 5PJ david.buckley5@baesystems.com www.baesystems.com 03300 461133

4

Wards of Sandbach

Wards of Sandbach

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

Charter Court 2 Well House, Chester Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH4 0DH grahamjackson@nucleuscoach.co.uk www.nucleuscoach.co.uk 07774 941367 Burwardsley Way, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 8WN automativeminds@outlook.com 07368 211595

U Storeall, Cheerbrook Farm, Newcastle Rd, Willaston, Cheshire, CW5 7EL support@hardwareandgardenware.co.uk www.hardwareandgardenware.co.uk 0330 133 3041 15 Trinity Drive, Stone, Staffordshire, ST15 8ET mike@intercog.co.uk www.intercog.co.uk 07900 694206

Jay's Computer Services

74 Nantwich Road, Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 6AL info@jayscomputerservices.co.uk www.jayscomputerservices.co.uk 01270 897386

Tender Writing Services

Audley House, New Road, Morton, Cheshire, CW12 4RX joyce@tenderwritingservices.co.uk www.tenderwritingservices.co.uk 01260 299451

Autism Inclusive

Laurence Building, Apollo Buckingham Health Science Campus, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 5DU contact@autisminclusive.org.uk www.autisminclusive.org.uk 01270 214859

NLY Office Assistant

The Beeches, 389 Crewe Road, Wistaston, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 6NW nlyofficeassistant@gmail.com 07422 944608

RHN Training

Bank Chambers, 3 Churchyardside, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5DE robert@rhntraining.co.uk www.rhntraining.co.uk 01270 611 823

1. FACILITATION RAISE YOUR PROFILE AND CONNECT WITH OTHER MEMBERS

We welcome all our new members The South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce is an amazing place to connect to your local business community, but don’t just take our word for it:

NEW MEMBERS

Why join your local Chamber?

Regular Chamber and member and partner events programme

ANNUAL BUSINESS AWARDS CELEBRATION

2. INFORMATION

3. REPRESENTATION

“I have found South Cheshire Chamber an invaluable resource for knowledge, networking and establishing new relationships. It has continually supported the success of the light display since 2013 and helped to build our reputation to become a successful community event in the very heart of our local community.

The Chamber do an incredible job to support small, medium and large businesses across South Cheshire and I thank them for all their continued loyal support”

Graham Witter BEM Event Founder & Organiser Weston Christmas Light Display

… Afford Bond have been members of South Cheshire Chamber for several years now and membership has allowed us to expand our networking events in conjunction with other likeminded professionals. The Chamber continually gives us the opportunity to raise our profile keeping us at the forefront of our community’s business activities.”

Sarah Glass Associate Director

If you would like to share a testimonial, please send it through to jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk

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

5

CHAMBER NEWS

£180 million of investment to support Crewe’s regeneration takes step forward Long-awaited plans to catapult Crewe into the 21st century have been welcomed by the South Cheshire Chamber.

Chamber officials have been at the forefront of efforts to revitalise the town centre and unlock its potential as a high speed rail hub, lobbying on a national and regional level backed by major local employers.

Just this month the Chamber has represented businesses during meetings with the British Chambers of Commerce, Cheshire Business Group, Cheshire East Business Forum, Crewe Cultural Forum and the newly formed Crewe Town Board, led by Doug Kinsman of SG World.

Now there’s been good news - Cheshire East Council has moved another step closer to unlocking the delivery of £180 million of investment including a major rail infrastructure overhaul to allow seven HS2 trains an hour to call at Crewe and a town centre revamp with improved accessibility and central living.

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman said: “The Chamber is continually pushing the case for Crewe supported by local employers on our Business Council and key stakeholders from the public and private sector. HS2 has never been off the agenda.

“The benefits to Crewe and the entire North West region, in terms of inward investment and job creation, are immense. We have lobbied, supported and helped shape local strategies always mindful of our pledge to support the prosperity of South Cheshire and represent the interests of businesses large and small.

“The global pandemic has hit our local business community hard with unexpected and unprecedented challenges. Never more so has there been a time to embrace positive change and rejoice in good news. We wholeheartedly welcome this announcement. It’s been a heroic combined effort by all those involved.”

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BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

Cheshire East Council has outlined interventions which aim to support the town centre regeneration, with new commercial and employment opportunities, provide new homes that will help to tackle housing supply issues and inequalities in the town.

Steering HS2 Getting the right station solution for Crewe is critical to unlocking the economic, social and environmental potential of the town.

To unlock this potential, the council require the delivery of: • The right rail infrastructure solution to be delivered at Crewe station to enable up to seven HS2 trains per hour, in each direction, to call at Crewe; • A new rail junction known as the Crewe North Connection that would link the HS2 Phase 2b line (which is out for consultation) and the existing West Coast Main Line; and • Critical enhancements to Crewe railway station to bring it closer in line with the standard of other HS2 stations being delivered elsewhere.

Cllr Craig Browne, deputy Leader of Cheshire East Council, said “As a council we will be considering HS2 in more detail in November, but this update shows that we are starting to engage our scrutiny committee on it, prior to the decisions being confirmed.

“The council has assessed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the HS2 project and notes that it is important to continually review and revise its plans based on the affordability, viability and deliverability of a scheme.

“This has led to a revised scheme proposition for the Crewe hub which will see the full vision delivered in phases rather than all upfront.”

The initial phase of the proposed scheme, which will focus on the area immediately

surrounding the Crewe Hub station and will include: • Enhancements to Nantwich Road Bridge including the delivery of new pedestrian and cycle bridge decks to improve links between the station and town centre and promotion of active travel; • Delivery of a new interchange on Weston Road to provide enhanced facilities for taxis, pick-up and drop off and with the potential to incorporate buses; • Delivery of a new multi-storey car park on Weston Road to replace the existing surface level car park and cater for HS2 passenger growth at Crewe; and • Delivery of highway access improvements comprising of a series of junction improvements on the immediate road network serving the hub.

Future High Street Fund In June this year the Cheshire East Council submitted the ‘Revitalising Crewe’ business case to Government seeking £20.568m capital funding to support projects which will stimulate the regeneration of Crewe town centre.

The projects, which are yet to be formally decided upon at a future cabinet meeting, look at ways to: • Make the town more accessible, • Provides the thinking towards developing more in-town living • Seeks further enhancements for the development of the history centre; • Provides outline ambitions for supporting a technology and digital innovation campus; and

CHAMBER NEWS • Sets out the creation of a sustainable energy network.

HS2 Phase 2b consultation Cheshire East Council has acknowledged the announcement from HS2 Ltd regarding the Phase 2b Western Leg Design Refinements Consultation, published 7 October. The key proposal is the addition of the Crewe Northern Connection and changes to the design of Crewe North Rolling Stock Depot. The two changes to the design north of Crewe are: • Include Crewe Northern Connection

Over the coming weeks, the council will review the information that has been published and develop its response to the consultation, ending on 11 December 2020. Consultation documents are available on HS2 Ltd’s website at www.gov.uk/government/consultations/hs2phase-2b-design-refinement-consultation There’s a 24-hour helpline for those who would like to ask questions. _ Call 08081 434 434 or email hs2enquiries@hs2.org.uk

in the design for HS2 to enable the benefits of NPR and the Crewe Hub to be realised in future with more and quicker services to the North and the Midlands; and • Modify the design of the Crewe North Rolling Stock Depot to provide the required stabling and maintenance facilities for HS2 rolling stock and support the efficient operation of the HS2 network.

Partners welcome good news for Crewe A range of partners involved in bringing about change for Crewe are welcoming good news after a series of announcements and milestones have been reached taking the town a step closer to achieving its future vision.

Partners, consisting of the Crewe Cultural Forum, Crewe Town Board, HQ Theatres, Crewe Town Council and Cheshire East Council, have all welcomed the news that; • The demolition of the vacant shops at the Royal Arcade site will start to take place in mid-October; • £750,000 of accelerated funding has been awarded from the Towns Fund to improve the Lyceum Square in Crewe; • A new operator has been secured to manage Crewe markets for the next five years, including the remodelled Crewe Market Hall, ahead of its anticipated opening next year; and • Crewe Town Council has been successful in securing funding from the Architectural Heritage Fund to employ a heritage project officer for Crewe.

Cllr Sam Corcoran, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said:

“This signals the next exciting stage of regeneration for Crewe town centre and follows in the footsteps of the Lifestyle Centre and University Technical College."

"We could talk about these projects in isolation but if you take them as a collective it starts to show first steps to Crewe’s widertransformation and how we are getting things done together.

Demolition of the Royal Arcade: The demolition date of the vacant shops at the Royal Arcade site has been agreed between Cheshire East Council and its developer Peveril Securities Ltd, leading the way for the site to be clear by May 2021. £750,000 accelerated funding has been awarded from Towns Fund: Crewe Town Board has been awarded £750,000 for an improvement scheme developed by the Crewe Cultural Forum for the Lyceum Square. Plans include an outdoor area to enjoy performances and entertainment from the Lyceum Theatre as well as festivals and special events created with and by local people and businesses.

Crewe Market Hall: A new operator has been secured to manage Crewe markets for the next five years, including the remodelled Crewe Market Hall, ahead of its anticipated opening next year. Opening five days a week, the refurbished Market Hall will be brimming with high-quality, fresh food and independent eateries and retailers, while also featuring pop-up stalls and events.

Crewe’s heritage gets a boost: Crewe Town Council has been successful in securing funding from the Architectural Heritage Fund to employ a heritage project officer for Crewe. The project will look at the future of Christ Church as well as other aspects of the town’s heritage and seek to protect and promote the town’s historical assets and character.

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

7

CHAMBER NEWS

Chamber is intermediary for Kickstart scheme and urges firms to sign up South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce wants to hear from employers who can create job opportunities for the area’s young people as part of the Government’s Kickstart scheme.

The Chamber is working as an intermediary for the £2b scheme designed to offer six-month placements to 16-24 year-olds currently on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.

Local employers will receive funding for 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, plus associated employer National Insurance contributions and employer minimum auto-enrolment pension contributions.

Applications are open now and the Chamber, working with Crewe and Nantwich MP Dr Kieran Mullan, hopes to see a big response from the area’s diverse range of businesses.

The support will extend to all local firms, including non-members.

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman said:

“The Chamber is acting as an intermediary in the Kickstart process and can offer valuable support to businesses interested in taking part.

“Our support will extend to all businesses, including non-members in a real effort to offer hope and job skills to young people for whom the current outlook may appear bleak.”

South Cheshire Chamber has long championed the role of young people in the workplace through its Young Persons networking events and annual Business Awards recognising fresh talent. Prizes go to leaders of the future and star apprentices.

As a member of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) accredited network, throughout the pandemic the Chamber has fed back on issues affecting local businesses to Government. This lobbying helped pave the way for support packages including the job retention scheme, interruption loans and selfemployed grants.

Commenting on Kickstart, BCC Head of People Policy Jane Gratton said: “At a time when cashflow is tight, this fully-funded scheme will help employers bring young people into the workplace and develop new talent for the future.

“Rooted in local business communities, Chambers of Commerce understand employers’ growth aspirations, and will be working to bring companies and young people together to create new jobs.”

South Cheshire Chamber has had an encouraging response to Kickstart applications going live this month and urges more businesses to get involved. _ For more information please contact info@sccci.co.uk

EMPLOYERS Can you help Kickstart a young person's career?

If you think you can offer a Kickstart placement that will be fully funded by the government, find out how to get involved.

Go to: gov.uk/kickstart 8

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

MESSAGE FROM CHAIR

A message from our Chair Crewe – a town for the future Recently I was fortunate enough to attend a British Chambers of Commerce webinar where Adam Marshall, the BCC Director General was conducting a Q&A with Andrew Bailey, the Governor of the Bank of England. We all need some good news at the moment, and a positive that was identified was that recovery up to now has been quite rapid and the third quarter is actually further ahead than originally anticipated.

However (there is always a ‘however’!) recovery is uneven across sectors. For example, whilst retail sales have actually been maintained there has been a shift in consumption patterns with reduced social consumption and unsurprisingly, there has been a shift from instore to online sales. There is limited labour demand, investment is weak and yet the housing market is strong. The result is that the make-up of the economy is now different to how it was pre-Covid.

We in South Cheshire are very familiar with these changing trends, which are reflected in our own region with many of our businesses busier than ever and yet others still unable to

open and wondering just how they will survive.

Looking to the future, the Governor is calling for structural change. This clearly means that there isn’t a quick fix, but I firmly believe that Crewe is in a position that we have never been in before where we can consider structural change on a local level.

This isn’t about improvement, or small step change but is about shaping Crewe so that it meets the future needs of businesses, residents, workers, visitors and all those who come into contact with Crewe. Crewe must no longer be a gateway to somewhere else; it should be a destination, an experience.

What would this look like? Perhaps it would be a place that is ‘visual’ and drives creativity; a place that is about connectivity for all - not just because of HS2 but physical and digital connectivity – creating a centre that is about meeting spaces and collaboration. Will there be less migration to the cities, creating the opportunity for Covid adapted office space developments in Crewe? Can we have more green spaces, cycle paths, walking routes etc. so that people spend more time in the centre?

Why not take this opportunity to rethink Crewe

completely and consider change that will create a town of the future?

I have seen many attempts to relaunch Crewe over the time I have worked in Crewe and been on the Chamber Board and yet I truly believe that now amongst all this upheaval the time for change is here. We are in a better place than many other major towns in the UK for a number of reasons, but additionally, this time we are fortunate enough to have a newly created Town Board that is populated by people of vision who can see the potential for Crewe and are willing to be bold and make dramatic changes. So although there is so much uncertainty we must all grasp these opportunities – if we don’t make it happen now we never will, and that means all of us considering how our own businesses can change and become a part of this new, exciting future for Crewe and the surrounding region.

Dr Diane Wright PhD MA BA (Hons) Chair of the Chamber South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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

9

CHAMBER PARTNERS

Chamber team remain on side As I write this piece, we are in the early stages of the football season, albeit clubs have only recently shown their hands for the months ahead, as the wonderful Transfer Window remained open until early October. Indeed such are the planning skills of clubs that Sky Sports dedicated a full 24 hours on Deadline Day to cover the vast number of deals done on that day.

I myself kept my phone line open in the hope, nay expectation, that my goalkeeping skills would be given one last hoorah with a Premier League Club and thereby round off my Sporting CV. If Joe Hart can get a deal then my optimism was, I thought, not be misplaced.

Unfortunately (for the Premier League) no call came. Consequently, I shall continue to be part of the whole Chamber Team in demonstrating an ongoing commitment to the wellbeing of our South Cheshire businesses during what remains difficult times.

The funds available to Premier League Clubs are someway in excess of most of our local businesses and as such not many, if any, of our business owners can adopt a similar budgeting policy to Premier League Clubs.

The critical timelines for business were until recently, just as clear as Deadline Day. The Business Rates and subsequent Discretionary Grant Scheme had ended. The Job Retention Scheme had an end date of 31st October, albeit the Chancellor has subsequently announced a reinstatement of these schemes with additional funds also introduced and it remains to be seen whether this will make the positive impact that saves jobs.

Originally, the CBILS scheme should have ended on 30th September and the Bounce Back Loan Scheme was due to end on 4th November with the Self Employed Income Support ending on 19th October. Thankfully all have been extended where in terms of the loan schemes, this includes both availability and repayment terms.

The overall situation remains fluid but we must all work with what we know. Just like the Premier League clubs, we know that there will be a defined date ultimately from which we have to proceed with what we have.

Rather than adopt the headless chicken syndrome favoured by some football clubs on a certain Autumn day in October, prudent business owners will be planning now for the coming months. We now know, following the latest update, what will happen in terms of the support made available by government and consequently

have to plan now to ensure that our businesses adapt as necessary and thereby give ourselves every chance not just to survive but to prosper.

That will continue to be the maxim for the South Cheshire Development Agency and our sister business at the Chamber. Between us we have a team with a wealth of experience in business matters, with additionally Chamber members who can offer support at many levels, not least of which being that they are experiencing the same issues as so many other local businesses and remain keen to share thoughts as we all work together to still be here in the months ahead.

Unfortunately my phone still seems preoccupied with offering me accident claims advice, suggesting that I need more than one TV licence or that I am due a much deserved tax rebate. Should anyone reading this be in Crewe Town Centre and come across Jose Mourinho or Jurgen Klopp coming out of Poundland, please feel free to pass on my mobile number. Tell them that this is one offer that will not be extended. _ If you have any queries on any of the above or indeed just want a chat, then please call or contact me, Richard Weilding, by e-mail at richardweilding@scdal.co.uk or phone 07788 268852.

Making a difference Rolling into Autumn and Wintertime has a new meaning this year. During the Covid-19 pandemic many people have found the necessity to dig deep for resilience, ingenuity, and creativity to repurpose and create new ways of delivering services and products. This has been challenging and for some, opened new possibilities.

There are many examples of commercial businesses and local charities coming together to ensure those most vulnerable in our community can access support in a safe and covid-19 (CV-19) secure environment.

During the lockdown period, we were grateful to receive so many skill donor offers and, in this time, Cheshire Connect facilitated and implemented a series of high impact skill donor match introductions for many local charities.

For example, the Cheshire Without Abuse charity recognised the need to adapt their services as the incidence of domestic violence escalated. The skill donor support provided both strategic and practical support.

Central Cheshire Buddy Scheme, aka Buddies, accessed Health and Safety CV-19 advice and guidance through a skill donor. Subsequently, Buddies’ provided support for over 80 children with disabilities and complex needs and over

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BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

70 siblings and carers during the easing of lockdown. The service users were able to enjoy socially distanced outdoor fun activities once again. For those shielding or wishing to stay at home, the charity was able to deliver resources for garden activities.

The Stroke Survivors group have also been creative and adapted services online. Additionally, they arranged the delivery of treats, such as ‘cream teas’ and activities direct to the door, helping to bridge the social isolation experienced by many people over recent months.

The Lighthouse Centre kept their doors open too. They were there for the homeless and provided hot food, emergency accommodation, tents, toiletries, clothes, and a listening ear to help connect and signpost to other services and support in the area.

If you are considering offering skill donor support to help a local charity, we have many fabulous experienced skill donors from the South Cheshire Chamber Board of Directors and chamber members all happy to share their skill donor experiences.

An example of this is: Peter Ewan of HeelheadOver Video Productions, Simon and Cate Walter from Rhino Safety and Roar Business Coaching, Fiona Rose Marketing, Judy Watson from Kinvara Consulting, Bentley Motors, ao.com, Assurant and many more.

In addition to helping local Crewe and South Cheshire charities to become sustainable during these challenging times, you will also have an opportunity to make a tangible difference to the lives of those most vulnerable and bring your CSR, Good Business Citizenship and ‘values’ to life. _ To get involved the process is straight forward and simple to register. Please call your local Crewe and South Cheshire Business Connector, Dianne Parrish on 07946 639394 to access further information. www.cheshireconnect.org

A brand new initiative to help improve health and well-being through gardening and nature has been given a welcome cash boost from Cheshire East Council’s Covid Recovery Fund.

The Growing Health Community Garden Nantwich is coming to life on two empty allotment plots behind Brookfield’s Park in Nantwich - granted rent free by Nantwich Town Council which has already formally backed the plans.

The Therapy Garden will be purpose built to provide access to gardening and nature for all - with wheel chair accessible raised cultivation beds and wildlife areas, shelters, sociable seating areas, a seedling polytunnel and plans for a solar powered tool shed and even an accessible composting loo!.

The project is the brainchild of allotment holders, but has attracted the enthusiastic support from the NHS, Nantwich Town and Cheshire East Councils, the Cheshire Wildlife Trust and The RSPCA Wildlife Centre in Stapeley.

In just a couple of months the project has gone from the seed of an idea to being granted the funding to get building and planting. The first digger is due on site to get things moving in November.

Project designer and Brookfield Allotment Holder Mel Rees, who is herself disabled, said the Covid crisis has demonstrated just how important gardening is.

“Gardens have been a lifeline for so many people through the lockdown. The allotments provide fresh air, tranquillity, exercise, fresh fruit and veg and community when it’s needed the most. I have personal experience of the amazing and transformative therapeutic benefits of gardening.”

Michael Willcocks of the Audlem Medical Practise said there was growing recognition of how important gardening is.

“Health professionals have long understood the link between gardening and good mental and physical health.

Prescribing gardening sessions in the company of a gentle and caring community really is the recipe to recovery. We already have a long list of people looking forward to taking this natural route to good health” said Michael Willcocks.

Cheshire East Council Community Officer Deb Lindop said the project was also a brilliant way to help rebuild back stronger, greener and healthier post Covid.

“So many people have lost their jobs and their sense of purpose. The Growing Health Garden will provide a place where people can learn new skills, rebuild their confidence, and make the connections to future opportunities to personal and professional growth.”

Cheshire Wildlife Trust’s Jan Shone said the project was all about growing a healthier world.

“Gardening is a great way for people to learn about how nature works, and the importance of wildlife and the environment. As Sir David Attenborough can attest - we need to learn the value of life

HEALTH & WELLBEING

New Nantwich community health garden gets £5,000 launch boost

on planet earth to appreciate our own lives. The garden is a great place to start that journey.”

Nantwich Town Councillor Stephanie Wedgwood, who is also a nurse, is backing the project too.

“It’s really inspiring to see everyone working together to help and support those who have struggled through Covid. Gardening is all about nurturing. The Growing Health project creates the links for planting the seeds for a stronger, more thoughtful and caring community.”

The £5,000 grant will pay for much of the first stage of the project, including clearing the site, building the raised beds and pathways and preparing the ground for a community polytunnel, shelter, pond and seating areas.

But the not-for-profit community project still needs more material and financial support and we would be delighted to hear from anyone, particularly local businesses, who can help. _ For further details of how you can help contact herbertjeremy@rocketmail.com or ring 07729 979641.

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11

EXPERT EYE

Expert Eye Automotive Minds

Adversity leads to new business supporting mental health

New Chamber member David Cain is a former senior car executive whose battle with anxiety and depression led him to contemplate suicide. Now David, a dad of two, has launched Automotive Minds Ltd working with business leaders to devise mental health policies and procedures for employees across all sectors.

He says: “Having suffered from poor mental health and contemplated suicide I have a very personal experience of depression and anxiety. I chose to hide my condition from those closest to me and my work colleagues. I was successful in business, climbing the ladder every two and half years, and earned a six-figure sum annually. To the outside world I had the perfect life; loving wife, two beautiful children, nice cars, and five-star holidays twice per year.

“However, like many before me, I succumbed to a negative and irrational personal reality. Once a person is in its grasp, even the most successful, confident, and competent professional can spiral into despair and self-destruction. It is important that we recognise in ourselves and others, the signs of depression and anxiety.”

Whilst every person’s triggers and symptoms are personal to their circumstances, clues include: • Disturbed sleep patterns.

• Low sex drive.

• Changes in appetite or sudden weight gain/loss.

• Changes in personal hygiene.

• Uncharacteristic mood swings.

• A sudden decline in work performance/productivity.

• Avoiding contact with family and friends.

• Avoiding social interactions and neglecting hobbies.

• Alcohol or drug abuse/misuse.

• Lack of energy or motivation.

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BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

Prior to COVID 19 it was estimated that 1 in 4 people in the UK were suffering from poor mental health. Since the onset of coronavirus further studies have been conducted with the following findings: • 85% of employees did not think mental health support had been a priority for their employer during the crisis.

• 60% said their employer had not organised any virtual social activities to support them while working from home.

• 56% of UK workers have not received any mental health advice or support from their employer since the pandemic hit in March.

• 51% feel uncertain about the future of their job.

• 35% reported their mental health has worsened since the pandemic hit.

The cost to the UK economy of mental health at work is an estimated at £45billion a year due to leavism, presenteeism, absenteeism, and staff turnover.

By investing in progressive mental health at work initiatives, studies show the return on investment ranges from 3:1 to 11:1 depending on if the strategies are proactive large-scale initiatives, or solely reactive support.

Employers will achieve higher employee retention, satisfaction, productivity, profitability and loyalty - while absenteeism will be less. Brand values will be reinforced, increasing ranking as an employer of choice, thus attracting better talent. _ For more on how Automotive Minds Ltd can support the mental health and productivity of your workforce contact David Cain on 07368 211595 or visit automotiveminds.uk

EXPERT EYE

Expert Eye ERDA

Top Tips to look after Mental Wellbeing from ERDA: Training, Therapy and Consultancy

Top 5 tips

TO LOOK AFTER MENTAL WELLBEING 1. Remember to be kind to yourself - develop self-compassion to try to still the critical and negative thoughts that erode self-esteem.

2. Create time for your physical health - to exercise, sleep at regular times, eat well.

3. Create time for soothing activities - like being in a natural environment, painting, sewing or making things, being with those who matter to you and finding inspiring stories. Reflect and review what matters to you - are you leading the life you want?

4. Be grateful for what and who you have in your life - remember to say thanks - stay connected to others if you can.

5. Be courageous if you don’t feel safe or supported - speak about it and let your employer know that you have a concern. Decide if your workplace is toxic to you.

Try to express your worries to family, friends and colleagues - use helplines to seek reassurance.

The global pandemic continues to present challenges in our business and personal lives.

Here Diane Earl of ERDA Training & Therapy looks at how we can reduce anxiety and support mental health.

What are the impacts on mental wellbeing?

We are all surviving and living in a time of great insecurity and anxiety. Some of our stresses could be about • The future of our work/business in a changed social context • How long is the change going to be for how many Plan Bs should there be?

• Financial stress • Unasked for changes to plans/lifestyle and hopes for the future • Family stress and tension • Health anxiety - fear of being infected and not surviving • Loneliness

Direct experience of: • Loss and bereavement • Trauma and powerlessness • Awareness of our support network or lack of connection with others Diane says: “The coronavirus pandemic has shed a light on existing inequalities and differences in life situations and opportunity.

This might have stretched our individual resources past the point of being able to continue coping. Comparing ourselves to others might lead to feelings of shame and stigma and the ‘voiceless-ness’ that comes with insecurity and financial pressure. There is more of a sense of those with and those without in every sphere.

“However, we have seen the community come together to support the vulnerable. There have been volunteers and businesses who have gone the extra mile. There has been innovation and creativity; a will to join together to face a common threat.

“People are changing their lifestyles; using local shops and businesses; thinking of the local environment and appreciating green spaces, nature and wildlife; cycling and walking more and cooking/changing their diet. Many have appreciated the opportunity to slow down and re-evaluate life goals.”

Diane has specialised in mental health for 28 years. She provides low cost counselling in Crewe and Sandbach including telephone and online sessions. She stages bespoke workshops and training. Areas covered include: Bereavement and Loss, Anxiety, Stress and Trauma (understanding their impact).

Equine Assisted Therapy - Diane also offers free talks and a taster session about the therapeutic benefits of being with horses. _ For more information, please contact Diane on 01270 650934 / 07837 411717 dianeearl47@gmail.com www.erdatrainingandtherapy.co.uk

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13

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Top ten export destinations

The Top 10 export markets for South Cheshire Chamber Exporters Our exporters have reported an increased interest from the Turkish market for our local products and services. Medical, Electrical and Dairy products being the favoured industries currently.

Despite the global uncertainty of the effect of Covid19, local businesses are reporting a rise in the demand for their products overseas. The Chamber can confirm that the good news is that even though we have restrictions in place that would not normally be there, Export documentation in on the increase.

Turkey

23%

Qatar

15%

United Arab Emirates

12%%

India

12%

Oman 9% Malaysia 7% Switzerland 7% Israel

6%

Lebanon

5%

Saudi Arabia

4%

_ If you would like to know more about how South Cheshire Chamber and its partners can help you or if you have any questions about exporting your product or service please contact the Chamber International Trade Manager, Jacqui Morris Jacqui.morris@sccci.co.uk 01270 445406

Chamber services • Export documentation.

• International trade advice.

• Certification of Visa invitation letters.

Courses & advisory services • Export - is it for you?

• Introduction to the Export Process (Products) • Routes to Overseas Markets • Export Documents • Getting Paid in International Trade

Are you making the most of our advice and support?

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.

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.

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BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

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.

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.”

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.

_ For more information please contact her on sara.pomfret@tradenw.org or 07922 581333.

See www.great.gov.uk for more details.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Get set for the challenges of post-Brexit international growth The EU trading bloc has traditionally been the priority destination for growth; however, due to Brexit businesses are now looking to expand into other economies. The EU trading bloc has traditionally been the priority destination because of its unrestrained economies, but the Government’s confirmation that there will be no extension to Brexit, is a reminder for all business trading internationally that they need to prepare for life after the EU. Businesses intending to expand outside the EU will find themselves facing complexities, they may not have anticipated. For instance, opening a firm in the United Arab Emirates needs research, as certain legal entities in the UAE need to be at least part-owned by an Emirati citizen. Vietnam has strict recruitment regulations, foreign-owned businesses cannot approach prospective employees directly, but must instead enlist a local recruitment agency to hire on their behalf.

Deciding where to do business Before undertaking international trade, it is vital you do your research. When you have an idea of the countries you want to commence trade with, speak to the International Trade Manager at your local Chamber of Commerce or the Department of International Trade. By completing this step, you will also get a deeper understanding of the potential Pitfalls of that country.

Understand local legislation Each country, even ones within the EU have different legislations depending on the products and services that you offer. Will your intellectual property rights and registered trademarks be recognised? To ensure that you

are covered and protected, it is advised that you seek independent legal advice or speak to the IP office.

Documentation Before you start trading there are certain administrative obligations that must be adhered to. The International Trade Manager at your local Chamber of Commerce will be able to assist you to understand customs registration, forms, and payments. Getting the documentation correct from the start is vital when exporting because without it, there can be unnecessary delays which in turn will only cost you more money and you run the risk of losing your international clients.

Logistical concerns How will you get your products to your newfound customers, and over what period?

It is important that you do not underestimate the costs of shipping and have the relevant insurances and documentation. If you have no experience in international logistics speak to a bespoke logistics solutions expert regarding the costs involved, or you could jeopardise your relationships with your overseas clients.

Credit Check & Monitor your customers Companies considering international trade can reduce their exposure to risk by checking potential customers. Credit checking both customers and suppliers should be your first act. When trading you should always carry out due diligence on any customer or supplier to mitigate risk from late payments, debts, and fraud. Recoup Financial Solutions or Recoup Business Support Centre offer domestic & international company credit checks & monitoring facilities. We offer instant access to company credit reports combined with instant

notifications allowing you to view changes on any company checked, on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.

Debt Collection Prevention Knowing your customer has never been more important, as businesses all over the world continue to struggle with fraud and late payments.

Failure to complete due diligence first will result in time & money being spend on chasing debts or outsourcing your problems. With Covid & Brexit looming businesses cannot afford to miss the opportunity of becoming more productive, training your staff is paramount for your business performance and profit.

Recoup Business Support Centre Essential Credit Control & Debt Collection Training Series.

Will walk your staff through every part of the international credit checking and debt collection process. _ Ryan Jones, Managing Director Recoup Financial Solutions, E: rj@recoupfinancialsolutions.co.uk T: 01270 500 602 W: www.recoupfinancialsolutions.co.uk W: www.recoupcentre.co.uk

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15

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

In the

Spotlight with...

Andy Butler

Director at Legat Owen Chartered Surveyors and commercial property consultants in Nantwich.

Legat Owen was established in 1986 with the aim of providing expert, professional and personal advice on commercial property. It now has a staff of 35 based at Albion House in Chester and Nantwich Court, Hospital Street, Nantwich.

The company advises corporate and private clients on all aspects of agency, investment, development, management, building surveys, rent reviews and lease renewals, rating and valuation. Geographically, the practice acts across the whole of the UK with particular emphasis on the North West of England and Wales.

Here we meet Andy Butler, director at the Nantwich office. With more than 30 years as a Commercial Property consultant under his belt, Andy is a General Practice Surveyor overseeing a wide range of Management, Professional and Agency work for individual and corporate clients.

Andy Butler

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BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

Away from work, Mark is a keen runner

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Dad-of-three Andy Butler is a keen runner and walker who lives near Malpas with a menagerie of pets including a flat coat Retriever, cat and three hairy Kune Kune pigs!

Q. Andy tell us about your background and how you came into the industry.

I was a graduate of estate management at Bristol polytechnic and after working for private practises in London, Bristol and Birmingham, I moved to Cheshire in 1994 and have worked from Nantwich ever since. I still get as much pleasure advising the single property owner as the larger companies/ institutions - it’s all about a personal service to me and doing a good job for someone.

Q. The pandemic has hit us all in different ways.

What kind of challenges has the commercial property business faced? Both landlords and tenants have had to work together throughout the crisis to manage rental cash flows but generally we have seen the market hold up very well in South Cheshire. The sector most affected as throughout the rest of the country is retail and leisure. Retail is going through a metamorphosis anyway and will have to continue to adapt in the ever changing marketplace.

Q. Your Agency Teams have reported healthy enquiry levels following an initial dip at the start of lockdown. How do you see things shaping up this autumn and winter?

We found enquiries for all sectors were actually rising through April to the end of July and August is generally quieter anyway. But interest in offices and industrial has been particularly strong both on the freehold and leasehold side. Indeed on the industrial side, we are finding there is a lack of stock at present for units in specific size ranges. On offices, everyone has a different view on where demand will go but our local economy is strong and we have seen companies needing more space to deal with social-distancing and growth in specialist sectors. Also, we are starting to see an increased demand for smaller offices a mixture of start-ups and people moving back to an office from the home environment.

Q. You sit on the Chamber Board and were more recently invited onto the Crewe Town Board. Tell us about that.

South Cheshire is entering a very exciting and important period in its history and I believe there is huge untapped potential for the future.

HS2 will bring big benefits to the area and the region as a whole but it is important that we are all ready for its arrival and that preparation has already started.

I am proud to be on the Chamber and Crewe Town Board. The Crewe Town Board has just been established and is packed with passionate and inspirational members and no more so than its Chairman. We are determined that this next period in Crewe’s development will not be a false dawn for its the people and we will all work hard to help to deliver what Crewe deserves.

Q. What is the motto you live and work by?

To try and treat everyone you meet in life with equal respect.

Q. If you could invite anyone to a dinner party, who would it be and why?

Rory Underwood - in my opinion one of the greatest ever English rugby wings and if I could have another, it would be the greatest rugby commentator - Bill McLaren.

Q. Who inspires you and why?

Roger Federer for his amazing talent, cool determination and longevity in the game.

Q. You are a dad of three, all girls, so life is just as busy away from work! What do you like doing to unwind?

My daughters, now 26, 24 and 19, are all on their own life journeys now at university and beyond. So I do quite a lot of running and walking on the Bickerton hills especially and enjoy running half marathons in the cities they find themselves in. I also enjoy tennis, squash, Pilates and all the arts. I am passionate about good food - both cooking and eating. But the Kune Kune pigs I keep are safe!

Q. Your home is near Malpas. If you could live anywhere is the world, where would it be and why?

I wouldn’t mind a pied-a-terre in Paris or on a remote Scottish island but actually I love where I live - and the grass is not always greener.

Q. What is your greatest achievement to date?

Maybe the London marathon 2012- what an amazing day- and raising three daughters!

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17

CHAMBER PATRONS

AO expansion sparks Cheshire recruitment drive “We’ve proudly provided a lifeline to customers during Covid and a safe working environment for our people. Now, we’re doubling down on our expertise and infrastructure to make sure that we’re in a great position to cement the changes and keep serving customers brilliantly moving out of lockdown.”

Online electricals retailer AO is recruiting for 250 new roles at its logistics hub in Crewe.

The huge recruitment drive has been launched to manage the sustained demand created by customers turning to AO following the Covid-19 lockdown which has led to a shift from high street retail to online. Presenting fresh opportunities for people across Cheshire, the new jobs include both day and night shifts, alongside a variety of highly skilled roles.

Expanding its logistics network to further improve its offer to customers is pivotal to AO’s growth strategy, with the new roles playing an important part. AO has added over 225,000 sq ft of warehouse space with another new warehouse in Stafford opened in August. Located on Redhill Business Park, the 115,000 sq ft of extra distribution space means that the business

can continue to meet customer demand whilst operating safely.

David Ashwell, MD of AO Logistics, said: “We’ve been quick to adapt to meet increased customer demand and we’re investing in the future, adding more space and hundreds of new, quality jobs for people in Cheshire and Staffordshire. We’re proud to be a growing local employer with a history of creating careers in phenomenal business where the sky is the limit.

“Every one of the new recruits will also be part of AO’s recently announced incentive scheme, the Value Creation Plan. The revolutionary new scheme is the first of its kind in the UK and will give every AO-er the opportunity to earn around one times’ salary linked to the business’ success over the next five years.

Ben Tesla, Operations Manager at AO Logistics, joined the business in 2013 as a Warehouse Operative. Seven years later, Ben now manages a team of over 400 and runs the night shift in Crewe. Ben said: “When I joined AO, I never expected to build a career here but the opportunities I’ve been given have enabled me to learn and grow on the job. I couldn’t recommend AO enough as place to work.”

AO.com acquired the two-person delivery company, formerly Expert Logistics, in 2009, and it now offers next day delivery to every UK postcode seven days a week on its range of 12,000 electrical products. _ For more information on the new roles available visit: ao-jobs.com/jobs-in-crewe

Assurant expands social responsibility support for Business in the Community in UK Assurant upholds its social responsibility commitment in many ways worldwide. In the UK, Assurant has partnered with Business in the Community (BITC) for several years, focusing on initiatives to improve diversity and formulate our wellbeing strategy.

BITC is the oldest and largest businessled membership organisation in the UK. At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, BITC created the National Business Response Network (NBRN) to link business resources to community needs in the right place, at the right time.

Assurant has pledged its support to the NBRN to continue their vital work of connecting the needs of UK communities and charities with business support, with a donation of $50,000 USD over two years from the Assurant Foundation.

Assurant also is contributing to this effort by meeting demand for technology, donating refurbished tablets to support three local charities.

Two of the charities, Hestia and Hope for Justice, serve vulnerable people, with both

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BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

charities focusing on survivors of modern slavery.

Hestia also works with men and women who have escaped domestic abuse as well as other vulnerable groups. The donated technology is going to enable these people, who can be isolated, to keep connected with their care workers.

Hope for Justice said: "Having access to tablets means we can organise online English tuition, mental health support and help clients connect with friends, reducing the feeling of isolation."

The third charity is a special needs school for pupils aged three to 19 with the most complex physical, medical and behavioural needs. The donated tablets from Assurant will be used to support the online learning and sensory needs of the children. _ To learn more about the NBRN, please visit their website: bitc.org.uk

Bentley Motors has unveiled plans to become a global leader in sustainable luxury mobility - reinventing every aspect of the business to become an end-to-end carbon neutral organisation. This includes switching its model range to offer exclusively plug-in hybrid or battery electric vehicles by 2026, and full electric vehicles only by 2030.

The announcement highlights Bentley’s aim to provide extraordinary mobility for the next century, evolving from the world’s largest producer of 12-cylinder petrol engines to having no internal combustion engines within a decade, reinventing itself as a leader in sustainable luxury mobility.

The Beyond100 strategic plan is an extension of two decades of forward thinking, innovation and achievement. Acutely aware of the responsibility to consider its environmental, social and economic impact, Bentley has transformed its 80-year-old headquarters into the UK’s single carbon neutral luxury car factory.

Adrian Hallmark, Bentley Chairman and

Chief Executive Officer, said:

“Driving this change includes, and also goes beyond our products, delivering a paradigm shift throughout our business, with credibility, authenticity, and integrity.

Within a decade, Bentley will transform from a 100 year old luxury car company to a new, sustainable, wholly ethical role model for luxury.”

Bentley’s aim to become an end-to-end carbon neutral luxury car brand by 2030 will be underpinned by a structured, business-wide sustainability programme. This includes the development of electrified models throughout

For more information visit www.bentleymotors.com

Cheshire College supporting employers to recruit talented individuals

Cheshire College – South & West are delighted to be helping provide individuals and employers with the skills needed over the long term and prevent skills shortages.

The Government have officially launched its new £2 billion Kickstart Scheme, which aims to create thousands of new jobs for young people.

The Scheme provides funding to employers, allowing them to create new 6-month job placements for young people, allowing them to build their experience and move into sustained employment.

Businesses of all sizes looking to develop quality jobs can apply and there is no cap on the number of places.

Amongst other local businesses, the College is working in collaboration with Brunning and Price, offering young people a chance to explore opportunities within the Hospitality industry, whilst strengthening their employability.

Helen Nellist, Deputy Principal and Deputy CEO, commented: “There are several fantastic developments happening across the vast array of industries and I am thrilled that the College is able to support the initiatives, ensuring new

the range, and further improvements on its operational environmental impact.

Having already committed that every model line will be offered with the option of a hybrid variant by 2023, with Bentley’s first pure electric model to be launched in 2025, Bentley is also announcing a move towards zero emission mobility.

Following the introduction of the first Bentley fully electric model in 2025 - Bentley’s first cradle to grave fully carbon neutral car Bentley will exclusively offer plug-in hybrid and electric models only within its range in 2026. By 2030, this will change to battery electric vehicles only.

Last year, Bentley’s production facility in Crewe became the first luxury automotive factory in the UK to be certified carbon neutral by the Carbon Trust. This followed two decades of implementing innovative solutions, including a water recycling system in the paint shop, local tree planting, installation of a 10,000 solar panel carport, taking the total number of on-site solar panels to 30,000, and a switch to renewable-only electricity sources.

The Crewe facility will continue to improve its environmental operations. By the end of 2025, the company intends to reduce its factory environmental impact by focusing on energy consumption, CO2 emissions, waste water, use of solvents in the paint process and becoming plastic neutral. This will result in a climate positive factory by 2030, actively reducing levels of carbon in the atmosphere. _

CHAMBER PATRONS

Bentley unveils plans to become carbon neutral by 2030

opportunities are available to everyone that lives and works in Cheshire.

“The College is extremely passionate about connecting businesses with talented individuals, allowing businesses to harness appropriate skills and support, allowing them to develop an agile workforce.

“There are young people ready and waiting to secure employment and Cheshire College has a dedicated team to support the whole process.

Together we can support the skills-led plan and help our region recover.”

The College can also help employers secure up to £3,000 for each new apprentice hired between 1 August 2020 and 31 January 2021, following the Government’s increase in incentive payments.

The benefits to hiring an apprentice can be huge, including: • Keep or develop your competitive advantage • Increase productivity and efficiency • Aid employee satisfaction and retention • Tackle the skills shortage • Reduced recruitment costs • Future proof your business Cheshire College – South & West works with over 500 local, national and international employers, providing a whole host of services to benefit businesses and has an extensive record of success. _ For more information, email employers@ccsw.ac.uk or call 01244 656499.

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19

CHAMBER PATRONS

Crewe charity launches school shoe recycling hub The shoe recycling hub was preparing to open when Mayor of Crewe Benn Minshall visited.

A children’s shoe recycling hub is being launched in Crewe with support from housing association The Guinness Partnership and charity Sal’s Shoes.

The hub 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 that end up in landfill.

Cheryl, St Paul’s Centre Lead, said: “Over the 30 years of St Paul’s Centre’s existence we have many a tale to tell of those debilitated through poverty; whether it’s no beds to sleep in, no food on the table or clothes for children to wear.

Records from 20 years ago show we couldn’t help one secondary boy get to school because we didn’t have any footwear his size.

“There are 4.2 million children living in poverty in the U.K. 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 in Crewe.”

Inset: Lee Rickard from LDR Electricals.

“However, in 2020 we will be able to provide footwear for children of all ages. In recent years St Paul’s Centre has worked with The Guinness Partnership by providing furniture and food for tenants in the Crewe area who are struggling financially. It is wonderful that we are now providing footwear too.”

Catriona Simons, Group Chief Executive of The Guinness Partnership, said: “Many families struggle to buy essentials such as children’s shoes, so we welcome the chance to partner with Sal’s Shoes and St Paul’s Centre to ensure that children don’t go without, and don’t feel self-conscious about not having the things that some of their classmates will be able to take for granted.”

CJ Bowry, founder of Sal’s Shoes, said:

Accessing Sal’s Shoes will be run on a referral basis, similar to the furniture and foodbank projects. St Paul’s will be working with local Crewe agencies such as children’s centres, schools, health visitors, family services and Children in Need.

The hub has been launched with initial funding from The Guinness Partnership and support from local and national partners including Sal’s Shoes.

SMART Cheshire Innovation programme launches online workshops to support small business owners Speaking to small business owners over the past few months, the team behind Manchester Metropolitan University’s SMART Cheshire Innovation programme noticed common themes kept cropping up.

“Some small businesses in the area were able to pivot at the start of lockdown but now they’re worried about managing these changes in the long-term. Others used the time to start ‘plotting and planning’ an inkling of an idea but weren’t sure of the next steps to develop those ideas,” says Rebecca Sewell, Project CoOrdination Officer for the programme.

“We discovered that many of the small businesses we work with identify with one of these four comments: ‘Lockdown has given me lots of time to think and plan – I’m ready to progress my idea’; ‘I’ve added a little bit to my business, it doesn’t currently take any extra resource but it works and I'd like to develop it further’; ‘My business has been damaged, it’s clear that 20

BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

I’m going to have to change what I do/the way I do things to survive and flourish going forward’; ‘I’ve diversified hugely but how will I sustain this when 'normal' returns?"

It is business owners with these thoughts in mind that the team are hoping to help as they launch their latest fully-funded workshops online. “The SMART Cheshire Innovation programme has always helped small businesses to develop new products or services, but we’re seeing many businesses who have had to innovate, have had to make changes because of

COVID-19, and we’d really like to support these businesses on their new journeys,” explains Claire Pattison, Enterprise Fellow at Manchester Met’s Centre for Enterprise, who runs this short programme.

Through the practical workshops, small businesses test their initial ideas and move to prototype stage, gaining a set of tools they can use to test future ideas. As the team point out, that idea doesn’t have to be a never-seen-before invention, it’s simply something new to the small business to help it develop, say, creating a company website to take online orders. _ For more on the SMART Cheshire Innovation Launchpad go to bit.ly/SmartCheshire

a healthy diet and include oats.

Now, more than ever, they are essential to supporting a strong immune system.”

The autumn has also seen Mornflake get behind the UK Triathlon series which encourages people of all ages and abilities to swim, cycle and run at events countrywide. More than 10,000 competitors took part in last year’s series and were kept fuelled by the company’s porridge as they competed for medal glory – or just for the fun of taking part.

The national brand, a large local employer, takes pride in its reputation as a company dedicated to quality and promoting good health.

In unprecedented times it has worked flat out in this mission, both nationally and locally. So when a new yoga and wellness class for children called Karma Kids was launched in Nantwich this month, there was a ready supply of porridge pots to start the venture!

Meanwhile Mornflake, famed Millers of Mighty Oats, continues to ship its award-winning porridge, muesli and granola products to 56 different countries while remaining one of Britain’s best trusted food brands. _ For more information on products and recipes visit www.mornflake.com

UK Triathlon event director Vic Bickerton and Erin Mooney from Mornflake’s sales and marketing department

More and more people are turning to Mornflake products to support a healthy immune system as the colder weather sets in bringing with it a spike in coronavirus.

Covid-19 has seen a huge demand for wholegrains like oats which contain fibre and vitamins to help support a healthy immune system. And Mornflake, an ambassador for South Cheshire of international renown, offers consumers the very best of nature, using only the finest British grown oats.

Throughout September, the Crewe-based brand stepped up its campaign to support the nation’s health and wellbeing with a prime time television campaign. ITV adverts featured film clips telling the story of how the family firm, the fourth oldest in the country, grows and crafts oatbased products loved by consumers worldwide.

It came hot on the heels of Mornflake being named a Great British Inspiration by the Department of International Trade for its role in feeding the nation in the early part of the pandemic sending millions of porridge packs to NHS workers, food banks and vulnerable people.

Managing director John Lea said “Genuine craft, provenance and quality is something we have been delivering for centuries, since we first started milling oats in 1675 and it is central to our promise today.

“Over 340 years we have fed the nation through some challenging times and Covid-19 has seen a huge demand for healthy, hearty wholegrains like oats – especially in our heartland, stove-cooked traditional oats.

“Throughout our branding and marketing we encourage families to nourish their bodies with

CHAMBER PATRONS

Porridge to the people in difficult times

Reaseheath apprenticeship could benefit wider industry growers to make it applicable across the industry.

APS Group Safety Health and Environment Manager Gary Swayne, who oversees the apprenticeship, says: “I am a personal beneficiary of lifelong learning and I believe that this programme offers a way for the commercial horticultural industry to thrive and grow.

“It has delivered an indepth knowledge to our crop workers, who now have the ability to develop and progress.

Reaseheath College has had the foresight to invest in glasshouses and equipment which mirror the commercial environment and has APS apprentices Georgi Haritev and Oliver Capel discuss the progress of tomato plants in Reaseheath’s commercial glasshouses experienced staff to deliver the training. This has paid dividends network, has partnered Reaseheath in planning A bespoke apprenticeship delivered by and is the reason we are here. No-one else has a bespoke Level 3 Apprenticeship for Crop Reaseheath College in Nantwich has proved so comparable facilities.”

Technicians which offers a career route for successful for leading tomato supplier the APS _ talented employees.

Group that the company believes it could benefit Further details www.reaseheath.ac.uk/ The block release training programme is the wider commercial growing industry. apprenticeships or email apprenticeships@ about to enter its third year and has worked The APS Group, which has sites in reaseheath.ac.uk so well that APS is keen to engage with other Middlewich and Alderley within its national TO JOIN TODAY GO TO WWW.SCCCI.CO.UK

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CHAMBER PATRONS

Visitor Management 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. Since the outbreak there have been some distinct stages in the way the workplace have reacted to visitors.

As a leading provider of visitor management solutions, SG World have had to react quickly to evolve our visitor management range . . . and our own working processes.

Back in March, before the country had absorbed the full impact of Covid, we initially saw the introduction of no handshake policies and quickly adapted our range to include supporting signage. As the outbreak progressed and the UK went into full lockdown, schools and sites closed their gates and the ones who remained open limited incoming visitors wherever they could.

In the last few months our way of working has changed radically with many people embracing tools such as Teams and Zoom to facilitate online meetings, with great success.

SG World set up an online appointment booking mechanism and started hosting interactive virtual meetings with our customers and partners. It was a direction we were already moving in which was accelerated to meet the challenges of social distancing.

However in many situations you can’t replace the face to face experience with its digital counterpart and today businesses, retailers and schools have all gradually re-opened their doors

to staff and visitors. 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.

“We are finding this is raising many practical questions,” said Patrick Ashe, SG World Sales Manager.

"For example - if your reception has touchscreen visitor check-in, how do you manage the infection risk of this high contact touchpoint?

SG World was able to address this by enhancing our current

visitor check-in screens to include a contactless module using the visitor's mobile phone and scanning feature to complete check-in.”

Whilst we can hope a vaccine is on the horizon, realistically Covid-19 is here for the foreseeable future. It has dictated step changes in our lives and the way we view visitors into our place of work . . . and at home. During a pandemic visiting trick and treaters may not be welcome, even Santa had better review his COVID-19 safety assessment. _

Visit www.sgworld.com for more exciting updates from SG World as we help make a difference to the productivity and safety of you and your customers in 2020.

Businesses are Taking Back Control with Smart Meters National restrictions continue to significantly affect businesses across the country and there is an enormous pressure on their financial situation.

Businesses may be juggling reduced income whilst navigating new income streams such as various government support measures. They might be facing unexpected expenditure on PPE and the cost of making their business Covid secure.

As such, it is extremely challenging to budget month to month; something which is especially true for smaller businesses, who may already be operating with limited cash flow.

Take control with a smart meter More than ever, the battle to keep control of company outgoings is crucial if they are to survive in this tough climate. A straightforward place to start in this battle is a universal cost and key expense: energy bills.

While every business receives regular energy bills, the vast majority don’t track how – and where –they are using their gas and electricity.

A proactive way of taking back control of this expense is by installing a smart meter, to show exactly how much energy is being used in real time.

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BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

Only pay for the energy you use Another key benefit of smart meters is that businesses get billed exactly for the energy they use. Unless very regular meter updates are provided, bills generated without the input of smart meters are estimated, based on the usage from a previous period.

If businesses have temporarily closed or furloughed some of their teams, this could be hugely damaging as they would be paying for energy they haven’t used yet, and might not use for several weeks, potentially making a big dent in their already fragile cash flow.

Don’t miss this opportunity A smart meter is a positive step in taking control of business outgoings and if your firm has 10 employees or less your business could be eligible. _ To see whether smart metering can work for your business, contact your energy supplier.

It could be one of the best calls you make this week.

Dan Marshall is joint CEO of the Absolute Solutions Group, a leading group of North West Recruitment companies with the HQ based in Crewe and serving Cheshire, Staffordshire, and Shropshire.

It doesn’t seem five minutes since I was last writing for the South Cheshire Chamber magazine about Recruitment post COVID-19, which, if I’m honest, is a good thing for me as we’ve been incredibly busy during lock-down and even busier since lock-down restrictions were lifted.

We were all pretty worried during lock-down as, although the recruitment industry tends to fare well in recession, not for one minute would I suggest all is rosy in all sectors. I thought I’d continue the COVID-19 theme in this article - I am quite well placed as we work across most industry sectors with our different Group companies.

The more industrial sectors such as warehousing, manufacturing, distribution / driving and the building trade are, by and large, very busy indeed. There is a back log of orders to catch up on from the lock-down period and people who haven’t spent money this year on holidays or social activities have instead spent money on home improvements or additional household goods. As an example, a friend of mine has ordered a slate pool table and there is a 9

month lead time to delivery!

Plus of course, the manufacturing and warehousing production time is longer due to social distancing requirements and regular intense cleaning routines.

Absolute Health and Care, our healthcare division, has never been so busy. Again, in part because of the social distancing and cleaning requirements whilst still providing high levels of care for the more vulnerable members of our population.

Commercial and Technical recruitment, whilst undoubtedly quieter than usual, are seeing some encouraging signs of recovery. Businesses are rightly cautious about employing new people, especially if other staff are still furloughed or part-furloughed, and they are waiting to see what the economy brings in the next few months.

So, these sectors I would put in the “slowly recovering” category but with some cautious optimism moving forward.

However, I did say in the last article, and I’ll repeat again: There are some brilliant and talented people, who are currently unemployed

through no fault of their own, who might be now be available and can help you grow your business by fulfilling crucial roles that you may previously have struggled to fill. We’ve helped numerous companies take real advantage of this new pool of talent already as we already have a direct line to this emerging pool of talent.

Of course, this is just an overview from our perspective and obviously, may not be accurate for every business or sector. But we certainly hope all SCCCI members, large and small, are surviving and hopefully even prospering in challenging circumstances.

I hope that gives you a glimpse into what we are seeing on a daily basis. Thankfully, many of our divisions have never been busier, which is good for us but, more importantly, is great for some of our candidates who really need the work.

It’s all about people – Dan Marshall _ 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 509266 or email info@absol-group.com

CHAMBER PREMIUM MEMBERS

Recruitment & Covid-19 – our view on what sectors are thriving and struggling

Coping in times of Covid The coronavirus - COVID-19 - pandemic is the defining global health crisis of our time. But the pandemic is much more than a health crisis, it's also an unprecedented social and economic crisis.

The Government has been forced to make significant interventions in response to COVID-19, meaning businesses are rapidly adjusting to the changing needs of their staff, customers and suppliers, whilst navigating financial and operational challenges.

However, whilst industry and businesses will always suffer as a result of this, there is still scope for businesses to adapt and begin operating in different ways.

Shawn Gallimore, Director of Alextra Group comments:

“As a result of the pandemic, as an employer and service provider, we have had the opportunity to trial new measures, meaning we have

been able to continue to provide services throughout the pandemic.

We have explored digital mediums and have transitioned to a hosted desktop, investing in remote technology, meaning our clients have not experienced a drop in service.

We have also allowed additional flexible working practices for our staff enabling them to fit work around the new challenges faced with disrupted home schedules.

As a result of these new attitudes and tools, we believe our office life is very positive with working throughout the coronavirus pandemic and thereafter.

medium size enterprises (SME’s) and other businesses is to drive the economy of the country. Whilst we are all experiencing this pandemic together and there are no doubt uncertain times with lots of unknowns ahead, we are confident in the strength of the Alextra team to provide support and an unaffected service to these businesses.” _ If you are starting to think about cloud accounting and which product could be right for you, get in touch with Alextra – www.alextragroup.co.uk

During this time, we have recruited three new members of staff within our accountancy practice. We believe that the role of small to TO JOIN TODAY GO TO WWW.SCCCI.CO.UK

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CHAMBER PREMIUM MEMBERS

Facilities maintenance should not be reactive

Construction Linx have been offering a number of customers their handyman & overflow service to support organisations who fit any of the following criteria: they may have no internal maintenance provision at all, although they often need a trusted tradesperson or rely on minor jobs being treated as reactive or urgent works, it could be because you employ your own “on-site” maintenance teams and find they often require tasks to be completed that are outside of their team’s skill set or finally, often require ‘overflow support’ when they are particularly busy on other scheduled tasks.

By being able to offer a fixed day rate, we complete a pre-planned list of scheduled activities. The process has been created to be

simple and efficient; The customer will provide Construction Linx with the tasks that require attention around the workplace, then a date is agreed that suits you to complete these works and finally, together on-site, prioritise and communicate planned works, identified issues and any potential future visits.

Gareth Williams, Managing Director said:

“This service lies at the heart of our Facilities Management service offering and has been purposefully designed to be

the affordable and convenient answer that fills the gap between ‘formal planned maintenance’ and a reactive, urgent or emergency approach to work within your building.” _ 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

Resilience of the industrial market undermined by lack of stock

The industrial property market of South Cheshire has continued to see take up of vacant stock and enquiries for new build units grow. This may seem surprising but the immediate and significant flip from high street shopping to e-commerce during lock-down has underpinned the market.

We have fielded enquires and completed deals with the likes of AO, taking 110,000sqft on Weston Road Crewe, to a firm of specialist

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BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

dog treat distributors taking 2,000sqft on Third Avenue Crewe and we cannot see the trend altering. The whole flip to on line shopping was inevitable with the pandemic speeding the process up by 3-5 years.

What has also been interesting, and encouraging, has been the level of enquiries at the smaller end of the market and not just from e-tailers. Enquiries for units of 1,000-3,000sqft are as high I can remember. This is great news,

however, many of these enquiries are struggling to find space. The main reason is the lack of developer interest in building units of this size.

Profit margins are thin and public sector grants to provide gap funding non-existent. Somehow we need to find a solution and quickly.

Market forces through the growth in rental levels and the prices occupiers are willing to pay is helping, but more help is needed from the public sector in the form of land release and access to money to underline unprofitable schemes. Perhaps government should stop the access to Covid Loans, which seems all too easy, and be more focussed on structural growth by grant assistance for these small unit schemes.

Developers are often tagged as “greedy” but who would build anything that does not make a profit? Developers that are willing to speculatively commit to building homes for the smaller occupiers must be supported, if they are not the entrepreneurial industrialist will have no ability to grow and blossom and ultimately evolve into the SME businesses that South Cheshire currently supports. Until this happens we have the unhappy job of telling budding businesses that we cannot help them. _ For more information contact Andy Butler on 01270 621001

It is no surprise that a health and safety company would see more activity and attention during an event like the Covid-19 Pandemic, but the scale of Rhino Safety’s growth during this time is quite extraordinary. So how did this company manage to not only hire two new members of staff, but also produce their highest ever turnovers, all in the height of these unprecedent times?

Organisational agility is the ability of a company to quickly change or adapt in response to a rapidly changing market. Rhino Safety have been quick and responsive in keeping with the changing times. Their Covid-19 packs were ready for purchase on 11th of May and consultants were trained in guidance as soon as it was available.

Collaborations and sponsorships have been

useful to gaining exposure. Rhino safety have recently become sponsors of the Crewe Alexandra Football Club. As one of the directors and one of Crewe Alexandra’s biggest fans, Cate was thrilled for the opportunity; however, the biggest reward came in the ability to contribute to the local community and getting the ‘Gresty Road End Stand’ renamed to the Rhino Safety stand. This sponsorship has enhanced their notability and it is believed that these types of investments can help accelerate business.

In terms of staff, Rhino Safety have always enforced a flexible, work from home system and culture. The lockdown had little to no impact on the staff; and processes and procedures remained unchanged. As a result of its growth, Rhino Safety have welcomed, Karl and Sylvia to the team. Karl joins the team as the fifth Health and Safety Consultant. Karl previously worked for a Tipi and Marquee company where he was responsible for all of the on-site health and safety. Sylvia joins the team as the Operations Manager. An expat from New York City, Sylvia has over 10 years of business support experience and will manage Rhino Safety’s processes and procedures, to ensure the company is performing to its maximum potential. _ If you would like to learn from the directors of Rhino Safety, you may benefit from Roar Business Coaching. If interested, please email Simon for further information at simon@ roarbusinesscoaching.co.uk

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Business growth during the pandemic

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Stationery

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MFPS & Printers

wherever it might be.

Local sales, support and supplies delivered to wherever you or your staff need them.

weaver&bomfords 03456 123858 www.weaverbomfords.co.uk

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Mid Cheshire Hospitals Trust shortlisted for national award “Our priority has always been to protect the health of our patients and our staff.

To achieve this during the Coronavirus pandemic, PPE has been of critical importance and the need for education, support and training of our staff has been essential."

The team behind the BeSafe be EquiPPEd campaign

Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust were recognised as a finalist in the prestigious Nursing Times Awards during a virtual ceremony.

The hospital had been short-listed in the infection prevention and control category in the awards, which sees individuals, trusts and health organisations from across the country recognised for innovations and achievement.

The Trust was recognised for its ‘Be Safe Be EquiPPEd’ campaign which aimed to make the Trust as safe as possible for staff and patients during the Coronavirus pandemic through supporting appropriate and correct use of PPE. Sally Mann, Deputy Director of Nursing said: “I am delighted that the hard work of our teams has been recognised during this year’s Nursing TImes awards.

“Through the Be Safe, Be EquiPPEd campaign the Trust made the guidance as clear and as accessible as possible by engaging with and supporting staff in a number of different ways on an issue that we know could have been a potential source of anxiety and uncertainty for many staff.

“We’re incredibly proud of the fantastic and important work our staff have carried out during such challenging times.”

Lumen lights postponed for 2020 Lumen, Crewe’s hugely-successful festive lights display, is postponed for 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, town councillors have announced.

The month-long attraction will make a big come back in 2021 featuring the creative flair of the team behind Blackpool’s worldfamous illuminations and talented local artists participating in a new Lumen LightLab project.

Over the past two years Lumen has drawn massive crowds from across South Cheshire and beyond to a switch-on event on Municipal Square and town councillors say it is with a ‘heavy heart’ they need to cancel this year.

Crewe Town Council has been widely applauded by townspeople and visitors alike on social media for stage-managing an event of such huge scale. In previous years more than 10,000 people have crowded into the town centre to enjoy an action-packed night of entertainment and the countdown to a projected illumination lighting up Municipal Buildings.

Cllr Joe Cosby, who chairs the council’s marketing and events committee, said: “Lumen has been a huge hit for Crewe and has quickly become a much-loved event on the calendar for families from far and wide.

“It is with a heavy heart and great disappointment we announce Lumen will not take place this year but the safety of our townspeople and visitors is our top priority. We look forward to making a big come-back with Lumen in 2021, when local artists will have an opportunity to be part of this great success story for Crewe.”

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The move to involve more homespun talent follows comments from local artists expressing how much they would like to take part.

Lumen LightLab, fully funded by Arts Council England and Cheshire East Council, is now up and running targeting emerging and mid-career local artists who have a desire to develop light-art work and become part of future Lumen events.

The project is anchored in Crewe and prioritises artists from the area who can add extra shine to Christmas in the town with stunning installations.

Masterclasses with experts in the light festival field have already taken place during a

trip to Blackpool by 10 artists and the best three designs will be unveiled during Lumen 2021.

Cllr Cosby added: “We know many people were looking forward to Lumen and we hope they will understand our need to prioritise safety. We hope to come back bigger and brighter next year.

In the meantime let’s stay safe.

“Christmas is likely to look a little different for us all but we can appreciate the meaning and do what we can to support others.” _ For more on Lumen LightLab and town council projects go to lumencrewe.co.uk/lightlab-2/ or www.crewetowncouncil.gov.uk

Crewe Lyceum Theatre has received a total of £231,387 in grant funding from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport’s £1.57bn Cultural Recovery Fund, administered by Arts Council England.

The fund, which will benefit a total of 1,385 organisations around the UK, was set up by the government in July and makes urgent support available for cultural organisations that were financially stable before the COVID-19 pandemic. The announcement included support for Clonter Opera Theatre, Circus Starr, Tatton Park and Cheshire Rural Touring Arts who alongside Crewe Lyceum are critical components of the highly successful cultural economy in Cheshire East.

Adam Knight, Director at Crewe Lyceum said:

COMMUNITY NEWS

Crewe Lyceum Theatre to receive £231,387 support funding from the government’s £1.57bn cultural recovery fund

“We’re delighted to receive this funding which will play a vital role in supporting the Lyceum through this very difficult period."

"The money provided will help us to meet the costs of maintaining the building through the closure period; will stabilise our position at a time when no trading income is available to us; and will help to support our dedicated and skilled team.

We are grateful that the DCMS has recognised the important contribution we make; and would also like to thank our local authority partners who have been helpful and supportive throughout. Like all cultural venues, we believe we have an important role to play in supporting the wider recovery. Crewe Lyceum is more than a theatre, it is an invaluable hub for creatives and communities to participate in and engage with arts and culture in Cheshire East. We have a critical part to play in realising the regeneration framework for Crewe with the economic impact of our usual activities stretching far and wide; sustaining businesses and raising aspirations across the local area. Crucially, this money is provided to assist us through to reopening when the situation improves – and we can’t wait to be able to welcome back our wonderful audiences when we are able to do so.”

Councillor Nick Mannion, Cabinet Member for Environment and Regeneration at Cheshire East Council warmly greeted the announcement: “The Lyceum Theatre is a vital part of the economic vitality and cultural life of Crewe and the wider area, it is missed greatly during this pandemic. This funding will be essential to enabling the theatre’s eventual reopening, enabling audiences to delight once more in what this wonderful theatre has to offer.”

Crewe & Nantwich MP, Dr Kieran Mullan, has raised the theatre’s plight in Parliament repeatedly in recent months and welcomed the news: “This is fantastic news for Crewe and the whole area. The Lyceum team and the shows, plays and events they put on have actually been a lifeline for the town centre economy in recent years.

It has been incredibly difficult for the staff and they have battled through and I am glad we now have been able to secure them this lifeline of their own. I know everyone locally is going to be really pleased to know their theatre isn’t going anywhere.”

Panto postponed to 2021

Due to the Coronavirus outbreak, 2020's pantomime Sleeping Beauty at the Lyceum Theatre has been postponed until 2021.

It will run December 10, 2021 to January 2, 2022 and tickets will remain valid for the new dates.

Spring shows include the star-spangled Lady Boys of Bangkok, Menopause the Musical and Arrival – The Hits of Abba. The following months feature a mixed bag of entertainment including The Magic of Motown, junior doctor turned comedian Adam Kay and Britain’s Got Talent winner Jon Courtenay.

For more information go to crewelyceum.co.uk TO JOIN TODAY GO TO WWW.SCCCI.CO.UK

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Preview of Crewe Market Hall as works continue with new operator onboard

Cheshire East Council is pleased to announce Market Asset Management as the new operator for Crewe Market Hall and the rest of the town’s markets.

Preview images have also been released showcasing the new Crewe Market Hall – giving a glimpse into the exciting venue that will be on offer from spring 2021.

Initially opening five days a week, the refurbished Market Hall will be brimming with high-quality, fresh food and independent eateries and retailers, while also featuring pop-up stalls and events.

There will be a regular programme of activities and demonstrations and flexibility for the building to be opened up during the evening for events, entertainment and other themed activities.

Councillor Nick Mannion, Cheshire East Cabinet member for environment and regeneration, said:

“Crewe is a town that’s very much growing and we are committed to its regeneration.

The refurbishment of Market Hall will see it transformed in keeping with the building’s rich history and these images show just a glimmer of how the site will look next year."

"We are also delighted to have a market operator that shares our vision for revitalising Crewe’s markets and look forward to the role they will play in the town centre’s wider regeneration.”

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Work on the Market Hall will continue to move forward in accordance with Covid-19 safety measures, which are already in place on site.

Further images of the Market Hall will be released in the coming months, as the project progresses.

Hayden Ferriby, commercial director at Market Asset Management, said: “Our whole team at Market Asset Management is excited and honoured to be selected to help launch the next era for the Market Hall and markets in Crewe.

We are passionate about restoring markets to the heart of their community, and as a company we believe that markets are more important than ever, supporting small businesses, creating employment and becoming a focal point for local events and entertainment."

The Market Hall redevelopment project is part of the Crewe town centre regeneration programme, which is supported by funding from the Government’s Local Growth Fund through Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership.

Philip Cox, chief executive at Cheshire and Warrington LEP, said:

“It’s fantastic to see the plans for Crewe Market Hall progressing and on course for a spring relaunch."

“Crewe is a key priority for us and is the subject of significant investment and transformational improvement. This latest update in the refurbishment scheme signals a major milestone in the town’s growth.” _ More information about the Market Hall project can be found here: cheshireeast.gov.uk/ crewemarkethall

Roar Business Coaching is the second business from the husband and wife partnership, Simon and Cate Walter. Simon and Cate started Rhino Safety, a three-time Chamber award winning health and safety business in 2015.

Having achieved success, so soon after starting up and realising the importance of networking and being a part of organisation, like the chamber, Cate and Simon wanted to share their advice and expertise to help support local

and small businesses; hence the birth of Roar Business Coaching.

Designed for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and business start-ups, Roar Business Coaching gets clients to dive deep into their biggest challenges, set goals and equip them with the skills and tools they need to improve their success. One to one sessions, virtual support and monthly meetups with other small businesses are all services that Roar Business Coaching have offered—until now.

Roar Academy is a new, more affordable programme designed for SMEs and business start-ups and will teach small business and startup entrepreneurs the skills they will need to take their business to the next level with confidence.

Cate Walter said: “When we first started, there were loads of questions I had and didn’t really know where to get the answers. Some

questions I feared were too silly to seek answers for. We want to not only teach essential skills for building a successful company but also be there to answer any questions our clients have.”

Starting with the basics of business planning and goal setting to hiring staff and personal development, students will be guided on how to fool proof and set-up their businesses to mimic the rapid success of Rhino Safety. _ If you are a small business or start-up entrepreneur and feel you would benefit from a programme like this, please do not hesitate to contact us for further information at simon@ roarbusinesscoaching.co.uk.

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Roar Business Coaching Presents Roar Academy

JG Creative rebrands national perinatal mental health charity Cheshire design and brand agency, JG Creative, has created a new brand for PANDAS, the national charity which supports parents suffering from pre and post-natal depression and other perinatal mental health conditions.

The new brand is the result of months of hard work after the agency took the bold decision to rethink its original approach, following a massive increase in demand for the charity’s support during lockdown.

PANDAS, which is the only service in the UK offering free post-natal depression support, had originally set out to completely change its name for something that more clearly identified it with the services it provides.

During lockdown, however, calls to the charity sky-rocketed by 75% as pregnant women and new parents were isolated from their families and support networks and struggled to access their GPs. Awareness of the charity and the support it provides was higher than ever before so, despite a new name already agreed and initial logos designed, creative director Joanne Grubb advised the charity to retain its name and focus on strengthening its visual identity.

Whilst retaining the charity’s name, JG Creative did aim to clarify it and provided a clearer definition to each letter of the acronym.

By making the initial A smaller it highlights the charity’s primary purpose of supporting postnatal depression, or PND, along with using the final A&S to stand for the Awareness & Support they provide.

JG Creative has repositioned the brand to better reflect the support services it offers and help it to communicate with and appeal to the thousands of parents affected by perinatal conditions, such as pre and postnatal depression.

Joanne Grubb, owner and creative director at JG Creative, said: “This rebrand was a wonderful experience as we worked hand in hand with the charity through one of its most

challenging times and it was vital that we adapt our original plans to reflect this.

“A new logo, colour scheme and narrative, along with brand assets such as the umbrella icons and ‘Hope for Parents’ strapline, have been created to represent what PANDAS is and what it does. The brand has also been designed to appeal to both mum’s and dad’s with powerful connotations of supporting mental health.

“We incorporated an umbrella icon into the logo because it is symbolic of temporary protection and shelter and clearly communicates the supportive nature of the organisation. From this, we developed a suite of umbrella icons, pictured in a variety of different weather, for the charity to use either together or individually depending on the message being communicated.

“The icons were inspired by the charity’s mission to be there whatever the weather, to offer hope, empathy and signposting for every parent or network who may be suffering with perinatal mental illness. It also highlights the fact that PND will end, like the changing seasons, and there is hope.

“Due to the sensitive nature of the charity, we decided not to use any photography as part of the brand identity. This was something we agreed with the charity early on as we wanted to avoid showing non-inclusive images. People try to find themselves in photos and it was really important not to make any assumptions about what parents look like and especially not those who may be in need of the charity’s support. PANDAS is there for everyone.”

Annie Belasco, head of charity for PANDAS, said: “We had to make a huge decision about our rebrand at the height of the pandemic when people really needed us. We knew we had to get this right as the sustainability of the charity depended on it.

“We had complete trust in the team at JG Creative and I really believe that our future is now more secure following this rebrand.

“Working with Jo and the team at JG Creative has been a thoroughly enjoyable and exciting experience. Historically, our charity has not experienced any major changes and to meet such an empowering and knowledgeable team of experts was enlightening.

“The relationship was built during and beyond COVID19 which was a great risk for our charity, however, with the insight and advice from Jo and the team we had every confidence that re branding our charity during a pandemic could be successful.

“Jo and the team have transformed our worn-out image into something new, special, fresh and unique. They had a vision and we worked together to make it happen.” _ To find out more about JG Creative or PANDAS, visit www.jg-creative.co.uk or www. pandasfoundation.org.uk.

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MEMBER NEWS

Crewe security firm creating new jobs after winning City Council contract One of the region’s biggest security firms is creating new jobs after winning a contract with Stoke City Council.

Long-established Alpha Omega, based in Crewe, has launched a recruitment drive as it expands its operation across the Potteries and works to protect local landmarks such as Hanley Bus Station, John Street car park and Smithfield business quarter.

The company, founded by former kickboxing champion Ken Lawton 22 years ago, provides mobile security, static guards, CCTV monitoring and key-holding services for a wide range of high-profile companies on Crewe Business Park and Gadbrook in Northwich as well as local authorities such as Cheshire East Council.

Since the business was founded in 1997, Alpha Omega has grown into a big concern and its door supervisors have been a familiar sight outside nightclubs such as Nakatcha, the Cheshire Cat and Harrisons in Nantwich.

It employs more than 300 security personnel and dozens of stewards who ensure the safety of visitors to big crowd-pullers such as the Royal Cheshire Show and Nantwich Show.

Mr Lawton from Nantwich said: “We are delighted to be working with Stoke-on-Trent City Council to look after some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and destinations.

“Lockdown gave us empty buildings to protect and we are proud of how our team stepped up to the mark and remained vigilant and professional working round the clock.”

Alpha Omega’s role now includes carrying out Covid 19 risk assessments at all the sites where it operates and training employees in the latest measures to protect them and other people.

The health crisis has seen Alpha Omega officers deployed to ensure the smooth running of one-way systems at recycling centres and to support hotels caring for homeless people.

They have also been on guard at Northwood Stadium, Congleton Town Hall and Dimensions Leisure Centre.

Operations director Andy Taylor said: “We always look recruit from the community where we are working and offer full training. We constantly train to keep abreast of new threats and security challenges.

Operations director Andy Taylor and security personnel at Alpha Omega headquarters on Crewe Business Park

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BUSINESS NEWS QUARTER 3 2020

“At this time, when we all need to be alert, common-sense and having a good head in a difficulty situation is key.”

The company, founded on Lawton Street in Crewe, opened new headquarters on Crewe Business Park just before lockdown.

The official opening drew many business guests and celebrity friends including TV star Ross Kemp and boxing hero ‘Big Joe’ Egan.

Ross Kemp praised Alpha Omega for employing local people. He said: “I like the ethos of the company, its integrity and empowerment of local individuals.”

The company has up to 30 full and part-time positions available. _ For more information call 01270 258881 or visit www.alphaomegauk.com

Finding an accountant that understands exactly how your business works and the services that you require can be tough.

We will all be living with the steps we have taken to control this pandemic for a while yet – but we make accessing high quality and professional advice very easy.

For some company bosses, the situation has forced them out of their comfort zone and into looking at new ways of doing business, diversifying or perhaps changing direction altogether, sometimes providing immediate benefits and in some instances, offering great potential for the future.

THE RIGHT KIT, THE RIGHT COACH In the same way that our children have been checking they have the right kit for the new school term, this is a time for businesses to check they have the right tools for the job of bringing employees back into the workplace or consolidating new ways of working in the

business environment.

Kids also need their teachers as never before – helping them get back on track with school work, and reassuring them about the new way of doing things.

And there are parallels here with the role that the team at Afford Bond plays in the business world. We’re not just here to sort out your accounts at the end of the financial year (although of course, these will be safe in our hands): we are here to advise and guide as you plan and deliver a pandemic/post-pandemic resistant business model and ways of working to help your business flourish.

We always listen to our clients as an integral part of our service - helping them with options for tax savings, grants, loans and business efficiencies based on years of experience.

A SHOPPING LIST WITH MONEY BACK… We can help by identifying elements such as R&D credits – tax rebates for money spent on developing new products or services. People often think R&D is all about white coats in laboratories – but research and development can simply be about time spent exploring and creating a new offering: we can quantify the amount of time and resources spent doing this, which in turn will give a figure you can expect as a tax rebate.

Another aspect of business life we support is payroll. We give you the peace of mind of

knowing that your payroll is fully compliant in an everchanging work environment as well as alerting you to any government payroll grants that may be available to help you keep your workforce together.

STAYING AHEAD OF THE CURVE The current business environment has reinforced the importance of good cashflow forecasting. You need to be aware of any funding issues at an early stage, so you can put contingency plans in place. This involves reviewing current expenditure, assessing revenue streams and highlighting any improvements that can be made: another of our key areas of expertise. … and finally, you may need to look at a different company structure to deal with any changes you have had to make in the way you operate. We can help you understand the potential risks and opportunities of your existing set-up, as well as working through restructuring options to enable your business not just to survive, but to prosper.

Whatever your situation – whether you are already a client or not – why not get in touch to discuss your options? We offer a no obligation chat with Partner Paul Edwards, who says: ‘At Cheshire accountants, Afford Bond, our job is to ensure your hard work and our knowledge add up to a sustainable future.’

MEMBER NEWS

Businesses can prosper post pandemic … now is the time to look forward

_ Paul.Edwards@affordbond.com

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

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MEMBER NEWS

Point Progress expands to support businesses through the crisis A software company has increased its workforce to help businesses overcome challenges brought on by the Covid-19 crisis including track and trace and employees working from home.

Point Progress, based in Nantwich, has helped many local employers save time and money during the pandemic by switching to online processes which streamline key functions such as timesheets, expense claims and time-off.

Its team of engineers and sales consultants has increased from eight to 12 as software packages have been rolled out for companies to run their own in-house ‘track and trace’ flagging up the need to build in quarantine should an employee fall victim to the virus.

Managing director Richard Coope said:

“The pandemic has shone a spotlight on the need for employers to keep tabs on their out-goings and record who is where and when.

“More and more are switching to automated systems to work smarter and more efficiently in these difficult circumstances. We provide the tools to enable complete paperless processing of key business functions and many have turned to us for support.

“As a result we have taken on additional sales and technical staff creating a pathway back into employment where there may have been lay-offs.”

Point Progress has pioneered an online product for companies called MyExpenses which charts remote working expenses such as home office equipment, heating and lighting.

Another, TimeOff, offers a sickness and holiday App while MyTime provides data pinpointing the whereabouts of employees.

One local company which switched from using a spread-sheet system to MyExpenses this year found greater visibility on its spend and praised Point Progress for a ‘painless’ transition supported by its webinar demo and helpdesk.

Mr Coope, a former technical consultant for SAGE, added: “Working from home for our 12 team members was seamless with no change in service to our clients. The only thing we missed out on was a celebration to mark our 20th anniversary but we were very pleased to have received ISO27001 certification for best practice.” _ For more on how Richard and team can help go to pointprogress.com or call 01270 611800.

Adapting & Pivoting to survive & thrive - Development in Covid times When Middle Park Projects acquired the beautiful former Royal Bank of Scotland building in July 2019, we teamed up with local architect ARNI Architecture and UK Pro Build. Refurbishments proceeded as scheduled, but as we got a touch smug about how well the build was progressing, the CoVid-19 crisis hit. It was during the busiest phase of the build, sourcing materials became a challenge, but more importantly could the works continue?

As Charles O’Kell of UK Pro Build said, “Coronavirus quickly changed the working landscape and got the team reviewing how best to continue with the works with safety the priority, leaning on guidance from the group's Trade Bodies such as the Chamber of Commerce, RIBA, Federation of Master Builders and utilising video conferencing to meet. The challenge on the table was, in light of the Government saying that Building Works shouldn't cease, could works continue safely?” Fortunately, the team was happy to continue working, with the implementation of a “Safe Working Procedure”.

Pre-crisis, we were in talks with a number

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of experienced F&B providers to utilise the beautiful bank hall on the ground floor, with hopes that a good operator will add value to the town rejuvenation plans of the local council.

The pandemic quickly shut down talks, and we focused on completing the 12 bed HMO on the upper levels, with great results, as 10 of the 12 stunning rooms are now filled by young professionals and students, within weeks of completion.

We have had to put some serious thought into how to make the retail space work in times when businesses taking up large spaces was unlikely, and decided to turn it into a ‘cobusiness space’. We now have a specialty coffee purveyor taking up about a third of the space, with the remainder open to a co-working space, and consulting rooms for therapists or similar.

The bank vaults in the basement, with their built in privacy will make great spaces for health/ beauty treatment rooms. Perhaps Newcastle ready for floatation tanks? _ If you’d like more information on the above or our projects, please contact jun@mpp.pm.

The Alextra Group is an independent accountancy and wealth management practice based in Crewe.

We have been contacted by several people in August and September who have told us that two separate wealth management practices in the Cheshire and Staffordshire area have formally written to them to inform them that their custom is no longer desired, due to their investment and/ or pensions funds being less than £200,000 or £250,000 respectively.

One customer, who wishes to remain anonymous, told us

“I couldn’t believe what I was reading when I opened their letter! I was literally, in polite words, given the boot!

I’ve never been sacked as a customer before!”

“I thought my business would be more

valuable than ever post covid-19 with all companies hungry for revenue from customers large or small, but apparently my investment and subsequent management fees were not sizeable enough.”

“I double checked in case I had gone mad, but I have just under £200,000 investment capital, so I was surprised I was told that it was “no longer financially viable for us to offer you our services” with a cheque returning the annual fee I had just paid them."

Alextra Wealth Management would like to advise any people that find themselves in the same situation to please get in contact, please get in contact as, regardless of portfolio size, we are happy to discuss your situation, needs and circumstances.

Steven Pepper, Director of Alextra Wealth Management, comments:

“We welcome an initial free, no obligation discussion regardless of the size of the capital or portfolio.

Alextra Wealth Management would be pleased to step in and assist these customers who now need help, or indeed any customer that would like to explore options for the first time."

MEMBER NEWS

Alextra Wealth Management steps in to aid clients who have been ‘Given the Boot!’

For contact details, please visit www.alextragroup.co.uk email planningteam@alextragroup.co.uk or call 01270 250800 Alextra Wealth Management Limited, 7-9 Macon Court, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 6EA. Registered in England / Company Number: 05541620

Covid Babywear Boom

Paulina and Tom, founders of Spoiltland.co.uk grew their online babywear business over lockdown and have moved to an ecommerce workshop at the Weston Centre Business Hub! They started the business from home in January 2018. Building up the growing company around the children and their jobs, they became so short on space that they had to climb over boxes to get to their bed at night!

They knew they had to find a new base for the business and were impressed with the range

of units available at The Weston Centre Business Hub on Weston Road.

Paulina said: ‘I made an online chat enquiry at midnight one night and was amazed to be able to talk about our requirements and arrange a viewing. We went to see Katie at the Weston Centre when they were refurbishing the facilities and were impressed with the variety of workshops, trade units and office facilities being all under one roof and flexibility to change the space as and when you need to. With support

services like contactless delivery acceptance, mailboxes and forklifting I knew it would be the right decision to base our business from here.

We loved the easy process to move in and the friendly, supportive atmosphere. Since taking up the unit, we have had the space to expand the product range further (by 60% in the last 3 months). We are really enjoying the workspace here and the kids are super happy having gained some playspace back at home!’

Katie Vost, Director of Weston Centre Business Hub said: ‘We were delighted to support Spoiltland. co.uk to transition into one of the workshops here. It’s a great location within walking distance to Crewe station, with every kind of business space available from small offices and workshops to large warehouse spaces. We are seeing an increase in demand from ecommerce clients at the moment and are supporting them to grow with a no hassle option that means its easy to move in, budget and get on with growing sales.

If you would like to discuss any space requirements for your business, even if its short term assistance you need, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.’ _ For more information on the Weston Centre visit: westoncentre.co.uk or call: 01270 250022 For more information on spoiltand visit: spoiltland.co.uk

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

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MEMBER NEWS

Watts Commercial Finance appoint Emma Ross and Dean Thomson to head up new Scotland office Watts Commercial Finance has expanded their UK presence with the exciting opening of their Scotland office and the appointment of two Scotland based Commercial Managers.

Alongside the appointment of two stalwarts in the banking industry – Emma Ross and Dean Thomson - the move also fills a niche in the Scottish commercial finance market and brings the multi-award winning Watts Commercial brand to the heart of Scotland.

Commenting on the announcement, Phil Gray, Managing Director of Watts Commercial Finance said: “It’s a very exciting time for us here at Watts with the appointment of Emma Ross and Dean Thomson as well as opening our new Scottish office. While we already have a presence in Glasgow and Edinburgh, this is a huge step in the growth of our business in response to the increasing demands of all our Scottish clients including those in the Borders, the Islands and the more rural areas of the country.

I am delighted to welcome Dean and Emma to the team as our newest Commercial Managers. Both are extremely knowledgeable of the industry and the Scottish finance market, and I am confident that they will both successfully provide our award-winning service.”

Emma Ross added; “Having spent the last 13 years with HSBC and First Direct and holding

the customer award for outstanding contribution to the business banking team, I am buzzing to be working with the best commercial brokerage in the UK. To be given the opportunity to head up the Scotland office with Dean Thomson is an absolute privilege and I know our determination will make team Scotland extremely successful.

I look forward to working in the country I love and helping businesses grow. I also look forward to being able to say ‘YES’ to my customers more often and forging life-long relationships with a wealth of lenders and introducers along the way.”

Dean Thomson commented; “To become part of an already established market leader in the commercial finance industry and being part of the Watts family is an extremely exciting opportunity for both Emma and myself. This move will build upon my expertise of helping business owners with their aspirations, whilst offering a whole-of-market experience to an extended customer base across the country.

Watts are the best at what they do and it was no surprise to learn that they recently won the coveted B&C Broker of the Year Award and Moneyfacts Best Commercial Mortgage Introducer Award for a third consecutive year. My aim is to replicate and grow this reputation here in Scotland, ensuring that business owners receive

the best level of advice and support to achieve their true potential.

Both Emma and I look forward to working alongside Phil and the team and bringing their successful formula to a very vibrant Scottish market.” _ For further information or for enquiries Watts Commercial Finance Scotland office, please call a member of the team on 0131 202 4427 or email advice@watts-commercial.co.uk

Emma Ross, Phil Gray, Dean Thomson

New face joins Chamber award-winners Boyds Pharmaceutical and biotech product development consultancy Boyds has recruited Kathryn Bartley (pictured) as Senior Clinical Research Associate.

The appointment follows last year’s acquisition of Blue Duck Consultancy which fuelled the expansion of Boyds’ in-house clinical and medical affairs services offering.

Kathryn has over 18 years’ experience in the industry, primarily in study and site management and monitoring. Her work has covered a variety of therapy areas across all trial phases within both the commercial and academic sectors.

Most recently, Kathryn spent six years working for GlaxoSmithKline (subcontracted from Parexel and then PPD) as a Senior Clinical Research Associate working primarily on real world evidence respiratory studies, including the ground-breaking Salford Lung Studies (SLS). Her experience also includes working as a remote Clinical Research Associate on oncology trials at AstraZeneca, as well as four years as a Study Manager at the University of Liverpool Cancer Research UK Trials Unit setting up and managing haematological oncology studies.

She said: “Boyds is a fast-growing company with a strong reputation in the industry. I am excited to be part of their growth ambitions to expand their clinical services team. I am looking forward to working with and learning from the fantastic team of experts at Boyds, as well as

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building on my knowledge in advanced therapies.”

Vice President of Clinical Operations at Boyds, Dr Karen O’Hanlon added: “We are delighted to welcome Kathryn to the team. We have an established international network of consultant CRAs and our ambition is to build on this by creating an inhouse team. Kathryn brings a wealth of experience and will be instrumental in supporting the growth of our clinical and medical affairs offering.

“Boyds is pretty unique in the industry offering project management and regulatory support and expertise from early stage discovery and development all the way through to clinical trials and commercialisation. Our Clinical Operations team, and network of consultant CRAs, are experienced in ATMPs and cuttingedge trials. This expertise, combined with our focus on the strategy as well as the operations in the development of medicines is an attractive offering to our clients.”

Kathryn will be based in Boyds’ Crewe office, and her role will involve performing all aspects of site set-up and management including pre-study,

Kathryn Bartley has joined as pharmaceutical and biotech product development consultancy Boyds as Senior Clinical Research Associate.

initiation, monitoring and closeout visits; standalone ethics submissions, feasibility studies, medical writing and training.

Boyds won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, International Trade for Outstanding Short-Term Growth in overseas sales in April 2018 and was Business of the Year (under 25 employees) in the South Cheshire Chamber Awards 2019. _ For more information go to www.boydconsultants.com Boyds North – Cheshire: Tel 01270 270010 Twitter: @boydconsultants

the WR Partners business. It extends our reach into areas where WR Partners is less well known and comes at a truly exciting time for the business following our rebrand from Whittingham Riddell.”

From Left to Right, Partners Tim Lwin, Fran Johnson and Andrew Hague in front of newly branded former Howard Worth office.

MEMBER NEWS

Leading accountants continue growth plans with move into Cheshire

Helen added:

A leading Shropshire, Mid and North Wales firm of accountants, business advisors and tax specialists has acquired Cheshire-based Howard Worth Chartered Accountants in a move that underlines its ongoing and ambitious growth strategy.

WR Partners, which is headquartered in Shropshire and recently underwent a major rebrand, secured the business as part of longterm plans to significantly increase its reach geographically, and to provide an opportunity to offer its breadth of expertise across a range of

business services to a wider client base.

Based across two offices in Northwich and Nantwich, Howard Worth has a strong client base, adding to the WR Partners’ portfolio of more than 6,000 clients across offices within the Midlands and Mid and North Wales.

Helen Spencer, Managing Partner at WR Partners, said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to integrate Howard Worth into

“Not only do both businesses share robust commitments to nurturing and maintaining the very best relationships, working in true partnership with their clients, we also bring in depth knowledge of the local areas served."

Staff from Howard Worth will join the 180-strong WR Partners employee base, bringing with them a similar forward-thinking ethos and client care values. _ To find out more about how WR Partners could help your business, email at hello@wrpartners. co.uk or telephone 01606 369000.

Howard Worth has become part of WR Partners With expanded reach across Cheshire, Shropshire, Mid & North Wales

Find out more at wrpartners.co.uk

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

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MEMBER NEWS

Business centre welcomes young entrepreneurs Park View Business Centre, located between Nantwich and Whitchurch, has welcomed two new companies – each run by enterprising, young entrepreneurs.

MOO and Boom, run by Maddie Ashbrook, sells new and vintage designer clothes as well as buying quality used clothing. They revive garments that have become out-dated and give shoppers a great retail experience, minimising carbon footprint with re-cycling. They also specialise in cashmere and have lots on show.

Chloe Anderson runs Dachshing Doggies dog grooming services and welcomes canine clients to the new parlour.

Situated on the main road between Nantwich and Whitchurch (A530), the growing business centre is looking to help all new tenants get back and running to full speed with the longawaited return to business.

Peter Beckett, Managing Director of PVBC, says:

“It is fantastic to see two young people starting their first companies. We will be providing them with as much support as possible.

This, together with our new co-sharing office facilities (hot-desking), give the next generation more flexible options of using our superb broadband and high quality spaces.” _ For more information on the availability of units visit www.parkviewbusinesscentre.co.uk

Enhancing public transport with extreme-scale analytics "The ELASTIC framework will enhance public transport in the UK and Europe and has the potential to bring a benefit in other areas such as manufacturing'' - Stuart Campbell, CEO, Information Catalyst for Enterprise Ltd. Haslington based SME, and Chamber member, Information Catalyst (ICE), assists partners to improve their business activities through innovative data-orientated research and innovation, custom software development, and commercial consultancy services.

It is a leading partner in the ELASTIC project funded by the European Commission at 5.9M€ provided by a consortium of nine leading organisations across Europe. ELASTIC is a system that brings together innovative software and advanced devices for processing extremely high volumes of data in real-time.

ELASTIC will validate itself in one large-scale demonstrator in public transport in the city of Florence, Italy, with results replicable in other places such as the Cheshire region.

Public transport is an essential infrastructure element in our cities. A public transport network generates copious amounts of information every day. Some of that is captured and processed by supporting sensors and systems, but not all of it because of the high cost incurred to buy or hire computing resources.

One way to increase such resources consists of innovating the way information is processed by sharing computing power between small processing units distributed across a transport network. For example, processing units inside trams, buses, stations, and depots.

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Linda Grimshaw (pictured above), Director of Administrative Services of ICE, says:

“I’ve seen prototypes of this type of technology and it is very impressive.

If this technology could be introduced to Cheshire it would make a huge difference to public transport and to its users. Public transport is often taken for granted, but when you see the benefits in terms of reliability and especially safety, then you see how much better public transport could be.”

ELASTIC uses advanced computer science and artificial intelligence to detect and predict obstacles in front of vehicles. It also uses state-of-the-art computing capabilities to detect mobility patterns across the transport network.

Such patterns highlight transport efficiency, optimise energy use, and predict maintenance needs.

ELASTIC will continue until the end of 2021.

By that time, technology will be mature enough for technology transfer.

Information Catalyst for Enterprise expects to use part of this technology to help local transport authorities with data analytics needs and make the Cheshire region a better place for all. _ Are you interested in what AI and Analytics can bring to your business; please contact us at the coordinates below: Stuart Campbell, CEO, Information Catalyst e: stuart.campbell@informationcatalyst.com t: +44 1270 254020

Father-of-two Darren Hall is on the road as a Community First Responder, thanks to support from Crewe Town Council.

Darren, 32, has proved a life-saver on many occasions over the past year since becoming a full-trained responder swiftly on the scene of an emergency in Crewe and surrounding areas.

His ex-fleet car donated by Cheshire Police is now branded up and insured by the town council which has also funded his uniform.

He said:

“It’s a voluntary role so it’s great to get this backing.

Insuring the car would have set me back quite a bit but now it’s covered and I feel proud to play a role in helping to save local lives.”

Crewe born and bred Darren is often first on the scene of an emergency armed with defibrillators, oxygen and observation equipment. In response to the pandemic, his uniform includes full PPE. He studied engineering at Cheshire College, South&West and took first aid as an extra curriculum subject at 16. A former special

Community First Responder Darren Hall with Crewe Mayor Cllr Benn Minshall and deputy Cllr Tom Dunlop

police constable, he became a Community First Responder (CFR) working alongside the Nantwich group to give back to the community.

When he’s not on duty as CFR, Darren works as a Business Analayst at Assurant in Crewe.

Crewe Mayor Cllr Benn Minshall said:

“We were pleased to support Darren especially at a time when our emergency services are stretched more than ever. It takes a special kind

MEMBER NEWS

Crewe dad is a life-saver with backing from Town Council

of person to take over in an emergency. When we heard of his work, we had no hesitation in getting behind Crewe’s first CFR.” For more on Crewe Town Council’s work in the community go to https://www.crewetowncouncil. gov.uk/

Cricket club heaps praise on sponsors after historic Cup win

Nantwich Cricket Club officials have heaped praise on their long-standing shirt sponsors The County Group - after a milestone victory in the Cheshire Cup. Despite a difficult season due to the pandemic, The Dabbers triumphed in a nail-biting final at Cheadle and were thrilled to bring home the silverware for the first time in their 165-year history.

Equally delighted was insurance specialist The County Group in Crewe – the major employer has seen the club through its highs and lows as shirt sponsors for the past eight years.

The club, based on Whitehouse Lane, has suffered a big hit on income over the past few months with its popular function facility out of use due to the health crisis.

Chairman Wayne Morgan paid tribute saying: “Like so many sporting organisations we have lost the income from functions and sadly a number of businesses have been unable to renew their sponsorship.

“The County Group has remained steadfast however and was the first through the door with a cheque. This loyalty in difficult times hasn’t gone unnoticed by everyone connected with the club and its many fans.

“We want to say a big thank-you to County for helping us end the season on a high.”

The club has a busy junior section with more than 80 budding young players in under-9s to under-15s.

Four former juniors were part of the winning team at Cheadle where it was third time lucky for Nantwich after being knocked out of the Cheshire Cup in 1977 and then again in 2011.

County Group Managing Director Alastair Christopherson said: “Last year The Dabbers made history winning through to ECB National Championship at Lords. It was an incredible achievement for a local club to play at the ‘Home of Cricket’ and a proud day for fans and Nantwich as a whole.

“Winning the Cheshire Cup is another major achievement for the club which does so much to encourage sport at grass-roots level. In a year when physical and mental health is more important than ever, we couldn’t be more proud of their success.”

The County Group, based on Crewe Business Park, is also a long-standing sponsor of Nantwich’s other famous sporting sons – Nantwich Town Football Club. _ For more information on insurance products go to www.countyins.com

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CHAMBER EVENTS

South Cheshire Chamber Events Programme How to Maximise your Membership

Held bi-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.

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.

Virtual Speed Networking

Local and Economic updates

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.

Virtual Chamber Welcome morning

Held bi-monthly Would you like to know more about the Chamber, what we do and how we can help you and your business? Or meet the Chamber team virtually?

The Welcome Morning is a great introduction to the Chamber. This event is ran bi-monthly in conjunction with the How to Maximise your Chamber Membership event.

Chamber Share 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

A series of webinars designed to share best practice, knowledge and skills across the Chamber Membership Community. Members will have the opportunity to share their ‘Top Tips’ on a range of topics. This event is open to members only.

Held bi-monthly Speed Networking events are now a regular and efficient fixture for meeting other Chamber members. This structured event for a maximum of 25 delegates 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.

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

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Next Issue due out March 15th 2021.

Editorial and advertising deadline February 15th 2021. For advertising Sales and Articles, please contact Jon Barnes: 01270 445409 or jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk

With social distancing measures still in place, Graham Witter, organiser and founder of Weston Christmas Light Display, has thought long and hard about how he can continue his hugely popular Christmas extravaganza, while keeping his visitors safe.

And the great news is Weston Christmas Light Display will return for the eighth year albeit in a slightly different format.

Graham (pictured) said: “I know that cancelling the event completely would be a huge disappointment to the thousands of visitors who enjoy coming to see the display every Christmas.

However I’m also very mindful that the current Government guidelines mean that we have to change the way we organise the event this year.

“I’m therefore delighted to announce that the Light Display will return this Christmas, as an exclusively drive-thru Star-lit Garden. This means that our family home garden will be transformed into an animated display, filled with thousands of twinkling lights and decorations, which visitors can enjoy from the safety of their own car.

“There’ll be all the magic of our usual display, including a special appearance from Santa every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening, and I’m delighted that visitors will also still be able to enjoy a #FestiveIceCream as they travel through the Starlit Garden.”

Graham will once again be raising money for The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice. Since the display began, in 2013, he has raised a breathtaking £125,850 for the Hospice which provided

respite care to his late sister, Jessica, and gave many hours of support to Graham and his family.

Graham, 25, said: “Over the last eight years I’ve developed a brilliant working relationship with local businesses across our community.

This year has been so tough for all businesses, which is why I’m so grateful, that so many of them are continuing to support and sponsor our Starlit Garden this year. Their support means that I’m able to continue my Christmas light display, bringing joy and happiness to the local community in a safe way, while continuing to raise vital funds for The Donna Louise, which has also been severely impacted by this year’s challenges.”

For the first time, Graham is also introducing a brand new #NameaStar initiative where the local community can remember a loved one, or celebrate a local hero, this Christmas. His 20ft Christmas tree will be surrounded by 150 handmade, metal stars, each containing the name of someone special.

Each year the light display costs thousands of pounds to organise and without the support and help of the local businesses who sponsor and support the event. Last year more than 20,000 people visited the display throughout December, raising an incredible £32,540.

Like so many charities, the Hospice has been severely impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic.

All fundraising events have been postponed indefinitely, and with many people too worried

about their own futures to give in any significant way, the charity doesn’t have the reserves to see it through like other charities do.

Graham added, “The Donna Louise gave me and my family exceptional help and support in difficult times before losing my sister in December 2015. Organising the light display each year and raising money for this remarkable charity is my way of saying 'thank you’.

“I love putting on a much-loved community event for families and young children to enjoy each year and it’s always brilliant to see so many people visiting the display every December.

Although this year’s event will be a bit different, I hope it will still bring joy, happiness, and fun to our local community.

Everybody is invited to visit the Starlit Garden this year between 1st - 28th December, 6:15 – 9pm at Carters Green Farm, Jack Lane, Weston.

The event will be a vehicle drive-thru and social distancing measures will be in place to ensure the safety of all our visitors. The event will be cash-only, similar to previous light display events. _ For more information, including how to #NameAStar remembering a loved one, or celebrating a local hero, please email info@westonlightdisplay.co.uk.

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CHARITY NEWS

Weston lights shine bright again this year

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and we are #HereForCulture

Thanks to the Government's Culture Recovery Fund we can continue to be #HereForCulture