Chamber Connect Magazine Issue 27

IT’S TIME TO GET POSITIVE

This issue celebrates the stories of three members who have done just that!

WHAT A YEAR WE HAD!

We report back on the most positive AGM ever – can you see yourself in the pictures?

THE ADUR AND WORTHING BUSINESS AWARDS 2023 ARE LAUNCHED!

Take part in one of the most positive things you can do for your business

MEET THE CHAMBER EXEC COMMITTEE on page 6

2023-24 Chamber Executive Committee

Welcome to issue 27

This issue is all about positive outcomes!

We recently held our 85th AGM which this year was more of an annual celebration incorporating the AGM. Supporting members is at the heart of everything we do and we wanted this year’s AGM to be a celebration of exactly that. We introduced some fun awards, more about those on page 4.

Another milestone and celebration for us… this year is the 10th year of the Better Business Show. The first show was in 2013 on the balcony at the Town Hall with a handful of the larger businesses in the area as a business showcase. Fast forward 10 years, we are at our third location, Worthing Leisure Centre, with capacity for over 100 stands! We’re incredibly proud of our flagship event and encourage you as local business owners and leaders to get involved, exhibit amongst some amazing local business and continue to make our show the MUST attend show in our area. We can do everything to make this happen but the show’s success is down to the local businesses getting behind it and getting involved. A positive outcome for us will be to be fully booked, so what are you waiting for... get booking!!

As I write we are preparing for another sell out lunch with the Bank of England, a timely and I’m sure interesting update! Worthing and Adur Chamber is always here to support businesses who are navigating the complexities of running a business in the current climate, you can get in touch with us by emailing info@worthingandadurchamber.co.uk or visit www.worthingandadurchamber.co.uk

The Chamber Team

PUBLISHERS:

Worthing and Adur Chamber of Commerce

Tel: 01903 203484

Info@worthingandadurchamber.co.uk

www.worthingandadurchamber.co.uk

CONNECT EDITORIAL TEAM:

Lauren Martin-Grieveson, Tracie Davey, Kelly O’Haire

Contact: info@worthingandadurchamber.co.uk

Chamber Event Photography: www.tonygrahamphotography.co.uk

ADVERTISING

The President’s Column

Tony Hedger, Director of A&T Business Associates and President of Worthing & Adur Chamber.

We had a very successful first BetterBizFest with fascinating speakers and workshops throughout the day. I am certain next year we will see even more of our members benefiting from the event.

The AGM this year was more of a celebration of successes both for the Chamber and our members in contrast to the usual formal AGM meeting. The Chamber fun awards are a first for us and I hope they will become a regular feature.

This year’s winners are:

Super Networker – Emma Waterer, Expert VA Services

Team Tea Maker – Sandra Crathern, Innavision

Super Patience Award – Jacqui Moorhouse

Longest Standing Member – Carpenter Box (nearly 100 years!)

Members’ Choice – Rachael Dines, Shake It Up Creative

Fabulous Team Member – Lauren MartinGrieveson, Worthing & Adur Chamber.

At the AGM we have seen a change to the Executive Board with a couple of time-honoured members standing down and two new members joining the Executive Board.

I would like to thank both Peter Webb and Jon Nulty for their hard work and support over the last few years. Also, we are welcoming Duncan Anderson from South Downs Leisure and Claire Ellis from JJ+H Accounting Services to the Executive.

Duncan’s knowledge and experience will bring useful information for our members on sustainability which is a crucially important issue and something that we all need to understand no matter what size of business we run.

Claire’s knowledge and experience of the benefits of our Peer Mentoring will be very beneficial to the Exec and the training group.

We have the launch event for the Adur and Worthing Business awards on the 7th of June and I hope to see many of you there. The awards are a great opportunity to showcase the fantastic work you do.

As we are approaching the end of the second quarter of 2023, with what has been an interesting journey so far for many of our members, we will be gathering for lunch on the 1st of June with a representative from the Bank of England to hear their views on the economy. Also, at the end of June, we have our breakfast event with Martin Randall who will give us an insight on the local economy, therefore we have an opportunity to compare the two views.

Tony Hedger Chamber President www.worthingandadurchamber.co.uk

Chamber’s AGM 2023

Meet the Exec

The Chamber’s Exec Committee are all volunteers who give up their time and expertise to support and guide the Chamber for the year ahead.

Tony Hedger President of the Chamber A&T Business Associates

I joined the Chamber back in 2009 when I set up my business as I knew what a great organisation it was. I joined one of the working groups to help with membership growth. Then I had the pleasure of joining the Exec so I could help with the growth of the Chamber as well as helping the team with strategic direction.

Theresa Cooper Vice President of the Chamber CooperativeHR

I think the Chamber is great. It’s supported my business by providing me with information, support and guidance through excellent events, training and networking opportunities. I joined the Exec because I wanted to help it to continue to grow and flourish, to attract more businesses whilst being able to effectively support those running the Chamber as well.

Debbie Ross

Vice

President

of the Chamber Chichester College Group

As a member of the Chamber for 14 years and on the working group for events, I was keen to strengthen my involvement with the Chamber. I was delighted to be voted on to the Executive. I joined to provide support to members, grow awareness of the Chamber and help to develop a training plan which in turn will benefit members. The Chamber provides a great platform to engage with other professionals and develop relationships.

Chay

Took Vice President & Treasurer of the Chamber

Kreston Reeves

I joined the Executive in around 2016. As an accountant with many local clients I wanted to have an influence over the business environment and represent their interests, as well as being in a position to promote the area helping businesses to grow and thrive.

Alastair Vickers Director of the Chamber

When I set up Ayres Bright Vickers in 1989 one of the first things I did was to join the Chamber. That has proved to have been a very good decision for the business. I see my role on the Exec as part of the ‘giving back‘ process.

Pilbeam Construction

There were many reasons for joining the Exec committee. Firstly, I felt quite chuffed to be asked to join to assist with a particular issue within the Chamber and, as a rule, I do like to help people if possible. The opportunity provided the chance to get involved, to contribute, to engage with and build relationships with both members and the broader Chamber team to a greater extent.

My voluntary role in the Chamber gives me the opportunity to be part of a team that gives back to local businesses, and I get to learn from others and about our community, as it is pretty amazing!

Tipton Marketing

Marketing is an integral part of any successful organisation and with 25 years of industry experience I joined the Executive Committee to help the Chamber as they move forwards with their marketing strategy. I feel privileged to be part of the Executive and enjoy working with everyone to support the Chamber’s vision and build their brand awareness.

Duncan

Anderson

South Downs Leisure

I have been impressed with the way the Worthing and Adur Chamber supported businesses during some challenging times in recent years. I feel that I am in a position where I could support Tracie and the team and contribute in a positive way to the Board, with my personal focus to explore how I can assist The Chamber to support businesses with their sustainability targets.

As the events group lead, I joined the Chamber Exec because I felt with my events management background I could help put on quality events like Better Business Show.

I’m excited to be joining the Exec board. I’ve been a member for over 5 years and want to help increase awareness of the support they offer. The peer mentoring program played a big part in the success of my business, and I am looking forward to supporting and promoting this programme further.

As a business owner locally I wanted to assist others in helping them achieve their goals and aspirations with their businesses and careers and what better place to start than with the Chamber. Having started as a trainee in Worthing to now owning my own Law firm, I have seen and continually see regularly the benefits of the Chamber to all types of businesses and individuals and wanted to help with this.

Keith Gallis Seagull Travel

Simon Pilbeam

Sheryl Tipton FCIM CMktr

Louise Grant

Claire Ellis

JJ+H Accounting Services

Kate Hallin

Bennett Griffin

Better Business Show stand bookings now open!

Thursday 21st September | 10am - 3pm | Worthing Leisure Centre

As businesses we are constantly looking at ways to make our business stronger, clearer and more profitable. The Better Business Show is the perfect place to showcase your business to potential customers and gain invaluable contacts.

Celebrating 10 Years

The Better Business Show is back and you need to be there! Having a stand on the day is a great way for you to show off what your business has to offer and make new contacts.

Price Freeze

We are pleased to announce that this year the Better Business Show stands are on a price freeze. Meaning, we haven’t increased any of the stand prices this year, in order to support businesses, especially during these tricky times!

Package A

2m x 2m stand

Early Bird Booking: £239 + VAT (book before 16th June to secure Early Bird Rate)

Standard Booking: £269 +VAT

Package B

3m x 2m stand

Early Bird Booking: £289 + VAT (book before 16th June to secure Early Bird Rate)

Standard Booking: £319 + VAT

All stand packages include:

• Support and pre event updates

• Pre and post show social media promotion

• Listing in printed show guide

• Listing on the online exhibitor list

• Links to your website and social media

• Media pack to assist you with show promotion

• Pre-ordered lunch boxes

• Tea, filter coffee and water voucher

• Exhibitor name badges

Package C

4m x 3m stand

Early Bird Booking: £369 + VAT (book before 16th June to secure Early Bird Rate)

Standard Booking: £399 + VAT

Start-Up Stands

We have a limited number of heavily subsidised stands allocated for startup businesses, who are in their first 18 months of trading. We are able to offer these 2m x 2m stands for just £99 + VAT.

If you would like to book one of these stands email lauren@ worthingandadurchamber.co.uk To

How much can I pay into my pension this year?

Pensions are an excellent way to save money for retirement with significant tax benefits. Contributions to pensions qualify for tax relief, and once in the pension, they grow with no liability to income tax or capital gains tax. However, it’s important to keep in mind the annual limit when deciding how much to contribute. Going over the limit means paying tax on the excess, which could eat away at your savings.

pension. The AA for the current tax year is £60,000 which was increased from £40,000. Contributions over the AA can be made, but they will be subject to the AA Tax Charge, effectively removing the tax relief granted on the contribution.

What is the Money Purchase Annual Allowance (MPAA)?

Roy Thompson, Partner and Head of Financial Services

The main limits are called the Annual Allowance (AA) and the Money Purchase Annual Allowance (MPAA). The highest earners are subject to a modified form of the Annual Allowance called the Tapered Annual Allowance (TAA).

In the Spring Budget 2023, the Government announced changes to the AA, MPAA, and TAA which will affect how much you can pay into a pension this financial year.

What is the Annual Allowance (AA)?

The AA is the annual contribution limit for individuals who have not previously accessed their

The MPAA is the annual limit for pension input for individuals who have previously flexibly accessed their pension. The MPAA for the 2023/2024 tax year is £10,000. This has increased from £4,000 in the 2022/2023 tax year. Contributions over the MPAA are subject to a tax charge like the AA.

The MPAA’s main purpose is to limit the amount that can be contributed towards pensions in retirement. This means pension income cannot be recycled to receive additional tax relief.

What is the Tapered Annual Allowance (TAA)?

The TAA is a modified form of the AA for the highest earners. If your total taxable income crosses the £200,000 threshold in a tax year you’ll be subject to a test to determine whether your AA will reduce from £60,000. This effectively limits the amount you can pay into a pension in a tax year. By extension, this reduces the amount of tax relief you can claim

on pension contributions. The maximum tapering is £50,000 which applies to those earning £360,000 and above, leaving you with £10,000 of allowance for the tax year.

Planning for retirement is crucial and knowing what counts towards your annual allowance is a big part of that. Remember: both personal and employer pension contributions go towards the AA/MPAA/TAA, so be sure to factor them in when calculating how much you’ve used up!

I’ve heard about the Lifetime Allowance as well, what is that?

The Lifetime Allowance was a maximum level of pension funds that could benefit from the generous tax advantages offered by pensions. Previously, this was £1,073,100, with anything over this amount subject to tax charges at either 25% or 55% (depending on how the pension money was accessed).

In the Spring Budget 2023, the Government announced its intention to abolish the Lifetime Allowance. Whilst the framework for the Lifetime Allowance remains in place for the current tax year, no Lifetime Allowance tax charges will apply where you exceed the limits between 6th April 2023 and 5th April 2024. From 6th April 2024, the Lifetime Allowance will be removed from legislation. We expect further details on this to be released over the coming months.

If you would like to discuss your pension contributions and wider pension planning further, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our friendly Financial Advisers by calling 01903 534587 or visit www.carpenterboxfa.com

Calling all Adur & Worthing businesses!

Now in its 15th year, the organising committee is delighted to announce the launch of The Adur & Worthing Business Awards 2023 and the search will soon begin for the region’s top companies and business individuals.

ffering nineteen diverse categories, these awards are a platform dedicated to celebrating success stories of companies that have demonstrated exceptional performance and made a significant impact in their respective industries. We believe that acknowledging these achievements not only rewards the hard work and dedication of the companies involved but also motivates others to strive for excellence.

Peter Webb MBE DL, Chairman at ETI Ltd and AWBA judge commented “local businesses are the backbone of any community, providing essential goods and services, creating jobs, and driving growth and prosperity. From innovative start-ups to established businesses with a long-standing reputation, these awards represent a unique opportunity to celebrate companies across all sectors, reflecting the diversity of the local economy. Whether it’s a commitment to sustainability, outstanding creativity and innovation, or a positive impact on the community, there’s an award category that recognises and celebrates your achievements.”

OWinning a Business Award is a significant achievement and can provide a boost to your company’s profile and reputation. It demonstrates to customers, clients, and partners that your business is committed to excellence, innovation, and best practices. It can also help attract new customers and provide a competitive advantage in the marketplace. But it’s not just about winning. The awards offer an opportunity to come together as a community, network with other local businesses, and share ideas and insights. It’s a chance to learn from the successes and challenges of others and gain inspiration and motivation for the future.

The 2023 Business Awards promise to be an exciting and inspiring event, celebrating the best of local businesses, and recognising the contributions of companies and individuals across the area. So don’t hesitate to get involved and put your business forward for an Adur & Worthing Business Award!

The deadline for entries and nominations is Friday 15th September and further details on each category and how to enter can be found at: www.awbawards.com

Winners will be announced at a prestigious black-tie awards ceremony to be held at the Pavilion, Worthing on Friday 10th November 2023. Tickets for this event will be released for sale online following the official shortlist announcement on Friday 6th October.

How to choose a solicitor for my business

You might need a solicitor to look over a contract or perhaps offer guidance about a potential merger, sale or acquisition.

In the worse-case scenario, you might encounter a potential legal problem with a third party. Hiring a solicitor could save considerable hassles further down the line. So, what do you do when you need legal advice? How do you choose between your options?

What do solicitors do?

First, let’s look at what business solicitors do and how they could help. Here are some examples of the work they could do for you:

Business structure/company formation

If you have the drive and enthusiasm to create your own business, the next things you need to consider are the practicalities and legal formalities of getting your business started.

You can structure your business in various ways, and each brings different legal obligations and protections. A solicitor will be able, possibly alongside your accountant, to provide advice on the best structure for your proposed business in the current circumstances, as well as provide practical assistance with the formation of the business (in the case of companies or partnerships) and the documentation of the same.

Mergers and acquisitions

It may be that you decide over time that you do not wish to retain your business, or an opportunity comes along which is just too good to turn down.

Alternatively, you may be able to acquire another existing business (either to run alongside your existing business or to incorporate it). The acquisition or sale of a business, or the merger with another company, can be an exhilarating prospect.

The law relating to mergers and acquisitions is understandably complex. Just as every business is different, every transaction of this nature is different.

Solicitors can work with you to ensure that the process runs smoothly, is properly and fully documented, and any risks are minimised.

Company disputes

If you’re in dispute with another company or a company is bringing a claim against your business, you’ll need a legal team who knows how to protect your interests.

Commercial property law

Whether you are a property developer, landlord or business tenant, commercial property is a significant investment that can generate attractive returns and help secure the future of your business.

The right solicitors can ensure commercial property deals go smoothly, putting in place all the proper measures to protect you legally and financially.

This is not an exhaustive list by any means, and we can assist businesses with a wide variety of different issues and requirements.

If you run a business, there will be times when you’ll need legal advice.

Choosing the right solicitors for your business

We have put together some top tips to help you make that critical decision.

1. Begin with the end in mind

What are your objectives, fears, opportunities, and priorities? If you have a clear idea of what you need from a solicitor – and ideally the desired outcomes from their help – you can have much more informed and productive discussions during initial enquiries.

In some cases, opportunities may present themselves where the best route to take is unclear. A good solicitor can assist in these situations by providing guidance on possible solutions to achieve the desired goal.

2. Ask about their relevant, recent experience

Have the firm’s members worked with businesses similar to yours? Or do they have case studies that closely reflect your current situation?

Understanding a firm’s previous experience with other businesses is essential to decide whether they’re a good fit for you.

Also, can the solicitor offer a complete service? Some solicitors may only be prepared to act in certain types of cases, which is fine, provided your case doesn’t suddenly change.

Having to appoint a second, or replacement, solicitor mid-way through a transaction can be costly both in terms of money and time.

3. What timescales do you want to work to?

Firstly, is any proposed timescale realistic? Secondly, is there any deadline which must be met? Thirdly, in some cases, matters have to be dealt with very urgently indeed.

In any of these situations, it is important to be clear with your solicitor about your requirements (or the requirements of other parties) and whether the solicitor has the ability to meet those requirements.

4. Communication

How do you like to communicate with a professional advisor? Some people will prefer faceto-face meetings in person, others to communicate by phone call or emails. In most large cases, a combination of different types of communication may be used, but if you favour one or more types over others, is your solicitor able to offer this?

Contact Bennett Griffin

At Bennett Griffin, we have a team of lawyers who, between them, have amassed considerable experience in advising businesses of all sizes, in all types of transactions and for clients in different fields.

If you’re looking for a business solicitor to help with any legal issue – or some advice about future possibilities – our team will be happy to help.

For more information, call 01903 229999 or email info@bennett-griffin.co.uk

Content Marketing Strategies:

Utilising the Power of Artificial Intelligence in 2023

Tristan Van Den Berg, Director at Slindon Media shares his thoughts on using AI as a marketing tool.

marketing industry. Through such technologies, marketers can streamline and optimise their targeting approaches, delivering highly personalised messaging to customers and prospects through various channels, resulting in heightened customer experiences, conversions, and increased revenue.

Does this mean that you should use AI to write your marketing content?

What is AI?

We should first clarify what Artificial Intelligence (AI) is exactly.

At its core, Artificial Intelligence is a mix of many different technologies capable of performing tasks requiring human intelligence. When applied to typical business tasks, these technologies can learn, act, and serve with human-like levels of intelligence. AI essentially simulates human intelligence in machines, saving us a lot of time and money in business.

We have established what AI is, so what exactly is AI marketing?

The synergy of marketing and AI is fascinating; it utilises advanced machine learning technologies to automate the decision-making process within the

From our experience at Slindon Media, we began using AI for our marketing copy and expected that human writers would significantly outperform AI. Although humans are better – and we needed humans to tweak the AI output – the difference isn’t nearly as big as expected. If you have people who usually don’t write content, we believe they would probably do better by using an AI to help them. This is true even with the limitations of today’s large language models (LLM).

If you are a good content writer, it’s safe to say you’re better than an AI today. This is because there are topics where AI models will fail to perform well. But AI is catching up. We recommend that all writers experiment with AI to help them improve their writing, whether using AI for ideas or editing sections of AI content into their writing.

Will AI continue to get better and improve your content marketing endeavours?

The AI marketing software industry is rapidly evolving, with new tools and capabilities constantly emerging. While there are challenges to overcome, including ethical concerns around data privacy

and algorithmic bias, the potential benefits of AI marketing are enormous. By leveraging the power of machine learning and natural language processing, businesses can gain deeper insights into customer behaviour, generate more effective marketing messages, and ultimately drive better business results. AI will continue to improve, but the rate of improvement will be uncertain. The Slindon Media team will keep a close eye on new developments and run more experiments, and we’ll be sure to keep you informed of the results!

www.slindonmedia.com

Real expertise. Real results.

We provide solutions to create, preserve and recover value across a range of complex situations.

What we do

Our strategic business advisers help clients create, preserve and recover value. No matter how complex the situation, we’ll be with you every step of the way.

We get under the skin of businesses in complex and difficult situations. With over 580 people including 88 partners, we have a deep understanding of why crises happen and how to find a way out.

Specialising in forensics, corporate finance, debt, restructuring and pensions, we deliver strategic solutions across a broad range of situations. Our five pillar services complement each other. We draw on experts within each of our service areas to put the best people in place for each circumstance.

Working across the board, from multinational organisations to small enterprises, we develop effective strategies for all kinds of businesses. Every situation is tackled with FRP’s honest, clear and considered approach.

For us quality and focus are important and doing the right thing will always be our priority.

Phil Harris Restructuring Advisory

Corporate Finance Debt Advisory Financial Advisory

Forensic Services

Restructuring Advisory

We’re honest, clear and considered.

Giving you the clarity to understand all possible outcomes

Business is personal. When businesses face difficult times, the impacts can be life changing. We’re here to find solutions and explain the implications, so you have all the information you need.

Our Partner-led team gives clear and honest advice. It’s what we’re known for. Our highly skilled experts have hands-on experience handling the difficulties you face. So, whatever the situation, we can address issues efficiently and sensitively.

Wherever you are in the restructuring process, our team-approach draws on our breadth of services to manage risk, preserve and recover value. With a range of expertise at hand, we have the right people for every step and see matters through from start to finish.

Our advisers will explain the short and long-term implications of all your options, so you have straightforward advice you can rely on when you need it most.

88 Partners nationwide 580 Team members

26 UK locations

When businesses face challenges, we unravel the complexities, solve problems and aim to protect value.

Our business, Our story

In this issue we talk to James Brock, Director of James & James Estate Agents

When did you start your business and how has it changed?

We started setting up our business on 1st June 2020. Incredibly, we opened our doors just 4 weeks later. Initially it was just Jim & I. A few weeks later we employed Eileen Wheeler who followed us from our previous employer. Soon after Nicky Van Der Hage joined, and before we knew it, we had a team of nine! We bolted on our lettings & property management company and then our commercial agency. This coupled with having an in-house mortgage advisor enabled us to be a one stop shop for everything property.

How did you grow your business?

We were so blessed that soon after opening our business the government introduced a zero-stamp duty holiday period. This coupled with low interest rates meant that the property market simply exploded! Jim & I are very well known, and once we announced that we were going out on our own the recommendations just started pouring in. We have a rock-solid policy of people before profit and community first. We were involved in numerous community projects and started supporting as many local events as we could. Our commitment to Worthing and some of the surrounding towns paid dividends. The public were repaying our generosity with theirs.

What challenges have you faced?

Personally, I would say separating work life from my personal life. The benefits of being well known sometimes means that no matter where I am or what time of the day it is, people want to talk shop. I don’t mind too much, however when I’m trying to breathe in at the changing rooms when I’m in the gym, I’d rather not be talking about the Bank of England’s base rate!!

L-R: James Brock and Jim Bacon

Is there a particular project of which you are most proud?

I would have to say our James & James fancy dress fun run. This was inspired by hearing how upset some parents were that they wouldn’t be able to attend their children’s sports day due to social distancing. Once the restrictions were lifted, we held a fun run and raised money for Chestnut Tree House. It was so magical seeing over 100 children dressed up as Disney princesses and superheroes, all out running around with great big smiles. All the families and extended families were able to attend. Even now, we see kids out wearing their ‘finisher t-shirt’… I love it!

What’s one piece of business advice you would tell your younger self?

Don’t get caught up in the ‘noise’. There are so many ‘proptech’ companies out there with the next big thing. Software, data mining, plus so many other gimmicks. Its very easy to get caught up in it all. All we need to do is keep to our core values, people before profit and community first, and everything will be ok. As my Nan always said to me, treat people how you want to be treated, and the world will be a better place.

Email address: james@jamesandjamesea.co.uk

Phone number: 01903 958770

www.jamesandjamesea.co.uk

Celebrating positive outcomes!

The Chamber Team interviews three Chamber Members to find out a recent positive outcome they’ve had in their businesses.

Justin Howard, Blue Billboard:

In the last 12 months we’ve seen our network continuing to grow in terms of locations. As of May 2023 we have 58 screens across 47 locations in Sussex, with the largest number being in the Worthing area.

April 2023 saw us also complete the installation of 2 large double sided advertising screens into the Guildbourne Centre. Immediately modernising the space and delivering relevant local advertising to their visitors.

Through a combination of networking and word of mouth we’ve seen a growth of over 20% month on month since January 2023 as we attract more local businesses (in particular in Worthing) onto our advertising screen business. We see the addition of the Guildbourne Centre further driving sales and enabling us to continue our mission of supporting local businesses (with low cost advertising and revenue sharing) and expanding the network into other areas.

www.bluebillboard.co.uk

Celebrating the successes

Jane Hames, Glide Training:

In January, I attended a conference where one of the speakers talked about how videos can help potential customers to gain trust in your organisation. While I am regularly in front of the camera delivering training in a virtual classroom and producing structured training videos for customers, the thought of a more casual, presentation style video felt out of my comfort zone.

As a trainer, you can probably guess that I am an advocate for learning and I am continuously developing my skills, but this speaker gave me a prompt to try something new.

The new thing is very simple. Regular quick tip videos added to our YouTube channel, posted on social media and added to our blog.

The positive outcome for Glide Training has been an increase in new customers coming on board and we have provided added value for our existing customers too - the feedback has been great! Despite the simplicity, the impact has been big - our website SEO has improved, our customers are very happy and we are working with more organisations than ever before.

www.glidetraining.com

Adam Smedley, Hill Barn Golf Club:

The Worthing Business Championships was created as a marketing tool rather than a stand-alone event as we felt that the image of Hill Barn was struggling with some historical perception. We were supported greatly by the team from The Chamber and extremely fortunate to team up with Fiona from the Worthing Food Foundation as we all realised the potential of bringing everyone together.

The day was more successful than we could have hoped for, and we were delighted to have 18 teams battle it out with the eventual winners First For Logistics being crowned Worthing Business Golf Champions.

We feel that during challenging financial times that being confident in our product and trusting our pricing structure that we can ride out the inevitable storm. Our biggest learning was that by partnering with like-minded energetic people and companies that we can all achieve great things together. I would encourage all companies to work with the Chamber and support the Worthing Food Foundation during these difficult times.

www.hillbarngolf.com

Are you a business in need of digital skill sets?

The pandemic changed our relationship with technology with some estimates suggesting digital transformation sped up by 4 years. Organisations had to react quickly to enable remote working, shift to digital channels and transform products and services to meet the changing demands of customers.

Sussex County Council and the West Sussex District and Borough Councils, including Adur & Worthing Councils.

This change also affected employee skill sets, with staff and teams learning new digital skills and technological understanding.

Given these changes, its not surprising the gap between digital innovation and digital understanding widens at a faster rate than businesses and career seekers can keep up with. Yet these skills are now pivotal for business growth.

Are you a business in need of digital skill sets? Are you a business investing in digital technology and want to showcase great investment? If so, we’d like to hear from you!

Digital Futures West Sussex is a programme launched to highlight digital careers through the voice of local businesses and inspire jobseekers across the county. Its an opportunity for businesses to showcase digital innovation and promote the range of digital careers and job roles available locally. The programme is jointly funded by West

Digital innovation and technology span a multitude of operations and includes but is not limited to web and app development to eCommerce and software engineering, from gaming giants needing coders to small start-ups requiring content creators. This means career paths are diverse with openings at all levels.

Digital Futures West Sussex is looking for businesses to support the roadshows, where they can meet potential talent in an open forum of discussion, join a facilitated panel or take part in a talk on tackling challenges and removing barriers to growth and investment.

Our local Digital champion, Mark Bullen, Managing Director of GB Electronics and Digital Futures Ambassador in Arun, Adur and Worthing, said: “In coastal West Sussex alone there are so many exciting opportunities for digital roles, from the increasing number of smaller businesses with growing digital requirements to the large blue-chip organisations that have structured career paths. The Digital Futures programme is all about connecting these businesses with talented people and supporting those looking for roles to upskill.

Businesses wanting to be part of the initiative can contact local strategic consultancy always possible, who are delivering the programme. Events are taking place over the following six months in Adur and Worthing.

www.adur-worthing.gov.uk

Five joyful tips for Instagram Reels for business

Hands-up if you spend hours scrolling through Instagram Reels and get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of creativity and hilarity out there? Don’t be embarrassed, me too. That’s why I’m sharing my top tips for bringing the joy into making Reels for your business.

Always add subtitles

Be relatable

The Reels that get the most engagement are the ones that spark an emotional response – whether it’s a laugh, a cringe or an OMG THAT’S ME! You don’t need to worry about looking ultra-polished – the most important thing is to share messages that resonate with your audience.

Have a purpose

Whether you’re writing blogs or making Reels, the role of any content you share online should be to inspire, inform, educate, or entertain – or all of the above. Every time you make a Reel, be clear on what your purpose is and make sure you deliver value to your audience.

Focus on your hook

We have the attention span of gnats. It takes a person around three seconds to decide whether to watch your Reel, so make sure you have an immediate hook to grab people’s attention. Use the text tool to add a title so people immediately know what your video is about and whether it’s relevant to them.

Not only will adding subtitles or text to your video make it more accessible to people with hearing disabilities, subtitles also make people who are scrolling with their sound low or off able to engage with your content. If they can’t get the gist without sound, they’ll probably scroll past – don’t miss out on their views.

Make it joyful!

Having fun when you make any content for your business really matters. Find a way of making Reels that works for YOU – don’t worry about what anyone else is doing. If you don’t enjoy making content, if you put loads of pressure on yourself, you’ll never be motivated to keep it up – so experiment and embrace your creativity!

www.thejoyfulacademy.com

Alice Reeves is an independent business consultant and founder of The Joyful Academy, a collaborative learning space for business owners, entrepreneurs and creatives to bring more joy into work and life. Find out more at

Get involved with Digital Futures West Sussex to help shape our county’s future

Mark Bullen, MD of GB Electronics and Ambassador for the Digital Futures programme shares how you can get involved in inspiring future generations and growing the local economy.

As the managing director of a growing technology company, GB Electronics (UK) Ltd (GBE), I was excited to be selected as an ambassador for the Digital Futures West Sussex programme. There is a wealth of opportunity in our county, and to maximise it, we need to increase the profile of our digital and technology-focused industry.

Research has found many jobseekers in the area are unaware of the diverse digital opportunities on their doorstep. Employers need help attracting talent and sharing these great opportunities. Digital Futures West Sussex aims to connect local employers with training providers and sector networks to help reduce unfilled digital job opportunities, ultimately paving a path for growth and connecting key players from all aspects of the community.

As part of the programme there are several events to help create these connections. Drop-in information hubs allow jobseekers, career shifters and anyone with an interest in digital, to find out more about relevant training courses and local opportunities. The Digital Futures roadshows bring together business leaders with training providers and talented jobseekers in one room, so people can engage in meaningful conversations about digital roles across different sectors and career routes.

As well as being a great place to live and work, West Sussex has a lot to offer for companies with digital skills requirements. We have good universities and colleges that are keen to engage with local companies – there is a huge opportunity to partner with them. We sponsor Worthing College, where we

have our own GBE lab. We do talks for the students about the relevance of what they’re learning and where it could take them. Digital Futures is about boosting this engagement with talented people in our county and giving them the vision that they don’t have to go to London to have a successful career and make an impact.

By supporting the programme, businesses can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our county. It is a unique opportunity to collaborate with education providers, inspire future generations and ultimately grow the local economy. I encourage businesses in the area to get involved and join us for the next Digital Futures roadshow on Monday 26th June at the Ropetackle Arts Centre in Shoreham.

Find out more at: www.digitalfuturesws.co.uk

Top tips for using Trello

For those of you who haven’t come across it yet, Trello is a fantastic project management tool suitable for collaborating on projects, organising workflows and tracking the progress of tasks in a visual way.

It is invaluable to my business and the way that I organise my tasks as well as using it for my clients’ workflows too.

Here are some tips on getting the most out of Trello:

Workspaces are like your ‘filing cabinet’. This is the main place you will store your information. You can have up to 10 workspaces on the free account.

Within each workspace, you can create up to 10 Boards – think of these as the ‘drawers’ in your ‘filing cabinet’.

Boards can be called anything you like, and you can invite team members to each board so that they can collaborate on them with you.

Within each board, you can add as many Lists as you like – these are like the ‘hangers’ in your ‘drawers’. These lists are where you can easily see tasks that need doing by category such as: ‘To Do’, ‘In Progress’, ‘Completed’ etc.

Then within these lists, you can add your actual tasks, called Cards.

On each card, you can add due dates, create labels, add checklists, assign team members, add attachments and also choose an image to use as a visual aid when looking at your board.

Once tasks have been completed, you can either manually tick them off, move to a completed list, or for regular tasks you can set up a ‘Butler’ which will automatically move them once you’ve set up your parameters.

To collaborate on tasks, just type @ and a team members’ name and they will get a notification that they’ve been mentioned on that task and can reply directly to you.

There is so much that Trello can do to help keep you organised, on-track with tasks and collaborate effectively with your team.

If you would like some in-depth training on Trello, then please get in touch with us at: info@expertvaservices.co.uk

We offer an in-person, two-hour training session to help show you just how great Trello can be for your business!

Did You Know? Positivity works!

Did you know that Worthing and Adur is positively one of the best areas of the UK in which to live and work? Kelly O’Haire shares 3 reasons why below:

Positively healthier than most

According to a 2022 survey by comparison website CompareTheMarket, Brighton & Hove and the surrounding area is the 4th healthiest place to live in the UK. The website compared the number of ‘healthy restaurants’, green spaces and gym memberships of a number of different areas around the UK to work out the rankings. Health and Fitness is a growing sector and Chamber Member, South Downs Leisure is one of the largest employers across Adur and Worthing. So being healthy is both good for us and the local economy - long may it continue!

Positively better together

Did you know that Adur District Council and Worthing Borough Council are still two separate councils sharing one administration? What’s more, they have been doing it since 2007 and this is pretty unusual across the whole of the UK. Since this time, Worthing and Adur has seen significant regeneration and improvements made across the whole area. Worthing has even been named one of the best places to live in the UK in recent surveys!

Positively recorded

Did you know that Worthing and Adur has been photographically recorded since 1859 when commercial photography was still in its infancy? Samuel Fox established the very first studio in Bath Place and it passed through a few owners until it was eventually sold to Walter Gardiner and his wife Annie (who was also a photographer) in 1893. The Gardiners became very well known in the town, recording Worthing views and portraits. Walter is also regarded as a pioneer designer of British local view postcards. In 1900 they bought a new studio on Brighton Road in what is now the Wellis Hot Tub shop - it looks a bit different in the picture to how it does today. So next time you’re on holiday and about to send a card to a loved one, you now know that it was first done with photographs in Worthing!

Why join Worthing & Adur Chamber?

We’re all about positively promoting, supporting and connecting local businesses.

We are here to promote, support and connect our members, who are a diverse mix of large and small businesses all with the same aim – to succeed.

There are so many benefits to being a member, whether you want to raise your profile, accelerate your business growth, connect with your business community or simply just be part of it. The Chamber’s purpose is to support businesses, big or small to ensure and encourage success.

• Great choice of quality business networking and social events

• Member to member introductions

• Annual headline events including the Better Business Show, AGM & Chamber Summit

• Exclusive member only events

• Promotion of members events

• Topical forums - have your say

• Discounted rate at Sussex Chamber Events

• Digital marketing opportunities via Chamber website, social media and e-news

• Sponsorship opportunities for events, website and business enews

• Promotional opportunities in Chamber Connect Magazine

• Member listing on the Chamber website and member links

• Access to LinkedIn group

• Annual social media shoutouts

• Promotion of member offers

• Save money with member to member offers

• Chamber member logo to download and display

• Corporate rate for FIT4 membership to all chamber members details here

• Leadership opportunities as an Ambassador, Executive Committee member or on a working group

• Affiliated to Sussex Chamber with access to Westfield health plan, AA Roadside Assistance, AXA health at Hand, Moneycorp Foreign Exchange

• Business advice and information including funding

• Quarterly Chamber Connect magazine

• Access to Sussex Chamber International trade events

• Be part of the local business community

• Access to local authorities and Government

Together business is stronger

The Chamber offers an excellent opportunity to keep up to date with current and local issues, find out about the local and national grants and changes that affect businesses.

It was a no brainer to become a Chamber member when I started my business!

Worthing & Adur Chamber have been nothing short of fantastic. The communications, training, events and opportunities that are on offer have been supercharged in both quantity and quality.

• Access to preferential rates on Chamber Academy training workshops

• Opportunity to deliver training session in your specialist area

• Share your expertise with a growing group of local professionals

• Discounted rate on Sussex Chamber training courses

• Exclusive Peer Mentoring programme to develop your business

• Set business aims with a FREE 3 hour annual business workshop

Ethics can’t save Insurer Incompetence

Back in 2015

the Shiloh Christian Centre in Florida were refinancing a bank loan to cut costs and asked their insurance agent to investigate the saving if they excluded hurricane cover. The saving was significant so Shiloh agreed ‘named windstorms’ would be excluded from their policy. The insurers issued an exclusion endorsement and refunded some of the 2015 renewal premium to Shiloh.

In February 2016 the policy was renewed on the understanding named windstorms would still be excluded at a premium of $22,500 ($48,545 was paid at the 2015 renewal) but the insurers failed to apply the named windstorm exclusion when issuing the policy documentation. In October 2016 Hurricane Matthew hit Florida and ripped off the church roof. Shiloh claimed but the insurers refused to pay due to the agreement to exclude named windstorms.

There were some differences in the policy wording at the 2017 renewal, but the named windstorm exclusion was still missing. Hurricane Irma then struck in September 2017, once more ripping off the church roof and again the insurers denied the claim made by Shiloh.

The church took legal action in 2020 arguing the policy documentation did not exclude named windstorms,

but the District Court sided with the insurer due to the clear intent of both parties. However, this was recently overruled by the Florida Supreme Court and the insurer will now have to pay the claims. The legal ruling was complicated but in essence, in Florida law, the written contractual agreement is paramount.

In many ways the insurer deserves little sympathy for their incompetence, especially at the 2017 renewal, when following the attempted 2016 claim, they must surely have realised their policy documentation was not, pardon the pun, watertight.

I have been trying to think of parallels and there is some similarity with the Covid Business Interruption claims, when our Supreme Court forced insurers, who never intended to provide cover for National Lockdowns, to pay claims because of poorly drafted policy wordings. However, the difference being that other than large corporates (Wimbledon Tennis notably bought pandemic cover), few small or medium sized businesses would have asked if their premiums reflected whether pandemics were covered.

Most intriguing is the ethics. I am no expert on the role of an insurance agent in the US but in the UK we check the policy documentation. Insurers often get policy documentation wrong but the only similar case I can

An interesting case from the US caught my eye recently and has become quite a discussion point.

recall is when we arranged a policy for a small aviation product supplier many years ago. They decided that they did not want Products Liability cover (which is expensive and generally only available from specialist insurers) and the insurer we used did not write aviation liability cover, only agreeing to provide contents and other liability covers on that basis. However, the insurer issued the policy with Products Liability cover, which we spotted and informed them of their error.

To my knowledge no claim ever occurred and whilst some may feel that we should have let the error go, I would contend that we acted properly in line with our professional code requiring us to act with the highest ethical standards and integrity, including ‘not taking unfair advantage of a client, a colleague or a third party.’

Then there is the action of Shiloh and their audacity to make an insurance claim when they knew they had not bought the cover. We may have moved on from ‘gentleman’s agreements’ and ‘my word is my bond’, but this was certainly not in keeping with the fundamental integrity many still feel should underpin the basis of a contractual agreement.

Whatever your thoughts about the insurance industry, most seem to agree that the Florida decision goes against natural justice, and for that sake, I would hope that a UK Court would not follow suit. But I have to add that despite the way it worked out for Shiloh, cutting insurance is not always such a great idea and can prove to be a false economy, particularly with what would be considered a reasonably high risk with potentially disastrous consequences.

www.nsure.co.uk

NEW COMMUNITY WORKS

BERNADETTE DOYLE THERAPY, NLP & COACHING

Rewiring, connecting, resilience, liberating. A modern, evidence-based approach for talking therapy & neuro-coaching for individuals and businesses. Supporting mental wellbeing.

www.bernadettedoyle.co.uk

BREWHOUSE & KITCHEN

The perfect place to eat and enjoy freshly brewed, hyper local, award-winning craft beers in Worthing. Join us for lunch, brunch, a buffet meal, or for what we believe is the best Sunday Roast in Worthing (perfect with a Proper Pint).

www.brewhouseandkitchen.com

BRIGHT EYE BUSINESS CONSULTING SERVICES

I offer a variety of business consultancy services including business planning services and consultancy relating to the government’s R&D Tax Relief scheme. I’m also currently seeking Non-Executive Director roles.

www.linkedin.com/in/paula-newton-70a2a03

BURTON ELECTRICAL & RENEWABLES

We’re a team of friendly, reliable and highly skilled Electricians and renewable energy installers. Based in Worthing, West Sussex we specialise in all aspects of electrical installation and renewable energy.

www.burtonelectrical.co.uk

CASTLE GORING

Amazing wedding venue, corporate & private functions and film location. Built several hundred years ago in beautiful grounds surrounded by ancient woodland in the Sussex and Worthing countryside, this newly restored Grade 1 stunning venue provides the ideal setting for any occasion.

www.castlegoring.com

We connect charities, volunteers and businesses in Brighton, Hove, Adur and Worthing, so they can make our society and local areas better.

www.bhcommunityworks.org.uk

CONTROL FREQ

Manufacturer and supplier of 4G mobile technology for parking, alarm monitoring, access control and communication applications.

www.controlfreqgsm.com

DEBBIE STEVENS WELLBEING EVENTS

We provide a range of professionally organised pampering and wellbeing events. Offering both workplace wellbeing solutions for companies and employers, plus private wellbeing packages for groups and individuals.

www.debbiestevenswellbeing.co.uk

DESTRIER VA SERVICES

We provide various admin support services including database maintenance, online research, venue finding and coordination, writing/editing presentations, data input, and creative marketing brief writing.

carol@destriervaservices.co.uk

DHARMA CLINIC

Health and Well-Being Clinic which provides different treatments such as massage, therapy, exercise, physio and rehabilitation. We offer you the best support to understanding yourself and your recovery, whether you feel it’s on the physical, mental or spiritual level.

www.dharmaclinic.co.uk

GB ELECTRONICS

From full product design services to optimisation and manufacture. Utilising the in-house services across the companies within the GBE group means we are able to provide our clients with full product design, component sourcing and manufacturing solutions; in optimal time and cost.

www.gbelectronics.com

We would like to welcome our new chamber members and thank the renewing members for their continued support!

GIGGLEWICK GALLERY

Located in the beautiful Royal Arcade in Worthing. We bring our creative spirit to bare and display uniquely inspiring collections for our clients and visitors. Inspired by nature’s seasons and the infamous British weather our art may be acrylic paintings, fused glass, turned wood, jewellery, textiles, drawing or print.

www.gigglewick-gallery.myshopify.com

GROMMETS

UK leading manufacturers and stockists of grommets and custom moulded products. We stock a wide range of Rubber & PVC products, all manufactured and stocked in the UK but available for European and Worldwide export.

www.grommets.co.uk

HILLBARN

GOLF CLUB

Conveniently located just off the A24 near Worthing, Hill Barn Golf Club is a spectacular 75-year old course designed by the legendary Fred Hawtree who designed Royal Birkdale. The Club has a long and enviable history having hosted many professional tournaments and been graced by names such as Peter Alliss and Tony Jacklin. www.hillbarngolf.com

ICKLE PICKLES CHILDREN’S CHARITY

The Ickle Pickles offers a unique opportunity to help vulnerable babies at a critical time in their lives. We have funded equipment both small and large, from incubators and ventilators through to breast pumps, feeding chairs and tiny baby nests to help the smallest babies.

www.icklepickles.org

KRONA DESIGN

Krona Design Ltd provides architectural drafting services for both residential and commercial projects offering the following; measured site survey, planning applications & building regulations, architectural drawing packages and 3D visualisations.

www.kronadesign.co.uk

M L SERVICES SUSSEX

Professional Technology Consultants - we make technology accessible! We are well-versed in a variety of operating systems, networks, and databases. We work with just about any technology that a small business would encounter. Also we use this expertise to help customers with small to mid-sized projects.

www.mlservices.org.uk

MORE RADIO

More Radio is an independent community radio station that is now the only one of its kind. We have 5 Transmitters across the County of Sussex including one in Worthing. More Radio is part of Totalsensemedia group based out of our offices and studio in Burgess Hill.

www.moreradio.online

POST-OP NURSE

Post-Op Nurse is a private nursing service providing bespoke post-operative nursing care to patients in their own homes. Delivered by myself, a highly skilled, accountable, professional Registered Nurse with over 25 years of acute clinical NHS experience, I monitor patient’s clinical progress, giving them peace of mind.

www.postopnurse.co.uk

PRELOVED DESIGNERS

Preloved Designers is the only place you need to go for beautiful, carefully curated, nearly new designer clothes and accessories that don’t cost the earth - literally. Repurposing makes sense and people are now truly getting behind the movement. The fashion industry is one of the worst for waste and carbon footprint so by purchasing preloved you are doing your bit.

www.preloveddesigners.co.uk

SILICON BRIGHTON

Silicon Brighton’s mission is to support the growth of tech and digital communities across the Southeast. Propelled by a shared belief that we can achieve more collectively than on our own, we provide individuals with free opportunities for networking, training, up-skilling and development.

www.siliconbrighton.com

SLINDON MEDIA

We help recruitment agencies onboard more clients and fill roles faster through the power of recruitment marketing. Maximize your recruitment marketing with targeted action that delivers measurable results. Stop wasting time and resources on campaigns that don’t produce results and start seeing the returns you deserve with our expert marketing services.

www.slindonmedia.com

SME ADVISOR

We make it easy and affordable for businesses to manage and comply with their HR and health & safety. At affordable value and with nothing too small, we enable business owners and business leaders achieve their commercial goals with our expert HR, leadership development and health & safety guidance.

www.smeadvisor.co.uk

SPEEDY FREIGHT

Ad hoc, multi-drop or planned delivery routes, Speedy Freight Brighton will be there. No contracts. Low or high volume consignments. Collection within an hour.

www.speedyfreight.com/courier-in-brighton

THE BROOKLANDS CAFÉ

A beautiful cafe in one of the south’s most loved parks. Serving the best freshly ground coffees, locally made patisserie, freshly prepared food and much more. A family run business with a real sense and commitment to the community.

info@brooklandscafe.com

WORKWEAR VILLAGE

Workwear Village is in the business of workwear, school uniforms and embroidery. We provide the highest quality inhouse embroidery on many items of clothing.

www.workwearvillage.com

RENEWING 6 4 G LTD

6 4 G Ltd opened it’s doors in 2014. Providing a holistic approach to credit risk management for businesses, especially those that do not have the human resource to handle this internally. Or, for businesses that prefer to outsource these areas, ensuring you are protected against bad debts.

www.64gltd.com

ALDINGBOURNE TRUST

Supporting people in West Sussex who have lifelong disabilities to access employment in their local communities, and support employers in all industries to feel confident and empowered to recruit diverse workforces.

www.supportedemploymentwestsussex.org

AVANTGUARD SECURITY

Feeling safe and secure is something we all take for granted nowadays. The security of the world we live and work in is important for so many reasons. Providing; keyholding & alarm response, mobile security patrols, premises lockdowns and unlocks, lone worker escort services, vacant property inspections and security guards.

www.avantguardsecurity.co.uk

AYRES BRIGHT VICKERS

Ayres Bright Vickers is a firm of Chartered Accountants based in West Sussex. We support the needs of clients throughout Sussex and the South. However, our client base is UK-wide. Our highquality accountancy and taxation services will save you time, stress and hassle.

www.ayresbrightvickers.co.uk

BACON & CO

At Bacon & Company, our experience is what really counts. We are a welcoming and well-established residential estate agent covering the coastal strip of Worthing, Goring and Ferring. We’re widely recognised as one of the leading agents in the area.

www.baconandco.co.uk

BOXX STORAGE

At Boxx Storage Worthing we offer a range of storage unit sizes up to 500 sq ft. Whether you need storage for personal or business use, we can offer a secure and affordable solution. Our store has state-of-the-art security features throughout, such as a digital keypad entry system, CCTV, individually alarmed storage units and cylinder locks.

www.boxx-storage.com/worthing-storage

BROWNS NATURAL PET STORE

An award-winning specialist destination store in West Sussex. We’re inspired by all things natural, offering a holistic and healthy approach to your pets well-being. Specialising in natural feeding our fully trained expert staff are on hand to give advice to best suit you and your pet’s needs.

www.brownsnaturalpetstore.co.uk

CHICHESTER COLLEGE GROUP

We’re the largest provider of further education in West Sussex and Brighton & Hove. Through our colleges, we educate and train around 25,000 full and part time students every year and provide teaching excellence to meet the future needs of the regions’ employers.

www.chigroup.ac.uk

CONSCIOUS CONNECTIONS

I typically work with women in business who are juggling too many conflicting responsibilities and are stretching themselves too thinly across all of them, which can cause a cycle of procrastination, overwhelm and guilt that nothing is getting done as well as you know you can do it.

www.cconnections.co.uk

CONSULTING WITH KERR

As a multi-award-winning business adviser, we’ll help you to take your business to the next level by reviewing purpose, performance, people and processes to identify and implement the changes that will give the greatest operational improvements to drive profitability.

www.consultingwithkerr.com

CONSTRUCTIVE MARKETING

The team brings technical understanding and expertise to everything we do. We focus on achieving positive outcomes for clients based on their specific business aims. Results include huge social media growth, multiple award wins and viral social media campaigns.

www.constructivemarketing.co.uk

EMPIRE CONSTRUCTION GROUP

We have built our business firmly on trust. Having established an outstanding reputation by interpreting our client’s instructions and to delivering a complete project.

www.empireconstructiongroup.co.uk

GOGECKO

GoGecko was born from my passion for people, and my strong belief that everyone is unique. I believe that everyone deserves a personal service when it comes to recruitment, both candidates and businesses. 20 years experience in the industry has armed me with the skills and creativity needed to match talented people with respected companies.

www.gogecko.org.ukNEWING

HD TRIBE

By having everything you need to arrange a funeral under one roof, we take the stress away from organising a funeral at the very difficult time of dealing with the death of a loved one. We have a huge amount of experience in helping people arrange funerals that reflect their feelings about their deceased loved one and is a fitting tribute to their memory.

www.hdtribe.co.uk

INSIDE MAGAZINES

Inside Magazines is the umbrella name for seven publications within the Worthing area! The magazines and their distribution are funded by advertising, but the real heart of the magazines is Community. Our total combined distribution is over 43,000 homes and businesses.

www.insidemagazines.community

RENEWING JAGO CONSULTANTS

We specialise in the search and recruitment of individuals for the Automotive, IT, Financial, and Legal sectors. Operating across the whole of the UK working with some of the UKs leading companies whether you are looking to find your dream job, or looking to find the perfect candidate.

www.jagoconsultants.co.uk

JAMES & JAMES ESTATE AGENTS

Residential or Commercial, Sales or Lettings, we understand that everyone’s situation is different and we are here to help. Being members of the Propertymark & Client Money protection regulatory bodies ensures our professionalism, accountability and reputation are at the forefront of our company’s core values.

www.jamesandjamesea.co.uk

JAN-IT

Jan-IT is based in West Sussex, offering IT Support services to your door. Jan-IT was started in 2014 by Janet de Buriatte. We have over 25 years experience in the IT Industry. Our aim is to focus on YOU and how to make the most out of your IT.

www.jan-IT.com

JUPPS ACCOUNTANTS

We are a firm of chartered accountants who provide accountancy, taxation, bookkeeping and payroll services to small and medium sized businesses.

www.juppsaccountants.co.uk

KAMELIA KIDS

Kamelia Kids Day Nursery & Beach School is Ofstedregistered to care for children of ALL abilities and backgrounds from 0-5 years and offers flexible affordable childcare including the ‘30 hours’ funded childcare for working families.

www.kameliakids.org.uk

KRESTON REEVES

More than accountants, business and wealth advisers. In a continually evolving world we help businesses, not for profit organisations, private individuals and families embrace change through trusted advice, support and guidance.

www.krestonreeves.com

LINK TO HOPE

Link to Hope exists to help rebuild lives and communities in Eastern Europe through Education & Social Care. We enable people to escape from poverty and improve their lives.

www.linktohope.co.uk

MCMILLAN WEALTH CONSULTANTS

Our trusted team of wealth management consultants can provide you with advice across all areas of wealth management, including; financial planning, investment planning, tax and estate, pension planning & retirement, protection & later life, mortgages & access to specialist banking and corporate planning and employee benefits.

www.mcmillanconsultants.co.uk

MONETAIRE ACCOUNTANTS

We’re a small, local practice offering accountancy, taxation and related advice to small businesses.

www.monetaire.co.uk

MORGAN FILMS

Our mission is to get your message on the most powerful marketing medium... video. Powerful because it is proven to be the best way to attract people to your brand and convert them into customers. Everything from quick no-frills Social Media Promos all the way to Feature Films for the festival circuit.

www.morgan-films.com

NORDELL

British plastics manufacturing & design refinement. Injection moulding and other complimentary services. Nordell is one of the UK’s leading independent plastics manufacturing and design refinement companies. We offer a comprehensive range of dedicated services to complement our core plastic injection moulding manufacturing business. www.nordell.co.uk

PAINE MANWARING

We are dedicated to providing a full range of highquality plumbing, heating and electrical services to customers, domestic and commercial, across Worthing and Chichester, Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire. For your peace of mind, we’re Gas Safe, ECA, Trustmark and HVCA registered too.

www.painemanwaring.co.uk

PILBEAM CONSTRUCTION

In 1955 we started a family firm of building contractors. Since then, we’ve grown into a 40-strong team designing, building and managing multi-million pound projects within the residential, commercial, health & care, education and heritage sectors.

www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk

ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS

Inspiring Greatness exists at the very core of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. It’s the guiding force from which our innovation, aspirations, and ongoing legacy unfold. As we continue to extend the limits of possibility, Inspiring Greatness will forever remain our ultimate pursuit.

www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

ROPETACKLE ARTS CENTRE

We’re a purpose-built community-run arts venue attracting some of the biggest and best performing arts events in the UK. Situated in the heart of Shoreham, our goal is to stage events for all tastes and budgets for the good folk of Adur and beyond.

www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk

SAFE IN SUSSEX

Worthing based charity providing a range of services to end domestic abuse. We offer safe refuge provision for women and children. A helpline which is open for all to access, community support groups for men & women & healthy relationships educational programmes for children & young people.

www.safeinsussex.org

SAFETY MODE

Safety Mode Limited is a finalist in the Business Women Excellence award 2019 and is a dynamic and versatile training company providing, First Aid and Safeguarding training courses to a variety of business industries.

www.safetymode.co.uk

SHAKE IT UP CREATIVE

We help to demystify marketing and champion creative communications. With a strong local reputation, proven results and a Chartered Marketer at the helm, we can be your marketing and website team, working externally but right here to provide support whenever you need it.

www.shakeitupcreative.com

TAD ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

Offering a local freelance book-keeping service at your place or mine. Weekly, monthly or just quarterly whichever solution is more convenient for your business. Allowing you to get on with growing your business.

www.tadkeepingbooks.co.uk

VERBAND

I work with small teams to put their values into words in the form of content that communicates who they are and what they offer to their customers.

www.verband.co.uk

WARNES PROJECTS

Office and warehouse fit out, space Warnes Projects is a client-focused fit out and refurbishment specialist, concentrating on the commercial, industrial and education sectors. We deliver successful projects across the UK.

www.warnesprojects.co.uk

WORTHING GIN

A traditionally distilled Sussex Dry Gin, with a distinct Rosemary twist - giving Worthing Gin it’s unique flavour & delicious aroma, leaving you wanting more…

www.worthinggin.co.uk

WORTHING HIGH SCHOOL

We have a Careers and Employability provision that we’re very proud of. Every aspect of the provision is ably supported by our local and global Business Partners. Every year events are held that require support that benefit the student’s aspirations and ambitions.

www.worthinghigh.net

YOOHOO CREATIVE

Yoohoo is a small website and graphic design agency in West Sussex, near Brighton, offering first-class client service, targeted design ideas and marketing solutions.

www.yoohoocreative.com

Upcoming Chamber Events

Come and join us at our vibrant events and let us take the hard work out of networking. Build your connections, collaborate and drive your business forwards.

Adur & Worthing Business Awards Launch

Wednesday 7th June | 5:00pm – 7:00pm

Venue: Field Place Manor House & Barns, Worthing

Free to attend

Join us at the launch event of the Adur & Worthing Business Awards! If you are thinking of entering the Business Awards, come along and hear top tips for entering from a panel of previous winners and judges.

Chamber Hub

Thursday 15th June | 12:30pm – 2:00pm

Venue: Lancing Manor Leisure Centre

Free to attend

Join fellow members for our popular Chamber Hub networking session. This is a relaxed and informal networking session where you can meet like-minded businesses and build on your connections.

Networking Breakfast with an update from Martin Randall, Director for Economy, Adur & Worthing Council

Friday 30th June | 7:30am – 9:00am

Venue: Shaftesbury Room, Worthing Leisure Centre

Cost: £15 + VAT | Non-Member Taster Ticket: £20 + VAT

For the June Networking Breakfast, we will be joined by Martin Randall, Director for the Economy for Adur & Worthing Councils. As always, Martin will bring an informative update of current projects and the position of the local economy. Martin will cover the progress of potential developments in our area which are in line with the council’s economic strategy.

The Social Society Presents: Charity Hangouts

Wednesday 5th July | 6:30pm - 10:00pm

Venue: AudioActive, Montague Street, Worthing

Free to attend

The Social Society are excited to be bringing our ‘charity hangouts’ to Worthing in collaboration with Community Works and Worthing & Adur Chamber. Skill swapping, socialising, and stories of impact from The Social Society’s community will be the focus of this evening with connection, and giving back at the centre.

Sponsored by South Downs Leisure

Celebrating 10 Years

First Friday

Friday 7th July | 12:30pm – 2:00pm

Venue: The Burlington Hotel, Worthing

Free to attend

First Friday is a networking event which is held on the First Friday of each month. These networking events have been going since 2009 with around 10 to 20 businesses attending each month. These events are organised by Tony Hedger from A&T Business Associates. and co-promoted by Worthing & Adur Chamber.

Better Business Show

Thursday 21st September | 10:00am – 3:00pm

Venue: Worthing Leisure Centre, Shaftesbury Avenue, Worthing

Free to attend

Meet business owners and network in the largest annual showcase of brilliant local businesses. There will be a huge selection of small, medium and large companies, from a wide range of industries. Take this amazing chance to represent yourself and your business and grow your connections across the local business community!

www.worthingandadurchamber.co.uk/chamber-events

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For more information please email us directly on: lauren@worthingandadurchamber.co.uk Please supply half page advert as