Spring 2016
The Magazine of East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce
YOUR EAST LANCASHIRE BLACKBURN Cathedral Quarter - Revisited
BIG INTERVIEW CHARLES HADCOCK Sculptor & Manufacturer
DEBATING CHAMBER ECONOMY WELCOME & CONTENTS
President’s welcome...
elcome to the first edition of Business Life in 2016. This year will be an Winteresting and challenging time for East Lancashire businesses. Now that the terms of Britain’s EU membership have been renegotiated it is time for the country to decide and the date has been set for June 23rd. In this edition we look at what the Prime Minister wanted and the view of British Chambers of Commerce as to what was achieved. I DON’T WAIT FOR We include a four page feature on the work of your Chamber and find out what the directors of the Chamber have been doing on your behalf. David Sharpe Our ‘Big Interview’ is with Charles Hadcock, Chairman of Creative Lancashire, renowned sculptor and OPPORTUNITIES Lancashire manufacturer. Our debating chamber looks at the UK economy and gets the views of businesses working across the I CREATE THEM various sectors.. Finally, we highlight those companies who have been successful in our recent International Trade Club awards. AS A CHAMBER MEMBER I’M WELL CONTENTS 04 Business News CONNECTED 10 Debating Chamber 12 International Trade 16 Your East Lancashire 18 The Big Interview 20 CIPS & Training 22 Regional Growth Fund 24 Europe 25 Sector Analysis 26 QES 28 Directors’ Report 32 Chamber News THE BIG INTERVIEW CHARLES HADCOCK 18 usiness Life is published by East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce Band Industry. Editorial contacts: Darren Grantham [email protected] Roger Edworthy If it’s the opportunity to network with like-minded business people, belonging to [email protected] your local Accredited Chamber of Commerce means you are always well connected. Advertising contact: Darren Grantham SECTOR ANALYSIS Visit www.chamberelancs.co.uk to see how we can support your business. [email protected] 01254 356400 FOOD & DRINK 25 Designed by: Jon Thompson Edited by: Roger Edworthy #JOINYOURCHAMBER Photography: Clive Lawrence - Big Interview, Debating Chamber / Jon Thompson - Cover, Your East Lancashire Reporter: Kate Jackson, Viva PR - Big Interview & Sector Analysis Printed by: Media Village Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily shared by East Lancashire Chamber. YOUR EAST LANCASHIRE DEBATING CHAMBER BLACKBURN 16 ECONOMY 10
Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 03 BUSINESS NEWS
YOUR CHAMBER WORKING FOR YOU s President of the Chamber I’m accountable to the Council (Board) who in turn are representative of the members. As the ADirectors we are keen to ensure that what we’ve prioritised the Chamber’s activities is in line with the members’ interests both in terms of direct services and in creating a supportive business environment.
On pages 28 - 31 we have published a report of the Chamber’s achievements over just the last 6 months and identified some of the continuing areas of activity - we hope that you’ll be pleased and surprised by their range and impact. However, we are accountable to roviding Lancashire you, the members, and would be pleased to hear your views on whether we’ve got the priorities right. P business with more than just accountancy One subject that has come very quickly upon us is services has been one the EU Referendum on June 23rd. As we report, in “Glastonbury of Gastronomy” common with British Chambers of Commerce, our of Mayes’ overarching soundings tell us that there is no single business view principles since its formation on ‘Remain’ or ‘Brexit’. The general message that we forty years ago. are getting is that there is insufficient information (and even less ‘facts’) in circulation. We will therefore be taking a neutral position and endeavour to keep Mayes has made a pioneering effort members abreast of developments as the campaigns to boost growth in the Lancashire develop. his year, at what has become known in the economy with the Business One Page Plan (BOPP). This revolutionary industry as the “Glastonbury of gastronomy” framework provides business T Obsession showcased through an extraordinary owners with the tools to boost their diversity of menus from hugely talented chefs from as profits and improve their work life far afield as Japan; Taiwan; Peru; Mexico along with balance… and those businesses that European and UK representation, in total eighteen have implemented the BOPP with Mayes have seen an average net profit Michelin stars. increase of 92.7%.
Best year ever for Chairman of Mayes, Andrew Botham, self-storage company said: “As people, we are habit-driven There was a massive buzz around the hotel and and feel comfortable doing what we you could feel the excitement that motivates and have always done. But the business world moves quickly and if your inspires everyone here. business is standing still, you’re dropping behind the crowd.
“Growth strategies and actions don’t Northcote’ Manor’s Chef Patron, Nigel Haworth was joined by some have to be hugely time-consuming or of the greatest names in gastronomy. Nigel said, “It was an incredible complex, and the Business One Page international line up once again. Obsession has grown from four nights in 2001 fast growing company which is revolutionising the UK Plan brings simplicity right to the core to sixteen nights and eighteen chefs in 2016 – it is truly a special time for the self-storage industry enjoyed its best ever year in of the plans and aspirations you have team at Northcote” He added “There was a massive buzz around the hotel and 2015. Store First now has 14 purpose-built self-storage for your business.” you could feel the excitement that motivates and inspires everyone here.” facilities across the UK, with its 15th due to open this summer in St Helens and company scouts always on the W: www.mayesaccountants.co.uk Each guest was treated to a 5-course signature menu together with a lookout for new prime locations. E: [email protected] Louis Roederer Brut premier and canapé reception. Craig Bancroft, T: 01254 300050 "WeA had a great year in 2015," said Oliver striving to meet their needs in new and managing director, match a different wines to every single course Kitson, Operations Director for Lancashire- innovative ways we are enjoying record throughout the 16 nights. based Store First. "Every one of our self- growth and confident of an even better year storage facilities recorded significant increases in 2016." in occupancy levels and, when taken as a whole, our overall occupancy all but doubled As more and more people are using self- in 2015, showing an outstanding 97.8% storage, Store First is doing better by being growth. That gave us record growth rates way different. Put simply, it gives its customers above the national average. more for less by keeping rental rates low and constantly adding value through extra "Our customers are at the core of our business benefits at its modern, clean self-storage and by listening to them and constantly centres.
Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 05 BUSINESS NEWS BUSINESS NEWS
Ribbon cutting sets new> press rolling at PSP>
orth Lancs Training N Group is one of the largest training providers in the country and we pride ourselves on the quality of our services to our learners VEKA scoop national business award and companies. NLTG has been training young people for over 45 years and has a wealth of experience when supporting ocal company and ong-established Lancashire firm Peter Scott Printers has greatly them. Currently we have over 2300 Chamber member, Apprentices on one of our many increased its production capability with a £500,000 investment in AN IMPRESSIONABLE The VEKA UK Group, programmes and provide training to a new printing press and a 4,500 sq.ft facility to house it. L over 1200 companies. L has been named a British GENERATION manufacturing champion after While much has been done to encourage more We are committed to the continuous Cutting the ribbon was former Burnley FC striker Paul Fletcher MBE, so I was delighted to be asked to set the new press rolling, especially with my girls into Stem subjects new findings from O2 improvement of our service and we show that gender stereotypes are continuing to who later became the club's chief executive and one of Europe's leading family connections to the print industry." scooping a prestigious national employ a team of professional people experts on the design and development of football stadiums. He is now impact the career aspirations of young people. business award. More worrying still, despite efforts to break the who are constantly undertaking one of PSP's high profile clients as co-founder and director of UCFB - the "This new Heidelberg six-colour press runs 25% faster and more efficiently," glass ceiling, when it comes to leadership roles, training and development. University and College of Football Business. said PSP's Production Director Tom Gaughan. "It enables us to meet our customers' needs by delivering a first class and The Burnley-based firm, which employs 400 suits and briefcases continue to dominate, He also has printing in his blood, as his father fast turnaround one-stop-shop printing service." staff and designs and manufacturers window with one in four young people believing that We deliver Intermediate Level 2, running the country is a job for a man. was a printer in Bolton, his mother was This new Heidelberg six-colour press and door PVC-U profiles, saw its success Advanced Level 3 and now Higher involved in printing for Bolton Council and he PSP's Commercial Director Joanne Hindley recognised by judges at the EEF/Aldermore Research among 2,000 under 18-year-olds found Level 4 Apprenticeships in a wide even ran his own small printing business to runs 25% faster and more efficiently... added: "Although we've been around since 1960 Future Manufacturing Awards held in London. that more than half believed girls were more variety of occupations. we make it our business to constantly update suited to be nurses, nannies or hairdressers. supplement his income while an apprentice The company took gold in the Business machinery to provide our clients with the very footballer. Efficiency Award, awarded to the manufacturer Most of the young people questioned said This year, we received 8 City and best service. Together with highly trained and that has most successfully brought in new they turned to their parents for careers advice Guilds Gold Medals for Excellence Performing the opening ceremony, Mr Fletcher said: "I am always very conscientious staff pushing the business forward, this latest investment marks operating practices to boost productivity and and more than half could not recall a local making a record total of 58 since supportive of local businesses, especially those that are investing and a new chapter in the Peter Scott Printers story." business performance. businessman or women visiting their school to 2006. expanding. UCFB has a great business relationship with Peter Scott Printers talk about work. It was given in recognition of its achievement If you would like your company to in constructing a new on-site mixing plant to This International Women’s day, 8th March, Role have better control over materials and improve is working with Burnley Bondholders to ensure work with an award winning team service for customers. The new facility is the that 50 female college students will not only by giving your current staff the recall the day a local business person came to most technically-advanced mixing plant in opportunity to undertake a FREE their college, it will hopefully be the day when nationally recognised qualification or the UK and has been designed with future they were inspired to follow a career they had not Alert scores a notable industry hat-trick expansion in mind. It's fully automated to even considered before. 50 local female business you would like to give a young person ensure absolute efficiency. owners, directors and managers will share the opportunity to start their career his progressive Burnley-based firm proudly boasts accreditation from THREE of the their career journeys, alongside motivational The development has delivered a high return at your company, call our friendly discussion and debate and will top off the Tindustry's main governing bodies. on investment. As a result, The VEKA UK Group Employer Engagement Team on experience by enjoying afternoon tea together. 01254 300779. Alert continues to ranks at 'Gold' level status according to the National Security Inspectorate (NSI), demonstrating is now the most efficient manufacturing plant that it has been audited against all applicable industry standards, works in line with industry best practice and within its wider Group. The judges said that Wendy, Director of Role and Ambassador for implements and operates a full ISO9001 management system. the company had an excellent story to tell Women’s Enterprise with the British Chambers about business efficiency and showed obvious of commerce, commented “Lancashire can offer It is also accredited to BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment), a totally independent, third party registration passion about the improvements it had made. it’s young a wealth of opportunities in careers as organisation for the fire protection industry. diverse as cosmetic medicine to ‘Grammy’ winning Dave Jones, Managing Director of The VEKA audio technology, they can build global careers And thirdly, the firm is a full member of the British Security Industry Association (BSIA), the trade association for the UK Group, said: “Business efficiency is something on their doorstep, they just need to someone to professional security industry in the UK. BSIA members are responsible for more than 70% of privately provided all manufacturers work for and aspire to, so to tell them about it”. If you think Lancashire is a security products and services (by turnover) in the country, including the manufacture, distribution and installation great place to grow a career and you would like of electronic and physical security equipment and the provision of security guarding and consultancy services. win this award is a great accomplishment to our team. Our investment in our new mixing plant to inspire a future female leader, please contact 'We work hard to not only provide the highest level of quality to customers and strive to be the best we can be," said Alert will underpin our continuing growth in coming Wendy Bowers [email protected] for further Fire and Security Ltd managing director Trevor Shanley. "We are very proud of our record but there will be no let-up in years and allow us to focus on delivering the details. our pursuit of excellence across all areas." service our customers deserve.”
06 | BusinessLIFE | Spring 2016 Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 07 BUSINESS NEWS BUSINESS NEWS ‘GETTING TO Crown Paints help Heath KNOW YOU’ gloss over the FLOODS A Padiham Painting and Decorating business Laura Hartley, Director, Laura Hartley Recruitment devastated by the floods is back on track with the help of Crown Paints and East Lancashire What gets you out of bed in the morning? AChamber of Commerce. Heath Whalley has been working with the Chamber of Commerce That's easy! I love what I do and the people I work with. Every day is different in receiving support through the New Enterprise Allowance Programme recruitment so I never know what the day is going to bring, which is all part of (NEA) but suffered a huge knock back in the New Year when his home the fun. I usually wake up around 5.30 and depending on whether I have a was flooded ruining all his tools and equipment. networking event or personal training session depends how quickly I jump out of bed! Heath who is the owner of Whalley Painting & Decorating had been working with his business mentor Carl Bradshaw at the Chamber helping him to prepare to start his own business and was just ready to launch Which individual inspired you when the floods hit. With his business on hold and no income coming most in your career? the Chamber felt compelled to make a difference. Crown Paints stepped otal Foodservice is in immediately and were fantastic in working with their major suppliers T a 5th generation family There have been many! I fell into recruitment like most people 15 years ago. to offer Heath a full decorating kit. Heath has now launched his own foodservice business with A competitor’s values, ethos and success inspired me! She had a fantastic business. Mark Bannister, Crown Paints presents reputation and in my second appraisal I told my boss I wanted to be the Heath with his new equipment values firmly set in superior next independent agency. My ex-boss who gave me a chance in recruitment For further information on his decorating services contact Heath at quality product, trustworthy was a huge influence on me, because she believed in me! Not only did she Whalley Painting & Decorating Tel 07840 104279 people & reliable service. train and mentor me but she encouraged me to start on my own when things got tough. She is still one of my best friends. With over a century of experience, we If you could support a new small business please email Nicola Draper at the Chamber: [email protected] know foodservice. We know quality and value. We’re family run, and If you weren’t in your current role what we practice family principles. We would you be doing? pledge reliability and a trustworthy Chamber host Corporate I've always worked in a customer service or sales environment including being a Butlins bar person at 18, Are you missing out? relationship and we promise to ladies clothes stall on Blackburn market, double glazing telesales and Tesco checkout operator to name a few! Finance Forum bring you service from people who I've just started mentoring a young person on "the big sister" programme and have worked with Sams charity genuinely care. for the last 6 years which I love. So maybe I'd be fundraising for a local children's charity! he Research and Development (‘’R&D’’) tax credits legislation has been around for a he East Lancs Corporate Finance Forum met Whether you work with Michelin What is the biggest highlight of your career? number of years, but a majority of eligible at an event hosted by the East Lancashire Starred cuisine or coffee shop treats, Chamber of Commerce and organised by Total Foodservice’s range of around businesses are not making a claim. Got to be starting my own recruitment agency 7 years ago! How time flies! April 2009 the height of the RBS. The primary purpose of the group 4000 products is constantly evolving T recession and I have this great idea to start an agency! Lots of candidates, no jobs! I remember the first time Tis to exchange business acquisition and disposal to bring you the very best ingredients seeing my logo on a job board and thinking "oh crikey I've done it!" Not only have we ridden the storm but Many businesses are unaware that their activities are R&D qualifying for of exceptional quality; from the basics this year we have rebranded to LHR, moved into bigger premises, doubled the staff numbers and launched tax purposes which can lead to significant corporation tax savings. opportunities, thus enabling business growth our second branch in Wigan! I have to pinch myself sometimes! through merger and acquisition activity. such as oil, flour & dairy to exciting, Tom Wilkinson, Associate Director of Blackburn-based accountancy innovative products & Artisan firm Pierce said "It is staggering how many eligible businesses there are produce across ambient, chilled, Do you have a business mantra? out there who are not making a claim for R&D tax credits." frozen & non-food products. If it doesn't feel right don't do it! Don't go against your personal values. Enjoy what you do and make the most The R&D tax credits system means that companies can claim 230% tax Loved by our customers for our of the opportunities that come your way without compromising yourself or the business. relief on qualifying expenditure which can be attributed to directly flexible and efficient service, from to R&D activities, rather than a standard 100% relief. This includes our customer service team to our materials consumed in R&D and staffing time expended as well as warehouse pickers, our delivery software, consultancy and utilities costs. drivers to our accounts department, There is also relief available for everything and everyone puts the VEKA raise money for Mark’s charity loss-making businesses by way of customer & the food at the centre of a repayable tax credit from H M what we do. he VEKA UK Group has presented its biggest EVER charity cheque, having raised Revenue and Customs. Tmore than £14,910.26 for The Encephalitis Society. Yorkshire: 01484 536 688 Tom added “The legislation is The PVC-U profile supplier's previous biggest there to encourage growth and North West: 01254 828 330 Corporate Finance Forum Members donation was an impressive £5100 for The innovation in the UK. My advice www.totalfoodservice.co.uk British Legion, raised over a six-month period to businesses who believe they in 2014. potentially qualify would be The VEKA UK Group chose to support The to think about what their The group of professionals includes financiers, corporate finance Encephalitis Society for a full year, rather than key business technical professionals, lawyers, property agents and corporate restructuring the six months usually dedicated to each challenges have been in chosen charity, after Head of Technical Mark specialists. The Chamber also sits on the forum providing a the past two or three Barsby was diagnosed with this condition, representation of the business community in East Lancs. which causes swelling of the brain. years. You can potentially go back two previous David Sharpe of Pierce Business Advisory & Accountancy Group said Head of Human Resources Gabriela Hammond financial years to make “The forum enables transaction experience and knowledge sharing, all explains: “The Encephalitis Society has become a an R&D claim. ’’ very important charity to us here at The VEKA UK of which demonstrates that the professional community in East Lancs is Group since Mark was diagnosed.” alive and kicking!” L-R: Gemma Haythornwhite, Gabriela Hammond, Charlotte Hulme, Helen Clarke, Scott Weldon, Mark Barsby, David Jones, Cassie Meegan-Vickers, Ben Peel, Graham Fitton, Steve Bakewell, Annabel Hargreaves, Richard Garland 08 | BusinessLIFE | Spring 2016 Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 09 THE DEBATING CHAMBER ECONOMY
Steve Kay: In Textiles it has been patchy but generally Peter Byrne: Cuts in criminal legal aid, matrimonial positive. One of our clients had to cancel the training legal aid and from an employers' point of view, because they were too busy. On the other side we the changes in the civil courts cost regime and the We will look for have a member who was letting some people go. The introduction of employment tribunal fees which has customer and employee ONS figures for 2012-13 reported a national increase in seen an 80% drop in tribunals and have collectively employment in the textile industry, the first for a long had a huge impact on the sector. You now have to get satisfaction and once you time. The sector has benefited from some Regional involved proactively earlier. We look at undertaking Growth Fund investment which has helped to create presentations to companies to help them and their get both these right you will 1600 jobs. workforce manage Human Resources issues at a very be able to meet your early stage. You have to accept and embrace change. business goals. What factors are affecting the Steve Kay: I think in the textile sector the drivers are various sectors? pointing in the right direction. In terms of traditional textiles and clothing there is a trend towards fast Louise Birchall: Looking at our own industry we are fashion - the Zara model where you see something accepting that change will happen. We will look for Louise Birchall: In December 2014 new allergen on the catwalk in Milan and it is in your store within customer and employee satisfaction and once you get legislation was introduced placing an additional 3 weeks. That concept is not possible in the Far East both these right you will be able to meet your business burden on all companies in the food distribution chain. model. Automation has helped bring some production goals. We have to make sure we have the right mixed From December 2016 this legislation becomes even back to the UK and the first new spinning mill will be bag in our customer base. more demanding. I don't think government agencies built in Manchester giving us a 100% British product. consider the implications of their actions and the cost This is seen as a big marketing advantage. to the industries involved – and of course these costs have to be passed through to the end users. I think in the textile sector the drivers are pointing in the right direction. In terms of traditional textiles and clothing there is a trend Philip Brooke, Ensor Building Products; Mark Hope, Stonehouse Logic; Michael Damms, East Lanvashire Chamber of Commerce; Chamber; Peter Byrne, Taylors Solicitors; Louise Birchall, Birchalls Food Service; Peter Catlow, Business Wise Solutions; Steve Kay, North West Textiles towards fast fashion Peter Byrne
Philip Brooke: In 2015 my focus was on concluding an Peter Byrne: One of the benefits for us is that as growth continues it does generate more business for Louise Birchall MBO within the business. Competitor activity, pressure on margins and currency exchange rates are having a ourselves. Competition has grown and the challenge ith so much doom and gloom around and concerns about falling stock markets, slow growth in big impact on the business. But looking forward I think going forward will be how to get your piece of the China and lack-lustre growth across Europe we brought together businesses from across a range Peter Catlow: I think the energy market is changing the economy will continue to improve. January was pie. It will be about doing something different, maintaining profile, developing long term partnership, of sectors to ask the question “What’s happening in the real world?” fast. Prices are falling but the reliability of the National positive and February is strong. W Grid is an issue. The forecast is that in 2016 they will understanding your client's business and going pay over the odds because of a major supply side issue. beyond simple advice to real added value. The other big area is the reduction in use of energy. We are increasingly advising clients how they can reduce Philip Brooke: A good example of what Peter is doing pretty well. I think the doom and gloom now not turnover growth but a growth in the underlying their energy usage. saying is that 3 years ago we used a solicitor to do our is unjustified. I'd support what you say about skill business. What is going on in the stock market is a long How is the current state of conveyancing. Recently my neighbour knocked on the shortages. way away from our business rather it is reflecting the door to say he was building an extension. I contacted the economy? global market. Philip Brooke: To me self-sufficiency is the ultimate goal but the Government don't seem to be doing the solicitor again to get some information and was Louise Birchall: We are in Food & Distribution and anything to encourage that. We looked at putting a put through to a partner who gave information free, in the last 10 years we've grown our business from a Philip Brooke: There is no doubt that the UK economy Michael Damms: 5 or 6 years ago, when all the talk was wind turbine on the premises, but the feed in tariffs saying it’s all part of our client service. turnover of £7m to £22m. If we have a future constraint has grown. My view is that the general economy is about double or even triple dip recession I met with have now been cut. In my view everyone should have to continued growth it too is people, so we feel it's growing but we are facing some head winds. There the other 55 Chambers of Commerce who provide full solar panels on their roof and be self-sufficient. It's also about reinvesting back into the business with our are risks - including the EU referendum and global national coverage and asked how they were finding about security of supply. the economy. The consensus was that the official employees and looking at what we do to keep them. events. I think to say the market is coming back is figures did not reflect everyone’s on the ground probably too strong a statement at this stage. We Philip Brooke experience. Lo and behold, when the figures were sell channel drainage products which are generally used in infrastructure and commercial projects. But subsequently revised there had in fact only been the Michael Damms: There are huge ambitions for for Construction overall the level is still below 2007; single, financial services induced recession. Now with Lancashire over the next 5 years – tens of thousands There is no doubt that however the UK economy does appear to be on the China, Middle Eastern instability, oil price and stock of new houses for starters. But while opportunities for cusp of a period of sustained good health and that market falls there’s a gloomy mood – but does it again the UK economy has grown. construction look good the worry is that we already should help our sector rebound. incorrectly portray the health of our business sectors? My view is that the general have companies who are not taking on work because What do the current widespread reports of skills they do not have sub-contractors. shortages tell us? How do people see future prospects? economy is growing but we Peter Catlow: The area has some meaty growth are facing some head winds. sectors, like Aerospace and Automotive and we’re Steve Kay seeing investment in service centres as well. Looking forward what are
your expectations for the Steve Kay: We found in 2008 that the sector was Peter Byrne: We are getting a lot of debate in the legal Mark Hope economy? remarkably resilient. Because the businesses tend to be profession with what is known as 'Generation X'. The smaller and family owned employing a smaller number graduates who have come through and now have of people they have seen a few recessions and they are changing expectations. It now is about more than Peter Catlow: I can only see growth continuing but the Mark Hope: The biggest change for us is a move able to ride out the storm. This experience continues to the pay packet, it’s about training and involvement. big elephant in the room is the EU. The debate is being towards cloud computing. The impact overall is hold the sector in good stead. Research is showing that this group is about rapid conducted on such an emotional level. Nobody can tell immensely positive. A new start up can get the same career development. me what the impact of exiting the EU will be? No one level of infrastructure as a large organisation without Michael Damms: The conclusion seems to be that appears to have a plan for day one if we vote to leave the investment or long term commitment. For us we there is a fair degree of confidence across all of the the EU. There are a myriad of issues that will need to be Mark Hope: We've got 35 staff, very technical can do more business more quickly but it affects cash sectors and indeed in the UK economy as a whole. addressed - better the devil you know? Michael Damms employees. I think there is definitely growth. In our flow. Before we got a large upfront payment we now case it is slightly different now because before it was get paid over the life of a contract. It's a big sea change Peter Catlow: We are in energy so we cross all sectors a capital investment but now everything is moving to Peter Catlow for the industry. Michael Damms: The problem is that while no-one from retail to food to manufacturing. The message subscription, everything is moving to the cloud so it knows what will happen if we leave the EU does we are getting back from our clients is that they are is no longer a big ticket project. What we're seeing is anyone really know what will happen if we stay?
10 | BusinessLIFE | Spring 2016 Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 11 INTERNATIONAL TRADE Sponsored by: CARLTON COOPER
or a number of years Iran has been sanctioned in relation to 10 TOP TIPS finance and trade. As a result of meeting its obligations under the for effective communication nuclear deal agreed last year these sanctions are being lifted. This with overseas customers: offers UK companies an opportunity to engage in the biggest new market to re-enter the global economy in decades. Always provide bi-lingual contracts using a template where both languages are laid out
of Cassons side-by-side. This is essential if you will be F discussing the contract with your client (with or Whilst the large companies have already signed deals; Airbus, Peugeot, Total and without an interpreter). SNCF, we need our Lancashire SME’s to be able to seize the opportunities available. The UK government fully supports expanding our trade relationship with Iran and Look for a preferred glossary of terms before is encouraging businesses to take advantage. This will only happen if the financial translating technical manuals. This will avoid any institutes are ‘Open for Business’ but we continue to hear a not so positive response of confusion over the meaning of specialised phrases. ‘no change’ and I find their reluctance to react quickly and be agile like our companies a little disheartening from a trade perspective. The UK Export Finance service has stepped Keep the text that is to be translated simple up and is now supporting cover for Iran, so it’s worth contacting them to check out your and direct. Don’t ‘play on words’ or use possibilities. colloquialisms - the meaning can be lost in translation. We have recently sent out our EU poll requesting your valuable opinions on the UK remaining a member of the European Union in line with the referendum between now Don’t use machine or online translation to and the end of 2017. Representing the voice of business is integral to this Chamber's communicate with your client. Important core objective and I urge all businesses to take part in our polls and surveys. The results Preparation is the key to points may be missed or misinterpreted. will be published in our next edition. cracking the export market Ensure that job titles are translated correctly. Mandy Lockett> And lastly but definitely not least I would like to thank all businesses who entered our There are cultural norms relating to job titles International Business Director> International Trade Awards held last December and also congratulate the winners. Our and if they are not correct, offence can be
in the footsteps of some very illustrious Freemen If your overseas client makes any amendments in a tradition dating to a translated technical document, ask your 2016 INTERNATIONAL TRADE COURSES Translation Provider to identify what the back to 1237. changes are. Are they preferential or has the he Chamber of Commerce delivers practical and relevant export / import training which source text been changed? Don’t forget to He became a member of the Worshipful arrange for the translation memory software to I aims to enhance the export and import performance and customs compliance levels of be updated for future use. Company of World Traders, a modern City businesses. Spring 2016 calendar offers: livery, and it’s through them that he received T the Freedom of the City. Will it be life- 08 March Incoterms 2010 Rules 05 April Overseas Payments The above are based on actual scenarios and further Where in the World? information can be provided. changing? He can now drive his livestock 10 March Trade Preference and Agreements 07 April Dealing with Agents and Distributors over London Bridge, choose to be hanged by Name the capital city where this prominent 15 March Practical Importing 17 May Export Sales Certificate - 4 days 17 March Practical Exporting 23 May Forign Exchange for Importers silk cord rather than rope, can't be arrested building is located? 30 March Indroduction to E-Exporting and Exporters For further information contact for being drunk and incapable in the City Email answer to [email protected] Janet Perkins - TW Languages and has the right to carry a naked sword in and you could win a case of wine. Ask about our Foundation Award qualification. All these courses qualify towards a Foundation Award – 10 public. nationally accredited courses covering a core international trade curriculum and mapped to level 2 NVQ. www.twlanguages.com Winner and results will be published next edition. The Chamber would like to encourage companies Achievable on completing 6 of the 10 modules. www.chamberelancs.co.uk/international-trade to enter by visiting: www.hivebusinessawards.co.uk 0161 826 8777
12 | BusinessLIFE | Spring 2016 Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 13 INTERNATIONAL TRADE Sponsored by:
2015 winners of the International Trade Club Awards International Trade Club Awards 2015
ast Lancashire business gathered at the Mercure Dunkenhalgh for the International ETrade Club Awards. Left to Right: Michael Blakey and Julie Brannon - What More UK, Nicola Mellors and Julie Spencer - Burgess Beds, Rebecca Berry - Northern Industrial Electronics, Les Nutter - Cassons, The International Trade Club, which is expanded and we have moved from Whalley John Joe McGonagle - North Industrial Electronics, Neil Martin and Barbara Martin - SMUK, sponsored by Cassons, meets regularly to Blackburn and taken more people on." Duane McEwan - Verde Ceramica and Abigail Peake and Paul Turner of Sovereign Beverage. throughout the year to share best practice and increase their knowledge of international trade. The awards, now in Here’s to 2016! their 10th year, celebrate the success of Sovereign Beverage, who buy a one-way local companies in international markets. keg as opposed to the steel keg option, imported over 40,000 units reducing This year’s entertainment included a transportation costs and the cost of personal introduction and photograph with exporting for their customers, were highly Roger the Reindeer, the Hyndburn Singers, commended. a pantomime by the Civic Arts Group and a grand prize draw followed by Christmas The Newcomer to International Trade lunch. The awards were for: category was won by Verde Ceramica. Within 2 years the company now exports > Outstanding Exporter Achievement over 50% of its turnover to customers > Outstanding Import Achievement across Europe. They are an expanding > Newcomer to International Trade business supplying porcelain tiles to over The winner of the Outstanding Exporter 30 stores across the continent. They are Achievement Award was What More UK predicting £½ million in sales over the next Limited. The company was persuaded 18 months. From a pure import perspective to look at exporting 8 years ago by the their commitment and drive to pursue East Lancashire Chamber and they now export orders in a short period of time is supply 63 countries. The company has outstanding. grown rapidly to become the UK’s largest Duane McEwan, the owner of the business manufacturer and brand leader of plastic said “We started the company 3½ years ago housewares, gardening and storage and got our first order from a store in Street, products, under the brand name WHAM. Somerset and now supply 30 stores across The company has also achieved the Queens Europe which we hope to grow to 150 stores." Award for International Trade and their He added “We joined the International Trade exports figures are in excess of £7m and Club never expecting to get an order but growing year on year. because we’ve picked up valuable knowledge Michael Blakey said “We’re really pleased to and support.” win this award. I would like to thank everyone Burgess Beds Limited was Highly at What More as it is a real team effort. We are Commended in this category. They have now exporting to 60 plus countries including secured orders to India and have signed Iraq, Russia, and as far away as Australia”. contracts with the USA which will double Northern Industrial Electronics Ltd, whose their export turnover in 2016. total value of export sales and repairs Each winner was presented with an increased by 31%, was highly commended engraved glass trophy from Les Nutter, in this category. managing partner, Cassons who The Outstanding Importer Achievement congratulated all the winners and wished Award went to SMUK Solutions Limited. all our exporters the best for 2016. In 2014 this company launched a new Speaking of the winners’ success, Les said: product never before seen in the UK market “The International Trade Club Awards are a providing a composite decking system. celebration of how East Lancashire businesses Originally from New Zealand they now are thriving and flourishing in challenging have distribution rights across Europe. In overseas markets, and it’s fantastic to see addition SMUK has delivered an additional such a diverse range of companies succeeding 46% of increased export performance in in so many countries across the globe. sales. This year they were also crowned the “It’s been a year of amazing growth and North West Small Business of the Year in expansion for these businesses and their the regional heats of the National British achievements are an example of what the Chambers of Commerce Awards. region can achieve on the worldwide stage. Neil Martin said “It’s been an exciting year for We look forward to seeing them continue to SMUK. We changed the balustrade industry grow and develop into 2016.” in recent years and this year with our new Full story and gallery of images at decking, we are shaking up and changing this www.internationaltradeclub.co.uk industry too." He added “Our premises have
INTERNATIONAL TRADE CLUB DIARY DATES 2016 12th May 2016 Business Policy, Research & Opinions 14th July 2016 Your Intellectual Property 6th October 2016 Trade, Tax and Geo-Politics 2nd December 2016 Gala Luncheon hosting the International Trade Awards 2016 Event photography: Jon Thompson - East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce
14 | BusinessLIFE | AutumnSpring 2016 2015 Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 15 YOUR EAST LANCASHIRE BLACKBURN One Cathedral Square, Blackburn Cathedral Quarter, launched and ready for business!
BURNLEY Burnley named as one of the greenest places in England The town now generates more electricity from solar, wind, hydropower and landfill gas than almost anywhere else. The data, which has been released by the Green Alliance thinktank, lists Burnley as the sixth best-performing town with 14.44 per cent of its electricity coming from green sources.
PENDLE Pendle Business Awards 2016 The Awards recognise and celebrate the most creative, innovative and highest achieving businesses, as well as the people behind them. The closing date for this year is Friday March 18th.
RIBBLE VALLEY Ribble Valley Business ne Cathedral Square is the newly constructed Grade A office building changing Awards have been given a triple thumbs up. the business landscape of Blackburn Town Centre. Part of the Cathedral Organisers are thrilled that three of last year’s Quarter, it marks the flagship building within the redevelopment of the entire winners are sponsoring their category this year. Also 13 of last year’s sponsors are coming back Cathedral area of Blackburn. to support the event for a second year running. ThisO spectacular new office building, providing 28, 000 A new Cathedral Court to be completed around Chief Executive of Blackburn with Darwen Council, sq ft of prime BREEAM office space above ground floor Easter time provides accommodation for a residential Harry Catherall, commented: “We have had significant restaurant and leisure units, forms part of the wider community for the Cathedral as well as offices, interest in the office space. Our partners have presented ROSSENDALE regeneration scheme positioned between Blackburn conferencing and a library. The beautiful new Temple a most magnificent development around the Cathedral railway station and the town’s Cathedral; providing a Gallery connects Lancashire’s Cathedral with the new with this office designed to a specification not matched Rossendale Council launches new thoroughfare into the town centre itself and the buildings and will be the smartest new location in anywhere in Lancashire.” scheme to Help "Flood recently extended Mall Shopping Centre. Lancashire for small conferences and events. number of substantial initiatives. In excess of £100 Andrew Dewhurst, director at Maple Grove million of investment has already been invested in Proof" Properties and The £30 million development was a partnership One Cathedral Square, designed by internationally Developments, said: “Blackburn Cathedral Quarter the town centre over the last 10 years providing new between Blackburn with Darwen Borough renowned Architects, BDP, provides top quality office represents seven years of hard work and has transformed infrastructure such as a new bus station, link road to Businesses. Council, Blackburn Cathedral, Maple a key gateway into Blackburn. The project the south of the town centre and improved rail services Rossendale Council has announced central Grove Developments, the Homes and is an excellent example of private sector to Manchester. government details of a scheme to help make Communities Agency and the European businesses working in partnership with a properties more resistant to future floods. Regional Development Fund. Our partners have presented a most local authority to deliver a significant urban magnificent development around the Cathedral... regeneration scheme. It has also created a The new 60 bed Premier Inn Hotel with high-quality business hub in the heart of Blackburn Cathedral Quarter Thyme restaurant opened in November Blackburn that will deliver much-needed HYNDBURN and is seeing very high occupancy rates jobs, with One Cathedral Square being the represents seven years of hard during the week and for key events being held both space arranged over five floors of 5,876 sq ft each, first Grade A office building to be completed in the town work and has transformed a key at the Cathedral and King Georges Hall at weekends. available to let at a rent of around £15 per sq ft per centre for 20 years.” New Year Feedback from businesses and visitors has been very annum plus service charge. The building has been gateway into Blackburn. Apprenticeship Event positive and demand is continuing to grow for the first built to BREEAM Excellent standard and the energy The former Blackburn MP, Rt. Hon. Jack Straw, formally branded hotel in Blackburn Town Centre. bills are expected to be around half of a similar sized opened One Cathedral Square. In declaring the Local businesses took part in an Apprenticeship building open, the former Blackburn MP, Jack Straw event at Accrington Town Hall on February9th. There are 3 restaurants available in the development building built just 10 years ago. The scheme also said: “This new development has transformed Blackburn, Local agents Trevor Dawson and Manchester agents Attendees were able to find out about with recent research showing that Blackburn Town includes associated car parking, together with the giving it the feel of a city.” Knight Frank are instructed regarding office enquiries apprenticeships direct from employers and Centre’s increased catchment and broad demographic new landscaped piazza, which in time will be host to numerous events running throughout the year. and lettings. The agents for the restaurant and leisure training providers. appeal presents a fantastic opportunity for food and Blackburn is undergoing a significant renaissance units are Manchester agents, Bradys and Cushman & beverage operators to satisfy this unmet demand. via a major regeneration programme, through a Wakefield.
16 | BusinessLIFE | Spring 2016 Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 17 he Samlesbury based Bridge. Ordinarily used on the wings of an aircraft internationally-renowned artist to reduce resistance, Charles says it is the perfect has created a number of high coating for his sculptures to protect the polished THE BIG INTERVIEW profile installations, including 12 areas from tarnishing and fingerprints. major works across London. One of which is Torsion II, described “I think that to progress and stay ahead of the curve as a ‘stairway to the stars’ that you have to constantly look outside your own field stands in pride of place at and learn from what other people are doing. You Canary Wharf tube station. have to innovate the way you do business, and how you do business. His other notable works include the highly Tacclaimed Passacaglia, a giant cast iron abstract “If you stand still someone will come and overtake structure, which enchants visitors to Brighton you,” Charles added. beach. A year after moving to Lancashire in 1999, Charles His work has been shaped by elements of nature, and his wife Camilla established Roach Bridge CHARLES Tissues from the 127-year-old Roach Bridge Paper poetry and music, whilst adhering to the ‘golden ratio’ of geometric proportions. Company based in Samlesbury, which had been owned by Camilla’s family until the 1980’s. Above all, Charles who holds the position of HADCOCK Chairman of Creative Lancashire, says the major Specialising in printing luxury tissue wrapping influence on his working methods has been paper for high street shops, they boast an observing practices of engineering. impressive customer list including Disney, and a host of other well-known names. Growing up in Derby, Charles spent hours with his father, a specialist tool engineer who worked Having seen the wealth of talent in the county, at Rolls Royce aerospace, making things in his Charles wants to encouraging others to use workshop. businesses on their doorstep. Later, whilst studying art history, he noticed that He uses local engineers for all his tool making, the same geometric rules occurring in historic mould making, casting, and is proud that Torsion engineering and architecture, are also found in II at Canary Wharf is 100 per cent made in nature, making him curious how he could elevate Lancashire. everyday objects and shapes from a work bench to “Lancashire has a fantastic array of talented people an art gallery. especially in manufacturing and creativity, and Inspired by this, he went on to study at the Royal I think that is something we should be shouting College of Art in London, and opened his first about.”
Lancashire has a fantastic array of talented people especially in manufacturing and creativity...
studio in Bermondsey where he honed his craft, In the position of Chairman of Creative Lancashire, taking in further manufacturing influences from which he has held since its inception 12 years ago, the leather industry which was on his doorstep. he has further supported the creative industry in “I see engineering techniques and sculpture as going the region. hand in hand,” says Charles. For his work with Creative Lancashire Charles “Growing up around aircraft manufacture, I became was awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise fascinated by engineering. Much of the geometry you Promotion in 2007. He also sits on the council of see in nature, such as a spiralling sea shell, you will the Royal Society of British Sculptors and in 2014 also see in engineering, like the way the fan blades was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant of Lancashire. spiral out. It’s amazing. The organisation, whose board members ombining tessellating patterns, “My sculptures include all sorts of different aspects of include Blackburn-raised fashion designer engineering such as the shapes of the turbines. The Wayne Hemingway, was set up to be advocates interlocking structures and a masterful more rigorous they are using geometry, the more I of creativity, to support and encourage creative like them.” businesses in the county and highlight the use of metallurgy; Charles Hadcock’s importance of the sector. contemporary sculptures are as much His work has been met with critical acclaim and he has gone on to exhibit alongside some of ingenious feats of engineering, as art. England’s most notable artists and sculptors including Anthony Gormley, Damien Hirst, Sir Growing up around aircraft C Anthony Caro, Philip King, Bill Woodrow, Nigel Hall manufacture, I became and Lynn Chadwick. fascinated by engineering. He also has a host of well-known fans who collect his work, and now holds such a notable reputation that he prefers to make the work he wants to in his At present Creative Lancashire is establishing studio, which can then be placed into a location for a number of events and promotions to help a commission. non creative businesses find creative sector companies to work with. They are also working Despite his success Charles is always seeking ways with industry partners and go to higher education to further his skills. establishments to help build up links, as well as Working only with the highest quality materials, working with Arts Council England, Design Council iron, aluminium and bronze, he is constantly England, and the Craft Council to name a few. striving to improve his techniques in collaboration He added: “With Creative Lancashire we’ve with his suppliers. constantly built up our range of programmes and “Old fashioned techniques are time consuming, so to tried to introduce a lot of different facets. find new products and techniques is fantastic,” says “We are currently reviewing the printing of an online Charles. business directory that would be available to the He has recently been using a coating which British public and through this.” Aerospace use, that is manufactured in Hebden 18 | BusinessLIFE | Spring 2016 The RSA, Royal Society of Arts was established as the Royal Society of Arts, Manufacturers and Commerce CIPS & TRAINING
noun the action of teaching a person a particular skill or type of behaviour. entre of Excellence for the Chartered institute of Procurement & Supply training overC 450 procurement, purchasing and harpen your team’s skills in preparation for the challenge supply chain professionals. ahead and let Chamber Business Training give your Tomorrow’s Leaders Today! company a positive training workout that will help you A life changing leadership programme... ‘Plan for Success’ in 2016. With great feedback from our Our Lancashire CIPS Centre of Excellence is located at Red Rose Court, Accrington and is conveniently clients we are sure you will be coming back for more. An outstanding, highly engaging and interactive 8 day situated just off Junction 7 of the M65. Our Lancashire leadership programme for middle and senior managers students enjoy access to free wi-fi, free parking and rated as ‘Life Changing’ by many of our clients. S complimentary refreshments in a friendly professional Our flagship leadership programmes offers the latest thinking, models and techniques includng Myers Briggs step 2 and comfortable environment. personality profiling and 360 degree feedback. This is also one of our six approved CIPS Examination Centres, for exclusive use by our students at no The Programme additional cost. • The Secrets of Inspired Leaders • Developing your Leadership style ( 2 days) Join our Diploma afternoon or evening classes now and • Maximising Performance and Effectiveness work towards achieving the global standards of MCIPS. • Why Excellent People Skills matter • Leading Change We also deliver the Advanced and Professional Diploma ILM • Managing Demand levels. Development programme • Coaching as an Effective Leadership Style Our new distance learning website is now live and available at www.cipsdistancelearning.com accreditation 1 day workshops The investment equates to £187.50 per day. For further information please contact Linda Jamieson Call: 01254 356443 Email: [email protected] Fantastic Procurement in Brand new to the Chamber for 2016 these 1 day programmes are recognised by ILM company training, delivered for the quality of the programme and the by MCIPS tutor. associated admin and support processes provided. An ILM, development certificate Specialist Management & Leadership will be provided for all delegates attending training for Schools designed for these programmes. > Board of Governors Delivered in company and as short courses: > Principles > Deputy Heads • Delegating to empower > Heads of departments • Effective leadership > Finance & Business Managers. • Networking skills • Managing employer performance FREE Training NEEDS Analysis New for 2016 • Introduction to customer care In company training available on: > Introduction to Contract law > Negotiation, Process, Power, Ploys • Developing and Leading teams > Leadership > MBTI personality profiling > Science of Persuasion • Personnel development planning > ILM level 3 & 5 > Microsoft excel, word, • Sales and marketing for success > Sales p r o j e c t A n d m u c h , m u c h more For more details contact Christine Lambe on > Customer service [email protected] or 01254 356431
Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 21 For more information contact Linda Jamieson on 01254 356443 / [email protected] Lancashire Business Growth Fund boosts the local economy LBGF supports steel giants from Accrington
he Lancashire Business Growth Fund has now offered he fund has been able to support Walkersteel, probably the most £4.475m of grants to local businesses, which has already Grants offered by Area recognisable name in UK steel stockholding. The company, based leveraged in excess of £24m private sector investment. in Accrington, specialises in the supply of panel flat sheet, plate and blanks. Their in -house cut to length lines process coil to The Lancashire Business Growth Fund has now offered £4.475 million 6% 8% 8% exacting dimensional tolerances. Tof grants to Lancashire businesses, which in turn has leveraged over £24 million 13% in private sector investment, International Business Director Mandy Lockett TWalkersteel has been successful in winning an LBGF grant of £75,210, towards the purchase of a announced. 4% Bruck mechanical perforator and the purchase of a Spiroflex machine 250. Specialist equipment the 5% 15% company requires as it continues to invest and expand. The fund has also created and safeguarded 52 direct jobs in Lancashire to-date. The news means the fund is now on track to deliver the 600 new jobs it is projected to 11% 10% achieve over the lifetime of the programme. The total investment in the project is £376,051 and the support we 5% 15% have received from Lancashire Business Fund was a major factor in So far, the Lancashire Business Growth Fund has supported over 60 companies bringing forward our investment ... across the county to help their growth, take advantage of new overseas markets and reach their full potential. James Dodgeon, MD of Walkersteel Ltd. said “The business continues to grow and investment in new International Business Director, Mandy Lockett said “This is a truly great equipment is essential if we are to compete in an increasingly competitive market place. This investment will make us more efficient and lead to the creation of new jobs.” achievement, helping growing businesses across the county to be confident and unlock that all important investment. It is proof that LBGF is playing a pivotal role He added “The total investment in the project is £376,051 and the support we have received from in stimulating enterprise; providing highly skilled jobs and giving businesses the Ribble Valley Chorley Lancashire Business Growth Fund was a major factor in bringing forward our investment in this specialist confidence to invest in Lancashire. equipment. We are committed to growing the business here in Accrington and receiving support to help us Rossendale Hyndburn achieve this objective is very welcome.” During 2016 we would like to support even more manufacturers in Lancashire to bring South Ribble Lancaster Once completed, the project will result in 7 new jobs being created. A further 4 jobs will be forward their growth projects and take advantage of LBGF. Please contact our friendly safeguarded. advisory team to discuss your plans.” Blackburn with Darwen Pendle Blackpool Preston Mike Beckett 01254 356447, Stef Heywood 01254 356454 or visit: www.chamberelancs.co.uk/LBGF Burnley Lens company eyes continued success
specialist lens manufacturer has set its sights on further expansion with help from the Lancashire Business Growth Cardboard Box Company package up support Fund (LBGF). Morecambe-based Optimum Coatings has recently been awarded £80,000 from the fund towards theA purchase of surfacing and surface coating machines. The total he Cardboard Box Company based in Clayton-le-Moors design, print investment by the company is £448,460 with nine jobs to be created and manufacture corrugated board into just about every conceivable and another five safeguarded. application. Whether it’s an industrial or retail packaging design, a Optimum manufactures and coats lenses for the UK’s leading eyewear retailers and opticians, promotional (POS) display or another innovative project, they are there and the new equipment means it will be able to increase production capacity. toT help. They can design a package that fits perfectly around any product and Managing Director, Paul Bailey, said: “Sales have tripled and show no sign of slowing which means always make sure when the product arrives at the end of its journey. The packaging it’s the right time to make a significant investment in our future.
provides a high-level of protection and looks outstanding. “The new equipment will allow us to both satisfy increasing demand from existing clients and win Managing Director, Ken Shackleton explains “We don’t believe in problems, only solutions. We discuss the new business. We are planning to double our sales turnover within the next three years as a result.” Bobst Die Cutter customer’s needs and, with our in-house technical team of packaging experts, work out how best to find an The laboratory currently operates 18 hours per day, but expects to become a 24 hour operation economical solution to fit specific products and budgets. by the end of 2016 in order to keep up with demand. Paul Bailey Optimum was close to receivership until it was acquired by Mr Bailey in 2010. Since then the Managing Director “Our structural CAD designers can immediately create a number of prototype company’s fortunes have been transformed and it is now one of the fastest growing and most samples using our software tools, which provide the levels of protection successful independent optical laboratories in the country and employs 35 people. you require. You can touch; feel and even test to ensure you and your own Paul comments: “Investing in our people has been just as important as equipment. We have recruited customers are delighted with the end result”. 10 new staff in the last 24 months, and we expect to employ a further eight by the end of April."
The Cardboard Box Company’s growth has been rapidly underpinned by substantial year on year investment. Lancashire Business Growth Fund was able to provide a grant to purchase a Bobst Die Cutter which gave the company increased capacity along with all the enhanced capabilities and benefits that a new machine brings. Businesses bidding for grants from the scheme can claim up to 20 per cent of the total project costs. Projects must Commenting on the grant Ken said “We found the process of applying for funding was very easy to follow with involve the acquisition of new machinery, expansion or another suitable form of capital investment. Businesses are also great support from all the agencies involved.” required to demonstrate how many jobs will be created through the project in order to be accepted onto the scheme. The Cardboard Box Company was awarded £50,000 which alongside their own capital investment has led to the purchase and installation of the new machine. Ken added “The award of this grant ensured the acquisition of the machine and the creation of five new jobs could take place earlier and more smoothly than would have been the For further information about Lancashire Business Growth Fund please contact the International Business Team at case.” East Lancashire Chamber on 0124 356473 or visit www.chamberelancs.co.uk/LBGF Ken Shackleton Managing Director
22 | BusinessLIFE | Spring 2016 Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 23 The UK's EU SECTOR ANALYSIS REFERENDUM FOOD & DRINK ancashire has an enviable reputation when it comes to ince the the last edition of Business Life when membership BAKERIES eating and drinking. Whether taking in gourmet food at one of the EU was featured in the round table discussion, the of the county’s fine country pubs and restaurants, or picking “The retail sales of cakes have grown 2.9 per cent L over the last 12 months and is now a £1 billion Government has now set the date of June 23rd for the up goods from a local bakery to eat in the comfort of your home – market,” says Gary Entwistle from Cherrytree referendum on whether the UK remains a member of the the region has something for everyone. Bakery in Burnley. European Union. We spoke to a selection of industry leaders to find out what they think the future The company, which produce cakes and biscuits holds for the sector in 2016. for retail sale and the coffee shop market, are S The Conservatives' election manifesto promised now concluded, and that the hard work of recent going through a phase of rapid growth. to hold a referendum. The question that is being months could potentially deliver some benefits for put to the British people is "Should the United the UK. The real test for the Prime Minister's deal is Kingdom remain a member of the European Union whether it can deliver tangible benefits. or leave the European Union?" "On sovereignty, success depends on whether John Longworth, Director General of Cherrytree grew at a rate Whilst East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce the UK opt-out from ‘ever closer union’ actually the British Chambers of Commerce and the British Chambers of Commerce are curbs the expansive jurisdiction of the European of 10 per cent on the year, not taking a stance, as business is divided on Court of Justice, whose activism hamstrings the subject, our members tell us that more British businesses. Ensuring national parliaments, which is in line with the information is needed to help them decide including our own, can actually stop EU proposals concluding meaningful free trade agreements. It growth in the coffee shop which way to vote. they deem damaging, is crucial. is notable that there is no UK-specific opt-out from regulations that are not directly related to trade. When David Cameron announced the "Safeguards for non-Eurozone countries will only market, and ahead of the referendum a key condition was that he would feel real when all our firms - not just those in the "There is no certainty at this stage whether the retail sector seek to make changes to the way the deal’s outcomes are legally enforceable and European Union works. irreversible. What’s more, the deal falls well short of the business expectations we Sovereignty: Giving greater powers set out nearly a year ago. HOSPITALITY ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES to national parliaments to block EU The real test for the Prime Clayton Park Bakery based in Clayton-le-Moors legislation. "If delivered, this deal would change Minister's deal is whether it can With nine hotels, pubs, restaurants and a Burnley based Batch Brew Ltd has been say their sales are also following the national some aspects of the UK's relationship brewery, James’ Places has gone through a riding a wave of success since launching their Eurozone v the rest: Securing an with the EU. Yet it is inescapable that, growth trend. The company manufacture a explicit recognition that the euro is deliver tangible benefits. boom period in the past few years, with year- micro-distillery producing gin in 2014, gaining range of cakes, pastries, pies and bread which deal or no deal, the EU itself remains on-year growth across the group. The business regional and international recognition. not the only currency of the European largely unreformed." are supplied to a number of major retailers. Union, to ensure countries outside the now employs around 350 staff in the Ribble They also supply goods to a number of different Eurozone are not materially disadvantaged. City of London - believe that their access to markets On the British Chambers of Commerce’s Valley, Lune Valley and North Yorkshire. “We are still a small company, with a turnover sports venues and independent retailers. and capital is secure. It is not clear if these vital approach to the referendum campaign, <£50,000, but sales are healthy and we are Benefits: Restricting access to in-work and out- safeguards are guaranteed. Longworth added: “The sector is very competitive, especially in the growing year on year,” says director Phil Whitwell. “We’ve seen substantial growth within the of-work benefits to EU migrants. Ribble Valley, where there is a proliferation of good business over the past few years, in particular "And on the complex and emotive issue of “The BCC will not be campaigning for either quality eating establishment,” says James’ Places “Gin is particularly buoyant market. We are seeing Integration: Allowing Britain to opt out from the in terms of what we supply to James Hall which migration, what really matters is whether the UK Remain or Leave, given the very real divisions that operations director Carol Sleet. lots of new gin brands coming through. Our focus EU's founding ambition to forge an "ever closer supply the SPAR network in the north of England,” has tools that allow it to balance the business exist in business communities across the UK. is on increasing sales in the North West whilst union". says Brian Ashworth, general manager of need for labour and skills with the need for social “Against a backdrop of relatively low looking at a few key export markets. “In the months leading up to the referendum, we Clayton Park Bakery. cohesion. Given that its focus has been restricted unemployment in the area, this poses challenges Following the completion of the discussions will actively survey business opinion and inform just to benefits, the deal cannot substantially to recruitment and retention of good staff. The “There will be a few brands that don’t make it, and the final agreement being reached John the debate without fear or favour. Additionally, “I think the future of the sector is positive as further address this balance, or the consequent impacts on challenge facing the whole sector is how to but we are confident that we will be able to make Longworth, Director General of the British we will be demanding clear information and facts growth is expected with the sales of pies bread and the UK economy and public policy. implement the living wage and adhere to working a few premium products that are popular in the Chambers of Commerce, said "Businesses from both the Remain and Leave campaigns so cakes in 2016 and beyond.” time directives and still run a successful, profitable North West.” across Britain will be relieved that the horse- "On competitiveness, much relies on the that businesspeople can make an informed choice business.” trading between Westminster and Brussels is Commission's commitment to deregulation and to at the ballot box.”
24 | BusinessLIFE | Spring 2016 Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 25 BUSINESS NEWS Q4
Left to Right: Simon Westwell, Lettings Director at Petty’s, with Colin Tice, Tax Partner at Cassons, QUARTERLY Sinead Duffy, Tax Adviser at Cassons, and Petty’s Residential Sales Director Ian Bythell
ECONOMIC Landlords urged to learn about tax changes
SURVEY wo East Lancashire businesses joined forces to explain how the imminent tax changes could impact on the rental profits of residential ance Mason Solicitors property landlords and those purchasing second homes. hank you to all our members who completed last quarter’s T L is a leading legal Quarterly Economic Survey (QES). The results of this survey Over 100 residential property landlords gathered at about matching property portfolios to target services firm, providing Moorhouse’s Brewery in Burnley to hear presentations markets and identifying investment strategies to assistance to both individual are used by Government and the Bank of England to inform from Cassons business advisers LLP and Petty Estate help maximise return, as well as the future of the clients and other legal firms. their policy making decisions. Agents. residential sales and lettings markets. Despite the disappointing news on taxation, there are still good T Cassons explained how changes, which begin to opportunities for East Lancashire investors. Established in 2010 with just four come into effect from April will alter the way rental employees, this business has enjoyed profits are calculated, leading to increased tax bills. Colin Tice said: “It’s fair to say there was a collective The tables below reflect the results of the East Employment rapid growth over 6 years. Lance Lancashire area. Providing this information will now be Corporate Taxation 26.00 sense of shock in the room as landlords realised the When asked whether companies expected to increase Sinead Duffy used an illustrative example to impact these changes are likely to have when they are Mason now employ circa 110 staff a regular feature within our magazine. Business Rates 30.00 demonstrate how the changes to allowable expenses their workforce over the next 3 months over 25.8% said Competition 53.00 phased in from April. at three offices in Blackburn and 1 in These results show the top line figures for the area and and finance costs could affect their profits. Colin they did whereas only 6.5% expected their workforce Exchange Rates 32.00 Southport and manage claims from where appropriate we have made comparisons to Q3. Tice then explained how the proposed changes to “It will be interesting to see if any concessions are to fall. Whilst the number expecting employment to In ation 8.00 all over England and Wales for all remain the same has not moved since the last quarter, Stamp Duty Land Tax could affect residential property introduced when this new legislation is finalised in Interest Rates 11.00 types of personal injury, including The Q4 2015 Survey was conducted by the East a few expect more expect employment to decrease landlords and anyone purchasing a second home. the Budget on March 16 but as things stand it’s going Lancashire Chamber of Commerce. The survey period to have major repercussions for residential property road traffic accidents, industrial and a few less increase. 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% Simon Westwell, Lettings Director at Petty’s, spoke was between 9th November and 30th November landlords and those looking to purchase second homes.” disease and medical negligence 2015. It was completed by 129 companies across East Commenting on these figure, David Sharpe, Chamber claims. Lance Mason provides Lancashire of which 40% were in the manufacturing President said: “These figures continue to show a steady sector. 27.54% both B2C and B2B legal services. A pattern of growth if less strong than the previous quarter. separate legal costs management Business confidence and investment intentions remain Results: 18.84% positive and companies have some confidence about division, LM Costs, provides B2B Increased work streams and the business has Is the economy likely to grow? 53.62% raising their prices. Concerns expressed last quarter over Remained Constant inflation and interest rates are less of an issue now.” expanded in to the Commercial/ When asked if they expected sales to increase, remain Decreased Corporate and Employment fields. constant or fall 34% of companies expected them to The National picture increase. This is very similar to the last quarter. Images Liz Henson by The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Throughout 2015 the true impact Economic Survey shows that most key manufacturing of the Jackson reforms in respect and services balances were weaker this quarter, but of solicitors costs led to many law manufacturing firms fared worse. This has led Britain’s Of those who had attempted to recruit staff over the Karl Patterson Senator Group, Dave Atkinson, Head of UK Manufacturing Lloyds Bank, firms being forced to close. Due to two-tier growth trend to become further entrenched. last 3 months, 49.97% said that they had experienced Michael Damms, Chamber of Commerce, Philip Margerison, MOD Defence Supplier Relations the investment in their members 20.63% difficulties in finding suitable people. This was John Longworth, Director General of the British Increased 45.24% particularly true when recruiting skilled manual and combined with the application Chambers of Commerce, commenting on the national Remained Constant technical staff. This is slightly lower than last quarter of highly efficient and effective 34.13% results said “While these latest figures demonstrate indicating the slight slowing of growth within the workflows this is not an issue that Decreased growth, it is clear that there are warning signs of potential economy. trouble ahead. The declines across the board should send Lance Mason faced. Investment & Business Confidence a message to government that UK firms are in desperate Connecting the Makers need of a favourable business environment, not more The business has not only survived When companies were asked about investment plans, administrative burdens. ebruary saw the launch of the Chamber’s new but has flourished. Through resilience, the responses for investing in plant and machinery ‘Making it in Lancashire Network’. This niche group Exporting companies were less confident with a much ambition and passion in the face were revised up by 26% of businesses and for training “It is not enough to rely upon consumer spending and the is designed to provide a platform for Lancashire’s larger group expecting sales to remain constant. The of unfavourable market conditions by 25%. Very few companies had revised their housing market to grow the economy, nor to rely purely engineering and manufacturing businesses to number of businesses who expected dales to decrease on services to drive export growth. We need a rebalanced John Bury, Burnley College Lance Mason is thriving and looks investment plans downwards. This is little changed enableF key networking opportunities, access to important increased slightly on the last quarter. economy if we are to continue punching above our forward to continuing to provide from the last quarter. information and shared best practice. weight on the global stage. The quality and variety of our robust and practical advice to all its In the important area of business confidence, 57% of goods and services is what gives Brand Britain its strength Over 55 businesses attended the launch at Burnley College which companies expected their turnover to improve and overseas.” clients based around a completely featured panellists including Dave Atkinson, Head of UK Manufacturing, transparent cost structure. 46% their profitability. Compared tl last quarter a few Lloyds Bank, Philip Margerison of MOD Supply Chain and Karl Patterson less companies believe their profitability will improve. Head of HR, Senator Group. 27.54% Increased Issues 53.62% The group will meet for a further two sessions this year and will focus Remained Constant on topics relevant to the needs and ambitions of Lancashire’s makers. When we asked companies what most concerned Decreased 18.84% QES Q1 FIELDWORK Future events will be hosted at a number of iconic Lancashire based them, competition and exchange rates were their manufacturing venues biggest concerns. Interestingly concerns over interest rates and inflation had fallen since the last quarter. 22 Feb - 14 March 2016 For more information on Making it in Lancashire please contact Darren Grantham at the Chamber on 01254 356433 Please complete the survey or email [email protected] https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/XJ87JRH Making it in Lancashire is supported by Lloyds Bank. Napthens Solicitors and Sagar Insurances
26 | BusinessLIFE | Spring 2016 Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 27 DIRECTOR'S REPORT DIRECTOR'S REPORT
The Directors’ Report to the Members 1. Lobbying & Representation REGIONALLY > Contributed directly to the Northern Powerhouse & Devolution debates through for the Period July - December 2015. our unique membership on the Regional Leaders Board (whose members include NATIONALLY, THROUGH BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE Sir Richard Lees, Jennifer Mein and leaders of the other 3 NW sub-regions) > Interest Rates. The Quarterly Economic Survey is the largest business survey > Through chairing the Regional Manufacturing Forum (RMF) helped form the shape which informs the Bank of England, Treasury and European Commission. East of the International Festival of B usiness 2016. Lancashire provides one of the largest responses. Q3 & Q4’s have contributed > Through the RMF set up working arrangements with BIS and the UK Space agency directly to the holding of rates at 0.5% ast Lancashire Chamber of Commerce is an independent company owned by to address the £30bn p.a. opportunity for the North to engage in the Space sector its members. It has a Council of 24 Directors, elected from the membership > Policy wins: Permanent annual Investment Allowance supply chain and headed by a President, which is designed to be representative of the : Independent Infrastructure Commission created industrial make-up of East Lancashire. On behalf of both the members, > On Transport, represented Lancashire on the Transport for the North Freight & and usually to the general benefit of the wider East Lancashire business > Significant policy progress includes: Logistics Group (with thanks to our Transport companies) DAVID SHARPE (President) community (and beyond), the Council has set the following areas of activity Pierce Business Advisory - Assessment of Secondary Schools on employment outcomes/ > For International Trade: with the other NW Chambers, delivered the UKTI regional business support programme. E & Accountancy Group Business Engagement > Lobbying & Representation criticising from the side-lines like other institutions and - Increased child-care support > Supported BAE’s AEM-TEC ambitions to create a nationally-significant ‘representative’ organisations) manufacturing innovation centre > Partnering & Collaboration - creating East - Strengthened Business Bank (a BCC initiative) and UK Export Finance Lancashire’s business environment The Chamber’s Finances are provided by: Membership > For Energy: Members of BIS’s NW UK Onshore Oil & Gas Advisory Group; met 13%: Public Contracts 16%: Private Sector (sales) - Legal Framework for HS2 with Ministers > Business Support Income 71%. - Simplified and fast track visa access for international businesspeople LOCALLY East Lancashire has none of the major institutions Of course the real credit goes to the businesses and - Policy decisions that affect energy costs and security (airports, transport interchanges, gov’t departments, entrepreneurs of Lancashire. The Chamber’s Directors > Transport: Seen the Todmorden Curve finally opened (after a campaign that we Universities…) that would normally be found in an started 10 years ago with Kitty Ussher the then Burnley MP, Burnley BC, Barry Kilby, trust that they have designed and prioritised the > On Europe, following a membership survey established that a) business is divided area with ½ million population, but has a complex Aircelle and a couple of other local businesses) Chamber’s activities appropriately and helped create b) there’s a lack of information. So, rather than formulating a single position a EU and dispersed set of Local Authorities, Colleges etc. a supportive environment. They would be pleased Referendum Hub has been set up on which latest developments are being posted. Furthermore, our contribution to the UK economy has > Campaigned (alongside N&W Lancashire Chamber) for Shale Oil & Gas to hear from any member who feels they could be development, in response to our manufacturers’ interests, including the NW been under-appreciated and our manufacturing base > The International Trade Survey (and national conference) identifies the appetite, improved upon. Energy Task Force. Between the Chambers established a supplier portal to prepare has been out of fashion, only recently being accepted opportunities and barriers for trade and informs the national ‘Export Challenge’ for supply chain opportunities as part of a modern economy. The Chamber has The Chamber’s activities can also be monitored on a policies therefore acted as a fulcrum and flywheel institution real-time basis by its in-house magazine ‘Business Life’ > Chaired the Police - Business Crime Conference and has also, uniquely, done the ‘heavy-lifting’ during or by following social media/BLOG and the website. the industrial renaissance (rather than observing and MICHAEL DAMMS > International Connectivity: Campaigned for the expansion of Heathrow airport East Lancs Chamber of Commerce Accrington
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 DIRECTOR'S REPORT DIRECTOR'S REPORT Council Member Index > Transport: Chair the Rossendale Rail Action Group to re-connect Rawtenstall with 2. Partnering & Collaboration 3. Business Support NO. NAME COMPANY LOCATION Manchester and relieve the M66/ Simister Island congestion (with N Manchester Chamber) 01. John Barker (VP) Forbes Solicitors Blackburn > Organised Rossendale, Ribble Valley and Hyndburn Business Leaders’ Groups, Sharing resources and leadership to ensure alignment of the business, social and > Having successfully competed for Regional Growth Funding (RGF) 02. Catherine Ogden E A Foulds Pendle vice-chairs of Blackburn with Darwen’s ‘HIVE’ members of Pendle Vision and environmental elements that define the sub-region. have awarded £3.0m of grant – leveraging £14m of private Burnley Bondholders to support and create strong local identities and business – investment – for machinery and plant. 03. Saj Butt 3B Systems Pendle community - education relations As board members of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (which handles £1bn of investment) > Given advice to 600 companies on International Trade and 04. Graham Fitton Veka plc Burnley > Transport: Represented the private sector on the consultations considering the provided detailed support to 500 prioritisation of road schemes a) Burnley-Pendle Corridor (now agreed) > Contributed to Preston City Deal, Enterprise Zones (latest being for Chemicals), 05. Claire Whelan BCW Engineering Burnley b) Rossendale Gateway c) Ribble Valley A59 d) M65 widening Skills Strategy, Growing Places Fund (supporting Burnley Bridge, Blackburn > Issued 2600 export docs. Cathedral Quarter,..) Major Transport Schemes (including Darwen Relief Road), 06. Mark Hope Stonehouse Logic Hyndburn > For International Trade, through BCC added 8 Accredited overseas > Organised the input from the Chemicals, Textiles and Food sector to the Lancashire Brierfield Mill, M55 Heyhouses Link Road, Burnley Vision Park, Rawtenstall 07. Neil Bullows (VP) Whitehall Hotel Darwen Skills Strategy. Chaired Blackburn’s Education & Skills Board Redevelopment Zone. Funding for Colleges and Training Providers (including Chambers to the Global Network across and T2000) 08. Adrian Mitchell Mitchell Interflex Pendle > Hosted the East Lancashire Health & Safety Group > The most active and best supported International Trade Club in the > Joined Board of Transport for Lancashire UK providing peer-to-peer knowledge and bringing expert 09. Wendy Bowers Role Pendle > Input to the nascent Lancashire narrative/marketing plan speakers to help secure new and secure sales > Vice chairs of the Lancashire Growth Hub ‘BOOST’ providing business support 10. Stephen Greenhalgh Training 2000 Blackburn > Direct input to the Comprehensive Sending Review through a members meeting services to 2000 businesses > 500 students being trained in Procurement & Supply (CIPS) up to with the Treasury degree level 11. Annette Weekes PDS CNC Engineering Pendle > Chairs of the ‘Network of Networks’ of business representative agencies and intermediaries which advises the LEP on priorities for business and provides > 300 trained in Leadership & Management 12. Les Nutter Cassons Rossendale scrutiny. > 200 individuals mentored with their ambitions to start businesses 13. David Holmes BAE Systems Regional As members of PLACE (Pennine Lancashire Chief Executives) and PLLACE (CEOs plus (New Enterprise Allowance) 14. Stephen Anderson PM & M Solutions for Business Blackburn Council Leaders) > 21 websites designed for Internationally active companies 15. Sue Taylor Accrington & Rossendale College Hyndburn > Combine with the East Lancashire Local Authority, Health and Regeneration CEOs > Host, support and protect 100 members websites to agree the priorities and set strategies for the sub-region. (Current example, we 16. Stephen Bentley Granby Marketing services Blackburn lead on identifying the business ‘ask’ of a prospective devolution deal) > Construction ‘Connections’ Forum which informs, involves VP - Vice President (supply chain opportunities) and innovates for East Lancashire’s 17. Peter Conroy Trevor Dawson Blackburn Also underrepresented building sector > Given our considerable experience we represent the private sector on Lancashire’s 18. Steve Gray J J Ormerod Rossendale ESIF – European Funding Advisory Group for the £200m programme. 19. Amanda Jackson Tigerfish PR Chorley 20. Andy McLaughlin Astute Wealth Management Longridge
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 CHAMBER NETWORKING
ver 137 members and guests gathered for the first Curry Club of the year was held in the 1882 Suite Oat Burnley football Club. They enjoyed a first class curry and were entertained by Gary Entwistle, managing director of Cherrytree Bakery. Gary talked of his business journey and shone a light on the development of one of Burnley’s major success stories. The business which was founded in 1984 started life with just one product and a unique processing technology. Regional favourites such as Chorley cakes were to follow, and for many years found success offering a range of quality traditional products to the major supermarkets. Then came the Coffee Shop Revolution, and Cherrytree's innovative spirit was guided in a new direction. Through continuous investment and a singular vision, they made the leap to become a market-leading provider of premium muffins, loaf cakes and mini bites for the coffee shop and s the season draws foodservice segments. A to a close it is always an exciting time for a football club, and fortunately for us this season, it is for all the right reasons.
Well poised in the top half of the table, the games will come thick and fast between now and May, and there is TRACY MARTIN never a better time for your business AT THE CURRY CLUB to get involved with Accrington racy Martin from ITV’s Stanley. ‘This Morning’ joins us at Tthe Chamber Curry Club on We offer everything, from an Friday 29th April 2016, Ewood Park afternoon entertaining your clients or 12-2.30pm. staff at a game, to national exposure TV Presenter and antiques, post-war collectables and vintage fashion expert, for your brand with over one million Tracy has a vast knowledge of the antiques people watching highlights of our and collectables industry as a whole. matches on television each week. A regular on ITV’s This Morning programme as their modern collectables expert, and Get involved from just £1 a week – fronting Rareburg collectors’ website dedicated to all things collectible by entry into our weekly draw gives contributing articles, TV videos and you the opportunity to win a jackpot appraisals. of £2,000, or one of hundreds of Tracy has appeared on numerous other smaller prizes, and with better odds programmes including the Paul O Grady Show, The One Show, Sunday Brunch, of winning one than the National Market Kitchen, BBC Breakfast and BBC Lottery! World News. Tracy has also for the past three years worked as an on and off- screen expert on BBC’s Flog it programme. Tracy is a published author, journalist & columnist having written for both National Newspapers and specialist magazines. The Chamber is looking for a couple of members to bring along a ‘would be collectable/antique’ for Tracy to comment on, if you have anything please contact Christine Lambe on 01254 356431 with the details. We look forward to seeing you there. Event photography: Sheila Gutteridge View the full gallery of images at: www.chamberelancs.co.uk/gallery
32 | BusinessLIFE | Spring 2016 Spring 2016 | BusinessLIFE | 33 CHAMBER NEWS
CHAMBER LAUNCHES NEW JOBS BOARD MINI Business Partnership. ARE YOU orking in partnership with My People People Ltd we are able to Bulk Purchases are available for Members, as follows: provide online recruitment advertising services for our members > Advertising 10 roles at a cost of £130 plus VAT at a fraction of the cost of many other UK jobs boards. SELF-EMPLOYED? W > Advertising 100 roles at a cost of £1000 plus VAT Based in Lancashire, but advertising across the UK, the new Jobs board attracts If you are self-employed or manage a fleet Recruiters buying credits in bulk will find that credits remain on their account with candidates looking for work in a specific location through a number of means My People People until they are used. Credits do not have expiry dates. fewer than 50 company cars, the award including social media. winning MINI Business Partnership has They can: How does it work? been designed specifically for you. > Provide CV applications Members ordering the single job service should complete the order form on the > Submit requests from candidates to recruiters for their application forms Chamber website. www.chamberelancs.co.uk/membership/membership-services/ > Redirect candidates to recruiter websites to follow their in-house people-people-2/ THE NEW application process. An invoice will be sent to the Member, the Recruiter Account will be created, and the job will be listed online within 24 working hours. MINI CLUBMAN How much does it cost? Darren Grantham, Commercial Manager at the Chamber commented “We know Advertising one job, for a period of 3 weeks, costs £15 per job, plus VAT. local businesses struggle with the costs and effectiveness of recruitment. We hope this provides a cost effective alternative to hiring staff” MONTHLY RENTALS FROM £168 (PLUS £1,509 INITIAL RENTAL*). New members 109g/mkm CO2 l 68.9mpg (combined) l 19% BIK Science in Sport (SiS PLC) For more information or to arrange a test Ensor Building Products Ltd drive†, please call your local Business Development Manager, Darren Brogan North Lancs Training Group Ltd at Lloyd Colne. Helen Oxley Minhaj Islamic Clothing J-Tech Copy Services Pressed for Time Lloyd Colne Crown Way, Colne, Lancashire BB8 9NP Malarkey 01282 720740 www.lloydgroupcorporate.co.uk Das Illustration *Plus initial rental of £1,509 Offer available to business users only. Figures exclude VAT. Based on a 36 month Contract Hire agreement for a MINI Cooper D Clubman with a monthly rental of £168 plus VAT, annual mileage of 8,000 miles and an excess mileage Jo Branston Appointments (North West) charge of 9.96 pence per mile plus VAT. Vehicle condition charges may apply at the end of your agreement. Subject to status and in the UK only (excl. the Channel Islands). Individuals must be 18 or over. A guarantee may be required. The amount of VAT you can reclaim depends on your business VAT status. Rentals may change if VAT rate changes during agreement. Hire provided by BMW Group Corporate Finance. BMW Group Corporate Finance is a trading style of Alphabet (GB) Limited, Alphabet House, Summit One to One Tutors Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 0FB. Offers valid at the time of upload and liable to change. Creative Writing Solutions Peter's Gardening Services SKY SPORTS REPORTER McMillan Painters reveals the truth behind the headlines TM Creative Assistant usiness leaders were given the inside story on what it was like to work with Microeye Technology Limited BSir Alex Ferguson at a popular East Lancashire network event. Remedy First Aid Sky Sports reporter Pete Smith addressed delegates at ‘Meet and Eat in the Valley’ and spoke candidly about his career as a professional broadcaster. Offootball Pete, who spent 20 years working alongside Sir Alex as a broadcast journalist for Clubcall and Manchester Jimmy's Workshop Services United radio, talked about the former United boss’s leadership style and how certain elements could be adopted by businesses. Skipton Road Dental Practice Les Nutter, Managing Partner at Cassons and host of Meet and Eat in the Valley, LR Kitchens said: “Pete has been at the sharp end of some of the biggest stories in sport, and BUSINESS HUB reported on some of the most iconic moments in football history. Hi-Life Diner's Club “This means he is able to provide a fascinating insight into some of the central characters at the heart of those stories, and what ultimately made them tick. Dale Lancaster “There are many parallels to be drawn between professional sport and business and Trash 2 Treasure UK Pete perfectly illustrated that point with his analysis of Sir Alex’s management style and leadership qualities.” FixIT The organisers of ‘Meet and Eat in the Valley’ are aiming to score a networking first by staging their House of Trends next event on a train on the East Lancashire Railway. Guest speaker Ian Hewitt, from Heritage Painting in Darwen, will talk about the role his company Heritage Painting Ltd has played in restoring the world famous Flying Scotsman steam locomotive to its former glory. Rhodes Rapid Response The event, which will feature a return train ride from Rawtenstall to Bury, is taking place on Friday June 17 and anyone interested in attending is advised to book early to avoid disappointment. Lou's Washing & Ironing Service “We think this is a ‘first’ for an event of this type and it’s already attracting great interest,” added Les. English at Home with Kathryn
hub_advert_business_life_180x79mm.indd 1 08/02/2016 16:49
34 | BusinessLIFE | Spring 2016 Helping To Build A Successful Lancashire £ £ PM+M are an independent rm of accountants and nancial advisers that take the time to work with you so we can £ £ understand your nancial goals, £ tailoring our services to meet £ your needs. £ £ £ Our expert team has almost 100 years’ experience in accountancy, tax planning and wealth management. We pride ourselves £ £ on having the knowledge and skills of a city-based rm, but without £ the city fees. For more information on how we can help, please get in touch with our team. £ £ £ £ £ Chartered Accountants £ Tax Corporate Finance Wealth Management www.pmm.co.uk Technologies @pmm_acc
Blackburn Office Burnley Office Greenbank Technology Park, 9A Finsley Gate, Challenge Way, Blackburn, BB1 5QB Burnley, BB11 2HA T: 01254 679131 T: 01282 438035 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]